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[Nicole Morell]: Sorry about that. One question about the Hegner building. Is all the space in the Hegner building spoken for? You talked about the money that's going to randomize that, but is all of that space spoken for?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so safe to say, as I know some of these discussions about the comprehensive high school have been, where can we find and put these programs in other spaces, and knowing that the Hegner building is one of our few kind of vacant spaces in the city that is even potentially available, it's helpful to know that all the space in there is already spoken for, so thank you. Also about the electric cost numbers. I'm curious, was that done in consultation with the architect team or how does net zero play into that? Obviously I live in a much smaller footprint. I have electric heat through the heat pumps. I know it raises things substantially. I have solar that offsets a lot of that. So I'm curious where we're getting this big number where we're tripling, quadrupling what we're currently paying at the current high school to get this giant number when I would assume we're gonna have a much more efficient building.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you say what that building is?
[Nicole Morell]: We've built a few new buildings. It'd be helpful to know which one is a meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And I just have two more points, Jenny, if I could. One, you know, I appreciate the inclusion of the senior data in the presentation. I think I understand the point that was trying to be made there. I would have liked to see the inclusion as far as student data, you know, how many students are going to be served by this high school. And then also, I think it's a little frustrating to be a little leading towards the end there as far as the capital budget and debt exclusion and then the budget for our FTEs. Medford historically until two years ago, we've never had an override. We don't go to the community to ask for that override every few years like Lexington does. So I think it's a little frustrating to compare us to cities when it's convenient to make a certain point and not otherwise, but that's just my last point. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Nicole Morell, 21 Ronalee Road, former member of this August body. I could, former Councilor Penta said it best, so I just have to keep repeating it. And Len would appreciate a call back to old Medford politics. A lot of what I have to say tonight has been said, and as some of you know, I really don't like to repeat other Councilors. I like to save the time. But if anyone deserves it, it's Len. So I just want to say a few things about him. One of the great perks of getting deeply involved in politics in your community are these intergenerational friendships that you otherwise wouldn't have had the opportunity to have. Similar to Vice President Lazzaro, I met Len first when I went to my first Medford Democratic Caucus meeting over a decade ago. He quickly clocked me as a new face, and at the time the youngest person there. and he nominated me to go to the convention, which he went to as well. We reconnected a few years later when I ran for city council, and he quickly became a fixture in my life. Over weekly coffees, a spot on his schedule that I'm pretty sure I usurped from former councilor night, Len regaled me with seven decades of Medford political history and his insights. He offered lots of good advice and the occasional ominous warning from some person you'd never heard of, and I would roll my eyes and he would take it in stride. He had a genuine nonjudgmental curiosity about politics and people in the city, and he was rewarded for that with friendships of people who have been here forever, who were brand new, people who agreed with him, and people who definitely did not. Over my political career, Len would rotate through titles for himself within my campaign, senior advisor, old hand, campaign manager. But in retrospect, the most apt title has always been friend. So I'm lucky to call him my friend. The city has been lucky to have him, and we're all going to miss him very much. And I thank his family for lending him to the city so much, and to every single politician in this room, and everyone who ran or considered running. He was a boon to Medford, and we were lucky to have him. And we're all gonna miss him very much. So thank you for taking the time to have this remembrance on the agenda tonight, and just giving me the time to speak. Appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: And Jenny, I just wanted to ask specifically or explicitly, because I know there's concern about it. You mentioned a lot of being in the right of way or being out in the streets. And then obviously, because the property touches the fells, there are markings in the fells now. So just making sure that's explicitly said why that's happening. I know you basically said it, but there are markings that are very close to wetlands and that feel deeper into the woods than I think people think the property goes to. So if you could just speak to that a little bit more specifically.
[Nicole Morell]: Please be advised, and I'm going to leave the meeting because Jenny can't join. So please be advised that on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 6.30 p.m., there will be an MSBA communications and community engagement subcommittee meeting held through remote participation and via Zoom. The agenda is roll call, finalize community survey to collect input on FAQs and other features for the website, discuss MHS video project and develop a plan of action. Recording in progress. And then a German. So I will start with the roll call. Marissa Desmond? Here. Maria Dorsey? Hey. Luke Prisner? Tina C? Will, do we usually call you on the roll call? I can't remember.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, perfect. All right, so Will Papaselli? Here. and Nicole Morell, present. And then I think I see we have Larry and we have Peter on as well. So the first item on the agenda is to finalize the community survey to collect input on FAQs and other features on the website. Is that something you have to share, Will?
[Nicole Morell]: Thanks. Well, um. Do folks want to, can you share a link to that we could look at so we can just do it on our own?
[Nicole Morell]: I do wonder if it is, at least for the where will the new high school be, I wonder if it's worth including and just saying, you know, this is, you know, whatever the answer is, as far as this is something that's still under consideration, just because I just wonder if people don't see the question, they'll just like assume it's missed, and they're just gonna, you know, email and ask and we're gonna email back anyway. So just like kind of letting people know it's still TBD, but we're aware that it's a big question.
[Nicole Morell]: I have not heard that one yet, but that's a, yeah, any open parcel of land, I'm sure. Conjecture.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, not to split hairs, but I do wonder if listing any sites, I mean, I think just, I think maybe listing- It might be premature. Yeah, criteria for what's under consideration in a site, but I think listing anything specific just kind of, people look at stuff really quick and then run with it, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think that's really important, Maria, good point. All right.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, I would say, you know, a number of locations are under consideration, including the current site. And it may be worth just another questions to be answered. Like if there's just like a subtext underneath that, that's like, just basically says like the, the questions below are, you know, identifying answers to the questions below are part of this process. Like, it's not like we're behind by not having answers to these questions. It's just something that has to be figured out along the way.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I would just make sure in the project basics it references, and maybe it's in the project timeline, it just references the stages so that someone understands what, like, you know, why we're saying stage one and stage two below. So just making sure that that's outlined elsewhere.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I wonder if the first question, just to get a bit more like powerful language, just say what was accomplished in this step, maybe rather than like what happened in this step.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, I think this maybe is answered. It's kind of addressed above, but I don't know if. Like, are costs estimates revealed as part of the feasibility study? Maybe that's like getting into the weeds, but I feel like if I saw feasibility study, I'd be like, oh, maybe they have, you know, dollar signs they got from the feasibility study.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it makes sense as a non-construction manager, like a non-expert in this space.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, that's a good point.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think we're mostly in the question asking part of the communications process. OK.
[Nicole Morell]: You too.
[Nicole Morell]: I wonder if.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh yeah, I think that Kids Corner and yeah, I think Kids Corner, Curtis Tufts are important. Right, I agree. And then I don't know exactly what the answer for the, you know, how is this project or how will this project be funded? I assume that's going to include the, like a reference to a debt exclusion or a potential debt exclusion. So I wonder if then in the questions to be answered, it's, you know, when can we expect, you know, when can voters expect to see something related to this project on the ballot?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, there's a general project timeline question. But yeah, I had that same thought, too.
[Nicole Morell]: I assume this is like kind of a living document. I mean, we wanna vote out something tonight so that we can get something up, but like anytime we meet, we can say, oh, I think we should add this, right?
[Nicole Morell]: I think just like us like voting to approve this to, I assume the next step on your end is just to get it on the website. So I think it would just be to vote to approve as is would be my thought. Okay. So do we have any further edits or do we feel comfortable having a motion to approve?
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Can I get a motion? Motion to approve the document. Motion to approve the document by Maria, seconded by... Seconded. Well, you're non-voting as far as I know, so I think I can only get a vote from... Seconded. Seconded by Marissa. All those in favor? Aye. Thank you. Hi. I suppose. All right. The motion passes. And then the other thing we have is, um, finalizing the community survey as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Awesome. Yeah, this looks good to me, I think, especially when you put the emphasis on just keeping it shorter. I wonder if just question three, it just says, what are the components of the school that we need to keep? I don't know if we need to be clear that it's physical components or like, or space components or something, because I could just imagine someone writing a long thing about programming we need to keep. And maybe that is an answer. I could be wrong. But I don't know if we're just looking for physical space responses.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, yeah, maybe someone does answer just programmatically, but that's still helpful information because you say, okay, they really care about this program and we need to find space for it.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think just getting your. Yeah, I could be up for that, but I think getting your background information too, like I think that's, I understand it better now, like, you know, having these, I understand that the second question is like a little bit more about space and if people answer programmatically in the first question, then that still informs space.
[Nicole Morell]: And just for my understanding, this is the same video that's on the agenda. This is the video we were going to talk about anyways later tonight. Because I know there was an archive video we talked about a long time ago, just making sure this is the video that we had planned to talk about tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Yeah, I think I'm just like, yeah, I'm just making sure it's not, not making sure, I'm just making sure I'm talking about the right things. I just remember their talk of like old library footage, like several meetings back and just making sure I'm talking about the same video as everyone else. Yeah. This survey looks good to me. If folks have any other edits or thoughts.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a motion to approve the survey as is. Motion to approve the survey motion to approve the survey from Marissa seconded by. I'll second it, Maria, and then we'll vote. So, Marissa, on the motion to approve the survey? Yes. Okay, one yes. And Maria, on the motion to approve the survey? Yes. And myself? Yes. So that's three in the affirmative. Motion passes. And then we also just have on the agenda the video itself. So if there's anything else you want to share about it, Maria?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Yeah. So it sounds like the action plan where it stands now is basically get the survey out and start to collect this and then hand it off to the students. And then as they edit together, go from there as it comes together. Okay. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. Okay, great. Yeah, I don't know if we had to take any, I don't feel like we don't have to take any official action on that outside of we approve the survey, which includes the question. So that's done. So that covers our agenda. Unless folks have anything else.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I just briefly looked up my alma mater, which is in full reverse. It's not like a bells and whistles kind of place. It is significantly larger than Medford High, and it was $263 million. So yeah, I think at this point, it's definitely in that world. OK. Yeah, it's an incredible amount.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think I remember, I can't remember how much it costs. I'd have to look it up. I remember Newton North and like the big story about it being like the most expensive high school ever. And now I feel like everything costs that much.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, yeah, but I think that's why part of the reason or debt exclusions are over 30 years. So divided by X number of people over 30 years and it's a little less shocking, but it is, yeah, it's not an insignificant amount by any means. Great, all right, thanks everyone for working so hard and for a very timely meeting. I just need a motion to adjourn. Motion to adjourn. On the motion of Maria to adjourn, seconded by... Seconded. Seconded by Marissa. I will call the vote on the motion to adjourn. Marissa? Yes. Maria? Yes. Myself? Yes. That's three in the affirmative. The meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, my name is Nicole Morell she her, I am the chair of invest in Medford, which is the ballot question campaign in favor of questions, six, seven and eight. I'm also a former city Councilor and mom in Medford, and that covers it.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'll go. I've been on before, and I gave the same question before, the same answer before, but I'm going to get into specifics. So we'll go with Chili Garden. I like the super spicy stuff, but I also like the bamboo shoots and sesame oil. And they've been extra good lately because my son is a huge fan. So that's just a win because he's a toddler. So anything he likes and will eat, it makes it extra good. Thanks.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure I can kick it off and then I'll let other folks join in. So the Invest in Medford campaign at its most basic is a ballot question committee for people who are in favor Of question 678 which pertain to a debt exclusion for the new fire headquarters and to overrides for the schools and our streets and sidewalk. The campaign is like most local campaigns is made up of your your friends, your cousins, your neighbors, people in Medford who are invested in investing in Medford and wanna see these campaign, these ballot questions come to fruition and have Medford be funded in the way that it deserves. So the ballot measures cover a number of different needs for the city and ask Medford residents if they're in favor of investing in the city in the form of a fixed dollar amount of tax increase to make these things happen. And I'm happy to go in more detail or if anyone else wants to jump in.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so I'll break them down into each question. So I'm just in sequential order. So by voting yes on six, voters are approving a debt exclusion, which would increase taxes for residents and commercial to fund the design and construction of a new fire headquarters that would cover the cost of the project as they are outlined today. Any kind of like small changes for timing of project or slight adjustment would be covered, but we're looking at roughly $30 million. And what makes it a debt exclusion is this is a tax increase over a set period of time. So once the bill is paid for that project, that amount of tax increase is going to come off everyone's bills. Seven and eight are overrides, which are permanent, but like the debt exclusion, they're a set amount. So it's not a percentage increase. It's a set dollar increase to your yearly tax bill. They total $7.5 million together. And question seven helps to stabilize our school district and avoid cuts to our school system, as well as fund a permanent street and sidewalk crew in-house instead of always contracting out. for the huge amount of work we need down in the city. And question eight really helps the schools reach beyond just stabilizing and making sure everything can stay as it is and reach for things that would really benefit our students and our community through a number of different things that are outlined that I can talk about later or let someone else talk about.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, you can't blame people because if a community says we don't want to invest in this, we don't care about our public schools. That's, you know, that's really jarring.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, so yeah, so part of this is, none of us can see the future. But I think what that person is getting to is that we have something on the ballot right now that's asking people whether or not they want to invest in our public schools. And if they say no, that's going to signal to the MSBA that covers part of a new high school. It doesn't cover the entirety of the community has to cover for part of it as well. And that requires another debt exclusion down the line. If we're already saying now we don't want to invest in our public schools, they're not going to likely want to go through the process with us to continue towards a new high school. If they think that the next time it comes up to invest in our public schools in the form of new high school, we're going to say no again. So it's kind of them reading the tea leaves of what we're telling them with this vote. So it's really important in that sense, too. And I know there's some confusion, understandably, that people think that what does this vote have to do with the new high school? It's its own separate vote, but it definitely does have an impact in a different way.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, I think it's an essential part of it. I mean, this allows us to bring a crew in-house, allows us to be that much more agile, allows us to have people, you know, in our DPW that this is like the sole focus of their job as opposed to contracting out every single time we need work done, which not only is, of course, a cost, but it's also, you know, a scheduling challenge. So it's something completely different, allows us to be much more agile and allows us to chip away on that backlog of street and sidewalk repairs that's been talked about so often. And I think, yeah, I'll stop there. But it's another equity issue though, too, right? Because we're all using the roads, whether we're walking, we're driving, we're biking. And this is something that asks for a smaller collective investment rather than someone repairing their car every time they hit a pothole or, you know, Investing in a different mode of transportation because the roads do not allow them to travel in the way they need to travel for their own mobility constraints. So I think it's, it's all part of a whole of just a collective investment in a city which may be, you know, it's going to be $40 give or take every month. But you have to compare to what if you address those issues out of your own pocket through expensive transportation, through tutors, through all of these things that a large amount of people don't have access to, don't have the funds for. But $40 to get them that is something completely different and something game changing.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, definitely. So we got here because of Prop 2.5 that was passed in the early 1980s. What is the simplest way to explain this? But it basically limits, a city may increase its total property tax by up to 2.5% of the value of taxable property per year plus an additional amount for new construction, commonly referred to as new growth. So any increase beyond that must be approved by the majority of voters in the term of an override or a debt exclusion. So this was passed in the 1980s. People that were alive then and making financial decisions then can think about, you know, the financial landscape that we were in at the time. Perhaps it was passed with good intentions, who knows. But basically any time inflation goes up more than two and a half percent, it's essentially, it's going to be a cut to your city budget. This was definitely a constraining statute that was established, but it was also set up with a tool of an override or a debt exclusion that allows the majority of the voters to say, hey, we want to collect a little bit more taxes because we want these things in our budget. We want to do more with our budget. We don't want to have our budget essentially cut little by little every single year. And I think part of how we got here is it's a, I think it's a fairly well-known fact. Well, it's a fact that we had the same mayor for a very long time in Medford, and I think it's a fairly well-known fact that he was against bringing an override to the voters. you have the same mayor for 28 years, that is a long time of little cut, little cut, little cut, little cut. And we know things like healthcare, healthcare costs that we cover in the city for our employees go up much, much faster than 2.5%. If we want to pay our workers what they deserve, it's going to be more than 2.5%. Look at the contracts that are being settled. If they're getting more than 2.5%, we have to sit and think, where else is that coming from? So that's kind of how we got here. I think a lot of cities you'll see that maybe the first time they tried an override, sometimes they pass, a lot of times they pass in the first, sometimes they don't. Sometimes it's just getting it out into the lexicon and people realizing that this is a thing, this is a tool we have in our toolbox. We are pushing so that this passes, our first attempt at override passes because it's an absolute need. If it doesn't, hard decisions will have to be made. Cuts will come. It will be not good. But I know for one, I will try again. And we will get an override passed, ideally this November.
[Nicole Morell]: But I think, you know, it's kind of like the the genies out of the bottle, you know, we've said we are Medford, and we can do an override. So these conversations are happening, it can be a little uncomfortable for some folks. But for so long, we wouldn't even say it. And for 28 years for for, you know, for 40 something years since two and a half was passed, that's how we get here. And that's how it can feel like how, you know, people are saying like, how did we suddenly get here? It was cut by cut by cut by cut every single year. Um, and then the, the ARPA funding and ESSER funding that came with the pandemic kind of gave us a little bit of a lifeline. And it also let us see some things that we could have in Medford that are really nice to have in Medford that we really should have in Medford. And now some of those things and some very basic things need to go away. unless we find another funding source.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, absolutely. And I understand our, I think it's, we're lucky and we're also a little bit cursed about these home values. So as home values go up, our assessments go up and our taxes go up, but of course our tax rate comes down. So we're within those prop two and a half limits, but I know we're all in different scenarios for how, what our income is in our homes. So as far as folks that are affected, just number one, This is just an investment in the community, and it will absolutely pay dividends in our roads and in our students and in our community as a whole, but for the actual dollars and cents of it, there are a number of programs for seniors on fixed incomes that Medford mandates that are not mandates that Medford operates that are really opt in programs to the state. So we have our work off program where seniors can work, put in some hours for the city to offset their bill. There are a number of exemptions. And then there is also the tax deferral program, which allows you to defer the entirety of your real estate bill until you either sell your home or the owner passes away. And there is, I believe, a 5% interest on that. So the interest does accrue on that and that bill does have to be paid at some point. But I think understanding that a lot of our longtime residents may have paid a small amount for their home relative to what it's worth now, I think that's an option that may work for some people. So there are things out there to help folks with real estate taxes in a number of ways. And those are available on the city website, as well as the Invest in Medford website can tell you more about that.
[Nicole Morell]: It's worth noting that that calculator is powered by the Department of Revenue for the state. So it's not some magical equation we made up, like this is the state that's saying, you know, here's how your tax bill is gonna be affected. It is based on this fiscal year. So it's, you know, it will change a little bit, but this is our best guess, you know, from the Department of Revenue of how it's gonna impact, what that total bill is gonna look like. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. So this will impact our next fiscal year budget. So if these don't pass the fiscal year in June, July, well, not what goes into effect in July, what's being established by June, that's where the cuts are going to come in if these don't pass. If they do pass, we can avoid those cuts. We don't have to have this conversation in June and people will see the impact on their tax bills actually in January 2025. So very quick turnaround. Question six actually is a little different. It won't go into effect right away because that project needs to move on a little bit further is my understanding. But we do have the calculator just for simplicity. It includes all three questions. So that's the total amount. But seven and eight, if they pass, will go into effect in January 2025. And question six will be a little bit later, depending on how that project advances.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. And to jump on your point, Christine, about the vocational school, too, is one of the ideas I've seen is because there is such an interest in the vocational programming, some of the different offerings have waitlists and making sure every student that's interested in a specific offering can actually get into that class and get into that program. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so we are investinmedford.com. That is great for FAQs, the calculator, just going over the questions that say, here's what it's gonna say on the ballot and here's what this means, because there is specific language you have to use on ballots, which is sometimes not the way we all talk. And then you can learn how to volunteer or donate or just spread the word. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And then in addition, there's a number of house parties that are going on to in different neighborhoods just to be able to talk for the folks working on campaigns and just have conversations with your neighbors. So if you reach out on that contact form on the website and say, hey, I'm interested in the house party or I'd like to attend a house party, we'll make sure we can connect you with one in your neighborhood that works for your schedule. Or you can always host one.
[Nicole Morell]: Jenny, I think you skipped me, but yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. I also can't change my name. So sorry. I don't know why that's like still coming up like that.
[Nicole Morell]: I agree, yeah, not only will it get lost in noise, but I would assume we would get people saying they want answers to questions related to the other things happening.
[Nicole Morell]: No, I just wanted to say welcome. Well, I'm actually also a URI journalism grad. I looked you up. So you're in good company.
[Nicole Morell]: So moved.
[Nicole Morell]: Nicole Morell 21 Ronald Lee Road and I know it's been done, but I want to do it too: former member of this August body. I want to thank everyone. I want to thank the mayor. I want to thank the city council for bringing this forward tonight. It's something people feel strongly about and they should on both sides. And I know on the council and school committee in past years where there's been issues that people feel really passionate about people have said, put this to a popular vote, put this to a popular vote. This has a mechanism to do that. This is putting this to the people and I thank you so much for bringing this forward to let the residents of Medford decide. if we want to keep doing our budgets year after year of tough decisions, of just getting by, of doing more with less, or if we want to do, I don't even want to say more with more, more with enough, more with a good start, where we can do a little bit more for our roads, be able to envision a future of Medford Public Schools and our community where budgets are not based in crisis and cuts, but envision and doing more for our students and for our community. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Emily? Are we following all of the repertorials order and this is just a reminder of the basic ones that are most common? Yes. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Admit it man. I have a question too Jenny. Sure. Is the idea that they're in close proximity, I know Adelbar will change that, is the idea that they're in close proximity or
[Nicole Morell]: Well, I know, obviously, obvious to me, Fuller River went through where they kept their field house. Yeah, that's like a, okay, something that may be relevant to us. And they just opened, right? Yeah, yeah, probably a year ago.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yeah, absolutely. Thanks, Jenny. Yeah, I just feel like as a communications professional, like we're going all over the place a little bit. I think we're helping to find out what questions should maybe be on the website that people wanna have answers to, but I would think just for like folks following along at home or just all of us trying to follow along, make sure, are we still on the communications or are we just kind of like going a little bit here or there just with general questions, which I totally get, but as far as... bring it back to the communications and community engagement. Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: You can't rename yourself? I don't know why I do not see the opportunity to rename myself. I can do that. Thank you. You haven't been on Zoom in a while, huh? I like defaults to this. I don't know, because I feel like I keep changing it. And whenever I get on my personal computer, it just, that's what it wants.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, go ahead, Nicole. Thanks, Jenny. I guess one thought I had, this looks great, and I think all these tabs make sense, just to Jenny's earlier point, is their thought is like getting a basic FAQ up kind of right away. I know a lot of the frequently asked questions are already addressed or at least partially addressed on the MSBE website, whether we can pull those in or just even have, you know, five to ten like What is this? Like, why are we meeting? Why are people meeting? You know, very kind of basic stuff, since this is a little bit, not to say it's an opaque process. Everything's on the website for MSBA, but most people don't know how this works. Understandably so.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I think that helps just keep the number manageable too, because if you're putting down like 30 FAQs, people just check out and can't find what they want anyways. Right.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. Nicole. Yeah, I think I think this looks good and I think it's just helpful to think of as far as like the whole ecosystem of stuff we're going to do for engagement and asking these questions because it's just like if this is just like our preliminary or first pass. I think it's great and we don't it doesn't have to. address every single thought. I know this was like spurred by the idea of FAQs and then we kind of it's already evolving but then just thinking like are we you know how many other surveys or other outreach things are we doing so just like we don't have to necessarily have this address every single concern question we have right now but also understanding how many more or what other ways or what specific topic-based surveys or outreach we'll be putting out there. Yes, that's a good. Yeah, those are good questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: And when you say this phase, this is the phase that goes until January.
[Nicole Morell]: It's hidden. Nicole? Just a thought as far as like, I know Online tends to be, of course, all this stuff is going to exist online, but directing folks there, if there is a thought of like some physical signage, whether it's like stuff that can literally be like at city hall with a QR code or on like, you know, we could even do like. If there's budget for just like some lawn signs that could be on some public spaces with a QR code where people can then find out. Cause if people aren't on Facebook or all the usual channels, we could have all this beautiful information and people, you know, a certain subset of people will still have no clue.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that makes sense because I think my thought was like doing like a roadshow, but to your point, not everything is going to be relevant to everybody. And we also don't want to exhaust the resources of the volunteers, but you know, in a very long process. So yeah, I think finding out where, what are different commissions or maybe dial in or be interested in an update and then using folks to, you know, have like a, Decided upon presentation or something and having different representatives be there. Hopefully. Hopefully we could do that in a way where it's not like, always, you know, Jenny Graham going to 16 meetings. But we can have different volunteers from the committee go to different commissions and committees.
[Nicole Morell]: Some of them are explicitly outlined in the charter and others are ad hoc. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, I think there's the option of attending community events or just I'm thinking like the farmers market or something doesn't have to obviously be every week, but just let people know this is happening and how they can learn more and get involved.
[Nicole Morell]: The clippership lawn. I can't think either.
[Nicole Morell]: Something like that. I can't think of it.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, I'm happy to be tagged in as like a support for anything that's like explicitly comms related since that's my wheelhouse among other wheelhouses, but that's what I do during the day.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. I am happy to help with graphics and like putting slides and presentations together or generating new imagery or anything like that.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to recommend to the larger committee.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: President. President. President. President. President.
[Nicole Morell]: President seven present none absent the meeting is called to order.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Collins moves to consolidate all of the bullet points under category one into the recommendation to maintain level service for the schools, library, the Board of Health, Prevention and Outreach, and PBS department, including all currently grant-funded positions.
[Nicole Morell]: I think so.
[Nicole Morell]: This committee report has a paper number.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: 25th regular meeting, December 19th, 2023, is called to order. Madam Clerk, please call the roll. Madam Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Present. 7 present, 0 absent. Please rise to salute the flag. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. Records of the meeting of December 12th, 2023 were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find them? I find them in order and I move for approval. Second. On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 2-3-4-1-2. Adam Dash and Associates Attorneys at Law. This paper has been before us a number of times, so unless Councilors need a reminder, I'm happy to hand it over to Attorney Dash, yep, you're good, to provide us with an update on where we stand.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Dash. We do have Director Hunt on the call. I just want to offer that perspective or any comments.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice Mayor and Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you think January 9th is a realistic date?
[Nicole Morell]: We do have Planner Evans on the call as well. Danielle, is there anything you'd like to add?
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion to table to January 9th for vices affair, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, table to January 9th.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you again.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and you know how difficult it can be. Have a good night. Thank you. 23474, correct? 23474. offered by vices and bears, whereas the election commission voted 3-1 to postpone discussion of the council's request for a report on the 2023 election issues to the commission's January 2024 meeting. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that a report be placed on the reports due slash deadline section of the council agenda titled 2023 Municipal Election Process Errors and Accountability Report with the deadline of the January 23rd, 2024 regular meeting for a presentation by elections manager Ripley and election commissioner chairperson Miller. be it further resolved that the council adds the following requests to that report. One, any issues with the process for filing for a recount and why it took so long for the candidates and the public to be notified. Two, any process issues in preparation for the recount. And three, what systems will be put in place to ensure prompt and timely notification of any issues or errors to the public to ensure trust is maintained when errors are made. Vice Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from councilors?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Cabral.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from Councilors?
[Nicole Morell]: Second. The motion by Vice-President Bears, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, as amended by Councilor Scarpelli, and amended by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favour? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. The next resolution is for me, unless Councilors object. I think it's for you, Chair. 23475, offered by President Morell, be it so resolved that the council explore and consider language for an ordinance regulating blasting and earth removal within the city. This is something... I didn't call for participation, but no, I didn't know, but you always can't. I mean, if you want to wait for participation or Councilors, I know we, yeah, we'll get, yeah, we'll, we'll go back to it. I apologize. 23475, offered by President Morell, be it so resolved that the council explore and consider language for an ordinance regulating blasting and earth removal within the city. This is something I already introduced, but apparently I didn't. This was originally kicked off, of course, by the giant hole that exists, continues to exist, that's still not houses, on Winthrop Street, that we had myriad complaints about, lots of issues, and then I think was kicked off again as the we're looking at that deed restriction understanding there's a lot of ledge in that area my intention in this is not to this is obviously for the future my intention is not to say hey there's no blasting but just understanding that a lot of the issues relating from the Winthrop Street project is that we have nothing on the books as far as regulations and permits and steps that people have to follow when they're actually doing that so making sure we have some steps that make sure that our the residents and neighbors in the area aren't disturbed in the way that they were with the Winthrop Street project and it's done in a completely different way that respects our residents and make sure that we have permits approvals and process in place to make this a much better experience should it go forward in any place in the city than what happened on Winthrop Street. So, go ahead Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the Councilors? Any members of the public wish to speak on this? On the motion of Vice President Bears to revert to the Zoning Subcommittee, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Going to 23476. To Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, regarding Community Preservation Committee appropriation requests, on behalf of the Community Preservation Committee, I respectfully request and recommend that Your Honorable Body approve the following recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee, requesting the appropriation of $115,000 from the CPA General Reserve to the Royal House Enslaved Quarters for the Royal House Roof and Gutter Restoration Project, requesting the appropriation of $145,000 from the CPA General Fund to Shiloh Baptist Church, for the Shiloh Baptist Church construction project. The project will be tracked in the Community Preservation Fund. The CPC recommendation letters are attached and incorporated. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully submitted, Brown, Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. Any discussion, questions from the Council? I know we have Teresa here. Seeing none, motion of Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Madam Clerk, apologies, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. The affirmative. Is there any negative? The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: second by Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. Public participation. Melanie, if you'd like to. In general, but I mean, yeah. In general, but.
[Nicole Morell]: We have one more person. Name and address the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: We do have the nice words about Councilors section coming up for the agenda too.
[Nicole Morell]: No, if you're up to say nice words about Councilors, we're gonna do that next.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a motion to revert back to regular order of business?
[Nicole Morell]: Motion by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All opposed? Motion passes. Going to 23471, offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we commend Councilor Caraviello for his outstanding service on the Medford City Council from 2012 to 2024. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And if I could. Councilor Caraviello, I have a tremendous amount of respect for you and what you brought to this council. As everyone has said, you absolutely put your money where your mouth is. I know anytime a constituent has an issue, you're either on the phone or you're down at City Hall. I think anytime I've been at City Hall, no matter how many days I'm here, someone's always saying, Rick was just here, you know, fixing whatever issue. And you don't hear about it the large majority of the time. You're not at the council meeting saying, I did this, this, and this. You quietly do a lot of things for a lot of people. And that makes, that's a really, it's just a really positive thing for the city and for individuals. And as Councilor Scarpelli said, you put it all out there running for mayor, which is just, it takes a tremendous amount of courage and time and dedication to do that. No matter who you talk to, regardless of who they were supporting for mayor, there was never a bad thing that could be said about Rick Caraviello, the person. You know, whoever politics may lie, everyone could say that you're a tremendous person. You leave just a vast amount of knowledge when you leave this body and we're going to be, or they're going to be a little bit poorer for it. But I think to Vice President Bair's point, I know that you're just a short phone call away when they have those questions. So I, you know, being the kind of person you are. I think that's just a little bit of comfort knowing we're losing you, but we know where to find you, and you'll give us a little bit of your time once more. So I thank you for that, and I know there's folks here who want to speak in the audience, but I know if you want to speak now, we want to wait for everyone to kind of say their piece.
[Nicole Morell]: If folks want to speak, I don't know if Rep Donato, if you want to start, or former Councilor Marks.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone else who would like to speak? I'll hand it over to you, Pastor Carmelo.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to do it? You do it.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, Councilor Caraviello, you wanna add?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Going to 234, oh sorry, on the motion. This guy, president. On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Going through 23472, offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we commend Councilor Knight for his outstanding service on the Medford City Council from 2014 to 2024. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We have a few more Councilors, including myself, but we're going to go to Rep Donato first because he has to go. So we're going to jump the line. Just gonna wait for the mic. Yeah, hit the button on the mic.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, no, go ahead again.
[Nicole Morell]: There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Knight for briefly sharing. So we'll go to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight, as has been said by most of us, or all of us, you make everyone on this Council better. No matter the resolution I introduce, no matter how innocuous or how controversial, part of my preparation is trying to get into your head and think as best as I can every legal, procedural, historical argument that you're going to make. I'm not sure I've ever gotten all of them, but I think I've started to get close. And I know that your skill and tenacity demands the same of every single Councilor behind this rail. As everyone has said, there is no denying how smart you are and how you know your stuff. And on the off chance that you don't know your stuff, you know how to present it in a way. that makes the rest of us question if we know our stuff. So you keep us on our toes, for sure, and that will be missed. Your dedication to Medford, to the workers of Medford, to labor, your knowledge and your humor will be greatly missed in this body. I'm sad to see you go, but it's been great to have you back, if only for a few meetings. and remind us kind of what was missing, that little, that salt, that something that was missing that keeps us all awake and engaged. So I thank you for your service and excited and nervous to see what you do next. We'll go to former Councilor Marks and then anyone else.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else would like to speak? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: The clock is to count down to the chair. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23473, offered by Vice President Bears, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we commend President Morell for her outstanding service on the Medford City Council from 2020 to 2024. Vice President Fares.
[Nicole Morell]: I said that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. This is a funny position to like calling people to say nice things. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. save it out for last.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Sen.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Former Councilor Marks.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm keeping everyone engaged.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Marks. I really appreciate you coming up and saying some kind words and some true words. And hopefully now that we're both out of office, I won't get so nervous every time I see you either sitting there or approaching the podium. So one last time, I appreciate it. I want to thank everyone for their kind words. I truly love this job and there are times that I think I'm not half bad at it. There are times I think I'm terrible at it and there are times I think I'm great, but they all even out in the end. So deciding not to run this year was one of the hardest decisions I've probably ever had to make. I think as comes through on the council is I usually know exactly how I feel about something. I'm always listening, but I usually know how I feel. I know how I'm going to go. And this is something that I really wrestled with for months and probably, honestly, the better part of two years. But like everyone in these seats, I also have a full time job. and I have a favorite constituent who is just about two years old and who has shared his whole life with this council. So I'm stepping away to spend more time with him in those early precious years, which I know you all know, but I think, again, without the lack of paper and all these things, sometimes that's information that hasn't been shared. I care about this job. I love this job. I care about my son. I love my son. I want to spend some time with him. You know, there's a saying in parenting that the days are long, but the years are short, which I know all the parents here will agree with. And I think I'd like to extend that to city council where the meetings are long, but the years are short. I can't believe it's been four years. I can't believe it's only been four years. I can't believe it's been a long four years and it's been a short four years. I think starting this whole journey just before the pandemic I know we all have that feeling of time kind of collapsing in on itself and it feels like so long ago I started in this body, but it's only been just a few years. We did a lot of great work as a council. There's a lot of great work left to be done, a lot of work left to be done. I'm not going to go through everything we worked on because this isn't a campaign speech, but there's a lot that I'm proud of. And I just want to note that We often say that it's a privilege to do this job. It's a privilege to represent your peers. It's a privilege to serve the public. And beyond that, it's also an extreme privilege to have the opportunity to meet and strike up conversations with and friendships with people that simply wouldn't happen if you didn't have the access and the welcome that this role gives you. And so I think every person that I've spoken with for that, whether we agreed or not, the ability to sit down with someone or pick up a phone call and have a conversation with something has been a privilege and really a gift. And another gift, which, you know, there are nights I can't believe I'm saying this, but it's all of you behind the rails. I think there's something going on in this body since, you know, I think the past two years in particular that there's a camaraderie and a respect that I think we all know is quickly or has already left much of politics, but I think it's still alive and well behind the rail where, as has been said, we all don't agree a lot of times. It gets heated sometimes, but I think at the end of the day we know there's a deep respect. There's usually, you know, after some of our, even during some of our most challenging meetings, there's a time where we can have a few jokes and let out some of that tension and remember that we all respect each other and no one here holds a grudge. I want to say very briefly about people going around the room. I've already said my nice things about Rick and Adam, but Justin, it's been a pleasure to serve with you and just to have your cerebral and considerate approach to everything and also have a resident Harvard man. Kit, you are the epitome of speak softly and carry a big stick. And I think everyone learned that one or two budgets ago. And it's just been so good for my soul to have another woman on the council that I can kind of just look at sometimes or catch a smile from in those heavy meetings. George, I think it may have taken us a longer path than some to get to that place of friendship, but we got there. And I truly respect you. And I just, we've been able to have some conversations this term in particular, just to say, Hey, you know, I don't agree with you on this, but I want you to know it's no hard feelings. And I know you're doing what you think you believe is right. And I think that's a, it's a two way street and I really respect you. And vice president Bears, when I was first running and working really hard, someone pulled papers on the very last day and I thought, who is this Zach Bears? Why is he trying to ruin me? And the answer over to that, who is this Zach Bears, is he's a friend, he's a confidant, he's someone who, when I had a one week old, a one month old, a one year old, allowed me to be in this position as president, who helped me with some of the logistics and all those things that go on behind the scene and allowed me to serve and fulfill this role and chair the body as I was home with a little tiny newborn for those first eight weeks. This is a demanding job. It's a fulfilling job. It's so important and I'm so thankful to the residents who put me into this position, giving me the opportunity to do this. I hope you remember me if I decide to come back and I'm not going to make Rick's mistake, but I thank my family who allowed me to be here. I think one of the, I knew I would have the logistical support to be here. I thank my husband for that. Um, but emotionally it's really hard and everyone makes that sacrifice, you know, Tuesday, Wednesday, all the nights, all the mornings, all the phone calls. Um, and right now I want to spend that time with my son, but I do want to say farewell and thank you. And I'm not sure what my next move is, but for better or worse, I can assure you, you are not rid of me yet. I thank you all.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, it was Zach's fault. He said it was gonna be short.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Oh, can you mute your, something's making noise. Oh, no, it stopped. Okay. All right. 23470 Medford City Council Caucus meeting. Yeah, just the sound.
[Nicole Morell]: Medford City Council Caucus meeting notice Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 6.30 p.m. The meeting will take place in the Howard F. Alden Memorial Chambers on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. Madam Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 7 present, 0 absent. Meeting is called to order. The members and the members-elect of the Medford City Council will hold a caucus on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 6.30 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of the caucus is for the Council to hold a non-binding vote to designate a City Council President and City Council Vice President for the calendar year 2024. For further aids, information, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Isaac B. Zach Bears, Council's Vice President. So we do have behind the rails with us tonight, we have Councilor-Elect Emma Lazzaro, Councilor-Elect Matt Leming, and Councilor-Elect Anna Callahan. They will be voting the out in addition to the city councilors that are returning and the councilors that are not returning will not be voting. This is all non-binding. And I will hand it to put it out for nominations. or nominations for President, Vice President?
[Nicole Morell]: A nomination for Vice President Bears or Councilor Bears. Why are you staring at me like that? Okay. A nomination for Councilor Bears for President. Do I have a second on that nomination? Second. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. Do I have any other nominations for President for the term beginning 2024? Seeing none, do I have any, do you want to take the role on the president first and then go to vice president or take all the nominations first? All right, so we have one nomination for Councilor Bears for president, the term started 2024. Madam Clerk, if you could call the roll, so that would be the current councilors minus the outgoing councilors and the new councilors, so. Yes. Okay, get us, he can do whatever he wants. Councilor Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: I think we'll skip Councilor Caraviello because it's outgoing. Correct? We skipped the outgoing, it's non-binding, so we're skipping the outgoing. Okay. Councilor Palacios?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, so that is, that's six for Councilor Bears, one abstention. Yes, as we have one present. So motion stands for, the non-binding motion stands for Council President Bears beginning 2024 terms. Congratulations, Councilor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Unless you have any words, we can go to nominations for Vice President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: The nomination from Councilor Tseng for Councilor Collins as Vice President, seconded by Vice President Bears. Do we have any other nominations for Vice President? Seeing none, we will call the roll for Councilor Collins being considered for... I'm sorry? No, I'm still President. This is just for them, I guess, for the sake of... I don't know.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have six for Councilor Collins, one present, none against. Councilor Collins has been named a vice president for the term, sorry, 2024. Is there anything you'd like to say or?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, councillors. Any further discussion? Second. Motion of councillor Tseng to adjourn. Seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned. We will return for the seven o'clock meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: When we undervalue work for a long time, changing the financials and the mindset around it becomes hard. Simply reaching for equity of pay seems like an overreach.
[Nicole Morell]: 24th regular meeting, December 12, 2023 of the Medford City Council is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Seven present, zero absent. Please rise to the plat. Records, the records of the meeting of November 28th, 2023 were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, how'd you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees, 22-494, November 28th, 2023, Subcommittee on Ordinances, Rules, Budget Ordinance, report to follow. Chair of the Budget Ordinances, sorry, Ordinances Rules Subcommittee, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by... Second. Councilor Collins, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-448, November 29th, 2023 can be the whole on the MBTA community zoning ordinance or to follow. So this was really a Q&A with Councilors and any members of the public who wish to take part about the proposed zoning changes before us that are actually on the agenda tonight. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On this specific favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Can we just pass this and then we'll go to you?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on motion to approve by Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Councilor Knight, point of personal privilege.
[Nicole Morell]: You want to go through the rest? Okay. 23-314, December 5th, 2023, Committee of the Whole on Private Ways report to follow. This was with our DPW commissioner, as well as two land use attorneys from KP Law to answer resident questions and frequently asked questions about the private ways in Medford. I have a motion.
[Nicole Morell]: On motion of Councilor Tseng to approve, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-533, December 6, 2023, the whole zoning RFP report to follow. This was to discuss the long-awaited proposals on our next step in the zoning process, building on our recodification work. We had two proposals and we left it that Vice of Affairs and I were gonna follow up on those references. We had a pre, I think we all agreed on where we wanted to go to next, and hopefully we'll have a decision on that soon. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins to approve, seconded by Vice Chair Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. I'm deeply sorry for your loss. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, on the motion, vices and bears suspend the rules to take those papers in that order, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, I'm sorry, Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Okay, so 23-412 is a paper that has come before us a number of times before. 23-412, Adam Dash, Associates, Attorneys at Law. regarding 12 Dell Avenue, a petition to amend deed restriction petitioners and owners, Gerald L. Alves and Janet R. Alves. I think we've read this paper a number of times, unless council would want me to read it again. I think we're happy to hear from the petitioner as to where we are and what's before us tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Dash, and thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Helms, for coming up to so many meetings at this point. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Did you have something to add, Councilor?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion by Supervisor Bears to continue to the 19th, our next regular meeting, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Good evening by some bears. What? So it's 464 next. What?
[Nicole Morell]: That's a little all over. Yep. Wait. Oh, thank you. Petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 23464 petition to reverse sign denial for Raising Cane's LLC at premises formerly known as 760 Fellsway, Medford, Mass, 02155, and now known as 519 Riverside Ave, Medford, Mass, 02155, signed permit S23000036. I will turn it over to Councilor Scarpelli, the chair of the signed subcommittee.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on a motion of Councilor Scarpelli to refer this to subcommittee seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. All right, 23468. Page 15. 23468, under communications from the mayor, request for expenditure from law department claims over $1,000, account 01-151-5762, date December 5th, 2023, to present Nicole Morel and honorable members of the Metro City Council from Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor. Claimant name, Vigilant Insurance Company, ASO Scarlett Bartlett, date of accident, October 28th, 2020, date of settlement, September 13th, 2023, Date of trial, not applicable. Amount of result, $4,000. Claimant's attorney is John DeRiver, PA. DeRiver, Stevens, Black, and Kozad. Description of alleged claim. The claimant, Vigilant Insurance Co., also ASO, Scarlett Bartlett, seeks compensation for a claim paid for their insured for property damages suffered from effort DPW pressure jetted sewage pipes that resulted in sewage backflow entering the basement of a home located at 58 Hastings Lane The case is a subrogation matter filed by the homeowner's insurer. The city has already settled the homeowner's claim at $5,000, but at the homeowner's request, the release form executed by the homeowner excluded claims from subrogation. The insurer's claim was for $9,437. The necessary release has been obtained from the claimant. Breakdown to amount requested. Medical cost, zero. Lost wages, zero. Property damage, $4,000. Others, zero. Total settlement, $4,000. on a motion to have any discussion from Councilors, members of the administration on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by- Second. President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Oh, it's right here, great. 23469, to December 7th, 2023, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, regarding donation acceptance, dear Madam President and councilors, I respect the request and recommend that your honorable body approves under Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 44, Section 53A, a donation by Patricia Murphy of $500.00 to be used by the Park Division. Respectfully submitted, Brian Lungo-Koehn mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion from Vice President Bears, do we have any discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I do that now?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to 23-462. Tell me where it is.
[Nicole Morell]: 23462, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding grant agreement with The Trees Medford. Dear Madam President and councillors, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body approve the following order. Order is sponsored by Burano-Window-Current Mayor. In order authorizing a grant agreement between the city and Trees Medford. Summary, the order will authorize the mayor to enter into a grant agreement with Trees Medford in accordance with the provisions of General Law Chapter 44, Section 53A, pursuant to which Trees Medford will provide a grant of funds towards continuing efforts to create and maintain a public tree inventory for the city in consultation with the tree warden. be ordered by the City Council of the City of Medford Assembled and by the authority of the same as follows, whereas the City of Trees Medford wish to continue urban forestry efforts throughout the City and whereas Trees Medford has expressed interest in providing a grant in the amount of $12,500 to the City in support of the services necessary to continue the public tree inventory throughout the City, and whereas, pursuant to the provisions of General Law, Chapter 44, Section 53A, the City may accept and expend such grant monies with the approval of the Mayor and the City Council. Now, therefore, the City Council hereby approves the grant of funds by Trees Medford to the City in support of the services necessary to continue the City's efforts with respect to a public tree inventory for the city and authorizes the mayor to execute the grant agreement as attached to and incorporated in this order. Respectfully submitted, Brianna Lungocard, Mayor. Do we have a member of the trees, Medford or the commissioner, the DPW commissioners on the call? Sorry. Sorry. Oh, he's in traffic.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Oh, he's in the traffic meeting, not in traffic. Got it. Commissioner McGibbon, are you here? Oh, I think he's on. Do you see him, Mr. Clerk? He's on the phone. some of the participants, and then he disappeared.
[Nicole Morell]: I think we do have Commissioner McGovern. Commissioner McGovern, is there anything you'd like to add with regards to this paper as far as the grant agreement?
[Nicole Morell]: The sound's not coming through the speakers.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions or discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve a secondary by Crisis Affairs. It's a roll call because it's financial.
[Nicole Morell]: to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding loan order a city with water systems bond. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following loan order. City of Medford loan order water bonds be ordered that the 3,422,000 is appropriated for the purpose of making improvements to the city's water system, including constructing and reconstructing water mains and other costs incidental and related thereto. that to meet this appropriation, the treasurer, with the approval of the mayor, is authorized to borrow said amount pursuant to Chapter 44, Section 8.5 of the General Laws, or pursuant to any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the city thereafter, that the treasurer, with the approval of the mayor, is authorized to borrow all or a portion of such amount from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, pursuant to the MWRA's local water systems assistant program, and in connection therewith, to enter into a loan agreement and or financial assistant agreement with the MWRA and to accept any grants or the project from the MWRA, provided that the amount of the authorized borrowing shall be reduced by the amount of any such grant received from the MWRA.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, Vice President Bears to waive the remainder of the reading in favor of summary, seconded by Councilor Carballo. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. City Engineer Bortella, are you speaking on this or? I am. Okay, if you wanna come up if you wanna Tell us about this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Can't waive the three readings because it's a financial paper, but tonight, ideally. So unfortunately, we can't waive the three readings. I think we could talk to the clerk about if there's funds to get it posted and advertised faster. Thank you. Any questions or discussion from the council? And do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Vice President Bears to approve for first reading, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in the affirmative, you're in the negative, the motion passes for first reading. 23467, I believe that's my paper, so I will go in first to the chair, so vice president Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. So first, I'd like to amend my letter if I could, Mr. Clerk, for the record. My language was not clear. Though the school committee has largely been women for the better part of a decade, it was more evenly split before that. However, my statement stands about the makeup of the city council and how hard it is for women to break in there. Only a small number of women have ever served on the city council in Medford's history, with two more joining in January. I would have meant to strike both references from the whereas if I could, thank you. Historically, the school committee has been the only elected body where women could serve while city council remains majority men to this day. Going back more than a hundred years ago, there've been multiple women on school committee in Medford, whereas the city council has been almost exclusively men until more recent history. Historically, school committees have been paid less and valued less than that of city council statewide, countrywide as an accepted fact. One reason I brought forth this resolution is to interrogate that fact. School committee has many statutory powers outlined at the state level. They play an essential role in the city, a role that's getting more involved and more complicated in the current political climate. And like many city Councilors, they're on call essentially 24 seven. But yet this body has always been seen and continues to be seen as less than. One reason to me comes from a conversation I've had many times with my mother, a 35 year public school teacher. is that the school committee is an extension of the schools. Schools and teaching are seen as women's work, largely because it's one of the few ways women could gain employment. In a country where we undervalue or often do not value women's work, be it caregiving roles, aides, paras, teachers, social workers, nurses, and the like, regardless of who is serving in these roles, men or women, we do not value them in the way that we should. This is not to equate any of these positions as they are very different. I absolutely understand that and believe that. But it is to note that when we undervalue work for a long time, changing the financials and the mindset around it becomes hard. Simply reaching for equity of pay seems like an overreach. Equity of opportunity is another important reason I brought this forward. This resolution is about who's not in the room. I've been to many trainings and brainstorms where folks struggle with how to bring diversity of experiences and voices to the table in many, many spaces. Diversity, which has been proven to make boards and organizations more successful. It's something we struggle with here, but it's not unique to Medford. The one answer that always comes back in these brainstorms and these thought projects is paying folks for their time. I've spoken with many folks in Medford who want to be more involved, but it doesn't make financial sense for them to get a babysitter to attend a school committee meeting, let alone commit to multiple years of pay that barely covers the cost of childcare or loss of learnings they would need to cover regular meetings, negotiating meetings, grievances, executive sessions, and the day-to-day essential role of responding to residents. By saying we don't value this position, we say we don't value the insight, experiences, and representation of folks who do not have the financial support and caregiver support that is needed to give to these roles. This excludes folks doing shift work, folks who need two jobs to get by, people without free or low cost childcare. No one does these jobs, these elected jobs for the pay, but the lack of it certainly keeps many folks from seeking them and having a representative body. I've been having these conversations long before I even ran for council, so I wanted to bring this forward before the end of my term. This equity discussion is important to me, and equity delayed is equity denied. However, I absolutely do hear you, and I really want to thank the folks who have reached out to me on email over the past few days. I appreciate those just willing to hear what I have to say. I understand your feelings, absolutely. And I know there are many folks eager to talk tonight, and I'm eager to hear from you. So reflecting on this, I would further amend this paper that I would hope for a phase-in over time to either these amounts or amounts that reflect similar cost of living increases to the council or other city employees over the past 24 years. nearly two and a half decades where there were no such adjustments for the school committee. Also understanding it's the end of my term, as I did not seek reelection to spend more time with my almost two year old, a testament to the trade offs of these types of jobs. My motion is to send this to the committee the whole so that the incoming council may consider it if they so choose and explore what they would like based on the conversations we have here tonight and ongoing conversations. So I thank you for your time. I thank you for your respect as I share this tonight. I know it's a topic that people feel very, very strongly about, and I absolutely understand. And I thank you, Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information, it's the way Zoom works, there's like a lot of sound, it cuts out.
[Nicole Morell]: I just have a brief point of information. I just want to note that no money has been moved anywhere just at this point. No vote has been taken. I just want to make sure that's clear, because I understand the intent of what you said. I just want to make sure that's clear, because that happened.
[Nicole Morell]: I do just want to thank Ms. Douglas for bringing that forward about the PFMLA. I wasn't aware of that fact. Vice President Bears and I actually introduced a resolution two years ago about extending PFMLA to the entire city. And we were essentially rebuffed by the administration about it being a possibility. So it's really helpful for me to know that that is continuing on. It's something that still is on our books. It's nothing that's been disposed of. So I hope that the next council will continue the conversation around it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll let you know how to remember. I'll teach you.
[Nicole Morell]: I just want to thank everyone for coming out and taking the time to speak. Obviously, my intention was never to submit this, and to be inflammatory, my intention was to start a conversation. But I think what's come out of this conversation is so much that we don't get to hear on city council. We get the school budget delivered to us as such. We're not at the bargaining table because we can't be. So I think this really illuminates a lot of issues that they either come to us when the budget is already set in stone, or we simply just never hear about them. So I really, really appreciate the time. I'm sorry I won't be there to continue the conversations, at least in this role. But I think a lot of important things were shared tonight and I do just want to make it explicit that I never introduced this as in insult or to say that the jobs are equal to paraprofessional and the school committee. I noted before my mom taught in a poor school district for 35 years special education and I know how essential her powers were to the success of her classrooms. And I just know how much she had to fight and how much she had to put up with and how much I think she's thankful that she retired in 2011 because your jobs are so incredibly difficult and more multifaceted and challenging than they ever have been before. And believe me or not, but I am so, so appreciative of the work you do. And I thank you for taking the time to come out tonight, knowing you already put in a full day that is exhausting. I watched my mother come home after work and just kind of pass it on the bed. I know how hard your day was. So I just want to make that clear again, believe me or not, but I just want to state that. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: So, I believe we are back from recess. I know I motion to revert to regular business. Someone would like to revert? We have someone from public participation that I thought had left and he has been here the entire time and I feel like we should take him.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion by Susan Baird to suspend the real estate public participation is seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favour? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Please come up. And just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: You want to just list the infractions out in the email we have? I'll just copy and paste. Yeah, so copy and paste, and we'll make sure we get that. Go to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you so much for bearing with us.
[Nicole Morell]: 23466 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that Medford City Council vote to authorize the Mayor of the City of Medford to petition the General Court for a special act in the form set forth below, providing that Medford Retirement Board be permitted to retire Joseph Albino, a former uniformed member of the City of Medford Fire Department who was involuntarily retired for accidental disability retirement, for superannuation retirement as provided by sections 5 and 10 of chapter 32 of the general laws of Massachusetts provided, however, that the general court may make clerical or editorial changes of form only to the bill unless the mayor approves amendments to the bill before enactment by the general court, provided further that the mayor is hereby authorized to approve amendments which shall be within the scope of the general public objectives of this petition.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng, is that a roll call? Yes. It's a home rule petition.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: There's a couple more. Yeah, it's a regular order. All right, motion from Vice President Bears to revert to regular order of business. Second by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Hearings, two, three, four, four, eight. Notice of a public hearing, Medford City Council, Chapter 94, Zoning. The Medford City Council will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, December 12th, 2023 at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford Mass, 02155, and via Zoom remote video conferencing relative to a proposed amendment to the City of Medford zoning ordinance and zoning map. A Zoom link to this meeting will be posted no later than December 8, 2023. The purpose of the amendment is to comply with Section 3A of MGL-40A MBTA Community Zoning Law by establishing a new zoning overlay within a half-mile radius of the Wellington MBTA Orange Line station that will allow multifamily housing and mixed-use development as of right. A copy of the full text of the amendment is available in the office of the city clerk and on the city's website www.medfordma.org slash department slash planning dash development dash sustainability by clicking on current city board filings. For additional information and aids for accommodations aids call the Medford city clerk's office at 781-393-2425 TDD 781-393-2516. as advertised in the Boston Herald on October 30th and November 6th, 2023, by order of the Medford City Council, signed Adam Hurtubise, City Clerk. So this was referred out to, do you wanna talk about the process? You might say it better than me, but we do have, the council has received comments from the CD board, but I'll hand it to our planner and director of PDS to just remind us of the process.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh no, sorry, the clerk was just reminding me to do something.
[Nicole Morell]: So if questions are asked tonight, it may reflect that fact. So I don't want that to come across as a lack of interest for anyone watching.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? I just want to echo my fellow bouncers and thank you for your hard work on this. Also, just not short of just being here at 10.15, 10.30 to take this. Thankfully, Medford is more amenable than I think some communities have been to receiving this. So we at least have that going for us. But I know it's not been easy as the state continues to change and adjust and tweak here. So I appreciate all the work you've done to be in compliance with this and get us to compliance with it.
[Nicole Morell]: So we do have a motion on the floor. This is a public hearing. This is still the way we do it. We haven't figured out a better way yet. But as this is a public hearing, I will open the public hearing. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of the paper before us? Thank you. Is there anyone on Zoom who would like to speak in favor of the paper before us? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the paper before us? Or on Zoom or in person? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. So going back to the motion for Isis of Paris to approve for first reading? Or no, this is no, sorry. To be ordained.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears, as seconded by Councilor Tseng, am I making that up? Am I making it up, or? Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: I remember, and I guess we had to, I remember President Falco read 70 pages of the marijuana ordinance. I don't know if he had to do that or not, but he did it.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, where you live.
[Nicole Morell]: Let's wave back. Going to motions, orders, and resolutions. 22605, offered by Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Chapter 70. I'll at least read the title. Chapter 70, Solid Waste. Yeah, Chapter 70, Solid Waste. Do we have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion to waive the reading and for a summary from Councilor Collins who did a tremendous amount of work on this. So motion for vice of affairs, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, to echo Councilor Scarpelli, for all the work you did for this. And I reviewed it all and I work with this in my day job. So this is very much in line with best practices and where everything is going. So I really appreciate the work and just bringing this into the modern era and our needs for waste these days. And it's something we definitely make jokes about. It's easy to make jokes about, but it's one of those parts of the city that doesn't get talked about when it's going right. The second it goes wrong, you're hearing from everybody, and it impacts everybody dramatically. So this is really important work, and I appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: As amended, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Vice of Affairs to approve for first reading as amended, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Tell your great kids how you became one of those trashy Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: 23465 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council call for a meeting to resolve public safety concerns from malfunctioning streetlights on South Porter Road and beyond. If you have further resolve, the superintendent of WIRE, Steven Randazzo, a representative from the administration and a representative from National Grid to be invited to that meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: So the motion is to continue working with Rep Donato's office to schedule this, or what's the thought there?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion adjourned. Motion passes. The motion of Councilor Scarpelli adjourned. Motion, third reading.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpell, I'd like to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-533 committee the whole meeting wednesday december 6 2023 at 6 00 p.m is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Five present, two absent. The meeting is called to order there will be a meeting of the Medford City Council committee of the whole on Wednesday, December 6 2023 at 6pm in the Medford City Council chamber on the second for City Hall and via zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss an RFP for updating the Medford zoning ordinance paper 22-533. The committee has invited Alicia hunt director of the office of planning development sustainability to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425, Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So what brings us here tonight is after completing... the recodification work that we had engaged with Attorney Bobrowski over two years to do that work that was completed actually last March. We requested more funding from the mayor's office to get to the next phase of zoning, which we had worded as reflecting the adopted comprehensive plan to work through the zoning changes that would be needed to reflect the comprehensive plan, as well as some minor adjustments to the recodification that have passed now that they're actually in force. I think maybe a few just small changes. So this request for proposals actually went out in June. We did not receive any proposals back. The thought was purely timing. We believe it was time to be back right around the 4th of July holiday, close of the fiscal year. So we actually put it out again. Again, this is with the help of procurement with Fiona and also with Director Hunt. This was put out again in October. We did get two proposals that were delivered to the council, shared with the council on November 21st. We've had ample time to review. And based on discussion tonight, what the next steps are are to score the two proposals we have. We have a little, all the Councilors have a little scoring sheet, and then that way we're able to pick out of the two who our first is, and then once we choose our first priority selection, then we can actually get the costs data released and then there might be additional steps as far as negotiating costs, any additional questions like that. So really we have Director Hunt here to provide any kind of background she can as far as either process or her insight into the proposals that we've received and really just opening it up for any feedback from Councilors or any additional questions that we might be able to relay to the two applicants that have provided proposals that are before us tonight. So I will Open it up, if Councilors have any thoughts as far as the two proposals before us, or any questions. Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I was a big fan of that Gantt chart calendar, too. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Director Hunt?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Are there questions or comments from Councilors? I think to the point about the scoring sheet and having to follow up with references, I'm happy to take that on or Vice President Bears, if you want to split that, we'll each take one and we can call for references.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, I think, yeah, and I think we've heard from Councilors. I think we could definitely fill in, you know, 1A and, yeah, I think it's just 1A and B based on our conversation tonight, and then C would just be based on the references. I think we're happy to, I would have to, I'm like, I don't know if that counts as deliberation if we sent the reference sheets around.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, I haven't spoken, but I agree with everything that's been said. And I appreciate you, Director Hunt, for really kind of naming the players and the different roles that they play with the city. And I do appreciate that Fisher Associates has had some work in the city. So I think if for whatever reason we couldn't get what seems to be our first choice, that's very helpful to know. But I think knowing that we had, you know, Attorney Bobrowski, who's a partner in this, for recodification. We had Emily Innes, as far as the comprehensive plan. We had her on a meeting just last week to help us understand the MBTA Communities Act. And then Attorney Silverstein, who I know we've worked with a number of projects recently. And then I think he also just, I can't remember what we worked with him on the council, but I know in his previous role at KB Law, we worked with him a bunch. I want to say it was over 5G or something. We've had many, You know, I think we've all had great working relationships with him as well in the past. So I think seeing that combination of folks as well as a number of folks who we haven't worked with yet, but also seem to have great qualifications, I think it's very exciting for me.
[Nicole Morell]: And maybe reflecting the will of the council. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: And yeah, well, and somewhere they're reflecting the will of the council.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Thank you, Director Hunt. Any further discussion or motion? Second. The motion of Councilor Caraviello to adjourn is seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-314, Committee of the Whole, meeting Tuesday, December 5th, 2023. It's called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. 5 present, 2 absent, and the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss Paper 23-314, Private Ways in the City of Medford. The City Council has invited DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon and Attorneys Robin Stein and Sharon Everett of KP Law to attend this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as the meeting notice states, this is actually from a paper from Councilor Scarpelli. We've had a number of these papers over the years, honestly, usually multiple during the year, regarding questions that residents will have as far as services on private ways, some of it stemming from impetus as far as in saying they used to have a certain service on their private way, they no longer have it, or understanding why they don't have a service, things like that. We have had some subcommittee meetings on this where we've had Commissioner McGivern explain a lot of the role that the DPW takes on, but much of this actually enters the legal area as far as what is allowed under Massachusetts general law for practices on private ways. So as such, We have attorneys Everett and Stein from KP Law with us tonight. I know we have a number of questions. I will do my best to address Councilor Scarpelli's questions from my memory as we're here. And then, so we'll just kick things off.
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Everett or Stein, can you hear us? Yes. Okay. Attorney Everett can hear us at least, so. Before, I know I have a number of questions if Councilors have any questions that they would like to ask. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Attorney Stein, Attorney Everett, is that something you would be able to provide?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. One question I had I actually got from a resident. So you talked about, I think, the ability of all I think you said, it has to be every abutter on a private way has to agree. Could residents on a private way, I'm not an abutter, but residents, could residents on a private way, if everyone on the street agreed, could they put like a speed hump on their road? Or does that exist in some other plane of regulation?
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, can you hear me now? Okay. No, they can't hear us, Kevin. It's just faint. Can you hear me now?
[Nicole Morell]: OK, so could I had a question from a resident that asked if they got everyone on their private way to agree, could they actually install a speed hump on their private way or does that exist under some other regulation?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. And not that anyone is asking this. So just making sure I'm understanding that kind of the way that, you know, every level up from the city is what Trump's like MGL, Trump, you know, you follow MGL and then city law and federal kind of that thing. We can't, people couldn't suddenly say, we want our private way to have a 55 mile per hour speed limit. And that, you know, just making sure that the city regulations apply first. And then if folks want to work within that city regulation to make some changes to their street, they can. or city ordinances apply first? I'm just saying, so I guess another way to phrase it is like, we can't make an ordinance in Medford that supersedes or goes, supersedes MGL. And MGL can't make a, you know, the state house can't pass a law that supersedes federal law. So I'm just saying that the- Yeah, so private way folks can't make some law that is outside of or some regulation that is outside of city ordinances. All city ordinances still apply.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So I think actually a lot of the questions we get are related to services. So I think regulation, I think that makes sense. I think where folks get confused, understandably so, is you know, they're told they have a, they know they live on a private way and outside of the fact that we all pay the same taxes regardless of what type of street we live on, they get some city services. So the street may be plowed or there may be, you know, if sometimes when branches fall into the road, like large branches, they may be picked up, things like that. If folks request a stop sign, it gets installed. So where's the line there as far as services that cities with private ways can or do provide and then ones that would be going outside and would be deemed using public funds for private goods?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and could you, you were hard to hear a little bit before, could you repeat back the section of MGL that was adopted, opted into for that?
[Nicole Morell]: So an example for that, I have a very specific example, is that on a private way, it just has a catchment basin that, because of increased rain events, it's just overflowing. there wouldn't be really anything that the city could do to fix that, because that needs a complete overhaul. It needs to be likely tied into the city sewer to avoid that problem. And that would not be considered a temporary repair. That would be a permanent.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm going to go to Commissioner Gabert.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I believe Councilor Scarpelli is on the call now. Councilor Scarpelli, I know you had requested this meeting. If you have specific questions that you wanted to ask. I'll give her a beat, assuming that's him. One question, again, a specific instance that we've had A lot of, I live on a private way, I have no idea why it's a private way or where the papers are, you know, I don't get anything like, I did not get anything like that when I, you know, I bought my house. But folks have said, folks who have been in their home for a really long time, we had a specific example of someone saying that the city donated a tree, they planted a tree in front of my house on a private way before I was the owner of the house, I didn't ask for this tree, and now it's damaging the sidewalk in front of the house. So since the city planted the tree, isn't this the city's responsibility? So what is the legal opinion on something like that? It happens a few. It's happened more than once.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. I'll go to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Um, attorney ever signed in your opinion, I mean, should there be I know we just got a few new street trees planted on my private way. Big fan. But I mean, in your opinion, should there be something that folks are given notice or something now that this tree is on their private way? it becomes their responsibility.
[Nicole Morell]: I guess that as a question to Attorney Everett or Stein, is that something that would behoove the city to do. And Commissioner Ray, I don't know if you have anything to add. You know what? Oh, sorry. I'll just go to Commissioner McGibbon just from the DP. Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'll go back to you, Attorney Everett.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I was going to ask Commissioner McGovern, I guess, so in those instances, what does the official kind of DPW stand say? I'm on a private way. We don't know who planted the tree. We think it was a city, we have a story that it was a city, and now it's bringing up my sidewalk. How does the DW approach that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from councillors at this time? I did see Councilor Favelli is unfortunately unable to join us, but I do think we're covering the bulk of the kind of the recurring questions we do get. Another question, oh, go to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for sure, Gabriel.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Commissioner Gibran, in that same thought, This might be a city engineer question, but I guess it's kind of all the same. Has the city identified any streets that they would want to convert to public ways, or is it the position of the city that they're only looking at resident-driven desire to convert, understanding it's costly and involved?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And just to kind of go a little bit down that path, again, not that there's any specific plans, but thinking, again, I live in a private way, so Sometimes I'd assume that to make those betterments, like we have a very narrow sidewalk. I would think the sidewalk would have to be up to ADA standards. And would that be, it would involve some, you know, some taking of like front lawns or, or widening the road or things like that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello, did you have another question or is your hand still up?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Are there any other questions from Councilors at this time? I see a resident or two on the call, so I want to make sure we get to them if they have questions. Seeing none, if there's any folks on the Zoom who have a question, please raise your hand. I don't see any at this time, so I'll go back to one more very specific scenario. I probably know the answer. So if we have one of the trees that we think the city planted at some point on a private way, it comes down and it, you know, damages a piece of property on the private way. That is not the, our reading of the law is that that is not the city's responsibility. Okay. That's correct. Yes. Great. Thank you. Any other questions at this time? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I also just want to echo the thanks. I know it's not always fun to give people the answer that maybe isn't the answer they want. So I appreciate you being able to give the answers.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from Councilors? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, likewise. Thank you, Attorney Stein. Attorney Everett, I appreciate it. And although I feel like you are probably more well-versed and always happy to tell people answers that they don't want, but always welcome and appreciate the time and insight. Do I have a motion? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Councilor Collins to receive and place on file and adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, motion passes and meeting is adjourned. Thanks everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Uh. 23448 Committee. The whole meeting met for City Council notice Wednesday, November 29th 2023 at 6 30 P.m. Meeting is called to order. Mr
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, President, President Morell present six present one absent. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council committee the whole on Wednesday November 29 2023 at 630pm via zoom only the purpose of this meeting is to discuss the MBTA community zoning ordinance. The committee has invited Alicia hunt director of the Office of planning development sustainability and senior planner Daniel Evans to attend this meeting. For their information aids and accommodations contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as the notice states, this is designed to be sort of an information session for the proposed zoning relative to the MBTK communities. Act so that came before the council at our not this not last night but our previous regular meeting that by procedure and statute we refer to the CD board. It is something that has an end of the year deadline and as was presented by director hunt to us, there's a lot of specifics that came down from the legislature. So there's not a whole lot of wiggle room communities have Medford any community affected by this. So I know we have Emily Ness, a consultant that's helping the city that has a presentation for us. And I just want to make sure that due to the short timeline, we can have Councilors that have questions, concerns, have those addressed. Hopefully folks can join us from the public. I know meeting on zoom only and a little bit later, because there's the holiday event that's taking place in the chambers right now, but we are still on deadline for this. So it's important that we meet. Unless Councilors have questions or statements before we start, we could hand it over to Emily to give us a short presentation. Seeing none, Emily, I'll let you take it away.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. That's a helpful reminder. And thank you, Emily, for that presentation. So I will open it up if councillors have any questions. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Does that cover your questions, Councilor Collins? It does. Thank you very much. Any other questions from Councilors? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: You're welcome. Thank you. Any other questions from councilors? I do have one or two questions. So I'm talking about the excluded land. So the excluded land is about specifically about the station area. It's not the city at large, because I know I think of like the fells, we have like a lot of excluded land, but it's just the area, the land within the station area, or the zoning area that's been chosen.
[Nicole Morell]: So it's not, yeah, so it's not necessarily excluded in that nothing can ever be built there. It's excluded. Okay. Is there somewhere that we can see, because excluded, this is like a term that was defined within the act. It's not like a previously used term, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Danielle, did you have something you wanted to add? Do you need to be unmuted?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, that's really helpful to know because I think there's been some chatter on Wellington being kind of a neglected part of the city. And of course, here's a big change. They just chose Wellington because no one cares about Wellington. So I think that's helpful information. And then just one quick question for maybe ends up being longer just Alicia and Danielle and then I'll make sure to go to other Councilors. I think one thing that's been said as this has been presented to kind of help assuage just that this is a big change is that this of course this is a zoning change this does not mandate, the building of any of these units. But of course, we make this zoning change then it is open, you know, it's open for anyone to present a development and because it is on this way. There is little space for. I don't want to say refusal but I mean people can develop these things, stuff by right that's that's how it's designed right so I just want to. make clear on that because I think we go we say this is just zoning it doesn't mean units but in a place like Medford and this is how it's designed because we're zoning there's very likely development to follow.
[Nicole Morell]: I appreciate it. Go to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you both. Any other questions from councilors? I do have one more question. Director Hunt, I know you've explained this to us before, but just help me. I promise I'm not being obtuse, but I know when we talk about the number of units in an area like Wellington, some of those units already exist, or what is that? Like some of those units are already factored into the calculation. Could you explain that again?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, that's really helpful. I think that's what I was circling on without the words to ask it, so I appreciate that. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I think that's, you know, my interpret or I received part of that is like, this is what happens when you write an act for such very different communities. And we're already Yeah, we're already pretty built up in many spaces. So any further questions from Councilors? Or any members of the public who have questions or would like to speak? All right, seeing none, Alicia, Emily, Danielle, is there anything final you'd like to say as we're here tonight, knowing we're of course going to meet on this a few more times?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further questions or do I have a motion? Seeing no further questions, do I have a motion to receive and place on file?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, so I have a motion from Vice President Bears to adjourn, seconded by- Seconded. Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned. Thank you so much, Emily, Daniel, and Alicia. Really very much appreciated. And thank you, councilors, for excellent questions.
[Nicole Morell]: The 23rd regular meeting of the Medford City Council November 28, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. Records, the records of the meeting of November 14th, 2023 were passed to Vice President Peres nationally. On the motion of Councilor Garbello to table until the Vice President returns, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. The next resolution has Vice President Peres on it as well. It's actually, okay. Motion to table 2, 3, 4, 5, 5 until the vice president returns by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees. 2, 3, dash 0, 2, 0. We have impeccable timing. November 14th, 2023, committee of the whole food truck ordinance report to follow. So as the states, this was a We're viewing some potential edits to the food truck ordinance. I think we ended the meeting by asking KP Law to suggest adjustments as they saw fit to make it the most sense legally and then also keep it streamlined, which is our main goal of that. Do I have a motion? Motion approved. On the motion of Councilor Tseng to approve, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 21-050, November 15, 2023. Committee of the Whole on the Leaf Blower Ordinance report to follow. This was a meeting where we made a number of edits to the draft Leaf Blower Ordinance. Again, to streamline it, we will be combining those edits and also sending it out to legal review, and there'll be likely another committee meeting to follow. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Motion of Councilor Collins to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Vice President Harris to take from the table the records and approve, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. We also have table 23-455. I'm sure. Would you like to take it off the table? Yeah. On the motion by Senator Bears to take off the table 23-455, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-455 offered by President Morell and Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we recognize and celebrate International Human Rights Day on December 10th, 2023. the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations. Be it further resolved that the Council adopts the following statement made by the Medford Human Rights Commission. Statement in support of International Human Rights Day. The Medford Human Rights Commission recognizes and celebrates International Human Rights Day on December 10th, 2023. On this day 75 years ago, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations. The document, which consists of a preamble and 30 articles, outlines the fundamental human rights and freedoms to which all of us everywhere around the world are entitled. Its pledge to promote human rights without distinction of nationality, place of residence, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, language, or any other status is consistent with the principles that established the Medford Human Rights Commission in 2014. The Medford Ordinance expands the rights to include sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or status as a person who is a recipient of federal, state, or local housing subsidies, among others. The 2023 theme of the International Human Rights Day is dignity, freedom, and justice for all. It highlights the equal dignity and worth of every person, the need for a blueprint for sustainable development, the inspiration for stronger human rights protections, and the recognition of human rights as a solution to today's greatest crises. The framework is in alignment with our mission to protect the civil rights of the people of Medford, reinforce a positive community atmosphere, work with community groups and agencies to educate, promote understanding, to eliminate prejudice and intolerance, to mediate within the community wherever needed. The Human Rights Commission embraces diversity. and a culture of respect across differences to ensure that everyone who lives and works in or passes through the city of Medford has an equal opportunity to thrive. Respectfully submitted, Chief Jack Buckley, Stephanie Cornell, Maureen Curley, Immaculate Deluxe, Rob Klein, Diane McDonald, members of the Medford Human Rights Commission. So I want to thank the Human Rights Commission for delivering this
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. So, on the motion of vices and bears, as seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Scarpelli?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to suspend the rules to take 23-458, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Communications from the Mayor, 23-458, to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council. regarding proposed wage adjustment for fire union i respectfully request and recommend the city council approve the following amendments to the revised ordinances chapter 66 article 2 city of medford amendment to revise ordinances chapter 66 article 2 be ordained by the city council of the city of medford in chapter 66 entitled personnel article 2 entitled reserve the city's classification and compensation plan formally included as article 2 section 66 through 6631 through 66-40, amend the figures as they presently appear next to the following title by adjusting each to reflect the following percentage wage increases and effective days. Fire. Effective July 1st, 2021, increase the base salary of all fire union titles by 2.5%. Effective July 1st, 2022, increase the base salary of all fire union titles by 2.5%. Effective July 1st, 2023, increase the base salary of all fire union titles by 3%. Effective July 1st, 2024, increase the base salary of all fire union titles by 3%. Effective July 1st, 2025, increase the base salary of all fire union titles by 2.5%. Human Resources, Lisa Crowley, will be available to answer any questions. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Respectfully submitted, Bernalongo Kern, Mayor. I know Lisa's back there somewhere too, but Daniel. We obviously have folks from the fire union here as well. If we have any questions from Councilors, if we just want to hear from our fire aid reps.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't know if there's anything you'd like to say here. You're unmuted if you do.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, councilor.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Mayor Paris.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Thank you, Councilor Collins. And like Councilor Collins said, it's all been said, but I'm thankful we're here tonight. A fair contract is the bare minimum we can do for our first responders, for our firefighters. So I'm glad we're finally here. Hopefully this does not happen again. So we have a motion from Councilor Palacio, but I don't know if anyone wants to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Palacio.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't know if you have anything you want to add before we take the motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve and waive the remainder of the reading, seconded by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes, 6 in the affirmative, 0 in the negative, 1 absent. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Are we going to take those papers? Yeah. Thank you, Madam President. I apologize for this not being on the regular agenda. Mr. Maskell's untimely sad passing happened sometime before the agenda was presented.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Scarpelli. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? All those opposed? Dedicate? Absolutely. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. 23-412, Adam Dash and Associates, Attorneys at Law. I've read this a few times, so I'm just gonna skip this. Attention, Adam. Heard of me, City Clerk. 12 Dell Avenue petition to amend deed restriction. Petitioners and owners, Gerald L. Alves and Janet R. Alves. We have Attorney Dash before us tonight, I think, with an update, so I'm gonna avoid reading the whole paper, so if you wanna provide us an update.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor to continue to our December 12 meeting seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. Thanks for being here. We'll see you on the 12th. Going to 23-460. Under petitions, presentations, and similar papers, 23-460, petition for a common Mitchellers license by Chung H. Lee, Esquire, on behalf of Wiley Enterprises, Mei Ling's Restaurant, 434A, Salem Street, Medford, Mass, 02155. On file business certificate number 208. I believe we have the petitioner on Zoom. I think I see Chung Lee, if you could give us a wave if you're gonna talk. Great, and I'll pass over to Councilor Scarpelli. chair of our licensing subcommittee and then we'll go to Mr. Lee.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, Mr. Lee, if you could just tell us a little bit about the business and what you're seeking as far as hours, things like that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any questions from the council? Seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. Thank you so much, congrats.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears for virtual regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Going to hearings. 23446, legal notice of a public hearing, City of Medford. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hadsett Drive, Medford, Mass., and via Zoom on Tuesday, November 28th, 2023 at 7 p.m. A link to this hearing will be posted no later than Friday, November 24th, 2023. The purpose of the hearing is to hear the Board of Assessors on the following items for the purpose of allocation of the FY 2024 property tax. One, to determine the residential factor to be used for FY 2024. Two, select an open space discount. Three, select a residential exemption. Four, select a small commercial exemption. Call 781-393-2501 for any aides accommodations. TDD 781-393-2501. 2516, the city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. For additional information, contact the office of the city clerk at 71-393-2425 by order of the Medford City Council, signed Adam L. Herdimese, the city clerk. And we have Chief Assessor Costigan here with us tonight, who already has a presentation about to get started on the screen. Unless the councilors have any questions to start, we can go right to the presentation.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilmember Caraviello. Any further discussion from the Council? I know we likely have at least one member of the public who wants to speak on this. No? Do you want to speak on this? I said I'm sure we have at least one member of the public.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak? So we have four. So we have three. So we don't take a vote on the open space because we don't have a supply to us. Yeah, there is no open space. Yeah. OK.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, yeah. I've been watching them, yeah. So we have three votes before us, so determine the residential factor reused, whether or not to select a residential exemption, whether or not to select a small commercial exemption if folks have any motions.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello on the determination of the residential factor to take the 1.75 shift seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: And that's your intention? Yes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes. Next we have whether or not to select a residential exemption.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion for Vice President Bears to not adopt the residential exemption seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Is that language correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative one absent motion passes. And then finally we have whether or not to select a small commercial exemption. to not adopt the exemption.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative. Zero in the negative. One absent. The motion passes. Thank you so much. Thank you for your time.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to motions, orders, and resolutions. 23-456 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the City Administration give the City Council an update on approved contracts for the DPW. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Pele. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-457 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be resolved that the Community Development Office will be present at the City Council meeting and allow the residents from the Carr Park neighborhood to discuss Carr Park construction concerns. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: If any residents would like to speak, you don't have to.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from councilors? Okay, so on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 2, 3, 4, 5, 9 offered by Councilor Svang. Be it resolved that the City look into the impacts of a proposed soccer stadium in Everett and if Medford can negotiate community benefits to mitigate potential impacts. Be it also resolved that the City follow Encore Casino's plans to redevelop their adjacent property and, more specifically, look into the potential to renegotiate our current community agreement with Encore if necessary. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, so on the motion, we have a motion from Councilor Collins, take 23447, loan order from Carr Park, phase two, off the table for third reading, to approve for third reading. Before we take a vote on this, do we have any further discussion? Questions? So on the motion of Councilor Collins to approve for third reading, seconded by- Second. Vice Mayor Farris, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to adjourn from Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor of adjourning? Yes. All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. And I had asked Vice President Bears to chair this meeting as the chair is supposed to be as, I understand they are a voting member, but the chair is supposed to be as neutral as possible. And since this was my paper that I introduced, I think it's a better representation if I speak from the floor rather than the chair. I just wanted to start, give a little background of kind of how we got here today. I know there's been a lot of interest on social media, through emails, responding to the meeting notice. And we've actually, had a few meetings on this topic so I just want to share background for folks who might just have been brought in just learning about this so I have actually received as a Councilor I know some of my other Councilors have as well I may have been Some of them are from my neighbors, so I may have been specifically targeted. But I've had a number of emails over the years asking, what can we do about leaf blowers with regards to either noise or the pollution component of it? And those of them who are here tonight will tell you that I pushed them off for as long as I could. I said, I don't know if we can do anything. I don't know if we can do anything. And then I finally submitted a resolution in 2021, actually at the beginning of the year, just saying, let's have a subcommittee meeting. see explore the level of interest as far as what folks might want to see and stuff like that and just get the conversation going. So after two of those meetings, we actually moved to have go to the committee the whole because I think as we all know, if we're here tonight, there's strong feelings on both sides of the issue. And I think it was more representative to have the larger body be able to debate that. And in the process, we had requested from legal counsel, just a draft ordinance that would provide regulations around leaf blower use in this city. That's the gist of what, that's really what we asked for. This is a common practice is to ask legal counsel, you know, we want to, we have this thing we're trying to do. Can you draft us some language? In the past when it's been our city solicitor, what we've gotten back or the process for drafting that has been a little more that we're in. Um working with KP law. What we got back looks strikingly similar to what they have in Somerville. Um And. Essentially the reason we ask for a draft is it's something to work off of. It's easier to have something to respond to. I think they kind of gave us pretty much everything that you could consider or folks are we could pick and choose what works for Medford, what doesn't, what we want to, you know, see where we want to go with this. So I just want to kind of provide that background because I know understandably so a lot of people are reacting to that draft as if it's something that we're looking to pass in its entirety. I'm not looking to pass that. I think based on feedback on both sides, but I think based on feedback, there's obviously more conversation to be had. And the reason that that draft exists in its form still is when we heard it at our last committee of the whole on this topic, which was over a year ago, Um, we had some debate and Councilor Scarpelli said we really need to have the landscapers here before we do anything before we go any farther. So we left that in the state that it's in. We invited the landscapers that we have contact information for through the city, and that's the meeting I think we're hoping to have tonight. I have a number of, I think, adjustments I'd like to consider to the draft language that I think would be a compromise on a lot of sides of the issue. I think you know, number one, this is largely in line or making sure that this is in line with our noise ordinance. I don't think it's anything outside of the realm to just be more explicit that these types of machines are under the same grounds as our noise ordinance. I think there is some good stuff in the ordinance as far as having commercial operators and owners of large property just simply submit a plan for, um, what they do to mitigate the noise, if anything, inventory of their blowers, and then operators plan for educating their users and providing PPE, which, as I understand, a lot of, not all, but a lot of landscaping companies are already doing a lot of these things as far as making sure they're, of course, that their employees are trained, that they're providing PPE should they, if their employees want to use it. And then I think some basic language, of course, as far as, you know, making sure that I think where some of the frustration comes from with leaf blower use is folks, we can get into the noise, but folks are bothered by the noise. They look out their window and someone's, a user is like chasing down some like dirt in a driveway. And I think stuff like that is where people start to say, you know, I get it for leaves, I get it for cleaning up, but it seems like it's becoming the tool for everything. And when it's the tool for everything, it's just making sure that, you know, Users aren't blowing stuff into the street. They're not blowing leaves and everything else into the street and things like that, which I think, again, is pretty much common sense. And then we do have the language as far as limiting the number of leaf blowers per lot, 10,000 square feet or less. I think that is completely reasonable, especially considering our lot size in Medford. So that's just where I'm at right now. first intention of this meeting was to hear from the landscapers, just in general, if they have specific things, obviously, about this draft that they wanna flag and have that conversation, but I'm happy to yield the floor to my fellow councilors, and then we'll go to our invited guests as well. If anyone else has, also stop me from like, I feel like I'm gonna keep trying to run the meeting, so please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if I could, I do think it would be helpful before we get into the suggested changes to hear from the landscapers and folks that want to talk, because I think that can also just inform that.
[Nicole Morell]: If you want, well, I think, I think it's helpful to read through it, but I said, I just want to make sure read through hear from folks and then we can go through maybe suggested changes just so sure hearing is can be represented in those changes.
[Nicole Morell]: And I should add, I think we referenced a lot of folks we've talked to. We also, the earliest version of this was reviewed by DPW as well. So just having that folded in.
[Nicole Morell]: Can we get a new comment letter or this is the previous one?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we want to go to Commissioner Forty just because we're on borrowed time with him always.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, I can start. I think I have a few ideas. I know Councilor Collins has a few ideas as well, so I can also I'm happy to not take over everything, but I think one thing, one concern that was raised, I talked to a few members of the Chamber of Commerce, and I think we heard this concern the last time we talked, was just exempting the city properties, and I think people said that doesn't seem fair, which I think that is a fair comment, that that doesn't seem fair. It's not. I do think we could amend this, that we strike the, strike where we exempt the city properties, and the city properties get folded into that request with the commercial leaf blower operators. Not the request, but the stipulation. With the commercial leaf blower operators and the OLP, that they submit a plan or have a plan on file as far as the three parameters that we have as far as address owner or operator's efforts to mitigate the impacts of noise and emissions on operators of the leaf blowers and occupants of your properties. inventory of equipment and then the plan for educating users of its equipment on safety precautions for users, proper use, et cetera. So I think that would be something that brings the city under the same scope as like the other large properties that we're talking about. So I think that's something that speaks to the fairness, making sure this, what we're looking at is looking at properties of similar size in the same way as opposed to saying this property is the same size as that property, but it's the city, so we're not gonna ask them to do certain things. So that would be one motion I plan to make. I'm not exactly sure the way to do it. I'd be curious other councilors thoughts, but I think right now feedback I'm getting is de minimis use is perhaps a confusing term for, or it's just, it's Latin, it's a legalese term. So I think making explicit where, Um, it is not our intent to infringe on individuals, um, on their property. And again, it's not our intent to infringe on anyone. It's our intent to set regulations that can, um, meet the requests and needs of our community. But I think just understanding whether it's, um, changing the first, um, beyond limitations of use, just making sure that that includes just the use of leaf blowers in general. Um, and that's, actually, no, it's two, I think. We take two and we align it more with our noise ordinance, which is what dictates this stuff anyways. And then that way everyone would be under the same kind of noise ordinance stipulations and regulations rather than having two separate buckets for commercial and individual. So I think I'd be curious, or just thoughts in general, just how to make that more clear. But again, I think We always wanted to have that part of this, that you going out to your lawn and blowing your leaves, doing whatever for probably the amount of time it takes to do a standard size yard in Medford. It was never our intent to say, hey, you can't do that. So I think just figuring out what the language is to make these regulations reflect that. So that's all I have for right now, I see. I need to stop trying to call on people. So that is all I have for right now. I defer to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I don't know if updating B2 like eliminates the need for seven. I mean, maybe it's just helpful to be, you know, as, I mean, I know it's helpful, it's helpful just to be as explicit as we can in what, just so folks know what we're trying, what we're looking to do.
[Nicole Morell]: Again, based on feedback.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. Thank you, Commissioner Forgese. So if we were to adjust this language to that it just, the regulations on use are related to the existing noise ordinance, do you think that would then result in the need for overtime to enforce or since, I mean, that's something that's already on the books. So I'm just, if we, again, conceivably people are following this already, but making sure it's explicit that, Regulations around leaf blower use fall under the existing noise ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't believe we actually, so I guess outside, so I guess the noise ordinance, I guess, related specifically to the time. So the time balance, so like between seven and six, we actually don't have in our noise ordinance specific decibels or the one, the section I'm referring to refers to the use of machinery. It doesn't list specific decibels. And I share your concern there as far as, I'm not sure how we would be able to capture that in a way that would make
[Nicole Morell]: I don't believe that was the intent of this stipulation. Um, there is language here about a phase out. So again, I'm, I'm, um, I'm just asking specifically as far as like the time. So irrespective of the 65 decibel, because I think I've, I've raised from the beginning, I think, um, much to the chagrin of some of my neighbors, I'm not sure that's something that we can do. So I think that's something I'd be willing to motion to strike out simply because I don't know how we're going to enforce it. Um, So just as far as if, you know, if the bounds we put on this is you can use a leap lower in accordance with the noise ordinance, as far as the time, it's when you can use machinery. Would that require any additional enforcement or is that already falling under the umbrella?
[Nicole Morell]: That's it's the language is like machinery machinery.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, as it reads, it's section 38-34. So it says operation plan or machinery performance of certain work No person shall perform work of a type that is excessively noisy and disturbing to the reasonable peace and quiet of the proximate neighborhood before our 7am or after our 6pm on any day and then it goes on. So it kind of has relatively blanket language currently.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, but I guess back to it. Sorry. I'm not trying to belabor this. But do you think If we reference the noise ordinance, if we update this ordinance and it makes reference to the noise ordinance and say the noise ordinance is what affects the parameters of use of leaf blowers, do we think then we will need additional staffing to enforce that since it's an existing ordinance that I would assume we're already enforcing? responding to calls about?
[Nicole Morell]: So, okay, thank you. Yeah, that's helpful. And I don't think I know I for one Councilor is not my intention to make this a police matter. So I think just, um, mulling on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I don't. I think it's one of those. I think Commissioner 14 Spartan number one, we don't have the. The train staff or the device currently, but also. If you send folks out and the people have already left it, so what do you kind of? Yeah, which.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and we do have language in this saying the building, you know, that the building department board of health would be responsible for enforcement. But again, Trisha Forty brings up a good point where if these complaints are coming in after hours and he is, it's his, statement that you can't enforce this unless you actually see someone in the act of violating it, then I think that leaves us at odds at the moment.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Back to Commissioner Forde. So looking at, we have a, I don't know how much people use this at all. We actually have a barking or disturbing dogs set of our ordinances where the language is no person owning a dog, keeping a dog, blah, blah, blah. Where such noise, barking of a dog, is plainly audible at neighboring residents from the building, premises, vehicle, or conveyance housing said dog, or such noise is continuous in excess of 10 minutes. That such noise is plainly audible at said distance or continuous in excess of 10 minutes, shall be prima facie evidence of a violation. Maybe you never get calls about this, but I mean, this is just something that By the time someone goes out there, the dog may no longer be barking or I'm just curious, do you get calls or people reach out about this and just how it's handled that can like inform anything here?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. St. Baird. I just wanted to note to Councilor Tseng's point, I mean, it may be worth including the de minimis as well, because I think in the stuff may fall, I think, you know, when it's daily hours are extended, folks may have, oh, I just want to use my leaf blower, you know, do this really quick. whatever get this done I have extra daylight hours so making sure like that is like exempt if someone's just cleaning up their yard they have they need to go past the regular noise ordinance time maybe it's maybe that's excessive but I don't know I could I could see that being an instance where having including both just having the regulations but also saying diminished use you know for whatever cases
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'm happy to.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I will say cities that I've looked at that do have things like this, they have their ordinance that's, you know, within their code of ordinances, and then they have like a one pager that kind of summarizes and not legally is what is included. So, but I think to your point that and like plus and.
[Nicole Morell]: It would be both. De minimis use would be for homeowners.
[Nicole Morell]: I think, yeah, we would vote on everything, anything, so yeah, 100%. I don't think that, I personally, I would like to introduce a motion where that electric is exempt from any of the regulations. I think that to Tom's point, I think that's an incentive point. But I think this is absolutely what is helpful for us to hear. So I think this is all up for grabs, this is all up for debate. So yes, that is what it says right now and that's what you're reading. Is that what we're trying to pass? For me, no.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely, yeah. And I think that's part of it, is the way this is written now, written by lawyers, is confusing. So number one, make it not confusing, but number two, hear from people and make sure that, yeah, we're not limiting people from doing their gardening, doing things.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it was thrown out $100.
[Nicole Morell]: I think we've been talking a lot about just going with the noise ordinance, which is 7 a.m. to 6.
[Nicole Morell]: Can I ask you a question? Of course. Do you work in places, do you operate in like Arlington and places? Nope. Nope.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Do you operate in any towns that have leaf blower ordinances?
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. How does that?
[Nicole Morell]: We're here for both. I mean, yeah, there is.
[Nicole Morell]: It's on. Oops, I hit it again.
[Nicole Morell]: That's a good sweatshirt. That's it. You gotta watch out what they're teaching them there though. That's where I came from. Oh, that's a good school for that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so I would make a motion based on this discussion that we adjust Section 2 under limitations of use so that it reads, in accordance with Sections 38 through 34 and 38 through 37. And then that goes into someone who decided that the use of leaf blowers is restricted to the hours between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. on any day.
[Nicole Morell]: And then I think it would, okay, we'll start that. Did you email this language?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, because I think this has to go back to the legal counsel. They can actually put in the work of getting us an ordinance that is reflective of Bedford and not just giving us Somerville's ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, in accordance with the existing noise ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: And then I would also motion to strike the language exempting city properties from these regulations. And then also, I don't know if we're on the same motion, add city properties to the requirements of subsection 3 under limitations of use.
[Nicole Morell]: Add city properties into the subsection 3 as far as the requirements limitations of use. So that's a section that includes commercially floor operators, owners of large properties, and then adding in the city of Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. I think that's, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. As long as the clerk reads everything back. Great.
[Nicole Morell]: And then I would just ask that we strike subsection five with regards to the specific decibels. actually might not be the whole thing there yeah there's a sentence in there that it says as far as OSHA requirements regarding PPE so I would just ask that we strike the part specific to decibels between the notwithstanding or after the word agency through the period after the word decibels yeah yes
[Nicole Morell]: All right, I can stop there to let other councilors talk.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, there you go. And I think, just if I could interject, I think that sentence, too, if we just strike the word de minimis and that sentence about de minimis, I think it serves our original intent. without adding the confusion of de minimis, defining de minimis. But just a suggestion.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry, what do you mean by that?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it refers to two specific sections. So it's currently the limitations set forth in subsections. B1 through 2 shall not apply to, and it says, diminished because it's divided.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, that's a good point. I'm not arguing against myself unintentionally. I think, yeah, I think I remember saying the de minimis there is helpful for folks that need to operate outside the regular noise ordinance. So I forget I ever said anything. I will go back to it. Cause I think the point of the de minimis there, I think what we're trying to get at is there are these hours of the noise ordinance, but there may be, Circumstances where folks want to, need to, whatever, use their leaf blower for a certain amount of time to get their work done. I think making sure we're exempting, or in my opinion, exempting residents from the ability to, granting residents the ability to do that.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So I'm sorry, what did you say by Susan Ferris?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I guess my point to that is the woman we had here before who said, you know, sometimes I, you know, I'm out there at seven or I'm doing little bits at a time with like my electric leaf blower. So I don't want to impede on that, I guess. I mean, my, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: OK, got it.
[Nicole Morell]: I know Councilor Collins' motion to have electric or battery um, exempt from section, um, from the seasonal, um, regulations, but I would motion that it also includes section two, just as far as the, the time regulations, just because of the resort regulations.
[Nicole Morell]: It would have, have electrically floors being exempt from sections one and two. So I think we talked about section one is the seasonal and section two is like the time of day. who's having electrically exempt from the time of day regulations.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, my thought is they're quiet enough they don't need to be, but I mean, maybe this is a question for... I'll hold. I'll stay on that. I think there is a... Because I think there is the noise ordinance related to the machinery, or there's an ordinance. The way the noise ordinance is written, and of course, this leads it up for interpretation, is specific to machinery. It says, no person shall perform work of a type that is excessively noisy and disturbing. So under the idea that this is not as noisy and disturbing as the gas, but I'm also fine to just let it lie and leave it for any future discussion or whatever. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, that's fair. Yeah. Again, this is a living document at this point, too. I'm not married to anything. OK. Then the one other thing, or I just know, I think, that the dates that Mr. Keir shared were helpful.
[Nicole Morell]: So just procedurally, this stuff has to go through committee. Until it's voted out of committee, it's not going to be something we actually vote on. Some stuff stays in committee forever. Some stuff, I mean, the last time we met on this was a year ago. I'm not gonna be in the next council, so I shouldn't make any promises, but yeah, there's at least one more meeting of a committee style likely before it would end up on anything that would actually be voted on. Okay, perfect.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, someone else can motion. I know Vice President Bears has some motions, so I don't wanna.
[Nicole Morell]: Also, I think that the seasons have the seasons decide what people are. Okay. Yeah, I'm fine with that. I think for me, I think it's about the, like the, uh, the right to, what is it? Quiet enjoyment, like during the summer, I think is what folks are seeking. Um, I think sometimes I think we talked, we talked about like leaf collection. I think, um, the seasons are changing so much that there may be, I don't know, God knows what to do when earlier or later, but I think that having that quiet time that people can actually be outside, you know, during the summer is important.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, I think, honestly, I don't know. I don't think people are going to be using it on top of the snow. Maybe they are. If they have to, maybe there's a reason. I don't know. Yeah, I think it's just, I think just for clarity, I think it's this use, I think, to also Mr. Kearse's point, it's like it's limited by the weather anyways. But I think for clarity, it's just easier to say that. It's either exempt or they are allowed whatever. It's just like the very straightforward sentence. Yeah, I'm not trying to design an ordinance where it's like, you know, you're at a parking spot and like, you know, there's something and you're reading four signs in a row trying to do the math in between to figure out if you can actually park. And I do think there's a discussion point. I think it's just, I think it's worthy of discussion as far as the dates of the actual phase out, perhaps they need to be pushed out a little bit. I know there is, there's a bill in both the house and the Senate right now, as far as funding for commercial landscapers to transition to electric. So I think, I think there is some stuff moving in a way it hasn't before. that maybe would support that. Again, I think if there's something coming up under another council, it's not gonna be me, but putting that up for consideration, knowing this is a draft and it's still being worked on, it doesn't have to, but I'm just putting it out there for consideration.
[Nicole Morell]: Second.
[Nicole Morell]: Sometimes I can't hear over there. It must be the heat, which I don't know if I have a key for.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that the noise ordinance is just every day of the week. So I think if we may change that language to any day, I mean, I think to Mr. Kearse's point, The commercial folks are.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. That's how the motion covers that.
[Nicole Morell]: OK. Yeah. I think just making sure the language any day is explicit. Yeah. I don't think we want to send folks to then the ordinance to figure out what days it applies to. So I think the way it's written in the ordinance is 7 to 6 any day. Any day.
[Nicole Morell]: Pro bono.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. I think, yeah, we'll just motion to review suggested language provided.
[Nicole Morell]: Submitted by resident. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: But I think I would probably also motion to- Join? Yeah, I'm taking a guess here, but join all the motions.
[Nicole Morell]: Actually, could we roll call? No, could we roll call them one by one?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm joking.
[Nicole Morell]: No, I'm looking at my little sheet of paper. You happen to be right. I'm not used to being over here trying to figure out what's happening. I used to sit over there.
[Nicole Morell]: I think herein lies the challenge of not having a city solicitor. This is stuff that historically would go to a city solicitor that we'd work hand-in-hand with.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I think that the process would be to have the edits incorporated by Councilor Tseng, and then probably another committee meeting. And then once that looks good, send it out for legal review.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so I think, yeah, just some motion to have Councilor Tseng incorporate the, or I don't know, do you want to do it? Motion to have the edits incorporated, motion, I could just remove the do or from, motion to have the edits incorporated into a draft to be shared with KP Law for legal review.
[Nicole Morell]: Before coming back to council.
[Nicole Morell]: Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 6 p.m. This meeting is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we're having some speaker issues, yeah. Councilor Tseng, present or absent? Present, four present, three absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, November 14th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chambers on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss proposed food truck ordinance per paper 20-020. The committee has invited Interim Economic Development Director Victor Schrader and Attorney Robert Stein of KP Law to attend this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk. at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morel, Council President. So this is an ordinance that we last visited in February of this year. This is something that has been a policy that was put into place, I believe, in 2016 by then-Mayor Burke, and this whole process has been essentially streamlining that policy and really just bringing it into ordinance form, so there's no questions as far as how these permits are quite forgotten and things like that. At our last meeting we left it and that we wanted to pass this on through Interim Director Schrader to get additional feedback from the Board of Health as well as Fire and Police and Engineering, I believe. So we do have Interim Director Schrader here tonight. I'm going to pass things off to him for an update on that process and then we can open it up for discussion with Councilors but also vice president Bears. There's like a reverberating sound. Can you guys hear us on Zoom? Give me a thumbs up. Yes. Okay. They can hear us. All right. So I think I'll pass it over to Victor Schrader.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We'll go by some bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. I think, yeah, just to build on, I don't see any councilors talking at the moment. To build on what Vice Mayor Bears and Councilor Scarpelli said, yeah, I think our intent was very much to just take the policy that was in place, make sure it's streamlined, and make sure it's very explicit in an ordinance, the steps that need to be gone through. and of course deferring to the Board of Health for those approvals because as Councilor Scarpelli said, sometimes these come before us, they might come before us late, someone might realize they need it for an event on Wednesday, we don't need it again until the next week, so I think it's just taking this and moving it to the Board of Health which already sees these permits and just making them the deciding authority on it. So I don't think, or I know, based on past conversations, we weren't looking to go into zoning and all this stuff and multi-day permits, I think, by design. We really wanted to focus on special permits at this time because that's what we felt comfortable about. We added the provision as far as how far away from a brick and mortar. These food trucks need to be parked and things like that, but it really was to simplify it. And Attorney Stein, some of what you said, I absolutely understand where you're coming from, but some of what you said sounds like this is just making it a little bit more involved than was our original intent. So I can kick it back to you. I don't see any other councilors who want to speak at this time if you're able to respond to that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: speak to that as far as others.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that'll get you there.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I'm gonna go to Director O'Connor, set her hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Oops, sorry, Marianne, I just muted you again. I'm just gonna wait for the clerk to get that language, then I'll go right to you.
[Nicole Morell]: I think just to that point, Vice President Bears, that's kind of similar to what we did with outdoor dining. We had an update to our ordinances, and then we had a number of recommendations and policy things that fell under the building commissioner.
[Nicole Morell]: Is it?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, it is.
[Nicole Morell]: I do so much, I lose track sometimes.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry, Director O'Connor, I'm gonna go to you, then I'm gonna have Councilor Tseng. All right, I'm gonna push unmute, and then I'm gonna not touch anything.
[Nicole Morell]: So you're asking if within this language, we want the board of health, some specific language as far as regulating those food trucks, which are ran into the zoning as being allowed on site at breweries. That's the question?
[Nicole Morell]: Right, and I think, yeah, I think we're probably, we're looking at two issues now. We're looking at what we were talking about with the special event, and then I think you've raised an issue that we hadn't considered, I don't think, since that was passed. So obviously that's something that needs to be addressed. And then we're also just trying to address the special event permits, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. And I think I don't think we want we're not in the business of drafting legislation for specific businesses, but we do have. are one brewery, and I think they've mostly or exclusively been relying on area restaurants. So they haven't asked for a food truck there to my remembering. So they've been open however long now, and that has not been an issue. It doesn't mean that it's not something that could be addressed in our zoning, but I just want to raise that for background. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Going to Director Schrader.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think that's fair point.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we do have 2 motions on the floor. So, 1st, for racism bears, Mr. clerk, if you can read that back and still needs a 2nd.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. The motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. And then we have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to get the total billable hours that KP Law has worked on this issue, I guess, to date, or do you want it at the end?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, at the completion of the ordinance. have to meet again on this. So we will, we'll make sure we get that at the end. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion by Senator Bears to keep the paper committee and adjourned, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: from Medford City Council, November 14, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Seven present, zero absent. Please rise to salute the flag. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. Records, the records of the meeting of October 24th, 2023 are passed to Councilor Tseng. Councilor Tseng, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. I will also look it up to jog our memory from what we met on.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Sub in the affirmative zero negative motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: two, three, four, five, four, four, five, two, three, four, five, oh, two, three, four, five, one.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Isis and Bears to suspend the rules to take those papers out of order seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes 7 the affirmative 0 negative motion passes the rules are suspended to take those papers out of order starting with 23445 notice of a public hearing petition for grant of location National Grid North Andover Mass proposed electrical main new conduit Main Street National Grid plan number WR-306-58427-4 Medford Mass the clerk's office You are hereby notified that by order of the Medford City Council, the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George B. Hassett Drive, Medford, and via Zoom on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, at 7 p.m. A link to be posted no later than Friday, November 10, on a petition by Massachusetts Electrical Company, doing business as National Grid, for permission to construct a line of underground electrical conduits, including necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures under and across the public way, or ways hereinafter named. Wherefore, it prays that after due notice and hearing as provided by law, it be granted a location for and permission to excavate the public highways and run and maintain underground electric conduits together with such sustaining and protecting fixtures as it may find necessary for the transmission of electricity said underground conduits to be located sustainably substantially. in accordance with the plan filed and marked Main Street, Medford Mass Plan number WR-306-58427-4, urgently dated July 13th, 2023, and received and filed in the office of the city clerk on August 18th, 2023, and available for inspection in the office of the city clerk, Medford City Hall, Room 103-85, George B. Hassell Drive, Medford Mass 02155. The following are the streets and highways referred to in plan WR-306, R30658427 Main Street National Grid to install beginning at a point approximately 15 feet southwest of the center line of the intersection of Main Street and South Street.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng to waive the reading in favor of a summary from the petitioner. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Palacios? Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Negative motion passes. Do we have a representative from national grid? Uh, if you want to come up to the mic, um, and then do we have a city engineer here or just national grid? Okay. Um, Yeah, if you could just, that should, one second, that mic should turn on, otherwise, or you're gonna put it, okay. And then just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: You're good there.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, if you could just give us a summary of the project that's before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: City engineer. Yeah, if you want to come up, you can explain that. Thanks, sir. I appreciate that. I just didn't hear perhaps.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Would you like to make that a P paper? Please, if you can. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions? We do have to open the hearing to any other questions for councilors at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: Should we take that now before we open up the public hearing or after? I'll take the motion now. So we have a motion from Vice Mayor Bears to amend condition number five to reflect the curb-to-curb paving that will be done in another part of the city in lieu of this specific parcel. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And then, while he's writing that down, So we have a policy ordinance in the city as far as not reopening our streets again right after we paved them. It's five years, right? Is this because this infrastructure has collapsed and this is considered an emergency or just because it's a public utility? How is this occurring, I guess?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Yeah. Could you tell us why this is considered?
[Nicole Morell]: So yeah, you would have done this earlier.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. Um, so, Mr. Clerk, call the roll on the motion from vice bears to amend condition five.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven. The affirmative. Negative. The motion passes to five. Any further questions from the Councilors at this time? As this is a public hearing, I need to open up the hearing. So if there is anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper, please come to the mic or raise your hand on Zoom. Our friends from National Grid, that would be you as far as speaking in favor of this. Are you in favor of this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this paper? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak against in opposition of this paper? Please come up to the mic or raise your hand on Zoom. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. We do have a B paper I can take and then I'll see if there's a motion we want to make. So we have a B paper from Councilor Scarpelli. Do you have the language for that? Could you read it back?
[Nicole Morell]: Right. Thank you. So on the motion on the B paper from Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Chair Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. President Morell. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion to approve as amended pending the six day public comment period seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven. The affirmative zero and the negative passes. Thank you very much. Going to two three dash four five zero. 23-450 offered by President Morell, Vice President Bears, and Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the Elections Commission and Elections Manager provide a report to the Council listing any and all issues or procedural errors that occurred during the administration of the 2023 municipal election. Be it further resolved that the report includes specific responses to, one, the misprinting of ballots, two, the inaccurate instruction sheets provided to voters with mail ballots, three, the trainings that provided incorrect information to poll wardens, and workers regarding voters bringing materials to assist them in the voting booth, and four, persistent issues with the counting of ballots in a timely manner and release of incomplete, unofficial election results to the public. For the result, the mayor provided the council with a supplemental appropriation request to restore the full-time staffing levels in the election department. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Do we have to take a roll call on that? So we have a motion for Vice-President Bears to join 23-450 and 23-451. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll and this is the roll to join them. And then I'll read the 23-451 next. Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, some of the inferiors do the negative motion passes, the papers are joined, going two, two, three, four, five, one offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the election coordinator report back to the city council with a detailed report and findings detailing the municipal election, which includes, but is not limited to absentee ballots, polling rules and regulations and complaints and malfunction. So I'm going to go on order as far as the names of the papers. So the vice mayors, Councilor Carbello, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor say.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. I just want to make it very clear, I believe my fellow councilors have covered pretty much everything. I do just want to note that elections are objectively more complicated these days. There's early voting, there's permanent mail ballots, there's election day voting, and The council, I think, really under the request and advisement of our previous elections coordinator, moved to that commission format to streamline this process. And unfortunately, as a result, that commission and that office, well, not the commission, but the office was understaffed. And this is something that council pointed out time and time again. We asked for that office to be staffed up, and it was not heard. So we did one thing, and then we got a negative outcome from it, because the the mayor's end was not upheld essentially from our wishes. So again, I think just want to make both those things clear that there is a lot of moving pieces. There are more moving pieces than there ever have been in our elections or local elections. And we made a change that was asked for and we believe would absolutely streamline and make this process easier, but without the staffing. It doesn't work, so I appreciate Vice President Bears bringing that up, as well as the appropriation for that staffing that we've been asking for this whole time. So I'll go back to Vice President Bears, and then I know there's likely a lot of folks who want to speak on this, so I want to make sure we can open up the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council at this time? Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like that as an amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Seeing none, if there's any members of the public who would like to speak, feel free to come up to the mic. Who wants to speak? Name and address for the record, please, and just push the button on the mic. There you go. You're good.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, you're all set. Oh, yeah, yeah. I know you can't see the light. We can see it, though.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Are there any other members of the public who would like to speak? We'll just try to keep to five minutes, because I know a lot of people want to speak, and we have other issues tonight that a lot of people want to speak on as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Oops, I think you're accidentally touching the button. There's a button, just don't. Oh, stop touching it. Hang on, hang on. Once and then I'll tell you. There you go, okay, nope. Once, okay. Just touch, okay, push it once. Okay, hand off, hand off. Okay, you're good. You can't see the light.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm going to go to, oops, sorry. I know I had a hand up on Zoom, but I think, Eileen, I saw your hand up, but I forgot you were there for a little while. Raise your hand if you want to speak, otherwise we'll go to folks in person. All right, is there anyone else in person who would like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to go to Eileen Lerner on Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: either means frozen or we're frozen. I'm sure I'll come back at an opportune time and address the record. We'll go to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Eileen, let's try this again. It looks like I got kicked out of Zoom, so it looks like our connection's bad. I keep looking a little frozen, so I don't have a lot of... Can you hear me now? I can hear you, yeah. It might help to... Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Arlene. Is there anyone else who would like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone else who would like to speak? There's someone on Zoom. I cannot see them because my internet is not working. Okay. Anyone else who would like to speak? Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: You can address with your heart, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak? We have a motion. We have an amendment. Well, we need a motion on the original paper that's been amended by Councilor Scarpelli and Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion from Vice Chair Bears to approve as amended by Councilor Scarpelli and Councilor Tseng. Seconded by? That's what they're saying. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes. I have a motion to revert back to regular order of business. So moved. I have a motion on Councilor Collins to revert back to regular order of business, seconded by Vice for the Affairs. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: When you're ready. There was a motion, both papers are combined, so it was 23-451 and 23-450, asking for, I'll just read them both. uh... here's our members of the house of the elections commission election manager by or to the council listing any and all she's she's there's a greater interest in the news you've heard about the report with specific responses to the misprinting of ballots accurate instruction she's provided to voters let me help me let me show up in the south side of the interim i'm i'm repeating it i'm repeating after getting it back trainings that provide incorrect information to poll wardens and workers and also the paper has been disposed of so i'm reading it back as a courtesy there's no more public comment on this paper the paper has been disposed of so i'm reading it back as a courtesy i'm reading it back as a courtesy you're welcome to stay to public participation in the meeting but i'm reading this back as a courtesy there's no more public comment on this paper it's been disposed of because we voted on it
[Nicole Morell]: As I said. Thank you. I'll continue reading because you asked for it. Voters bring materials to assist them in the voting booth and persistent issues with the counting of ballots in a timely manner and release of incomplete unofficial election results to the public. Be it further resolved that the mayor provide the council with a supplemental appropriation request to restore full-time staffing levels in the elections department. And then that was combined with councilor Scarpelli's paper that said be it resolved the election coordinator report back to the city council with a detailed report and findings detailing the municipal election, which includes but is not limited to absentee ballots, polling rules, and regulations, complaints, and malfunctions. Scarpelli amended to ask for elections to direct the commissioner, can't remember my own writing, to explain in detail. Can you read that amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, sorry, that was a letter. Yeah, that was a letter to be sent to the Secretary of State, and then Councilor Tseng further amended to ask for specific details related to funding and staffing related to the challenges. And that's what was voted on and approved 6-0-1 absent. But a motion from
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears to revert to regular order of business, and now we're, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, uh, six in infirmary. Negative one absent. Motion passes. Running to regular order of business. 23-411, notice of a public hearing, Medford City Council, Chapter 94, Zone 8. The Medford City Council will conduct a public hearing on November 14, 2023 at 7 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Mass, 02155, and via Zoom remote video conferencing relative to paper 23-411. also known as paper 23-407, a petition by the Medford Housing Authority to amend zoning map city of Medford, Mass., dated April 13, 1965, as referenced in Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the property of 1-20 Waffling Court as depicted on sheets 1-6 of the plans entitled ALTA NSPS land title survey prepared by Fuss and O'Neill and dated February 6, 2022 from apartment one zoning district to a planned development district, which would have a new development standard per Medford zoning ordinance chapter 94-9.2.3. A Zoom link for this meeting will be posted no later than November 10th, 2023. For additional information, aids and accommodations, call the Medford City Clerk's Office at 781-393-2425, TDD 781-393-2516. The full materials of the amendment can be viewed in the office of the city clerk, Medford City Hall, room 103, or on the city's website at medfordma.org, slash department, slash planning, dash development, dash sustainability, by clicking on current city board filings. Advertised in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal, September 14th and 21st, 2023, by order of the Medford city clerk, signed Adam L. Hurtubise, city clerk. We do have the petitioner here. Just for an update on this process, this has been many months of public meetings. I think we have had a number of committees of the whole on this, some by statute that we had to have, some we just had as informational. This was brought to the council earlier. This was reported out to the CD board and their recommendation was, I believe it was 5-0. I can pull it up. It was 5-0. So again, what is before us tonight is zoning. I believe Director Hunt, she's not here. It's Danielle. Oh, there you are. If you want to just remind us, so the plan development district is a process that was added when we did the zoning recodification that was passed last March. So it's a relatively new process. So if Director Hunt could give us a brief reminder of the steps of this process, then I think we can go to the petitioner. And then I know a lot of folks want speak on this as well. So we'll go to Director Hunt first.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Are there any questions from councilors at this time? I think just, I'm going to describe really just quickly, just so we, I think just cause this is a public hearing. So we have to run a specific way. I think we'll take questions from Councilors. If we haven't this time, we'll go to the petitioner, any additional questions. Then we open up the public hearing. I know there's lots of folks who want to speak. That is the time to speak either in favor and opposition. I know sometimes there is some nuance in between, but pick a time so we can, we can lodge your comments and then we will, see if we have a motion for a vote. So just so folks know the process we're gonna go through. Councilor Scarpelli, do you have a question for right now?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. At this point, we want to go to the petitioner, unless there's any other Gabriel, you're going to have to talk.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, can you make Gabe, I assume it's your teacher, Garello? That's you?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Garabello, do you have questions for you? Okay. So as this is a public hearing, we do have to open up the public hearing. So I'm going to open up, call for people who want to speak in favor of the position before us, the zoning change before us. And then I will call for people who want to speak in opposition of the zoning change before us. lost my train of thought on something else.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, what I wanted to say is also there's been a number of folks that also submitted their opinion by email that the clerk will add to the report as well. So as this is a public hearing, if there is anyone who would like to speak in favor of the paper before us, this is the zoning change before us that the MHA just presented on, please come up to the mic. You can literally just say yes. You can say a little bit more. Just name and address for the record, please, as you come up.
[Nicole Morell]: New address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm gonna go to Kate on Zoom, and then I'll come back to you. Kate, I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We'll go to Alex on Zoom. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this paper, either in person or on Zoom?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm going to go to Susan on Zoom. Susan, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else, either on Zoom or in person, who would like to speak in favor? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition? Please come up to the mic or raise your hand on Zoom. I'd like to speak in opposition of the zoning change. Opposed to the change. Whenever you're ready. Yeah, you can just get in line when you're ready. Name and address, please. Hi.
[Nicole Morell]: And I'm gonna go to, I know we had someone here. If you wanna come and then I'll go to Diane on Zoom and we'll go in person first. name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: We're going to go to Diane on zoom and then we'll come back person. Uh, Diane, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Hi. You can bend it down. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition? You can just name and address the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Give me an address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to come up to the mic, please? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm going to go to Eileen Lerner on Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition of the project, either in person or on Zoom? Seeing none. We're sure the public hearing is closed. Is there any additional questions from Councilors? And I know we have like one or two hanging questions from residents. I don't know if Mr. Chicarello or executive director Driscoll, as far as like their findings from the environmental study, if that's something that's shared or public or anyone can speak to that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, just the question just being, you know, what was found and, you know, what the remediation steps are. Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from councillors or discussion from councillors at this time? Councilor Craviel.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Further discussion from Councilors? Do I have a motion? Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Public hearing, yeah, the six-day public comment period, yes. So we have a motion from Councilor Collins to approve pending the six-day public comment period. Seconded by the vice of affairs. If there's no further discussion, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And this is again for the zoning change that has been presented to us tonight, understanding that if approved, then there would be a whole site plan review process that would exist and lots of meetings and opportunity for engagement on that as well. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes. Thank you everyone for being here. going to petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 23-448, to City Council President De Palmarello and honorable members of the Medford City Council.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Councilor Tseng to waive the reading. I'm just going to finish reading the heading. I appreciate it. I appreciate you stopping. I'm just going to go on through the heading. So to City Council President Nicole Morel and all members of the City Council from Office of Planning Development Sustainability, date November 9th, 2023, regarding the proposed MBTA communities multifamily overlay district quote wellington station multifamily overlay district so we have a motion from councillor saying to waive the reading in lieu of a overview from i believe director hunt will probably provide that or either planner evans second by yeah we'll wait for the um yeah um Folks, just for audio purposes, if you could just go into the hall for conversations. I appreciate it, just so it gets picked up pretty robustly on our mics. So we have a motion. You still can't hear? Folks, folks, if we could just, if we could just move conversations into the hallway so we can continue the meeting without, so we can, folks can hear. It just gets picked up really easily on the audio and it's hard to hear for folks at home and here. Thank you. Thank you. So we have a motion to waive the reading in lieu of a brief synopsis from our PDS team, from Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Garbaillo. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll, because it looks like Councilor Knight is still with us, but not with us. So call the roll. OK, great. You're right. Sorry. And we talked about it.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Councilor San Buenaventura. Yes. 16 in favor, negative one absent. We're going to suspend the reading for a brief overview from our planning development sustainability team. And again, this is about the proposed MBTA communities, multifamily overlay district quote, Wellington station multifamily overlay district. So we will go to Planner Evans, or Director Evans.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, and then Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Cravio.
[Nicole Morell]: Does that answer your question? Yeah. Any further discussion or do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion to refer to Community Development Board, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion of Vice President Bears to suspend the rules to take paper 23447. I am confident that Councilor Ntukai is here, so we're going to take this as a voice vote. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. I'm going to have Vice President Bears assume the chair for a moment.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, I think we're under suspension. Do I have a motion to revert? Motion of Councilor Scarpelli to revert back to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Find book page 18. Motions, orders, and resolutions. 23-449 offered by Councilor Collins. Be it resolved that the subcommittee on ordinances and rules meet to consider a wildlife feeding ordinance. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? Opposed? Motion passed. I don't know. Subcommittee on ordinances and rules. You're just the easiest person to look at. All right, 23-452 offered by Councilor Collins, Councilor Tseng, and President Morell. Be it resolved that Metro City Council recognize Transgender Day of Remembrance on November 20th, 2023, and commit to remembering all those lost to anti-trans violence, honoring all those affected by anti-trans violence, bigotry, standing with our transgender community members, and reaffirming their right to thrive and live authentically. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng, and thank you to you and Councilor Collins for sponsoring this with me. The Transgender Day of Remembrance came after the result of the murders of two black transgender women in Alston and Watertown, so very close. I mean, it just speaks to it being in our backyard. Sometimes I think we think living in an area like this, it's not something that's faced by the community, but of course it is. And I think that Councilor Tseng's point, this really highlights the intersectionality of the issue. And I think it's important this year, it's important every year. But as you know, we have record-breaking numbers of transgender, anti-transgender legislation being presented across the country. That has very real impacts because of the legislation, but because it further others this community and lets people look at them as different and people that they should not treat with the dignity and respect they deserve like the rest of us. So if in small part we can bring this forward from the city council, say we remember, say this is important, that I'm glad we can do that. Councilor Beres. Vice-Chancellor Beres.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Collins is seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-453 offered by Councilor Collins and Vice Chair Bears, be it resolved that the subcommittee on ordinances and rules need to consider an ordinance to regulate the retail sales of animals raised in commercial breeding facilities. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Collins, we do have a item under suspension as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Let's take a look.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Professor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Please rise. Going to Vice President Bears, I believe you said, or someone asked about something for.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to Vice President Bears to take 23-023 off the table and approve for a third reading. And this is the stretch code, energy code as presented to the council, developed along with the Office of Planning and Sustainability as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, one recusal. Motion passes for third reading. We also, that's the end of our agenda. Is there anyone, public participation? Mr. Murphy? Anyone?
[Nicole Morell]: I know you're all tired. Thank you for bearing with us so long. God bless. Thanks. Councilor Perriello.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, we did have cancer saying, I'll go back to cancer.
[Nicole Morell]: So... Councilor Caraviello, and then I'm just going in order. Who cares about football more? Then we'll go to you.
[Nicole Morell]: It's public participation, I guess.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to adjourn. Second by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: And these would all just go back to the general, the linkage fund, these accounts would be liquidated, they go back to the linkage fund, like general account? I have a motion to approve.
[Nicole Morell]: Second.
[Nicole Morell]: 21st regular meeting of the Metro City Council, October 24th, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Six present, one absent. Please write us a reply. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports and records 23-441 offered by President Morell. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council congratulate Henry and Evelyn Miller on being named 70th anniversary honorees by the Arc of Massachusetts. Henry and Evelyn have long worked with the Arc and for more than 50 years have advocated for and worked to improve the lives of individuals, intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. I introduced this resolution, but I'm happy to have if there's any other Councilors wanna speak first. resolution on the Miller and family. I'm also I'll just go. I put this on a resident actually brought this to my attention as everyone who knows Henry and Evelyn there's no shortage of causes they're involved in in the city, they dedicate a lot of time their, their time to the city. as well as to the Arc of Massachusetts and specifically individuals and families that are affected by intellectual and developmental disabilities. So they're being honored by the Arc of Massachusetts as they celebrate 70 years. So I think that's just a testament to all the work they've done for this community and all the work they continue to do and their dedication. And I wanna thank the resident who brought this to my attention because there's no shortage of accolades for Henry and Evelyn. So I appreciate them bringing this to my attention as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Can I have a motion? I introduced it, so I just need a motion. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Records. The records of the meeting of October 17, 2023 were passed to Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 23-412, Adam Dash and Associates, Attorneys at Law, to the City Clerk's Office, City of Medford, regarding 12 Dell Avenue petition to amend deed restriction petition and owners Gerald L. Alves and Janet R. Alves. Before I get into this, if folks want me to read again, this came before us at one of our September meetings. This is a petition to remove a deed restriction, and we had worked through, we had some questions, and we tabled this to a date certain, that date certain being today. That's why it's before us. Again, I'm happy to read this again if councilors would like, or I can hand it off to Attorney Dash to give us an update of where we're standing right now.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I forgot to add that part of the reason that we tabled to a date certain was so that the attorney and his petitioners could meet with some city departments and see if we could find some common ground to have some language to reflect on for this proposed removal of the deed restriction. So I'll go to Attorney Dash.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, absolutely. Any other discussion from the council or anyone else like to speak on this topic before we get that motion? Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: So the motion from Councilor Scarpelli to table this paper once more to a date certain November 28th or November 28th meeting, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. The paper is tabled to November 28th. Motions, orders and resolutions 23-442 offered by Vice President Bears. Resolved by the Medford City Council that the Traffic Commission review ways to reduce the speed and volume of traffic using Willis Avenue as a cut through, including but not limited to directing one-way traffic away from Willis Avenue and toward Mystic Avenue and Main Street. The addition of speed tables and any other design changes that were discouraged cut through traffic. be it further resolved that the Director of Traffic and Transportation provide the Council with information regarding any existing traffic flow studies for the area, or any plans to adjust traffic patterns to reduce cut-through trips. Vice President Harris.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Falco.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins, and just from the chair appreciate bears bringing this up and just my fellow Councilors comments on this because I think, as we know, this is a multifaceted issue and I really appreciate the focus on looking citywide I think that's absolutely the approach we should take and I'm sure it's. at least in part happening already. But I think like so many of our issues, there is a facet of this that is at the state level, we're dealing with a deeply broken public transit system, that people they would be on the T, you know, or they wouldn't take the bus, but they're sitting in the traffic on the bus, and the T doesn't run. So you have people that are dealing with return to office. You have people who can't take the train. So we have more cars than ever on our roads. They're backing up and they're looking for ways to cut around. And we have the technology and we have the Uber Eats and we have it's, you know, it's a perfect storm. And it comes from everywhere. It backs up to Winchester because, you know, it comes out of Uber and it comes through, you know, everywhere is inching down the line as you get closer and closer to city center and we just stop moving. So I appreciate the effort to see what we can do. um, as a city, but just also recognizing that, um, the density of our community and even more so as we'll talk about the rest of this year, in part relies on a public transit system that has not been functioning for a long time. So that's embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do you want to hit that button? I mean, I can hear you, the people on TV can't hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: Just name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion by Susan Bares, as seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, to refer to the Traffic Commission. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-443 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved the Medford City Council have the DCR and the traffic engineer address the light sequence on Fulton Street and the Fellsway along with the light sequence at Winthrop Street and Route 16 in the interest of public safety. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to take 23-419 for third reading and 23-444 papers in the hands of the clerk under suspension. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Um, so I want to do that again. Do I have a second on that? Councilor Tseng. It's on the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. So, 23-419, eligible for third reading, district improvement financing, approved for first reading in city council on September 19, 2023, advertised in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal, October 12, 2023, and eligible for third reading on October 24, 2023. This is an ordinance that we had I think, multiple meetings on that would just actually, Director Hunt, could you give us a super brief reminder of, or everyone watching at home, just what the DIF ordinance is? I don't want, I can do it, but you're here, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Do we have any questions or discussion or a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve for third reading, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, one in the negative, one absent. The motion passes for third reading. Going to papers in the hands of the clerk 23-444 offered under suspension by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the City Council discuss a message received from the Chief of Staff regarding extra election ballots mailed to residents' homes. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli, and I'll get to other councils. I did reach out to elections manager Melissa Ripley, and she's recovering from surgery, so she couldn't attend, but she did send me, I had some questions myself, just some basic information. So she did apologize for not being able to be here tonight, and she stated that 5,100 ballots were sent out over the course of two days, At this point, the percentage of voters affected is less than 1%. The commission is reviewing the process to ensure that they're putting stopgaps in place to avoid this situation in the future, and they will be reviewing all batches of printed label to ensure that voters only receive one ballot. For voters that receive two ballots, you can either shred one or you can drop the extra ballot, and the ballot collection has been located outside of City Hall or outside of the Election Commission's office. The State Election Division has a robust computer database that assigns each voter a unique ID. When casting a ballot, if a voter were to send in two ballots, only one ballot would be counted. The other ballot would be rejected, and it would be filed accordingly. She says, we want to assure the voters that our job is to provide the residents and candidates with a fair and equitable election. Going to Councilor Collins, then Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: She's I believe she was in or she's working remotely. She's not.
[Nicole Morell]: All right.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. And she may be, I mean, she could have been here today for all I know. She just could have an afternoon thing. Like I just, she just couldn't attend tonight because of a medical issue, but okay.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Thanks. Madam president.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think that's a fair question. Okay. Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, as this is under suspension, I don't think we have any motions, but I think we can always come in. I'm happy to communicate that and just make sure we can get an update on staff and understand where we are.
[Nicole Morell]: You're under suspension. All we have left is public participation. I mean, there was no motion made. I'm happy to, I'll just send it. I'm happy to send an email. I'm happy to send an email and update the council. Public participation. To Honorable City Council, we undersign and respectfully pray Andrew P. Castagnetti to speak on the affairs in Medford on October 24th, 2023. Signed Andrew Castagnetti. Mr. Castagnetti, whenever you're ready. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: We're approaching 10 minutes. I'm not going to cut you off.
[Nicole Morell]: It was down for work in August, but it's been quiet before August and it's been quiet since, so I don't know.
[Nicole Morell]: Let's hope.
[Nicole Morell]: I just hope that doesn't come to fruition.
[Nicole Morell]: All right.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, this feels like campaigning, and I know we can't campaign. We can't campaign behind the rails.
[Nicole Morell]: You can donate additional on your property tax bills, which I know you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Please don't.
[Nicole Morell]: For those following at home, I can't be here.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Castagnetti, thank you. You're well past your time. There's not many people here tonight, so I don't want to cut you off, but I appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't want that $100. No one wants that $100.
[Nicole Morell]: I know, that's the problem.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone else who would like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Appreciate it. Yeah, I'll get that. I'll get that out tonight. Anyone else for public participation? That is the end of our agenda, I believe. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Actually, before we adjourn, because of the election, our next regular meeting will be on November 14th. Folks have any issues? In the meantime, email the council, call the council, and we'll get things sorted out. So our next- Thank you, thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 20th regular meeting of the Medford City Council, October 17th, 2023, is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Five present, two absent. Please rise and salute the flag. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports and records 23-435 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council congratulate Mary Terry on the celebration of her 100th birthday. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. 23436, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that Medford City Council congratulate Rita Tomololo on the celebration of her 100th birthday. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent. The motion passes. Happy birthday to both Mary and Vida. Records, the tabled records of the meeting of- Madam President?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to take paper 23-440 in the hands of the clerk under suspension, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Be it resolved, the Medford City Council observe a moment of silence in memory of former Assistant City Clerk, Dorothy L. Donaghy. Dottie was the Assistant City Clerk for more than 30 years and served as Acting City Clerk for almost two years after the retirement of City Clerk Joseph McGonigal and before the appointment of former City Clerk Ed Finn. Dottie provided long and dedicated service to the city of Medford. Her presence, leadership, kindness, and friendship will be missed. The City Council's offer its deepest condolences, deepest and sincere condolences to her family. be it further resolved that tonight's meeting be dedicated in Dottie's honor. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk? Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Clare Curtis.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Clerk. I'll go to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And yes, just to echo my fellow councilors, just sending our deepest and sincere condolences and thanking Dottie for her incredible service to the city of Medford and for her family for lending her to the city of Medford for so long. So under the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by uh, vice affairs. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative. Zero negative. Two absent. Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. Do I have a motion to revert back to regular order of business? And the motion by Susan Fares to revert back to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent. Motion passes. records, the records, the tabled records of the meeting of September 19th, 2023 were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by- Second. Councilor Caraviello, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, zero negative, two absent, motion passes. The records of the meeting of October 3rd were passed to Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight is absent, Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, would you accept that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to pass the records to Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero negative. Two absent, the motion passes. The meeting of the records of the meeting of October 3rd, 2023 are passed to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. I'm sorry. A lot of writing tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent. The motion passes. Reports of committees 23-416, October 3rd, 2023, Committee of the Whole report to follow on road issues. This is where we met with Director of Board of Health, Mary O'Connor, gave us an update and answered some questions as far as the ongoing road issues in the city and the ways she's worked with other departments to address them and just ways in general they're being addressed. Questions of theirs?
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Vice President Bears to join all reports committees and to approve. after short summary, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. I will go through that short summary. 22-494, October 10th, 2023, subcommittee on ordinances and rules. Reports follow on the budget ordinance. Vice-Chancellor Mayors.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. 19070, October 11th, 2023, Committee of the Whole, report to follow tree ordinance. This was a follow-up meeting on our ongoing work on a draft tree ordinance. We had an updated version of the ordinance that worked off a previous draft that had a number of edits and suggestions from Acting Building Commissioner Forty, and we had a good discussion. We made some small edits, and we reported those out to Planning, Development, and Sustainability, the Energy and Environment Committee, and then Therese Manford for additional comments at this time. So on the motion of vices and bears to approve the record seconded by cancer carb yellow circle is called the role. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Motions, orders, and resolutions, 23-437, offered by Councilor Caraviello. The fee is so resolved that the Medford City Council have DCR replace the guardrail at Route 16 and Auburn Street in the interest of public safety. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. And thank you for bringing this up. I think this is perhaps the third time you've had to bring this up. Different crashes each time, but this is an area that continues to get crashed into and leaves kind of a path of destruction every time. So thank you for bringing this forward. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, I'm seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent. Motion passes. Communications from the Mayor, 23-438, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding accelerated new growth. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respect the request and recommend that your honorable body accept the provisions of Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 59, Section 2A, which provides that any improvements to real estate during the period beginning January 2nd and ending on June 30th of the fiscal year, preceding that to which the tax relates, shall be deemed part of such real property on the January 1st assessment date for that year effective as of fiscal year 2025. Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 59, Section 2AA, is a local option statute that allows a community to value and assess new growth, example, new construction, or other physical additions to real property occurring by June 30th for the fiscal year beginning July 1st. This local adoption law, commonly referred to as Chapter 653, allows the community to assess improved parcels, which ensures the property owners pay a fair share of the cost of government operations for the fiscal year beginning July 1st rather than a later date. If accepted, the vote will take effect in fiscal year 2025, July 1st, 2024 through June 30th, 2025, which has an assessment date of January 1st, 2024. Therefore, any improvements made from January 2nd, 2024 and June 30th, 2024 will be included in the FY 2025 tax assessment. Chief Assessor, Ted Costigan, will be present to provide the council with an overview and answer any questions. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Respectfully submitted, Granolongo Kern, Mayor. We have Mr. Costa again here, if councillors have any questions. I know you were helpful enough to talk to a lot of us in advance, just make sure we understood what was before us tonight, so I appreciate that. Any other questions?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And if I could, so just, I think just repeating back, as I understand what you said and what we had talked about is essentially cuts down a six month lag time, which helps you administratively, but also I feel like would probably be important in a city, cities like ours, where there is a significant amount of new roof and permits pulled, so making sure we're capturing that kind of as quickly as we can, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. Thank you so much. Communications from city officials, 23-439, the election commission respectfully request the following be added to the October 17th city council meeting. One, acceptance of the November 7th election warrant, signatures of the council are required. to acceptance of police chief designated officers for early voting and election day details. Designated the police chief as a decision maker regarding office staffing at the election polling locations. Chapter 92, section 72, the select board, board of select midtown council or city council of each city and town in consultation with its elections officers and registrars shall detail a sufficient number of police officers or constables for each building that contains the polling place for one or more precincts at every election therein to preserve order and to protect the election officers and supervisors from any interference, with their duties and to aid in enforcing the laws relating to elections. I motion to transfer decisions regarding decisions regarding staffing of police officers at polling locations to the chief of police or his designate for all elections going forward. Motion second. Oh, sorry. Just reading. Just kidding. Thank you for the worksheet. Let's see. I motion to accept the municipal election warrant as written. Does everyone want me to read this or would you like a brief synopsis? Could you, I mean, I'll keep, I mean, I'll read, that's fine. Commonwealth of Massachusetts, William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth, warned for Medford November 2023 municipal election to residents of the city of Medford, Massachusetts, greeting in the name of the Commonwealth, you are hereby required to notify and warn the inhabitants of said city or town who are qualified to vote in elections at Ward 1, Precinct 1, Andrews Middle School, 3000 Mystic Valley Parkway. Ward 1, Precinct 2, Firefighters Club, 340 Salem Street. Ward 2, Precinct 1, Roberts Elementary School, Park Street. Ward 2, Precinct 2, Roberts Elementary, 35 Court Street. Ward 3, Precinct 1, American Legion, 321 Winthrop Street. Ward 3, Precinct 2, Temple Shalom, 475 Winthrop Street. Ward 4, Precinct 1, Tufts University, Gancher Center, 161 College Ave. Ward 4, Precinct 2, Walkling Court, Auburn Street and North Street. Ward 5, Precinct 1, Visitek Elementary School, 37 Hicks Ave. Ward 5, Precinct 2, Visitek Elementary School, 37 Hicks Ave. Ward 6, Precinct 1, West Bedford Fire Station, 26 Harvard Ave. Ward 6, Precinct 2 and Precinct 2A, Brooks Elementary School, 388 High Street. Ward 7, Precinct 1, Mystic Valley Towers, North Building Entrance. Ward 7, Precinct 2 and Precinct 2A, McGlynn K-8 Public Schools, 3004 Mystic Valley Parkway. Ward 8, Precinct 1, Senior Center, 101 Riverside Ave. Ward 8, Precinct 2, South Medford Fire Station, 0 Medford Street. On Tuesday, the seventh day of November, 2023, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for the following purpose, to cast their votes in the municipal election of the candidates of the following offices. City Council, number of open seats, seven term, two years. Mayor, number of open seats, one term, two years. School committee, number of open seats, six term, two years. Hear or fail not, I make return of this warrant with your doings thereon at the time and place of said voting given under our hands the second day of October, 2023. Posted at each polling location at the library and at City Hall. Going to our election, yeah. I will hand it over to our elections manager at this time. Oh, just one second, your mic's not on.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any discussion on the council? And that'd be both, both provisions, because there's, okay. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to accept both provisions, that would be designated the police chief as the decision maker, and then the municipal election warrants as written. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Public participation. Is there anyone on Zoom or in person who would like to speak for public participation? Seeing none, before we adjourn, I do want to note that we'll be meeting again next week for our regular meeting. On the 24th, we have a slight adjustment to our calendars this month. So we'll have another regular meeting next Tuesday, the 24th. And after that, it'll be two weeks until we have a regular meeting scheduled. Do I have, yes. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent. The motion passes. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you, everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: 1 9 0 7 0. Committee of the Whole meeting Wednesday, October 11, 2023 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Present for present three absent a meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting now. of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, October 11th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss paper 19070, the proposed tree ordinance. The city council has invited tree warden Agnew Chudin, DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon, and Acting Building Commissioner Bill Fordy to attend this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as I said, we're here to discuss the tree ordinance, proposed draft ordinance. The last time we met, the main motions we took was to actually separate the ordinance that exists or the proposed ordinance in three different sections that would be establishing the tree committee, the public shade trees and the private shade trees. And also one large motion was that regarding the private shade trees, uh, commissioner 40 would offer us a red line or just updated draft, basically outlining what, um, in his expertise and also just the ability of the city to enforce an ordinance, what he thought was possible. I'm happy to read through that as it's the first time having it before us, but Commissioner Forte, I don't know if you wanna give us a brief summary of that before I read it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much, Commissioner. Yeah, I think definitely we'll follow up and get this up on the council drive. And then I'm sure there'll be some motions coming up from tonight, as far as getting in front of some other groups, one being the energy environment tree folks. I'm sure trees Medford would have some comments that they'd want to add as well as just sending an updated draft. If we so move to get some comments from other department heads as well. So I just reminding folks on the call that if, and when this is reported out of committee, then it would go on our regular agenda. It would have to be voted on and that would go as an ordinance. It would have three, three hearings as well. So there's a, a whole process, and I think we've been, as the paper starts with the number one nine, we've been trying, we've been at this process for a number of years at this point. So there's been many bites at the apple, but hopefully, hopefully we start to move this forward. So I'm happy to read this as we just got this shared around our inbox this morning, but I don't know if the councilors have any questions for the commissioner before we get into that. Thank you. Vice Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that. Yeah. All of this, the previous version had comments from KP Law in its earlier form, as well as Commissioner Gibbon and Warden Tudin had reviewed it and offered some comments. So there's still some comments existing from them on the tree committee establishment paper, as well as the public trees, which we can always get into later tonight if we so decide. So I will read this. I'll share my screen and I'll read, I'm just gonna read the changed portions of this since the previous portions have been shared a number of times. A lot of this is definitions that were, previously shared, so I'll just read portions of this. Give me one moment. All right, we should be just seeing, are we seeing the tree ordinance? Yes, thank you, just making sure we're not looking at any other documents. Okay, so going through, so this is the private property tree protection and preservation ordinance, and this is reflecting changes and updates as made by Commissioner Forty on the previous draft that we've been looking at for a few meetings now. So going into the caliper, so that under definitions, well, I'll just read the intent too, to see how it starts. The intent and purpose, this section regulates the removal of trees on private property in the city of Medford. A mature tree canopy maintains the natural beauty of Medford for all to enjoy today and in the future generations and protects the community in critically important ways. It reduces energy consumption and ambient summertime temperatures, air pollution, flooding, and soil erosion. It provides privacy, absorbs noise, and boosts mental health. It supports wildlife and increases resilience to climate change. Protecting the city's tree canopy is thus an essential community function. And I do want to say there's been a lot of people who have helped to write this first draft that is now being edited as well, not the least of which Trees Medford, as well as folks on the Energy and Environment Committee as well. So under Caliper, we just have the update of diameter of a tree trunk in inches is measured 12 inches above the ground for trees. up to and including a 10-inch diameter and 24 inches above the ground for larger trees. The code enforcement officer is defined as the building commissioner or their designee, and construction permit is defined as a building permit issued by the building department, allowing construction, demolition, or renovation of buildings and structures on a parcel of land. And then going into the definition for construction, any activity which affects trees, tree root zones, or is within the drip line and that requires a building permit or trench permit, including driveways, retaining walls, solar installation where trees are removed, site work on foundations, underground utilities, excavation, grading, and paving construction or alteration of a structure or structure where the drip zone of a tree would be affected. Any vegetation within five feet of a structure is excluded. I'm going to drip line, which is a vertical line running through the outermost portion of the crown of a tree where the branches are five inches or greater and extending to the ground. Pruning has been added to be defined as the act of removing, trimming, or looping any portion of a tree up to a maximum of 50% of branches greater than five inches in diameter that is overgrown or possesses a risk to persons or structures. Removal is the act of removing a tree, which includes removal of the stump by pulling from the earth or grinding it to a level below grade safe. Replacement trees are trees planted or relocated by or on behalf of the resident owner or contractor to mitigate approved tree removal which are a minimum of three inch caliper. Resident owner is identified as the legal owner of a property subject to this section who primarily resides at the property in which trees are disturbed for more than six months in a calendar year. Tree protection replacement and mitigation plan is a plan submitted to the building commissioner or designee for approval prior to the commencement of demolition and or construction on a property which trees defined in this section are located. Tree removal permit is a permit issued by the building department for removal of trees based on the appropriate application process on privately owned property. Undeveloped land is defined as a parcel of land or portion thereof that has remained undisturbed from construction activity or maintenance for more than 15 years. Applicability, the provisions of this section shall apply to the following activity on privately owned land. Removal of any tree with a caliper of 10 inches or greater at breast height for any reason. Construction, alteration, and demolition of a structure, parcel, accessory building, retaining wall, fence, or other structure where the removal of trees is necessary. Alteration of any portion of a lot or parcel for the purposes of expanding activity area or cleared open space for leisure outdoor activity space. Removal of any tree 10 inches or greater in diameter at breast height or portion thereof. And going to a schedule for mitigation and tree replacement. Mitigation and tree replacement shall be in accordance with the following schedule. Removal of one tree of 10 to 15 inches equals two trees of three-inch caliper. Removal of one tree of 15 to 30 inches equals three trees of three-inch caliper. Removal of one tree 30 inches and above equals four trees of three-inch caliper. Removal of multiple trees of any size or greater listed above are subject to a fee in accordance with the following schedule. The total clearing of a parcel of land of up to 7,000 square feet is a $1,000 payment to the True Mitigation Fund. The total clearing of a parcel of obtaining 7,000 to 20,000 square feet is a 2,500 payment to the True Mitigation Fund. And more than 20,000 square feet of total lot clearing is subject to slight plan review by the CDB in accordance with Chapter 94, Section 94-11.7. Resident owners must apply for a permit to remove trees from the property in which they reside for purposes of maintaining conditions near any structure. Protected trees, as defined by this section, are subject to review and approval from the tree warden. If, in the opinion of the tree warden, that the trees to be removed are significant, they shall refer the proposed tree cutting removal to the Tree Preservation Committee. Tree removal activity exempt from this section is a tree that poses an imminent risk of falling branches, rotted trunk base, or other indicators of failure as determined by a certified arborist. Removal of any tree or portion thereof for purposes of gathering sunlight for photovoltaic solar panel systems or arrays, trees damaged by storms, or other natural causes. protective and significant trees, trees that are 75 years or older as determined by a certified arborist or the tree warden shall be inventoried and preserved to the extent feasible, whether by resident owner or contractor approving the property. If in the determination of the tree warrant, a tree should be preserved, the tree warrant shall refer the applicant to the tree committee for a public hearing. The tree committee shall hold a public hearing within 30 days of receipt of application to determine the significance of the tree. Upon final decision, the tree committee shall provide a decision in writing to the building commissioner and tree warrant within 21 days of the closing and determination of the tree committee. The building commissioner or their designee shall enforce the provisions of this section in accordance with 94-11.0 Terminations by the building commissioner or their designees are specific to by right permits, special permits and site plan review by the CD board shall carry provisions of this section by order of the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Community Development Board and the City Council. Do we have any questions or discussion from Councilors at this time? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Do we have, Councilor Tseng, or any questions from the public at this point? I know we have some folks from Trees Medford, as well as the Energy and Environment Committee on the call.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do we want to spend any more time on this draft or do we want to revisit the other two sections and, oh, here we go, we got Loretta. Loretta, name and address for the record, please. Oh, I should see, oops, sorry. Oh, hang on. At the same time. You should see the unmute box again. I'll stop touching, there we go.
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, we can hear you, go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Laura.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much for that clarification, Joey. Yeah, you do us a big favor because I think it's an ordinance that we absolutely want to put everything in and it maybe got to a point where it was a little too cloudy and with the crux of all of our ordinances we pass, right, is can it be enforced? Is this something we actually have the ability to enforce or make sure people understand? So I appreciate the commissioner for giving us your point, Loretta. I'm absolutely sure we'll, you know, someone will motion or I will encourage them to motion to make sure we share this with our friends in the energy environment. committee for some comments as well as Theresa Medford, because I know there's a lot of folks like yourself that have a lot of knowledge in this area that your comments would be very much appreciated.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to Bob Payne. I'll unmute you and just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, we can hear.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Bob. Again, I think to the commissioner's previous points, I think these are actually, these are all very important points and stuff for us to consider. And I think this is, the commissioner gave us a framework to work off of. So I think that's a, I, for one member of the council think that's a great point and something that we should consider looking at.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak at this time? Councilors, do we want to look at the pre committee draft again, or want to stay on this? Thoughts? Folks have any emotions at this time or were eager to wait for comments from random comments from people?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think that's a really good point about clear cutting, because I do think one of the things that originally prompted the introduction of this paper was the clear cutting of the law on Winthrop. where still nothing has been built.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And then I just so I just want to make sure I'm understanding that you're recommending referring to your office and you will help us identify any gaps that there may be.
[Nicole Morell]: Thanks much appreciate going to Amanda on zoom. Amanda name and address for the record. Please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Amanda. Yeah, and to your first point, that is the intent. So, and again, we'll make sure that any gaps that may appear. Yes, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak? Bob, I don't know if you put your hand up again, or if it's still up.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Any discussion from Councilors at this point? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going back to Loretta on Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Laura. Any other discussion from councilors? I know, so we... No. Yeah, so we do have 2 other portions that we're considering. I do wonder if it's worth. Reporting this out and getting comments as that may pack at least the tree committee. Establishment, but I'm also happy to review it at this time. If folks just want to lay eyes on it again, as we haven't looked at it again for a few months at this point. Yeah. The public tree and, oh, sorry, going to Councilor Tseng. The public tree and the tree committee, we do have some comments from the public tree and commission we're giving couldn't be here tonight, so I do wonder if that's just something safe for when we can continue those conversations.
[Nicole Morell]: Now Councilor Tseng does have, I'm gonna go to Councilor Tseng, so he may have a question for you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that. I think the question from Councilor Tseng, Director Hunt, I don't know if you could hear, just the last one standing at this point, is just as we're looking for people with specific qualifications for this committee, if we think we could attract folks without, you know, Should we establish a stipend for serving on this committee? Do we think that's essential to be able to attract someone like a certified arborist?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, I think that's helpful. I think we do have comments from Attorney Stein that said perhaps you could list it as it being. A preference to have, you know, a certified arborist, but it's not essential and I do wonder if I don't think it's in this language. Just having the tree warden as an as an ex officio member as well might also, you know.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Yeah, and I think revisiting this document, I think that the crux of the concern from Attorney Stein, which is making sure that this is not written in a way that the tree committee would usurp any of the powers of the tree warden. So I think number one, it would need a little bit of update language, but I think number two, if that were something we could work out, I think working in concert would certainly help to avoid kind of undermining or undoing the expertise and the just the legally defined role of the tree warden. going to Councilor Collins, if you still have it.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we have the motion from Councilor Tseng to, in the draft of the Tree Committee, strike this line that says the Denver Tree Committee members shall serve without compensation. Do I have a second? Seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And I do think it may be worth just folks, Councilor Collins, if we want to make a motion to perhaps send this back to the tree warden again, and that's separate to see any comments or someone wants to just study it and study it against the tree warden as defined at the MGL level as well. Councilor Collins, I'll go to you as we wait for the clerk to type that up.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, absolutely. We'll take Councilor Tseng first.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 4 in the affirmative, 0 in the negative, 3 absent. Motion passes. We will strike that line from the draft. And then, Councilor Collins, you have a motion to update the language so that it's not required. That, sorry. I don't want to make anyone dizzy with my track changes. It's not required. Go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: So, so I have based on what Jeff said, could be Consideration shall be given that at least one member of the committee will hold a license as a Massachusetts certified arborist or international certified arborist or similar certification to the extent that appropriate candidates are available and willing to serve.
[Nicole Morell]: So Councilor Collins, if you'd like to make a motion that we update that line.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. Consideration shall be given that at least one member of the committee We'll hold a license as a Massachusetts certified arborist. I can also just paste it to you in the chat. Okay. No, I can chat you. Just can't broadly chat. or international certified arborist or similar certification to the extent that appropriate candidates are available and willing to serve.
[Nicole Morell]: So we'll add the motion with that. In addition to add to the end of that line, residency is not required if necessary to fill this expertise.
[Nicole Morell]: If necessary to fill this expertise, and that would immediately follow the other sentence that Uh, we gave you that answer in order to serve.
[Nicole Morell]: I guess as we have this in front of us, too, I'm being reminded of, I think, the many areas of concern, too. where I think these first three is that it's too vague, working with the tree or working on public tree hearings, including documentation of tree hearings. And tree hearings are very explicitly, that process is very explicitly outlined in MGL. I feel like something that may be worth striking or consideration. Same thing with ensuring that the city adheres to provisions. I think ensure is too vague of a word. And then the same thing with the following on the committee's work will include consideration of management. I think that might be too vague. I think the rest is, you know, working to develop a recommended plan, working on annual reporting, promoting creation of manuals, promoting equity, engaging in projects. I think things like that make sense for this committee and I think is the intent. I do think some of this stuff may just sound a little too broad and run against the state level definitions of what the role of the tree ward is in the process for public shade trees.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to add language to that?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, it sounds like to me if we may. Feel like we're in a place where we would want to send these 3 back out or at least these 2 back out for comments and reconsider as. think having a much more streamlined version from Commissioner Forty kind of maybe informs a little bit these other things and also knowing we'll get more comments from folks as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Uh, so we do have a motion on the floor from Councilor Collins, and that was to add the language, um, that clarifies that, uh, I'm just gonna I'm just going to summarize. It would be nice to have an arborist, a certified arborist or similar certification, but it's not required. And then also that if it is challenging to fill that role, resident of residency is not required for that specific role on the committee. So on the motion of Councilor Collins, it's seconded by- Second. Councilor Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Four in the affirmed, zero in the negative, three absent, motion passes. Vice-Mayor Bears? Actually, Councilor Tseng, did you have something you wanted to add before we take the motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Vice of Affairs to add the word subject to confirmation by the City Council afterward Mayor in under appointments section A. It is specifically it's subject to confirmation by a majority vote of the City Council. Thank you. Mr. Clerk, you're able to call the roll on that. Sorry, seconded by Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Four in the affirmative, zero in the negative, three absent. Motion passes. Any further discussion or motions from the Council?
[Nicole Morell]: There's still some... We have not. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: So it's still an open question.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, folks don't have any ideas and updating them now, we can save it for a future meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: I think this is one of the times where we run up against the lack of in-house counsel, where historically we would have worked with them on this, but we do not have that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, I think we could refer out with the specific questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Specifically on the public one?
[Nicole Morell]: Do we need a vote on that? Since it's something we already voted on. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: When you do refer those out, can you just like CC me? Thank you. Any other discussion from the council or members of the public? I have
[Nicole Morell]: So I think we talked about referring it to simultaneously to PDS, energy environment, and then I guess share it with Trees Medford since they're, I mean, it would really refer to them since they're not a body within the city. under the city charter, but just request for comments. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: So motion for visors affairs to refer to planning development and sustainability, as well as the energy environment committee for comment and also request comments from Trees Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: On the tree committee and the private trees. Yes. Yeah. And I'd be happy to send them. Energy environment committee. And then I don't know if we want to say request comments from trees Medford since they're not the official city committee. But their insight is also very important.
[Nicole Morell]: So the draft ordinances, so the draft ordinance of the tree committee, the latest draft, which I can share back with you because we just made some slight adjustments to it, as well as the private trees draft ordinance. And you want to add to that, Vice President Bears, just that those also be loaded to the Google Drive, right?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears to refer this out to Energy and Environment Committee, PDS, and also request comments from Therese Medford. So let's get this up on the website. Folks can see it. And this would just be the tree community establishment and the private trees ordinance, and I think we'll also get the public one up on the drive too. So if folks want to look at it. Seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 4 in the affirmative, 0 in the negative, 3 absent, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vice chairs affairs to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Collins. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, or in the affirmative, zero to negative three absent the motion passes. Meeting is adjourned. Thank you, everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-059, proposed wage adjustment for non-union personnel, eligible for third reading, April 25th, 2023. Do I have a motion? Approve the third reading. On the motion of Vice Chair Bears to approve the third reading, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: 23416 Committee of the Whole meeting Tuesday, October 3rd, 2023 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. For present three absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, October 3rd, 2023, at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss paper 23-416, Rodent Issues in the City. The council has invited public health director, Marianne O'Connor, to attend this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425 Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. As the meeting notice stated, this is something that's been called for a few times. We've had a few meetings in the past on this as well, but as it's an ever-changing situation, I'm going to pay for Councilor Scarpelli to meet once more. So Councilor Scarpelli, I don't know if you want to start or...
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Callahan. Director O'Connor, I will hand it over to you. I know you had shared that there were some updates or looking at other departments the way that they can help in this. So I will turn it over to you for any updates you may have or just kind of the current state of addressing this issue.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, you should be able to right now.
[Nicole Morell]: Not yet. We're not seeing take over the screen at all just yet.
[Nicole Morell]: Now we're seeing that you've started sharing, but we're not seeing it just, there we go, now we can see it.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, we can see it. Yeah, perfect.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director O'Connor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So just to clarify your motion, is it to get a communications plan or to get a team together?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, you did. Mr. Clark, could you read back what you have just to make sure? Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do you just want to swap that to PDS for the Office of Community Development?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, okay. I think you said Office of Community Development.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there an Office of Community Development? I know it's the same thing, but just for... Thank you. And then before we take that, I know we have folks here. Is there anyone, any members of the public who wanted to speak on this issue? On the rodents? Just name and address for the record, please. And yeah, there you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And Director O'Connor, I do just have one question. When you were talking about inspecting the neighborhoods, is that something that is based off of calls in that area? Or is there areas that are frequently kind of, you know, visually checked out?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great, thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Any other members of the public wish to speak? Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion, we have Councilor Scarpelli's motion. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. And then I have from Councilor Caraviello a motion to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting is adjourned. Thank you so much, Director O'Connor. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: 19th regular meeting of the Medford City Council is October 3rd, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-422, offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere consolences to the family of Medford firefighter, George Cataldo, on his recent passing. George served with Medford Fire Department for 38 years prior to his retirement. His presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. 23-423 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council congratulate Dave McGillivray on the second run Medford race. Over 700 runners participated in this two-day event and a donation was made to the Medford Recreational Department. We look forward to this event growing next year. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-424, offered by Councilor Caraviello and Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council acknowledge Italian American Heritage Month in the city of Medford as proclaimed by President Barack Obama in 2010, by recognizing the contributions and achievements of Italian Americans. Over 26 million Americans of Italian descent currently reside in the United States, making up America's seventh largest ethnic group.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Vice Mayor Farris.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Mr. Kasich now. Good evening, councilors.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. So, on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Everyone spoke in favor of it, so I'll take it. 23-425, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Judith Collusion, wife of longtime Medford businessperson Paul Collusion of Alexander's. Her presence in our community will be dearly missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: And we're going to do our best on the best. Thank you. Council probably all I can.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence.
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 23-426, petition for a common Mitchell's license by Kayla Ribeiro for Bocelli's Restaurant, 374 Main Street, Medford Mass, 02155. On file, business certificate number 186. I will hand it over to Councilor Scarpelli, chair of the licensing subcommittee. And then do we also have a rep from Bocelli's either on the line or you could come up to the mic and I'll hand it over to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Falco. Any questions from the council? So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Great luck. Thank you. Yeah. 23-434, petition for common business license by Ralph Mascalco, Lucy's Craft Deli and Rotisserie, 472 High Street, Medford, Mass, 02155, on file versus certificate 092. Do you want to come up to the mic? And again, I will hand it over to Councilor Scarpelli to start us off.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions, Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. And as someone, I live just down the street, so I'm very curious, what's the restaurant in Arlington? So I'm like, I know what to expect.
[Nicole Morell]: What's your other restaurant? Just out of curiosity.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I live just on the street from in West Bedford, so I'm very Yeah, I also live a place that wrote. Oh, great. I'm sure I see you. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Before we revert to regular order, can we take 23-433 out of order? 23-433. Yes, Madam President, I would make a motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-433, via electronic delivery to President and members of the Medford City Council regarding Commonwealth of Massachusetts DIA Board Number 1198922, dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend your honorable body enter executive session pursuant to General Law Chapter 30A, Section 21A.3. to discuss strategy with respect to litigation concerns in case of Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Industrial Accidents, Employer, City of Medford, DIA board number 11989-22. I also recommend that the city council's agenda state in the executive session notice that votes may be taken. HR director Lisa Crowley and claims specialist Sharon Thomas of USI slash Future Comp will be present to provide the council with guidance on this matter. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. I assume you have a motion to make before I continue reading?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. We will move into executive session. We will physically go into 207, and Ms. Thomas, I will take you with us in a breakout room, so we'll pull you in there. Regular sessions. Hearings 2383, legal notice of a public hearing. Medford City Council, chapter 94, zoning. The Medford City Council will conduct a public hearing on October 3, 2023 at 7 PM in the Medford City Council chambers on the second floor of Medford City Hall. 85 George B. Hassett Drive, Medford, Mass. and via Zoom relative to paper 23-383, a petition by 243 Mystic App LLC and 45 West 3rd Street, Boston, Mass. 02127 to amend a zoning map City of Medford, Mass. dated April 13, 1965, as referenced in Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the property 243 Mystic Avenue as depicted on the plan entitled site layout plan dated June 15th, 2023 from commercial to C2 zoning district to a planned development district PDD, which would have new development standards per Medford zoning ordinance chapter 94-9.2.3. A Zoom link to the public hearing will be posted no later than September 29th, 2023. For the city council public hearing call 781-393-2425 for accommodations aids slash TDD 781-393-2516. The full materials for the amendment can be viewed in the Office of City Clerk, City Hall, Room 103, or on the city's website at medfordmad.org slash department slash planning dash development dash sustainability by clicking on current CD board filings. By order of the Medford City Council, signed Adam L. Hurtubise, City Clerk, advertise the Medford transcript at Somerville Journal on August 31st and September 7th, 2023.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, the recommendation is to unanimously adopt.
[Nicole Morell]: OK, so on the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the remainder of the reading, for me to share a brief summary of the recommendation from the CD board and a presentation from the petitioner.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. So we do have the petitioner here before us tonight that can give us a brief presentation. The entirety of the proposed plan development district is in our packets. And we did, this was duly noticed and heard at the community of development board. And they returned to the council with a unanimous recommendation for adoption of the petition before us tonight. unless there's any questions from the council to start, I'm going to hand off to the petitioner. And I do also want to note that we have, the council has counsel with an S paid for by the petitioner with attorney Orsvon who's on the zoom call. Should we have any legal questions? And then we also have PDS director, Alicia Hunt, as well as planner, Daniel Evans. So I will turn it over to the petitioner and just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, you want to unmute, or no?
[Nicole Morell]: I think you are muted. Yeah, you are muted. You're good. Excellent. I was missing you when I was online.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm gonna go to, we'll come back to you. We'll go to the councilors first. Councilor Collins and Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello, this has already gone to the Community Development Board, and it came back with unanimous approval. They didn't submit any changes or suggestions.
[Nicole Morell]: He's on the call. Yeah, he's, he's paid for by, I believe, Alicia, you could explain the process to me, but he's paid for by the PDD fees.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So I just want to note two things. So just to remind the Council that as this is a zoning change, this requires five votes to pass. Before we end, would Councilor want to speak again? Since everyone's spoken once, I didn't know if you wanted anything else you wanted to reply. to Councilor Scarpelli, it may have been addressed. Okay, going back to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: We have to open the hearing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Director Hunt, is there anything you'd like to offer? You should be able to unmute yourself. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could ask a question, thank you for sharing about the tenants. That was gonna be one of my first questions, because I know as we have a lot of, I mean, we don't, but in the greater Boston area, there's a lot of empty office space. I know lab space is different. So just understanding you do have a tenant that will actually occupy that space, that's helpful. My question is about resiliency planning in the area. There's concrete there now, it's already a covered lot, but as we've seen extreme rains, 100 year, 200 year, 500 year storms, are something that we're dealing with, everyone's dealing with in this area. So I'm curious in an area that has a lot of impervious surface, impermeable surface, what kind of thought goes into that? Again, knowing we're looking at a zoning change, we're not looking at a site plan, but just to know your thought behind that.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and then in the same vein, again, knowing this is zoning, thoughts for LEED certification or something you would go for?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And again, just looking at, you know, the PDD is several pages long. The crux of what we're looking at here is height, the number of stories, that is the big change. I know there's a lot of, you know, smaller things, but what we're going to notice in the neighborhood is the height, it's the lot coverage, and it's the parking minimums. Is there a big crux I'm missing in my reading of this?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions or discussion from the council at this time? Also knowing that we do have council with an S on the call, if anyone has questions there as well. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carvejo. Any further discussion from the council? I do want to note to Councilor Caraviello's point. So what's before us tonight is the zoning. The City Council is a site plan review approving board for this. So as the petitioner said, if this were to be approved tonight, it would be back before us many times and we would have hopefully many opportunities to talk about the actual project and not just the zoning. So as this is a public hearing, I'm going to open the public hearing procedural process. Is there anyone, I will open this for anyone who likes to speak in favor of this project, anyone who would like to speak in favor of this project?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the project either on Zoom or in person? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this project, either on Zoom or in person? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Councilor Collins, I believe you started to make a motion before.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Councilor Collins to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes. Sorry, one negative. Sorry. Five in the affirmative. Sorry, Councilor Scarpelli. Five in the affirmative. No. One in the negative. It's the absences that trip me up. One in the negative, one absent. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do I have, actually, I think I reverted back to regular order of business on my own, and on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to revert back to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Going to the records. The records of the meeting of the September 19th, 2023 meeting were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Councilor Collins to table the records to the next regular meeting. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to page 12, I believe we go to. Motions, orders and resolutions 23-427 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the Zoning Planning and Development Subcommittee meet to discuss amendments to the section 8.4 of the zoning ordinance regarding short-term rentals to require a monthly report from all short-term rental platforms to ensure that the short-term rental units in Medford meet all requirements of this section. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, vice of affairs. Any councilor say?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Those opposed? Motion passes. 23-428 offered by Vice President Bears, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we formally submit a petition to the Traffic Commission to require no parking or standing on Commercial Street during overnight hours. be it further resolved that we request the Traffic Commission review all streets with overnight parking of large commercial tractor trailers and make changes to parking regulations on those streets where necessary. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice-Chair Baer is seconded by Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just going to call it again because now I'm lost. On the motion of vice president Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-429 offered by vice president Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council the Board of Health regulations and Traffic Commission regulations be posted as appendices on the city's ordinance website, Unicode.
[Nicole Morell]: I second that.
[Nicole Morell]: I spent it on our muni code. I'm not going around.
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-430 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the chapter 86, section 91 of the ordinances of the city of Medford be amended by adding private after public in this section. This amendment will allow residents on private ways the same city services in cutting, trimming, or removal of trees as residents on public ways, article three, trees. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so I actually have scheduled a committee of the whole for the 25th with a land use attorney from KP Law, that that was the recommendation. I had spoken with DPW commissioners, as well as the city engineer, and they said they didn't feel qualified to make the calls based on MGL, what could or couldn't be done on private ways. So we'll have a meeting with the land use. I can invite them as well to that one.
[Nicole Morell]: So I'll- Would you want to send this to that meeting?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Are you amenable to that?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? So we have a motion from Councilor Caraviello to send this paper to the Committee of the Whole. It's going to be on October 25th. We'll have a land use attorney. We'll invite DPW Commissioner, City Engineer, and Tree Warden. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, as amended by Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Motion passes. 23-431, offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have the Traffic Commission Institute no overnight parking on Mystic Avenue and Ring Road. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Communications from the Mayor, 23-432 to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding teacher accommodation. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, on behalf of the below entity, I respectfully submit to the Medford City Council the following request for a food truck permit in the City of Medford in addition to City Council approval. Vendors are required to adhere to health department food safety requirements. The Brooks PTO dates and times on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Councilor Ariello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Motion passes. going to public participation. Is there anyone who would like to speak for public participation either in person or on Zoom? Seeing none. I do just have one update. So the last community meeting for the parking department for the year is gonna be at the senior center on October 18th from six to 7 p.m. Folks wanna attend that. And then I do have an update as well that the parking department have a small change that visitors passes that have been requested residents who apply online. Those will be mailed to them. They don't have to come in person to pick them up anymore. And that will start on December 1st. Do I have a motion? I'm sorry. Uh, Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. On the motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 18th regular meeting of the Medford City Council, September 19th, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. That's present present six present one absent. I don't see Councilor Knight. Oh, there is. All right, seven present zero absent meeting is called to order. Please rise. This is the plan. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-409 offered by Councilor Scarpelli and Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council congratulate Ray and Maureen Brady on their recent celebration of their 70th wedding anniversary. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I can't see my screen now, but I assume Councilor Knight would like to speak on this as well. You can see him.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Naye, would you like to speak on this resolution?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Perriello. Councilor Knight, one last, I know, I can't see. I don't have a connection either. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli is seconded by Councilor Carmielo. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. I can't see Councilor Knight, I can't. I don't think the, I think the internet's down. So 23-410 offered by Councilor Collins be resolved with the Medford City Council recognize the Jewish high holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and wish a happy and healthy new year and an easy fast to all who observe. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. The motion of Councilor Caraviello, I'm sorry, the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Records, the records of the meeting of September 5th, 2023 were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees, 23-389, September 5th, 2023. Committee of the whole report on the district improvement financing. Sorry, many minutes to follow. So this was a presentation we had two weeks ago about the proposed District Improvement Financing Plan. It appears on our agenda again tonight for a vote. We had a very thorough overview. Councilor, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. On the motion. Okay, so just going through the rest of it. Yeah, there's no internet right now. Okay, so, uh, 23-408 September 12 2023 committee the whole report on walking core redevelopment update this is an update from it for housing authority executive director Jeffrey Driscoll on just the what the project is gonna look like and any progress and meetings they've had in the past. And 22-321, September 13th, 2023, Zoning Planning and Development Subcommittee, Condo Conversion Ordinance Report to follow.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to join and approve all reports of- Second, Madam President. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion from Vice President Bears to take 23-417 under suspension. What page for everyone?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion for vice president bears to take two three dash four one seven under suspension seconded by Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes. I'll read this, so 23-417, under communications from the mayor, to the honorable president and members of Medford City Council regarding DuPont versus City of Medford et al, dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend your honorable body enter executive session pursuant to journal laws chapter 30A, section 21A3, to discuss strategy with respect to litigation concerning DuPont versus City of Medford et al, Middlesex Superior Court, Number 1981CV01886. I also recommend the council's agenda state in the executive session notice that votes may be taken. I'm enclosing an attorney-client privilege communication from Attorney Deborah Ecker of Keepey Law, outlining the notice and motion necessary to enter into executive session. Attorney Ecker will be present to provide the council with guidance on this matter. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brenna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Do I have a second on the motion? Seconded by Councilor Tseng. And we just need a roll call to enter into executive session. So Mr. Clerk, when you're ready, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. We will enter into executive session. So we're going to move from this room and go to a separate room with just the council and those on Zoom. We're going to go to a breakout room. We will return to this main room that you're in, so you can sit tight. And, Attorney Edward, we will take you with us into the breakout room. Return to open session. Oh, OK, great.
[Nicole Morell]: Or you can just go back to the Zoom. Great, thank you. Hearings, 23-375, legal notice. Medford City Clerk's Office, notice of a public hearing, Medford City Council. and public hearing will be held by the Medford City Council in the Howard F. Alden Memorial Auditorium, City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Mass, on September 19th, 2023, at 7 p.m. A Zoom link to be posted no later than Friday, September 15th, 2023, on a petition from Matsuba Izakaya, Suji Bar and Grill, Incorporated, 38 Riverside Avenue, Medford, Mass, 02155, for a special permit to amend its hours of operation in accordance with Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-7.2.1 to operate Extended hours at its business at 38 Riverside Ave, Medford, MA 02155 said site being located in a commercial zoning district C1 as follows. Extended hours of operation requested 11 PM through 1 AM, Sunday through Saturday. petition and plan may be seen in the office of the city clerk, Medford City Hall, Medford Mask, 02155. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations, aides. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the city council, Annamal Hurtubise, city clerk, advertise in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal, August 31st and September 7th, 2023. Do we have a petitioner for the extended hours? Hello, welcome. There should be like a button to, there you go. You just wanna tell us a little bit about what you're seeking. I'm sorry, and name and address for the record too.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. I'll turn over to Councilor Scarpelli, Chair of the Licensing Subcommittee.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions from the council? I'm sorry, this is a, sorry, this is a public hearing. So we have a motion to approve second by Councilor Collins as amended by, sorry, I know I'm gonna open it. have a motion to approve, seconded by Councilor Collins, which also amended by Councilor Scarpelli. As this is a public hearing, I will open the public hearing. Are there any members of the public who would like to speak in favor of the petition before us? And that would be you. You're in favor of this? I'm sorry? You're in favor of the, it's just procedural. You're in favor, yes. Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the paper before us for the extended hours? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the paper before us? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. So again, we have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Collins, and amended by Councilor Scarpelli with the 30 and 60 day review. Do you need a roll call or?
[Nicole Morell]: We'll do a roll call. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Congratulations. Good luck. 23-385. We will notice Medford City Clerk's Office. Notice of a public hearing. Medford City Council. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers. and Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford and via Zoom on Tuesday, September 19th, 2023 at 7 p.m. A link to be posted no later than Friday, September 15th, 2023 on a petition from T.E. Pizza, LLC, Domino's 199 Mystic Ave, Medford, Mass for a special permit to amend its hours of operation in accordance with Medford zoning ordinance chapter 94-7.2.1 to operate extended hours at its business at 199 Mystic Ave, Medford, Mass said site being located in a commercial zoning district C2 as follows. Extended hours of operation requested 11 p.m. through 1 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 p.m. through 2 a.m. Friday through Saturday. Petition and plans may be seen in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, I'm sorry, yes, Medford City Hall, Medford Mass. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodation slash aids. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer by order of the city council. Signed Adam L. Hardaby, City Clerk. Advertised in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal, September 5th and September 12th, 2023. Welcome. Good evening. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'll hand it over to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Palacio. So as this is a public hearing, I will open up for comments in favor and opposed. So is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper? Yes, I would like to. Great, thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this paper before us tonight? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper? Seeing none, this portion of public hearing is closed. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, amended by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you are ready.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to suspend the rules to take paper 23-419. Help me out. Page number? Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18.
[Nicole Morell]: Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18. Page 18 We have a second. Second by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-419. To Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, regarding District Improvement Financing Program Order, dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request I respectfully request and recommend your honorable body in accordance with MGL Chapter 40Q to adopt the enclosed order relating to the creation and implementation of a district improvement financing program for Medford Square. Alicia Hunt, Director of Planning, Development Sustainability, and Victoria Storrs, President and Founder of Storrs Associates, will be present at the meeting to answer any questions. Given City Council Rule 30, the draft ordinance was reviewed by KB Law, and they have approved it as to form. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brenna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. Order that the Medford City Council will hereby vote in accordance with the provisions of General Law Chapter 40Q2.1, approve, create, and implement a District Improvement Financing Plan, also known as a DIF, to encourage increased residential, industrial, and commercial activity within a development district to be designated and known as the Medford Square DIF Development District, a district pursuant to General Law's Chapter 40Q, as shown on the City of Medford Square. DIF Master Plan dated October 3rd, 2023, on file in the office of the city clerk and presented to the council, quote, the plan, which is incorporated by reference and in connection therewith approve and adopt a development program for the Medford square development district on file in the office of the city clerk for the improvement of the quality of life and physical facilities and infrastructure of such district and create a development program fund consistent with the requirements of general law chapter 40Q and two, Approve the Medford Square Diff Invested Revenue District, the IRD, pursuant to general law chapter 40Q, which is approximately 64.4 acres and coterminous with the development district and is comprised of parcels as shown on the map and as listed in attachment one of the above reference document. And in connection therewith, approve and adopt an invested revenue district development program for the Medford Square Diff Invested Revenue District. And three, set the percentage of the tax increment to be retained to finance the diff according to the plan. and four to make such designations and take any additional steps as may be necessary to authorize such diff or administer said program through the mayor and her designee which is the department of planning development and sustainability after signed authorization and five requests through the mayor that the city of medford assessing department establish and certify the original assessed value of the taxable property within the boundaries of the district, and on an annual basis, certify the amount by which the assessed value has increased or decreased from the original value, and six, to authorize the mayor to execute agreements and take such additional action as the mayor deems necessary or appropriate. So we did have a committee of the whole on this two weeks ago, and we do have Director Hunt on the call, as well as Victoria Storrs, and we also have Attorney Everett, I think for this one. I can't keep track. I believe for this one in case we have any questions as far as legal questions. So happy to turn it over if folks want a reminder presentation from Victoria Storrs or if folks have questions to start off. I will hand it over to you. I believe Victoria is on the call if she was. Recording in progress. Oh, she's right.
[Nicole Morell]: I will hand it off to you to just kind of give a summary of, again, what is before the council tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Questions from the council or discussion? I have one question because I don't have questions. So as this is a simple ordinance, if that is something that future council decides they would no longer like to take part in, it's just reversing the process of which is changing the ordinance or removing the ordinance. There's no other additional hoops to jump through should the council decide they don't, a future council decide they don't want to take part.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Carpella.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we'll go to Vice President Bears and we'll, I appreciate it, we'll come back to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Professor Segg. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion to table, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Motion to table is undebatable. Mr. Clerk, would you please call the roll? And this is a motion to table.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morocco? No. Two in the affirmative, four in the negative, the motion fails. Discussion from councilors. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli, then Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, I was gonna move for approval of first reading. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council this time? I will just be brief. I know pretty much everything has been said. Like Councilor Collins, Councilor Scarpelli said, I appreciate the debate. I think there's a lot of really good points being made. And I think what I go back to is that this is, as Vice Mayor Behr said, this is a tool, it's a signal, it's a funding source. It doesn't change any of those plans for better or worse, however people feel about it. It gives the council some more power in directing funding sources and establishing the ordinance and requiring folks to come back to us to actually use money that will be gained from this change. So I think it's something that there are things I think we'd all like to see, but I think it's a step in the right direction. And I think hopefully it will drive investment. And it is something that it can be changed, just not written in stone. So I think it's something that's worth moving forward with at this time. And I will go to Mr. Castagnetti on Zoom. Any other members of the public who wish to speak, please raise your hand or come up to the podium. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other members of the public wish to speak? Any further discussion from the council? I have a motion from Councilor Collins to approve for first reading seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Oh, sorry, I do see Pat. Oops, go to, oh wait. There we go, okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, one in the negative, one absent. The motion passes for first reading. Back to our regular. of Business, as that was a suspension just for a specific paper. Petitions, presentations, and similar papers, 23-411, to City Council President Nicole Merlin, honorable members of the City Council, from Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability, regarding proposed planned development district reordinance amendment 13-20, Walkling Court, Medford 02155, parcel map number N-05-10. Per the procedures outlined in section 94-9.2 PDD of the Medford Zoning Ordinance, the applicant, Medford Housing Authority, submitted a proposed amendment PDD for the site located at 1 and 3 through 20 Waltham Court, Medford Mass 02155, assessor's map and 05-10 as shown on locus map PDD3. The property is located in apartment one zoning district. The applicant proposes zoning to align with a prospective project which would include 144 replacement affordable units and 54 new units of affordable residential units for senior and disabled household and 40 new affordable residential units for families. President Rowe. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins to waive the remainder of the reading for a brief summary from Director Hunt, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Going to Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: I think we're good, I do see Councilor Collins, and I see Gabe Ciccariello on the call as well, if we have questions. Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion from Councilor Collins to refer it to the Community Development Board, seconded by Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Collins to refer to the CD board, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Right away, Councilor Tseng, probably. way to be for Councilor Tseng I would like to briefly speak. Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 5 in the affirmative, 0 in the negative, 2 absent. The motion passes. The paper is referred to the Community Development Board. 23-412, Adam Dasch and Associates, attorneys at law. Two, city clerk's office, city of Medford, attention, Adam Hurtubise, city clerk regarding 12 Dell Avenue petition to amend deed restriction. Petitioners and owners, Gerald L. Alves and Janet R. Alves, dear Mr. Hurtubise, I represent Gerald L. Alves and Janet R. Alves, who are the petitioners and are the owners of the property known as 12 Dell Avenue in Medford per a deed dated November 25th, 2013, and are recorded in the Middlesex South District Registry of Deeds in book 62994 page 140, a copy of which is enclosed with the petition as Exhibit A, the property. The property in Medford Assessor's Parcel I-13 slash 50 is located in General Residence GR Zoning District and contains a single family house in which the petitioners reside.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to waive the reading and have the attorney give us an explanation paper before us, seconded by
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. I'll hand it over to you. Name and address for the record, if you could just tell us a little bit more about what's before us tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I do want to note that we have Attorney Everett from KP Law on the call as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carvejo.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, can you provide clarity on that? If we were to, if the council were to amend their restriction and then they weren't able to get their sufficient permits, then that amendment would stand and we would have to change it back.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, right. Would it stay with the family or did it stay with the company? How could we restrict that?
[Nicole Morell]: I do want to go to senior planner, Danielle Evans has had her hand up too, and she might be able to provide some more insight. I'll go to you, Danielle.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. You want to make that?
[Nicole Morell]: Um, Any additional discussion from the council at this time? I do see Director Hunter hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Director Hunter, over to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. You do have a motion. I need a second. Is there a second for that? I do. We don't have the restriction of method language in front of us, so that would need to be. writing for us to approve anything?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. I don't have it. Councilor Collins, Vice Chair.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion in need of a second. I'll go to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: You're in the queue. If I could from the chair, I appreciate the discussion. I think knowing this council, I don't think this is something that any Councilor is like vehemently against. I think speaking for myself, I don't feel comfortable voting for this tonight just because I'd like to get more information. I mean, before we vote for established businesses to have hours, we get a report from the fire department, we get a report from the board of health. I'm just looking for that information to have a force. We don't have that before us right now. I understand the reasons why you've said, I would just like to have a little more information as Councilor Collins says, this is my first time having indeed restriction amendment before me. So I would just, you know, I could see laying on the table to revisit in two weeks or as soon as we get that information or whatever motion. does pass. Councilor Scarpelli, I don't know how people will vote. I'm judging from the conversation. I don't want your motion to go forward and fail and then we can't hear this again for 90 days. So I just want to make that note. It still needs a second. But that's where I stand again. I'm not against this. I would just like a little bit more information. I do want to point out one small to largest thing is the ledge of the property. This is just one thing that's sticking in my head. We have a project near me, near my house, that they've been blasting ledge for years at this point. And we have told residents that there's nothing we can do about that. I'm not saying that that would be a reason I would vote against this, but it is just, it's something that's rolling around the back of my head, understanding the sheer amount of ledge on the property and what we've seen happen on a property. in Medford that everyone refers to as the hole on Winthrop Street. So I would hate to see that happen again for years of blasting and quarrying, not saying that's what will happen. I'm just saying this is a small amount of information I have to go on in addition to this. So I personally would just like more information. I feel like I'm hearing that from my fellow Councilors as well. So we do, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: And we do have attorney ever on the call, but I believe in correspondence with her, she's not intimately familiar with what's before us tonight. So she's also not our city solicitor. Does that cover your question? Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Yes, thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a bunch of... We have a motion for Councilor Scarpelli to approve, but we don't have a second on. Do you want to keep that motion Councilor Scarpelli? Yes. Okay. Do I have a second for Councilor Scarpelli's motion to approve? Councilor Scarpelli wants to approve tonight. We don't have language to approve though, but I know the attorney does have language he would present to us. So we have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to approve. We're looking for a second on that. I'm not seeing a second.
[Nicole Morell]: Then the next one in order is Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: And would you like to combine that with Councilor Caraviello's table to a date certain or?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we have October 3rd, 17th, 24th.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, director Hunt and attorney Everett, are you able to weigh in on what an appropriate timeline might be as far as being able to turn this around?
[Nicole Morell]: Our third, 17th, and 24th.
[Nicole Morell]: 24th deal? Looking for nods.
[Nicole Morell]: So 24th. So do you have Vice President Barry's language? Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: So if you could read that back, please.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears, as amended by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by- Second. Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, one in the negative, one absent. The motion passes. We will see you all next month.
[Nicole Morell]: motions, orders and resolutions to 3-413 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the City Administration work with the Parks Department to perform GMAX testing on all of our turf fields across the City of Medford, specifically for concussion safety guidelines. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion on the council? Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Some of those are made out of gnarly stuff. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to combine, because I think you kind of went into the Brooksville one, or do you want to keep the next motion resolution separate?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So on the motion of a Councilor Scarpelli to join the papers and Do you have a specific language?
[Nicole Morell]: So we'll draw 23-413 and then on 23414 motion to request the parks department repair any and all turf issues at the Brooks School mini soccer field. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-415 offered by, just don't call it like eight or nine, gonna get him all mad. 23-415 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it resolved that Medford City Council discuss the overnight and daytime commercial parking issues within the city of Medford. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. I do wanna know, I actually did get a note from Director Morrison that the parking department is having their second community meeting on Wednesday, October 18th at six at the Medford Senior Center.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to do that beat paper? Okay. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-416 offered by Councilor Scarpelli, be it resolved that the health department meet with the city council to discuss voting concerns happening all over the city of Medford. I do, I don't want to cut you off. I did reach out to Mary, Director O'Connor, We have a meeting scheduled for October 3rd. I asked if she could be here tonight. She couldn't be here tonight, but she did say she's actually meeting with DPW and code enforcement this week to make a better plan or understand what they can do to better what's not being done right now to better address the problem. So October 3rd, we have a committee of the whole scheduled with her.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll go to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam President and Madam Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by- Second. Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: seconded by vice president bears. 23 23-023 offered by vice president bears in an ordinance amending Chapter 10 of the revised ordinance of the city of Medford, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: If she's still on the line, she is on the motion. Vice is embarrassed to I suppose motion passes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions from the council? Any members of the public wish to speak? Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: The motion from Vice President Bears to approve for first reading, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, and one accused. The motion passes for first reading. Going to 23.418. to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding proposed ARPA project in excess of $250,000. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body allow time for the presentation by Planning Development Sustainability Director, Alicia Hunt on the following ARPA project, which was presented originally for 750,000 in December of 2022. School of McGlynn Playground Project, originally $750,000, now $1,015,000. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brown, Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. I'll go to Director Hunt. I'm sure we will all appreciate a brief update on this as we have received perhaps various extensive presentations on the MacLennan playground. So if you could provide us a little more information on what is before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Any questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to receive and place on file, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-420, to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, regarding donation acceptance. Dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves under Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 44, Section 53A, a donation of $600 from the First Baptist Church of Medford to the city of Medford for the use by the Medford Recreation Department towards the adaptive programs. This money will be used to purchase equipment to run our adaptive sports programs and teach life skills. Director of Recreation, Kevin Bailey, plans to be in attendance, but also has park commission meeting at the same time I see him. So I respectfully submit it, Brianna Lugo-Pierre. As you hear, if you want to.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. After Kevin speaks.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Pastor Farfali. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: And congrats, Kevin. Thank you for being here. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to accept a donation, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, motion passes. Thank you. Thank you, Kevin. Public participation. Yes. before we do that. On the motion of, sorry, we just have one paper, I forgot about, motion of Councilor Caraviello to take papers in the hands of the clerk under suspension, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-421, offered under suspension by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council request that the Subcommittee on Rules and Ordinances revise the ordinance on the number of occupants living in a household or dwelling. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by-
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Going to public participation.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, this much passes me. Overruled.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-408 Committee of the Whole meeting. Tuesday, September 12th at 6 p.m. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Six present, one absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, September 12th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is a walk-in court redevelopment update. The council has invited Medford Housing Authority Executive Director, Jeffrey Disrell, to attend the meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as the meeting notice states, we have invited Executive Director Jeffrey Driscoll here for an update on the Walkway Court Redevelopment Project. He and his counterparts have a presentation for us tonight, but before we get into that, I just know if the councilors have any burning questions before we get started. Otherwise, we'll do the presentation first. We'll take questions from councilors, and then I know we have some members of the public who would like to speak as well. So we'll start with you.
[Nicole Morell]: One second. Sorry. Yeah, let's see that you go. You're on perfect.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I just want to mute that computer. OK.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Hollis.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll go to Councilor Caraviello on Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: said pollution from the train, correct? The height of the buildings and the potential pollution from the train.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Perriello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I just have a few questions. I think most of them have been asked going last, and usually I'll get asked. So just so I understand, I believe you said this. So the increase in the number of elderly and disabled units is going to be 48, 54. And then, so currently, Walkling Court is just elderly and disabled. And now with this change, it's going to add 40 family units?
[Nicole Morell]: OK. I think I've seen maybe one email just concerning about how that might change. community vibe or, you know, the comings and goings of the community, if you could speak to that a little bit.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. And with this, have you spoken with planning as far as this being subject to the city's solar energy ordinance, the solar energy systems ordinance?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, yeah, because it starts the assessment, if you can even do it, and then the rest kicks in. Okay, great. Thank you. Those are my two questions. Are there any other questions from Councilors at this time? I know there are members of the public who wish to speak. If you have any questions, please direct them through me. We'll, of course, get them answered by the folks at MHA, but.
[Nicole Morell]: Oops, you're already on. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. I can take the solar one. So we do, we have the solar ordinance that was established in the city that buildings that it's a 10 units or more, 10,000 square feet or more. They have to be assessed for solar energy to see if solar energy can apply. If it can be applied, it has to have a coverage of at least 50%. And Gabe did say that that's something that they're aware of and working with.
[Nicole Morell]: If they are assessed as a good candidate, I'd have to look at the exact wording.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think, yeah, they did say that they're working with that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if you want to address as far as the treaties and then LEED certification. Okay, you were about to. I was going off memory.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. I think I'm probably trying to read Tom's mind because I'm sure, as you know, a new tree is not equivalent to an old tree. So same number of trees doesn't necessarily mean the same. beneficial impacts.
[Nicole Morell]: great. Thank you for that. And I didn't mean to be dismissive of the number of trees. It's just not just not equal. So of course, Tom, we'll go. We'll see if any other residents want to speak. We'll come back to you. Does anyone else would like to speak? Or sorry, Marianne's behind you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. If you'd like to address any of that, do you want to talk about the benefits to the surrounding area?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you and I do just want to know something about as far as vetting process or public process as this is part of the plan development district or this has to be submitted as that. That has been submitted to the CD board. They will hold a public hearing, then work. So public hearing again, they will work with the applicant to refine that. That then comes back to the city council public hearing again. And all along the way, there are chances for public input and any changes. Are you raising your hand?
[Nicole Morell]: So it's, there's many, you know, outside of everything MHA is doing, there's a whole public hearing process as far as the zoning amendment that is needed to move forward with this.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, and I do thank you because yes, this meeting was absolutely at your impetus. So I appreciate this and your availability to be here tonight. Mr. Lincoln. Unless, is there anyone else who'd like to speak for the first time who hasn't yet spoken? Okay, back to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Can anyone from MHA speak to that? I'm certainly not a sound engineer.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from councilors or members of the public who wish to speak? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Can I have my name? Sure, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you so much. Yep. Is there anyone else who would like to speak? Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak. Come on up. And just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, I think we've all, I think we've all gotten that note a few times in our life. Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak? Any further discussion from the council? Or do I have a motion? Do I receive and place on file? Or is there a paper?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to receive and place on file and adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. 23-389, Committee of the Whole, meeting Tuesday, September 5th at 2023. Sorry, 2023. The meeting is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President, six present, one absent.
[Nicole Morell]: There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, September 5th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss a proposed district improvement financing for Medford Square. The council has invited Director of Planning Development and Sustainability, Alicia Hunt, Interim Director of Economic Development, Victor Schrader, Mass Development SVP for Real Estate Planning, Claire O'Neill, and Victoria Storrs, President of Storrs Associates, to attend the meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. At state, I think we have a presentation from Director Hunt, as well as the consultants. And before we get started, is there any questions from the council? I just can't see right now. Seeing none, I'll hand it over to you both.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone? Any other Councilors? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any other questions? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Mayor Barras. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I just have two questions. The first, I mean, I think my colleagues have really kind of leaned on it, but I will just say it once more. Understanding that the incentivization that is referenced in this is the fact that there will be improvements in the area that this is used for. There's no other incentivization or tax breaks or things like that. ensuring that funds that come from the new growth in this area will be put back into the area.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have any examples of areas, squares that have used this that you could reference or share with us?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I have one question then probably for you, Director Hunt, specific to Medford. Just thinking about the edge of Medford Square, I don't know, I haven't seen the map of what exactly would be included, but understanding that we talk about infrastructure investments, knowing that the edge of Medford Square is a bit of a, the roadways are at least a jurisdictional nightmare. Is there anything that has to be considered from that point of view?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. Any other questions from Councilors at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Christopher, do you want to address your question now or you're late?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. And before we get to Councilor Caraviello, to that point, this will be coming before the council many more times, a couple more times, depending on how votes go. So there will be more opportunities for questions from the council, questions from the public. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor Scarlatoiu, do you want to receive and place on file and adjourn? Adjourn, please. Thank you. Motion of Councilor Scarlatoiu to receive and place on file and adjourn, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 16th regular meeting of the Medford City Council, September 5th, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records 23-390 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of John Garrity on his recent passing. John was a devoted family man and community volunteer coaching Medford hockey teams for several years. John's presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven the affirmative zero and the negative motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. 23-406 offered by Councilors Caraviello and Councilor Knight, whereas Hunt's Photo is the oldest camera store in the country. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council commend and congratulate Scott and Gary Farber on celebrating 134 years in business. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Sub in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Records, the records of the meeting of August 15th, 2023 were passed to Vice President Bears. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. On a motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Reports of committees 22-605, August 15th, 2023. Committee of the whole report on the waste hauler. This was a committee meeting to discuss the proposed waste hauler contract and giving the mayor the power to sign a 10 year contract.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, two in the negative. Motion passes. The records are adopted. Hearings 23-323 Legal Notice, Medford City Clerk's Office Notice of a Public Hearing, Medford City Council Chapter 94 Zoning. The Medford City Council will conduct a continued public hearing on September 5th, 2023 at 7 p.m. in person and via Zoom. In the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Mass. Relative to a petition by City Council Vice President Isaac B. Zach Bears, Councilor Richard Caraviello, and Councilor Kit Collins to amend Chapter 94, Zoning of the Revised Ordinances, City of Medford, as outlined in paper 23-323. titled Proposed Amendments to the Medford Zoning Ordinance for June 2023. The hearing was originally opened on August 15th, 2023. A link to the public hearing will be posted no later than August 31st, 2023. The petition proposes corrections and clarifications for technical discrepancies in addition to one, amending the use of the table of use and parking regulations for each motor vehicle related uses and I miscellaneous commercial uses. Two, amending language regulating multiple principal structures a lot. Three, amending language allowing a second associate member of the Board of Appeals. Four, eliminating the special permit requirement for inclusionary housing. call 781-393-2425 for accommodations, AIDS, TDD 781-393-2516. The full materials for the amendment can be viewed in the office of the city clerk, city hall room 103, or on the city's website at medfordma.org slash department slash planning dash development dash sustainability by clicking on current city board filings. As stated, we did open this up at our last regular meeting. This was presented by Councilors on the the zoning subcommittee, correct? So if council would like to give a brief summary, we also have recommendations back from the CD board, which were in our packet. I can review those as well. If councilors want to provide a brief summary, we could also, as there are several, multiple sections, I would be open to whether we want to take this as a whole, if we want to sever this and take this as separate sections, as there are different recommendations from the CD board on different sections. I will turn it over to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any other commentary from the members that have presented the zoning change? Other thoughts?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello, do you have anything to add? As this is a public hearing, I will reopen the portion of the public hearing for anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of the changes presented to us? Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the paper before us, either on Zoom or in person? Zoom. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the proposed changes before us, either in person or on Zoom? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Do I have any further discussion from the council or a motion? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm gonna go to Councilor Knight on Zoom and then Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the Council? Members of the public wish to speak. Councilor Tsai.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the Council? And likewise, I think I appreciate the work of the CD board, our PDS, of the Councilors who did a lot of the best majority of this work. I think just understanding, as Councilor Scarpelli will always point out, as Councilor Caraviello, we are absolutely looking at the bigger picture at that next round of zoning, and we're hopefully we'll get out the RFP once more so that we can begin that work being started by some land use experts and things like that. So, but I appreciate the work being done in the interim to make sure we're addressing some unintended consequences and some things we want to make better for our community as these are living documents. So, appreciate it. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Vice President Bears to approve pending the six day public comment period seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven. The affirmative zero in the negative emotion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears to suspend the rules to take those papers out of order, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one in the negative. The motion passes. The rules are suspended. Take those papers in that order. So 23-401. Someone help me find it. Is that it?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Communications from the mayor, 23-401 to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding proposed ways adjustment for clerical union. I respect the request and recommend that the city council approve the following amendments to the revised ordinances, chapter 66, article two, City of Medford amendment to revise ordinances, chapter 66, article two, be ordained by the city council of the city of Medford in chapter 66, entitled personnel, article two, entitled reserve. The city's classification and compensation plan, formerly included as article two, section 66-31 through 66-40, amend the figures as they presently appear next to the following title by adjusting each to reflect the following percentage wage increase and effective dates, clerical. Effective January 1st, 2020, increase the base salary of all clerical union titles by 2%. Effective January 1st, 2021, increase the base salary of all clerical union titles by 2%. Effective July 1st, 2021, increase the base salary of all clerical union titles by 1%. Effective January 1st, 2022, increase the base salary of all clerical union titles by 2%. effective January 1st, 2023, increase the base salary of all clerical union titles by 2.5%.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. We have a motion from Councilor Knight to waive the remainder of the reading and approve the paper. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Does that work for you, Councilor Knight, waive the readings and adopt?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. So on the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the remainder of the reading, approve the paper and waive the additional reading seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes. 23-402 to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding Community Preservation Committee appropriation requests. On behalf of the Community Preservation Committee, I respect the request and recommend that your Honorable body approve the following recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee. Requesting the appropriation of 800,000 from CPA Fund, 185,000 from Housing Reserve, and the remaining 615,000 from General Reserve to Medford Housing Authority for the Walkland Court Redevelopment Project. requesting the appropriation of $400,000 from the CPA fund, $250,000 from Open Space slash Recreation Reserve, and the remaining $150,000 from General Reserve to Medford Public Schools for the McGlynn Universally Accessible Playground, requesting the appropriation of $5,000 from the CPA fund, Historic Preservation Reserve, to the Medford Historical Commission for the Thomas Brooks House Archaeological Site protective cap, requesting the appropriation of $3,276 from the CPA Fund at General Open Space Recreation Reserve to the Medford Recreation Department for the Condon Shell electrical upgrade. The projects will be tracked in the Community Preservation Fund by category, Housing Historic Open Space and General Reserve. Their respective CPC recommendation letters are attached and incorporated. Application materials can be viewed at preservemedford.org. Thank you for your consideration. Mayor, and this was, these are off-cycle requests, and I, as president, I said it was fine just to put this on the regular agenda, as all of these have been presented to us in a committee of the whole at a previous time.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Roberta, is there anything you'd like to add, or? I see you have your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Teresa, would you like to say anything briefly? You're here. And then we'll go to Roberta, if you'd like to speak still.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Roberto, is there anything else you wanted to add?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on a motion of Councilor Knight as seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And this is to approve.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-403 to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding food truck permitting. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, on behalf of the below entity, I respectfully submit to the Medford City Council the following request for a food truck permit in the city of Medford in addition to city council approval. Vendors are required to adhere to health department food safety regulations requirements. Chicken and Rice Guys food truck, dates, times, Saturday, October 14th, 2023 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. location, Riverbend Park, behind the McGlynn Middle School, Medford event, Harvester Energy Festival. About the event, the festival is- May I press a motion to waive the rest of the reading? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to waive the rest of the reading and move approval, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: And Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven. The affirmative zero in the negative. The emotion passes. 23-395 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we request that the mayor require the building department and code enforcement to proactively address the rampant violation of the short-term rental provisions in the city's zoning ordinance. Be it further resolved that the city create a direct relationship with major short-term rental companies like Airbnb and VRBO to automatically remove any illegal listings that violate the city's zoning ordinance. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we do have, it does say that if you're renting out, our current ordinance says if you're renting out individual rooms, the owner has to be present.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins and Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the council at this time? Any members of the public wish to speak? So on the motion of, I mean, we'll take public participation. So on the motion of vice president affairs, seconded by councilor Collins, Mr. Calderon.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven. The infernus during the negative emotion passes. It's going to public participation. Elliot Jockelson of 60 Marshall Street, Medford, with a complaint regarding violations of short term rental regulations on 66 Lyman Ave, Medford. Subject is urgent addressing violations of short term rental regulations at 66 Lyman Ave. Dear Medford City Council members, I hope this message finds you well. I'm ready to draw your attention to a matter of considerable concern regarding the property situated at 66 Lyman Ave in Medford Hillside. Recent developments have highlighted serious violations of the city's short-term rental code at this location, prompting the need for a thorough examination. Key points of concern, I want to emphasize that I have taken proactive measures to address this situation. I personally reached out to Medford Code Enforcement Department to report these violations. See click issue ID 15172926. In response, they promptly conducted an onsite inspection and acknowledged that the apparent violations by issuing an official violation letter to the property owners. However, despite these actions, the property continues to function as an apparent illegal lodging establishment. At present, the property remains occupied by a substantial number of guests and is fully booked for the upcoming year. operational practices and consequences. Based on my investigation, it appears that 66 Lyman Ave is operating in a manner resembling an unauthorized boarding house. The proprietors, who reside in Winchester, have been renting individual bedrooms through Airbnb since 2020. The operational model has resulted in a continuous influx of approximately six new guests each week for over two years. The practice raises serious concerns about security and potential health hazards for our community. Security risks in our neighborhood. Beyond potential code violations, the security risks associated with operating in a legal hotel in a quiet suburban neighborhood are significant. The constant turnover of unfamiliar individuals entering and exiting the premises disrupts the tranquility of our community. The dynamic presents security concerns that extend beyond the property itself, affecting neighboring houses and streets, the heightened traffic flow, possible disturbances, and the unfamiliarity of temporary occupancy with local safety protocols amplifies these concerns. Identifying regulatory barriers, digital evidence listed in CCLX fix report shows that there are several violations of the short-term rental zoning regulations at 66 Lyman Ave. It is crucial to investigate potential factors impeding compliance. Three key areas of concern include Operator's primary residence requirement is a requirement that a short-term rental property serves as the operator's primary residence appears to be compromised as evidenced by the absence of the owner slash operator and the transportation of supplies from an external location. Sole renter party mandate, the practice of renting multiple separate bedrooms of distinct groups as indicated by multiple listings for different bedrooms concurrently raises concerns about compliance with the single party rental mandate and guest count limitation. The observed operational activity prompts questions about adherence to the stipulated guest limits for short-term rentals. Impact on local rental dynamics. In addition to potential regulatory infractions, there are implications for our local rental dynamics. Short-term rental practices have led to substantial disparities in rental rates, while traditional year-long lease for comparable property rents for approximately 3,500 per month, the same property on Airbnb commands around 6,000 per month. This trend distorts the local rental market, rendering long-term leases less accessible for residents. preservation of our community's well-being. As these complexities unfold, it is vital to address the situation promptly. Upholding established regulations and safeguarding our community's well-being are paramount. I urge you to enforce the new short-term rental codes for 66 Lyman Ave and all other illegal short-term rentals in Medford. Your thoughtful consideration is highly valued, and I am confident that your appropriate measures will be taken to address this matter in alignment with existing regulations and the best interests of our community. Sincerely, Elliot Jockelson, 60 Marshall Street, Medford. Would you like to come up? Just name and address for the record, even though, or just, you can just say name and address.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: That's embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't know what you want to call it. The campsite was shut down, so there is precedence.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. This is public participation, and I see some folks online with hands up, and I know folks want to speak in person. So I'm going to go to Eunice on Zoom. I will ask you to unmute. And thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please?
[Nicole Morell]: I guess we did just recently passed the housing stability notification ordinance, which is about providing renters with information they need to know about renting in the city. So I'm sure there's something we could explore as far as providing new owners information like this that lets them know about regulations as far as short term rentals, directing them to this zoning code, something like that. Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Going to Sneha on Zoom. I will unmute you. and name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak for public participation at this time? Please come up to the mic. And I know we have multiple folks for public participation. We still have an agenda that folks are here for as well. So I will be enforcing the council rules, five minutes each for public participation. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mary. We are going to be holding as committee of the whole next Tuesday with the executive director of Medford Housing Authority on this project to get an update, to hear from residents and address concerns. So we will be hosting that as a committee of the whole next week. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Great. Thank you so much. Going to Councilor Knight, unless your hand is still up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Haynes. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And we have someone else for public participation. I think you're We're good through every, if you wanna come up, we're good for everyone. We can also go back to public participation at the end if you wanna get through everything, but okay. Did you have something else? Elliot.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Okay, if there's no one else to participate, you can come to the mic, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I know- We haven't gotten to it yet, but- Oh, you have not. See, we voted for it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else for public participation? Mr. Castagnetti.
[Nicole Morell]: Hang on, Mr. Castagnetti. Advice isn't fair.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to Mr. Castagnetti on Zoom. The address for the record please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Is there anyone else for public participation at this time? Moving to 23-393 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council have the T Medford Disability Commission Parking Commission address the issue with the lack of handicapped parking at the Tufts T Station. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Would you like to speak? Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And to echo my fellow Councilors, thank you, Councilor Caraviello, for bringing this forward. Thank you, Anne, for coming out for this. And I appreciate just the background facts as well, because I think something that I've heard in one of these meetings that stuck with me is it's something that Americans with Disabilities is the largest minority group in the country, and it's the only minority group that you can join at any time. So it's something that it's not a niche issue. It's something that affects every single one of us and every single one of us should be focused on. So I really appreciate you coming here tonight and reminding us once more of all the things that we may not see that are really impacting people's lives. So hopefully we can get this fixed. Going to Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, as amended by Vice-Mayor Bears and Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I mean, if earners here and then I get the motion passes to 3.400 offered by Vice Affairs, whereas thousands of civil code violations are going on address each year due to underfunding and misallocation of city staffing resources for enforcement and inspections. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the city administration provide a plan to increase civil code enforcement and inspection services staffing, either with new funding or by reallocating funding within or between the city's enforcement departments to match need, be it further resolve the city administration report on efforts to address numerous major code enforcement violations in the hillside neighborhood.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. So on the motion by Susan Bair, seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Be it so resolved that city administration provide a written explanation as to why the city attorney defaulted on a court appearance related to 41 Emory Street proceedings. Be it further resolved the city administration provide the city council with all correspondences, communications, records, reports, and any materials related to the distressed property located at 41 Emory Street. Be it further resolved that the disability director have the owner remove the overgrowth as the sidewalk is impassable to wheelchairs, strollers, and pedestrians. access in the interest of public safety. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Pastor Garbelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Dr. Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And to that point, we did get a email earlier today from the Director of the Board of Health, Mary O'Connor, saying that she would be back by the property tomorrow, understanding that it wasn't cleaned up in a satisfactory way. Going to you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm sorry. Name and address for the record, please. And you can hit that button if it's, there you go. Oops, sorry, maybe they, there you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Just lean towards the mic.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion from the council versus affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Please. Going to Mr. Castagnetti on Zoom. Mr. Castagnetti.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: We can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I have the budget, I couldn't find it. Yeah, it wasn't in the budget.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think it was referenced during a meeting, so we can get that to you.
[Nicole Morell]: We can't access it right now, because we can't access it again until it's free cash and certified, which is not until next year, end of this year? At least it would work. Okay, so yeah, maybe it's yeah, October, November. So yes, but we can't access that money currently, currently.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we do have a B paper from Councilor Scarpelli. Do you have the language for that B paper, Mr. Clerk?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion for the B paper for Councilor Scarpelli is seconded by... Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. It looks like Councilor Collins is temporarily absent. Councilor Knight, is your hand up again or still up?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I figured you would let me know.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes. So for the main paper from, do you want?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, do you want to vote on the main paper from Councilor Scarpelli? So seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, motion passes. Thank you, Councilor Collins. to the main paper from Councilor Caraviello, seconded by.
[Nicole Morell]: Second as amended. As amended. As amended by Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven the affirmative, zero the negative, the motion passes. That is the end of the motion. Seconded by Councilor Baer to revert to regular order of meeting. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Petitions, the reverting to regular order of business. Petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 23-391 offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so ordained, chapter 78, traffic and vehicles. New section 12, in the interest of public safety, liability, accountability, and maintainability.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion to waive the reading in favor brief synopsis synopsis second by Councilor Chang. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I mean it for zero negative motion passes Councilor Knight we look forward to your brief synopsis.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that synopsis, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Motions, orders, and resolutions, 23-392, offered by Vice President Bears, Councilor Collins, and Councilor Hsuang. Whereas the union workers of United Labor of Tufts Residence Assistance, ULTRA, went on strike on Tuesday, August 29th, and whereas the Medford City Council unanimously passed the resolution, paper 22-569, In November 2022, asking Tufts University to recognize the RA workers union and negotiate their contract agreement now. Therefore, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we stand in solidarity with ultra workers on strike and call on Tufts University leadership to return to the bargaining table and provide these workers with compensation and contract they deserve. I will start with Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, yeah, yeah. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: On that point, Madam President, I can't go back to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Collins, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Karygiannis. So, on the motion of Councilor Collins, it's seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morales. Yes, seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. 23-394 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that Medford City Council have the DPW repaint the crosswalk in front of 190 High Street in the interest of public safety. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Councilor Knight, your hand is still up. Is this? Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. 23396 withdrawn 23397 was withdrawn 23398. Offered by Councilor Tseng. Be it resolved that the subcommittee on ordinances and rules may discuss ordinances creating a gender equity commission and a youth commission. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion on the motion? Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Refer to subcommittee on ordinances and rules.
[Nicole Morell]: We're just waiting on the clerk to call the question. Call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 740 is negative the motion passes to three dash three nine nine be resolved the city council asked the administration to place more waste disposals by the mystic river to reduce trash by Medford square and prepare for the upcoming clipper ship connector Councilor Tseng
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Saint. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Tseng. I know exactly what happened to you happened to me where it seemed seems like it's something so simple as put more trash barrels out and then rebuttal is always that people will just use that as their own personal trash cans with legal dumping. So I think studying is how we start people with more insight on this than us, I appreciate it. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng as amended by Councilor Tseng and Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. 23-404 has been withdrawn, and that is the end of our agenda.
[Nicole Morell]: I didn't miss, you must have said, I just heard the motion part. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 7 the affirmative, 0 the negative. The motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. 6 0 5 community. The whole meeting Tuesday, August 15 2023 at 6 p.m. It's called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: By present, two apps in the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, August 15th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the proposed waste hauler ordinance, paper 22-605. The committee has invited DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon and Alicia Hunt, Director of Planning, Development and Sustainability to attend the meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So at this point, I'm actually gonna turn over to Councilor Collins, who has been working on this proposed ordinance in the subcommittee prior to it coming to Committee of the Whole. And so she'll bring us up to date on where we are now and what's before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And will you be sharing or will Commissioner McGibbon or Director Hunt be sharing a document we can look at or for the proposed changes? Or I'm sorry if it's something in our packet we missed.
[Nicole Morell]: It would be helpful to get just a brief overview first, and then go through those specific points.
[Nicole Morell]: That's the overview. Do we have any questions from Councilors before we get into parts you wanted to highlight for discussion. Sina, do you want to continue to flag those parts, or do you want to take over at this point?
[Nicole Morell]: No, it's okay. Any discussion from Councilors in response to that? Shreya, I mean, have Director Hahn and Commissioner Forgiver provided their recommendations as far as these? Have they provided them, or would you guys like to provide just some insight on how to make the decision for these last discussion points?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, really?
[Nicole Morell]: I just had a question at this point based on you're talking about the recommendation about fines on both sides. I mean, that's in addition to, I believe there's fines at the state level from bulk, is it the state level from like bulk producers of waste, like something like Tufts, like as far as like contamination, that's like separate and exists
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And then just one other question, I guess, for either Councilor Collins or you, Director Hunt. Consideration for Redford Public Schools as far as how many updates would impact them or force like a change of policy of something they're already doing that will require more?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: versus affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, do you have that language? Councilor Collins, could you repeat, or if you wanna?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Do you want to send it to me through the chat so that I can just read it back?
[Nicole Morell]: Can you read it in its entirety or just say in its entirety?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so adding and provide the estimated tonnage to the city.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Council Collins to make that language change second by All those in favor? Opposed? Motion passes. Any other motions for changes?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. On the motion by Senator Bears to strike the empty legal provisions section, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Does the previous version mentioned timeframe? Sorry, I'm just going from memory. That came out of... No, so does the current one does not mention timeframe, right?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that's a fair point. Is that something that came up at all?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, if you want to continue.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, I do wonder, I mean, maybe that's a good question. I know it's supposed to go through legal review. Maybe that's a question as far as like, opinion wise from a legal standing or legal standing with regards to enforcement. Just clarify, define every single one.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, Councilors have any thoughts? I mean, my thought would be, I would be curious to get the legal review and see what that says. I would feel fine voting this out tonight. I don't think anything is such a tremendous change. I think there's things we could kind of go back and forth on that I think we could probably do in a regular session that wouldn't end up in a change that's so substantial that people would say, oh my God, why is this happening tonight?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion or do I have a motion? Or Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to share your screen again?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much. I have a second on that second second right? Council columns will give a third moment to pick that up.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of bears second by concert comments. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion by Susan Baird to adjourn, second by Councilor Pollen. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Records, the records of the meeting of July 25th, 2023 were passed to Councilor Tseng. Councilor Tseng, how did you find the records?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng to approve the records, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees, 23-032, July 25th, 2023, Committee of the Whole, Solid Waste Collection report to follow. This was a meeting just to discuss about the, the process for giving the mayor the power to approve a waste contract for 10 years, and then we voted on that at the following meeting. Do I have a motion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Hearings, 2-3-3-2-3, legal notice, Medford City Clerk's Office, notice of a public hearing, Medford City Council, chapter 94, zoning, The Medford City Council will conduct a public hearing on August 15 2023 at 7pm in person and via zoom in the Metro City Council chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall, 85 George P has to drive Medford mass relative to a petition by City Council by Susan Isaac the exact bears Councilor Richard Caraviello and Councilor Kit Collins to amend chapter 94 zoning of the revised ordinances city of Medford as outlined in paper two three dash 32 three title proposed amendments the Metro zoning ordinance for June 2023 heard June 6 2023 a link to the public hearing will be posted no later than August 11 2023 petition proposes correction motion away three on the motion of Councilor Tseng to waive or even second by Councilor color Caraviello all those in favor. I suppose motion passes. As this is a public hearing, I do need to open it up. So we'll open the public hearing, but then we do have a request to continue the public hearing, crisis and barriers. So the public hearing is now open.
[Nicole Morell]: And the reason being that this is still being heard by the CD board?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of vice-president bears to continue the public hearing to our next regular meeting on September 5th, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. The hearing will be continued to our next regular meeting on September 5th. 23-369 legal notice. Medford city clerk's office notice of a public hearing Medford city council chapter 94 zoning. The Medford City Council will conduct a public hearing on August 15, 2023 at 7 p.m. in person and via Zoom in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Mass., relative to a petition by 96-102 Winchester Street, LLC to amend Zoning Map City of Medford, Massachusetts, dated April 13, 1965, as referenced in Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the properties, 96 through one or two Winchester Street and one or four Winchester Street from general residents gr zoning district and commercial one c one zoning district to a plan development district PDD, which would have a new development standards as depicted on the plan entitled Area Plan at 100 Winchester Street, dated December 7, 2022, per Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-9.2.3. A link to the public hearing will be posted no later than August 11, 2023. Call 781-393-2425 for accommodation slash aids TDD 781-393-2516. The full materials for amendment can be viewed in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall Room 103, or on the city's website at medfordmad.org slash department slash planning dash development dash sustainability by clicking on current CD board filings. Advertise in the Medford transcript July 13th and 2023 signed Adam all her to be as a city clerk. We do have a, we have attorney Silverstein here as well as director hot who's going to give us an update on what's before us. As a reminder, this is the proposed plan development district which is something that came to be in the zoning required application that was passed last March, just ago, last March, last March, March 23 to, sorry, it's all blurring together. And this is, I believe this is the first one to come before us at this stage. So I'm gonna hand it over to Director Hunt first, just to tell us a little bit more about the project and the process before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Are there any questions from Councilors at this time? Thank you, Attorney Silverstein. And will we also be getting a presentation from the petitioner as well, or you'll be serving as that?
[Nicole Morell]: OK, great. So we'll hear from you first and then we'll go to them or.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Adam Barnosky. All right.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Falco. Any other questions from our councilors at this time? Seeing none, as this is a public, or Attorney Solicitor, did you wanna come up and add anything else about the process? Or I was gonna open the public hearing and go from there.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Okay, as this is a public hearing, I do need to open it up. So we'll open up the public hearing. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper? I assume folks who are petitioners for this project would wanna speak in favor, either on Zoom or in person. If you're on Zoom, please raise your hand flag me down, I'd like to speak in favor of this paper. Attorney Barnard-Scaston, is there at least one person who wants to speak in favor of this, or you are in favor of this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just asking for anyone to speak in favor, and generally the petitioner is... is in favor of the paper, so it's the procedural way of the public hearing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else on the call who would like to speak in favor of this paper before us, or anyone in person? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the paper before us, either in person or on Zoom? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Do we have any further discussion from the council or a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: of emotion, price and affairs to waive the six day public comment period and approve councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Vice President Bears to approve pending the six day public comment period seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative one in the negative one absent the papers approved pending the six day public comment period. Going to 23-petitions presentations and similar papers 23-332 City Council President Nicole Merlin on board members of the Medford City Council from the Office of Planning Development Sustainability regarding the proposed plan development district two ordinance amendment for 253 Mystic Avenue, Medford-Mass 02155, parcel map T-10-70B. For the procedures outlined in section 94-9.2 PDD of the Medford zoning ordinance, the applicant 243 Mystic Ave LLC submitted a proposed amendment PDD for the site located at 243 Mystic Ave, Medford-Mass 02155, assessor's map T-10-70B as shown on the locus map PDD2. The property is located in a commercial 2C2 zoning district. The applicant proposes zoning to align with prospective project, which would include an eight-story structure with life science lab and office uses. The Community Development Board has held a public hearing on August 2nd, 2023, notice in accordance with MGL Chapter 40A, Section 11. Though not required, a courtesy notice was sent out to abutters within 400 feet of the site in accordance with MGL Chapter 44, Section 53G, and the Community Development Board rule regarding consultant fees, the City retained legal counsel, Attorney Gareth Orsmond of Pierce Atwood LLC, to prepare the text of the amendment and provide associated legal support to staff and the board. As the Community Development Board voted unanimously to submit the proposed zoning amendment per Medford Zoning Ordinance Section 94-9.2.3.2 to the City Council to initiate the statutory requirements for amending zoning. per MGL chapter 48, section five, the zoning amendment now must be referred from city council to the community development board, who will hold a duly noticed public hearing. The city council will hold a subsequent public hearing for this amendment after a report with recommendations by the community development board has been submitted to the council. We thank you for your view of this matter and are happy to provide additional information. As this came from the office of planning and sustainability, I will go to director Hunt for any additional information.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions from councilors discussion at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: If you don't have to, you don't have to, I just don't want.
[Nicole Morell]: And just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to refer to Community Development Board, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, it's a roll call. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes. 23-384, petition for common bichelor's license by Misioner R. Joel for Mystic Market, 199 Mystic Avenue, Medford, Mass, 02155. Do we have the petitioner either? Great. If you wanna come up and just tell us a little bit about what you're looking for here.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, if you want to just talk a little bit about the business, and then we'll take it from there.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions, discussion from the council? So the motion from Councilor Scarpelli is to approve pending receiving the was just tomorrow, right, seconded by Caraviello all those in favor. All those opposed. The motion passes. Yeah, that was good. Good luck to three dash three or five petition for common mixers licensed by Christopher Baum and Fernando Cruz for T pizza doing business as dominoes 199 C mystic of masco 2155. Do we have the petitioner.
[Nicole Morell]: Next week, we will motion from cancer Caraviello to table this paper second by second, I was in favor of the codes which passes, and if that person if you are from dominoes, you end up doing the call you are in the call you stepped away. flag is down tonight. motions orders and resolutions.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, going on to 23-37 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the City Council invite the Director of the Health Department to discuss ongoing concerns of rat infestation around the city. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, as amended by Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. The gentleman from Domino's is on the call. I'll mention that if anyone wants to do anything.
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Opposed? Passes. So we'll go back to 23205 petition for a common pitchers license by Christopher Baum and Fernando Cruz for T.E. Pizza doing good says Domino's 199C Mystic Ave, Medford, Mass. I will turn over to you on Zoom. If you could just give a name and address and just a brief history of what the business is.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I will go to Councilor Scarpelli, Chair of the License Committee.
[Nicole Morell]: Your requested hours here is from seven to 11, so.
[Nicole Morell]: You can call the clerk's office and they can help with that. So we can vote tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: You know, till 11. You just need to then request to get those extended hours.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we have a question from one of the Councilors if you can hear him.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to approve tonight with the regular hours. So that would go to 11. And then you call the clerk's office and they can help you with the application for the special permit. So motion from Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed, motion passes. Again, this is approved for the 11 o'clock time and you can call the clerk tomorrow and he'll help you out with that.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Our next regular meeting is September 5th.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and depending when the paperwork comes in, it may be later, but the clerk can talk to you about that tomorrow. Thank you. Going to paper communications from the mayor 23-388. To Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding proposed wage adjustment for DPW union. I respectfully request and recommend that the city council approve the following amendments to the revised ordinance chapter 66 article to see Medford amendment to revise ordinances chapter 66 article to be ordained by the city council of the city of Medford in chapter 66. Entitled Personnel, Article Two, Entitled Reserve, the city's classification and compensation plan, formerly included as Article Two, Section 6631 through 6640, amend the figures as they presently appear next to the following title by adjusting each to reflect the following percentage wage increases and effective dates. DPW, effective July 1st, 2022, increase the base salary of all DPW union titles by 2.5%. Effective July 1st, 2023, increase the base salary of all DPW union titles by 2.5%. Effective July 1st, 2024, increase the base salary of all DPW union titles by 3%. Effective July 1st, 2025, increase the base salary of all DPW union titles by 2.5%. Effective July 1st, 2026, increase the base salary of all DPW union titles by 2.5%. The following department heads will be available to answer any questions. Human Resources Director, Lisa Crowley, and Finance Director slash Auditor, Bob Dickinson. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Respectfully submitted, Bernaleno, Kern, Mann. Vice President Harris.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to waive the three readings, second by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the firm is there and then I have one absent motion passes on a motion of cancer Scarpelli to prove to be ordained tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative zero negative one absent the motion passes. Public participation. Thank you so much. Public participation. Is there anyone here in person or on zoom would like to speak for public participation? Seeing none, that is the end of our regular agenda, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, Vice President Bears to take 21-422 off the table and receive in place on file.
[Nicole Morell]: So, thank you. Much of my surveyors second right that's a real favorite. All right, I suppose she passes on a motion of Councilor Carla Councilor Collins to adjourn. Second by saying all those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: 032 committee the whole meeting Tuesday, July 25 2023 at 6pm is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present six present one. He is called to order there will be a meeting of the metric City Council Committee the whole on Tuesday, July 25 2023. at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss citywide collection, disposal, and processing of solid waste, reusables, organics, and recyclables awarded pursuant to a request for proposal number 23-0067, paper 23-032. The committee has invited DPW Commissioner Tim McGivern, Alicia Hunt, Director of Planning, Development, and Sustainability, and any additional representatives of the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability to attend this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. We have Commissioner McGibbon and Director Hunt here to give us a presentation. Before we get started, are there any questions from councilors? Seeing none, I will turn it over to you both. Can you tap the mic just to turn it on? There you go, sorry. It literally changes every week, so.
[Nicole Morell]: question.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a question that same vein just as we started. So, if it going to every other we trash, would there be an option like right now if folks have a ton of recyclables they can go to the DPW yard, is there an option there I'm like literally being very specific. I have a one year old I have lots of diapers, like, Food, great, we can get the food out, that has saved us a ton, we already do composting, but something like that, not necessarily want around.
[Nicole Morell]: Right, but there would be no other way to remove the trash in that in-between week. Like I'm just saying, because right now, if I have a ton of recycling, I can go to the DPW yard and drop off that recycling before the next pickup.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, Councilor Scarpella and then we'll go to Vice Mayor Beers.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Also, if I could just, will you both you both are staying for the regular meeting? Yes, just because we're we're over time this meeting. But yeah, any final words, then we'll go continue the conversation in the regular meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further questions, we can move it. And Mr. Castagnetti, I see you, if you could join us in the regular meeting, we will get to your question.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vices and bears to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk. George already dropped off. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting is adjourned. We will take this up again in the regular meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: 15th regular meeting, July 25th 2023 at the Medford City Council is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-374 offered by Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng. Whereas our community values, embraces, and celebrates diversity in all its forms. Whereas Disability Pride Month is recognized each year in July to highlight the accomplishments, work, and advocacy of individuals with disabilities. Whereas our community is enriched by the contributions, perspectives, and presence of people with disabilities. Whereas Disability Pride Month provides an opportunity to recommit to empowering people with disabilities, ensuring equal access to all spaces and opportunities in our community, and recentering on areas in the city where we must improve accessibility in order to be a truly inclusive and equitable city. Be it therefore resolved that the Medford City Council recognize and celebrates July as Disability Pride Month. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Mayor Bears. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the firmness during the negative. One absent motion passes records the records of the meeting of June 20 2023 were passed to Councilor Knight Councilor Knight is absent so they will remain table. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Navarez, have you reviewed the records?
[Nicole Morell]: You looked at them as well, Councilor Scarpelli?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to approve second by Vice Mayor Bears and these are June, I was just gonna say these are for the June 20th records.
[Nicole Morell]: He said both, okay. For June 20th.
[Nicole Morell]: I think June 20th and July 11th regular meeting records. So motion from Councilor Scarpelli to approve second by Vice Mayor Bears. Mr. Clerk, call the roll when you are ready. please.
[Nicole Morell]: petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 23-375, petition for common victuals license by Zhao Hui Chen for Matsuba Izakaya Sushi Bar and Grill, 38 Riverside Avenue, Medford, Mass. I think it's on file, and I will hand it over to Councilor Scarpelli. Is the petitioner, you can come up to the mic, and then Councilor Scarpelli is the chair of the licensing commission, subcommittee. If you have any comments, I'll turn it over to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And you would just have to come back for the 12am. You just have to come back for the 11 to 12 portion.
[Nicole Morell]: So this would be just approving for those hours, and then you could apply with the clerk's office for a special permit.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, for those extended hours, but this would approve it if we vote for it for the hours that are listed on the application. Okay, all right. Thank you. So we have a motion from Councilor Caraviello to approve. Any other questions from councilors? Seeing none, that motion is seconded by... Second, second. Vice President of Affairs, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, motion passes. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: 23376 petition for common bishops license for so funny long for four or four seasons, but with T 34 Riverside Avenue, Medford Mass 02155. Thank you so much and we'll just turn over to Councilor Scarpelli real quick and then we'll come back to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: None. We have much for approval from Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. 23-377 petition for common victims licensed by Sophia K for Ho-Win Palace 2, formerly Tiki Island, 269 Middle 6 Ave, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155. Are you the petitioner for that one? Or do we have a petitioner for the online? Okay. Oh, sorry. I wasn't looking. Okay. Russell Chin, I will unmute you. We'll go to Councilor Scarpelli, and then I will also ask you to unmute. So we'll go to Councilor Scarpelli first.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much. Okay, going to motions orders and resolutions to three dash 378, or offered by prices and bears be it so resolved the method city council by the Metric City Council that we ask the traffic commission to consider restricting trucks on Spring Street between Salem Street and Riverside either by instituting a no-trucks policy or restricting trucks over a certain weight or tonnage. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Uh, cancer set.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? Do you have the language as amended from Vice President Bears? Could you read back for me?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed, motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to suspend the rules to take 23-382, which is the waste contract, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed, motion passes. Going to 23-382, the electronic delivery to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding contract ordinance. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body pursuant to provisions of MGL Chapter 30B Section 12 approve and authorize the city of Medford to enter into a 10-year agreement for citywide collection, disposal, and processing of solid waste, reusables, organics, and recyclables, or pursuant to request for proposal number 23-0067. The following department heads will be available to answer questions. DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon and Planning Development and Sustainability Director Alicia Hunts, respectfully submitted. Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. So we did have at our Committee of the Whole a presentation on the process of what we're seeking in a new contract. So this is a vote before the Council that would authorize the Mayor to enter into a contract. This would not be a vote by the Council for a contract, it would authorize the Mayor to enter into that contract. Correct. I'm just making sure there's not a... I had a few more questions. Thank you. I'm happy to go back to Councilors on the floor. Are there any cities that currently do the every other week trash?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so to understand, So it would be the regular solid waste, composting, yard grease, potentially three contracts?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, because at this point, the composters that we're looking at, they don't pair up with like a... It would be a separate contract with the composting company. Okay, thank you. Yeah, that's the only question I have at this time. I did just want to know, Myself, I know there's many people in the city that partake, since doing compost, diapers aside, since doing compost, I mean, we barely have a bag of trash a week, and we know those bins can contain two, three bags of trash. So it's been a huge noticeable difference for us. And I think it would be exciting, particularly in these very hot days, to have the compost picked up weekly. So that's just a personal note there. But I will go back to Councilor Caraviello for more questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council? I do see Councilor Scarpelli is back. Just flag me down if you have anything. And I see Mr. Castagnetti will get to you as well. I also just want to thank you both for all your work on this as well as the Small Waste Task Force. Jumping on what Vice President Bears said, I think I work at MIT in my day job, and they just released a series of impact goals to help them reach their climate goals. And one is around waste, and it really focuses on food waste, because I think that's what a lot of people are coming up with, that when we do pound for pound, a lot of it is food. And that's absolutely something we can put in a different stream that goes to biofuel, that goes to compost, that goes to something that's not rotting in a landfill with everything else, and just off-gassing in a way that's completely detrimental. as we look towards our climate goals as a city, it can feel, I think to Vice President Bears's point, we can think about heat and flooding and all these things and see them, and those, absolutely, those feel like, those are climate change, those feel like climate change, but waste is such a big part of it, and it's something that we as individuals absolutely can do to make an impact when given the right tools to do so. So I really appreciate that forward thinking with this and looking into that and understanding that We will explore it as we get there. Hopefully we can continue down the path at year three and it works great and everyone loves it, but I appreciate all the information as far as what that looks like, if it is a challenge and things like that. So I really thank you for the time and just presenting to us on this multiple times and for all the work you put into this. So I do see Mr. Castagnetti, if you have a question or also anyone else, I will unmute you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, we can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, we have the folks in the booth can hear you so they can work on that and vice versa and bears is turning off the fans. So that will definitely help.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, and I think it's probably usually rats. Rats will chew through anything, so it's usually rats.
[Nicole Morell]: Something like what?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, you heard that.
[Nicole Morell]: on election day. It was just a discussion point. It also has to be introduced to the council. It has to be voted by the council and then voted by the public.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, those are two. Anyways. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the Council, or does anyone on Zoom want to see that bin if they missed it last time? I'm sorry. Did you take it away already? It's upstairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, people can, it's on the tape. Thank you so much for your earnest. I really appreciate it. Director Hunt always has the best interns, so appreciate it. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I believe we need a roll call vote, either right. So we have a motion from Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears. And again, this is to authorize the mayor, the city, the mayor, to enter the city into a 10 year contract. This is not a vote from the council on the contract. This is giving the mayor the power to enter into a contract. So on the motion of Vice Councilor Caraviellos, seconded by Vice President Bears to approve. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. Thank you. Thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion by Susan Ferris to revert to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Motion passes. Going to 23-379 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that Medford City Council address the recent work done at Winthrop Street slash Placedead. Please request the attendance of Traffic Engineer Todd Blake and City Engineer Owen Wartella. Councilor Caraviello, as you saw, neither Director Blake nor City Engineer Wartella are able to make it. They did send us a few correspondences regarding this as well as We have the complete streets master plan as well. So Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, it's my understanding that it wasn't within the scope of mitigation that was negotiated for.
[Nicole Morell]: I agree with you that that absolutely should have been negotiated for, but it wasn't. I'm disappointed in that. But it wasn't. Councilor Collins, you have the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Sagan and then we'll come back to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. DeVeres. Thank you, Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. And I appreciate you bringing this forward and I agree with you that I wish it were a more infrastructure, a more permanent solution. And what I'm gonna say next has nothing to do with your point, because I absolutely hear your point and I'm not disagreeing with you, but I just wanna say because I'm not an expert on every intersection in this city. I'm an expert on this intersection because I live about 300 yards from it and I walk it, I bike it, I drive it. The only thing, I don't know, I don't know how to roller blade. That's about the only thing I do not do through this intersection. And I want to say that I am ecstatic. I think it looked a little bit better. That was, you know, there are spots in Winchester too, where the paint actually is smudged and doesn't look great either. These things happen. But every single, with the exception of the extremely long crosswalk about from the Whitmore Brook entrance towards the cemetery, every crosswalk in that intersection was a blind crosswalk. You cross and you hoped someone saw you, whether they were coming off of Playstead, they couldn't see you cross Winthrop. Whether you're crossing Playstead and they're coming off Winthrop, they couldn't see you. Imagine having a stroller and pushing it in front of you and you hope to God someone sees you before they hit the stroller you're pushing for you. I saw a woman a few weeks ago and the MBTA bus driver was actually extremely helpful in this situation. He was wonderful. And she was on the far side. She was on the fell side and she was, she had like a walker, a roller, you know, walker with wheels and she was with her grandson. She couldn't figure out which, which bus stop she needed to be at. And she crossed over Winthrop street and then she crossed over place said twice because it's so wide right there. And she got to the MBTA bus driver who told her actually you were in the right spot in the first place. And I had entered the situation at that point and I had my elderly dog, would not walk any farther, so I couldn't help her. So I sat there and I watched as she crossed the three streets again, and I held my breath. I absolutely held my breath because I know how scary that intersection is. And I just wanna know at what point we decided that that was acceptable, that for people to move as fast as they can, as they can in their cars is the more acceptable route. than doing what we can to allow pedestrians to travel safely across streets. So that's something that really frustrates me. I've seen the discussion on Facebook that we are designing for a problem that doesn't exist. Those people don't spend time in that. I have seen countless people trying to cross that street. Rarely someone will stop and let you cross the street. Someone comes flying from Winchester and tries to go around them and tries to not intentionally, but almost nail someone in the crosswalk. It's an incredibly dangerous intersection. And since the interventions have been put in, I've seen so many people in the area biking and walking, and it's not because they weren't there. They have always been there, but they said, I'm not gonna cross that. I'm not gonna walk that area. That area is terrifying. And now they're out and they're using it. And I think it's wonderful to see. I'm really happy. The barriers are a little ugly. Yes, I will take ugly a million times over for safety improvements. And I just wanna point out the fact that those very same barriers were begged for in front of some of the tonier streets in the city prevent people from parking and accessing the lakes. So those barriers exist in other places in the city that people seem to have no issue with because it prevents people from having access. But when we add them to increase access, people get mad. So I'll step off my soapbox. But again, I probably walk through this intersection or bike through it or drive through it a half a dozen times each day. And I want to be clear that I absolutely support what has been done there, and I've heard from many people that support it, and I haven't heard from any people that probably don't even think to reach out, because they're biking and they're walking and they're enjoying it, and they're not thinking of emailing people about it. So, I know we have a member of the public who would like to speak, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Mr. Castagnani, I see your hand up. Or it might be still up, but I am assuming it's up again. I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, we can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Further discussion. I actually just want to make one more brief point, not to make a rebuttal, but again, I had seen this on social media as well, that there was a discussion point that there's been no fatalities in that area. And I refuse to accept that that is our bar, that if someone hasn't died in an intersection, then it must be working well. So thank you. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to receive and place on file, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-380 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council, the rules of the Medford City Council be amended. Just one second. Be amended to include the following rule and update the table of contents to reflect the addition of the new rule. Section 7, rules regarding council adoption of provisions of Massachusetts general law. Rule 39, Medford City Council rule regarding consulted fees. The following rule is adopted pursuant to general law chapter 40A, section 9, and general law chapter 44, section 53G. One, when reviewing an application for, or when conducting inspections in relation to a request for special permit.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, we have a motion from Vice President Bears to suspend the reading. Waive the reading, sorry. Waive the reading, yeah. Yes, waive the reading. He said suspend. I repeated it. Waive the reading. In lieu of a brief summary, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? Do we need a roll call?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears to approve to amend the rules of the City Council, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. I believe this is actually, he'll be back, but a TBW commissioner is gonna speak to us on this. 23-381, under communications from the mayor to honorable president and members of the city council, Regarding proposed our core projects in excess of $250,000 dear President Morella members of the city council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body allow time for presentation by dpw Commissioner Tim McGivern of the following opera projects, ie proposed equipment purchases dpw Freightliner jet truck $358,000 and dpw loader $275,000. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor. And just a reminder, this isn't anything that's asking us to vote on appropriation. This is the mayor presenting a courtesy paper and also, I guess, getting it out to the public, letting us know about ARPA spending plans. We do have DPW Commissioner McIver with us to tell us a little bit more about it. Any questions as we wait for him to rejoin us? All right, I'll give you a minute to... Hi, sorry, ARPA requests? Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On that motion, Councilor Cabrera.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We still have to vote on 23-31. So just the motion to receive and place on file.
[Nicole Morell]: Seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. That's the public participation. Is there anyone who would like to speak for public participation, either in person or on Zoom? one. Seeing none.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, on the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to take those papers off the table and receive in place on file. And they are that national grid grant of location, a spending moratorium and the trash and solid waste collection contract. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Papers are taken off the table and received in place on file. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: 14th regular meeting of the Medford City Council July 11 2023 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morell present for present three absent, please rise for the flag.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, reminiscences, reports, and records. 23-367 offered by Vice President Bears, Councilor Tseng, and President Morell. Be it so resolved, the Medford City Council congratulate the Medford Vocational Technical High School Robotics Team for competing at the World May ROV Championships. The team finished 14th overall, placing them in the top 50% of all competitors. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. And yeah, if I could just add, really want to congratulate them and you know thank them for the many hours they spent in the council chambers when we first recognized them so they performed excellent so hopefully it didn't impact them too much those hours spent with us, and they did note on their GoFundMe page that this placing in the top 50% was a huge jump from last year, their first year competing where they placed in the bottom 10%. So as Councilor Caraviello said, all returning students, and they have some exciting things ahead of them. So congratulations to the team once again. Oh, yeah. As I'm jumping ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Falco. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Be it resolved that the Medford City Council send a special thank you to the recreation director Kevin Bailey his lifeguard staff at school Medford fire and Armstrong ambulance for their quick response and saving the life of a drowning youth at Tufts pool.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other councillors would like to speak on this resolution? Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Sen. Thank you, Mayor and Councilors. I'll just again speak briefly I know Councilor Scarpelli covered all but thank you so much Councilor Scarpelli for introducing this. I spent years in high school as a pool lifeguard, and I probably spent most of my hours just telling people not to run. And I never had this challenging moment where all of your training comes into action and it's you know it's, it's, it's everything changes in a matter of seconds. I am so proud of you all and so impressed with you all. And it's an incredible thing that you all did with Metro Fire, with Armstrong Ambulance, but it's so much for young people to do something like this. And I'm really proud that you guys call Medford home and work in Medford. So thank you for your service.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Bailey. If I can.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Councilor Scarpelli is seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. I see Councilor Knight on Zoom. I don't know if he's with us or not.
[Nicole Morell]: We will keep trying.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the in front of zero negative one absentee motion passes records the records of the meeting of June 20, 2023 were passed your Councilor Knight. Motion of embarrassment bears the table seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. You're all welcome to say, but yeah, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion passes. The records are tabled.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. This is just a motion to suspend the rules, take those papers out of order.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, motion passes. 23-372, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, regarding donation acceptance. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves under MGL Chapter 44, Section 53A, a donation of 25 child and 25 youth size life jackets from the Medford Kiwanis Club to the City of Medford for the use by the Medford Recreation Department. So life jackets will have the metric one slow go on the life jacket respectfully submitted beyond a Lungo-Koehn mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further motion to approve on that motion of bears to approve, seconded by Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I guess, sure.
[Nicole Morell]: No, he's not. This is true. He's not marked as present. He has never, he has not made an indication publicly that he's here.
[Nicole Morell]: City Council President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the City Council from the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability, July 6, 2023, regarding a proposed planned development district one ordinance amendment, 100 Winchester Street, Medford, 02155. Okay. How? Oh, he's in the chat. Okay. I don't know if that counts. Okay. He's texting you. I'll remove. Okay. You can note it. It's passed either way. Back to 23-369. For the procedure outlined in section 94-9.2 PDD of the Medford zoning ordinance, applicant 96-102 Winchester Street LLC, Stephen J. Nardone, manager, submitted a proposed amendment, PDD 1, for the site located at 96-102 and 104 Winchester Street, Medford Mass 02155, assessor's map number X-09-60, Y-09-7, Y-09-15, as shown on locus map PDD1. The property is located in a general residential GR zoning district. The applicant proposes zoning to align with the perspective project, which would include a 65 unit residential development and a 4,000 square foot commercial structure. The 4,000 square foot structure is intended for neighborhood friendly commercial uses such as offices, daycare, gym facilities, and other low impact uses. The Community Development Board held a public hearing on April 26, 2023, notice in accordance with MGL Chapter 40A Section 11. Though not required, a courtesy notice was sent out to abutters within 400 feet of the site. In accordance with MGL Chapter 44 Section 53G and the Community Development Board rule regarding consulting fees, the city retained legal counsel, Attorney Jonathan Silverstein of Flatman, Bobrovsky, Haverty, and Silverstein LLC to prepare the text of the amendment and provide associated legal support to staff and the board. per MGL chapter 40 a section five, the zoning amendment must now be referred from city council to the community development board will hold a duly notice public hearing on August 2 2023. The city council's public hearing for this amendment will be held on August 15 2023. After a report with recommendations by the community development board has been submitted to the council. We thank you for your review of this matter and are happy to provide additional information. And the council did also receive a memo from Attorney Silverstein just really repeating what this process is as outlined in our updated zoning. Councilors have any questions you can hear from PDS Director Alicia Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any discussion from council?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have a motion? I have a motion to refer to the Community Development Board, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Thank you, Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative one absent the English passes the papers referred to the development board. We're still under suspension.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so we're going to hearings. 23-312, legal notice, Medford City Clerk's Office, notice of a public hearing, chapter 94, zoning. The Medford City Council will conduct a public hearing on July 11th, 2023 at 7 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall, 85 George B. Hassell Drive, Medford, Mass., via Zoom, relative to a petition by Nutter, McClellan, and Fish, LLP, representing CPC Land Acquisition Company, LLC, to amend zoning map, City of Medford, Massachusetts, dated April 13th, 1965, as referenced in chapter 94, Medford zoning ordinance section 2.2. The amendment proposes to change the zoning district designation of the area. of the property of 99 Revere Beach Parkway Medford from industrial to mixed use depicted on the plan entitled plan of land dated March 29 2023 prepared by Tetra Tech. The property consists of two parcels map seven block five blocks 21 and 22. A zoom link to the public hearing will be posted no later than July 7 2023. The full materials for the amendment can be viewed in the office of the city clerk City Hall room 103 or on the city's website at www.medfordma.org slash department slash planning dash development dash sustainability by clicking on current city board filings. For accommodations, aids, please contact the office of the Medford City Clerk at 781-393-2425. May order of the Medford City Council, sign Adam Hurtubise, City Clerk, advertisement for transcript and some local journal, June 1st and June 8th. Director Hunt, and I do know we have Attorney Stein from KP law on the call as well. Great.
[Nicole Morell]: If you would like to just for we did get that memo at just about five today in email. And this originally came before the council, I believe on May 23, was referred to refer to the CD board. And now it's back before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director. Two things before I go to Vice President Bears. Lost the first one. Second one, Councilor Scarpelli. Oh, this is a public hearing, so I do need to open it up. Right. Yes, yes. No, no, it's my fault. I did so we did get a response actually, I think it was last week right after the holiday that we didn't get a response to our RFP for the zoning consultant. Director Hunt has offered to have some folks in her department reach out and call folks who normally submitted proposals and ask why they didn't and how we can update that. So happy to take that as a B paper, but that's something I'm trying to get to deliver to the council.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and just to remind us of the process, because I forgot to, we did also, we had a committee of the whole where we talked about what we wanted in that RFP. We'll see what we get back. Thank you. But I'm also happy to take that as a paper ticket, you know, have a paper trail on it. So as this is a public hearing, to open a public hearing for people who would like to speak in favor of the petition, I assume the applicant is here. I assume he would like to speak in favor. So is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of the petition before us? Please come up to the mic and folks can raise their hands on Zoom as well. And you can simply say, yes, I'm in favor, or you can say a little bit more.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the petition?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the petition before us, either on Zoom or in person? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. We do have a motion from Councilor Collins to, sorry, I'm just embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. And before we take Councilor Collins motion, yeah, I also just want to add I think Director Hunt for, you know, talking about the potential flooding in the area that proposed or theorized electric bus charging station, understanding the challenge that would be there. And knowing that this is a first step of how it might help us meet some of the requirements of the MBTA communities, of course, housing that we absolutely need. the inclusionary zoning approach, and just this being, as Vice Mayor Bears pointed out, just a really underutilized lot, it's a surface parking lot, largely. And I think this is a real opportunity to open it up and hopefully bring some great transit-oriented things to the area with step one, with updating the zoning in this area. So we have a motion from, oh, sorry, we have a beat paper from Councilor Scarpelli to get an update from the administration on the zoning consultant process, seconded by, Councilor Caraviello, Councilor Knight has dropped off due to technical issues, so I will take that as a voice vote. All those in favor? Opposed? Motion passes. And then we have the main paper, which is zoning paper, so it's five votes to pass. And then we have a motion by Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng. To approve, do you want to approve pending the six-day public comment period?
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion from Councilor Collins to approve and waive the 60 public comment period, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes. So we're going to 23-339. Legal notice of a public hearing, petition for grant of location, the trustees of Tufts College, electrical ducting, conduits for future data cabling, sleeves for future heating, cooling pipes, Medford masks, city clerk's office. You are hereby notified that by order of the Medford City Council, a public hearing will be given at the Howard F. Alden Memorial Auditorium 85 George P. Hassett Drive, City Hall, Medford Mass at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11th on a petition of the trustees of Tufts College for permission to lay and maintain underground electrical duct banks for the transmission and distribution of electricity conduits for future data cabling and sleeves for future heating and cooling pipes in and under certain public streets, sidewalks, curbs, lanes, highways, and places of the city of Medford and of the ducts, wires, conduits, casing switches, governors, manholes, and other structures, fixtures, and appurtenances designed or intended to protect or operate said electrical duct banks, conduits and sleeves and accomplish the objects of the trustees of Tufts College and the moving or removal of improvements and the digging up and opening of the ground and pavement to lay or place same under College Avenue in the manner and location as shown on the plans filed with the city of Medford and available for inspection in the office of the city clerk, Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, room 103, Medford 02155. The purpose of this petition is to connect the Tufts University athletic fields to the Tufts University Fitness Center's electrical power supply. The properties are located at 161 College Avenue and 0 Andover Street in Medford, part of the Medford Assessors Parcels T---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- All those opposed, motion passes. We have petitioners here, and I think we probably have folks on Zoom as well. If you can just tell us a little bit about the grant application before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any other discussion from Councilors?
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Again. Whereas this is a public hearing, I need to open up the portion of public hearing for anyone who would like to speak in favor of the petition. Is there anyone here who would like to speak in favor of the petition assuming you vote?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Seeing none.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this petition, either on Zoom or in person? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Are there any other questions from the council? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I just have one question. Do you know the length of time for this amount of work?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and would that be back-to-back, or would there be a pause in between?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. The motion from Councilor Scarpelli to approve with the conditions set by the engineering office, seconded by the vice of affairs. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Good night. Thank you. 23-370, offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council contact the DCR to clean and mow the grass at Route 16, especially in the Main Street Bridge area. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have any other discussion from the Council? I see Mr. Castagnetti with his hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. The clerk is telling me that that's DOT. He'll call someone for you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: That's actually MassDOT and the clerk will call since he has Long history.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-371 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council get a response from the Mayor and School Department dealing with the special permission for school committee members being allowed to park their recreation vehicle on the school property. We did get a response from the Superintendent earlier today. I will turn it over to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion. Thank you, Madam President, motion received in place on file on the motion of vices and affairs to receive a place on file. All those opposed motion passes. Communications from the mayor 23-333 June 7 2023 motion to waive the reading. Okay, this is table from our last meeting. This is the request. I'll go to a further this is a request from the mayor to request to recommend the honorable body approve the appropriation of retained earnings the amount of 500,000 dollars and zero cents. This amount is being requested to subsidize the fiscal year 2024 Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund budget. Retained earnings are reserves of the Water and Sewer Fund. Reserves can be used for any lawful purpose and can serve to provide financial security in cases of unforeseen events or to reduce the need for additional revenue from the increased water and sewer rates. At our previous meeting, Councilor Knight invoked Rule 22 regarding the appropriation, which says any money papers can be laid on the table when they're first introduced. Do I have any discussion from the council? So this is a vote to, this is a vote to be able to use their earnings of $500,000 to provide financial security, I'm sorry, to subsidize the fiscal year 2024 water and sewer enterprise fund.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Mr. Ferris.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe that's what, yeah, what Vice Mayor is saying.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Ponce. Any further discussion from the Council? I think Councilors for the discussion around this I think by Susan bears really gives a lot to think about I know what was one of the more jarring things to come out of the budget discussion was when I asked Mr. Stone King if you know, assuming that Medford surely isn't any worse than any other city in the state that's facing these, you know, aging sewer systems and he said no, it's it's Medford Melrose Malden I believe are known as being the three worst in the state as far as lead. So I understand the financial impacts of this, but I think, you know, if you are, I know asking my neighbors, you know, would you rather have a more dependable updated, you know, avoiding catastrophe source system or a small, you know, a small discount on your rate? I mean, I'm sure maybe it's 50-50, but as a Councilor, as a representative, I have to make the decision that I think we need to invest in this system and, you know, take this 500,000 and keep it in the account rather than using it to subsidize bills at this point. This comes up every year, it may be a different decision next year. But I think just hearing what we heard from Mr. Stone King and Commissioner McGivern, it's really important that we have these funds to invest in an aging system that is, you know, as the city grows, more and more people tie into. So I believe we have do I have a motion to from Vice President Harris or someone made a motion to catch?
[Nicole Morell]: You don't have to make, I thought someone, I thought someone made a motion. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, and again, this is a vote to approve the request to subsidize the amount of $500,000 to subsidize the fiscal year 2024 Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund budget. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by. Second. Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No. One in the affirmative, five in the negative, one absent, the motion fails. So the retained earnings will stay in the Water and Sewer Enterprise account. Going to, I believe, public participation. To Honorable City Council, the undersigners respectfully pray for every trucking all day and nights, all day long and night, 24 seven last 20 years from John Sardone, 197 Spring Street, Medford. Mr. Sardone? Yes, please come up.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Costa, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Thank you gentlemen for bringing it up. And I think something that goes on set too is, and thankfully we don't have it around here a lot, but vehicles jump curbs all the time unintentionally. So, you know, you may think that, oh, there's a big truck, at least I'm on the sidewalk. This stuff happens all the time. So it's really, it's just a nuts level of danger. So again, yeah, what everyone said to see an 18 wheeler on what is essentially, what's a residential street is incredibly jarring. And it seemed to be doing some sort of like three point turn as well. So that's all pretty, Terrifying. Yeah. So, yeah, we'll see if Council would like to submit something for our next agenda. So is there anyone else would like to speak for public participation? Seeing none. We do have papers in the hands of the clerk. Councilor Scarpelli, I would ask you to submit for the next agenda or I'm going to perhaps rule out of order just because this is an emergency situation for this. I can read it off, but I just know this might be something that people are interested in. I'm just not having the notice for such a topic. You already have the answer? Okay. Sure. Sure, so 23-373 offered under suspension by Councilor Scarpelli be it resolved the Mayor, School Committee, and Superintendent explain the policy changes involving possible coaching changes for our high school student-athletes at Medford High School.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I appreciate that clarification. Any further discussion on the motion? That is the end of our agenda. I do not believe we have any papers that need to be taken off the table. Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 13th regular meeting of the Medford City Council June 20 2033 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. That's good. That's a nice present present seven presents you're absent, please rise and salute the flag. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. The records of the meeting of June 6th, 2023 were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, how did you find them? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. The records of a special meeting of the June 15th, 2023 meeting were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find that? I find them in order and I move for approval. On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by... vice president bears all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes. Reports of committee 23-320 June 6 2023 committee of the whole report to follow. This was a meeting on hearings from different departments of the budget. I believe this was the mayor's budget presentation as well as an overview and hearing from the chief of staff on administration as well. On the motion of vice president bears to approve all reports of committee seconded by. Councilor Collins, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of our subpoenas, we suspend the rules to take public participation and papers under suspension. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. All right, we are going to take public participation. to the honorable City Council. June 14th 2023. Councilors the undersigned respectfully pray. Um, Amy C Tanaglia would like to discuss the ongoing situation regarding raises for City Hall clerks would like to discuss raises given to non union personnel would like to discuss working conditions and the difference between union and non union personnel and would like to discuss altercation at the administrator. Administrations fundraiser held at the Ford No, we vote on it later in the meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: If you could just speak into the microphone.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm not happening.
[Nicole Morell]: For a point of clarification. This vote was early. This was I mean, you're absolutely entails you feel like this vote was prior to you coming before us. This vote was prior to what prior to you coming before us to speak at public participation. This vote was- I've spoken months ago too. Okay, but I just want to make clear if it wasn't the most recent one.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm not, I stand by my vote. It was a 2% raise over three years. It was 2%, 2%, 2%. This is 2%? It compounds.
[Nicole Morell]: What we voted for was 2%. Oh my God. Look at the numbers.
[Nicole Morell]: Amy, I'm gonna let you continue. We do. I'm being very generous with time. I understand you're upset. You have every right to be upset. We give people 10 minutes for public participation, we're nearing a half hour, I'm absolutely gonna let you finish.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, are you finished?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, thank you. So anybody else for public participation at this time? Seeing none, we have papers under suspension. Madam Chief, sorry, Mr. Murphy, sorry. Yeah, well, we'll take Mr. Murphy and then Madam Chief of Staff. Thank you. Madam Chief of Staff.
[Nicole Morell]: you can't hear. Can you lean? I'm sorry. Managers are killing near the mic. I don't certainly is this better? Yeah, that's better.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor, do you have a question?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Let her finish.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chief staff. Mr. Murphy, did you want to.
[Nicole Morell]: Is that your question if the chief of staff can.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm asking you just to address her by her title you don't need to respond saying if that's her name, Madam Chief of Staff.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you, Madam Chief of Staff. Mr. Murphy, you're almost here. name and address to the record, please the heck of a night.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And thank you for sharing that. Okay, going to papers under suspension 23-337 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved, the Medford City Council sends deepest condolences to the family of Fred Rita, a longtime Medford resident and volunteer for the Medford Youth and United Soccer Programs. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. On a motion of Council Scarpelli, just speak please Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it comes tonight. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli seconded by Councilor Knight all those in favor. I suppose motion passes please rise for a moment of silence. 23-336 offered under suspension by Councilor Tseng, Vice President Bears, and Councilor Collins, whereas the city of Medford is enriched by welcoming people from all walks of life, and whereas the month of June is nationally recognized as Pride Month to affirm the dignity, equality, and importance of LGBTQ plus people, be it therefore so resolved that the Medford City Council recognizes, affirms, and celebrates Pride Month, and be it further resolved that the Medford City Council stands in solidarity with the LGBTQ plus community during Pride Month and throughout the year.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. Any further discussion from the council? Thank you, Councilor Wright. I want to thank my fellow councilors for bringing this forward. I think it's really an important thing to affirm, which a way which I know this council feels and stands, and it's just very important to do right now for the reasons my fellow councilors called out in a time when people are trying to shout down, dismiss, and take back, and really, you know, take us back in time and harm a community that has fought for so long just for people to recognize their humanity. and celebrating the hard wins in that fight, and knowing that it's something that we have to fight for every single day, and people will always fight to try to take away those hard-fought wins. So I think it's very important we affirm this. I thank you all for bringing this forward. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve seconded by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. hearings 23-319 legal notice. The Medford notice of a public hearing the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F Alden chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George P Hassett Drive, Medford mass and via zoom on Tuesday, June 20 2023 at 7pm, a link to be posted no later than Friday, June 16 2023 on free petitions for special permits by raising canes restaurants. LLC doing business as raising canes, chicken fingers, 6800 Bishop Road, Plano, Texas, 75024. The petitioner is seeking to construct an eat-in restaurant allowed use in a commercial zone, commercial 1C1 zoning district at 509 to 511 Riverside Avenue, also known as 760 Fellsway, parcel ID lot 7-02-27, with a drive-thru requiring a special permit from the Medford City Council pursuant to Chapter 94, of use is a G two city of Medford zoning ordinance. The petitioner seeks a special permit pursuant to 94 section 6.1 dot 10 to waive the off street loading requirements as set forth in Chapter 94 section 6.1 dot seven of the Medford zoning ordinance and a special permit as to extended hours of operation pursuant to 94 Chapter 94 section 7.2 dot two of the Medford zoning ordinance. The petitioner The petitions seek special permits for drive-thru use, waiver of off-street loading requirements, extended hours of operation requested Sunday through Thursday, 11 p.m. to 12 a.m. and Friday and Saturday, 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. The petitions and site plans for this project may be viewed in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford Mass. The site plans can also be viewed on the city's website at www.medfordma.org slash boards slash community dash development dash board by clicking on current city board filings. call 781-393-2435 for any accommodations aid to the city of Medford is an EEOA 504 employer by order of the city council sign animal her to be city clerk advertise the Medford transcript in Somerville Journal, June 1st and 2020 2023 and June 8th, 2023. I know we have the petitioner here. We also have Director Hunt from PDS that asked that senior planner Danielle Evans, just give us a little intro before we hear from the petitioner. Danielle is on zoom. So we'll go to her first and then we'll go over to the petitioner. There's some conditions from the CD board that they wanted to share. President's decision, I'm just going to let them speak first, we'll go to the applicant.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's your question. That's great.
[Nicole Morell]: How far did those abutter notices go out?
[Nicole Morell]: I can search the corporate history for 400.
[Nicole Morell]: I guess was there any additional legal understanding that attorney Bobrowski helped us in writing this was there any additional legal consultation in this process, as far as understanding that these are the steps that need to be taken.
[Nicole Morell]: So is that enough? No. Director, just so I can understand. So this is, what's before us isn't the result. This is not triggered by our new zoning. This is something that was already there. It's just a series of papers together that has not been presented like this in a number of years, correct? That is correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: Continue.
[Nicole Morell]: There are questions from Councilors at this time. think, yeah, we'll go into the next and we may have questions for everyone after all. We're all through. We'll keep moving.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have a way of enforcing that?
[Nicole Morell]: Well, in Medford we had a 18 wheeler I think that was supposed to be taking a certain route and they didn't and they slammed into an overpass and destroyed it. So I think we've, we've been a little bit burned on that in the past. So just want to raise that as an example.
[Nicole Morell]: Can I just ask one specific question about the building? The roofing color, is it light or is it a black roof?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. That was what my question was based in. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: you want to take your questions first?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And Councilor Collins, just procedurally, in order to adopt the CD board conditions, we would just have the motion would have to be to approve with those conditions, so we just have to be specified. Okay, so as this is a public hearing, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Did I?
[Nicole Morell]: Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll do everything that we can to try.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I just have one quick question. One quick question, then we're going to open the public hearing. The shrubbery, the trees are being planted. Is there a maintenance plan for that? I mean, I think a lot of businesses come in, they plant them some shrubs and then they die. So I'd just be curious.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And same with the street trees. Is that something that? Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Whereas this is a public hearing, we need to open it up. So I will open the public hearing, portion of the public hearing for anyone who would like to speak in favor of this petition. So speaking only in favor of this petition, assuming the petitioner, if anyone wants to, any of you say yes, you speak in favor of this, you are, yes, great. Thank you. Anyone else on Zoom or in person who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Jeff, if you could stop sharing the screen just so I can see everyone on zoom. Thank you. And we'd like to speak in favor of this position. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Anyone who would like to speak in opposition, opposition of this petition? Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anybody else who would like to speak in opposition of this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak in opposition of the permit, either in person or on Zoom? Seeing none. This portion of the public hearing is closed. It seems like we probably still have a few questions from Councilors, or if you want to respond to any of the questions that were raised from residents.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council at this time? I just had, I think Councilor Caraviello touched on this. Does Raising Canyon, or specifically this location, would it contract with like Uber Eats or Grubhub or something that... No. Okay. Great, thank you. You don't do delivery on your own either? No, okay, thank you. Do I have any further questions or motion or? Was that a motion to approve or? So the public, I did close the public hearing earlier and I continued questions. So would that be to extend this to, it would be to continue the hearing to the next regular meeting?
[Nicole Morell]: But I think we need to notify the petitioner when this would be voted on again. So you would want to call a special meeting of the city council to vote on this? I'm asking you, is that... Okay, yeah, I mean, I think so be it July 11 is the next regular meeting we could hold a special meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: I close the opposition side. You can motion to keep it open. motion to keep it open or reopen or continue it to the next regular meeting?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight, would you withdraw your motion in favor and allow Vice President Bears or?
[Nicole Morell]: So there's a site plan approval, that's one vote, and then there's a special permit, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other conditions from councilors outside of what's already been stated?
[Nicole Morell]: Understood. Councilors, there's also the ability to continue the public hearing until we can have legal representation.
[Nicole Morell]: And just for clarity, we did the last time we had a special permit, we did keep the public hearing open until we had legal representation, which we did the next meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we have a motion from Councilor Collins, which is to move for approval, including the conditions from the CD board, a 30, 60, 90 day review. Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have multiple special permits so we can take them separately.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we have the drive-through special permit request. We have waiving the off-street voting special permit request. And we have the extended hours special request. We have the site plan.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you wanna take this site plan last or first? The order we got it from the CD board is special part for drive through a special part for extended hours. waiver of off-street learning requirements, and then site plan review. So I'm happy with that. Take them over, so. So I believe Councilor Collins, your motion was to approve the site plan. So do I have a motion to approve the special plan for drive-through use?
[Nicole Morell]: Is that what you'd like to apply the 30, 60, 90 day to? Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have motion to approve for drive-thru with the conditions of the special permit go with the building, sorry, with the license and 30, 60, 90 day review. That motion was from Councilor, President Bears. Sorry, I lost it. Yes. Seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And this again is for the drive-through only, the drive-through use. This is for the drive-through use only with the conditions from the plant, from the, of the city board plus 30, 60, 90 day review and the permanent stage of the business and not with the exit, right?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears. Yes. Councilor Caraviello. Yes. Councilor Collins. Yes. Councilor Knight. No. Councilor Strudel? No. Councilor Tseng? Yes. President Morocco? Yes. Five in the affirmative, two in the negative. Motion passes. We have a special permit for extended hours. Do we have any conditions with the extended hours? No. So we have a motion to approve the extended hours.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we have a special permit for extended hours with the permit going with the business as well as a 30, 60, 90 day review.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, who would like to put that mic?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. No. Yes. No. Yes. No, three in the form of four in the negative the motion fails for excited hours is denied.
[Nicole Morell]: If you'd like to keep them separate.
[Nicole Morell]: No, he's talking about the loading. Oh.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Mayor Behr's motion to combine it with the site plan review, if you'd like to keep it separate, we can keep it separate. I like to keep it separate.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to waive the off-street loading requirements.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Of the off-street loading requirements or motion?
[Nicole Morell]: I was gonna motion to continue the hearing.
[Nicole Morell]: I motion to do this special permit for the waiver. Yes, that's the next one. Okay. So we have Councilor Collins to motion to approve the waiver for off-street learning requirements. Seconded by?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears. Do you wanna keep that waiver with the license with the business?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello. No. Councilor Collins. Yes. Yes. Yes for me for three in the negative motion passes motion to approve the site plan review.
[Nicole Morell]: I was just gonna say that, I believe is yeah it would be. And again, to your point, if the special permit is voted no, then the conditions that were made by the city board. Yes. Yeah. And yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Not for the site plan. No, sir. May I ask a question?
[Nicole Morell]: I believe it's five. I believe it's five.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion from Vice President Bears to approve the site plan review with all conditions. Before conditions are set down by the Committee of Development Board, requirements, sealed trash receptacles, baffles for the HVAC system, soundproofing system, disallowed idling door during any deliveries to the facility. Required quarterly reports to the Board of Health from the pest control vendor on road control. different route operations for deliveries, for delivery trucks, including commercial. Any other conditions that councilors wanted to add? I know folks have concerns about delivery hours, but anything folks want to add? All right, so we have a motion from Vice President Bears with those conditions seconded by, motion to approve with those conditions seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll and it is a vote of five to approve, need it to pass. Vice President Bears. Yes. Councilor Caraviello. Yes. Councilor Collins. Yes. Councilor Diodati. No. Councilor Scarpelli. No. Councilor Tseng. Yes. Yes, five in the affirmative, two in the negative, motion passes. The site plan is approved. Thank you, that covered it all. Thank you. Pending the six day public comment period. Thank you, Councilor Knight. Okay. Two, three, dash. 330 offered by Councilor Knight and Councilor Caraviello. Whereas part of the FY 23 state budget includes a local option law allowing local retirement systems to increase this year's FY 23 by 2%, which is retroactive to July 1, 2022. And whereas this new law requires a two-step approval process. First, the retirement board must vote in favor, and then it must be approved by the local governing body for that board. be it's a result of Medford City Council request a paper from the mayor enabling the adoption of an additional 2% for Metro retirees prior to June 30 deadline for passage, going to counter night, Madam President, thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Further discussion from the council on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 2-3-S, 3-3-1. I'll provide cancer Caraviello. These are all the city council asked the Election Commission to present a corrective version of the 2023 calendar that has to do with statements and time dealing with Friday, July 21 2023. Furthermore, to event at voting hours for Saturday as we did in the 2021 municipal election cycle and upon doing such to upload the corrective version to this city on the city website.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't believe we have something in our packets.
[Nicole Morell]: I did get an email from her saying they weren't unable to attend tonight when she was going to email a response tomorrow.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, you want a table? I mean, we're putting in a request. I think she wanted, you can vote for the request and she can respond.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm talking about your paper though. I mean, you're asking them to make some changes so we can vote to make changes.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm saying I mean if you want a table of course most of them, I think the most of the way this response. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I will make sure I mean, the clerk will make sure we'll make sure that we get that response. So the motion from Councilor Caraviello to approve seconded by Councilor Knight all those in favor. I was opposed motion passes 22-332 was withdrawn. Communications from the mayor 23-320 new honorable President Morell and members of the city council regarding fiscal year 2024 budget submission amended June 14 2023 dear President Morell and members of the city council, pursuant to MGL chapter 44 section 32 I respect the request and recommend the city council approved the proposed fiscal year 2024 general fund budget as submitted the submitted appropriation for all departments including schools except the water sewer enterprise fund is $179,604,106. account.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Council night to weigh the remainder of the reading of the remainder of the paper second by bears all those in favor. All those in favor. All those opposed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Madam Chair.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we're just trying to understand did this bottom line number change based on anything
[Nicole Morell]: I would just add for the other.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely not. Absolutely not. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: You can disagree, you can disagree, but to call it fraudulent and to call into question.
[Nicole Morell]: I assure you I did not. And I can say that with clear conscience.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: I reached out to the mayor. I reached out to the mayor. I decided.
[Nicole Morell]: I spoke to her as a Councilor.
[Nicole Morell]: She said that as short. I mean, I spoke to her as a Councilor. He said that as shorthand. You know, I mean, you want to trip me up trip me up on it.
[Nicole Morell]: When I look at this- I mean, if you're pointing for me, Councilor Caraviello, do you want, you have your next on the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other councilors, fellow councilors wish to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: There are other councilors that haven't spoken. Councilor say.
[Nicole Morell]: Is that a question?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Councilor Collins has the floor next. Do you wanna, would you like to go or do you wanna?
[Nicole Morell]: So- Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I just see TPW Commissioner. I see Director O'Connor. I think that is, I'm sorry, Director Hahn. Yep, and Barbara Kerr was on earlier, but I don't think she's on any longer.
[Nicole Morell]: Just explain what's in clear gov.
[Nicole Morell]: No, you presented, but that's the budget you presented to me. Director Dickinson, do you want to offer some clarity?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello, please let me answer that question.
[Nicole Morell]: You've asked, then continue. Now, Director Dickinson has the floor, please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: We have Vice President Bears next.
[Nicole Morell]: You've asked your question. Madam Chief of Staff, please continue. I also see Director Hunt as a departmental director. She has her hand up. I don't know if she can add some light to the situation.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you use a different word other than Delta?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have a question, Vice President? Yeah, how did it happen?
[Nicole Morell]: Um, I'm gonna go to Director Hunt and then we'll go back.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Thank you, Director Hunt. I'm going to go to Vice President Bears, and then Councilor Tseng. And then we'll go back.
[Nicole Morell]: There's a motion to end debate. We have to vote on that. We have a motion from Vice President Bears to end debate.
[Nicole Morell]: We can, you can vote again, sending debate. We have a motion for Senator Bears to end debate. Do I have a second from Councilor Knight? It's a motion, I'm going to take it. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No, three in the affirmative for the negative emotion fails. Councilor Tseng as a floor next.
[Nicole Morell]: Does that, do you have anything more?
[Nicole Morell]: It's not a motion. You don't need to interrogate him. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I think- Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. The council did ask the superintendent about enacting what was outlined in the Welch report, and she did say that it was included in the budget. It wasn't specifically called out, but she said it was in the budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. The report was sent to the council I can thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll go to Vice President Bears. You had your hand up at some point. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears has the floor. Also, maybe this just- No, no, no.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins. She forgot.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello, we have a motion on the floor from Councilor Collins to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Also just for money you move you move.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. At this point, we have far, far exceeded rule 15, which is councilor so speak no more than three times or 15 minutes on a single topic. Yes, so I do have, yes, so we'll end the motion debate. I would like to speak briefly. I just want to make it clear that for me, I have made it clear in budget meetings, I told the chief of staff, I think after our first budget meeting, you know, library, schools, zoning. The mayor met the full request of the library. They met the schools where they need to be and I've spoken with members of the school committee understanding that they have what they need to execute. And we got the zoning back in the in the budget, the city solicitor position remains, it's obviously open the assistant city position system city solicitor position remains obviously so open. These were what matter to me. in order to be able to pass this budget. Is it an ideal budget? Absolutely not. Every department needs to be funded far more. All of our workers need to be paid more, everything. But we're working with what we have, working with what's presented to me, and I'm voting on the paper before me. And since day one, again, it has been library, schools, zoning, and making sure that the legal positions in-house were not removed from the budget. That is why I'm voting in favor of this paper. We have a motion from Councilor Knight to end all debate. We also have two members of the public who want to speak. I'll take those. I'm just going to take them first. We do have Director O'Connor. I'll take you first. And then we'll go to Mr. Castagnetti.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director O'Connor, and I'm sorry. I mean, I care about every single budget, and I thank you again and your department for all the work. It is our understanding, it's my understanding that if this budget were to fail and there were not a budget in place by July 1st, the city has to submit to the Division of Local Services a 112th budget, and all department heads would have to develop a 112th budget to go for July and half of August, because as MGL states, the mayor, the budget that the mayor submits goes into effect 45 days after it's submitted, regardless of action. It's my understanding.
[Nicole Morell]: And that's information I think we also actually got two years ago from Attorney Scanlon gave us that same information.
[Nicole Morell]: That is the understanding. I believe that's what the mayor is operating under. Yes. Thank you. Do you have anything else? Director O'Connor?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins. Yes, there is a motion on the floor. Yes, there is just yes, there's a motion on the floor from Council Collins to approve second by Councilor Tseng. Sorry, Vice President Bears. Yes, that's Councilor Tseng earlier. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: We can hear you. You're rustling around, but we can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so we have a motion on the floor. I know we had a motion from Councilor Knight to move and debate, but before that we have a motion on the floor from Councilor Collins. Thank you. I was also noting that I had to take one before it, so, but thank you for that. So we have a motion from Councilor Collins to approve the budget as presented to us. seconded by Councilor Tseng. It's not amended, it's what is. To approve the budget, to approve, to approve, motion to approve resolution 23-320, approve the budget. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. No. Yes. That's the same. Yes. Yes, for the affirmative three in the night of the motion passes. 23-333 to honorable president and members of this metric city council regarding the fiscal year 2024 water and sewer budget submission amended 614 2023 dear President Morell and members of the city council pursuant to MGL chapter 44 section 32. I respectfully request and recommend that the city council approve the proposed fiscal year 2024 Water Sewer Enterprise Fund budget as submitted. The total submitted appropriation for Water Sewer Enterprise Fund is $28,965,580.75. Account details are included within the budget presentation, which is available online at medfordma.org slash mayor slash city dash budget. The Water sewer budget, the 2024 salaries is $1,977,439. 2024 ordinary is $23,979.98 and the total request is $25,956,537. and interest is $1,409,043.75, and the total request is $1,409,043.75. It's been a long night. And then we have the $1,600,000 for indirect transfer, which the chief of staff emailed us before the meeting and said it's actually recommended from Director Dickinson not to include this. So if anyone wants to amend to remove that, and we were given a reason for that. So water sewer total is $28,965,580 and 75 cents. I respectfully request and recommend that your body approve this appropriation. Approve the appropriation of retained earnings in the amount of $500,000 and zero cents. This amount is being requested to subsidize the fiscal year 2024 water and sewer enterprise fund budget retain earnings or reserves of the water and sewer fund reserves can be used for any lawful purpose. and conserve and to provide financial security in cases of unforeseen events or to reduce the need for additional revenue from increased water and sewer rates. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Bernalongo Fern. Mayor, copy water. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion and vice versa sever the two requests in this resolution seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. All right, so we will take the entire water sewer budget first, and that is the $28,965,580.75. President Morell, that's amended by $1.6 million. As amended. I can't do the math on the floor. Not now. Motion to approve. Which one?
[Nicole Morell]: The amended budget on the motion of vice president bears to approve the amended water sewer budget seconded by Councilor Tseng Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes, five in the affirmative, two in the negative, the motion passes. Do I have a motion on the retained earnings?
[Nicole Morell]: You wanna lay it on the table?
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Councilor Knight to invoke section 22 in that the first time a- It's automatic. Okay, great, great, okay, perfect. So that'll be laid on the table and for one month, three months, one month, next week, next meeting. So our next meeting, July 11th, going to 22-334 to honorable president members of Morell and members of the city council regarding the fiscal year, 2023 year and transfers to your present rail and members of the city council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves the following end of year transfers for FYI, 2023. transfer to treasurer expenses $40,000 from the reading and get an assessment of the bottom line that I'm present on a motion of Council night to waive the reading and get an assessment on the bottom line seconded by second vices and bears all those in favor. I suppose motion passes. I don't think we have a bottom line number. Can you just, Director Dickinson, can you provide us?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, can you give us just like the total? The total is $877,700 from
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a motion? Let's approve on the motion by some bears to approve second by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes, five in the affirmative, two in the negative motion passes 23-335. Your Honorable President, members of the Medford City Council. Regarding Stabilization Fund Establishment and Funding, dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respect the request and recommend that your Honorable body establish a General Stabilization Fund as offered at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the reading.
[Nicole Morell]: Just waive the reading. On the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the reading, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Motion to refer to the Committee of the Whole. We have a motion from Councilor Knight refer to the whole second. So this is a motion from Council night or for the whole.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council at this point so we have a motion on the floor from Councilor Knight to refer to committee the whole seconded by Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Questions and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Councilor Knight to send the paper to Committee of the Whole, which we have to schedule with all due urgency. Seconded by Councilor Strang.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli seconded. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. I will speak with you and speak with the clerk. Thank you. That's the end of our agenda. Motion to adjourn. On the motion to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, first special meeting of Medford City Council June 15th, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Board, present, three absent. Meeting is called to order. Going to communications from the mayor. 23-328, to honorable president and members of the city of Medford City Council regarding food truck permitting. Dear President Morell and members of the city council, on behalf of the below entities, I respectfully submit to the Medford City Council the following request for a food truck permit in the city of Medford. In addition to the city council approval, vendors are required to adhere to health department safety requirements. We have entity chicken and rice guys food truck 617 12 noon to 8pm Medford Square for circle the square. We have frozen hoagies 617 12 noon to 8pm Medford Square for circle the square. And then we have entity frozen hoagies, 624, 10 to 6 p.m. Duggar Park for West Medford Open Studios. And entity bond made foods LLC, 624, 10 to 6 p.m. Duggar Park for West Medford Open Studios. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely yours, Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. Do I have a motion? Or any discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Vice President Bears to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Is there any discussion or questions? Seeing none, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Four in the affirmative, zero in the negative, three absent. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of our student bears to adjourn second by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, for me affirmative zero negative three absent motion passes meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry. Committee of the Whole meeting. Tuesday, June 13th, 2023 at 6 p.m. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Six present, one absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, June 13th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the proposed FY24 budget of the City of Medford, paper 23-320. The following proposed departmental budgets will be presented. Medford Public Schools, Medford Public Library, Debt Service slash Bonds, Water and Sewer Enterprise Fund. The City Council has invited Chief of Staff, Nina Nazarian, Finance Director, Bob Dickinson, and the department heads for the departmental budgets listed above to attend the meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781 Council President. Um so we're going to take this in order. I will do water sewer enterprise fund. They will do library schools, and then we'll finish with debt service bonds. So, um, for water and sewer, we have water Superintendent Dan Stone King and DPW Commissioner McIver. Um and for the total request for the water sewer uh, to you both for our presentation. I think that's just on. Can you, is that working Shane?
[Nicole Morell]: Questions from the council? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from councillors? Sam, I have a few. So going back to the lead question, is Medford an outlier or any different than CUNY? I mean, I know there's so much unknown, but as far as just like the amount of lead piping we have, are we unique or is this just, this is statewide, this is old infrastructure kind of thing?
[Nicole Morell]: So we are up there.
[Nicole Morell]: I lost my second question after that. Oh, is there any way that change in funding or additional funding would help us change this out sooner, or literally we're kind of going at the only pace you can go at to change these services out, the lead pipes?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Does this current growth of four people, does that help?
[Nicole Morell]: And do you have people for those positions already or candidates?
[Nicole Morell]: And then just out of curiosity, do you know if those are, positions that are tricky to hire for, or you really don't know until you say again, do you know if those are positions that are challenging to hire for, or you really don't know until you start the process?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. Any additional questions from Councilors? Seeing none. Thank you both so much. Any members of the public questions? Thank you both.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Yeah. You want to put it back in the stand if you can? OK. Yeah. There you go. Thank you. All right. So we will go to libraries next, which I believe is page 202. So the expenditure summary for libraries is $1,925,177 up $221,046 or 12.97% over the previous year. And we have library director Barbara Kerr here to walk us through this. And then we'll go to questions. What am I doing with microphones? I don't know. Which microphone should Barbara use?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Barbara. You're going to make me cry during budget season, which I usually do, but not happy to hear.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. We'll go to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: It would be useful.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any other questions or discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Chief Staff. Did you have response to that arbor question or? Yes. I'm sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, did you have a question for the Chief of Staff?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor.
[Nicole Morell]: Same.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Um, yeah. And yeah, thank you, man. If you step, we'll go, we'll go to questions that I also already didn't mean to kind of rush you up. Um, I appreciate it. And my fellow Councilors have asked all the questions. Um, I just want to reiterate something that I've said directly to the mayor and that, that, you know, the a hundred thousand dollars, that is small money in $179 million budget. And I don't see why we can't get there. I J's express an openness. I hope it's something we can get there. And I hope that We don't have to have this fight every single year that it becomes a natural we need these funds and then we build upon these funds because that is just the way the budget works this way costs work that's the way you know this, the gem of Medford works so I appreciate you highlighting all the programs, and also just being direct about your budget needs because that's, that's why we're here is to understand. to understand what's really needed. And I think understandably, a lot of people are given a budget and they say, we'll make it work. And I know you will make it work no matter what. I'm sorry, but we kind of get lost in that process and the fact that we don't find out what really is needed that isn't being funded. So I appreciate you for being vocal and open about that, as well as your staff and the board and everyone who's reached out about the library. It's really, really helpful for our process. And hopefully one day this process doesn't happen, 15 days before, 17 days before we have to have a decision, but I'm hopeful we can get at least a comparatively small amount of money to fully fund the library in the way it deserves and it needs.
[Nicole Morell]: Open it up to public comment. I know folks probably want to speak on this. name and address for the record please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak either in person or on Zoom? One second. This is embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Seeing none. Thank you all so much. All right, we will go to Medford Public Schools. We have Madam Superintendent Eduardo Vincent with us tonight, and we have our budget books for the school, which is separate. And I know you have a presentation for us. I know in our budget transmittal letter, we had $71,027,145.40 with an asterisk, noting that that number would change And then in our budget book from the schools, we have a figure of $71,995,165, which is what the school committee voted in favor of last week. So I will turn it over to you, Madam Superintendent, just talk us through this. Do you need the screen?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, no worries. The clerk's stepping out for a moment. He has his screen assigning duties, so I just wanted to make sure.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, we've Councilors want to have a communication or just kind of go through highlights. I mean, we thankfully we all got this what Friday. So we've had some time with it. So I appreciate that getting this to us. Yeah, if you just want to share anything you want to call out. I know I think probably the first question is just understanding what number we're likely working from. But yeah, just if you want to talk through that.
[Nicole Morell]: If you watch back the other budget meetings we've had. Yeah, it's not you it's the mics.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much. Is there anything else you wanna cover or you wanna take questions at this point?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I do see we have Dr. Peter Cushing is on Zoom too. I don't know if you ever want us to tag to him too, but just so he knows. Thank you for that. Of course. And we'll go to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Saik.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want a motion or you just wanna include it as one of the questions? I'll make that a motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Director Dickinson, do you mean?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Any other questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from the council? I see we have Councilor Knight on Zoom. I don't see his hand up. I think as Councilor Caraviello said, I think we, my fellow councilors addressed asked the number of questions I was going to ask. So I appreciate that. And I just also want to add my voice to, you know, I'd really, I appreciate you coming here with a 71.9 number. I really hope that is the number that comes back to us for a number of reasons. I think most recent, you know, we all had that, that Welch report. And I think similar to the library where, you know, we're spending money, or the small amount of money, and then to not do the next thing, to not do, you know, we get this report that says here are all the things we need to do, and then hoping we have the funding to actually do those things, to understand that we're faced with challenges. We spent the money to find out what those challenges are, how we can address them, and then hoping we get the money from the administration to actually do those things and make the changes to really bring us to where we need to be. I think the report was heartening in a way, too, in that we face a lot of challenges a lot of other communities face, but we have them outlined now. So I appreciate that. That of course is a small part of this very large budget. I appreciate the highlights. That's really important as far as literacy programming and all of that, the arts. I thank you for calling that out. And I really want to see that, that fully funded and hope we can get there when we get that number before us on Tuesday night. So, and I appreciate your time as always and back to councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Saik. Any further discussion from the Council? Any members of the public wish to speak? Seeing none. Thank you so much, Madam Chair. Thank you. Appreciate it. All right, and we will go to debt service bond and interest on page 251. I will give Director Dickinson or Madam Chief of Staff a moment to join us up at the podium. The expenditure summary for debt service bonds interest is $6,474,578 or $9,457 increase 0.15% over the previous year. I'll give Director Dickinson a moment. Is there anything you want to share? Any highlights you want to call out for us?
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, sorry, no, it's is it the mic? Okay, just being a little closer to the mic. Sorry. Okay, you can just take it out or that. Yeah, there you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Questions, discussion from the council on debt service bonds and interest?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions on debt service? Any members of the public wish to speak? I think that comes to all of our separate topics or separate budgets. We did have, I don't think we've covered the Hormel Commission or the License Commission. Neither of those budgets have changed. If anyone has any questions at this time, we have the Chief of Staff and Director Dickinson on the Hormel Commission and the Licensing Commission.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Dickinson. We do have a motion from Councilor Caraviello. Do you have it?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do we have a second? Seconded by Susan Bares. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. I'm sorry. He is still on. I don't know if he's had to step away. I know he has four children. Yes, five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. Motion adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, and I have two absent, the motion passes, meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Maybe you can... Could you make it full screen, Chris? There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: If I can just jump in here for the record, Louise Gianakis with Colston & Storrs. I'm just very close to the waiver, so my ears perked up upon Mr. Fordy's suggestion. In the industrial district, actually, retail is not technically allowed by right, so we have included a waiver to allow the 2,000 square feet of commercial use. So I would just be sensitive to any language in the condition to that effect.
[Nicole Morell]: Dennis, I will be sending you the updated waiver list here in just one moment.
[Nicole Morell]: And Dennis, I've just emailed to you the updated waiver list. All right. I also copied Alicia and Judy as well.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-320. May the whole meeting Wednesday, June 7th, 2023 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Which buttons? Your button's not working? The speak via mic buttons aren't working, Kat? Oh, Rik's isn't working?
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Five present, two absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, June 7th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. He's gonna move. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss proposed FY24 budget for the city of Medford, paper 23-320, The following proposed departmental budgets will be presented, building and code enforcement, Department of Public Works, diversity, equity, and inclusion, facilities slash Chevalier Theater and GMAC gym, fire department, health department slash civil defense, parking and recreation. The city council has invited chief of staff, Nina Nazarian, finance director, Bob Dickinson, and the department heads of the departmental budgets listed above to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-8255. 2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morel, Council President. One adjustment to the schedule is we do have IT moved over from last night because they weren't able to join us last night so we can take IT first and then we'll just go through the order that's on the meeting notice. I just want to note that Councilor Scarpelli is unable to be here because his daughter is graduating tonight. And also folks if anyone wants to speak specifically on departmental budgets outside of the department heads if the public wants to speak you can just raise your hand on zoom, or come up to the podium. So we will start with it which is on page 100 in our budget books. And what I'll do is I'll just read the headline expenditures, the total budget for the department, then we'll take any highlights or overview from the department heads, and then we'll go to council questions and if any members of the public wish to speak. So for IT, we have expenditures of $377,751 up $11,646 or 3.18% over the prior year. And we have new IT director, Rich Lane with us tonight. It's me. Good to meet you. Yeah. Do you want to share any highlights or, you know, also welcome to the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Questions from the council. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, thanks.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions from councilors on Zoom?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I just have one. So prior to you, Maybe a little ways prior to that to the department, you said 2 people looking at a staffing level. I know we've been here for a week. I mean, is there for a city of our size and the age of our systems is there a preferred staffing level? I know you'll make do with what you have, but.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions? Seeing none. Thank you so much. Excellent. Thank you. All right, we will go to building and code enforcement. That is page 153. We have Building Commissioner Forti here for us at 153. So total expenditures for building and code enforcement is $1,885,531, an increase of $85,178, 8.51% over the prior year. If you want to tell us any highlights or anything about the budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions from Councilors online? You know, just open here.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. You also just, you know, just raise your hand if you want to speak. You don't have to say no every time. Uh, but thank you. Um, commissioner. So, um, you said, and I believe it that your code enforcement people are, are, you know, they're busy all day. Anytime I've had to call for a resident, they're somehow there like within a matter of minutes, sometimes not hours. Um, how many calls a day would you say on average they go out for, for code enforcement violations?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. And you said the policy has changed, or the approach has changed, that they're finding, I don't want to butcher the words, like on-site or immediately, that's a change in how it used to be done. If you could just explain how it used to be done versus now.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. Any other questions or questions from the public? Seeing none. Thank you so much. Thank you very much, madam president. Great. We will go to DPW. We have commissioner McGibbon here and we are on page one 68. So Department of Public Works. So the expenditure summary is $16,358,149, up $743,973, or 4.76% over the prior year. Commissioner McGibbon, if you want to give us highlights or anything you'd like to share. Sure. Thank you, President Morell, and hello of our fellow councilors. Thank you for having me. Tim McGibbon, Commissioner of Public Works.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. Do you want to talk about facilities as well, or is that kind of already?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. Questions for the council? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Sagan.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, back to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have any additional questions, Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. So I just, I have like two very specific questions. I did have one resident reach out about I want to make sure I just the intelligent speed assistance for fleet vehicles. I don't even know if that's something I know that speed cameras, you can't do Massachusetts. I don't even know if that falls under the umbrella, but it's just the intelligence be designed to keep fleet vehicles at the speed of which is posted in the area. And I'm not saying this based on seeing anything. I'm just saying a resident just asked about this. So I don't know if that's something on the radar.
[Nicole Morell]: It's intelligent speed assistance. So it's a it's intelligent. sure it's AI to help vehicles like fleet vehicles, they wouldn't have to maintain the speed or they would be able to go above the speed of the posted speed limit.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I've never seen an issue. It's just a resident asked about it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And again, I haven't had the chance to look to see if it's something I know we can't do speed cameras in Massachusetts because the law is currently written. So I don't even know if this falls under that umbrella. So I just want to raise that. And then for the trees, I was just curious, and this may be more of a question for Aggie, with the tree inventory, How are you able to keep up with the trees? So I've seen a fair amount of stumps removed around me, which is great, but those are also, they're like that last reminder that there ever was a tree there. And I just worry that people that never saw the tree there, it's like you can't even conceptualize the idea of there used to be this big tree on the corner providing shade. And I worry that as we catch up down the line, we lose the idea or we lose these spaces where there were trees and no one's putting in a request and it might not be on the radar. Just curious how that works. And I'm talking about West Mead, which is a little bit leafier than I know, like the Heat Island areas and areas that are, I understand are priority and should be priority right now.
[Nicole Morell]: OK. And then how often is that heat assessment done to understand where the heat islands are?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you both. Any other questions from the council? Any members of the public wish to speak? Seeing none. Thank you so much. All right.
[Nicole Morell]: We were going to go to DEI, but Director Nagy had to step out to grab some food. So we are going to go through, we'll go to Chevalier, and after that, we will go to fire. Oh, sorry. You want to, yeah, sorry. You want to continue with facilities? I'll go back to President Bears for your questions. I'm sorry. Commissioner McGuire, I may have more.
[Nicole Morell]: Hello. Good. Welcome.
[Nicole Morell]: What page?
[Nicole Morell]: It is, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: And I understand Vice President Bears has questions, but if there's any highlights you'd like to share with us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you were you.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. Questions for the council? Seeing none. Thank you so much for being here. All right. We will go to fire. Fire department, page 146. So for the fire department, we have Chief Friedman here and the expenditures summary. I'll give a beat. Take a brief pause as everyone gets collected. If everyone's walking away. I'm just going to give, since there's so few of us in here, I'm just going to give one more moment for viruses and bears to come back in and then we'll get started.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, we'll go. Everyone will filter back in. So yes, so we're going on fire department. We have Chief Friedman here. The expenditure summary for the department is $14,399,581 less $21,640 or minus 0.15% versus the previous year. We'll go to you, Chief Friedman. Thank you for being here.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from Councilors?
[Nicole Morell]: It says they're less to fire.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I do know. I think it was last. Does that I mean, I'm not trying to guess for this. I'll just ask this question different ways. So it's not connected to that. Do you have positions you're not able to fill because of the delay from the firefighter Academy?
[Nicole Morell]: So just confirming outside of this, whatever is going on with this too, that we don't know, you do have within this budget, to your understanding, money for those 10 positions?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. And as I understand, police are having an issue getting qualified candidates. Is FIRE having the same issue, or it's just simply the delay of the academy?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice is embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, any other questions from the council? Members of the public who wish to speak? Thank you, Chief. I think we'll open up to any, I know folks have been sitting here, Mr. Buckley's been sitting here, so.
[Nicole Morell]: I think even though it feels like it was days ago, I think it was just yesterday we got it.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think we have heard.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief Staff, were you able to speak to that? I believe in the, our presentation, there were not hypotheticals, but there were things that were still being worked out. Nothing is concrete. Yeah. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe it reflects the understood needs, but nothing specific. Correct me if I'm wrong, Madam Chief of Staff.
[Nicole Morell]: It's just understanding what the specific projects are, because there's dollar amounts referenced in the capital plan, but what the specific projects are that they're referencing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, you said grant writer, and what was the other provision?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council at this time? Going to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I want to try to bring us back to fire. I have someone who wants to speak. All right, sure. Thank you. Any other questions from the council specifically? All right, I'm going to go to Joanna on Zoom. Joanna, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And thank you, Chief. So much appreciated. We will go on to health department and civil defense. I'm just going to pass it off to vice president bears. So I can just going to sit down and eat some food for a second, but be right back.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We'll go to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from the council? I see Darlene Raymond on Zoom. Darlene, I'm just going to unmute you. Sorry. You should see, I know your hands have been raised for a little bit, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Darlene, and thank you for your work. Any further discussion? Thank you so much, Director O'Connor. Thank you for bearing with us. Everyone else is also still here. Thank you as we continue on. Thanks, have a good evening. All right, we are going to go to parking, and that is page 159, and Director Morrison is with us on Zoom. We did also send around, the clerk sent around a narrative, a very helpful narrative I found from Director Morrison, just highlighting some of the work since she's joined. And then I will go to the expenditure summary for the department is $1,006,916, up $74,365, or 7.97% over the prior year. So Director Morrison, apologies, I will ask you to unmute. And if there's anything You would like to discuss or highlight, and then we'll go to questions from the council.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Dr. Morrison. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Madam Chief of Staff, did you have something you wanted to?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from Council? Thank you so much director Morrison. Appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm actually going to go back to civil defense. I apologize. We skipped over civil defense. So I'm going to, I know. I'm sorry. Hopefully this shouldn't be too long.
[Nicole Morell]: So we just have director O'Connor back for that. That was my error. And the expenditure summary is $9,390 less $25 or 0.27% over the prior year.
[Nicole Morell]: So essentially, the ARPA funding is really It's not one time, but it will cover us for enough that you're not, it's not going to be money we're going to do next year. Correct. So it's a contract one time. Yeah. Great. Thank you. Questions from Councilors on civil defense. Seeing none. Thank you so much. Thanks for hanging around. All right, we will go to diversity, equity and inclusion and director and Roger and next year we will have to ask your preferred food so you don't have to leave and lose your place in line and we'll make sure we can get to you. I think I also need to keep track of what order people go in this year so that next year we can make sure I'm like, I hope I don't keep the same people waiting for like hours every year. I have no recollection of. I know, yeah. It doesn't help to be the most agreeable because we'll, make you wait. Okay, so going to page 92 for diversity, equity and inclusion, we have Director Nwaje here, and the extended term summary is $107,996 up $11,215 from the previous year. I'll go to Director Nwaje for any highlights, and then we'll go to questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Seeing no other questions, Thank you so much, thank you for bearing with us for so long. That's all right, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, we will go to recreation. It's the award for politely waiting the longest. You can have whatever you want of these older ports in this drawer as your prize. We're waiting, we've got some stuff from 2004. Whenever you want. Okay, so we are on recreation on page 207. We have Director Kevin Bailey with us and the expenditure summary is $608,535 up to $49,613 over the previous year or 8.88%. I'd like to share.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's trivial.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions for Weston Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions or discussion for recreation? Seeing none. Thank you. Thank you so much. Thank you for bearing with us for four hours. Thank you. We're going to take, if we can handle it, we're going to take workers comp. Workers comp insurance, pensions, and debt service. Or we can save debt. Do you want to just do workers comp, insurance, and pensions? We can do that.
[Nicole Morell]: That starts on page 239. Workers' comp, insurance, and pensions. And we'll save debt service for our next meeting. So, workers' comp, expenditure summary is $600,000, down $46,000, or 7.12% from the previous year. Insurance is $25,500,000 down $2,438,312 or 8.73% from the previous year. And pensions is $15,487,640, increase of $1,149,908 or 8.02% over the previous year. And then we have finance director Dickinson who has been here the whole time, just to give you credit for that, as has Madam Chief of Staff, to speak to this, address any questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, the specific ones start on 239, but I don't know if there's something in the front of the book you prefer.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, 239, and then. I got it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council on these three accounts? President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions for the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions? Seeing none, I'll bring you Director Dickinson.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes, five in the affirmative, negative two absent, meeting is adjourned. See everyone next.
[Nicole Morell]: 12th regular meeting, June 6 2023 of the Medford City Council is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, President, President Morell, President seven presidents are absent. We have a special guest we have 2416 here earning one of their badges tonight and they are going to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Well done. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. The records of the meeting of May 23rd, 2023 were passed to Vice President Bears. Vice President Bears, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to move approval on the records and all reports of committees, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. on the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the reading in lieu of a brief synopsis provided by Vice-Chairman Bears, seconded by- Second. Vice-Chairman Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in the affirmative, so your motion passes. I will go to Vice President Bears for a brief synopsis of the paper before us for this public hearing. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I know there were some questions the last time for any amendments from legal counsel. Are those included in what is on the agenda or is that something you need to make on the floor?
[Nicole Morell]: So as this is a public hearing, I will take each, I will go to, sorry, we'll go to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So as this is a public hearing, I'll take these papers one by one. So we have paper 23-097. So this is the appointments by city council. enable the city council with many stipulations to secure legal services either by employment or on a contractual basis. Such legal services shall be solely in the service of the council and make good research analysis drafting drafting assistance. Was it anyone who would like me to read the full proposed amendments? Okay, so we'll open this portion of the public hearing if there is anyone who would like to speak in favor of paper 23-097, either on Zoom or in person. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of paper 23-097, either in person or on Zoom? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Any further discussion from the council or do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: I'll start going to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the Council? And just to reiterate, just so people, as Councilor Collins said, to make clear on the process, an affirmative vote from the council would result in this going to the mayor's desk. It would then have to be approved by the mayor. It would be then vetted by the attorney general to then appear on the November ballot to be voted on by the voters. So that's the process. So this is, as Councilor Collins says, this is a step in the process. And if this is voted in the affirmative, nothing would change tonight. It just moves it on to the mayor's desk, then to the AG if she votes affirmative, and then to the voters. So we have a motion from vicers and pairs to approve 23-097. And again, this is appointments by the city council with regards to securing legal services either by employment or on a contractual basis. Do I have a second? Second. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And do you want to wait the public comment period? Yes. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Advise against?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we'll keep the, okay. So motion to approve pending the six-day public comment period.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative one in the negative emotion passes. Going to 23-098. notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a continued public hearing on the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the reading. As we've already gotten a brief summary, so we'll waive the reading. I will say that this paper is about the creation and approval of the municipal budget, and generally the mayor and city council of the city of Medford shall each have a role in the budget process, including the power to modify in whole or in part an appropriation order or an item within the total amount of any appropriation order, clarify budgetary procedures, and take such other actions as are necessary to amend, approve, or disapprove the annual budget for the city. Notwithstanding the first sentence of this section, however, the mayor shall have inclusive authority to originate an appropriation order, and it goes on for four more paragraphs. So I will open up the public hearing. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of 23-098, creation and approval of a municipal budget? either on Zoom or in person. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the paper before us, either on Zoom or in person? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Vice President Bears. to approve pending the six-day power period, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. And again, this paper would follow the exact same process I outlined before, an approval by the council, sent to the mayor's desk, it would have to be vetted by the AG if she approves it, and then to the voters in November. So on the motion of vices and fairs, as seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one in the negative, the motion passes. 23-099. Notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a continued public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George B. Hassett Drive, Medford, and via Zoom on Tuesday, June 6th, 2023 at 7 p.m. A link will be posted no later than Friday, June 2nd, 2023, on a proposal from Councilor Isaac B. Zach Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to waive the reading, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, the full reading is waived. I will read that the paper before us to three dash 099. Generally, the mayor shall appoint subject to confirmation by the city council by majority vote on members of municipal boards, committees and commissions except the school committee officials appointed by the governor and assessors, if elected by a vote of the people, for whom no other method of appointment or selection is provided by city ordinance or general laws. All members of municipal boards, committees, and commissions shall serve terms as defined by city ordinance and general laws. All heads of departments shall be appointed by the mayor without confirmation of city council. And that continues on. I will continue the public hearing. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of Q3-099 appointments by the mayor? Either in person or on Zoom. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of paper 23-099? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Any further discussion from the council? Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vicers and bearers to approve paper 23-099 pending the six-day public comment period. Second. Councilor Collins. And again, just to reiterate one last time, this approval by the council would set this to the mayor's desk. If the mayor were to approve it, it would have to go to the attorney general and then appear before the voters in November. So on the motion of Vice President Bears as seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one in the negative, the motion passes. Going to 23-287, notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a continued public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers of Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford via Zoom on Tuesday, June 6th at 7 p.m. A link to be posted no later than Friday, June 2, 2023 on a petition from Luis P. Santos, Oasis Restaurant, Silva & Content, LLC, 373 Main Street, Medford, Mass, 02155, for a special permit to amend its hours of operation in accordance with Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-7.2.1 to operate extended hours at its business at 373 Main Street, Medford, Mass, 02155, and said site being located in a Commercial 1 Zoning District C1 as follows. extended hours of operation requested 11pm through 1am Sunday through Saturday petition and plans may be seen in the office of the city clerk room 103 Medford City Hall Medford mass call 781-393-2425 for any accommodation slash aids. The city of Medford is an EOAA 504 employer by order of the city councilor council sign Adam L. Hardeby city clerk advertise in the Medford transcript and summerville journal May 4 and May 11, 2023. If the petitioner wants to come forward from Oasis first so we can get, we'll hear from Oasis first, the petitioner. I know there had been some discussion as far as amending the hours you're seeking so if you want to just tell us about the petition and then we do also have legal counsel on as Councilor Scarpelli had requested.
[Nicole Morell]: And then did you have specific questions for Attorney Austin?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and as this is a public hearing, I have to take comments in a specific order. So I'm going to take comments. in favor of the paper first, if there's, I'll open up. How do you know what I'm gonna say? You don't know if they're in favor or opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Okay. Okay. Yeah, it's just because it's a specific order for this type of hearing.
[Nicole Morell]: We have the building commissioner here.
[Nicole Morell]: And just the resolution we had was just about legal counsel. I think you may have mentioned that but they didn't put it in.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the petition? And that would be the owners if you want to speak in favor once more, if you want to just come up. So you're in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else who would like to speak in favor? Seeing none, is there anyone else, anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the petition before us? Please come up to the podium.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition either on Zoom or in person? Seeing none portion of the public hearing is closed any further discussion from the council. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to make that a B paper?
[Nicole Morell]: So do you have that language, Mr. Clerk? So we have a B paper from Councilor Scarpelli to ask community development to reach out with signage for all of the restaurants in the area that utilize that parking lot. Do I have a second for that B paper? That's right. So we'll take the B paper first. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And this is for the B paper, not the main petition.
[Nicole Morell]: Second by, so we want to move approval of the amended. Monday, Friday, Saturday, the Wednesday, Friday, Saturday extended hours until midnight. Correct. Correct. Thank you. And that is seconded by. Mr. Clark, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven the affirmative zero negative the motion passes the petition is approved pending the six day public comment period. Thank you. Petitions presentations and similar papers. 23-321 petition for a common victors license by Ranga Narasimhan nine shadow lane and over mass 01810 for med sub LLC subway at 4110 Mystic Valley Parkway Medford mass oh 2155 representing med sub LLC district manager Manal Patel, I will go with the petitioner can come up, and I will also go to Councilor Scarpelli who is the chair of our licensing subcommittee. Want to tell us a little bit about the business. I mean, we're all familiar with Subway, but do you want to just tell us what you're seeking?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, it's probably just what I just said.
[Nicole Morell]: Are we still going to honor the $5 for one.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Seeing none, so on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven the affirmative zero negative the motion passes. Congratulations. Thank you for being here so long. Going to motions, orders and resolutions 23-313 offered by vice and bears. He is so resolved by the Metro City Council that the subcommittee on ordinances and rules need to consider an ordinance establishing a municipal compensation advisory board to consistently study the adequacy of compensation of all municipal officials and employees and create a report on a regular basis that is kept on file for the benefit of the public and the city's elected officials, vices and affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion by the council? On the motion of vice-president Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. 23-three one four offer by Councilor Scarpelli be it so resolved the Metro City Council invite residents and the city engineer to speak with the city council regarding safety issues when it comes to private ways Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And just go probably apologize was your motion to have a committee of the whole on this topic and invite the city engineer, or.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you guys.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. So we have a motion from We have a motion from apologies. Okay. We have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli for a committee of the whole to invite the city engineer as well as all residents.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm in the affirmative zero negative the motion passes to three dash three to two offered by Councilor Knight be resolved in preparation for budget discussions at the city administration furnish the following information related to school spending. One, cost to date for the per diem payments made to David Murphy, former assistant superintendent. Two, cost of KP law investigation of the MHS softball team and results of findings of the investigation. Three, cost per week related for teachers covering hallway security details in MHS since the much publicized stabbing incident. Four, an explanation of the difference in duties and responsibilities of the following positions, data manager and data director. and read an explanation as to the reasoning behind the salary disparity between the positions and five costs and copy of the report performed by Welch et al relative to school safety and security. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Temporarily absent.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So five in the affirmative one in the negative one absent motion passes to three. This is a paper that also includes vices and Pharisees out but I will keep going. Would you like me to wait?
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. It's a zoning paper, but 23-323 offered by Councilor Caraviello, Councilor Collins, and Vice President Bears. Proposed amendments to the Medford zoning ordinance for June 2023.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we have a motion from Councilor Knight to waive the reading and refer to the CD board, seconded by- Councilor Caraviello, any discussion before we take that vote as this is procedural to refer to the CD board per MGL? Seeing none, we have to, so yeah, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll to move the reading and refer to the CD board.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes. The paper is referred to the CD board.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I do see just Director Hunt and City Planner Daniel Evans are also on a call. So they're also paying attention to that timeline, I'm sure. So I will go to, I'm gonna thumbs up from Director Hunt. So she is on it as well. So, I'm sorry. 21, okay. Skipping ahead to page 21. vacations from the mayor to three dash 324 to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding donation acceptances. Dear President Morella members of the city council I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves under MGL chapter 44 section 53 a a donation of $500 from Boston Proud Corp for the use of pride and a donation of $350 for instigators from instigators LLC to the city for filming in the for filming in the upper city hall mall, a lot respectfully submitted. Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion to approve. So we have a motion. Councilor Knight to approve as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion from the council? Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 70% negative the motion passes. Communications from city officers and employees. This actually has the same number as the previous I should have caught that. We'll just update that. Okay, 23-324 and we will update that preliminary election September 12 motion to waive the reading and have the city clerk announced the dates as to when that early voting will be available on the motion of Council night to waive the reading and have the city clerk announced the dates as to when early voting will be available, seconded by... I'd extend that to both papers, Madam President. To both papers. So we'll have an overview from the city clerk on both papers. I'm sorry? From the elections manager?
[Nicole Morell]: City clerk, okay. So we have a motion. Not after the last... We have a motion from Councilor Knight and seconded by... Councilor Scarpelli, I believe, to waive the reading and have just the City Clerk brief us on the dates for early voting and the municipal election. And I believe there's actually three papers. Actually no, that's a separate one. Okay, on those two papers. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No, so five in the affirmative, two in the negative, motion passes. We were gonna waive the reading and have an update from the city clerk on the election dates that are before us in these papers. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Understood. I mean, we took the vote, the motion passed, we can have the clerk read the dates and then we can open up to participation on the paper. So if anyone else wants to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Understood. We'll have the clerk read, and then if anyone wants to speak on it as the candidate agenda item.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you able to offer clarity on that? Is this something that the Council needs to know?
[Nicole Morell]: OK, thank you. So it's a courtesy. It's not something that would change anything.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: We do have a motion on the floor before yours from Council night to receive a place on file. Before we get to that, I just also want to add my voice to the chorus of just concerns about not having a Saturday voting. I think Councilor Tseng made a really good point. I understand that it may be lower turnout numbers, but that may be the only date those people can vote. We don't know that, but I think it's really important to have. So it's something we have had in the past that people, you know, they may have voted that way. They may have voted on Saturday two years ago, and they're counting on voting on Saturday this year. And to find out they can't, they may have missed their window. So I just want to add to that. So a motion from Councilor Knight to receive and place a file seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in favor, zero negative, the motion passes. So that was 324 and 325 together. We do also have 326. So page paper 3.6 is just a listing of, you know, we're open seats for the 20 June 1st 2023. Sorry, the date of submission is June 1st. So the municipal election open seats for 2023 is City Council, seven seats, two year term, Mayor, one seat, two year term, and school committee, six seats, two years term.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Newton. I think that's an important point, but I want to make sure. So you're talking about signing papers specifically? Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Fair enough. And does SARA follow a similar policy as far as how quickly they inactivate people?
[Nicole Morell]: Well, we'll continue to approve that process. Thank you. So we have a motion from Councilor Knight to receive and place on file, seconded by- Second. Vice Mayor Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Thank you. Thank you. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: What am I skipping something.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. All right, we have a motion from Councilor Knight to include this letter in the record seconded by Vice President Beyers. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else wish to speak for public participation? either in person or on Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion to take 22-514 the outdoor dining ordinance off the table for approval for third reading. Do I have a second?
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll to take it off the table. Sorry? Take it off the table and approve. Okay, a motion to take off the table and approve. For those following along, this is just a number of updates to our outdoor dining ordinance, a lot of it in work with our building commissioner, some safety, some modernization, and just making it also accessible and friendly for the business community. So on the motion versus and bear second by Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-320, Committee of the Whole. Meeting noticed Tuesday, June 6th, 2023 at 6 p.m. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Uh, six present one absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Metro City Council Committee of the whole on Tuesday, June 6 2023 at six p.m. and the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the proposed FY 24 budget for the city of Medford paper 23-320. The following proposed departmental budgets will be presented. City Clerk, Electrical, Informational Technology, Medford Community Media, and Legislative. The City Council has invited Chief of Staff, Nina Nazarian, Finance Director, Bob Dickinson, and the department heads for the department's departmental budgets listed above to attend the meeting. For other information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, City Council President. We just have one edit is that we, But the new director of it, they're actually going to join us tomorrow night. So the information technology budget will be heard tomorrow night. And we will start, I think, with we'll start with media since I see Mr. Harrington, and let me find out what page that is. Anyone jump in if you beat me to it. It looks like 129. So PEG access for community media, the expenditure summary is $203,160 less $5,033 or 2.42% versus the previous year. And we have station manager Kevin Harrington here if you want to give us any highlights from the budget and then we'll go to questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do we have questions from the councilors? Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have that? And Kevin, I apologize if I miss this, the timeline on, on the hybrid project to completion.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Great. Thank you. Any other questions from Councilors? Seeing none.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Ben, if you have something to add on this budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: The other ones we have are City Clerk, Legislative, and Electrical. I'm not seeing Mr. Randazzo here for Electrical, so we could do City Clerk, which is page A4. So City Clerk, expenditure summary, we have $384,156, an increase of $19,638, 5.39% over the prior year. Mr. Clerk, would you be speaking on this?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Any other questions?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you to jump on that just since we're on this very specific path. Is there something in that online software that can just provide reminders for folks? Because I actually, I do buy a license and I forget every single year because there's nothing to.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. Yeah. And to the point, it's like, it's, it's generally not costs. It's literally, you just, you're like, I got to do this again in four months and you forget it.
[Nicole Morell]: So any other questions for the city park budget? Seeing none, let's go to legislative on page 76. Expenditure summary is $261,869 minus 51,000 or 16.31% versus the prior year. So my understanding is that is the zoning consultant that is not included in this budget. And correct me if I'm wrong, Madam Chief of Staff, just the 51,000 added to the legislative, that's the zoning consultant not included in this budget. Sorry, we're on legislative now.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I just wanted to make sure that was the amount because I know we haven't done some work on different services or removing the services we were paying for in room 201. So I just wanted to make sure, not 207, I forget. So I just wanted to make sure I'm looking at the right amount of money. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Uh, any other questions on the legislative bunch?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions on legislative? Seeing none, we just have electrical left. I don't see Mr. Randazzo online. I obviously don't see him in person either. So does anyone Do you know?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. So we're out of departments at the moment if we don't have a serendazo. And again, IT has been moved to tomorrow night because they were unable to attend tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: It's a tricky month for scheduling. I apologize.
[Nicole Morell]: Do we want to recess and see if it's turned out was able to make it to adjourn.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So, work for every other Councilor.
[Nicole Morell]: And there's no change of duties?
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a motion to adjourn?
[Nicole Morell]: A motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn, seconded by Vice of Affairs. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll just add what we have submitted to you here. We attempted to do sort of a manual red line so you could see the reductions that we attempted to make, the clarifications we tried to make. And I think it's fair to say we expected somewhat of a reconciliation process here. You know, we, as Chris mentioned, sort of started at the very beginning of the zoning code and flipped through every single ordinance, certainly not wanting to miss any waivers, but also, you know, sharing a mutual interest in having We are trying to make sure that we have as few as amount of waivers as possible. Hopefully, this manual red line of sorts is helpful to see where we have clarified and where we have tried to narrow things a little bit as we go.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll just add sort of categorically, you'll see that there are a few notes in there that some of these waivers we're calling sort of technical waivers. And the idea there is that where we've already, for example, requested dimensional relief for a setback or otherwise, we of course requested that specific waiver with respect to that provision of the zoning ordinance, but there are also definitional sections, other sections that are, technically tripped by, you know, seeking a setback relief. So while it might be three or four waivers that relate to setback, it's really that we're asking for, you know, X feet in setback relief.
[Nicole Morell]: That's correct. And part of the background there was that in connection with the revised zoning ordinance that recently passed in Medford, these incentives were added to greatly reduce the parking numbers. So while previously we did require a waiver under the old ordinance, these new incentives and reduction in parking ratios, we actually have more than the required parking under the zoning ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. helpful when looking at some of these numbers, at least for me, to have the tabular zoning analysis and the zoning
[Nicole Morell]: 23-320 committee, the whole meeting Wednesday, May 31st, 2023 at 6pm is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Council President we're all present six present one absent meeting is called to order there will be a meeting of the metric City Council committee of the whole on Wednesday, May 31 2023 at 6pm in the Medford City Council chamber on the second floor of the hall and via zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss proposed FYI 24 budget for the city of Medford paper two three dash three to zero. The following proposed departmental budgets will be presented. Assessor, Elections Commission, Executive, Human Resources Law, Planning, Development, Sustainability, Police Department, Treasurer, Collector, and Veteran Services. The City Council has invited Chief of Staff Nina Nazarian, Finance Director Bob Dickinson, and the Department Heads for the departmental budgets listed above to attend this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell. We do have a request to take I think HR and treasurer collector first because I know folks have and and elections first and then we'll get I'm gonna write this down then we'll go to police. So we will start with treasurer collector unless Councilors have any questions or statements they want to make before we get started. Seeing none. So let me just find the page for treasurer collector.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, so whatever you'd like, if you want to sit, yeah, we'll make sure that Mike is on. And what I'll do is I will just read the total for your department. And then if you can give us any summary, you want to share any highlights, and then we'll go to questions from the council. So for a treasure collector, the expenditure summary is $719,418 up $16,480, 2.34% from the previous year. And we have Judy Johnson here to give us an update. you want to give us any overview or summary of your department, and then we'll go to questions about the budget.
[Nicole Morell]: An overview or anything you'd like to share what you're looking for in this budget or anything you want to highlight. We can also just go right to questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council? Seeing none. Thank you very much. All right, we will go to human resources. Do we have someone here? Great. Human resources is page 96. So human resources, the expenditure summary is $202,357 up $13,199, 6.98% from the previous year and we have Lisa Crowley, director of human resources. Good to meet you. If you want to give us any highlights. Also knowing you're new in the role, but anything you'd like to share about the budget looking forward, and then we'll go to questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. We'll go to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from Councilors at this time? Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Back to council. We'll go to councilor Sang. Then we'll go to councilor Carbonell.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions for Crisis and Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: We will go to elections commission. That is page 88. We have our elections manager Melissa Ripley here I also see Henry Miller and the expenditure summary is $340,196 up $15,655 4.82% versus the prior year. So over the last six months, obviously I'm the new election manager, and we're trying to streamline things and move things forward checking in the
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of staff, do you have clarity you can offer to that situation?
[Nicole Morell]: But one of the things- I wonder if you could just name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: I did say it, yeah. I mean, I know everyone knows you, not everyone on TV and on Zoom, I know.
[Nicole Morell]: And I appreciate your willingness to answer, Henry, and address all the questions. We appreciate it. And same with Manager Ripley, I think at this point, we're waiting to get that official response. I assume vice president bears is done so we'll go to great. We'll go to Councilor Sagan and Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: And that's great. Councilor Naik. Apologies, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: So you need cancer, you need cancer psychotherapy as I was talking to bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I think, sir, I apologize Councilor information.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going back to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: If we could get that response from manager Ripley just from the office perspective. Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from the council at this time? Before we move on, yeah, I just want to echo my fellow Councilors where I really do feel that that position should be a full-time position, which is not a comment on anybody's work. It's a comment on the state of elections in this country today and how fraught they are and how they're only getting more complicating and challenging and challenged. So to that point, if you can't find someone at that part time, would then there be a request to make it a full-time position? What's the thought there? If that position is open as we're getting close to election season?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council? Thank you so much. Thank you very much. Have a nice evening as well. So we'll take the two smaller departments, then we'll go to police and PDS and round out the board. So we'll go to veterans and then we'll do assessor and then we'll go into the larger department. So go to veterans, which is page 211. So veteran service department's expenditure summary is $435,703 up $3,372.78 over the prior year and we have Director of Veteran Services Jeremy Johns with us. So any highlights or anything you'd like to share with us? And we'll go to questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council? Seeing none, thank you so much for being here.
[Nicole Morell]: We will go to Assessor on page 117. We have Ted Costigan, Chief Assessor. We haven't met yet, so I'm assuming that's the right guess. Expenditures, $559,637 minus $12,650, or minus 2.21% versus the prior year. If you want to give us an overview, and welcome.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Thank you. Uh, uh, so probably vice president bears, but he's not there.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, then we'll go to Councilor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: That's the same.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the Councilors at this time? And one specific question. So we had so senior the senior tax referral for you when a I think I emailed, we believe is the assistant assessor before you came on just the the information isn't accurate. We had voted on the council to tie that upper limit to the senior circuit breaker. amount, I'll just send you the email I sent him. It just needs to be updated. I mean, we shouldn't have any more updates to send you because if unless we change it to lower but that's been tied but that's just been an issue in the past of us kind of passing an update to that and then making sure the accurate information is actually reflected on the one sheet that's on the website. So I'll just send you that.
[Nicole Morell]: are you able to forecast our give some examples of just kind of like that, the cost the city based on what percent interest rate?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. And no, we're not. But yeah, if it's something that we want to just consider future, I'm sure the information would be valuable. So I appreciate that. Yep. Thank you. Okay, I'll send you that email. I appreciate it. Thank you for being here.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, all right, all right. He's already walking over, all right. He said he'd happily be here till one or something like that, so.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, we will go to page 134. So we obviously have Chief Buckley here, find the expenditures page, the expenditure summary is $14,670,614 up $45,527 or point three 1% versus the prior year. I know we have a pretty extensive highlight in here. But if you want to share anything, and we'll go to questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief. Go to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council? Um, I know we had talked about this in person and you mentioned the education component of around traffic. Is there any different approach to traffic enforcement or, or hours just in consideration of increase in traffic deaths, pedestrian deaths nationwide at the state level?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. And I appreciate it. And I appreciate the education part. I also appreciate you know, sitting at the left turn, turn onto Harvard Ave from High Street and watching those cars get pulled over. So things that, when you're not supposed to be turning. So I appreciate the education. I think enforcement also, you know, helps. It's a carrot and stick kind of thing. And five to seven, I believe, basically rush hour.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, yes. Great. Any other questions from Councilors? seeing none. Thank you so much, Chief.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, yes. Yeah. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Any objection to taking traffic? Okay. So yeah, if you want to anything you want to share?
[Nicole Morell]: I think, yeah, absolutely. I mean, I think they're keeping us together in some of the traffic areas, for sure. They're keeping all of us safe. It's not just the kids.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you believe we have, Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Thank you for being here, Chief. I appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, we will go to planning development and sustainability, which is page 122. And. We have Director Alicia Hunt here and for expenditures we have $779,084 up $101,460, 14.97% from the prior year. Director Hunt I know you're very, very familiar with all of us. Any highlights you want to share that we might not know or you want to call out and then we'll go to questions.
[Nicole Morell]: sure we'll go yeah I mean yeah Adam's usually the one who would say no absolutely not don't talk empty. So, questions. I just have one.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: We all have different interpretations of how it feels.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Any additional questions from the council? Seeing none. Thank you so much, Dr. Hunt. Thank you, Teresa, for being here.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you both so much.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, we will close it out. We have executive and law, which I think both would be you, Madam Chief of Staff. Maybe we'll take a beat as everyone is going in opposite directions. the any of the two Councilor, does anyone have a preference whether we start with a law or executive first? Okay. Councilor Knight, do you? Are you here? Are you with us? I don't know where he's somewhere. Okay. When we get back, we'll when people get back to their seats, we'll start with executive. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I can see Councilor Scarpelli walking back towards us. I'm just going to give him a second to open. Thank you. All right, so we are going to executive office expenditure summary is 640,390 down 471,790 less 42.42% versus the prior year. And that is the... Okay, yeah. If you want to if you want to just like highlight that I know it says in the summary, but I just want to know because that's a huge number.
[Nicole Morell]: We're going to do executive, and then we'll do law.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other highlights or things you wanna call out before we go to questions? I'm sorry, any other highlights or things?
[Nicole Morell]: Voter Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any additional questions for executives? I had one, but it's gone now. I know what to ask if I think of it. Seeing none, we will move on to law, which is on page... 79, thank you Councilor Tseng. Law department expenditure summary is $552,403 up $8,875, 1.63% over the prior year. Do we wanna go right into questions or Councilor Caraviello? Thank you, I don't see a line item for KPR in there.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. And I just wanted to that 96,000. That's the retainer for KP law. Correct? Yes. And then so then there's some money in other budgets that will ideally get and then there's other money for settlements and anything else. And that's kind of what brings us up to that 450, which is what we got for the last year. Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions? Seeing none. Thank you so much, Madam Chair and staff. I think that's the end of our departments for tonight. On the motion of Vice President Bears to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, the meeting will resume whenever, Madam Mayor, whenever you're ready. I don't think we have. We will reconvene as soon as the administration is ready. We did, I was embarrassed on them to get some food. So one beat, we're reconvening. Please continue or if there's something you want to start over.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Mayor. I'll go to Vice President Bears and then Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Madam Mayor? Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you both.
[Nicole Morell]: It's out of line. She's addressing your question. Has she addressed it sufficiently? Or would you like her to continue?
[Nicole Morell]: She's answering your question. Please let her finish.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Do we have that versus in-house legal counsel?
[Nicole Morell]: Dr. Dickinson.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Okay. Do you want to briefly take the motion from Councilor Knight? I'm sorry? We just have that motion from Councilor Knight. Yeah, do we want to briefly take that and then we'll get just to make sure?
[Nicole Morell]: So just on the motion of Councilor Knight that any questions be answered in writing, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want the listed claims amounts that are in the budget? Sure, thanks. So the claims under 1,000, 50,000 as budget, or what was spent in FY23 is what you want?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so we have for FY23 under 1000, it's $17,712.59, claims over 1000, it's $75,763.41. And then just the general claims, I'm not sure what that is, that's 302.39. And then what was budgeted at both years, FY23 and FY24 is for under 1000 is 50,000. And for claims over 1000 is 75,000. And then that general claims is 10,000.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello, Vice Mayor Bears has a question on the same topic, if that's okay.
[Nicole Morell]: So thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any other questions, discussion from the council at this time? Councilor Scrapp.
[Nicole Morell]: That was a new high.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council at this time on the budget overview understanding we have a few specific departments here with us tonight as well. Thank you for your time. And I just have, oh, sure. One question. Yeah. And one, I think one, so just confirming. So that fellowship, you talked about that specifically the assessor's office. Is there anything, are they looking at fellowships, like all, all municipality jobs?
[Nicole Morell]: And then do you know, can you speak to the number of positions that are currently funded by ARPA and ESSER that are in the budget, the total number?
[Nicole Morell]: And is the hope and the plan that all of those positions would be retained?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions from the Council on the budget overview. Cancer Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: And that that special HR project manager is an ARPA funded position. That's an ARPA funded position.
[Nicole Morell]: Last call again for questions or budget overview. All right. Okay. Thank you. Thank you. I appreciate it. I appreciate your response to even some of the challenging topics. So We will go to finance and auditing on page 106. We have Director Dickinson here. I would think the best way to accomplish this and the entire budget, unless anyone disagrees, is to hear highlights or anything that the directors wanna call out. We'll ask specific questions. I'm happy to read the total budget number. I'm not gonna read it line by line as we have in years past because that seems silly. So. For the Finance Procurement Department, we have, here's the total for expenditure summary. We have $723,871, up $76,400, 11.8% from the prior year. And we have Director Dickinson. If you'd like to share any highlights that aren't already called out in this, or if you wanna reshare some of the highlights that are called out in this, and then we'll take questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from the council? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: They're online, right?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I can, yeah, I can work with the clerk to get the number of copies. Thank you. Thank you. Any other questions for Director Dickinson? Seeing none, thank you so much. I know we'll keep seeing you over the next few weeks, but thank you for covering your department. And we will go on to the Council on Aging, which is on page 197. All right, Council on Aging, and we have Director Pam Kelly, who's going to join us via Zoom. And the expenditure summary is $267,545. up $11,657 4.5% 4.56% from the previous year, and we do have director Kelly on zoom if you'd like to offer us any highlights from the past year or looking forward to this year, and then we'll go for questions from the council.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Kelly. Going to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: You're welcome. Questions from the council for Director Kelly. Any questions from the council for Director Kelly? Seeing none. Thank you, Director Kelly for being here. Thank you for waiting. Those are the only departments we have on the agenda for tonight. We already took a motion to get all of our responses to our questions in writing. I'm happy to, I can, let's see, I have it open for tomorrow night. We have Assessor, Elections Commission, Executive, Human Resources Law, Planning, Development, Sustainability, Police Department, Treasurer, Collector, and Veteran Services, and I do also note that we were going up against Medford high graduation.
[Nicole Morell]: Of course. Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Do I have a motion? On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-292 community the whole meeting Tuesday, May 23 2023 at 6pm Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. present five present to absent. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council committee of the whole on Tuesday, May 23 2023 at 6pm and the Medford City Council chambers on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via zoom the purpose of the meeting is to discuss council recommendations for the FYI 24 budget paper 23-292 for further information aids and accommodations. contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, council president. So just as the meeting notice states, this meeting is to discuss the council's priorities for the budget. So I'm happy to open it up to discussion from councilors, hopefully. I know at least councilor Sang, I believe other councilors should filter in, but if folks wanna start, they wanna share what, I know some stuff was submitted in advance, but if folks wanna share what they'd like to see in this budget, we can get those requests off to the mayor. Anyone can start. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Going to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins, Councilor Tseng and Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the Councilors? I mean, I would just know I agree with pretty much everything that's been said. I think those big, you know, I agree with Councilor Scarpelli where there is no shortage of what we need. We're not going to get a lot of those things, most of those things. but I will definitely beat the drum to make sure we continue to get that money for the zoning consultant so that we fund the library that we are committed to, that it can operate on the level that it needs to, that to also continue to be certified, correct? It needs to operate a certain way to continue to be certified by the state, as well as respond to the budget requests of our school committee that they believe to fully fund our schools. I'm hopeful, I will go into this hopeful that this year the mayor will hear our requests and entertain our requests. I think what was most disappointing last year was it wasn't a, I heard your requests, here's why I can't meet them. It was almost as if we never made the requests. So I look forward to at least a dialogue. I hope we can get much more than that. If there's no further discussion from the council, I can open up if there's any members of the public who wish to speak at this time, either on Zoom or in person. So either Will or anyone on Zoom. Going back to vices and mayors.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And then we do have someone who would like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Yeah, I would agree that we have many, many wonderful city employees and school employees that know how to do more with less and wouldn't it be nice if it didn't have to be that way. So we'll get, hopefully we get that boat first before we get the, hopefully we'll get that boat. Going to Jennifer Sullivan on Zoom. I will unmute you. Oh, someone already did, great. Name and address for the record, please. Oh wait, just kidding. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, at this point, the budget is with the mayor. The mayor and her administration write the budget. Unfortunately, it's like a 90% baked cake by the time it gets to us and we can only do so much. So I think at this point, it's reaching out to the administration. When it gets to the council, we will absolutely do our best, but it's the mayor, the bulk of the work is with her and her administration.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the vice president bears?
[Nicole Morell]: And I will go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not know. I can ask the administration. I was going to say, do you have anything else you want to add? I did speak with the chief of staff, I believe it was Thursday. They're still hopeful that they will get us the budget this Friday. If we do get the budget this Friday, I will gleefully schedule budget meetings starting next Tuesday. So, but I will absolutely make sure we I will ask who is going to be presenting, and I will make sure you know a we're not meeting until we get a budget book, and be that we have the time to actually sit with it and digest it and you know come prepared and make the best use of everyone's time, the public bars department heads everyone. Any further discussion, vice-president Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have it, Mr. Clerk? Would you like to add adjourning to that?
[Nicole Morell]: Great.
[Nicole Morell]: of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Opposed? Motion passes and meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Meeting of the Medford City Council May 23 2023 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. He is on zoom. He may have had to leave and come back and he's not. I mean, I can see him.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements accolades, celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and wish our burgeoning AAPI community a happy month. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any other Councilors wish to speak? On the motion of Councilor Tseng, as seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't think he's a co-host. He's not. I think he popped out.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any other councilors wish to speak on the motion of Councilor Tseng, as seconded by Councilor Caraviello? Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero negative motion passes reports of committees to three dash 09723 dash 098 and 23-099. Subcommittee on ordinances and rules on May 9 2023, I will propose amendments to the charter, I will go to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, vice-president Bears. So on the motion of vice-president Bears to join the papers and approve seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven the affirmative, zero the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to take those papers out of order, seconded by, to suspend the rules and take those papers out of order, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero negative the rules are suspended take those papers out of order 23-287 legal notice my first year clerk's office notice of a public hearing Metro City Council. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford and via Zoom on Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023 at 7 p.m. A link to be posted no later than Friday, May 19th, 2023 on a petition from Luis P. Santos, Oasis Restaurant, Silva & Content, LLC, 373 Main Street, Medford, Mass, 02155 for a special permit two minutes hours of operation in accordance with Medford zoning ordinance chapter 94-7.2.1 to operate extended hours at its business at 373 Main Street, Medford Mass 02155. Set site being located in a commercial zoning district C1 as follows. Extended hours of operation requested, 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday through Saturday. Petition and plans may be seen in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford Mass. Call 781-393-0255. 2425 for any accommodations age the city of Medford is an EEO a 504 employer. By order of the city council sign Adam her to be city clerk advertised in the Medford transcript and Somerville Journal on May 11 2023. As is customary for our public hearings if we have the petitioner here tonight who can or on zoom to give us just a brief summary of the petition before us is the petitioner here or on zoom do you know I'm sorry, is someone from Oasis here? Yes, if you wanna just come up to the mic and just tell us why you're seeking this permit, and then we'll open up the public hearing. And just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Are there questions from the council at this time before we open up the public hearing? Seeing none, as this is a public hearing, we will open up first for people in favor of the petition. So anyone in favor of the petition? I would assume you're in favor? You are in favor of the petition? Great, thank you so much. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor, you can step aside or sit down while we continue. Thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the petition? Mr. Navar?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone's anyone else either in person or on zoom, please raise your hand who would like to speak in favor of the petition. Okay, and we also did get one email as well in favor for to speak in favor. Okay. I will also know we do have Commissioner. Do you want to speak in favor? I'm sure please come up and just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. And I do see Director Hunt. And just so I could note too, we do have Commissioner Forte on the line too, should the council have questions later. Someone else. Oh, yep. You can just come right up. If you want to speak in favor, you can come right up and make a line and then we'll go on Zoom as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. We'll go to Director Hunt. Are you speaking in favor? Okay, I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. We will go to Brant on Zoom. Brant, name and address for the record, please. Oops, I think I just muted you. Sorry. There we go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper? Please come up. You can line up or you can just come up. You don't have to raise your hands.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could just interrupt you briefly, I'm going to hold you, um,
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'm just going to reiterate. So the council has rules of five minutes per agenda item for public speaking public comments. It's something I usually waive because we don't have a ton of people here. We have a lot of people here tonight who want to speak on a lot of different things. So I'm just letting people know I'm going to hold them to that tonight. So we want to continue anyone else who would like to speak in opposition, please come right up to the podium.
[Nicole Morell]: We're at our five minutes, so you have any last thoughts?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else would like to speak in opposition of the special permit being sought? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak in opposition?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm gonna go actually, I'm gonna go to Ron D on Zoom and then we'll come back to in person. Ron.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else would like to speak in opposition? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else would like to speak in opposition, either in person or on Zoom? I'm sorry, I think this gentleman was coming up first.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else who would like to speak in opposition?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition? At this time, we're just gonna have people speak once at this time. They just need to raise their hand if they're on Zoom, so they can turn their camera on and wave, they can raise their hand, I'll see them. Name and address of the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: We're gonna go to Debbie on Zoom and then Larry, I see you, we'll go to you next. Debbie, I will unmute you. Hi.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Larry on Zoom. Name and address for the record, please. Unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition who has not already spoken? Seeing none, this portion of the meeting is closed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. I want to make a few things clear from a process point of view. Just for Oasis, if you had adjustments to the permit, or if you had thoughts on adjustments to the permit you're seeking, and you can present those to us right now, it doesn't have to go to, process-wise, the Council will vote, but it doesn't have to go to Committee of the Whole. Councilor Scarpelli, your motion to table would end all debate. So I would hold that motion to the end of the meeting. Thank you. So we'll go through the Councilors who want to speak and then if the petitioner would like to speak again we'll go back to you, unless Councilors want to hear from the petitioner first, or, okay. That's curvy out.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we can only take Yeah, we can only take what he's holding back on his motion. We'll take his motion. First, we'll vote on it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you guys are saying I apologize clearly this all the team has started so vice and vice president bears and I don't know if that meant you wanted to speak but we'll go to vice president first.
[Nicole Morell]: We also could continue it to the next regular meeting and just legal counsel there.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight. You're muted.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. If we want to go back to the petitioner, if you want to come back up, if you have any, if you want any adjustments you want to offer or anything, talk through anything.
[Nicole Morell]: Just wait one moment, your mic's gonna turn on. They'll turn it on. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: So the show you're saying Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, that's it should be like, we're happy.
[Nicole Morell]: We have to, I gave- I appreciate the respect. I gave Councilor Scarpelli the courtesy.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like to keep your motion or would you?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to table. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to table to leave the hearing open, table to a date certain that date being our next regular meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Continued to a date certain that being our next regular meeting, which is June 6th. Great. Do I have a second on that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No. Four on the negative, three in the affirmative, three in the affirmative, four in the negative, the motion fails. Do I have, I know I had a motion from Councilor, I had a motion from Councilor Collins, but.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe the legal issue happens if we look, if we deny the permit, not if we approve it.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't know if we can, sorry, Mr. Clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion from Vice Mayor. He was on the winning side, even though it was the wrong side.
[Nicole Morell]: I couldn't understand you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. So a motion from Vice President Bears to reconsider the previous motion. Second by... You have a second. Second. Second by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll to reconsider.
[Nicole Morell]: No, four in the affirmative, three in the negative, the motion passes. So now we are voting to reconsider.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. Do I need a re-second if we're reconsidering something that was already seconded? We'll take one. From the original motion from Councilor Scarpelli to leave the public hearing open to a date certain June 6th, our next regular meeting, where we will invite legal counsel to attend. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in the affirms during the night of the public hearing is continued to a date certain our next regular meeting where there will be legal counsel present. Do you want to speak then or do you have something?
[Nicole Morell]: I just want to note that, although I don't really agree with the approach taken, the gentleman is free to say that as the Supreme Court has upheld. You can come and say what you like about the council. So thank you. the State Supreme Court.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. The paper has been disposed of. Going on, choose. People who have been waiting very patiently. We've learned a lot about permits.
[Nicole Morell]: But, if there is. The paper has been disposed of. There is no more comment on it.
[Nicole Morell]: We're taking paper. We're taking paper. I'm working on it, Councilor Knight. Thank you for adding to the fray. 22-315, if there is anyone who knows how to be patient, it is all these moms in the front. So thank you very much. 23. And I should say, our dear robotics team, I am so sorry we both get to you, but also if you want to go home, you totally, yeah, you're going to be next. You are absolutely next. I also understand if you are tired and want to go home. So, okay. 23-315 which I think we have next and if not that's what we're taking offered by Councilor Caraviello Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins, whereas hundreds of Massachusetts residents die or injured from incidents involving firearms every year, and whereas in Massachusetts an average of 16 children and teens die by guns every year of which 21% are suicide and 78% are homicides and Whereas the rate of death by gun homicide in Massachusetts is 18 times higher for black people than it is for white people, a vastly disproportionate threat of harm and whereas 38% of female intimate partner homicide victims in Massachusetts are killed with a gun and whereas Massachusetts police agencies reported more than 2800 firearms as lost or stolen to the National Crime Information Center. from 2016 to 2021. And whereas Massachusetts law establishes legal requirements for firearm storage in homes and vehicles. And anytime the firearm is not carried by or under the control of the gun owner or other lawfully authorized user and whereas Massachusetts law contains criminal penalties for people who fail to securely stare store firearms as required by law and whereas gun violence costs Massachusetts 3.5 billion each year of which 85.4 million is paid by taxpayers and Whereas beyond the Massachusetts safe storage law, the American Academy of Pediatrics AP states that the best approach to keep children and teens safe is to secure firearms locked and loaded with ammunition separately and whereas 4.6 million children nationwide live in homes with at least one loaded and unlocked firearm and whereas The US Secret Service has found that 76% of school shooters under age 18 obtain their guns from the home of a parent or a close relative. And whereas over 80% of children 18 or younger who died by firearm suicide use a firearm belonging to a family member. And whereas raising awareness about secure firearm storage is one solution to helping reduce the risk of gun violence, particularly among children and teens due to suicides and unintentional shootings. And whereas across the country, lawmakers, community members and local leaders are working together to implement secure storage programs and whereas safety and well being of our community is a top priority of Medford and whereas we believe that most gun owners want to be responsible gun owners and whereas both gun owners and non gun owners have a role to play in keeping our community safe. be therefore resolved that the Medford City Council reaffirms its commitment to the safety, health and welfare of all of its residents, including through the promotion of the secure storage and handling of firearms, be it further resolved the Medford City Council request that the mayor implement a secure firearm storage program including the distribution of relevant educational brochures or materials about secure gun storage and state law regarding secure storage of firearms in Medford public buildings. Be it further resolved that the Medford City Council requests that the Medford Police Department provide relevant educational materials pertaining to secure firearm storage, Massachusetts law regarding firearm storage and the risk of unsecured firearm storage when licensing new gun owners or renewing existing licenses. for the result of the Medford City Council request that the Medford Board of Health work with the mayor's office and Medford Police Department to assist with the dissemination of secure firearm storage materials throughout the community.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins, Councilor Tseng, whatever you'd like to go next.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other councilors wish to speak? I would just like to add, I wanna thank you all for being here, for staying so long, for making sure we get this on the agenda. And I completely applaud all the work you do. It's something I always wanna join. I try to get there when I can, but I'm usually here, but I really appreciate it. And I appreciate the work you're doing because far too many of us, if not all of us, have a story that this touches on. My aunt died by suicide by way of gun. And the work you are doing is so, incredibly important to hopefully one by one take away those people that have that closeness to this issue because it's far too many and it's probably almost everyone at this point. So I really, I really thank you and I commend the work you're doing and keep on going, keep on fighting. So thank you. Anyone else?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Would anyone like to speak? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, it looks like Councilor Knight is no longer on the call, so we will close vote. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The motion passes. Thank you all.
[Nicole Morell]: to our robotics team. This is meant to be a reward, not a punishment, so I apologize.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-318 offered under suspension by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council congratulate the Medford High School Bowtech Robotics Team, which won the New England Regionals. The Bowtech Robotics Team now moves on to the World Championships in Colorado. The Bowtech Robotics Team beat Phillips Exeter, where over 50% of the students go on to attend Harvard University upon graduation. I did not know that, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, not to throw a third. I work at MIT, so if anyone wants to.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't do anything like that, but I can say hi when you're there. Is there anyone else who would like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: just congratulations once more and we're all so incredibly proud and fortunate to have you in Medford. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Now for our fourth most patient group of the night. Or you're all equally patient, but actually you might be the most, sorry, you're the most patient group of the night because you've been waiting the longest. So three, one, seven. 23-317, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, food truck permitting. Dear President Morell and members of the city council, on behalf of the below entity, I respectfully submit to the Medford City Council the following requests for a food truck permit in the city of Medford. In addition to city council approval, vendors are required to adhere to health department food safety requirements. The Federation of Italian American Organizations. Dates and times, June 4th, 2023, 11 to six. Location, Condon Chell. And then Italian Feast of the Republic. About the event, Cool Cow Ice Cream would be a vendor at the Republic Italian Festival. Danny Puccio from the Federation of Italian American Organizations and John Michelli from Cool Cow Ice Cream will be in attendance to answer any questions. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brian Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. Do you wanna have folks come up?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to take 23-311 and 23-312 and public participation.
[Nicole Morell]: Someone should sleep.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-311 Petition for a common butler's license by Kenilbert Hill, 40 Penniman Circle, Stoughton, Mass, 02702, for LaBaguette Bakery at 428 Salem Street, Medford, Mass, 02155. I will go to Pastor Scarpelli, the chair of our licensing subcommittee. Do we have the petitioner on the line for LaBaguette Bakery or in person? Oh, sure, please come up to the podium. Hi, just name and address for the record. And if you want to tell us a little bit about the business.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, any questions from the council? Seeing none, we have a motion to approve from Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Congratulations.
[Nicole Morell]: petition for zoning map change to a mixed use zone 99 Revere Beach Parkway Medford map seven block five last 21 and 22 members of the city council, none or none or McClellan and fish LLP represent CPC land acquisition company LLC applicant and the petitioners as here and after define pursuant to MGL 40 a section five the applicant and petitioners request that the City Council rezone the real property located at 99 Revere Beach Parkway, known as the property as shown on the attached map with meets and bounds description from the current industrial eye zone to a mixed use museum. So, the property consists of two parcels map seven block five last 21 and 22 which are currently owned by LAZ books, your lots LLC and I heart media and entertainment, Inc petitioners both of which consent to the petition. The property consists of 4.51 acres and is bounded by the Malden River to the east and by a rear beach parkway to the north to the south and west. The property abuts the Wellington Station parking lot, followed by Wellington Station immediately to the west. We have enclosed a context plan showing the location of the property relative to the surrounding area. The property is currently within the industrial zoning district, though the property immediately to the west of Wellington Station station landing is zoned MUZ. If rezoned to the MUZ district, the applicant proposes to redevelop the property for multifamily housing. The applicant's proposed redevelopment of the site, which includes the construction of the community path along the Malden River, thus creating public access, I apologize, thus creating public access where none exist today. Although at the conceptual stage, other public amenities contemplated for the site include a bike service station with bike wash, a community room, and a covered pavilion. Once rezoned to the MUZ, the applicant's proposed redevelopment will still be subject to the site plan by the Community Development Board. We look forward to discussing the applicant's vision for the site further with you and are happy to provide any additional information you require. Very truly yours, Valerie Moore. As the council knows, there's a procedural approach guided by state law for when we receive petitions for zoning changes, but I know we do have the petitioner on the line who would like to give a brief presentation before we... Okay. A brief presentation to this proposed zoning change. So I see we have attorney more. And I don't know if there's anyone else who would like to Oh, we have people in person. Great. Sorry, I'm looking down. So we'll start in person if that makes sense. Okay, sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Is Valerie set up as a co host? Are you sharing that Valerie?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm assigning work to people. Okay, so yeah just to see how much on it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Harris.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And then, thank you. remind folks that the motion would be to report to the CD board. We do have Director Hunt on the line, so I don't know if you want to go to her after the councilor speaks. So go ahead Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We can go to Director Hunt if you want to perhaps help us paint a holistic picture of this proposal.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, can we stop the screen share? Great, and then, yeah, you're a little muffled, but we can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Director Hunt, I see your hand up. Did you have anything to add or is it still up? One more thing.
[Nicole Morell]: So thank you. I'll work with you on that. Summer meetings to make sure we can get it at a time when most, if not all Councilors can attend. So we have a motion from Vice President Bears to refer to the Community Development Board, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the infernos here in the negative one absolute motion passes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: We're gonna go to public participation. So we're taking public participation out of order. If you would like to speak for public participation, please come up to the podium, name and address record any topic that is under council purview.
[Nicole Morell]: This is embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: You know, Councilor Caraviello wants to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Sorry, I was talking to you. I don't- That's fine.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We'll go to Councilor Collins, Councilor Scarpelli and go back to you both.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: It's bad. And I know it's not why you're here, but thank you as always, but also thank you during DPW week.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to go back to Vice President Bears, then we'll go back to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you both. Is there anything? I have nothing to add other than what's already been said, but I absolutely will take to heart and will do everything I can in my power as president to see that we can get you this in this budget, because you absolutely deserve it. It goes without saying. So thank you for being here. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else? Anyone else for public participation? Seeing none, going, we like to do regular order of business. On the motion of vice and bears for her to regular order of business seconded by Mr. Carbello, all those in favor. All those opposed. Where we are, we've been so all over the place. Okay. Hearings 23-097, legal notice, city clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion, can you do that?
[Nicole Morell]: Like it's your paper. On the motion of vices and bears to suspend the reading in favor of a short summary, seconded by Councilor Svang. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, vices and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. This is embarrassing. I would also agree. And just the fact that is, as this is a public hearing, and it's rather late in the night, I think it's a good idea on that grounds as well. So any councilors like to speak before I open the public hearing? hearing. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of the paper? Do I go around like speaking favor as a member of the public?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we tend not to read it into the record. I think just from a time perspective, but they absolutely are. I can ask Adam to include them in the record. So anything submitted written would then be included in the records as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone else would like to speak in favor of the petition at this time? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed, subject to reopening. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition to the paper at this time? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed and subject to reopening. So we have a motion from Vice President Bears for, I'm just making sure since we have three of these, this is 23-097. To keep the public hearing open to a date certain in our next regular meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, Mr. Clerk. So the motion of vices and bears a second by councilor Carbinello, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six and the affirmative zero and the negative one absent. Going to two, three to zero nine eight. You'll notice the clerk's office notice of a public hearing Medford city council.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, on the motion of Vice President Bears to suspend in favor of short summary of paper 23-098, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. All right. Public hearing is open. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed, subject to reopening. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper? Seeing none, this portion of this public hearing is closed, subject to reopening. motion.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of vice is embarrassed to continue this public hearing to the June 6th regular meeting and incorporate the suggestions by legal counsel, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes. 23-099, legal notice, city clerk's office notice of a public hearing, Medford City Council. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alderman Memorial Chambers at Medford City Hall. 85, George P. Hassett, Your Honor.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion of Vice President Bears to suspend the reading in favor of a summary, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. As this is a public hearing, we open the public hearing. Anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper? Seeing none. Oh, sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seeing no other people wanting to speak in favor, this portion of the public hearing is closed, subject to reopening. Oops, sorry. Mr. Garrity, is this in favor or opposition? I didn't, I just caught your hand.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We're in a little interim space. So going to opposition, is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed, subject to reopening. Do I have the same motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Second. Thank you. On the motion of Vice President Bears to continue the public hearing to our June 6th regular meeting and also incorporate the suggestions from legal counsel, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes, six in the infirmary zero in the negative one absent the motion passes to three dash 286 legal notice the Medford notice of a public hearing the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing and the Howard F Alden chambers at Bedford City Hall at five George B has to drive Medford and via zoom on Tuesday, May 23 2023 at 7pm a link to be posted no later than Friday, May 19 2023 on a petition from Cheryl Horan. of Marine Automotive Inc to operate an automotive automotive repair and auto body shop class for license at zero Linden Street, also known as 38 Linden Street and parcel ID number are one four dash six Medford mass go to 155 and an industrial zoning district petition and plan may be seen in the office of city clerk Medford City Hall, Medford mass calls 781-393-2425 for any accommodations TDD 781-393-2516 the city of Medford is an EEO a 504 employer. The order of the Medford City Council signed Adam I'll her to be city clerk advertising the Medford transcript on May 4 2023. I believe we have Mr. Began here turning vegan to give us a summary of the petition before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Before I open the public hearing, are there any questions from councillors? I don't know if you want to wait a bit for Councilor Caraviello to come back. Okay. Great. As this is a public hearing, I'll open up the first part of the public hearing. Are there any member, any people who would like to speak in favor of this petition? You would be one. I mean, Attorney Beebe, you would be one.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition?
[Nicole Morell]: She is on. I don't know if she's, still there. I can ask her to unmute. I know, I was just going to say.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And you're in favor of the petition? I am. Great, thank you. Anyone else would like to speak in favor? Mr. Castagnetti, I see your hand up. Would you like to speak in favor of this petition?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Any discussion from the council? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I do. Cheryl had raised her hand so I don't know if you want to address any of it. The two questions maybe about the auto body, the body, or as well as the not ready for final inspection yet.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to approve with the conditions that it is auto repair only and the license, the permit stays with the petitioner.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have the motion from Councilor Scarpelli as seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll with those conditions.
[Nicole Morell]: Uh, uh, 60 in front of zero, the negative one absent motion passes. Thank you everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion table paper 23-three one three till the June 6 regular meeting on the motion of rises and bears the table to three dash three one three to the next regular meeting second.
[Nicole Morell]: And 314 table 23-313 and 23-314. And I'll follow up the city engineer and make sure you can actually be here.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to table to the next regular meeting, Q3-313 and Q3-314, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion passes. Q3-316. to honorable President members of the members of the council regarding donation acceptances dear President Morell, and members of the city council I respect the request to recommend that your honorable body approves under MGL chapter 44 section 53 a donation of 1000 Medford pride stickers created and donated by triangle manner in honor of Pride Month and a donation of 300 Medford pride pins created and donated by triangle manner in honor of Pride Month. respectfully submitted. We're going to have a current mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: I was like, what? I don't even know who motioned to adjourn. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Three does your 99 community the whole meeting Tuesday, May 16 2023 at 6pm is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the whole on Tuesday, May 16 2023 at 6pm in the Medford City Council chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss three proposed amendments to the city charter papers 23-09723 dash 098 and 23-099. For further information aids and accommodations contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425 sincerely yours Nicole Morales City Council President. So as the notice says, the purpose of this meeting is to discuss these proposed charter amendments that were brought forth in a regular meeting. There has been a subcommittee meeting to discuss these and hear from the public, and the intent is to meet and convene the whole today to also discuss these a little bit more and hear from the public. We also do have a representative from KP Law for any questions the council may have. I'm going to hand it off to Vice President Bears, who introduced these papers, to share anything you would before we get into the discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. It's embarrassing. And just for those watching the full language of the amendments proposed amendments can be seen in the April 25th agenda. I'm also just going to put that link in the chat as well. So if folks go to the drive and go to the April 25th agenda, they can see all the language as well as the link in the chat. Any questions or discussion from other Councilors at this time? Seeing none, we'll go back to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: To follow up on that, so does the mayor have statutorily essentially a shot clock when this gets to her, or could she sit on it and take no action to the point where we couldn't it wouldn't be able to move for a November ballot.
[Nicole Morell]: Any more process questions from the council? Seeing none, back to you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion from the council at this time? Any members of the public who would wish to speak, seeing folks on Zoom? Seeing none, President Bears? Looks like Attorney Goldberg.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, please, if you could. Thank you. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from the council? I'm sorry. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Did you have another question?
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Goldberg.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Vice President Bears. Would anyone like that motion read back? Second, do you want to read back? All right, Mr. Clerk, can you? I want to read it back. All right, great. You guys, your opinion counts.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. So on the motion of our system bears a second by Councilor Tseng all those in favor. I suppose motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council. Any members of the public wish to speak. Seeing none. Do I have a motion to adjourn?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion by Senator Bears to report the papers out to the regular meeting and to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting is adjourned. Thank you, Attorney Goldberg.
[Nicole Morell]: of the Medford City Council, May 9th, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. 7 present, 0 absent. Please rise and salute the flag.
[Nicole Morell]: See ya. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-288 offered by Councilor Knight, whereas April 5th, 2023 commemorates the 18th anniversary of the passing of the late State Senator Charles E. Shannon Jr., who represented Medford with integrity and compassion in the state legislature from 1990 to 2005. Be it so resolved, the Medford City Council hold a moment of silence in his honor, and be it further resolved that the evening's Medford City Council meeting be dedicated to his memory. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Please rise for a moment of silence. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll on the motion of Councilor Knight seconded by Councilor Caraviello, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes, seven in front of us during the negative motion passes reports of committees. 23-073 April 26 2023 committee the whole capital improvement plan presentation. So this was an update from the one of the consultants from the Collins Center on the capital improvement plan and the work they've been doing with this city. Do I have a motion? Motion to join all committee reports and approve on the motion of vice president bears to join all committee reports and approve second by Councilor Tseng Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the infirm is here in the negative one absent motion passes hearings to 3.09 to legal notice to the clerk's office notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F Alden chambers at Medford City Hall 85 George P Hassett Drive Medford and via zoom on Tuesday, May 9 2023 at 7pm. A link to be posted no later than Friday, May 5 2023 on a petition from Bank of America and a 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway Medford Mass 02155 for a special permit for use to allow a drive through ATM in accordance with Medford zoning ordinance chapter 94 to operate a drive through ATM use at 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway Medford 02155 and site being located in industrial zoning district as follows use as a drive through ATM petition and plans may be seen in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford Mass. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations, aids. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the city council, sign Adam L. Hurtubise, city clerk, advertised in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal, April 20th and April 27th, 2023. Do we have the petitioner either in person or on Zoom that can give us a brief overview of the paper before us?
[Nicole Morell]: Please give us a brief overview.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We do have some questions from the councillors. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, good. Any other questions from the council before I open public hearing? Okay, as this is a public hearing, we will open it up to anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper? Bill, you would be among those people. Would you, are you in favor of this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this paper, either on Zoom or in person? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak against this paper, either in person or on Zoom? Seeing none portion of the public hearing is closed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And do you want to include the six day comment period or would you like to waive that?
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion of process for Kelly to approve waiving the six day comment period, and add a 90 day review to that seconded by Councilor Carmelo. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you are ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Bill. Have a good evening.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: and in the order you're saying?
[Nicole Morell]: All right. So 23-303. Aye. And then? Aye. Aye. And 21-301.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to take those papers, spend the rules and take those papers out of order, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative. One absent, motion passes. We will suspend the rules, take those papers out of order. 23-303, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding food truck permitting. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, on behalf of the below entity, I respectfully submit to the Medford City Council the following request for a food truck permit in the city of Medford. In addition to the City Council approval, vendors are required to adhere to health department food safety requirements. One Tufts University dates times May 31 2023 1245pm to 2pm location 51 Winthrop Street event employee appreciation event about the event Dylan and Pete's ice cream truck would be present for an employee appreciation event. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor. Motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve second by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 23-290 petition for a common butler's license by Charlene V. Von Anne, 265 Market Street, Brockton, Massachusetts. 02301 for Quench Juice Cafe at 430 Salem Street, Medford, Mass. Do we have the petitioner here or on Zoom to tell us about this paper before us? Is there anyone here from, yep, please come up to the podium and just tell us about what you're seeking. Yes, yep, for Crunch Cafe, yes. Yep, just right up to the mic.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Okay, great. So yeah, just tell us a little bit about the business.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. I'll go to our licensing chair, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion from the council? So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Knight to approve. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven the affirmative zero and the negative the motion passes. Congratulations. You're all set. You're all set with us. You don't have to stay unless you want to. 23-291 petition for a common butler's license by Jeff Wetzel, 11 Butler Street, Medford Mass 02155 and Ian McGregor, 2A Fuller Street Court, Lynn Mass 01905 for Deep Cuts LLC, doing business as Deep Cuts Deli and Brewery at 21 Main Street, Medford Mass 02155. Come up and just give us your names and tell us a little bit about what's before us.
[Nicole Morell]: did you have something you want to add.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight and I'm very I was very sad to see you guys leave West Medford I live over there and we very frequent sandwich patrons, but I'm glad you didn't go far. So looking forward to it. So we have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven the affirmative zero and then I guess the motion passes. Congratulations.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. So now we're on to 21-301. Offered by President Morell. Executive session pursuant to general laws, chapter 30A, section 21, purpose three, pending litigation, Mario Centrella et al. versus BJ's Wholesale Club, Inc. and City of Medford City Council, Middlesex Superior Court, CA 23-1044, to discuss strategy with respect to such litigation if an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the city council and the president so declares. We have a motion from Councilor Caraviello to go into executive sessions, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, two absent, we will be going into executive session. We will return to the regular meeting after we come out of the executive session. We're gonna go into 207. We do have Attorney Austin on Zoom and Councilor Collins on Zoom, so we will take them with us virtually. Yes, or we'll figure out a way that we're getting them both there.
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Austin, can we call you? Okay, great.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so for everyone here, we're going to go into the other room. We will be back. We will return to regular session as soon as we finish in there. someone else has to make a motion motion to reconvene in open session on the motion of ice and bears to reconvene open session seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Is Councilor Collins on the line? Okay. Yes. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in favor, zero, negative motion passes. The meeting is reconvened in open session.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to revert to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. on the second floor of Medford City Hall 85 George P has to drive Medford mass and via zoom a link to be posted no later than May 5 2023 the purpose of this public hearing will be to invite the general public and representatives of public service agencies to express comments regarding the city's community development block grant annual action plan for community development and planning. The action plan contains the proposed use of Community Development Block Grant funds for the program year which extends July 1 2023 through June 30 2024. The Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability will be requesting that the Medford City Council authorize Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, official representative of the City of Medford to submit the annual action plan for funds and all other assurances and certifications to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The city is receiving $1,423,649 in block grant funds. call 781-393-2480 for any accommodations aids TDD 781-393-2516 signed out of her to be a city clerk. We had a committee of the whole on this last two weeks ago, where we received presentations from the individual community service organization seeking funds and we Director Hunt from PDS led that and we have her on the call tonight as well. Before we go to Director Hunt, do we have any questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Director Hunt, do you wanna give us a brief overview of the... I'm sorry, Councilor Knight. Is there anyone else? Does anyone need a further explanation or are we good with the presentation? Okay, so as this is a public hearing, we will open the first part of the hearing. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper? I believe I'm not. Can you make me closer on you, Director Hunt?
[Nicole Morell]: All right, Director Hunt going to you.
[Nicole Morell]: We submit a five-year plan every year, and this is- Dr. Hunt, I did open for, are you in favor of the paper?
[Nicole Morell]: No, I think actually the council is satisfied with the previous meeting, so I will just mark it. Thank you so much. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this paper? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Do I have a motion? On a motion of Councilor Knight to approve pending me seven, I think it's six days. The six day comment period seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And director, how does that fit in the timeline required of you by submission dates? That six day comment period?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. So on a motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Submitting the affirmative, zeroing the negative, motion passes. Thank you, Director Hunt. 22-514 offered by President Morell and referred from committee of the whole in ordinance amending chapter 14, article eight outdoor. On the motion of Councilor Knight to weigh the remainder of the reading, I have a brief synopsis from myself, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: I think he briefly stepped out. He looks like he's running back. Thank you. Yes, Savannah Furners, your negative motion passes to weigh the reading and give a synopsis. I'm pulling up the red line version, but in short, this is just a number of changes that were suggested by the council working in concert with PDS and our economic development director to streamline the process for having outdoor dining each year, things that include improved safety and appearance requirements as far as positioning on the sidewalk, having parklets on the sidewalk to make it a little bit, safer and more appealing and able for pedestrians to move through more easily in the space. Of course my great I have a motion from Councilor Knight to approve for first reading. Is there any other comments from the council or members of the public.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other comments from the Council? Commissioner Fordy, did you want to add something?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Mr. Navarre.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak? for discussion from the council. So we have a motion from Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice-President Bears to approve for first reading. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, motion passes approved for first reading. 22-292 offered by President Morell and Vice President Bears be it so resolved the Medford City Council that we hold a committee of the whole meeting to discuss the council priorities and recommendations for the FY 24 city budget. The further result that can Councilors submit their interval individual ideas for budget recommendations to the city clerk by Friday, May 19. I have nothing to add to this, Vice Chair Behr. Is there anything else you'd like to add?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng, Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I do just want to note that I was speaking with the mayor today and the hope is still to get us a budget by the end of the month. Let's see if that happens. Any further discussion on this.
[Nicole Morell]: I did. Yes, I did say we need a piece of paper.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I did. I did make it clear we would not be meeting on anything piecemeal.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We have a motion on this paper. On the motion of Councilor Collins dropped off. So on the motion of Councilor Knight seconded by to approve seconded by Vice Mayor all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes. 23-293 offered by Councilor Knight. Whereas the motorcycle is a popular means of transportation for commuting as well as for touring and recreation. And whereas there is a growing need for cooperation among the drivers of automobiles and trucks, motorcyclists, bicyclists. and pedestrians who use our streets and highways to reduce accidents, injuries and fatalities and whereas it is critical for all Massachusetts citizens to increase their knowledge of the rules of the road, and the rights and responsibilities of all roadway users, and whereas over 900 motor vehicles are owned and operated by our fellow citizen bikers homeowners and residents of Medford and 10s of 1000 more visiting and touring our city from neighboring communities and whereas numerous departments and organizations are committed to making our streets and highways safe for all motor vehicle related transportation urging and reminding drivers to check twice save a life motorcycles are everywhere. Check twice when pulling out and backing out from park positions check twice and making left turns. Check twice when changing traffic lanes check twice for our fellow citizens bikers from Medford and visitors to our city. on motorcycles now therefore the city of council of the city of Medford, Massachusetts hereby join with the governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and all agencies and organizations proclaim this to be our motorcycle safety awareness period here in the city of Medford, and wish all who ride and enjoyable and safe writing season Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the council? I'm gonna go to Mr. Clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Clark. And if I could as well, I also speak my cousin nearly lost her life on 93 clipped by a driver who wasn't paying attention and now will live the rest of her life with a traumatic brain injury that says severely. impacted her life. So I thank Councilor Knight for bringing this forward and raising this issue and noting this period of awareness. So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. to 3-294 offered by Councilor Tseng. Be it so resolved that the City Council ask the City Administration and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation about plans for Middlesex Ave and if there are plans to keep the new crosswalks. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that update. further discussion from the council.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? Vice-President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng, as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by by Susan bears all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to suspend the rules to take public participation seconded by Councilor Knight all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes going to public participation. Dear Claire Kurtabys, I'm requesting to be put on the Tuesday, May 9th, 2023 council agenda. I would like to speak about the sudden change on what services are provided to private ways in the city of Medford. If the homeowners of the home on private ways are not given the same services as public ways, then there should be a different tax rate for private ways. Lisa D. Fabritas, 32 Winford Way. Lisa, wanna come up and speak?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry. I was waiting for your mic to turn on. It's on now, though, so you're good. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I know we did get our the council got a response from city engineer or tell which it basically says what he said to you. I can just pull out that part but it did say that I've explained that the Department of Public just so it's on the record. I know you already got this. I've explained that the Department of Public Works does not maintain trees or sidewalks on private property except in some extreme circumstances where maintenance of a public utility is warranted. Yeah. The city is working to update its website to include more information regarding private ways for residents. A list of private and public roads is available on the website for laws surrounding what is public and what is private the bulk of the laws chapter 40 but there is also sections under chapter 81 and 83. And I knew if utilities and sidewalks and then it goes into other sections I just wanted to Massachusetts general law so I just wanted to read what the council got from the engineer or tell but I will open it up to
[Nicole Morell]: But I think yeah, and this email says it was done. He has a record of being donated 30 plus years ago. But just okay, but that's not what he told me. Okay, yeah. So here's our issue.
[Nicole Morell]: And then just just quickly to build on Councilor Scarpelli's point, just because I live on a private way and I've asked this too, I'm sure you've asked similar is where I've been told that public safety, you know, why does my street get plowed if I live on a private way? And it's because it's a public safety thing. So I think some clarity on why is I mean, you know, it's not fair. It's not fair. Plowing is public safety, but trip and fall isn't so trying to understand where is the line being drawn? That's so we are just is dying.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor say, Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, Lisa.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that. For bike lanes. That would be the SAS. Those bike lanes that would be the traffic commission. They tend to run the exact same time as us, so we're usually catching up after the fact. Um. And then the registration I would assume is at the state level representative Garber Lee about that as well. I cycle to work. I stop all red lights. I do all the good things a lot of cyclists don't. So you know, I you know, a lot of cyclists are opposed to bad cyclists and bad drivers as well. So I just want to note that anyone else have anything that they know off the top of their head?
[Nicole Morell]: I saw Councilor Cabrera raises hand I don't know.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else like to speak for public participation at this time? Bill Giglio, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else wish to speak for public participation? Seeing none, we are under suspension.
[Nicole Morell]: Again, we are under suspension still. Someone send me somewhere. Would you like to go back to revert? Yeah, because I'm at the end of a number of items, but you have the votes. I believe we have a motion from President Bears to revert to the regular order of business. Motion of President Bears to revert to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. do three dash 295 I think is the right place offered by Councilor Tseng be it so resolved that the city council asked the city administration for updates on fixing the potholes by George Street and Main Street.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? The motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-296 offered by Councilor Tseng. DSO resolved that the City Council ask the City Administration for updates on fixing the potholes on Boston Ave between College Ave and Harvard Street. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: for the discussion on the motion of Councilor Tseng second by Vice President Bears all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. You three dash 297 offered by Councilor Tseng be it so resolves the city council asked the city administration elections department and diversity, equity and inclusion department to identify, analyze and address the issues that may affect civic and political participation by immigrant communities in Medford Councilor Tseng, Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-298 offered by Councilor Tseng, whereas many residents of the City Council have expressed skepticism about the representativeness and IT security of Google Form responses. Be it so resolved that the City Council asks the City Administration to consider upgrading to professional community feedback and civic engagement software that is specifically designed for municipalities to receive greater amount of feedback, ensure that responses are more representative of the whole population, find points of consensus, and help residents understand policy decisions our city must make. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? On the motion of counts, oh, sorry, do you see? Oh, no, okay, we just lost that hand. On the motion of counts, we're saying seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Well, come on, all those in favor? All right, all those opposed motion passes to 3-299 offer by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have the new facilities manager look into the ventilation blower and the all the chambers. The sound from the fan makes it difficult for people with hearing disabilities to hear the conversation from the council, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: But like I say, it's a bear's turn to turn the fan off.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: I know it's not me. Mr. Navarre, is there any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Signs pretty small, but yeah. Okay, the signs near the door.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, if you can pass that along in the audience when people ask.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Sorry, Vice President Bears, I thought you wanted to move around.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-300 offered by cancer Caraviello Oh, it's a result of the member city council have the administration look into complaints about residents and businesses putting mail for various departments into the mailboxes outside the hall, then not being delivered to the proper department sometimes causing residents to pay additional fees Council Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion on the motion of council prevail and the clerk is going to look into it as well. Seconded by prices and bears all those in favor. 23-301 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council be provided with an update by the Building Commissioner on the progress or lack thereof at 551 Winthrop Street. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: He was on earlier, but he did not stick around. I forgot we have this paper, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it started under McGlynn.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. I did talk with the developer when they started blasting again. Yeah, I live over there. I felt it. And I was pretty livid that you know, we had had this we had established this communication pathway to get these texts when we were going to get blasting we heard a blast. Apparently, the reason was for that was because they're using a different blasting company now. So the previous blasting company was who was sending texts. The new company didn't know that was a thing. So the developer actually I asked them to the developer, started personally sending texts to that list again and emails to that list again. I was told that, I already forgot, I think Monday was the last day of their blasting. I know they started blasting again because they hit some more rock they didn't anticipate. So I don't know if that's just going to happen again. It's funny thing about blasting out ledge, there tends to be more ledge underneath like it's not
[Nicole Morell]: It shouldn't be a surprise.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, no, and I appreciate that. And they did say, the developer said they were hoping to start actually building in June. But again, I did hear from Director Hunt that they don't have a, they haven't, they don't have a building permit yet. So there's a few different things moving. So on the motion of Councilor, or any further discussion, just Councilor Caraviello and I are having a discussion. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, as amended by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-302 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council review and discuss a moratorium for zoning and development on Mystic Ave and other identified locations until the zoning process is complete. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: That's fine.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, councilor, I'm sorry, councilor, well, councilor, I don't know what councilor is saying just because you've spoken already on it.
[Nicole Morell]: That's fine.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Tseng, seconded by probably all those in favor to refer to subcommittee on business. Yeah, there's a cultural arts in there. Yeah, this is called, yeah, this is cultural arts and economic development. It'll get there. All right. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-091, three cases from the mayor, resubmitted. A request for expenditure from law department claims over $1,000 account 010-151-5762 to April 25, 2023 to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council. From Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor. Claimant name, USAA Casualty Insurance Co., Constance White. Date of accident, March 8, 2018. Date of settlement, March 27, 2023. Date of trial result, not applicable. Amount of request. $3,450, claimant's attorney, clerk and Sinclair at Maffu's LLP, description of alleged claim. The claimant, casualty insurance, the claimant, USAA, claimant, casualty insurance company, Constance White seeks compensation for a claim paid to their insured for property damage suffered when a Medford firetruck struck the side of an insured vehicle full parked on Sturgeon Street in Medford, Mass. On or about March 8th, 2018, the necessary release has been obtained from the claimant. Breakdown of amount requested, medical cost zero, loss wages zero, property damage $3,450, other zero, total settlement $3,450. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion, do you have something?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Nayes, seconded by Vice President, Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 23073 committee of the whole meeting notice Wednesday, April 26, 2023 at 6 p.m. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: present for present three absolutely meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council committee the whole on Wednesday, April 26 2023 at 6pm, the Medford City Council chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the capital improvement plan presentation, paper 23-073. The committee has invited Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn and Chief of Staff Nina Nazarian to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. The meeting notice says just what we're here for. I believe actually in lieu of members of the administration, we'd have Sarah Kincannon from the Collins Center, who is able to give us a presentation on the capital improvement plan Sarah, I believe you should have the ability to share your screen at this point.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes and yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, please. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: He's not physically here at the moment, but we were expecting him, so we will see.
[Nicole Morell]: Sarah, we have a question from Vice President Bears. OK, excellent.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We have a question from Councilor Tseng and then we'll go to Councilor Caraviello after that.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll go to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I believe that's the questions we have for now, if you want to proceed. Okay, thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe so. I do not see any questions. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: We can wait till the end, we can do them all at once. Do you have a second for that we can take it at the end but we'll just take the second second by Councilor Collins, and then we'll go to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Sarah, do you know.
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead, Kim. We have a, Councilor Caraviello, do we know if the vote to move money to stabilization at that simple majority or two-thirds, do you know? let's say. Yes, I don't know if you happen to know. Okay. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. We can. Okay. Okay. Can you add that to a question for the report? Thank you. We'll ask someone. Is that your, your question for now? Okay, so thank you, sir. Back to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. You can go ahead, Sarah.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, yep.
[Nicole Morell]: Fair. Thank you, Vice Chair Bears. Sarah, you can proceed. OK.
[Nicole Morell]: So you can see that. Sorry, I have a question for Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, sir. For that extensive presentation. I think we're all much more knowledgeable because of it. And I think we're all eager to get that list and the presentation as well. So thank you for that. And I will go first to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Sen. Any other questions? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice is embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Seeing none, any members of the public wish to speak? Seeing none, we do have a motion from Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, if you could read it back. It was eons ago.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. If you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative. You're in the negative to absent motion passes. And then we do have I will find out about the vote for the stabilization fund. But I do believe we got something from the mayor when that first came through. So it's two thirds. Great. Thank you. Any further discussion, any? Do I have a motion from Councilor Collins to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And thank you so much, sir. I really, really appreciated that. And I think eager to also just sit with the presentation myself and see that list. So very much appreciate all your time.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes, five in the affirmative zero negative two absent motion passes meeting it's adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: City Council is called to order Mr. Clerk please call the roll. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-094, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and most sincere condolences to the family of Stella Tanaglia. Stella worked for the city of Medford for 30 years in the finance department. Her presence in our community will be sorely missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Please rise for a moment of silence. So I'm just going to take the roll call for that motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello. So on the motion of councilor Caraviello seconded by councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in the infirmary, your motion passes. Records, the records of the meeting of April 11th, 2023 were passed to Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight, how did you find them? The motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Reports of committees, 22-533, April 12th, Committee of the Whole Zoning RFP report to follow. So this was a Committee of the Whole we had last week to work with representatives from the planning department to refine the scope of work to conduct the next phase of zoning. We have a motion from Councilor Knight to approve seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero and then I have motion passes to 3.093 April 18 2023 committee the whole community development block grant action plan report to follow. So this is where the sub recipients came before us and presented. They're asking for funds for as well as a director Alicia Hunt shared the plan offering the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Councilor, Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So I mean in front of zero negative the motion passes. hearings. 23-083. We go to a city clerk's office notice of a public hearing the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden chambers at Medford City Hall 85 George P. Hassett Drive Medford and via zoom on Tuesday, April 25 2023 at 7pm a link to be posted no later than Friday, April 23 for a special permit for use to allow cafe use quote eating place in accordance with Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94 to operate cafe quote eating place. At 6 40 Boston Avenue, Medford Mass 02155 said site being located in an industrial zoning district as follows uses a cafe or eating place under 94-11.6.2 and 94-3.2 Petition and plans may be seen in the office of City Clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford, Massachusetts. Call 781-393-2425. For any accommodations, aides, the City of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the City Council, sign Adam L. Hurtubise, City Clerk, advertised in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal, April 6th and 13th, 2023. Do we have the petitioner before us to give us a brief summary of- Mr. Urquhart, if you could give us a brief summary of the petition before us and what you're seeking, what your client is seeking.
[Nicole Morell]: It's in the, there we go. Yep, we can see it now.
[Nicole Morell]: And a question from Councilor Knight Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, or a convenience store.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you know what was in that space prior?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Mr. Is there anything else that you want to share for your presentation?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Whereas this is a public hearing, I need to open it up. So we're going to open up this public hearing. If there is anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper, please either come up to the podium or raise your hand on Zoom. And that would be you as well, Mr. Urquhart, saying you're in favor of this paper, I assume.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else would like to speak in favor of this? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak against this petition? Please come up to the podium or raise your hand on Zoom. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed as well. So we do have a motion to approve from Councilor Knight second. I had a second but sounds like my Councilor Carmel, but we did have something raised brought to our attention by director of planning development sustainability hunt today, and that our recent update to the zoning We had the process was changed to send special permit to this, the Community Development Board for opinion before voting on it by bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. And Director Hutt, is there anything you wanted to add to our very brief explanation?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So Councilor Knight, you had a motion and would you like to amend it? We'll take it. So we have the motion from Vice President Bears to approve pending comments from the Community Development Board and the six day public comment period. I think we have a second from Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, do you have that language? Okay, please call the roll when you are ready. Councilor Scarpelli. He got it first. Yes, 70 affirmative zero negative. The motion passes 23-084 legal notice of a public hearing the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F Alden chambers at Medford City Hall 85 George P has to drive Medford and via zoom on Tuesday, April 25 2023 at 7pm, a link to be posted no later than Friday, April 21 2023 on a petition from a lean teen doing business as mainly in spiritual shop 16 Main Street Medford Mass for a paranormal license and for a special permit for use for retail and services, paranormal services and sales in accordance with Medford Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 94, to operate a retail and service establishment at 16 Main Street, Medford Mass, 02155. Said site being located in a commercial 1C1 zoning district as follows, use for retail and services, paranormal service and sales under Section 5.F of Medford Zoning Ordinances, Chapter 94. petition and plans may be seen the office of the city clerk room 103 Medford City Hall Medford mass call 781-393-2425 for accommodations aids the city of Medford is an EEO a 504 employee by order of the city council sign Adam L her to be city clerk advertised in the Medford transcript and some rural journal, April 6, and April Do we have a representative? Yep. If the petitioner wants to come up, just give us a brief overview of the permit, the special permit you're seeking. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing none, as this is a public hearing we need to open up the public hearing so anyone who would like to speak in favor of this petition, please raise your hand on zoom or come to the podium. Assuming you are in favor of this petition. Yes. Great. Do you want to, you can come up and give your name just so we can just for the record, just officially.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I also see Melanie. I'm going to ask you to unmute. Melanie, name and address for the record, please. So speaking in favor of this petition.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper petition? Raise your hand on Zoom or come up to the podium. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. So we have a motion from Vice President Bears to approve pending comments from the Community Development Board and the six-day conference period. Seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven the infernos during the night of the motion passes. Thank you. Thank you guys. Thank you. We'll probably have you right back.
[Nicole Morell]: We have you next. Yeah, we have you again. petitions presentations and similar papers 23095 petition for paranormal license by mailing 10 e 198 Broadway Malden mass or 2148 for a mailing spiritual shop 16 Main Street Medford mass. So you already gave us the preview. I'm gonna turn it over to licensing subcommittee chair, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further comments or discussion from the council? So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes, congratulations.
[Nicole Morell]: So on a motion of Councilor Caraviello to suspend the rules and take two, three, zero.
[Nicole Morell]: Someone's still gonna give me the number though.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to suspend the rules and take paper 23026 off the table, seconded by- Second, could I amend the motion to also take 23285 after that? As well as 23285.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm running all over the place. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice-Mayor Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So in the first year, the negative the rules are suspended 23-026 election manager and Elections Commission's commission provide an update on the status of the 2022 elections after action report requested by the City Council last fall. I see we have Henry Miller in with us.
[Nicole Morell]: So just name it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Henry.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Bears. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Thank you, Henry and the entire thank you. Thank you. Thank you. I have to take the role on this. So on the motion of Councilor Knight seconded by vice versa received place on file. Mr. Clerk, please call the role. Yes, I'm in the affirmative and then I gave motion passes. So person bears that are requested 23285 next and do you have somewhere else you want to go as well? Okay, great. So we will go next to 23285. 23285 to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding Community Preservation Committee appropriation requests. On behalf of the Community Preservation Committee, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee, requesting the appropriation of $800,000 from the CPA, including $208,000 from Housing Reserve and remaining $592,000 from General Reserve to the Medford Housing Authority for the Wapling Court Redevelopment Project. The project will be tracked in the Community Development Preservation Fund by category housing. The CPC's recommendation letter is attached and incorporated. Thank you for your consideration. respectfully submitted brand Lungo-Koehn mayor. I have the funding recommendation decision after name is that housing authority address 121 Riverside Ave Medford project. Medford Housing Authority MHA request CPA funds to develop to redevelop the state aid 144 unit elderly slash disabled development walking court walking court sits on a 3.7 acre site and is comprised of nine two story walk up flat buildings, the poor physical condition of the property and configuration of walk up flats is obsolete for the elderly and disabled population that it serves. The redevelopment of Walkling Court provides a vital opportunity to provide replacement units in a high quality, sustainable, and accessible mid-rise development with elevator access and a flexible community space, which will allow seniors to age in place in the transit accessible hillside neighborhood. This project addresses the urgent need for affordable housing in the city of Medford by adding 94 deeply affordable units, 54 new additional senior units, and 40 new additional family units. Eligibility is the community housing slash creation The project will create 94 new public housing units. Recommendation on March 14, 2023, the City of Medford Community Preservation Committee, CPC, voted 5-0-0 to recommend the City Council that the Medford Housing Authority, MHA, be awarded $800,000 of Community Preservation Act funds for the Walkland Court redevelopment project. In reaching their decision, the CPC found that the project meets the CPA objective of funding generation of new affordable housing units at Walkland Court. conditions of approval one as CPA funds can only fund new units not replacement units, the percentage of the contribution of the CPA funds to pre development costs must be equal to or less than the percentage of new units. And to the CPA funds are to be structured as a forgivable loan that will convert to a grant upon their quest zoning approvals to construct 54 new units in addition to the 144 replacement units in phase one. If fewer than 54 new units are permitted, the grant will be proportional as stated above. Roberta Cameron, Chair, Community Preservation Committee. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to just come up just so we can hear you on the mic?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, and then we'll go to- Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Thank you all for being here. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We'll go to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice is embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further questions, discussion from the council? Any members of the public wish to speak? I have Matthew Page Lieberman.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going back to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: And will it remain open for pulling during the construction? Do you know?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Any members of the public wish to speak? We have a motion from Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So then the affirmative zero and the negative the motion passes. Do I have a motion to revert back to regular order of business. I mean, it's up to you guys. The motion of Councilor Scarpelli, thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to revert back to our business seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I've been the affirmative zero negative motion passes reverting back to regular order of business motions, orders and resolutions to do dash 514 offered by okie dokie. All right. Great. Great, thank you. Okay, going to those to student here vices and bears is withdrawing because here on his mic going to 23-096 offer by vice president parents be it so resolved the Medford City Council that we request an update from the city administration on efforts to assist Medford residents facing the Medicaid cliff due to the end of the pandemic emergency order in reapplying and certifying their eligibility for Medicaid slash mass health insurance coverage. for the resolve of the city administration, engage our community liaison team in providing assistance to eligible residents who speak first languages other than English. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council on the motion of ice and bears seconded by Councilor Knight Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, to 3.097 offer my versus and bears the order that under the provisions of Chapter 43 be of Massachusetts general law, including sections 10 and 19 said charter article, 89 of the Massachusetts Constitution and any other applicable provision of law, Councilor Isaac be exact bears. proposes by written request to the city clerk of the city of Medford the following amendments to the charter of the city of Medford outline in the acts of 1986 chapter 605, and submit such amendment approval for approval by the voters for the city of Medford section 58 appointments by the city council generally subject to appropriation the city council may employ staff as it deems necessary advisory legal counsel The city council may secure legal services either by employment or on a contractual basis such legal services shall be solely in the service of the council and may include research analysis and drafting assistance. The mayor shall annually provide to the city council a sum of money sufficient to satisfy the estimated cost of legal services as presented to the mayor in writing by the city council, the legal services provided to the council shall not include representation of the council, or any Councilor any court matter or related litigation, or the issuance of formal legal opinion on behalf of the city. The city solicitor shall remain the only authorized officer of the city in all legal matters involving the city's government rules and suspensions of City Council staff City Council appointments may be removed at the sole discretion of the City Council subject to limitations and requirements imposed by federal and state laws, rules and regulations by some bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Any members of the public who wish to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, voted out of your subcommittee to get it.
[Nicole Morell]: Just for our processes I understand processes which is for our processes.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of ice is a bear second by Councilor probably Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one in the negative, the motion passes. Q3-098 offered by Vice President Bears, be it ordered that under the provisions of Chapter 43B of the Massachusetts General Laws, including Sections 10 and 19 of said chapter, Article 89 of the Massachusetts Constitution and any other applicable provisions of law, Councilor Isaac V. Zach Bears proposes by written request to the City Clerk of the City of Medford the following amendments to the Charter of the City of Medford outlined in the Acts of 1986, Chapter 605, and submit such amendment for approval by the voters of the city of Medford section 59 creation and approval of the municipal budget, generally the mayor and city council of the city of Medford shall hold budgetary powers together with the power to modify in a whole or in part an appropriation order or an item with an appropriation order clarify budgetary procedure and procedures and take such other actions as are necessary to amend, approve or disapprove the annual budget for the city, accepting the powers to originate and appropriate appropriation order which shall be reserved for the mayor. The mayor not later than the second Wednesday in May of each year shall submit to the city council the annual budget of the current expenses of the city for the forthcoming fiscal year and the mayor may submit therein after such supplementary appropriation orders as they may be necessary, not later than the second Wednesday in June because the council shall take definite action on the annual budget by adopting amending or rejecting it, provided that the amended version shall not be for a higher total budget than originally proposed. In the event of their failure to act on a budget submitted by the mayor, the items and the appropriation orders in the budget as recommended by the mayor shall be in effect as if formally adopted by the city council and approved by the mayor. The mayor shall have seven days from the time of a budgetary vote of the council to approve or return said budget to the council. And in the event of the failure of the mayor to act on the budget approved by the council, the budget shall be in effect as approved by the council. The mayor may modify a budget approved by the council by returning it to said council with amendments to any line item provided that a two thirds vote of the council shall be sufficient to override any budgetary amendments in whole or in part or an overall budgetary veto by the mayor. It shall be the duty of the city officials when requested by the mayor to submit to the mayor forthwith in such detail as the mayor may require estimates for the next fiscal year of the expenditures of the department or office under their charge which estimates shall be transmitted to the city council provided however that the mayor shall neither submit nor thereafter reduce the appropriations for the city council at or to a level below that which existed for the previous fiscal year, nor shall the city council reduce the appropriations for the mayor's office below that which existed for the previous fiscal year, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We have a second motion for Vice Mayor second from Councilor Scarpelli. Any discussion from the council on this specific amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the Council? Any members of the public wish to speak? I see Sharon D'Eso. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the council? me for their comments from members of the public. So the motion from President Bears sector by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one in the negative, the motion passes. 23-099, offered by Vice President Bears, be it ordered that under the provisions of Chapter 43B of the Medford, I'm sorry, Medford, Massachusetts General Laws, including Sections 10 and 19 of said chapter, Article 89 of the Massachusetts Constitution and any other applicable provision of law, Councilor Isaac B. Zach Bears, proposes by written request the city council of the city of Medford the following amendments to the charter of the city of Medford outlined in the acts of 1986 chapter 605, which would have been the existing title and existing text of the first paragraph of the acts of 1986 chapter 605 section one, three, and submit such amendment for approval by the voters of the city of Medford section 52 appointments by the mayor. Generally the mayor shall appoint subject to confirmation by the city council by majority vote all members of municipal boards committees and commissions except the school committee officials appointed by the governor and assessors if elected by vote of the people for whom no other method of appointment or selection is provided by the city ordinance or general laws. All members of municipal boards, committees, and commissions shall serve terms as defined by city ordinance or general laws. All heads of the department shall be appointed by the mayor without confirmation by the city council. The mayor shall refer to the city council and simultaneously file with the city clerk the name of each person the mayor desires to appoint as a member of the board committee or commission. The city council shall have 45 days after the date on which notice of the proposed appointment was filed with the city clerk to vote to approve or reject the appointment. If the city council does not approve or reject the appointment within 45 days, it may file a 15 day extension with the city clerk. If the time period elapses and no extension has been filed, the appointment shall be deemed approved. Members of the boards, committees, and commissions may be removed at the discretion of the appointing authority subject to limitations and requirements imposed by federal and state laws, rules, and or regulations. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council on this paper? Any members of the public wish to speak? Seeing none, on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: T3-100 offered by Councilor Tseng. Whereas students at Tufts University have noted that the sidewalk on the school side at the College Ave and Boston Ave intersection is experiencing overcrowding at class change times as students are walking in the street itself. Being resolved, the City Council asked the Department of Public Works to explore solutions to this problem and collaborate with Tufts University where needed. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Any further discussion from the Council? On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero that I get the motion passes to three dash to a one offered by cancer saying, be it so resolved that the city council asked the city administration for prioritization and updates on the resurfacing of slash fixing of potholes on Riverside have comes are saying.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like to make that as an amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any other members of the council wish to speak? on the motion of Councilor Tseng seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: I respectfully request and recommend that the city council approves the following amendment to the revised ordinances entitled personnel article two. Classification and compensation plan section 66 dash 33 entitled officers and employees, non union by adopting the following change amendment a, the language of calf 19 shall be amended to include the following position human resources director, respectfully committed, submitted analog current motion of the paper ruled out of order Madam President on 321 23 this council disposed of a very similar paper the city council rules clearly indicated the council disposes of a paper a paper of similar matter cannot be reintroduced for 90 days. We have a motion rule I have to look at the past paper. And I know I do know that I was trying to look at the past paper you're actually right that rule does exist. I mean, this is this is what the rule states. And then that would be so 90 days. So 90 days since it was disposed of.
[Nicole Morell]: Someone would have to make that motion. Okay, well, I rule that the paper, yes, I would rule that the paper is out of order based on the city council rules. The language of the past paper, it was, I mean, it was introduced so long ago.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it was, it was taken off the table though to, I need to, I don't have the minutes in front of me to receive them.
[Nicole Morell]: No, you're right. I'm just trying to real time. I would like to motion for a brief recess, but I'm also fine.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think the ruling that has been disposed of in the paper would be Not able to speak on.
[Nicole Morell]: You are correct and I just want to look. I just want to affirm with our rules. I'm just. Trying to look at the rules just, I want to make sure that this is disposed of and not, we asked you to come up with this before, things that failed as opposed to being received in place on file.
[Nicole Morell]: The initial paper was introduced like a very long time ago.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, President Bears for a five-minute recess, seconded by... Second.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm gonna dispose of the paper. I already motioned.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, the motion is to question whether or not the paper's out of order.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I suppose a bit. That's where the ruling is down. Okay. So 90 days from the 321, it could be introduced.
[Nicole Morell]: It was from Councilor Knight to add that to reports due. So it reports due being that paper be back on.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Call the roll. All right. Nevermind. Withdrawn. 23-284. To our President and members of the Medford City Council regarding food truck permitting, dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, on behalf of the below entities, I respectfully submit to the Medford City Council the following request for a food truck permit in the city of Medford. In addition to city council approval, vendors are required to adhere to the health department food safety requirements. One, Boston Glory Games, May 6th, four to eight, work hard, eat good. May 13th, 12 to four, the Sausage Guys, June 2nd.
[Nicole Morell]: for the first roll request, okay. So on the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the remainder of the reading and remove approval for SOFR, there's two different food truck requests. For both food truck requests, both separate requests, knowing there's multiple dates for one of them. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: What was the first number, 044? 044 and 059.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of ice and bears to take papers to do that here for four and two three dash zero. I can Madam President, we just have to go to the table first. Okay, so to take them off the table for their to then go on third reading, seconded by Mr. Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, two in the negative, the motion passes. 2-3-0-044, the loan order for sidewalk construction and equipment bonds. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like it to be a B paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor has requested to move the question. Councilor, I'm sorry, Councilor Tseng has requested to move the question. Councilor Knight already did have his hand up, so we'll go to him and take this question.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information, President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have we've been debating both papers it seems we have two separate papers and we have a B paper. So I'm going to take them in order we have the loan order for cyber construction equipment bonds eligible for third reading tonight. We have a B paper from Councilor Caraviello to get a report on free cash, how we ended up with the amount of free cash we have and what is eligible for use of, and anything I'm missing? Yeah, that's why I said it. So we'll take the B paper first. So on the motion from Councilor Caraviello on the B paper, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll for the B paper only.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Motion to approve for third reading. Motion to approve for third reading from Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative two in the negative emotion passes to three dash 059 proposed wage adjustment for non union personnel eligible for third reading April 25 2023 have a motion to approve a third reading on the motion of vice and bears to approve a third reading seconded by a Councilor Tseng Mr. Clerk please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morano. Yes. Four in the affirmative, three in the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion from Vice President Bears to take 23-060 off the table. seconded by seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes, this is for free cash item two of the paper we previously passed for $80,000 the appropriation for the COLA adjustment for non-union personnel.
[Nicole Morell]: and the affirmative through the negative motion passes to take it off the table.
[Nicole Morell]: Director Dickinson. Vice Mayor, is that a question I think you may have missed?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Vice-President Bears to approve the free crash appropriation of $8,000 for the non-unit COLA adjustment seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, two in the negative. Motion passes. Public participation. Do we have any members on Zoom or in person who would like to participate in public participation? Anyone who would like to speak? Seeing none. Oh, Matthew Page Lieberman. Name and address of the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. The motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Vice Chair Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm the first thing that I gave motion passes me in the future.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-093 Committee of the Whole meeting notice Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at 6pm. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Present five, present two, absent. Meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, April 18th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chambers on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the Community Development Block Grant Action Plan, Paper 23-093. The committee has invited CDBG Grant Administrator Ashley Williams and other representatives from the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So we have representatives from the different organizations requesting funding, and we have Director of Planning, Development and Sustainability, Alicia Hunt with us, who can lead us in and give us a little bit information of what we're looking at and what is coming before us tonight, unless councilors have any questions to start. Seeing none, Director Hunt, if you could.
[Nicole Morell]: unless we have any objections to that format or any questions at this time. Um, if you could director hunt, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Are there any questions from the council at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions for after-school program? Seeing none, Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Lisa. Any questions from the council? Seeing none, we'll go to the next one.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Hi, Heather, and thank you. Thank you. Any questions for housing families? Seeing none, back to Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions from the council? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Questions from the council. Seeing none, thank you. Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, sure. If you want to speak in the mic. They can't hear you on the Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Director Hahn.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mark. Any questions from Councilors? Seeing none, we'll go back to Director Hunt. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other members of the Council? Going back to Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Gabriella. Any questions from the council? Seeing none, Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: When you look to the side, we can actually hear you better. I don't know if your mic is over there. Oh no. Yeah, so yeah. So if you, whatever is going on when you've been looking at the side, I think to read up a piece of paper in that direction, we can hear you fairly clearly when you turn your head. Okay. Well, so.
[Nicole Morell]: I think you can pick up where you left off. Yes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'll go back to Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. We'll go to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Paoli. Thank you, Anne. Going to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the Council? That is the last of our Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you on the motion by Susan bears to receive in place on vial and adjourn this meeting. We have another meeting after this. Second by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed. Motion passes. This meeting is adjourned. Thank you, everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: 23-074 Committee of the Whole meeting Tuesday, April 18th, 2023 at 7 p.m. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, April 18th, 2023 at 7 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the proposed amendment to the city charter, paper 23-074. For further information and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President, Also, this meeting is called to order forget to mention that this is a paper that was, we don't have to call the clerk, you know, you don't have to call them over. And since this is our second meeting tonight. So this was a paper introduced by Vice President Bears. So I'm happy to let him start the discussion unless councilors have anything they would like to add before I believe Councilor Bears has a presentation he wants to share. Seeing none, I will hand it off to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: And just for education, vices and bears, and perhaps you're going to get into this, I know folks are familiar with the or somewhat familiar with the process for charter review, which is different as far as overall petition, whereas this is something that could be voted on and get to a ballot.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng, Councilor Kavriel.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. I actually just have two questions. Also, I want to thank my fellow councilors for their comments. I agree with pretty much everything that's been said, and I also just want to put a point down again, as everyone has said, thanking the Charter Study Committee. Like Councilor Collins said, these are things I can run parallel. I don't want it to seem like this is overrunning the work that you're doing, which is very, very important. I'm gonna wander into the weeds for two questions. One is for the commission appointments, can that apply to ad hoc commissions or is it just commissions that are written into the charter?
[Nicole Morell]: Right, so for example, the Charter Study Committee, that would be something that wouldn't apply.
[Nicole Morell]: Right, and then this may just be on me to follow up, is just, can public hearings be held in committee or do they have to be held, this is like capital P, capital H public hearings?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Going back to you, Vice President Harris.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Mayor Barras. Any further discussion from the council at this time? Are there any members of the public who wish to speak either in person or on Zoom? If you're on Zoom, you can raise your hand. In person, you can come up. Not seeing any at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: More, did you want to speak or? Okay. Yeah, you can come right up. I just saw him shifting, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, I have a second on that. I'll take Councilor Caraviello. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. I'm just gonna do one last call if anyone else would like to speak just because there's a handful of folks on Zoom. Seeing no one else who'd like to speak, do I have on the motion of Councilor Tseng to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Hi, sir. I can hear now. I jumped on the phone. I don't know. Perhaps user error. Apologies. Didn't mean to shut down the whole meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Thanks Vice President Bears. Yeah, and I think this was covered in Councilor Scarpelli kind of segued into it, is I just wanted to point out as part of the process, just for folks who may be following along, you know, we talked in the past that under mass procurement law, some things that are exempted from going through the RFP and three bid process is if you continue, if is working with a lawyer, which is what Attorney Bobrowski is, but because of the fact that at his recommendation, and of course the recommendation of PDS, is we really also need the support of a land use planner. So as we make that a team of two or whatever it may be, then that procurement law kicks in. That's why we're doing the RFP and the three-bit process. So I just wanted to make that clear if anyone wasn't sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, it's just still up.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Eighth regular meeting of the Medford City Council April 11 2023 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-085, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council commend and congratulate the Medford Pee Wee Bee Hockey Team on winning the Valley League Championship. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Anyone else wish to speak? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Records, the records of the March 28, 2023 meeting were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committee, 22-453, March 20th, 2023, Subcommittee on Public Health and Community Safety report to follow. The chair of that committee is Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins, on the motion of Councilor Collins to approve, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed motion passes to to dash 605 April 4 2023 subcommittee on ordinance as rules reports a follow Vice President Bears is the chair of that subcommittee.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to take 23-090 out of order, seconded by Councilor Second by Councilor Collins. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed. Motion passes. Got it.
[Nicole Morell]: To Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding the MSBA statement of interest. I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves the Massachusetts School Building Authority MSBA statement of interest on behalf of Medford High School that has been prepared by the Medford Public Schools for consideration for the MSBA's core program. The submission is in follow up to the March 27th letter you received from the superintendent of schools. Superintendent Maurice Edouard Vincent will be available at your meeting should there be any questions or additional information that members would like to attend. Thank you for your consideration. MSBA required form of vote to submit statement of interest resolved. Having convened an open meeting on April 11th, 2023 prior to the SOI submission closing date, the city council of the city of Medford in accordance with its charter bylaws and ordinances has voted to authorize Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent to submit to the Massachusetts School Building Authority the statement of interest form dated April 2023 for Medford High School located at 489 Winthrop Street, which describes and explains the following deficiencies and the priority categories, which an application may be submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority in the future. The Medford City Council hereby further specifically acknowledges that by submitting the statement of interest form, the Massachusetts School Building Authority in no way guarantees the acceptance or approval of an application, the awarding of a grant or any other funding commitment from the Massachusetts School Building Authority or commits the city of Medford to filing an application for funding with the Massachusetts School Building Authority. 2023 Medford High School MSBA core program statement of interest summary replacement renovation or modernization of school facility systems such as roofs, windows, boilers, heating and ventilation systems to increase energy conservation and decrease energy related costs in a school facility. Having been originally constructed in 1970 and with substantial portions of the building's infrastructure dating from that time, Medford High School motion to waive.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Councilor Collins to with the reading, um, in lieu of a summary from Madam Superintendent second by second Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. Madam Superintendent, thank you for being here. If you'd like to share with us a summary of what's before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Is that correct, Mr. Lieutenant?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. A motion from Councilor Knight for approval. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Any members of the public wish to speak? Seeing none, so we have a motion from Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Thank you, thank you for being here tonight. You're still under suspension.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that. I can follow up with the mayor on that.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Naito to revert back to regular order business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed, motion passes. Motions, orders, and resolutions. 23-086, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Metro City Council update the ordinances pertaining to body shops and automobile repair facilities. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like that as an amendment? Or is this embarrassed?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed, motion passes. 23-087 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have the code enforcement officer notify Tufts University that the city of Medford is no longer picking up mattresses left out on the street, so they can notify all students in Medford living off campus. The university has a list of all students living in apartments off campus in Medford. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Would you like to keep that until we have a city solicitor? Would you like a KP law opinion on it?
[Nicole Morell]: So you want to take that as a separate motion or as an amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we'll go with this.
[Nicole Morell]: Right, but they have, they pay taxes on Walnut Hill properties.
[Nicole Morell]: And that too, yeah. Right, right.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Do you have that amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Any further discussion? So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by- Second. Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-088 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Due to the increase in traffic on Main Street and Harvard Street be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have the police department increased traffic patrols in that area, along with increased parking and enforcement especially on the weekends in the interest of public safety, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. You further discussion from the council.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? I do see one. I see a hand up from Anthony D'Antonio on Zoom. I'll unmute you and just name and address for the record, please. Mr. D'Antonio, would you like to speak? Oh, there we go.
[Nicole Morell]: were hit and hurt over there. I'm glad you're here. Yeah, me too. Yeah, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Wow, wow. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Caraviello seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor. All those opposed motion passes. Communications from the mayor, 23-089. On the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the reading of the, we have a food truck permit before us. Motion of Councilor Knight to waive the reading and approve, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. I do see we have Mr. Gray from Neighborhood Produce. So motion passes. You are all good. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, yeah. Thank you. 23-091, request for expenditure from law department claims over $1,000, account 010-151-5762. To President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the city council, from Brianna Lungo, current mayor. Claimant name, Valerie Spinelli. Date of accident, February 3rd, 2021. Date of settlement, March 27th, 2023. Date of trial result, not applicable. I'm sorry, amount requested $3,450 claimants attorney clerk and Sinclair and refuse LLP description of alleged claim the claimant USAA casualty insurance company also serving as I don't know what those little constants away seeks compensation for a claim paid to their insured for property damage suffered when a Medford firetruck stuck the struck the side of the insurance vehicle ballpark on Surge's Street in Metro Massachusetts on or about March 8 2018. the necessary release has been obtained from the claimant. Breakdown of amount requested, medical costs zero, lost wages zero, property damage $3,450, others zero, total settlement $3,450.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like to take that as a beat paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. This is embarrassing. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Rivera. Any further discussion? So we have a B paper first from Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, can you read back?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the B paper from Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. And on the main paper from We have a motion from Councilor Knight to send back to the legal department because of conflicting dates. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, you had a, you were moving on something? Can you vote on this? We did. Well, we voted to send it back to
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion from Vice Mayor Bears to take 23-052 off the table and to pass for a third reading, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: public. So public participation anyone. There's no one in the chambers anyone on zoom would like to participate for public participation. Seeing none. I think he was, I saw him. I thought I saw him before he's not here right now. Going back to Councilor Scott motion to adjourn seconded by second person bears all those in favor. Opposed opposition from Councilor Knight. Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Design proposals to update them, make them more ADA compliant, easier to access. So maybe some slight moving, some changes to the sidewalk, things like that. They're coming back April 25th because we didn't have a ton of, there wasn't a ton of notice about it. We didn't have any public participation. So April 25th, if you have strong opinions about certain stops, we can make sure we get the content they gave us on the website so people can see what the proposals are. This isn't the team that's doing the Better Bus project, but they do answer the emails. So it's not a bad time, too, that we'll actually have the MBTA in the room. Again, it's not exactly the same people, but it's not a bad idea for them to take the opportunity to speak at that meeting. So April 25th, they will be back, and there's an opportunity to weigh in on some improvements, ideally.
[Nicole Morell]: Seventh regular meeting of the Medford City Council March 28 2023 is called to order Mr. Clerk please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-076 offered by Vice President Bears and Councilor Tseng. A resolution to extend best wishes to Muslims in Medford, Massachusetts. Thank you, vice president bears on the motion of ice is embarrassed to suspend the rules to take public participation seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor. I always oppose motion passes, I know we have some folks from Winthrop street that wanted to speak. If anyone wants to speak and come up and name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, and just to add to Councilor Scarpelli, that issue was tabled at the Traffic Commission, so it's something they'll take up at their next meeting. And I did talk to Director Blake, and because it hasn't been accepted yet, I think there is, you know, there is the ability to go back and forth and hear from more residents on it, so I just want to make that clear that it's not set in stone yet. They do have this plan, it's a plan they've worked on, but they tabled it for a reason, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Mr. Clerk, do you have that? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak on Winthrop Street specifically?
[Nicole Morell]: Correct. Thank you. Anyone here or anyone on Zoom if you want to speak on Winthrop Street, if you want to raise your hand on Zoom, if it's something you want to speak on. I don't see any anyone. Not seeing anyone else. Yep, yeah, we'll revisit during the...
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, we got that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Tonight, there is not the administration told me they would not be sending him on tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor, Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, and I do see a few councilors wanna speak again. I just wanna note, we do have some extensive presentations on the agenda, so I just wanna note that. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: 23080 is HR communications from the mayor. I'm just going to read it. So we have it. It's the personal ordinance. It's a circular. It's from the mayor. I respectfully request and recommend that the city council approves the following amendment to the revised ordinances entitled personnel article two classification and compensation plan, section 6633 entitled officers and employees non union by adopting the following change amendment a the language of cap 19 shall be amended to include the following position human resources director we have a motion on the floor to table this even please a file number till such time as we get through this receiving motion for receiving please on file. Do I have a second. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Paper is received and placed on file.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, I think we're in a suspension, so yeah, we can just do it. So we'll go for communications from MBTA officials 23-081. Medford City Council meeting March 20th, 2023. The MBTA plan for accessible transit infrastructure, PATI, P-A-T-I, project will be presenting to the Medford City Council on March 20th, 2023 at 7 p.m. The P-A-T-I project aims to improve rider accessibility and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA. In Medford specifically, this project will improve crosswalks, ADA compliant pedestrian ramps, add traffic calming measures, and other various improvements to MBTA bus stops. A few bus stop relocations are proposed to create safer traffic movements. In addition, several bus stop eliminations are proposed for stops that have very low ridership. The MBTA PATI project will represent will present the following locations for improvement. Medford G1 Winthrop Street at Robinson Road, Medford G3 Boston Avenue at High Street, Medford G4 Boston Avenue at Arlington Street, Medford G5 High Street at Canal Street, Medford G6 High Street at Woburn Street, Medford g seven Salem Street at Hadley place, Medford g eight Highland Avenue at Middlesex Avenue, Medford g nine Highland Avenue at Tucker Street, Medford g 10 Bellsway West at cost, and the following locations for elimination Main Street at South Gateway Main Street at town way. Main Street at Windsor Road, Boston Avenue at Holton Street, Placid Road opposite Chardon Road, Placid Road at Chardon Road, Fellsway West at Cherry Street, 205 Fellsway West, Fellsway West at Fulton Springs Road, High Street at Monument Street, High Street at Pitcher Avenue, High Street at Hillside Avenue, 163 Riverside Avenue, Riverside Avenue at Pleasant Street, Fellsway at Central Avenue, Fellsway at Medford Street. For additional information, please see the project website, mbta.com slash project slash bus dash stop dash accessibility dash improvements. With any questions, please email betterbusprojectatmbta.com. We have a number of representatives from the MBTA. You wanna just give your name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: just if I could briefly just knowing you're the person who gets the emails at that email address, I'm sure you have very many unhappy Medford residents because through the bus network redesign, we've lost a number of routes that are really going to deeply impact our community in a negative way. And I just want to say that before we go, I know that's not what you're presenting on tonight. But that is that is a fact. So I want to make sure that's clear.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I thought I was like, do I really want to know those? It's right on the line.
[Nicole Morell]: The town is what tipped me off.
[Nicole Morell]: Please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On that one specifically, I live right over there and I walk that delay so I'm intimately familiar. The proposed stop, isn't there some significant trees there and some like, there's some like the sidewalks a little raised there, like not intentionally?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and then just because this just made me think of it, are any of these proposals, will there be removal of trees to make these accommodations? Okay, thank you. Councilor Tseng, sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I do want to jump in again again because I live right there. I understand a little bit better now because Robinson is a you. So now I realize we're talking about a different talking about a different part of the street than I thought so I have a better understanding of what we're looking at so there's not sure there's more warp sidewalk but the one I was talking about is not in that position, and to counter sense point, I think it's great adding the crosswalk there, there's probably a little bit more we could do again living right over there. It's a really treacherous spot to cross so I wanted whatever can be done to make that as safe as possible.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears, did you have something to that point?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Yeah. Did you have Mr. Clark? Yeah. And just to affirm what you're seeking from the council. I mean, obviously we have our feedback and things we would want. Is this something you need a vote of like affirmation on or is this something that is meant to be a back and forth dialogue?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and to clarify on that, so suggestions like adding the RFBs that would be considered as part of the affirmative vote? Okay, thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Just one second.
[Nicole Morell]: Your mic's not on. It's not your fault.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I think we can move on to the next one. I do, yeah. I do see him on the call. Director Blake, are you available just to speak on this specific stop?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins, you had a specific question or just deferring what the expert... Deferring. Deferring your expertise stop, Director Blake.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Blake. And also, I guess a comment is, there does start to be an incline on that street. As you move further up, further towards Winchester, I think if we're talking about accessibility, that's something that I'm sure you've considered it. But I just want to put another plug for that.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, but I think just also just getting to, you know, getting up that hill, I think is something that perhaps should be considered. Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Neill.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, first, right, you're saying you want to take the elimination.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, we can continue to go through the
[Nicole Morell]: I think you may have seen that. There are some, there are some strong feelings about this.
[Nicole Morell]: And I hear that. I think what we're talking about now is the fact that there's an opportunity for improvements at the cost of the MBTA and making sure that we get all the improvements we can.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, and to be fair, I live right near G1, so I, you know.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it's a disclosure on the website.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm just saying, we may, there's some spots some of us are intimately familiar with, and perhaps we might have a little bit more insight, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Is everyone good on G1?
[Nicole Morell]: Going to G2, any comments on G2 and if there's anything you wanna?
[Nicole Morell]: I think everyone probably does. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: It's also incredibly dangerous for pedestrians, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anything else on G3?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anything else on G4? Moving forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Getting on G5.
[Nicole Morell]: there in G6. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: It's hard.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears and then Councilor Svend.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Anything else on G7? Okay, going forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anything else on G8? Moving to G9.
[Nicole Morell]: Anything else on G9? I'm going to G10, which I believe Councilor Knight is our final one.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anything on G10? Okay. And then we just have the stop eliminations. I already read through them. Is there any councilors wanting to speak additionally on these proposed eliminations? I have specific questions.
[Nicole Morell]: What numbers are those?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. So do you want me to go through each stop? No, if you just, if you want to speak to Main Street at Windsor and then Fells Way at Central, I know Vice President Bears has some concerns.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Dr. Collins. Any further discussion at this time we have a number of motions regarding cancer night, as the
[Nicole Morell]: Director Blake, is this something that's also coming out of City Hall? Let me just make sure you're still on the call. Oh, there, sorry. Sorry if your hand has been up for a while. Is this something that's also coming out from City Hall, or is this just coming from MBTA as far as reaching out to folks about these changes?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and we do have a number of just motions as far as the recommendations or changes we wanna see. So I just wanna make sure we address those before a voted table. Less than 25. Okay, thank you. Yes. Vice and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins and then counter saying. Councilor say.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we have a number of motions. Do you want to combine them to focus on every single one right back to make sure we have them? Could you read them back, Mr. Clerk, just to make sure we have them all?
[Nicole Morell]: Great drive a motion to combine and approve. Yes. On the motion by Susan bears to combine all the motions and approve. Second, my Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes. And we have a motion from Councilor Tseng to table until a date certain and we'll get you all the meeting minutes. So you have all this as well. Motion Councilor Tseng to table to a date certain that date certain being April 25th could be amenable to that.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Second by second by Susan bears. All those in favor. All those opposed motion passes. Thank you all so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Next, we have 23. Oh, 28.
[Nicole Morell]: Offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that Eversource provide an update to the Medford City Council, DPW, and Engineering Departments. Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Please name and address, Dr. Please.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't know if... Sujata should be a co-presenter.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't think I have it. I have to run downstairs and do it, but I can do it. Okay, we can we can start without it. I mean, we have that's fine.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Director Blake, are you able to speak to that, or would that be something that Owen can only speak to?
[Nicole Morell]: I do not see him, no.
[Nicole Morell]: What's the time between that temporary striping and the more permanent?
[Nicole Morell]: What's the time between that temporary striping and the more permanent? Because we really had some issues with that earlier in the year.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by... Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Any further discussion on this update?
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing none, thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, sorry. I don't know. Oh, sorry. Councilor Collins. I was just gonna motion to revert to normal. Oh, thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins to revert to the regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? I'm sorry. All those opposed? Motion passes. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-076 offered by Vice President Bears and Councilor Tseng, a resolution to extend best wishes to Muslims in Medford, Massachusetts, the United States, and worldwide for a joyous, meaningful observance of Ramadan, a holy month of prayer, fasting, charity, and reflection. Whereas Islam is one of the world's major religions and part of our shared faith tradition, and whereas Muslims have been a part of the fabric of America for over 400 years, since the first Muslims in America arrived as enslaved people. And whereas the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is home to 131,000 Muslims and their Muslim faith is welcome here. And whereas the Muslim community is one of the most racially diverse faith groups in the United States and has enriched the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. And whereas Ramadan is a holy month of fasting and spiritual renewal for Muslims worldwide and the ninth month of the Muslim calendar year. And whereas Ramadan is a time to reflect spiritually, build community, give to charity, and a reason to celebrate and express gratitude. And whereas Ramadan began at dusk on March 23rd, 2023, and lasts for one lunar month, with the first and last dates determined by the lunar Islamic calendar. Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Medford City Council goes on record to recognize the commencement of Ramadan, a holy month of prayer, fasting, charity, reflection, and be it further resolved that the council extends best wishes to Muslims in Medford, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the United States, and worldwide, a joyous and meaningful observance of Ramadan Be it further resolved, the city clerk is hereby requested to ensure that the Islamic Cultural Center of Medford and Jetpack Resource Center receive a copy of this resolution. Vice and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-077 offered by Councilor Collins, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and most sincere condolences to the family of Marguerite Aguido, hold a moment of silence in her honor, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor, all those opposed, please rise for a moment of silence. 23 to 078 offered by Councilor Collins and vice president bears. It's a result of the Metro City Council recognize walk, bike and roll to school day on April 4 supported by the safe routes to school program and walk Medford students and community members will be celebrating the day with bike trains to and from school Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I thought that seemed, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, that date didn't seem, yep, it's May 4th.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? So on the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. 23-079, offered by President Morell, Councilor Tseng, and Councilor Collins, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council honor and celebrate Women's History Month. I will go to Councilor Collins. I'm gonna cherry pick.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng, and thank you for doing the labor of doing the research and sharing that. Much appreciated by Councilor Collins and I. And I just want to add, I mean, there's much to be reflected upon this month. I just want to add the quote from Abigail Adams to remember the ladies. I still don't think we've made true on that request. We've got a long way to go, but remember the ladies. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Records, the records of March 21st, 2023 were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight, all those in favor? all those opposed motion passes courts of committees 22-494 march 21st 2023 subcommand ordinances and rules vice president bears thank you madam president we met to discuss a proposed budget ordinance
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor seconded by Councilor Collins, all those in favor. All those opposed, motion passes. 22-321, March 22nd, 2023 Subcommittee on Zoning Planning and Development. and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Move approval on the motion of vice and bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor. All right, I suppose passes. That is the end of Councilor Collins. Thank you. Um, we'll take suspension first and our Sure, yeah, one paper. One paper under suspension, 23-082 from. I'm sorry. I'd like to suspend the rules.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of vices and affairs to suspend the rules to take 23-082 seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. 23-082 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. be it so resolved that the city administration update the city council with where in the process are all of the ordinances that this council has worked on since the vacancies in this solicitor's office Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. And I just realized, so I got a response. There was a response that came through to myself and Vice President Bears today. I actually didn't realize I didn't get sent to the whole council from the mayor with copied and pasted from Janelle, Attorney Austin, saying that just for background. In my opinion, KP Law can sign off on the ordinances as set forth by council rules Since in my opinion, the mayor is authorized to appoint council as necessary to advise the city, including pursuant to rule 24 or rule 30. And then she says, if the city clerk wants to afford any ordinances of supporting city council minutes, we can certainly review as to the sufficiency of those for passage. So I'll make sure the clerk sends that to the whole council. I didn't realize it didn't go to everyone. So I apologize for that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears and then Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: I've let you go pretty freewheeling, but I'm here on the line at Easter bunny. If you could bring it back.
[Nicole Morell]: You want to turn your light off?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So you have two motions from Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, do you have them to read back or do you need them?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli is seconded by Councilor Caraviello all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes going back to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion to take those papers off the table is seconded by... Did you do 23-043 as well?
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-519, this is the amendment to the Preservation Act Ordinance eligible for third reading on March 14th.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion by Vice President Bears to approve for third reading, seconded by... Second. Councilor Tseng, all those in favor. Actually, I'm sorry, just kidding, just kidding, just kidding. This is the amendment to the CPA ordinance. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: You're not on. Here you go.
[Nicole Morell]: 21-053 is the housing stability ordinance eligible for third reading on March 28, 2023. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready. I know it's gonna take a minute. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So going back to the housing civility notification ordinance is what we're voting on now. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I mean, the furniture and the negative motion passes. 22-058. transparency and protect civil rights and civil liberties. This is actually the community control over policing ordinance, correct? Public surveillance. Public surveillance. Sorry, not policing, just public surveillance. That is not community control over public surveillance ordinance that is before us. Is there any further discussion on this paper before us before we vote?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want me to take your motion to not approve for third reading.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, we do you want to keep your motion, Councilor Knight, I can go No, I'll just withdraw my motion.
[Nicole Morell]: He wanted to he his motion was to not approve but he has withdrawn it to, I hope just reduce confusion.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So we have a motion for Vice President Bears to approve for third reading. Uh, Mr. Clerk, please call the role. I'm sorry. A second by Councilor Tseng Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, two in the negative. The motion passes for third reading. So 23-043 is for establishing a revolving fund for stormwater, eligible for third reading March 28th, 2023. Any discussion on this paper before we take the vote? Mr. Clerk, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, yes, I need, yeah, thank you, Councilor Tseng. We have a motion from Councilor Tseng to approve. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready. Seconded by... Seconded by... Second.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in the affirmative zero negative emotion passes approved for third reading to zero to zero to for the affordable housing trust, any further discussion on this motion to approve for third reading motion. I know, I know, waiting on the rolling order on the paper.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor, and I actually did run into Councilor Falco after we voted on this in between at the library and I shared how excited we all were and thankful for his work, so. I said Councilor Favreau, former Councilor Favreau. Yes, seconded by Councilor Collins. Voter wrong I was getting.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven the affirmative, zero the negative, the motion passes approved for third reading. 23-057, establish the traffic and transportation director position in the city's classification and compensation plan eligible for third reading March 28th, 2023.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And we already took a motion to take the paper off the table. Do I have a second from Councilor Knight's motion to put the paper back on the table? I second that. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? No.
[Nicole Morell]: I heard some nos and some yeses. Someone's call for roll call.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, sir. Roll call, please. It's the motion to put the paper back on the table. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: No. Three in the affirmative, four in the negative. The motion fails.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: That's not correct. I disagree, that's what more money, more problems means.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I believe it was explained to us as a second.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Tseng to approve for a third reading. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, for the affirmative three and the negative, the motion passes approved for third. That's it. On the motion Councilor scarpelli to adjourn second by Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Six regular meeting of Medford City Council is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-064 offered by Councilor Caraviello will be it resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Vincent DiClemente on his recent passing. Mr. DiClemente served his country during the Korean War. He, along with his wife, volunteered running the St. Francis Food Pantry for 32 years. He was also honored as Citizen of the Year, along with his wife, Jerry, for their work in the community. His presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. 23-075 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council commend and congratulate Joan Gatto on being selected as this year's Citizen of the Year. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Records, the records of the February 28th, 2023 meeting were passed to Councilor Bears. Councilor Bears, Vice President Bears, how did you find the records?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Supports of Committee 20-020, February 20th Committee of the Whole. This was a Committee of the Whole on updating the food trucks ordinance. We had some back and forth, some motions made and some adjustments made as far as I think a lot of Yeah, if anyone wants to add anything more to that, it's something that remains in committee, I believe. Continue to work on that. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to accept the records of the Committee of the Whole, seconded by?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, all those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-605, March 8th, Subcommittee on Ordinance and Rules by Supervisor Farris.
[Nicole Morell]: approval on the motion by Susan bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 19-070 March 8th. This was on the proposed trees ordinance. We looked at an ordinance that was split into three parts with the tree committee, the public shade trees and the private trees. And I think the biggest thing is we had some minor edits to the public and the trees on the tree committee establishment, and then we actually, Building Commissioner Forty is gonna give us a red line or updated draft of the private trees ordinance to see what we can do within either zoning and permitting and things like that. Do I have a motion? On the motion of Councilor Collins to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-514, March 15th, Committee of the Whole, report to follow. This was outdoor dining. We had some good back and forth about that. I think a lot of it just related to safety and just finalizing it. And we report that out of committee with amendments. So that should be on a future agenda. On the motion of Councilor Garbiel to approve, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Okay. Motions, orders, and resolutions. 23-065 offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the city administration provide a dollar for dollar breakdown and explanation of all ARPA expenditures to date. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-066 offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the Metro City Council request that the potholes on Lawrence Road between Lincoln Road and Governor's Ave be addressed. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed, motion passes. 23-067 offered by Councilor Knight, be it so resolved that the illegal dumping on Doonan Street be addressed by the city administration. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-068 offered by President Morell and Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the council leadership and city clerk implement new agenda and meeting management software for council agendas, documents, and meetings. Vice President Bears, I'll let you take it away.
[Nicole Morell]: Thanks for that summary, Vice President Bears. And yeah, just to build on what you said is it's it's a tool for the council, but it's really a tool for the public to make sure that they can access, you know, the same things we're getting physically every week that they can track resolutions, they can have better following of all the work that's being done. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion from the council? I do see a motion for approval by councilor. I do see one hand up. I actually don't have co-hosting privileges. Do you wanna? for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Right, it's coming out of our budget.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it's coming out of the clerk's budget. Okay. Okay, thank you. Any further discussion? On the motion by Councilor Knight, seconded by... Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. 23-069 offered by vice president bears. Be it resolved that the Medford city council expresses its support of HD 577 and SD 1144 and act relative to pesticides. Be it further resolved that the city council that a city clerk for a copy of this resolution to the Medford legislative delegation as well as house speaker Mariano and Senate President Spilka. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-070 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council again request funding for legal counsel to complete the zoning process in Medford. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yes, and as we discussed, just to provide an update, I've been working with, as well as Vice President Bears, with Director Hunt, just because to do the zoning work we want to do, I think we discussed that we need a land use planner as well, so then that kicks us into the bidding the RFP process. So I'm just, we're refining the scope with Director Hunt and her staff. I hope to have that to the council by end of the week, maybe next week. And then once we agree on that scope, we can start that process and get that moving. And I did get it affirmed by Director Hunt that we, the $50,000 is in the budget again for next year. Ideally we can use, you know, the whole 50,000 We can get the whole 50,000 done, or at least some of it this fiscal year, we'll also get the 50,000 next year and Dr. Hunt did mention it's going to be enough. She did mention there will be money coming from her budget as well to support the work.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe at council meetings we discussed that we need a land use a lot of things to do a deeper, but to do a deeper dive into the zoning we need a land use planner to come with and that kicks it then it's not just legal and it's not just that part and it kicks off the bid process, and we've had
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I will. I mean, I will say Director Hunt is putting all of our staff on this right now. And I think to your point, Councilor Knight, we're asking her to do the work that an assistant city solicitor would have helped us with. So I understand that maybe it's not moving as fast as any of us.
[Nicole Morell]: Right.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-073 offered by vices and bears, be it resolved by the Metro City Council that the city administration present an update on the capital improvement plan. Vices and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And we do have a meeting, a Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for next Wednesday for an update on the capital improvement plan based on-
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? So on the motion by Susan Bair, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-074 offered by vice president bears be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we meet in committee of the whole to discuss options to increase transparency, accountability and democratic oversight in city government by providing the city council with greater authority over the budget process, allowing the direct hiring of staff to support the city council and requiring city council confirmation of city board and commission appointees, vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And yes, to your point that draft agenda for the joint meeting was sent to the council and it's it sits the mayor and her role as chair of the school committee and I continue to await her response as far as scheduling it and she has acknowledged receipt of it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice is embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and that draft is something that vice chair Graham and I put together and it's not, you know, it's nothing crazy. It's modeled after other cities that have these joint meetings with some frequency.
[Nicole Morell]: So, yeah. So I just thought I would just. Yeah, I appreciate that.
[Nicole Morell]: Let you know that.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? Madam Chief of Staff, do you have something to speak on this?
[Nicole Morell]: I hear what you're saying. I'm chairing the meeting. I'm chairing the meeting, and it's under my discretion. Understood. Historically, yes. If we look at Robert's Rules of Order, we would use it at wrong for probably 40 years, but I'm not. I'm not tackling it tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do just want to, you know, affirm what Vice President Bears said. But again, just to add background, you know, I got a text from the mayor today telling me who's going to be at the meeting, saying our free cash was certified didn't say didn't say the amount didn't say anything. And I very much appreciated that. And then we get a missive of a press release, urging the council to vote for something that has not been presented to the council that has not been asked for us to vote for tells us this free cash number via press release, and then we get an email from you after the fact that says see press release. And seeing us, speaking from the chair, I shouldn't be getting this specific, but seeing us as partners, if that wasn't a mistake saying, dear city council, I'm sorry that this went out before it got to you, as opposed to an email that just says see press release.
[Nicole Morell]: And I get that. And just one comment as a communications person, ask and urge have two very different meanings and feelings. Asking the city council to approve something, which we've never been asked before versus urging which has the subtext of, I've asked them and they're not doing it. These things matter. Maybe that's not for you. Maybe that's for the comms director, but just, if we're gonna get into the weeds, I'll get in there with you a little bit.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to continue? If you want to present, we want to focus on a paper hand and just just narrow the scope.
[Nicole Morell]: Please know, attending via Zoom, when you can attend, one nursing mother to another, I understand how extremely challenging it is. I've been shouted out of this council because I had to leave to pump, so I understand that. So any manner you can attend, if you can attend, I appreciate that. I think that we would much appreciate, or I can speak personally, would much appreciate information in advance so that you don't have to come and defend everything because I don't, I don't want to put you in that position beforehand is great. So you don't have to go line by line and say, here's what we did.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from Councilor Knight to move the question.
[Nicole Morell]: Understood, thank you, thank you. Okay. That's okay. Councilor Cabrera.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? To refer to Committee of the Whole. All those in favor. Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. Communications from the mayor 23-044 to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding loan order sidewalk construction and equipment bonds. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following loan order.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the reading as one, it's already been read and also in favor of a summary from DPW Commissioner McGivern, second by? Second. Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor to waive the reading. All those opposed, motion passes. Commissioner McGivern, if you could give us a summary of the loan order requests before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Commissioner McGovern. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: The finance director is on the call too.
[Nicole Morell]: Director Dickinson, can you answer that question as far as, is it the same software that was under the previous finance director that you're using?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thanks. Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion on the floor from Councilor Collins to approve the first reading. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Director Dickinson, can you speak to the choice to use to bond out as opposed to using free cash for this?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, do you want to start?
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion on the floor for this paper if we want to keep on.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on this paper specifically? So we have a motion from Councilor Collins to approve for first reading. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, two in the negative, the motion passes for first reading. 2-3-0.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice... Second. Sure. giving you a call back. 22-071. 22, all right. Let me get a thought out. It's a red paper, it's a big red paper. Let me complete a thought, just, all right. Motion from Councilor Knight to take 23-071 out of order. That's the last one, right? 23-071, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Great, thanks for that. Motion passes. 23-071. Just very quick on this on this very time I'm going to, I'm going to read it for just so people know what we're talking about. 237071 to our president and members of the city council regarding use of free cash to your present morale and members of the city council I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves and appropriation of free cash and the amount of $2 million to purchase two pumper trucks for the fire department delivery time for these trucks are 820 calendar days from the completed order. The following department heads will be available to answer your questions. Superintendent of Equipment Mike Wenzel, Fire Chief John Friedman, and Finance Director Auditor Bob Dickinson. Sincerely yours, or respectfully submitted, Mayor Brantlinger. Madam Chief of Staff, you had something to say? Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Director Dickinson, can you speak to that? Is that something that could happen? It's like if we vote for free cash, can we then bond out for something? Can we change the process or lease to owner the options? Councilor Caraviello is mentioning.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Dickinson, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, go ahead. Come on, calm down.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. It's a lot of crosstalk.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? I move approval. So on the motion of Cascara Pelli to approve second by racism bears Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: We're under suspension for that one paper, where are we going?
[Nicole Morell]: Motion by Senator Bears to revert back to regular business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Going to 23-059. To Honorable President Morell and members of Medford City Council, regarding proposed wage adjustment for non-union personnel. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respect the request and recommend the City Council approve the following amendments to revise ordinances chapter 66 entitled personnel article two entitled reserve the city's classifications and compensation plan formally included as article two sections 66-31 through 66-40 by adopting the following change. Non-union personnel effective January 1st, 2021 increase the base salary of all non-union titles by 2%. Effective January 1st, 2022 increase the base salary of all non-union titles by 2%. back to January 1 2023 increase the base salary of all non union titles by 2%. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Respectfully submitted.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Pele.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further advice from bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff, she's joined by Zoom now. Do you have a list of the titles that are covered by this? I'm sorry, I gotta unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'd be happy to have both. Yeah, can we have it read now and also get a copy?
[Nicole Morell]: Are you able to share on a screen, Madam Chief of Staff?
[Nicole Morell]: I think she's gonna make you a co-host so you can do that.
[Nicole Morell]: These are names and not job titles. Do you have job titles?
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion from sorry, Councilor Tseng I have a motion from Councilor Knight to table to have a second.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry, Madam Chief of Staff.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, these are the positions.
[Nicole Morell]: She said we are included in this group and if we want to separate us out.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, as our only motion has a second. So we have a motion to approve and exclude the mayor and the city council from this second by Councilor Collins any further discussion. Seeing none, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. All right, so I have a motion on the floor to approve for first reading. from President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk. Excluding the Mayor and the City Council. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the in front of two in the negative. The motion passes for first reading. 23-060, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding use of free cash. To your President and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves the appropriation of one free cash in the amount of $680,342.38 to purchase the following items. $370,453.90 to pay for 55% of the cost of an electric street sweeper. $131,630 that purchase of two three quarter ton utility block trucks with plows $55,272 the purchase of one three quarter ton utility block utility body truck with plow and lift gate $48,921 the purchase of one three quarter ton pickup truck with plow and $66,000 $66,065.48 for the purchase of one three-quarter ton pickup for the fire department. Two, free cash in the amount of $80,000 for 2% COLAs for non-union employees as per the proposed wage adjustments for non-union personnel paper submitted. The necessary paperwork for certification of free cash will be submitted in the coming days, and it is our hope that it will be certified by the time of the meeting. The following department heads will be available to answer any questions. DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon, Superintendent of Equipment Mike Wenzel, Fire Chief John Friedman, and Finance Director Auditor Bob Dickinson, respectfully submitted. Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff, were you able to speak to the opera question? I see your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further questions on BEARS?
[Nicole Morell]: And that's the address your address my question.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: The one and the two are each item within one. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: for the discussion from the council on this paper. Madam Chief of staff, I see you with your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So I have a motion from Councilor Knight to sever of a second. So we are severing just the first bullet point. Second, Councilor Pele. So motion is to sever the first bullet point of number one. So the street sweeper, $378,453.90. So there's a motion for that from Councilor Nunez to sever a second by Councilor Pele. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. So we'll take that one first. Well, if I have a motion to, I need a motion. Motion to approve what? The street sweeper. Okay, so on the motion of Councilor Collins to approve the $378,453.90 for 55% of the cost of an electric street sweeper, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. This is for the street sweeper only.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Councilor Collins to approve the remainder of the free cash request under, it's just item one, just item one? Okay, under item one, seconded by Vice-President Bears. And again, this is just for item one, so the remainder of the items. The clerk's still writing stuff, so I was gonna say it, so I'll be quiet, so he can think while he writes. Yes, six in the affirmative one in the negative motion passes on the motion Councilor Collins to approve the second item.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. Second, okay. I have a motion from Councilor Knight to table the paper and are requesting an updated figure from the administration reflecting the amendments we made from the paper that this is tied to, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Paper is tabled. Get that information. All right, number is this. 23-061. to my role president and members of the Medford City Council regarding stabilization fund establishment and funding your present morale and members of the city council I respectfully request and recommend that your body establish a general stabilization fund as authorized by chapter 40 section five B of general laws and vote to appropriate free cash in the amount of $5 million and you said fun. The vast majority of cities and towns in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have a general stabilization fund in order to provide for emergencies and unforeseen expenses. A two thirds majority of the city council is required to establish and to appropriate funds into the stabilization fund. Respectfully submitted Brandon Lungo-Koehn mayor. Do you want to hear from Director Dickinson first or do you want to? Director Dickinson, could you just provide some background for what's before us and also for folks who may not have seen the press release that went out, let us know how much free cash we have right now. that is certified?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Madam President, Vice President Bears and then Councilor Carbonell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. All right, so that addressed here. Okay, thank you. Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng. Sorry, there's a very strange sounding car outside.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Sai.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we have a motion from Vice President Bears. Do you have something? Just information.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we have a motion from Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: She can't make motions.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion from Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Carr-Gallo to move this to Committee of the Whole. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-072. to honorable President and members of Medford City Council regarding contract ordinance. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body, pursuant to provisions of MGL Chapter 30B, Section 12, approve and authorize the city of Medford to enter into a 10-year agreement for a citywide collection, disposal, and processing of solid waste, reusables, and recyclables. The following department heads will be available to answer any questions. DPW Commissioner Tim McGivern and Planning, Development, and Sustainable Director Alicia Hunt, respectfully submitted. Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor. I see we have Director Hunt on Zoom and Commissioner McGuire remains with us this evening. Do you want to tell us kind of what this is, why this is before us?
[Nicole Morell]: and understanding we have no city solicitor, would you accept a legal opinion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So that's a form of motion. Second by Councilor Cabrera. Any further discussion? I do see Director Hunt, your hand up, Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we have a motion on the floor from Councilor Knight. So we can see how that goes. So we have the motion from Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Would that be to a date certain, waiting for that legal opinion?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we have a motion from Councilor Knight. Second by Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: There is an existing motion on the floor, though, a second motion on the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Commissioner Gabor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I know folks are suggesting other motions. We do have a motion on the floor. Just a second to get a legal opinion on the vote.
[Nicole Morell]: I already have the second.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Councilor Knight to get a legal opinion on the request before us based on previous legal opinion, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: A motion to table an order as we wait for that legal opinion. Or do you want to take it? It's just, I mean, what is the other option? Oh, no.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, the request, do you want to say? Do you want to read it back, Mr. Clerk? Do you want me to?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. And yeah, exactly. per Councilor Knight memory that this is something that's already been a question that's come through.
[Nicole Morell]: He's talking.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor. No. Do you want a roll call?
[Nicole Morell]: It's fine. I vote nay. And I called in favor. You said no. And in favor. Do you want a roll call? Or do you know?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Going to public participation, I do not believe the person is here. Rick, okay. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to receive and place on file those papers seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor McLaren. All those in favour? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passed.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. I am Nicole Morel. She, her pronouns and I am the president of the Medford City Council.
[Nicole Morell]: I think there's so many ties for favorites, but what I'm really thinking about right now is actually garden, the wantons and the chili sauce and vinegar. I love like a hot and sour and it's they're just so good.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I know. My husband is always horrified as I'm sitting there and I'm like, I can't feel my tongue. This is so good. I crave this.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, definitely. I mean, so to go way back, I kind of grew up in like a very civically engaged household. My dad ran the community action public grant funded nonprofit, the anti-poverty agency in New Bedford for 30 years. So we always had conversations about kind of public policy around the dinner table. And my mom was a public school teacher. So I think I was always very civically minded. I've always kind of had an interest in politics and civic engagement. And what prompted me to run for City Council was I, as I got more involved and aware, just in local politics in Medford, I didn't really see my voice and my views reflected. And I thought, well, I'll take it upon myself and run. And I think I saw the way a lot of Campaigns were run and I think it felt like if you just did a lot of hard work, there was a really good chance of getting in. So I thought there was an opportunity and I went for it. And it worked the first try. My dad, going back to that civic involvement, always said most people run for office the first time. They do not win. So I was kind of prepared for that. So we had that moment to be like, oh my gosh, I won. And then you have all those great ideas, all those conversations with people on the doors, and it's like, I can start to do these things now. So, and I'm really excited to say that in the short time I've been on city council, I think, you know, if I were just a community member now, I could say, actually, I do see my voice and my views fairly well represented on the council, which is something that couldn't be said, you know, four short years ago.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, one of the things for running that is something that it's a massive privilege that I will always go back to is I had a 9 to 5 job that was very respectful of my time. So on the weekends, I can knock doors. After hours, I can knock doors. I did not have a child at the time. I didn't have to worry about child care. So the ability to knock doors and have those face-to-face conversations I think were really important. And that's that comes from a massive place of privilege. I also did have because I was active in my ward Democratic committee, I had a few old hands as as they're called. So people who, you know, one person who's been in Medford, you know, for 75 years, could really speak to just the history of politics and things like that. And he was always willing, some of you may know him, Len Gliana, so he was always willing to just lend his historical perspective, which didn't always exactly align with my politics, but just like having that to be able to listen to, I think, and really understanding where I was running in a way I didn't before, I think was really important. So probably those two things, time, and if you can, an old hand, as they're called.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, I think if, you know, depending, I'm not sure how active the Republican Party is in Medford, but I know the Democratic Party, there are ward committees, and that's a great way, you know, it's a great conduit just for those political conversations. You will, if you want, you can run to attend the caucus, and at the caucus, there's going to be hundreds, I'm sorry, there'll be the caucus, and there'll be the convention. At the convention, there's going to be hundreds of people like you. So even though they might not be from Medford, they're people who kind of understand the lay of the land of local politics. That's really great. Boards and commissions, if you have the time to be able to dedicate that, or just, you know, watch the city council meeting, watch a school committee, watch a ZBA meeting. It can absolutely feel like they're speaking a different language at first, But you start to kind of understand, like, what are the issues people are talking about? What are the issues Councilors are talking about? What are the issues residents are talking about? Because they're not always the same thing. And just kind of dip your toe in that way. There's also great, there's free trainings, they're mine, it's escaping me right now. The free trainings I can't think of right now, but one I actually did emerge, which is training for democratic women. I did a boot camp for that. So that's something else that was really helpful. And that gave information about you know what you need to do for fundraising and you know things you need to know here's how to pick. or narrow down your, you know, your five policy points that you want to talk about on the doors. And that was also just really helpful for the sense that I was in this room with like 40 other women who also wanted to do this, what feels like a crazy thing. So that was just like a network to be able to go back to, too. So I think there's Try to learn what's going on by popping into a meeting. Look for those training opportunities. There's also some great books. I think I read a book that's been around. It's kind of old. It may be 20 years old at this point. But it's literally called How to Win a Local Election. And some of this stuff isn't going to apply because it's written by someone not in Medford. I think they were in Texas or something. But there's some stuff that now is a total no-brainer, but then wouldn't have even thought of. Yeah, look for meetings. Google is your friend. Look for free trainings. There's lots of resources out there. It all takes time though, right? And we're not, not all of us have the privilege of time. Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, so the Gender Equity Ordinance was something that actually a lot of surrounding communities passed as early as the 80s. And it's something that when it was passed in the 80s, it was called the Women's Commission or some form of that. And then as we updated it for present times, Gender Equity Commission. But just understanding that in all ways, different genders are represented in city views in ways they might not be. with the current elected bodies. So it was a way of empowering folks, giving them the opportunity for a new boarding commission that they can look through things through the lens of gender equity, whether it's a new policy that school committee or city council is passing. And not to say that they would have power over that, but they would be a board that would be organized in this intention. And as this work goes on, they could say, hey, let's reach out to the city council and say, we have some thoughts on this. Whereas right now you might just have individuals that if they're paying attention can say, oh, this thing, you know, it's harmful, this is important, and something like that. So it's just establishing a new commission in the city. It's something that we actually haven't taken up yet this year. We've got a lot of stuff we're moving on, and that one's been, it's been a little challenging as far as, like, how much power we can give it, how much power folks want to give that body, because, I mean, I think there's, There's some bodies that actually can subpoena as a women's commission and things like that. So I think we're just trying to find the right balance of, we want to design it so it's a board that people who might be new to boards and commissions would be involved with, because I think, and they're doing important work, these people, but I think we tend to see a lot of the same people, you know, In these spaces in Medford and any city that they have the time to volunteer, they have the capacity to volunteer for these things, but you're not getting this representative view that you'd like. So we're trying we had been trying to design it in a way that we can make sure we have a representative from each board in the city plus 1 and things like that. And it just. It just got a little bit into the weeds. And I think we're just trying to find the opportunity where we can pull it back up. And I think one of the things we're waiting on there is just not having our own city solicitor right now and really wanting that like in-house opinion on something that's kind of like as a very, very specific aim. And we don't want to copy and paste maybe from something that was passed in Somerville in 1984 because, you know, It's almost 40 years since then. So, it's still on the radar. It's still important, but we just, it's something that unfortunately when you want to do it right, it can take a lot of time.
[Nicole Morell]: It's really a commission to make sure that, yeah, you know, historically it was a commission or when these other seas passed, it was commissioned to make sure women had a voice when they often didn't have a voice in politics. And now in present day, it's, you know, it's expanding that umbrella and making sure those folks, you know, those underrepresented folks, you know, whatever their gender identity is making sure that they have a voice and just specifically focused on these issues. So yeah, and it may be stuff that isn't, you know, even talked about at school committee or city council, it may go the other way where they say, oh, we have this policy that we think Medford should adopt. So it's kind of like, I think the idea is a two way street. And I think it's also, you know, just fostering maybe it's events or bringing in speakers. So just kind of, you know, building that group, probably not dissimilar for some of the ways the Human Rights Commission works, where I think it's, you know, having these certain focuses, sometimes it's policy, sometimes it's more, you know, broad events and things like that, and just trying to adjust what the needs are, and also what the commission wants to focus on.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. And that's a really good point, because I think, you know, I think this was something that was brought up in the debates, the last session on the council was kind of like, we have a woman mayor, we have this number of women politicians, this is an outdated thing, we don't need this anymore. And I think you bring up a really good point, Danielle, where it's like, this is the kind of random bips and bobs that actually, you know, it's like, oh, we forgot to write about women, or, you know, this kind of stuff. But it's just like, you know, sometimes we're on scary times and wouldn't it be great to codify that, that we exist and we're allowed to hold power in the city and things like that, that, you know, it doesn't seem like we have to do, maybe we do.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. Yeah. I think that was intentional. I'm just really wanting to put that on display. The school committee has always had, not always, but in recent years has had a fair number, if not mostly women representatives, but it wasn't always the case on city council. We're still quite underrepresented. It's two out of seven. But just seeing that incremental shift and then seeing that the positions of power on each body and then the mayor, I think it's really important, like optics matter. And I think, yeah, it was really good to see that.
[Nicole Morell]: kind of two main roles, and then like a lot of unofficial roles, but the two main roles are to chair the meetings. And then also you essentially set the agenda. I decide, you know, or I mean, I try to decide, like, I'll talk to vices or bears, but, you know, and of course, I'll ask folks for what kind of meetings or what subcommittee meetings they want. But, you know, I set the calendar for what our committees as a whole are. So that, you know, it helps me, you know, planning out, it has to come from the council, but then planning out when we're going to have these meetings. So it's in some sense, it's kind of an agenda setting role. I'm not going to ignore fellow Councilors if we pass a resolution for committee of the whole, we're going to have that. But it does, it's a little bit agenda setting as far as like priority or how soon or making sure things move along. So as far as chair, I mean, my hope was, it's just like, making the council a little bit more, you know, comfortable place for people to speak up. I mean, we're still not quite there. I mean, even just the building, just by design of the building itself, it's very intimidating. You know, these giant high ceilings, the lectern, you know, you've got cameras in your face, and the TV screens right there, you have to stare at yourself as you're talking, and that can be really challenging. But just making sure to try to make it clear that this is a space where we're going to be respectful. We're not going to yell at each other as much as we can. And everyone is welcome to speak, which has always been the case. But saying it's welcoming and doing the things to try to make it welcome are two different things. I'm absolutely not perfect on it. It's very challenging to manage people that are passionate about things and really want to be heard. So it's a fine balancing act of, not trying to cut anyone off, but you're kind of always waiting a little bit, you know, for not someone to cross a line, but it's like, you know, I don't, you know, no one's getting talked bad about, no one's getting like yelled at as much as I can stop it. So it's trying to manage just people who are really passionate about things, you know, all matter of things and making sure people feel heard and we move along in a timely manner and things like that. And then, yeah, going back to the agenda setting, it's just making sure that the issues that we're focused on get moved along, that we're able to just schedule those meetings. And we do keep a pretty robust calendar. You know, we, the council meets in some form, like usually at least twice a week, you know, and everyone else has a full-time job in addition to that. So it's challenging, but that's how we're trying to move, or I'm trying to move, I think, some of the more progressive ideals forward. Of course, you have to have a progressive majority to get those resolutions passed to then schedule those meetings, which is where we are now, but then just making sure that we're actually having those meetings that are called for and the right people are invited and we can get the insight and information we need to move forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. So, I mean, we've made progress. We've actually advanced some really big things in the past few weeks. We finalized some things that have been worked on, honestly, for years at this point. One was the Housing Stability Notification Ordinance, which is a series of paperwork that landlords have to reside so folks, the renters know the resources available to them. So, it's just, you know, Ideally, just a minor extra step of paperwork. So renters know the resources that should they, you know, ever, you know, be housing insecure or anything like that. They know the legal resources. They know that public offering resources and things like that. The other was the CCOPS ordinance, which is citizen control over public surveillance use. that's something that's been in the works, I wanna say at least for four years, honestly, it's probably longer. And very simply, this is just asking anyone in city departments who are asking to use new surveillance technology to come before the city council, tell us what it is, provide a report by the end of it. And the city council does have to vote on it, but understanding that we are not experts, we're not claiming to be experts, but I know I voted for it because I believe there's power in knowing what's out there, knowing what kind of tech is being used. And I think there is, you know, some of this, a lot of this tech that's coming out, you know, can be questionable and it has a whole lot of issues. So understanding what is being out there, what is being asked to be used, and then also how it's being used after, you know, if it's approved, getting that report, just a very, a yearly, very short report on how it's being used.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so I mean, it's stuff, the idea is that it's things you can't even think of, right? I mean, I think we all, not to say we all, you know, if you do digging, it's, maybe this is like an oversimplification of it, but I think, you know, if we think of like, say, pharmaceutical companies, they have this great new drug, and they bring it to doctors and are like, cool, let me give this to my patients. You know, I believe, stories I've read, things I understand, similar stuff may happen with, you know, just city departments that some company comes out with XYZ tech, it's gonna solve all your problems, here you go. And I think the hope is that, you know, the city council and just in general, just the public, learning that XYZ tech, you know, may be put in, we can pause and say, hey, hasn't been tested, is this actually going to do what we want it to do? Or, you know, just letting people know it exists. Because I think, you know, there are issues with surveillance technology, as we know, it's, It's notoriously not good at all as far as identifying facial features of black and brown individuals. It's developed and tested by white folks, so it's like the technology has a number of issues. So I think just understanding that stuff as it comes forward. So there are a lot of things that, things that kind of count as different types of surveillance that are in use by the city that were exempted, you know, just making sure that like it's stuff related to like elections and poll pads and things like that. So it's not just what the police are using, you know, it could be some new thing from the parking department. So just understanding like surveillance tech is kind of increasingly everywhere and just making folks aware of what our city is using or maybe asking to use.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. And this is something that is like one of my main frustrations that I speak about and some other Councilors speak about where federal policy, state level policy is kind of woefully behind the eight ball as far as tech. So we're left, at the municipal level, we're just like, okay, what can we do? If they're not gonna write something about privacy and surveillance and security in Congress, or they're not gonna do it at the state house, what can we do here? And I think it was important for me to say, this isn't a comment necessarily on anything that's happening now. It's just understanding that technology that we can't even conceive of is going to come down and we have to figure out how to deal with it. Otherwise, they're making the decisions for us.
[Nicole Morell]: And then the other big thing we just passed. And again, this two of these just passed for first reading, so they have to go over a second and third reading. There's generally usually not a hold up between those but is the affordable housing trust. So that gives additional kind of like buying and spending power within the CPA. So that's exciting to that gives us more power to And basically gives us the ability to put funds into an affordable housing trust to buy or finance affordable housing and just really increase the affordable housing opportunities within the city.
[Nicole Morell]: Green.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think as we're seeing this stuff come down, you know, as this is like kind of like the newer policy written or suggested, you're seeing that folded in as much as possible. So, definitely.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. I appreciate it. I'm trying and I don't think there's not a night that goes by after a meeting that I don't sit there and go, oh, I should have done this or that sooner or said this. Sometimes people say things that you can't ever anticipate and you're just not ready to respond because you're on your toes. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, I mean, just the fact that, you know, city council meetings. They're on TV, they're on Zoom. I know they can be a bit dry, but for folks who might not be paying attention, I really encourage you to. I think we all tend to have, a lot of folks have kind of like that qualifying event that they're like, you know, I wasn't paying attention and now this happened and I dialed in. I'd love for folks to be involved before that kind of like transformative thing that's upsetting like pulls them in. You know, we work for you and also just to, let folks know. I think sometimes what we actually have powers to do on city council can get a little lost. So we focus on zoning, approval of the budget and ordinances. And then of course, you know, if there's an issue that we can be in conduit to a city department to letting them know, we absolutely can do that. But those are our big three things. We have a few things here and there as far as like small approvals and stuff like that. But those are our big three things. So if you have something that you care about in those areas and ordinances can pretty much cover anything. So there's probably something you care about related to that. That's us. And we're always, always, always, always eager to hear from people because there's a lot of people who, not a lot, but I mean, there's a small amount of people who have been very good at getting the city council's ear for a very long time. And we know there's many more people in the city. So we'd love to hear from everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Of course. Thank you guys. Hopefully we'll talk to you again soon. Yeah, definitely. Appreciate the chance to come on. Thanks.
[Nicole Morell]: 23 at six p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Present tonight is absent.
[Nicole Morell]: The meeting is called to order. Just close the window. Hold on a moment. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, March 15th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss proposed updates to the outdoor dining ordinance with Medford paper 22-514. The committee has invited Interim Economic Director, Victor Schrader, Yvette Niwa from the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425 Sincerely yours, Nicole Morella, Council President. So at our last meeting on this, we had a few motions related to having the PDS staff update, make some updates to the proposed ordinance. And we've gotten a reply from Yvette with some of those changes and responses. So if you wanna kick us off and then we'll go from there. And we do have the building commissioner with us tonight as well, which related to the outdoor seating license requirements. So if you wanna kick us off.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins, does that address your question?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a second on that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Item one.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it says such insurance shall cover the use of all equipment related to the provision of sidewalk dining services. I'm obviously not a lawyer, I don't know if that covers it or not, but.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, could you read back that motion? Give a second from Councilor Tseng. It's all voice votes and so it's on Zoom if we want to vote now.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, amended by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. Any other questions from the Council at this time? Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions on the draft ordinance before we move on to the licensing licensing document? Seeing none, I want to proceed to that.
[Nicole Morell]: And then is that the only proposed change in this document? Yes. Okay, great.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions or comments from the council? Any questions for Commissioner Forti as we have them here as well?
[Nicole Morell]: But do you want to add something?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion, questions? Questions from anyone on Zoom? Seeing none, any motions? I know we have the one motion already voted on. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have that, Mr. Clerk? Yes. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. Do you want to keep this in committee? Those changes? I mean, do you want to report out as amended?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to report the paper out favorably with the amendments.
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: We have the whole meeting notice Wednesday, March 8 2023 at 6.30pm is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. By present to absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, March 8th, 2023 at 6.30 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chambers on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the proposed tree ordinance, paper 19-070. The Committee of the Whole has invited DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon, Tree Warden Aggie Tudin, Alicia Hunt, Director of Planning, Development, and Sustainability, and Building Commissioner Bill Forty to attend the meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, council president. So just to bring everyone up to speed on kind of where we are, this paper was just reported out from the sustainability subcommittee where we reviewed comments that have been made from attorney Stein back, I believe over this, I think actually like a year ago at this point. We had some comments from Commissioner McGibbon on, sorry, this is all in a draft ordinance that's available on the city council drive. We also reported out a number of questions and I shared answers with the council. I also have them, I can read them back if anyone needs them. And then also actually a late update is when we had last worked on this, one of the motions the council, so before the subcommittee, the council had motion to separate out of the proposed ordinance to separate the establishment of the tree committee to separate the public shade trees and keep that separate from the private shade trees. And that's something that actually the acting chief of staff, Emily had worked on over the summer. And I think that got a little bit lost in the ether and that was delivered to us this week. So that was also shared with the council. None of these are final documents, they're still works in progress. But I think having this separated out is something we've requested. And then if I could just speak from the chair, just a few kind of process and opinions about where we go from here. So I mean, in short, we have before us is an ordinance for what seems like a simple problem, but has many pathways to potential solutions. And in my opinion, a lot of these are affected by capacity we have in the city to actually enforce I think that we've seen in other communities. If you put something like this on the books and you don't have the capacity to enforce it, even if you do, sometimes people may get spooked and they start taking down trees, which is exactly what we're trying to get people not to do. So I think, in my opinion, it's really helpful tonight to have to hear from the building commissioner to hear from the PDS director to hear from Commissioner McGivern to understand the capacity their departments may have to enforce some version of this to help to meet these goals. We're trying to protect our tree canopy and ideally grow our tree canopy, but just seeing what we can do. As has been made clear by the ordinances that are separated, MGL is fairly explicit in the protection of public shade trees. We had talked in the past of maybe going a little bit farther to protect our public shade trees or add some more parts of that process. And then I think, We do have, we've gone back and forth. I know Commissioner Gibran has opinions on it, but we have opinions from Attorney Stein and KP Law just about what a city can and can't do with regards to protecting private trees. I was actually looking around and I know what was presented to us came from a lot of work by the Energy Environment Committee, as well as meant for trees. But I was also looking around at Arlington and their tree ordinance actually is very explicit related to construction. It's about clear cutting and kind of those projects where you might take down a bunch of trees and talking about permitting and enforcement related to that, as opposed to perhaps the one-offs of people making changes in their own backyard. So my hope is tonight that we can get to something that is workable, take us a little bit out of the weeds and also just understand what we can actually enforce, what we have the capacity for in this city to protect our tree canopy, but also be real about what we can do in the city. So that's just kind of my opening preamble. I'm happy to hand it off to Councilors for any discussion. And then I think I'd like to hear from our city staff as far as their additional feedback with regards to the proposed ordinance in front of us. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: happy to take public trees first. Um, so the document before us, I think this was this was separated out from the draft ordinance that we've been working on for over a year now, two years. The Public Tree Preservation Protection and Replacement Ordinance, Chapter 86, Article 3 of the City of Medford Ordinance is hereby amended. So the current section is deleted in its entirety and the new sections are hereby adopted. So this ordinance is enacted for the purpose of preserving and protecting both public shade trees and trees otherwise located on public property and set forth herein. A mature canopy maintains the natural beauty of Medford for ultimate joy. today and future generations and protects the community in critically important ways. It reduces energy consumption and ambient summertime temperatures, air pollution, flooding, and soil erosion. It provides privacy, absorbs noise, and boosts mental health. It supports wildlife and increases resilience to climate change. Protecting the city's tree canopy is less than essential community function and public purpose. This protection requires the city to manage its urban forests. To achieve this purpose, this ordinance outlines the procedure that the tree warden will use to regulate the removal and replacement of certain circumstances. The ordinance also establishes a tree fund to supplement the city budget for public tree maintenance, trees planting, stump removal, and tree planting site preparation, as well as to fund a fund for city residents to petition to fund private tree maintenance. So I think that actually is the biggest kind of add here that's different is establishing that tree fund. If you've not had in the past, sorry, I'm going to Councilor Scarpelli, I apologize. Councilor Scarpelli. Um, you just made it yourself.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, got it. The clerk has you. Thank you, Constable. Um, so, yeah, so I think really the biggest thing we're looking at, um, with regards to the public tree, um, section of this ordinance, again, understanding that this is fairly explicit at the state level, is establishing that tree fund. If we go through, we just have some strikethrough where it's removing the definition of a code enforcement officer because that's defined elsewhere in our ordinances. Construction permit is just not the right term, so that suggests to be struck as well. And then I think we had this adjusted to strike a tree protection mitigation plan, which would be a plan submitted to the code enforcement officer for approval prior to the demolition and construction of property. So I think this is because that would be related to private trees is my understanding. And then I think adjusting the tree warden definition, because that is defined at the state level as well as metrics ordinances already. So, I mean, this is really, just updating and bringing to President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, no, I think that's, I think I would agree with that as far as, yeah, because right now it just establishes an account. It's kind of a circular definition where it says the account established and it says by the ordinance amendment. the definition references that as well. So it's a little bit of a circular definition. So I would be curious, just as Commissioner McGibbon spoke, with the exception of the 30 days for the stump removal, is there anything in this 86-93 that is outside what's already being done? I think some of this is an attempt to codify the process that exists already. So just like the approval, you know,
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. But as far as the the written approval, the approval criteria. This is all, this is already going on.
[Nicole Morell]: And is there, you know, in your opinion, do you think, a time period for stump removal is reasonable to put in this, you know, whether it's, or is that something that shouldn't exist in this because your department prioritizes based on a number of issues?
[Nicole Morell]: So have there been instances where say a private company removes a tree and then the stump just they never remove the stump and then that becomes a city problem.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. I think it would be helpful to like be explicit about you know private companies have that some set amount of time where they have to remove it. I think Not to say if only, but I know we get a lot of calls about stumps. And if one is actually a private company, and we know they're required to remove it within a certain amount of time.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you want to make that in the form of a motion, President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm not seeing approval criteria within the ordinances. Is that something that exists within forestry? That type of, is that like a, do you have that? document that has your approval criteria for when someone is allowed to remove or trim a public tree?
[Nicole Morell]: I think that would be helpful because I mean, right now it just has, within our current ordinances, it just has the permission to cut, trim, or fire. Um, and it references chapter 87, but I think it's, you know, it's not as explicit that approval criteria protection. Mitigate, you know, those things are also exist in chapter 87. So that was probably the intent here. And something, you know, when we talked about just strengthening. The public tree orientation doesn't necessarily change, but I think when someone's reviewing our ordinances, they would have a better understanding of the actual process.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to take the motion now or do you like to take all motions at the end of the meeting?
[Nicole Morell]: I think, Commissioner McGivern, so I just wanna affirm that it is the hope and intention to develop that forestry master plan, it's just waiting on funding on that?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And then Vice President Bears's going back to the point about the tree fund. I think perhaps what's missing. So I think in the intent and purpose paragraph, it references the ability to, you know, it's more explicit about what the tree fund is and the intent purpose as far as allowing a fund for city residents to petition to fund private tree maintenance. So I think right now the tree fund definition is just establishing the account, the deposit of contributions in lieu of tree planting. I think maybe there's an opportunity to bulk that up, you know, or for private citizens to, I'm curious if we wanna make it.
[Nicole Morell]: So that this ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: I think we do need to take that. I think we also do need to include the part of the definition just because the definition establishes just as an account. Yeah. I think.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other outstanding issues with the public? Just 8694 and 8695 need to be filled out too on the last page.
[Nicole Morell]: So I'm seeing a few comments in the chat. One actually, Commissioner Gibbon, since we're talking about public trees for there, is there policy or practices regarding with national grid coming in and do you shape trees? Is there any specific requirements as far as either who they use or skill or training or something with regards to that type of pruning for trees with regards to utility work?
[Nicole Morell]: And that's already part of the existing permit process, just like them checking those credentials or... Not through the city.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Okay. Okay. Thank you. Um, any additional emotions with regarding to the public? She tree and I just want to. Make sure. That we did have a comment in the chat. Just talking about the tree fund being as defined. OK, yeah, so I think there was the member tree fund was also. I think in the draft, the original draft for separate out within the private trees and tree fund was defined as well. But I think. That language has to do a lot with what was draft version as far as penalties and everything else regarded to trimming and removal or not trimming, but removal of private trees. So I think that may be something we need to look at altogether once we get to a place with different parts of this ordinance, so. People want to just hold that in their heads as far as the tree fund. Is there anything else we want to talk through? regarding the public shade tree ordinance that we have before us. Is there any members of the public would like to speak on the public shade tree ordinance? Sure. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think the amendment we're proposing is just to include that if, as you say, those may be like those rare circumstances where it's a private, just to say that strump removal is part of that permit, but not putting a date on it, understanding there are many different factors that may impact when a stump can come up or can be done.
[Nicole Morell]: For a public tree, yes. I'm saying like, assuming all these other things happen, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, okay, yeah, so I guess, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe so, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Kim on Zoom. Kim, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to Sarah on Zoom. Name and address for the record, please. There you go. Just one moment. You just have to click the box to unmute. I'll send it again.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Elizabeth on Zoom, name and address for the record, please. Oh, and sorry, sorry, to your point, I will make sure we get this, the separated documents up into the Google Drive. This is something we actually just got yesterday. We had motioned for one of the past meetings to have these separated. It was something that was kind of going on in parallel that we lost. So we got that yesterday. There shouldn't be any major changes, any changes that were made at the last meeting we made like in line, I was making them in line on the, in Word, in track changes. And that was kind of some very minor stuff, I think, to address the legal concerns from that review, but I'll make sure that that stuff gets up in the Google Drive. So, now going to Elizabeth on zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So as we move on, going to Ryan, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. As we move on for this, I know we talked about going to the tree committee, but I want to take advantage of Bill 41 to have you here as kind of a new entrant to this whole conversation and coming from another community. I believe Waltham had or has, I don't know if they had while you were there, a tree ordinance, or I'm just curious from a building commissioner's point of view, if you could share any insight as far as whether it's construction or otherwise permitting that you've experienced with regarding removal of trees. I'd be really curious to have your insight that you could offer. the draft we have before us as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, they should be very similar. They shouldn't be different. But I mean, yeah, they're broken off. Things are going on in parallel that the other.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. But it's embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears. Do you have more?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And to Councilor Collins' point, I think the Energy Environment Committee, they did a ton of work and Medford Trees did a ton of work as well, but the committee came out with the idea of education. I think, I mean, yeah, if we could all kind of figure out how to prevent people from taking down trees that don't need to be taken down, I think we would have the golden ticket, but I think it's something that every city and town is probably struggling with. One thing that did come up was education. So to get in the weeds on that I'm curious if there would be either just just clarifying around, you know, if there are trees that are removed from like a certain This is getting super in the weeds, but an area where they might be really helping with erosion control and taking all those trees down, would that be maybe a different circumstance? I don't know if this is getting too into the minutiae, but is that a different circumstance? A flat area where it's not going to have the same effect on flooding? those types of things?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. And yeah, and I guess to your point, I think that may also be something to that, that to be established tree committee, if that gets voted for. could possibly take on some of that, you know, creating and disseminating work with the city on education.
[Nicole Morell]: And just to make sure I understand, so you talked about permitting for kind of those like one-off trees, would that be all instances of, you know, say someone wants to just fully take down a tree in their backyard, it would always require the permit process? Yes. Okay. Absolutely. And is the thought there similar to, so to take a little bit of the onus off the homeowner, it's similar to you're getting work done on your house, you're not pulling the permit, the contractor is pulling the permit. Is that the thought there or it's just
[Nicole Morell]: Appreciate it. I just have a question or a hand up from Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I really appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and thank you, Bill. I really appreciate it. I get the feeling the rest of the council really appreciates because I think, you know, for folks watching too, and you know this, we have the beautiful blue sky, here's how we're going to solve everything. And then we have, what can we actually do as a city? What can we enforce? What do we have the ability and what do we have the expertise that we know we can do? So I think your insight is really needed and welcome at this point. So much appreciated.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, you're good. Okay. All right. Very good. Have a great night. Thank you. Um, great. So is there I mean, any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Well, how about red line or draft?
[Nicole Morell]: Give him the option.
[Nicole Morell]: Proposed private tree ordinance. Any further discussion from the council on the private tree portion? Seeing none, any members of the public who wish to speak on the private tree portion of the ordinance we're looking at? Seeing none, okay, so if we want to take, oh, I see Elizabeth. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Going to Sarah on Zoom. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Commissioner Gabor. And then also, Director Hahn, as we have you here, I'm curious if you have anything you want to add just from us, you know, wearing your sustainability department hat, or you don't have to, but I know we, you know, took time out of your night.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. I appreciate it. New address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think that remains to be
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, no, I think that's a really important point. We can make sure, I mean, I think, again, this has to come back to us. We still have many, a long way to go, but I, you know, based on the building commissioner's statements, and again, this is stuff we have to vote on, I don't think he wants it to be, it's not meant to be an onerous process. It's meant to be, you know, a safety, like a permit, similar to, you know, something you would get for, you know, like we said, additional plumbing, something that, you know, may take a few days sometimes, depending on who's in, who's out, who can show up to the site, but I don't think it's meant to be, a lengthy process that goes out to a committee and back from a committee is the thought. Again, we still have to decide and vote on this, but that's what I gathered from him.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Um, so moving on to if we want to talk to the tree committee ordinance we have before us. So in this draft, I think just the main concern, um, which, uh, Director Hunt actually may be able to speak to just your involvement on committees and commissions was just the power being actually. And I think 10. This may be of concern as well. Um, commissioner given just the power being granted to the tree committee that may exist as like a separate body of legislating authority that does not exist in the city. I think the recommendation is this to serve more in an advisory capacity similar to our boards and, well, some of our current boards and commissions do the ones that basically exist outside of MGL so I believe those are the main comments we have. I think just One of the comments is just hoping that one of the members will hold a license as a MAS certified arborist or international certified arborist or similar. Based on the call tonight, we may have someone who wants to take up that position. So, I mean, maybe we take that as a, you know, if possible, as opposed to a must, I think it's a nice to have, but I don't want it to hold up the work of this committee, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, OK, got it. I see you're saying it's a number in common. Yeah, got it. OK, so. Well, we'll revisit that, you know. Again, we've been at this for four years, so we'll see if any committee, if another committee is established before we get this through. We'll check on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. So yeah, so we addressed that one comment, and then just, yeah, that large comment is just, regarding the duties of the committee, it does state, this is from Attorney Stein, is that this section will require review, revisions, and clarification once the amendments to Chapter 86 of the city ordinances are finalized. I recommend it generally to, revising it generally to have the committee serve as more of an advisory capacity as to public shaded trees, as committee cannot usurp the statutory authority within the tree ward under Chapter 87, and you may not want to invest in enforcement authority and a volunteer committee, which I, you know, editorializing I agree with. Also the scope of this may cross into the jurisdiction of other city boards, committees, officials, et cetera. So I think that's A, B, and C under duties are just flagged by Attorney Stein. So if we have any motions there, or if we wanna leave this in committee as is until we have the other documents before us in a more final form.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, my thought would be to where we can be as explicit as possible. I mean, I think we have experience as Councilors in reviewing our zoning or lots of things. There are a lot of things that are perhaps intentionally ambiguous. It would be great to stop that. So seeing where we can be explicit in what our intention is. So, I was just embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I think right now I can look back on the other draft. I know this draft just has Attorney Stein's comments on the tree committee. I'll keep. Yeah, Commissioner, if you have comments now, I'll keep searching.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Commissioner McIver. Yeah, looking at this, I found your comment. It was basically, you said there's a lot of reference to working with the tree warden, and it needs to be explicit what that means.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yep.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director. Any further discussion from the council? Any motions at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Any members of the public who would like to speak at this time? Sorry, Councilor, Mr. Clerk,
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I guess any additional comments because Commissioner McIver did provide.
[Nicole Morell]: And we have had the tree warden on the call this entire time. No, no, no, no. I mean, she's, you know, just have raised her hand or anything. So I've been keeping an eye. I don't know if there's anything specific you'd like to add relative to either the committee or any of these pieces. Actually have to unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Warren Tudin. Any comments from, any additional comments from the public at this time? And we have a number of motions. to address seeing none, Mr. Clark, if you could read back all the motions we have.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Clerk. So that's, I believe that was six motions. I think it's six, okay. Would we like to take those all together?
[Nicole Morell]: Any councilors opposed to taking those all together? All right, seeing none. So time to take a motion to take them all together. Okay, all right. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng to take all of the motions together, seconded by- Seconded. Vice-Chair Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: I think Scarpelli just voted for Councilor Caraviello. I'm not sure if Councilor Caraviello was able to speak where he is.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't think he can vote for him. You accidentally voted for Rick before, right?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yes. Do you want to call for Rick one more time? He's signed on, but he might not be where he can speak. So that is, oh yeah, he might not be able to. Is he not able to, he might not be able to unmute himself.
[Nicole Morell]: I asked him to unmute, he might not be. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Got it. Thank you. So that is- Thank you. Five in the affirmative. No, sorry. Six in the affirmative. Zero in the negative. One absent. And that motion was just to take them all together. Now we have to move to vote them all. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I guess.
[Nicole Morell]: No, it wasn't. It could have been, but it wasn't.
[Nicole Morell]: We joined the motion. So now do I have a motion to approve? So on that motion of Councilor Tseng to approve all of the motions before us, seconded by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Do you want to add anything else to that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Councilor Tseng to approve all of the motions before us and adjourn. Second by Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes, six in the infirmary was during the negative one absolutely motion passes and the meeting is adjourned. Thanks everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: to zero committee, the whole Tuesday, February 28th, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. present, four present, three absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, February 28th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the proposed food truck ordinance, paper 20-020. The committee has invited Interim Economic Development Director, Victor Schrader and a representative of the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So we had met on this paper a few months back, and I think it was a few months at this point. We had a number of resolutions and questions, and then asked Economic Development Director Schrader if they could come back with some proposed language for an updated version of this ordinance, unless Councilors have any questions to start? I can hand it off to Victor to give us an update of responses to those past questions and motions. Seeing none, Victor, if you wanna share with us the changes that you've proposed in response to the discussion we last had.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. If you are able to bring it up on your screen, or if you send it to me, I can also bring it up on my screen.
[Nicole Morell]: In general, the approach- On the 20th, I missed that, I apologize. So I didn't get that after the council, that's on me. I just sent it to the clerk. I apologize. I missed that in my inbox.
[Nicole Morell]: Uh, please
[Nicole Morell]: Victor, if you want to go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, that would be great.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if you could, that would be appreciated.
[Nicole Morell]: I see Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not see anyone on the call and there's no one in the chambers except for, if that would be yes. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Could you repeat that, Vice President Bears, or if you haven't written it?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, one present, one absent, zero in the negative. Motion passes. Any other questions from councilors at this time? I do have one question, Victor. I forget what section we were scrolling through, but where it mentioned that the permit can be longer than one day, but not longer than the event itself. I would assume that this is for, and I do not believe Medford has this, but like, you know, a fair or something that is in town for multiple days in a row. Is that the thought there?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And then, yeah, I just wanna know, I know I get emails every year, the same people email me every year saying, I can't remember how to apply for a food truck permit, I have to go find the word document on the website, then that goes to the mayor, and it becomes like a circular who presents this on the agenda. So I think it's just streamlining and operate, the hope, as I understand, is to streamline and operationalize this process, so it's a bit less onerous for those folks who are applying. And this is something that I, that was actually the last council session, that it was one of the council priorities that we talked about just because it has been a sitting paper for so long. Councilor Tseng, did you have?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears, is your hand up again or still?
[Nicole Morell]: No worries.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, I don't think we're if you want to know other questions at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: And then just for clarity, that's the thought of them weighing in on the development of this ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. I think, um, I appreciate that comment. I mean, just speaking, um, from the chair, I feel like that's kind of the opposite direction of the intent of this ordinance as far as just like being able to move them through at the speed of where the people need them approved, as opposed to getting them, you know, being on the schedule of,
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion from the council? So on the motion, of Councilor Collins to keep the paper in committee until we have further updates that we're waiting on from Board of Health and some other departments, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Any further discussion? Anything else you'd like to add, Victor?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do I have a motion to adjourn? On the motion of Councilor Tseng to adjourn, seconded by Vice-Chair Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned. Thank you, Victor, much appreciated.
[Nicole Morell]: fifth regular meeting of the Medford City Council February 28 2023 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. President seven present zero absent, please rise. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records 23-045 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Paul Howard. Mr. Howard was the owner of the renowned Jim's Market on Fulton Street for over 35 years. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli?
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like it to be an amendment, please can we please thank you. Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, as amended by Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. In the negative motion passes, please rise for a moment of silence.
[Nicole Morell]: Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. So the firm is during the night of the motion passes. I'm sorry, it's 23 to 063 or 063 was the clerk has enough suspension. Oh, right. Okay. Let's take that. 23-06 offered by Councilor Caraviello and Councilor Knight, be it resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of former City Councilor Robert L. Maloney on his recent passing. Councilor Maloney served on this Council from 1976 to 2001 as a member of the City Council, as President of the City Council, and as Deputy Mayor under the Plan E form of government, his presence will be missed in our community. Be it for the resolve that the Council dedicate tonight's meeting in Councilor Maloney's memory. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilman. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Kelly. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. We do have one more paper under suspension, but so we have 22, sorry, 23-056 petition for a common bit. So 23-056 petition for a common bit letters license by V. Samanth Vong and Thaliphon, 9 West Green Street, apartment 2, Lynn, Massachusetts, 01902 for King Bobiti at 464B Salem Street, Metro Mass, 02155. I know we have the petitioner here. If you want to come up to the mic, and I'm going to pass it over to our licensing chair, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion from the council? Second. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, it's seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. The license is approved. Thank you. Congratulations. All right. So while we're under suspension taking 23-025 offered by Councilor Scarpelli be it resolved the city council and buddy member of the city administration Neil Osborne and a representative from the Medford fire department to discuss issues and concerns dealing with fire trucks and human resource questions. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: We have Neil Osborne, but I'm not seeing anyone.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the councilors on this part of the resolution? And back to you, Councilor Scott Peli.
[Nicole Morell]: He is.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam President, any further discussion from Councilors? Any other members of the public would like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Osborne, would you like to answer that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, this is an interrogation. I understand your approach, but Mr. Osborne, it's not interrogation.
[Nicole Morell]: I understand that it's through the chair.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you mean police and DPW?
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Osborne, can you speak to that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wishes?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the emotion of councilor Scarpelli as amended three times by councilor Scarpelli, seconded by councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Motions, orders, and resolutions. 20-024 offered by Vice President Bears. Medford Affordable Housing Trust, chapter 49, housing, article two, housing stability notice.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the reading in favor of a summary, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Briefly absent. Yes. Yes. Six in the affirmative zero in the negative one briefly absent. I'm going to hand it over to vice president bears for a summary of the paper before us.
[Nicole Morell]: for those folks at home who do not have this in front of them. Could you please read the amended language for section 49-5411 just so sure it was read. I know it's just, it's like a conjugation change and insertion of one word.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. So we have those two amendments by, Vice President of Affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to sever. I'm sorry, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, motion to sever the amendments. Take the amendments completely separate or just separate from all yet?
[Nicole Morell]: So we have those before us. I know there's a number of members of the public who would like to speak. Any councilors who would like to speak at this time? Councilor Collins and then Councilor Osanic.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Sack.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Back to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I just, I also want to, I mean, thanks to everyone who worked on this and the council for their support and the many folks who lended their voices to shaping this. all in City Hall, outside of City Hall, residents, unions, everyone. And I agree that I think actually two recent papers, this paper and the housing civilian notification ordinance were brought to this Council by Councilor Falco. So I hope he's happy that we are finally finishing some of this work. I know we do have some members of the public who would like to speak both on Zoom and in person. I do see one hand up from Matthew Page Lieberman. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe it is. I believe it's remaining up. Councilor Knight, tell me if I'm wrong, but I think your hand is just still up. Or do you have something else you'd like to add?
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Great. Back to you, Matthew.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Penny, name and address for the record, please. Oops, sorry, I need to unmute you. Sorry, apologies. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We'll go to one person. Will, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Alex on Zoom. Alex name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to PDS Director Alicia Hunt on Zoom. I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Dan on zoom, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, well, the properties that go through the housing trust, they'll still pay property taxes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak either on zoom or in person? next to doing everything written on here, I don't know why.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I remember talking with you about this at your house when I was door knocking. That's exactly right.
[Nicole Morell]: Glad we could deliver. But we haven't voted yet. Any further discussion from members of the public or any Councilors who wish to speak at this time? So on the motion of Vice President Bears as amended by Vice President Bears to adopt the amendments and approve for first reading as seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready. I think Councilor Niestle you're second I apologize. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes, seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes, the paper is approved for first reading. Okay, he gave me some other paper numbers, I'm gonna find where I wrote them down. 23-044 is, okay. Okay, great, thank you. Communications from the Mayor, 23-044 to Honorable President Morell and members of the Medford City Council regarding loan order sidewalk construction and equipment bonds. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following loan order, City of Medford loan order sidewalk construction and equipment bonds. Be it ordered that $1,500,000 is appropriate for the purpose of constructing and reconstructing sidewalks and acquiring a sidewalk grinder, asphalt pathing equipment, It's called spread, including all costs incidental and thereto, and that to meet this appropriation, the treasurer, with the approval of the mayor, is authorized to borrow a set amount pursuant to Chapter 44, Section 7.1 of the General Laws, or pursuant to issue bonds or notes of the city, therefore. And for the order the author is authorized to file an application with the appropriate officials of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the Commonwealth quote Commonwealth to qualify under chapter 44A of the general laws and any and all bonds of the city authorized to be borrowed pursuant to this loan order and provide such information and execute such documents as such officials of the Commonwealth may require in connection there with respectfully submitted Brianna Lungo, current mayor. And I do believe we have DBW commissioner Tim McGivern to speak. I also see Councilor Knight with his hand up. Councilor Knight, do you want to speak now or wait to hear from Commissioner McGivern?
[Nicole Morell]: Please go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the Council before we hear from Commissioner McPherson? Councilor Scarpellillo.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Before we go back to President Bears, Commissioner McGibbon, if we were to table this to get that opinion from the AG, understanding you have contracts open actually from the last bond, would this push back the timing of any work if we were to wait? I mean, I hope it wouldn't take us that long to get that opinion.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. So and then for that equipment piece, we're actually looking at next year, not because of the delay.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion for the council? Going to public, I see Matthew Paisley-Berman, hand up. I'll unmute you. I'm sorry, you just need to hit.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: establishing the position.
[Nicole Morell]: So we can strike down rule 30 and that would solve maybe this paper, but it wouldn't, there's another ordinance that I think is worth some of the questions.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, in theory.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, let's see what happens first.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for presenting back promotions.
[Nicole Morell]: That is what I have.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, I think Councilor Knight has the original motion. I don't think there's debate about the other motions. I think Councilor Knight, the proposed changes from Vice President Bears around the original motion, is that something you'd be amenable to?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. I don't think there's any debate around the other motions, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we have a motion from Councilor Knight to combine those three motions.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we have. We have a motion from Council tonight to combine all three motions as amended. Great. Everyone understands three motions are before us we have the table to a date certain have the clerk, reach out to the AP. We have Collins. We're not approving the paper. We're tabling and then we have a number of motions. Councilor Collins is asking for their opinion on whether or not keeping the laws acting as a state solicitor. That's you. Hiring update. Okay. So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. And this is the table and those other actions. Table to a date, sir, and the other actions.
[Nicole Morell]: We have to vote but go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we're gonna go on this paper first. Please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: unless the conflict of interest is what their rules say. Okay. Yes. Yes. 7 in front of zero negative motion. Yes. Motion to table passes. 23-057 to Honorable President Morell and members of the Medford City Council regarding request to establish the traffic and transportation director position in the city's classification compensation plan resubmitted Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that the City Council approve the following amendment to the revised ordinances, chapter 66, entitled personnel, article two, entitled reserve, the city's classification and compensation plan, formally included as article two, sections 66-31 through 66-40, by adopting the following language change. The language of PW 2022 shall be amended to include the following position, traffic and transportation director, traffic and transportation director position is filled by a current staff member who took on a new role with additional responsibilities and was included in the FY 22 and 23 budgets but the title has not been added to the city's classification and compensation plan. Based on the October 20, 2022 KP law memo, personal ordinance amendments dash quantum of vote requirement end quote, It is our revised opinion that this classification requires four votes under general laws, chapter 44, section 33A, along with a supplemental appropriation for which we have submitted an associated paper. Chief of staff, Ian Nazarian, is available to speak to this request and answer any questions you may have. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Respectfully submitted. We're gonna allow the current mayor. Councilor Knight, would you like to continue? Do you have anything else you'd like to add?
[Nicole Morell]: thinks the gentleman is doing great work don't get him wrong.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff's not on the call. Oh, that's good. I don't know why she's not on the call.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I don't know why she's not on the call.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there someone in that position now, or does it remain vacant?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so it was a past vacancy that's been filled?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Councilor Caraviello. I don't know if he's coming back. I can see him out there. He wants to vote on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello, we have a motion to approve paper 23-057, adding the new traffic and transportation director position to that path for first reading. So on the motion of vices and affairs is seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. No. No. Councilor Seheult. Yes. Councilor Morocco. Yes. Four in the affirmative, three in the negative. The motion passes for first reading. Thank you. And then 23-058, to Honorable President Morell and members of the Medford City Council regarding appropriation requests for traffic and transportation director salary differential resubmitted. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request to transfer $4,175 in available funding from DPW highway salaries accounts 010-421-5110 to DPW engineering salaries account 010-411-5110 and to appropriate set funding to pay for the salary differential associated with establishing the traffic and transportation director as a PW22 and the city's classification and compensation plan. The transfer funds the salary differential for a total of 24.6 weeks in FY23, assuming the new classification goes into effect on February 28th, 2023. This increase will be will be funding using the salary funding that accrued in the DPW highway salaries account due to temporary vacancy of the senior clerk position. Chief of staffing in this area is available to speak to this request, as well as the associated classification request and answer any questions you may have. We need for your attention to the matter, respectfully submitted, grant along with current mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Any discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: We have the motion from bison bears. Second by Councilor Collins first, we'll take that first.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. On a motion of bison and bears to approve second by Councilor Collins Mr. Clerk please call the roll. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of racism bears to table 23-059 23-060 23-061 until a date certain our March 14 regular meeting, seconded by. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. The last, this last one that donation acceptance is 23 dashes 23 dashes 062 marble present around members of the Metro City Council regarding donation acceptances here present morale and members of the city council. I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves under MGL chapter 44, section 53A, a donation in the amount of $1,000 to be used for the fire department donated by the reserve label who filmed an advertisement on January 10th, 2023 and visit the fire engine for during the day and a donation of the following office furniture by the furniture trust in November of 2022. One to each wooden bookcase two 4-H wooden bookcases, five L-shaped desks, three desks, two 5-H lateral files, one 4-H lateral file, one sofa, one coffee table, one metal console table, four pet files, four workstations. Respectfully submitted, Breanna Lungo-Koehn. Was that the Dunkin' Donuts commercial?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scrappelli. We actually come across the Furniture Trust in my day job. Your support for reuse is admirable and appreciated. So I'm excited to see this. We have motion to approve from Councilor Knight, seconded by- Second. Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Vice President Bears. Yes. Councilor Caraviello. Yes. Councilor Collins. Yes. Councilor Knight. Yes. Yes, I mean the inferno is during the night of the motion passes. Council Collins, would you like to revert to regular order of business? Everyone else is having side conversations. On the motion of Councilor Collins to revert to regular order of business, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Well, I want to take that water suspension. I have not seen there. I have. Yeah, I haven't seen her this whole time. We didn't. She wasn't waiting the whole time. Thankfully, I haven't seen her this whole time. Yeah. Okay. Can we do we have to tell that or can you just keep on the agenda? We'll just keep it on the agenda. Okay. No, I haven't seen her on zoom the entire time, at least under that name. So, On the motion of Councilor Collins server back to regular order of business second by vice affairs Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes, I mean if I was in a motion passes back to the regular order of business records the records from February 14 2023 were passed your Councilor Tseng Councilor Tseng how did you find them.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Does anyone need a refresher on the reports of committees or? Great. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng, no, on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight to approve the records and all reports of committees. Mr. Clerk, it's plural. Vice President Bears. Yes. Yes. Yes, seven the affirmative zero negative motion passes to three dash zero four, sorry to three dash zero four six offered by Council night be it so resolved the city administration take the necessary steps to register and garage the parking enforcement vehicles in the city of Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Leaving City Hall last week, I did see a parking vehicle with a Connecticut license plate, so I can't affirm this is. Something that has not yet happened, at least as of last week. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Seven affirmative, zero negative. Motion passes. 23-047 offered by Councilor Knight, be it so resolved the city administration take the necessary steps to restore the damages to the waterfront abutting the Hormel community, sorry, Hormel Stadium community gardens. As a result of unauthorized clear cutting of trees brush bushes and other natural growth along the waterline, and be it further resolved the tree warden representative from the Conservation Commission and a representative from the Community Garden Commission perform a site visit. and report back to the council the extent of the damages and an estimated cost of restoration and be it further resolved that the assistance of the Mystic River Watershed Association be requested to ensure restoration is in coordination with their master plan. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Alicia Hunt is still on the call. She has her hand up as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe so. Perfect. Thank you, Director. Any further discussion on the council. Thank you for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. 23-048 offered by Councilor Knight, be it resolved that the Medford City Council requests the city administration take the necessary steps to require that DCR and DOT perform roadway maintenance repairs on all on-ramps and off-ramps under their respective jurisdictions, and be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to our state delegation. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's right. Any further discussion from the council. So, on the motion of Council night seconded by Councilor Carlyle Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes, seven affirmative zero negative emotion passes to three to 049 offered by Councilor Collins, the result the Metro City Council publicize that increase snap payments known as snap emergency allotments will expire on March 2 and benefits will decrease for all recipients. More information and resources are available at mass.gov slash extra COVID snap. Recipients may qualify for new increases to snap benefits based on medical costs or rent expenses and can contact the Department of Transitional Assistance for information about their account. For the result of the administration share this information via the city's communication channels. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And I did see a Facebook. I mean, I know there's many other communication channels. I did see a Facebook post from the city about this either today or yesterday. Any further discussion from the council? Second Councilor Tseng, I do three. Matthew Page-Lieberman with their hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. So on the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. 23-050 offered by Councilor Collins and Vice President Bears, be it resolved that the Medford City Council express its support of HD-2091 and SD-761 and act relative to payments and move taxation by organization exempt from the property tax. Be it further resolved that the City Clerk forward a copy of this resolution to the Medford Legislative Delegation as well as House Speaker Mariano and Senate President Spilka.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the Council? Going back to Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Matthew Page-Lieberman.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that. On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. No. Yes. Yes. Six in the affirmative, one in the negative, the motion passes. 23-051 offered by Councilor Collins and President Morell. Be it resolved that the City Council request an update from the administration on the status of Medford's allocation from the Commonwealth's opioid litigation settlement proceeds in light of the five additional proposed national settlements. Be it further resolved that the administration confirm whether the required state subdivision agreement has been submitted to the Attorney General to render Medford eligible to receive an increased allocation from the municipal settlement proceeds. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Yeah. And just I appreciate you sharing that update. And just to add to that, the information, um, that you just referenced, the update can be found on the health department's website on the city website. under opioid settlement information and there's a drop down right there with some links as well. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice-Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice-Mayor Bears. On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by... Second. Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes, seven the inferno zero in the negative passes to 3.05 to offer by Vice President Bears be resolved by the city council that appendix A of the city of Medford code of ordinances be amended to include the following section 9.2 plan development districts. blank plan development district per square foot area above 5,000 square feet of construction regardless of use amount of 5 cents and section these revised ordinances is 94 dash 9.2 and this is the plan development district fee that has been discussed in at least two committee meetings reported out. This is embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: On the emotion of our bears to first reading seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 70 in front of zero in the negative the motion passes for first reading to three s 053 offer by Councilor Tseng the result of the city administration provider for updating the city council on its progress on the social justice roadmap via for the result of the city administration update the roadmap were labeled and deemed appropriate Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the Council? Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Mayor. Councilor Tseng, going back to your amendment, is this just saying like, in that last sentence, we're labeled just getting rid of the one hand? Yeah, just get rid of it. It is the clerk's opinion that it doesn't need to be amended. It's just a- Oh, perfect. Scrivener's error. So, on the motion of cancer saying second by cancer Scarpelli Mr. Please call the role. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes, seven the affirmative zero negative emotion passes to three dash 054 offered by cancer saying Be it resolved the city council asked the city administration to conduct an updated racial equity study.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes, seven the in front of us here that I get the motion passes to three dash 055 offered by cancer saying it resolved the subcommittee on racial justice disabilities and elder affairs consider a welcoming city ordinance cancer site.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the Council? Councilor Saik?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Saik. Councilor Cohen? Okay, on the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. Going now to public participation. Are there any members of the public who would like to speak? Understanding we have one remaining paper that we'll keep on for our next regular meeting. Councilor Caraviello, seeing none.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, I can follow up on that. Great, do I have a motion to adjourn? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Councilor San Buenaventura. Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: meeting notice Tuesday, February 21st, 2023 at 6 p.m.
[Nicole Morell]: President, six present one absent the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the whole on Tuesday, February 21st, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is a finance update, paper 22-604. The Committee of the Whole has invited Finance Director Bob Dickinson to attend this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as the notice states, this is for a finance update from Director Dickinson, who we have here, and we have a presentation in our hands as well. I'm happy to hand the floor over to Director Dickinson, unless any councilors have questions that they would like to start off with first. Seeing none, Director Dickinson, if you wanna, do you have something to share on Zoom as well? It looks like you do, okay. Give you a minute to get set up.
[Nicole Morell]: Share screen. Yeah, if you want to make bubble cocoa. He's under why?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to ask? Okay. Yeah, I didn't know if you wanted to ask it just on mic. We're just waiting for it. Okay, I'm sure screen.
[Nicole Morell]: You can just prop it up on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff, are you able to respond to that question as far as options to?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Chief of Staff. Vice Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So in any event.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chair and staff, are you able to respond to that question?
[Nicole Morell]: I do have Councilor Tseng right here, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I see your hand up. You want to go ahead?
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: question relates that do we know when the school side they're going to be working with that number because I know they usually start much earlier than us.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have a question, Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: We have a question from Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: The Chief of Staff has her hand raised.
[Nicole Morell]: The Chief of Staff has her hand raised. Okay. Madam Chief of Staff, did you want to speak to that question from Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Please, Madam Chair, if you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: You wanna go on, Bob? You wanna continue?
[Nicole Morell]: To me... Oh, with the presentation, though, as far as... I think we still have some numbers to go and... Oh, yeah, sure. I know we're taking you up, down, and sideways, but I want to make sure we get through your presentation.
[Nicole Morell]: So I'll just- I have a few folks that, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: She hasn't asked a question. Sure. Councilor Collins, then we'll go back to vices and bears, and then we're on the road. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Back to you, vices and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello, then Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng touched on that, so. Councilor Tseng, then we'll go back to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, do you want to take them both together?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the, I'll take the first motion. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng second by vice president bears, Um, second. Okay. You want to take that together? So you'll combine those?
[Nicole Morell]: So it's okay. So we have the one motion, uh, combined, uh, from Councilor Tseng, uh, second by vice president bears, uh, Mr. Cook, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the first and then I have one absolutely motion passes. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, well- They're different buckets, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: So- So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative zero in the negative one absent the motion passes Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the Council? Seeing none, members of the public wish to speak? I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn. I have a motion to adjourn.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 in front of zero negative one absent motion passes meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Thank you, Commissioner McGivern, Director Hunt, and all the members of the Solid Waste Task Force. From my work, I have just a little bit of insight about how much work goes into process of choosing new waste haulers, so I really appreciate all the work everyone's done and for the presentation tonight. Just a few quick questions. I know I've already raised this to you, Tim, but I just want to raise again just with the Increasing the number of yard waste pickups, that's great, but just thinking about when, if it's possible to shift that. I understand, as you've said in the past, trying to avoid that first snow. And I know it's going to take some years before we see a pattern, but I think we're having people doing yard work later and later into the year compared to past years with a warming climate. I just kind of want to throw that out there for one consideration because I know I did have a number of folks reaching out saying I'm just breaking my yard now and I've missed the window for yard waste pickup for this season so. Don't have to respond, but I just wanted to flag that one. I'm really happy to see that there's a focus on or a desire for education. To that end, are you seeking or do you know if any of these haulers will be providing data back? So you might be able to tailor that education as far as contamination or issues like that, that we can better communicate to the community where we're seeing challenges as far as like what's actually being able to be processed and getting to the right streams.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. And then with regards to composting, I know there's a few different services and we're already in some sort of discount program with Garbage to Garden. Is there consideration for what type of processing that composting would have, whether it's like I don't think it's biofuel is the right term but you know there's the organic things like that that go to actual composting for your garden and then there's generating fuel from it. Is there consideration for that or is that like very into the weeds?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. And last question for me for now. You were talking about the option of taking trash to biweekly. You said 64 gallon bins. Is that the size of bins we have now?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Okay. That's all I have for right now. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Still up, that's, sorry, people do that to me all the time.
[Nicole Morell]: The Medford City Council sent its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Russ Rosetti on his recent passing. Russ was a longtime supporter and board member of the Chevalier Auditorium. His presence in our community will be sorely missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other councilors wish to speak? Mr. Kasichnay. Now, do you want to push the button with the little person on it? There's a little face on it. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. 23-035 offered by President Morell and Councilor Tseng. Be it resolved that the City Council celebrate this month as Black History Month and recognize the significant contributions that Black Medford residents have made in shaping our city and history and enriching our community life. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. All I was going to say and more, thank you for sharing those events. Any other councilors wish to speak? Seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-036 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council commend and congratulate the following firefighters on their respective promotions. Frank Giliberti to Deputy Chief, Michael Halloran to Captain, and Samuel McLean to Lieutenant. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of cancer Carveo seconded by cancer saying all those in favor, all those opposed motion passes. Records, the tabled records from January 17, 2023 were passed to Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight, how did you find them? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Records of the meeting of January 31st, 2023 were, this is a, I'm sorry, yes, were passed to Councilor Scarpelli. How did you find them, Councilor Scarpelli? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committee, 22-581, January 31st, 2023. We have the whole report to follow. Someone remind me what this one was. I can't remember what. Yes, that was the planning development fees, because it was a short one. approval on the motion of Councilor Knight to approve seconded by answer saying all those in favor, all those opposed motion passes to do dash 494 the February 7 2023 subcommittee on ordinances and rules report to follow.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Arpelli, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 2-514, February 8, 2023, committee, the whole report to follow. This was our follow-up discussion with PDS. on proposed changes to the outdoor dining ordinance. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to table 23-025, second.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Until the next meeting, seconded by... Second. Vice President Bears, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, we suspend the rules to take paper 23-043, which is on page... 21. All the way to the end, okay. Communications from the mayor, oh, sorry. I'm going to buy some affairs, second by cancer saying all those in favor. All those opposed, which passes rules are suspended 23-043, the electronic delivery to the President and members of the Medford City Council regarding request to establish a revolving fund for stormwater. Dear President Morelle, members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that the City Council approve the following amendment to Charter 2, Article 5, I'm dying, I've had a long day, Division 4 of the city's ordinances by adopting the following change. The table in section 2-964, authorized revolving funds, shall be amended to include a stormwater revolving fund as per the enclosed table. Enclosed is a letter from City Engineer and Stormwater Board Chair, Owen Martella, which outlines this request and provides supporting documentation. Finally, I'm in closing a memorandum by Finance Director Ayer, Bob Dickinson, which provides the necessary certification pursuant to MGL Chapter 44, Section 53E and a half for establishing a revolving fund in the middle of a fiscal year. City Engineer Owen Wartella will be available to speak to this request and answer any questions you may have. Sincerely, thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brown and Woodford Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's right.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, any questions from the council? questions from the public. Seeing none, so on the motion, Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli for first reading.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you are ready. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes for first reading. Thank you. Yeah, sorry, okay, one at a time. 23-039? Yes, ma'am. What was that one? Okay, all right. All right, I'll start with, I'll just order. 23-038 offered by Councilor Knight, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council request the city administration to deploy pothole crews to pass roadways with priority to emergency arteries in the city of Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any other Councilors wish to speak before
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Chief Engineer Ortel, do you have anything you could share?
[Nicole Morell]: Any specific questions from the Council?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council? We'll take you for public, we'll take you. All right, so Mr. Wardeller, if you want to, Mr. Casagnani, if you want to come up and speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Good memory, thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-039 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council have the city engineer report back with the repaving schedule for Bower, Holton, Temple, and Tontine streets this spring. Be it further resolved that the public utilities pave curb to curb similar to the same standards private contractors are held to when they open the streets.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions, Council night.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any other discussion from the council? Seeing none, so on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by- So moved. Councilor Knight, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Thank you, Owen. We are still under suspension.
[Nicole Morell]: What number is that? 23042. Oh, there is. 23042 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it resolved that the Medford City Council reach out to our federal delegation in regards to the continued problems at the Medford Post Office. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carmiel. Madam President, might as well just go with the last two, if we can.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, Mr. Kasich, do you want to speak on the post office?
[Nicole Morell]: We'll see you online.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight, all those in favor? All those opposed motion passes, going up to 23-040 offered by Councilor Caraviello be resolved the Metro City Council request that the Recreation Department look into putting a port-a-potty at the pickleball courts at Duggar Park, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-041, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council request that DPW place a rubbish receptacle in front of the St. Joseph's School. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Are we taking every resolution that's not an ordinance? Do you want to go back to the front now? We have one from you, Vice President Bears, about the 23-037 we haven't taken. It's fine, you want to take it or it's fine? Okay, good point. On the motion of Vice President Bears to revert to the regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-037 offered by vice president bears it resolved by the city council that the city administration take the following steps relative to the city budget to ensure transparency accuracy of information and reporting, and that all boards and commissions have the budget information they need to function. One that the city of administration produce a 2023 budget book and clear go before the budget hearing start. Two, that all commissions have binders as part of the budget book. Three, that the city administration reinstate annual reports to be published at the beginning of each calendar year. This will help the city prepare in advance for the budget process while providing a valuable source of transparent information about the city's budget activities. Four, develop a one-sheet on financial processes. policies budgeting for boards and commissions and share with all members of boards and commissions via further resolve at the subcommittee on ordinances and rules incorporate these recommendations and or any responses from state administration into the draft budget needs assessment ordinance currently being worked on by the subcommittee vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. Any further discussion? Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? So on the motion of Vice President Bears, as amended by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-058 offered by Vice President Bears and Councilor Collins. I'm going to read this whole thing. Okay. I remember the marijuana ordinance 71 pages being read so I don't know what the motion to suspend the reading in favor of a summary on the motion advice was embarrassed to suspend the reading in favor of a summary I will go to Councilor Collins has been working steadfast on this for a summary to be provided to the council.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vices and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I think he has it. Yeah, I thought you asked. He has it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council at this time? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I see a date of today on it.
[Nicole Morell]: I see the date of today.
[Nicole Morell]: These are from, these were reported out, these are the amendments.
[Nicole Morell]: And these are amendments being presented by vice-president Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the councilor? Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other council discussion at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, I think we, there's a number of residents here to speak, and I think we'd like to hear from them. So I'm happy to. have folks come up.
[Nicole Morell]: And also, yeah, Chief Buckley, if you'd like to speak first, or... I mean, you are more than welcome to speak first. Then we'll hear from the members of the public.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council at this time? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: If I should embarrass any other Councilors to speak, Okay, so we haven't, anything else you'd like to add, Chief?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much. We have a number of members of the public who'd like to speak, if you could just come up to the podium. Name and address for the record, please, and slowly for the clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Munir Germanis on Zoom. should, there you go. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak either in person or on Zoom? Name and address for the record, please. Oh, actually.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, could you hold the beat? I realize you're not the clerk, so just, or he can go back to the minutes. He can, okay, well, he can watch the video.
[Nicole Morell]: Reverend Wendy Miller Olapade on Zoom. I'll unmute you. Do it again. I'll try one more time.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't see any hands up on zoom. Is there anyone else? Uh, Mr. Castagnetti.
[Nicole Morell]: You came back. Welcome back. Hang on one minute. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. And if I could just briefly from the chair, I also want to say thank the chief and everyone who worked on this. Just the amount of, I think, good faith discussion around this and kind of moving the needle both ways, I think is a model for things going forward. And I just want to say for me, in addition to everything that's been said tonight, for me, it comes down to the technology. It's not a lack of faith in You Chief, I absolutely have very much faith in you, and I think we've had a lot of great conversations that I really appreciated. But the technology, it evolves at such a rapid rate, and I think we've seen, and it's a known fact that ethics are often a last thought when it comes to technology, if a thought at all. And I think this is just something that's putting guardrails on that. It doesn't, as it's been, but I just want to reiterate, even though it's been said, it doesn't ban or even comment on any specific technology. but it gives the opportunity for us to know what might be used in our city. And I do think one of the residents too, I believe was Mr. Harris just saying that this is a real opportunity for 21st century community policing. I think it really gives them having the community able just to know what's going on is really, really important. And this is an important step towards that. So I thank everyone for their work on this for all of their comments and thoughts and for being here once again tonight to discuss this. We have a motion on the floor from Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion is to approve as amended for first reading.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion is to take all the amendments, so.
[Nicole Morell]: We can take the amendments.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to amend the ordinance based on the 12 amendments presented earlier that are also in the hands of the clerk, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I have an information on the night of the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the ordinance for first reading as amended, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: to one that's 053 offered by Councilor Collins housing stability notification ordinance motion to suspend the reading in favor of a brief summary on the motion of vices and affairs to suspend the reading in favor of a brief summary seconded by Councilor Gabriella all those in favor, I suppose motion passes, going back to you once more Councilor Collins very brief summary.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Has that been under consideration or is that exempt from this?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the Council?
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion from Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Uh, do you have a, um, would you sever? Are you asking to sever or would you sever those two? Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Councilor Knight to adjust the, um, fine to $50.
[Nicole Morell]: Seconded by Vice President Bears. Uh, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor, uh, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to strike the $300 and change it to 50, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No. For me for three and a motion passes. Vice Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: on-campus housing, so Tufts-owned on-campus housing, motion to exempt?
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Councilor Knight to exempt Tufts University's on-campus housing, seconded by Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Councilor Collins. Do you have the motion, Mr. Clerk? So the motion of councilor Knight to exempt tops on campus housing seconded by councilor Caraviello, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No. Three in the affirmative, four in the negative, the motion fails.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve as amended by Councilor Knight for first reading, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Six in the affirmative, one in the negative. The motion passes. That is the end of our agenda. Up to public participation. Are there any members of the public who would like to speak? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-514 Committee of the Whole meeting Wednesday, February 8th, 2023 at 6 p.m. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Seven present, zero absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, February 8th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chambers on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss a proposed update to the Outdoor Dining Ordinance within Medford paper 22-514. The committee has invited Interim Economic Development Director Victor Schrader and a representative of the Office Planning Development and Sustainability to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393 2425, Sincerely Yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. We do have Alicia Hahn and Yvette Niwa here. Victor is unable to make it, so Yvette will be providing us an update. And I see Councilor Scarpelli has his hand up. Just a quick, this meeting, we had an earlier meeting on this paper. We had a few edits that we wanted the PDS team to make to the current ordinance. They have made those suggested edits, and are here tonight to present it to us, and it's also in our email, and we have some hard copies for those of us in the chamber. Going to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. And the ordinance before us tonight, I think any edits we have right now have only been provided by PDS. There hasn't been a KP law involvement, but I, you know, anywhere else to your point does have need to leave a review. So I just want to note that. Councilor. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any other Councilors who'd like to speak before we hear from Yvette? Seeing none, when you're ready, and just name and address for the record, City Hall address is fine.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight, is your hand still up or up again?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. We'll go to vices and affairs
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Does that address your questions for now, or do you have more?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Councilor Cabrera, I saw you with your hand up before. Was your question addressed?
[Nicole Morell]: And then you both just mentioned something about plumbing.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Yeah, there's no other questions at this time, so if you want to share that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I see Councilor Knight with his hand up, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: So I have a motion from Councilor Knight to adopt the recommendation from PDS to have the building commissioner uphold the standard. Seconded by?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Would you like to share your thought now?
[Nicole Morell]: And understanding that the definition is parklet, parklet is when they have the raised.
[Nicole Morell]: Parklet structure, okay. Okay, do you wanna take the motion from Councilor Knight now? Or do you wanna wait till the end?
[Nicole Morell]: I couldn't understand that.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, sorry, the fan kicked on. Okay, great. So on the motion, do you have a language, Mr. Clerk?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight seconded that first one.
[Nicole Morell]: And then Councilor Knight, did you mean you wanted to combine with what Vice President Bears just said about the two-tiered structure of fees?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Adopt option three, okay. Yes, yes. Yes, that was a motion, correct, Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we can take them all, but we have them clear now from our clerk. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Any bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, any other questions discussion at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Then I just have a question regarding the seating license requirements as it's to be separate from the ordinance and other establishing only by the building commissioner, the design guidelines fall under this. Did you speak with Commissioner Forti about this at any point or is this?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion from the Council at this time or is there anything else you wanted to, Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: And where are those requirements outlined for like what the requirements are to have the dog permit?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other question, discussion from the council? Is there anything else you'd like to share with us, make sure we're aware of, or I guess in response to what we reported out last time as well?
[Nicole Morell]: Is the thought of that allows to be more nimble as things change?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other discussion from the council on that specific point?
[Nicole Morell]: Any vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Mayor Bears. Any other discussion from the council? That's a Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion from the council on this or specifically vice versa point? Yeah, speaking one, I think that makes sense. I was embarrassed about what you said about the additional, the spot impact, you know, that amount, like you said, wouldn't change because it's the same spots being removed regardless of what the structure is. I would be curious to have the parking data around that. I also don't want that, you know, if that takes X number of months to get, I don't want that to hold things up when we're trying to ideally, I would think get this in place for the warmer months. So I guess I'm just kind of, discussing that. I can't make a motion anyways, but just, you know, having that point that out there.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you want to amend your previous motion? I know we didn't get the two-tiered to make it the three-tiered suggestion you have.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, so you said President Bears is a 250 for anything above the single parking spot.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just gonna go to Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. I think that's a great point because I think this is something we've run into reviewing other ordinances, just the fee structures being out of date and the process to change it being. conversation. So if you have something to add to that or thoughts on that idea.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you think about the top of the head, I'd like permits that the fee isn't spelled out in the ordinance, it's set by whichever body manages it? I believe that, I can't have things in front of me for examples, I believe that exists. I mean, my thought there too, I like that idea, Councilor Knight. I do wonder if maybe it's, you know, requesting the building commissioner set a three tier, you know, but not saying what the numbers actually are. Councilor Collins. Oh, you made my point, thank you. Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Blessing bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to amend once again? I mean, the clerk's giving me a look. Do you want to withdraw your other amendment? How do you want to do this?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, can you, do you want to send that to the clerk? I mean, does everyone on the council understand what VP Bears is motioning? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Um, okay. So any further discussion from the council? We have a few motions, uh, waiting to be voted on. Do you have them all?
[Nicole Morell]: So we'll take that one first and then we'll take the other ones you have for language advice. Prison bears will send you language. Um, but for some bears, I understand the motion is that request that the building commissioner set a fee structure, but within that free structure, the cost for permits with parklet structures be one half of that of those without, and the cost for permits for, was it single parking spot or just sidewalk seating, be one quarter of the original. That's where I'm like, I mean, I know what he means. I just can't think of the words to say it. Great, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, here we go. He just put in the chat. I'll read it for everyone just so. The fee for parklets with a parklet structure level with the sidewalk shall be one half the fee for parklets without a structure. The fee for sidewalk seating shall be one quarter of the fee for parklets without a structure. And that's in the chat. So on the motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll actually, sorry. And that motion includes asking that the building commissioner set the fees, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I mean the information that I gave the motion passes, and then we have the motion to adopt those two portions of the previous, making sure we move over those sections of the previous ordinance can you read that back Mr.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero and then I get the motion passes. Do you have any other outstanding motions?
[Nicole Morell]: Set the fee is that we did not have him set that. Sorry, what's the language again? It's for him to.
[Nicole Morell]: Uphold the standards. Yes, we did not vote on that. Okay, yep, yeah, that was amended. Okay, so we have a motion of Councilor Knight to adopt the option to have the building commissioner uphold the design standards.
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Vice President Bears. Please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in front of zero. And then I have the motion passes any further discussion or anything else that covers the presentation for PDS and I don't see any further discussion. I think there's a very dimension reporting out.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears to report the paper out of committee to a regular meeting pending the changes made through motions at this meeting. Seconded by the councilor. Please call the roll when you're ready, Mr. Clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: I've been the infirm is there in the night of the motion passes on the motion adjourn adjourn second by Councilor Tseng Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: It won't be the whole Tuesday, January 31st, 2023 at 6 30 p.m. Uh, it's called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: stand present present six present zero apps. I'm sorry, one absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Metro City Council Committee of the whole on Tuesday, January 31 2023 at 6 30 p.m. and the Metro City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall via zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the proposed fee schedule for the planned development district proposals. Paper to do just one. The committee has invited a representative of the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability to attend this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So the meeting notice says what we're here for tonight, and I'm actually gonna throw it to Vice President Bears, who made the motion with a request from the Planning, Development, and Sustainability Office for some suggestions as far as the amount. So I'll throw it to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll go to, I think, Director Hunt, I saw you, to you, or are you motioning to Victor? Victor, okay, great. We'll go to Victor Schrader.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Victor. Any discussion from the council? Any questions? Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. So address your questions. Any other questions from the council? Any members of the public wish to speak on this? Back to
[Nicole Morell]: seconded by Councilor Anderson. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion or anything else from you, Alicia or Victor, that you'd like to add? Discussion from the council? Seeing none, do I have the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn, seconded by... All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Third regular meeting of Medford City Council, January 31st, 2023 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to suspend the rule seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. And there's a motion to take public participation out of order. Thank you. All right, so we already suspended the rules to take public participation. So who would like to come up and speak? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Just to be clear when you're saying you. Council has not made that change. The city administration has.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to go back to Councilor Tseng before that, and then Councilor Caraviello I do just want to note that we have several items on our agenda and it's, we've been on this for about 15 minutes so I just want to know that this is for back and forth so I appreciate the information but just
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: So I'm working with vice chair Graham on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, I do see Susan, you're on your hand up. Is it about this subject or another public participation matter? You just to
[Nicole Morell]: Through the chair, I know.
[Nicole Morell]: If you could briefly. Sure. This isn't meant to be a forum. This is meant to be a
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli to revert back to the regular order of business, seconded by President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: accolades, remembrances, reports and records 23-019 offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that Medford City Council hold a moment of silence in memory of Governor's Councilor Michael J. Callahan, a dedicated public servant who passed on January 6th, 2011, following decades of public service to the people of Medford, and be it further resolved that this evening's council meeting be dedicated to his memory. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Mr. Behr. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. 23-020 offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council wish John Granar a happy 80th birthday, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Fele. On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 2-3-0-2-1, offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council hold a moment of silence in honor of the late former Senate President, Thomas Birmingham. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you on the motion of Council night seconded by bears all those in favor, I suppose motion passes please rise for more silence. 23-022 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Tom Aniletto on his recent passing. Tom was a longtime Medford business owner, veteran, and disability advocate, being a board member for Project Triangle for over 50 years. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Capello. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. Records. The records of the meeting of the January 17th meeting were passed to Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to lay the records on the table to the next regular meeting seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committee 22-519, I'm sorry, 21-053 and 23-018. These were the proposed amendments to the CBC ordinance, the housing stability notification ordinance discussion and the proposed CPC or the recommended CPC projects. Do I have a motion? Motion of Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Hearings 21-301 Medford City Council public hearing notice in accordance with the requirements of Massachusetts general law chapter 148 section 13. The Medford City Council will hold a continued public hearing on January 31st 2023 at 7pm or as soon. Thereafter, as it can be heard at the Howard F. Alderman Memorial Auditorium at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155, and also remotely via Zoom for a remand hearing in the Superior Court proceedings in the case of BJ's Wholesale Club, Inc. versus the City of Medford City Council. The remand hearing will be based on the application of BJ's Wholesale Club for a flammable storage license for a proposed fueling station including two 20,000 gallon and one 24,000 gallon underground fuel storage tanks at 278 Middlesex Avenue, Medford, Mass 02155 in industrial zoning district shown on assessor's map P17 lot five and map 016 lot one. The original application is part of City Council Paper 21-301 from April 13, 2021. Plans for the proposed development to be reviewed at the remand hearing are on file in the office of the Medford City Clerk and may be inspected by the public during normal business hours Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., Wednesday 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m., and Friday from 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Any person interested or wishing to be heard should appear at the time and place of the public hearing. To attend remotely, go to the Zoom link, which will be posted on the Medford City Council section of the City of Medford website, medfordma.org city-council, and at the Medford City Clerk's office not later than January 27, 2023. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations slash aids, TDD 713932516. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the Medford City Council, sign Adam L. Herneby's City Clerk Advertise in the Medford Transfer slash Summerville Journal on January 5th, 2025. As this notice states, this is a continuation of a public hearing that was held on the 17th. We had a presentation from BJ's. We also had it open for public comment. We left the public hearing open for any additional comment to be submitted at that time. I do not believe we received any. We did not receive any additional public comment. I will go to councilors first if they have any questions or discussion, and then we'll go back to the representative from BJ's. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Constable. Before I get to attorney off with that question, I do just want to note that the attorney with our thoughts shift did send us another letter during that public comment period representing that group of Medford and Wellington area residents. I just I do want to note that I was before. So your first question, Attorney Austin, can you speak to that? Would the permit go with the business or the site as is written currently?
[Nicole Morell]: So a new permit would be needed somewhere else to come into that?
[Nicole Morell]: Is that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do have those conditions in front of me if we want them read at any point. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Can I stop you? Are you reading the email?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. These are the conditions that were presented after our last meeting, just to make it clear that President Bears isn't just announcing his own conditions. I mean, if you want to read them. I'd like a fact checker.
[Nicole Morell]: So you want to motion to approve based on the conditions that were presented to us from Attorney Austin based on our previous meeting? Yes. I'm happy to do that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, so we'll hold off on that. And just to be clear as well, we did have folks speaking at the last meeting in favor and opposed to this paper, but I do want to open it up once more for any additional comments from residents.
[Nicole Morell]: So there's anyone else would like to speak about the. Position before us, please come up to the mic. Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else who wishes to speak, please come up to the mic. Name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: And so there are several conditions that I can read through that address some of your questions. I obviously can't guess the questions you're going to ask next, but there are several conditions that I can read through and this is on top of traffic considerations and things that actually came to us before we start adding conditions. So I just want to note that.
[Nicole Morell]: So the conditions- When you get some of the conditions, you'll understand. There are conditions of the permit itself. So if they do not meet these conditions, their permit will be revoked. So it's not just- That's why there's more security. It's not just a handshake. These are conditions of the permit itself.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think that's really helpful. And even just the, you know, people hiding stuff in the trees and the bushes over there, that's really helpful to know because we're not there all the time. We don't know that.
[Nicole Morell]: evening. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, guys. All right. Any further thoughts would like to comment? Before we get to the conditions, I do just want to reiterate my point from two weeks ago. This is not something I want to approve. If it were my choice, we would not be approving any more fossil fuel infrastructure. It's not something we need. It's not the way the future is going. And I'm also, to the attorney's previous point last week, I do not believe BJ's is doing this out of the goodness of their heart. I do not believe that, no offense. And it is because that, that I do believe I have to go yes for this because we have set these conditions. that address the issues that the neighbors have had. And I believe that if we are losing court, if we were to go back again, we're not going to get anything. And we won't address any of those conditions because I don't believe this is a goodness of the heart issue. This is a legal matter. This is a agreement that we're trying to set forth. And that's why I'll be voting affirmatively. I could vote no. And my conscience says that to get the neighbors what they need, it has to be a yes vote. going to the conditions. So we have a motion from Vice President Bears to approve with the conditions and the conditions are and these are from the council. These are in addition to the plans that came before the council, which have a number of traffic and safety changes. So landscaping one BJ's will implement an advance in advanced maintenance program, which will consist of weekly parking lot sweeping and day porter service three days a week to remove any litter in BJ's parking lot. BJ's will not conduct any such parking lot sweeping other than for an emergency reason between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. Biannually, in the spring and fall, BJ's will conduct on-site landscape cleanups to remulch landscape areas and to remove leaves and to vacuum any solids present in the storm water system. Three, BJ's will empty exterior dumpsters on an as-needed basis, but in no event, less than once per week. Four, BJs will ensure that all onsite trash receptacles be covered with a flap lid opening to prevent trash from leaving the dumpster. Five, BJs will ensure that all existing landscaping and any new onsite landscaping added will be maintained such that any dead trees or shrubs will be removed and replaced. Six, BJs will plant additional landscaping improvements on its property consistent with the landscaping plans presented to the city council at the January 17th hearing adjacent to Woodruff Ave. Such planting will be done in the first phase of the gas station construction project. Seven, BJA's will, subject to the approval and request of the city, remove and replace any of the dead trees with new trees and shrubs in the public right of way along Woodruff Avenue, consistent with the plans discussed at the January 17th hearing. The new landscaping will become city property upon planting. If any such new landscaping dies of natural causes and not because of snowplow or other inflicted harm caused by the city or other third parties, BJs will replace each such landscaping for as long as the gas station is in operation. BJs will have no other duties in the right of way other than landscaping replacement if and when needed. 8. Annually, BJ's will provide the City of Medford with a written summary of maintenance activities to confirm that the conditions of its fuel storage license are satisfied to a representative of the city to be designated by the City Council. BJ's representative. BJ's will designate a corporate representative who shall be the regional maintenance manager or his or her designee and shall provide the BJ's representative's contact information, both email and telephone number, to the City of Medford to allow for communications between the city and or of its residents regarding any exterior maintenance concerns. The city will not publicize such contact information or place the contact information on the city's website, but the city may provide such information to residents or public officials who request such information. Pedestrians and traffic. BJs will employ vehicular traffic patterns for the gas station as shown on the site plans approved by the city of Medford Community Development Board 11. BJ's will reconfigure the maintenance entrance drive at its property site and install new sidewalks and crosswalks consistent with the plans approved by the City of Medford Community Development Board. Twelve BJ's will install approximately appropriately spaced removable speed tables on an annual basis during the period from April 30th through October 30th within the main interior site drive aisle, which connects Middlesex Avenue to the Fellsway in order to address excessive speeds. EV charging stations, 13, BJ Salons shall install four EV charging stations in its parking lot. After hours trucks, 14, BJ's will install no parking signage in the parking lot and will secure the services of a towing company capable of removing any unauthorized vehicles slash trucks from its parking lot, subject to compliance with any towing ordinance of the city of Medford. Please note, BJA security personnel has already secured the services of a local towing company to address this issue, and will continue to work with the Medford Police Department to eliminate this nuisance. Very true, truly yours, Dennis E. McKenna. So, that is the extent of the conditions from the council. Is that anything missing? So on the motion of Vice President Bears to approve with the conditions listed, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven affirmative, zero negative. The motion passes. Thank you all. 2-2. On the motion of Councilor Ntuk to suspend the rule to take the common bit license, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. What number is that? I guess I should ask what page. All right. 23-029, petition for a common butler's license by Vimal Patel, 265 Oakland Avenue, Methuen, Massachusetts, 01844, for Daily Mart at 267 Spring Street, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I will go to Councilor Scarpelli of the Licensing Commission, and if the petitioner could come up to the podium as well. Good evening, all. Good evening, we'll go to Councilor Scarpelli first.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any questions or discussion from the council? Seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Good luck.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to revert back to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-412, legal notice, city clerk's office notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a continued public hearing, originally opened on July 19th, 2022, in the Howard F. Alden Memorialist Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Massachusetts, via Zoom on Tuesday, January 31st, 2023, at 7 p.m. A link to be posted no later than Friday, January 27th, 2023, on petition from Starbucks Coffee, Daniel Brennan, permanent agent. 177 College Avenue, aka 161 College Ave, Medford, MA 02155, for a special permit to amend its hours of operation in accordance with Medford Zoning Chapter 94 7.2.1 to offer extended hours at its business at 177 College Ave, aka 161 College Ave, Medford, MA 02155, said site being located in a mixed-use zoning district as follows. Extended hours of operation requested, 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., Sundays through Saturdays. Petition and plans may be seen in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford, Massachusetts. Call 781-393-2425 for accommodation slash aids, TDD 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the city council, signed Adam L. Herdeby, city clerk, advertising the Medford transcript and some rule journal. June 30th and July 7th. This is Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there any discussion from the council on this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Any discussion from the council? So just a reminder, this is a, we have the opinion from Attorney Austin with KP Law that this is in fact a zoning vote, so we require five votes for approval. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to approve with the condition that the permits stay with the owner and not the property, it's seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. And just for some additional background, I did, I spoke with Rocco DiRico and he said that no one else bid for the project and that is why we have a Starbucks there as opposed to something else, perhaps with different labor practices.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of ice was a bear is a second by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero in the negative. The motion passes unequivocally. It passes this time. You guys are good.
[Nicole Morell]: There's no question whether or not it passed. Thank you. I'll do it. Motions, orders and resolutions 23-023 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability provide language to the City Council to adopt the specialized municipal opt-in code option of the state's base building energy code commonly referred to as the Green Stretch Code. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Great. Any further discussion? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it's actually a separate company for whatever's running the lights. It's not the.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, yes, figuratively. On the motion, Vice President Bears is seconded by. Councilor Collins, all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. 23-024 offered by Vice President Fares. Be it resolved by the Metro City Council that the City Administration inform residents about the MBTA policy change to allow two bus trips and one subway trip on a single fare. The additional transfer will likely be required for some residents impacted by the MBTA bus redesign project. be it further resolved that the MBTA more widely communicate that policy change to riders. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Bares. Any discussion? just for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion. On the motion of Vice President Bears, as amended by Vice President Bears, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: New address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. As you also said, thank you. On the motion of Vice President Bears as amended by Vice President Bears, seconded by... Councilor Collins all those in favor. I was opposed motion passes to three dash 025 offered by Kansas City Council and by a member of the city administration, Neil Osborne and a representative from the Medford Fire Department to discuss issues and concerns dealing with fire trucks and human resource questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, so with those intentions, is the motion to table it until the next meeting and invite those folks? Right, if we can.
[Nicole Morell]: Approve it, okay, and then have it, approve it and have it reappear on the next. Right. What would you like?
[Nicole Morell]: Everyone understand that?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, Councilor Stickler, on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, as amended by Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice President Perez. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Stickler. 23-026 offer... What? No, he's a stickler. Yeah. Everyone, I don't know. 23-026 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Metro City Council that the Elections Department and local U.S. Postal Service communicate with residents about when they can expect to receive their census forms given the recent mail delays. Be it further resolved that the Elections Manager and Elections Commission provide an update on the status of the 2022 Elections After Action Report requested by the City Council last fall. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Vice President Bears as amended by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-027 offered by Councilor Tseng. Be it resolved that the city council ask the city administration to inform residents about 2023 tax credits they can receive through clean energy provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act, including but not limited to up to $1,200 in credit each year for adding insulation or installing efficient windows and doors, up to 30% of the cost of installing battery storage. up to $600 off the cost of a panel upgrade, up to $150 off the cost of an energy audit, 30% of the cost of buying and installing a heat pump up to $2,000, including support for any electric system upgrades needed to make the home heat pump ready. Residents can find a more extensive list of incentives and rebates, as well as more information about the program at cleanenergy.gov. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Or recycle.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm recognizing you. I was going to offer it up if people want to talk more. Just because we can't vote right now. I'm sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: The most disrespectful member by far.
[Nicole Morell]: Please speak. I didn't mean to cut you off. I just meant to recognize you. I'd love it tomorrow. Scarpelli's next fight.
[Nicole Morell]: Great.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so I already forgot was famous on the motion of Councilor Tseng seconded by Councilor carving out all those in favor. I suppose motion passes. 22-028 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that Medford City Council, DPW, and engineering departments have Eversource repaint the line on Winthrop Street that has faded in less than three months in the interest of public safety. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I did talk with Director Blake specifically about the high school, and there is gonna be some adjustment to that in the spring. Yeah, someone's gonna die.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah, thank you, Councilor Caraviello and Ed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, would you like those as amendments?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion. And I do. Yeah, I appreciate you bringing this forward. I live right there. So I noticed the new lines. I am curious as to Councilor Scarpelli's joke, but why, why was this paint in this condition in the first place? Why did we get paint that basically disappeared? You couldn't see anything. We'll see if we can get an answer to that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. Which I understand, but.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Caraviello seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Communications from city officers and employees 22-519.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of ice and bears to weigh the reading of 22-519 from the chair summary from the chair or like she's gone now she's there brief summary of the paper all those in favor all those opposed motion passes we do have Roberta Cameron on the line if you want it's good we're good okay yeah You're all mumbling, you know, it's before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, so this is just a few wording changes to the community, the community, the ordinances of the city of Medford, establishing the community preservation committee with regard to vacancies, as well as just when projects can reappear or come before the council. Once again, we had a committee of the whole on it last week, it was reported out favorably. And these are all suggestions coming directly from the chair of the CBC. Motion for approval.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins to approve for first reading, seconded by Sprosses and Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you are ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Communications from the Mayor 23-018 to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the City Council from Mayor Brianna Logan Kern regarding Community Preservation Committee appropriation requests. Dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, on behalf of the Community Preservation Committee, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee, requesting the appropriation of $150,000 from the CPA General Fund to the Shiloh Baptist Church for restoration of the exterior of the historic building. requesting the appropriation of 10,000 from the CPA housing reserve to housing families Inc to provide emergency rental assistance as part of the pro bono legal services program, requesting the appropriation of $402,000 from the CPA general reserve to the Office of planning development sustainability for the construction of a new new pickleball courts as part of the car park rehabilitation. Requesting the appropriation of $96,864 from the CPA Open Space Reserve to the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability for the construction of fitness and picnic area as part of the Gillis Park rehabilitation. Requesting the appropriation of $28,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve to the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability for the design of the proposed COVID Memorial Grove. Requesting the appropriation of $9,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve to the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability for the installation of a tennis slash lacrosse bounce back at Denver Park. Requesting the appropriation of $85,000 from the CPA Historic Preserve to the Islamic Cultural Center of Medford for the Isaac Hall Preservation Project. Requesting the appropriation of $35,000 from the CPA Historic Preserve to the Medford Brooks Estate Land Trust for the further design work for the proposed Brooks Estate Access Drive. Requesting the appropriation of $50,000 from the CPA General Reserve for the DPW Cemetery Commission for Historic Preservation Study of the Oak Grove Cemetery Caretakers' Quarters. Requesting the appropriation of $500,000 from the CPA General Reserve to the Medford Public Schools for the construction of the McLinn Universally Accessible Playground. Requesting the appropriation of $90,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve for the DPW Parks Division on behalf of Medford Youth Softball for the installation of softball dugout shelters at Hickey Park. The project will be tracked in the Community Preservation Fund by category, Housing, Historic, Open Space, and General Reserve. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully submitted, Mayor Brando-Lococo. Can you repeat that again? No. On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Collins to approve. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes, seven in the front, zero in the back. The motion passes. Thank you to our CBC friends for staying on so late.
[Nicole Morell]: Take it up with your safety concern. Would someone like to motion to take that paper? I'm emotional kind of Scarpelli take favor to the hands of the clerk second by Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes to three dash 031 offered by Councilor Scarpelli be resolved the city council address safety concerns and public parks dealing with dogs off leash Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And for the previous conversation about those off leash in the parks, the mayor did respond, saying they've only sent out a survey. I don't know if that remains true, but that was a response a few weeks ago. Uh, On the motion, Councilor Pele is seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. There's another paper. 23-030 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it resolved by the Medford City Council, whereas we are coming up on the 10th anniversary of the Marathon bombing. Are we going to open the Crystal Campbell Fountain that has been closed for two years? Where are the funds be allocated for that part? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of cancer Caraviello, as amended by cancer Caraviello and cancer night. Second by cancer night all in favor. I was opposed motion passes. We also do, we had public participation on a specific topic before, but we still have public participation on the agenda if there's anyone who would like to speak for public participation. Seeing none, Vice President Bears. 23-01. 23-017 on the motion by Vice President Bears to take it off the table, seconded by. Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, do you have a motion on that paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, on the motion of Vice President Bears to approve 23-017, the home rule petition for the adoption of institutional master plan subject to the review and approval by a municipality. Seconded by? Second. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't know.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli? Yes. Okay. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: do you call council for a vote? Yes, okay. Six in the affirmative, one in the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to adjourn, seconded by- Second. Councilor Collins, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you vice chair Graham for that introduction and for the work that your colleagues have done in the past years. I know some people say that school committee is actually the hardest job in politics and I'm chatting with you all. I would agree. Thank you to mayor Longo Cohn for inviting me to speak tonight to share some highlights from the city council. If there is a child squealing during it, it's my child. So it's totally fine. I'm honored to serve as the president of the Medford city council. And I'm very proud of the work that we've accomplished in the more than 100 meetings we've held since January, 2022. We worked on new ordinances, voted for a charter review, approved funding for some transformative projects, and completed the recodification of our zoning code, all in support of a more livable, vibrant, and sustainable Medford. So much of what we do as a council is a work in progress, because good work takes time. Time to work with one another as Councilors, like Councilor Carballo, who I see here tonight, time to hear from and work with residents, time to balance competing viewpoints, and time to respond to the tremendous efforts from our city departments, boards, and commissions. Over the past year plus, the council has been focused on housing, continuing the work of establishing an affordable housing trust, providing suggestions for the city's comprehensive plan, voting in favor of the housing production plan, and working to establish a housing notification ordinance, all of which aim to provide housing opportunities and support for residents. Early last year, the council finalized and voted in favor of a zoning recodification, the first comprehensive review and reform of Bedford zoning in decades. The updated zoning is clear and concise and lays the groundwork for sustainable development and housing opportunities. I look forward to phase two of our zoning work, and I thank the mayor for allocating funding for that, and in this work where we can once again work with city departments to update our zoning to support residents and work in concert with the comprehensive plan for the city. In addition to our zoning work, the council has worked to modernize ordinances and policy around outdoor dining and food trucks in the city, responding to our business community and our residents to support a bustling Medford. We passed a polystyrene ban within the city, spearheaded first by students in the Center for Citizenship and Social Responsibilities. And with this, Medford joins communities around the state, taking seriously the harmful impacts of this type of pollution and our commitment to sustainability. The council also voted to tie the senior property tax deferral limit to the senior circuit breaker tax credit, which automatically expands eligibility for this program each year and helps seniors stay in their homes. Last year, we updated our snow removal ordinance and delivered a number of policy suggestions to the administration to streamline snow removal guidance and hopefully someday pilot a city run sidewalk clearing program in Medford. We did all of this with the help of residents and importantly, the city boards and commissions and the staff in this building. They are partners in this work and they provide invaluable expertise and insight. And I thank those city staff for being so giving of their time to support this work. We still have much work to accomplish and I'm confident we can work together as one in city hall to move forward with zoning updates, move forward with a more sustainable and resilient Medford and move forward with review of our city charter to ensure it reflects the city that we are today. I want to thank you all for your time and allowing me to share some of the highlights that we have done as a body working together and working with the people in this very building. And with that, I would like to introduce the Honorable Mayor of Medford, Brianna Lundekarp.
[Nicole Morell]: present present present six present one absent the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council community of the whole on Tuesday, January 24 2023 at 6pm and the Medford City Council chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss proposed awarding of Community Preservation Act funds to 11 projects. The committee has invited Community Preservation Committee Chair Roberta Cameron and Senior Planner Daniel Evans to attend the meeting. For further aids, information and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as the notice stated, we do have a number of proposals before us that have been approved and recommended by, I'm sorry, that have been recommended by the CPA, CDC. If we want to have them just, we can, I know we have a, I don't know if there's any specific order. I know we have an order on the sheet in front of us, but if we just want to have presentations come up one at a time.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. And Councilor, just for the sake of moving forward, I can read, as we go through, I can read this summary, or I can just go through with like the two sentences that are on the sheet. Great. We'll go for that. I'll just read this whole paper. So on January 10th, 2023, the Community Preservation Committee voted to recommend to City Council the awarding of Community Preservation Act funds for the following 11 projects. The CPC will vote on the remaining four applications at a future meeting. Application materials can be found at preservemedford.org slash CPA projects. So the first one is $150,000 to Shiloh Baptist Church for restoration of the exterior of the historic building. Is anyone here or on Zoom? So if you just want to share your name and address of the record and just an overview of this project for us.
[Nicole Morell]: And we have the summary before us. Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from the council? Thank you so much. Thank you. Next up, we have $10,000 for Housing Families Incorporated to provide emergency rental assistance as part of the pro bono legal services program. Is there anyone here or on Zoom? I see, okay. I will unmute you and just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And could you tell us just a little bit about the request before us?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other questions from the council? Thank you so much, Jayna. And I'm just gonna send you a message just so I can get information for the clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: We have $402,000 to the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability for the construction of new pickleball courts as part of the car park rehabilitation. Who?
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions for the council. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: You're welcome. Thank you. Ask her really. All right. Any other questions from the council? Yeah. Thank you. The next recommended product, so $96,864, the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability for the construction of a fitness and picnic area as part of the Gillis Park Rehabilitation. Are you speaking on this? Yes, I am. Oh, sorry. Are you, I'm sorry. Oh, you, sorry, you wanna speak, oh, sorry. Sure, if you wanna speak on Pickleball, sure. I apologize.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you both. Any other members of the public wish to speak on this project? Great. Moving forward. $96,864 to the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability for the construction of a fitness and picnic area as part of the Gillis Park Rehabilitation.
[Nicole Morell]: Versus repairs.
[Nicole Morell]: I do have Commissioner McGivern is on the line. I think for another product, do you want to ask that question to him? All right, did you hear that question, Commissioner McGivern? Is that something you can speak to?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, the plans to pave it was the question. Are there any plans to pave it?
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Alicia. Alicia had her hand up, but it's no longer up. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council? Any members of the, sorry, Director Hunt just said that the path is not a sidewalk, it's in the park and there's a house between the park and the street. That offers any clarity. Any members of the public wish to speak? Seeing none, thank you. Next, we have $28,000 to the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability for the design of the proposed COVID Memorial Grove. Is that you again, Amanda? Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: I was just embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. Thank you so much. Although it looks like you're probably not going far. OK, next up is $9,000. The Office of Planning Development Sustainability for the installation of tennis lacrosse bounce back at Duggar Park.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Questions from the council? Members of the public who would like to speak on this project? Seeing none, thank you so much. Next up, we have $85,000 to the Islamic Cultural Center of Medford for the Isaac Hall Preservation Project. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: You want to tell us a little bit about the project before us?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. You said 53 windows? Yes. I did not realize there was that many. That's impressive. Yes. Questions from the council? Any members of the public like to speak? Could you say and spell your name for the record?
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing no questions or discussion. Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Next up, $35,000 to the Medford Brooks Estate Land Trust for further design work for the proposed Brooks Estate Access Drive. I see Tom Lincoln on Zoom. I assume Tom will be speaking on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Tom. Any questions on the council by some bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thanks very much. $50,000 to the DPW slash Cemetery Commission for Historic Preservation Study of the Oak Grove Cemetery Caretakers' Quarters. I see Steve Brogan as well as Tim McGivern on the call. I'm not sure who would like to speak to this. gesture at me or just wants to talk. Okay, we'll go to Commissioner McGiver.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you both. Questions from the council? Seeing none, any members of the public who wish to speak? Seeing none, thank you both. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to $50,000 to the, I'm sorry, just read that one. Going to $500,000 to the Medford Public Schools for the construction of the McLinn Universally Accessible Playground.
[Nicole Morell]: Good evening.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the Council or members of the public who would like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else wish to speak on this project?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. Thank you for that. project we have before us tonight is $90,000 to DPW Parks Division on behalf of Medford Youth Softball for the installation of softball dugout shelters at Hickey Park. I believe Chuck Wilworth, there we go, is going to speak to this. Chuck, just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, Mr. Clerk, can you make him a co-host?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Any questions from the council? Seeing none, any members of the public who would like to speak on this project? Seeing none, thank you so much, Chuck. Thank you. That is the end of the recommended projects before us. Any further discussion from the council? Do I have a motion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think they have to be referred out to the regular meeting to be voted on. On the motion to refer out the paper favorably, yeah, is that good? To refer out the paper favorably, seconded by Councilor Collins. I believe Councilor Scarpelli is still on the call. Call so if you could call the roll when you're ready Yes Yes. Yes, six in the in front of zero negative one absolutely motion passes. Motion to adjourn on the motion of vice president bears to adjourn seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in Inferno zero and the negative one absentee meeting is adjourned. Thank you to the CPC for their work on this and for everyone who spoke tonight. Meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: And nice to see you all, and nice to be back.
[Nicole Morell]: Thanks, Brie. So before we get into kind of the five themes, we wanted to take a bit of a step back and I'll move pretty quickly through this since there's a lot of overlap with what we shared with you all last summer and also since you've been sitting with the plan. but thinking about the fact that Medford has done a lot of planning work at different levels and on different topics. And so part of the role of this plan is to really bring together current and past plans and to understand how these components relate holistically to one another. And so we looked at the history of land use and development in Medford and considered that together with current trends and citywide patterns. And then projecting that out to the future. And so this is sort of, the future land use map is this diagrammatic way of thinking about the different areas in Medford and the strategies this plan has for addressing those areas. So here you can see some highlighted elements such as the green corridor along the rivers, gateway entries to the city shown there in blue, civic and institutional anchors, those centers and squares of economic activity, and then also kind of smaller, more village centers at the neighborhood scale. And so thinking about how all these different areas of investment and a different character relate to one another and what they look like in the future. And so, as Brie mentioned, the five building blocks really came out of community engagement and input, and all of these were themes that were refined over the course of this process. And these were open and engaged communication, welcoming and supportive neighborhoods, vibrant places, access for all, and climate resiliency. So we'll dig into those just a little bit to provide a high level overview of what these look like, but there are many more actions and elements within the chapters themselves. So I encourage everyone to take a closer look and looking forward to discussion with you all after this. So first, open and engaged communication, and this includes the relationship between the community and City Hall, how plans like these get implemented over time, allocation of funding, and how the City relates to other potential partners who can help to implement elements of this plan. So some of the goals that came out here were to grow and strengthen community trust, to implement the plan according to community-supported priorities, and also allocating resources effectively to make sure that this plan can be effective going forward. And so just to highlight a few of the actions that are contained in this chapter, the plan recommends issuing an annual comprehensive plan update that will show progress made on the plan and really create that transparency with the community about actions that have been taken. Offering communication and training to residents and staff, including mediation training and thinking about how we're communicating with the rest of the community, tracking participation demographics in planning processes and on boards to really see who's in the room and how we can expand the reach of both membership of boards and commissions, but also of who's engaged in public processes. And then also identifying partners who can help to implement this plan. There are a lot of actions and recommendations and steps in here. So how can the city now do this alone and thinking about how to strategically allocate some of these steps to some supporting organizations and partners. So the second building block or theme is a welcoming and supportive community. And so, One of the big goals here is ensuring affordable housing for all and housing was a big theme that came forth throughout the engagement process. As Brie mentioned, part of moving this chapter up in the structure of the plan was really to emphasize kind of the weight of that piece within the plan and the emphasis on that. And this plan builds a lot on the housing production plan that was recently completed, but really emphasizing that the affordable housing goal is a main component of this plan. Another goal within this theme is enlivening open spaces and facilities and really having those Medford's abundant open space, really leveraging that and making it be the most welcoming and supportive and engaging places that they can be. And then also honoring Medford's rich history, roots and culture that are really present throughout the neighborhoods and how we can bring those to the forefront and think about how to leverage those resources. And so highlighting a few examples of actions here, diversifying housing options by allowing multifamily and small diverse housing options through zoning changes, retrofitting existing facilities for universal accessibility, and beautifying centers by working with local artists to highlight history and culture. So kind of that mix of addressing affordability and open space and
[Nicole Morell]: And this relates to economic development and land use and open space and how these work together to kind of create a more vibrant and active community. And a few goals here were something that was heard a lot in engagement was about creating these live and work communities in Bedford and sort of the 12 and 18 hour communities. So having something to do and extending the hours of when these resources are available and activities happening in centers. Also supporting businesses and the workforce. So through workforce training and making sure that economic development growth in Medford supports Medford residents and the members of the community are prepared with the skills and resources for that growth. And then increasing the enjoyment of natural resources, also within this by replacement element and balancing growth. So really seeing you know, the areas that are appropriate for growth and how to balance that with investment in infrastructure and transportation to really make sure that the investments needed are in place to support that growth.
[Nicole Morell]: Leveraging city-owned parcels to develop and promote multi-family residential. Attracting companies that will provide well-being jobs to residents in Bedford. And encouraging that small-scale neighborhood retail and services to provide services within neighborhoods and those walkable communities. So then the fourth theme or building block here is access for all. And this relates to mobility and facilities and services and how people get around the community. And so the goals here relate to connecting multi-mobile networks and building on recent investments that have been made and really creating the connections between where people want to go in Medford. As I mentioned a bit with Fiber Police is to coordinating that mobility and development so that where growth is happening, there is the transportation infrastructure to support it. And then improving the mobility experience for all users. So from pedestrians and bikers to transit users and universal accessibility, really making sure that experience is improved for everyone. So a couple of actions that I'll highlight here are auditing pedestrian crossings and school adjacent routes for safe crossings. working with the ongoing bicycle master plan update to really create a safe and well-connected network for all users, promoting density and mixed use and walking distance of MBTA train stations and major bus hubs, and then also determining how to integrate currently unaccepted streets into the city ownership, since that was a topic that came up a lot in engagement. And then finally, and we sort of move this to the end, not because it's not important, but because it's sort of looking ahead to the future. And also it's building on so much work that the city is already doing with the climate action and adaptation plan. And so climate resilience goals within the plan include raising community awareness about the impacts of climate change. really achieving and evolving the climate action and adaptation plan so that it's time to support implementation of that plan. Preserving and enhancing my current existing natural resources to really leverage those existing assets, and then supporting community health and resilience. So really trying to create the resources necessary to support the Metric community and in particular, environmental justice communities or communities who are at greater risk of negative impacts and climate change. And so a few key examples here of actions to highlight are using streets and open spaces for stormwater management, focusing public tree investments in priority areas like places of high heat vulnerability, adopting environmental performance standards for large projects, and updating flood resilience and cool surface design guidelines and standards. So with that, I will turn it over to Emily to talk about our implementation section.
[Nicole Morell]: It is. The only thing that's remaining to be swapped is that order of the chapters and the graphic of the implementation table. So Alicia, we might leave it up to you. If you think the video is final, it just needs that replacement swap out of the implementation page. And that should happen any day now. We just have it here in case it would be helpful and we can sort of share it around after the fact as well once we have that updated literacy.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you hear the sound? I believe I'm sharing now. Yes. Good job.
[Nicole Morell]: 21-053 Committee of the Whole meeting on this Wednesday, January 18th, 2023 at 6 p.m. Committee of the Whole is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Five present, two absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, January 18th, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber, later adjusted to Zoom, on the second floor of the Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss paper 21-053, the Housing Stability Notification Ordinance and its review by legal counsel. The committee has invited Attorney Sharon Everett from KP Law, Finance Director Bob Dickinson, Chief of Staff Dina Nazarian, representatives from the Office of Prevention and Outreach, and representatives from the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, council president. So the council has before us a draft ordinance regarding the housing stability notification language that has been in committee and is coming to the committee of the whole for the first time. We have also some comments from attorney Everett that came to our inboxes earlier today. I'm going to let Kit Collins, Councilor Collins, give us an update on what is before us tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Going to Councilor Carballo.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not see Attorney Everett on the call. Councilor Collins, did you address all of the answers or sorry?
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Madam Chief of Staff has her hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, thank you, Councilor Collins. Yeah, I think if you'd like to do a short overview of the ordinance, I know we have five councillors here tonight, three of which are on the housing subcommittee. So we can provide a short overview and then we can have for any additional questions, discussion from councillors, and then also all the invited members of the administration on our call as well. I do just wanna, Madam Chief of Staff, is your hand up still or again? I just wanna make sure I'm not missing you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Going to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion or questions from Councilors? Any members of the public who'd like to speak or any members of the administration that have been part of this whole process have anything that they would like to add at this point?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, correct. It's 90 days from passage Council Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Great.
[Nicole Morell]: Back to you, Vice President Bears. Again, I don't know if you put your hands back up or you put it down or not.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Anyone else who would like to speak at this point? Seeing none, do I have a Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I'd like to echo that as well as anything we try to do as a council. It's all for not if it's something that doesn't work for the staff that's actually tasked with enforcing it or they have the expertise in this area. So I really appreciate you all being on the call and for all the time you've given to the subcommittee on this. I'm going to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Seconded by Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. And Councilor Collins, please go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins to report the paper out to the full council, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: And the motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I've been the inferno during the negative to absent motion passes the meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-519 committee of the whole meeting Tuesday, January 17 2023 at 615 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Present.
[Nicole Morell]: There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023, at 6.15 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss paper 22-519, proposed amendments to the Community Preservation Act Ordinance. The committee has invited Roberta Cameron, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, to this meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as the meeting notice states, this is in response to a paper that was introduced through communications from other departments, from Roberta Cameron, Chair of the Community Preservation Committee, for two or three proposed changes to the Community Preservation Act Ordinance as it's enacted in the City of Medford. There are minor changes as far as filling in vacant positions and just some language as far as resubmitting proposals to the City Council. Unless any Councilors have questions at this time, Roberta if you'd want to just kind of jog our memory as to the proposed changes before us and we also did get a legal opinion from KP law on this as well that was shared with the council, so please do and I will apologize and ask you to jog my memory as well because it was some time ago that I drafted this memorandum and I haven't reviewed it to to remember exactly but I do recall that we were
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. And we do have, yeah, we have the document in front of us. I can read it for anyone watching. The proposed or recommended changes Current existing language and 2-561C2 is a committee may resubmit a project to the city council with an adjusted scope or budget. And the issue here is there's no reason to place a time limit or otherwise constrain the CPC's ability to revise and resubmit the projects the council has rejected. If a project requires more negotiation or vetting in order to be acceptable to all stakeholders, then it will be more beneficial to allow as much time or as many attempts as needed to seek approval. And again, these recommendations are coming from, this came from your report, Roberta, in September, and their recommendation is to strike this. The other one is 2-563D, which prohibits members of other boards and committees from serving on the CPC. The issue is, again, from Roberta, is should Medford establish an affordable housing trust, it may be beneficial to have a member of the CPC also serve on the AHT. Moreover, it may be helpful to allow for greater coordination between the CPC and some other boards and committees, if there are people who are interested in serving on both, the recommendation is to amend this provision to allow appointed officials to serve on multiple. And then 2-564, the existing language, it describes a process for filling vacancies on the committee. And the issue, again, as submitted by Roberta, is this process is overly prescriptive and has consistently prolonged the time requirement to fill vacancies. No other committee requires legal advertisement to fill vacancies. and there is no requirement under the state statute for the CPC to post legal advertisements for committee appointments. While the intention was to ensure promptness and broad outreach in recruiting new committee members, the result has been that vacancies must be held open for months until the unique appointment process has been followed exactly as specified in the ordinance. Moreover, the requirement to advertise in a newspaper of general circulation is no longer relevant because Medford's local newspaper is not widely read and is no longer exclusively local. Finally, the time limit of 45 days may not be realistic or sufficient to allow for adequate outreach to the community. And the recommendation here is to eliminate the requirement to post a newspaper of general circulation to advertise for two consecutive weeks and the time limit for filling the vacancy. So those are the changes that were proposed to us within the existing ordinance. I know this was referred to committee of the whole by Councilor Knight, partially just to understand whether these proposed changes were within the state statute outline of the CPC as it was adopted. And we have an opinion from Attorney Everett with KP Law that affirms that this would be in coordinates or coordinated with the state statute as it was adopted by the city of Medford. So that is what we have before us tonight. If we have any questions or discussion around this. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I know Councilor Knight just arrived. We're reviewing the proposed changes to, I know you had a, great. I believe you're the one who sent it to me the whole, great. Councilor Collins, you said you had some proposed amendment.
[Nicole Morell]: I miss, I think I missed the first word or two on that either repeat.
[Nicole Morell]: My only concern would be just economic background. I don't know how you would know such information without someone volunteering, and I think it might put us in a precarious place start asking things like that. That is a fair point.
[Nicole Morell]: And both those comments were specific to economic. Yeah. OK. First point I hear, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Any discussion on that from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on that amendment or this paper in general?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And yeah, I would just, I agree with the intent. And I think to Council Vice-President Bears, as Councilor is saying, I think perhaps it is a statement that belongs on all of our committees or commissions that we don't want to seem like we're establishing quotas number one, and then quotas specifically for one established committee. So yeah, I thank you for entertaining the conversation, and I appreciate you for introducing it. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on This paper in general, anything specific? We do have a motion on the floor from Vice President Bears to report out the recommended changes to the regular meeting. Seeing no further discussion, Councilor Tseng. Second. Great. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to report the language out to the regular meeting, the next regular meeting, and seconded by Councilor Tseng. without Councilor Collins amendment. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: January 17 2023 of the Medford City Council is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, Councilor Tseng President present seven present zero absent please rise to salute the flag. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 23-011 offered by Councilor Tseng. Be it so resolved that the City Council recognize Lunar New Year and wish our residents to celebrate a happy New Year and joyous holiday season. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carballo. On the motion of Councilor Tseng, as seconded by Councilor Carballo. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Records, the records of the meeting of January 10th, 2023 were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins, it's seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. hearings 21-301, Medford City Council Public Hearing Notice. In accordance with the requirements of Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 148, Section 13, the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing on January 17th, 2023 at 7 p.m. or as soon thereafter as it can be heard in the Howard F. Alden Memorial Auditorium at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155, and also remotely via Zoom for a remand hearing in the Superior Court Proceedings in the case of BJ's Wholesale Club, Inc. versus the City of, I'm sorry, versus the Medford City Council. The remand hearing will be based on the application of BJ's Wholesale Club for a flammable storage license for a proposed fueling station, including two 20,000 gallon and one 24,000 gallon underground fuel storage tanks at 278 Middlesex Avenue, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155, an industrial zoning district shown on Assessor's Map P17, Lot 5 and Map O16, Lot 1. The original application is part of the City Council Paper 21-301 from April 13th, 2021. Plans for the proposed development to be reviewed at the remand hearing are on file in the office of the Medford City Clerk and may be inspected by the public during normal business hours, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Wednesday from 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. and Friday from 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Any person interested or wishing to be heard should appear at the time and place of the public hearing. To attend remotely, go to the Zoom link, which will be posted on the Medford City Council section of the City of Medford website, https at medfordma.org slash city council, and in the Medford City Clerk's office not later than January 13th, 2023. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations, aids, TDD 713932516. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the Medford City Council, signed Adam L. Hurtubise, City Clerk, advertised in the Medford Transcripts Summerville Journal on January 5th, 2023. Before we open this public hearing, is there any discussion from the council at this time? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I can give, yeah, I can give a brief summary. I also have Attorney Austin on the line as well, who's advised us along this. I can give a summary. I've also got an expert in legal proceedings, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Austin, would you feel comfortable just giving us a summary of what's before us and how we got here?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, madam president.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello, Vice-Chair Bares.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Seeing none, as per the council rules for public hearings, the process we have is to have the petition read into the record, which we have done, and next would be the petitioner provide an explanation of the matter before us for the public hearing, and then we'll open the public hearing. So if the petitioner would like to speak to the paper before us, and just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Seeing none, please proceed.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, sure. Under what name? You're good? Okay. And just name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could just ask a question about that. Yeah, certainly. Somewhere in the plans, it said something about tree removal for the EV stations. Is that, where would those be coming from?
[Nicole Morell]: I believe I saw it somewhere.
[Nicole Morell]: I just have a question on that. Would you need a BJ's membership to use those chargers? I don't believe so.
[Nicole Morell]: OK. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Mayor Bears. Just a quick follow up on this one.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions at this time? Please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng. Sorry. Councilor Tseng, I heard you. We'll go back to you. Go back to you. I mean, mine's quick.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I hope that answers your question. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Just your name for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carbelli. Any further discussion from the Council at this time? Understanding that we still do have to open the public hearing. All right, at this point, we will open the public hearing. Anyone who would like to speak in favor of the paper before us, please come to the podium and speak at this time. Yeah, would anyone from BJ's, assuming you're in favor of the paper you just presented on, like to just speak in favor of the paper at this time? Just the official process of the public hearing. Someone just has to say that they're in favor. Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the paper at this time? I see Tony on Zoom, and this is to speak in favor of the petition at this time. Tony, I will unmute you if you could to share your name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this paper at this time? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper at this time? Please come to the podium or raise your hand on Zoom. please come up to the podium. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition? Please come up to the podium. just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition of the paper before us tonight? Anyone on Zoom or anyone in person? Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition of this paper? Either in person or on Zoom?
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else would like to speak in opposition? Seeing no one else close this portion of the hearing. It's now up for deliberation for the council. Do I have a motion? Any additional questions at this time or discussion? And I do also want, for just procedural, we are required to have a response to the court by February 17th. And then also just a reminder that any commitments agreed to by BJs would be enforceable as a condition of the permit. So I understand the concerns around it being talked, but these would be conditions that would be enforceable for the permit itself.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, for those who couldn't hear Councilor Knight, the Council has rules that there's a six-day waiting period to allow folks to submit comments who may not have been able to attend tonight or share comments in advance.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Knight, the Vice Chair.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. So would that be a motion to leave the hearing open until our next regular meeting?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Councilor Colle. Yes, I just want to confirm, so Attorney Austin, would that, if we were to leave the public hearing open as is our practice, our next regular meeting being on January 31st, Would that fit within the timeline when we need to get an answer back to the courts?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Vice-Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I need a charger. Well, I don't know if I can vamp long enough. I didn't know you were gonna make a motion, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. You sit tight for a moment.
[Nicole Morell]: I can, I mean, it's, yeah. I sent him away because my phone's dying, so that's fully on me. Oh, he already went downstairs to get me one.
[Nicole Morell]: going to I mean, I mean, I could also if there's any other councils of which to speak at this time, I think I also will ask for clarity on the motions, but I will wait till the clerk returns. I just want to affirm what many councils have said. I agree with vices and bears that I don't think we should add another fossil fuel station, another gas station in the city, period. Unfortunately, that is not the power we have right now. And I very much understand the, and I should say not the power we have, but I mean for the power for that to uphold in core. And I very much understand what the letter from the neighbors noted that the state's climate action plan. Unfortunately, the state puts these things on cities and then doesn't give us the power to enact things that would be powerful movement towards moving away from fossil fuel. Unfortunately, in this position as Councilors, sometimes we have to make the least bad decision. Again, I don't want to permit this. Unfortunately, we have been basically told by the courts that we get this or we go back to court and we don't address any of the issues that residents have before us, that neighbors have before us that are very valid issues. And what I see before us is an opportunity, not the way I would like to address some of those issues. Um, again, I want to make sure that I support the Councilors motions to keep this open here. Additional public comment on this. Um, as we do still have a little bit of time, be able to hear additional public comment on this. Um, and I'll wait for the clerk to return. Um, anyone else to speak? I know I made up. I was trying to trying to guess based on how how verbose you guys are and I guess wrong.
[Nicole Morell]: I figured since you were talking, I figured there was time.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I think to build off that point, I think part of the reason, again, this extended public comment period, this is a different project, but I think the council permitted a large project in a similar area, in the area in the same neighborhood. And there are some issues that have come up with it that I think if we had foreseen those issues, we absolutely would have put conditions on it so that we can do the best for our neighbors, for the abutters. So I think that's a really important process or the process we have. Vice President Bears is about to make a motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I would also seek a motion just explicitly continuing the hearing, keeping the hearing open 31st.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Um, Attorney Austin, would that satisfy? Um, what's in front of us tonight?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, if you could, to make sure we don't have anything missed from what was brought up.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion at this time? I will take the motion to continue first since the other motion is predicated on that. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to keep the hearing open until our next regular meeting date on January 31st, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, do you need a roll call for that? Yeah, we'll take a roll call.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: And then we have a second motion from vice president bears to compile all the conditions as presented by BJ's the council tonight. And does that cover it and disseminate to the council?
[Nicole Morell]: To all parties involved.
[Nicole Morell]: Chair, she's nodding, great.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of vices and bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Thank you all. We will see you back on the 31st.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-412 legal notice city clerk's office notice of a public hearing the Medford City Council will hold a continued public hearing originally opened on July 19 2022 and the Howard F Alden chambers at Medford City Hall 85 George P has to drive Medford and via zoom on Tuesday, January 17 2023 at 7pm, a link to be posted no later than Friday, January 13 2023 on a petition from Starbucks coffee Daniel Brennan permit agent 177 College Ave, aka 161 College Ave, Medford, Mass, 02155, for a special permit to amend its hours of operation in accordance with Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-7.2.1 to operate extended hours at its business at 177 College Ave, also known as 161 College Ave, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155, said site being located in a mixed use zoning district as follows. Extended hours of operation requested 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. Sunday through Saturdays. Petition and plans may be seen in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford, Massachusetts. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations, aids. TDD 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the city council, signed Adam Herbies, city clerk, advertised in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal on June 30th and July 7th. I we do have the petitioner on the line, unless Council has Councilors have any questions first we can hear a brief summary of the people before us from the petitioner going to Madam President, if I may, I do believe that this paper was tabled but not for any other reason but because the fact that I'm Starbucks was involved in quite a very
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you guys for some bears going to Daniel Brennan if you could just give us a brief summary of the petition before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, any further discussion from the council at this time? As this is a public hearing, although the public hearing was already, the public hearing was left open for 90 days. On the motion of Councilor Knight to close the public hearing and institute a six day waiting period until a vote is taken or take a vote and then have the six day waiting period Vice President Pearce.
[Nicole Morell]: We don't. I can text her and see if she can come back because I do have, I have questions.
[Nicole Morell]: That would be where my questions lie.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, I think, yeah, we can close the public hearing. The public hearing was left open for 90 days. We have a motion to close.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: She can't come back.
[Nicole Morell]: We already kept it open for 90 days. I can't.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't believe so. I can't speak to that.
[Nicole Morell]: I do have, I have someone from Starbucks who has their hand up as well. Jamila Fines, if you'd like to speak, I just ask you to unmute and give an address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, what if we just do with this? Yeah, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion to close the public hearing and a table of paper to a date certain being our next regular meeting on January 31st. Yes. Madam President. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, you can make the motion and we can.
[Nicole Morell]: I can't motion, so. Mr. Navarre, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: So you can accept that. The worst that happens is we get sued and it costs the city a significant amount of money. Just to make that clear. I think sometimes that gets lost.
[Nicole Morell]: We're at a stalemate. I can't make a motion. All right, do I have a motion on the floor? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, I think it's just Vice President Berzina had a motion. What's wrong? Okay. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve seconded by You guys are killing me. Do I have a second? Councilor Knight. I assume we're ready to roll a poll vote. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Four in the affirmative. Four in the affirmative, three in the negative. The motion passes. The extended hours are graded.
[Nicole Morell]: Reaching across the aisle for coffee. Do we want to keep the six-day waiting period pending the six-day waiting period? All right. So the motion is approved pending the six-day comment period. Thank you. I don't know if you guys could follow that, but it was approved. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. motions, orders, and resolutions. 23-012 offered by Vice President Bears, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council requests that DCR share its plan to fix issues this spring with empty dirt pits and patches of weeds that have gone unfilled on the Fellsway and Fellsway West due to recent sidewalk and curb construction. Be it further resolved that Traffic and Transportation Director Blake share any updates he can provide. Be it further resolved that the Mayor update the Council on the status of the on-site visit by DCR Commissioner requested in paper 22-353. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. I do see we have Todd Blake on the call. Director Blake, are you able to provide any update on this? if you're still there, it's been a while.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. Okay. Um, thank you, Director Blake. Sorry. We're having some confusion on the previous vote. Any further discussion on this paper on the motion of Councilor Kirby? Uh, sure.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favour? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-013 offered by Councilor Tseng, be it so resolved that the City Council ask the City Administration to look into creating an expanded list of sites around the city where city-sponsored events can be held in order to expand accessibility and build a wider sense of community. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Knight? Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 23-014 offered by Councilor Tseng be a source of the city council asked the city administration to increase access to sharps disposal in our city focusing on accessibility convenience and cleaning up refuse from what spaces Councilor Tseng, Thank you, President morale on this came out of conversations with residents.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? Move. On a motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, I'll just suspend the rules for a reconsideration of the vote on 22-412. Sure, it's a voice vote. That would have taken more time than it would have. Okay, sorry?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, well.
[Nicole Morell]: I called it, I erroneously called it the prevailing side, so I know we can be stuck in legal limbo.
[Nicole Morell]: There is?
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Councilor Caraviello to suspend the rules to reconsider 22-412 seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. So I erroneously called this paper as passing when it actually did not because it is a zoning change. It would require a super majority of five votes and we did not have that. Do I have a motion on the floor for this paper. We have a motion reconsider. I'm sorry. Yeah, I have a motion to reconsider the vote on a motion of cancer Harvey L to reconsider second by second. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Cabrera. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Will you withdraw your motion? I withdraw the motion. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to table to the January 31st. No, we already voted for reconsideration. His motion was to approve. Yeah, we voted for reconsideration. And then he just submitted a new motion to approve. And now he's withdrawing it. But we already voted affirmatively to reconsider. Thank you. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to table the petition until the January 31st meeting and request the presence of legal counsel as seconded by, I think it was Councilor Tseng, seconded by everyone. Yeah, thirded by Councilor Scarpelli. It's just, please roll call, just for... And I think we got a little too well the boat was taken.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one in the negative. Motion passes. Motion to revert back to regular order is on the motion of Vice President Harris to revert back to regular order of business. Second by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. City Council renew its efforts on reducing nip litter around the city including what not limited to the following actions, a following up on resolution, which requested the licensing commission examine the feasibility of the following. One, implementation of a no-nip condition on the transfer of licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on premises. Two, implementation of a no-nip condition on the issuance of new licenses for the sale of alcohol beverages not to be drunk on premises. Three, increasing the renewal fees of licenses for the sale of alcoholic beverages not to be drunk on premises for establishments engaged in the sale of nips. B, exploring a city ordinance regulating NIP sales along the lines of the thin film plastic bags ordinance for a mandatory level, and C, reaching out to our state delegation to ask them to support and continue their advocacy for bills in the state legislature which would promote the proper disposal of NIPs and include NIPs in ball deposit programs. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Let's look it up. I think we renamed everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: So, um, yeah. Further discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: Just to be clear, we have not banned leaf blowers just before people start talking about it.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you a betting man?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? On the motion of cancer car VLO as seconded by cancer saying, all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. Communications from the mayor to three dash 016 to the honorable president members of the Medford City Council proposed our project in excess of $250,000 dear President Morell and members of the City Council. I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body allow time for a discussion on supporting the affordable housing project, which is starting demolition and construction in 2023 by the Medford Housing Authority for 121 Riverside Avenue. The $400,000 in ARPA funds will pay for a portion of the permit fees. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Rana Lungokaran, Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't believe we've gotten a report since the presentation.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. If I may, Madam President. Sorry, Vice President Bears and Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think to your point, we did receive an extensive presentation on this project. through the Community Preservation Act, just to make that clear. Right, right.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Barros.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. I do see a hand up from Madam Chief of Staff. Madam Chief of Staff.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion on the floor to receive and place on file seconded by I believe Vice President Bears. All those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. 23-017. Motion to table. On the motion of Councilor Knight to table the home rule petition, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Public participation, is there anyone who would like to speak for public participation at this time? Seeing none, and the chamber's being essentially empty. On the motion, sorry, I do see a hand from Matthew Fleming or accidental. Okay. On the motion of Councilor Tseng to adjourn seconded by Councilor Caraviello all those in favor. All right, all those opposed.
[Nicole Morell]: I abstain.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you do the vice president, too, or do I do the vice president?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, everyone, for your continued support. Basically, what the oath said, I worked in the best of my ability to be fair and impartial, and I hope that comes through, and I plan to continue doing that for another year, so thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Zoom is updating. 22-003 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved that the standing committee rules be adopted as the standing rules of the City Council insofar as they are applicable. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. And I can't see, does anyone have one comment on this? I can't, I'm on Zoom yet. All right, so on the motion of Vice President Bears, it's seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero negative motion passes. 23-004 offered by Councilor Vice President Bears be resolved with the City Council transfer all papers and committees or on the table from 2022 Council to the 2023 Council Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of our affairs is second by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 740 and then I have the motion passes announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports and records. 23-005 offered by Councilor Collins. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council congratulate Arts Collaborative Medford on the planned opening of their new Community Arts Center on Mystic Ave later this year. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So the inferno is here and then I get the motion passes records the records of the meeting of December 20 2022 were passed to Councilor count Caraviello, Councilor Caraviello, how did you find on the motion of Councilor Caraviello seconded by Councilor scarpelli Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: fuel storage tanks, litigation, and there will be a remanded hearing on this next week, the 17th at our regular meeting. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to approve the open session report, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero negative motion passes motions orders and resolutions to to dash 602 offered by cancer vice president bears just keep reading what's on the paper, be it so resolved in the Metro City Council that the mayor and traffic commission implement a citywide program to put up signage on all public ways indicating city policy for snow removal and street sweeping, specifically the odd even snow emergency policy and information on the big sweep. Such a program would improve quality of life for residents by reducing tickets and towing and improve the compliance and public safety during snow emergencies. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: That's great.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion by the council? Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry. Councilor is saying that's an amendment? Or just, I don't know. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? I want to thank Bison and Bears for putting this forward. I like this resolution so much. I introduced it about eight months ago, something very similar. So the point I knew, I knew what Councilor Caraviello was going to say, I knew what Councilor Scarpelli was going to say. So I'll put in a plug once again for I know how Somerville does like yard signs that just say it's the odd year, it's the even year, whatever. So even if it's temporary signs that say this information is on the website, I know our approach to it is possibly too convoluted to put on a sign, but maybe it's something that could be put, you know, directing people where they can see it.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of vice president bears as amended by vice president bears second by Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Councilor San Buenaventura? Yes. 7-4-0-0-9, motion passes. 2-3-0-0-6, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved, the Medford City Council have the DPW director report to the council on the reason for paving Freedom Way, first, during the school year, and second, for why we are paving and whether that is not preferred for paving. What type of warranty will their contractor be responsible for when it starts coming up in the future? Is this the finished result? Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Can I have that email? I can read it. So this is from City Engineer Wartella. So as you know, Freedom Way recently became a public way to bring the road up to city standards. Freedom Way would need to be completely reconstructed. The current conditions of the road would likely pose a safety risk if not repaired before this winter. The city was ready to move forward with this work in late summer, but was delayed since the roadway needed to be accepted by both the city and the state prior to using any Chapter 90 funds for the repairs. The state delayed this process into mid-October, which left the window to go to bid very narrow. The coordination efforts between multiple city departments were key in achieving this process in such a narrow timeframe. The start of the milling and paving operations was delayed many weeks to find a weather window where temperatures were accommodating. The engineering division was on site during the entire operations monitoring the milling and patching process. Our staff was there to ensure the paving was placed at optimum temperatures and rolled out in accordance with paving specifications. The work was done during the daytime to meet the necessary temperature requirements. The pavement patching is only temporary. In the next two to three years, we intend to redesign and reconstruct the entire roadway. The city has also coordinated numerous communications prior to the start of this work, informing the public of the start and duration of the project. Although there was a bit of disruption during the first day of operation, the work always started after morning drop off and ramp down during the afternoon dismissal to accommodate the school schedule. The engineering office is working with the city DPW crews to reestablish a yellow center line along the entire roadway, but this work is weather dependent.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want that in the form of a motion? amendment. President Bears your hand up. Any further discussion? So on the motion of cancer Caraviello, as amended amended by Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. One moment. I do see Mr. Castagnetti has his hand up. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: You are.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call it.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 7-0-0 negative motion passes. 3-0-0-7 offered by Councilor Collins. It would involve the Medford City Council to request an update from our federal delegation on the status of the FAA review of block two of the one-way TARNAP study, which includes recommendations for dispersing noise from airplanes departing and arriving from Boston Logan Airport. As of September, 2022, the FAA was supposed to have begun a review of these recommendations so as to consider navigation changes that would lessen noise pollution for Medford residents. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor say.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any furthers? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council on the motion of Councilor Collins is seconded by Councilor Scarpelli Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in favor, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Going to public participation. I have a Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion to take under suspension to take papers in the hands of the clerk, as well as one from the table, and these are 23-009, 23-008, 23-010, and 22-612, that covers them all? Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm the informant here in the negative. The rules are suspended to take these papers. I'm just gonna take them in the order in our packet and then go to the table. Great. 23-009 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved the Medford City Council call for a meeting with the mayor, superintendent and school committee to discuss the safety plan implemented at Medford High School. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, as amended by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morell? Yes. 7-8-4-0-0-9, the motion passes. 2-3-0-0-8, offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send the family of Gerald Bradonese our deepest condolences on his passing. Gerald was a former Medford firefighter and longtime Medford resident. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other members of the council wish to speak? Please rise for a moment of silence. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli is seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion? As a former track and field athlete who, our team went undefeated the same year as the football team, and we get overlooked. I appreciate the, I appreciate the mea culpa. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli as seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, the motion passes. 22-612, proposed ARPA project in excess of $250,000. I'm gonna pull this up on our previous agenda. We do have Peter Cushing here, as well as Shane Pelliquin to speak on this. Let me find the original paper. Okay, so December 14, 2022, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, regarding the proposed ARPA project in excess of $250,000. Dear President Morell and members of the city council, I respect the request and recommend that your honorable body allow time for a presentation by Dr. Peter Cushing and committee member Shanine Pelliquin of the following ARPA project, School McGlynn Playground Project, $750,000. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brown and Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. Unless any councilors have questions or anything they'd like to speak on first, I can hand it over to Dr. Cushing and Ms. Pelliquin. Do you need to share the screen? That'd be great.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you both. Going first to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: The port in place and the... Sorry, Councilor Scarpella, sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'll go to Councilor Collins. I'll give Councilor Tseng a moment to get back to his seat. So Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I just have one quick question before going back to Vice President Barros. Thank you guys so much for that thorough and detailed and very fun presentation. In a city that struggles with tree canopy, do you know the net change in trees in the playground, I know some are coming down, but you'll be adding more, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct. Unique conditions. Okay, thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Any further discussion from the council? Any members, Councilor Collins? I have a motion to approve. Sorry, motion to approve? I think it would just be to receive and place on file.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Collins to receive and place on file, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Do you want to speak on this agenda item? On this item? You're speaking on this item? Okay. Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So, on the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng, I do believe Councilor Knight dropped off, so we can, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Thank you both. Thank you. On to public participation. We do have a... Okay, so yeah, we have one from Sharon Diesso, who says, previous meeting, she's not here tonight, so we're going to take it, receive, and place on file. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to receive and place on file, seconded by, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Anyone else who would like to speak for public participation? Seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: 21-301 and 22-047 committee. The whole meeting Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Mr. Chair.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng. Present. present to absent. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chambers and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to address the application of BJ's Wholesale Club for a flammable storage license for a proposed fueling station including two 20,000 gallon and one 24,000 gallon underground fuel storage tanks at 278 Middlesex Avenue, Medford Bass, 02155 in an industrial zoning district shown on Assessor's Map P17, Lot 5, and Maps O16, Lot 1. The original application is part of Council Paper 21-301 for April 13, 2021. This meeting will begin in open session. As this is an ongoing legal matter, BJ's Wholesale Club, Incorporated versus City of Medford City Council, the Committee of the Whole may vote to enter into executive session pursuant to General Law's Chapter 30 a section at 21 purpose three of the Massachusetts Open meeting law. If the chair so declares that discussion is open in open session may have a detrimental effect on the city of Medford's litigation position. The city council has invited Attorney General Janelle Austin of K. P. Law to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 71 3932425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as this meeting notice has stated, this is about the litigation facing the City Council. There will be, it has been posted that this hearing has been remanded to, there'll be a public hearing on this once again on the 17th. So this is a meeting for the City Council to get an update of where we stand. Attorney Austin is online.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion by Councilor Caraviello to go into executive session for the reasons listed in the meeting notice, seconded by Vice-President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Six in the infirmary zero negative one absolutely motion passes the council executive session which will also include moving to a breakout room on zoom with just the council and legal.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, we're going to go into executive session. We're not we have to vote to go into executive session. So we're going to do that right now. We're just trying to set up a breakout room. We're just figuring out the. how to make sure we hear everyone on Zoom, but don't broadcast the TV. Oh, sorry. I guess, I mean, we'll probably, I don't know, it depends what we talk about. We may go back to open session. We may convene from executive session. Okay, we'll go back to open session just to close.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion to adjourn. Do you have something?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, there will be the remand hearing is scheduled for the 17th, January 17th. So on the motion, Councilor Caraviello to adjourn, seconded by- Seconded. Vice-President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in front of zero in the negative one absent motion passes meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: If 2022 is called to order, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. So we're going with seven present. You see Councilor Stegg. Second, present. Zero absent. The meeting is called to order.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think. Okay, thank you. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council invite the Medford High School head football coach and the players to the next city council meeting in recognition of their outstanding community outreach. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli approval on the paper that was just forced 22587. Mr. Clerk seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: I can't hear you. Okay. Yes, 7-4-0, then I get the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Anytime you want to do that, you can always say the number slower. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to suspend the rules to take papers 22-584, 22-603, 22-604, and 22-609 out of order. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. 7 in the affirmative, 0 in the negative. Motion passes. The rules are suspended. 22-584 petition for grant of location Arcadis on behalf of General Electric Medford, Mass City Clerk's Office. You are hereby notified that the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Memorial Chambers and via Zoom at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, December 20th, 2022. On a petition of Arcadis on behalf of General Electric for a proposed monitoring well location at 4,000 Mystic Valley Parkway and commercial street.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the reading for a brief summary from the petitioner seconded by. Second. Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm in front of you and I get motion passes. Do we have the petitioner on the call who can give us a brief summary of the petition before us if you want to raise your hand on zoom. Do you know who's here from that week's
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Could you give us a brief summary of the petition before us?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Before I open up the public hearing, do we have questions from Councilors?
[Nicole Morell]: I see a summary from Owen as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Tell us a little bit about this project from the city point of view.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions for the council? Oh, and is this monitoring water quality or water table?
[Nicole Morell]: It's both, okay, water levels and water quality, okay. Yes. Any others from the council at this time? As this is a public hearing, I do need to open the public hearing. So if there's anyone who would like to speak in favor of the petition, this public hearing is open and please raise your hand to speak now. Mr. Weeks, I believe that would be you. Are you in favor of this petition?
[Nicole Morell]: You can say yes. It's just protocol.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak against this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Do I have a motion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 70 affirmative zero and the negative emotion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll go back to 603. Petitions, presentations and similar papers. 22-609, petition for common victims license by Lynn Rune, 7 Arlington Street, Lynn, Massachusetts, 01902, for four season Boba Tea at 34 Riverside Avenue, Medford, Mass, 02155. Handing it over to chair of our licensing commission, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I also want to wish you good luck. I just know at my work, I work at university and they say, if you want the students to come anywhere, offer them boba tea. So I hope you have great success. Motion of Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I mean the affirmative is zero and the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: So going to 22-603. 22-603 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it so resolved by the Medford City Council that the Prevention Outreach Manager present an update on the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Project and Grant.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much. I know Councilor Scarpelli wants to speak. I just sent him to. on an errand for Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much for pointing that out. Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Penny, I just had one question. So you mentioned part of the work really needing to lean on the communications department at city hall. So I understand that the communications department is essentially, it's one person. So is there any funding in this grant you know, funds additional communication support, because I think that's something we always run into in all aspects of city hall. And I also, I don't want to detract from any of your work. This is incredible work, the work of you, the liaisons, everyone, like this is so much work. I want to make sure, you know, communication supports that, but understanding how under, you know, it's one person, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you, I appreciate it. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to receive and place on file second by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Thank you, Penny.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. 22-604 offered by Vice President Bears, be it so resolved by the Metro City Council that the finance director appear at the December 20th, 2022 regular meeting to present the fiscal year 2023 quarter one financial update and warrant articles as requested by the council on a multitude of occasions. The mayor and city administration committed that this information would be present presented to the city council and the public by a mid November deadline that has not been met.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Councilor Knight or would you like to hear from?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Newton. Yeah, and just to clarify.
[Nicole Morell]: Because we do, we vote on these papers. They're supposed to go to the administration. The administration is supposed to send them to the parties that they're about. So if you're not getting them.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I can also always, you know, I can reach out. I can have the clerk reach out after the fact, if it's not getting there.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, new or not, if you're not getting the papers, you're not getting the papers. So it's not your fault.
[Nicole Morell]: I can also have the clerk setting when the records are ready. Control F, find your name. And you can also see this right now.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have multiple copies? Oh yeah. Can you hand them, can you pass them to Larry and he'll get them to us?
[Nicole Morell]: I did see her on the call earlier.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that this has been a total lack of disrespect to this council. We have
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Dickinson. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Scarpelli, was that a motion to send this to the whole?
[Nicole Morell]: So thank you, ma'am.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I can, I can connect with you Bob, just whenever it's ready, I can get that on the schedule. Whenever everything is ready, we can get that on a schedule so I can coordinate with you. I'll work with you whenever. I'll email you I'll follow up so we can schedule it when you have everything ready. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli as amended by Vice President Bears seconded by
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli as amended by vice mayor seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. that occur at Medford High School on Monday, December 19 be a further result of the city council take immediate action to ensure the safety of our children and teachers.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tse.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And I do believe the intent of the resolution is to open it up for public participation. So I want to see if there's any further discussion from the council, but I want to make sure we move forward to that. Seeing none, I just want to just briefly, Councilor Scarpelli, I absolutely hear your calls for unity. I hear everyone's calls for unity. And I believe that the council is absolutely unified and that no one wanted yesterday to happen. No one wanted the incident two months ago to happen. No one wanted any student to get hurt in our schools ever. Schools should be a refuge. We talk about a lot of these issues go beyond the schools, that a lot of these issues start at home because of course they do. but every student deserves the opportunity to go to school and feel safe. And I know every member of this council, every person in the chambers, every person on Zoom, I know they feel that. So I hope that we can continue to have this talk and come to solutions so that students can feel safe, so that parents can feel comfortable sending their kids to school, and so that teachers can have the space to do their jobs and do what they do best. So I'm going to open it up to public participation. Before we go to that, I do just want to note public participation is just that, it is to hear from the public. It is not meant to be a debate. No personal tax will be permitted. I will gavel them and no speculation that will further engage your students will be allowed either.
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing Madam Superintendent and Member McLaughlin.
[Nicole Morell]: If you could please continue through the chair.
[Nicole Morell]: Let me know when you're finished.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli has a point of information.
[Nicole Morell]: She's a little nervous. She asked me if I would stand with her. Thank you. And I just wanna, just cause there's, we'll take the two people standing in person and then I'll go to Zoom. So thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: We did have the council pass a resolution. We voted on it. The council two weeks ago and I did actually I called Chief Buckley as well.
[Nicole Morell]: The request is in and I get as we've learned tonight, sometimes those requests don't get where they're supposed to go.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't know what we'll get back, but that's okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I do. Yeah, I think everyone is coming to speak for the first time tonight. I know it's not easy. I know it's really hard and I appreciate you taking the time of your night to come speak before us. You know, Sometimes they're 20 minutes, sometimes they're five hours. You never know until you're here. So, but I appreciate, and I think a lot of us that if we went to public schools, you know, I graduated 20 years ago, there were some of these, I didn't go to Medford High, I went to a different high school that had many of its own issues. But I think it's very clear that some of us may have experienced stuff similar, but stuff has gotten to a level that I think is unimaginable for a lot of us that were in high school, possibly even 10 years ago. I don't know. I think second smartphones get added. It seems like stuff I can't even imagine. So I really appreciate you coming out to talk. My heart goes out to you. I'm a mother of a very young child, but this is stuff that, of course, we're all thinking of constantly. So I appreciate you taking the time to share your stories. as a Councilor and as a mother. So thank you. I do see Councilors saying, and then I'm going to go to one person on zoom and then we'll come back to Mr. Okay. Councilor Tseng bears will go to zoom and we'll come back to Mr. South.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm going to Jada Higgins on Zoom. I will unmute you. Name and address for the record, please. And I also do want to know if there's anyone who does not feel comfortable giving their address, they can message it to the clerk privately. So going to Jada Higgins, if you are still there.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, we'll come back to you. If you're on zoom your hands up and find your way back to your screen. Mr. South. You know, just for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: To your point, Mr. South, I think people were trying to set context when they spoke about previous years, just as you're trying to set context now.
[Nicole Morell]: As was what they said before.
[Nicole Morell]: As was what they said before. I want to make that clear.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Can I ask, when you talk about security issues like that, you not be so specific. It makes it more vulnerable and dangerous.
[Nicole Morell]: This is embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to go to some folks on Zoom and then I'll come. So going to Tony Tanks, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you going to Nadine on zoom?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, going to Mr. Castagnetti on Zoom. Just gonna step away from the chair briefly.
[Nicole Morell]: We're hearing his resolution right now. There's a number of resolutions on the agenda we haven't gotten to yet.
[Nicole Morell]: no it passed it passed okay but it passed but it passed with changes or something right yeah okay you're welcome to watch the tape back okay also passed a resolution four to three to send funding for
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: keep it keep it keep it to the schools and we're not going to go through.
[Nicole Morell]: I know what you're going to do.
[Nicole Morell]: You want to show it around? Please keep it. Mr. Giglio, Mr. Giglio, please speak into the mic, focus on the schools or I'll ask you to stop.
[Nicole Morell]: Please come back to the schools. You want to come back to the issue at hand, come back to the issue at hand. We're not going through everyone's social media.
[Nicole Morell]: Again, focus on the schools. We're not going through everyone's social media tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Bring it back.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for everyone. Thank you for listening to me.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so can you do like a through like 614 through the clerk 614 through 618. So the motion is to read them, merge them, approve them. 614 through 618. I'm going to read them in succession. Well, actually we're gonna vote on it first. Did you catch that motion Councilor Knight? Okay, love that for you.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry to see. Okay, before we move on, I do see one hand up from Mr. Curry, Sean Curry name and address for the record, please. You should get a notification to unmute Mr. Curry, if your hand was raised in error, or you've stepped away, we will come back to you. Okay. So the motion on the floor is to read and merge 22-614, 22-615, 22-616, 22-617 and 22-618 and move approval. Merge them all into the current paper before us. So on the motion of Vice President Bears as seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And no one better motion to waive them as I read them. 22-614, 615, 616, 617, and 628, all the ones related to... Yes, merging them all into 613. Yes, yes. All of them. So we have to approve the motion to do that, and then we'll take it, and there's already a motion to approve them all, correct? Yes. Okay, you got that?
[Nicole Morell]: All right, just, yes. That's what I'm asking. Whatever I said, just ignore it. Everyone else, I think the council follows along. Please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in for is in the negative motion passes, I will read all of the resolutions at this time to do that 614 offered by Councilor Scarpelli, be it so resolved that the city council meet with school personnel, teachers, the school committee and police department to set up a youth summit program to do that 615 offered by Councilor Scarpelli be so resolved that we asked the city administration to provide funding for new security guards. 22-616, this one is actually myself and Councilor Tseng. Councilor Tseng wasn't on the agenda. So 22-616 offered by President Morell and Councilor Tseng. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council requests that the Medford Public Schools Administration release a communication to provide clear information regarding safety and security procedures at Medford High School. Be it further resolved that the City Council requests that the Medford Public Schools Administration provide the school committee with their standard communication protocols related to crisis incidents and identify any procedural changes that will require funding and implementation support. Be it further resolved that this council request a collaborative meeting with the school committee to understand information that will be shared with the public and determine how the council can support funding requests. 22-617 offered by vice-president Bears, Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council sends our sympathy to the students who were attacked at Medford High School yesterday. All MHS students, families, and educators are in our thoughts. And we thank MHS educators and staff for your support for the students. Be it further resolved that the council thank the Medford Police Department and Captain Covino specifically for their work yesterday and for their counsel during last night's school committee meeting. And last to do just 618 offered by Vice President Bears and Councilor Collins. Be it so resolved by the Medford City Council that we request the mayor urgently present an appropriation in consultation with the school committee and Medford Public School Administration to provide additional resources to students and educators for mental, social and emotional health supports and for additional measures that will increase safety supervision at Medford High School, including in hallways and bathrooms. We have a motion to approve by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Any further discussion? Great.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. The regular order of business 22-600 offered by Councilor Collins be it so resolved that the Metro City Council recognize Hanukkah and wish a joyful festival of lights to all who observe. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. That's what I'm trying to say. Yes. Yes. Senator Inferno is here and the motion passes. 22-601 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that Medford City Council commend and congratulate Congresswoman Catherine Clark on her recent re-election to Congress and for being named the Democratic House Whip. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm in front of zero and the motion passes. The records of the meeting of December 6th, 2022 are passed to Vice President Bears. Vice President Bears, how did you find them? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Motion passes. Motions, orders and resolutions. That's what everyone else has landed on, right? Yeah. 22-602 offered by Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Vice President Bears to table 22-602 until the next meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Let's see. I do not see a Mo Lewis. Mo Lewis, if you are here, please raise your hand. I'm not seeing, like when I type into the participants, I'm not seeing it.
[Nicole Morell]: Sean Curry, you are not Mo Lewis, correct? Sean Curry's hand is still up. So I just want to make sure Sean Curry is not Mo Lewis.
[Nicole Morell]: I wish to embarrass the table to do just 602 until the next meeting. Second by Mr. Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I mean, the firm is there and then I get motion passes to do that 605 over by Councilor Collins and President Morell. Whereas all residents and businesses in Medford should have convenient and equitable access to recycling collection services to ensure that private haulers are operating in compliance with state regulations, including the Massachusetts Waste Ban, and to ensure that municipal contractors and private haulers are working together to support the goals of the Solid Waste Master Plan and Global Warming Solutions Act. It is so resolved that the Subcommittee on Rules and Ordinances meet to discuss an ordinance to regulate and create permitting standards for private waste haulers operating in Medford. Be it further resolved that the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability consult with the subcommittee on draft ordinance language and strategies for integrating such an ordinance with the city's existing ordinances and permitting procedures for waste removal. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins and Director of Health Marion O'Connor also reached out to us to say that there has been a health department policy since 2009 that we could could definitely be a starting place for this that may use could use some updates. So on the motion of Councilor Collins is seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-606 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have to DCR immediately repair the 17 streetlights on South Quarter Road between Medford and Winchester in the interest of public safety. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. On the motion, Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Offer by Vice Chair Bears. Whereas a significant number of city council requests to the mayor and city administration for information, updates and action have gone unanswered or unfulfilled. Now, therefore, sorry, be it resolved by the members of the council that council rule 12 order of business be updated to strike the following language. Nine, unfinished business of preceding meetings and replaced with language. Nine, unfinished business. A, tabled items. B, reports due. C, over requests. And we do have a number of proposed amendments to this, correct from Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. The motion of, they're all out there in our inboxes as well on our desk. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to move this paper to the Subcommittee on Rules and Ordinances.
[Nicole Morell]: And the amendments from Councilor Knight. So as amended, and the amendments from Councilor Knight. Seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, sir. The affirmative zero negative motion passes. All right. To do that 608 offered by Councilor Caraviello be it so resolved that the Metro City Council have the administration and police chief, contact the DCR to install no overnight parking signs on the route 16 bypass road. Please send this request to our state delegation also Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight nodding at me. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Senator Farmer is here and I give motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to table paper 2-611, sorry, 2-610, 2-611, and 2-612 until the next regular meeting. Madam President, on 2-612, ultimately what I'm seeing is that the mayor is using our agenda to promote
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President. I just want, on the responses we just got back on the previous ARPA presentation, so on this paper, she did write, no formal vote needed, but we do plan to update you all on large-scale projects, gain your feedback, and answer your questions. We also want to make sure there's no objections, so we will be rethinking that position of the spending. So I'm just repeating. I'm just repeating what I said.
[Nicole Morell]: And that's basically what the chief of staff said kind of the same.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So on the motion of ice and embarrassed to table 22610 to do that 611 and to do that 612. Second by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes, sir. And then I have the motion passes. We have one previous petition petition from public participation that's on the agenda, but she has left and we'll refile in January. Is there anyone else who would like to speak for public participation? Any topic under the council's purview? I'm gonna try one last time. Sean Curry, are you there? His hand's still up. Okay, see, I know some people may accidentally raise their hand. Okay, seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: The meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-533 and 22-581 committee of the whole meeting Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Present. By present to absent, meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, December 14th, 2022 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chambers and via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to address outstanding questions from the recently completed zoning recodification and to set a fee schedule for the plan development district proposals, paper 22-533 and paper 22-581. The City Council has invited Building Commissioner Bill Forti, Planning Development and Sustainability Director Alicia Hunt, and Economic Development Director Victor Schrader to attend this meeting. For further information, aides on accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So as the meeting notice states, we are here tonight to talk through perhaps some scrivener's errors and some portions of the zoning recodification that was passed back in March. Some portions of it that may be for interpretation that we may need to take a further look at and actually vote for some zoning changes to update that. Scribner errors, if we were to address them, don't actually count as voting, as zoning changes as they were errors in copying or transitioning the document from one format to another. We also have the discussion around setting up the schedule for the planned development district proposals. That is something that was added in the zoning reclassification package and for these proposals there's a fee that we can charge and looking to have a brief discussion on what that fee should be. So I'm happy to hand over to any councilors who'd like to speak first or go right to Planning Development and Sustainability Director Hunt going to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that makes sense. Is anyone opposed to that approach? So first to talk about those PDD fees, Victor or Alicia, would you like to talk about that?
[Nicole Morell]: I think the thing to keep- Yeah, if you want to just talk through a few of those examples, I can pull them up as well.
[Nicole Morell]: And just to build on that, just for folks who, as you said, it's new. folks unfamiliar, the very simple form of this is basically someone coming to us with a project and saying, hey, you're not zoned for this, but here's what I would like to do in this space, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: 5 cents per square foot.
[Nicole Morell]: And that's for site plan review.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, two absent, zero in the negative, the motion passes. So moving on to scriveners errors that we are looking at in the recodification package that was passed back in March. Director Hunt, are you gonna?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I agree with that. I mean, you can also see there's not consistency between the And dash and M dash, it's actually two different types of dashes.
[Nicole Morell]: So I just want to be clear and I apologize for the Councilors on zoom but so like this is what was delivered to us. from the CD board, and this is what came out?
[Nicole Morell]: Because this one has that 1.2, which I know is the recommendation.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, but I'd be happy for that review just because I remember we went back and forth a lot about like convenience stores. That was in a separate section, but I'm just like, okay. I'm happy for anyone to overrule me, but I, you know, I'm a little wary to go off my own memory.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion, uh, by some bears as seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, call the roll for the first motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. And then on the second motion, Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there a chance you have one this is a document we can just send to the Councilors on Zoom?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Oh, this one. Yeah, just the one that, just because it's kind of hard to conceptualize if you're not looking at it. It will take me about, would it be easier?
[Nicole Morell]: Happy to do that. Great, thank you. But I do as, as you look for that. I agree, this is something I found, personally, a little kludgy in a way. It did not have to be, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you count that, Dr. Hunt? Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Just making sure I heard you. You said this is maybe a question you'd like to see go back to Attorney Bobrowski.
[Nicole Morell]: Understood, thank you. I believe that's something we'd have to pay for as we're out of contract, but I'm just noting that, not to say that as no, but just noting that. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: have it in both places? Yeah, exactly.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I would also agree.
[Nicole Morell]: I can go either way. I know President Bears, you have to step out at seven.
[Nicole Morell]: Knowing the building commissioners here too, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, I see you have your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, the only ones I would probably be most concerned about, I thought this feels very minutiae, but I feel like the ofs and the ors are the ones that have the potential to change meaning where the other ones, the he's and the these probably don't.
[Nicole Morell]: In place under, again, physical space?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we'll just go through this, and if the councillors have an issue, just speak. Otherwise, we'll take your silence as agreement.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we can take these motions. Do you want to take a motion now?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the first motion, What do we have for the, which one is the first motion?
[Nicole Morell]: We're just trying to make clear that it's, yeah. It's not within, it is physically. It's not under the umbrella.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe that was a second from Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, Councilor Scarpelli, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so on the motion of Vice President Harris, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 5 million firm is during the negative two absent the motion passes and the second motion is to in short, except all the scriveners.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. Councilor Collins. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, finding the infernus or the negative to absolutely motion passes. So now we'll go to building for sure bill 14 to talk about just some good evening Madam President Councilors, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: or these things that we can wait consider until we might bring it.
[Nicole Morell]: And when you have that, email me and we'll get it scheduled.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: leave and then, Director Hunt, if we discuss possibly talking about your suggestions. We talked at a previous meeting, we motioned to get some suggestions from the planning department about what wording might be to go through the phase two of the zoning work we're looking at.
[Nicole Morell]: Wonderful. I do see Councilor Scarpelli with his hand up. Councilor Scarpelli?
[Nicole Morell]: So what I, um, we had asked at a previous meeting when we first talked about the scope of work for working with, uh, The Chamber brought the second part of this. We had asked the planning department just to give us some language for what we might call this next phase. And that is what... So if you'll remember, we were told... I'm not... Okay, so hold on, hold on.
[Nicole Morell]: I understood that we had a question for how you would frame this scope of work, what we would call it, how we would get someone to work this with us, knowing that we do want to go with Attorney Bobrowsky.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct, and these are just suggestions. This is nothing that we're voting on.
[Nicole Morell]: So I, you know, we talked to him about phase two, he had mentioned bringing in
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yeah. What director hunt is explaining. I had reached out to Fiona Maxwell about this, just trying to understand what the procurement process is by law, by state law, and it is, if it were just Attorney Wabrowski, him alone, no part of his team that aren't lawyers, then we would not have to go through the procurement process and get bids. But because his team, at his suggestion, would include a partner that is a land use expert that is not exclusively an attorney. Right, he was suggesting a planner. A planner would work with him in part, then that kicks in the state procurement law where we would have to get three bids.
[Nicole Morell]: And to Director Hunt, I was speaking with Director Hunt before the meeting, and this is something she can send in an email to for us to review on our own and bring up at a later meeting, just to un-muddy the waters a little bit, hopefully. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on this point? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. I think we just have to decide what to do with the papers and report on the questions.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll hold your motion until the time.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think we'll have an additional, we have to have an additional meeting on a few of these items, so I think that can be addressed then. I think if we just report out the questions that were addressed and keep the paper and committee, that should cover all our bases.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Collins to report the questions and keep the paper in committee, seconded by.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, they're not really questions, but it's just, it's the language of Robert's rules of order.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, four in the affirmative, zero in the negative, three absent, motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn, seconded by- Second. Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, four in the front is here and then I get three apps and the motion passes. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, I lost it, yeah. Okay, can you hear me now?
[Nicole Morell]: I think you guys are bears. Thank you Victor I really appreciate this going back to On the previous slide about the furniture and items like that being able to be left out at all times. Do other cities do something similar to have folks ever seen. I mean, I mean, I know there's always instances but just kind of negative instances where stuff gets, you know, messed up or moved or goes missing kind of thing.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'd just be curious to see that. You know, I don't think we have roving gangs of people throwing furniture everywhere, but you know, sometimes every now and then someone might, you know, a chair may find its way into a parking lot or something like that. So just seeing if there's anything that maybe we could call that out.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, absolutely I you know I can always be conducting a scenario that that doesn't exist so I'd be curious to hear that input.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: The racism bears. Yeah and sort of the same vein of what Councilors carry on bears are talking about I'm curious are there any safety considerations as far as design requirements? I mean, I know if a car is going to jump a curb, a car is going to jump a curb, but I think not in Medford, but I've eaten at some of these where you very much feel like you're in a road and you are on the road and it doesn't feel like there's much keeping between you and vehicles. So I'm just curious, was there any thought or do other communities use anything with regards to safety part of the design?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-058 Committee of the Whole meeting Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at 6 PM is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng present present real present by present to absent meeting is called to order, there will be a meeting of the Metro City Council Committee of the whole on Wednesday, December 7 2022 at 6pm. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the proposed community control over public surveillance ordinance paper 22-058. The city council has invited police chief jack Buckley chief of staff and his area. attorney Janelle Austin from KP law to attend this meeting for further information on aids and accommodations contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So this meeting is on, just like I said, the proposed Community Control over Public Surveillance Ordinance, the Community Safety and Public Health, I think I already swapped it, Public Health and Community Safety Subcommittee I've met a number of times, also with Chief Buckley and other members of the city departments to work through this and I'm actually going to pass it to Subcommittee Chair, Councilor Collins to give us an update on what is before us tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. I also just wanted to hand over, Councilor Caraviello is the third member of the subcommittee. I didn't know if there's anything you'd like to add as this conversation gets started.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. Point of Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. I do know we have a number of members of the public who would like to speak, but I'd also like to first hand it off, see if any of our invited members of the administration and police department, either Chief of Police Jack Buckley, Madam Chief of Staff Ian Azarian or Attorney Austin from KP Law, if any of you would like to speak at this time before we continue this conversation.
[Nicole Morell]: I see Chief Jack Buckley would like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm happy to go with Councilor Collins, and I think, I wasn't in the meetings, but I can also speak to the fact that KB Law should be providing legal advice and not policy suggestions. So if there were policy suggestions, there's no, Council doesn't have, the subcommittee doesn't have to adopt them, but I'm happy to let Councilor Collins answer more specifically.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice Mayor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I do wanna go back to Chief Buckley. I saw you shaking your head in disagreement. You wanna speak on?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief Buckley. Going back to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. If I could just speak briefly, I just want to, I want to thank my fellow Councilors, I want to thank Chief Buckley and everyone else who, of course, the people of power and folks who have come out to many meetings on this. I think I see a lot of spirit of, you know, compromise and hearing for folks. And I think this is just really important to have in front of us now, because legislatures at every single level of the government are completely slow and behind the times with regards to technology and how we respond to it and how we legislate around it. So I really applaud folks who are pushing forward with this, regardless how they feel, you know, coming around the table to have these talks, because I think I, for one, as a Councilor, I don't, I don't want to get caught flat footed and not saying that that's something that would come from the police department, but because as Councilor Collins said, This technology is evolving at a rate that I think most folks aren't even aware of. They're not even aware of the times that it might be in use and things like that. And that's exactly what we're trying to tackle. And again, it's not specifically towards the police department. I absolutely understand how it can be taken that way. But I think this is something that, again, every level of government needs to be focused on, technology and how it impacts our lives, our rights to privacy, and things of that like.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Vice President Bears. Councilor Collins, is there something you wanted to share on the actual document before we go to hear from members of the public?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: I think as I was saying, going back to Chief Buckley, and then I do want to get to members of the public to be able to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So now I'd like to open up to folks, Chief of Staff, Madam Chief of Staff, Nina Nazarian.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Director of Traffic and Transport, apologies if I swatched those.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Blake. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins, going to build a commissioner bill 40.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I would second that motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to take all the motions at the end?
[Nicole Morell]: There's only one so far.
[Nicole Morell]: So Commissioner Forty, does that address your issues? I do see Chief, Madam Chief of Staff has her hand up as well. At least for the time being.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Chief of Staff. I appreciate the comment, but I just want to know procedurally, it's my understanding that prior to when the city had a city solicitor, the city solicitor would go around and work with department heads so that you could get the insight from department heads and the legal guidance hand in hand at the same time. So I think that's kind of what we're wrestling with a little bit now, the lack of that system. So going to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I see Councilor Collins and I also see Attorney Austin with their hand up. Would you like to go? You wanna hear from Attorney Austin first?
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Austin.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council at this time? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: And Councilor Collins, just to understand the suggestions in the document from Attorney Austin, you said it was something that wasn't accepted in the last meeting. Do you intend to go through this meeting and see which we accept or not?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. So turning to members of the public, I had some folks reach out in advance who'd like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to, I believe, Julie Flynn with Medford People's Park. If you want to state your name and address for the record, please. Sorry, one second for the mic to come on. The mic is about to come on. It'll turn on. Okay, sure. There you go. You're good. Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'm going to go to Zoom now, Muneer Jermanas. Name and address record, please, and I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. David Harris would like to speak. Name and address the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going back to Zoom now to Ellen. I will unmute you and name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Still on zoom, I believe, going to Reverend Wendy Miller. I will unmute you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Are there any other members of the public would like to speak at this time? I do believe Councilor Scarpelli has joined us and Councilor Caraviello is back. So is there any further discussion from the council at this time knowing we do have a few motions pending?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and what number is that? I'm sorry, I'm not.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, A-1. Oh, A-1, I apologize.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. So we do have a number of motions before us. Mr. Clerk, when you're ready, if you could read them back one at a time.
[Nicole Morell]: PB, Harmon Zuckerman. PB, Harmon Zuckerman. PB, Harmon Zuckerman.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. If we could take the motions one at a time, if you could just because they're super. Yes, wordy, wordy and specific if you could read them each before we Yes, take that.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. So on the motion of Councilor Collins as second Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 5 in the affirmative, 0 in the negative, 2 absent. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Chief Buckley, your hand is still up. Does that address your question? Is there anything else you'd like to add?
[Nicole Morell]: So sorry, now I'm confused. Sure. If the police department has the bodywork cameras and starts deploying them prior to... Right, they can continue to use them for that time. This would not stop it at any point?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So we're just asking for them within 30 days to submit something. Within 30 days... Of this being enforced.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: And then the approval process, there's 180 day window to approve or deny. Correct. And this entire time they can maintain using. Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Chief Buckley.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief Buckley. Any further discussion from the council at this time? Taking our next motion we have.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Collins, as seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. We'll take the next motion.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears, as seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears as seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. Next motion. I have... Is this the last one? Yeah, I believe so.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of affairs. Mr. Clerk, please call it all vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I mean, the affirmative zero and the negative negative two absent. Yes. And then we have Councilor Collins, you have another emotion you'd like to add.
[Nicole Morell]: I would be curious if there was comments from other city department heads of those who weren't able to attend tonight, if there was a way they could get them to us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. And yes, so we do have the motion on the floor from Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng. And yeah, I just want to know, I would be interested to see those comments from city staff and also just noting that Councilor Scarpelli couldn't be here tonight and Councilor Knight isn't here as well, but that does not, you guys have met for many months on this. There is pages and pages and pages of minutes and meetings, but of course, just because something is reported out for those watching, just because something is reported out does not mean that this is by-law approved. It's now going before the full council. Members of the council are unable to be here tonight. There's still stuff we can work through if they so desire. So I just want to make that note. So on the, do you want to make the other one in a form of motion or just, I can also ask the chief of staff, she's on the line as amended. So on the motion, by Councilor Collins to report out the paper as amended. The motion is amended by Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. It looks like we don't have Councilor Caraviello anymore. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. On the motion of Vice President Bears to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Opposed. Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned. Thank you everyone for being here.
[Nicole Morell]: 35th regular meeting of the Medford City Council, December 6, 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Summer President's, you're absent. The meeting is called to order. Please rise and salute the flags.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. 22-585 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council invite the Medford High School head football coach and players to the next city council meeting in recognition of their outstanding community outreach. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the council? I do see Chris Murphy with his hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if you want to turn off your video, that sometimes helps as far as connection issues.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, that's better.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Murphy. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? I'm sorry, as amended. As amended by Councilor Scarpelli. Seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Records, the records of the meeting of November 29th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Svang. Councilor Svang, how did you find the records?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, Councilor Svang, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. hearings. 22-573 legal notice, notice of a public hearing city of Medford. The Medford City Council will hold a continued public hearing in the Howard F. Alderman Memorial Chambers and via Zoom Tuesday, December 6, 2022 at 7 p.m. A link to this hearing will be posted no later than Friday, December 2, 2022. This hearing was originally scheduled for November 22nd, 2022, but rescheduled to November 29th, 2022, when the November 22nd meeting was postponed and rescheduled in its entirety. The hearing is continued from November 29th. The purpose of this hearing is to hear from the Board of Assessors on the following items with the purpose of application on the FY23 property tax to determine the residential factor to be used for FY2023, select an open space discount and select an residential exemption and select a small commercial exemption. Call 781-393-2501 for any aid slash accommodations TBD 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an EOAA 504 employer. For additional information, contact the office of the city clerk 781-393-2425 by order of the Medford City Council. Sign Adam her to be a city clerk. So we did receive a presentation from Interim Chief Assessor Ellen Bordeaux on the vote before us and the information regarding the FY 23 tax vote. I do have the slides in front of me. So we have to vote on four items, and I don't know if there are any Councilors who would like to speak at this point. And we also wanted to continue this public hearing so that any members of public who wish to speak in person or on Zoom had a chance to in regards to voting on the tax, setting the tax, different elements of the tax. Great. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: So I just want to read. Director Dickinson, do you have anything you'd like to add? I was playing up these slides.
[Nicole Morell]: I can share my screen too, if that's helpful. This is the last slide from... Great. This is the last slide. So we have a vote for us for selection, minimum residential factor, vote on whether to adopt a residential exemption, and vote on whether to adopt a small commercial exemption. So we have a motion from Councilor Knight to adopt the- Lowest residential factor. Lowest residential factor. Mayor Snider.
[Nicole Morell]: So the motion is to adopt a residential factor of 91.43, correct Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so there's a motion from Councilor Knight. I also have a motion from Councilor Knight to adopt the lowest residential factor, so a factor of 91.43. Yep, yeah. Okay. So on the motion, Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So I mean, the affirmative is here and the negative, the motion passes. So we have a vote on whether or not to adopt a residential exemption.
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion of, would you like to speak, Mr. Castagnetti?
[Nicole Morell]: Before we actually vote.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Or maybe Shane can.
[Nicole Morell]: Exactly. The council did meet in August to discuss this with interim chief inspector Bordeaux. I would hope that we have a resolution to have that discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, I can't.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, the square kept moving. All right. Sorry about that. Okay. So yes, we did meet. I would hope, I would entertain, I would hope a council would submit a resolution to once again, have that meeting either in the spring or the summer to see where we stand with the ability to adopt this. I, like bison and bears, I do see this as a powerful potential option for our community. Just want to make sure we're doing it right. And I think there is also something to be said that I very much appreciate the work of interim assessor, Bordeaux, but also I think just the title alone suggests we might not have the bandwidth to do something that is quite a large overhaul at this point. So you're heard. Absolutely. And I appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. So on the motion of vice president Bears to vote against the residential exemption. Do not adopt. Seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Signing affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. And then the last vote we have is to whether or not to select a small commercial exemption, which historically the council has not adopted. Two more votes. Motion to- Oh, we have the open space. Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of vice president bears not adopt the small commercial exemption seconded by Councilor Knight. Councilor Collins, do you want to speak? Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So the informant is there and then I get the motion passes. And then we just have to vote whether or not to select or yeah, adopt an open space discount.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to not adopt an open space discount. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. The affirmative is there and the negative motion passes. Motions, orders and resolutions 22-578 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved the Medford City Council have our DPW director and city engineer appear before the council and discuss the substandard paving on Winthrop Street by Eversource. Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. We also do have Todd Lamb from Eversource on the call, who I believe has a presentation. If any Councilors would like to speak first, or if you'd like to hear from Councilors.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Todd Lanham from Eversource. Are you there? There we go.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have a presentation or are you just available to answer questions?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Todd, is that something you can answer?
[Nicole Morell]: Is it coders?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor, would you like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Can I ask that question in a different way? So, thank you. What is the reason why Winchester can shut down all traffic? Is there a specific reason why they can shut down all traffic?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Okay. Thank you. Um, and that's the traffic supervisor on our side.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Question bears on Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Please.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Todd, are you able to answer that?
[Nicole Morell]: There historically was never, there wasn't a sidewalk there to begin with. Not that that makes it any better, but there was never a sidewalk there.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, thanks. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: are we continuing there's another little strip of bill we're finishing up we're going to finish all the way down the place that road yep that's the intent thank you yeah i just have two very specific questions because i do live right there so i see it very closely every day um i did see the speed table go in which i'm very happy about um i noticed and i'm sure there's a reason it doesn't extend curb to curb correct so i've already seen cars go around it.
[Nicole Morell]: Just continue to extend.
[Nicole Morell]: So it should do to be fair. And I know you know, this paint is not infrastructure. So people can drive over paint. And I just have concern because it's a space where we're trying to slow people down and be safer for pedestrians. And if some folks are going to swerve around now they're swerving closer to the sidewalk, we I think it's a foot and a half that is not in that area.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I did notice that there was, there's just a fair amount of asphalt debris on the street. Is there a reason for that?
[Nicole Morell]: It's in between, it's right, like in between the high school and Placetet, I see a fair amount along the curbs, just debris.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And to see I've gotten, I feel like I asked top for these plans like every six months but to see those full plans is that something you can share the council just so we can get a refresher on where you know that, again, this is just temporary pavement markings.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Thank you. I do see two members of the public on Zoom, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: You like that in the form of motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. I do see two members of the public with their hands up going to Matt Sirigu. I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: So currently it's the final product between Windrup Circle and, it's the final product with Windrup Circle.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. but it will be that way.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. Does that address your question, Mr. Sergo?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Mike S, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mike. Can I just get your name once more for the record?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other members of the public wish to speak? Any further discussion from the council at this time? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Councilor Knight to get the name of the field engineer onto the Eversource project website and to ask for a commitment from Eversource that this project be completed by the next school year. If that cannot be committed to, weekly updates, correct? Monthly updates. So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Sorry, as amended by Councilor Caraviello. I think, yeah, whatever. Whatever you have down, what do you have down?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, we'll go with that, we'll go. Motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Knight. Please call the roll when you're ready. I'm sorry. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Nay. Motion passes. Old habits die hard. All right, where are we? Thank you, Owen. And thank you, Todd and Bob.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. 22-586, offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved that the city council be presented the process in which the administration designed the plan to allow unleashed dogs in our community parks. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll go to Mr. Lincoln and then we have two folks on zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Jennifer Sullivan on Zoom. Your address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Going to Zoom user Salnier, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Salier. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello and then we have Patricia on Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Going to Patricia on Zoom. Patricia, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, okay, Patricia, please, this isn't a debate, please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Patricia. On the motion of Councilor Collins, to, sorry. You okay. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-587. Offered by Councilor Scarpelli, be it so resolved that the City Administration and the City Council hold a day of beautification for Medford City Hall.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-588 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council stop all requests for any work performed by KP Law until we receive a budget breakdown on what KP Law services have cost our community. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Pele. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins and Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli as amended by Vice President Bears, amended by Councilor Caraviello. So Mr. Clerk, could you please read back the motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Clerk. Do I have a second on that? So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, amended by Vice Mayor Bears and Councilor Caraviello, as seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-589 offered by Councilor Scarpelli, be it resolved that the chief of staff appear at our next meeting to guide us on how we can have a better form of communication with our city partners. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion from the Council? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-590 offered by vice president bears be it so resolved by the Metro City Council that the elections manager and Elections Commission provide the council with an after action report on November 22 general election, be it for the result of this report include any complaints challenges or issues that occurred throughout the entire election process. impacts of the new staff and leadership structure and how the elections department plans to improve the process and conduct more voter outreach and engagement going forward. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-591 offered by Councilor Knight. Whereas there's no advice and consent procedures relative. On the motion, paper withdrawn. Paper 22-591 has been withdrawn by Councilor Knight. 22-592 offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the Director of Veteran Services establish a hotline to address questions related to the much publicized Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit in the interest of consumer protection. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, councilor. I do see, so we did get a response from the veteran services director. I do see you probably didn't get it because it went to the council member list, but I do not believe you. Yeah, sometimes he did say that folks calling that his office number, he can absolutely speak to this. The City of Medford Veteran Services number is 781-393-2505. He can address the questions relating to the PACT Act of 2022 with the provision known as the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022. Whenever an interested party gives a number of call, he responds to voicemails and emails. Folks can also email him at jjohns at medford-ma.gov.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. So on them, any further discussion from the council? So on the motion of Councilor Knight, as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-593, offered by Councilor Knight and Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford Police Department reinstate their monthly traveling information sessions. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favour? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-594 offered by Councilor Knight, Councilor Caraviello and Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved that the Metro parking department implement monthly traveling information sessions based upon the framework previously utilized by the police department. Councilor Caraviello, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Is sponsors okay with that amendment? Sure. Great. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Tsengs. Great, so on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, as amended by Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Naik. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. to do dash 595 offered by Council night, see if the result of the NHS SRO provide the council with a report within 30 days outlining any and all filings complaints investigation incidents and reports relative to student upon student violence in our public high school over the past 24 months, Councilor Knight, Madam President, this is a rather self explanatory resolution.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-596 has been withdrawn by Councilor Knight. 22-597 offered by Councilor Knight, BSO resolved that the Metro City Council request a draft ordinance within 21 days mandating the following criteria. Any employee receiving wage replacement benefits under MGL 152 shall have the right to elect to utilize earned leave time to be made whole. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-598 offered by Councilor Knight and Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council establish a new ordinance by adopting the following. Chapter 26, section three, public schools accountability. Purpose, the purpose of this ordinance is to improve communication with our stakeholders and establish a vehicle to increase their participation in the development of policies and procedures governing our public schools. Policy of the city, it is the policy of the city that the following measures be required by ordinance. One, the Medford School Committee shall be required to conduct monthly listening sessions for the purpose of receiving feedback and gathering information related to the operation of our public schools. Two, these sessions shall be televised in the same format as all other public meetings and chaired by the mayor. Three, the superintendent of schools and all members of the school committee shall be required to attend unless excused by a supermajority vote of the city council. Four, a superintendent designee shall be prohibited. Five, these sessions shall be conducted on the first Tuesday of each month in person in accord with the following schedule, August through June, for a total of 11 annual sessions. Six, if the session date falls on a holiday, it shall be heard the following week. Seven, there shall be no requirement to register or apply to participate. These sessions shall be an open forum limited to no more than three hours. Eight, attendance at these sessions for the school committee and superintendent is mandatory. Nine, to conduct such sessions shall result in the forfeiture of compensation for the remaining pay periods of the fiscal year. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry?
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears, you had the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So any further discussion from the council? Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Before we get to that, I know we have members of the public who wish to speak. Pretty much everything has been said at this point. I also am of the mind that I do not believe we have the power to enforce this. I don't want to make rules for a separate body. They're a separate body. They don't make rules for us. We make rules for them. They're a separate body the school committee does not report to the city council department of the city. Regardless, I don't, similar to what Vice President Bears has been saying, I don't want to present the illusion of a solution, knowing that this is unenforceable, knowing that this isn't going to happen. I understand what you're saying, Councilor Knight, as far as sending it out to what other legal authorities, Steve, in the past semester. I'm voted, I'm voted, I'm voted, I'm voted, I'm also the chair. I'm voted, I was voted into office to make decisions. I can't support this paper tonight. I'm not going to punt to see what some other body says to, again, extend this and give the illusion of a solution. I understand the motivation. That's where I'm coming from. And that's where my vote is. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: It's on.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carballo.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: So in any case, is it a point of information you're debating, it's a point of information, information.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council at this time? Councilor Knight, let's rise to the original motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh yeah, sorry, participation on, you're speaking to this paper specifically? Okay, please name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so on the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the B paper, well, so we'll take the B paper separately, it's a B paper, so.
[Nicole Morell]: I want you to approve the B paper from Vice President Bears, seconded by, second on the B paper, Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morocco. Yes. Four in the affirmative, three in the negative. The motion passes. On the motion from Vice President Bears to refer the main paper to Committee of the Whole, seconded by Mr. Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morocco. No. 16 affirmative, one in the negative. The motion passes. I'm going to hand the chair over to Vice President Bears. I need to step out. My son needs me.
[Nicole Morell]: The 34th regular meeting November 29 2022 of the Medford City Council is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. And now, faculty, the references reports and records. see it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Edward Buddy Clayton. On his recent passing at 94 years old, Buddy was a veteran of the U.S. Army and retired from the United States Postal Service as a district manager. His presence in our community will be dearly missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion from the council? I'm still moving folks around so I can see everyone on my screen.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello as seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. No, it's above the UNC.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Apologies, Vice President Bears, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, and I can take back over the chair. So that's seven the affirmative, zero the negative, the motion passes. And I am hardwired in now, so we should be solid. Records, the records of the meeting of November 15th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Scarpelli, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Councilor Scarpelli is seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I mean the firm is here and the negative motion passes. Reports of committees 22-014 and 22-395, number 16 committee of the report, committee of the whole report to follow. This was the committee of the whole on the discussions around PFML being applied to the city as well as ARPA survey results. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve and seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero and the negative, the motion passes. 21-053, November 22nd, 2022, Subcommittee on Housing report to follow. I will hand it to Housing Subcommittee Chair, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of our system bears to approve second by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to suspend the rules to take paper 22-582, a petition for a common bit license. Motion from Vice President Bears, do I have a second?
[Nicole Morell]: Seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-582, petition for a common ventilator license by Ineo Duca, 8 Benton Street, Apartment 1, Stonehead, Massachusetts, 02180, for Eddie's Place, 301 Salem Street, Medford, Massachusetts. I do believe we have the petitioner here, if we would like to hear from him first, and then we can go to Councilor Scarpelli, Chair of Licensing, unless we'd like to start with you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any questions or discussion from the council? Seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in front of zero and the negative the motion passes. Congratulations.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have we're still under suspension to have a motion to return to the regular order of business.
[Nicole Morell]: I am fine with that assessment. So going back to regular order of business. We are at hearings. 22-573, legal notice of a public hearing City of Medford. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing via Zoom on Tuesday, November 29th, 2022 at 7 p.m. A link to the hearing will be posted no later than Tuesday, November 22nd, 2022. This hearing was originally scheduled for November 22nd, 2022, but rescheduled to November 29th, 2022 when the November 22nd meeting was postponed and rescheduled in its entirety. The purpose of this hearing is to hear the board of assessors on the following items. for the purpose of allocation of the FYI 2023 property tax to determine the resident one to determine the residential factor to be used for a brief synopsis by the interim chief assessor, please, Madam President, on the emotion of counseling to where the reading and in favor of a brief synopsis from the interim assessor seconded by cancer Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So I mean the firm is during the negative motion passes the weaving is Ray waved, passing it over to Ellen Bordeaux who is our interim chief assessor for a brief synopsis of the public hearing paper before us. I'm asking you to unmute.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ellen. Going to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you by Susan bears going to Councilors, garb. Kelly, I believe saw Hannah. Here we go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion from the council? And I do just want to note this is a public hearing on this paper. So I'm just going to officially open the public hearing. Seeing no additional questions from the council at this time, are there any members of the public who would like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing none, do I have, a motion on the table or I can close this portion of the public hearing and then drive a motion from a Councilor. So actually, sorry, we have to go through, I apologize. We have to go through each question. Is that something Councilors is something we want to go on tonight? Would we like to carry it over to a future meeting Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins motion, I think it's wise choice.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilors. And then just seeing Allen Bordeaux, I saw you had your hand up and I also just want to confirm that timing would be okay if this were to be voted on next week as far as the time we need to vote on this by.
[Nicole Morell]: Put them in a manner present the information Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ellen.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. And to Councilor Knight's point, I guess if Councilors have questions in the meantime, if we could just collect them before next Tuesday's meeting, I too would feel, as Councilor Knight said, a lot of this is pro forma, but I think I would feel more comfortable just having that in-person opportunity for folks to come out and speak, extenuating circumstances that we're on Zoom tonight. So I just want to, you know, have that opportunity for folks to come out and speak. So I appreciate it, Ellen. So on the motion of Councilor Collins to table as seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So motion of Councilor Collins as amended by Vice-President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of us doing the negative emotion passes the paper is tabled for one week. Motions, orders, and resolutions offered by Councilor 22-578 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have our DPW director and city engineer appear before the council and discuss the substandard paving of Winthrop Street by our source. Going to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. And I do just want to know I Commissioner given I don't believe is on the call. I do know that he did reach out to you. That was noted to me. So I just want to note that going to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion from the council on this?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe so.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of councilor Scarpelli as amended by vice president bears to table this paper for one week, invite the representatives from Eversource as well as the city engineer to provide us an update on this work. Seconded by councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. The motion passes. 22-579 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the heating issues at the Medford Senior Center be addressed. Please ask a representative from the building department to attend. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not. I do have the email that was sent to the council today or earlier this week, stating that they did find a temporary solution out beyond the space years. I'm happy to share that with anyone who'd like to see it. I'm just trying to pull it up now, but I do not see anyone from the building department. I think we're also just being in competition with that ZBA meeting that's going on concurrently. having some trouble getting some department heads here tonight because of that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: And any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-580 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Metro City Council have the Board of Health look into using the latest technology in rat control being used by other cities in the area, smart pest control. Please invite Marian O'Connor to Zoom into the meeting for her input. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. And yes, to your point, we did get a communication from Marian O'Connor earlier today, noting that she, along with the Board of Health are investigating a number of options and meeting with companies for the best available in rodent control in the city. And again, that's information I'm happy to share if folks would like to see that. So thank you, Councilor Caraviello for bringing this up as this is an ongoing issue that Medford residents are battling with. A lot of folks are battling with in the area. Any further discussion from the council will prove on the motion of cancer carb yellow second by cancer night. Mr. Clark, please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero and the negative emotion passes to do dash 581 offered by President Morell and Vice President Bears. Be it so resolved by the Medford City Council that the rules of the Medford City Council be amended to include a fee schedule for the plan development district proposals pursuant to Medford City Ordinance's Article 94, Section 9.2.5.1. Be it further resolved that this council discuss the potential PDD fee schedule structure. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. So we have the motion Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. And I do just want to add that I am working on scheduling for middle of December, a meeting to go over some outstanding questions from the new building commissioner around the zoning recodification. So I think this is something that we could add to that meeting. So I will work to schedule that. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: going to Nicole. Councilor Knight, go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Apologies to any fiber optic fans. We will get to you soon. Going to Nicole Branley, name and address for the record, please, and I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Branley. Any discussion, comments from the council at this point? Go to Councilor Caraviello and then Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor scarpelli councillor night, um, madam president.
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing none, Ms. Braley, thank you for coming out to speak. My heart breaks for you and your daughter and mother to mother. I understand going to the ends of the earth for your child. And I just applaud your courage and your advocacy and just pushing forth on this. I'm, you know, as other Councilors have said, we're limited in what we can do statutorily, but I think we're all want to be part of the solution the way we can. So thank you for coming out.
[Nicole Morell]: November 16, 2022 to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding the proposed ARPA projects in excess of $250,000. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body allow time for a presentation of the following five ARPA projects. Fire installation of a dedicated fiber optic network estimated cost $200,000. Fire installation of an upgraded Zaytron MAX system estimated cost $350,000. Technology IT help desk support services estimated cost of $257,000. Technology premium Microsoft Office slash 365 backup system estimated cost $189,000. And parking, parking meter upgrades for squares other than Medford Square estimated cost of $393,000. Thank you for this kind attention to the matter. Sincerely, Breanna Lungo-Koehn. I do believe we will have, we don't have a central representative from the administration. We have different folks from these departments who will present on these papers. So I'm happy to turn it over to them. I see the chief, unless any Councilors have questions before we get started.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, I can hear myself. I don't know if other folks can hear me if there's like that kind of bounce back.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you watching on another? Do you have another device open to Chief Friedman? Or are you just on your computer? I don't know why we're hearing like multiple times.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, it seems to have stopped. So please proceed. All right, I'll just be quiet, please proceed.
[Nicole Morell]: Any discussion or questions from the Council? I do want to note, so at our ARPA meeting we had before the Thanksgiving holiday, we did have the question whether these papers were coming before us for appropriation approval, and the Chief of Staff essentially said this is kind of a courtesy or something that they just like to present on. So just noting for that consideration of the council that this is essentially just receiving a presentation, but not something the administration has deemed that they need our appropriation approval on.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: That is essentially what the chief of staff told me other Councilors that were there, if they could confirm that I misinterpreted that, but basically they, this is being presented to us as more of a deemed as a courtesy to provide us more information. They would like us to be on board, but they don't think that they need an appropriation vote from us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Sorry, Councilor Knight, did you wanna go?
[Nicole Morell]: we do have a few more items of this agenda. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I do see Jim Silva on the call, who I believe can speak to this Jim if you could give me an address for the record and also just let us know in what capacity you're working with the city.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions, discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion on the IT papers or the IT requests we're looking at? Thank you, Mr. Silva. And then we do have a request regarding parking and parking meters.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, do you know if anyone, The parking department was going to join. I can check my.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. I do see Chief Friedman with your hand up once more.
[Nicole Morell]: You're coming through a little warbled. I don't know. And maybe if you want to turn your video off sometimes that helps.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe so. Jim, can you speak to that? I see you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. I just lost. Oh, there's okay. Apologies, Faye. Parking Director Morrison, we'll go to you if you want to briefly speak to this paper and then Councilor Caraviello, we can go back to your question.
[Nicole Morell]: I have the floor right now.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Director Morrison I guess I think the question I'm trying to understand is you're saying that these are meeting these meters you do not have to pay for they're simply tracking how long someone's parked in a spot.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to, does that address your questions, Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, going to Councilor Collins, and then we'll go back to Mr. Silva.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Councilor Collins so just to follow up to your motion that the communications from the mayor just state that they're, they're requesting and recommending to allow time for presentation.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to go. Okay, we got a second by Councilor Tseng I'm going to go to Mr. Silver's had his hand up for a while then I'll go to vice president bears. Going back to you Jim unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Jim. Going to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, vice president bears. Going I think to.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Or Vice President Bears has stepped away and left. Oh, there you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, you had your hand up still.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we'll get back to that. I see if you... All right, thank you people for lowering your hands.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief and Councilor Scarpelli. Going to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. So on the motion of Councilor Collins to receive in place on file, we also have a B paper that we can take first from vice president bears to request a response from the administration as to whether the council will, it will be requesting approval from the council on appropriation over $250,000. Do you have language you want to read back Mr. Clerk on that?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Great. So on the B paper from vice president bears, second by a Councilor Tseng Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of the negative the motion passes on the main motion to receive and place on file from Councilor Collins seconded by Councilor Tseng. You could please call a roll Mr. Clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not see him on the call. I don't see him in the waiting room. I don't see anyone in the waiting room either. We do have a meeting again next week. We will be back in person. So thank you Councilor Knight. So on the motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn seconded by
[Nicole Morell]: 2-2-014 and 2-2-395, Committee of the Whole. Meeting notice, Wednesday, November 16th at 6 p.m. Meeting is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. So, just trying to get myself together again. Four present, three absent. Meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at 6pm in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall via Zoom. The Committee of the Whole will discuss Papers 22-014, Paid Family and Medical Leave, and 22-395, an ARPA presentation from the Administration. The Committee has invited Chief of Staff Nina Nazarian, Finance Director Bob Dickinson, Attorney Janelle Austin from KB Law, and Federal Funds Manager Lorena Escalero to attend the meeting. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2499. 2-5. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. I do understand that, Lorena, I think you're trying to get out of here. So we can take the ARPA paper first in case unless anyone else has issues. Great.
[Nicole Morell]: Sir.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you in the meeting already? If you join the Zoom meeting, we can make you a co-host and then you can share your screen. Do you have the meeting ID?
[Nicole Morell]: If you just want to mute your computer, otherwise we'll get a weird. Do you want to mute your, like, just because otherwise we'll get like a weird sound feedback loop. You can put the mic on, though. Sorry, yeah, because otherwise we can't hear you. But yeah, if you, yeah, it's just the Zoom mic will pick up multiple times.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng is actually in a community fund meeting right now, and he will join when he's able to. And I know Councilor Scarpelli has a work commitment, and likewise will join if he's able to. Please proceed.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, yeah. Sorry. I meant like, yeah, you the actual computer. So now audio comes out of it. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Questions from the council? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I appreciate your opinion. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do want to know, we do have the chief of staff on the call and the chief of staff and mayor specifically asked for this meeting, so I don't know if they want to address any.
[Nicole Morell]: I agree. Is that address your questions for now, Vice Mayor?
[Nicole Morell]: Any, I have some questions from Councilor Tseng that he had emailed me, but any other columns you have anything at this time. Okay. So yeah, I just have some questions from Councilor Tseng you touched on this a little bit, I guess, by some bears touching on the renters versus homeowners, but. just what are the breakdowns when it comes to race, language, and we already talked about renter status relative to city demographics, and is there work being done to get greater feedback from these groups? Again, I know we talked about renters already. Was there outreach groups like the West Metro Community Center or immigrant and renter assistance groups to get survey respondents?
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, if there's anything you can share high level about the breakdowns regard regarding race, language and renter status relative to city demographics. So understanding the city, the information, the city level, and then also relative to the folks that actually took the survey.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, like who took the survey?
[Nicole Morell]: For sure. Thank you. And I appreciate that. And I just, and this is not a comment directed at you, but just in general, just to note that participation rates are obviously important, you know, higher participation rates. Great. But then it's, you know, if it's, overly sampled from a group, if a group is overly represented, then those participation rates perhaps are not as important if we're not getting the fair weight of it. But I'm just, again, not aimed at you. And then, so great, so I believe that covers everything of that question. Is there a survey in the data breakdown, survey responses by neighborhood?
[Nicole Morell]: And so the council has received in the past few weeks a few papers from folks from the the chief of the fire department from consultant working in IT talking about their projects that are seeking approval for appropriation. And that's not something that has come before the council before. It's something we've asked for. It's never been something we've been involved in. Can you explain what the process or are you able to explain what the process is for appropriations going forward?
[Nicole Morell]: And is that based off federal regulations or was that a decision made within this building?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. Those cover Councilor Tseng's question. I do have one question. Knowing that surveys are hard, I have to do them for my day job. It's impossible to, you know, it's really hard to get the representation and everything equal that way. But understanding that based on the participation rate and the demographics relative to the city of who participated, how much weight is being given to these survey results to decide the remainder of funding? Is it balanced among other decision factors? Is this the main thing pushing things going forward, or is it still up for debate?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And then another question actually from Councilor Tseng, I missed. With the open-ended responses that folks felt comfortable sharing, is that something that would either, that the council could have access to?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you. Any other questions from the council? Letting Councilor Tseng settle in. I just asked the questions you sent me, but.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Chief of Staff Nazarian with her hand up. Do you have a clarifying point you'd like to make, Madam Chief of Staff?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Chair and staff. So understanding, just a question for me, understanding that kind of sliding scale saying you may present things underneath, it would be binding the vote from the council. It's not like just a courtesy. This is actually, we either vote to appropriate or we don't,
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you, Madam Chief of Staff. Any further discussion from the council at this point? Chancellor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the Council or members of the public? Understanding we have two papers before us tonight, do I have a motion on this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to receive and place on file, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Thank you so much for being here for the presentation. Moving to 22-014, this paper is on the potential opt-in for paid family medical leave for municipal employees for the city of Medford. We met on this all the way back in February. And there was a motion for a few upcoming meetings on this, eventually to talk to union leaders. But one of the main things that we were hinging on is the potential financial impact of the city opting into this. So finally having our finance director here with us. Hopefully we can address some of the questions and continue the conversations as the council, I believe the majority, if not all of the council expressed an interest in this, but of course there are questions on what the financial impact would be to opt city employees into this extended leave program that most private companies are already opted into. Would anyone like to start with questions or finance director Dickinson, is there any, to share with us or anything related to this? I do not believe in the time period since we first started talking about this that any other municipalities have opted in. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: And just first is embarrassed to add on to that we did ask former city solicitor, Kim Scanlon, as far as the, just the vote required for this and it would just be a civil majority to vote for this. Any other questions from the council before we hear from France director, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: We have not I think we were really. I think a lot of it just hit John can we even consider going forward financially and I think if we get that information. I'm happy to work with whichever departments. The best way to do that, I have I know I as a Councilor have heard from a handful of folks when we first started talking about this that they were very much interested in the reason yes I've heard mixed for many employees and say you know something that's a good idea some don't.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that's a fair point.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe so, it would be all city employees.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions for the council at this time? Director Dickinson, is there research information you can provide us relative to what this might cost?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, Solicitor Scanlon did mention that last time.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, usually it's Larry.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: If I could just, I'll just interject. It's not a question, just a statement. I know the council has expressed their interest and support of this in the past. And I just, as someone who within the last 10 months, because I'm at a private employer was entitled to 20 weeks leave to heal myself and take care of my newborn son. It's so important. It's still not enough time. It's still nowhere near enough time in a country that has a childcare crisis, high maternal death rates, but it's so much, and it's so much more than our city employees are getting right now. And I just think that if there is any way we can do this, we absolutely owe it to people to do this. And again, understanding it's not just people giving birth, it's people with family medical issues, medical issues, and it's at our fingertips. And I think we owe it to the employees to do it. And I've, you know, again, I've only heard from a handful of folks, but people, those folks, it would change their lives. Absolutely. So just an impassioned plea that if we can get this done, we absolutely do.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I was gonna.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, yeah, I'm sure I know you fought for this. But personal, it's my understanding that private employers could either adopt opt into the state program exactly as it's written, or develop a comparable program. So me personally, I did not have to use sick time, exhaust my sick time before I was able to use the program. But that's how my private employer decided that.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council at this point? I mean, I think this is... just due to the complicated nature of this and the fact that no other municipality has done this just yet. We, you know, we obviously have a few more meetings ahead of us to try to figure this out again with union leaders, getting counseling here as well. Councilor Segg.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there any further discussion at this time? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Osanic. So we do have, yeah, we have a motion from the previous meeting to invite union leaders to a future meeting. So I can coordinate that for a future meeting. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of vices and affairs, seconded by, hang on.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, so the motion of vices and affairs to consolidate, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All opposed? Motion passes. On the main paper, the main motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Motion to approve. Um, right. Right. Second by Councilor Tseng. All those in favour?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: We motion to consolidate. Yes. On the motion, uh, Mr. Bear is to favor committee and report of the questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed. Motion passes. The motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor. Aye. All those opposed. Motion passes meeting adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: The regular meeting of the city council November 15 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Perez. On the motion from Vice President Perez to take 22-569 and 22-561 under suspension, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Where is... All right, so 22-561 appears after. Okay, 22-569. offered by Councilor Collins, Vice President Bears, and Councilor Tseng. Whereas, over a super majority of Tufts residents assistants employed by the Tufts Office of Residential Life and Learning, ORLL, have signed union authorization at cards indicating their intention to form a union named the United Labor of Tufts Residents Assistants and engage in collective bargaining with the university through affiliation with the Office of Professional Employees International Union, OPEIU Local 153, Whereas Tufts residential assistants perform a role that is essential to the university and to residential life on campus yet receive no wages nor fringe benefits beyond a room credit as part of their compensation package and are required to attend over two weeks of unpaid training annually. Whereas resident assistants are seeking fair compensation, better treatment by supervisors and ORLL, and a clear contract with better articulation of expectations and responsibilities, whereas student workers of color and first generation slash low income student workers are disproportionately represented in the resident assistant workforce, making the fair treatment and compensation of RA's integral to Tufts University's stated commitment to equity and support for marginalized groups, whereas union representation and collective bargaining would allow resident assistants to have a say over the terms of their employment, providing an avenue through which to seek adequate compensation and clarity in the employment contract, whereas the spread of student worker unionization efforts represents an important piece of strengthening the labor movement nationwide. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council express its support for the Tufts Resident Assistance Union and calls upon Tufts University to voluntarily recognize their unit. Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Director of Government and Community Relations at Tufts University, and the Director of Residential Life. The motion of Councilor, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Catherine. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else who would like to speak on this paper? Seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone opposed to that?
[Nicole Morell]: 22-561, to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council from Mayor Brant Olungokorin. Regarding appropriation request for finance director, I respectfully request use of available funds in the amount of $1,205 in finance salaries, account 010-135-5110, to provide for a step increase for the finance director associated with the request before you to change the finance director position from a CAF 20 to a CAF 21, paper number 22-023. The finance director was hired at a CAF 20 step five and is due to receive a step increase on the one year anniversary of his hire date, April 25th, 2022. This appropriation request provides for an increase in weekly salary for the position of CAF, for the position to CAF 21 step five, starting April 23rd, 2025 through the end of FY23. This appropriation will be funded using available funds in the finance salaries account that have accumulated due to the vacancy and the assistant finance director slash budget manager position. Ian Nazarian is available to speak to this request. as well as paper 22-023 and answer any questions you may have. Respectfully submitted, Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Chair Stephanie Zarian. It's kind of vague on the amount.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilmember Falco. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: to provide an update on when we might be the council might be receiving those financial papers.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of, sorry, point of information, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, Nina, please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff, can you confirm that this wouldn't go into effect until April 23rd of next year? Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: I think we have an error in our paper.
[Nicole Morell]: members of the public to step in as Aaron for you.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that's right. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Members of the public who wish to speak? So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Do I have a motion to revert back to regular order of business? On the motion of Councilor Knight, to revert back to regular order of business, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Announcements, act weights, remembrances, reports, and records. 22-567 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest condolences, I'm sorry, deepest and sincere condolences to the family of William Matarazzo on his recent passing. Mr. Matarazzo is the father of Janice DePace in the city's clerk's office. He served his country during the Korean War as a Marine and was active in youth sports. He was the man of the year for the sons of Italy. His presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further tonight?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-568 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved, the City of Medford proclaim that Thursday, November 25th, 2022, be named Michael Babe Kelowna Day in the City of Medford. Babe Kelowna scored a record of five touchdowns and 242 yards rushing in a Thanksgiving Day football game, a record that still stands 50 years later. Babe Kelowna will be traveling from California and will be honored at Fenway Park before the Medford Malden Thanksgiving Day football game. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any councilors who wish to speak on this? Mr. Murphy? Name and address, please. It's been a while.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, you're both missing for next week's meeting, we'll know.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. The records of the meeting of October 25th, 2022 are passed to Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to move approval on the records and committee reports, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. motions, orders and resolutions. 22-570 offered by Councilor Tseng. Be it so resolved that the City Council ask the City Administration to update the list of permanent parking streets on the City website. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Saik.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any other discussion from the council. Would you like to make that an amendment.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council. being members of the public on the motion of Councilor Tseng second by Councilor Carlyle all those in favor. I was opposed motion passes to do that price and one offered by Councilor Tseng. piece of resolve that the committee of the whole meet and discuss desired improvements to the city website and serve as a public forum to listen to resident feedback on the existing website Councilor Tseng, Thank you, President Morell, this one, this resolution comes out of a lot of conversations I have in the doors last year during campaign season.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? And I just want to thank you for bringing this up. I mean, I think so often sometimes as Councilors, we help with information that folks are trying to self-serve, they're trying to find out the website, they're trying to do it themselves and it simply doesn't exist. They hit dead ends, they hit dead pages. So I think not only meeting the committee of the whole, I do understand that the administration is working on updating the website, but meeting the committee of the whole and really having that opportunity for folks to come out and say what they'd like to say, I think that's a great idea. So I appreciate you bringing this paper forward. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng a second by, Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-572 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Director of Planning, Development, and Sustainability update the Council on the plan to assist residents who will be needing assistance with home heating and energy costs and later the recent increases in oil, gas, and electricity costs. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the Council? And I do just wanna know, I do just wanna know, I know off the top of my head, there's LIHEAP, L-I-H-E-A-P, that's offered through ABCD. So if you Google, anyone may be watching or know someone, if you Google fuel assistance, ABCD, there are programs there for fuel assistance, but it's one of many programs, that's just the one I'm most familiar with. So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. petitions, presentations and similar papers. Petition for a second hand articles licensed by Cameron Javido, 48 Gold Street, Boston, Massachusetts code 2132 for pro repair 19 Salem Street, Medford Mass code 2155. So we actually did have a committee of the whole on this last week that addressed some of the council's questions and concerns. We did land I think on adding some conditions for approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion on this paper? So on the motion of Councilor Knight to move for approval as amended. Mr. Clerk, do you have that language for the conditions? So motion by Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice Chair Bears. Sorry?
[Nicole Morell]: To approve with conditions.
[Nicole Morell]: So everything. So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Communications from the mayor, 22-560, to President Fulmerill and honorable members of the Medford City Council, from Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, regarding appropriation requests for new senior planner position. I respectfully request use of available funds in the amount of $55,267 in planning development sustainability salaries, account 0102975110, to establish the new position of senior planner. I request this before you to add the senior planner position to cap 14, paper number 22-502, This appropriation funds the position for a total of 32.4 weeks in FY23, with an expected hire date of November 15, 2022. As discussed in the September 9, 2022 memo from myself and PDS director, Alicia Hunt explaining this CAP request, this position will be funded using the available salary for the land use planner position included in the FY23 PDS budget, a position that is currently vacant and which PDS will not fill if the senior planner position is approved. Ms. Hunt, I don't see her when this was originally presented, is available to speak to this request as well as paper 22-502. and answer any questions you may have respectfully submitted. Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tse.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the council? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, ma'am.
[Nicole Morell]: No, uh, to next step is Aaron. Can you speak to that? The number of applicants for this position?
[Nicole Morell]: Just a reminder, Councilor Caraviello has the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Go ahead, Madam Chief of Staff. Can I just encourage you both to please not go one for one on this? Yeah. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And if I could just finish, I want to remind everyone of rule 15 on all debatable matters members shall speak no more than three times or more than 15 minutes on the same issue. So you're number three continue.
[Nicole Morell]: I promise to be brief.
[Nicole Morell]: Please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: If we could keep comments to this paper.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Chair and staff. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, Councilor Collins. On the motion to approve from Councilor Collins seconded by Councilor Tseng Council prevail.
[Nicole Morell]: That information was presented to us three weeks ago. It's not, it's not hidden information. It wasn't presented to the council three weeks ago.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng to approve. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Four in the affirmative, three in the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vice-president Barrett to take 22 dash, motion of vice-president Barrett to take papers, can you repeat those numbers?
[Nicole Morell]: Um, this is a
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, is there any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Do you not need roll call? I'm sorry?
[Nicole Morell]: Voting for third reading.
[Nicole Morell]: So motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng, for third reading.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Please call the roll on your right.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, four in the affirmative, three in the negative, the motion passes. 22-562, Personnel Ordinance, Library Union and City Council, October 25th, 2022, first reading, advertised November 3rd, 2022, metric transcript eligible for third reading, November 15th, 2022. I move to approve. On the motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng to move approval for third reading.
[Nicole Morell]: So it's a motion by Councilor Tseng to approve for third reading, seconded by Vice President Bears. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Correct. Please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Signing the furniture and the negative the motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-508, 22-538, and 22-577. Committee, the whole Wednesday, November 9th, 2022 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President, six present, one absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, November 9th, 2022 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss papers 22-508 and 22-538, special permit and class two auto licenses, request by Lyft slash FlexDrive, and paper 22-557, a secondhand articles license request by ProRepair. The city council has invited attorney Jeffrey Blake from KP law, Cameron Javito from her repair and representatives from list slash flex drive to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425, sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, council president. So as this meeting notice notes, both of these papers were sent to Committee of the Whole, just to allow us more time for questions, both with the representatives from these companies, as well as the counsel we've been provided from KP Law, Attorney Jeff Blake. I think we will take, as it's a shorter paper, we just have one person, we'll take the pro repair paper first, 22-557, with Cameron Javador from Pro Repair. And I'm happy if councilors wanna open up for questions or if we wanna hear from Cameron once again to remind us of the permit. For the, as a CCK. Yeah, sure. Yeah, we can take questions, but yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you have any interest in that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any other questions from the committee? Council, since we do have Attorney Blake on the line, do you have insight on if that's something, the process, just a process as far as just getting in writing the exclusive use of this space, how we should go about that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Blake.
[Nicole Morell]: Great.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Fair enough. Is that acceptable to Councilor Scarpelli? Councilor Scarpelli, is this phones fine?
[Nicole Morell]: Could you read that back to me when you have it?
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Councilor Caraviello. So we'll take the first motion from Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative. The motion passes. And we'll take the motion for our crisis affairs, seconded by Councilor Garbell. Please call the roll when you're ready. This is to report the paper out of committee with those conditions.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one in, I'm sorry, one absent, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Vice Mayor Harris.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if you want to be here, you're welcome, but you don't have to be here.
[Nicole Morell]: So moving on to papers 22-508 and 22-538. These are the papers regarding the special permit and class two auto license request by Lyft FlexDrive. I know we have representatives on the call from that company and happy to take questions from councilors first, or if we want to hear Councilor Carvejo.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, can I just have your name and address for the record?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: He is out sick today.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion from Councilors.
[Nicole Morell]: We do have Christy Origins from Lyft on the call. Christy, could you speak to that? Lily's also there. As well as Lily. If anyone from Lyft could speak to that question from Bars and Bears. Can you repeat the question?
[Nicole Morell]: Christy, can you, is that correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Supervisor. Is parking be provided for workers vehicles? Yes. Councilor Scarpelli and then Councilor Collins. And Councilor Kerbelo.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Collins, then Councilor Kerbelo.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further questions or discussion from the Council? And if I could just essentially just summarize, and this is gonna be a question for Attorney Blake, I think multiple Councilors, if not all the Councilors have expressed, we are elected to serve in the public interest. And I think a lot of us feel that these types of companies, because of the amount of hours, because of the low pay, because you can get increasingly lower pay depending on how you operate. We have concerns about this operating in our community, but it's my understanding, Attorney Blake, that we are very limited in the reasons for denial. And as you've said, conditions, correct? Because it is land use, it's not about, business organization.
[Nicole Morell]: Christie Lawrence, I saw you had your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: I appreciate that. Have you have you been to the space where this would be operating from?
[Nicole Morell]: It's a uniquely challenging intersection regardless the time of day. So it's a mess over there. Any further comments, questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: We know this will, if this paper is voted, we will have, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. So I just wanna make sure you're asking to see if a similar metropolitan area could provide information related to daily rates, compensation, where folks are traveling from.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Christy, is that something that, is that data that's available that might be able to be provided either now or in the future?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. To that point, Christy, if we're using relevant question. If folks can use these vehicles for whatever they decide, does that TNC charge still apply the same way for each ride? So it's like if they're, so that surcharge that we have in the state of Massachusetts for these rides. So if they're checking the car out for whatever, does that, does that surcharge still enact? Right. But if they're taking the car that originates in Medford to run errands, is that correct, Chrissy?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so it would just be if they're in it, if they're, okay. It's when the app is on, great. Thank you for that. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. And a reminder, this will come before us at the regular council meeting too, if we decide to vote it out. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: I second that motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I just but I just want to understand that lift has said they will not be providing us with those worker metrics.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, absolutely. I wasn't speaking out against the motion. I just wanted to make sure we're clear on what we can expect before the next meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: We're not given one?
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Blake, is that something we could request of the petitioner or?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. If there are environmental concerns, we can request that or request some type of report that would say that there are no environmental concerns of the petitioner.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a few motions before us. We have the first from Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so first we have the motion from Vice Mayor Bears, sorry, Councilor Collins to keep this in committee as we await the traffic report and the answers to Vice Mayor Bears questions from petitioner.
[Nicole Morell]: That's problems.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. So the motion I have Councilor Collins has amended by Councilor Tseng, which is to say Councilor Tseng withdrew his original motion and added an amendment. So on the motion of Councilor Collins to keep the paper and committee to allow us to get the traffic report responses to the questions or advice and affairs, as well as a report or statement of environmental impact or potential environmental impact.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Council con second by Vice President Bears Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 affirmative one absent zero negative emotion passes. Any further discussion, questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, Councilor Scarpelli, do you want, would you like to keep your motion or withdraw it?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Motion.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: I think he's gone. He just... I think he was... I was... I accidentally... I muted him because there was... Councilor Tseng? Yes. President Morell? Yes. Five in the affirmative, two absent. Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, 20-024, Committee of the Whole, meeting notice Wednesday, November 2nd, 2022 at 6 p.m. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present, six present, one absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, November 2nd, 2022 at 6 p.m. via Zoom only. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the potential establishment of an affordable housing trust, 20-024. The city council has invited housing planner, Danielle Evans, Sharon Everett of KP Law, and Shelly Gurning of Metro Housing Partnership to attend. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-787-4222. 393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So this is the second committee of the whole we have had on this topic at the last meeting we had two motions related to prevailing wage, and I'm sorry I'm forgetting the second Oh, as far as trends conveyance of city on parcels I believe we're the two major questions that the council is left with. So I'm happy to open up to Councilors for discussion at this point, or if we want to turn it over to Danielle or director hunt to hear. and update on those questions we had.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Bears, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if you wouldn't mind sharing a screen just because we we just just got this document. So if you wouldn't mind. Walking us through and then I can. I can forward it to see Roberta Cameron asked for that. I'll just forward you that a copy Roberta as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. I do see Councilor Knight has his hand up. I know you put it down, but I didn't know if you wanted to speak, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Going to you, Planner Evans.
[Nicole Morell]: So the motion is to discuss or to actually change it?
[Nicole Morell]: OK, so we'll leave that motion. We'll set tight on voting on that motion and just allow for more discussion. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, are you waiting for that response? Yes. Yeah, okay. Are there any other discussion from the council at this time as we wait for that?
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. I do see a number of Councilors with hands up. I do see some other folks with hands up. I'm going to get through discussion with the Councilors first, and then we'll go to comments from the public. Just going back to Danielle, did you have an answer to Vice President Bears's question?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Going to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. I'm gonna go to Councilor Knight, and then I'm also gonna just hand over the chair to Vice-President Bears for, I gotta hop on to childcare for one moment as people may be able to hear. So, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: No, if you could keep the chair. I did just have one question. I mean, this is a simple ordinance. I mean, not that it's ideal. There's nothing that could, you know, if we want to set this, if the council decides to set us with a prevailing wage and we find we're not getting projects, the council could go back and modify this ordinance, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Can everyone hear me?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, okay, sorry. Air Pods, I appreciate you, Vice President Bears, for taking over. It is a very rough sick season out there, and I have a sick baby, so I appreciate the time to be able to get him down. Council. Uh, going to buy Susan bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Beyers. And we do also have a motion on the floor from Councilor Caraviello from earlier in the meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Clerk Hurtubise, it looks like Councilor Caraviello dropped off. Are we still able to move forward with his original motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, yeah, I just got a text from Councilor Carvialo that a truck went by his house and ripped a cable off his house. So that's where his internet went. We'll address that at a future meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: And then we have Councilor Collins motion as well to report the paper out of committee with the, and accept the changes proposed by PDS. And that was seconded by vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Councilor Tseng. And if we could, before we vote, I do just want to say I very much share Councilor Knight's concerns. I think we end up in a little bit of a chicken or an egg situation and absolutely to his point where we have this opportunity to address the wages that put us in these situations in the first place. I think it's, it's imperative on us to act. That being said, I understand that the challenge is before us. And I want to note that a vote tonight is not a vote to enact this or not. It's a vote to report this out of committee. And I appreciate Vice President Bears's motion to get feedback from the Boston Building Trade Union, Trade Council as well, to be able to move forward with this, because I think that input is very important. We had a meeting last night where we asked for input from outside groups. And I think that's something that continue that model when it's very important like this. Councilor Knight, do you have your hand back up?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Going to Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council at this time? Okay, so we'll take Councilor Caraviello's motion first. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to drop the, just wanna make sure. the transfer limit to 7,500 square feet, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Second, we have the motion of Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so what would your motion be then?
[Nicole Morell]: Let me know when you have that language, Mr. Clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: And I believe, and I'm sorry, did you mention the part about reporting out the paper as well?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So on the motion of Councilor Collins, as seconded by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No, three in the affirmative, two in the negative, the motion passes. And then we have another motion from Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, as seconded by Councilor Tseng, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Any further discussion from the council or Do I have a motion to adjourn? Before we adjourn, is there anyone else in the public who'd like to speak? Seeing none, motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I am in front of zero and the motion passes meeting is adjourned. Thanks all. Thank you everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: do on dash 057 committee the whole meeting, Tuesday, November 1 2022 at 6pm is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. present six present one absent the meeting is called to order, there will be a meeting of the Medford City Council committee of the whole on Tuesday, November 1 2022 6pm and the Medford City Council chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss paper 21-057 to review draft language for a proposed ordinance regarding leaf blower use. The City Council has invited Attorney General Austin from KP Law, Victor Schrader, Director of Economic Development, William Forte, Building Commissioner, and a representative from the Medford Chamber of Commerce. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell. So as the meeting now stays, we are looking at a revised draft of a proposed ordinance around leaf blower use within the city. A number of minor edits that we motioned for the last time we met earlier this year, they reference the exclusions as far as municipal areas, some specificity around PPE use, as well as just a few recommended language if we wanted to adopt an eventual long-term phase-out of gas-powered leaf blowers being allowed for use In the city of Medford. This is for those of you watching who might be your first time watching a meeting like this. This is very much. This is a committee meeting. We're still debating on what the ordinance might be. And even then, it has to be go to a regular meeting and be voted on. So one of the motions from our last meeting was from Councilor Knight to ensure that We invited a number of landscaping companies. So Victor Schrader was very gracious in helping us out as far as seeing businesses in the area that we might be able to identify as landscaping companies and alluring them to this meeting so we can make sure we hear for them. Likewise with the Chamber of Commerce. So I want to open it up to my Councilors for any fellow Councilors for any comments they may have at this time and then also make sure We hear from members of the public who want to come out and speak to this as well as our new building commissioner thank you for joining us to make sure this is something that where we land is something that we can actually operate within the city of Medford and we have the bandwidth to do so. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I just wanted to go briefly just to address just one or two things you said. Speaking for the chair, but I'm the person who originally introduced this paper. So I do just want to reference, and I know you know this, just for people watching, that this isn't a proposed outright ban. It's regulations on use. So it's a series of dates. A lot of those dates were companies would be asked not to use them are probably times of year where there's going to be snow on the ground and there wouldn't be use anyway. So I just want to reference that just so people don't think we're looking at an outright ban. And I was doing my research earlier because I get the same comments about lawnmowers and snowblowers. And one thing is leaf blowers, the electric, sorry, the gas leaf blowers, actually there have been studies done that they produce different than lawnmowers, different than snowblowers, sound at a level that permeates walls. And that's why I think we get these emails where we run to residents and they're not saying my neighbor's snowblower is driving nuts, my neighbor's lawnmower is driving nuts, they're saying my neighbor's leaf blower is driving me nuts because they operate at this frequency that literally is very annoying. And that's why we hear from people a lot about it. So I just want to reference those two things. Any other councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Correo. Councilor Collins and Vice-Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice Chair Zimphers.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: And I do want to note that Councilor Knight made a very similar motion the last meeting and I did reach out to economic development director Schrader to do the best they could as far as reaching out to the landscapers and as well as the Chamber of Commerce. I just want to note that those efforts were made for this meeting. Do you wanna take that motion now or we'll save it to the end of the meeting till we hear from folks that are here tonight?
[Nicole Morell]: Victor, if you don't mind coming up first, I'm curious just if you could share with us the outreach process, because I know it's not, we don't have everyone cataloged the way we would like, so if you could share with us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you so much for being here. We haven't had the pleasure of meeting you and having had a meeting yet.
[Nicole Morell]: Wonderful. If you'd like to share.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I appreciate it. It's very helpful. Any comments from the council at this time? Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the Council this time? Happy to open up to members of the public. We'll also, you know, our landscapers and Chamber of Commerce would like to speak first as they were invited members of the meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: You called me many months ago, I did return your phone call.
[Nicole Morell]: Would anyone from the council, I'm sorry, the chamber like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: And I'm just gonna go briefly. We'll go to Vice President Bears first.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. And I just want to know, I sometimes take issue with the reference to families, and absolutely, we all have families we're trying to support. I hear from families, though, who say, I don't even take my kids outside anymore because it's so loud, because there's particulate blowing in the air, because I'm worried about emissions. And I believe them, because I have a 10-month-old son, and weekly, daily, I'm chased out of my yard. I can't go in my yard with my 10-month-old son, because there's leaf blowers. in every yard around me, you know, boxed in by leaf blowers. And I'm sharing my truth. I'm sharing my experience. And I don't and I don't take my son out because there is particulate matter blowing in the air. He's 10 months. And I'm just going to share that I'm here to represent the voices of residents who have reached out to me. But I live this too. I live in this community as well. Please come to the mic if you'd like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the council, I can go to members of the public on Zoom if anyone would like to speak. Please raise your hand on Zoom. Going to Martha Andrus, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else, any other members of the public would like to speak, please raise your hand.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, I seconded by... Second. Vice-President Bears, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. And then Vice-President Bears, you had a few motions?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, is that all done?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Sorry, that was a no. Do you want to just register as a no? Yeah, just register as a no.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further motions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: I do. The one in drive does have the comments.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm keeping this though. Before we adjourn, just because we're here and since we're talking about sustainability, there is an event on Saturday at the West Denver Community Center for your pumpkins. So don't trash it, smash it, and then Garbage to Garden will be there to collect these smashed pumpkins. So if anyone's frustrated after this meeting and wants to smash a pumpkin or has pumpkins to get rid of, that's on Saturday. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, I think the major discrepancy is that any, all of the city, all the municipal properties are exempt from this. So that's where all the strikeout is. And we just replaced it with municipal properties rather than listing every single park and the cemetery and Hormel.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice Mayor Bears. I would also just add,
[Nicole Morell]: And I can make sure whenever our future meeting is scheduled to invite Commissioner McIver, who provided kind of like that that first black and white inside of just being like, we wouldn't be able to do this, and we could have a deeper conversation of what what that actually looks like cancer saying, I think I'm to the same kind of effect is cancer Collins question.
[Nicole Morell]: And then- Yeah, if you'd like to make that motion, I would think that would be helpful so that when we do come together with stakeholders, we have the background from our department heads. So we're not so excited we've landed on some solution we then find out we can't execute on.
[Nicole Morell]: I think just additional feedback. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng to invite the building commissioner, as well as other relevant departments to provide comments for the current draft before our next meeting. Second by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. I think that's something we could follow up with legal counsel on that, that language, or some of us think we could follow up with legal counsel on that. That language was drafted by legal counsel, but to your point, I don't know if it covers, you know, all the exemptions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? So going back to the motion from Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Oh, sorry, second. Second by Vice Mayor Bears. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-5333, Committee of the Whole, Wednesday, October 26, 2022 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Six present, one absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, October 26, 2022 at 6pm via Zoom only. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss paper 22-533 regarding the scope of legal services to continue the Council's work updating the zoning ordinance and aligning it with multiple city plan documents. The Council has invited Alicia Hunt, Director of Planning, Development and Sustainability, Victor Schrader, Director of Economic Development, and PDS staff to attend the meeting. Further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. So as the meeting notice said, the purpose of this meeting, the council through the budget process negotiated for $50,000 within the budget to continue our zoning work. This is to talk about the scope we'd like to accomplish with that. Vice President Bears and I did reach out to Chief Procurement Officer Fiona Maxwell to understand what the procurement process would be around if we wanted to continue with this, and I'm happy to share her response with the Council, but in short, the answer she gave with us is if we're engaging a lawyer, if we wanted to continue with Mark Wabrowski, if we're engaging a lawyer for their purposes as a lawyer, we are allowed to continue without going through the RFP process, correct? Vice President Bears, just stop me if I hit any parts wrong. Correct. Correct. If we if we want to go beyond that we wouldn't have to follow processes that's over $10,000 but we will, I will engage Fiona every step of the way to make sure we do this the right way. So, just want to open it up for discussion from the council to think about what is the scope would like to address understanding that $50,000. It's some money, it's not a lot of money. We can get some work done. We got a lot done with Mr. Bobrowski for about $45,000. So seeing what we continue with that. I'm going to go to Vice President Bears first, who already has his hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. racism bears going to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Before I get to Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Giglio, if you could change your avatar, it's Councilor's campaigning, essentially, and we can't have, I know this is a Zoom meeting, but you can't campaign or have signs like that within the chambers, and as this is the virtual chambers, I ask that you change your avatar. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello for flagging that for me. Going to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I have not. I wanted to see kind of what the council was seeking. And my thought was to deliver him, you know, here's what we'd like. Can you come back to us? What's feasible?
[Nicole Morell]: I agree. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Yeah, and I did also just one of the reason I hadn't reached out. Firstly, there's I did just want to affirm I know we had, we've talked diffusively about in the past. I just wanted to affirm that this is the direction of the council wanted to explore so I will reach out to him as soon as we close the meeting. I do. If there's see if there's any further discussion from the council I know, Director Hunt. has some insight she could share and she is a in demand woman with meetings tonight so I want to turn over to her unless there's further discussion from the council at this time. Seeing none. Give me a wave. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: So it's a lot to chew on. Thank you, director. Yeah, I think my just my top concern I was like, speaking as one member of the council, I'm, I'm eager to have a partner in this work, I think, especially in some of the bandwidth items that are essential to get feedback from the community that we simply, it's harder for us to run. But I think I would just want the assurance, which I think it's it's already exists statutorily that the council gets final decision power as far as these changes, we can work collaboratively, we can talk about options with the council the council's vote is the deciding factor for these changes.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. Thank you. Um, any cancer Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'm happy, I see Director Hunt has her hand up. Yeah, I'm happy to take that in the form of a motion to have a future meeting with the new building commissioner around some of those questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director and Councilor Caraviello. And I just wanna know, I have been in talks with a few of you about that final draft, and I feel like I might be stuck in a cycle of kind of everyone saying someone else is responsible for the final draft. So I just wanna raise that again.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, are you able to follow up on that? And then I can authorize any small hourly work.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, for a draft scope of work to be presented to the council.
[Nicole Morell]: For debate, okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: So it'd be great.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so I have two motions on the floor from vice president bears. Second, Madam President. Thank you. Mr. Clark, or a, let me know when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: He had to jump off. He's gone.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the inferno, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. And the second motion, when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent, the motion passes. Before we adjourn, is there anyone from the public who would like to speak on this paper? Seeing none, going back to the council for any further discussion or a motion? Motion to adjourn. On the motion of advice, give you a promotion on the motion of cancer Kirby hello to adjourn seconded by second cancer Collins Mr. Clerk please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, zero in the negative, two absent.
[Nicole Morell]: Regular meeting of the Medford City Council October 25 2022 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight just spend the rules to take permit applications seconded by answers Garpelli all those in favor. I was opposed motion passes, moving to our permit applications, believe they begin on Um, do you want to, you want to start with the, um, two, two, five, three, eight, or before then five zero five. So we're starting with a granted location or all right. 22505 petition for grant of location National Grid of North Andover Massachusetts Metro Massachusetts city clerk's office, you are hereby notified that in order of the Metro City Council a public hearing will be held in the Howard Alden Memorial Chambers and via zoom at 7pm on Tuesday, October 11, 2022 and a petition of National Grid for permission to relocate gas lines including the necessary sustaining protecting fixtures as it may find necessary under and across the public way here and after name to be located substantially in accordance with the plan mark 060641-1060, Walnut Street, Medford, Massachusetts, July 20th, 2022. A Zoom link for this meeting will be provided no later than Friday, October 7th, 2022. Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of our bears to wait the remainder of the reading. Second by Councilor Knight all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes. I do see we have Dana Cuddy on the call from National Grid. Dana name and address for the record please.
[Nicole Morell]: petition in front of us.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, there you are. I didn't see you back there. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, you can also, yeah. In the future, you can just give your city hall address.
[Nicole Morell]: Please proceed.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. So as this is a public hearing, I do need to open that up. So opening up the public hearing. Oh, it already opened up.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so on the motion and Councilor Knight, would you like that with the six day public comment period or? So on the motion of Councilor Knight to approve at the completion of the six day public comment period, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-508 city clerk's office notice of a public hearing the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard Chambers 85 Howard F Alden 85 George B has a drive Medford and via zoom on Tuesday October 11 2022 at 7pm only to be posted no later than Friday. October 7, 2022 on a petition from Flex Drive Services LLC aka Lift Hub, Lily Jobson agent is petitioning for a special permit 616 Fellsway operations and 80 station landing aka 15 presence landing parking Medford Mass 02155 Flex Drive aka Lift Hub petitioning for a special permit to park rental vehicles at 616 Fellsway in accordance with Medford zoning table A-H-3 Motor Vehicle Related Uses. Petition and plan may be seen in the office of the city clerk, Medford City Hall, 85 George B. Hassett Drive, room 103, Medford, Massachusetts, 2155, call 781-393-2501 for any accommodations, slash HTDD, 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the city clerk, sign Adam L. Hurtubise, city clerk, advertised in the Medford transcript and the Somerville Journal, September 29th and October 6th. This was tabled last week as well. Do I have any questions from Councilors at this point?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: We do have Attorney Jeffrey Blake from KP Law on the call right now. Would any Councilors like to speak or ask questions before we hear from Attorney Blake?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. So Attorney Blake, sorry, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Attorney Blake, I do believe that's the main question before us. If there, as the special permit granting authority for this, are there permissible versus non-permissible reasons which the council may vote or individual Councilors may vote or the council may vote to deny the permit?
[Nicole Morell]: So just to understand, and I think this is where it came up in BJ, so we would have to, if it were to be a vote to denial, we would have to cite a specific reason and that we as a body would have to agree upon that specific reason?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Does that answer your question, Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions from the Council at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Vice Mayor Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm not sure they execute what they're designed to do.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further comments from the council at this time? Director Alicia Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further questions of the council at this time I do have one person embarrassed. Attorney, Attorney Blake, could you speak to the timeframe so just hearing from what councils are saying, if the council were to move to table this again or to a date certain, what timeframe are we looking at that we must approve or deny this?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And I didn't, I'm sorry, Councilor Knight, what was your question earlier? I didn't catch the first part.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So, Attorney Blake, just so I know, we're doing this the right way. If we were to move it to committee with that, we could continue the public hearing in committee or we would need to close it here. That would start the time clock.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other my questions that satisfied this time.
[Nicole Morell]: We'd like to request a traffic study or
[Nicole Morell]: I think we just don't have the traffic study before us. We have the sign off of no anticipated impact, but we don't have the actual report out. I mean.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'm not sure. I don't know. I mean, if we want to adjust the language, like if a traffic study has not been completed to have it completed at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: You mean for the original permit?
[Nicole Morell]: Well, Attorney Blake did say he believed it's within reason for us to request it, so.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears, as seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, do we need a roll call for this, yes, or no? It's not approved, it's just moving through.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm gonna defer as the negative motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Addition for class two dealer license rentals from flex drive services LLC, a lift hub at 616 Falls operations and 80 station landing, AKA 15 presidents landing parking. Do I have a motion for paper 22-53 and the motion to adopt the previous motion from councilor Knight. Seconded by.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice president affairs all those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed motion passes. 22-555 petition or common butlers license by prop hot power 34 Flint Street apartment one Somerville mass oh 2145 Versailles properties LLC doing business as pinkies famous pizza 165 Main Street, Medford mass. Oh 2155 over to the chair of our licensing. Yep. The petitioner can please come up and also turning over to the chair of our licensing commission.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Congratulations. 22-556, petition for secondhand articles licensed by Thomas O'Leary, 60 Otis Street, Somerville, Mass. 02154 and Marybeth Coughlin, 82 Bromfield Road, Somerville Mass 02144 for Medford Jewelry Inc. doing business as Roland's Jewelers, 70 High Street, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155. Do we have the petitioner with us? Please come up and then turning over to Councilor Sparapelle once again.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. 22-557 petition for secondhand articles licensed by Kamzen, Javado, 43 Gold Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02132 for pro repair, 19 Salem Street, Medford, Massachusetts. Is the petitioner with us? Please come up and I will once again turn to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion any further discussion on the council. the table and to move to that same committee, the whole Councilor Scarpelli?
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, and that may, I appreciate that, and the timing may depend on availability of legal counsel. So we will, I will schedule with all due urgencies. It's just sometimes we cannot get legal counsel within a timeframe we'd like, but I will absolutely work to schedule as quickly as soon as this motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Any further discussion from the council? So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to move this paper to a committee of the whole,
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed. Motion passes. 22-558, petition for class two auto dealer license by Tiago Sertori-Murciano, 132 Moore Street Revere, Massachusetts 02155 for Icon Motors Groups, Inc. 357 Mystic Avenue, Medford, Mass. 02155 is the petitioner here. Please come up, and then I'll also refer to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: It does say on the agenda that I know it's not here but it says that we do have it on file.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli. To approve. Seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor. Aye. All those opposed. Motion passes. Good luck.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins while under suspension to take communications from the mayor. Seconded by.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor. Aye. All those opposed. Motion passes. 22-559 to President Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council for Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn food truck permit for neighborhood produces five year anniversary celebration. On behalf of the below entity I respectfully submit the following requests for a food truck permit in the city of Medford in addition to city council approval vendors are required to adhere to health department food safety requirements. taco party food truck date and time saturday november 5 2022 12 to 5 p.m location neighborhood produce parking lot 649 boston ave medford event neighborhood produce is set five-year anniversary celebration about the event the anniversary celebration will be an outside event celebrating neighborhood produce's five-year anniversary and will take place in the motion of councilor night with remainder of the reading second by second All those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve any. Councilor Caraviello, do we know what the food trucks going to be taco party they are, they are located in Somerville but they are well I believe they're based in Somerville they are very close to the location of which this taco party taco party.
[Nicole Morell]: Does that address your questions doesn't touch his palate, but any further questions from the council. So on the motion of Council night to approve seconded by Councilor Collins all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes to do that 560 to President Romero and honorable members of the city council from Mayor. We have a motion from Councilor Knight to table. Second. On the motion of Councilor Knight to table, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Opposed. All right, do you want a roll call vote? Or, I mean, I can't tell by the... No, it sounds like it's a tie, it's a tie, so it fails. It sounded like a tie to me.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, I said it's to me it sounded like a tie.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm not in doubt.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it can't be a tie. Well, I didn't vote on roll call. So okay. I mean, I don't vote on voice votes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Mr. Clerk, please call a roll call vote on the motion to table for 22-560.
[Nicole Morell]: No, really affirmative for the negative the motion fails. Going back to 22-560 regarding the appropriation request for a new senior planner position day October 19 2022 respectfully request use of available funds in the amount of $55,267 and planning development and sustainability salaries account 0102975110 to establish the new position of senior planner or request is before you to add the senior planner position to cap 14 paper number 22-502. The appropriation funds the position for a total of 32.4 weeks in FY 23 with an expected higher date of November 15 2022. As discussed in the September 9 2022 memo from myself and PDS director Alicia Hunt explaining the cap amendment request, that position will be funded using the available salary for the land use planner position included in FY23 PDS budget, a petition that is currently vacant and which PDS will not fill that senior planner position is approved. Ms. Hunt is available to speak to this request as well as paper 22-502 and answer any questions you may have. Respectfully submitted, Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Go ahead, Councilor Sanders. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Ferraro.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carballo. Vice Senator Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Chief of... Thank you, Councilor. And I do just see Chief of Staff, Ms. Aaron. Did you have something you would like to add?
[Nicole Morell]: I wanted to offer you the opportunity on this paper, even though it was off motion to be tabled. We're gonna stop the debate on this now, but I would appreciate you keeping comments to the paper before us. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: So we do have the motion from Councilor Knight to invoke rule 20, it might be 23 now, or?
[Nicole Morell]: So our next regular meeting will be on the 15th because- That's the night that I'm traveling. Yeah, I just want to know that, okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much. So on the motion of Councilor Naito to invoke rule 21 to lay the paper on the table for one week, the first time introducing a finance paper, it is undebatable and we don't need to vote on that because it's our rule to just automatically lay it on the table, correct? Great. Thank you, Director Hunt. Vice Chair Bears. We are still under communications from the mayor. Councilor Collins and motion to take all communications with the mayor. So, yeah. Yeah, we would all to do that 561 to present a formal and honorable members of the Medford City Council from Mayor Brad O'Connor regarding appropriation request for finance director. and respectfully request use of available funds in the amount of $1,205 in finance salaries account 010135510 to provide for a step increase for the finance director associated with the request before you to change the finance director position from a cap 20 to a cap 21. The finance director was hired at cap 20 step five and due to receive a step increase on the one year anniversary of his hire date, April 25, 2022. The appropriation request provides for an increase in the weekly salary for the position of cap 21 step five, starting April 23 2025, through the end of fiscal year 23 the appropriation will be funded using available funds and the finance salaries account that have accumulated due to vacancy in the assistant finance director budget manager position is there and is available to speak to this request 21. We have a motion from Councilor Knight to put forth rule 21. And this is not debatable as a council rule to lay the paper on the table for one week. Is it a finance paper that we're seeing for the first time? And I do just wanna know for those folks watching, our next meeting will be on, our next regular meeting is November 15th, because we will not be having a regular meeting on the eighth, because of election day, we will be having regular meetings on Tuesday, November 15th, as well as Tuesday, November 22nd. 22-562, to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council, Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, propose wage amendment for library union. I respectfully request and recommend that the City Council approve the following amendments to the revised ordinances, chapter 66, article two. City of Medford amendment to revised ordinances, chapter 66, article two, be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Medford in chapter 66, entitled personnel, article two, entitled reserve the city's classification and compensation plan formally included as article two, section 66-31 through 66-40. Amend the figures as they presently appear next to the following title by adjusting each to reflect the following percentage wage increases and effective date. Library, effective July 1st, 2022, increased the base salary of all library union titles by 2%. Effective July 1st, 2023, increased the base salary of all library union titles by 2%. Effective July 1st, 2024, increased the base salary of all library union titles by 2%. Respectfully submitted, Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, is there any further discussion from the council? So on the motion of Vice Mayor McPherson to approve for first reading, seconded by Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So in the presence here in the negative, the motion passes, approved for first reading. 22-564, a resolution to file and accept grants with and from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs for the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program for the car park renovation project, whereas car park is a community wide asset and the preservation and improvements to this facility RFC priority as evidence and the most recent open space and recreation plan and whereas car park is dedicated to park and recreation purposes under MGL chapter 45 section three, and Madam President motion to waive the reading and move approval ultimately this is to authorize the administration to apply for free money. And any questions from the council on the motion of Councilor Knight seconded by Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes. 22-565, a resolution to file and accept grants with and from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs for the Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities Grant Program for the Gillis Park Accessibility Renovation Project.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the remainder of the reading and move approval on the paper, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of items in Paris to take 22-502 off the table and approval first reading. Did you want to speak on one of those papers?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. If we could just name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Bill.
[Nicole Morell]: So I have a motion from Vice Mayor Bears to take 22-502, correct? Yes. From the table. Do I have a second on Vice President Bears's motion to take 22-502 from the table? And was that a motion to approve as well, or? Approved for first reading. Approved for first reading. So on the motion of, do I have a second on Vice President Bears's motion? Councilor Collins. So on the motion of Vice President Bears's to take 22-502 from the table and approve for first reading, could you remind us the people before us, Vice President Bears's?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you, Vice President Bears. It's the, yes, the planner for the CAF. It's the CAF for the planner, senior planner. if you do have surprises too. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, I second by Councilor Collins to approve for first reading. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. By the affirmative to and the negative, the motion passes for first reading. On the motion of council tonight to revert back to regular order of business seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor. Opposed motion passes. Announcements actually to remember his reports and records the records of the meeting of October 11 2022 were passed to Councilor Collins Councilor Collins, how did you find them.
[Nicole Morell]: Second motion of Councilor Collins seconded by my student affairs all those in favor. I suppose motion passes on the motion of Councilor Knight to adopt the committee reports, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli all those in favor. I suppose passes. 22-543 offered by Councilor Covey Oh, be it so resolved that the Metro City Council Senate deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Frank Mills on his recent passing at 101 years old. Frank was a resident of Medford for 72 years Frank was a veteran of the US Army, who served his country during World War Two in both Europe and Africa, Frank was bestowed for bronze stars, good conduct medal, and European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal. Frank was also a CYO coach at St. Joseph's, coaching both basketball and baseball. Frank was always in attendance as many veterans events throughout the city. His presence in our community will sorely be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: 22-544 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Councilor Caraviello and Councilor Collins submitted a resolution for this as well. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of long-time housing authority foreman Steve Dutero on his sudden passing. His presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins, then Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any discussion from the council.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of tonight, second, my Councilor Scarpelli all those in favor, all those opposed motion passes. Motions, orders and resolutions 22-545, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have the parking administration provide the cost of installing extra and removing the wrongly placed meter poles on High Street, along with the cost of purchasing extra meter heads. Be it further resolved that the parking administration explain to the council why meter poles have been placed on Boynton Road, which is a residential street away from the Medford Square Commercial District. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the Council? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Hey, Councilor Collins. And to that point, I did reach out to the mayor asking about the ones in front of the library specifically. And she said she asked them to remove the last time I drove by they were there. I'm not sure why. Yeah, and I'm not sure. I mean, to Councilor Collins point why it's a surprise to the mayor that these things that one would assume she's shy and signed off on are there. So it's very confusing.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Thank you, Vice President Barros. Did you want to speak? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. McFarland. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor. All those opposed, motion passes. 22-546 offered by Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council support question four on the November ballot to preserve the Work and Family Mobility Act, which would allow all qualified residents to apply for a state driver's license regardless of immigration status and improve road safety outcomes for all communities in Massachusetts. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the Council? Councilor Collins, Councilor Tseng, if I could just request the language be tweaked. Right now it says, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council support question four. I would just, my suggestion would say express support of, just so it's not commanding anything it's saying. otherwise. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Would you like to make the amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the council? I did see a hand up on Zoom, but then it went back down. Okay, we're back. Paul Geraghty, name and address for the record. Name and address for the record, please. Just asking you to unmute.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so on the motion of Councilor Collins, as amended by Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. 22-547 offered by Councilor Knight be it so resolved that the Medford City Council enact a spending moratorium until such time as the city administration response to council papers related to spending, warrant articles, and the city's financial health. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, I'm back to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Is that address your questions, Councilor Tseng? Any further discussion from the council at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: I know my tenure on the council is shorter than some, but I've been on it long enough to know that sometimes voting in absolutes absolutely comes back to bite you, and I would be reluctant to vote for something so broad, although I do appreciate the intent of it. So we have a- So on the motion of Councilor Naito to sever the two papers and lay the A paper on the table for a time of 30 days as seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. And then taking the B- Councilor Knight to move approval on the paper seconded by vice president bears. Everyone feels comfortable with the language of the paper. 22-548 offered by vice president bears be it so resolved by the Medford city council that the city council encourages residents to attend the November 2 bus network redesign meeting where the MBTA will be presenting its revised map of bus changes for Medford and other communities. Be it further resolved that the city administration notify residents of the meeting particularly residents who communicated with the city or submitted comments regarding the bus network redesign using all available means. Event information can be found at mbta.com slash events slash 2022 dash 11 dash 02 slash public dash meetings dash bus dash network dash redesign dash virtual you love to make me read a URL. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Bears. And I do want to note that we did have residents that in Hillside that
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes to do dash 549 offered by by Susan bears. It's a result by the Metro City Council that the city administration updates policies and procedures regarding see click fix to ensure that items requiring the input of or decision by the traffic commission are properly referred to that body for their response and review by Susan affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? On the motion, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-550 offered by Councilor Collins, the it's so resolved the Medford City Council remind residents of the statewide ban on mattress disposal going into effect on November 1 resources for recycling or donating mattresses and box prints can be found at mass.gov slash service dash details, slash mattress dash recycling. Councilor Collins, sorry for the tongue twister.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Collins as amended by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Opposed? Motion passes. 22-551 offered by Councilor Collins. Be it so resolved that Medford City Council recommend that the administration advertise its open positions on the Mass Municipal Association's Municipal Marketplace Job Board in order to help spur more applications. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Collins seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-552 offered by Councilor Tseng. These are resolved City Council asked the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability if their plans for method to connect to the Somerville community bike path along the Green Line extension.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Tseng, it's seconded by Vice President Bears, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-553 offered by Councilor Tseng, be it so resolved that the subcommittee on rules and ordinances meet to identify definitions within the code of ordinances for the roles of code enforcement officers and tree warden and report back on what definition exists and what updates need to be made for the tree ordinance. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: So the paper, so this is asking specifically about the definitions of two positions. So I think, well, there are definitions that appear in other code enforcement officer appears throughout our ordinances. I mean, we can stay in the committee and we can figure out the definition that we want to. It's just one of those weird things that we go into our code of ordinances, nowhere defined is a code enforcement officer.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Do we want to refer to legal counsel instead of an actual subcommittee? Just legal counsel definition of these two.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Great. for the chair of the other subcommittee so um so you want to refer to legal counsel for definition so on the motion of councillor saying as amended by councillor saying seconded by vices and affairs all those in favor all those opposed motion passes two two dash five five four oh good another url offered by councillor saying be it so resolved to the city administration reach out to residents to apply for federal student loan debt relief before December 31st, 2022 at https://studentaid.gov slash debt dash relief slash application. Federal Pell Grant recipients may be eligible for up to 20,000 in debt relief and other federal student loan borrowers may be eligible for up to 10,000 in debt relief. The application is available in both English and Spanish. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the council on the motion? Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed, motion passes. Going to public participation. Ms. Bartholomew, you're on public participation. You spoke earlier. Would you like to speak again? For public participation, do you want to speak again? I know you spoke earlier. You're on the agenda. You're good, okay. I know we do have residents from Harvard Street here who also wanted to speak about no parking signs. So whoever would like to speak, please come up and just name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Do we still need to establish?
[Nicole Morell]: And I do have your email. I can reach out to some of those folks tomorrow to see if they're able to just give us a short answer as to the why. I have, I think, Ellen, someone emailed on behalf, Ellen emailed on behalf of all of you. So I can reach out to, I'll probably reach out to Director Blake and probably Director Hunt as well, who also is on that, just to see if we can get a short answer. I'm sure there's a very long answer too, but if we can get a short answer to you guys.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else who would like to speak for public participation? Is there anyone on Zoom?
[Nicole Morell]: The council is familiar.
[Nicole Morell]: And if I could just get your name again for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Appreciate it. Anyone else would like to speak for public participation?
[Nicole Morell]: I figured as much, but I think they generally try not to make such impactful decisions in one meeting, but statutorily, I don't know.
[Nicole Morell]: I appreciate your time. Thank you, yeah, I'll follow up on that email tomorrow morning. Anyone else for public participation?
[Nicole Morell]: From what we've been told, enforcement is unpredictable, so plan on it being unpredictable.
[Nicole Morell]: I can add that to my questions.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll add that to my questions to Director Blake just so, while we have him.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else public participation either on zoom or in person. Seeing none, I do believe we have hands in the favor of the clerk, which is on me to read so moving on to hands in favor of the clerk under suspension 22-566 offered by Councilor Scarpelli be it so resolved the city council discuss the lack of communication dealing with school department issues and concerns Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Falco. We have reached the end of our agenda. It's under suspension. because we took it up under suspension. Well, I mean, what's the motion? So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to receive in place on file. Second by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? Opposed? Motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn. Second by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 19-070 subcommittee on climate sustainability and transportation meeting, Tuesday, October 18 2022 at 6pm is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Present to present zero absent. I'm sorry, one absent the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Metro City Council subcommittee on climate sustainability and transportation on Tuesday, October 18 2022 at 6pm in the Metro City Council chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to make edits to the proposed tree ordinance 19-070 the subcommittee has invited Alicia hunt director of planning development sustainability. The subcommittee has also invited members of Trees Medford and the Medford Energy and Environment Committee to attend. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Murrell, Council President. So we called this meeting here today after meeting in Committee of the Whole last month, I think. We made a number of motions that were adopted at that meeting. One was to send the paper to the subcommittee, so that's why we're meeting here as opposed to Committee of the Whole. Another was to send the brief edits we had to KPUA to make edits to the ordinance. They have not. Those were just about separating out sections that should be applied for zoning, where it should go for zoning, general ordinances, where it should go for general ordinance. They still have not made those edits. And then the other there. Oh, and the third resolution was to send this to folks in finance, PDS and DPW for comments. So the reason we are meeting tonight, as we still wait on those edits, as I had talked to Commissioner McGivern, he had given us comments back in May. And he said that at this point, he would like to see what the Council wishes for this ordinance before he gives further comments. So I know this is an ordinance that has a lot of interest from the public. The this type of ordinance is also referenced in our climate action adaptation plan as well as the draft comprehensive plan. So this is something I want to keep moving. So my hope is that tonight we can go through the draft ordinance that we've been working off for the past year, year plus at this point, and go through line by line and say what we as a subcommittee want to keep what we are open to suggestions, and what you know we really, I guess, you know, don't carry their way and just understanding that we get a document that we can send to our city hall administration partners, and they can give us comments back and understanding where we stand with this. We've also received a number of comments from residents by email, as well as in past meetings. So I want to make sure that those are referenced in this updated draft as well. So I can share this document. But before we get started, I wanted to offer a Councilor Tseng if there's anything you'd like to start with.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. And I would ask if you if I could kind of delegate to you if you want to reference those just because I'll have my whole screen taken up by the document. So if you're able to reference the comments that have come through from residents. That would be great.
[Nicole Morell]: So I do. Councilor Scarpelli is running late and he's going to join us on Zoom, but we can get started. So share my screen. Oops. Can I get screen sharing or co-host so I can share my screen?
[Nicole Morell]: Also, I guess I need to make it, yeah, so I can see people raising hands. If you could let me know if folks have their hands raised, Mr. Clerk, in the process as well. Okay. So starting off the intent and purpose of this ordinance. So this is what are we trying to accomplish with this ordinance? And I think there has been even this very first sentence, there has been some back and forth on this. So the ordinance is enacted for the purpose of preserving and protecting both public trees pursuant to general law chapter 87. and certain trees on private property. So understanding that under the general laws, there are certain protections around public shade trees already. And there is, in conversations with Attorney Stein from KP Law, it has been, you know, is this an ordinance that we just want to strengthen things around public shade trees, or do we want to go to private trees as well? I believe what is listed out in the comprehensive plan draft, as well as the climate action adaptation, it does reference private trees. My thought would be to address private trees as well. I think that folks would, I mean, we're definitely dealing with the public shade tree issue as well, but I think to really make this ordinance have the highest impact, private trees would need to be addressed as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think that's a really good point because I do think part of the kind of modeling we've been challenged with as we're trying to work on this is trying to serve public and private, and have you write an ordinance that addresses both with the same language. And so I would be open to a motion to strike the public part of this ordinance and save it for the public part for a future date.
[Nicole Morell]: My thought would be, my opinion would be to work on the private first, because I think, to Director Hunt's point, there are protections for public shade trees at this point. So I think we're trying to really kind of stem the bleeding on the private side. And I think, to Director Hunt's point, if we get to something that we really like on the private side, we can see what from that we could apply to the public side that isn't already in place, would be my thought.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and my thought is as we're going line by line to take motions as they come, otherwise we may be referencing motions move so far past that we're forgetting them. I do, is Councilor Scarpelli iPhone? I did see iPhone joined. Okay, as we wait for that, I see Sue Brown with Trees Medford. Sorry, you have your hand up. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Sue. I mean, my just thought to that is just like, again, knowing we're looking at a complex document that we're trying to make actionable from a number of different angles is if there's something specific that Trees Medford is trying to enhance from the public existing, the public shade trees existing general laws, if that could be like spelled out explicitly, as opposed to us going through, you know, trying to figure out where in this document That is.
[Nicole Morell]: So not to get weird. So yeah, the next section is definitions.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, if we want to just keep going and then we'll... Yeah, we could do that. We'll keep going and then we'll... I am curious, just so folks know, the draft we're working off was in large part drafted by Trees Medford, with some using a lot of the research or some of the research that was done by members of the Energy and Environment Committee. And it started in zoning in the 2019 council. I believe it is, it's largely still the same document at that point. So I think there will be times you'll notice me asking folks from Frees Medford what their intent was. And that's simply because were working off their wording. So I am curious if someone from Trees Medford, you know, with the definitions, is the intent there to redefine some of these positions or you all were just looking to add, you know, include definitions of terms that were gonna be referenced in this?
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, I have a dry cough. Amanda Bowen, if you could just provide your name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. So again, just trying to understand a tent a little bit around the definitions. So if I included the definition of a tree warden, per se, that was based on trying to define a term within this document and not necessarily trying to redefine what is already defined at the state level, because Dreadson, if you could correct me if I'm wrong, tree warden is a specific role that municipalities are required to have, correct? In Mass General Law 87, absolutely, it's in there. Okay, great. So just so I know, as we're, as we're working through, I don't want to, like, suggest we, you know, completely get rid of something if there was some intent there as far as transforming things, or if it's just duplicative of something that already exists within, or an instance of FGL. So I appreciate the clarification.
[Nicole Morell]: to create some moving forward and Councilor Scarpelli is here. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Of course I yeah I just wanted to give some background I gave as we start the meeting why we're meeting again. It's just I had talked with CPW Commissioner McIvern and he didn't feel comfortable giving us more edits to this document as we had requested until we get, you know, fold in some more of what the council actually wants because there's still a lot of questions in the air. So in the interest of there's been a lot of public comments and just to keep this moving because there's great interest in this, I wanted to just kind of work through line by line and see what stuff the council is open to changing, what stuff we absolutely want to keep and then give that document again to our partners at City Hall to get their feedback.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Okay, so we've gotten through one line. Moving forward so mature tree canopy. So this paragraph. is a little different, I would say, than some ordinances, is that it talks about the background information. So there's the intent and purpose, and this talks about a mature tree canopy, maintains the natural beauty of Medford for all to enjoy today and in the future generations, and protect the community in critically important ways. It reduces energy consumption and ambient summertime temperatures, air pollution, flooding, and soil erosion. It provides privacy, observes noise, and boosts mental health. It supports wildlife and increases resilience to climate change. Protecting the city's tree canopy is less an essential community function, and their protection requires the city to manage its urban forest. My only thought here would be to ask KP Law or council, should we ever get it, for an opinion on something like this, is if adding kind of this narrative, if someone were to challenge this, does this just give them something else to challenge? Like, does this strengthen the ordinance or does this give, can they come back and say that this just, you know, this isn't factual in it. So that would just be my one thought here. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: So I have a motion from Councilor Tseng to ask KP Law or other council for their comments on this section specifically, which adds a bit of a narrative to this ordinance. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by
[Nicole Morell]: No worries, you're gonna be kind of on deck a lot.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, correct, Mr. Clerk. So the motion of council is saying, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Councilor Scarpelli?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. And then I gave the motion passes. So I'm just gonna make a note in this document as well. So that it's easy for,
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Did you want to withdraw that or keep it?
[Nicole Morell]: this document. To achieve this purpose, this ordinance establishes a tree committee and empowers the committee to promote the planting and protection of trees throughout the city. This ordinance outlines the procedures that the tree warden and building department's code enforcement officer will use to regulate the removal and replacement of trees in certain circumstances. This ordinance also establishes a tree fund to supplement the city budget for public tree maintenance, tree planting, stump removal, and tree planting site preparation, as well as a fund for city residents to petition to fund private tree maintenance. Do I have any comments on this? My one concern here is, I mean, I can say comments on this as we see how the tree committee functions in the rest of the document. I would just be really curious the thoughts from Director Hunt's department as far as establishing a separate committee to oversee and enforce. a lot of this I just I think there's an intent to use the bandwidth of a committee is my thought and she's meant for folks please jump in if I'm wrong. But I don't know if it adds a layer of bureaucracy where PDS is still having to manage or work through what what a tree committee is doing where it might be more effective to have no very clear ordinance and a very clear structure of enforcement.
[Nicole Morell]: I am curious in your experience, so this line, to achieve this purpose, the ordinance establishes a tree committee and empowers the committee to promote the planting and protection of trees throughout the city. That to me feels both too specific and too broad at the same time. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, moderator, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her, she-her.
[Nicole Morell]: And I haven't heard this about this committee, but I have in other companies we've been working to establish, I have a concern of folks saying language like that makes it seem like they can subpoena people or do things that it may seem like they have a legal power that it may not make sense to or wouldn't make sense to give them.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'm having the same concerns.
[Nicole Morell]: I have written it. I know we're kind of bouncing around now.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, let's go back up.
[Nicole Morell]: Let's keep cruising and then we'll come back. Okay, so now we're going into the definitions.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, this section in particular, this is what Attorney Stein said regarding the definitions. This section in particular will need to be reviewed, clarified, and revised after consideration of the general comments contained herein. Additionally, where terms are defined herein, I recommend that they be consistently used throughout. You may want to define public satire using the definition found in Chapter 87. So yeah, what jumps out to me here is, code enforcement officer as that's something that is definitely defined in our ordinances and zoning elsewhere.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you find, I forget your computer, are you able to grab our zoning while you're? Yeah, I can look it up.
[Nicole Morell]: I think in the definitions, I mean, I would just.
[Nicole Morell]: And then community forestry management plan, which is defined as a plan to identify the city's goals and priorities for managing its public trees, describe the current status of the city's urban forest resources and its management program, and to document the methods, resources, and personnel that will be used to achieve these goals in the next five years. Sue or Amanda, is that something that was, is that a definition at a larger, I see Amanda with your hand raised. Just yeah just seeking where this definition came from for the community forestry management plan.
[Nicole Morell]: And this is the title of these things that some grants are requiring?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so based on your experience, this is something that's open to kind of our titling and.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you. That's very helpful.
[Nicole Morell]: But it would... Okay. It's just like one of those ones you can't shake. I appreciate that. Okay, so it feels like a larger question, because it feels like that, I mean, does that exist in our ordinances?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, absolutely. I think I think we're not, we're trying to solve trees tonight. And with this, we're not trying to solve every thing that now naturally we seem to have stumbled upon that's missing throughout the document.
[Nicole Morell]: It might be easier if I just put on the... Yeah, I think a resolution also just relative to... There might be other positions that are not defined that are referenced in ordinances. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Code enforcement officer definition.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Tseng to strike the code enforcement officer definition from this draft ordinance, seconded by councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. dying to make like an actual track chain.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I think, Director, and I think you make a very good point here, Mr. Clark.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. And I think considering, you know, we're going through a number of staffing issues at City Hall to sort of think as their staffing shakeups that we wouldn't be able to enforce a much desired ordinance, because of how specifically it's written. That would be a shame. So I think we get to that later. Construction permit, there was concerns about this from Attorney Stein, which I would agree with that is, you know, I think this is referencing a building permit, which I would hope a building permit is probably defined somewhere.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Yeah. And I think I have similar questions about construction and demolition as they're defined. So maybe we should advance a little bit and come back.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Are there any concerns scrolling through the rest of the rest of the definitions?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng as seconded by Councilor Scarpelli and Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Burke, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Green in front of zero. And then I have a motion passes. I do see some hands up, I think are going up. They're going down. Okay. Oh, yeah, just going to mandible first and then we'll go to Brown.
[Nicole Morell]: Maybe just a lingering hand up. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. And that's where we're going to, that's the first section after.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I assume Aggie would probably be able to give us a much better definition of pruning than we can make up ourselves. Right.
[Nicole Morell]: Not to further complicate this, but so it is the same for private ways. There's the public safety aspect where private ways are plowed because it's a public safety issue, things like that. I also live in a private way. Yeah. After whatever recent storm, we had some big branches come down. We didn't call them, but DPW was out there, you know, taking care of the larger branches, making sure they didn't, you know, break off and hurt someone.
[Nicole Morell]: So can I get a motion for that and also do we want to do a motion to add the word pruning and we'll get a definition for the tree word.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we could flag it for legal opinion or.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do see Sue Brown also has her hand up for a comment on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead, Sue.
[Nicole Morell]: Higher than a third, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think that's a really important question.
[Nicole Morell]: I will note quickly that the ordinances and rules subcommittee meeting subcommittee subcommittee is meeting next Tuesday at 530 to have a general discussion around private ways and updating our ordinances are just seeing what kind of space we have in this because to your point to everyone's point. We tend to bump up against private ways and a lot of things we try to do and the understanding of it is, I would say, muddy at best. So there will be a meeting next Tuesday for those interested in the private ways conversation.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Tseng to add the word pruning to the definitions and seek a definition from the tree warden as well as get legal opinion on reference to private way within the public tree definition. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I have to ask someone for the definition.
[Nicole Morell]: No, sorry. Private way is for council. And the tree warden will aid us in the definition of pruning.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: And then I think to the point that there's some stuff that we referenced later in the document that we'll come back to, maybe come back to in a future meeting, because we are at page three at an hour and 15 minutes in. So cruising right along. But this is, I think this, this is why, you know, I called this meeting is I think there's a lot of work to be done and a lot of opinions on it for good reason. So applicability and not applicability. I do know we had at least one comment from someone about affordable, a reference to affordable housing as far as this applicability. So I'll read through. So any land disturbing activities that involve a building permit or city approval that would impact a healthy tree or trees under applicability. One within residential and non-residential lots is prohibited to remove a protected tree without a permit during construction or within 18 months prior to application for a demolition or building permit for construction activities within the drip line of a plug tree that may be damaging a tree, demolition of an existing structure of 250 gross square feet or greater, construction of any building or structure on a tree breaking lot, construction of one or more structures or additions to structures or construction of retaining walls. Any comments on that first section at this point? And again, knowing that we will be sending this back again to Director Hunt's department to finance and back to DPW for additional comments. Okay, moving to two. So any project otherwise for the construction of low and moderate income housing meeting the standards established pursuant to any city, state or federal housing program designed to assist low and moderate households. So this is saying that this specifically does apply, correct, to
[Nicole Morell]: I do see, so we have Amanda Bowen from Trees Medford, and then I also want to go to Barry Ingram. I'm just going to go to Amanda first in case you'd like to add some just background on this specific provision.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Amanda. Going to Barry Ingber. Barry, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. On the motion of Councilor Tseng, as seconded by... Second. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, three in front of zero the negative motion passes. So moving through applicability. There's any other comments I mean I do see private ways reference but we have already made a motion as far as getting legal opinion with regards to folding that in here. And then also moving on to not applicability if there's any comments there.
[Nicole Morell]: My concerns with this section are, and this is a fairly substantial section, outlining additions to a role which is guided by state statute. My only thought here is, I wouldn't want to be gummed up by this section, trying to do the legwork of the other sections. Possibly the same for the code enforcement officer. this may be stuff that is better used to just get comments from those specific folks that already exist, you know, DPW. That's my thought here. I think just seeing that we have so much before us, these sections that work to further define existing positions, I just have concerns about because of just the sheer amount of work ahead of us.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, my thought would be, you know, in looking at what we delivered to them as, you know, an updated draft, in looking at them, do they see the need to, you know, add these specific details to these roles? Or do they think that as defined at the state level, these roles are able to meet the goals of this ordinance is my thought.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. O'Connor. And I think this also goes back to, it may go back to Director Hunt's point about being perhaps too prescriptive in an ordinance that can be challenging to actually accomplish what the ordinance seeks as things change.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we can just say legal counsel, whoever that may be at the time, right.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it's seeking general comment, if this is something that other municipalities are defining this role as such.
[Nicole Morell]: As time permits. I wanna take this motion first, and then yeah, continue this conversation. Oh, sorry. No, that's okay. I didn't realize you didn't vote. We didn't right.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry. Apologies. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng second accounts for Pelley and the score please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, they're in the front is there the negative motion passes Yeah, I mean, to your point, Dr. Hunt I've in past meetings. I've expressed my concern. just the sheer amount of what is included in the establishment of the Tree Committee and if it makes sense to separate it out. And I think we did make this motion to separate it out into its own establishing ordinance separate from the, separate from this ordinance itself. So maybe we move forward with that one question, understanding we voted in the past to separate this out and we'll revisit the Tree Committee at a future date. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, my thought, and I absolutely see your point. My thought, and I think to your point, you're kind of, you may have circled around is, how much strength do we have in an ordinance that is largely enforced and empowered by a volunteer committee, right? Because I think we do have things like the Cannabis Advisory Committee, that's all city staff. We have things like the Behavioral Health Committee, that's also all city staff. So I think like this is an ordinance that covers the whole city, that covers a contentious issue. And my concern is just, you know, we're trying to do it in a way that is as cheap as possible. Let's be real. But also to your point before is like, are we then going to slow down the entire process?
[Nicole Morell]: Because I mean, me personally, what I'm really interested in is hearing from code enforcement, hearing from Commissioner McIver and saying, here's what we have the bodies to enforce right now. If you pass this tomorrow and it goes into effect in 90 days, here's what we can do. And understanding that we may be able to do more and different and broader with the tree committee, but just getting a straight answer about what we can do with the city staff we have now. And then working on this supporting complimentary committee.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and we could decide at the end of this meeting or at a future meeting, as we're waiting for comments back on the substantive ordinance itself, do we want to meet and talk about the establishment of a tree committee while we wait for the more comments on the broader ordinance? So just throwing that out there.
[Nicole Morell]: So would that be assigned a paper number? If we already made that motion, would it just get like a B on it or an A? I can go get my 1,000 page Roberts rules. Yeah, I have a copy of Roberts rules at my desk. I think we're deep enough in the. Yeah. Okay. So I think just noting that, yeah, I'll explore.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll explore how to figure that out.
[Nicole Morell]: So we're by the letter of the.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: I also think I do see Barry Ingber, his hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Barry. Um, so on the motion of Councilor Tseng to get the true words of pain on this second by a second. Great. Thank you. Uh, call the role. Mr. Burke.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, three in the front of zero passes. Checking right along. How's everyone doing?
[Nicole Morell]: So we already discussed the public trees earlier in the document.
[Nicole Morell]: I think to that point is where your recommended language would be really helpful here.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Tseng as seconded by councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Negative motion passes. I mean, here's where I think there's a lot of decisions that this section, I think we've gotten some great comments from folks that are here as well here. I'm a little nervous to make suggestions until we get comments from the departments that would actually be enforcing this, because I think we could make some beautiful suggestions and they wouldn't be possible to be enforced, is my thought here. So along with mitigation, scope, procedures, you know, do we have the people that can address the scope? Is this mitigation something we can follow up on? Are there opinions? Bob, do you wanna speak? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: So I just want to make sure I understand that once we're talking about like, there may be like a two family on a lot and they're worth asking. So like two different residents like dwelling units aren't paying for the same tree removal.
[Nicole Morell]: So just to make sure I understand, the thought is that it's essentially an owner-occupied exemption. And the thought is that if someone lives on this property, they would have a very legitimate reason for wanting to remove this tree. Is that what the thinking? I'm just trying to follow the thinking.
[Nicole Morell]: So you would still have to get the permit, but you wouldn't have to pay.
[Nicole Morell]: I understand.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think that's an excellent point. And I think I appreciate all your comments. They were well thought out. And obviously, you know, we talked about, I'd be curious if, you know, there'd be a motion to add the comments that have been submitted, because we have yours as well, Gaston, to add them to the committee report so that we can then share the committee report with the departments to get their feedback on these comments. Because these are very thoughtful comments.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, I'll make sure I get you. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Right, I think that's that's a really good point. I think you're bringing up kind of just like a blind spot that might exist, right?
[Nicole Morell]: Kind of yeah, yeah. I think maybe once we get the yeah, we can get the opinions and then yeah, we can work in our in our future meeting. We can bring some. Draft language.
[Nicole Morell]: That's my thought at this point, just because we have a lot.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Councilor Tseng, a second my Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Really frozen and I get motion passes. If you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Just for clarity, waiver for costs or waiver for just applicability?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think you bring up excellent points and I'd be really curious for, you know, especially planning development and sustainability where, you know, the competing goals of development and sustainability, which they weren't competing but often they are so I, you know, getting that feedback will be essential.
[Nicole Morell]: How's the Scarpelli?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Director Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think having that specific insight is really what we're seeking. So it's your professional opinion as far as an action, but also these are stories we may not necessarily hear. So it's really valuable to us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. So I think at this point, we've essentially, you know, the remainder of the ordinance, we've, you know, we're continuing to put out for comment, just, you know, asking for comments on all of it, because it is so specific, the remainder of the ordinance, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have in front of you what section that's referenced?
[Nicole Morell]: To be the city as opposed to the specific.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and if it's possible to do it with our existing staffing, I think that's the goal. Right. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Comments from the public, rather?
[Nicole Morell]: So with the example again, there's- And I will just say what I believe Bob submitted. He didn't do the math, but he did submit, I think it was you or Barry. Someone submitted a similar comment of just the unending, maybe it was Barry. So we still need to- Unending, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't think, I mean, I don't think that's the intention. And I think there's also limits that we run into as well, as far as- Well, there's no limit there.
[Nicole Morell]: This is very much a draft and this is like the first time we've ever gotten to like the last page of this ordinance while looking at it specifically. And I'm not trying to dismiss your comments. You're absolutely right. I don't think it's anyone's intention on this call to charge a mentor family $250,000 to remove a tree.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't know if it applies exactly here. Not legal counsel, but that we've run into in other ordinances where under Massachusetts General Law, you can only charge a certain amount.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it may be, I mean, it may just be up for, I know, cause it's like, I don't want to leave it in there to alarm people, but at the same time, I know some of my other Councilors are just better at, they're more experienced in suggesting like the kind of structure of, you know, penalties kind of thing. So I mean if we do nothing tonight it doesn't, you know, nothing's fine.
[Nicole Morell]: Right.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. I think this is just a decision that council would have to make. Like, you know, we could ask opinion from finance. You could ask, I think this is literally just a policy decision we have to make.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, yeah. Okay, thank you so much. Thank you. Any other members going to Amanda Bowen with Trees Medford?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so it may need to be, you know, very little, very, very explicit.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. For sure. Any further comments from the public? Seeing none, do I have a motion to members of committee or, I mean, Senate?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to update your draft and the questions. Seconded by Councilor Svend.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: The 31st regular meeting of the Medford City Council October 11 2022 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports and records. Records, the records of the meeting of September 27th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, how did you find them? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello is seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees 22-503, September 27, 2022 subcommittee on housing report to follow. That is the chair of Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, you have a report from that meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Councilor Collins to approve seconded by Councilor Knight, all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes to do dash through one and two dash four to one September 28 committee of the whole report to follow this was a meeting with the parking director on a number of updates and parking issues that are being serious the new parking department in the city on the motion of Councilor nicer approved the committee report second by bears all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes 22-297 October 4 2022 subcommittee on climate sustainability and transportation report to follow. This was a meeting of the subcommittee to hear from PDS director Alicia Hunt and go through the climate action and adaptation report to see a number of measures that the council could take under consideration. Do I have a motion? Motion approved. On a motion of vice president bears to approve second by second. Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes. 22-496, October 5th, 2022, committee of the whole report to follow. This was, remind me.
[Nicole Morell]: This was the meeting on the draft comprehensive plan on the motion of Councilor Knight to approve, second by. Second. Vice-President Bears, all those in favor. Aye. All those opposed, motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng to take out paper 22542, which is communications from the election manager, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: A motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-542, a communication from the elections manager. Commonwealth of Massachusetts, William and Frances Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth, warrant for a 2022 state election. Good evening. Would anyone like to wave the reading in favor of a brief synopsis from the elections office on the motion of Councilor Tseng for a brief synopsis from the elections office in lieu of reading the paper. Second, my Councilor probably yellow. All those in favor. I always oppose motion passes. Name and address the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion from councilors. On that motion to approve from Councilor Knight, I second it by vicers and bears. Yes. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Thank you both.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to revert to the regular order of business as seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-521 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we celebrate Italian Heritage Month this October and recognize the massive contributions Italian and Italian American people have made to Medford, our country and the world, as well as the rich cultural diversity, history, and vibrancy our city owes to the Italian American community.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the Council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng any further discussion from the council. Mr. Yeah, it's a big paper. I just see Mr. Castagnetti is rare to go. Name and address for record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Gassig-Knight. So we will take the B paper first. So the B paper from Councilor Knight to get an update from the administration on the proposed or the idea of Italian heritage district in the city of Medford, correct? Cultural district. Okay, on the proposed Italian American cultural district. seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. On the main paper that was joined with 22-525, just seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-525 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it so resolved by the Medford City Council that we send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of former State Senator Salvatore Albano On his passing, Senator Albano was a great public servant for Medford, representing the second Middlesex district and passing major legislation to fund the public education, improve community health, and support seniors struggling with the cost of prescription drugs, among many other accomplishments. Be it for the resolve that we dedicate this meeting in honor of Senator Albano. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council? So on the motion of vices and bears as seconded by Councilor Knight, all those in favor. All those opposed, motion passes. Do you want a moment of silence or just we'll dedicate the meeting? Okay, please rise for a moment of silence. 22-523 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council offer congratulations to Sergeant Barbara D. Cristofaro for being promoted as the first woman sergeant of the Medford Police Department. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Naik.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Any further discussion from the Council? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello is seconded by second Councilor Tseng all those in favor. I suppose motion passes. Congratulations, Sergeant DeCruz. 22-524 be it so resolved the Medford City Council recognize walk, bike and roll to school day celebrated this year on October 12. That's Wednesday, October 12, and reaffirm our commitment to making routes to school safer and more accessible for all methods of transportation. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I do just want to add, I want to thank Councilor Collins for bringing this forward as someone who bike commutes to work whenever I can, I mean it's it's terrifying as an adult to ride on the streets. It doesn't have to be that way. So I think programs like this, I mean infrastructure is really what we need, but programs like this go a long way, especially just announcing at a council meeting letting people to know, you know, pay extra attention to Martin's going to be a lot of kids, a lot of families on the roads. doing what they have every right to do, taking their bikes, walking, rolling, whatever they can do to get to school. So on the motion of Councilor Collins, as seconded by vice chairs and bears, all those in favor. Oh, sorry, as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by vice chair and bears, all those in favor. All those opposed, motion passes. So 22-526 offered by Councilor Tseng, be it so resolved that the city council recognize October as domestic abuse awareness month, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the Council? On a motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by... Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. The next one is for me. I will read unless anyone is opposed. Great. 22-527 offered by President Morell, whereas Godfrey de Corso Chevalier, born on March 7th, 1889, grew up on Bradshaw Street and Summit Road in the city, whereas as a 1906 graduate of Medford High School, he was a standout student athlete and leader, whereas he was a graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland in 1910, whereas on October 1st, 1910 he single handedly rescued 16 sailors from drowning in New York's Hudson River after the barge they were riding overturned in high winds, whereas he was appointed naval air pilot number seven in November 1915 and would go on to train notable aviators Richard Byrd and Wilmer Stultz, whereas he committed the first naval aeronautical detachment to reach France during World War One at Dunkirk Maintaining the station despite constant enemy bombing, he later was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal. Whereas in 1922, he was attached to the USS Langley, which would become the Navy's first aircraft carrier in connection with fitting her out. Whereas on October 26th, 1922, he flew plane number 606 and Air Marine 39B onto the Langley as it was underway off Cape Henry, Virginia, marking the first American landing on a moving aircraft carrier. Whereas on November 14th, 1922, He died at the Norfolk Virginia Naval Hospital as a result of injuries sustained in an airplane crash during flying maneuvers two days earlier, whereas the city of Medford dedicated the new Chevalier Auditorium in his honor on March 7, 1940, on what would have been his 51st birthday. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council recognize the contributions of Godfrey Chevalier, dedicate this meeting to him, and ask that the administration proclaim October 26 as Godfrey Chevalier Day in the city of Medford. I think this paper speaks to for itself and all the contributions, Mr. Shabali has made to the country, as well as being a Medford native son. And this came through from Ken Krause, who's the treasurer at the friends of the Chevalier and Gene Mack, Jim, and I would seek a motion for approval.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe as October 26th being the date that he flew the plane, landing onto the, the first American landing onto a moving aircraft carrier. I think there's a number of dates we could choose from, and that was the date requested by the friend of the Toralea.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for captioning that, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council? So on the motion of councilor Knight to move approval as amended. Second by Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All right. All those opposed. Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice-president Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vice-president Bears to take paper to suspend the rules take paper 22-532 as well as our public participation papers as second by Councilor Tseng all those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed. Motion passes. 22-532 offered by vice was embarrassed be as a result by the Metro City Council, the city request that the August a bush slash Budweiser facility on 440 Riverside Avenue provide significant additional mitigation to residents on Sydney Street to address the impact of noise light and traffic on local families.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we can. Yeah. Okay. Do you want to come to Carlyle?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. I think to that point, it's more than five minutes of idling is, you know, it's against state law. So it's not even Medford, it's state.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, thank you for everything. I appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Knight. So on any further discussion from the council on the motion of vices and bears as amended by Councilor Knight and Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The motion passes. Thank you, Mrs. Perlman. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yep. We have, we have two papers that were submitted beforehand and then we'll open it. I know there's some other folks. as well. So we'll go to the papers and the agenda and then we'll go to other folks here as well. So just making sure so public participation just making sure I'm starting at the right place. So to the Honorable City Council the undersigned respectfully pray parking meters in front of my house on 135 High Street and also in front of St. Joe's School and Church petitioner signature Rita Bartholomew 135 High Street is Rita, Rita, please come up. and then we already have your name and address for the record, so go right ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Bartholomew. Councilor Caraviello then Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, okay. On the same, on the, do you want me to go to the next parking paper or Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: There's someone else on that paper, Councilor Carvialo?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further comments on this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Mayne. So moving on to our second petition for public participation, The Honorable City Council, Councilors, the undersigned respectfully pray for. I would like to talk about the residential parking issues caused on Marion Street with no more residential window stickers being issued, no visitor permits in the windows, out of state plates, and no tickets being issued for any violations to discourage repeated behavior. How are residents to know who is and is not supposed to be parking on the street without resident decals, petition signature, and T. Campbell, 75 Marion Street. And again, we have your name and address for the record, so please go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Going to Councilor Kalas and Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: And also, my advice was embarrassed. I'm rapidly losing my voice, so I apologize for continued distractions.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll be brief because I don't really have a voice, but I also do just have concerns. I mean, things like putting in meter heads that need to be immediately removed, that costs money. What kind of money are we losing? I mean, these are costly mistakes. At a department that I understand needs a certain amount of funding to get up and running, but this is stuff that's easily avoided. So that just gives me great pause.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Vice President Fares. Yeah and I was speaking with Mr. Chubbs earlier that I did reach out to the um director of the Board of Health because we this council did pass an updated ordinance related to pest management. And part of that does call for an integrated pest management plan from anyone doing large construction street opening projects and I would just, you know, at the next meeting I'd be curious to know from the director of the Board of Health programs like ever source that were negotiated, you know, seven years ago at this point. and this is a recent update to the ordinance, are they something that they automatically opt in or do they exist in this gray space because these projects were negotiated so far back? So just kind of saying it out loud, noting to myself when this comes up on the regular agenda. So thank you for coming out once more.
[Nicole Morell]: And I did already reach out to the director.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-301 and 22-421, Committee of the Whole meeting on Wednesday, September 28th, 2022 at 6 p.m. The meeting is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng present present present present one absent the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the city council committee of the whole on Wednesday, September 28 2022 at 6pm and the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to get an update on the parking program slash department and enforcement policies procedures and revenue. The council has invited parking director Faye Morrison to attend. For further information aids and accommodations contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. We do have Director Morrison on the call tonight she's going to give us a presentation. Before we get into things the council is also given some packets of information. I do know this is a topic that gets a lot of people fired up. So I do just ask that people act in the utmost respect and understand that we can all be working hard and we can also things not be working the way we like them to be both can be true. So as we move forward, keeping that in mind, I hand it over to director Morrison. If you'd like to share your screen or how you'd like to proceed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. For those folks in the audience, could you give us an overview for the council?
[Nicole Morell]: I don't see any questions at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions at this time on this topic? Director Morrison, please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions at this time? Seeing none, please proceed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Morrison. I do have a question from Vice President Bears at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: And we have a question.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And going to Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I do want to open it up. I want to open up to public participation. Um, any questions, comments, please direct through the chair, direct through me. And, um, I want to make sure everyone can get heard while we have a director Morrison with us until seven. So, um, we'll see how, how many people we can get through. We'll try to get through everyone. Um, either raise your hand on zoom or come up to the podium.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And Director Morrison, I understand that the parking doesn't have a spot on the traffic commission who is leading this decision-making.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Going to have Eunice on Zoom have their hand up for a little bit.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Uh, going to former Councilor Marks. They may rest for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, and then we'll go to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have a response you can offer for that?
[Nicole Morell]: We'll go to Vice President Bears, then Councilor Caraviello, then Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Sanctus, he hasn't had a chance to ask a question yet.
[Nicole Morell]: We can collect them, the clerk can collect additional questions and have them send them off to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Morrison. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do wanna know, we do have Chief of Staff, Ms. Aaron, on the call as well, if there's any questions that can be, or general administration questions related to parking.
[Nicole Morell]: Whereas the bad data previously didn't matter, and now the bad data is impacting.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions, comments from the council at this time? Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: 17, but that also, so probably about 14.
[Nicole Morell]: She had to attend a meeting at seven.
[Nicole Morell]: She's not on Zoom, she had to attend another meeting at seven. I can, we will have these questions reported out to her.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not believe so, she hasn't, yeah. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm colorblind. We have a blue form in our registration packet, maybe it's blue. It might be, I don't know.
[Nicole Morell]: I will, the clerk, I'm sure has all that. I will also follow up with Director Morrison, first thing. You know I'm not.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Any further discussion from the council? Do you wanna keep paper report out the questions or? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to report the questions and adjourn, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 30th regular meeting of the Medford City Council, September 27, 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Seven present, zero absent. Please rise to salute the flag. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. Records, the records of the meeting of September 13th, 2022 were passed to Vice President Bears. Vice President Bears, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by? Second. Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of the committee, it's 20-680, September 14th, 2022, committee of the whole report to follow. This was a meeting on our housing production plan, I believe, that is on the agenda tonight. For a full vote. Do I have? a motion on the, do you want to take all the committee papers at once? Great. 2-0, 0-2-0 and 16-604, September 20th, 2022. We need a whole report to follow. This was on the food trucks and we reviewed a draft from 2016 and made some suggestions to move forward. And 19-070, September 21st, 2022, committee of the whole report to follow. This was on the proposed tree ordinance. Again, we made a few motions to move forward and send this to the subcommittee on sustainability and transportation.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Vice President Bears to approve all reports of committees as seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-505, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved, would you like to combine names? Yes. 22-505 and 22-506, offered by Councilor Caraviello and offered by Rites and Affairs. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of former Medford City Councilor Bill Carr on his recent passing. Bill, along with being a Medford City Councilor, was a teacher and coach for the Medford Public Schools until his retirement. His presence and dedication to our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: of course, thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Caraviello. Councilor interjecting.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Pelli. Thank you for the discussion from the council. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the Council? Briefly, I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Carr, but I have worked with and interacted with his sons, and if his family's dedication to the city is any indication, it's truly a great loss for the city, and he will be sorely missed, and I send my condolences to his family. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello and Vice-President Bears, seconded by- Second. Councilor Tseng, all those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. 22-508 offered by Councilor Tseng. Be it resolved that the City Council recognize and celebrate Hispanic American Heritage Month. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice-Mayor Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-509. Offered by Councilor Collins. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council recognize the Jewish High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and wish a happy and healthy new year and an extremely fast two-fold observed. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-510. be it resolved that the Medford City Council remind all artists and art organizations living or working in Medford that the deadline to apply for the local cultural council program grants through the Medford Arts Council is October 15, 2022. Funding is available for projects that serve the Medford public at large or specific Medford audiences, such as children or seniors. More information can be found at bit.ly slash NAC grants. Be it further resolved that the Medford City Council remind all artists and art organizations living or working in Medford that the deadline to apply for the Cultural Sector Recovery Grants through the Mass Cultural Council is September 28 for organizations and November 1 for individuals. Grants of $5,000 per individual, artists, and grants beginning at $5,000 per cultural organization are available. More information can be found at massculturalcouncil.org slash blog slash apply dash four dash cultural dash sector dash recovery dash grants. Councilor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion? Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-511, offered by Councilor Collins. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council remind residents that the Board of Health is hosting a COVID-19 Bivalent Booster Clinic on Wednesday, September 28th at the Council on Aging. Appointments are available from 3 to 7 p.m. and walk-ins are available from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. only. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favour? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-512 offered by Councilor Collins. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council commend and thank Medford City staff and Medford Transit riders for their patience and flexibility during the Orange Line shutdown, and in particular recognize the Medford DPW Engineering Division for their hard work in coordinating with the MBTA during this challenging and unprecedented time. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Collins, as seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Motions, orders, and resolutions. 22-513 offered by President Morell and Councilor Tseng. Be it resolved that the administration provide an update on work done to address the noise complaints related to monogram foods and overnight operations. Be it further resolved that the administration provide any findings related to the special permit for extended hours of use for the building. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Yeah, I have that same update that the mayor sent around. It is, I do see them referencing the cost of the screening units as a consideration, considering the rather hefty tax breaks the city allowed them, I would hope that they could find the money to pay for such units to protect the neighbors in the area. I think particularly because as this came before the council, we had multiple meetings of questions and impact on the neighborhood was was a large one for us. So I would hope that this is something that is addressed quickly. I know you'll keep on it, I'll keep on it, but you know, promises are good. So let's see these things put into action, see how far we can go. So we stop detrimentally impacting the neighbors in that area. Is there anyone else, any further discussion on the council from this paper or any members of the public who would like to speak on this paper? Seeing none, so on the motion of Councilor Tseng seconded by Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Anyone have any issue with me continuing for the resolution I have next? I'll go ahead. Seeing none, 22-514, offered by President Morell, be it resolved that the city council meet in committee of the whole to review and propose updates to the city's outdoor dining ordinance. So this was something that was actually raised to me by our city's economic development director, Victor Schrader. Just something that we could look at now that this was absolutely transformed temporarily in the early years of the pandemic. And I think it's something that we've seen the benefit to the community. So just taking an ordinance that has existed for a number of years, giving it fresh eyes and looking at it in the situation that we find ourselves in today. And just knowing the increased interest for folks to wanna partake in outdoor dining and also the equity and parity issues that lie there as well. So I would just move for approval and to schedule a future committee to hold. I can't move approval. I'd request someone to do it. So do you have a comment or?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli is seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-515. Offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council be provided an update on the status of the reopening of the IT department at City Hall, including who is managing that department, at what cost, and whether our system is safe from hackers. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, as seconded by... Second. Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-516 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council have the Medford parking department stop giving tickets for a permit parking until all issues with the addresses are corrected. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor say.
[Nicole Morell]: I do know the interim chief of staff is unable to attend council meetings due to just prior just scheduling issues.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears, and thank you for that reminder of all the work we do. And then I have Councilor Collins, I'll go back to you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Knight, then we'll go to public comment.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Nay. Any further discussion from the council? Discussion from members of the public, please. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We do have one person on Zoom. Would you like to go first, President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Going to G to Stefano on Zoom and then we'll come back to you Mr. Mayor. G to Stefano, name and address for the record please. I just asked you to unmute.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Could you actually repeat your name and address for the record, please? We just couldn't hear it.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Going to Mr. Castagnetti on Zoom. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Mastigati.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? So we do have a B paper before us from Councilor Scarpelli, who I can see in the hallway. So Councilor Scarpelli had the B paper to ask that the administration send a representative to our regular meetings, every regular meeting. Seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. And on the main paper from Councilor Caraviello is seconded by? have ices and bears all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes to do dash 517 offered by Councilor Tseng the result of the city administration update the City Council on how chapter 180 of the acts of 2022 and act relative to equity in the cannabis industry in the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court's decision in the Haven Center Inc versus town of born might affect Medford Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Svang. Any further discussion? on Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Discussion. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor, Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Petitions, presentations and similar papers. Communications from the Mayor, City Officers and employees. 22-507 be electronic delivery to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding food truck permitting. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, on behalf of the below entity, I respectfully submit to the Medford City Council the following request for a food truck permit in the City of Medford. In addition to City Council approval, vendors are required to adhere to the Health Department food safety requirements. Bonnie food truck dates and time Sunday, October 16th, 2022 from 11am to 4pm location, Brooks Elementary School, Medford, Massachusetts event, Brooks Elementary PTO sponsored fall festival about the event on Sunday, October 16, 2022 from 11am to 4pm. We will be hosting a fall festival fundraiser that will raise money and provide a memorable day for our community. Additionally, we will showcase companies and organizations who are sponsoring our efforts. This will be our seventh annual fall festival and it is emerging as one of our most significant events, both for fundraising and community building. Our PTO raises money to provide enrichment activities for our students, support our teachers with supplies and enrichment kids and enhance curriculum, including art, music and educational field trips. Funding for these areas has been significantly reduced or cut out altogether at a district wide level. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brianna Lungelkorn, Mayor. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I do believe that was something that was transferred over, but thank you for pointing that out.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, fair point. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-518, the electronic delivery to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council for Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn and Alicia Hunt, Director of Planning, Development and Sustainability. Regarding 22-518, the Medford Housing Production Plan. Dear President Morell, thank you for the time and attention that has been paid for the Medford Housing Production Plan. As you are aware, this is a state recognized planning tool that under certain circumstances permits a municipality to influence the local- Madam President, motion to waive the remainder of the reading and move approval. On the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the remainder of reading and approval, seconded by... Madam President, roll call, please. Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I can't see him anymore. He had to take a phone call.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, and zero in the negative. The motion passes. 22-519, communication from the chair of the CPC to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the City Council, from Roberta Cameron, chair of the Community Preservation Committee. Motion to waive the reading of the Committee of the Whole. We do have Roberta Cameron with us tonight. Would anyone like to hear from her, or do we want to send this right to Committee of the Whole?
[Nicole Morell]: over to Cameron from CBC if you could just provide us a short summary of the document that you requested for us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Any discussion from the councilors at this time? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor, Vice Mayor Fares.
[Nicole Morell]: I appreciate the scheduling recommendation. Any further discussion? So on the motion of Councilor Knight to refer to a committee of the whole as seconded by.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed. Motion passes. Moving on to.
[Nicole Morell]: The clerk does have an update on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So moving on to public participation. Anyone who would like to speak on any subject relevant to the City Council.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, thank you. And we have sent comments as a body and that we of course do once more and send individually as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Please come up and name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for coming up, and thanks for coming out. Sorry, sometimes we have way more interesting ones. Sorry, this one was a little. We're a little subdued tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Every different item you speak on, you have to give it again.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, just.
[Nicole Morell]: And to be clear, we're not hearing it through any official channels. It's something that has just been brought up. So just for anyone watching, like I don't want people to get
[Nicole Morell]: Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: And nothing's getting to us, but I guess to your point, something not getting to us doesn't necessarily mean it's not happening, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight and Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: That's not true. The mayor can absolutely remove people.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: We don't have appointing authority on that board. We don't have removal authority on that board. So I can assure you it's her and not us. Yes, there is the ability of the council to write an ordinance around it. But if this is something that bothers you and you want done tomorrow, the mayor can do that.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favour? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, Councilor Scarpelli did tell me that he'd either, he'd be late and joining on Zoom if he's able to join. He has some family stuff he has to attend to.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for covering that. Yes, so I did follow up with Attorney Stein after our June meeting, I forget may have been May 31 or June 1, to see if we could get that updated draft and as you said, she indicated to me that she felt that there were too many decisions policy wise the council still need to make before KP law. felt comfortable providing updated draft, I think, in part, this is the result of having an outside Council outside of the building. It is my understanding that in the past, city solicitors in the building would go kind of department to department to get their feedback on proposed ordinances, fold that in and provide updates and suggestions so we are kind of Um, due to the lack of that council right now, I think we're, we're forced to do this process in a few, um, and in reverse order, I guess at this point. Um, so I do have some, some motions for later, um, in the discussion, but I think there are some policy decisions we could make to tonight to decide, um, whether we want to strike some things or move them things out into separate ordinances, um, so that we could get a more clear draft. And I think there's also just the opportunity. to hear from the public some more as well. And possibly I would suggest moving this, I think, into a subcommittee at this point. I understand we're already in committee of the whole, but I think it may have been moved to a committee of the whole prematurely. And there is still some time to go into a working group and really hammer out some of the details to deliver it back to the full council. So that's all I have for right now. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Chair, if I could.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Yes, Councilor Collins So, yes, that was our main director was chopping this up and placing it within our existing zoning, as well as the, the best use general law around public shade trees. Essentially what I was told by KP law and what I've run into in City Hall trying to get this done is there is. not staff with the bandwidth to do this. So again, this was something that would historically have been done by the solicitor's office. This is something that has been done by the solicitor's office in the past, as I'm sure other Councilors who were around during those times can confirm. But so we are not to say we're stuck. I mean, we can find paths forward to keep this moving, but that is why we are here again, seemingly having, you know, the same discussion we had in June, because we tried, we had a number of steps to move forward, And our outside counsel basically said that they would not take those steps for us. So I'm trying to figure out a way we can move forward. But to your also your point, Councilor Collins, I do believe the largest policy decision we were left with as if, are we looking to strengthen the public shade tree ordinance as outlined in Massachusetts general laws specifically for Medford? Or are we looking to set a process around private trees? And the answer may be both. But I think that was a large thing that this hinged on. And I think if we can answer that question, we can probably figure out some next steps. And again, me thinking through, are those next steps separating this into two different processes? There is also was originally raised the idea of a moratorium. if there is an interest there, which could allow for time to figure all this out. Because I understand we've been working on this longer than any of us would like, but I think we're all just trying to get it right.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to Commissioner McIvern, thank you for being here. Apologies I couldn't be there in person. With regards to and this may dive into the area of legal so I understand if you can't answer but with regards to the private trees I mean is there a separation in your mind as far as you know one or two on a private property, or, you know, a developer buying up a lot and completely clear cutting, you know, a dozen trees kind of thing, as far as like your kind of level of comfort with potential legislation around that.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. And if I could just to Mr. Lincoln's point, we did in the recent zoning update that was passed in March, we did have some performance standards for larger developments that are encouraged. They're not, I believe they don't have to be, but they are looked favorably upon the city if certain approvals are needed. So there is some language like that, and I think it's a starting block.
[Nicole Morell]: That's all I have for now, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, I'll put it down.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Chair, if I could.
[Nicole Morell]: I know there's still, I don't want to hamper the conversation, but I have to just hop off to tend to my son. So if I could make just one motion while I'm still here, I would just, thank you. I would just motion that we request that planning development and sustainability, DPW and finance meet to provide comments on both the draft of the tree ordinance, as well as the proposed draft around the moratorium in advance of a future meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct, and including the moratorium draft as well.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do know there were, we do have comments from DPW already, if it's beneficial to just have that, you know, comments where different departments can talk to each other and understand how this might interplay.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morell. I have to, let me pull it up. But I think, I mean, the comments on the moratorium could be as simply as like, I don't think this is feasible. So I think just trying to get, because we were presented with that as well, our folks worked on that as well. I do not believe it's on, I believe it is on actual complete takedown of trees. Let me just see if I can, I just sent it out earlier.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I would, I think environment and, I'm sorry, environment, sustainability, and transportation, I may be. That's what it is.
[Nicole Morell]: I think I may have dropped off.
[Nicole Morell]: And Mr. Chair, I am back on the call just to ruin your voice vote.
[Nicole Morell]: I did, yes, I've been here for that.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, great. All right. 2-0-0-2-0 and 16-6-0-4, Committee of the Whole. Tuesday, September 12th, 2022 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, he's on Zoom. Yeah, I see him.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Seven present, zero absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, September 20th, 2022 at 6 p.m. in the Medford City Council Chamber on the second floor of Medford City Hall. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss a proposed food truck ordinance. Economic Development Director Victor Schrader, Board of Health Director Marion O'Connor, Economic Development Planner Yvette Niwa, and a representative from the Medford Chamber of Commerce have been invited to attend. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So this is a paper that was originally introduced many years ago at this point in 2016. And in 2020, Councilor Knight raised a resolution that was passed to move forward on this ordinance. The current policy in the city is obtaining a one day food license that folks do if they wanna have a food truck for a special event. And this is an opportunity to address an ordinance to see if it's something that the council would like to established different procedures for longer lengths of time or anything like that. We do have draft language that originally came from then Mayor Burke. It's not something we have to adhere to as a council. It's just a document that was submitted the first time this was introduced. So I'm happy to read through that document or just go to our Councilors and see what we'd like to see in an ordinance, as well as of course, hear from the public. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: And just to your point, it does reference in the draft we're looking at that was sent around that licenses shall not be permitted to operate within 200 feet of a person or entity holding a current common vitriol license without the express permission of such vitriol, so it goes on like that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any additional, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further comments or discussion from the council at this time? Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: That's a challenge.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I will say part of the scheduling of some of these committee meetings are based on the availability of staff and based on do we need legal counsel or not and seeing what we can get through with feedback from staff and how far we can move stuff along until we actually get that counsel. So I understand this may not be the most pressing of issues, but it's what we can move forward with, with what we have at the time. And I do want to reference just the draft that we're looking at. Again, not that anyone's married to this draft. It was written by former city solicitor Mark Rumley. So it was written by someone vested in Medford. So something to work off of. But I do want to go to the staff that expressed interest in this. So Victor Schrader, I'll go to you first, because I know you expressed an interest in this ordinance and process. Just name and address for the record, please. Do we have someone in the booth or no? Okay, so it should come on, it'll come on. Just give it a, there you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I will move on to Director O'Connor. I don't know if you wanted to offer any feedback at this time or just save comments for a future date. I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Marianne. Um, any questions for Director O'Connor? I'm curious how much I mean looking at this draft or I don't know if you have the draft in front of you, or not but just looking at it with that significantly. And again, this is a draft, it will likely change with that significantly change the amount of time your office is spending on these permits as they come in in their current form, versus how they come in through this ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And then we also do have economic development direct planner on the call that I wanted to give you an opportunity if you wanted to offer any comments.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank And then we have a number of members from the chamber here we have a few online some in person. So, whoever would like to speak first one for the mic. name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Mr. Pompeo, would you like to speak? Got it. Okay, great. Same address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, it's a question. I don't know. I know. I don't, I don't know either. Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I think to that point too, I mean, I know this was like a one-off, but in June, we had that person come before us with the mobile coffee cart. So not saying we need to craft a whole ordinance around that, but as we look at definitions, understanding there are these things that kind of exist in this very specific space and how do we want to address them? Sir, Vice President Bears. I was going to see if there's, did you just raise your hand, Marion? Okay. Back to Director O'Connor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director O'Connor. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: This is embarrassed to your second motion. I believe planner Neon mentioned adding parking and transportation. That's fine. To also get some feedback from them as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Does that cover all your motions?
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, do you have that language?
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, do you have that? Hang on, hang on.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, Councilor Knight did drop off, but I assume since you're in a separate room, we still need to roll call vote?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of vice-president Bears, as seconded by councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Let me just, I didn't ask, is there anyone else from the public who would like to speak on Zoom? I can see everyone in the chamber. Seeing none, okay, back to you vice-president Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to move the paper to the subcommittee on ordinances and rules as seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Any further discussion or comments?
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. The meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Bears. Thank you, Dr. Hunt and Planner Evans for being here tonight. So I just want to go reaffirm kind of what Vice President Bears has said. So this is all, you know, this is a plan to study more. I understand that things that are suggested in this to study more for any changes to happen, you know, if there is zoning that have to come to the city council. Is there anything within this that if it were to be approved would automatically happen, like trigger some change in the city, or all of these require additional steps?
[Nicole Morell]: TAB, Tila Duhaime): Okay, thank you and then going back to the question just the the infill so again any changes related to that would have to come through as zoning, because I know you referenced that I don't want to get too into the weeds on zoning stuff. TAB, Tila Duhaime): But just that you know if there is existing non conforming. TAB, Tila Duhaime): homes on those lots they wouldn't if they were knocked down, they would not be able to be rebuilt, but the existing non conformance or me, I mean maybe I don't even want to go to right now.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you for that clarification. That's all I have right now. Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Second.
[Nicole Morell]: 29th regular meeting of the Medford City Council, September 13th, 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present, seven present, zero absent. Please rise to salute the flag. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. Records. The records of the meeting of August 9th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Tseng. Councilor Tseng, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: Madam President. On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committee, 22-295 and 22-417. August 10, 2022, committee of the whole report to follow. This was a committee of the whole talking about different senior tax exemptions, as well as the residential tax rate.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Do I have a motion on the report to committee?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to take public participation out of order, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Moving to public participation. All right, we have one petition to the Honorable City Council of Councilors. The undersigned respectfully pray for a meeting before the Medford City Council to discuss the lack of progress of the Medford Clerical Employees Association bargaining unit. The Medford Clerical Employees Association has been without a contract for three years. Petitioner Amy C. Tanaglia, president of the Medford Clerical Employees Association, George P. Hassett Drive, 781-393-2509. Do we have someone who would like to speak on this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Okay. We'd like to proceed or we want to wait a beat.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any councilors like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. South, are you speaking on this paper specifically? Yes. Okay, just we have a number of issues on public participation, so I want to make sure we get through what's on the agenda. So please name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I do wanna keep you to time, Mr. South, if you're able to.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone else who would like to speak on the clerical employees association specifically? It is the clerical.
[Nicole Morell]: And is anyone else wanna speak on the Clerval Employees Association specifically, just because we do have another agenda item on public participation and I wanna give deference to that. Thank you. I'm just gonna move to that person and then we'll go through the rest of the... I know there's a number of people wanna speak for public participation, but there is someone on the agenda I'd like to call up. I'm gonna call up the person on the agenda next.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I do want to know we are playing a committee of the whole on September 28th with the parking department to have a general update, but also a chance to ask questions about process and questions like how are they going to process all of these permits at the end of the year? So we'll publicize that as we normally do, but we are going to host that to have an opportunity. It'll be here. People can come in, folks can ask questions. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. That's the end of public participation. That's on the agenda. If anyone would like to speak for public participation, please, please come up to the mic. I'll defer to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you just lean a little bit closer to the mic? I'm having trouble hearing you.
[Nicole Morell]: for that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: So I have been. I've been in touch with the mayor about this. I mean, I've been trying to speak with the mayor about this first of all because when the council did hear this I know we very much had concerns about noise specifically about trucks I believe it's the refrigerator trucks that are part of the issue as well as the cooling towers. The mayor told me they have reached out to the owners, and I believe the next steps are to go through the Board of Health and code enforcement. I was told from the administration that the issue is that this was has been a bakery space for decades, and the special permit for the hours Councilor you can correct me if I'm wrong you see you staring at me. went in 1995, they said it went with the business. So because it was not spoken up since the last since the origination of that special permit with the license, the special hours have carried with the business so long as it remains a bakery, but still they still have to comply with decibel levels. So, the mayor has told me that code enforcement and the Board of Health will be out there to ensure that they are complying. We don't have as a council we don't have direct control, but we absolutely can lean on the mayor I've spoken to the mayor I don't know about a fellow Councilor speaking to the mayor to to get the code enforcement and get the Board of Health out there to comply with the noise regulations in that area. Um, I don't have any other Councilors were able to get any other updates. Um, I will, I will absolutely say on this, I have your email. Um, please let me know any, I mean, you know, every time I know it's ongoing, please keep me in the loop. I'll keep pushing on this. Um, I'm going to follow up again with the mayor tomorrow. I don't, you know, when this company came before us, they were very responsive. So it's frustrating to me now that it seems like they're having a hard time getting in touch with the company. Um, so That is the process. I wish I had a better answer for you, but it's very much a known issue and ideally they are working on it. I'm told they're working on it. I will keep leaning on them to make sure that this is something they address because they can't have that loud of a decibel overnight at all hours of the night.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, would any Councilor like to do that? I mean, I'm happy to. Sure, we'll make sure it's on the next agenda. So that would be in two weeks. And yep, we can speak to it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I have. Okay. Anyone else? Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: We do have Commissioner McGibbon on the call because I've had instances, I live on a private way too, I've actually had neighbors that have been told the exact opposite. So I just want to, if Commissioner McGibbon, he's here for another reason, but I don't know, Commissioner McGibbon, if you're... If we can't do it, I know we're focusing on
[Nicole Morell]: Commissioner McGiven, if you could clarify what the ownership is of trees on private ways that might be, you know, abutting the street.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you able to address that, Commissioner McGivern?
[Nicole Morell]: Because I have- We can let him answer.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. I hope that it addressed some of your questions.
[Nicole Morell]: You're welcome. Thank you. And like Councilor Caraviello said, just for the edification of the public, we're looking at, the city is looking at both private and public ways, and Councilor Caraviello has asked for a meeting around that to see what can be done to, because there are so many private ways within the city, as well as we are working on a tree ordinance that's lots of things to consider.
[Nicole Morell]: Of course. Of course.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else who'd like to, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. But anyone else like to speak for public participation.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: and then we'll go to you guys.
[Nicole Morell]: Just name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: We can just keep to the facts, thank you. That's the facts, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Mercury, do you want to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Murphy. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I do want to, I would like I would entertain a motion at this point for me to go, which is fine.
[Nicole Morell]: patiently for items on the agenda. If you can keep it brief.
[Nicole Morell]: and then I would love a motion to reverse the regular business.
[Nicole Morell]: And we have been speaking about it for 90 minutes.
[Nicole Morell]: And I am happy to revisit it. You have something brief right now. I'm happy to revisit it.
[Nicole Morell]: I am more than happy to return to it. There is a number of city staff who have been waiting patiently. This is absolutely an important topic. I also want to get to the staff who are on the agenda.
[Nicole Morell]: And I chair the meeting, so do I have a motion? Do we want to stay in public participation? Motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to take 22, the rules are suspended, so I'd like to take 2250.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm more than happy to keep in public participation if people want to vote to keep them in public participation. I'm trying to give fair time to people who are also speaking on the agenda. And again, as chair, that's my purpose. Councilor Collins, sorry. Councilor Collins, do you wanna take 22-500? 500, 502, and 504.
[Nicole Morell]: 504 was the last one. 504, okay. Second by... Second. Vice President Bears, all those in favor? I was opposed passes to two dash five zero zero offered by Councilor Collins. Here's all the the Medford City Council receive an update on the solid waste task force the forthcoming request for proposals from waste haulers as well as an upcoming opportunities for residents to learn more about the waste disposal contract negotiation and give feedback Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Holmes. Is there any councilors would like to speak on this before we see a presentation from director? Do you need me to?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think so. If Shane, if you could make the planning development with the hand raised a co host so that they can share.
[Nicole Morell]: So you should be able to share now.
[Nicole Morell]: The rules are already suspended to take these two papers. 22-502, to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council, from Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, proposed CAF amendment. September 8th, 2022, I respectfully request and recommend that the City Council approve the following amendment to the revised ordinances entitled Personnel, Article II, entitled Classification and Compensation Plan, section 66-33, entitled Officers and Employees-Nonunion, by adopting the following change. The language of CAF 14 shall be amended to include the following position, Senior Planner, Planning Development and Sustainability Director Alicia Hunt is available to speak to this request and answer any questions you may have. Respectfully submitted, Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. Director Hunt, if you'd like to.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to table as seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. I mean, we have two Councilors absent at the moment. I mean, I'm happy to... If you wanna give a moment to allow the other Councilors.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to table a paper until the labor relations- Madam President. Councilor Scarpelli, just a reminder that the motions at this table are not debatable.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Knight to table the paper, table paper 22-502 until the labor relations and disputes are settled, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No, three in the front of four in the negative. Dr. Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just saying, let's hold the outrage until there's something to be outraged.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: And then my second motion would be to table it.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion to take the first motion.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vice president bears to ask legal opinion rated in the calf sent to whoever is handling legal opinions at this a minute, send it to the mayor. I have a second for that motion. So, Councilor Collins. All those in favor. I suppose the motion passes. I understand it's amusing to some Councilors, but this is fact finding and this is debate.
[Nicole Morell]: I said- On the motion of Vice President Bears to table a second by- Comments. Councilor Tseng Mr. Clerk, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22504 22504 is what we're moving on to. Sorry, Councilor Collins, which paper is 22-504?
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a, I have that paper. Okay, 22-504 was offered under suspension by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that we are deeply concerned by the negative impact on essential operations due to the recent removals of staff members for non-performance related reasons of the Finance Department and Elections Department. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. Is there any further discussion? So on the motion by Vice President Bear is a second by Councilor Collins. Oh, you're seconding?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so on the motion of vices and bears a second by cancer Collins cancer saying did you want to speak Sorry, I don't know. Go for it. Go for it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bears, I second by Councilor Collins. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: To the members, to the Honorable President and members of Medford City Council, City Hall, Medford Mass, 02155, August 23rd, 2022, President Morell, and honorable members of the city council for mayor brown occur and loan orders and waste meter water meters I apologize dear Madam President and city Councilors I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approved the following loan order. City of Medford loan order, water meters, be it ordered that the sum of $7,800,000 be and hereby is appropriated for the purpose of purchasing, installing and replacing water meters, including all costs incidental and related thereto, that to meet this appropriation, the city treasurer with approval of the mayor is authorized to borrow said sum under the pursuant Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 44, Section 8.6 as amended and supplemented or pursuant to any other enabling authority and to issue bonds or notes of the city therefore. that the treasurer with the approval of the mayor is authorized to borrow all or a portion of such amount from Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, MWRA, pursuant to MWRA's local water systems assistance program, and in connection therewith to enter into a loan agreement and or financial assistance agreement with the MWRA, provided that... On the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the remainder of the reading, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor. Uh, motion passes. Thank you both for being here once again. Um, for those folks watching, we did get a presentation over the summer. I forget if it was july or august. So I appreciate the presentation then. And I, um, give the floor to you. Just name and address the record and then just, uh, what you'd like to share.
[Nicole Morell]: If you wanna give us a brief summary, I know we had a full presentation this summer, but just a brief summary of the paper before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: We do have Commissioner McGivern on the line too. He just raised his hand.
[Nicole Morell]: Commissioner McGivern, can you speak to that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the council or members of the public? Councilor Beres.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. And we have confirmation from Christian. We're giving him a thumbs up as well. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: We do have Councilor Scarpelli's original motion and then we'll take that as a second motion.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll take the first and we'll take the second and that should cover our basis. So this one's gonna be for first reading. Yep, so on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, a second by Councilor Caraviello to approve the loan order for first reading. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: This is just, we're just gonna take them.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in front of zero, then I get the motion passes on the motion of Councilor Knight to waive all future readings as seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-503 to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Metro City Council, from Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, regarding proposed wage adjustment for traffic supervisors. September 8th, 2022, I respectfully request and recommend that the City Council approve the following amendments to the revised ordinances, chapter 66, article two. City of Medford amendment to revise ordinances, chapter 66, article two, be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Medford in chapter 66, entitled personnel, article two, entitled classification and compensation plan section 32, I'm sorry, 66-32, section one entitled miscellaneous personnel, and then the figures as they presently appear next to the following title by adjusting. On the motion of council tonight to waive the reading in favor of their brief presentation from the chief of police, seconded by Vice Mayor Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Chief Buckley, thank you for being the last person standing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to approve the other discussion from the council or any members of the public.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion on the motion to approve from Vice President Bears? Motion to approve for first reading.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion on Vice President Bears to approve and waive all future readings as seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Thank you all appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: I would like to go back to regular business or regular order on the motion advice is embarrassed to revert to regular order of business seconded by Councilor Tseng all those in favor. Opposed motion passes. All right, 22-494. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council, the ordinances and rules subcommittee meet to discuss the creation of a budget needs assessment ordinance to provide accurate and actionable information on the city of Medford's operating and capital budget needs and the deficit between current revenues and needed expenditures. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Reyes, Councilor Collins, and Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed, motion passes. 22-495 offered by vices and bears, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the city administration provide an update on all pilot agreements entered into by the city of Medford and the status of all pilot agreement negotiations. Vices and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of President Bears, is it seconded by Councilor Collins, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-496 offered by vices and bears be resolved by the Metro City Council that we meet in committee of the whole to review the draft Medford comprehensive plan, vices and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed. Motion passes. 22-497 offered by Vice President Bears, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the Zoning Board of Appeals provide all materials relative to decisions A-2017-30 through A-2017-40. 2017-42 and A-2018-20 to the Community Development Board relative to the two to four Capen Street and 50 Winthrop Street site plan reviews to ensure that all conditions applied to previous projects are maintained or expanded for these two proposals. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bear is a second by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favour? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-498 offered by Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng. Whereas the American Cancer Fund for Children and Kids Cancer Connection report, cancer is the leading cause of death by disease among U.S. children between infancy and age 15. This tragic disease is detected in more than 16,000 of our country's young people every year. An estimated 400,000 children and adolescents are diagnosed with cancer globally each year. Whereas one in five of our nation's children loses his or her battle with cancer, and many children will suffer from long term effects of comprehensive treatment including secondary cancers, whereas the American Cancer Fund for Children and Kids Cancer Connection provides a variety of vital patient psychosocial services to children undergoing cancer treatment at Boston Children's Hospital, Tufts Children's Hospital, Shriners Children's Boston, Dana-Farber Children's Cancer Center, Mass General Hospital for Children as well as participating hospitals throughout the country, thereby enhancing the quality of life for these children and their families, whereas the American Cancer Fund for Children and Kids Cancer Connection also sponsored toy distributions, Laughter Noon, Laughter is Healing, positive appearance programs, pet assisted therapy, KCC Supercar Experience, educational programs, and hospital celebrations in honor of a child's determination and bravery to fight the battle against childhood cancer, be it resolved that the Medford City Council recognize September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in Medford, and thank the American Cancer Fund for Children and Kids Cancer Connection for their service. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further, Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli, and I wanna thank my fellow councilors for bringing this forward and their words on it. And it's been mentioned that we absolutely do have the best care centers in the country, some of the best in the world for this disease, but pediatric cancer is actually chronically underfunded, unfunded. It just looked up about 4%, only 4% of federal research dollars on cancer go towards pediatric cancer studies. So I really appreciate you both for bringing this forward and raising this issue, because as Councilor Scarpelli said, it's something that, We're fortunate if we have healthy children and we don't think about it too deeply until it comes into your world. So advocating for this care and also advocating for the research. So thank you both for bringing that forward and for everyone's comments. And I do see the hand raise from Mr. Castagnetti. Name and address for the record, please. Hand raise from Mr. Castagnetti.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you hear me? You're going to mute me for a second if you can turn off. I don't know if you're watching on the TV. We're getting like a feedback loop. So if you could just mute whatever you're watching it on that might be delayed.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, we can hear you now. Sounds clear.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. So on the motion of Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins as seconded by Councilor Caraviello all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes to 2-499 offered by Councilor Collins, be it resolved that the Metro City Council requested the administration review and update the COVID-19 information currently published on the city website, including information on new booster shots the suspension of the USPS free test kit program. sites where sites where tests, masks, and PPE may be obtained for free in Medford, updating COVID-19 mask mandate information and FAQs and current case counts. We have further resolved that the Medford City Council requests an update from the Board of Health on the state administration's offer of a free at-home COVID-19 test, mask, and other PPE to interested municipalities if the Board of Health has applied or plans to apply, and when and where these items will be available for residents. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice Chair Bares.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-501 offered by Councilor Tseng, be it resolved this subcommittee on racial justice, disabilities, and elder affairs, consider an ordinance on data use and data equity along the lines of resolution 22-065. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Saing, it's seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. That is the agenda of the agenda. I did say we would revisit public participation. Is there anyone else who would like to speak for public participation who did not get to speak earlier? Yes, at the request of Councilor Knight. Seeing none, all right. The motion of Councilor Carnivale to adjourn seconded by Councilor Tseng all those in favour.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, I'm here.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. So what we discussed at the June 1st meeting, and apologies if a direct invite didn't make its way over. That would be just my fault, just erroneously. missing that, but we met with, we had comments from DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon. And then we had Robyn Stein from KP law there. We didn't make any resolutions that would change the ordinance per se. It's still very much in committee. So we're still working on it. have KP law assist us in taking the parts of the tree ordinance and the draft that would, and placing them throughout our existing code of ordinances, including zoning, and see where they might fall in, if this should be its own standalone document, or it should be slotted into different parts within our existing code of ordinances and zoning. Um, we also voted to have, um, consider separating out the tree committee just to be its own separate ordinance, establishing that tree committee so that we could focus on, um, the language of the, you know, specific to. What we're trying to accomplish here as far as protecting trees. Um, and. Last we just asked for updated drafts from KP law. And what I ended up getting back from KP law is they don't feel that we are in a place where they can provide us with updated drafts. They think we still have to make a number of policy decisions. You know, there wasn't a ton of decisions. There really wasn't any policy decisions made on this meeting. I think partly because the draft ordinance as it's written is maybe repeating or Moody up some roles that exist in the city with regards to code enforcement and the forestry department. So we are going to meet once again on. Okay. Let me look at my schedule. I think it's yeah. So on the 21st, so Wednesday, the 21st and 20, the whole at 6. We're going to meet this time. Commissioner given is going to join us. We, he wasn't able to attend the last time. Maggie Tudin. I'm working on hopefully getting our finance director Bob Dickinson to attend as well. I've been having some trouble scheduling with him as far as getting a response. But there's just a number of decisions need to be made as far as what we actually have the capacity to do in the city. I understand the way it's written now. There is a plan for You know, we're not. We're not gaining funds so that we can support additional work in the city, but it's, it's my personal belief as you know, and then go from there. So that's where I feel we are right now is just understanding, getting some more feedback from the departments that would actually enforce this to understand how they would enforce it and making sure that we are assigning the right, whether it's code enforcement or forestry, making sure that this language would be assigned to the right places. So it's still very much a working document. I think we all wish we were moving along faster, but it is, These types of ordinances are, are new so I mean if you watch the meeting you can see us asking attorney Stein from KP law you know can we do this can we do that and it's hard to get a straight answer just because, you know, these things are, you know, I think it was their Arlington has passed by, you know, their approval attorney general, but that doesn't mean that someone's not going to challenge them and they might have issues with it. So she was a bit wary as far as private tree protections and things like that. So again, we didn't make any decisions like that, but I think that's kind of why we're still not advancing. I think at the speed, a lot of us would probably like myself included, but there's still just a lot of policy decisions that need to be made. That's kind of the overview.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, I have one in front of me right now.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I just pulled up your email. Yep.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, affordable housing came up. Um, I do believe there is language in it regarding to affordable housing. We just need to strengthen it. Um, I think that we have, some of these things are addressed, but they're, um, from attorney Stein, they're a little too vague the way they're currently written. Um, So, but that is, it is a referenced bullet point in the draft. So I will make sure that that is something that. doesn't get lost and also we can strengthen. So it's actually something that can be included. Making sure I get these, move your notes into a document for myself. Okay. I can pull up the latest draft, which again, it hasn't changed significantly since the previous meeting, which I think was in March, maybe.
[Nicole Morell]: I am not seeing it, but I know this is somewhat, yes, I will make sure that affordable housing is referenced. I don't know, I just can't pull it up like right as I'm just trying to find it as I'm in the midst of this, but I know it is referenced or we'll make sure it remains referenced. Yeah, I can keep looking if there's other questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, and then you mentioned, yep, you did the same, you mentioned there protecting insignificant trees needs to exclude invasive and noxious species. And then you said the same thing, mitigation measures are far too lax. So I do not, yeah, these are all great points. I will make sure that these are, These get brought into the conversation. Again, the last meeting was really just trying to see what we could legally do, what we could ask for as a city, trying to get that feedback from KP Law. Again, it wasn't the most fruitful meeting. It felt like we struggled a little bit with trying to get the answers we wanted from KP Law regarding, can we do this, can we do that? Um, so I think we do just need to make some decisions. Um, and then, um, I lost my train of thought. So yeah, we haven't. And then just kind of working through the language that's there. So I think we, we love with more questions than answers and we didn't make a bunch of policy decisions. So we really didn't get into like the meat of this kind of stuff. So absolutely. I'm hoping that's what we can do next week. Um, I'll make sure this is included in that. And I can send you all the latest version.
[Nicole Morell]: I see as February, February 22nd, 2022. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I think there absolutely is. I think there's a unified consideration and desire to, I mean, you know, right now, you know, looking at Commissioner McGibbon's like one of his comments, again we he wasn't able to attend says, you know, part of this permission and this permit you know, tree removal permit that is suggested in this document. He says, this is creating a new permit process that we do not currently have in Medford. Existing permitting processes that are similar are typically staffed with at least two to four people. This includes administrative duties, evaluation review duties, and construction oversight duties. This requires full-time employees and should be calculated and submitted with the proposed ordinance. So a lot of this, not a lot, but I mean, you know, part of this hinges on coming down to just figuring out financially how we, how, this can be put into effect. So I think the desire to do this is absolutely there. I think there's also just the desire to do it in a way that we do it, you know, we can execute on it. We can, you know, what we're trying to accomplish can be met by the ordinance. I mean, I know that goes without saying, but you know, sometimes that happens, that what we're writing is not, we don't get the desired outcome of the ordinance. that we created.
[Nicole Morell]: It would be the private trees would be what would go into zoning. Okay, so that's, you know, huge right there. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. Yeah, absolutely. And I, and I think there was, I believe a Councilor and I did make a comment to that, that point too, you know, referencing the difference between what you just said, you know, your backyard and a tree you want to remove for a swing set was his example versus, you know, something you want to, you know, clear cutting and undeveloped plot of land.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think that's, I think there is, you know, I know that's a lot of the language was intended. We were, I mean, you can watch the video, we were struggling, you know, and I understand that, like, it's hard to give a black and white answer, you know, with counsel, legal consultation sometimes, but I think we were trying to ask, like, what can we, what can we put in this that, you know, passes muster that is, you know, passes legal muster and what, you know, can we not? And I felt like we couldn't quite get to an answer.
[Nicole Morell]: I can hang on for a little bit.
[Nicole Morell]: Listen, I apologize for not inviting you guys. It's a publicly posted notice. We meet open meeting laws that has to be published 48 hours in advance. I apologize for the invite not getting out there. I understand you being frustrated. This is not a secretive process. These are publicly posted meetings that anyone can attend. Right. So I take issue with that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I appreciate it. Please reach out via email if you guys have questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Committee of the Whole, 22295 and 222417, Wednesday, August 10th, 2022 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: present, five present, I'm sorry, yes, no, sorry, four present, math, four present, three absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, August 10th, 2022 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss residential and senior exemptions 22-295 and 22-417 available to municipalities through MGM, Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 59, Section 5C, and Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 41C and a half. The City Council has invited Interim Chief Assessor Ellen Rideau to attend. For further aids, information, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. Interim Assessor Rideau is here, and she has kindly sent us a presentation in advance last night to the Council that I believe she's going to share tonight. So before she gets into that, are there any questions from the Council before we hand it over to Interim Assessor Rideau? Seeing none, Ellen, if you could take it away. You should be able to share. Let me double check. Yep, you're co-host, so you should be able to share. OK.
[Nicole Morell]: So do we have any questions? Thank you, Ellen. Councilor Caraviello. You're muted, Rick. I think, can we make him, I just asked you, I mean- Oh, here we go, here we go.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions from Councilors? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, I think we, yeah, we lost Ellen. I apologize. She's coming back in right now.
[Nicole Morell]: I realized halfway through. I apologize. Hi, nice to have you back.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins and then back to Councilor Kariviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, I appreciate that. You're welcome. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. I just want to make clear for anyone watching that this is just a discussion at this point. Nothing's being voted on. There's no proposal to have this be voted on as such. This does come before us every December when the tax rate is set, but this is just purely discussion purposes at this point. Councilor Collins. Or is your hand still up from before?
[Nicole Morell]: You're coming in and out, Councilor Collins. I think we'll get back to Councilor Collins and, okay, she's dropped off. Are there any questions from the public at this time? Seeing no more hands from the council, I don't have any specific questions related to the residential tax exemption as we're covering it now. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe his question is, how did you land on the break even? Is that the question? Certainly.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Castagnetti, your connection is a little rough. It looks like you're outside. Are you able to go somewhere closer to your router to get a little bit better connection or dial it on the phone?
[Nicole Morell]: OK, I'll give you a beat. We'll come back to you.
[Nicole Morell]: Looks like you're inside. Do you want to try? Oops. Okay. I just need to ask you to unmute again. Sorry, Mr. Castagnetti. Do you want to try again now that you're inside?
[Nicole Morell]: We can hear you a little bit better now.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. Do you have another question? I'll, we'll make sure we address that, but do you have another question?
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, you don't have to, Ellen is agnostic in this situation. You don't have to engage in a debate over this. It's really, it's just information finding and Ellen is, she's agnostic.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Casagnetti. Will Navarre, name and address for the record, please. I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Does that cover all your questions, Mr. Navarre?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going back to Councilor Collins. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: You're welcome. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Mayor Bears. Is there any further discussion or questions regarding the residential exemption? Going back to Mr. Castagnetti. You should see, I'm just asking you to unmute now.
[Nicole Morell]: It's in and out. We can hear you a little bit.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Um, Ellen would, um, I can, Mr. Castagnetti, I can share the presentation with you. Um, I can make sure if there's, if you want to, um, Send an email to the clerk, we can get that presentation out. We can also put it in the drive folder just so people have it.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you, Ellen. Thank you, Mr. Casagnani.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Casagnani, please let her finish. Otherwise, we're going to have to stop. Sorry, please continue on.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you, Ellen. Thank you, Mr. Castagnari. So going, Going back to vice-president Bears, we have some questions from another resolution regarding potential senior tax exemptions. I know you had a bit shorter time, Ellen, about this. I'm not even sure if the communications made it to you yet from that past meeting, but I will, if you'll humor vice-president Bears, see if we can get some answers. Otherwise we can always continue offline or have another meeting. So vice-president Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any other questions on the senior exemptions we just discussed or residential exemptions? Seeing none, do I have a motion for this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Second that motion. Mr. Clerk, do you have that language?
[Nicole Morell]: That's right. Thank you, Claire Kernabees. If you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. If I've been the affirmative to absent zero on the negative, the motion passes. Um, before we adjourn LA, I just want to thank you so much for your time. Um, and your expertise on this topic. This is, I think no matter where anyone stands on the issue, this is just really, really helpful. So it's much appreciated.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do I have a motion to adjourn?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to adjourn, seconded by- Second. Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, two absent, zero in the negative. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you, everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: 28th regular meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to table, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 affirmative, one absent. The records are tabled. Reports of committees, 22-363. July 19, 2022, committee of the whole report to follow. This was our committee of the whole meeting to address a number of concerns from residents as well as the council on the MBTA's bus redesign project. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by Vice-President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 for one absent the motion passes. Announcements accolades and remembrances to do dash 444 offered by Councilor Caraviello be it so resolved the Medford City Council Senate's deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Jerry Perlito on her recent passing. Jerry was a 35 year employee in the treasurer's office for presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you hear now?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 16 affirmative one absent zero in the negative emotion passes 22-445 offered by Council night be it so resolved that the Medford City Council congratulate Donald and Mary Bonner on the momentous occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight, as seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 16 in front of one absence here in the negative. The motion passes. 22-446 offered by Vice President Bears be resolved by the Medford City Council that we congratulate city solicitor Kimberly Scanlon on her over 20 years of service to the city of Medford and wish her a successful future in any new endeavors. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: further discussion tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? I could also add, just really echo my colleagues and thank Solicitor Scanlon. She's done an incredible amount of work, really with a very small staff to no staff in the time I've been a city councilor. And she's always made herself as available really to talk through any issue and help us sort things out. So she will be sorely missed around these parts and I echo and wishing her all the best in her future endeavors. So on the motion of vice-president Bears, I was seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative one absent. Negative emotion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: So this would be to take public participation?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to suspend the rules, take public participation so we can hear from members of the chamber. Second by... Second. Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent. The motion passes to take public participation to hear from members of the chambers. Do you want to lead in at all, Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for waiting several hours at previous meetings. So give me a chance to speak now. Yeah. Name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think to that extent, I raised this during that conversation, has there ever been discussion with the Harvard Vanguard, because there's that garage there, you know, that's a nine to five business, and there would presumably be some- The city had a contract with them for 20 years, and they never renewed it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Did you have a vote on that? Since we're already on air. What? You don't have to vote, sorry. All right, so we're gonna do it. So petitions, presentations on similar papers and communications from the mayor, unless there's any objection from the council, we'll move forward with that order. 22-447, petition for a common dealer's license from Nicholas Belytheau and Max Heineck for Medford Brewing Company, 30 Harvard Ave, Medford, Mass, 02155. On file, business certificate, building department, fire department, police traffic impact, treasurer's department, health department, letter of compliance, workers' compensation, state tax ID petition. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I guess for those who are unfamiliar with the project, which is probably very few at this point, do you want to give us a brief overview?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I'll go to the chair of the second and licensing Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Congressman Scarpelli. Advices and Affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. Any further discussion? OIDC, sir. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do just have one question that came from someone on Zoom, it's just asking if the building will be accessible and have accessible restrooms.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, knowing the building and knowing requirements. Yeah. Okay, any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Submitting the affirmative is there in the name of the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Moving on to communications from the mayor. 22-461 to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding the Community Preservation Committee appropriation request. Dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, on behalf of the Community Preservation Committee, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body approve the following recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee requesting the appropriation of $5,000 from the CPA General Reserve to Medford School Department for a small grant to replace playground elements at the Roberts Elementary School, requesting the appropriation of $5,000 from the CPA General Reserve to Medford School Department for a small grant to replace playground elements at the Brooks Elementary School. The project will be tracked in the Community Preservation Fund by category, General Reserve. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully submitted, Mayor Brianna Landau-Kern. I do see we have- Move approval, Madam President. Move approval. Before I do see we have Daniel Evans or Roberta Cameron from the CDA if you'd like to speak if not.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight, as seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Thank you. 22-462 to the Honorable President and members of the Metro City Council. Water meter replacement project funding recommendation. As you may be aware, the current meter system the city uses to measure and record water use is nearing its end of life. We plan to replace the existing water meters in the city with new meters that meet the current needs. This is a three-year project with a cost of an estimate of $8,500,000. The Department of Public Works, DPW, prepared the following information in support of funding the water meter replacement project. This information summarizes and documents the plan to fund this project. The DPW recommends that this be funded from two sources. The first is the MWRA Tier 2 Local Water Assistance Program, LWSAP, and the second is ARPA. The project is eligible for both sources and has been pre-coordinated with the MWRA program. The MWRA program is typically used for water and sewer capital improvement projects and regulatory compliance programs. However, these types of projects are eligible for other funding sources, including but not limited to ARPA and retained earnings. The following is a recommendation funding breakdown. The MWRA loan portion will require an approved loan order from the City Council. The purpose of this memo is to inform you further about the project and begin the process to obtain support from City Council. $7,800,000 borrowed from the MWRA Tier 2 LWSAP program. This is a 0% loan paid back over 10 years and $700,000 paid from ARPA. MWRA local water system assistance program assistance program information. This program is a 0% interest loan program that has paid off over 10 years. The city currently has phase two and phase three funding available. Phase two will only be available through the end of 2023. The tier two portion of this project is a restricted amount of funding within each phase that can be spent on certain types of projects such as meter replacements. The breakdowns of each phase and available restricted tier two funds are below. Phase two total available is $3,662,000. Phase two tier two available is $2,518,006 of the total. Phase three total available is $5,400,000. Phase three tier three available is $5,370,526 of the total. Total available for a tier two restricted amount is $7,888,532. This recommendation includes using most of the phase two tier two available funds leaving $1,143,994 available for other eligible projects and using $5,281,994 from the phase three tier two available funds leaving $88,532 for other eligible projects. There are other projects we would typically target MWRA, LWSAP for funding. However, they are also eligible for other available sources. Due to the smaller size of these projects, they're more appropriate for either ARPA retained earnings or remaining funds from MWRA, potentially other sources. Water and Soil Superintendent Dan Stoneking and Head Meteor Technician Ron Baker will be available to answer questions on this important project. Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. Respectfully submitted, Mayor Brianna Leno-Kirk. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much. If I could also just get name and address for the record for both of you.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just your like your Medford City Hall. Okay, great.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears and then back to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. Do I have a second on that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Vice Mayor Bears. And then just to the point about our next meeting, if for whatever reason, the process, you do need it sooner, we can call it, we can call a special meeting if we need to, if you need to move that sooner. So just work with the clerk on anything related to that. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? So we have a motion from Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, and the language on that is that the mayor initiate the process on a loan. Is that, represent your motion Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, so on the motion Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Senator Inferno is here on the negative, the motion passes. Thank you all.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I, oh, sorry, we have one more. So 22-463, request for expenditure from law department claims over $1,000. Account number is 010-151-5762. to president of Maryland honorable members of the Medford City Council from Gallagher and Mayor payment Claire Rooney versus the city of Medford date of incident is November 3 2020 data trial result not applicable amount requested $5,000 claimants attorney not applicable description of alleged claim the claimant Claire Rooney seeks compensation for injuries suffered as a result of a street defect at 26 Harvard Avenue in Medford, Massachusetts. As a result, the claimant suffered permanent injuries to her right shoulder, rendering her partially disabled, and injuries to her forehead, eyes, and nose. The case was settled prior to trial. The necessary lease has been obtained from the claimant. Breakdown of amount requested. Medical costs, $5,000. Lost wages, zero. Property damage, zero. Others, zero. Total settlement, $5,000. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight. Seconded. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Do I have a motion to revert to regular order of business? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, to revert to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 in front of one absent, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Motions, orders, and resolutions. 22-416 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council request that the Liquor Commission discuss the formula for bar seating at restaurants in Medford from a maximum of 25 to a higher number to be determined by the commission. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor say any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Caraviello seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative. The motion passes. 22-421, offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it resolved that the Medford City Council have the parking director appear before the council to explain why parking kiosks are not accepting cash or credit cards. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: If you want to refer to economic development, if you want to refer to me the whole I did speak with the director and she said she would be available in September.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears and Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to send us to agree the whole and seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, so in the furnace during the night of the motion passes. 22-439 offered by Vice-President Bears and Councilor Collins. So this was an item that was tabled to the next meeting from our July meeting. Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Naye. Any further discussion? So on the motion of Vice Chair Sam Paris to refer this paper. And I just want to be clear, this is a motion to send this for further discussion. None of this just cannot be put on the November ballot. I just want to make that clear. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And again, I just want to make sure this is clear that this isn't something that can appear or would appear on the November ballot. This is just, one moment. This is just being sent to a committee of the whole for discussion. There's no action items at this time. It does not meet deadlines to be on the November ballot. So I just want to make that clear. Please just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears, would you like to amend the paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. On that motion, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I think the city should put it where to reduce the deficit, so that's regarding our spending that's regarding our funding which is used for very specific sources and we've already the city has maxed out the amount it can use to replace revenue.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could just embarrass.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilman Knight. New address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do want to know if there is a committee of the whole tomorrow at 6pm, zoom exclusively to discuss potential, just the impact of owner occupied and a number of other exemptions of prices and bears had placed on the agenda a few weeks back.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. This time she's going to be there. Yes. Interim interim chief assessor.
[Nicole Morell]: It's zoom only. On the motion. So we have a motion of vice president bears as amended by motion of vice president bears as amended by vice president bears seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, for the affirmative three in the negative. The motion passes. 22-448 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that Medford City Council call a meeting of the subcommittee on rules and ordinances to discuss Chapter 74, Article 11, Section 3 to amend the rules for private ways in the city. Councilor Caraviello, I do wanna know, I believe it's actually Chapter 74, Article 2, Section 3.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, I was seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in favor, zero in the negative. The motion passes. 22-449 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have a representative from DCR appear before the council to explain why concrete sidewalks on the Fellsway were torn up and replaced with asphalt. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thanks.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Let's see, see response, I do just want to know on the point of the sidewalks I think a lot of very, thank you Councilor Caraviello for bringing this forward. I think a lot of important points have been made. And also the fact, you know, we talk about heat islands in this city and we're actively taking concrete out, which is cooler and replacing it with black asphalt, which only makes our streets hotter where we're lacking those trees and just contributes to a problem we're already facing, which, you know, walk around the street these past several weeks at this point, and you feel the difference. So it's absolutely unacceptable. We do a number of motions on the floor, but Ms. Cameron, do you want to speak on the current paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Before we continue to be I just want to take the motion to merge the two papers just so we're aware of what we're discussing. Councilor Knight motion to merge the paper we're discussing 22-449 with 22-451 offered by vices and affairs, which states be it resolved by the Medford City Council to the city administration, provide an update to paper 22353, which outlined an invitation to the new DCR commissioner to come to Medford for a site visit to better understand the impact of DCR roads, parks and properties on our community. The paper passed on May 17th, 2022 and Senator Jalen's office graciously offered to assist the city in scheduling a visit. So on the motion of Councilor Knight to merge those two papers, seconded by Mr. Clark, please call the roll. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes, I'm in the firm is you're in the negative motion passes by Susan bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So I have multiple motions on the floor. So the motion of councilor Scarpelli to set up a meeting with the delegation to talk about numerous TCR issues and motion from councilor Knight to work through the DPW commissioner to get a response regarding the sidewalks. Okay, we can take it as amendments. Lost half of this paper, so we have a main motion. I don't have a main motion.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, do we have a- So I think on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to hold the to meet with the state delegation to discuss DCR issues as amended by Councilor Knight so that the DPW commissioner reaches out immediately.
[Nicole Morell]: So do I have a motion to approve the main paper and I'll take all those amendments?
[Nicole Morell]: We really have to vote on the amendments if there's disagreement.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion on the main merged paper, so I have a motion for all.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just trying to get all that. Everyone's making motions should have only taken one at a time because now we're Mr. Clerk, would you please read the amendments?
[Nicole Morell]: Does that reflect everyone's amendments?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to submit?
[Nicole Morell]: Frustration on this process. Make sure everyone knows they're voting on to.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the main emerged paper as amended by Councilor Scarpelli and Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: We're missing your audio, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in the furnace here and I get the motion passes to do that for five zero offered by vice president bears be resolved by the member city council that the city administration provide an update on the expansion of the standard road maintenance practice known as crack ceiling, and whether or not the city has been conducting regular cracks going to keep streets in good condition be a further result of the city administration provide an update on whether any additional funding recommended. recommended payment management plan which showed that the city's maintenance backlog for roads would increase from 48 million in FY 2021 to over 120 million in FY 2026 without adding additional funding is being invested in road maintenance. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carmelo. Any further discussion? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by, did you want to speak on this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, I seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm going to affirm as negative the motion passes. 22-452 offered by Councilor Collins and Vice Mayor Behr is being resolved by the Medford City Council that a representative of the Bradley Road Tenants Association be invited to provide an update on the status of their tenancy. Councilor Hollands.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a few members of the public who'd like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Casagrande. Bill Giglio on Zoom, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: The chat is disabled for everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: No, it's not. It's disabled for everyone.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor Knight to receive and place on file as seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the front of one absent during the night of the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: We can see around the country that the reproductive rights of everyone are under attack, have been rolled back have been removed for countless people. I know many may say that this is not a city issue but it's been made clear that these rights are being attacked at every single level, and there is no stopping point. These are rights that when removed will or do endanger the health, endanger the lives, endanger the future of individuals who seek reproductive care at so many different levels, whether it's abortion, whether it's miscarriage management, whether it's IVF, expanding families, making decisions that are right for families. These are decisions that, these rights being removed, and every level also tend to impact the most marginalized in our society who need these services. And I just wanna make sure that we open the discussion, that we talk about what we can do on a city level to make sure that these rights that are enshrined, remain enshrined, that they remain protected. We as elected officials are stewards of the residents. And I've heard from countless residents who say, what can we do on the city level? What can the city council do? People are scared, they should be scared. They have every right to be scared because rights are being rolled back across the country and nowhere safe, honestly. And we need to do what we can to protect the reproductive health of residents. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-454 offered by Vice President Bears, Councilor Collins, and Councilor Tseng. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the City Administration provide a detailed update on the current blocked off connection between Medford and Somerville on East Albion Street, and whether that could be opened to allow pedestrian and bike access in that neighborhood. Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng, would you like to speak on this?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, two absent, zero in the negative, the motion passes. 22-455 offered by vices and bears and Councilor Tseng, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the city administration provide an update regarding the city's application for federal funds from the bipartisan infrastructure law and whether or not the city will be applying for the Safe Streets for All SS4A grant to create a Vision Zero Action Plan and or the Reconnecting Communities pilot to explore mitigation to the historic and ongoing impact of highway construction on our community. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero the negative motion passes to two dash 456 offer by various affairs and Councilor Collins be resolved by the Medford City Council to the national grid that national grid provide information on the persistent power outages affecting multiple met for neighborhoods and why they're occurring, be it further resolved that national group provide updated plans regarding infrastructure improvements to the local electric power infrastructure to the city of Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight, it's seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 7-0 negative the motion passes. We took participation earlier, but things could have been misconstrued. Okay, we have just a few more items. I do apologize. How many more items do you have? We have four or five more items. Thank you. After this, could you step up? Thank you. Q2-457 offered by Bison Bears being resolved by the Medford City Council that the city administration provide an update on the tools and devices used to paint lines on city-owned playing fields, including how they were acquired, how much they cost, and expected lifespan. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Further discussion on the motion of Vice President Bears as seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I do understand my fellow Councilors making a joke about whenever our Councilors travel, but I do just caution about just sometimes jokes can be misconstrued as misinformation. So I would just caution against jokes of this nature when it's an evolving disease that we're learning more about. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I know we've been working to kind of any zoning amendments that perhaps are, you know, immediate in nature, but working to save them for when we can work with again with the zoning consultant. But I think signs has come up a number of times over the past few years, sometimes in some controversial ways regarding illumination. And I think also now, last month, we saw the presentation for the DB charging signs that are a new type of science. that are petitioned for in the city. So I think it would be worth meeting in the committee of the whole just to see, just hear some, I know we've all heard from some local business owners, some building owners, as far as things they might like to see changed. So I think it's time that we could meet committee of the whole and just discuss and see what amendments may be worth making or not at this time to present back to the council as a whole. So I would move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-464 offered by Councilor Knight, be it so resolved that the City Ordinance 48-773 be amended striking 75 years or older and replace it with construct before 1900 and be it further resolved that the City Ordinance 48-78H be amended by striking 18 months and replacing it with six months. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that point of information. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry for the discussion, knowing that we are voting on this now to send it for further discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Casting a name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Kessinger. Any further discussion? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? I also want to know as my fellow councilors did, I am all for having discussion to make sure that our ordinances are meeting their intent. So I will be voting in favor of this to continue that discussion. On the motion of cancer night a second by Mr. please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in front of the negative. The motion passes. Going back to the records that were tabled earlier in the meeting as we waited for Councilor Scarpelli. The records of meeting of July 19th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Scarpelli, I have to sign them. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Carvejo.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Scarpelli. And I just want to note tomorrow's meeting, the whole meeting will be about tax exemption programs available to the city. Just an educational meeting to ask questions. It will be Zoom only 6 p.m. And also there is a traffic commission meeting probably of interest on Tuesday, August 16th at 5 p.m. because it talks about bike lanes on Winthrop Street, talking about Winthrop Street endlessly here at Stephen Miller Drive and Main Street at Mystic Avenue. Do I have a motion to adjourn? I have a motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn as seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: 27th regular meeting July 19 2022 of the Medford City Council is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morell present seven present zero absent the meeting is called to order please rise and salute the flag.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vice-president Bears to take those papers out of order, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I mean it burns you negative. The rules are suspended 22-411. Notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford and via Zoom on Tuesday, July 19th, 2022 at 7 p.m. A link to be posted no later than Friday, July 15th, 2022 on a petition from Cummings Properties LLC and John Walsh to amend zoning map, City of Medford, Massachusetts dated April 13th, 1965 As a reference in chapter 94 Medford zoning ordinance section 2.2, the petition proposes to change the zoning district designation of the area of land bounded by Boston Avenue to the Southwest, North Street to the Southeast, the MBTA railroad tracks to the Northeast and the Somerville border to the Northeast from industrial I to office 202. All is depicted on the plan entitled plan showing proposed zoning change in Medford Mass, Middlesex County. Yeah, June 22 2022. The full materials for the petition can be viewed in the office of the city clerk City Hall room 103 on the city's website at Medford ma.org slash department slash planning dash development dash sustainability by clicking on current CD board filings call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations or aids TDD 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an EEOA 504 employer. by order of the City Council, signed Adam L. Hervey, City Clerk, advertised in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal, June 30th and July 7th. Do we have, before we open up the public hearing, do we have a brief presentation from the petitioner? I know we did have... Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Before we open the public hearing, is there any discussion from the City Council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the Council? You wanna note that, as the gentleman said, we did receive communication from the City Board on July 14th, recommending the proposed changes. So as this is a public hearing, we're going to open up for public comments. So is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of the petition before us? Anyone on Zoom? We'll move over to Zoom as well. Please raise your hand on Zoom if you'd like to speak on the petition before us. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the petition before us? Either in person or on Zoom? Does anyone else like to speak? Okay, seeing some folks filtering to Zoom, seeing none. This portion of the public hearing is closed. Any further discussion from the council or do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to waive the six day public comment period and approve, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in favor, zero negative, the motion passes. Thank you very much. You're good.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. All right, so moving on to 22-431 is the next one we have. All right, 22-431, notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers. At Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford and via Zoom on Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at 7 p.m. on a petition from Christian Garcia of Finance Auto Body, Inc. to operate an automotive repair and auto body shop, class four repair license. At 26 R. Mystic Avenue, Medford, Mass. 02155 in Commercial 2, C2 Zoning District. A Zoom link for the meeting will be posted no later than July 15th, 2022. Petition and plan may be seen in the office of the city clerk, Medford City Hall, Medford, Massachusetts. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodation slash aids. GDD 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the Medford City Council, signed Adam L. Hurtubise, city clerk, advertised in the Medford transcript on July 7th, 2022. We can get a short, if we get a presentation from the petitioner, if they are here or on Zoom. If you're on Zoom, please come on up if you just want to tell us a little bit about what you're seeking here.
[Nicole Morell]: And just your name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Before we open up the public hearing, are there any questions from the councillors?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins and Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council before we open the public hearing? Are you all set Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. As this is a public hearing, we'll open it up to public comment. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of this petition? And you would be in favor of this petition. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this petition? Seeing none, portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in opposition of this petition? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Mr. Clerk, could you please read back Councilor Scarpelli's motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And that is seconded by Councilor Collins. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Collins, amended by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in favor of zeroing the negative, the motion passes. So there'll be a six day public comment period, and then assuming no issues, then it will be approved. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so moving on to 22-436. 436 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council invite representatives from the Medford Police Department to discuss the national night out in Medford. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? I do see on zoom, Bill Giglio name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you all. Do I have a motion on Mr. Castagnetti. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. Mr. Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: So on a motion of Councilor Scarpelli as amended by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in the affirmative zero in the negative. The motion passes to two dash 437 offered by Councilor Carvial. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have the Medford police address the overnight tractor trailer parking within the city Councilor Carvial.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other discussion from any other councilors?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion on the Council before we hear from Lieutenant Harnett?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, as seconded by- Second. Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm in front of zero the negative the motion passes. Going on to 22-441, communications from the mayor. To Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, regarding the Board of Election Commission appointment, dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body confirm the appointment of Erin DiBenedetto, Democrat of 21 Dearborn Street to the Election Commission for a term to expire March 30th, 2026. A copy of the appointment letter is attached. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brenna Lungo-Koehn mayor. We do not have anyone who's able to attend from the administration tonight. I know Ms. DiBenedetto is very familiar to all of us. I don't know if you want to speak or we have questions from the councilors.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? Oh, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? I do see, oh, nope, my hand is gone. Okay, on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Vice-President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Congratulations. Moving on to 22-442, City of Medford call for state primary election Tuesday, September 6th, 2022. be it ordered that the election coordinator be and she is hereby authorized and directed to notify and warn such of the inhabitants of the city of Medford as were qualified by law to vote for candidates at the state primary election on Tuesday, September 6, 2022, to assemble at the polling places in their respective wards and precincts and there to give their votes for a governor, a lieutenant governor, an attorney general, a Secretary of State, a Treasurer, an Auditor, a Representative in Congress's 5th District, a Councilor in the 6th District, a Senator in General Court's 2nd Middlesex District, a Representative in General Court 23rd, 34th, and 35th Middlesex Districts, a District Attorney, Northern District, a Sheriff, Middlesex County, and such other vacancies as may exist or occur in the state primary election. And the polls of said state primary election shall open at 7 a.m. and remain open until 8 p.m. be it further order that the following name polling places be and they are hereby designated for use at the state primary election on September 6, 2022. Voting precincts, Ward 1, Precinct 1, Andrews Middle School, 3000 Mystic Valley Parkway. Ward 1, Precinct 2, Firefighters Club, 340 Salem Street. Ward 2, Precinct 1, Roberts Elementary School, 35 Court Street. Ward 2, Precinct 2, Roberts Elementary School, 35 Court Street. Ward 3, Precinct 1, American Legion Post 45, 321 Winthrop Street. Ward 3, Precinct 2, Temple Shalom, 475 Winthrop Street. Ward 4, Precinct 1, Tufts University, Cousins Gym, Front 161, College Ave. Ward 4, Precinct 2, Walkling Court, slash Auburn and North Street, Fondacaro Center. Ward 5, Precinct 1, Columbus Elementary School, 37 6th Ave, which, yes, this is the Missittuck, which we'll motion to amend that. So Ward 5, Precinct 2, Missittuck Elementary School, 37 Hicks Ave. at Ward 6, Precinct 1, West Medford Fire Station, 26 Harvard Avenue. Ward 6, Precinct 2, Brooks School, 388 High Street. Ward 7, Precinct 1, Mystic Valley Towers, North Building Entrance, Sales Office, 3600 Mystic Valley Parkway. Ward 7, Precinct 2, McGlynn K-8 Public School, 3004 Mystic Valley Parkway. Ward 8, Precinct 1, Senior Center, 101 Riverside Ave. And Ward 8, Precinct 2, South Medford Fire Station, zero Medford Street we have election. We have a motion from Councilor Scarpelli. I think it's Councilor Scarpelli to approve but we do have election coordinators. Anything else to add?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Do we have a motion to amend the language just to reflect that?
[Nicole Morell]: So the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve as amended by Vice President Bears, second by Councilor Collins. Any discussion from the public? None. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 7-4-0 in the negative. The motion passes. Moving on to 22-443. 22-443 to the Honorable Medford City Council in response to election advisory number 22-01. The following are the city of Medford's early in-person state primary voting dates along with our designated location for your approval. Howard F. Alden Council Chambers located at City Hall, second floor, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Mass. Saturday, August 27, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, August 28, 2022, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, August 29th, 2022, from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Tuesday, August 30th, 2022, from 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Wednesday, August 31st, 2022, from 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. Thursday, September 1st, 2022, 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. Friday, September 2nd, 2022, from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Notices will be duly posted at the date and time required. Respectfully submitted, Sandra Burbank-Gayle, Elections Coordinator. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-439 offered by Vice President Bears and Councilor Collins. Ordered by the City Council of the City of Medford that in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 59, Section 21CG of the Massachusetts General Laws, pending the approval of the Mayor of the City of Medford and with the approval of the Secretary of State's Office, the following question shall be placed on the ballot and submitted to the voters of Medford at the biennial state election to be held on Tuesday, November 8 2022 quote shall the city of Medford be allowed to assess an additional $12 million in real estate and personal property taxes for the purposes of the general operation of the Medford public schools for additional additional classroom teachers and staff classroom and infrastructure needs and classroom teacher and other district staff compensation $6 million. The general operation of the Medford public library for additional staff staff compensation books and materials needed $400,000. The general operation of the Department of Public Works for additional staff, road and sidewalk infrastructure needs and tree planting and maintenance $2,600,000. And for the operation of general government $3 million for which the monies from this assessment will be used for the fiscal year beginning July 1st, 2023. Councilor Collins or Vice Mayor Bears. Excellent affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. Councilor Collins, would you like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Favella.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng, Councilor Knight, Madam President, thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Scarpelli. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins and Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I do apologize. Councilor Scarpelli, was that a motion to table or just, was that an official motion or just? Okay, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I do know. So we have a number of residents that want to speak to the high number. If we could keep comments to two minutes, I encourage you or you do have to address comments to the chair. Please no personal attacks. And I will be watching the time and we'll be taking folks in person and on zoom. So name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We're having a meeting, as long as nothing else happens on August 10. So don't understand your language past part of me what we'll have a meeting on August 10 with the interim assessor to discuss that with the new assessor interim. So the old assessor.
[Nicole Morell]: name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Former Councilor Marks, I'm happy to extend you some additional time.
[Nicole Morell]: I've let folks speak to the end already. If our rules say five minutes, I'm happy to keep it at five minutes.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Castagnetti, you had your moment to speak, can you please?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Marks, I do, to your point, want to make sure we do hear from residents that are here to speak, so just.
[Nicole Morell]: It's not. You've had seven minutes.
[Nicole Morell]: We're allowing residents to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just encouraging if you want to hear from her.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Of course. Oops, hang on. Your mic just went off. It'll come back on. Just give it one moment. Shane, just the mic. There you go. It's on.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, okay. Go on.
[Nicole Morell]: I've been in Medford almost 10 years, go on.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, well- Let's put it that way. If you wanna talk about my life, I'm happy to correct you.
[Nicole Morell]: everyone pays taxes, regardless of their format. I'm not engaging in a debate, I said no personal tax, please continue.
[Nicole Morell]: Shame the mic is off. I'll repeat myself. Councilor Collins, if you'd like to invoke specific Councilors, I'm happy to have them speak. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please, and then I'm gonna just go to folks on Zoom that have had their hand up, and I'll go back and forth. They're just folks on Zoom that have had their hand up for a while. So give it a second for the mic to come back on. I don't know why, there we go. Name and address for the record, please. All right, okay. Shane, I don't know if the mic is going on. There, okay, it's on. Okay, okay, don't touch anything. Just don't touch anything. He'll do it in there, and it'll stay on. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to go to Dave McKenna on Zoom, and then we'll come right back. Mr. McKenna, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: The chambers could be quiet so we can hear the gentleman speaking. Thank you. Continue.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I had my kid three days before the end of the year, so it wasn't that bad.
[Nicole Morell]: We could reel it back to, I appreciate it, but just reel it back to the two and a half.
[Nicole Morell]: No names, no personal attacks. I don't care who we're talking about.
[Nicole Morell]: Again, if we could come back, I know you have, you can come back and talk at public participation at the end of the meeting to talk about all your grievances with each one of us. But if we could just focus on- Yeah, I am.
[Nicole Morell]: The suspend the rules is something we have voted. It's not something you just say and it happens.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, and then they just hired them, so.
[Nicole Morell]: That came from ARPA funding, that didn't come from the budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Again, I'm asking you, please focus on the paper at hand.
[Nicole Morell]: I am.
[Nicole Morell]: okay rule 21 and you are looking at rule 21 as far as finance papers so any finance paper appearing on the council agenda for the first time shall be automatically laid on the table for one week when such action is requested by any member that has been requested by councilor carriello you can table it to a date certain which would be one week from today uh the to the next meeting well it's one week in the rule so it's tabled for one week um as it's written in the rule that's tabling for one week so that would be to july 26th
[Nicole Morell]: So just to lay the paper on the table, which would effectively have to be.
[Nicole Morell]: You're welcome to speak at public participation when we revisit it, but the motion was just to lay the item on the table, which ends all debate. It ends our debate, it ends every debate.
[Nicole Morell]: You're welcome to speak at public participation at the end of the meeting, but the item has been tabled. There's no more debate on this item for the rule.
[Nicole Morell]: No, just at the end of the meeting, just at the public participation section.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to revert to the regular order of business, seconded by Councilor, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morell. Yes, the motion passes reverting to the regular order of business records the records of the meeting of June 22 on the motion of Council night to approve all the records.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one absent, zero negative. Motion passes. Reports of committees, 22-354. Move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Artisan Barrett to join 22-354, they both have the same number from June 28th and June 29th. On the motion to join and move approval, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Okay, they're not the same. Okay, they're honestly given the same number one was budget and one was the Air Force project.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Motion continues. Second by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero negative, the motion passes. We do have a motion with the next resolution is from Councilor Caraviello, so I'm going to skip that at the moment. We're going to go to 22-414 offered by Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest condolences to the friends and family of Oscar Green on his passing. Oscar was a long-time Medford resident, world-renowned veteran, author, and member of the Grace Church community, and an identical paper was also submitted by Councilor Caraviello, Vice President of Affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, sorry, the motion to join and approve. Does that motion work for you, Councilor Knight? Motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative one absence here in the negative the motion passes. The second. The next item to do for to do dash 433 is offered by myself, Councilor Caraviello also again has a similar paper. Enjoy on the motion of Councilor Knight to join. Seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears. Yes. Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in affirmative, one absent, motion passes. 22-433 and 22-434. So be it so resolved that the Medford City Council extend a happy birthday and congratulations to Gwendolyn B. Lee on the momentous occasion of her 100th birthday. Gwendolyn is an active and outstanding member of the West Medford Senior Club. So our good friend Henry Miller brought this to our attention of Gwendolyn's momentous birthday occasion. So we just want to extend a happy birthday and hope that we can extend a note, have a document from the council that we can have delivered to her, that I can deliver to Henry to deliver to her at the West Medford Senior Club. I know Henry would have liked to speak, but as sometimes we drive people out of the chambers because we keep going so late, so I'm sure. On the, anyone else, any discussion on the motion of Councilor Knight? I seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Councilor Caraviello, we just combined a few of your papers with. 22 dash, I'm sorry? Yes, so Councilor Caraviello will be absent for the remainder of the meeting. 22-412, notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, and via Zoom on Tuesday, July 19th at 7 p.m., a link to be posted no later than Friday, July 15th, 2022, on a petition from Starbucks Coffee, Daniel Brennan from an agent, 177 College Ave, aka 161 College Ave, Medford Mass 02155 for a special permit to amend its hours of operation in accordance with Medford Zoning Ordinance Chapter 94-7.2.1 to operate extended hours at its business at 177 College Ave, aka 161 College Ave, Medford Mass. 02155 said site being located in a mixed use zoning district as follows. Extended hours of operation requested, 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., Sundays through Saturdays. Petition and plans may be seen in the office of the city clerk. Room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford, Mass. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations slash aids. TDD 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an EEOAA 504 employer. By order of the city council, sign Adam L. Harvey, city clerk. advertised in the Medford Transcript and Somerville Journal, June 30th and July 7th. I do believe if Mr. Brennan is still with us, I did see him on the call. Okay, I see it. Mr. Brennan, if you could just give us a brief overview of what we have before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Brennan, are there any questions from the council, Council night, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, as this is a public hearing, we will be opening up for public comment. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of the petition before us? They're on Zoom or in person. Mr. Brennan, I'm assuming you are in favor of the petition?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the petition? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the petition in front of us, either in person or on Zoom?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Would that be with approval and to keep it open for 90 days, or you want to revisit this?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, and do you wanna register that as opposition to the position or?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to keep the public hearing open for 90 days as seconded by Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council? Seeing none, seeing none from the public. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative. The motion passes. 22-415 petition. I'm sorry, did I miss 413?
[Nicole Morell]: No, we didn't. No, we didn't. 413 at the beginning of the meeting. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry to torture you guys. Okay. I'm sorry. We're almost there. 22-432, City Clerk's Office notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing on July 19th, 2022 at 7 p.m. and the Howard F. All in Chambers at Medford City Hall 85 George P has to drive Medford mass oh 2155 zoom link will be posted not later than July 15 2022 to consider orders of taking for freeway and see Miller Drive in the city of Medford, the city council will consider whether to accept freedom way and Stephen our drive as a public way in the city. of the City of Medford and recommend as recommended by the Department of Public Works and the Community Development Board, a copy of the order is available for inspection in both the office of the city clerk room 103 and the office of the city engineer room 300 in Medford City Hall 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford Mass 02155. I don't believe, I'm not sure if we have anyone from the administration here. Oh, I do see Owen, all right, all right, calm down. Okay, I do see Mr. Martella is here. Hi. Oh, and if you could just give us an overview of what we're looking at.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, you got muted again.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Not amongst each other. I'll second the motion. Any further discussion from the council? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Oh, sorry, this is a public hearing, I apologize. Sorry. As this is a public hearing, we do open up to public comment. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of the petition before us? I see that. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, moderatoring.: : So we're telling in the city, we do have in front of us that both the city and the Community Development Board is in favor. So anyone else who likes to speak in favor. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, moderatoring.: : Seeing none. This portion of public hearing is closed. HAB-Charlotte Pitts, moderatoring.: : Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this petition. Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. So Councilor Knight, would you want to approve and waive the comment period or would you like to keep the comment period?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so on the motion of Councilor Knight to approve at the close of the six day public comment period, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in front of one absent zero in the negative the motion passes. Going back to some paper to do dash four and three briefly which is Councilor Caraviello's drive a motion to table that as he is no longer in attendance on the motion of Councilor Collins table to do dash 413 as seconded by.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, would you make that motion to table all of Councilor Caraviello's papers? So on the motion of Councilor Collins to table all of Councilor Caraviello's papers, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk. Please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six and affirmative one absence here and then I get the motion passes to do that for one five petition to reverse sign denial by Michael R Dolan and transfer that for both. for VOLTA. 760 Felsley, Medford, Mass. Reason for denial, elimination and movement is not permitted. We do have folks with VOLTA in front of us. If you'd like to just speak to the sign. Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for bearing with us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you request for donations.
[Nicole Morell]: This is a public private partnership. This is what you love.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? I want to thank you both for bearing with us. And this is just, you know, we've talked about if we want an EV future, this is the type of infrastructure we need. Everyone's grappling with having this type of infrastructure, how do you add it? So I think this is a great opportunity. I appreciate you coming before us. And I do just see one resident has their hand up. Tony, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I think the question actually is if someone comes and parks there all day.
[Nicole Morell]: I know we have you muted, but does that address your question, Tony?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli as seconded by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 22-416 was tabled, 22-417 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it so resolved by the Medford City Council that the City of Medford increase the property tax exemption for qualified seniors over 65 to the maximum 20% of the average assessed valuation of the residential property in the City of Medford allowed by Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 41C. and a half, via further resolve of the city of Medford, increase the income limit for property tax exemption for qualified seniors over 65 to the maximum income limit for the circuit breaker state income tax credit allowed by Massachusetts general law chapter 59, section five, clause 41C and a half, via further resolve of the city solicitor and interim chief assessor, review the proposed language above and submit any suggestions for changes to the council by July 14th. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on the motion of Vice President Bears as amended by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Co-ops. Co-ops. Co-ops.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to adjourn.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-363, Committee of the Whole. Tuesday, July 19, 2022 at 5.45 PM is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I didn't hear you, Justin, but we saw you mouth it. Your audio's not coming through.
[Nicole Morell]: 7 present, 0 absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Tuesday, July 19th, 2022 at 5.45 p.m. The meeting will take place on the Howard F. Alden Memorial Chambers on the second floor of Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The purpose of this meeting is to draft feedback for the MBTA on changes to bus service in Medford. The City Council has invited a representative from the MBTA and Director of Traffic and Transportation, Todd Blake, to attend this meeting. more further information aids and accommodations contact the city clerk at 71 393-2425 sincerely yours Nicole Morell council president. So this meeting is the result of a paper brought before us by Councilor Tseng and you know more greatly the result of the proposed changes under the META's bus network redesign. So there's been a number of meetings I mean, there's been one meeting virtually dedicated to the inner core, which Medford is part of, held by the MBTA. There's been a few in-person meetings and other virtual meetings dedicated to the larger network. So the purpose of this meeting is to gather feedback from residents as much as we can, and we can prepare something with the clerk and have that sent to the MBTA. I do know Director of Traffic and Transportation, Blake, is also eager to hear from more residents, as well as they have been having some feedback trickle into their office. So I'm happy to, any comments from the councillors first, and then we can open it up to the public. And we do not, we could not get anyone from the MBTA to attend, we did try, they did not send anyone for us, but these recommendations will be sent to them, and we were told that they were eager for our feedback. I see Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, now we can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any other councilors would like to speak on this before we hear from the public? Councilor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Just a few things before we get to public comment. So I want to note, so if you haven't yet, folks in person or on Zoom, there is a survey by the MBTA. If you search bus network redesign, you'll be able to get to this survey link. If you haven't taken that yet, please take it. I believe you can take it multiple times because the way the questions are, they ask kind of about, they assume you take one bus, one bus route all the time. So I believe you can take it multiple times and just talk about your different routes. Also, the city is gathering comment as well. So if you haven't yet you can email any comments to MBTA bus at Medford dash ma.gov. And there is also a phone line you can call with comments as well. And that's 781. 393-2480. So really, as many ways as you can reach out as you have the time, please kind of get those comments in. So now I will and there are also on the MBTA, there are website, there are additional in-person meetings but they're spread all around greater Boston which you know ironically we're talking about the challenges of getting places on the bus and they're places they're probably challenging to get to on the bus and on our limited train service at the moment so if folks want to come up in person feel free to just come up to the podium yep and we can hear from you. Oh and I do have a question I'm sorry I just want to ask director Blake a question would is there a possibility of our what we pay the MBTA being reassessed based on these service changes? Or how would that process potentially work?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. It's going over. So just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else like to speak? Name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And thank you for your hard work. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I think we have one hand up on Zoom. Would anyone else in person like to speak before we go to Zoom? You can also speak after we go do some Zoom folks too, if you think of something to say. I'm gonna go to Barbara Corbett on Zoom. If you could just share your name and address of the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Barbara. And then if I could just get your name and address for the record for us. Barbara Corbett, 68 Brookings Street. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Director Blake has his hand up to you. Just going to director of traffic and transportation, Todd Blake.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Blake. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Thank you, Representative Ferguson. Going to Jennifer Sullivan on Zoom. Name and address for the record, please, and I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Miss Sullivan. Is there anyone else who would like to speak tonight? Members of the public?
[Nicole Morell]: Director Blake, can you speak to the outreach that's been done on the from City Hall as far as alerting folks to this?
[Nicole Morell]: Do we know if there's any additional communication plan? I mean, I'm sure the council would be happy to make a motion to ask for that, but do we know if there's any additional communication plan with the deadline looming?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Ducey.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir, but folks who may be watching who aren't signed up for city alerts, you can sign up for those. If you go to the website medfordma.org and scroll down to alerts, you can sign up to get those on your cell phone if you're not already getting them on a landline or otherwise. Is there any further discussion from the council or anyone else from the public would like to speak? And again, so if you, let me just make sure I don't have any messages. So, sorry, just checking the chat. So again, if you don't wanna speak tonight, but you do wanna make sure your comments get in, you can email mbtabus at medford-ma.gov. That would be the city collecting feedback to then respond to the MBTA. We're gonna be collecting all the comments that were made tonight, the city clerk, and we'll put that together to deliver it to the MBTA. And you can also go to the MBTA website and take the survey as well and reach out to, you know, Rep. Barber, rep Garber Lee, rep Donato and let them know as well as Senator Jalen and let them know your feelings. So I know this puts a lot on the public. Ideally, you know, it would happen the other way where the MBTA is really working hard to solicit this but if folks can reach out any way they can, the more voices we get, hopefully, they will listen. And sorry, just checking. Okay. Um, just started this director, Blake just noting that other city departments have also posted elsewhere. For instance, this was there were notices posted in the housing facilities as far as these meetings and construction projects have flyers to shoot at them. Sometimes people mistake them from junk mail. So just Director Blake just sending me a chat mentioning some other ways that outreach has been performed. So if there is no further comment from the public or Councilors, we do have a motion on the floor from Vice President of Affairs. Mr. Clerk, I believe you have that motion. If you could read that back.
[Nicole Morell]: And can you read that motion back in its entirety, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of vices and bears as seconded by Councilor Caraviello Mr. Clerk if you could please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight is absent from the chambers.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng. Is that a second? Go ahead, you're on a little bit of a delay.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Parker.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Mr. Clerk, could you read that back when you have it?
[Nicole Morell]: Correct, thank you. Could you please call the roll?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Before we adjourn, I do just want to note that there are a few other MBTA meetings that people can attend online or in person if they're able to get there. Those can be seen at mbta.com slash project slash bus dash network dash redesign. The next meetings, there is one on the 21st at the Wonderland Station Revere, the 26th is a, system-wide virtual meeting. And then the 28th, there is another in-person public hearing at the State Transportation Building in Boston. So again, that information is on the website if folks would like to attend either virtually or in-person. Do I have any further discussion or motion? On the motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, zero in the negative. The meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 26, the regular meeting of the Medford City Council, June 28th, 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Seven present, zero absent. Please rise to salute the flag.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam President, motion to suspend the rules to take communications from the mayor on the motion of ice is embarrassed to suspend the rules to take communications from the mayor second by council night all those in favor. All those opposed the motion passes to to dash 422 the electronic delivery to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding year and transfers for fiscal year 2022. Dear President Morell and members of the city council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves the following end of year transfers for FY 2022. From finance personnel, $55,000 to finance ordinary $55,000. From police personnel, $20,000 to finance ordinary $20,000. From treasury personnel, $5,666 to treasury ordinary $5,666. From fire department personnel, $192,000 to law ordinary $192,000. From data processing personnel, $25,000 to data processing ordinary $25,000. From clerk personnel, $468 to clerk ordinary $468. From cable PEG personnel, $26,948 to cable PEG ordinary $26,948. from Chevalier theater personnel $1,087 to Chevalier theater ordinary $1,087 from fire department personnel. $25,946 to Fire Department Ordinary, $25,946. From Traffic Commission Personnel, $176 to Traffic Commission Ordinary, $176. From Parks Department Personnel, $9,640 to Parks Department Ordinary, $9,640. From Pool Slash Ponds Ordinary, $405 to Pool Slash Ponds Personnel, $405. From human resources personnel slash ordinary $100,000 to diversity personnel slash ordinary $100,000 from insurance personnel slash ordinary $11,541 to workers comp personnel slash ordinary $11,541. From police personnel, $100,000 to parking, ordinary $100,000. From police personnel, $50,000 to elections personnel, $50,000. From facilities personnel, $30,000 to electrical personnel, $30,000. From facilities personnel, $55,000 to building personnel, $55,000. Total $708,877. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely yours, Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor. Do I have any discussion on the end of year transfers?
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. Dr. Dickinson, if you could.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Not seeing unless they're under a different name.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. I see two on mute. Deborah Ecker, name and address for the record, please, and you, there you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, if you could please, if you can offer some insight into the settlements that were referenced.
[Nicole Morell]: No one can answer why those settlements didn't come before the council.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff, can you speak to that?
[Nicole Morell]: And can you speak to why these didn't, these, well, I understand you said this 55,000 was previously approved, but the 137,000, do you know why that didn't come to this body? I would have to defer to Council on that. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't think I got that packet. Did I get that packet?
[Nicole Morell]: Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Please keep it up to five minutes as that's our, our limiting we have a pack house tonight. They may address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Ecker, can you, or Madam Chief of Staff?
[Nicole Morell]: You want those two separate motions?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I understand your frustration, but I would like to remind you- How much longer do we need to wait for the Warren articles that you requested for three years?
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff, I'm not sure what the question is. Thank you, President Morell. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. South, we do have a rule that you can only speak once on a topic. We're just going to try to move through. Thank you. So we have too much on the floor from Vice Mayor Bears. Is there any further discussion from the council? Is there any from the public who would like to speak on this who has not spoken yet?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council. Two motions on the floor from Vice President Bears. So the first one as amended by Councilor Caraviello, request from the administration, any settlements over $2,500 from the past year, and that was amended by Councilor Caraviello to go to the past two years, correct? January 1, 2020, okay. Do I have a second on that motion? Seconded by Councilor Knight. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, as amended by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. So the second motion is to cut the transfer line of the fire department personnel to the law department, which the original amount is $192,000. Vice President Bears has motion to cut that by $55,000. Does that motion have a second? Seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. It's a money.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in favor, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Do I have a motion on the main paper?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the main paper seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. This is the yes, yes. So the motion is to approve the main paper, minus the cost we just voted for.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven firms here in the negative emotion passes to dash 423 to the honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding use of retained earnings your present morale and members of the City Council I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body, approve the appropriation of retained earnings and the amount of $500,000 and zero cents the amount is being Requested to subsidize the fiscal year 2023 water and sewer enterprise fund budget retained earnings are reserves of the water and sewer fund reserves can be used for any lawful purpose but serve primarily to provide financial security in cases of unforeseen events or to reduce the need for additional revenue from increased water and sewer rates. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter since daily Breanna Lungo-Koehn Mayor, Madam President want to know that we did get an attempted amendment by the mayor on this paper. Unfortunately, because it was not posted on the agenda, and we can't amend the money paper on the spot. She would have to come back with that amendment. I would motion to table this pending a resubmission at our July meeting on the motion of vice president bears to table second by Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, it's the motion table is undebatable. I mean, if you have something, Dr. Dickinson, that's gonna inform us, but.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you able to address that question, why we can't vote through the 500,000?
[Nicole Morell]: The amendment actually hasn't been submitted because we've got an email.
[Nicole Morell]: It's a procedure problem and it's just, we got this update in our email. It's not something that's been publicly posted. People aren't able to speak on it.
[Nicole Morell]: just wanted to be any further discussion for the council.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vice president bears to approve the original amount before a seconded by counter Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero negative the motion passes to two dash four to four to honorable president and members of the Medford City Council regarding these casino community impact funds for fiscal year 2023 budget your president morale and members of the city council I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body appropriate $135,247 and zero cents and casino community impact funds for the FY 23 budget to fund a staff transportation engineer position and motor vehicle garage repairman me oh three in the DPW this request is in compliance with the Medford and when casino surrounding community impact agreement, thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chair and staff, there are seats in front too, so you don't have to keep going all the way.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to approve on the motion of ice and bears to approve seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative, two in the negative, the motion passes. 22-425, to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding cemetery perpetual care for fiscal year 2023 budget. Dear President Morell and members of the city council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body appropriate $199,958.64 in cemetery perpetual care funds for the FY23 budget to fund the cemetery ordinary expense budget. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brenna Langerford, Mayor. Any discussion on this paper? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in favor, zero in the negative, the motion passes. 22-426, the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council, dear President Morell and city councilors, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves the appropriation of one free cash in the amount of $305,000 and zero cents to purchase the following items. $165,000 to purchase three hybrid police cruisers for the police department. $90,000 for the groundwater remediation project at 448 High Street and $50,000 to replace funding in the recreation revolving account which was used to make payment to the Department of Conservation and Recreation for five years worth of lease payments at the La Conte rink. The balance of free cash before this vote is $15,625,799. Two, retain earnings from the water enterprise in the amount of $220,000.00 to purchase the following items. $140,000.00 for a six-wheel dump truck for DPW Water Division and $80,000.00 for a small one-ton dump truck with plow for the DPW Water Division. The balance retained earnings in the water enterprise before this vote is $8,712,776. The following department heads will be available to answer any questions believe Chief Jack Buckley, DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon, Superintendent of Equipment Mike Wenzel and Recreation Director, Kevin Bailey respectfully submitted Brianna Longo current mayor. So any questions from the Councilor or the department heads like to come up.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Councilor Knight to sever the police cruisers for the rest of the papers. I have a second on that motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. The paper is severed.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to speak on the cruisers chief?
[Nicole Morell]: Well, it's hybrid and EV.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. bears then back to Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll go to Councilor Caraviello for taking up that motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from councilors? So we do have a motion on the floor. Councilor Knight withdraws his motion. So we don't need to take up, but we already voted on your motion. We already, oh, sorry. We already voted on the motion to separate. We already approved that motion. So we have the motion on the floor from Vice-President Bears. Would you like to second that? Okay, seconded by Councilor Knight. Are there any members of the public would like to speak? I do see one just one question came through the zoom chat. If I could just anyone else like to speak. So this is just from Steve schnapp. So this is just a question which I think Councilor Collins kind of addresses why has the purchase of new police cruisers not been in the police department budget for the last two decades as was said is this because it's a capital item and it just Sorry, can you hear me? If you're able to provide background, well, historically, the police cruisers are not included in the yearly budget. There's just disprecedence.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, okay, because it's a capital request, right. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I wanna redirect to the paper that's before us. Sorry about that. I just know that. Are you speaking on the paper before us Mr. South or what?
[Nicole Morell]: We can circle back to it during the main budget talks. We have a motion on the floor. We have some folks who wanna speak on this paper. So I'm happy to go back to that. So we do have a number of folks who wanna speak on Zoom. I have some, just for the folks watching on Zoom, I have some chats coming in. I'm gonna turn off the chat. If you'd like to speak, please just raise your hand. It's too much for me to try to read everything that comes to the chat. If you don't feel comfortable giving your address on Zoom, you can always message it to the clerk after the fact. RA Goffman name and address for the record, please. And Chief Buckley, these questions are going to be directed to you if you want to give you the time to walk over.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief Buckley. Vice President Bears and then we have another person.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so we have Penelope Taylor. Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: You want to just more of a deeper mechanic answer to the previous question. Oh, sorry, you got muted.
[Nicole Morell]: So I think there's two questions just first just the level of discretion you have and preparing the budget I believe is the question.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Does that, I think, I think Penny is, okay, I'm getting a thumbs up. So I feel embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we still have one more person for public participation on Zoom. Rick Capraro, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead. Oh, sorry. Okay, so we have, thank you, Chief. Motion on the floor from vices and bears to rejoin and approve the paper, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Did you get that motion, Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, Senator Fernandez, you're in the negative, the motion passes. 22-427, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding sale of lots and graves funds for fiscal year 2023 budget. Dear President Morell and members of the city council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body appropriate $118,750.00 in sale of lots and graves funds for the FY23 budget to fund the cemetery salary expense budget Thank you for your kind attention to this matter sincerely got along occurred mayor motion to approve the discussion on the motion of vice president bears to approve seconded by Councilor Scarpelli Mr. Clerk please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-428 to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding ARPA revenue loss. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable Body approve $7,292,100.00 in ARPA funds for the FY23 budget in relation to revenue losses due to COVID-19 as specified by the U.S. Treasury for the purpose of funding fiscal year 2023 personnel salaries in the following departments. $3,542,100 in the school department, $1,250,000 in the Department of Public Works highway, $1,250,000 in the fire department $1,250,000 in the police department for the total amount of $7,292,100 and zero cents. Thanks for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely brown logo for me.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Can someone from the administration provide that information? We do have our federal funds manager here. I think we have the APRA funds manager.
[Nicole Morell]: Molly, would you like to come up? just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Molly.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Manager Kivy. Any further discussion from the council? Those of the public who would like to speak? Do you have two motions on the floor?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Edwards.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Representative Ferris. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: It's not just about them. It should come back on.
[Nicole Morell]: We have two motions before us. We're talking about the free cash paper right now. We just have two motions before us to move that through. Then we will get to the full budget. And I want to make sure you guys can speak, but just trying to move this paper through and then we'll get to the whole budget if that's okay. Councilor Caraviello, do you have anything else on the paper before us?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh yeah, I said free cash, I meant ARPA revenue replacement, apologies. So we have two motions on the floor. We have a motion from, we'll take Councilor Caraviello's motion first, which is to request from the Federal Funds Manager a full outline of ARPA spending to date, correct Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by- Second. Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Motion on the main paper from Vice President Bears as seconded by- Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-408, to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding the fiscal year 2023 budget submission revised. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws chapter four, section 32, I respectfully request and recommend that the City Council approve the proposed fiscal year 2023 budget as submitted. The total submitted appropriation for all departments, including schools is $201,154,843.02. account details will be included within the budget presentation which will be available electronically on June 21 2022 in an interactive and searchable format via the city's website at www.medfordmad.org slash mayor slash city dash budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I do have a forest, the entire table. I can read it unless Councilors would like me not to. You want me to read it? Yeah, so the total amount for 2023 salaries is $102,065,453. And the total amount for 2023 expenses is $99,089,390.02. Again, bringing the total proposed budget to $201,154,843.02. And we do have the mayor before us, if there's any questions from the council before we hear from the mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you for your participation on the budget paper. And then folks on Zoom, raise your hand. Folks in person, feel free to line up or take turns and come to the podium, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not, thank you. Yeah, I'm gonna stack up one more.
[Nicole Morell]: And just whatever, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Just one moment. Just your mic went out, Shane. Good talking person. There you go. Just name and address for the record, please. Yep, just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just going to keep it to folks speaking once on the paper beforehand. We have some folks on Zoom who want to speak. I do. Mr. Murphy, if you want to, if there's anyone else in person who would like to speak before we move to Zoom. Mr. Murphy, I know you wanted to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: I do. Yeah, we have one more person here. Why don't we get out of the way? And then yeah, there was some folks on zoom. I do just want to remind folks not that's happened. But just when people speak, just try to not to. The goal is to have follow up participation not to engage in debates back and forth.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Also, did the AC, did the HVAC stop? It's very quiet and it's getting warm. Okay. Going to Zoom. Anna, name and address for the record, please. I'm sorry, Anna, your last name, I'm sorry. And then I'm gonna unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to breeze phone name and address for the record, please. And also I'm just keep comments if you could to three minutes and I will just hold up the finger when you have one minute left, you could search for me on the zoom screen. So breeze phone, just name and address for the record, please. Oops, try again. You do have your hand up perhaps.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, we can hear you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Matt Barlow, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Jessica, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Christina, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: If you folks would like to speak on Zoom, if everyone could just keep their comments brief, I know it's almost 11 o'clock, people wanna, you know, I know councilors still have questions, they have things, I don't know if there's motions, just so people can find out what happens with this budget before it's, you know, June 29th, if we could please keep comments brief. Melanie, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Eunice. Sophie, new address to the record, please. I see folks have spoken earlier in the meeting. If we could please, please keep it brief. Your comments are valuable. Again, it's almost 11 p.m.
[Nicole Morell]: So maybe we could focus a little bit less on the paper that is before us, which is the FYI 2023 proposed budget. Sophie, name and address the record, please. And then we'll go. We'll go to you. Well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Going to Mr. Navarre in person, then we'll go back to Zoom. Folks, if we could keep our comments to one minute at this point, just because we are at... And one minute and the budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, there's just three folks left on zoom. Well, okay, don't mind sitting tight. We can revisit it. Okay, so I have a motion from vice chairs to hold additional public participation until after we move through this budget paper, correct? Do I have a second on that motion? Okay, only three people, no one else can raise their hand at this point, but you're gonna have to talk about participation after the budget paper. So going to Penelope, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. All right. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: And last, Mr. Casagnani snuck in. Mr. Casagnani, for the sake of Councilor Knight's health, please don't bring up Prop 2.5. Please go ahead. Mr. Castagnetti, maybe he walked away.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you hear me dear?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. You don't have to do that. Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti, okay. Vice, Mr. Murphy, if you could be brief.
[Nicole Morell]: I know, you're right. No. Okay, Vice President Bears, do you have something that needs to go before Mr. Murphy? Yes, I do. Okay, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Keep going.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to take, would the council like to take the motions as they come, or do you want to hear all of his motions first?
[Nicole Morell]: There's a little face, yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: It was on.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Harris. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I honestly don't know anymore.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do I have a second on that motion from Councilor Knight? Seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll. Seconded by Councilor Collins. Could you repeat the number? Pages it in the budget book? Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Chief Buckley. There you go. It's on. You don't have to touch anything.
[Nicole Morell]: As I was saying before, the council did vote to cut KP law last year, and seemingly there was no break in service. So I'm not even sure what impact it has, honestly. It's because the administration seemed to operate the way they wanted to operate anyways. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Commissioner McGibbon.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Senator Fernandez, you're on the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like that in the form of a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice-Chair Bears, All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Just a question for
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Can I address for the record, please?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Do I have a second on Councilor Collins' motion? Councilor Kerr-Beall.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? We have some members of the public on Zoom who would like to speak. Mayor Gaglio, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Audrey, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Audrey, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: So on a motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice-Chair Ferris, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No. Four in the affirmative, three in the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: That's all one motion? Yep. Do you have it, Mr. Clerk? Could you please read that back to me?
[Nicole Morell]: I have a second on that motion. Second by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Second by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, will you please read back that motion for me?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? The motion, Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Councilor Collins, Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one in the negative, the motion passes. Any further discussion or motions from the council at this point? Mr. Murphy, if you'd like to come back.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Madam Superintendent.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any other councilors like to speak? This is embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Svang, I know Councilors have some kind of closing statements. It's just It's 12, 11 a.m.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the council at this time? I do see Director Hunt on Zoom who hasn't spoken yet, and then I'll go to you, Madam Chief of Staff.
[Nicole Morell]: So I have a motion from Councilor Collins to return to our, because we still have a agenda.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a motion to
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to revise the table paper, budget paper 22-408 and take up paper 22-409? Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-409. 409 or 429? Sorry, 409. Which one's 409? It's the petition for grant of location. Oh, okay.
[Nicole Morell]: National Grid North Vanderbilt, Massachusetts, Gas Locations, Metro Massachusetts City Clerk's Office. You are hereby notified that the Metro City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Memorial Auditorium, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, City Hall, Metro Mass at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 28, 2022. But there's a link to be posted no later than June 24 2022 and a petition of National Grid Inc. for permission for installation of a replacement regular station in and under the following public streets lanes highways and places of the city of Medford and for pipes valves governors manholes and other structures fixtures and appurtenances. designed or intended to protect or operate said means and accomplish the objectives of said company and the digging up and opening the ground to lay the same place to install a replacement regular regulator station in the sidewalk along Harbor Street in accordance with plans labeled w slash o number 90000195. 252, dated April 14th, 2022, last revised on June 2nd, 2022, and filed in the office of the city clerk, wherefore it prays that after due notice and hearings as providing by-law, it be granted a location for and permission for installation of a replacement regulator station under the following public streets, lanes, highways, and places of the city of Medford, and for the pipes, valves, governors, manholes, and other structures, fixtures, and appurtenances designed or intended to protect or operate said means and accomplish the objects of said company and the digging up and opening the ground to lay or place same Harvard Street, Medford, Massachusetts and available for inspection in the office of the city clerk, Medford City Hall, room 103-85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155. The following, the following, I'm almost done. The following the streets and highways referred to to install a replacement regulator station in the sidewalk on Harbor Street location approximately is shown on plan label w slash oh number 9000195. 252, dated April 14, 2022, last revised on June 2nd, 2022, and filed with the office of the city clerk, approved chief engineer, and the following conditions. The engineering division received revised plans from national grid that includes a six inch regulator vault replacement in Harvard street with latest revision date of June 2nd, 2022. The plan appears to address comments from engineering division review. The engineering division recommends that this grand location be approved with the following conditions.
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion of Vice President Bear, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Either I think Ms. Cuddy or we do have, I don't know who it is.
[Nicole Morell]: Commissioner McGibbon, if you want to speak on the conditions of this grant allocation.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council at this time? Um, sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, yep.
[Nicole Morell]: Where is this is a public hearing. I do need to open the public hearing. So if there is anyone who would like to speak in favor of the paper at hand, please speak now. Ms. Cuddy, that would be you if you want to speak in favor of the paper. Yes, I'm in favor of this project. Thank you. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the paper? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And as this is a public hearing, is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the paper? No person on Zoom. Seeing none, portion of the public hearing is closed. Do I have a motion on the floor? So we do have a new, with the new council rules, it's a six day public comment period, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Knight to approve with the waiting period, seconded by Councilor Tseng, what call can I do?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, Senator Fernandez, you're in the negative, the motion passes. I'm gonna pass off to, thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I have no questions, just the fact that you stayed here all night for this moment makes you clearly qualified for the role. So thank you for being here for six hours and into the next day. Same to you, Joan.
[Nicole Morell]: So, do I have a motion to take from the table 22-408? Or do you want to go through records? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Madam Mayor, Madam Chief of Staff.
[Nicole Morell]: And would this be, for clarity, would this be, I mean, obviously the library number has changed, but the other numbers you presented at the beginning of the meeting, the other recommendations, would those still be?
[Nicole Morell]: And I'm sorry, was there another amount related to the schools earlier?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Let's keep it short.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I have Councilor Collins, Councilor Scarpelli, Vice-President Bears, Mayor Malauulu. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Vice Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I think, I know we're kind of going off the rails right now. Councilor Tseng won't be available, he'll be on a plane. I'll vote tonight or this morning, whatever time it is right now, just to signal that. I have no problem voting. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, thank you. Vice President Bears, you did have the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Okay, thank you. And I'll be brief. Oh, no, that's the only thing I can do is I try to be as much a straight shooter as I can be. We asked for these things, perhaps in a way of, you know, a way to get attention, and you're delivering and I can only act in good faith on what you're promising. I have been burned a little bit before that's brought us here, but I'm gonna act in good faith. And I know so often here, we'll reference our family sometimes, but we don't reference the fact of the hours and hours we're away from our family. And I've been looking at my phone all night because I have a very unhappy six month old that I want nothing more than to be with right now. But to get to a budget that we've been fighting for for months, and hours, and what feels like months in this very meeting, that I can go home, and I know he's six months old, but that I can go home and say that we fought for something, and we got what we asked for, and we got what our residents asked for, and we got what the people deserve, and the mayor came to the table. That feels so much better than going home at 1 a.m. and saying, yes, I have no idea what's gonna happen next. So I thank you. Again, I wish this timeline happened over the past several months as opposed to the past several hours, but I appreciate you acting in good faith and coming with these numbers to support our city and support what we've heard from residents. So thank you. I do want to know any motions just as far as the clerk was noting that it would probably be easier to reconsider cuts rather than trying to do a lot of different moves. Councilor, I'm sorry. Councilor, sorry. This is embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Any further questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: I am not around during the day.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Yes, please read that back. That's Yeah, I think we do them each separately. Yep.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone on Zoom or in the chambers? No, President Dahl. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so I do not see anyone on Zoom or in the chambers who has stood to speak on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. I can't, out of my scope of vision.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry. No, I apologize. So on the motion, do any councilors need that? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff, I don't know if you were able to hear any of that. Councilor Knight's request to just continue conversation to turn our videographer position to an hourly rate to better reflect the amount of work that's done. Or a better stipend. Or a better stipend, particularly for nights like this.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want a motion around that or it's just the verbal commitment enough at this point? Okay. We're about an hour and a half into a brand new day.
[Nicole Morell]: Please. If you could Mr. Clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: But that's a whole different story. That was actually referenced in the beginning of the meeting, that amount of money was.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just embarrassed if I could know, I'm still chairing just for, I know we're all tired, but.
[Nicole Morell]: You were calling on Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: So I do have a motion on the floor for the $300,000 Motion from Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, if you could read back the language.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there any members of the public who would like to speak on this reallocation?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, the plan is that any votes we have to reconsider.
[Nicole Morell]: We take this will reconsider those votes.
[Nicole Morell]: There is a motion on the floor to do so. Thank you. So on the motion of Vice Mayor seconded by Councilor Tseng Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in affirmative, one absent, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Mayor Bears to reconsider that cut to the law services, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the, I think that's a roll call. Please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in favor, I was hearing the negative, the motion passes. a motion to restore the amount or Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: So would it be to reject the cut or to accept the cut?
[Nicole Morell]: So do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to approve the cut. So we're voting on the motion to approve the cut. Okay. We're not. I'm just listening. We'll vote.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: That is embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct. President Morell, could you just clarify which cut we're referring to? This is the law, the 81600 at this point. To approve the cut?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we're just trying to.
[Nicole Morell]: No. Zero on the affirmative, seven on the negative, the motion fails. The cut is rejected.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one in the negative. The motion passes. Motion on the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: No one's having fun. No wait, sorry, it's a motion to accept, just for consistency. Okay, so on the motion, Councilor Collins to accept the cut, seconded by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No, zero in the affirmative, seven in the negative, the motion fails. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Ices and Bears to approve the mayor's fiscal year 23 budget as amended, seconded by Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: We're going to revisit. Councilor Knight said he would.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the council? Just briefly, I already noted before just my thanks to the mayor. I wanna thank the council for their willingness to take part in what has been a very wild ride of a budget season as we navigated this strange place. I think it is a testament to how far this body has come. Two years ago, council budget talks came to a halt for a less than perfect situation. And we had a less, less, less, less than perfect situation this year, and everyone still came to the table for every meeting that they could, COVID and family and everything else barred. So I just want to thank my fellow Councilors for navigating this process with me in good faith. So on the motion of, no, no. On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Do I have a second?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to table the remainder of the agenda with the exception of the committee reports and records, seconded by?
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Records of the meeting of June 21st, 2022 were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committee, June 21st, 2022. Committee of the whole report to follow, this was the budget meeting on the schools. All right, and 22-354, June 22nd, 2022. This was the budget meeting on police and remaining smaller budgets. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Any motion to adjourn?
[Nicole Morell]: 22-354 committee of the whole meeting notice for Wednesday, June 15th, 2022 at 6 p.m. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 7 present, 0 absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, June 15th, 2022 at 6 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the fiscal year 2023 city budget, paper 22-354. The city council will discuss proposed budgets for the following departments, Assessor, Cable, Health slash Civil Defense, Historical Commission, Parking Enforcement, and Treasury slash Collections. City Council has invited Mayor Brianna Limbaugh-Kern, Chief of Staff Nina Nazarian, Finance Director Bob Dickinson, and relevant department heads and Medford Public School administrators to attend. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So we have a number of budgets before us tonight, and we will start with the assessor's budget. We have former chief assessor Ellen Bordeaux with us, who is the interim or acting interim assessor at the moment, as replacement is sought for her. So if you could give us any highlights about the budget before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Alan. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's good. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further questions on the assessor budget? Any questions from members of the public? Seeing none, thank you so much for your time, Alan. You're very welcome. Enjoy your evening. Thank you. We have next, just going in the order of what's presented to us. We do have civil defense, which goes with the health department, if we want to take civil defense and board of health.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so we'll start with health, civil defense, animal control. Do all those together, Marion. Great, thank you. So if you want to go through the budgets before us, any highlights, anything you'd like to pull out, and then we'll just go to questions. Okay, thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Marianne. Good.
[Nicole Morell]: We have Councilor Collins, Vice-President Bears, and Councilor Caraviello, and Councilor Sett.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Usually no questions left for me so please ask some questions are made.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions from the Council? I also want to just thank you again, Marianne. I mean, you deserve special thanks every year, but I hope sometime soon you don't deserve special thanks for what you've had to go through in your department. So I appreciate your hard work over the past two and a half years, particularly. I know we have civil defense. I was actually supposed to take treasury collector. I know you're trying to get out of here. So if we could take a beat, we'll take that, and then we'll come back for civil defense. Thank you, I appreciate it. I know I had it in my notes too, and I just saw it in my notes.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions on Treasurer Collector? Judy, I just have one question. You mentioned the 25 cent fee for paying online.
[Nicole Morell]: For sure. Yeah. Okay. Seeing if there's any questions from the public. Not seeing any discussion on the council is done. Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And we'll take you back for, for civil defense. Thank you for allowing us to do that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions at this expense? being none. See you again Marianne. Thank you very much. All right so we have uh I figure we could take parking first just because our community media friends I think have to be with us till the end correct or okay I mean if you're okay um yeah I guess do you get to leave when you're done or okay all right we'll take you. trying to move people out if they're trying to get out. I just assumed you had to be here all night. So since you can leave when you're done, we'll take you. All right, so we have the Peg Access Metro Community Media budget in front of us. Kevin Harrington, if you'd like to give us an overview.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: There's plenty of dealer power down there, I'm sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if you're watching right now, you're halfway there.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions on community media? Seeing none.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, we have parking and the historical commission. I'm not seeing Director Morrison on the call, Chief of Staff, Madam Chief of Staff. Will you be presenting on parking?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we can also, we can take the historical commission, but then I also, I saw Ryan Hayward on, I know we got a letter, so if you want to just read the letter. He was on, he's no longer on.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we're waiting. Nina's trying to track down Director Morrison for parking. So we're going to go. We'll go to the Historical Commission. Don't have anyone here from the Historical Commission at the time. We did get a letter from them that I can read into the record at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll skip over that part.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, this email came in at 9.58 this morning. It came with I went to council, it should have gone to all of us, it came with a number of budget sheets. This is from Jennifer Keenan, the chair of the Medford Historical Commission. Regarding the Historical Commission FY23 increased budget request, dear Madam President, with regard to the proposed FY23 budget for the Medford Historical Commission, the requested increase is to provide matching funds for a survey and planning grant from the Massachusetts Historical Commission. The mayor is fully supportive of this annual funding and has requested an increase of $3,000 on our behalf. The city has accepted the survey and planning award and is committed to funding the project. The nominal increase reflects the rising cost of preservation work and every dollar goes to fairly compensate the consultant hired to undertake these valuable planning projects. You may not be aware, but the city of Medford is a certified local government for the communities with this designation and guarantees that a portion of state level funding for historic preservation will be passed along to applicants. This puts Medford in a small pool of competition, and we've consistently secured survey and planning grants since 2012. Awards from the Massachusetts Historical Commission total 125,000 to date. Survey and planning grant projects undertake research and documentation of the city's historic resources. Our dense landscape is a record of the past. It is changing every day, and it's important to capture a small amount of the best representative structures that reflect important moments in the cultural narrative. Moving neighborhood by neighborhood, the commission hires a paid consultant to select and record properties on state inventory forms. The process is overseen by the Massachusetts Historical Commission, and forms are made available online. These inventory forms are not just a window into the past, they're a valuable tool, they're used by the commission, by planning agencies, state agencies, and the general public. As a result of this work, we have added more than 1,000 inventory forms covering the neighborhoods of West Medford, Medford Square, East Medford, Wellington Hillside, South Medford, Winter Hill, and the Brickyard Slash Mystic Park. We have learned that there are less than 3000 historic structures sorry 3000 structures predating 1900s. These buildings are rare non renewable resource this documentation work allows us to not only understand their importance but to ensure their history is captured on paper in the hopes that may someday translate into additional recognition and protection. This year, the commission will hire a consultant to undertake work in Fulton Heights. The $35,000 S&P project requires $17,500 match. This is an increase of $1,500 from previous years. The grant is reimbursable. We are required to expend the amount before compensation to the Commonwealth. This doubles the amount required, thus reflecting the increase. The reason we cannot match these funds from our normal budget is that every year we spend 100% of our budget, which is allotted to demo, delay, administration, legal postings, and a handful of subscriptions to related organizations. We consistently spend our budget and do not expect a downturn in demand. Loss of funding would be detrimental to the ability to operate. We recommend you review our annual report for the prior year to see the full spread of activities. We hope this brief summary answers your questions. For additional information, if you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at historicalcommission at medford-ma.gov. Sincerely, Jennifer N. Keenan, Chair, Medford Historical Commission.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Here, Mike, if you can make it long.
[Nicole Morell]: I just want to note for clarity, although it's always very confusing, historic districts are under the historic district commission. Just, I know you did one more side just for clarity.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight and Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that's prevail. And yeah, I would agree with racism bears assessment where I think, you know, again watching me as I feel like the historic district commission has is definitely perhaps may have lost the thread at this point. I do think, you know, I think we're hearing from some of the same people I think like many things. There is the good intention as far as the demo delay, but like many things, the people who want to get around it will, the people who want to play nice are the ones who end up getting hurt in the process, the people who might not have the coffers for it. So I do agree that I think there is some improvement to be made in that whole process. And it's, you know, part of it is an ordinance that can be changed.
[Nicole Morell]: You're in a council meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: So Councilor Knight, do you have a motion on the floor?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on the historical commission? Seeing none, we will go back to Madam Chief of Staff. Do we have anyone from the parking department or will you be presenting that budget?
[Nicole Morell]: OK, great. Oh, there we go. Morrison, I see now. Director Morrison, would you like to just give us an overview of the budget that we're looking at? And then we can go around with questions. And I will ask you to unmute.
[Nicole Morell]: Hello, we can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: We can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: If you'd like to give us just an overview or highlights from the parking budget that we have before us, and then we will just have questions from the council and any members of the public.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Morrison. Do we have any questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: We have a question from Vice President Bears. Thank you for the brief overview. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Chief of Staff Nazarian has her hand up. Nina has her hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Director Dickinson, do you have any projections you can share? You can come to the mic. I know. Even if it's just no, you can come to the mic.
[Nicole Morell]: And that's revenue since March 1st?
[Nicole Morell]: And that goes through the end of May or today.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so for March 3 at the end of May 160,000.
[Nicole Morell]: Your bank would do it for you.
[Nicole Morell]: I understand your frustration. I think we're looking at issues that predate Director Morrison, particularly.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and just my request is whatever department we decide that is, if we could provide them the support to get that done because we're really inhibiting our residents.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Chief of staff has her hand up, Madam Chief of staff.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion on the parking budget? Seeing none. Thank you, Director Morrison. That concludes the budgets we have before us tonight. We did table veterans on Saturday because we have been meeting for four hours and the chair of the veteran subcommittee Wasn't there, do we wanna take that back up or save it for a future date? Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you wanna take, we tabled veterans on Saturday because it was at the end of the meeting and you, do you wanna do it now or do you wanna do? Chief of staff Nazarian, would it be you who's gonna speak on veterans?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we can take that. I'll give you I'll give folks a minute just to find it.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I was giving folks a chance to pull it up. I realized, I don't think we ever got a hard copy we have in our email.
[Nicole Morell]: You have a hard copy? Okay, great. Does everyone else have everything they need?
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead, Councilor Carvill.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions on the veterans budget?
[Nicole Morell]: So I was I was happy with any further discussion from the council. Seeing none, this concludes the veterans budget includes the budgets before us tonight. I just want to note before we adjourn that the meeting for the budget meeting for tomorrow has been canceled, we will be taking schools on Tuesday to allow the council to review the school budget that was delivered to us today so that will be moving to Tuesday to allow time for that. The police budget and remaining any remaining budgets will be scheduled for Wednesday.
[Nicole Morell]: Can we expect hard copies of the school budget?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Further discussion, anything else? Do I have a motion to adjourn? I have a motion of Councilor Caraviello to adjourn. All those in favor? All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 24th regular meeting of the Medford City Council June 14 2022 is called to order, Mr. Clerk, please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng present present row, present seven present zero absent, please rise to salute the flag.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven affirmative, zero negative. The rules are suspended. 22-381, petition for zoning amendment. The undersigned property owners of the parcels located at 222-230-236 Boston Avenue and 67 North Street comprising approximately 1.4 acres petition to change the current zoning designation from industrial to office two as rewritten in the zoning bylaws. signed for each address 222 Boston Ave, 230 Boston Ave, 236 Boston Ave, and 67 North Street, John Walsh. I do believe we have members here who would like to present on the petition. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, please go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Walsh. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Madam President, join on.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Zimberis. Any further discussion from the Council? I just want to reiterate what Park Susan Bair says, this is part of a process that this would be referred to the Community Development Board where they would have meetings, they would give us an opinion, and then we'd vote whether or not to accept this zoning proposal before us. Is there anyone from the public who would like to speak on the proposal in front of us? Seeing none, so. Councilor Knight you had a motion to approve. So on the motion of, I'll just say it because you said it first. On the motion of Councilor Knight to refer to the Community Development Board, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Can he unmute himself?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, are you, can you hear us? Are you able to turn on your video to gesture to vote? Hang on.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we can count him as absent.
[Nicole Morell]: So six in the affirmative, one absent.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Thank you. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Thank you for being here.
[Nicole Morell]: Moving to 22-three eight four offered by Vice President Bears, be it so resolved by the Medford City Council that Vice President presentation regarding the city budget and the FYI 2023 budget crisis by President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: And Vice President Bears, I will hold you to the rules of the council as far as timing on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Bears. discussion on the council Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Back to Councilor Caraviello, then Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Farbello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a motion on the floor from Councilor Collins to approve Councilor Bears' recommendations. Before we get to that, if I could. to speak from the chair, I will be brief. I know that sometimes folks, members of the public, presidents may say, we need to cut more from the budget. Clearly there's some fat to cut. And I really encourage you to attend our meetings, to look at the budget sheets. We haven't been given them in a way that can be made readily available to the public when that is available. I encourage you to look at the budget because what is offered to our departments is so, so bare bones. There's really nowhere to cut. We already aren't offering the services that people deserve. There's nowhere to cut. So I just encourage people to look at that. And then also as Vice President Bears said, this is not a challenge that occurred overnight, but it's something that's come to roost. And I think we've seen tonight more creativity around solutions offered by this council in this meeting, and even resulting from our previous work of how to raise revenue for this city than has been presented to us by the administration. because level funding is not creative. As we've seen tonight, as we saw in our Committee of the Whole, level funding does not provide level service, and level funding means vastly different things to different departments. When we level fund a budget for a library as the same small space where it had services from that building and occupied, you're not gonna get the level of service that you deserve, that residents deserve. And I wanna, I'll end with a quote that I've used in past years, and that a budget is a moral document. We fund what we value. And we have been shown by this administration, we'll just say two things, we haven't covered every budget. We've been showed that the administration does not value the new library, and the administration does not value the work that this body does, and the work that is asked for by residents for us to do. And just two budgets reflect that. So thank you. We do have a number of residents who want to speak on Zoom. Also, if anyone would like to speak in the chambers, feel free to line up. I will start with Zoom. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: We can hear you.
[Nicole Morell]: To your point, I just want to know we were trying to hold that meeting with our chief assessor to learn more about what that process might be just as a fact finding she quit. The city so unfortunately we can't have that meeting until we have someone in that position. So I just want to make that clear.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Cassidy. Bill Giglio name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Giglio.
[Nicole Morell]: Anna, name and address for the record, please. Oh, sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Anna. Any further discussion? Any members of the public would like to speak? Seeing none, we do have a motion. or Councilor Collins to approve to vote on the recommendations from Vice President Bears's presentation. Could you please read back those recommendations so that I know you can send them to the, if you want to summarize them, you can send them to the clerk, but just so the public knows what we're voting on.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a motion on the floor for the paper in general.
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion of vices and bears to receive in place on file seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Actually don't see him at the moment.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so six in the affirmative, one absent, the motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to revert back to the regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. As I don't see Councilor Scarpelian, can we do a roll call vote? All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Vice-President Bears, if you could tag in for a second.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like to read it?
[Nicole Morell]: Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So this, I'm sure this happened to my fellow Councilors as well I had a number of residents reach out to me. Some good neighbors are spreading the word about this bus redesign project which counts are saying, to his credit, I did bring up a previous motion letting people know about this. It's, you know, not everyone watches the city council meeting so we're just now getting around and one of the main issues that we're hitting against is A lot of elderly people, a lot of people, you know that take the bus may not have access, you know, to a zoom meeting maybe at work during this time and so this is asking that the MBTA hold an in person meeting for those folks impacted in the inner core which is what includes Medford so the MBTA is hosting a number of in person meetings but the vast majority of them are in Boston. and communities that aren't Medford and communities that aren't actually, I believe, in the inner core. So they're leaving a lot of folks out from this decision making. So my hope is perhaps we do have someone who has some close contacts at the MBTA, perhaps the city clerk who worked for the MBTA could help us in nudging them to have an in-person meeting so that folks can submit their feedback to this and also I will work my hardest and also again, working with the city clerk so that we can have that committee of the whole as councilor center requested. So also in lieu of a dedicated MBTA meeting, perhaps we can have a committee of the whole where we can have an MBTA representative attend before the comment period is closed. So that would be something we'd be looking at for before or around our summer meeting. That way residents can at least attend that in person. We can communicate that feedback through the public comment form. I also do just want to note that, again, there is a public comment form if folks aren't aware. So if you've already seen the plan and you have thoughts on it, please submit your comments. This is not a done deal. This is a lot of ideas. And we want to get feedback from as many residents as possible and get feedback from those folks that are actually using these services who might not be able to attend that Zoom meeting for a variety of reasons. So letting them know about the Zoom meeting if they can attend, working with the city clerk to see if we can get the MBTA to host their own meeting, and then also working with the city clerk to see if we can get the MBTA, get an MBTA representative to attend a future Committee of the Whole so that we can solicit feedback from all of our residents that are gonna be impacted by this redesign. And I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Just quickly, to Councilor Caraviello's point, we actually, we got a notification, or I did. I don't know how the map is drawn for these things half the time. Got a notification that streets would be closed around City Hall. Click for more information. You click, there's no more information. So if we could get a little more thought process behind what we're putting out, I think that would be good for all residents.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, how did you find the records?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the records, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Aye.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-354 Committee of the Whole, Tuesday, June 14, 2022 at 5.30 PM. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: We don't have audio. We don't have audio, Shane. Hang on one second, Mr. Clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clark, could you speak to see if we can hear you?
[Nicole Morell]: Still can't hear him. He's going to be 10 minutes late. Mr. Clerk, can you try again?
[Nicole Morell]: I can hear you in there. Can't hear him out here.
[Nicole Morell]: Try now.
[Nicole Morell]: The people on Zoom can hear. We just aren't getting audio out here.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Good.
[Nicole Morell]: Please continue calling the role if you could, or start.
[Nicole Morell]: He will be a few minutes late.
[Nicole Morell]: Six present, one absent. The meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council, Tuesday, June 14th, 2022 at 5.30 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the fiscal year 2023 city budget, paper 22-354. The city council will discuss proposed budgets for the following departments, office of the city clerk, electrical, library, law department, and recreation slash form L. The City Council has invited Breanna Lungo-Koehn, sorry, Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Chief of Staff Nino Nazarian, Finance Director Bob Dickinson, and relevant department heads and Medford Public School administrators to attend. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. I know we do have a number of folks here for the library. We will, I think as we're waiting for Councilor Knight, we'll just see if we can take a smaller budget first so that Councilor Knight can be present as we get to the library. So I would suggest City Clerk, Law Department might take it. So as far as presenting for the City Clerk, Chief of Staff Nazarian, would that be you?
[Nicole Morell]: All right, as long as it seems the Chief of Staff, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, if you'd like to give us an overview of the departmental budget we're looking at.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Clerk. Do we have any questions from the council on the budget before us? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions from the council? Councilor Knight, we have the city clerk budget before us. I don't know if you, I know we got it rather late, so I don't know if you have any questions.
[Nicole Morell]: I see Chief of Staff Nazarian with your hand up. Do you need to be, oh, there you go.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, any further questions on the- Madam President. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, any further questions on the city clerk budget? Moving on, so we do have library, formal, recreation, and electrical, and law before us tonight. Would we like to move to library or would we like to take a smaller department first?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we'll briefly take electrical.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Randazzo here. So we're going to move on to the Electrical Department Budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Randazzo. Councilor Nyland.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Carvill.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions for Mr. Randazzo and the electrical department? Seeing none, thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Moving on to the library. We have Barbara Kerr with us this evening. If you could give us an overview on what you'd like to share on the budget before us. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Kerr, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. That motion would be to recommend to the administration that they take $100,000 out of the facilities, add it to a line item in the library budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll be like, do we want to just pop out the library?
[Nicole Morell]: No, we're just going to take this motion and we'll keep going.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, do you have the language for that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: I'll take this motion before we move on. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes. Councilor Caraviello, does that cover your questions?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. I'm gonna go to Councilor Scarpelli and then Councilor Caraviello. And I do just wanna note, we do have other budgets before us tonight, as well as members of the public who likely wanna speak. So Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I just have two quick questions. Barbara, I think I've seen emails talking about how patronage is way up at the new library. Could you share what those numbers are exactly? Oops, sorry. Wait for your mic a second. It'll come on its own. It should. Oh, I mean, Shane does it. There you go.
[Nicole Morell]: So just to build on that just a little bit. So, you know, everyone in the city, you know, the library is a free service, everyone. It's an amazing gem of the city. Everyone in the city has paid for this library in some sense, through taxes, through donations. And conceivably, there are folks, you know, self-included. I work Monday through Friday. I spend my nights here a lot. I would be going with my son on Saturday. I, you know, I can't get that, you know, I can't get that time at the library that I, you know, we all paid for, that we all invested in. So I think that's, that's just an incredible disservice. And I think that's just so wholly short-sighted that a budget developed by the administration isn't reflecting what, again, essentially every resident of this city paid for to use.
[Nicole Morell]: My frustration is absolutely not with you all. It's never anything that we wanted to happen this summer, but yeah. Any further questions from the council? I know there's probably some members of the public would like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think that was a really helpful question from Councilor Knight to understand why, you know, the most popular day, because there's a lot of layers.
[Nicole Morell]: And that's it. We appreciate your knowledge. Seeing no further questions from the Council at this time, are there any members who would like, any members of the public who would like to speak either on Zoom or in person? Thank you. Thank you, Barbara.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Helen. Thank you for your many years of service.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone else who would like to speak either in person or on Zoom? If you'd like to speak on Zoom, please raise your hand. Not seeing any at this time. Any further discussion from the council? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Tseng, I invite you to say a few words.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Seeing penny on zoom name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for helping. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion on the library budget? Seeing none, thank you for being here, Barbara. Thank you everyone for your comments and for coming out. Oh, I do see, sorry, one last hand. Karen on Zoom, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Karen. Thank you everyone. Moving on from the library budget, we will go to law. I believe we have law and recreation left.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for coming out. We have lost Councilor Caraviello. Give him a minute to come back. Give Councilor Caraviello a minute to come back. If he stays longer, we'll start without him. We'll start without him. He seems like he might be involved for a second. He's going farther right. Okay. Solicitor Scanlon, we have Solicitor Scanlon in front of us for the law department budget. If you could give us any highlights or things you want to pull out from the budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Collins and Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Carvejo.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Any further discussion on the law budget from the council? I do just wanna say that as one of the people who voted in favor of that funding for KP Law with the promise that we would have a solution and an assistant city solicitor position in front of us right now, I'm deeply disappointed. And I won't say anything beyond that, but I thank Councilor Knight for stating the facts of what happened. We were promised. I know I tried to act in good faith, and now I have a budget before me that hasn't made good on that request. Any members of the public who'd like to speak? Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: So I think we have, we have two motions. I believe they're the same motion.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion, we have a motion from Councilor Caraviello to strike the professional services legal from the budget. Seconded by Councilor Knight, Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So just so you know, Oh, sorry, comes to Kirby. I was speaking as Mike's not on. He has another motion.
[Nicole Morell]: We have two motions before us, so. First motion by Councilor Caraviello to cut the legal services, professional services legal line within this draft budget by $81,600. Second by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 70 affirmative, zero negative, the motion passes. The second motion we have is to ask that the administration turn over all invoices from KP Law. That's from Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 70 in front of zero and the negative, the motion passes. That concludes the law department. Thank you so much, Mr. Scanlon. I know we have gone into our regular meeting and waiting patiently for recreation. And again, this is a challenge of trying to get the budgets done and with a very limited time, we have to squeeze things in when we can. So, but we will give you all the time you deserve. So again, we're looking at the recreation budget. If you wanna just give us any highlights or anything you'd like to cover, and then we'll have questions from the council.
[Nicole Morell]: We have Councilor Scarpelli and then Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: We do have, yeah, Councilor Caraviello and then Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions from the council? Seeing none. Thank you so much, Mr. Bailey.
[Nicole Morell]: We do have the Hormel Commission still, would you like to add tabling the Hormel Commission to that motion? Yes. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to adjourn and table the Hormel Commission for a future meeting, seconded by Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Kevin, if you're able to do that.
[Nicole Morell]: If you have to do that, sorry, I didn't realize you were presenting on that too. Nothing has changed, so apologies.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight? So thank you again. So on the motion of Vice President Bears to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, the meeting is adjourned. We will reset and reconvene for a regular meeting within five.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-354 committee of the whole oops. Meeting on a Saturday, June 11, 2022 at 9 a.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight will be joining us later.
[Nicole Morell]: present six present one absent the meeting is called to order, there will be a meeting of the Medford City Council can be the whole on Saturday June 11 2022 at 9am. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the fiscal year 2023 city budget paper 22-354. The City Council will discuss proposed budgets for the following departments Department of Public Works the Medford Fire Department building facilities finance information technology and veterans. The City Council has invited Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Chief of Staff Nina Nazarian, Finance Director Robert Dickinson, Fire Chief John Friedman, DPW Commissioner Tim McIvern, and department heads for the departments listed in this notice. For further information, aids, and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. Unless any councilors have any questions to start off, we will go right into the vices and affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Scarpelli did let us know several months ago that he wouldn't be able to attend those times, and we worked our hardest to try to get these meetings scheduled earlier. And unfortunately, we did not get a document to work with him. We actually still don't have a full document to work with. Vice Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Chief of Staff.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. So as Vice President Bears has alluded to, we are going to be taking water and sewer first. Peter, if you could join us. I know we have kind of, people have varying levels of, I think what we're finding out, varying levels of kind of what's been shared with them with their own budget. So if you could just share highlights, anything you want to discuss, and then we'll go and we have questions, but of course we have finance director Dickinson here as well to answer some of those questions. So if you want to come up to the podium and we can, cover water and sewer and take questions around that.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Anything else. I know we have several department heads here so I want to make sure you know make best use of their Saturday morning. back to water and sewer. I don't know if Peter, you want to come up and speak to it a little bit. And we also have my instructor or everyone's come and speak to water and sewer. Please, please come speak to water, water and sewer.
[Nicole Morell]: Right.
[Nicole Morell]: I know. Yeah, I know. trying to help Peter get out.
[Nicole Morell]: Welcome.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: No. Leak detection.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further questions on water and sewer at this time? Seeing none. Thank you all so much. Tim, if you don't mind, if I could just let fire pop in and then we can get back to DBW, just because we have pretty much everything here. And I just wanted to get Chief Friedman up and out when I can, but I wanted to make sure I got. Anyone who asks if they can leave early, I'm trying to take them. Not that Chief Friedman has asked, but fire just seems pressing, so. You're good. You're free to go. Thank you, appreciate it. All right, so we're just gonna. We're gonna jump to fire and then we'll go back to DPW. So thank you, Commissioner McGiven for allowing that. Yeah, just so we can get Chief Friedman out, should there be any burning needs in the city.
[Nicole Morell]: Please, I mean, we have no narrative, so we just have spreadsheets, so any narrative you can provide.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. We have Marston Bears, Cariello, and then Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Madam chair, staff, are you able to address that?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'm good.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: I assume staff, are you able to speak to that?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions for Chief Freeman at this time? Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: I just have a few questions. What are the staffing levels? What's the formula that just decides on the full staffing levels for the city? Like how you get to that 80 number or 81 number for firefighters?
[Nicole Morell]: I said two more questions. Any, any anticipated retirements this year?
[Nicole Morell]: And this is a bit more of a capital question, I guess, but I know the washing machines within stations are really important as far as safety for washing gear and taking all the really detrimental stuff out of it. Do you guys have what you need for those in every station?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Thank you. Any further questions for the chief? Not seeing any. Thank you so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Unless council wants a brief recess, we can continue back to DPW. All right. Yeah, if you wanna, we have a few sheets in front of us, so it's really up to you which order you wanna go through. And then if we did notice, I think we don't have a forestry budget in front of us. I think maybe one of the, we don't have a forestry budget, maybe one of the ones that's missing. I don't know if there's more missing, but that's the one that I think we noticed.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morell over time for being. Yes, madam.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we could email it and also include the clerk and we could get some hard copies up to us. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, Commissioner McGuire, sorry. Vice President Bears seems to have something urgent.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins and Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: It doesn't make it okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, then back to Vice President Harris.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you all set, Councilor Knight? Yes. Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions on forestry? Thank you for being here. So I think, Tim, you said we wanna go to parks next?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm so embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: We can take that motion now while we're still thinking about parks. Are there any further questions for the Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions for the Parks Department? Mr. Clerk, do you just have that motion from Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: I believe, I don't think Vice President Bears is missing. I think we already have a motion for a future meeting, or a resolution for a future meeting. It's just to add form of nesting to it.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great, thank you. the volume got a little low. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Thank you so much. Thank you, council. So where would you like to go next, Tim?
[Nicole Morell]: Cemetery.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions on engineering? All right, seeing none, we will move on to cemetery.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions on the cemetery budget? I'm just seeing if there's any other questions on the cemetery budget. I do. I know we were, Tim, I don't know if you can speak to, I know they're facing kind of sadly record numbers, you know, seeking plots during COVID. Is that, have things kind of leveled off?
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I know during COVID, sadly, or, you know, the peak of COVID, there was a lot of demand, sadly, for plots. Has that kind of leveled off, or are we still dealing with outsized demand? It's okay if you can't speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions on cemetery? I think this, unless you have other sheets we don't have, Tim, I think this wraps up DBW, correct? Correct. Thank you so much for all of your mourning and all of your work, much appreciated.
[Nicole Morell]: Have a nice weekend. You too. So we have finance and auditing, building and information technology.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the Councilor, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So on the motion of Councilor Knight to table the IT budget until we get the response from the administration, as well as updated, cleaned up numbers, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Chief of Staff Nazarian, I do see you have your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. I also just, Alicia Hunt has offered to come here and turn on the AC. I know we should be wrapping up soon. So if we want to power through unless.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll follow up on that. I'll see if we're given permission to do so. So moving on, so we have finance and auditing and building. I know building, we don't currently have a department head there. Finance and auditing, we have Mr. Dickinson. So Mr. Dickinson, if you'd like to share on finance and auditing, I don't know if you can hear me. You might be in the zone at the moment. We have finance and auditing before us if you want to speak to that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Dickinson. Questions from the council? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Mayor. Any other questions? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing none, thank you so much, Mr. Dickinson. We do have, I guess, we have facilities and we don't have, so the clerk is going to print us up and get facilities to us because Commissioner McGivery is going to support Chief of Staff Nazarian on presenting on that. Why don't I just take like a brief I know we're trying to get out of here.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so well, let's go to the risk of sounding like a bully to building. Well, yeah, let's go to building and all. Yeah, Mr. Clark, you can tolerate that. Let's go to building, which I assume would be Chief of Staff Nazarian.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Chief of Staff. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Please go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions on the building department? Seeing none, last call for questions on building department. Okay, we can move to,
[Nicole Morell]: All right, Senator Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions on building? All right, moving on to the facilities and ground. And I just want to note, Chief of Staff, Ms. Aron, we had veterans for today as well. We didn't get a veterans budget in our package.
[Nicole Morell]: If you'd like to speak to the facilities budget in front of us.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? Vice chairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions on facilities?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions on facilities? Seeing none, we do have veterans left. We were not given a budget form for that, and also the Chair of our Veterans Affairs Subcommittee is not here. I'd like to entertain a motion to table on the motion of Veterans Affairs to table the veterans budget for the time being, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Okay, we are at the end of our agenda. I do not believe we have Chief of Staff Nazarian.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry, Councilor Tseng asked when we can expect, well, he asked if we have received anything for our Tuesday meetings and when we can expect that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favour? All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 2-354 committee of the whole meeting notice, Wednesday, June 8th, 2022 at 6 p.m. The meeting is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: You see him.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. You're absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, June 8th, 2022 at 6 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the fiscal year 2023 city budget, paper 22-354. The city council will discuss proposed budgets.
[Nicole Morell]: diversity planning. One second. Diversity planning, development, sustainability, legislative and Council on Aging. The City Council has invited Mayor Brianna Longo-Hearn, Chief of Staff Nina Nazarian, Finance Director Robert Dickinson and the department heads from the departments listed above to attend. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. We do have the department heads before us, and we also have just a spreadsheet of the budgets and the year over year differences from FY21 actuals, FY22 budget, FY22 actual, FY23 proposed, and the change from FY22 to FY23. I don't know if the councilors have a preference for how to go through this. If we'd like a presentation from the department heads first or to go through line by line.
[Nicole Morell]: Chief of staff Nazarian, can we expect another budget presentation or was that it?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Any disagreement with that proposal? No. Great, so we will move forward in that way. So we have just the order that is in our packets. We have human resources first, that would be Neil Osborne.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight, did you want to?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Osborne.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilman. Chief of Staff, you there?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions from the council or any members of the public would like to speak? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the Council at this time? Seeing none. Thank you, Director Osborne.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe we're going to skip the diversity department for the moment because of the Human Rights Commission meeting. And so we will go to Council on Aging where we have Director Pam Kelly with us. If you'd like to give us a brief overview and any highlights you'd like to share.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Kelly. Do we have any questions? I'm going to give Rick a second. They were good. Okay, bison and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the council? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll go to night and carry on and we'll go back twice to do have something very. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, the question is just what date the FY22 actuals go up to that we're looking at.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice-President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further questions for Director Kelly, either from the council or from the public? Seeing none, thank you so much. Thank you. Next up, we have Planning, Development and Sustainability. Director Alicia Hunt is here. Give us a brief overview and update, and then we'll have questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think we have some Councilors who have questions. So Vice Mayor Bears and then Councilor Carmiel.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins and Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: have their say.
[Nicole Morell]: We actually, we enjoy that.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, noted. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further questions from the council? Seeing none, thank you so much, Director Hunt. Now that it does seem that we have Director Nwaje with us, if you could come right up and just speak to, we have the diversity budget in front of us. If you could just, I know you've only been here a few months, good to meet you. If you could just tell us a little bit about just what you hope to accomplish, the intentions of this budget.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Rodriguez. First, Senator Bears, then Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Knight. Did you have anything? Okay. You'd raise your hand before. Councilor Collins and Councilor... Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: No, I appreciate it.
[Nicole Morell]: Are there any other budget related questions for Director Wojcik? Thank you so much for your time.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have legislative left. I was also told that if we wanted to take it tonight, we could take some of the commissions that are managed under the planning and development, um, sustainability office. We do have those budget papers can be, can be given to us. So I take those tonight. I don't believe there's any great change at all. Uh, director Hunt would be presenting them, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'll give, I'll give everyone a moment to review these and then if we have any questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Uh the historic commission is the only one that has a change. So, we're council and I just wanted to table it to a future meeting. So, we we have before us the historic commission Historic District Commission, Board of Appeals, and Community Development Board. And as was stated, the only one that has a change is the Historic Commission to reflect a $3,000, $3,000 to support a grant they received, correct? Yes. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion, Councilor Knight to get- I'm sorry, just in the committee report, great. Okay, any questions for Director Hunt on these, or everyone feels good as they're all level funded, just to note for the public, it's not that we are not interested, they are just funded the exact same way as previous years, and probably the year before that, and the year before that. So thank you, Director Hunt. We have left legislative, which is us. Would anyone like to?
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like to make that a motion or just a committee report?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion, let's see. Mr. Clerk, do you have that language?
[Nicole Morell]: And to say, on the other side, we have actually asked for increases for two positions that fall under our budget. So not only have we not been asked, we've asked for increases.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. And to be clear, those are the two positions, not anything else.
[Nicole Morell]: My last name is a type of mushroom, so maybe that's where the confusion comes from.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Let me add that in. On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. We are at the end of our- Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: And also, I want to know for Saturday, I did get a city alert that lots of streets around Medford Square, there will be closure street closures are Medford Square right as folks in this room are trying to be traveling here for meetings. It's a road race. I'm not sure which I don't sponsor the girls on the run. That would make sense as far as the
[Nicole Morell]: Madam Chief of Staff, when can we expect those budget sheets?
[Nicole Morell]: And I do want to make clear this is not my desire to do this I don't think it's anyone's desire to do this. Yeah, and I've been asking. And I've been asking for a budget, you know, since the very beginning of the year. And just again to make clear to people listening in, we're doing it this way because we have no choice. We're up against deadline we can meet now and have partial information, or we can meet as proposed by the administration on the 28th with, you know, even less information, two days, and I just want to make that extremely clear so that when this council has to vote on something we've been backed into a corner. we, you know, by time, by, by state statute, this is not at all how any of us want to do this process. And I just want to make that clear.
[Nicole Morell]: I think, you know, to everyone's point, regardless of who is sitting in these seven seats, no one can operate at the level that this city deserves with this forced urgency and lack of clarity. And that's what we're left with. So I just want to make that point. Chief of Staff Nazarian, you had your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do just want to know as you know, historically, or you know, two years I've been on the council or any city anywhere. You know the budget is submitted on the regular agenda it's you know it has this piece of paper we were given last night it's officially submitted, then we have the committees of the whole so we have that information. we're working backwards, because we have no choice and I and I understand what you're saying, but I feel like we're just playing with semantics at this point, and this is nothing against you personally. You know, this is, this is a full contact sport here, unfortunately, because we're fighting for our constituents. We're fighting for the phone calls we get all the time. We can hide. We're here every Tuesday night. People can see us. They can come to us. And that's where the frustration comes from. And just the frustration that we're not being put in a position to do our jobs to the best of the ability. We could go on and on, but I mean, this is where we are.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Tavarelli. Before we adjourn, I just want to note that this first Saturday is scheduled fire, Department of Public Works, buildings, facilities, finance, information technology, and veterans. And that meeting notice is posted, I believe. If it's not live yet, it will be live. It has to be live by tomorrow morning. And then I'll let you adjourn.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: The 23rd regular meeting of the Medford City Council June 7 2022 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements accolades remembrance reports and records.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion of Councilor Knight to take multiple papers out of order seconded by. All those in favor. All those opposed motion passes hearings 22-357. We will know a city clerk's office notice of a public hearing the Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F Alden chambers at Medford City Hall 85 George P has to drive Medford and via zoom on Tuesday, June 7 2022, a link to be posted no later than Friday, June 3 2022 on a petition from Needham Bank Derek Redgate and or Andrew Bolson, 270 Mystic Ave, Medford, Mass. For a special permit for a drive-through use, drive-up automated teller machine and separate bank teller window in accordance with Medford zoning ordinance table A through F4. Petition and plan may be seen in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford, Massachusetts. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations aides. TDD 71-393-2516. The city of Medford is EEOAO. a five or employer by order of the City City Council signed Adam L. Her to be city clerk advertised in the Medford transcript made 26 and June 22nd. As this is a public hearing and under our new rules first if we could have a presentation overview from the petitioner and when you're ready just your name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Shane, can you turn the camera? Yes, Shane. Shane, can you hear me? Yeah. A little out of it? All right.
[Nicole Morell]: He's turning.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from the Council at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: What's up, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: You could I just have your name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So this is a public hearing. We do have to conduct it in a certain way before I open a public hearing. If someone from Median Bank did want to speak as you referenced, just to talk about this project. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Evangelista. Okay, so as this is a public hearing, first we're going to open a public hearing. Is there anyone who would like to speak in favor of the paper? Be either of you if you'd like to just know your support of the paper. It's just a public hearing. We have to go through it procedurally. So I'm just asking who would like to speak in favor of the paper? That would probably be either of you. Yeah, it's not a numbers game. We have two in favor of the paper. Anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing none, portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper, either in the chambers or on Zoom? Seeing none. This portion of the public hearing is closed. So we do have a motion from Councilor Knight to approve under the new council rules. Following a public hearing, a six calendar day public comment period shall commence. Public comment shall be submitted in writing by the city clerk. The council shall neither approve nor deny any matter requiring public hearing until the conclusion of the public comment period, unless waived by a majority vote of the council.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the public comment period, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve the main paper, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, you can please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we have a full packet. OK, 22-365. Legal notice, petition for grant of location, National Grid North Andover, Massachusetts, gas main locations, Medford, Massachusetts, city clerk's office. You are hereby notified by order of the Medford City Council, a public hearing will be given at the Howard F. Alderman Memorial Auditorium, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, City Hall, Medford, Massachusetts at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 7th, with a Zoom link to be posted no later than June 3rd, 2022 on a petition of National Grid Incorporated for permission for the transmission and distribution of gas in and under the following public streets, lanes, highways, and places of the city of Medford and For the pipes, valves, governors, manholes, and other structures, fixtures, and appurtenances designed or intended to protect or operate said names and accomplish the objectives of said company and the digging up and opening the ground to lay or place same to install a new gas main along Riverside Ave, Bradbury Ave, and St. James Road in Medford, Massachusetts in accordance with the plan number 1378319. Wherefore it prays that after due notice and hearing as provided by law, it be granted a location for and permission for the transmission and distribution of gas in and under the following public places, lanes, highways, and places of the city of Medford and for the pipes, valves, governors, manholes, and other structures, fixtures, and appurtenances designed or intended to protect or operate said mains and accomplish the object of said purpose. On the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the remainder of the reading and have a brief presentation from Mr. Wartella, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. We do have our city engineer on, Mr. Wartella, if you are able to give us, and we also have National Grid. So we'll defer to our city engineer, if you would like to give us a presentation or you would like to defer to National Grid and then fill in any holes.
[Nicole Morell]: So we're gonna defer to National Grid, I believe. We have Diana Cuddy on the line.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Cuddy. What's the length of the project?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Any additional questions from the Council? Vice-Chair Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? And if I could just, Ms. Cuddy, when is work anticipated to begin on this?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. On the motion of Councilor, oh, sorry, it's public hearing. I need to open. So if we did have the petitioner already spoke, so as this is a public hearing, if anyone would like to speak in favor of this project, please speak up.
[Nicole Morell]: There are a number of conditions for approval. I'm happy to share my copy with you, but I'll let him speak as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Also, they're on the agenda itself.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the paper? I do see one hand up on Zoom. If you'd like to speak in favor of the paper, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: To the engineer, it should... Yes, hi.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Does anyone else would like to speak in favor of the paper? Not seeing any. Portion of the public hearing is closed. Is there anyone in opposition of the paper who would like to speak? Seeing none, this portion of the public hearing is closed.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the public comment period, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve the paper, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So in the affirmative zero in the negative the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: on a motion of vice-president bears to revert to the regular order of business seconded by good one more sure correct Sure, there is a representative from Eversource on the line, I'm not sure.
[Nicole Morell]: City engineer, could you speak to that as far as a future date or?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh sorry, I'm not sure.
[Nicole Morell]: He's still here. I'm not sure if you heard Councilor Caraviello just referring to a previous agenda item in which we asked for a meeting with yourself as well as the public and Eversource. On an update on the Eversource project. I don't know if you could give us an update on when we might be able to have them come out.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do see there is someone from Eversource on the line at the moment. Sorry, I need to unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: We did. Yeah, we did move it to unfinished business last week. So they could come back. So the paper is on the table, but I understand that. So I mean, yeah, we can get an update. Yeah, we can get an update. Yeah. Right. Yeah, I think we can get an update at this time. Do you have a word or the rules are suspended? Does anyone want to take that from the table?
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of items and bears to take paper 22-361 off the table, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. So Todd Lanham, if you could give us an update, a general update on where the Eversource project stands. I do think there is a need for a future meeting that is more early, more lead time to notice this so people can attend. But I think we've been waiting for this update for a very long time. speak to that. I will unmute you.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you able to share your screen? Or could you please make him a co-host, Mr. Clerk?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Lanham. You should be able to share your screen now if you'd like to try.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: please proceed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Thank you. Further discussion from the Council at this time.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, I do see Jay Oganessian with your hand up on Zoom. Would you like to just name and address for the record, please?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we do have a motion on the floor from Councilor Knight to refer the paper to a future committee of the whole, correct? Councilor Knight? Seconded by President Bears. All those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Lane. I'm just gonna pass off to vice president bears temporarily.
[Nicole Morell]: Paper 22-376 was withdrawn. So moving on to 22-377 offered by Councilor Collins. Be it so resolved that the subcommittee on housing need to discuss the proposed housing stability notification ordinance. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Collins seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-378 offered by Vice President Fares and Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved by the Medford City Council that the city clerk create an internal office process and a shared spreadsheet for tracking requests by the city council to the administration and or state agencies and their responses. The spreadsheet would include the date, paper number, resolution language, requested deadline for response, if any, and link to a copy of the response if received. Be it further resolved that the City Council meet in Committee of the Whole to discuss this process with the City Clerk and needed staff. Be it further resolved that beginning in September 2022, the City Council will hold monthly Committee of the Whole meetings to review responses and outstanding requests. Vice President Bears. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Would that language around the reports too, would that be an amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, vice and bears. Any further discussion on the emotion of counts for nights seconded by vice and bears. All those in favor. All those opposed, the motion passes. 22-379 offered by Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that an ordinance be discussed in subcommittee, which would secure the rights of individuals seeking gender affirming care and forbid the city of Medford and municipal entities from assisting out of state requests for civil or criminal action against those who allow a person, whether child or adult to receive gender affirming care or those who seek gender affirming care themselves. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from Councilors. If I could briefly from the chair, I want to thank Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins for bringing this forward and Councilor Tseng for making that amendment. Councilor Collins, I think you really hit the nail on the head where to do nothing at this point would be regressive. I understand that, you know, people may say, this is not a city level issue, why are you discussing this? And I think we're seeing across the country, we're seeing multiple states turn to policy by way of bounty hunters to enact policy by putting bounties on those seeking reproductive care, seeking gender affirming care. And I agree with Vice President Bears, if there is anything we can do at the city level, we absolutely need to do it to protect our residents. And it's what's right, it's what's just, and to do nothing would be regressive. So I thank you for bringing this forward. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just, I'm asking. If you'd like the council to speak, they can respond.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, Councilor Cohn's advice is embarrassing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Melanie Tringale on Zoom. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Ngole. Anyone else would like to speak? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice Chair Bears. Anyone else like to speak? Seeing none, on the motion. Councilor Sagan, Councilor Collins, seconded by... I'm sorry. It is on the motion of Bipartisan Affairs to send this paper to the Public Health and Community Safety Subcommittee, seconded by Councilor Sagan. All those in favor? All those opposed? That's sorry, and that paper has amended. Motion passes. Public participation. Is there anyone who would like to speak for public participation? Any subject? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Orlando. Anyone else who would like to speak for public participation? Not seeing any, this is the end of our agenda. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Mayor. It's my understanding we only have you for a short amount of time. So are there any questions from the council for the mayor as we have her?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, it's on.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you mind, could I just ask you to, it's probably for a lot of folks watching, it's their first time seeing you, if you could just briefly introduce yourself.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Dickinson, if I could, just in case I'm embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: And as I have you pause, are you able to send, or Nina, could you send this presentation to the clerk so we can include it in the minutes? Thank you. Please proceed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Does that conclude the slides you have for us tonight? Does that conclude the slides you have for us tonight? I just know it's counted as a question, so I just want to get to that. Vice President Bears, and then Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, there's a number of director level positions.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information, vices and mayors.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. We have a number of Councilors who want to speak. I just have one housekeeping question before we get to that. When can we expect a full schedule of availability of the department heads? I know that's been promised to me for a number of days. I have residents asking when we're scheduling these meetings. You know, we've got part of a, you know, a few sheets of a budget in front of us. I think for us to continue this process in earnest and allow the public the engagement they deserve, we need to know this information.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, just, yeah, and what I, you know, what I had spoken to the mayor about is making sure that we're scheduling meetings at a time at which the public will be awake, you know, can engage. I understand there are scheduling limits of our department heads, but we want to make sure that the public can engage with these, you know, the most important departments that they want to hear from. So thank you for that. I have Councilor Knight, Councilor Collins, and we'll go back to Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: And vice-president Bears, I understand. We have about 15 minutes left and councilors saying councilors have not spoken yet, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: So yeah, I'll summarize and just make it quick. Um, I think
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Tseng. Would anyone like to answer that? Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. McGoldrick. I'm so embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Goldrick. Thank you, Vice President Bears. As we wrap up, I want to thank my Councilors for their questions and their points as we continue into budget season. I do want to note two things, I think to Chief of Staff Nazarian's point. I think we're all, we very much appreciate the work of the economic development director, of the planning director, but the reality is we're seeing them bring in a lot of projects that on the other side, the ZBA is voting against. So the mayor appointed ZBA is voting against projects that are being brought in by our own administration. And that's the truth. I also just want to note that budget seasons are contentious. This happens in a lot of communities, but for example, the city of Newton just voted no on their budget that was presented to them in April. We're here on June 7th. We still don't have a budget. I understand there's a lot of unusual circumstances, we'll say. I understand that we haven't had a CFO for 10 months, but the budget happens and the vote is needed every single year at the same time. It's not a surprise. The administration has shown a willingness to hire consultants for so many things. Why did we not have someone who could have helped us out in the finance position for 10 months so that we aren't in this position on June 7th, where I have residents asking me, asking my fellow Councilors, when is this department coming forward? When is that department coming forward? And not only do we feel silly that we don't have answers, that shakes residents to the core that we can't answer them. We have no idea when these meetings are gonna happen and we don't know the outcome. So I think we've all expressed our frustration here tonight. I think we're unified in our frustration, but again, the budget happens at the same time every year. The budget process isn't a surprise. It doesn't have to be this way. It doesn't have to be this type of crisis every single year. I thank you for indulging me. I know as chair, I keep my comments to a minimum. So I thank you. If there's anything else from our councilors before we get to our regular meeting. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, second by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favour? All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: So 19-070, Committee of the Whole, meeting Wednesday, June 1st, 2022 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: present.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so, uh, five present to absent. I apologize. I forgot to mention that Councilor Caraviello is missing as well. Again, no one told me that they would miss this, so hopefully they'll be join us when they can. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, June 1st, 2022 at 6 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the revised draft of the tree ordinance 19-070, The City Council has invited Attorney Robin Stein of KP Law and DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon to attend. For further information, aids and accommodations contact the City Clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. I do see Councilor Knight joining us.
[Nicole Morell]: So I do want to know so we do have Attorney Stein on the call with us tonight. Unfortunately, Commissioner given is unable to attend because there is a ever source community meeting happening at the same time that we just learned of very recently, I would not have intentionally schedule these at the same time. Unfortunately, we just found out about that kind of at the 11th hour. So we do have, this is our second committee of the whole meeting on this topic. Last time we had some technical difficulties, so we didn't get to review the document too thoroughly, but I have shared with the council and folks that are interested, the draft document of a ordinance related to trees within the city. We have a number of comments from Attorney Stein as well as Commissioner McGivern on the document. I'd be happy to share my screen and review those comments that were made on this draft ordinance, but also if fellow Councilors would like to start the discussion before we do that. Seeing no hands, I will share my screen and we can walk through this. Can everyone see my screen. Yes, sir. Yes, yes. Thank you. Okay. So with regard to the intent and purpose, so Attorney Stein noted that Article 2, Division 2 of the C's ordinances currently applies to the tree ward and Article 3 applies to trees. She recommends being specific here and about any amendments intended to make, made to those sections. Actually, since we have you Attorney Stein, would you mind just giving kind of a brief synopsis of your comments as we come across them?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. So going on, we also have opening comment from Commissioner McGibbon that they're very real impacts to DPW contained in this proposed ordinance. I do not believe it could be implemented successfully with existing DPW resources and structure. I recommend that the ordinance be evaluated against current human and monetary resources and include an assessment of projected full-time employees required for a successful implementation of this ordinance. My gut tells me somewhere between two and three full time employees that information could be used to initiate a strategy to arrive at that required support to make the implementation of the successful but is not there yet. And then moving on. You noted attorney sign if you could speak I think there's reference to this a few spaces as far as. I think this was a bit of a push-pull in the one meeting we had too, as far as the applicability or the ability to apply this in ordinance to private property trees.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Stein. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bear, sorry, I was just switching to AirPods.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight, would you like to put any of those recommendations in the form of a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Amanda Bowen, I see you have your hand up. Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Amanda. Attorney Stein, to that point, are you do you have experience or you're seeing ordinances like this be challenged around the state?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Stein.
[Nicole Morell]: Got it. Thank you very much. Thank you, Councilor. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I think we're losing you, Vice President Bears. Nope, that's me.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And to that point, I do want to note that at the previous meeting, we had requested the chief financial officer to join as well. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to make that happen with the administration due to the newness of the person that role. So hopefully at future meetings on this, that person can attend because I do believe further in the ordinance, there is some language about potential self-funding after a certain point in time of some of this being enacted, if so chosen. So moving on, we have addressed Attorney Stein's note about zoning or not. I think, and then we just have a general note. If you want to speak as Attorney Stein, but just basically saying the definitions we need to go, these need to be adjusted. I'm sure relative to what already exists in our ordinances, as well as what is the most common language around these terms, if that's what the goal was there. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: So moving forward. Yeah, again, as we mentioned before, Commissioner McGivern's questions just regarding private trees or private property. So something we need to look into. Um, and the same thing as reference to private ways. Um, again, so as we do see, you know, a lot of repeating comments from attorney signing commission commissioner given, um, regarding private property and private ways. So, um, further comment from commissioner McGivern is how is a tree verified to be protected? Uh, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely.
[Nicole Morell]: sure I think yeah this is yeah so just a reminder so this came at this went to the zoning subcommittee of the previous council that asked the trees Bedford group to work on a draft ordinance so I think that's where and as they as Amanda said this is coming from a lot of other referencing a lot of other towns that have passed this so I mean I don't know if you want to speak to the intent there or we're happy to just speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Collins. Thank you, President Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Knight, and then I'll go to Sarah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, sir. I'm hardwired in so hopefully everyone can hear me. Great, thank you. And I think that is also I think we could probably be on this point for a long time because a lot of our affordable housing or any affordable housing that seems to be proposed in the city is 40 B and 40 B has the ability to go around certain zoning regulations. So I think just To a few points that have been made, I do think my hope would be maybe to separate this out to a few different parts, because I do think there is that kind of immediate need as Councilor Knight originally brought this forward to prevent that clear cutting for these larger developments that may be site plan review. And maybe that's something we could move forward first. And then we work on kind of the more nitty gritty that we're getting caught up with here as far as more smaller projects and get to really the additional intent of this ordinance. So I will continue to move forward. Let's see. Just address that. Yes, and I think there's just a desire from Commissioner McGibbon for just more clarification on what exactly a protected tree is and when an ordinance like this would kick in regarding the pulling of permits, which I think we've also discussed already. Attorney Stein references existing ordinance as well. Um, and then, um, attorney said, if you just want to reference, um, the reasonably related to relief sought, um, this comment here for, uh, regarding the tree warden, um, and the duties and responsibilities.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And then moving. It looks like the tree warden would need to review each building or non building project situation determine if the tree is protected or not, then the warden is responsible to give approvals and denials right conditions and enforce the ordinance for non-building related trees. This is a scope of work well beyond that in the current DPW. Successful implementation of the potential ordinance must be discussed. As written, I do not believe there's a framework for implementation existing today, which again, I do think Councilor Collins touched on and Councilor Knight touched on as well with the idea of an SPGA for certain aspects of this, should we separate this out into a few different pieces. And then Attorney Stein just referenced under the court enforcement officer, just a need to generally clarify this section. And then going into the tree committee, some general comments as far as the number, which again, I think there is an expressed interest in the tree committee, as far as the nitty gritty, as far as the number of members, I think it's something that could be revisited as we move forward with these types of things. So I just wanna get more to the, ordinance itself. Attorney Stein noticed that we need clarification on if we decide on a permit, how the process of obtaining a permit, for example, do you want to require any regular, any particular notice for public hearing besides what's in chapter 87? So this references our existing processes and the desire in this ordinance to potentially expand on them. And then Commissioner McGibbon, just referencing, just needing to look at our policies once more to see if we are adjusting them or we're referencing what already exists. And again, I think, again, comments referencing just examining our current language in our ordinances and how this would update it or go beyond that. So the idea of a tree removal permit to make it just referencing that this procedure does not currently exist and is an administrative process that would need to be staffed. Again, going back to the clarification on permits. So looking forward, I think these final comments are a lot around permits, the permitting process, sources of funding and how that might, how this could potentially have a true fund could work to help fund the positions needed for this. And that would also be, I think that would be a reference to employees, but also when we can get the CFO in to discuss how that might work financially for the city. Attorney Stein, I know that the city has accepted general law chapter 40 section 57 is unclear of a fine issue not under general law chapter 40 section 21 D is covered thereby not familiar enough with the sea ordinances to define or support this. So this is just a reference of the fines or proposed fines for those who do not follow the process outlined in this for tree removal and a permit to do such. And then Also referencing, you know, would this be a job of the tree warden to decide on corrective actions or would this go to another body? So Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: No, I think that that's the end of the comments. And I was just noting that it seems like we're kind of, although there is a number of comments, it seems like we're looking at issues of just kind of clarification, how the permitting process would work and reference to existing permits, how funding would work, and then just the ability of staff to have the people to enforce it and what enforcement would look like. So it seems like we kind of, and of course the private public issue as well. It seems like those are the kind of the main issues that are occurring over and over within the draft language.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it's my understanding. It looks like the two, the tree warden and the code enforcement officer might work in concert if that's the most effective use of either of their time to work like that. I'm not sure. And as you said, I think it goes back to Commissioner McGibbon's point about just needing more staff, period. Do you have more questions, Councilor Collins? I'll defer to my fellow Councilors. Okay, Vice-Chair Bears and then Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight. I think I have to keep unmuting you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Attorney Stein, can you speak to that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Attorney Stein. Did that address your question? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Do any Councilors need clarification around that motion? Do I have a second for that motion? Second. Second by Councilor Collins. And your next motion Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Do I have a second on that motion? Okay. My Councilor Tseng, are those your motion? Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. Are those all of your motions vice president bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Do I have any other motions from Councilors? Is there any additional discussion or any members of the public or trees member folks who would like to speak? I see Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Collins. Second. On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice-President Bears. And then, Claire Curnaby.
[Nicole Morell]: And then Sarah, just unmute you. Go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, sir. I think that's an excellent point. Any further discussion? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, if you could read back, would we like to take, is there a motion to take all of these at once with one vote, or would we like to take them separately?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight to consolidate the three motions on the floor, second by- Second. Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative and one absent, the motion passes. Would anyone like the motions read back or do we feel confident in the language?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. So on the motions of Vice President Bears and Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, zero in the negative, one absent, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to keep the paper in committee and adjourn seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 in front of zero and the negative one absent the motion passes and the meeting is adjourned. Thank you everyone. I will ask the clerk to load this current draft in the Google Drive just so people can see it. And then as soon as we have an updated draft, we can put that there as well. So thank you all.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Stein, wonderful. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: 22nd regular meeting of the Medford City Council May 31 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to suspend the rules to take paper 22-367 out of order, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Oh, he can't see us though. All right, great. All those in favor? Opposed? Motion passes. Petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 22-367, petition for a common victor license by Carol Nigro, 15 Waddell Street. Medford, Massachusetts, 02155, for Chapters Coffee Cars Corporation, 111 High Street, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155. On file, business certificate, building department, fire department, police and traffic, health department, letter of compliance, state tax ID, workman's... We do have the petitioner here, if you'd like to come speak, and I can also hand it off to the chair of our licensing subcommittee, Councilor Caraviello. I'm not sorry, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: So, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for your support. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Cabrera. Any further discussion? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? So on a motion to approve from Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Naik. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. Congratulations. Thank you. Come see us Saturday. On a motion of vice-president Bears to revert to the regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports and records. Records. The records of the meeting of May 24th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Scarpelli, how did you find them? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees, 22-354, May 24th, 2022, Committee of the Whole report. I'll jot my memory on this. Oh, this was our yes this was our pre budget meetings where the council set a number of priorities which we would like to see included in this year's budget as well as additional recommendations that we individual Councilors made and those were delivered to the administration. On the motion of Council night to approve the committee report second my Councilor Tseng all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes. Moving on to motions, orders and resolutions. 22-361 offered by Councilor Caraviello. This is a resolution, I'm gonna read it through, but this is a resolution I had the clerk put on again from last week in hopes that we could have a presentation by those requested. They're unable to be here tonight. Hopefully this is something we can have a presentation on the future. I'm just gonna read it briefly. So be it resolved that the Medford City Council have a representative from Eversource attend the next city council meeting to give the council an update on their ongoing project on Mystic Avenue and Winthrop Street. Be it further resolved that the DPW commissioner, city engineer, and transportation director attend the next meeting. Unfortunately, none of these representatives could make it tonight. So if we want to table this paper, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. And I will continue to work to see if we can get those representatives to attend the next meeting or the next meeting. And again, there is, but there is a meeting for folks watching. There is a meeting with some updates, a number of which we have been requesting as a council for months at this point, but there is a meeting about the Eversource project tomorrow night on Zoom at 6 p.m. 22-368 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council have the Mayor clean and landscape the bump outs and center islands within the city. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I assume. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? So we'll take the B paper first. Do I have, we have the motion from Councilor Caraviello on the main paper. Do I have a second for that? And then the B paper, do we have a second for the Councilor Tseng? So Mr. Clerk, we'll take the B paper first. Do you have the wording for the B paper? Were you able to hear that?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes Okay, I didn't get the Councilor Knight on the B paper, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. On the main paper from Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-369 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council have mass stop, mow the grass at the rotary and off and on ramps to route 93. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice Mayor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? Mr. Clerk, do you have the language for that amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Tseng, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. Councilor Newton. 22-370 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council discuss the safety concerns dealing with dogs off leash at Tufts Park. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: So, thank you. Thanks, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight, any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: further discussion. I want to thank you Councilor Scarpelli for bringing this up. I know we've all been getting the phone calls in the email. So I really thank you for bringing this forward to have this discussion because I think we've all been talking to the administration kind of individually and understandably a lot of folks in the situation aren't really satisfied with the answers they're getting. So I think this really pushes us to do more and see if we can get some transparency around this issue and some different ideas. So we have the motion from Councilor Scarpelli as amended by Councilor Scarpelli and Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: And seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-371 offered by Councilor Tseng be resolved at the Medford City Council request the city administration update the city's website city websites text on COVID-19 information and frequently asked questions, Councilor Tseng, Thank you, President moral.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like to make that an amendment? Sure. Any further discussion? I do want to thank Councilor Tseng for bringing this forward. I know, and again, I'm sure all of us get phone calls as far as parking, other issues, saying I went to the website and the information wasn't updated or street cleaning, the information wasn't updated and it needs to be updated. This is where people are going for information. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so on the motion of Councilor Svang as amended by Councilors Knight and Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Vice-President Bears. For public participation, is there anyone in person or on Zoom who would like to speak for public participation? Please raise your hand or come to the podium. not seeing any moving on. Sure. Name and address for the record, please have Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: The budget is coming up, so it's absolutely conversations that can be had during budget time. You know, ideally the administration watches the meetings, I'll let my fellow councilors speak, Vice-President Bears, Caraviello and then Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Karygiannis. Councilor Knight. Anything else like that?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Anyone else who'd like to speak for public participation? Seeing none, Vice President Bears, you had something?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vices and bears received and placed on file papers 21-631 and 22-023 unfinished business. And that would be both of the 21-631s?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion by vices and bears second by- Legal opinion on that, Madam President. I believe we are.
[Nicole Morell]: Did we get a legal opinion on that?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I didn't think we had, but do you guys think we have? Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't believe we have.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, Councilor Bears has withdrawn his motion. That is the end of our agenda. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 21st regular meeting of the Medford City Council May 24 2022 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. Records, the records of the meeting of May 17th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: Second. On a motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees, 21-057, May 18, 2022, committee of the whole report to follow. This was our meeting last week to discuss the draft ordinance regarding regulations around leaf blowers. There were a number of motions to get some additional language and options as well as to invite landscapers, chambers of commerce to a future meeting. I know we've heard from some residents about this. This is very much still a work in progress. All feedback is welcome and we're probably gonna work on this together. Do I have a motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by various with the committee report, all those in favor. All those, all those in favor. Okay, all those opposed motion pass I only got one I think I only heard one. Announcements, accolades and remembrances 22-358 offered by Vice President Beyers. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council congratulate Building Commissioner Paul Moki on his retirement and 38 years of service to the city of Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpella. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Ike. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. And if I could, I mean, my fellow councilors have said so much, and I think just hearing people speak at length about Commissioner Moki just is a testament to who he is and the work he does. when she helps us all I think one of my early wins as a Councilor in my first term was a resident had reached out about their neighbor had you know large shipping container a lot of open storage and something that was a violation of code and it was an issue they've been battling for so long and Mr. Moki was finally able to get you know get it taken care of getting it to the right person and you know the resident thanked me profusely but it's it's it's not a lot of times it's not us it's the people who work at City Hall it's people like Commissioner Moki who go the extra mile they are they they're so responsive and just really get it done for the residents of our community and he's come to countless meetings as vice president bears said and you would never get a sense of you know how he feels about an issue personally he comes with his his work hat on and he says you know this is what we can do this is what we can't do and it's always been so welcome and I appreciate it so much. And he will be absolutely sorely missed. As I said, 30 years of institutional knowledge is really tough to top. And I think, you know, he's working to the last minute. I had sent him a paper before I knew he was retiring, our tree ordinance, to see if we could get some feedback. And he said, sure, I'll get that to you right away. When, you know, he's retiring in three days. And I said, you know, we'll figure it out. So it's, he'll absolutely be missed. And I thank him for his many years of service to this community and to this body in particular as well. So on the motion of Vice President Bears as amended by Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. Motions, orders and resolutions, 20-573 offered by Vice President Bears, be it resolved that the Medford City Council reconsider the vote on paper 20-573 for the third reading. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: So very Tuesday is the snow and ice removal ordinance that came before us for third reading last meeting. This just updates the language that was in the council a number of times. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll, unless anyone would like the ordinance read back. Okay, Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll. Who's the second? Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in front of one in the negative the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-three five. Very good. All right, to do that 359 offered by Councilor Knight, the result of the Metro City Council request that the DPW purchase necessary equipment to grind sidewalks and stems to assist in addressing the backlog of necessary sidewalk repairs Councilor Knight, Madam President, thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Pricers and bearers, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. So 22360. So what this paper is, it goes just into the efforts of corporations like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash to keep their employees classified as independent contractors. And as such, these employees do not get benefits or pay into things like social security. A lot of times they are not getting a living wage once, or even a minimum wage once the hours and their shifts are calculated These companies contend that these folks are independent contractors and not employees, despite the fact that they are required to perform a set number of shifts. They do have flexibility in scheduling. They are not allowed to refuse a certain number of rides or they won't be able to be on the app anymore. So this is in response to House Bill 1234, that would continue to exempt these gay economy businesses from paying into Social Security unemployment, which costs Massachusetts taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars, and we can use these programs for everyone. And it would affirm our support in joining Councilors across the greater Boston region, workers, consumers, community members, faith organizations, environmental and racial justice advocates, labor rights, civil rights, and union organizers to urge Massachusetts legislature to oppose House Bill 1234, and the proposed 2022 state ballot initiative with similar language. So this is just really something to affirm our support. I understand Councilors, you know, certain times don't like to go on issues that go up to the state level in this way, but I would just argue that this is something that very much impacts our community. These are people who live in our community. These are workers that are As I said, oftentimes not making a living wage they're not making a minimum wage. And these are services that use our roads our streets. And we talked about the congestion and the dangerousness that happens because of all these services, and they're essentially. they're allowed to do whatever they want. They say these people aren't employees, we're not going to give them benefits, we're not going to make sure they have a living wage, and they want to codify that. So this is just asking the council to join with other councils and leaders in the area to stand up and say that these workers deserve the same rights as all other employees, because that's what they are. Vice President Bears, Councilor Caraviello, Collin Sands, go around. Vice President Bears first.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Zoom would like to speak on the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-361 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Metro City Council have a representative from Eversource attend the next city council meeting to give the council an update on an ongoing project on Mystic Avenue and Winthrop Street via further resolve at the city engineer and dpw also be in attendance.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Further discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: I have asked the city engineer if they have any updates on timing. And it's obviously nuts on them and resources and give them information. I've asked them, you know, month, two months ago, because we're in high construction season, and nothing's happening.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any luck Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't remember getting that I did a quick search I couldn't find it.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor? All those opposed, motion passes. 22-362 offered by Councilor Tseng, whereas the US Supreme Court's decision in Shurtleff versus City of Boston creates important implications for municipalities and public entities with regards to flag raising practices and policies, and whereas the city of Medford has been advised to examine existing practices and policies regarding flag raising to ensure compliance with the First Amendment, and to also consider examining their formal or informal policies and practices regarding display of banners, flags, message boards, and other signage on and use of public buildings and property. Be it resolved that the city administration provide a report to the city council on its current practices and policies regarding flag raising and other displays, which may be affected by the short-lived decision, especially with further regard to requests from private or non-governmental groups slash individuals. And be it further resolved that the city administration also provide its plan to ensure that our policies comply with the Surleaf decision, including any updates to policies and practices. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng, Vice-President Bears, and then Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the Council? Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Mr. Castagnetti with his hand up on Zoom. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-363 offered by Councilor Tseng. Whereas the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, MBTA, has provided its bus network redesign proposal which includes changes affecting Medford residents in all neighborhoods and is now soliciting feedback from the public. Be it resolved that the city administration inform residents of the proposed changes to bus service in Medford and the MBTA's feedback survey, which is available online in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Haitian, Creole, Arabic, Vietnamese, and French, and be it further resolved that the Subcommittee on Climate Sustainability and Transportation meet to draft feedback for the MBTA on changes to bus service in Medford. Councilor Sanders.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: further discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: As long as you accept that you don't have to formally motion.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Tseng as amended by Vice Mayor Bears and Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor. Aye. All those opposed, motion passes. 22-364 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it resolved that the Medford City Council have Eversource repaint the crosswalks and bike lanes on South Street in the interest of public safety.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Gone now. Yeah. Oh yeah, it's gone now.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello. As amended. Sorry, question on bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a second on that? Second. All right, we'll take the B paper first. So on the motion by Susan Bares to invite Todd Blake to come down to discuss the status of the Eversource project, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? B paper passes. And on the main motion from Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Public participation. We do not have anyone in the chambers tonight, so is there anyone on Zoom who would like to speak for public participation? Please raise your hand. I do see Mr. Castagnetti. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: It's give or take 60,000.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. All right. Unless there's anyone else who would like to speak for public participation, moving on, I did get a note from the clerk that paper 20-600, we could probably move up unfinished business. If anyone would like to motion to take it up. It is the National Grid grant of location. They need to resubmit, so we can just receive and place a file. So motion to... A motion of Councilor Knight to take 20-600 off the table and receive and place on file, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. That is the end of our agenda. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes, the meeting is adjourned. Thank you. And just a reminder that tomorrow night's Committee of the Whole has been canceled as we addressed it tonight's Committee of the Whole.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-354, Committee of the Whole meeting Tuesday, May 24th, 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: As a six present one absent the meeting is called to order, there will be a meeting of the Medford City Council to the whole on Tuesday, May 24 2022 at 545pm. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss and compile proposals and ideas from the city council for the FY 23 budget to 2-354. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morel, council president. So as we discussed last week, the intention of this meeting is to allow the council to share ideas as far as what we would like to see as part of this year's, the fiscal year 23 budget. There had been hopes in past years of having pre-budget meetings with the administration. Unfortunately, that hasn't come to pass. So the intent of this meeting is to at least gather ideas from the council, see if we can come to some agreement or a number of ideas that we endorse and then send the paper to the administration, hopefully for consideration as they finalize the budget. So we do have a few papers that some councilors submitted in advance as far as ideas, and we can also just go around and hear what councilors wanna include. Anyone would like to start? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Harris. Anyone else like to speak on what they'd like to see in the budget? Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello and Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello, Councilor Collins, and then Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you have tonight. I have a number of priorities, they've all pretty much been said, which I think is a good thing, because that shows we're aligned and we can get something together that we can deliver to the mayor, to the administration, and hopefully they hear us and they work on these things. Absolutely echoing the need for assistance to the solicitor. I think to Councilor Caraviello's point, we've been, a number of councilors, new and old, have been asking for the same things year after year. And we've also been asking for things that used to exist. and then they're gone. And we're asking for them to be back because they went away for really no good reason. And I think, you know, I voted in good faith, you know, hoping that KP law could bridge the gap as the mayor had said. And I think seeing an operation, it has just been reaffirmed over and over and over that we absolutely need that assistant city solicitor position for us to work effectively as a body and for the legal department to work effectively. There's just so much demands on that department and for it to be a one person department for a city of our size. It's unreal, honestly, at this point. I also would love to see additional staffing in DPW, ideally in forestry, if we can only choose, you know, one or two places. I think forestry is absolutely needed. We know we have the work coming as far as the stumps and just needing new trees. So I would love to see that agree with the zoning, getting that additional funding, which I think you know, recodification was always intended as step one. So these aren't new asks. These aren't out of the blue asks. These are things that have always been needed for us to, to serve the city in the best way as far as doing that work. And also I agree with the additional code enforcement inspector also, or if it's someone to do officially weights and measures, you know, both of those offices are really short staffed and something that we come up against time and time again. So, I support all those things that have come before. So I'm just see if councilors have any motions for Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: You're muted.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight has seconded. Be assured.
[Nicole Morell]: Let me know when you have it, Mr. Clerk. Do I have a second for that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: All right, so yeah, so on the motion, the first motion by Vice President Bears is to report out the five recommendations of the council, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. And the second motion by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight to send the committee report with the additional priorities of the councilors to the administration. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Is there any further discussion or anyone on Zoom who would like to speak? Don't see anyone who would like to speak on Zoom. Any further discussion in the chambers? Yes, unless anyone would like to meet again, feel like.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll take responsibility. On the motion of Councilor Knight to cancel tomorrow night's meeting in light of what we accomplished tonight. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Tomorrow night's meeting is canceled. On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. The meeting is adjourned. See you at seven.
[Nicole Morell]: 21-057 committee of the whole meeting Wednesday, May 18th, 2022 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President, for present three absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, May 18th, 2022 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting is to review and propose draft language to establish an ordinance around leaf blower use within the city in the interest of public health and safety for Medford residents, paper 21-057. DPW Commissioner Tim McGibbon and KP Law Attorney Janelle Austin have been invited to attend. For further information aids and accommodations contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. So we met the subcommittee for climate sustainability and transportation met on this paper, about a month ago. We have the draft ordinance from KP law that we reviewed. I can share that on my screen. We did not have any formal motions. We and the subcommittee felt that it was in a position that we wanted to move forward that draft ordinance to get feedback from the full council and any motions to adjust it there. And we did have building commissioner Moki join us last time to just give us some insight as far as enforcement around this. And he does believe it is something that they have the, with people power to enforce at this time. So I left him off this meeting, but I'm always happy to circle him in for more, any feedback or have him come to a future meeting, but I figured since we already got that information from him, we didn't have to take another night away from him. And now we do have KP Law Attorney Janelle Austin, as well as DPW Commissioner Tim McGivern with us. Councilor Scarpelli raised last time a number of questions that he felt that DPW Commissioner McGivern may be able to answer for us around battery usage and just kind of commonplace usage within the city departments as far as leaf blowers. So unless other councilors would like to start with discussion or questions, I'm happy to share my screen and kind of go through The ordinance language and just highlight the salient points as we've had this in our inbox. I think since last month and was sent around again today.
[Nicole Morell]: So before we have the draft ordinance, There was some questions at the subcommittee just in this definitions portion, I think, particularly as far as the commercial leaf blower operator as there are some solo. There are some kind of one man band operations that may be subject to these regulations, if we wanted to adjust that from a two person two person plus organization to. anyone running a commercial operation. Leaf blowers does reference, include both battery and electric powered, I'm sorry, gas, battery and electric powered leaf blowers as far as the language of this ordinance goes. And the main limitations around use reference are noise ordinance that already exists, as well as limitations that leaf blowers, use of leaf blowers is prohibited except for between March 15th and May 31st and October 1st and December 15th in any year. It also exempts city parks and a number of city properties from these regulations. It further prohibits the use of leaf blowers except between the hours of nine to five Monday through Saturday. And it also prohibits the use on holidays. Again, the city properties are exempt from this. Then section three requests that those who are either owners of large parcels, which is a small number for Medford, or have the commercial operation to register with the city and provide a plan. And then also just some general language around use as far as leaf blower operations shall not cause leaves, dirt, dust, rodent, dog or cat feces, debris, glass clippings, cuttings or trimmings from trees or shrubs or any other type to litter or debris. to be blown or deposited on any adjacent property or any other parcel of land. So just mitigating that, you know, the actual blowing of things on other properties that may be detrimental. And then also going into referencing the decibels once again, as well as number six on parcels of 10,000 square feet or less, only one leaf blower at a time may be used. And then on parcels larger than 10,000 square feet, only one leaf blower may be used within each 10,000 square foot area. And then also the limitation set forth in the to be numbered subsections shall not apply to de minimis use of a leaf blower by an individual on the property in which they reside, provided that such use is in compliance with the noise ordinance. For the subsection de minimis shall mean not more than an aggregate of five minutes per day. It references the enforcement authorities. As I said, Commissioner Mokey was fine with the code enforcement building department being the enforcement authority and did recommend seeing if the health department would work in concert as well. So we could also loop them in at a future date. And so those are the general overview of the health department. what this ordinance entails. Again, we didn't make any motions at the subcommittee. Again, we did have some questions just regarding the definitions. And there was some discussion among residents as far as the duration for which leaf lowers would be permitted to be used. So I'm happy to open it up to questions from Councilors at this point. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: That was my understanding. Attorney Austin, if you're able to speak to that.
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Austin, if you're able to speak to that.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions from Councilors? If I actually just could, I just have a follow-up question to that, Attorney Austin. So would it then be that the idea is that these plans would be submitted and that would cover an entire season of use? It wouldn't be a single one-off use under Section B3?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Austin.
[Nicole Morell]: Right now, let me scroll up. It is March 15th through May 31st and October 1st through December 15th.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Do I have a second on that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: That was exactly what I had in mind.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: The leaf blower is regulated. We have the definitions, limitations on use, and enforcement regulation, severability, and effective date. So I think we could use language on intent.
[Nicole Morell]: And do you want the first as far as adding, making sure the intent is included.
[Nicole Morell]: The recommendation is just to, to add the intent portion for the ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: And do I have a second on Councilor Knight's motion to invite all those registered landscaping companies within the city as well as the Chamber of Commerce. Second by Councilor Collins. Thank you. We can take all motions at the end. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I apologize. I thought, did you have anything more Councilor Knight? Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: I will check on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a second for Councilor, Vice-President Bear's motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, do I have a second on a vices and bears motion. Second, because they're saying, and you had more vices and bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I would agree with you there because it does seem like In my opinion, we're putting this effort into these regulations and that number three, B3 kind of invalidates all of them if you submit a plan. And I think that's great. I think these plans, I think the requirements of the plan are important, but that's not what residents are asking us. Residents are asking us for relief from the constant noise, the constant emissions, the constant dust and debris flying into their yards and their windows. So I would agree with you there. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from Councilors? I do have a few questions, Commissioner McGivern. Is there intent or plans or has there been just kind of fact finding around what it would cost and if the work could be accomplished if the city were to transition to battery or electric leaf blowers, which don't have the emissions and they tend to have much less noise as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And then also, at what regularity are our crews using leaf blowers on these parcels? Is it weekly? Is it monthly? I mean, I know, you know, I walk in the cemetery a lot and go to the parks and they look pretty well clean. So I know they're working when I'm not seeing them, but I'm just curious how often.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. And then this gets pun intended a little into the weeds, but I know some of the frustration residents have is the leaf blowers are used. They're using them to blow around lawn clippings or a little bit of dust in a driveway. Does the city, you know, truly use leaf blowers for blowing leaves and those cleanup times? Or are they used for, you know, mowing projects or other things?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you. And last question for me, and I know you're new into this role, but to your knowledge, does DPW get complaints about the use of leaf blowers in these larger, you know, in the parks and these larger parcels? I know this stuff tends to come from just dense neighborhoods.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and I think yeah to count some nights points I think you know, holding the city to to a similar high standard I've absolutely like just, you know, looking into that and I think, like I said, I think most of us get complaints just from the neighborhood aspect, or I haven't gotten complaints regarding larger parcel parcels but it would be really helpful to have that information as we move forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you, Commissioner McIver. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a second on vice-president Bear's motion? Councilor Collins on the second.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a second on that motion from vice president bears? Second. Second from Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the council? There any members of the public who wish to speak? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: We just have a number of motions to vote on forehand. So I have, I think, five, so I can go through them.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to consolidate the five motions we have before us.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, if you could read them back, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, Mr. Clerk. I accidentally muted you trying to mute myself. I apologize.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct. That is everything I have. Any councilors? Great. Looks like everyone agrees.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Call the roll on consolidation and then We will call the roll on the consolidation, assuming it passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 5 in the affirmative, 2 absent. The motion to consolidate passes. And if you could call the roll on the consolidated motions.
[Nicole Morell]: And second by- Second. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I am. I'm at the little. They're not using leaf blowers at the moment. No, no, no.
[Nicole Morell]: Please call the roll. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, two absent, the motion passes. And then we have a motion from Councilor Collins to keep the paper in committee. So moved. Second. Councilor Collins to keep the paper in committee. Oh, sorry. By Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. By the affirmative to absent the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I've been the infirmary to absent the meeting is adjourned. Thank you so much, Commissioner McGibbon and Attorney Austin for joining us and helping us out tonight. Thanks.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: 20th regular meeting of the Medford City Council is called to order for May 17 2022 Mr. Clark, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to suspend the rules to take a paper out of order.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to take paper 22-356 out of order, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. 356 request for expenditure. Department for claims over $1,000. To President O'Connor and honorable members of the Medford City Council from Brenna Lungo-Koehn. Claimant name, Adam Hurtubise. Date of incident, April 1st, 2021. Date of trial result, not applicable. Amount of request, $2,850. Claimant's attorney, not applicable. Description of alleged claim. The claimant, Adam Hurtubise, seeks reimbursement of fees paid as a result of sewer damage to his property on Saunders Street in Medford, Massachusetts. The case was settled prior to trial. The necessary release has been obtained from the claimant. Breakdown amount requested, medical costs zero, loss wages zero, property damage 2,850, other zero, and total settlement $2,850. Mr. Herbie would like to speak to this for a moment.
[Nicole Morell]: Good evening. Good evening. Thank you, Madam Clerk. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve second by Vice President Bears. Any discussion? I do not see her on the call.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears, Madam Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in favor, zero in the negative, the motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Nieto, we're back to regular order of business. Second by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. I'll give a moment for the clerk to come back up. I know you're ready, Mr. Clerk. Okay. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. Records, the tabled records of the May 3rd, 2022 meeting were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. The records of the meeting of May 10 2022 were passed to cancer Collins cancer Collins, how did you find them. I found them in order and I move for approval on the motion of cancer Collins second by second. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed. Motion passes reports of committees to zero dash zero to four May 10 2022 committee of the whole report to follow. Why am I blanking on what this was?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, this is, okay. This is the second meeting of the Affordable Housing Trust. We had a number of changes and we're waiting for feedback from the city as well as council. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve, second by?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. Announcements, accolades, and remembrances. 22-351 offered by Vice President Bears. be it resolved that the Medford City Council that we recognize and celebrate Haitian Heritage Month and Haitian Flag Day on Wednesday, May 18th, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to join 22-351 and 22-352, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Tsai.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion, Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The motion passes. Petitions, presentations and similar papers, 22-339 petition for grant location. On the motion of Councilor Ntuk to waive the reading, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Do we have anyone in person or on the line for this grant of location from National Grid? We did have the information in our packets this week. I'm not seeing, I know I'm not, sorry, go ahead. There's anyone on the line who can speak to this grant application from National Grid, if you could raise your hand. I'm not seeing anyone motioning so far. On the motion of Councilor Knight to table, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. I'll keep an eye and see if anyone shows up. Motions, orders, and resolutions. 22-353 offered by Vice President Beyers. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council, that the council and the mayor invite DCR Commissioner Stephanie Cooper to Medford to conduct a site visit of DCR roads, parks, and properties in the city of Medford, and meet with the mayor, council, state delegation members, city staff members, and local advocates. be it further resolved that the goals of this meeting are to detail the great benefits and significant impacts of DC our own ways and properties on the city of Medford and improve communication between DC are the city of Medford and the residents of Medford to ensure prompting collaborative responses to improve conditions for all stakeholders, be it further resolved that the mayor send a copy of this resolution invitation Senator Jalen's office as the center has graciously offered to help set up the visit by Susan affairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much. Thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Would you like to be an amendment? Any further discussion? I also just want to thank Vice President Bears for bringing this forward. I know it's frustrating for residents, it's frustrating for us. Anytime that someone raises an issue, we realize it's a DCR road, a DCR property, and we know that oftentimes we're going to hit our head against the wall trying to get something done. So hopefully this can help us move on that subject. So on the motion of Vice President Bears as amended, oh, sorry, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. On the motion of Vice President Bears as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: I do just want to know that. Thank you. Oh, great. That's the one on the motion of ice and bears take to to dash 339 off the table as we do have a representative with us now second by tonight all those in favor. Petition presentations and similar papers 22-339 petition for a grant of location on National Grid North Andover Massachusetts relocation of utility pole jointly on the horizon New England for Massachusetts. I do believe we have a representative from National Grid with us. If you could please come to the podium, share your name and address for the record, please, and just give us an overview of the proposed project we're looking at.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Madam President. Thank you for being here.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? I just have one question. So I know there's obviously long-term work there with that new development. These sidewalk panels, you'll do the work and it will be replaced immediately. And then whatever happens down the line happens down the line, not waiting for that project to fully replace them. Okay, thank you. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve, seconded by? Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Naito to revert back to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-354 offered by President Morales, unless anyone objects, be it resolved that the Medford City Council, by the Medford City Council, the Council submit proposals or ideas for the FY23 City Budget to the City Clerk by Monday, May 23rd at 3 p.m. for consideration at the City Council's FY23 Budget Proposal Committee of the Whole meetings to be scheduled for Tuesday, May 24th. and Wednesday, May 25, as needed. So this paper is before us, I think, since the then new administration came in two years ago, there was the hope of having these pre-budget meetings and for whatever reason, they've never materialized. And this is just the intention to take things into our own hands to at least communicate what we as a council are seeking from the budget, rather than getting the budget delivered to us kind of at the last hour and really not having as much for the woman's life. So that is my intention. I would hope to schedule them for Tuesday and if we need to, we can go to Wednesday as well for next week. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Naik, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-355 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council have the company that installed the bocce courts at Riverside Ave, return to repair them with the proper materials and make them the proper size. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. And Councilor Caraviello, do you want to amend the paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Caraviello and Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. On the motion of Councilor Knight to take 22317 and 22318 from the table. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22317, the loan order for Sidewalk Fonz is eligible for its third reading on May 17th, 2022. I do believe, is there any current discussion on this? I do believe we have representatives from the administration that are able to speak to this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And we did have a number of questions addressed by Chief of Staff Nisarian, but I think also if you were able to more speak to the work that could be anticipated with this bond, but of course there's specific questions from my fellow councillors. have a presentation, go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Other side.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins, then we'll go back to Vice-Chairman Bears and Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, sorry, was I repeatedly missing you?
[Nicole Morell]: I thought you were making chitchat.
[Nicole Morell]: I just love talking.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? I do have one question. Sorry. Apologies. I know, um, you mentioned that the thank you both for being here, by the way, that 88 compliant sidewalks being the highest priorities. Does that include so you said? Sorry, non compliant. So is that just ramps that exist that are non compliant? Are there spaces where there should be curb cuts also in that?
[Nicole Morell]: and did those places, I'm asking, I mean, I'm keenly focused on this. If you look at past resolutions, this is something I'm focused on, but as someone now who pushes a stroller around this city, hopping curbs in a stroller or any mobility device, anything like that is not fun. So I'm just curious about curb cuts, just personally.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so it wouldn't be anything new?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: So we do have a B paper from Councilor Scarpelli if you want to take that first. So the B paper was to ask DPW Commissioner for a monthly update on progress or just- That's correct. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the B paper from Councilor Scarpelli, the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by- Councilor Knight, all those in favor? All those opposed? The paper passes. On the motion of Councilor... I don't have this page, that's why. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve for a third reading, papers 22-317 and 22-318. Vice-Chair Stephens.
[Nicole Morell]: So do you wanna take the vote on 22-317 first?
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight to approve for third reading 22-317. Second. Second by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero in the negative the motion passes. And then to to dash 318 vice president bears you have a question on this paper, which is eligible for third reading is the loan order for stump removal bonds.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve 22-318, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So I'm going to confirm it's here and then I give the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor? I was opposed motion passes to do it's like to zero dash zero seven eight the polystyrene prohibition ordinance eligible for third reading on May 17 2022. Do I have a motion on the motion of Barcelona bears to approve for third reading seconded by Councilor Tseng. Also wait for Councilor Caraviello. This is Councilor Caraviello, this is the vote for 20-078 for third reading for the polystyrene ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, please call the roll. So we're taking the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative, two in the negative. The third reading passes. 2-0-573 Snow and Ice Removal Ordinance, eligible for third reading, May 17th, 2022. Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Second. On a motion of vices and affairs to approve the third reading, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in favor of two in the negative, the third reading passes. I have a motion to revert to regular order of business.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of our Southern Bears to revert to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Favilla. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. Public participation. Do we have anyone either in person or on Zoom who would like to speak for public participation?
[Nicole Morell]: Bill Giglio on Zoom, name and address for the record, please. Hello? Yes, Mr. Giglio, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Giglio. Anyone else would like to speak for public participation? Seeing none, that is the end of our agenda. Would anyone like to make a motion to adjourn? On the motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: 19th regular meeting of the Medford City Council May 10 2022 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President seven presidents are absent, please rise to salute the flag. Announcements, accolades, remembrances, reports, and records. Records, the records of the meeting of May 3rd, 2022 were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, how did you find them? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to table the records for May 3rd, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in front of zero and the negative the records are tabled. On the motion of council and I just suspend the rules to take up public hearing second by second. Councilor Caraviello Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm in the furnace during the negative. The motion passes hearings to two dash three one five legal notice city of Medford notice of a public hearing. The Medford city council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F Alden chambers at Medford city hall, 85 George P Hassett drive Medford and via zoom on Tuesday, May 10th. 2022 at 7 p.m. A link to be posted no later than Friday, May 6, 2022, on a petition from Crumble Cookies, Gopal Kumar Menon, 23 Revere Beach Parkway, Medford, Mass, 02155, for a special permit to amend its hours of operation in accordance with Medford Zoning Chapter 94, Section 94-145, to operate extended hours at its business at 23 Revere Beach Parkway, Medford, Mass, and site being located in a mixed-use zoning district as follows. Extended hours of operation requested 11 p.m. to 12 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Petition and plan may be seen in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford, Massachusetts. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations aides. TDD 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an EOAA 504 employer. By order of the city council, sign Adam L. Hurtubise, city clerk. Advertise in the Medford transcript April 21st and 28th. At this time, as part of the public hearing, if we could have the petitioner provide an explanation of what they're seeking. If you could come up, Mr. Menon.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Mann. We will now open the public hearing. Is there anyone here to speak in favor of the petition? That would be you.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of the petition? Checking Zoom, okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the petition? Not seeing anyone on Zoom. This portion of the hearing is closed. Is there any discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So we have a motion from Councilor Knight. I do want to note that the newly adopted rules state that following a public hearing, a six calendar day public comment period shall commence. Public comments shall be submitted writing to the city clerk. The council shall neither approve nor deny any matter requiring public hearing until the conclusion of the public comment period, unless waived by a majority vote of the council. On the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the six day waiting requirement, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. So that would be the motion to waive and approve. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in favor, zero in the negative. The motion passes and the extended hours are approved.
[Nicole Morell]: Congratulations.
[Nicole Morell]: All are under suspension. 22-348, petition for a common victor license by Barry Rafferty, 51 Crocker Road, Medford, for Mystic Dining, LLC, the Ford 61 Locust Street, Medford, Massachusetts, 02155. Mr. Rafferty, if you could tell us about the petition.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Aberdey. Going to licensing chair, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't believe any of us did receive the packet. I also did not receive the packet. Yeah, we didn't get the appropriate approval.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, is the paperwork downstairs?
[Nicole Morell]: I just read something, so it's not on the agenda.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Victor Schrader on the call. I don't know if his hand up if he could offer anything to the conversation.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion for Senator Bears for a 10-minute recess. I'll take your 10.
[Nicole Morell]: second call the roll on the motion of vice president bears for 10 minute recess seconded by a Councilor Knight. I'm calling everyone in favor. I recess as the clerk tries to track down this paperwork so we can move forward on this tonight. Thank you for being with us.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. And then we just voice voted, which maybe was illegal, but you weren't here to stop us.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to reconvene. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Great.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on that motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero in the negative the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Vacations from the mayor April 22 2022 to the Honorable President and members of the Metro City Council. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body confirm the appointment of Rebecca Amami, Democrat of 12 Ship Ave, Apartment 7 to the Election Commission for a term to expire March 30th, 2026. A copy of the appointment letter is attached. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Breanna Lungo-Koehn Mayor. And then be a first class mail to Rebecca mommy's fellowship of apartment seven Metro dear Rebecca, thank you for your interest in serving on a border commission with the city of Medford I'm pleased to appoint you to a term to the Metro board of election commissioners which expires on March 30 2026. Please take the enclosed appointment letter to the office of the city clerk to be sworn in at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your continued commitment and dedication to the city of Medford. Sincerely, Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor, City of Medford. I just want to note that in the time since this was first tabled, we did get a requested resume circulated to the council for Ms. Amami. Any discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Senator. Thank you. Any further discussion? Councilor Favrella.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Coordinator Gale. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Saik.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Further discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, then Vice-President Rhoads.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? On the motion of Vice President, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Sai. On the motion of vice president bear seconded by second Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, four in the affirmative, three in the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I did have Councilor, I apologize, Vice Mayor Barrett, Councilor Tseng did send us a chat, just because he's delayed, Paper 22-350. Sorry, 22-350. Is that what you asked for? Yes. Okay, so 349 and 239. Okay, so we will take them in order.
[Nicole Morell]: I know, I'm... Okay, so you want 22349 and 239? 22-349 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the mayor appoint a task force to examine future development in West Medford Square. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: I do, so is the hope that they would work, because there's the West Medford, there's the business association as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, second by- Second. Councilor Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. The motion passes. 22-350 offered by Councilor Tseng, whereas the 2022 spring edition of the Harvard youth poll found that nearly half, 45% of LGBTQ youth feel under attack a lot because of their sexual orientation. Whereas approximately three fifths, 59% of young black Americans, 43% of AAPI youth and 37% of Hispanics believe people of their racial background are under a lot of attack in America. Whereas a majority of young Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 52% report feelings of depression or hopelessness and 24% report thoughts of self harm, a feeling particularly prevalent in young Americans who are black 35% API 33% female 26% LGBTQ 39%, and in a bad financial position 35%. And whereas the Surgeon General has issued an advisory which calls for a swift and coordinated response to this mental health crisis as the nation continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, be it resolved that the City Council ask the City Administration and School Department to study youth mental health in Medford and to prepare an action plan to address the mental health epidemic, both for children within the Medford public school system and youth living in Medford more generally. and be it also resolved that the Subcommittee on Public Health and Community Safety invite relevant city officials, experts on youth mental health and Medford's youth leaders to discuss steps the city can take to address challenges to our youth population and mental health. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any discussion from the council before we hear Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the Council? Councilor Naik.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Any further discussion? I saw Alan Zhang on the call. Do you want to speak? I'll unmute you and just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. saying any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Tseng seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the role as amended, as amended. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative one absentee motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to revert to the regular order of business. Second by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative one absent the motion passes reports of committees to 0-006 May 3rd 2022 subcommittee on ordinances and rules report to follow. Vice President Bears is the chair of that subcommittee.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of the negative motion passes announcement accolades and remembrances to two dash three four or five offered by Councilor Caraviello be it resolved that the Medford city council recognize may as national national military appreciation month. Please recognize and honor all 2.2 million United States service members and their spouses Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, you're in the negative the motion passes to two dash 347 offered by Councilor Tseng be it resolved that the city council recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander heritage month.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Tseng seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm the furnace during the negative the motion passes petitions presentations and similar papers to to dash 339 petition for grant of location National Grid North and over Massachusetts relocation of utility pole jointly on with Verizon New England, Medford, Massachusetts. City Clerk's Office. You are hereby notified by order of the Medford City Council. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, and via Zoom on Tuesday, May 10, 2022, 7 p.m. A link to be posted no later than Friday, May 6, on a joint petition of Massachusetts Electrical Company doing business as National Grid and Verizon New England for permission to locate poles, wires, and fixtures, including the necessary sustaining and protecting fixtures. along and across the following public way or ways here and after name said poles, wires, or fixtures to be located substantially in accordance with the plan number 30453109 marked Winthrop Street, Medford, Massachusetts, dated November 23rd, 2021, and received and filed in the office of the city clerk on December 21st, 2021. Wherefore it prays that after due notice and hearing as provided by law, It be granted a location for and permission to erect and maintain poles and wires together with such sustaining and protecting fixtures, as it may find necessary said polls to be erected substantially in accordance with the plan number 30453109 Mark Winthrop Street, Medford, Massachusetts and available for inspection in the office of city clerk Medford City Hall room 10385 George Peabody Passage Drive. Medford Massachusetts, also for permission to lay and maintain underground laterals cables and wires in the above or intersecting public ways for the purpose of making connections with such poles and buildings as each upset petitioners may desire for distributing purposes. Petitioner agrees to reserve space for one cross arm at a suitable point on each of said poles for the fire police telephone and telegraph signal wires belonging to the municipality and used by it exclusively for municipal purposes. The following are the streets and highways referred to. Plan number 30453109 Winthrop Street National Grid to relocate one J.O. pole on Winthrop Street beginning at a point approximately 20 feet northeast of the center line of the intersection of Winthrop Street and Lorain Road. and continuing approximately 15 feet in northwest direction. Relocate one pole P279 approximately 15 feet northwest from existing location to accommodate new driveway 2541 Winthrop Street. Location approximately as shown on plan filed in the office of the city clerk. The engineering division recommends that this grant of location be approved with the following conditions. The grant of location is limited to the relocation of one joint owned pole at the underground services associated with the full relocation. Two, before starting work, the contractor shall notify dig safe and shall obtain all applicable permits from the engineering division. The project must obtain a street opening permit pursuant to section 74-141 of the city ordinances prior to commencing work. Number three, no other utility structures, conduits, duct banks, pipes, or any other appurtenances are adversely impacted. The proponent shall ensure that all sewer, water, and drain lines remark prior to any excavation number for the final poll location shall be coordinated with Mary Kenny with the Mary Kenny way development so it will not adverse the impact traffic sight lines number five the sidewalk restoration shall be done in coordination with the Mary Kenny way subdivision project and per the requirements of an approved street opening permit. At a minimum, the restoration shall include new concrete sidewalk panels replaced in kind with an expansion joint placed around the pole. The project site must be swept daily and shall be kept free of debris from the duration of the installation. Approved, Superintendent of Wires. Call 781-393-2425 for accommodations and aid. Signed, Adam Hervey, City Clerk. Plans can be viewed in the City Clerk's office. 71-393-2425. Do we have the petitioner on the line? Do we have the petitioner on the line for the grant location? If you're on the phone, you should get notification to unmute if you are in person or if you're on video, please raise your hand. Just seeing if we have the petitioner on the line to speak to this. I did see a gentleman on the call earlier that also dropped that may have been the person.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on the motion?
[Nicole Morell]: until the petitioner is present. Seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Motions, orders and resolutions 22-012. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the rules of the Medford City Council be updated to replace rule two meetings with the following. Rule two meetings. Regular meetings of the city council shall be held every two weeks on Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. beginning on the first Tuesday in January. Meetings shall be held in the council chambers. Meetings of the committee of the whole shall be scheduled by the president. Meetings of subcommittee shall be scheduled by the subcommittee chairperson. Scheduling preference for meetings of committees and subcommittees shall be on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings beginning at 6pm. Except in an emergency, no meeting of the City Council shall be held unless a notice of such has been filed at least 48 hours prior to such meeting with the City Clerk, as required by the Massachusetts Open Meeting Law. Upon receipt of such notice by the City Clerk, they shall immediately cause the same or copy thereof to be posted publicly in their office. For the purpose of this section, emergency shall mean a situation where immediate undelayed action is deemed to be imperative. Unless city council shall vote to go into executive session, all meetings of the city council and committees and subcommittees thereof shall be open to the public and to the press and the city council shall provide that residents and employees of the city shall have reasonable opportunity to be heard at any such meeting as outlined in rule 16, rule 19 and rule 22. All meetings of the City Council shall include an option for virtual participation through a video conferencing platform. Members, residents, petitioners, and interested parties shall be provided with the necessary information to access this platform and participate virtually. However, members shall make every reasonable attempt to attend meetings in person. materials provided to the members of the city council shall be posted on the city website at the same time as meeting agendas, except those materials deemed private or otherwise requiring review by the city solicitor. The city council shall maintain accurate records of their meeting setting forth the action taken at each meeting. A summary of all matters voted shall be made available with reasonable promptness after each meeting. The records of each meeting shall become a public record and be available to the public upon being approved. The City Council may at any meeting by a majority vote discontinue any further meetings herein before schedule. via further resolve that these updates becomes effective on September 1st, 2022. I just wanna note before the discussion that the council has met a number of committees of the whole, as well as the rules and ordinances subcommittee met on these proposed changes a number of times. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins to approve, seconded by Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Come to Scar Valley.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the council? Just as a member of the council I'm just going to speak from the chair as I've been relatively quiet on this just trying to manage debate but I, I support this because I do believe this reflects this the format of how work gets done in this council as Councilor Knight has spoken. I understand the concerns of my fellow Councilors they're absolutely heated they're heard. You know, to counter Carlos point I understand along meetings but you know right now sometimes we'll have a meeting that starts at five we start with the committee the whole, and then we keep going so we're in meetings four or five hours even if we're not going late you've been meeting for a long time so allowing for, you know, more freedom with those meetings to to get the work done and not have things kind of running into each other as we did, did tonight and I think also. The Committee of the whole the subcommittee structure does allow for for more voices to be heard for different voices because there are a lot of folks that are focused on a single issue. And they might not come to a council meeting, they might not have the time for that, but they're at that subcommittee they're at that committee the whole you can look back on recent meetings on different topics and there's a lot of dialogue and there's a lot of folks that you might not see in a regular meeting, but will come out to that meeting and they will speak about their single issue, whether it's curb appeal or relief blowers or food trucks. So this is why it has my support. I absolutely do believe that this will facilitate the council to do the work that it does best and that it's statutory work. So it's ordinances, it's policy, it's reviewing the budget, which we do in communities as a whole. and just getting that work done. So this has my support and I just wanted to say that just to go on record and share that as I have been fairly quiet, just managing to be. Any further discussion from my fellow councilors? I know we do have members of the public who would like to speak. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Focus comments to the chair, I understand there's- I mean, no, I'm just saying, it's our opportunity to come up here and speak, that's it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Vercella. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: In the past, we've actually met, we've had meetings where we need to get a food truck permit that needed to be approved.
[Nicole Morell]: You folks, you folks maybe have met, you folks have met. A food truck is a community interest.
[Nicole Morell]: It's September 1st as noted.
[Nicole Morell]: No, it is the issue.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Pente. Andrew Castagnetti on Zoom, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. Mr. Navarre, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Navarre. Any further discussion? On the motion, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Council President. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins seconded by Councilor Knight, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, five in the affirmative to in the negative the motion passes. We still have public participation. Any additional public participation, either on Zoom or in person? Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please. Should be able to unmute.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, I apologize. So we had to cancel due to illness. Unfortunately, we are looking to reschedule. I was going to thank you for reminding me. I was going to note that, but the committee of the whole for tomorrow night has been canceled due to illness. Unfortunately, um, we are looking to reschedule.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't feel so sorry. I am so sorry. I apologize.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Casagnetti.
[Nicole Morell]: Address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Phillips.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. And again, Mr. Phillips, thank you for your words. As someone swimming has kept me sane for most of my life. So I appreciate your words on that. And I connect with that. So thank you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: We have not gotten that as of yet. I was also told, I believe earlier this week, that they're having a meeting about stumps to prioritize.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I will follow up on it once more. It was part of the council that requested when we voted for it. I will follow up on it once more. I know it matters to us too.
[Nicole Morell]: Anyone else would like to speak for public participation? Oh, he's gone. Okay. Do I have a motion to adjourn? On the motion of Councilor Collins to adjourn seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to adjourn Council night.
[Nicole Morell]: No, we're talking about on Thursday and Friday and Monday.
[Nicole Morell]: here. 20-024 committee of the whole Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at 545 PM is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: As in six present one absent the meeting is called to order, there will be a meeting of the Metro City Council community the whole on Tuesday, May 10 2022 at 545pm. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the potential establishment of an affordable housing trust paper to zero to zero to four. The city council has invited housing planner Daniel Evans sure and ever of KP law. and Shelly go ring of Metro housing partnership to attend further information aids and accommodations contact the city clerk at 7813932425 sincerely yours Nicole morale. I also want to note that we also have Jeffrey Driscoll, the housing authority that I forgot to include in the invite but was so gracious to join us tonight as well. So we have before us tonight draft. ordinance around establishing an affordable housing trust as was requested by the city council. This was completed by our housing planner and partnership with Metro Housing Partnership. So we can go through the draft. I can pull it up on the screen. We can go through it line by line, but I don't know if councilors want to start with questions as we have a number of experts on Zoom and with us in the chambers.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if you're able, Danielle, if you would give us an overview of the document we're looking at, and then we could, I can pull it up on the screen as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Charlie I just set free to unmute if you want to just share name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: and that's number 11, I believe? Yes. Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do see Attorney Everett is on the call now too. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Shelly. Any questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: To someone on zoom just said they didn't hear Councilor Scarpelli's question so it was just about the whether or not the terms are staggered. That was the response. Any further, any other questions from the Council at this time?
[Nicole Morell]: Hi, good evening.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Averill. Sure.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions, further questions from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Everett.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think you just misspoke. I think you said general law when you meant city charter.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm happy to have council review the changes after we we motion to make them.
[Nicole Morell]: I guess, any changes we suggest tonight, would that be Attorney Everett making them? Would it be you both reflecting that?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Would it be easiest just for you to, you know, take note tonight for anything that revisions we make, or would you like me to try to do track changes in real time and then share with you?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Great. Thank you. Okay. So we have a motion from vicers and bears. I can take them off the end or we can vote right now.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Councilor Tseng on Zoom, but Councilor Knight, it looked like you were going to put your hand up way back when. Oh yeah, but before. I was embarrassed. Nothing. Okay. Are you all set for Vice President Bears?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. I have a few questions. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Shelly with Venture Housing Partnership has her hand up. Shelly, if you're able to respond to that.
[Nicole Morell]: Just Councilor Knight's point with the language need to be modified to reflect that or is it's you know, the hope that the intention wouldn't go beyond the scope we're looking for. Is that enough?
[Nicole Morell]: Right.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, sorry, Sharon, you got muted for, I don't know how or why, but you just got muted.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we lost you for a minute. We lost you right at, you know, if a piece of property becomes available.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Shelly, are you able to speak to that? I know you've also had your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Attorney Everett, are you able to speak to that?
[Nicole Morell]: Shelly has her hand up if you're able to speak to this, Shelly.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, we're going to be chasing our tail.
[Nicole Morell]: I agree. And I absolutely agree with your point. people that are funding, you know, doing the project are them going to need affordable housing that we need more affordable housing because you know, we're stuck in a vicious cycle.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilman. Yes, for those on the call, Executive Director of Medford Housing Authority, Jeffrey Driscoll, is here. So if you want to speak to how perhaps you've seen other communities work on this as well, I'm curious after Jeffrey speaks, Shelley and Sharon, if you have any thoughts on how a housing authority may be involved in such a trust.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Senator Falco?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Everett. Shelly, you also had your hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Shelley. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, yeah. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins, Vice-Chair Bares, we are starting to bump against the 7 p.m. meeting time. I just want to note that we'll keep going, but as we do have a number of revisions, we will like to meet on this again. So there will be more time for discussion, but going to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Um yeah and I did, I forwarded you a copy of the ordinance just so you have.
[Nicole Morell]: Of course. Sorry for
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have a number of motions on the floor? I do have one resident with their hand up on Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: And going to Mr. Castagnetti on Zoom, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Casagnetti. Okay, so we have a number of motions on the floor. The first motion from Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight, is to amend the paper to include compensation for the trustees of $1,000. The motion to consolidate all amendments, seconded by... Second. Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll for the motion to consolidate all the amendments and take them as one. Do you need a minute to write them all down?
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So the affirmative is here and the negative, the motion passes. I can go through the motion.
[Nicole Morell]: I did not write down the second on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, that's all the motions we have.
[Nicole Morell]: Please call the roll on those when you are ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I have the affirmative, zero negative, the motion's passed. Do I have a motion for the paper?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to refer the questions out and adjourn, seconded by?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes and the meeting is adjourned. Thank you, Planner Evans, Director Hunt, Director Driscoll, and Attorney Everett for your help. And shall I had to jump off? Thank you all. And those on the call, please give us a moment to get together before our regular meeting. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, how did you find the records?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion by Vice President Bears to approve second by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees, 22-012, April 26, 2022, Committee of the Whole. This is our rules meeting. We discussed the, this was rules, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: This was on the council rules. We discussed the language as far as codifying virtual attendance as needed, as well as the potential for bi-weekly meetings that will come up next week on the agenda. Motion on the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion of vice-President Bears to approve the report, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. 21.057, April 27, 2022, Subcommittee on Climate Sustainability and Transportation. So this was a subcommittee meeting to discuss a draft of a potential regulations around leaf blower use within the city. And the committee voted to send it to a committee of the whole, which we'll be having later this month. Second. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 2-0-006 April 27, 2022 Subcommittee on Ordinances and Rules. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Moving on. Announcements, accolades, and reminiscences. 22-340 offered by Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council recognize Massachusetts Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Day. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: On to legal notice to the Medford Community Development Block Grant Program, Program Year 48 Annual Action Plan public hearing. A public hearing will be held by the Medford City Council on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. Details will be posted by the City Clerk's Office prior to the hearing. The purpose of this public hearing will be to invite the general public and representatives of public service agencies to express comments regarding the City's Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan for Community Development and Planning. The action plan contains the proposed use of Community Development Block Grant funds for the program year which extends from July 1 2022 through June 30 of 2023. The Office of Planning, Development, Sustainability will be requesting that the Medford City Council authorize Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, official representative of the City of Medford, to submit the annual action plan application for funds and all other assurances and certifications to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. The city is applying for an estimated $1,546,988 in block grant funds. Funds are estimated and details on the increasing or decreasing of proposed activities and budget can be found within the draft plan. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations, slash aids, TDD 781-393-2516. Signed, Adam Herdevis, City Clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. At this time, Director Hunt, if you would like to give us a summary presentation. As Vice President Bears mentioned, this was discussed at length in a previous committee as a whole as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt and Administrator Williams. As this is a public hearing, we'll open the public hearing now. Anyone in favor of the petition who would like to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing none, closing this portion. Anyone who would like to speak in opposition of the petition before us? Seeing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Have any discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Would that be a motion to, yeah, waive the waiting period? Okay. Okay, so on the motion of Councilor Harviello to waive the waiting period and approve tonight, seconded by Vice President Affairs, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, the motion passes. Thank you all very much. Thank you very much for your time this evening. Motions orders and resolutions to to dash 341 offered by cancer Caraviello be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have the mayor work with the Chamber of Commerce and Waste Management to come with a better plan for rubbish pickups and Medford Square.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion. Second, motion of Councilor Caraviello, second by Vice President. I wanna call you Vice President Nitzel. Councilor Knight, I do just wanna thank you for bringing this up. I think one meeting a few months ago after we left, it, you know, it was really a pickup because along- Windy night. Windy night, rainy, and there was just trash absolutely everywhere. And anyone driving through, I don't know how you would think to come back to Medford Square in a day or another night because it was an absolute disaster. So thank you for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. So, on the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-342 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that Manfred City Council have the administration open the Crystal Campbell Fountain at the Senior Center. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. No further discussion. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-343 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council have the Mayor's Office and the DPW follow up on the City Council's meeting with residents last year of the lower end of Brooke Street and the promises made to them in the interest of public safety. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello as seconded by Councilor Scarpelli as amended by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-344 offered by Councilor Caraviello. be it so resolved that the mayor's office provide the Medford City Council an update on the progress of the plan to address the issues at the intersection of South Street and Main Street. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor, I suppose. Passes vacations for the mayor to Councilor Knight, all those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? The motion passes. Public participation. Is there anyone who would like to speak either on Zoom or in person for public participation? Seeing no hands on Zoom, small Zoom crowd tonight. Anyone in person who would like to speak? Seeing none, moving on. That is the end of the agenda, unless folks have any unfinished business they would like to, not sure if anything is due to be taken off. Looks like it.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have that, Mr. Clerk, for the record? on the motion of our chosen bears to adjourn seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 21-057 subcommittee on climate sustainability and transportation transportation runs April 27 at 2022 at 6pm. Mr. Clark, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: three present, zero absent, the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford City Council Subcommittee on Climate Sustainability and Transportation on Wednesday, April 27th, 2022 at 6 p.m. The purpose of this meeting is to review and propose draft language to establish an ordinance around commercial grade leaf blower use within the city in the interest of public health and safety for Medford residents, paper 21-057. The subcommittee has invited Building Commissioner Paul Moki to attend this meeting. For further information, aids and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, subcommittee chair. So to start tonight, we have a few things before us. So this is the first time this subcommittee or any subcommittee is meeting on this paper. We do have some draft language that was provided by KP Law just for us to review to see if it's something we wanna work off of Um, it looks like we also have some residents here who would like to speak, um, or at least just being attendance. I want to give the opportunity to speak. Um, and then we also have building commissioner movie here who would be able to provide insight on, um, just the capabilities the city may have around code enforcement. If we do want to, you know, the subcommittee finds we want to implement certain restrictions or regulations around this, um, as that is a concern sometimes as far as establishing audiences. we need to have the ability to enforce the ordinances. So I put it up to my fellow councilors if you'd like to just talk on this in general first, this came before the council in 2021 and was immediately moved to subcommittee to really discuss it. This is a result of a number of complaints I think that we've heard from residents. And I know there are concerns as well as just how to go about this in a way that would be beneficial for all. So I'm gonna go to councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tsai. Yeah. And just if I could, I think, you know, I've got a number of emails as well. A lot of people very excited to see something like this happen, but also, you know, a handful of folks just there is stuff to balance. I think, you know, similar to the snow removal ordinance, there are a fair amount of elderly people who rely on these landscaping services to upkeep their yard, to do yard work they can no longer do. Unfortunately, or just as a matter of fact, these landscaping companies have kind of made it so the leaf blowers are just part of the service regardless of if they're needed or not. So it's really tricky where folks are stuck in this catch 22 that maybe they don't want or even need the leaf blower, but it's part of the package. Um, so if they want to get any yard work done, they need to get this leaf floor part of the package. So, um, I do think a Councilor Tseng this point of, as more communities look at regulations around this, including entire states, California, Rhode Island is looking at it too. Um, companies I think will adjust. Um, but I just want to know there is, um, I think things to consider in balance. And I think, um, the draft language we were given does work to do that. So I can actually, um, share my screen, but I also, if there's any residents who want to speak before we get into kind of the nitty gritty of looking at a potential ordinance document, I will go to Tom Lincoln first. Tom, if you could just give your name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Tom. Would any other residents like to speak before we start to review the draft? I see Nancy, and then I'll go to Norman. Nancy, name and address for the record, please. Oops, sorry. Should we see a little unmute box popping up?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Nancy. Yeah, I do, it was brought to my attention, Mass Save actually does have a program for going electric for landscape tools for individuals, Um, so leaf lowers on lawn mowers, um, nothing yet for commercial. Um, I have flagged in the past, um, to see if there are any grant programs out there. You know, it's beyond it's likely I'm just assuming beyond our financial scope as a city to offer those types of rebates. Cause MassAve is offering at the state level and they just simply have more money than we do. Um, but I think I can, uh, ping once again, our folks that are great at chasing down grants and see if some, you know, if there's any potential, something like that might exist.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, that's an excellent point. And I think if, you know, I can look into that individually or if anyone wants to make a motion, we can just touch base with the finance department. And I think knowing that other cities, you know, Cambridge and Somerville have regulations around this, I'm curious, you know, is there like a multi-city thing that could happen?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I will definitely, I will put some feelers out. So thank you for that. Thank you. Of course, Norman, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'm gonna, yeah, I'm gonna screen share right now. If anyone wants an actual copy, I can send it to them. And then this was the city solicitor sent this a little ways back and I send it to the entire council as well, just because we had started getting a lot of emails about leaf blowers. I wanted to make sure people had this in front of them. So thank you, Norman, and I'm gonna start screen sharing and just kind of going through this. And if Councilor Tseng, Councilor Scarpelli, if you wanna offer Um, and then, um. Commissioner Moki, too. I can just kind of tag to you when we get to the different enforcement parts and just get your feedback. People need that a little bit bigger. Possibly. So this starts off with a definition. So leaf blowers, this has it defined as fuel, battery, or electricity. So that is something, you know, if we want to keep it for all types of leaf blowers, we can come back to this too when we actually see the language. And it just defines, you know, the manners in which they are used, which I think is helpful because as has been noted by many people, Probably they're rarely used for leaves, honestly. They're used for minimal debris and other things most times out of the year. And then, you know, during certain seasons they're used for leaves. Owners of large property. So property owners, including, but not limited to corporations and condominiums or homeowners associations who own one or more adjoining parcels of land in common ownership that together compromise a total of two acres or more. So this is a better apply to, you know, most homeowners or a lot of homeowners. This is more large properties. And then commercial leaf blower operator is an entity organization that employs two or more employees who receive income remuneration or compensation of any kind, whether as a fee, and that just goes into that. And this accepts municipal operators and municipal contractors are excluded from this definition. So the limitations that have been offered in this Draft, again, these are all, I mean, every part of this is up for discussion. We could also decide that we want to throw this away and start over. That wouldn't be my choice, but I just want to note that this is all very much a starting document that I believe is similarly modeled to what Somerville and Cambridge have in place right now. So this notes that notwithstanding sections 3834 and 3837, the use of leaf blowers is prohibited except between March 15th and May 31st. and October 1st and December 15th in any year. So this notes leaf blowers in general. So I think this would also apply to individuals using leaf blowers. I would have to flag that for legal counsel just to confirm that. And this accepts all of the, really the parks in the city and city maintain recreational space, as well as, do I see, I do not see if any, I'm just scanning right now. I do not see the cemetery listed here. I know that was also of concern, just being a very large parcel that uses DPW for this work and their machinery. So I can note that unless any councilors disagree.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. I mean I would like to put it out to cancer saying has a scar Peli I mean, on these, these dates. These bands of dates that you should be allowed if there is any feedback on that. I think also after after hearing from residents and their concerns on this. Okay. Are there any residents, I mean, who have any, you know, I think this is something that will have to be socialized to a certain extent. Just to try to get more feedback on this is my thought beyond the small handful of folks that are here. But if we want to start, if we want to keep this language, these dates for now, This will also have to move to a committee of the whole of the entire council. So essentially what we want to do is create a product that we feel comfortable with, knowing that it can and likely will change when it gets to a committee of the whole. So there are no disagreements there. Also, I'm curious if any of the councilors have thoughts or if presidents want to speak on the fact of, you know, parks being accepted from this. There. Go ahead, Norman.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Norman. I see Tom has his hand up as well. Go ahead, Tom.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Tom. Um, so moving through, um, do I have a motion from, um, I'll see if there are any motions at the end or any, um, but also any Councilors, if you have any adjustments along the line, please let me know, but moving on to, uh, part two. So notwithstanding sections 30, 34 and 38, 37. The use of leaf rollers was further prohibited on Sundays and legal holidays and prohibited on other days except between the hours of 9am and 5pm. I'm curious, Commissioner Mokey, what are the current times as far as landscaping crews? I mean, I think we've all experienced them earlier, but I don't know if they're operating on the way they should.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you, Commissioner Marocchi. Moving on to, so, and this again goes into that same language, accepting the parks listed and then commercial leaf blower operators and owners of large parcels of land seeking to operate leaf blowers on such lanes shall not be permitted to operate leaf blowers but may be exempted from this prohibition of the subsection if they submit an operations plan to the building commissioner or designee for review or approval. I am a little, Um. This language. I don't know if it's referencing operating outside of those hours. It seems like it's just more general limiting this. I'm curious if other Councilors are reading it. The same way I am. Um, I think. I think what it's aiming to get at is that if these, um.
[Nicole Morell]: If you can, if you can briefly I know you're, you're a lawyer so but if you could briefly.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Norman. Do I have a motion from any councilors to make adjustments or just ask for clarification from council related to that. If anyone would like to make that motion as I can't.
[Nicole Morell]: I think what As the ordinance begins, it references the commercial leaf blowers, and to Norman's point, it does get a little confusing that it could be interpreted that this ordinance is only referencing commercial leaf blowers, whereas after that, it then just says use of leaf blowers in general, and then the commercial comes back in at this portion. I can also leave it, I mean, we can also leave it just to address in the Committee of the Whole to see if other councilors have a, a different opinion. So if there's no strong opinion, we can leave it. It can be addressed with the larger council. So moving on to section four, I do have a question related to this, Commissioner Moki. Obviously this is the intent. We don't want any of this happening. In my opinion, I don't want any of this happening. Residents I've spoken to don't want this happening. How enforceable is something like this of someone saying, I see so-and-so blowing this into the street and it's this particular matter?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and then moving on to section five, only floor shall satisfy the emission standards of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the following noise level standard notwithstanding these sections, which are in reference to the current Noise ordinance and the sound emitted from any leaf blower shall be rated by the manufacturer to be no greater than 65 decibels. All leaf blower operators, including commercial leaf blowers, municipal operators, and OLP shall adhere these standards. Six, I think, is impactful since, you know, I would imagine there's only, there's a lot of lots in Medford over 10,000 square feet. On parcels of 10,000 square feet or less, only one leaf floor at a time may be used, and on parcels larger than 10,000 square feet, only one leaf floor may be used within each 10,000 square foot area. Is there any, Mr. Lincoln, go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Tom. Yeah, and I would agree. And I think most folks on the call, I think we can peek out to our neighbor's lawn or whomever. And it is, it's a 6,000 square foot, it's a 7,000 square foot parcel with three to five leaf blowers going on at once. And that really contributes to all of the issues that have been brought up tonight. Moving on to seven, the limitation set forth in subsections to be numbered shall not apply to de minimis use of a leaf blower by an individual on the property at which they reside, provided that such use is otherwise in compliance with the noise ordinance. For purposes of this subsection, de minimis shall mean not more than an aggregate of five units per day. Moving on to enforcement, so, The building department slash board of health shall enforce this ordinance. Violations of this article shall be punishable by fines and penalties as provided in the subsection and in accordance with Massachusetts general laws, chapter 40, section 21B. Any person may register a complaint to initiate an investigation and enforcement within the building department slash board of health. So again, going back to you, I mean, this is the big question, Commissioner Murphy. I mean, is there, you know, the bandwidth to take this on? I mean, do you have any suggestions how something like this could, work in concert with the Board of Health.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, yeah, I knew that's a fair answer.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and would you recommend leaving the language as building department or board of health?
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. I mean, we can definitely invite the board of health to a future meeting. Thank you for that. Okay. So yeah, that touches on D. So that's something that we could revisit unless councilors feel strongly about it and the standard severability clause and effective date. So this has September 1st, 2022. We usually, there's usually things like this is a 90 day effective date. So I think it depends when this moves along. So, and that is also something we can revisit in a future community meeting, unless I'm sorry, committee meeting, unless Councilors have a strong opinion on it. Mr. Lincoln.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Lincoln. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Sorry, I'm on two screens and I lost my control panel. Is there any further discussion from councilors? I think we have... We haven't had any motions to adjust this. Again, this is knowing that this will go to a committee of the whole, so there is still lots of time to adjust this, get more feedback and see if this is something you want to change in any way.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. I'm going to Councilor Tseng, and then I will come back to you, Norman, for a closing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. And yeah, I just want to echo that as well as I think this is a great starting point. And I absolutely do hear the residents that want to see more or, or more limited dates, I think, just knowing that this is an ongoing conversation that this will move to a committee of the whole if motion to do so. And I think with a lot of things. It's just important that that folks have a chance to learn about something before it starts to really move so I think keeping with this draft is a good idea to just keep the conversation going around this so that folks who may not be here tonight may not have, you know, may have missed the notice for this meeting. We'll have time to look at this and think about this coming for the committee of the whole. And then again, we can entertain, you know, many more suggestions, make edits and keep this process going. I think just, you know, keeping a space document and also having the minutes from this meeting that include every single suggestion. And I will share, Norman, I will share your memorandum with the other Councilors. And of course people can continue to send things and attend meetings. going back to you, Norman. Sorry, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to report the paper out favorably to committee of the whole, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, three in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Mr. Kaplan, if you could, if you want to take us out, if you could be brief as you've had.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Kaplan. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn. Seconded by... Second. Councilor Tseng, the only person who can second. And I do just want to thank you, Commissioner Moki, for taking the time to be out here. I know we tend to bring you to a lot of these things and put a lot on your department. And I think we've spoken in past meetings about the need for more code enforcement folks. I'm sure we'll all be speaking to that very soon. You're welcome. Mr. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Three in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The motion passes and the meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Council April 26 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morell present seven present zero absent. The meeting is called to order. Please rise.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Signing the firm is here in the negative and rules are suspended. 22-337. April 15th, 2022 to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council for Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn regarding the Community Preservation Committee appropriation requests. Dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, on behalf of the Community Preservation Committee, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee. requesting the appropriation of $100,000 from the CPA Historic Reserve to the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability slash Civic Auditorium and Convention Center Commission for the facade restoration of the Chevalier Theater. The project will be tracked in the Community Preservation Fund by category Historic Reserve. Enclosed, please find a copy of the project summary. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully submitted, Brenna Lambert-Hearn. I do have the full enclosure, but I do see Roberta Cameron here. Councilors okay with that, we get to get an overview from Ms. Cameron, unless Councilors would like the full enclosure to be read.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So we have a motion from Councilor Knight to approve second by Councilor Callahan, as you do a word of Cameron here if you could just give us a brief overview of the paper.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any questions from the council? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Sarpelli to approve the paper. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Senator Nazarian I guess the motion passes. 22-338 April 20, 2022 to the honorable president members of Medford city council regarding the retiree cost of living adjustment increase your president Morell and members of the city council on March 31st, 2022, the Medford retirement board voted with the unanimous vote of five to zero in favor of informing the city council of the board's intention of increasing the maximum amount of earnings subject to the COLA cost of living adjustment from $16,000 to $18,000 effective July 1, 2022, subject to the approval of the City Council. Increasing the maximum amount of earnings subject to COLA from $16,000 to $18,000 will increase the maximum COLA per eligible retiree from $480 a year, $40 a month, to $540 a year. Currently, there are 618 retirees and 450 have a retirement allowance greater than $18,000. The remaining 160 retirees have an annual retirement allowance below $18,000 and will not be affected by the increase. In aggregate, the COLA cost will increase approximately $2,250 a month 27,000 a year. The cost associated with the increase will be funded from the pension fund and will not affect the city's fiscal year 2023 budget. The cost of the city will be included in the next actuarial evaluation currently scheduled for January 1st, 2024. If you have any questions, Chairman Rick Jordan and I will be in attendance for the April 26th meeting. Sincerely, Mark Minervini, Executive Director. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any discussion from the Council? Councilor Karygiannis. Councilor Karygiannis.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Councilor, I don't know if your hand is up again.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council. I believe we had an original motion. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Vice President Bears. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So then I get the motion passes. Thank you both for being here.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Can we take it because we're still on it.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Okay. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes, 70 in front of you and then I get the motion passes to to dash 336 April 22 2022 for Rebecca Amani culture have seven Rebecca, thank you for your interest in serving on a border commission with the city of Medford. I'm pleased to appoint you to the term to a term To the Medford Board of Election Commissioners, which expires on March 30th, 2026, please take the enclosed appointment letter to the office of the city clerk to be sworn in at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your continued commitment and dedication to the city of Medford. I'll read the other paper I read in reverse order, because they have the same number. April 22nd, 2022, the Honorable President and members of the Metro City Council, regarding the Board of Elections Commission appointment. Dear President Morell and members of the Metro City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body confirm the appointment of Rebecca Amami, a Democrat of 12th shift at apartment seven to the Election Commission for a term to expire March 30th, 2026. A copy of the appointment letter is attached. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brenna Oliver Park. We do have this before us tonight to fill out the last spot on the election commission, and the council was presented a letter I believe that you can stop not be here tonight so the council just sent a letter so what they said last week, as far as why their faith in appointments there and I know Rebecca is unable to be here tonight as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Well, yeah. I mean, we do have, Director Bears, we do have Sandy Gale here.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have do you want to keep your motion.
[Nicole Morell]: I do just want to note that last week there were three, there was actually 4% of the council, three were already voted through, so just noting for the process when you weren't here. others?
[Nicole Morell]: It's the last part.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there a second? There is no second for council next motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. There is a motion on the table to table this from Councilor Scarpelli, and that is not debatable. I do see Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to table the paper for one week.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Knight to table for one week and get a copy of the resume and application from the administration. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll on your right.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, Senate affirmative during the negative, the motion passes. Do I have a motion to revert to regular business? I have a motion for Councilor Scarpelli to revert to regular business. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: We're taking records first. The records of the meeting of the April 19th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Tseng. Councilor Tseng, how did you find the records?
[Nicole Morell]: Second. Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-330 offered by Councilor Knight, whereas April 5th, 2022 commemorate the 17th anniversary of the passing of the late State Senator Charles E. Shannon Jr., who represented Medford with integrity and compassion in the state legislature from 1990 to 2005. Be it further resolved that the Medford City Council hold a moment of silence in his honor, and be it further resolved that the April 26th, 2022 Medford City Council meeting be dedicated to his memory, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Senator Fernandez, during the negative motion passes. We will take both remembrances on the agenda together. 22-331 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Kevin Beltrami on his recent passing. Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: 22-332 offered by Councilor Tseng. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council recognize Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr and wish our Muslim community Eid Mubarak. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng second by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Motions, orders and resolutions 22-333 offered by Vice President Bears be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the City Administration urgently provide an update regarding the availability of Medford Community Media Channels through Comcast. Be it further resolved that the City Administration and MCM urgently provide an update on City Council resolution 21-402, which requested the immediate outfitting of the Alden Chambers, City Hall Rooms 201 and 207, and one conference room at the Metric High School with fully up-to-date technology using ARPA funds as quickly as possible to allow broadcasting and permanent virtual remote participation for use by the City Council, School Committee, all City Boards and Commissions, and the City Administration. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: the amendment. And just to piggyback off that, whereas council meetings, school committee meetings always has, you know, a Medford community. Are those archived anywhere else other than on the actual website automatically?
[Nicole Morell]: But as there's Medford community media in all of our meetings, school committee, those are always recorded through Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: So those are on a city server as well?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: He's in the planning department, I believe.
[Nicole Morell]: Appreciate that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Karwielik. How's our state?
[Nicole Morell]: Are you good. Yeah, I'm good.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion? Councilor Tseng?
[Nicole Morell]: Of course, I mean, further discussion. I just could, from the chair, piggyback on Councilor Tseng and what Councilor Caraviello was saying. It's my understanding that, you know, the large upfront costs of outfitting 207, there was also a whole software program that went with the management of that. I'm curious if there's been cost savings or we're, you know, or we've realized to stop paying for that because we haven't had a committee of the whole in there since the beginning of the pandemic. So it hasn't been being utilized in that way. I would just want to make sure if we're not going to be using that setup, that we're also not paying for the software service that goes with it.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not. If you go, it's not like legislative tracking something, I think it was called by pre pandemic committees as a whole. They exist in that software. I can find it.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? We have the- With approval. that we will take first. Mr. Clerk, you're the language for a ZP paper. Do I have a second on the beat paper? Second on the motion of Councilor Knight on the beat paper second by vice president bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 7-0 in the negative, the motion passes. On the main paper, on the motion of Councilor Knight, as amended by Councilor Caraviello and Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. You have the language for both those amendments?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-334 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the DCR clean the median strip at Route 16 by the Main Street Bridge.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-335 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the DCR remove the debris and trees left at the woods by Hastings Lane after their tree cutting. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Seems like Councilor Carvial has rejected you.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll take what you do that three three four first on the motion of Councilor Carlyle seconded by a motion to join.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to join and approve. All right, there we go. Motion to join papers 2234 and 2235 and approved by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. It works.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 7-4-0, the negative, the motion passed.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli, then Councilor Schell.
[Nicole Morell]: I wanted to thank you as well, Kinga, for
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Osanic. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello, and I echo all my fellow councilors' sentiments. It's a loss for the city, it's a loss for the council, and I thank you for your service, Kinga. Moving on to public participation. Is there anyone on Zoom who would like to speak in public participation, saying so because there is no one else in the chambers? Seeing no hands, that is the end of the new agenda. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. With Councilor Knight is no longer on. Councilor Scarpelli, would you like to adjourn?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 in affirmative, one absent, the meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng, did say he was going to be late.
[Nicole Morell]: meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Metric City Council Committee of the whole on Tuesday, April 26, 2022 at 6pm. The purpose of the meeting on paper 22.012 is to review proposed updates to the Metric City Council rules. For further information, aids and accommodations contact the city clerk at 781-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Morell, Council President. So this is a reconvening of a meeting to review a number of suggestions that the rules and ordinances subcommittee made. We reported out a number that we all agreed upon two weeks ago. and voted those in, and now this is just the remaining items that were of contention, which is the potential to move to biweekly or a different schedule of regular meetings, as well as, I believe, language around virtual attendance. Thank you. So I'm actually gonna pass it off to Vice President Bears, unless any other councilors wanna speak first, who's the chair of that subcommittee and who promised some updated language for the council to review.
[Nicole Morell]: surveyors is getting set up to screen share.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli and then Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Before I go to Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, Councilor Tseng has arrived, if you can mark him as present.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: No, no tickets, private.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: It doesn't reflect that. So, Commissioner Bears, or Councilor Collins, what would your preferential amendment be? I mean, it sounds like there is support for just keeping the biweekly through the summer.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. So we have a few motions on the floor. We have the motion by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli to cut the City Council's salaries by 50%. What's the remaining language? If the meetings go to biweekly? Councilor Caraviello? Sorry? You had a motion to cut the City Council's salary by 50% if the meetings go to biweekly?
[Nicole Morell]: That's seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, do you have that language?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Could you please call the roll?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll, as this is an amendment and an if statement. Thank you. Your amendment.
[Nicole Morell]: No, three in the front of four negative emotion fails. I have a motion on the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: He said he does it. I appreciate that because I was going to request that. I know we don't always agree. I work hard to treat you with respect and I apologize if sometimes my head wilts this way. I appreciate that. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I think I can turn my head more to the right than I can to the left.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have all those apologies, Mr. Clerk?
[Nicole Morell]: So we have a motion from Councilor Collins to amend the language so that, let's see, how is it?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: So the motion from Councilor Collins would be to strike the sentence which says there shall only be one meeting during the months of July and August. So the motion would be to delete that sentence. Do I have a second for that motion?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so to delete, so right now it just says one, so it would be to delete that. Mr. Clerk, do you have that language?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 in front of one in the negative, the motion passes. Do I have any other motions on the floor? Yeah, Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please, if you'd like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Casamatti. Mr. Navarre, name and address for the record, please. Yeah, have a go.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the public or Councilors? I'm gonna go to Councilor Collins and then I'll go back to you, Eileen.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Eileen Lerner, name and address for the record, please. I will ask you to unmute.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Eileen. Matthew Paige Lieberman, name and address for the record, please. Oh, thank you, sorry. There you go, you should be unmuted now. Did you want to speak, Matthew? I see your hand up. We will try again in a moment. Any further discussion from the Council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, councilor. Uh sure.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a few hands up on Zoom, moving to Matthew on Zoom. Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Matthew. Chair Ndeyesa, name and address for the record, please. You're not unmuted just yet. You just need to hit the button. One more time, you should see a little pop up
[Nicole Morell]: President Beares?
[Nicole Morell]: And we have, I think, the subcommittee notes as well as the committee as a whole have reflected Councilor Baer's position on this as well as a number of councillors.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm going to hear you on our regular meeting time, which part of the argument is okay.
[Nicole Morell]: I would also like to note that references to homeownership are irrelevant to comments. I just want to note that. Vice President Bears, and then we're going to go to Kelly.
[Nicole Morell]: Kelly Kosinski, name and address for the record, please. And then we are going to move on to our regular meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: We're up against a regular meeting time I my request would be that Councilor Collins follows up to you via email or phone call if she was so obliged. Residents here for a regular meeting which starts at seven I appreciate the comments.
[Nicole Morell]: the council discussion that the Councilors aren't paid an hourly rate. It's a, and it's not, it's right.
[Nicole Morell]: And I do just want to note that the references to zoning meetings, those all have to happen. They haven't actually the whole, they happen in subcommittee. There's no meetings that will not happen. Vice President Bears, if you had one.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to report out to the full council, second by- As amended, seconded. By Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. just report out in general, because you report out the amendments that are included in this document.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in favor of one of the negative, the motion passes. We have a motion to adjourn.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. To adjourn, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in the front of the zero in the negative. The meeting is adjourned. Please give us a moment to reset to start our regular meeting. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: 16th regular meeting of the Medford City Council, April 19 2022 is called to order Mr. Clerk, please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: motions, orders and resolutions to to dash 316 offered by Councilor Scarpelli be it so resolved that the city council discuss a plan dealing with the future trash and recycling contract. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And if I could from the chair, I want to thank Councilor Scarpelli for bringing this up, particularly the recycling issue. In the interim, despite cities and towns having vastly different policies as far as, you know, single stream, stuff like that, there is a website, RecycleSmartMA.org, That applies for the whole state. You can put in, as Councilor Scarpelli was saying, you can put in the item you're trying to recycle. It'll tell you if it will be processed or not, because he's exactly right, that items contaminate, and just the way the process works, they will, you know, a whole load that you think you've got recycling is going to the trash. So I really thank you for bringing that up. And it's recycledsmartma.org. So I do have Councilor Scarpelli, a resolution asking the administration to develop a process for education regarding recycling and trash, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? Comments from the public? So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli as amended by Councilor Scarpelli and seconded by Councilor Collins. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Councilor Tseng to suspend the rules. Paper number 22-three, two, four, seconded by councilor Caraviello. All those in favor. I suppose the rules are suspended. 22-324 to Honorable President Morell, Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approves the Massachusetts School Building Authority, MSBA statement of interest on behalf of Medford High School that has been prepared by the Medford Public Schools for consideration for the MSBA's core program. The submission is in follow-up to the March 31st letter you received from the superintendent of schools. Superintendent Maurice-Edouard-Vincent and Assistant Superintendent David Murphy will be on hand at your meeting should there be any questions or additional information that members would like to obtain. Thank you for your consideration. MSBA required form of vote to submit statement of interest. Resolved. Having convened in an open meeting on April 19th, 2022 prior to the SOI submission closing date, the City Council of the City of Medford in accordance with its charter bylaws and ordinances has voted to authorize Superintendent Maurice Edouard Vincent to submit to the Massachusetts School Building Authority. The statement of interest formed dated April 2022 for Medford High School located at 49 Winthrop Street, which describes and explains the following deficiencies and the priority categories for which an application may be submitted to the Massachusetts School Building Authority in the future. The Medford City Council hereby further specifically acknowledges that by submitting the statement of interest form, the Massachusetts School Building Authority in no way guarantees the acceptance or the approval of an application, the awarding of a grant, or any other funding commitments from the Massachusetts School Building Authority, or commits the city of Medford to filing an application for funding with the Massachusetts School Building Authority.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins. Motion to waive the reading in lieu of a summary. On the motion of Councilor Collins to waive the reading for overview from the superintendent. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Superintendent, if you'd like to give us an overview about what's being requested and what we'll be voting on tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Statutory, unless you want to read what those two priorities are just for folks who might not have.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Thank you, Dr. Edward-Vincent. Any, all right, Councilor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Councilor Caraviello. Are there any further discussion from Councilors or would any members of the public like to speak? Absolutely. Just, I do have one letter to read into the record. I don't see anyone who wants to speak in person, seeing on Zoom. I do just have one letter from a resident to read into the record. This is from Luke Prisner at 144th Street. Dear city councilors, I address you this evening to ask for unanimous support for Medford High School's application to the state's School Building Assistant Program via Statement of Interest, SOI. Today's vote is about SOI priorities and community unity. It should not be confused with other subjects such as tax levies or project specifics, neither of those is in play as a result of this vote. Instead, the district working on behalf of thousands of Medford parents and residents ask each of you to endorse the priorities they've selected to highlight before the MSBA Board of Directors. Medford's application will be one among probably 100 such applications to the MSBA this year, out of which only about a 10th are selected into the MSBA program. Therefore, it's very important to show the MSBA that we in Medford are all united in this cause. The high school is now over 50 years old and fixing all of its problems on our own falls far beyond the current needs. We need MSBA's help. MSBA can only help school districts that compellingly state the case for need and urgency and are admitted into the MSBA program. Selection is a game changer and may put Medford on a structured path in a several years long process to resolve our high school's woes, perhaps even in time for the graduating class of 2029. The current SOI is Medford's third in the past five years. It is normal and common for a district to apply multiple times, making refinements along the way. In 2018 the City Council endorsed the district's SOI priorities, but unfortunately the MSBA did not select Medford that year. Then again in 2019 this process repeated the City Council support for SOI priorities, but the outcome was the same. In between then and now the COVID-19 pandemic began disrupting normal activities starting in 2020. Now in 2022, normal activities are resuming and the acuity of Medford High's need and urgency has grown. As a community, we must act together and act quickly to re-engage on the SOI process. It's the first step. No money is committed and no decisions are made apart from the decision to ask the MSBA for support. That is the real purpose of today's vote. Namely, do each of you agree that Medford High School needs either rehabilitation or renovation? If you do, then please vote yay. Many residents I've spoken with believe it is time, and we all hope you agree. Medford High School's condition has not improved over time. In many ways, the burdens on its old bones have increased, and the urgency with which we must act has never been greater. I thank you for your thoughtful consideration on this matter. Please unanimously endorse the district's SOI priorities today. Best regards, Luke. Anyone else like to speak on the motion of Councilor Caraviello second by second bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative one absent the motion passes. Vice President Bears. And thank you, Dr. Gordon said and assistant superintendent on the motion, Vice President bear second second by Councilor Callahan all those in favor. All those opposed. The motion passes. 22-323 to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding the Board of Election Commission appointment. Dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body confirm the appointment of Mark Crowley, R of 59 Boynton Road to the Election Commission for a term to expire March 30th, 2026. Mark will be present for the meeting and a copy of the appointment letter is attached. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Your first class mail to Mr. Mark Crowley. Dear Mr. Crowley, thank you for your interest in serving on a board or commission with the city of Medford. I am pleased to appoint you to a term to the Medford Board of Election Commissioners, which expires on March 30th, 2026. Please take the enclosed employment letter to the office of the city clerk to be sworn in at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your continued commitment and dedication to the city of Medford. Sincerely, Brenna Lundgren. Is Mr. Crowley here or would anyone from the administration like to speak on this?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief Staff Nazarian. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Second. On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the appointment of Mr. Crowley, seconded by Councilor Scharpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. of Tony Nardella, unenrolled, of 33 Frederick Avenue to the Election Commission for a term to expire March 30th, 2026. Tony will be present for the meeting and a copy of the appointment letter is attached. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brianna Longahern, Mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: A motion by Senator Bears to waive the reading of the appointment letter, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Do I have a motion with regards to Mr. Nardella's appointment? Is Mr. Nardella here? I do not see him on Zoom either.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: And then so we do have, we just have the appointment letter for Mr. Miller. So should I just, I know we have a paper number for it. Should I just read the appointment letter? Yes. Okay. There was a little confusion. We do have a paper number for this. So that is something that we can work on tonight. So 22-327, your first class mail to Henry Miller. Dear Mr. Miller, and thank you for your interest in serving on a board or commission with the city of Medford. I am pleased to appoint you to a term to the Medford board commissioners, which expires on March 30th, 2026. Please take the enclosed appointment letter to the office of the city clerk to be sworn in at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your continued commitment and dedication to the city of Medford. Sincerely, Brenna Lundgren, Mayor. I do see. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Miller, if you'd like to speak, you don't have to. I do, Councilor Scarpelli, if we had 1,000 Henrys, I'm not sure my phone plan would work.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by- Second. Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative one absent the appointment is confirmed congratulations. 22-328 to Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council. Dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body confirm the appointment of Joyce Paul, Republican of 8 Mason Street to the Election Commission for a term to expire March 30th, 2026. Joyce will be present for the meeting and a copy of the appointment letter is attached. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brenna Lungo-Kernt, Mayor. appointment letter to Joyce Paul.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to waive the reading of the appointment letter, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Do I have a motion on the floor with regards to this appointment?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Seconded by Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: No, to the affirmative for in the negative the motion fails.
[Nicole Morell]: Second, on the motion of ice was embarrassed or regular order of business second by Councilor Scarf Kelly, all those in favor. Hi, I was opposed the motion passes. 20-573 offered by Vice President Fares, be it so ordained by the Medford City Council that the revised ordinances of the city of Medford as most recently amended is hereby further amended by changing the language of chapter 74, quote, streets, sidewalks and other public places, article three, sidewalks, section 74-114 entitled removal of snow and ice. Said section presently states, section 74-114, removal of snow and ice. Whenever the sidewalk or any part of a sidewalk adjoining any building or lot of land on any street is encumbered with ice or snow, it shall be the duty of the tenant or occupant, and in case there should be no tenant or occupant of the whole of such building or lot of land, it shall be the duty of the owner or of the person having care of the sidewalk to cause such sidewalk to be made safe and convenient for public use. or travel by removing the ice or snow or by covering the area with sand or some other suitable substance. In case such tenant, occupant, owner, or other shall neglect to do so for the space of six hours during the daytime, he shall forfeit and pay the sum of $25 for the first offense and 50 for each successive day that the sidewalk shall continue to be encumbered. Any person shall not throw or put or cause to be thrown or put any snow or ice into any street in the city. The fine for violation of this section shall be for the first offense $50 and for the second offense and subsequent offenses $100. The language of said section 74 dash 114 shall hereby be amended to read as follows. Section 74-114, removal of snow and ice. A, removal of snow and ice from sidewalks. Whenever snow or ice accumulates on a sidewalk, the owner, tenant, occupant, or agent thereof, any land or building abutting a sidewalk or walking path shall remove the snow and ice to provide a minimum passage of 36 inches for pedestrians on the sidewalk abutting the owner's property and the entrance to a pedestrian crossing abutting the sidewalk. The owner, tenant, occupant, or agent thereof shall also remove snow within 36 inches of a fire hydrant within or abutting a sidewalk that abuts the owner's property sufficient to allow access to the hydrant. The owner, tenant, occupant, or agent therefore shall remove the snow or ice or treat the sidewalk with calcium chloride pellets or other suitable and preferably environmentally friendly material to permit safe passage to pedestrians. The owner tenant occupant or agent thereof shall not be responsible for moving snow on an abutting sidewalk if an excessive amount of snow is plowed onto the sidewalk by private municipal or state vehicles in the course of applying a public way, which cannot be reasonably removed as determined at this discretion of the code enforcement officer. The owner, tenant, occupant, or agent thereof shall remove snow and ice within six daily hours after the snow stops falling or a snow emergency has been lifted, whichever is later, and the city may extend the deadline set forth in its discretion. B, throwing or putting snow and ice into the street, a person shall not throw or put or cause to be thrown or put any snow or ice into any street in the city. C, enforcement. The city's code enforcement officer or his designee shall enforce the ordinance in a manner provided in sections 1-13 of the ordinances and Massachusetts general law of chapter 40, section 21D. If non-criminal disposition is elected, then any property owner who violates any provision of this bylaw shall be subject to the following penalties. First offense, $50, second offense, $100, third and subsequent offense, 200, and the cost of removal of snow and ice as determined by the commissioner of public works. Upon third violation during the term of ownership of the property of the duty imposed by the provision of this section, such duty may be performed by the Department of Public Works at the expense of the person liable to perform the same and the city may place a lien against the property for expenses incurred. The city treasurer with approval of the mayor may in civil actions prosecute and adjust claims inuring to the city under the provisions of this section. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like to add that as a B paper?
[Nicole Morell]: versus embarrassed.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the Council? I do see Martha Andres on Zoom. Martha, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Martha. Any further discussion? We will take the B paper from Councilor Caraviello first. So the B paper is to request the administration allocate more funding for additional code enforcement officers. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello for the B paper, seconded by? Second. Councilor Collins. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? B paper passes. On the main paper, on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by?
[Nicole Morell]: Motion of vice and bears to approve a first reading as amended seconded by Councilor Scarpelli, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative one absent the motion passes. 22-319 offered by vice president bears Councilor Scarpelli and Councilor Tseng that the City Council public works utility subcommittee chair vice president bears members Councilor Scarpelli and Councilor Tseng recommendations to the city administration regarding snow removal and president motion to waive the reading for a summary by the motion of ice and bears to waive the reading for a summary by the chair second by second. answer saying all those in favor. I suppose the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council? Any discussion from members of the public? on the motion of vice-President Bears to approve the recommendations and send it to the administration. Seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The motion passes. dash 320 offered by Councilor Collins, be it so resolved by the Metric City Council that the subcommittee on zoning planning and development meet with the economic development director city solicitor and other relevant city staff to discuss current ordinances and licensing rules that regulate the conditions under which restaurants bars and other establishments may open in Medford squares and business districts. be a further resolve of this discussion be used to explore potential amendments to ordinances and licensing rules that would allow more nightlife recreation and dining options to flourish in our city, sir Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello,
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Cabrera. Any further discussion from the council? Members of the public? on the motion of Councilor Collins to send this to the subcommittee on planning and development seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-321 offered by Councilor Collins. Be it so resolved by the Metro City Council that the subcommittee on housing need to discuss a proposed condo conversion ordinance so as to improve stability for tenants in the event of large rental apartment buildings being sold as condominiums. Be it further resolved that the subcommittee invite the city solicitor and staff from the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability to join this discussion. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Members of the public, on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-322, offered by Vice President Bears. Rules of the City Council, Medford, Massachusetts. Last update, April 19th, 2022. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on the council council.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion from the council? if I may.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And barring any unforeseen circumstances, the next committee of the whole on that will be next Tuesday at 6pm. We'll discuss those, the few contested items that are left. Any further discussion from the Council or members of the public? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it is. The intention for that is keeping it germane to the powers of the city.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. On the motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative one absolutely motion passes 22-325 offered by President Morell unless Councilors disagree I can Whereas personal use of drones slash unmanned aircraft is increasingly popular and whereas the use of personal drones in a densely populated city like Medford can impact quality of life and one's reasonable expectation of privacy. Be it so resolved that the city council request the city solicitor provide draft language for an ordinance regulating the personal use of drones slash unmanned aircraft systems in Medford. This came about a few residents have reached out concern they've had some experiences with covering over their property. There are some regulations at the state level but increasingly cities are taking this on just to make it clear what you know boundaries around personal property. and using drones like that over others private property. I do understand Councilor Caraviello's previous point about code enforcement regarding this and this, you know, this will be even trickier, but I would like to just see a draft, see what we can do so we at least have some regulations we can point to.
[Nicole Morell]: Perfect. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. Communications from the Mayor. 22-317, to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council, from Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, regarding loan order sidewalk bonds. Dear Madam President and City Councilors, I respect the request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following loan order. City of Medford loan or sidewalk bonds be it ordered that the sum of $1 million be and hereby is appropriated to pay the cost of constructing and reconstruction sidewalks throughout the city, including all costs incidental and related there to that to meet this appropriation a city treasurer with approval of the mayor. is authorized to borrow said sum under and pursuant to Massachusetts general laws chapter 44 section 7 1 as amended and supplemented or pursuant to any other enabling authority and to issue bonds or notes of the city therefore and further ordered that the city treasurer is authorized to file an application with the appropriate officials of the commonwealth of massachusetts here and after the commonwealth to qualify under chapter 44a of the general laws any and all bonds or notes of the city authorized by the vote or pursuant to any prior vote of the city and in such connection therewith to provide such information to execute documents as such officials of the commonwealth may require very truly yours mayor brianna um and then this is the same paper number okay continuing I'm too present a formula members of the honorable member of city council regarding paper 22-317 on order opinion sidewalk box. Dear Madam President and members of the Medford City Council, in accordance with the provisions of the Medford City Council Rule 22, I have examined the above captioned loan order as to its legality and hereby submit my findings. I certify that the loan order set forth in Council Paper 22-317 in which authorization is sought to borrow $1 million for the purpose of paying the cost of constructing and reconstructing various sidewalks throughout the city, including all costs incidental and related to their to and to issue bonds or notes of the city instead aggregate principal amount under and pursuant to general laws chapter 44 section seven, one, including the payment of all costs incidental and related there to it's valid. I'm of the opinion that there is a lawful authority for the issuance of set bonds under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts presently in force. I further certify that the purposes for which these bonds are to be issued, i.e., to pay for the cost of constructing and reconstructing sidewalks throughout the city and to issue bonds or notes of the city in said aggregate principal amount of $1 million, under and pursuant to General Laws Chapter 44, Section 7, including the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto. is valid under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts presently enforced. Respectfully, Kimberly M. Scanlon. There are two footnotes regarding Rule 22. The current rule ordinances and bond orders refer to the city solicitor. Every ordinance and every order for bond issue shall, before its passage, be referred to the city solicitor, who shall forthwith examine the same as to its legality and notify the council in writing of his or her findings. And the second footnote around general laws chapter 44 section 71 authorizes cities to borrow for landscaping, alteration, remediation, rehabilitation, or improvement of public land, the construction, reconstruction, rehabilitation, improvement, alteration, remodeling, enlargement, demolition, removal or repair of public buildings, facilities, assets, works or infrastructure for a period not to exceed 30 years. I do see the Chief of Staff with us, Vice Mayor Limberis, do you have a question?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion from the council as we wait for answers from Chief of Staff? Members of the public would like to answer comments.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, if you could just lean in, the HVAC has kicked on.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Beres.
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like that in the form of motion or it's a suggestion at this point. Councilor Collins and Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief Staff. Did you have something to describe earlier? No. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Madam Chief of Staff. I would move to approve for first reading on the motion of vices and affairs to approve for first reading, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, is there any discussion for members of the public? on the council, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, or in the affirmative to in the negative one absent the motion passes. 22-318 to President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council for Mayor Brianna Longo-Hurton. Regarding loan order stump removal bonds, dear Madam President and city councilors, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following loan order, City of Medford loan order stump removal bonds. Be it ordered that the sum of $250,000 be and hereby is appropriate for the purpose of removing stumps for the improvement of public lanes throughout the city, including all costs incidental and related there to, that to meet this appropriation, a city treasurer with approval of the mayor is authorized to borrow said sum under and pursuant to Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 44, Section 7.1, as amended and supplemented, or pursuant to any other enabling authority, and to issue bonds or notes of the city, therefore. I'm further ordered that the city treasurer is authorized to file an application with the appropriate officials of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts here and after the Commonwealth qualify under Chapter 44 a of general laws, any and all bonds or notes of the city authorized by the vote or pursuant to any prior vote of the city, and in connection there with to provide such information execute such documents as such officials of the Commonwealth may require very truly yours, Mayor Brianna. to do dash 318 regarding Council paper to to destinate loan or opinions on removal bonds. Dear Madam President and members of the Medford City Council in accordance with the provisions of Medford City Council rule 22 I have examined the above caption loan order as to its legality and hereby submit my findings. I certify that the loan order set forth in Council Paper 22-318, in which authorization is sought to borrow $250,000 for the purpose of removing stumps for the improvement of public land throughout the city, including all costs and incidental unrelated thereto, and to issue bonds or notes of the city in said aggregate principal amount under and pursuant to general laws, Chapter 44, Section 7, One, including the payment of all costs incidental and related there to is valid. I am of the opinion that there is lawful authority for the issuance of bonds under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts presently in force. I further certify that the purposes for which these bonds are to be issued ie to remove stumps for the improvement of public lands throughout the city and to issue bonds for notice of the city. In said aggregate principal amount of $250,000 under and pursuant to General Laws, Chapter 44, Section 7.1, including the payment of all costs incidental and related thereto, is valid under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts presently in force. Respectfully submitted, Kimberly M. Scanlon. There is two footnotes as in the previous paper, explaining Council Rule 22, as well as General Laws, Chapter 44, Section 7, which I read on the previous paper.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Harris?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion on the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: And a motion of Councilor Collins, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: And Madam Chief of staff, if I could through the chair. So outside of the $100,000, this is explicitly just stumps. There's no tree planting for those. I know not everyone who has a stump wants a tree to be replaced, but this is literally just removal.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and I would hope that, you know, if it's not in process that they're automatically being replaced with trees, or that's not in process that people can be let known the process to get a tree, you know, cause folks may have had stumps in front of their house for 10 years at this point, and they don't know the process to at least get on a list to get a tree. So just making sure that information gets communicated. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Members of the public wishing to speak? On the motion of Councilor Collins to approve for first reading, seconded by? Second. Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-012, April 12th, Committee of the Whole, meeting report to follow. That was our meeting on the council rules, if I'm not mistaken. And we just went through all of those, so do I have a motion on four?
[Nicole Morell]: Motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Caraviello to accept. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-312, April 13th, 2022, Committee of the Whole, meeting report to follow. This was- CDBG. This was CDBG, where we had presentations from the public service agencies seeking funding from our CDBG federal funding. And that paper will go for public, it'll be a public hearing, I'll be posting it in the transcript, and that'll come before the council, I think in the first week of May, if not around that time frame. Do I have a motion on the floor?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice Chairman Bears to accept, seconded by... Second. Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to take papers in the hands of the clerk. Second. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Sorry, I'm trying to pull this up in my emails. Do we have a, um, I mean, I can pull it up.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-329 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of John Stirella and his recent passing. John served his country as a World War II Navy veteran and was a dentist for 43 years. His presence in the City Council Chambers will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, captain Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: It takes a minute. It'll come out on its own.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. G. Attorney. The clerk would like to speak on this as well. And then I do see Mr. Castagnetti on Zoom.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Clark. Mr. Castagnetti, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, go right ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, second by... Second. Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed? Please rise for a brief moment of silence. That was the only paper correct. Moving on to public participation. If there are any members of the public either on Zoom or in person who would like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. DeAntonio for raising that. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: There's no public participation. Seeing none, moving to records. The records of the meeting of Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears please 20-085, 20-562, 20-563, 20-586, 20-639, and 21-363. Is that all of them? Correct. On file, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The motion passes. And on to records. The records of the meeting of April 12, 2022 were passed to Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Scarpelli, how did you find them? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice-President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. On the motion of Vice-President Bears to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? The meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 22-312, Committee of the Whole, Medford City Council, Wednesday, April 13th, 2022 at 6 p.m. is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins? He will be absent.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. For president three absent the meeting is called to order. There will be a meeting of the Medford city council committee of the whole on Wednesday, April 13th, 2022 at 6pm. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the annual action and public service applications for the community development block grant funding. The City Council has invited Planning, Development and Sustainability Director Alicia Hunt and Grant Administrator Ashley Williams to attend. Representatives from the Public Service Agencies of Aging, Medford Public Schools, Mystic Valley YMCA, SCM Community Transportation Corporation, the community family, the immigrant community, Learning Center and the West Metro Community Center will also be in attendance. For information, aids, and accommodations, contact the city clerk at 71-393-2425. Sincerely yours, Nicole Murrell, Council President. At this time, I am happy to hand things over to either Director Hunt or Administrator Williams, whoever wants to talk about the annual action plan, and then we can hear from the public service agencies. Okay, seeing Alicia Hunt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Go ahead, Ashley.
[Nicole Morell]: I did just ask Josh on you. Okay, we got Alexia as well. Great.
[Nicole Morell]: I do also see Vice President Bears has his hand raised for a question, if it gives you a moment to just get yourself together. If you want to go with your question, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you very much. Any other questions for ABCD or anything else Alexia or Anne you want to share? Not seeing any, I will hand it back to you, Ashley.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Gabriella. Do we have any questions for Gabriella and Bread of Life? not seeing any, handing it back to you, Ashley.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Judy. Welcome. Any questions for Judy? Seeing none, back to Ashley.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Anne. Any questions for Anne? Seeing none, back to Ashley.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you, Pam. Any questions for Pam on the Council on Aging? Seeing none, go ahead, Ashley.
[Nicole Morell]: Am I missing?
[Nicole Morell]: So thank you. Thank you, Jaina. Any questions for Jaina and housing families?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mark. Any questions for Mark and the Immigrant Learning Center? It's great to hear you guys are back in person. I know that was a challenge the past two years we've heard from you. So it's great to hear. Back to you, Ashley.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Megan. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions for Megan? Council, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: scholarship program is that just purely based on a ranking of need, you know, does most does like say one school tend to have all of the families and it's not necessarily other schools or is it equitably distributed, or how does that work.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you. Any other questions for Megan? Turning it back to Ashley. Thank you, Megan.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Lindsay. Any questions for Lindsay and the YMCA community market? I see your hand up, but I think it might just be still up.
[Nicole Morell]: That's okay. Thank you. All right.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, John. Thanks for sharing that contact information for those watching. Going to Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Any other questions for John and SCM? Seeing none, back to Ashley.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Terry. Any questions for Terry and the West Metro Community Center, or Stephen, or Shelley, or I thought I saw Chelly in the corner. There we go. Or Lisa, if anyone else wants to speak. Yeah, unmute you guys. Should see the box there, Stephen.
[Nicole Morell]: I do apologize about that. It was noticed as Zoom only. I apologize.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Steven. And I apologize again for that. Any council vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Bears. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And then we do have one comment to read into the record. Vice President Bears, I don't know if you wanted to ask your question before then, or if you'd like me to do that now.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Any other questions or anything anyone else would like to add before I just, I have one comment to read to the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, so knowing that procedurally, will the council still move forward on the same timeline? Okay, I'm seeing Director Hunt nodding.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Any further questions from the Councilor or anyone else would like to speak? Okay, I do just have one letter to read into the record, if you could bear with me. So this is from Barry Ingber, who lives at 9 Draper Street. So the comment goes, I'm sorry, I'm unable to attend either in person or by Zoom this evening. I thank you for the opportunity to submit my comments by email. I first became familiar with the Community Development Block Grant Program in 1977, when I began my first job as a community organizer in Binghamton, New York. The low income community and its advocates were fighting to get the city to utilize the funds as they were intended to be used on behalf of its marginalized populations rather than ways to supplement the city's revenues to support basic operations. The problem was not unique to Binghamton nor to 1977. The theft of funds intended for under-resourced folks has been consistent across the country and across the past half century. I believe that Medford has done better than most communities in this regard, but that is a low bar. I know almost all of the organizations submitting public service applications, several of them quite well. They're almost all excellent and critically important organizations, but only two are nonprofits based or firmly connected to our city. Medford is sorely lacking its own nonprofit infrastructure. There are no incorporated or staffed NGOs here advocating for low income people nor for immigrants. In most cities, the folks from 26 Bradley Road would have a nonprofit resource and ready to help them, but not here. Since the demise of TRICAP, we have had to depend on Boston's ABCD to provide essential services. The ABCD is most certainly not Medford's anti-poverty agency. People have to leave Medford for legal assistance, for emergency services, for crisis intervention services. Medford has no viable community development corporation. I support the organizations applying for funds for the coming year, but looking to the future, it is time for Medford to utilize its CDBG funding as well as funds from other sources to develop and maintain our own local NGO network. I ask that the city council and the city's planning department begin now to develop a plan to accomplish this. Thank you. And that is the end of the comment. I mean, not to completely take this down this path, but I am curious, Director Hahn or Administrator Williams, is it something in the city's power or something the city is looking at to find a way to kind of resurrect an anti-poverty agency for the city or for a grouping of cities like TRIPAC was?
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. Thank you, Director. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, on the motion of Councilor Collins to report the paper out favorably, seconded by Vice President Fares. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. For in the affirmative three absent the motion passes. Do I have a motion to adjourn on the motion of councilor Collins to adjourn second by Councilor Tseng, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Going forward three absent the motion passes. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you everyone for taking the time to be here and for your service to Medford. It's all much appreciated.
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Councilor Knight to suspend the rules to take public participation out of order, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in for zero and negative. The motion passes. Public participation. Is there anyone in the chambers or on Zoom who would like to speak under public participation? If you're in the chambers, feel free to come up to the podium. On Zoom, please raise your hand or flag us down. Is there anyone who would like to speak under public participation on any topic?
[Nicole Morell]: Correct. If there are any items not on the agenda that you'd like to speak on, please come up to the podium or raise your hand on Zoom. I do see one hand. Raphael and Laura, I'm going to unmute you. You could just share your name and address for the record, please. Oops, you're still muted. You should see a box. I can hit it again.
[Nicole Morell]: OK, you can speak when that item comes up. We'll be getting to that briefly. We're just looking for anyone who would like to speak on items that are not on the agenda. But thank you. We will come back to you. Let's see. I'm not seeing any hands on Zoom. I'm not seeing anyone in person who would like to speak. So I have it away from us unless or we can revert back to regular order of business. On the motion of Councilor Knight to revert back to the regular order of business second by Councilor Caraviello Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm in front of zero negative emotion passes regular order of business motions orders and resolutions 22-305 offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council thank bill Mazaka for his 47.5 years of service to the city of Medford's public schools. Be it further resolved that the Medford City Council extend its congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Mazaka on his retirement Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight, and I apologize for the mispronunciation. I wasn't privileged to have him. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tsai. On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So I mean the firm is here in the negative the motion passes to two dash 306 offered by Vice President Bears and Councilor Collins be it so resolved that the Metro City Council by the Medford City Council that we support the proposed fair share amendment that would create an additional tax of four percentage points on annual income above $1 million and dedicate the funds raised by this tax to quality public education affordable public colleges and universities, and for the repair and maintenance of roads, bridges, and public transportation. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion from Councilors? Moving on to the public, I'm going to return to you, Laura. We do have, you already have the name and address or address for the record. You just state your name again. We already have your address and then go right ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Laura. Any further discussion from the public? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, before we call the roll, Councilor Knight has recused himself from the debate and the vote.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Four in the affirmative, two in the negative, one recused, the motion passes. 22-307 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council expresses its support of Senate Bill 1819, an act establishing a commission on the status of citizens of Haitian descent. Be it further resolved that the city clerk forward a copy of the resolution to the Medford legislative delegation, as well as House Speaker Mariano and Senate President Spilker. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion from the council? Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? Any discussion from the public? Councilor Naik.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Powell. Any further discussion from the Council or the public? On the motion of Vice President Bears is seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Or in the affirmative three in the negative the motion passes. 22-308 offered by Vice President Bears. Be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the city administration inform residents about the Mystic to Bikeway survey currently underway to explore pedestrian and multimodal path improvements in Medford and Arlington to connect the Mystic River to the Minuteman Bikeway. You can fill out the survey and make your voice heard at tinyurl.com slash mystic to bikeway survey and the number two. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion from the Council? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the council? Moving on to the public. I see Mimi Gordon on Zoom. Mimi, name and address for the record, please. I see a box asking you to unmute when you're ready. Mimi, if you're able to unmute, I'll give you another moment. While we wait for Mimi, is there anyone else who would like to speak on this paper? And if I could, from the chair, as we wait for Mimi, I mean, this is something that's come before the council in different versions, not exactly the survey, but issues that happen in this area, particularly as you're walking around the beautiful paths along the Mississippi River towards the lakes, you're dumped out into a rotary. There's no crosswalk, there's no safe way to cross. And if you bike, walk, drive by there any beautiful day, you're seeing people try to scramble across the bridge right there. So hopefully this is something that would address that as far as many other issues. residents to take the survey if they can, and I thank Vice President Bears for bringing this to the attention of the council and to residents in this forum. Mimi, are you able to unmute? I do see, okay, so while we wait for Mimi, I see Martha Andres. Martha, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Martha and we'll maybe we'll try you once more to see if we can get you to unmute and share. I did see you briefly unmuted before but Okay, Mimi, we're going to move forward. If you have comments, you can send them to the clerk or any of the individual Councilors. So on the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 16 affirmative one absent in motion passes. 22-309 offered by Vice President Bears be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the Department of Public Works and Director of Traffic and Transportation report to the Council regarding the potential to work in partnership with the City of Somerville to establish a shared use path on the northeast side of Auburn Street across from the current Whole Foods to provide a safer crossing of Auburn Street for members of the public in connection to existing paths and of Parkland along Mystic Valley Parkway. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion from the Council? Any discussion from the public? On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, the motion passes. 22310 offered by Vice President Bears, whereas the city of Medford And Councilor Collins, whereas the city of Medford and greater Boston region are in the midst of a deep housing crisis that is displacing residents and families and whereas the city of Medford saw 15% year over year increase in average rents from March 2021 to March 2022 and a 5% increase in average rents from February, 2022 to March, 2022, according to GBH news. And whereas many Medford residents are facing significant rent increases or other methods of displacement from rental units. Now, therefore be it resolved by the Medford city council at the housing subcommittee meet to discuss the potential of drafting home rule petitions on the following policies to protect Medford residents facing housing instability and a lack of affordable housing options. including rent stabilization, tenant right to purchase, tenant right to counsel, just cause eviction protections, regulation of upfront lease fees, anti-price gouging protections, and exemptions for small owner-occupant landlords. be it further resolved that the Housing Subcommittee discuss a potential council resolution supporting House Bill 1378 and Senate Bill 886, an act enabling local options for tenant protections currently under consideration by the Massachusetts legislature. Vice President Bears or Councilor Collins?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Collins, then Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: They've gone nowhere.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very soon. Affairs. Any further discussion from the council for members of the public?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Barros. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Just your name again, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, just just to clarify and reaffirm the vote tonight is just to send this to a subcommittee. There's nothing.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, the attendant is essentially to get this to a dedicated space where these conversations can happen. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: We have someone on Zoom who wants to speak as well. I just want to affirm that this is a paper about sending this to a subcommittee. We could debate economic ideology all night long, into the morning, all through the next week. I don't think that is the intent right here. I don't think that's effective for anyone right now. Just a quick question.
[Nicole Morell]: And then we do have someone wants to speak on zoom as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Carpalli. Sharon D'Eso on Zoom, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much Thank you, Sharon, uh, liam on zoom name and address for the record, please Hi, it's actually
[Nicole Morell]: Go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Are you raising your hand to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, right. Thank you. Any further discussion? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Laura on Zoom, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Laura. Any further discussion? But just from the chair, I just want to inform that my support of this is just to keep the conversation going. Again, nothing in this is binding, even if we voted for it tonight, we do not have the powers to make any of this binding. So I'm just voting in favor to have this conversation. Continue to hear from residents. We don't have every solution. And I think this is just throwing some ideas out there. And again, even if this goes through the whole committee and these ideas come back the same, we still don't have the power to enact this. So I just want to make that clear. On the motion of Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Four in the affirmative, two in the negative, one absent, the motion passes. 22-073 offered by President Morell. I'm gonna read through this.
[Nicole Morell]: We'll take Councilor Knight's motion first.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight to waive the reading in favor of a brief synopsis from the President, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in front of one absent the motion passes. So this is an ordinance. The idea behind the ordinance was originally presented to the council in February of 2020 by some CCSR students who had grave concerns about the impact of polystyrene, both as it's listed here on harm to aquatic life, pollution of waterways, human health risks from the leaching of chemicals when hot foods are placed in these items, as well as when these items end up in waterways and then limited recycling options for these types of containers. This would apply to prepared food, so it would apply to restaurants, it would apply to schools, it would apply to larger grocery stores that offer prepared foods. There is a number of, the ban would be, if voted in favor, the ban would be enforced by the health department upon their yearly inspection. And if it passed, it would be implemented. I wanna find the exact language for this. It would be the ordinance to become effective on July 1st, 2023, or a date that is 180 days from the date that the mayor approves this ordinance or otherwise becomes effective, whichever is later. There is also the opportunity for businesses to defer for up to a year period, citing undue hardship. And there is a number of reasons what undue hardship means. So that would be circumstances or situations unique to a particular retail establishment, such as there is no reasonable alternatives to disposable food containers that are not made of polystyrene. Circumstances or situations unique to the retail establishment such that compliance with requirements of this chapter would deprive a person of a legally protected right or circumstances where a retail establishment requires additional time in order to draw down the existing inventory of disposable food containers made of polystyrene. I believe that covers the main points. If there's any discussion, or it seems like I may have missed something. Vice President Bales.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, deferments can be applied for beyond one year, and then also just going to the penalties and fines for violation. The ordinance shall be enforced by the health department or its designees. Whoever violates any provision of this ordinance may be penalized by a non-criminal disposition process as provided in general laws chapter 40 section 21 D. If non criminal disposition is elected than any person who violates any provision of this bylaw shall be subject to the following penalties. First offense a written warning. Second offense $100 third offense $200 and the fourth and subsequent offense $300. Is there any discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Powell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. The prepared food definition, that is the intention as outlined. the, it was concerned about the prepared food that in the committee of the whole, the discussion was that it would be food that was prepared for immediate consumption. So the thought that the two large employers would not be impacted because they do not prepare food for immediate consumption.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: The motion of Vice President Bears to be ordained is the correct language for first reading. Seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. For in the affirmative to the negative one absolutely motion passes. 22-311 offered by Councilor Scarpelli. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council discuss the overwhelming need for afterschool programming for this coming fall.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion. President Bears you Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: So thank you. So on the motion of councilor Scarpelli to send this paper to the recreation and youth affairs subcommittee, who did you want to invite? It's for the clerk. You got it. Great. So on the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Tseng. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative, one absent, the motion passes. 22-313, offered by President Morell and Vice President Bears, be it resolved by the Medford City Council that the city administration provide an update on the city's development planning process, new resources for housing stability for Medford residents, and potential changes to street parking policies in the South Medford neighborhood in preparation for the opening of the Greenline Extension Medford branch this summer. This is a follow up to Council Paper 20-534 from September 8, 2020, which requested a meeting with representatives of the city administration and South Manhattan residents to discuss a district plan for the Ball Square-Boston Avenue corridor. Councilor, I have an issue I can just share from the chair and then I'll pass to Vice-President Harris. Again, this is something that came up in 2020 that we've known for a very long time that the green line is coming and it is going to dramatically impact our city. I think this came up again because in light of the recent processing on Bradley Road and then hearing from some residents in South Medford, they wanna know what the city is doing to, you know, encourage housing stability, but also just simply what's going on with parking. So this is just a further nudge for the administration to hopefully hold a meeting with South Niper residents to discuss how we're going to address the many issues. There will be many good things that come from the Green Line, but the many issues that are going to crop up once the station is finally open. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? Do I have a motion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 16 in front of one absent in motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Reports of committees 19-502. Oh, you're right. Oh yeah. Yes. I think I have to pull it up from my email. I do not have a physical copy. We have a motion to take papers in the hands of the clerk. Motion of Vice President Bears to take papers in the hands of the clerk seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll and I will find this night.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 affirmative, one absent, the motion passes. 2-2 is 3-1-4, offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council wish the following Medford residents the best of luck in their running of the 2022 Boston Marathon. Here we go. Charles Brocklett, Thomas Boland, Brendan Campbell, Matthew Coble, Sean Corey, Alex Eld, Matthew Foley, Stephen Hayes, Kyle Hewitt, David Hirshberg, Michael Jefferson, David King, Clyde Maloney, Matthew Morabito, Roy Mornier, James Mee, Andrew Novis, Christian Ponce, Blake Raymond, Michael Sobel, Richard Sobey, Michael Sullivan, Michael Tuttle, Stephen Wright, Samantha Urat, Alexandra Batak, Jackie Burr, Deidre Calvert, Lauren Caputo, Nicole Church, Tracy Parker, Elizabeth Dylan, Brianna Florio, Claire Foley, Julia Heffern, Daniel Howard, Hope Mabry, Kaitlyn Moody, Lisa Nagahama, Kaitlyn O'Brien, Michelle O'Connell, Emily Palmer, Wendy Palto, Madeline Petran, Kayla Reagan, Janelle Salvieri, Nicole Tateo-Cien, and Denise Deville. And I apologize for any names I mispronounced. It's a lot.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilman Scarpelli. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I guess that's where I'm going.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Barros. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And if I could, from the chair, since we're playing that game, I did have the privilege of running the Boston Marathon many years ago, and I know the amount of dedication and really thankless hours that go into training for a marathon. So for the many residents running and who put in the training, congratulations, you know, the training is the hard part. And if you're into something that is just takes hours and hours and can feel thankless, can I recommend politics? Very similar. On the motion of Councilor Knight by Councilor Scarpelli Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: while we're under suspension?
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. Thank you, Councilor Knight. Moving on to reports of committees. We have to revert. Full motion to revert to the regular order of visits. So moved. motion of Councilor Knight seconded by Vice President Bears to reverse the regular order of business Mr. Clerk, please call the role.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 16 affirmative, one absent, the motion passes. Reports of committees, 19-502, 19-503, and 19-504, April 5th, 2022, Subcommittee on Science. Councilor Starkelis.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Falco. On a motion of Councilor Knight to approve the committee report, seconded by
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes, six in the firm, one absent, the report is approved. 20-573, April 6th, 2022 committee of the whole meeting. This was a committee of the whole on the snow removal ordinance that the subcommittee on public works, which almost every councilor has served on at this point, did a lot of hard work on and it's a minor, some change to the language, some clarification of the language and it should be before us within the coming weeks.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the report, seconded by. Second. Councilor Collins, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent. The report is approved. Public participation was taken at the beginning of the meeting. Moving on to records, the records
[Nicole Morell]: Records, the records of the meeting of April 5th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight seconded by second. Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one absent, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Bears and Councilor Knight to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, six in the affirmative one absent the meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. So to that, to Councilor Knight's point, I mean, the first line says any resident, petitioner, or interested party. I'm curious if we're, you know, trying to limit, not limit, but you know, we want to make sure that the people speaking are actual residents of Medford, that these are issues that impact them. So I'm just, if we're getting finite in the following part about residents providing residential addresses, I'm curious what the interested party maybe, or how that, you know, we tow that line.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. I think that would make sense because yeah, it seemed without that, it seems like it's two different rules.
[Nicole Morell]: For sure, and I think that's something that, you know, the Chair, we sometimes just remind folks when they're, you know, they're with National Grid or something, it's, you know, what's your business address? You don't have to provide us your home address.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. So to Councilor Scarpelli's point, I wonder if it's worth adding in here that language around the fact to say, except otherwise outlined in these rules, public participation shall adhere to the Robert's Rules of Order, So no crosstalk, everything should come through the chair so that people, you know, public participation is common. It's, as Councilor Scarpelli said, it's not, it's not debate, it's not, you know, personal attacks. It's not any of this. It's, we're still following rules. It's open to the public, but there is still a base level of rules that could be referenced.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, vice president bears and yet to cast a scrabble and Councilor Knight point about public participation. I think this also just allows for You know, there are reasons for this, you know, passive uses and it just allows the people to see that participation item on the agenda, because we want to hear from the public. Right. And sometimes if it's not on the agenda, we may have a bunch of people that are saying one thing about an issue and there's all these other people that feel differently about the issue, but they didn't know that we were going to discuss it tonight or that it was going to come up tonight. So I think having that advance notice is just important so that we can, you know, get the full picture whenever possible.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Yeah, so I do believe, to Eunice's point, that I think it could be more explicit about, so there's public participation on an agenda item, and then there's the public participation section of the agenda. So being just more explicit about that, and any time-bound ideas around the public participation section of the agenda. And also, I do have a question. public participation rules applied to a committee of the whole, too, or subcommittee meetings, or those are, because those are, you know, more, yeah, they're more conversational, honestly.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'm fine with it. I mean, what Councilor Knight said makes sense, so that's fine. All right, give me a moment here.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it does. I'd also be open to Councilor Knight's suggestion of just, you know, separating this section out to say public petitions and public participation, but maybe we're
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I'd support that language. All right.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. So I'd actually be curious what Councilor Knight I know you had referenced the three regular meeting. idea you had had years back.
[Nicole Morell]: Much appreciated.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just going to make the same point I made two years ago regarding the Wednesday meetings. I do understand the intention, but I think one issue that just crops up is just parking. You know, would it be that we could all take public transportation, ride our bikes, walk here, but that's not the case. And when you have items that have a lot of public participation and you have the entire city hall staff here, it's really hard to kind of, it might deter people from attending the meeting. If they go to come to the parking lot, they can't find a spot. So I just wouldn't want to see that happen.
[Nicole Morell]: I absolutely understand what Councilor Scarpelli is saying, but I think at the end of the day, scheduling these meetings is challenging because there's other city meetings. We do, you know, there are family commitments and other life and work commitments. This is a part-time position for everyone. So it can be tricky to arrange those other meetings. And also there are members of the public that do like to come to every single subcommittee meeting, every single committee of the whole, which is their right. So just will they have the bandwidth to attend four meetings a week as opposed to two to three meetings a week as the biweekly would allow. So that's just my point on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: motions, orders and resolutions to two dash three zero zero offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the city solicitor provide the Medford City Council with a draft ordinance require a monthly presentation by finance, the finance director to review the warrant articles and projected versus forecasted revenues tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: permit parking restrictions while conducting official post office business. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want to speak on the parking passes? Okay. Any further discussion from the council? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: So, the traffic commission petition for turning streets and department parking. Have you, have you worked with the traffic commission to the mayor give any indication you should give me any indications because I've got numerous tickets there, and now they take it on a Saturday.
[Nicole Morell]: I understand. I think those decisions predate this most of us on the council I could, I know I have your email I can reach out to the mayor it is petitioning to turn the street department parking goes to the traffic commission. So I can, I can follow up on that make sure you're the right person.
[Nicole Morell]: Understood. But I can follow up with you by email.
[Nicole Morell]: Understood.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. Yep. Just name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you so much. Any further discussion? Anyone else would like to speak? So on the motion of Councilor Knight, as amended by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears, and there's also the B paper from Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. I'm going to take the B paper first. The B paper is to get an update from the administration on the communication methods used to reach out to residents regarding parking.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Vice President Bears. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. The main motion by Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero then I get the motion passes. 22-0302 offered by Councilor Knight and Councilor Scarpelli. Whereas the sign posted along Rams Head and Heath Roads restricting parking along the wooded side of the street has displaced vehicles to a similar area of Judgment Road, be it so resolved that the Metro City Council request the Traffic Commission approve similar signage along the impacted stretch of Judgment Road. Councilor Knight, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Councilors second by vice president bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 22-303 offered by Councilor Caraviello. It is resolved that the administration report back to the council with the status of the veteran's office and how the veterans of Medford will be receiving services going forward. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? If you just want to read the last part, the update from the Chief of Staff, just to read out the contact information so people have it. So currently, if any veteran needs support, they can call the Medford Department of Veteran Services at 781-393-2505, or email seniorclerkdarlingwhite at dwhite at medford-ma.gov, or Wilmington's Veterans Department at 97694-2040, or email Mr. Lewis Maglia directly at lcimaglia, at WilmingtonMA.gov. So that is the current information. I hope that's also updated all over the website as well. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you want that as a just amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: For the discussion. So we are the motion. Second by second. Mr. President Bears. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 7-4-0-0. Negative. Motion passes. 22-304, be it resolved that the Metro City Council requests an update from the city administration on the solid waste task force, including the scope and goals of the task force, opportunities for short and long-term waste reduction, inefficacy evaluation of our current recycling services, opportunities to further reduce waste and more efficiently recycle in our next waste management contract, and how our city's progress towards a zero waste future can be publicly tracked and made available to the public. be it for the resolve of the administration, provide an update on what, if any regulations and requirements currently governs private waste and recycling collars operating in Medford. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. spent a lot of time in this area and it's been my day job, so I really thank you for bringing this forward. And a lot of, if not most of the callers contracted these days do have the ability to provide data. So I think this is a really important resolution. It's something that we should be looking for in the city because when we know better, we can do better. So I also really appreciate you bringing this forward. So on the motion, Councilor Collins, second by Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion of Vice President Bears to suspend the rules to take public participation, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I never as you're in the negative, the rules are suspended to take public participation on a quarter. At this time, anyone would like to speak, please feel free to come to the podium. If anyone would like to speak on zoom, you can raise your hand but I rotate hand on zoom so folks would like to speak in the chambers. one at a time when you're ready. Yes, you can, yeah, whoever wants to speak, you can come up. Yep, yeah, everyone can speak. Everyone who wants to speak can speak.
[Nicole Morell]: do have an update from our planning department is all I can read, but I want to make sure everyone gets a chance to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: I think Councilor Morocco has a better
[Nicole Morell]: Recess has ended, the meeting is back to order. I just want to go back to Councilor Collins. I believe you were in the middle and then we have Vice Mayor Bears and then we'll come back to the residents. Whatever you want to do. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. And then actually, if I could just read the update from Planning, Development, and Sustainability, that might just be helpful to any questions that come up. But of course, everyone is still welcome to speak. So this is from Alicia Hunt, who is the Director of Planning, Development, and Sustainability. And some of this is coming verbatim from the person who purchased the property. So if this is incorrect, I apologize. This is just the story that they are getting. So it's a 34-unit building. So the director of planning development sustainability and the housing planner spoke with the owner and some of his representatives this past Friday. So it's a 34 unit building and the owner let them know that 18 units for tenants at will, 14 have leases until the fall. The new owner purchased the building one year ago in March 2021, and he said that all units that are tenants at will were in that status when he purchased the building. It's clear that his plan is to renovate kitchens, bathrooms, and redo floors, and that the tenants must vacate the apartments for this to occur as they are one-bathroom units. It was clear that rent would go up after the renovations. He agreed to extend the notice for the tenants at will an additional 30 days for those who needed an extension. His representative, Jay Walsh, contacted the department on Friday night to let them know that everyone who had received a notice to quit had been notified that they could have an additional 30 days. The director with the city requested that the owner give the tenants with leases as much notice as possible as it's necessary to look for now. New rental units in September, given this market, look sorry, look now for rental units in September, given the market. The owner indicated that he understood and would take into advisement and give more notice that he had been planning. The city director requested that he give the tenants the opportunity to stay in the building, potentially by giving them the option to return to the renovated apartment. This seems to be a new idea to him, but he seemed to think it was very reasonable and suggested that once some apartments were renovated, those with longer leases could be offered the option to lease one of the renovated apartments rather than being required to move out. we emphasize, the city emphasized that we very much would like to retain Medford residents in Medford. And I will make sure you guys get this. There's just like two more paragraphs. The city also presented him with information from the Medford Housing Authority on their opportunity for landlords to receive $1,000 for leasing a unit to a section eight voucher holder that hadn't previously leased to someone with section eight and let them know that the maximum section eight rents are what the maximum section eight rents are in Medford. It's the city director's hope that he would consider Section 8 voucher holders for the renovated units. The current Section 8 tenants are through the Arlington Housing Authority, and the landlord has been in touch with them to verify that everything that they did was legal. The city director did not ask him about current or future rent rates, as they were focused on keeping Medford residents housed at this time. And they just went out to note that they did flyer every door in the building with the flyers with regard to ABCD and the move in, move out program. Um, if anyone didn't get that information, we can make sure that that gets to you. Um, so any further questions we can relate to them and as fellow council just said, we, as a, we, as a body don't have any statutory power, but we can absolutely advocate. We can reach out to, you know, the city departments. I put in a call to Senator Jalen to see if there's anything that, you know, we may not be thinking of that can be done. So I think even though we don't have direct power in this situation, As fellow Councilors said, you know, my heart breaks for you guys. This is obviously also this is the tip of the iceberg, right? Like, this is stuff that we've been trying to stave off for the past two years and the housing market being what it is, we're unfortunately going to keep, you know, this is going to keep happening to our residents and it's not right. we'll do what we can to stop it. But unfortunately, we don't have a lot of power in this situation. But thank you for bearing with me. Please just name and address. I mean, we know the address, but name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: So I'm sorry. Thank you. Would anyone else like to speak? See if there's anyone on Zoom. Any further discussion from the council? I will make sure, is there, I'm trying to think as far as if just to get, I'll work with the Planning Development and Sustainability Office just to make sure the contents of that email that I just read out gets to you all. I'm sorry, I'll work with the director of the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability to make sure the contents of the email that I just read gets to everyone. I know you've probably been given that information in a few different forms, but I'll make sure it's packaged and it gets to everyone. I understand, I know, I apologize. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: It is. Yeah, 18 without leases.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll call up the director to get you guys a dedicated contact person just to at least try to mitigate the call here, call there.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I mean, the firm is doing the negative. The motion passes reverting to regular order of business reports of committees to 2-012 March 29 2022 subcommittee on ordinances and rules. Uh, vice President Bears, if you could provide us a brief overview of that meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Harris. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve the committee records, seconded by Vice President Harris. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, 74-0 negative, the motion passes. 22-078, March 30th, 2022 can be the whole meeting report. This was a meeting on the proposed polystyrene ban. We reviewed the draft that was edited by KP Law. There was no debate over the minor edits that were made. The only change that was suggested and voted on was to adjust the effective date to July, 2023. And that will be coming before the full council next week. by the motion to approve. On the motion of vice-president Behr, seconded by Councilor Caraviello to approve the committee report. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. I'm in favor of zero in the negative, the motion passes. Records, the tabled records of the meeting of March 22nd, 2022 were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, do you have time to review them? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve the records, seconded by Vice Chair Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes, seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. The records are adopted. The records of the meeting of March 29th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by? Second. Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero negative. The records are adopted on the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in front of zero negative. The meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 13th regular meeting March 29 2022 of the Medford City Council is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Motions, orders, and resolutions. 22 on the motion of Councilor Knight to suspend the rule seconded by, for the purpose of.
[Nicole Morell]: Seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. So is paper 22-. Which paper? It's 293. Communications from the mayor, 22-293. Request for expenditure from law department claims over $1,000. Account number 010-151-5762. To President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the Medford City Council, from Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor. Claimant, Scarlett Bartlett. Date of incident, November 8th, 2020. Date of trial, not applicable. Amount of request, $5,000. Claimant's attorney, not applicable. Description of the alleged claim. The claimant, Scarlett Bartlett, seeks reimbursement of an insurance deductible as a result of sewer damage to her property on Hastings Lane in Metro Massachusetts. The case was settled prior to trial. The necessary release has been obtained from the claimant. Breakdown to amount released is medical cost zero, loss wages zero, property damage $5,000, others zero, and total settlement of $5,000. Motion of approval. On the motion to approve seconded by Councilor Knight. Any discussion. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to take up 22-286 out of order, all those second by- Second. Councilor Caraviello, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. To the Honorable President and members of Medford City Council, Medford Mass License Commission appointment that we did get this paper last week, it was tabled, I will read it once more. Dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request and recommend that your Honorable body confirm the appointment of Robert Delafano, 46, you have the License Commission for a term to expire June 1st, 2028. Robert will be present via Zoom and a copy of Robert's Resume Appointment Letter are attached. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Bernadette O'Connor, Mayor. We did last week, in addition to the motion to table this, we had a discussion that Mr. Delifano did not need to attend, and we were hoping, or we asked a member of the administration to speak about the appointment so that we could consider it. Vice President Berry.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't see anyone from the administration on the call other than Director Hoffman would not be able to speak to that, I guess.
[Nicole Morell]: I have a motion on the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: We were just taking up the paper on Mr. Delapano's appointment as well as speaking about council members.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears to approve the appointment of Mr. Delafano to the License Commission. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: motion passes motions orders and resolutions 22-291 offered by councillor night be it so resolved that the medford city council review the administration's response to paper 2006 establishing a beautification committee tonight yes madam president thank you very much um way back in 2000 paper 20006 so this paper was actually uh
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Nietzsche to refer the paper to the rules and ordinances subcommittee, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Well, it doesn't matter, that works.
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-292 offered by Councilor Starpelli. Be it so resolved, the City Council commend the Recreation Department for their outstanding work with our teen offerings this past fall and winter. Be it further resolved that we schedule a meeting with the recreation team at a subcommittee to discuss possible future growth dealing with programs and facilities. Councilor Starpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Councilor Tseng to send a paper to the Recreation and Youth Affairs Subcommittee. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-294, offered by Vice President Beyers. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council accepts the provisions of Mass General Law, Chapter 51, Section 16A, to create a Board of Election Commissioners, which shall have all the powers, rights, duties, and liabilities of Board of Registrars of Voters, and with respect to elections, of city and town clerks, either under general or special law, and which shall be the lawful successor of said registrars, and with respect to elections, said clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Further discussion? Motion for approval. on the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Caraviello to approve the paper. Would this be a roll call vote? Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in favor, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Next paper is for me. I'm happy to read from the chair unless any councilors object. Sorry, the next paper is my paper. I'm happy to read from the chair unless any councilors object to my doing so. 22-295 offered by President Morell, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council invite the Chief Assessor for an overview of the residential exemption process available to municipalities through Massachusetts General Law Chapter 59, Section 5C, to inform any future consideration. I introduced this paper because, as happens at the end of the year, we're asked to set a tax rate, and this always comes up. We discussed in this last session just the opportunity to have Chief Assessor Bordeaux come before us to explain the process, just so we understand the process, because when this comes to us at the end of the year, there's really no time to make a decision. We have to go with the current status quo. So this would just at least allow us to open the conversation. People could ask questions, residents could ask questions and see where we might wanna go the next time this comes up. Any discussion from councilors? I know Mr. Castagnetti would love to speak. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. And also just to my point, the hope would be to have this as a committee of the whole, if anyone wants to make that motion. So moved. Second. Mr. Castagnetti, if you'd like to speak. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: No, the hope was to- I couldn't understand you earlier. The hope was to send this to a committee of the whole so that we can have enough, we can continue the discussion in a larger format.
[Nicole Morell]: It would be up for the standard vote when the tax rate comes before us, but this would just be able to open the conversation so we can address questions and Councilors could see how maybe they'd like to move forward the next time this question comes before us in December usually.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Castagnetti. Any further discussion? Name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight to send the paper to hold a future committee of the whole on the topic seconded by Vice President Bears and Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-297 offered by Councilor Tseng. Be it resolved that the Subcommittee on Climate Sustainability and Transportation invite the Director of Planning, Development and Sustainability and or representatives from the Office of Planning, Development and Sustainability to discuss the finalization and execution of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and identify items for the City Council to act on. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? on the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Vice President Bears to send this paper to the Subcommittee on Climate Sustainability and Transportation. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-298 offered by Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins, be it resolved that the Medford City Council ask the city administration to present its current best practices, progress, and plans on developing diverse talent and increasing diversity in hiring for higher level positions at a future city council meeting. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: So I thank you for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-296 to the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council. Regarding transfer of appropriation, dear President Morell and city councilors, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following transfer in accordance with Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 44, Section 33B. From the police department personnel, amount of $45,000 to the parking department personnel, amount of $45,000. These funds would be used to hire the following additional staff for the remainder of the fiscal year to ensure equity and consistency in parking enforcement, sufficient operational support on meter repair, and timely customer service resolution. Parking control specialist, two. Repair, one. Parking clerk, part-time, one. In accordance with the above reference statute, attached is written approval of the amount of the transfer by the police chief. Parking director, Faye Morrison, will be available to answer your questions. Respectfully submitted, Brianna Longo-Kirk. It's going to read the communication from the chief to me we're going to learn from the chief of police jack Buckley do present morale and city councilors regarding the transfer of police department personnel line funds. I hereby approve and recommend the amount of $45,000 be transferred from the police department personnel budget to the parking department personnel budget to support the staffing needs of the parking department for the remainder of the fiscal year. This transfer will not affect wages for any staff in my department, it will however support the cooperative work that is done between the two departments, which is critical to the police department, as well as the city.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's right.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion. Second, President for me.
[Nicole Morell]: Do you have anything more.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Vice President Bears, do that address.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion? Thank you, Director Morrison. Thank you to your staff.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We do have a bee paper from Councilor Collins. to invite Director Morrison for a future meeting and update. Does that have a second? Second by Councilor Tseng. And I do want to note that we'll take the B paper first and then the main paper does require a two thirds vote to approve per Massachusetts General Law for this type of transfer. We know when you're ready, Mr. Clerk. On the B paper from Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng to invite Director Morrison to a future City Council meeting or a Committee of the Whole meeting for an update. For a future Committee of the Whole meeting, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. On the main paper of a transfer of appropriation of $45,000 from police personnel to parking personnel. Motion by Councilor Collins to approve second by Vice President Bears. Again, this requires a two thirds vote for approval. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Five in the affirmative to the negative the motion passes, President Morell and City Council thank you for your support. Thank you Dr. Morrison. On to reports of committees. All those in favor.
[Nicole Morell]: Opposed. Motion passes 22-299 offered by Councilor Caraviello. City Council have the Director of Housing and Sustainability immediately intervene into the eviction of the residents at 22 to 26 Bradley Road within a 30 day notice. The notice affects 30 units, Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. That's really do have director on the line.
[Nicole Morell]: Apologies, point of information, Councilor Knight, sorry to interrupt.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilman Knight. Director Hunt, is that something that could be done?
[Nicole Morell]: If we could have them, I'd appreciate that. Lisa Maloney, if you could list your name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Ms. Maloney, any further discussion or questions from councilors? Are there any other residents would like to speak? Or anyone, any other, anyone else would like to speak in the chambers?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, we do, yeah, we do have one person who'd like to speak in the chambers as well. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I do see Director Hunt has her hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. housing planner, Daniel Evans.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Danielle. And also, Director Hunt, just the resident's request, would it be possible to include in that mailing just tenants' rights
[Nicole Morell]: Ms.
[Nicole Morell]: Vice President Bears, did your previous comment, do you want that in amendment to this paper?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Palacios. Any further discussion? Any other residents who would like to speak on the motion of Councilor Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: Would you like to make that the amendment?
[Nicole Morell]: You're all, we're all open.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Maloney. Thank you. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello as amended by Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Reports of committees. 20-573, March 23rd, 2022. Subcommittee on Public Works and Utilities report. I believe the chair of that is Vice President Bears. If you could give us a brief summary.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the report, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Motion passes. Public participation. We have Shelby Fioravanti, 111 North Street, for variance visitor passes and paving of our street. Thank you, Shelby, for bearing with us. You should get a box asking you to unmute if you'd like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Shelby. I think Councilor Collins wants to speak on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And if I could, there is, you know, there is an assessment of different roads, but there is no plan to fund the fixing of those different roads. So we have an assessment of what shape our roads in which obviously many of us can see with our own eyes, but we do not have a plan to fund the necessary repairs.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Ike. Shelley, does that address your question? Do you have anything else you'd like to speak on? No, thank you very much. Thank you. Any further public participation? Seeing and hearing none, records. The records of the meeting of March 22nd, 2022 were passed to Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Caraviello, how did you find the records? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to table the records for March 22nd, seconded by? Second. Vice President Bears, all those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes, the records are tabled.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor, Councilor Knight, seconded by Vice President Bears to adjourn. All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: March 22 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: County Councilor Tseng is present.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so I'm present, zero absent. The meeting is called to order. Hearing 20-568, Legal notice, City of Medford, Massachusetts, Medford City Council, Chapter 94, Zoning. The Medford City Council shall conduct a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George P. Hassett Drive, Medford, and via Zoom on Tuesday, March 22, 2022. A Zoom link should be posted no later than Friday, March 18, 2022, to consider the recommendations of the Community Development Board and to take the following actions with regard to the zoning ordinance. Delete existing ordinance. The intent is to delete the entire existing ordinance. article one in general, and replaced with a proposed ordinance the intent is to replace the entire existing ordinance section one purpose and authority, Madam President motion to waive the reading and have a brief synopsis from our legal counsel on the topic was from tonight to waive the reading, saying my Councilor car VL with a brief synopsis from our legal counsel. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Yeah. You withdraw your motion. So we'll read it and then we'll also get a synopsis. Okay, resuming. Article two, administration and enforcement. Article three, reserve. Article four, use regulations. Article five, signs. Article six, site plan review. Article seven, development linkage fees. Article eight, vacant and foreclosing properties. Article nine, inclusionary housing. And then the zoning map. So to replace the proposed ordinance, the intent is to replace the entire existing ordinance with section 1.0 purpose and authority, section 2.0 districts, section 3.0 use regulations, section 4.0 dimensional regulations, section 5.0 nonconforming uses and structures, section 6.0 general regulations, section 7.0 special regulations, section 8.0 special residential regulations, section 9.0 special district regulations, section 10.0 development linkage fees, section 11.0 administration and enforcement, section 12.0 definitions, and the zoning map dated asterisks. The most recent version of the document is available for view in the city clerk's office and online. at the Google Drive account listed. Call 781-393-2425 for any accommodations or aids. By order of the Medford City Council, signed Adam L. Hurtubise. So, Attorney Boborowski, could you also provide us with a brief synopsis of what we're looking at here?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Attorney Brabrowski. As this is a hearing, we will open the hearing for those in favor of the paper. Is there anyone who would like to speak who is in favor of the paper, either online or in the chambers? I can use the raise hand function. Otherwise, I can also scan through. Anyone who would like to speak in favor of this paper? Lisa Honda, if you'd like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Director Hunt. Is there anyone else who would like to speak in favor of this paper? Seeing and hearing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Is there anyone who would like to speak in opposition of this paper, either on Zoom or in the chambers? One moment. raise their virtual hand or just flag me down on video. Seeing and hearing none, this portion of the hearing is closed. Any discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Any further discussion on the Councilor? Councilor Collins. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion with the council. If I could just for a moment from the chair, I want to echo my fellow and thanking former Councilor Beto for really getting us to this point where we could carry it across the finish line in this term. We had countless meetings on this, all public meetings, and I think perhaps too often it's highlighted where we disagree in this body. But if you attended any of these meetings, it was all of us digging our heels in and doing the work and having the important discussions and representing the interests of the city and finding common ground. That happened among the council, it happened as we work with the Community Development Board and it happened as you know we had the department heads come in and have discussions so that we could get a document that I think we're all proud of that really represents the work of the council. We can get mired in lots of things but zoning is a major piece of the council and our responsibility and I think this is something that we're all proud of and that we've all been able to have our hands on it and represent different points of view and move Medford forward and also act, as many have said, as a first step to the next thing. So I'm hoping that, you know, the administration was able to empower us with Attorney Bobrowski, and I hope that they will empower us and fund us to continue this work because it's important work and this is what we've just begun. Vice-Presidents.
[Nicole Morell]: Uh, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Congressman Caraviello. Any comments from the public, either in the chambers or on Zoom? I'll give one more moment if anyone else would like to comment on the paper before us. Seeing none, on the motion of Councilor Knight for approval to be ordained, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 74-0 in the negative, the motion passes. Motions, orders and resolutions. 22-073, this is for me unless any councilors object, I think it's read from the chair. report offered by President Morell be it so resolved that the city council approved and transmit to the general court for their consideration, the following home rule petition as originally introduced by the mayor, and as amended by the city council and committee of the whole. and act authorizing the election of a charter commission in the city of Medford. Be enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in general court assembled and by the authority of the same as follows. Section one, notwithstanding the provisions of chapter 43B of the general laws or the provisions of any general law, special law or regulation to the contrary, the city of Medford city council shall at the first regular city election or earlier occurring special election held on or after the 60th day following the effective date of this act by order provides for election of a nine member charter commission. Section two, the charter commission shall be composed of one commissioner elected from each of the eight wards of the city and one elected at large. In the event of a charter commissioner elected to represent a particular ward should move within the city during their term of office, they may continue to serve as the representative from the ward from which they were elected. The vacancy created by any commissioner who moves from the city during their term of office or who resigns may be filled by majority vote of the entire commission. Section three, other than as set forth here in the provisions of chapter 43B of the general laws shall be applicable to the nomination and election of charter commissioners and to the duties and responsibilities of the city and the charter commission elected here under. Section four, this act shall take effect upon its passage. As amended by the City Council and Committee of the Whole, President Morell moved to amend the language of the petition to fill any vacancy on the Charter Commission by replacing that member with the person who received the next highest number of votes for that position on the commission. Councilor Collins second. Approved on a roll call vote of six in favor and Councilor Caraviello abstaining because he had just arrived. Is there any discussion from the Council on this paper? Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion from the council? Any members of the public who would like to speak on this paper? Come up to the podium. I don't see any hands on Zoom at the moment, so. Name and address, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mrs. Powell. Any other, any further comments? Either on Zoom or in person? Please raise your hand if you'd like to speak, either on Zoom or, slide me down the camera. being no further request to speak from the public. Any further discussion from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? Vice President Bears. On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve as amended, as amended by Vice President Bears, seconded by Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Or in the affirmative, three in the negative, the motion passes. 22-282 offered by President Morell. Can I read from the chair unless there's any objections? Whereas, as a condition of the MBTA multifamily zoning requirement passed as part of the 2021 economic bond bill, the draft guidance released by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development must be discussed at a meeting of the Medford City Council before May 2, 2022. And whereas the public comment period of the MBTA multi-family zoning requirement is open until March 31, 2022, be it so resolved that the Metro City Council invite Director of Planning, Development, and Sustainability, Alicia Hunt, to present MBTA draft guidance on Section 3A of Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40A, as required by the Department of Housing and Community Development. Unless there's any discussion by the Council, should we go to Director Hunt?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. I did err in not referencing your previous paper in this request. So I thank you for bringing this up many months ago, and hopefully Director Hunt can provide us some information.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Clerk, could you allow Director Hunt to share?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello, I don't know. Oh, sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Alicia, if I could ask just a few questions. So forgive me, is there any affordability reference in this? So in theory, I think to Vice President Bears's point, this legislation, essentially, someone could buy up, a developer could buy up entire neighborhoods of two and three families. They all get kicked out. or they sell a property and now we have hyper dense luxury housing in place in theory?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think I share a number of my Councilor's concerns and just also the vice president there is, I mean, this may, you know, if this were to go through, we were to opt in, do exactly the opposite of what it's intended to displace more residents and have city of luxury housing.
[Nicole Morell]: Is there any or could there be a comment on the fact that they're dangling this grant money? If a city were to opt in, do they have to opt in at first bite or could they wait and see what this money actually is? And in two years, say we want to opt into this program, perhaps we may have figured out what it is.
[Nicole Morell]: Further discussion, Council Member Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I had a few slides left.
[Nicole Morell]: Further discussion on the council. Members of the public would like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Alicia. Will the council receive a copy of the MBTA information form that's submitted?
[Nicole Morell]: Second. On the motion by President Bears to receive and place on file, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President Morell. Yes. 22-283 offered by Councilor Knight. He is so resolved that the Metro City Council request an update from the city administration and Tufts University relative to the March 15 2022 chemical laboratory evacuation at 62 Talbot Street.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion on the motion of Council night seconded by bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven affirmative, zero negative, the motion passes. 22-284 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Sure. Moving forward to 22-285 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that Councilor Caraviello update the council on the library foundation and the library. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: I did see her earlier.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep, thank you. Thank you, Barbara. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight to receive in place on file second by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, certainly for zero negative motion passes. 22-286 communications from the mayor, the honorable President members of the city council, your present morale and members of the members of the council I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body Confirm the appointment of Robert Delfano, a 46 team app to the license commission to a term to expire June 1st, 2028. Robert will be present via Zoom and a copy of Robert's resume and appointment letter are attached. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Brianna Lindbergh, Mayor. I do believe we have Mr. Delfano on the call and I don't know if any councilors have any discussion before we hear from him. Sure. Mr. Delafano, we already have your name and address, so if you could just share, get a brief synopsis of your resume and work in this area.
[Nicole Morell]: Could you speak to your resume a little bit with regards to this position?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much. Thank you number one for your service to the city of
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Garabello, did you want to speak?
[Nicole Morell]: So the motion table isn't debatable, but I do see Chief of Staff Nazarian has her hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Chief of staff in his area.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Chief of Staff Nazarian. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: I would agree.
[Nicole Morell]: The clerk is offering to provide some clarification.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to table for one week, and what's the additional language?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of vice president bears to table the appointment for one week seconded by second Councilor Collins. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Six in the affirmative, one in the negative. The only request is tabled for one week. Thank you, Mr. Delafano. I think we can work through the chief of staff or the administration. You came out tonight. Hopefully they can speak on your behalf next week if needed. But of course, if you want to come back, come on back.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. D'Alfano, if you didn't catch that yet, don't feel like you don't have to come back next week. We've heard from you, this is more of an issue with the administration, nothing to do with you. So thank you for taking the time tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. 22-287. The Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding food truck permitting. Dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, on behalf of the below entity, I respectfully submit to the Medford City Council the following request for a food truck permit in the city of Medford. In addition to city council approval, vendors are required to adhere to health department food safety requirements. The sausage guide dates and times April 30th, 2022 at 7 p.m. May 14th, 2022 at 7 p.m. May 20 2022 at 7pm June 17 2022 at 7pm July 2 2022 at 7pm July 23 2022 at 1pm location Hormel Stadium event Boston glory ultimate Frisbee season. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter sincerely Brownling O'Connor, Mayor and President move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve pending approval of the formal commission seconded by Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Dolores Carroll and her recent passing. Mrs. Carroll was the wife of the founder of Carroll's Restaurant. She was a longtime benefactor for many community charities and organizations. Her presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tarbell. Further discussion? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So any firms here and I get the motion passes. I have a motion to take papers in the hands of the motion of public are below seconded by Scarpelli papers in the hands of the clerk.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven affirmative, zero negative, the motion passes. 22-288 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Carol Sharpton on her recent passing. Mrs. Sharpton was a former member of the Medford School Committee and active member of the West Medford Community Center. Her presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Going back 22 to 289 offered by Councilor Caraviello, be it so resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences on the family of James Shenna Jr. on his recent passing. Mr. Shenna was a longtime owner of Tough Square Tobacco in South Medford. His presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Kevin Caraviello. Any further discussion? Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight, for the discussion. On a motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I mean in front of zero negative emotion passes 22-to nine zero offered by Councilor Caraviello, it's a result of the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of William Casey on his recent passing. Mr. Casey was a method attorney and Vietnam veteran and former Commodore of the Medford boat club. His presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Councilor Sparkelli.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Caraviello second by second. Mr. Clark, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, sir. Negative. Motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. Reports of committees 22-058 subcommittee of the whole on public health and community safety, March 16, 2022 report to follow. Chair of that subcommittee is Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. on the motion of Councilor Collins to approve seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: is highlighted.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm the firms here in the negative. The motion passes 22-073 committee of the whole meeting March 16 2022. This was a meeting to discuss the Charter Review Commission that came before us tonight. I have a motion on the floor on the motion of our system bears to approve the report seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. It's an affirmative one. Temporarily absent. The motion passes public participation. There any members of the public in the chambers or on zoom who would like to speak for public participation? Please raise your hand or come to the podium. Any members of the public who wish to speak? Okay, seeing and hearing none, first records. The records of the meeting of March 15, 2022 were passed to Vice President Bears. Vice President Bears, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the records, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: President real firms here and the negative emotion passes on the motion of night to adjourn second by bears Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. In front of zero in the negative the meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: 7 present, 0 absent. The meeting is called to order. Please rise to see the flag.
[Nicole Morell]: That's very, it's a limited, it's a limited agenda. So we have time to talk. It is an emergency. Motions, orders. They're offered by Councilor Knight. Be it so resolved that the Medford City Council extend its deep and sincere condolences to the family of Jerry DeCristofaro on his recent passing, Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Knight seconded by Councilor Caraviello, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative. Motion passes, please rise for a moment of silence. Petitions, presentations, and similar papers. 22-281, petition for common victorial license by Starbucks Corporation, doing business as Starbucks Coffee at 177 College Avenue, Metro Massachusetts, 02155. Do we have a petitioner on the line for this?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, can we just get your address for the record as well?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Brennan. I turned over to Councilor Scarpelli, Chair of the Licensing Subcommittee.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? Councilor Knight?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve the petition seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the petition is approved. Congratulations, Mr. Brennan.
[Nicole Morell]: Reports of committees, 22-075, March 7th, 2022, committee of the whole report to follow. This was a committee of the whole meeting we had last Monday to discuss the flooding issues at Woolard and High Street. We had a representative from the Department of Transportation, as well as a representative from the design firm, I believe, to walk us through this. We left with the decision to meet again as we were near completion so that we can have input from residents. On the motion of Councilor Caraviello to approve, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, seven in favor, zero in the negative. Motion passes. 22-012, March 9th, 2022, Subcommittee on Ordinances and Rules. Report to follow, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve the report, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Seeing none, moving on to records. The records of the meeting of March 8th, 2022 were passed to Councilor Tseng. Councilor Tseng, how did you find the records?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Councilor Knight. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the records are accepted. Further? On the motion of Councilor Knight to adjourn, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: 10th regular meeting of the Medford City Council March 8 2022 is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Motions, orders, and resolutions. If the Councilors don't mind I can read this from the chair I'm actually the first resolution or. Hey, you want to come up.
[Nicole Morell]: 21-577 offered by President Burrell be it resolved that the city of Medford through its city council raised the maximum income level for clause 41 a of MGL chapter 59 section the senior tax deferral to the amount established annually by the Commissioner of Revenue as to the income limit for single seniors who are not head of household to qualify under the senior circuit program. As I mentioned last week, this is something we met with the whole about just the council has the power to set the maximum for seniors eligible for this program. It's currently at $50,000. The council has raised this a few times in recent years, and we met with the whole to discuss the idea of tying it to the senior circuit breaker amount which is about set by the Commissioner of Revenue goes up a small amount each year to stay with inflation and other metrics so that number is just over 61,000 right now. So this would tie that to this would tie our maximum to that number in perpetuity, unless we were to revisit as a council to adjust that amount so that is the resolution of any Councilors have any comments they would like to add.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion on emotional Councilor Knight seconded by Vice President Bears Mr. Clerk, please actually know, we know we do need to call the role, because of this is a local option.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. 22-088 offered by Councilor Knight, be it so resolved with the Medford City Council congratulate James and Maureen each on a momentous occasion of their 30th wedding anniversary.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Cabrera. Councilor Cabrera.
[Nicole Morell]: on the motion of Councilor Knight. All those in favor. Opposed motion passes 22-089 offered by Councilor Knight, be it so resolved that the Metro City Council congratulate Kevin and Kathleen Finnegan on the momentous occasion of their 20th wedding anniversary tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpello. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight, seconded by... Second. Vice President Bears, all those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. Congratulations to the Peace and the Senegans. 22-090 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the City Council reappoint City Messenger Lawrence Leopore for a term expiring on the first Monday of January 2024. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Harris. Any further discussion? And if I just go through the chair, I want to thank you, Larry, and I appreciate you, you know, the consistency and wanting to keep doing this job. I thank you for letting me boot you out of your chair for a few months during the configuration was a little different here in the earlier days of COVID. And it's always a delight when we cross paths, when you're delivering the papers and, you know, my dog is also losing her mind. So on the motion of, On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Actually, no, we have a B paper first. You can take the B paper first. So we're gonna take the B paper first. Do you have the language for that B paper?
[Nicole Morell]: So for the B paper from Councilor Caraviello for the president of the council and the clerk to sit down with the mayor to see a bill face potential salary increase for Shane, who helps to manage our video digital presence each meeting. Please. Seconded by Vice President Bears. All those in favor? All those opposed? B paper passes. On the main paper offered by Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. I've lost everyone's second. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll when you're ready. Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, come on up first. Be sworn in.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, you ready? 22-092, offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it so resolved that the administration start providing information to our residents on where they're able to get assistance with their heat and energy costs, not just fuel oil assistance, but assistance with both gas and electric heat related costs. Be it further resolved that we obtain a report on the cost of the aggregate electric contract compared to national grid. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Favella. Any further, Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Any further discussion? And just from the chair, I do know there is at least the state program LIHEAP. My father worked in that area for a very long time. That is one program, L-I-H-E-A-P. But of course, as Councilor Cohn said, as you said, these are things the president should be able to find in one easy space. And especially if there are additional programs beyond the state level programs.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-093 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council send its deepest and sincere condolences to the family of Sylvia Bolden on her passing at 99 years old. Mrs. Bolden was a 98 year resident of Medford. Her presence in our community will be missed. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for the discussion. On the motion of Councilor Carpio second by second Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor. Aye. Please rise for a moment of silence. petitions, presentations, and similar papers, 22-096, petition for a common vehicle license by James Pham, 27 Westgate Drive, Brockman, Mass, go to 301 for Fudge Town, 74110, Mystic Valley Parkway, Medford, Mass, 02155. On file business certificate number 117, building department, fire department, police, traffic impact, health department, letter of compliance, state tax ID, workman's compensation, petition, and creditor. chair of licensing licensing. Mr. Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli, seconded by Vice President Bears to approve the paper. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed?
[Nicole Morell]: 22-097 petition for common Victoria license by Gopakumar Menon, 89 Spring Street, Apartment 5, Watertown, Mass, 02472 for Crumble Cookies, 23 Revere Beach Parkway, Medford, Mass, 02155. On file, business certificate 210, building department, fire department, police, traffic impact, health department, letter of compliance, state tax ID, workman's compensation, petition, and treasurer, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday until midnight, Friday, Saturday, off on Sundays.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve the petition with the hours being till 11 p.m. seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Congratulations. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion by Councilor, Vice-President Bears to take the three papers under suspension. Second by Councilor Svang. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Great. I do. Thank you. Under suspension, 22-098, congratulations to the Chamber of Commerce Citizens of the Year for the years of 2020, 2021, and 2022. Offered by Councilor Caraviello, oh, I see.
[Nicole Morell]: I can read the whole paper. Sorry. Over to Councilor Caraviello. These are resolved at the City Council. I commend and congratulate the Medford Chamber of Commerce on the selection of the 2020, 2021, and 2022 Citizens of the Year. Medford's first responders, Sam Carabelsi and Vinnie Fertura.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Knight. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-099 offered under suspension by Councilor Knight, be it so resolved that the city council extend its deep and sincere condolences on the family of trooper tomorrow Gucci and her extended family at the Massachusetts State Police Wellington barracks on her recent passing Councilor Knight, Madam President, thank you very much if any of us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Nice, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. Please rise for a moment of silence. 22.0 100 offered under suspension my Councilor Knight, it's a result of the Medford City Council extended steep and sincere condolences, the family of William Boyd on his recent passing Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Any further discussion on the motion of Councilor Knight and Councilor Scarpelli all those in favor. All those opposed. Motion passes please rise for a moment of silence. On the motion of Vice President Bears to revert to regular order of business, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. Communications from the Mayor 22-094, March 3rd, 2022. To the Honorable President and members of the Medford City Council regarding the American Rescue Plan Act ARPA, dear President Morell and members of the City Council, I respectfully request that your Honorable body allocate time for a presentation on a topic of the American Rescue Plan Act ARPA to allow our Federal Funds Manager, Molly Kivy, the time to present to the Council. Thank you for your kind attention to this matter. Sincerely, Breanna Lungo-Koehn, Mayor. I believe it's just a, it's a presentation, correct? Yes, it's a presentation. It's getting nods from the USF and Federal Funds Manager. Molly, if you'd like to go to the podium.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if you could just share your name and address for the record as well. City Hall is fine. City Hall address.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that feedback.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much, Councilor Riveras.
[Nicole Morell]: Any further discussion?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you again, Molly. So you mentioned the $500 tax credit from the state level, that's different than the premium worker pay?
[Nicole Morell]: And those individuals receiving that, that wouldn't preclude them from receiving the premium pay. OK. I want to make sure. I guess that's the only. And the state earmarks, those are set by the legislature. Those earmarks, that wasn't something that, OK?
[Nicole Morell]: So there will be future air marks, and where can people find out about what that money has been set for.
[Nicole Morell]: And then I did have one. I saw the website to submit feedback. I've already had residents email me some feedback as far as fund spending. Is that something we should just send to you if we're getting emails? Yes. Okay, great.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you, Vice President Harris. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you very much for the discussion approval approval or receive a place on file second motion of Councilor Scarpelli to receive a file second by Vice President Bears all those in favor. I suppose the motion passes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion by Vice President Bears to suspend the rule to take the committee reports. Second by- Second. Councilor Scarpelli, all those in favor. Aye. All those opposed. Motion passes. Report to the committee 22-073, March 1st, 2022. Committee of the whole report. This is the meeting on the prior review commission due to some absences related to family medical issues. We convene the meeting just to let everyone know that we'll be meeting at a later date to have the further discussion. Right now that meeting is set for Wednesday, March 16th at 5 p.m.
[Nicole Morell]: Of course, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Do I have a motion to approve? A motion of vice-president Bears to approve the committee report, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? The motion passes. 22-091, March 2nd, 2022, Committee of the Whole report. So this Committee of the Whole was on the CPA recommendations. This round, we went over a number of papers that people who petitioned, as well as Daniel Evans presented on these papers, we discussed each individually, and they are coming up next on the agenda. On the motion of Vice President Bears to approve the committee report seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. On the motion of Vice President Bears to revert to regular order of business seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. All those in favor? All those opposed? Motion passes. 22-091, March 4, 2022. To President Nicole Morell and honorable members of the City Council, from Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn, the Community Preservation Committee appropriation request. Dear President Morell and members of the Medford City Council, on behalf of the Community Preservation Committee, I respectfully request and recommend that your honorable body approve the following recommendations of the Community Preservation Committee. Requesting the appropriation of $24,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve to the Medford Brooks Estate Land Trust for the Brooks Estate Landscape Restoration Project. Requesting the appropriation of $22,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve to the Medford Brooks Estate Land Trust for the Brooks Estate Invasive Plant Removal Phase 2 Project. Requesting the appropriation of $100,000 from the CPA General Reserve to the Medford Brooks Estate Land Trust for the Shepherd Brooks Manor East Elevation Restoration Project. Requesting the appropriation of $50,000, $47,000 from CPA Historic Reserve, and $3,000 from the CPA General Reserve to the Cemetery Board of Trustees for the WPA Garage Study. Requesting the appropriation of $400,000 from the CPA General Reserve to the Cemetery Board of Trustees slash Department of Veterans Affairs for the Oak Grove Cemetery World War I Memorial Restoration Project. Requesting the appropriation of $17,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve for the Mayor's Office slash Parks Division for the Memorial Park Concession Stand slash Equipment Storage Project. Requesting the appropriation of $20,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve to the Community Garden Commission for the McNally Community Garden Expansion Project. Requesting the appropriation of $76,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve to the Recreation Department for the Rights Pond Aeration System Project. Requesting the appropriation of $238,000 from the CPA General Reserve to the Recreation Department for the Hormel Street Street Hockey Rink Rehabilitation Project. Requesting the appropriation of $187,400 from the CPA General Reserve to the Parks Division for the Hickey Park Basketball and Tennis Courts Reconstruction Project. Requesting the appropriation of $75,000, $32,000 from the CPA Open Space Reserve and $43,000 from the CPA General Reserve to the Department of Planning, Development and Sustainability slash Parks Division for the Cape and Parks Splash Pad restoration project and requesting the transfer of $1,000 from the Tree Planting in Parks Project CPA account to the Oak Grove Cemetery Tree Inventory Project CPA account. The project will be tracked in the Community Preservation Fund by category, housing, historic, open space, and general reserves. Thank you for your consideration. Respectfully submitted, Breanna Lungo-Koehn mayor. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could just briefly from the chair, we did address each of these individually in the committee, the whole and all were individually recorded out favorably.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Knight to approve the appropriation for the rec center project seconded by Councilor Scarpelli. Mr. Clerk, would you please call the roll?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. Public participation, is there anyone in the chambers or online who would like to speak? I see Mr. Giglio. Mr. Giglio, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Giglio. Personnel falls under the powers of the mayor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarlatoiu? Sure, of course. Anyone else for public participation? Seeing none, records. The table records of the meeting of February 22nd, 2022 were passed to Councilor Knight. Councilor Knight, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: I would move for approval on the motion of Councilor Knight seconded by Vice President Bears all those in favor. All those opposed motion passes the records of the meeting of March 1 2022 or past two steps. Councilor Scarpelli, how'd you find I found them in order move approval. On the motion of counter Scarpelli second by Vice President Bears all those in favor. All those opposed the motion passes before we adjourn.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Anything else from the council?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn second by Vice President Bears. All those in favor. Opposed. Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Eighth regular meeting, February 22nd, 2022 of the Medford City Council is called to order. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Seven present, zero absent. Meeting is called to order. Please rise to salute the flag. Hearings, 22-056, City of Medford, notice of a public hearing. The Medford City Council will hold a public hearing in the Howard F. Alden Chambers at Medford City Hall, 85 George B. Hassett Drive, Medford, and via Zoom on Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022. A link to be posted no later than Friday, February 18th, 2022, on a petition from Casa Pizza, Milton Melgar, 62 Lambert Street, Medford, Mass, 02155, for a special permit to amend its hours of operation in accordance with Medford zoning ordinance, chapter 94, section 94-145, to operate extended hours at its business at 62 Lambert Street, Medford, Mass, said site being located in a commercial 1C1 zoning district as follows. Extended hours of operation requested, 11 p.m. to 2 a.m., seven days per week. Petition and plan may be seen in the office of the city clerk, room 103, Medford City Hall, Medford, Massachusetts. call 781-393-2501 for any accommodations or aids, TDD 781-393-2516. The city of Medford is an equal opportunity, AA 504 employer for information, contact the city clerk 71-393-2425 by order of the city council, sign Adam L. Hervey, city clerk advertised in the Medford transcript February 3rd and February 10th. is as this is a public hearing, we'll open with those in favor of the petition. Is there anyone here in favor of the petition? Please come up to the podium and provide your name and address for the record, please. Hi, name and address for the record, please. And your name? Thank you. And you're in favor of this petition?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Anyone else in favor of the petition? portion of the hearing is closed. Anyone opposed to the petition? Seeing and hearing none, this portion of the meeting is closed. Chair of the Subcommittee on Licensing, Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to approve with a 90 day review, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll. Sorry, Councilor Knight has to stand up. Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: So on the motion of Councilor Knight to approve the petition with a 90-day review under the conditions of delivery only from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m., Monday through Thursday.
[Nicole Morell]: Sunday through Thursday, and then Friday and Saturday.
[Nicole Morell]: Open till two for walk-in customers.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven affirmative, zero negative. The motion passes. Thank you, Mr. Malgar. Motions, orders, and resolutions. 22-080 offered by Councilor Caraviello. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council reappoint Fred Lasky as the council's appointment to the community garden commission. Mr. Lasky's appointment has expired and his experience and commitment to the commission would be welcomed for another term. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Fred?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Sagan. Mr. Olaski? name and address for the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Any questions or comments from the council public.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. So on the motion of Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Further comment on the motion of councilor Caraviello to reappoint Fred Lasky to the community garden commission. Seconded by vice president bears. Mr. Clark, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, setting affirmative zero and the negative the motion passes. Congratulations. 22-081 offered by Councilor Scarpelli be it resolved that the Medford City Council express our sincere sincere consultances to the family of William F. Billy Hopkins Jr. on his recent passing. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Any other councilors? On a motion of Councilor Scarpelli? Please rise for a moment of silence. Clerk, if you could please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. 7 in the affirmative, 0 in the negative, the motion passes. 22-082 offered by Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins. Whereas residential streets between Main Street and Mystic Avenue, such as but not limited to Bonner Ave, Hancock Avenue, Billings Avenue, Golden Avenue, and Alexander Avenue are often used as cut through streets to bypass Harbor Street traffic and Whereas residents in South Medford have raised questions and concerns about the speed of traffic, pedestrian safety, the quality of residential streets, and the city's temporary and permanent solutions. And whereas mobile applications like Waze have exacerbated these issues, be it resolved that the Medford City Council investigate the questions, concerns, and issues listed above and ask the acting commissioner of public works and the traffic engineer for an update on strategies to address these issues. Be it further resolved that the Medford City Council asked the Department of Public Works and the Engineering Department to consider repaving dilapidated residential streets used extensively by commuters to bypass Harvard Street traffic, adding do not block intersection signage and do not block the box road pains to the Bonner main intersection and implementing strategies to lessen traffic buildup at the intersection of Main Street and Harvard Street. be it further resolved by the Medford City Council that this discussion be referred to the Subcommittee on Public Works and Utilities for further discussion with the Department of Public Works and Engineering Department heads. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. New address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. J. Antonio. I see Miranda Briseño with their hand up on Zoom. Miranda, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Senio. Hillary Klein, I see your hand up on zoom. Unmute you. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Hyde. Martha Andres, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Andres, Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Any further discussion? On the motion of Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Seven in the affirmative, zero in the negative, the motion passes. 22-083 offered by Councilor Tseng. Whereas the 2020 Massachusetts Uniform Citation Data Analysis Report, the report of projects supported by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security suggests that there is a statistically significant correlation between race slash ethnicity and step on stop outcomes in Medford, or black and Hispanic individuals are more likely to receive criminal citations or be arrested, and Hispanic individuals are less likely to receive written warnings and whereas the report states that there may be a multitude of explanations for these disparities, and how bias may be one among these many explanations whereas the report strongly encourages reflection and conversation about the potential causes of these disparities to build and maintain community trust, which is paramount to our public safety. Be it resolved that the Medford City Council request that the Chief of Police investigate potential causes of stop outcome disparities and report back to the City Council on his findings, and be it further resolved that the Medford City Council ask the Medford Police Department to publish data on all motor vehicle stops, outcomes of searches, triggering offenses, in the duration of stops, the data requests by researchers behind their fort, and post this data on its website. And be it further resolved, the Medford City Council asks the Medford Police Department to consider holding a community forum on traffic stop issues in order to deepen community trust and public safety as recommended by the report. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Again- Councilor Caraviello has the floor.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Collins.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I know we have a number of residents who'd like to speak. Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. We have a number of residents on Zoom who would like to speak. Bill Giglio, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it would be at the behest of the chief, what he puts together, is my understanding.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Thank you, Mr. Guillaume. Mr. D'Antonio, we have a few people on Zoom, so I just don't want you to stand. I'll get to you after we get to that, but I just don't want you to stand there forever. Ellery Klein, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. We're never saying you name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Morseno. A-Town Viner, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Gleiner. Mr. D'Antonio? Name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Dean Antonio. Vice President Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Falco.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? Councilor Collins. Motion for approval. On the motion of Councilor Tseng, seconded by Paul. On the motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Vice President Bears. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: I've been seeing him pop in and out.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I've been seeing popping it out. So six in the affirmative, one absent. The motion passes. 22-084 offered by Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: That would be great. Offered by Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins. Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. Any further discussion? Councilor Collins just had her hand up first. Thank you, Madam President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Ms. Diaso? Just name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Diaso. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Collins, and then there's a few people on Zoom who would like to speak as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Collins. Matthew Page-Lieberman, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Page, Lieberman, Mr. Giglio, and then we'll go to Mr. Navarre in the chambers. May I address further record, please, Bill Giglio?
[Nicole Morell]: You can ask questions that the Councilors don't have to reply. It's not a time for cross talk. You're allowed to state an opinion, state your comments, but the Councilors don't have to respond to questions.
[Nicole Morell]: For Robert's rules, there's no direct cross talk.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Guglielmo, do you have any other questions?
[Nicole Morell]: There's no crosstalk. We have other people who would like to speak and offer their comments. If you have any further comments, please continue. Otherwise, we have other people who are waiting to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Giglio. Mr. Navarre, can you address the record, please?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Ramar. There's a motion from Vice President Bears to end debate. Eileen Lerner did have her hand up prior to that motion. Eileen Lerner, name and address for the record, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Ms. Lyra.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Matthew Page-Lieberman.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Paisley right. Any further discussion Councilor calls.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Tseng. On the motion of Councilor Tseng and Councilor Collins, second by- Second. Vice President Bears, Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: All right. Four in the affirmative, two in the negative, one absent. The motion passes. Reports of committees, 22-013 and 21-577, February 15th, committee of the full report to follow. This was the elections commission discussion as well as the senior tax deferral. Both we agreed upon as a council and they should be coming back to a regular agenda soon to be voted on. On the motion of councilor Carr-Viello, seconded by vice-president Bears to accept the committee report. Mr. Clerk, please call the roll.
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor. Aye. All those opposed. Motion passes. The report is accepted. 22-014, February 16th, 2022.
[Nicole Morell]: We move to have it further to I have a further meeting with a number of department heads to understand how this could be implemented in Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: A motion of Councilor Caraviello, seconded by Councilor Scarpelli to accept. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion passes. Public participation. Is there anyone who would like to participate either on Zoom or in the chambers? Is everyone participating tonight already? Seeing and hearing none. public participation, records, new records.
[Nicole Morell]: All those in favor?
[Nicole Morell]: All those opposed? Motion passes. Records, the records of the, what was the last meeting?
[Nicole Morell]: February 15th meeting were passed to Councilor Collins. Councilor Collins, how did you find them?
[Nicole Morell]: Second?
[Nicole Morell]: On a motion of Councilor Collins, seconded by Councilor Tseng. All those in favour? Aye. All those opposed? The motion passes. Before we adjourn, if I could just briefly thank my councillors for allowing me to dial in for the past eight weeks, even as the chair. as I was able to stay home with my son a little bit longer. I do believe, Councilor Knight's not here, but there was one meeting where I think more than half the council served as a chair, so I really appreciate you doing that for me, and I appreciate the accommodations. And also just wanna note that parking enforcement is going to start starting February 28th. There's city communications going out about that, but just for people to be aware of that. Anything else?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Barros. On the motion of Councilor Scarpelli to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Caraviello. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed? Meeting is adjourned.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Through the chair to Councilor Scarpelli, so is the request that the developers come to that committee of the whole as well, or the committee of the whole is to address the topic? I'm just wondering if our likelihood of being able to get them in there, and I don't want them to impede the process of advancing on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor- Yes, thank you for that clarification.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, yeah and I will be brief because as Councilor Scarpelli or someone already noted there's a lot of people here who want to speak on this but I mean, I'm in favor of this I'm also in favor of you know getting that stronger vote I understand that some Councilors have their concerns. I voted for this in the past I will vote for it again. If nothing else in the fact that this is step one in a review of a document that has not been reviewed in the lifetime of the most. of almost half of this council. I'm just on the edge. It has been reviewed in my lifetime by a year, but most of the council are, you know, three members of the council, we have not looked at this document in their lifetime. So I think it's just prudent that it's something that is reviewed. And I think we've seen a lot of good work out of commissions in the city as of late. And I think this is something that could have further good work done on it, but I'm also open to getting to that stronger vote so that hopefully the state house can act on this. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you as I want to thank Councilor Knight my fellow environmentalist for bringing this forward. As he said this isn't just about pests, it's also about groundwater and aquaculture that can be really impacted by road salt so I also, you know, I don't have too much faith that we're using. It's very tricky to get salt that doesn't harm our pets and aquaculture but I think having that information is helpful so I support this motion, I appreciate him bringing it forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, yeah this is pretty self explanatory I had a few residents reach out to me with some confusion about the most recent storm as far as parking procedures I do know that the city goes through great effort with our reverse 911 to put out calls about snow emergencies there is information on the website but people moving from other communities that do have signage around this. Sometimes they're at a loss they don't see signs saying they can't park on the side of their street and then their car is gone so I know other communities Somerville specifically puts out some temporary signage simple yard signs around the city indicating what side of the street to park on if your street is under a snow emergency. I know we've had success in our city with simple signage as far as around elections information that we haven't done in the past so just see if this is something the administration will consider so that we can reach those residents who might not know how to get city alerts, they might be new to the city and not understand city policies and they would like to not have their car, remove surprisingly during a snowstorm so I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, if I could. I'm just the thought I mean, I think in Somerville it's literally, you know, they'll have a yard sign, like a lawn sign and like a rotary, you know, a city owned property that just indicates, it's just a suggestion for the administration. There are you know I did, I did hear from people that somehow they don't, they don't, the information did not reach them, their car was towed, something you know we could look into potentially.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Since I submitted this encore has since walked back their proposal for this entertainment venue they are looking at a less than 1000 seat venue. But as since Councilor Caraviello brought this forward to the, I believe Councilor Caraviello or he's been doing work on this brought this forward to the council encore has changed their plans a number of times so I do think there is still merit to sending a letter. resident Ken Krause who's also been working on this mentioned that we do. He supports us coming out and just basically stating that the city of Medford or the council rather is against when presenting live entertainment anywhere within its gaming establishment unless they're under 1000 seats or over 300 3500 seats. And again, the reason for this is this would be anything outside of this would be in direct violation of the community. surrounding community agreement that was entered into so just stating as a council and going in line with the administration who sent a similar letter that we are against any proposed entertainment venue that would violate the terms that we that were agreed to many years ago as far as the number of seats and would do harm to local smaller venues such as the Chevalier.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, I understand the intention of this I am with the other councils I'm not having a separate committee the whole simply because the zoning meeting the committee the whole tomorrow is to review the, the CD boards recommendations and since this is outside of it doesn't feel like we have the proper. I'm sorry, agenda like agenda notice time for such a topic that would be my opinion on this so like other issues tonight I just want to make sure we're doing this the right way so we don't get caught not being able to do what we're intending to do here.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President. I do see Eric von Berg has his hand up as well on zoom, I can unmute him.
[Nicole Morell]: Second.
[Nicole Morell]: Motion to approve.
[Nicole Morell]: Second.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Chief of Staff Nazarian has her hand up. I don't know if that would be helpful.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm gonna note that I'm going to vote yes for this just because this is a paper that was brought forward by the administration. And since they're noting their own willingness and desire to take a beat to review this, I think that that makes sense if that is their wish and they are the folks who delivered this paper. So that's my reason for voting yes for this.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Councilor Knight could use his microphone.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Caraviello could use his microphone.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, if I can move for reconsideration.
[Nicole Morell]: He did ask that just procedurally this is a question for the clerks for them to present, be able to speak next week as this doesn't have a paper number when he just need to resubmit or could this be tabled.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Yeah, Mr. Petrella asked just that it be on for next week if the clerk is so obliged to leave that on.
[Nicole Morell]: I, we had a date and then we could only get a Tuesday date from the Department of Transportation so let me follow up because that your recommendation, a Wednesday day to allow more open ended so I'll follow up first thing we could do any Monday, Tuesday, Monday or Thursday if you need to.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, I want to thank you for putting this down. You know, this is a lesser known office. And as we've seen the budget, you know, it's funded at a pretty minimum level. But the work they do is very important. I've had residents that I've been able to send their way resident had a really big issue with the contractor, and they were able to get it resolved through this office. So I echo your thanks for the women staffing this office for so long and share your concern and and push to make sure we get this office staff because the what is offered at the state level doesn't compare to what is offered at the city level and the speed at which they can turn things around and work with local folks for residents in need. So I thank you for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you vice president bears Thank you, Mr. President, I just wanted to know, and add on to what Councilor Collins and Councilor Tseng said you know, this goes beyond the actual buses traveling and our fleets traveling because we have things like the fellows way bus garage where I've been talking with, you know, one resident and many residents are impacted by the diesel exhaust that goes on there. So these are residents that are very close to the space. They're affected by the emissions that happen in that space frequently and go right into their homes. So I think the councilors for bringing this forward, I fully support it. And I think this is something that impacts Medford in a number of ways. And I hope it's something that the state actually advances on. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, I just want to thank Councilor Tseng for bringing this forward, and I appreciate the language as well as the amendment by Councilor bears I just want to note that the I believe the West better Community Center is putting together a full month of programming. for Black History Month this month. So if people just wanna keep their eyes out for that, and that is a great way to engage as a community and learn about our history and our future. So I just wanna put that out there. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Mr. President, if I could.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Tseng for bringing this forward. I don't have all of the history of minutes in front of me, so I don't know if celebrating Chinese New Year has ever been introduced before, but I know it has not been introduced by an Asian American councilor, as Councilor Tseng is our first. So I just want to note that it's great to have this celebratory measure on our agenda and that representation matters. And this is the kind of stuff that people can see when they see themselves represented on the council. So thank you, Councilor Tseng, for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: I actually can see it. It took me a little bit.
[Nicole Morell]: And there's two because they were severed. They were voted on separately.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I support this resolution. And I can just work just to make sure that this notice is narrowly worded because if we do, if we were to, we don't want to, if we were to venture into the personnel, then we would have to make sure that we're inviting the proper people. So making sure it's worded in a way that we're getting the update on the IT vulnerabilities and not in a personnel sense is my opinion and just the need to make sure it's properly noticed.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Councilor Caraviello for bringing this forward. I'm curious, I would like to amend if you'd be amenable, just to also include any updates, get an update from the administration on seeking hybrid or EV vehicles to meet these needs. I know I brought up both budgets. The chief has said it's something he's looking into. I'm just curious any progress we've had on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, yeah I just want to note that for those watching who maybe weren't at our meeting on Wednesday we didn't have a meeting on Wednesday on each of these projects with a great overview on all of them and again I also wholeheartedly support them I think it's a great mix of projects and we did get word from. I'm friends with the CPC that there are other projects that will be forthcoming that they are still reviewing based on the amount of projects that came in and the amount of funding that is available. So I just want to note that there will be more coming because I know if people have been attending those meetings, there's many other very worthy projects and I look forward to those coming before this body. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, if I could.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, have Councilor Knight with so obliged, I would just like to add two more papers that we were seeking draft ordinance on which is the polystyrene ban. 20078 and then the gender equity commission, not a draft ordinance but just we've been waiting on an update for that for a while and I have the number on that as well.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean I can ask them separately I don't I. Yeah, I'm fine. I can ask them separately. Oh, I don't know. I'm. It's a little loss of resume I apologize. So yeah, so the, the number for the gender equity commission is 19-312.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, if I could. Thank you, Mr. President, I think Council night for bringing this forward and I have no issue with this paper but I do see from a November 15 meeting of the school committee. They did approve funding for the repairs for the high school pool locker showers. I don't know if there's been an update on that work sense but that's from their November 15 meeting, but I, I see no issue with also seeking if this type of work qualifies for CPA funding.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yes, this is a self-explanatory resolution and I move approval and with Councilor's support, look forward to scheduling.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, blame the baby.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Chief of Staff, Ms. Aaron, she is on the call right now. I don't know if Councilors have questions at the moment. I just want to point that out.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, if I could. Yes, President Morell to the chair if Chief of Staff is Aaron could just explain a little how these funds support solicitor Scanlon the work she is doing for the council and past papers and opinions that have been requested, or how it would.
[Nicole Morell]: Second, Mr. President, if I could as well.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to note that like my fellow Councilors, this is not, this is less than ideal. As I said last week, my desired outcome of the, you know, my desired setup of this would be having that assistant city solicitor position that has existed for a long time. This is not my ideal situation, but my vote for this is a vote to support solicitor Scanlon in the office where it's, Again, not my desire. It seems like it's rather bare bones. This is a vote for right now. I absolutely have the same concerns as my fellow Councilors, and I do not see myself voting for something like this again in the next fiscal year. But this is something that I just see as a need for right now, but not something I want to see continue. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. And thanks, Councilor Knight, for bringing this forward. I think this is a great idea, and I appreciate your research and awareness on this. I just want to check procedurally if this is something we want to address in a regular session, would this be something that would be reintroduced or tabled until those representatives can join us?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Yeah, I just wanted to make sure this doesn't get lost in the process. Okay, thank you for that clarification.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Tseng for bringing this forward. I actually raised similar concerns about access and costs way back when, with the original mask mandates being put into place. And I thank him for leaning on the administration to see what they can do here. As with many things, unfortunately, it seems like the city and municipalities are the last line of defense with the least amount of funding. So I would hope that our state leaders and our leaders at the federal level are looking into this as well, as they have vastly more funding than the city of Medford. I appreciate the assay administration and I really hope this is something we can do. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Apologies, my Zoom froze at a very inopportune time. I'm here.
[Nicole Morell]: I do accept. Thank you. Apologies. First time I Zoom froze. Perfect timing.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Thank you. Thank you all for bearing with me as I navigate the space with a one week old. And thank you for allowing me to join by Zoom and bearing with me.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you all. Very much appreciated. I look forward to serving and working hard for you all. And again, I appreciate just the moment of pause and joining by Zoom as I navigate a space I know many of you have been through first time for me. So I thank you and I'm excited to lead the council and continue to work with all of you and work for the first time with some of you.
[Nicole Morell]: Great.
[Nicole Morell]: I Nicole Morell do solemnly affirm.
[Nicole Morell]: That I will faithfully and impartially.
[Nicole Morell]: Discharge and perform.
[Nicole Morell]: All the duties.
[Nicole Morell]: Incumbent upon me.
[Nicole Morell]: As President of the Medford City Council.
[Nicole Morell]: According to the best of my ability.
[Nicole Morell]: And understanding.
[Nicole Morell]: Agreeable to the rules and regulations of the Constitution.
[Nicole Morell]: The laws of this Commonwealth and the ordinances of the city of Medford and the ordinances of the city of Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I nominate Councilor bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely, so the intention here is that the current subcommittees don't, what is in the council rules don't reflect the current subcommittees. So this would allow us to update those subcommittees and also allow us to be nimble in the sense of, you know, reflecting the names of offices in city hall and just appointing people related to the subcommittee. So just modernizing the subcommittees, especially since they don't actually reflect the current subcommittees that are doled out.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, if I could, Councilor Caraviello, And I absolutely hear what you're saying, Councilor Scarpella, and I think that's valid, and those are conversations that need to be had. I just don't want to, I think Councilor, Vice President Bears has the same concern. I don't want to inhibit, somehow inhibit ourselves from being able to form the subcommittees, particularly if we're sending things to rules right now, get stuck in kind of a catch-22 where we can't have that rules subcommittee because we're trying to hold for this committee of the whole. So I'm curious if the language, if you would be satisfied the language were clarified, that this is something we'll you know, have a meeting about down the road, but it doesn't inhibit the president from forming subcommittees, you know, in the interim.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. So this is a space, apologies, this is a space that Medford can be a leader in. So this is a program that the state recently passed, something that I'm benefiting from right now that I'm on paid family leave through my day job at MIT and something that I think through the political process, unfortunately, municipal employees were sacrificed. The cities have to opt into this program. Medford would be among the first. I think one of the first, I think cities are looking at this. They have the ability to opt in. There's a lot of discussion. There's an outline process to join this, but it would allow our municipal pool employees to have those same benefits that are being extended across the state. And we've talked a lot about the value of our city employees. We've talked a lot about attracting top talent, And, you know, just valuing our employees as human beings with full lives. And this is something that absolutely would affirm that, would give people the time off they need for expanding their family, for a sick family member, for all of the things outlined in paid family medical leave. And I think this is something that we absolutely have to look into as a city because it's the right thing to do. But also, as I said, it will attract talent. It will give them the chance to be a leader. So my motion, I would move to move this to committee of the whole, invite, you know, the city solicitor, chief of staff, I think human resources to see how we can implement this as a city.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. I just want to thank Councilor Knight now I have a squiggly baby. I want to thank Councilor Knight for bringing this forward. I mean, this is an issue that, as you said, you hear from residents about this all the time. National Grid has their own ranking for how severe these leaks are and you'll have leaks that you can absolutely smell are concerning and they'll say it's not a priority. The Energy and Environment Committee also has a great map detailing the leaks that are all over the city and as you said it's an incredible amount. and a lot of them are unreported. So I just, I really appreciate you bringing this paper forward and I look forward to supporting it and getting something done on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Bears. I echo some of the same concerns of my fellow councilors. I appreciate your efforts in this Councilor Caraviello and I of course have no, you know, $2,500 is very much small potatoes. I have, as my Councilors fellow Councilors have said I have great concerns that we're not seeing a full plan of how this is being addressed how the city is leading in this issue so I wouldn't feel comfortable taking a vote on any appropriation until we know what the full plan of approaches and how we're going to deal with this, and my fellow Councilors have said it better than I could, but I just want to agree with them and say that it's not anti your efforts around this but it's just there needs to be much more work to make sure we do this right and we fight this in the right way and the council's aware of how this is being approached. So, that's all I have. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, yeah, thank you, Vice President Bears I want to echo what Councilor Collins said I understand, you know, the, the concerns of the council I have the same concerns I absolutely would like to see this as an assistant city solicitor position and build up that institutional knowledge and, you know, have that office at a staffing level it's historically had. But with that said, I don't want to interrupt service and the support that's being provided to the city solicitor at this time. Um, you know, I'm definitely conflicted and I would like to see at the budget that as Councilor Collins said, really considering the assistant city solicitor position so that we're not at this crossroads where our hands are, um, in some way tied where I don't want to remove support from solicitor Scanlon and all the work she has before her. Um, but I, I'd love to see it not done by KP law. Um, so that's all I have for that. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. If I could, through the chair, just Chief of Staff Nazarian, do we know when we're expecting results from that classification study? I'm sure I've asked this before. I apologize.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Vice President, motion to take 21-631 off the table for its third reading.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Vice President, also motion to take 21-631 the third one that was tabled, which includes amendments FIJ and parts of amendments L and M off the table and move for approval for first reading.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. Vice President, if I could.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Just to reiterate the point that this is about the CAF approval, not appropriation. And I do believe there is some debate whether positions of this, you know that I know it's not grant funding it's a special funding from the federal government whether they even need calf approval so I appreciate the count, the administration coming forward for the approval of these positions. And again, it's a proof of the calf not an appropriation approval point of information, Councilor scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Nicole Morell, Medford City Councilor. The first guiding question you have is what am I proud of from this year? And I think what I'm most proud of is really fighting for issues that matter to me and matter to residents, even though it may have been clear that we didn't have the votes to get that issue through. So one example is fighting to give ABCD the full funding they requested through their CPA request as far as funding the emergency rental assistance program for those facing housing insecurity in Medford as a result of the pandemic. This was something that other Councilors really wanted to kind of chunk this money up and make ABCD come back to us, you know, every few months asking for more money, asking for more money as part of that full request. And, you know, For me, seeing the dire situation we were in and are still in, it made the most sense to just get that money to ABCD, help them facilitate the programs and support residents without adding additional bureaucracy. So that's something I fought for when it came time for the budget. pushing for an increase in the tree budget, which the mayor responded to and increase the budget there. And then also advocating for increased pay for the diversity director position. So these positions got separated out. We now have the chief people officer and the diversity director position. And I saw in the budget that the diversity director position was the lowest paid, one of the lowest paid, if not the lowest paid, directors in the budget. And I advocated for an increase in the salary of that because we can't say we value something and then underfund it. Particularly this time, diversity and inclusion officers are incredibly in demand. And if we actually value this in Medford, we need to pay those positions and demonstrate that, live our values. And I attract people that have top talent doing this work who really want to do great work in Medford. I also push for monthly updates and information on Medford's fight against the coronavirus and really advocating for sustainability and transportation and walkability issues wherever I could. So any project that came before us, whether it was a zoning recodification or there was another large project regarding the old Whole Foods Bakery, saying what are we doing for sustainability? What are we doing for making sure this is pedestrian friendly? How are we getting bike lanes out of this? How are we getting protected bus stops out of this? And just really seeing every time something came before us, trying to view it through the lens of sustainability, through the lens of a multimodal Medford. So another issue you talked about is inclusivity. So when I think about inclusivity, I think about speaking and being heard and represented in the chambers specifically. as that's where, you know, my job requires me to spend a lot of my time. And as we look at the new term with two new Councilors, I'm really excited about the voices that will join us officially behind the rail. So Manfred's first Asian American Councilors serve and a vast increase with, sorry, a vast increase with a renter representation through both Councilors, both new Councilors, as well as different neighborhoods having that South Manfred representation and also having that experience growing up in Wellington. but also what this means for residents. So I'm hoping that this new term offers a much more welcoming space for people to attend when safe to do so, offer their insight and share their unique lived experience. So the chambers and the procedures of meetings can be intimidating. And I'm hoping that's something that we can change in this new term as a new council. And I really want us to operate in the way of nothing about us without us. I mean, we've seen recently how that's happened. Decisions being made at different levels with, you know, decisions about people, decisions that affect people, and not having those people in the room or part of the process or offering insight to make sure we're doing things right and make sure we're not harming people in the process. Another topic you mentioned is charter review. I remain hopeful for charter review. This goes back in my mind to inclusivity and representation. I see, and I'm really excited to see more folks mobilizing around this. And I know that it has my support and I'll do everything in my power to see that we get a strong vote on this through the council. You know, what are other Councilors looking for? What concerns do they need to have addressed to get a yes vote on this? as we've seen time and time again as this comes before the council, demonstrating that strong support from the council has an impact on what the statehouse decides. So we want this vote to get to them and have, you know, as strong a vote as we can to say this is something that the people of Medford want. This is something that is just simply long overdue. I mean, it's just good politics. It's just good policy to review an operating document that has been unchanged for decades at this point, when the city has vastly changed. And priorities for next term. My biggest priorities, you know, as I said before, the lens I view things through is sustainability and transportation and I view these as two sides of the same coin. So a more sustainable Medford is a Medford that we have less emissions and less fossil fuels. and less traffic or more ways to get around. So doing everything I can to support bike lanes and multimodal streets and public transportation and making public transportation easier to take, which, you know, advocating for increased bus service or just the return to the bus service we once had, doing everything we can to make sure that everyone in the city has safe pathways to get to the new Green Line extension, they can use that. Improving our streets and sidewalks, improving our sidewalks so that people with strollers and wheelchairs and mobility devices can use the sidewalk because parking and traffic enforcement so there's not cars blocking the sidewalk or bike lane so that people, regardless of their dependence on vehicles and I know you know different life circumstances require you know different transportation needs but those who can not, you know, can avoid using a car, can avoid adding to those emissions, can get around Medford. And there's things to do around Medford on foot. So really just supporting a more sustainable Medford in the sense of climate change or in the sense of individual sustainability, making it a sustainable place for families to live and people without cars and people who can't drive, people who are too young to drive to get around the city. So really trying to view everything from the budget to zoning changes to ordinances through that lens of how do we make Medford more sustainable and more multimodal. I think a lot of stuff comes from that and hearing from more people and hearing from people who have different experiences with traveling throughout the city. Yeah, that's all I have. Thanks so much.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm waiting on a baby myself and mine does not have the impeccable timing of other elected officials. So I'm sorry I couldn't be there in person, Paulette, but I just wanted to thank you for your advocacy, your advice, the time that you've given me personally, and of course the city and just everything you've done. And, you know, they say life is what 90% showing up and showing up for 32 years, that's dedication and service to the city. So I just want to add my thanks and congratulations. enjoy your time not being in the chambers, all of the time.
[Nicole Morell]: I understand the concern of my fellow Councilors. I'm very focused on the number of positions in this in the public health department. As we are, you know, entering a surge, unlike we've seen before, our testing sites, you know, they're incredible weights around the Commonwealth, and I have people reaching out to me, Medford residents reaching out to me and saying, why isn't Medford testing? Why aren't they doing X, Y, or Z? And I talk to people in the Department of Public Health and they say, we don't have the bandwidth and we need these positions to respond to the crisis we're in right now. These are something that I absolutely will vote for tonight. And I think we need to vote for. I understand the concerns about the plan. I have the same concerns, but we're in the middle of a surge. We're facing a major issue right now. And these are positions we need to respond to the challenges we're facing right now. And that's why I'll support them.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I mean, it's hard to say what hasn't already been said, but I think just personally, I want to thank you, John. You've always treated me, um, even when I was first running just as a as a friend, rather than a foe, even if we didn't always agree on issues, you always were magnanimous and polite, and something that goes a long way in politics. I've been happy to sit next to you for this past year, just to have someone with institutional knowledge beside me, a little comic relief sometimes, and also just similar to what Councilor Scarpelli just said, just, you know, sometimes you have to, everyone has to make sure they heard the same thing. So that's, I appreciate that and your willingness Um, chat with me and, and also what Councilor bear said, you, um, you know, we're the first council president I work with and, um, it, it truly challenging and wild year. And I know you worked your hardest to navigate as a strange space. And many times when, um, you know, the council was pretty acrimonious, uh, internally and, and I'm, you know, can see that's not easy. Um, and I really appreciate your work on that and just, um, your, your dedication to the city. And I just wanna echo my fellow Councilors and thank you for your service and wish you all the best whatever may come next.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Councilor Marks, I mean, it's no secret that we don't always agree, but I have always truly respected just the amount of homework you do before every meeting. And I can see it on the papers next to you, the amount of preparation you come to meetings with and ready to speak. And I don't think a meeting has gone by where you haven't asked a question or raised a point that's made me kind of rethink or reframe how I'm thinking about a topic. It may not totally change my vote, but it absolutely provides a perspective that I didn't think of and is so needed and so welcome in these meetings. As someone who perhaps my signature is my brevity, I am truly impressed and amazed at your ability to speak at length on topics and not repeat yourself, it's truly, it's unlike anything else anyone else can do, and it's very impressive. And really, in the two years we've worked together, you've never phoned it in. I think even at 11 p.m., which maybe sometimes some of us would like you to phone it in, if it was an issue that you were passionate about, that residents cared about, you were ready to fight, and you were ready to speak your piece on it, and that's absolutely admirable. And as Councilor Scarpelli just said, door knocking campaigning talking to residents around the city I've met many many members of your fan club people who are very appreciative of the work you do, and you as an individual and you leaving the council, you're going to be deeply missed by the community and I thank you as others have said for for challenging me challenging me to be a better Councilor and know just, I have to come to every meeting and be on my toes because of you and I thank you for that and your service to the city for so long.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President. Council Member Hill. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Ellen, for that. Yeah, I just wanna go on record saying that I'm very much in favor of exploring this and just learning more about how this could impact or benefit or harm in some cases, the community through the tax bills. But based on what we discussed at the last meeting, understanding that it's very late in the year to have these discussions, you would need to really be staffed up in order to process exemptions like this if it were something that we were to pass. I, you know, I'm really interested in having these conversations, but understanding your advisement that this is something we should do in the spring. My vote is going to reflect that. So thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I found them to be in order and move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Faye, for that. I see Newton listed in this presentation. Did you use the same enterprise program in Newton?
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely, and I appreciate that. You talked about the two trucks needed, what are the trucks needed for?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you. And are there options within this contract for like EV vehicles or hybrids?
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you. That's, that's all the questions I have for now. I'm very appreciative of your, of your quick work on this. That's all I have right now, Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, thank you for that. As I'm sure you found out in your research there was a data breach recently, a few months ago with reef parking. So I'm just curious with G tech know where the, you know, private secured where that data lives, as we're going to have you know license plates addresses.
[Nicole Morell]: Right, it's a function of needing a job.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and then, so there, but they will offer IT support that will work with our IT as well?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great, thank you. And so that support they offer, that's the length of the contract?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: With an existing contract?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great, thank you for that. You're welcome.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm going to be voting against this just because I'd like to move on this tonight and I just like the record to reflect that. Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. As we've run into this issue recently, I would just ask if that it's anticipated we'll be discussing any personnel or any individual- We will not be discussing any personnel matters this evening. Oh, not tonight. In this upcoming committee of the whole, just ensuring if anyone's going to be discussed that they are given the proper notice and invited so we don't have our hands tied.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I echo my colleagues and their kind words on Mr. Cairns, and before I started my term, I reached out to the majority of the department heads to learn about their departments. And he took time out of his day to take me around the DPW yard, the facility, and show me every single, really every single inch of it and all the work they do down there and all the work he managed. He's always incredibly responsive and just a pleasure to engage with, again, when most of us spend, or all of us spend a lot of our time asking things of him. And he was always very kind and responsive, and he will be missing I think and for as many years of service to the city.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you for reading through all of that. So students from the BU chapter of the American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative reached out about this. They're going around to city councils, town councils around the area to really raise awareness for this leading cause of cancer death that, as you just read, doesn't receive the funding or the recognition that other cancers like breast cancer and prostate cancer receive. And really just having this on the agenda to raise awareness for early screenings I, you know, personally in my family, I have a very young person who was diagnosed with cancer, stage four cancer that metastasized to her lungs. And she's still with us, thankfully. But early screening of all types of cancer, early screening would have done a world of difference for her, her prognosis and the treatment she's received. So any opportunity to raise awareness about screening opportunities or just talking to your doctor about potential screenings, I think is important, especially as There are such high rates of diagnosis and death and particularly as people have been putting off understandably so medical care because of the COVID-19 pandemic, just encouraging people to have these conversations and see what type of early screenings are out there. So I move approval. Thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. If the councilor would agree, I'd be happy to suggest amending the paper to invite a representative from the Department of Health to just give us an update as we head into the fall, as numbers continue, as numbers, you know, a little bit of a cyclical pattern at this time, just to talk about what we could probably expect from the city as we head into the fall and cases continue to rise.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President here I think we're going to continue I thank you for bringing this forward I think we're going to continue to run into issues like this I know earlier in the year we discussed the issue of the buildings that still had heat on in June as climate change makes its impacts we're going to have you know our season shift little bit so this year and going forward it would be great if we could discuss, you know, continue to Yeah, please check up. I of course am of the mind that pollinators and other friendly critters love your leaves on the in your grass so you can leave them up for those of those who choose to rate them or leaf blow them. Of course, they deserve to have been picked up. So thank you for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President. I just want to echo my colleagues. I obviously didn't have the pleasure to work alongside the chief as long as everyone else did, but I thank him for his decades of service to the city, the residents, his firefighters. I think in the short time I have had, been able to work with him and whether it's meetings here or events, he's always welcoming kind and available and that's really just an asset to everyone in the city. And I also echo my council colleagues in congratulating Deputy Chief Friedman on his elevation.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, yeah I've actually had a number of residents reach out with concern over this with our hilly landscape and Medford there's no shortage of masonry and walls in the community. And sometimes what comes with that is dry cutting where you can see clouds of dust, emitting from these cutting activities and. Oftentimes this dust can actually contain very incredibly dangerous materials like crystalline silica. There are OSHA requirements around this, but again I feel the complaints from residents who are seeing this go on in their neighborhood. I've connected with Building Commissioner Moki about this and I'm just curious to see If there's a way we can perhaps set some policies or guidance that people can get when they're pulling a permit. I know not all of these projects require permits, but if they're pulling a permit or something we can share just with the public because this actually is a very dangerous material that gets emitted, you know, on our streets in our neighborhoods that people might not know. give them the opportunity to flag this because there are abatement and engineering controls that can be easily done as far as vacuuming the dust or vacuum systems for the dust and water delivery systems. So I'm just seeking if it's possible to have these apartments meet and see if there are recommendations that can come out. for a policy so that we can point to this, we can inform residents and we can inform workers because they're the ones that are most directly impacted by this very dangerous dust. So I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. As we're nearing the completion of construction season, we got an update at the beginning of this project launching once again with the work earlier in the spring. The council had concerns about the speed at which this would be completed. I believe we still had projected another potential two to three years. We pushed back on that because part of that was held up by detail. I do believe they ended up having at least two crews going at once based on my experience driving through the area. But I think it would be great to have an update on, you know, what is the forecasted completion date? When can residents expect to see this, you know, the length of this project repave curb to curb? And if there are any places for residents to have input that haven't already been decided, it would be great for residents to know that because I know there's, you know, there are plans for a number of crosswalks, but also decisions around bike lanes and things of that nature, I think would be great. And residents would appreciate after this extremely long project, hopefully someday wrapping up, you know, having their input on what the future of their neighborhood looks like, particularly because they have been bombarded with the impacts of this project for so long. So seeing an update when we can expect completion, when is that curve to curve paving going to happen? And what are other ways residents can provide input?
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, I think you just addressed this, but the question is, you know, if we find that there are, this is not up to snuff, is it going to be a full pass again, or is it going to be piecemeal work already?
[Nicole Morell]: And it's your position that's the final decider as far as it being accepted or not?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, of course, let Councilor Falco speak I'm sure he has to want to extrapolate this on this more but I mean this is something I understand that the blasting company received a permit for two months worth of blasting, and I believe it began on August 31, so we are pretty much at that two month point. I'd like an update on how much longer they're going to be blasting, how the weather impacts this. We're talking about the end of construction season. Is it the end of blasting season? Is this something that's going to pick up again in the spring? I think residents are feeling this and hearing this much farther than they anticipated. I think partly because, and I live right over here, the neighborhoods are on a lot of ledge and they're essentially on the same ledge that's being blasted you know, a quarter of a mile away. So there's this, you know, conduction that's getting to people's houses. And I think some people are starting to see issues that may not have done the insurance assessment because they thought they were far enough out. So in addition to getting an update on, you know, how long is this blasting going to continue? I'd like to know what avenues residents have who are being impacted by this, who did not expect to be impacted by it, and what it's doing to their homes. Additionally, I just, it's an unnerving situation, I think, for a lot of people in the area, because some days there's no blasting, some days there's one blast, some days there's two blasts, and it impacts people in different living situations in different ways. So I'd really like to get an update and have, you know, have this information be open to the public. I mean, the fact that residents have to chase down this information when they're, you know, yards feet away from this massive blasting project, it's not right. And the fact that they have to chase us down and then we chase people down to try to get these answers is kind of ridiculous. So I'd really like to see an update on that. And I pass on to Councilor Falco if you'd like to add.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. And you bring up an excellent point of just trying to navigate that area, particularly when people are trying to get to high school. It's completely crazy. You have to get through three work crews. A lot of times in the morning, the work crew that does the blasting lines up on Winthrop Street near the cemetery, completely blocking viewpoints. It's absolute chaos in the morning. And I think to Vice President Knight's point, this has been going on for so long, and neighbors were pushing back against it for so long, and then it kind of went quiet. And then all of a sudden we get an email that blasting starts next week. And I think that's why a lot of neighbors were caught off guard and maybe did not have the insurance assessment or have done what they needed to get done beforehand to protect them in this situation. So that's what I really want answers on is what kind of recourse do residents have that are being impacted by this, that thought that they were far enough away that they wouldn't be impacted by this. Yeah, I'm sorry. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: It's not confirmed, which I think is something residents continue to look for, understandably so. And they, you know, email after email kind of get this understandably, you know, mixed messaging about what's actually going to happen.
[Nicole Morell]: Perfect, thank you. Thank you, Mr. President, just one last point is I do sincerely hope it would be great to have the company there to confirm that it's, you know, only 20 more blasts because you drive by that project. It's hard to believe it's only 20 more blasts for them to put 10 houses in there. So, and to Councilor bears point. Right now you get a text message a couple hours before a blast. You don't know if it's a two blast day, a no blast day, a one blast day. And you know, that's really unnerving for a lot of people. So I would love to see a schedule, but right now, you know, it's a couple hours notification and that's, you know, it doesn't work for a lot of people. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, it hasn't been disbanded, it just hasn't been meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: I think that the task is complete, but I think the committee is still active in the sense that it can be engaged whenever needed.
[Nicole Morell]: I found them to be in order and with approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just wanted to clarify. Plan A, although it's no change to the number of wards and precincts, there is slight changes to the boundaries of it. Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President, and I want to thank you all for coming out here. When my dog wants to walk that far, I walk down there, I'm forcing the road. It's the same thing. I'm very familiar with the issues that go on there. And you would think that because it's so close to the school, because kids are walking, they're biking, people are taking their kids down the street, that it would have priority. Unfortunately, we haven't seen that yet. I think Councilor Scarpelli's resolution is a great idea because what these meetings have allowed us to do, you guys presented so many great ideas. You can be there in real time with the traffic engineer and they can say here's what's feasible here's what's not from a ADA point standpoint from an engineering standpoint from a funding standpoint, and we were able to leave with some concrete solutions. The last time we did this so I know it's not an immediate fix, but hopefully we can schedule that very soon because we're able to leave with actual action items that we can follow up on. Because otherwise, like you said, we can vote tonight, we can end up on an email chain, we can end up on a paper trail, and we can end up with nothing. So at least if we have that meeting, we can have those conversations and have those concrete steps, because there's no denying it's a serious issue there. It's just a matter of how fast we're gonna act on it. So thank you all for coming out.
[Nicole Morell]: I did not have time to find them, if we could table them for next week.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Mister president, I just have a few questions. So the plan is that the sign would move 15 feet and then the property owner would do whatever additional work they need to do to improve drainage. You guys are simply just moving the sign. You're not doing anything else.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And vice president, I just alluded that, um, the illumination would be different. It would actually be lower and less disruptive with the led, the digital billboard, as opposed to the current illuminated one. Can you, is that correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Do you know how close this is to the other digital billboard? I don't know.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, that's all I have right now.
[Nicole Morell]: I think you need to reshare your screen, because we're not seeing anything.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Marks for his words and just echo what he said in that this moving to the Community Development Board is just another step in the feedback process. There's a lot of time for more stakeholder input, citizen resident input. This isn't us rubber stamping it. This is us just moving into the next process of engagement. And I just want to make that clear. Yes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I think councilor Scarpelli for bringing this forward. And I think we saw the same news story. So I was going to suggest the amendment that the administration either, um, work with, surrounding cities or encourage representation from surrounding cities because this again, this is a regional problem. This isn't just a Medford problem. This is every city around us is facing the same issue and the rats don't know where the city border ends. So I think just working collaboratively with those other cities that are affected, which as far as I can tell is everyone. So just amending to add that they invite representatives from surrounding communities to this working group if they can attend.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. The clerk just addressed my question. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, this is something we discussed in April of 2020. The council voted to raise this to $50,000 per year. So this is a state program that the city engages in, and the city council has the ability to set the maximum income cap for people who can participate. And it can be raised up to the senior circuit breaker number, which is adjusted every year. When we discussed this back in April of 2020, We're you know the council is rightfully concerned to see what we're going to get as far as real estate receipts and didn't want to raise this too high. I believe Councilor Vice President Knight brought up the idea of just automatically tying it to the senior circuit breaker so we don't have to revisit this every so often as the state already adjusts that number reflective of cost of living. This is a program that not a lot of people participate in, but for some people it is, you know, a lifesaver, a game changer program. So I would just want to see that it be opened up to as many residents as possible. But I mean, we're still talking single digits, I believe, as far as people who participate in the program. I did ask Ellen for an updated number on number of participants. I don't have that number just yet. We do have time. I believe this has to be set by April for the fiscal year 2023. So if my fellow Councilors would like to see this as a committee of the whole, I'm more than happy to move it there. But I think this is just a smart way to approach this program and then have it match that level set by the state.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm happy to change my motion to send it to Committee of the Whole. I mean, to Vice President Knight's point, we want to make sure we get this right. We have until, I believe, April to figure this out. I would like to have, if possible, have that meeting as soon as possible so people know what's coming down the pike and we can get this set. But I'm fine to send it to Committee of the Whole.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to reiterate my point that this is a state program. I agree with what everyone said about just using all the tools in our toolbox. It's something that's easy for us to do. It's something we talked about revisiting, you know, a year and a half ago. It's something that Housing Medford, I believe, first came to the council about, like, three years ago. So that's all I'm advocating for. And I hope my colleagues will agree to send this to the committee to further discuss. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thanks, Vice President Knight for bringing this forward. And as you say, it's something that's an inconvenience in a car, in a bike, on a bike. It's catastrophic. So I would like love. Thank you for bringing this forward. I would love to see this change. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could just go on record as just noting that I think using this body as a forum for civil and legal matters that are ongoing that the council has no jurisdiction over and no involvement with only further confuses the public about the duties of this actual body, which are clearly stated in the city charter, Massachusetts general laws and the open meeting law. So I just want to go on record as saying that.
[Nicole Morell]: I just want to go on record. Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I agree with Vice President Knight. I think it's a dangerous precedent to set to have the council vote to denounce what I understand in many cases to be protected speech. Organizations like the ACLU say we have to protect the speech we hate. And this goes on on both sides. I do not believe it's in our purview or something we should be doing to try to limit this, limit speech, whether we're trying to limit the speech of the mayor, trying to limit the speech of the anonymous individuals. It's not our purview. It's not something I agree with personally. It's not something that I think we should be doing as a legislative body that is essentially focused on zoning ordinances and budget. So I would be voting against both resolutions tonight for that reason. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: For the reasons I stated before, no.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, and thanks to Vice President Knight for bringing this forward. I really appreciate the idea of an abutters advisory committee for this project and future projects. And thanks to Mr. Marino for providing insight. I think that type of insight you get from abutters is, you know, he just proved just how valuable it is. And they see things from a different perspective. They experience things every day. So I think having their voices in this very important decision process is a great idea. And I also support this resolution.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. If I could also add to that request to the city engineer, I'm curious how often materials are switched out. So if materials are approved in a contract, how often are we seeing them switched out without notice really other than residents alerting us or us seeing it ourselves?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. If you'll allow an amendment.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President Julian. Thank you so much for being here for taking the time to explain the process for for presenting this so many times I was able to see some of the artwork was on. It was still up during open studios. So I really appreciate your work and your efforts as a resident and an artist to foster these conversations in a way that is passive and invites people to engage in them. And perhaps some people may feel uncomfortable, but this invites conversation in a different way, which, you know, was your intention. I don't want to talk too long on this, because Councilor Bears, the point, you know, this is exactly as you said, this is to foster conversation. And if we can't even get to that point. Clearly there's a lot more work we have to do it's always been apparent what there's a lot of work we have to do there's a lot of work, every city has to do. There's a lot of investment needed in this area but the consistent vandalism and the the hard stop of these potential conversations is very concerning. And I'd love to see more action by the administration and by the city council and our power to foster this kind of work. And again, I thank you as a resident and an artist for taking this upon yourself and going through the channels to bring this forward. So thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, I think Councilor Marks and Councilor Bears bring up a really good point in that the intention of this art was to drive conversation that didn't happen in the way envisioned because of the vandalism, but there was multiple other opportunities there was a missed opportunity as far as promoting there was a missed opportunity. as far as sharing what happened. These are opportunities for conversation and for dialogue and to do better. And if it weren't for a receptive council, how would we hear about this? So I think Councilor Bears brings up a really good point. Councilor Marks brings up a really good point and we're having this conversation now, but the conversation was intended to be had by the public, by the residents. We get the pulpit every Tuesday. We want that opportunity to have more people have this type of dialogue and that was missed on multiple accounts. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, I want to thank Councilor Bears for bringing this forward I brought forward a similar resolution, a number of months ago, asking similar questions about the social justice roadmap as I pointed out then and I'd like to point out again. This roadmap was essentially a retrospective, you know, I appreciate the work that has been done and it was outlined but there was no. concrete plans for moving forward. And I think similar to the conversation we were just having, there's a missed opportunity for communication with our community. I was speaking with a resident recently who asked about the declaration from both the mayor and the council declaring systemic racism, public health crisis. And they said, what does that do? And as it was explained to us by the administration, Having that declaration can unlock certain grant funding to address social determinants of health, and we haven't had an update on that since. I'm sure some of the work is going on, but it feels like a real missed opportunity to communicate to our community what this declaration means, what happens as a result of it, what work is going on. And despairingly, I had a conversation with a resident on Sunday that shared, you know, their father-in-law had a racial slur shouted at them in Medford Square. So there's, our residents are dealing with this. They're facing these issues and the least we can get is an update and talk about where we go from here because promises have been made, declarations have been made, and their residents and this council deserve an update about where we go from here. What work is being done? How is this being funded? who's being engaged around this. So I thank Councilor Beres for bringing this forward and keeping this top of mind and hopefully getting those answers soon. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Brightness is the previous screens.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I think following on Councilor Falco's point and understanding there is continued work in this, if perhaps the next time, you know, when these are presented again, the salary ranges could come with it so we can have more information.
[Nicole Morell]: We have a number of students here for 21-525. I know they're here to speak as well, and it's on the agenda.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Susan, for being here. And remind me, it's been a while since I've seen the plans for this, but it is three units within a multifamily, correct? It's not?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and this has been, as you said, this has been in the works for quite a while.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, as it says, this came before the council, was voted into committee of the whole shortly before the pandemic, obviously because the restrictions of the pandemic and other things like the plastic bag ban being temporary lifted, this was kind of put on pause. Of course, the detriment of polystyrene packaging does not stop for the pandemic. And of course, because of increased takeout, this amount of waste has increased, so I know there's a number of students here that can speak on it. I'm just asking for this to be advanced and moved to Committee of the Whole so that we can bring all parties interested to the table and have a great conversation around this and see how we could possibly move forward. But I'd also want the students who came out to have a chance to speak when they can.
[Nicole Morell]: It's already in committee. Have a meeting on it and I'll do urgency.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to echo Vice President Knight and just extend my congratulations to Len and Jeannie. I also thank Jeannie for lending Len to Medford Politics so often, which may actually contribute to their success, how much time he spends out of the house helping us all out. So extending the congratulations and wishing them many more.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, this resolution really covers it, and I also want to make sure the residents have a chance to speak, but Tom with the Commission for Persons with Disabilities reached out to me. They have sent a letter. The mayor has sent a letter in support of this and really just trying to bring forth the United Front. So that Governor Baker releases the funding to make this improvement that is much needed with an Accra station. The trains are incredibly challenging to use with anyone with a mobility issue and completely inaccessible to many, many people because of this. As I understand, it's been on a tier one priority since 2019, still has not been funded, work has not been planned or started. So it's just something that we need to continue to push on to get this funding. I'll let Councilor Falco if he has anything to add and just make sure we hear from the residents.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to add, I want to thank Tom and Marsha for coming out and just the entire commission for the work they do, because these are issues that if they don't affect you, it's so easy to not see because you're not experiencing them. And working on these issues and raising these issues is so important. And what President Caraviello said stuck out to me talking about what the MBTA had said previously about shutting down and making the whole station inaccessible. for the work that needs to be done, but for as long as the station's been around, it's been completely shut down. It's been completely inaccessible to a large group of people. So I really hope that now is the time we can actually get something done and make this an accessible station for everyone. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I know Councilor Marks introduced something, a similar paper probably over a year ago at this point. I know sometimes it feels like we're banging our head against the wall asking for DCR to do anything on the many streets they operate in our city, but I'm responding to requests from a number of residents that have concerns about safety in this area, a need for crosswalks around the Rotary at High Street and Mystic Valley Parkway, similar to what exists in Arlington, which I believe is what Councilor Marks requested. There is now a beautiful, you know, master parkway plan from DCR. Of course, if there is one thing we know in Medford, we have no shortage of plans. It's the action that we really struggle with. I've spoken with Representative Garbali about, he did put in a request for DCR to put in something in the interim, whether it's crosswalks or anything. I think as people are home more, they're noticing how much people are speeding, they're noticing their neighbors as they try to cross the street. They simply cannot. So I'm just asking that we put out, you know, another request to DCR to take some action on this, you know, action before they even start working on the master plan, because we know how long those can take, how long I think it can take to actually get funding, but there's a need for immediate safety improvements right now for residents. So that's what I'm looking for here.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Councilor Bears for bringing this forward. I was curious if we could have a minute just to get an update on the sharrows that, so they're supposed to be the updated bike infrastructure when Winthrop Street is repaved whenever that happens, but there is the portion that was repaved, but they did not add the sharrows. I know showers aren't perfect but I think it does contribute to people just understanding that this is a multimodal road. This isn't just a road you fly down. This is what people walk, bike, they're trying to cross on. So if we could just get an update on that because I believe something strange happened, why the paint wasn't put down. So if we could get an update there.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could, as a cyclist, I would say that it's perhaps divided how people feel about Sharrows.
[Nicole Morell]: I think Councilor Bears for putting this on, and my fellow councilors for their thoughtful comments on this. And I thank Dave for bringing that forward, because I think we've seen what happens when Medford doesn't have a seat at the table in these state-level decision-making. So I really, you know, whatever comes out of it, I really hope that the administration will respond and make sure that Medford is in the room when these decisions are being made. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thanks, Councilor Fragedel. bringing us forward. This is I fully agree with the idea of this going to a committee the whole because I think we've all heard from residents who have lived in their homes for decades and they're experiencing flooding instances that they've never seen before and really bizarre scenarios that with extreme climate events are only going to increase so it's something that we need to get out ahead of even though we're already a little bit behind but something we actually needed. I know the engineering department is working on it, but so that we're all fully in the loop. So how we can report back to residents and make sure that we're really focused on this issue. So I thank you for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: I found the extensive records to be in order and move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Aye.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to echo what my fellow Councilors are saying. And thank you, Ron and the whole team for the tremendous amount of volunteer hours you've put in over 25 years. Like my fellow Councilors, I'm someone who benefited from youth sports, but those things don't happen on their own. Someone has to put that together, hold it together for as long as you all have. So I thank you for the tremendous effort, just this great community offering, and really just this offering, this inclusive offering to our young athletes in Medford. So thank you and congratulations on 25 years of great work.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Caraviello. Thank you, Councilor Fabio, and thank you for bringing this forward. Congratulations, Desmond. As someone who dropped out of the Brownies after about one year, the level of dedication and commitment that it takes to get to the rank of Eagle Scout is just something that will serve you so well in your life, but already serves the city of Medford and will continue to serve us as long as you choose to stay here. So I just congratulate you on such an achievement and all of your hard work to get here. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just have a question for the clerk for the chair for the note about for both elections in person. Early voting can begin not less than 10 days before the election. Um, this it seems for the September election. That's it's in a smaller window of time. Is that because of the Labor Day holiday? There's like special exception for that.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I understand the rationale of Councilor Marks' motion, as well as what Ms. Gail is sharing. I personally don't feel comfortable cutting the days for early voting for the preliminary. I would support the original four days that were recommended. And that's just, as an elected official, I don't feel comfortable limiting the days. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Councilor Bears job. My memory. I've seen some people if I could for coordinator Gail through the chair. People voted absentee for the first time last November. They still need to request to vote absentee to vote mail in ballot again. Correct. They're not going to automatically get something.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you, because I've seen that question posed in a number of places, and I just want to thank you and the clerk for doing the work on the banner and the signs. That's a request I've seen for a number of years, so I'm really excited to see those go out. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: It's a motion to accept.
[Nicole Morell]: It's a motion to accept the suggested language. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I just want to say thank you. I agree with Councilor Scarpelli. I think it may seem like this is a simple one off. But what we're doing right now is setting precedent. And if we don't get this right this time, the next time a petitioner comes before us, they're going to cite this case for their reason for why they're doing something a certain way. So we need to get it right. And I agree with Councilor Marks that this is this is a public right of way, and we need to treat it as such and figure out the right way to do this. And if that's charging, then that's charging. But I agree that I don't think we should move on this without just insight from our city engineer at this point.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I support the intention of this resolution. I think there's, I know personally there was a tree chipper down the street from me the other day, and he'd go running to the window to see which beloved tree is coming down. And I think that notification is really important. You know, trees don't benefit just the direct abutters, they direct, you know, they benefit the whole block, they cool the whole block. So I think just as advanced notification gives people a chance to, whether it's just get on the list for a new tree, buy their own tree, or just wrap their head around what's happening. I think this is important just for stewardship in our community. And I also, I don't know if we need amended language to include the emergency situations or if the tree we're in would offer that if she joins us. But I do support this, but I also support the inclusion of emergency language.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I have this on here because I've had a number of bike commuters reach out lately just about certain improvements to streets. A lot of those streets are referenced in the infrastructure master plan that was put together by the Bicycle Advisory Commission, which I know was meant to be used as a guide suggestions for DPW and a city engineer. And it is my understanding that these improvements are generally implemented only when a street is repaved. And as we know from this very council, a very small number of streets are repaved each year, and a number of them just aren't even in this plan. So, you know, noting that we've got the Great Clippership Connector, which is connecting a number of greenways and a number of bike paths that they, bikes are mentioned in the draft of the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. And also just noting that ideally there will be hopefully substantial infrastructure money coming down from the federal level. I would just love an update from the administration on priorities around these improvements for bikes around the city if it's something that it's just going to keep being done kind of as we slowly repave streets. or if there is something in the works that if we do get infrastructure money, it'll be something we'll be moving quickly on. So I would just love an update so that it's something I can, you know, that can be shared with the cyclists and would-be cyclists in Medford.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, since the implementation of these fees for essentially ride share, these have been used for a number of projects, but because of the pandemic, I know these companies took a hit, they weren't going out as often. So I'm just curious if there's any update that the administration can provide on what those numbers actually look like this year based on the lower rates of use. I know it was some topic of debate with the transportation bill, but just, it still stands the fact that these, these companies went out so much less during the pandemic. So I'm curious what we can look at, what we're anticipating with that, and if there are any specific projects that this money is earmarked for. So just seeking an update. Second.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So Tim, if I understand it's the access ramp is extending out onto the existing sidewalk is what's happening.
[Nicole Morell]: So if you're, you know, parallel to the building, you know, you're walking down the sidewalk, so there will be, I guess, ramps on all three sides, I'm assuming so people who are just continuing down the sidewalk are able to, whether they're in a, you know, stroller mobility device are able to just go up and down that new ramp.
[Nicole Morell]: It wouldn't necessarily break the path of anyone coming down the sidewalk, and they would have enough space for, you know, a stroller, a wheelchair, anything like that without having to, um, come in contact with this ramp.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm just, I do believe this, I'm thinking, I believe the citizens on High Street has this similar setup where there is a ramp that goes out onto the public sidewalk. Just if that offers any precedent for these questions we're asking.
[Nicole Morell]: jump the line. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I think Councilor Falco for bringing this forward, um, throughout the budget season and any financial paper that's come before us. Alicia is has spent countless hours with us and it's just a wealth of knowledge and helping us understand what's coming before us the impact and There was rarely a question she couldn't answer, particularly in this time when where there's, you know, there's ARPA, there's COVID relief, there's so many things to understand in a short amount of time. And she really did an excellent job. And not because we just spent 30 hours in budget meetings, but I'm dreading next year's budget without her. So she'll be sorely missed and I congratulate her on her new appointment.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. To that same point, I don't know what the plans are as far as updating the website to reflect the new name of the Columbus School to the Mississauga. I know stuff has been changed in, I don't know the status of the physical signage, but I know there have been updates made in mapping tools. So if people are looking up, they may have issues ending up the right place. So I know it remains Columbus on the website for the polling location. So I just don't know what the plan is for that.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely, yeah, and that makes sense. I just wanted to make sure in terms of wayfinding. Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just have a question about the director budget slash CPO. Is that that's going away because that was a title that reflects staffing needs that are no longer happening. Is that correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I mean, I'm scared to say nice things because I don't want to see you go, but yeah, to echo Councilor Marks, just the work you always do is tremendous, but the work you did, particularly during the pandemic to get us dialed in from home in the chambers, allowing the public to engage, you know, doing that with your own equipment and really kind of bootstrapping to get this a really successful system, I think speaks volumes to just how you operate and have operated since you've been here. So you will be sorely missed and I thank you for your years of just excellent service to the city and to the council.
[Nicole Morell]: It just says on the Board of Health paper that it will be inspected on 6921. So I just don't know if we have a missing an update in here on that. Or we'll get an update at some point. I'm just noting at the Board of Health document says it will be inspected on 6921, which is now in the past. So I just don't know if there's an update on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Just remind me, that whole plaza is open to the public, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: I think you said the cafe is open to the public as well, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So Ben is the MIT System Design and Management Industry and Certificate Director and the 2021 awardee of the Collier Medal. So MIT gives out a number of staff excellence awards each year, which are among the highest honors to staff. As is the tradition, there's only one Collier Medal award winner. And that's Ben, her Medford neighbor, Medford resident. And the Collier Medal was established in 2014 to honor MIT police officer Sean Collier and his commitment to community engagement and model citizenship. As I said, it's among the highest honors that MIT awards its staff and community members. Ben was awarded this because in the spring of 2020, as the WHO declared COVID-19 to be an official pandemic and case numbers rose in Massachusetts, groups and individuals across MIT and the state sought ways to help Ben's background in the medical device industry and his training in applying a systems approach to socio-technical challenges immediately proved useful. And he worked closely with professors in the Department of Mechanical Engineering to navigate the rapidly evolving response across the Institute and identify labs and other groups that could join these efforts. So through this work, Ben connected with the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, who convened experts from a variety of fields to form what became the Massachusetts Manufacturing Emergency Response Team. And this collaborative, which was cross-disciplinary and cross-industry, played a key role in the Baker-Polito administration's initial response to COVID-19, and the Massachusetts Manufacturing Emergency Response Team helped local manufacturers pivot their operations to produce PPE and other much-needed supplies for healthcare workers at scale. And Ben helped lead the effort to provide medical device development guidance to manufacturers, and he also served as the team's key liaison with FDA officials and ensured that critical emergency regulatory requirements were addressed. So for these efforts, Ben was awarded the medal And I want to just take a moment to recognize him for this tremendous achievement. I know there are many, many Medford residents who contributed in many ways to the COVID-19 response, but I just want to call out this really high honor offered by MIT for his work across the state and just thank his neighbor, Laurel Ruma, for reaching out and ensuring that the community knows about one of its residents in this really important award.
[Nicole Morell]: I just want to echo vice president. I think councilor bears bringing this forward, but I think I have the same concerns as far as process and timing, just understanding if the pool does grow exponentially, which it can, you know, where are we then? So just can we drop this paper after the deadline? Can, will we get a response in time, which I don't know if we'll get those answers until it's too late. But I do think this is something that warrants for the discussion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah. I would thank you, madam mayor for being here. I would, I'd agree. I have like that idea. And I think as councilor Scarpelli is pointing out, it's part of it is just, we're not getting our needs met. You know, sometimes it's just a quick question about what is the proper way to do this. And to your point about the different attorneys and KPO offer different areas, I'm not sure that's ever even been presented to us. It's like, we'd go to a meeting and we'd see a new one there and be like, who are we getting tonight? So I think just understanding that would go a long way, but I really appreciate the idea of just, you know, someone dedicated to the council that can help us with, you know, just being above board, doing everything properly, because we hit on these new challenges all the time. And I think to the point of, KP Law's experience, they have experience in these other communities. A lot of times the question is, you know, asking Attorney Scanlon, what have other communities drafted? What are they doing in this area? So it seems like something that they could assist with, but we're not getting that assistance right now.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll be brief because it's the only way I know how to operate. I just want to say I also agree with Councilor Marks and his many points. I try my best to act in good faith. We have a commitment from the mayor. I'm going to act on that, and I agree. I'm ready to move forward.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, and I wanna thank the mayor for being here tonight. I think your presence has gone a long way in just helping us get those final questions answered and really hammer through some stuff, and I appreciate that. And I also appreciate the responses from the administration, really over the past day or so, helping to respond to some council calls, particularly for me, around the diversity director, bumping up that salary and the money for trees as well. you know, I think the administration for that. And I think just highlighting the fact that, you know, it's not about the council, it's about, you know, just our request to support city services and the essential staff that make it possible. So I thank you for that. And also the essential staff, but I also wanna echo Councilor Scarpelli and thank Alicia for being with us for countless, countless hours and really answering all of our questions and answering them so fast and so thoroughly in a way that enables us to do our job, even if it takes us 30 hours of meetings. So I'm in favor of this budget. It's not a perfect document, but nothing is. I think it was, a lot of it was negotiated in good faith. And I believe the administration heard us last year and this year. So I hope it passes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I found them to be in order of approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Aye.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Councilor Sterling?
[Nicole Morell]: President Caraviello?
[Nicole Morell]: But it's my understanding that because of the reason we would be using to go into this executive session, it's triggering that. So by using that reason, it already triggers that 40 hour notice.
[Nicole Morell]: I understand why it would be an OML violation to go into executive session as you're explaining it. I'm just frustrated that we're finding this out right now, as opposed to finding this out like Saturday, you know, when we had the time to invite the people. So that's just where my frustration lies right now, where we could have invited the parties to attend and had this meeting. But that's, so that's just where, and I absolutely understand what you're saying. I thank you for explaining it, but I'm just kind of frustrated that we're finding it out now, as opposed to earlier when we could have planned. I understand, I do.
[Nicole Morell]: I just have, it's a question similar Councilor Marks, maybe it's a little more. If parties are unable or unwilling to attend on a Friday, but they were noticed and invited, are we still able to, discuss them or no?
[Nicole Morell]: So there's like a potential that could last for 10 years. We could invite all, yeah, we could invite all these people and we can't get them to come. So we can't discuss it anyways.
[Nicole Morell]: I know it's getting, I mean, we're just still just talking in numbers. I know it's getting, you know, we're wavering to the hypothetical, but because we're talking a number of parties, I just want to understand, you know, if similar to what Councilor Mark was saying, if some of them cannot attend, but some can, are we able to discuss those who are in attendance or can we not discuss anything? I wouldn't recommend it. Okay. So there's a likelihood that we put out this notice we invite these people we still can't have the meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Is the representation about open meeting law or something else, though?
[Nicole Morell]: Notice within 48 hours. I get that, but is there another legal statute regarding representation that we're wading into? Or this is purely open meeting law we're talking about?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Present. Councilor Scarpelli. Present. Councilor Caraviello.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I also want to thank Councilor Marks for bringing this forward and for also taking the time to read all those career highlights and accolades, which are much deserved. I haven't had the fortune of knowing Deputy Chief Cronin as long as others, but in my short time of knowing him, I found everything Councilor Marks said to be true. Just be an incredibly kind, gracious, service-oriented person. And Medford has been lucky to have him for 40 years, and I thank him for his service for 40 years, and I wish him all the best in retirement.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you President Caravelle for bringing this forward. As Councilor Falco mentioned there's a number of issues going on here I have. Great concern with the public safety issues in public health between the trash and the swimming and the open fires. I've been reaching out to DCR probably as long as I've lived here about the trash in that area. It seems they have a carry and carry out policy, which essentially in practice is just carry and leave wherever you can find it in bags wherever else. So that's a major issue and I would love to have our state delegation help and see what we can do there because you can see it with your own eyes. This isn't something that can be ignored. If anyone from DCR ever drives by, they can see all the challenges that are faced. public health, public safety, and otherwise. I do have concerns just about the private ways as far as enforcement. It's my understanding by state statute that because these aren't accepted as public ways, we can't use city money for the police to enforce parking on that. I support Councilor Scarpelli as far as moving to a committee of the whole and just exploring this. I would be interested in because the ideal way to do this is these streets become accepted as public ways, If we could get just insight from this, the city engineer the traffic engineer, or the process of accepting these private ways as public ways so we can enforce them as such. And if there's a priority list, or you know any process that exists already for moving a number of these private ways that have a number of issues. And accepting them as public ways. And I do just want to read also from the Commission on parking and policy and enforcement, they did address this issue and one of the recommendations was. to consider a program where residents of private ways can enforce parking by towing, which is allowable by the state statute. This program would allow residents of private ways to file a permit notifying the city of the preferred tow company for that private way to tow away vehicles parked illegally on that private way. I guess this is a program that's done in Somerville. Medford isn't alone in having private ways, but we are specific to having very desirable private ways for parking for a number of resources within the city. So I would love to have that committee of the whole to really talk this through and address this. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to note that by I believe our current ordinance and our number of legal cases at the state level enforcement related to public safety is allowable and encouraged. And there's a number of reasons related to public safety that the street, the police can enforce on private ways. So I think to Councilor Behr's point, there may be something easy we can do. The city solicitor can help us out with because this is a public safety issue.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Councilor Bears mostly covered it. So this was actually, there was an article about this recently about, you know, those most likely to benefit from this are probably largely unaware of the program and some 53% of people may not know about this tax credit. So a resident brought this to our attention. So just getting this out there and also it may be beneficial just as a side comment. The board of health I know is working really hard as far as snap gap and identifying people who are not enrolling in benefits that they are eligible for. So this seems like something similar to that. Perhaps the schools could reach out to the board of health to see how they're identifying and reaching out to people to ensure that they are enrolling in programs that they are eligible for. So move approval. Second. On the motion, and Council Member Beall is in the room, I'll second it by Councilor Belco.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Is the traffic engineer on the call? Do we know?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm curious if we could also request from the city solicitor just if this does, in fact, open us up to liability, if it's up to code, you know, does that open us up to liability? I mean, I know people can sue for whatever, but are we, in fact, opened up to liability if this meets the code?
[Nicole Morell]: An amendment, if you'll oblige. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, the Greenline extension project is very excitingly. nearing completion in the next several months. And we haven't had an update in a while from our community representatives. So if we could just get a brief update from Laurel and Jim, that would be beneficial for residents. I believe they both are, either of them should be on the call right now. Let's go with Jim first.
[Nicole Morell]: If we could move on to Laurel, I mean, Laurel.
[Nicole Morell]: I want to thank Vice President Knight and Councilor Falco for bringing this forward, as well as my fellow Councilors for their amendments and particularly Councilor Scarpelli for really raising the issue of volatility in the weather. You know, one thing with climate change, we know we're going to have these more volatile patterns and also we're going to have an increase in above 90 degree days. than we historically have had. So I think as mentioned also by Councilor Bears, these arbitrary timelines or dates are really putting people in danger and not serving the people that I think perhaps they were originally designed to protect. So I support the council action on this and really appreciate the efforts to make sure we're protecting our residents.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Councilor Fabio asked my question, so I'm all set.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, Taley, I just wanna echo my colleagues and say that this is a tremendous accomplishment that you should absolutely be proud of that you've really earned. And I'm so heartened to see your whole team here to support you and of course your family. And it's really incredibly admirable to pursue what you're passionate about regardless of the barriers. And I think that's something everyone, a lesson we could all learn. So I hope you will keep chipping at that glass ceiling for all of us and congratulations on this accomplishment.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yes, the theme of the night sponsored by Councilor Mark seems to be remarkable women. So I am all for it, past and present. And I think we need to honor the contributions of many, many more women. So I'm fully in favor of this day and I thank you for coming out.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, Director Durham, like everyone, every Councilors mentioned your speech on Memorial Day really struck me and stuck with me. And I think you have, you know, I've heard you speak a few times before, and you have such a way of delivering, you know, the commitment, the challenges, the reality of your experience and the experience of many other veterans that I think is really impactful to people and you highlighted unprecedented challenges that are being faced by today's veterans. And I think it's so important as you said that as you're saying now just, you know, the mental health issues and really addressing those the unprecedented on employment crisis, you know, worse than our Vietnam veterans when they were returning so. Highlighting that and the work that we can do today to support today's veterans I think is so essential and I thank you for bringing that up. Both of my grandfathers are Navy were Navy veterans they both passed away and knowing that there's someone like you, helping out people like them in the current generation, I think really means a lot. You know, even just looking at the, the budget narrative and the budget book, the incredible amount of work you do in such a small department, not just for Medford, but beyond beyond is something that is so needed. We're so thankful for and something we should be really proud of. I thank you for raising, you know, talking about Post 45. I live near the cemetery and there is no corner of that cemetery where you don't see those little flags. And I think it really demonstrates just the people of Bedford have fought and, you know, fought for our freedoms in every single war we've been involved in. And the work that Post 45 and the volunteers do to honor that and mark that is so important. And lastly, you know, I thank you for taking the time to really talk about D-Day on the anniversary. It's, you know, what, again, what everyone else said, what more can you say about the greatest generation, but I think it's just tremendous sacrifice. And I think as we talk about the realities of coming home from war today, it maybe gives us a different framing on what people were facing them that maybe didn't get talked about or often didn't get talked about. So I just I thank you for your time. And I thank you for really speaking so eloquently on all those topics.
[Nicole Morell]: Of course.
[Nicole Morell]: I also think just point of, I guess, parliamentary procedure, since this came under suspension, we can't vote on it tonight. It would have to be submitted another meeting to vote on it since it just came under suspension. It wasn't under the agenda.
[Nicole Morell]: I did have one question. Also, I have a sunshade. I will happily donate if it is needed. I'm just curious, have you guys, I know you said you guys have a lot of interest already, a lot of people engaged. Have you seen an increase in people reaching out since everyone was trapped inside watching the Queen's Gambit and like buying the chess then?
[Nicole Morell]: And thank you so much for coming out to just kind of explain some of the challenges, but also some of the exciting stuff coming up. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Because this was under suspension.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I think Councilor bears are introducing this and I fully support this resolution. I talked with representative Garber Lee today and I believe because this is this permanent zoom participation or remote participation is something that Governor Baker is interested in. Representative Garber Lee said it's something that they're actually going to be taking up this week so legislation may be coming out so I think it makes perfect sense to try to get ahead of this and really outfit our spaces to enable people to engage in this way that I think it says in our budget book that community participation in public meetings went up 300 to 400 percent during the pandemic and with the ability to dial in via zoom and you know to the to the groups of people that Councilor bears mentioned but also just people that you know are in caregiving positions don't have childcare, can't come out to city hall, just making sure we're doing everything we can to keep this remote participation option. So I just want to say, please support that. And I think we're just trying to be ahead of the curve at this point, because I think it is something that is, it's coming.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. If I could do the chair, you mentioned three, I'm sorry, 13 service days, that's 13 additional or 13 total?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so 13 total.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Is there any additional impervious surface or the starting area that is fully paved and you aren't paving any more areas for cars?
[Nicole Morell]: Are there any landscape improvements?
[Nicole Morell]: Are there any landscape improvements to speak of?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So these are all new tanks. Some of these were previously here.
[Nicole Morell]: And how often are they serviced, the ones that need to be serviced?
[Nicole Morell]: And when are they, like what hours? Is it during business hours? Is it early in the morning that this typically happens?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, Mary Ann, for being here and for your continued and ongoing leadership and just taking the time to share the hiring experience that you went through and really we all went through, but as is human nature, we're just quick to forget. So again, I want to thank you and your team for really leading us through kind of really the darkest 15 months that I think most of us have been through. And I think sometimes it doesn't get said enough, just the agility of your team to go from, in the early days, it's looking for PPE, and then it's contact tracers, and then it's testing, and then it's how to get vaccines. So it's really tremendous work. So I just have two questions to follow up about the, Juneteenth event at the West Denver Community Center. I know they previously had a vaccine event. Is this a second dose event on the 19th or people can go for their first dose that day as well?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you. And what is our, remind me, what's our city, what's our vaccination rate in the city right now?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thanks so much, Marianne. Thanks for taking the time to be here tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm less full of our Seagull Scouts than some of my colleagues, but I did have some friends who reached the level growing up. And I know it's something that you don't reach without dedication and stick-to-itiveness, which are really great qualities. So you definitely have those. And I just want to share it with my fellow Councilors and say congratulations on such a tremendous achievement.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to echo councilor bears. I want to thank you Pascal for taking the time to attend the whole meeting and wait to the end and speak on something you're passionate about. And yeah, it takes a lot of bravery to speak in front of a crowd. So thank you. And I commend you for doing it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So is there anticipated traffic impact or pedestrian impact while this project is going on?
[Nicole Morell]: Is there anticipated either traffic or pedestrian impact while this project is going on? Will people have to be diverted at all while this work is happening?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. I'm not sure. I'm not sure. But, uh, timing wise, since the other grant of location we have, um, is kind of diagonally across the street is are these being tied together? You know, as far as the intention of when to do the work, I know there's still, um. Some requirements from our city engineer, but I'm curious the desired timing as far as the work of the two projects.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I also want to thank Councilor Mark for his board and his due diligence. I like Councilor Scarpelli. I obviously wasn't on the council at the time, but it was my understanding as a resident that the sidewalk would be continued the whole way. So I really appreciate Councilor Mark's pointing that out. I think the issue here is too that because of these promises from Eversource and also I believe there's the project on Winthrop Street, the giant pool, has also, you know, there's been some promise that they will do the sidewalk. Because of this, we're lacking sidewalk in perpetuity. We keep on being told, we're not going to handle it as a city because XYZ is going to handle it. And we're going on several years now of a very obvious dangerous situation that we have no date in sight when this is actually going to be done. And I wish I wish what Council Marks was saying was true. I think it is true sometimes that people do slow down the area. A lot of times they don't. They're also trying to avoid the plates. So you have areas where maybe there's sidewalk but there's not appropriate curbing and your cars that are kind of driving you know zigzagging around the plates and it's just incredibly dangerous. So I really think Councilor Marks for bringing this up and really staying on this because this is a major issue in our community and something that, you know, we've been promised a safety update that the finish line just keeps on moving and it's unclear when it's ever going to be made safe for residents. So I fully support the resolution. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just have one question for the city engineer, if I could, through the chair. Does the city, so I mean, the hope is that Eversource is going to meet the council's and residents' demands about the sidewalk extension, completing it to place that. But I'm curious, does the city have a contingency plan or a plan for the sidewalk portion? Is it met? We're talking about one of the busiest thoroughfares in the city that a lot of people are walking down or trying to move down as well. And I'm curious if there's a city plan to make up that missing sidewalk if these companies don't.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, yes, it does. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Beres for introducing this with me. He hit on really all the key points, but I want to add that the timing of this is, you know, in addition to being time for, you know, the hopeful implementation or looking at parking policy and enforcement changes for the report is just the anticipation of pandemic restrictions ending. And this is a cohort of residents that have, you know, really been harmed by the inability to kind of gather and have that community that the senior center provides. So it would just be, you know, It's really needed timing to have this hammered out and figured out by the time our seniors are returning and able to meet in person once more. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell?
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, this is just seeking an update from the administration on the three ongoing projects, which to my understanding are still making their way through council. As you know, this is a recurring item. This has been placed by yourself on the agenda before. Just seeking information and update from the administration, particularly because These three developments are listed in the housing production plan that was delivered to us as affordable housing in the pipeline. So I'm just seeking to understand if this is affordable housing that is actually coming through or this is actively being fought by the administration and what the update is there. So just seeking a written update from the administration. I don't know if there's anyone on the call tonight either.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: I don't, I know this came before us. I don't think we actually, if I'm wrong, I don't think we had a meeting on this one specifically. I know this came before us, the multiple awnings, but I do not believe that this made it through our committee for this LED message center.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, I'm happy to vote on it tonight, unless Councilor Marks is also on the subject.
[Nicole Morell]: I would move to vote on this tonight. I agree with my fellow councilors that there's no shortage of signs at this location. It's pretty clear in our sign ordinance that movement is prohibited, which the business should be familiar with our sign ordinance at this point, considering the previous petitions for reversal. So I would move to vote on this tonight and I would move for a denial.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, it was a highlight of the report, which had several charges from the mayor. We discussed a lot of policy, policy suggestions, some of which really conversation hinged on just simple enforcement of laws or statutes that are already on the books. And we also explored what it might look like for it to take things in house, as well as kind of another, several common issues which are mentioned in the report and we're waiting to see what the administration does in it and seeing also what, how we can act on this as soon as possible and not leave it as just a report.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just not sure what we're going after at this point. We're just engaging in open debate at this point. I'm not really sure what's happening.
[Nicole Morell]: I found them to be in order and with approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Marks for bringing this up. I think we all often hear about residents, you know, about potholes, but many of them do want to know what is the long-term plan. They understand that, you know, a one-time fix lasts only so long. So I thank Councilor Marks for bringing this up and the other Councilors for their comments. And I also thank him for adding the part about the, you know, the American Rescue Plan money. We now have a dollar amount And this is something I've asked for multiple motions, trying to get an understanding of how the administration intends to use this money. I understand that we're still trying to find out or learning of how it can be used, but budget time is coming. And this is a huge amount of money that will really impact decisions from this council. And I, you know, this is something we really need to have. So thank you for bringing that up.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to note that my vote is going to reflect the work that's being done right now. And as the mayor has structured it, I too want to see, you know, the full time, I want to see the diversity department built out essentially, and all I can do is act on the information that the administration has given us that they are going to build out this department in the coming budget. It's not something they can do tomorrow. And again, my vote is just reflecting the work that is going on right now that is being taken on by the one person and the hard work that they're doing and reflecting the current structure and ensuring that it's paymently. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you for being here, Marianne. So just to confirm for the, the vaccination site at Tufts is the, the way to register for that is still through that state website.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And are all of those sites are appointment only, none are walk-in, those are all appointments only?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you, Marianne. Thank you for being here. There was a story recently in Kaiser Health News about what local directors of public health have really been dealing with for the past 14 months above and beyond just the actual work, kind of the stress of the job. So I really appreciate just what you've done and what your team has done. So thank you again.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm going to defer to Councilor Bears to go first on this one.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I think echoing Councilor Bears, I think it's important that we recognize our residents for their vast contribution to the arts. And Max Heinegg is just one person doing this among many in our community. And I just want to read a few sentences from the award commendation. So it says, Max Heinegg's Good Harbor is one of those rare collections of poems in which a confidence emerges almost immediately that we are in the hands of a poet who creates the sensation that life is writing itself. It goes on from there, but I think if people can look that up, it's a great note on one of the artists in our community. So I just want to extend my congratulations. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I think Councilor Bears is first, and I'll just go for the sake of being quick. I thank Vice President Knight for raising this. I think this is a great opportunity for the youth of Medford and really for the city of Medford itself. And I agree with what's been said that the students in CCSR do such great work and are so engaged and have come before the council many times with many great ideas that they've really pushed for and presented in such a great way. So I'd expect nothing less than them and the rest of our youth in the city who might want to take part in this. And I would hope that this commission can really reflect the diversity of the city, which is something that I know is also hope for the Gender Equity Commission that has been in the works for some two years now. So I would love to see both of those come to fruition. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, can you hear me?
[Nicole Morell]: Something strange is going on, audio wise.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, Laurel and Jim are on the call right now, so I'll pass it to them in one moment. But they are the co-chairs of this commission. Many of the members are on the call right now as well, who put in an incredible amount of work that they also catalog. I know it's been more than this, but at least 62 hours of meetings, you know, a number of representatives from different community members, representatives of business owners. And the report was delivered to the mayor about a month ago. And then I shared it with the council a week ago. It was made public later in the week. a lot of recommendations for how to move forward and parking policy and enforcement in the city based off of a number of specific charges from the mayor. So I'll hand it off to Laurel and Jim to provide a kind of overview and update on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I fully support Councilor Scarpelli's motion. In discussions with Jim and Laurel, we had that same conversation about, you know, the idea that this would probably be great for Committee of the Whole. So really just introducing this tonight, and I fully agree that there's a lot of conversation and questions that can be asked about this. So just getting the ball rolling, and I agree with Councilor Scarpelli that we should have a Committee of the Whole on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm just going off, and this might be Councilor Bears' question as well, just going off the letter that Vice President Knight just read. So users of the Park Medford were or were not impacted, because I know now we're talking about Park Mobile, Republic Parking in Park Medford, and I'm having a hard time following whether or not people who park in Medford were actually impacted by this data breach.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you, sir. I misheard with all the different park this, park that, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Mr. President. I just wanted to add, I believe that the program Councilor bears is referring to as the water smart program, which people can enroll in. on the city website. Again, that's something you would have to set up alerts, it needs to have internet access. So I fully support the conversation. I just wanted to reference the name of that program.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I echo my council colleagues and just thanking Barbara Kerr, the library and the library foundation. The library on Boston Ave has been a lifeline for my family. So I thank you guys for what you've been able to do in that space in this time. It's been truly incredible. I just have one question, President Caraviello, for, I mean, you gave us the pledged amounts and the fundraise amounts. I'm just curious what the remaining amount is that isn't accounted for. I know we're still, I know donations are still coming in, but if that number is available.
[Nicole Morell]: Just the remaining amount that's not covered by donations and pledges, if we have that.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President. Sorry, the council chambers are muted. We can't hear, we missed part of the intro and now we can't hear anything.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, we can hear now. We can hear now. We did, the people dialed in on Zoom did miss a large part of the intro.
[Nicole Morell]: if this this is the council's uh portion of the time to ask questions and the public will get a chance after after the council's essay questions okay she was one of the people speaking against yeah uh councilor thank you mr president um yeah i just have a few questions um if the gentleman could share a little bit more about the landscaping improvements i know we have you know you can look at different parts of the city where they have quote-unquote landscaping, which is just a couple of dead bushes and an island. So if we could talk more specifically to what that actually might be.
[Nicole Morell]: How many street trees do you know?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and inclusive, so I would understand the ones on the property would obviously be managed or by BJ's landscaping. For the street trees, would those also be managed by BJ's?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And then I believe I read in the documents, the bike lanes, are they protected bike lanes or they are just painted bike lanes?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. And you mentioned this just may have been a turn of phrase, but you said you're going to try and implement the bike lanes. Is that, you know, that's definitely a provision that you were working on, or this is something that's still being explored.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and just one final question. I wanna make sure my other Councilors have plenty of time I know you mentioned what your customers are looking for as far as getting their gas through BJ's, but has there been any consideration to the fact that there are no less than four gas stations within a half a mile of this location already?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just have two follow-up questions, and I appreciate you asking that question about the electric charging. I had that one as well. If this were approved, how long would construction take?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And then also specifically, we've talked. I think the other Councilors are bringing up specifically that the fencing issues on Woodruff. So in addition to the landscaping that's planned, would that fence be completely replaced? And what would it be replaced with? If so, because again, that the trash blowing into the neighborhood is a consistent issue.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. Yeah, and to echo my fellow councillors, I really appreciate your presentation and the time you put into it, but at the end of the day, I represent the citizens of Medford, the residents of Medford. I don't represent BJ, so I have to vote. according to what I've been hearing on that. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, if I could ask Rob through the chair, thank you for the presentation. I've had some residents reach out when I live, like many Medford residents, I live very close to this project. So I see up close and personal most days. There's a lot of loose gravel and small particles from the patchwork. And I think the cutting, you know, it's on the sidewalk, it's in the edges of the road, which makes it really challenging for bike riders. And I'm curious if there's any intention to do some cleanup work. I mean, it's near where the curbing is left near Victory Park. It's pretty messy up and down Winthrop Street, which I would think is at least in large part to the road being cut up and patched frequently over the past many years at this point, but at least in the recent time. So I'm curious if there's any intention to clean that up now or as the project goes on through the spring and summer.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm sorry, no, I did, Miriam Broxson has her hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Miriam Broxson, I believe Sharon Diaz has her hand up as well, I think.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Vice President Knight actually introduced a very similar language requesting the same thing back in January. And the reason I'm introducing it again in April is at the request of our Greenland Extension Community Working Group members, Jim Silva, Laurel Ruma, Jennifer Dorsen in Somerville who worked tirelessly on this and because we have not received a response from our original request and neither have any of the other parties who have made the same requests including our own mayor, the mayor of Somerville and Christine Barber. So we as we are about seven and a half months away from the opening of this station, Um and just the fact that with the exception of the entrance walkway off the Broadway a bit bridge and the first eight ft from the Boston Avenue entrance, the station sits entirely in the city of Medford. Um and in South Medford, I'm just asking that this request be sent once more to the general manager to see if we can at least get a response. If not the answer that we were seeking.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Marks for bringing up the points of mitigation and just the interim policy itself. I also am dismayed that, you know, Verizon's continued language of really having no interest in doing anything for the City of Medford other than getting their place on these polls as fast as possible, that we're going to be able to do that. So, um, little regard for any process on our side. Um I also am in full support of, you know, strengthening the interim policy putting in the form of ordinance accounts remarks also raises a great point in that, um, we're working on these shot clocks where you know Verizon is trying to get in what they want before we can establish something and just simply the length of time it takes by process to get that know, seek that the administration does what they can with the interim policy because they're able to be agile in a way we cannot. Listening to last week's meeting, it seems like there was a lot of concern about the setback and the interim policy is not specific in the setback. It references being able to have a setback, a specific setback distance, but it's not actually prescriptive for that. So I think that's something that could definitely be addressed, and I think would assuage a lot of people's concerns, which I'd like to see in the update to the interim policy, or short of that, if when we consider an ordinance. So I just wanna go on record with all that. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Um, you know, because I didn't grow up here. There's a lot of people that get mentioned that I didn't have the pleasure of knowing, but I was lucky enough to know Mr. Bruno. And after I met him, seemingly run into him everywhere in the city. Um, and anytime I saw him, he greeted me as if, you know, we went back decades. So this is an incredible loss for the community. And I send my condolences to the Bruno family.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank my fellow councilors for their many salient points on this. I definitely agree with Councilor Marks and Scarpelli that this was a real miscommunications opportunity from the city. I think that's where we can kind of get runaway narratives in both direction when we are caught on our heels like this. And through my research and looking at other communities addressing this, because of course, we're not alone. The town of Belmont actually completed a full report, you know, assessing the technology and how to communicate it to residents and how to engage with residents around, you know, what a community could benefit from something like this. Is there a benefit that is being offered? And I think that's a major the city of Medford. I think it's a. Bone of contention and that it's essentially Verizon coming in for all of their benefit. No talk about how this could benefit the city of Medford or what impacts, um. Could be for the city of Medford. Um I also, um, being on the meeting. I definitely took issue with the, um. The representative from Verizon. I uh, the scientist that was different times. I don't think that did anyone any favors by having that gentleman really talk down to residents. A lot of people have very valid questions. And again, as other councils have pointed out, we don't have the people we should have independent experts to help answer that. We are in no shortage of people studying this at our many great universities surrounding us. So I think it would be, again, as others have pointed out, very beneficial. to have those people to speak to it. I very much support more research on this. Unfortunately, that's not what's before us right now. I would like to add, I guess it would be a C paper at this point, in that it's my understanding that if we were to either adopt an ordinance or if the policy were to be updated, I don't know if that could be applied to the 44 Um, that applications are already in. It's my understanding from the FCC, the way the legislation is written, that these aesthetic requirements or any conditions have to be set prior to receiving applications. So I would just seek clarity on that. You know, if we were to adopt, um, additional conditions, if the city were to adopt additional conditions, could they actually be, uh, could they stand? Could they be legally applied, um, to existing applications?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I think Councilor bears for bringing this forward. This year marked the first time the state had a presidential proclamation, and it remains really more important than ever to celebrate and recognize transgender and non-binary people, and also acknowledge the violence and discrimination that many transgender and non-binary people, especially trans women of color and black trans women still face. So as Councilor Bears alluded to, I want to note that so far, and this is as of last week, according to the HRC, there are 192 anti LGBTQ bills under consideration state legislatures across the country at this time. And of those 93 directly target transgender people. So this resolution is very important. And I very much support it.
[Nicole Morell]: You may see her, right? Sharon's had her hand up for quite some time.
[Nicole Morell]: I found them to be in order and move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. I just see that Marianne Broxton does have her hand up, actually, but I guess Marianne just left us, so maybe might not be able to answer.
[Nicole Morell]: It was Fantasia's autobody before, I believe, who was speaking, so I don't think we're having any luck with Mr. Mallett just yet.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, as someone who used to live across the street from these buildings for a number of years, I would be remiss if I didn't ask if it was the same hours of operation.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, I want to thank you and Councilor Falco for bringing this forward because I think this is so important. I think that every route that someone relies on in the city is essential to them. And I think it's really important that the City Council continues to be loud and communicate this to the powers that be because the MBTA has suggested and walked back a number of cuts. And I think it's really important that we raise the issue that this needs to be brought back immediately and get them to make that change. And Councilor Falco brings up a really good point that when these routes go away, they tend not to come back. the councilors for bringing this forward because I think it's really important that the council and the city sends this message. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. This resolution is pretty self explanatory. But as we all know, not too long ago, we were talking about the deficit we're looking at for this year's budget. And now within the past few weeks, we've heard tell of, you know, perhaps $39 million in direct local aid coming to the city. And the most recent estimates published in the globe last week were $50 million for the city. I do understand that, you know, even just by those changing numbers, this is obviously something that's kind of hard to keep track of. Everyone's learning as we go along, but as we're looking to do, you know, really the most important role of the council in a few short months, I think it would be very helpful to have an idea, any information, any official information we can get from the administration about how this money, you know, what they've heard about how this money has to be used, the timeframe, how they're hoping to use it, what ideal scenarios would be. Um, so I mean, I did have the chief of staff reach out to me earlier, just saying that director and only Benjamin couldn't be here tonight. So I'm just hoping we can get an update on this soon, because this is, this is an incredible amount of money. And I do understand it can't likely cannot be used for everything. And there's going to be strings attached, but it's still a large amount of money that we haven't gotten any update on what it might look like for the city and what the administration is thinking. Uh, so I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, Mr. President. Yeah, that's correct. That's my understanding was more about looking at, you know, zones. And I mean, there was a number of things I addressed, but yes, it wasn't, it didn't really, it didn't touch on our public parking. So that was kept separate from the commission.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I do just want to note that there are, I can find the best way to get it to the council, but there are a number of public folders and documents about the work that the commission has been doing and what the charge from the mayor is specifically, I think is actually on the city website. just to add some clarity to that, that that information is readily accessible for those questions around it. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you hear me now?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. You can hear me? That's strange.
[Nicole Morell]: Can you hear me now? We can hear her on Zoom. That's strange that for whatever reason, it's only in one place.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you again, Marianne for being here again. week after week. I just have two questions Councilor Fargo actually asked a bunch of mine but going back to the groups which might have had vaccine hesitancy. Has there been collaboration with community groups I know other cities are doing that working with trusted community groups to be a conduit to get people to get vaccines.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great, thank you. That's what I thought. And then just other follow-up question is, the vaccine numbers. How frequently do we think that'll be updated on the website?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, thanks to the chief for being here tonight and the detectives as well. I do have a question based on, I didn't get the report you're referencing. I don't know if just hard copies were delivered so far. So apologies if this is in it. But I did have residents reaching out very much to your point of concerns of domestic violence increasing in light of the pandemic, people being stuck in living situations, being stuck at home. So I'm curious if there is data related to that calls as far as domestic violence and how that's been addressed, if that can be shared or to the extent that it can be shared.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you for that information. I really appreciate it. And just for, you know, the department's attention to this specifically and work on this. And thanks for highlighting the text 911, because obviously, you know, if people are trapped at home, you know, or stuck at home, it's difficult to actually make those phone calls in a way that feel safe. So I'm curious how, how do people learn about the existence of that program? How is that pushed out? Just letting people I know it's kind of like a challenging thing to let people know about the texting program for text 911. Oops.
[Nicole Morell]: Great, thank you so much. That's all I have. Thank you both.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, this is really something that when you ask people what they love about Medford, no matter how long they've been here, I know the Medford Family Network comes up often, and it's something people are really proud of to have in this community. So I'm so thankful that Marie has dedicated so much of her 70 years to the city's families and all she's done for the community. So I join with everyone else in wishing her a happy birthday and really thanking her for what she's done for this community.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President? Thank you, Mr. President, and I thank Councilor Scarpelli for bringing this up. I do know that the Commission for Parking Policy and Enforcement, the zoned, idea of zoned parking permits is one of the things they explored and I believe will be in their report or is in their report to the mayor. So just sharing that that's something that has been looked in and hopefully the administration will receive that and think of some solutions. So I just wanted to add that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, uh, vice president night, Mr. President. Um so I think Councilor bears for bringing this forward. I also want to thank the mayor for putting out her statement last week. You know, uh, as, um, political leaders in the community as people at City Hall, our It's so important to speak out and condemn these acts and also just stand with our Asian American Pacific Islander neighbors as these incidences increase and the reported ones increase. So there's so much that doesn't go get reported. So I think it's really important that we take a stand, that we take a stand at these meetings and that we really let people in the community know where we stand. So I thank Councilor Bears for bringing this forward and I second the motion.
[Nicole Morell]: I do see Mr. Castagnetti is waving his hand.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I would love to hear from the people in attendance, but I do just want to know, I thank vice president Knight for bringing this forward. My cousin Ashley, a few years back was actually riding on the back of her fiance's motorcycle and was clipped by a motorist on 93. She almost died and after a lengthy recovery, she has a traumatic brain injury that she will live with for the rest of her life, simply because a negligent motorist nearly took her life. So this is an important proclamation and I really thank Vice President Knight for bringing this forward. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you, Marianne, for being here. If I could ask just two questions through the chair. So for those, the coalition, what will be at the Ginger Center at Tufts, is that confirmed? Because I know there's been times when I work for an employer that didn't get all set up to be able to give out vaccines as an employer, and then the state kind of took that back. So is that coalition, is that something that's like, even though we don't know the dates, is that something definitely going to happen? Or is there a possibility the state could change their minds still?
[Nicole Morell]: So yeah. And then following up on that with the registration or the sign up for that, is that something that we would have to build or that would be all through the state, they would handle that?
[Nicole Morell]: But okay, so yeah, just the follow up would be, so if someone's, you know, they're, they're already pre registered, or they go and pre register, this may just be an option that comes up for them when it's available. Exactly. Great. Okay, thank you. That's all I have.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. My point was addressed earlier, so I'm all set, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, I think we lost chamber audio.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, Mary Ann, for taking the time to be here and for your ongoing and seemingly never ending work. I just have one question. So I just want to confirm to you that it's my understanding that When you're eligible, and as people become eligible as the steps of the phases tick on and are announced, as people become eligible, right now the best information is that when you're eligible, the best place to get your vaccine is wherever you can get an appointment. Is that correct? Great, and then, oops, muted.
[Nicole Morell]: And then thinking to the housing authority, everyone in those buildings, those people are already being contacted. That kind of rule I just said doesn't apply.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I thank the mayor for introducing this. It's very much needed. And I read something this past weekend that was startling, but I guess not too surprising at this point, in that one in three people has lost someone to COVID, someone in their lives to COVID, and more than half of those people who have died in the U.S. have passed since November. And I say this to just note the incredible impact and the long haul of this, something that's been felt acutely by those working diligently in community health, supporting Medford residents through loss of their loved ones, loss of jobs, loss of incomes, loss of normalcy and stability. And this past year has been an incredible weight to bear for all of us, but really no one has shouldered the burden quite like our community centers or volunteers or public health workers that are on the call tonight. And these staff and these volunteers have given endlessly of themselves at a time when we're all facing collective trauma, grief, and loss, and sometimes makes us act in ways that doesn't make their jobs any easier. So again, I thank the mayor for introducing this proclamation to commend and honor the work of such an important group of people, really led fearlessly by Marian O'Connor, who has had no shortage of difficult and light speed decisions to make under a microscope. And I don't think I can commend her enough for that work. And I think the whole community is so appreciative of that work. So I wholly support this, and I'm really honored to have these individuals in our community and working for our community.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, it's hard to hard to go last when someone such a hard working and highly committed person this community, but I like everyone else on the council. Seemingly everyone else in the community have had the pleasure of working with Brian through some through some things at the West Medford Community Center. He's a stalwart there. He does an incredible amount of work there. And thank you, Councilor Bears and thank you for Brian for speaking on it, the girls basketball program, because that's something that I think when your name comes up, people just talk about, you know, recently, just how wildly popular and successful that program was and really loved and you know, as as things get back to normal, hopefully coming back. So I think that's just a really great example of the kind of work you do. And as far as that listening, so I, I support this appointment and I think you would be a great addition to the Hormel Commission.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I would just be remiss if it's since the time to thank Len for his hard work on the commission has come up. I'd be remiss if I didn't add my voice. I've become a close friend of Mr. Lyon and I know he's took his role very seriously and worked very hard on it. And I thank him for his years of service on it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Scarpelli for bringing this forward. I think this is a great idea to look into. To his point, this makes a lot of financial sense. It also makes a lot of sense as far as making efficient use of space and really kind of leveraging that sort of dead space that a lot of parking lots have, especially when they're not in use. And I think it's also a great idea because it's a physical representation to a commitment to sustainability that this city continues to make. And that's something that's very important in this space. So I look forward to supporting this and hope something can come out of it.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So this was brought to the council's attention by someone very near and dear to us all, Mr. Gordon, who helps to make these meetings possible and accessible. So these bills, it's the identical bill. I know they, identical docket number, docket. I know that these haven't been assigned a bill just yet, but I think it's something that needs to come with our support early. Essentially, These are seeking to assess fees for streaming services that rely on digital infrastructure that's at least partially in public rights away. And then a portion of funds collected in this way would go to the Commonwealth General Fund. And most importantly, to municipalities proportionally based on population and to community centers proportionally based on population. So this is really important at this time as more and more people cut the cord from cable and money to public education and government media gain through these agreements is really impacted as a result of those changes. So this is really a measure to encourage our local delegation to support these. And I did get word that Christine Barber did sign on as a co-sponsor after I submitted this item. And it's really just to make sure we have the funding from these systems in place to continue to support our diverse community, robust and diverse community media, and to really respond to the changing behaviors of both providers and subscribers.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I agree. I really, I understand where Councilor Scarpelli is coming from, and I really appreciate the way and the consideration with which you introduced this. So I'm just trying, I am also going to be voting against this this evening, but I just want to explain where I'm coming from. I do still have some concerns about duration. Ideally, hopefully we're all vaccinated by budget season. This is not something we even have to worry about, but we do have some exponentially long budget meetings. I think we had a 10 hour meeting last year and, and duration of exposure really comes into effect with the virus and aerosols. And again, just concern over the variant. So I very much feel like we're almost there. This just feels a little bit premature to me, so I will be voting against it. But again, I very much appreciate the way it was introduced and your concern and respect for other people's positions. Councilor Scarpelli, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I thank Councilor Scarpelli for bringing this forward. I do know the, I was curious to get out a B paper or the representative from Eversource did send the council fairly comprehensive updates while they were doing work as far as what areas the project was focusing on and what would be next. It would be great if the administration could those on the website as soon as they're received and make sure they're up to date. So in addition to, I think it's a great idea to have an in-person meeting outside safe and socially distance. I think in addition to that, just having that information shared as well. And I think that in-person meeting would be great because so often this council, when residents have made requests for safety improvements and everything else on Winthrop Street in this area, their response has unfortunately always had to be When Eversource is done, it's going to be curb to curb. We're going to get that sidewalk. And that doesn't make that part of Winthrop Street or most of Winthrop Street any less dangerous. And work that was done prior to the winter, one of the more dangerous crosswalks on that area, Winthrop Street, has been dug up. And now we're missing the actual paint on that crosswalk. And we wait, and we wait, and we wait until Eversource completes this project so we can have a safe Winthrop Street. So again, simple thing just like to add to the administration. post that information as soon as it comes through from Eversource. And I think an in-person meeting would go a long way for a lot of the challenges related to this project and what needs to be done when it's finally complete.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. And I want to thank Councilor Bears for bringing this forward. I was able to attend one of the recent community meetings that the FAA hosted earlier this month And I was very dismayed to see representatives from the FAA kind of discount a lot of the very legitimate complaints and issues that people in Medford and surrounding communities have, citing that, you know, planes are quieter and ignoring the fact of why Medford is in such a difficult spot with the RNAV change and the constant onslaught and planes going over the same path over and over and over that it doesn't matter if they're a little bit quieter than they were in 1970 when you have, you know, one every minute. That doesn't matter. So I thank Councilor Bears for bringing this forward because clearly this agency really needs to hear from voices in Medford and beyond that this is a real problem and not something that they can ignore or try to explain away anymore. So thanks to Councilor Bears and this has my support.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. As this resolution indicates, this is something that was raised at the Q2 meeting last week, I believe, where we had a brief overview slide that referenced $2.1 million of CARES Act funding that had not been yet specifically assigned or allocated by city departments. And I'm just requesting that we get an update on how this is being spent for the purposes which were referenced, which was COVID-related spending, vaccination and contact tracing, The chief of staff did note that things change so frequently. This is something that's hard to, I guess, give a long-term or really looking forward report on. So I'm just asking that we get an up-to-date report on this as soon as possible, as we know where this money is proposed to be going. And I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I also wanna thank Councilor Scarpelli for introducing this and for his prescience. seeing the news coming out at the state level today being more important than ever, this being more important than ever. I know, just echoing what's already been said, is I know students want to get back, I know teachers want to get back, and they want to do so safely. I do just also want to note that, as I understand this, school committee passed a resolution to this effect earlier this month. So if this passes the council, I think it's a great effort in showing a united front and united voices pushing for this. This has my support, and again, thanks to Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just wanted to confirm if I could through the chair, I did some research on pickleball this weekend. And so I thank the councilors for the opportunity to do such. I just want to confirm, so this would just be, changing markings and paint, it doesn't have to change the netting at all through the chair?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morales?
[Nicole Morell]: I found them to be in order, Mr. President, and move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I think this is a worthy thing to look into for all commissions that I think Councilor Knight, Vice President Knight for bringing it up. I am curious if we could add as either a B paper or an amendment just to get an updated list of stipends associated with commissions, as well as length of terms, if we're going to be asking for this information, just to have it all in one place.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, President Marks. If I could ask a question of Chief of Staff Rodriguez to the chair. The language that establishes this special revenue fund in one section notes that the treasurer of the city of Medford shall provide a report to the mayor and city council, which shall include but not be limited to the amount of donations and appropriations received the amount of grants and loans made and to whom and the balance of the special fund. I know this was just recently passed, so I'm curious when we might be able to expect to see something like that.
[Nicole Morell]: sure, in the in the acts that establishes special revenue fund, there is a section that says annually, the treasurer of the city of Medford shall provide a report to the mayor and city council, which shall include but not be limited to the amount of donations and appropriations received the amount of grants and loans made, and to whom and the balance of the special fund. I'm just curious, as I know, this was recently passed. I'm just curious, we could maybe expect to see something like that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, that would be much appreciated. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to echo what a lot of my colleagues have already said to Councilor Behr's point. You know, we did ask in the fall, we passed a resolution to get monthly updates on COVID from our Department of Public Health. We've gotten those sporadically. I absolutely agree with Councilor Marks that this is something that should be happening weekly at this point. to minimize misinformation. You know, a lack of information spurs a lot of misinformation or people just trying to piece together. I know we had some, I had some people reach out today. Some information on our website was not correct. We were able to address that. But having, as the other councilors have iterated, having these real-time updates at the council meetings will help to address a lot of the issues we're facing. I understand that we're talking about right now is a communications problem and that we can absolutely do something about. We do have a communications director now, as has been pointed out. So I think it's something as everyone else has pointed out that we need to come together as a city to make sure the right information, the most up-to-date information is there to keep our residents informed in light of kind of the scramble that's gone on the state level, because maybe they don't have as together as they should, but we can make up for that at least with real-time information. So again, I thank Councilor Marks for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to thank Councilor Falco for bringing this forward. I agree this is very important, and I have seen in surrounding communities that they always ensure that these notices are translated in a number of applicable languages. I know that's to be discussed as this goes to subcommittee or committee of the whole, but I just want to note that. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to read off a few stats in addition to what was worded in the resolution itself. So the amount of carbon monoxide emitted from a typical backpack leaf blower for just one hour is equal to the amount of carbon monoxide coming from the tailpipe of a car operating for over eight hours. that's going to be a lot of dust and particles in the air. The floors push 300 to 700 cubic feet of air per minute at speeds of 150 to 280 miles per hour with the resulting dust containing particles that can include pollen, mold, animal feces, heavy metals, break lining powder and chemicals from herbicides and pesticides. And for the user of a leaf blower, the noise a lover that has been demonstrated to trigger increases in blood pressure and heart rates. So these stats stand on their own, but the main reason I introduced this resolution is that I've heard from countless residents over the constant onslaught of leaf blowers year round with really, the only time these machines aren't being used is when there's snow on the ground. So we have a little bit of respite right now. And these residents aren't reaching out because they're disturbed by a leaf blower for an hour when the neighbor's yard crew comes because they spend hours a day listening to yard crews that sometimes have three leaf blowers going at a time. We know how big our lots are in Medford. They're not that big, but I think they require three people simultaneously using a leaf blower. And this, of course, is all happening while people are working remotely, while students are trying to learn remotely, while people are trying to sleep after working the night shift. And also we spend a lot of our meetings talking about a respiratory disease that has gripped the world. And a lot of these issues contribute to respiratory issues are exasperated by this gas-powered liquor use. I'm not naive to the fact that I understand that sometimes this can be a controversial thing to raise. But what I'm asking for here is to send this to the Environmental Affairs Subcommittee so that it can be studied. you can hear from residents, people that would be affected by this, and look at, you know, regulations that are working in places like Arlington, Cambridge, Newton, and Brookline, and also look at other things that may exist, whether there's grant opportunities for incentivization for transitioning to electric leaf blowers, which are much less, obviously, you don't have the emissions, they're much quieter, and they operate in a slightly lower speed. So I'm asking to move this to subcommittee to really work on this and see what's something that can work for as many people as possible. But I cede to Councilor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information, Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I just, I wasn't clear in this. This is something I'm looking, I think looking at private lots, I understand the need of DPW and larger scale. So I just want to clarify that looking at, you know, private use for this kind of stuff, private lots.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, the intent is to study the issue to come out with, you know, common sense regulations that I think work for everyone. One thing that I fail to be specific about is something that's working in other communities is looking at the number of leaf blowers allowed per lot size. Again, we have, you know, a 6,000 square foot lot and we have three people running gas powered leaf blowers, I think. there's somewhere we could meet in the middle there, but I mean, the idea is to study it, to find and hear from the people, hear from the stakeholders in the community, find a way to meet all of, you know, meet as many goals as we can, as far as people having better quality of life, you know, not harming businesses, seeing what we can do here.
[Nicole Morell]: The resolution doesn't say that?
[Nicole Morell]: I'd like to keep it. I don't want that amendment. I'd like to keep the paper as is.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. To Council Mark's points, I'm happy to have that folded in. I think that is reason, I guess I would agree now with the amendment to make this study and report back out to the council because it seems that we shouldn't limit it. And I'm happy to have all of these things on the table to study.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe we're having a discussion right now and I'm happy to adjust based on the very valid points that councilors have raised.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I believe that's why I introduced the resolution so that we could look at this and discuss this.
[Nicole Morell]: I'll withdraw that denial if I can.
[Nicole Morell]: Can I withdraw my denial to Councilor Knight's amendment and change it so I accept it?
[Nicole Morell]: The amendment's seconded. No, it has to be... All right.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, and also I do know there are people here who want to speak on this as well. Mr. President, just so you know, that's not what the
[Nicole Morell]: I thought we were discussing an amendment. I'm happy to amend the paper. I'm not, I don't understand where Councilor Knight's amendment, I'm being told it's accepted, it's not accepted.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. I just don't know if the amendment from Councilor Knight still stands or not.
[Nicole Morell]: And it says- Yes, I'm happy to amend the paper to say for study to report back out to the council.
[Nicole Morell]: I see Norman Kaplan has his hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: I think I see Mr. Castagnetti waving his hand as fire towel.
[Nicole Morell]: Andrew? He just has to unmute. I think it keeps going on and off.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I thank Councilors Knight and Scarpelli for bringing this forward. I couldn't agree more that Amazon is really driving a race to the bottom as far as wages and benefits, while also really damaging local businesses. And this also says nothing of their incentivization and really practice of penalties that causes drivers in the area to drive erratically, to stop in the middle of the street, to park against traffic, and really disturb safety in the area. So I thank them for bringing this forward, and I look forward to supporting this paper tonight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I think Laurel brings up a good point in just highlighting how egregious some of Amazon's practices are and that they do seem to understand livable wages and benefits, but only for one tier of their employees and the way that they treat the rest of their employees is truly deplorable. And I just ask, you know, I think we're seeking that all of their employees be treated with the same care they treat those who work in the offices within their company. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, as the Council Rep on the Commission on Parking Policy Enforcement, I just wanted to highlight an update from this. I spoke with Jim Silva, who's one of the co-chairs of it. I see Laurel Ruma. has her hand raised, so I'll also make sure I am brief so she can speak, but the commission is looking. They have been in discussion about commercial vehicles and are looking at surrounding communities as far as how they handle this. The commission, as you know, is made up of residents, members of our business community, and all of their meetings and findings are in a public Zoom, it's not Zoom, I'm sorry, Google Drive that can be accessed. They've spent a lot of time meeting with members of the business community residents. They've met with the five with representatives from the five main business districts. They've identified 15 other small business districts throughout the city that they're seeing participation. They've met in about 62 hours of public open meetings on this. So just to highlight some of the work that is being done, but also the main point being that they are aware of and looking to the commercial vehicle specifically and seeing how other communities address it. So I know Laurel can speak to this more, but I just wanted to share that. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm unmuted but we can't hear them.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President?
[Nicole Morell]: I do wonder if the desire is to add this language, this contingency is to add the word if, just indicating if it is within the parks commission authority, because I do know we sent a paper last week asking for a sign off for the school committee for something that actually was not within their duty, it was the duty of principals. So just not getting us kind of stuck in a place if this actually is not under the Parks Commission.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm good, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I see some hands waving.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President?
[Nicole Morell]: Supporting information and Danielle may be able to speak this and maybe why she has her hand raised, but it's my understanding that in order for the work to be done, it is a requirement by the Massachusetts Historical commission that this has to be excavated first before the work on Palms Wall or the Fieldstone Wall can go forward.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you. So we're just looking at, you know, we're operating as if we're still in committee, I guess at this point, we're just reporting, making recommendations out of committee. So we do still have until this appears on our regular agenda to vote. We have that time in between, correct? I'm not saying that we'll get everything we need between them, but I'm just saying for the time being.
[Nicole Morell]: Right. So what I'm saying is we may have time to get that information.
[Nicole Morell]: Absolutely, yeah, which I was just clarifying. It's just some of the language, I think, may have been confusing just again, because we do still have time to vote fully when this comes on the regular agenda. So I was just clarifying that.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morelle. Thank you, Mr. President. Through the Chair, just following up on that same question about the lighting. You said the lights would be dimmed in the evening. What constitutes evening? At what time does that start?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. And so there will never be a time when the campus is completely dark.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. This is one item that wasn't on the list, so I do owe you an email about this. But this is an item that first came before the Council in the spring of 2019. A number of meetings were held on it. There was a call to continue. work towards this ordinance last year, and we didn't get back to it in Committee of the Whole until, I believe, October. This is one of the things I'm actually asked about most by residents asking when this is going to move forward. So I just ask that. I believe it still sits in committee, was not, still sits in committee, was not voted out of Committee of the Whole. So there's still work to be done there. I do just ask that we act in it with all expediency and There was a lot of discussion last week about concerns of the many roles our Director of Diversity is being asked to hold. This, of course, Commission would not take the position of a, would not take place of a full-time position, but it is something that can absolutely aid in that work. So I think it's an urgent matter prior to, but in light of last week's discussions, it continues to be an urgent matter. So I just hope we can meet on this as soon as possible. agree on this, find a place we agree on this, and move forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I have to say what hasn't already been said, but I want to thank councilor Falco for bringing this forward. I think this approach and starting as soon as possible, we'll really address some of the issues that came up in our committee of the whole prior to this. Rather than asking these questions seven months after a budget has been passed, we can ask them many months before and be able to make much more educated decisions when it comes to budget time so that we're not having these conversations after the fact and wondering to make a decision. And I was also going to say what councilor bears brought forth. Just making and I think councilor Scarpelli for noting, you know, making sure we're out of the red, but just, you know, that the language is clear that if department heads do not feel comfortable attending in person, that they know that it's not something that is mandatory. It's encouraged, but it's not mandatory. So I just want to make sure that that is clear. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, if I could. Councilor Morell. I don't want to go down this road once more, but taxpayer dollars also go to community health, which is a decision based on that. And that's where I stand. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thanks to Councilor If I could amend the paper to also invite the reps from the Parking and Policy Enforcement Commission that's been working these past few months, doing a lot of research on parking in Medford, and I think would have some intel and also questions just from their meetings over the many months, if they could be invited as well.
[Nicole Morell]: The chairs from the Parking Policy Enforcement Commission.
[Nicole Morell]: Jim Silva. Yes, Jim Silva.
[Nicole Morell]: It's Jim Silva and Laurel Ruma. It's up to them if they want to attend or not, but just because they have, they've been receiving a lot of questions from residents over the past few months as well. So they may just have, information that is helpful at a meeting like this as far as questions.
[Nicole Morell]: So I'm not quite sure. I'm just responding to how this resolution is worded and to answer any parking related questions. I'm happy to, I can withdraw the amendment. I can just reach out to Jim and Laura myself and give them the heads up.
[Nicole Morell]: My intention was, as Councilor Falco referenced and as of this reference, They worked on a survey to hear from residents. They have questions from residents. I'm just saying they may have a number of questions from residents that they can share as opposed to sourcing more, but I'm not trying to get into the weeds on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Bears for putting this on the agenda. I know often the council tends to shy away from issues that might be deemed something to be dealt with the state or levels beyond, but this is not one of those issues. What happened on January 6th was an assault on our democracy, and we must condemn what happened from every level of government and from every citizen, and we should stand up for what's right and what is just for this democracy. So I thank Councilor Bears for putting this forward and the council's support of this.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could, I just wanted to share that the commission on parking policy and enforcement is holding two public meetings with the intention to learn more about the mission of the commission, their ongoing work, and to provide feedback on current parking policies. There'll be one morning and one evening. The first one is a morning one. It is on Thursday, the 21st at 9 a.m. The Zoom link for it can be found on the city website. It's at medfordma.org slash boards slash parking dash policy. I can put it on Facebook as well, but it should be easy to find on the city website.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Can you hear me now? Great. Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you all for bearing with me. So this is a pretty straightforward resolution as has come to the attention of many of us. There is a marijuana dispensary seeking to locate in the ball square neighborhood in Somerville, which, you know, that is for the city of Somerville to work out. But of course, ball square is densely populated and part of it lies in the city of Medford. And there's also increasing interest in the area in general. due to the expected Green Line Extension Station that's going to be there. So I want to thank Jim Silva from SMARTO and many other things for doing a great job leading some fact finding information on the plans for the dispensary and any plans they have for parking and traffic mitigation plans. And I know Todd Blake the city traffic engineer has also been looped in. But I do know that some of these parking plans reference parking lots that are in the city of Medford. And again, regardless of the size of the parking lot, the size of the dispensary, it is going to, if approved, increase traffic in this area in Medford. So I'm just seeking that the administration provide an update to the council as far as any work that has been done to be in touch with the city of Somerville administration and see if there's any kind of updates on the mitigation plans and anything that we can advocate for on our side. So I move approval. And I don't know if the chief of staff has anything he can, I don't know if he has anything he can add at this time, but I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President. Councilor Morocco. I thought we were addressing an agenda item on water and sewer fees, so I'm a little lost right now.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Vice President Knight for bringing this forward because I think, in addition to this being recognition, this is really just wayfinding. And I think it's something that the city of Medford and specifically South Medford deserves. So I thank him for raising this and look forward to this moving forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Scarpell?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: It looks like we temporarily lost that chamber sound, but it seems like they're back on. Yes. I think that the chamber, the council chambers, they weren't, it was not in the zoom room for a moment, but it looks like it's back.
[Nicole Morell]: I can hear you now, yeah. It looks like we lost the chambers again and now they're back.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Mary Ann, thank you so much for being here and for this update and many thanks to the Health Department and the Board of Health for all they've done for these past 10 months. So I saw in the report that Tufts has completed it's a butter testing as students have gone home. Is that a program that we expect to resume in the spring?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And just to make sure I understand your earlier point about the amount of tests Tufts doing is kind of contributing to a lower positivity rate. Essentially you're saying if we see maybe that positivity rate tick up in the next few weeks, it's at least partially reflective of not having that large amount of Tufts tests to keep that number down, correct? Correct. Thank you. Those are my questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Just through the chair for Marion, is there anything, you know, outside of obviously our personal public health responsibilities that, residents can do to assist the Board of Health Department as far as are there contact tracing volunteers needed or anything like that?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so the best way is to reach out to the health department directly?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I'll be brief since so many of my Councilors have already put forth. And also I missed some of that, but I believe what's happening is an internet, City Hall internet issue and nothing to do with Patrick's fine work. So to echo what Councilor Knight has said, I think this award is a reflection of the hard work that we know Patrick is doing constantly. So I echo the congratulations for him and CAPT. I think what he has done for this community has really been a lifeline, especially over these past 10 months. what he's done to make it so that Councilors and the public can make their best health decisions while also being engaged in city council and school committee meetings is really essential. And just the number of times I've seen him kind of running all over the chambers to ensure we're set up right and address anything that may arise in the building. This award is very much due and I shared my council colleagues in congratulating Patrick and Kat.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President? Yes, Councilor Morell. I know there are a number of people who came to speak on this, so I don't, if they're unable to speak because this is ruled out of order, if it can be made clear that they can speak at public participation at the end of the meeting. That is fine. And I do, since I know since a number of fellow councilors raised the issue, the resources that the city does have to offer, the city does have a number of resources people can access. Unfortunately, people have to remain in their homes to be able to access them and have these relief programs. So if people are evicted, their rental assistance does them no good if they are already evicted. their apartment. So I just want to add that point. So thank you. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Moreau. Thank you, Mr. President. I don't even know who can see me. I just want to thank Roberta and Danielle for coming out and for the presentation we got last week. I think it's really exciting that all of these projects are focused on outdoor space, which is ever more important to us with the pandemic. And I think we'll really be looking forward to in this summer and the coming summers as these projects are completed and increased access to all of these projects. So I support all of them and I'm excited to move forward with them. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, if I could, sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, I just wanted to share, to address Mr. Schnapp's question, I did have someone just send me a tableau visualization. And the note is that there are currently 50 court cases in Medford related to non-payment of rent. To address that request for that number.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Motion to take paper 20-672 out of order. I know Anne-Marie with the Medford Streets program is only able to be on for the earlier part of the meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. It's my understanding that Annemarie Aigner is on the call. She's behind this program. I think she can speak more specifically into what they're seeking.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it's Anne-Marie Aigner, A-I-G-N-E-R. And I think it's just that their request has been updated.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I did speak with Anne Marie and I know a few just food trucks are operating this way and that they're taking all orders ahead of time. So it's really people placing orders ahead of time online. People come out to the food truck. It's a, you know, a contactless handoff to get their meals, social distancing, waiting. I think it's really just another way to kind of get get take-out in these times.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I don't know who's here to answer questions right now. I have some questions, I don't know. Are all the same people present on this to address questions? Yeah, you can ask questions now if you like. Okay. I have a question. I know, I apologize, I didn't print out the tip. I just have it on my phone, the actual proposed agreement. But I know there's the option that if the, there's the opportunity and process to decertify the TIF. Is there a process for through the state or I guess other measures for clawbacks if the terms of this weren't met and it were decertified? I don't know who's on the phone.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Yeah. The question is just if, you know, if the process to decertify happens because the terms of this agreement aren't met, is there an opportunity or mechanism through the state for clawbacks or is that something that the city would have to pursue otherwise? Or have you seen other cities do this again? Not that I don't want this to happen, but I'm just trying to understand what that process might look like.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just trying to understand what that would look like. Okay. And but there's nothing prohibiting clawbacks. If that were something that were to happen again. I don't want this to happen. I'm not speaking this, but I'm just trying to understand what that would look like.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. And then I just have one more question specifically about the tip. I believe it says. And again, I So the hiring would occur over those five years to get to the total of 250. Let's see.
[Nicole Morell]: And then I believe the chief of staff said last week, then that the terms of the TIF are so that those jobs are held at least until the end of the TIF in 2030 or I guess 2031. Correct? Or that's how I understood it?
[Nicole Morell]: OK.
[Nicole Morell]: OK, thank you. Yeah, that was my original question. I was just trying to reflect the language I see in the actual proposed agreement. Thank you. That's all I have. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Bears.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I do have one more question regarding if there is any update from the administration as far as findings regarding to the applicability of the soldier ordinance to this project and what that might look like.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you both.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you Mr. President. Before we take the vote on the owner occupied exemption, I do want to just share that I very much support this. I do think it's something that Medford very much needs. Based on the presentation we had earlier tonight in the Committee of the Whole, as far as Ellen recommending that If Medford were to adopt this, it needs to be done earlier in the year so residents can actually benefit from this and apply for this. So I'm going to be voting no tonight, but I do very much believe that Medford would benefit from an owner-occupied exemption. I look forward to a future presentation from Ellen on this more in depth and more conversation around this. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: you. Thank you. Mister President. If I could through the chair, just a question for Mister LaRusso. There's those big, beautiful windows on the property there previously filled with antiques. But I do know your neighbors, potential neighbors at Bistro 5 take a more kind of subdued approach. The windows. I'm just curious what you envision for those big if you wouldn't have that space.
[Nicole Morell]: OK, yeah, thank you. I know and I know this is not what you're proposing, but I think some people's fears stem from the fact of thinking they someone's going to wander up to the window and pick out their tattoo and go inside. So I appreciate you clarifying that.
[Nicole Morell]: Great. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just have one more question thinking about signage and this, I support this paper. So this is an kind of a inhibitor to that, but talking, so you mentioned signage in the windows. I know there's currently just kind of the larger signage on the facade that exists at the current space. Do you imagine you'll be using that as well? And will that, I'm just trying to think out loud and understand what this might look like in total, assuming that other tattoo place also.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, Great. Thank you. And I thank you for entertaining that question. I do support the paper. I just know that, you know, there may be questions that we get from the community later on. It's just making sure I can address those properly. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I believe this paper speaks for itself, and I'll let the chair speak soon. And I apologize that the second item on the agenda took us till 10 o'clock to get to, but I know they're very much used to these meetings, so I thank them for their patience. But I'm the council rep on this commission, and there's a number of community members and business owners who've been working very hard, regular meetings, weekly meetings, and doing a lot of work out in the community to move forward a number of issues around this. I'll hand it over to Jim and Laurel to speak on this more.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Laurel, do you know where specifically on the website the link to that survey could be found?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, great. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I think we got it in October. We didn't get it in November. And then we're in December now, I believe, because I believe that the second month was missed. I think also it was, you know, cases were still at least on the lower end. So I think needing the update now is more dire.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I know it's 11 p.m. on the dot and you guys don't want to hear me talk about plastics, forks and knives right now, but I agree with Councilor Bears that this is important. The pandemic will recede, but the amount of single use and disposable items that has vastly increased because of the pandemic will not be gone anytime soon. We can't avoid the use of PPE, but there are things like plastic utensils that They take about a thousand years to break down if they ever do. And I know many of us come home with plastic utensils from the takeout of restaurants in the area that we're trying to support that we simply don't need. We have utensils at home. So I think it's just a common sense resolution that just to minimize the amount of these that go out in takeaway bags that people may never use and just put in their drawers at home and eventually throw away and they end up in a landfill and never break down. So I move approval on this kind of common sense measure.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I mean, this is in direct response to just the increase of single-use plastics that's come as a result of COVID. There's a lot of, you know, unfortunately the meals that are not being had inside of restaurants are being replaced, thankfully, by takeout. And there's just, it's so much more plastic that does come with a cost. It comes with a cost to all of us. It comes with a cost to future Councilors introducing resolutions when these forks and spoons are on the felsway dumped in someone's yard and we want to have them cleaned up. I mean, I think it's, this is actually a fairly, some ordering services, this is a common selection. You can select whether or not to have utensils. I know a few establishments I frequent in Medford actually do have this option, and it would be something that, again, just guidance, I imagine this is guidance as well, but something that when you're placing an order, someone on the phone says, okay, do you need utensils with that, as opposed to just, Throwing a fistful in but again, this is not something that we have the ability to really It's not something we really have the ability to enforce, of course, but I think having guidance that people can look to and say, okay, this is probably just a way to minimize waste. I think it's, is there a direct response to the way the pandemic has reshaped the, and really to push back a lot of advances we have made in reusables and now has really increased the amount of plastic trash we're seeing, you know, as a community globally, everywhere. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, because I moved approval because I moved approval and then Councilor Bears wanted to speak. So I kind of jumped the gun on moving approval. So I very rudely moved approval before he could speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I have a number of questions. First of all, we're looking, I guess, the main incentive to the community that is being touted, or really the only incentive, is the 250 permanent jobs. What type of wages are we looking at for these jobs?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And then the permanent in this terminology, obviously it's not contract work, but what does permanent mean? That's the entirety of the 10-year agreement or just to your best ability to keep these jobs that are being promised?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm not sure whoever can answer it.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and I'm sorry, the chief of staff's point, I believe it was, so these do need to, are required to be maintained for the 10 years? Okay. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, and then, uh, another question. Just, I don't, forgive me. I do not know what unique meats and proteins mean when it comes to, to bakery products. And we're talking about something that runs continually. So 24 hours a day. Is there any impact as far as, you know, smell exhaust odors, you know, to the, to the dense neighborhoods that surround this?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. And then if I guess someone from the city or yourself as well, what is remind me that the square footage of this actual facility?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So either to yourself or representative to the city. So this would qualify under the requirements of the solar ordinance that was recently passed in the city that I believe the qualifying part of this is that non-residential or residential projects which involve the substantial rehabilitation of a structure containing 10,000 square feet or more, a floor area, or the addition of 10,000 square feet or more of the growth floor area would be required to have the, I believe, 50% solar on the building. Is that correct? Can someone from the city confirm that, or have you been looped into this?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. I mean, I would hope that $40 million counts as substantial rehabilitation. So I'm just curious to Mr. Modica, is this $40 million inclusive of potentially a solar array, should it be deemed possible? Or are there any other sustainability improvements that are included in this proposed $40 million rehabilitation?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. And then my final question, if the chief of staff could confirm this, and I did, I had the opportunity to speak with Maria yesterday as well. When presenting the benefit of this project tax-wise to the city, it is under the assumption that this benefit of $3 million is if no other company were to come in and not ask for a TIF, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. That's all I have.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I don't know if this is a question for you or the administration. Does council approval of this, is it a simple majority or two thirds vote?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to thank Councilor Knight for bringing this forward. Tree canopies are a moving target with development, disease, and age. And as we look at the number of high heat days only increasing due to climate change, our tree canopy is more important than ever. So hopefully this can aid our very small, but very in demand forestry division. So I thank the council for bringing this forward.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, this is just a simple request. I had a resident reach out about this. A number of cities have established these safe exchange zones for people purchasing exchanging items through Craigslist, Facebook and having an area that whether I know a lot of communities do it in the parking lot of police station or somewhere that They know there is our cameras to add a level of safety so that people can support the circular economy, keep things out of the landfill and get them to new owners, but do so in a safe way. And noting that there actually has been some incidents in the past in Medford where people were going. They were lured by online sales that were not to be, I believe, over in Duggar Park a little, a year or two ago. So I think just seeing if the administration can see working with the police are the best way they see fit to establish this safe zone, promote it, and I think cities, you know, just go as far as putting a sign up and letting people know where it is. I believe I've heard about this incidentally in the past, but if it's something that is still being offered, it's very hard to find. So it would be great if we could offer this for the safety of our residents and people looking to buy and sell online.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I do want to thank Councilor Marks for raising this. And yeah, I did have the resolution a few weeks back, really piggybacking on one of his previous to get an update on this. And this is the recommendation that came out. And I think it's worth noting that with our federal delegation, with Representative Clark, now Assistant Speaker, and her being a member of the Quiet Skies Caucus, hopefully she can hear what we're saying above the airplane noise and really be able to make some moves on this. And I also want to credit Our representatives, the administration, the previous administration for taking the approach of working with our neighboring cities on this, because in the Globe today, there was a story about Milton and Quincy kind of going at each other as far as plans to mitigate their airplane traffic and noise. And I think moving forward together, hopefully, hopefully we'll get some movement on this. But again, I thank Councilor Marks for raising this.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, what?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Again, if I could, through the chair, I just want to say thank you to Alicia, Jema, and John. This is really helpful to get an update and see the impact that this is making. Councilor Bears took the question I was going to ask about the percentages. So I just want to confirm that those percentages can only be set at the time of when the contract is set. They can't be adjusted at any other time.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, I'm sorry. So we would or we wouldn't be able to, you know, if it was so decided, revisit this percentage before the 2022 renewal?
[Nicole Morell]: We have Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to thank my council colleagues for bringing this forth. to echo what they've said, you know, Congresswoman Clark has shown profound leadership and this new position is really just a reflection of the leadership she's always shown. I think she's nothing but a, I think we all have experienced, she's nothing but a gracious, kind, hardworking representative of this community. And this leadership position is a real boon to everyone in Medford and her district. And also just another woman in political leadership representation matters. So happy to see it. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Caraviello. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. And I thank Vice President Caraviello for bringing this forward. I found out in a similar manner as I think everyone in the rest of the community did because there's not a great system for this as I understand when it comes to these types of living facilities. So I think to Vice President Caraviello's point, I think what is so scary about this essentially is what makes I think that's what's great concerning about this. I do understand there's a lot of reality around this and powers we have as a city. So I think We include on our school's website and also the city website, a link to the sex offender registry so that even if this information isn't getting dispersed out for whatever legal reasons right now around the nursing home and care facilities, that people can easily get to these links and look up the information, the sex offenders in their area, because the information is there. It's just not getting delivered to us because of this type of facility, as I understand. I'd like to put that in a thorough motion.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank the mayor and her whole team for their work on pulling together and highlighting what Medford's done already in regards to much needed work on social justice, as well as plans for real change within the city to begin to address a long history of systemic racism, which is not unique to Medford, but unique in the fact that this has been acknowledged by both the mayor and this very body. So this roadmap lays out a number of goals, and I just think it would be beneficial for the council and of course, the residents of Medford to get an update on some of the progress towards the goals outlined in the report. I do want to note that shortly after submitting this item, I did get in the mail an update on that SNAP gap study, which is a reference. And I just want to highlight something from that. So this was completed by the Medford Food Security Task Force. And so for those who don't know, the SNAP gap, it refers to the difference between the number of low-income mass residents receiving mass health who may be eligible for SNAP and those who are actually registered for SNAP. And the gap between those two numbers is 46% at the state level, and it's been found to be 63% at the city level. So I just want to note that because this is a number that's always crucial, but as the pandemic rages on and ravages people's livelihoods with no federal aid at this point, it's a particular problem at this time. So I really thank the Food Security Task Force for their work on this. And the whole report is on the city website at this point, which I think is just really helpful for people to know how this is being tackled with regards to the social justice roadmap, but just in general as this work is always important and ongoing. So touching on just additional specific issues about, again, I think the mayor and the chief of police for their openness and willingness for policy reviews as laid out by the roadmap, but I do want to highlight that The mayor did sign on to the Reimagined Policing Pledge back in June, and I know obviously it's a very busy time. So this is almost six months ago, and one key tenant of this pledge, which was formed to drive communities, it was formed to drive communities, and I quote, to engage in a public review of its policing policies and result in potential reform. So I think I just want to note the public aspect of this, as it's important to get an update for residents as far as where we are in this process. And also again, I just want to thank the administration once more for starting what was labeled as being a series of community conversations on race in the city. And that first one was held in June. And again, almost six months later, we haven't had another forum on that. So it would be great to get an update on that. And again, I do acutely understand the challenges of a lot of this work as the pandemic continues on. But racism continues on within the pandemic, really, as BIPOC individuals overall have anywhere from a 1.1 to a 2.8 times higher rate of COVID cases. And also black Americans are dying at a rate 2.1 times higher than white Americans from COVID. So this is just important work that it goes hand in hand with the pandemic. I understand the challenges there. I would also like to add in, I'm going to see if we can also get a report out on the civil right. Just the sheer number of civil right complaints that have come in. The mayor did a great job in establishing this separate kind of submission way for complaints to the police specifically about civil rights. And I think it would be helpful as this council continues conversations on addressing systemic racism, just to get some of the data back. So just again, looking for an update and I thank the administration for their work and putting together this roadmap and outlining some goals within it.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, I was just highlighting that Jackie had her hand raised.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. If, through the chair, I could just ask Alicia just a few questions just to offer, I'm sorry, for clarity. Remind me of the deadlines as far as the CARES Act funding. Is it that services need to be rendered by that December date? It's billed. How does that, I'm just trying to understand how that 2.5 to 2.9 applies as far as regarding, would that only be staff for before the break? Or if you could just offer clarity on how that money and the timing of how it has to be spent.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so it would only cover personnel for the remainder, I guess, this term until the Christmas break?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so just to make sure I'm clear on this, so that could not cover staff, that would not support any staff from January through the spring?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. And so, and do you believe you will, you're able to spend all 2.5 to 2.9 or will, might you come back and say, just due to what was accepted and what was available, we spent X number of dollars out of this?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah. I want to echo my fellow council colleagues in that I, I understand the acute and immediate need for these items listed here, but there's, there are a lot of items with acute and immediate need. And I think just there's more information that this body requires before we can make a decision on this. I think as other colleagues have pointed out, just the understanding of which positions are new positions, which positions are, You know, replacing something that was cut, which I think there's just a real lack of information here. I do have a question. Um, if through the chair for Miss Emily Benjamin, if there was consideration for any of this 700,000 to be put towards the schools and any of that budget, I know they had a bit of a larger hit than the city as far as cut. So I'm curious. I'm curious what the thought process was there as far as applying this entirely city side as opposed to looking at the schools as they're obviously due to the pandemic. I understand there's a lot of money through CARES and everything else going to the schools, but there's a serious need there for support as well. So I'm curious the thought process behind that, why the funding is all on the city side versus considering the schools as well.
[Nicole Morell]: We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that. We're not going to be able to do that.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, if we could get a list of the city side positions that were requested in the previous budget and not funded exclusive of, you know, separate from the ones that are listed on this request. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just have two questions. The first for Ms. Cuddy. So you said that the MWRA is who is going to start work in April. That's correct?
[Nicole Morell]: So National Grid will be starting in April? I'm sorry. I just want to make sure.
[Nicole Morell]: OK. National Grid starts to work in April. OK. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So my second question, um, through the chair is actually for Tim. I'm just curious, based on the conversation we've had tonight, um, how often are these conditions that we vote for? Do we, does the utility come back and say, you know, I'm sorry. I'm not sure what you're talking about. No, thanks. Like, is this an is this an aberration? Or does this happen commonly where we vote on something and then the utility doesn't agree to it?
[Nicole Morell]: I understand National Grid's reasoning. I was just trying to get more information from our city engineer as we, you know, we see a lot of grants and locations. I was just trying to get clarity on that. Thank you. That's all.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: 10 or 11.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm going to continue on the night's theme of pedestrian safety and safety, which I say in jest, but I mean, obviously there's countless intersections we could probably bring up due to people's love of Medford as a cutthroat to get many places, among other issues. But I know everyone here knows just how dangerous this area is. It's where Playset hits Winthrop. You have the cemetery entrance right there. You have the fells. There's a high, a level of pedestrian traffic. There's a high level of road traffic coming down 38 from Winchester. The cars just fly. And there are two crosswalks that are there. They're fairly faded on the north and the south side of where a place that hits Winthrop. And they may as well not be there. Anytime you see people out, people wait there forever. Cars will never stop for them. On the north side of the intersection, it is so incredibly wide that if you're lucky enough to have a car stop for you, Oftentimes, cars will fly around that car while people are in the intersection, and it's amazing that worse hasn't happened there, considering how dangerous this is. And again, during COVID times, there's even more people out walking, biking, getting to the fells. There's more people trying to get through these crosswalks, really to no avail. And I did see that on the traffic commission agenda for this week, there is a request for a slow for children sign at around at around those same crosswalks. So obviously people are concerned about this. There's a high number of school kids trying to get to and from in the area. And not for nothing, I realize there's a deer crossing sign in that area. So all I can ask is if we've got a sign for deer, can we at least get a few signs for people? I've talked to Todd and Tim about this. I know this entire intersection is something they want to work on, but I really think we need to do something in the interim to just get some signs up to let people know about the crosswalks that are there so people have a better chance of getting across safely. So I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I thank Councilor Knight for bringing that up because absolutely there is one bus that idles and creates a complete blind spot if you're trying to cross in one way. Then also buses make U-turns there, which I understand they need to turn around somewhere, but it creates a really unpredictable traffic patterns for cars and pedestrians alike. Again, it's a really dangerous area. I thank Councilor Knight for highlighting that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I thank my fellow councilors for their extensive questioning, so I really don't have many questions left. Just have one question for Ms. Nunley and Benjamin. Just for my own edification, could you remind me when the city was alerted of the CARES funding we were receiving, the amount we were getting? Ms.
[Nicole Morell]: When were we told of the amount we were receiving? What was the date we got the information about that $5 million? How long have we known that we had access to that?
[Nicole Morell]: OK, but it's been several months?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. And then question for Mister Murphy. So you were discussing mentioned essentially the $800,000 that I guess we're getting an update on tonight actually hasn't been applied yet because the cares funding is being applied in the 800,000 is being
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, so if we're looking at this fiscal year, then it's conceivable the work, I mean, the school year essentially ends the same time around as the fiscal year. So it would be implemented or started or
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. That's all I have. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, thank you, Roberta, for presenting on this. So I just want to confirm doing some quick math. The amount that's been expended through the emergency rental assistance is $102,000 based on what we have in this report. We have the $67,000 and then the $35,000. That's been processed and about to be processed.
[Nicole Morell]: I was just I was just confirming based on the numbers as far as what's been expended. It looks the size of applications for those completed at 67,000, you know, a little more than 67,000. And those pending, which are soon to be completed is 35 more than 35,000. So that's about 102,000. Is there money that I guess because you is there a more specific accounting for the money that's been spent so far?
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just trying to so that the first allocation from the council is a 125,000. So I'm just trying to understand. expended and is pending. I'm just seeing an amount of around $102,000. And that's correct. That's the full amount that's been. OK, thank you. That's just what I was trying to get to. Yeah, I mean, obviously, I think, Roberta, for raising the fact of the state eviction moratorium expiring, I guess I would assume you anticipate more demand with that moratorium expiring. that's all I have. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Marks. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. So this report, I know it's, the report is dated September 10th through October 6th. So the 51 applicants and what time period, this was a month and a half that we went through 51 applicants or what was the actual time period for this, I guess?
[Nicole Morell]: And were those applications, were they evenly spread out? Did they start to come, you know, have you had more in recent times as opposed to back in June or July?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. So would you anticipate this need would probably be at a faster rate or a higher rate than came through in the previous months? I'm just trying to see as we're extrapolating out the amount of money that's needed. Do you anticipate based on the trends you're seeing, understanding that the expiration of the eviction moratorium and people's concern about RAF, do you that we're going to have a higher rate of these applications coming through.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to go on record. I think ABCD has done a wonderful job administering this program. They've adhered to the parameters set by the council, and I think they're being very responsive and understanding of really what we're facing in this state, what residents of the state are facing. So I would be in favor of the full amount, you know, releasing the full amount that's been requested, the $125,000, as opposed to a smaller amount and asking them to come back. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: The small grants are on the same paper, so would this be the 625 and both small grants?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: And Andrej, Jackie is on her way. She is having some technical difficulties.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Would that be a change to the subdivision plans?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, and that would have to be a request to the board who would be able to approve that type of a change, but I believe the board would likely want a recommendation from the city engineer on that as well.
[Nicole Morell]: And you can actually coordinate through me in the office of community development and I can refer to him.
[Nicole Morell]: And I'll just clarify that now that the road has been built to binder, it is the preference of the engineering division that the top coat wait until after the houses are complete for that to be installed. So that's in, compliance with their recommendation on that.
[Nicole Morell]: So moved. This is Jackie Furtado.
[Nicole Morell]: And I'll just clarify, that'll be the timeline for completion.
[Nicole Morell]: So there are a couple of things. The rules and regulations of the subdivision of land that you're looking at, the last few pages of that have rules of the Medford Community Development Board governing organization and procedure. Thank you. That starts on page 34. And then there are also rules and regulations in relation to the site plan review, the board acting as the site plan review granting authority. And that's what I had circulated to everyone to have a discussion about that. But there are some other ones. The subdivision ones are much older. They're from the 70s. And so I can share this if you'd like, share my screen if you want to look at them or I could distribute them after the fact and we could touch base at a later meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, if you are able to access the full folder of CD board, Medford CD board, there's a folder called reference resources and it's in there. I know that sometimes if you're not linking it to your computer, it can be hard to get back to that main folder.
[Nicole Morell]: Oh, I'm happy to send it around again.
[Nicole Morell]: And I can also pull, the attorney during that meeting mentioned a couple of examples of neighboring communities who we thought had especially good rules and regulations. So I could pull those and distribute to you all.
[Nicole Morell]: And maybe I have a question. Was he saying that he didn't have a board at all.
[Nicole Morell]: And that may have just been for a site plan review, because I believe a planning board would still need to do subdivisions and things like that. Because he seemed to say that they were doing a very good job with their downtown and using them as a good example. I don't know, that's what I got from his discussion, that part.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, it doesn't, it wouldn't go to them first, but we would be, if it requires variances, we make a recommendation to the ZBA.
[Nicole Morell]: Yep. They're the same sort of time frame, like they could be submitted at the same time, and it could be under review by both boards. But the ZBA is supposed to wait for a recommendation from the CD board on that for the site plan review.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I've been taking some notes. If you want to continue sort of throwing some ideas out there, then I could draft something and it could be subject to Andre's review and approval?
[Nicole Morell]: That sounds wonderful. I'm happy to work with you, if you'd like. OK, great. It can be a group effort.
[Nicole Morell]: A motion is probably a good thing.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, may schedule the next one for the 18th.
[Nicole Morell]: I think something in mid-November would be better because that will give enough time for some of the Macklin road review by the city engineer and recommendation back to our board. So, um,
[Nicole Morell]: We could do it a little earlier and do the Thursday the 5th.
[Nicole Morell]: One thing I did want to flag for you guys is, are we talking about a separate design review process or looping it in to a planning board process through the site plan review? And that may be a session for an attorney as well about what we can do.
[Nicole Morell]: Because I do believe that would require some changes to the zoning to build out what our standards for site plan approval are. But that could be a question that we bring up to Attorney Brobrosky.
[Nicole Morell]: Only that most of the ones I've been able to find are separate. I don't know exactly why that is or what the advantage is. Some of the materials Jackie sent were saying also that design guidelines should be based in the comprehensive plan goals so that they're defensible, so I think this may be something that comes out of that planning process. But it's really something that I'm happy to look into more.
[Nicole Morell]: I think it'd be good to get some feedback from, the city solicitor or attorney Wabrowski about sort of what our options are, but I think that it would certainly be helpful to determine what we might want out of the comprehensive planning process. But I think maybe, just from what I've read so far, it seems like there was sort of a need to base, to have some backup for why we're enforcing these design guidelines. I don't know if any of you are more familiar with other communities where you've worked with design guidelines.
[Nicole Morell]: Like, well, and I also get a lot of calls. Yeah, from developers in advance of submitting. So I think like an FAQ document might be a good A good thing to do anyway.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, so what I have here is Information on what the recommended process would be for lining all of our different development review items up. The best opportunity for the community development board to weigh in or participate in this process. Some more information that he mentioned he was going to look into on demolition delay and the historic process and how that fits in with his proposed changes. Any opportunities for cross-reference to the City's Solar Ordinance? Opportunities to encourage energy efficiency and green building standards in the Zoning Ordinance? To what extent does he recommend design guidelines or a design review process? Should this be incorporated into the Ordinance or should we do it some other way? And the wording of neighborhood character and social structures. and concerns about that and why he uses that.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I raised this at this time, make this request based on a number of things we've been talking about recently. And I do want to point out the fact that I know our engineering department and DPW does great work on updating our sidewalks and bringing them into compliance as intersections and sidewalks are updated, projects happen. But we've been having a lot of discussions. I know Councilor Behr has introduced and resolution last week, looking at our snow removal ordinance. And Councilor Knight brought up a number of salient points as far as the massive amount of work that our DPW has already and really could be doing to improve accessibility in our community. And we've also had a number of discussions with a fine point on equity in the past several months. So I think when we're looking at all of these things, we have to consider our streets and our sidewalks and accessibility issues and whether or not they're actually accessible and equitable to everyone in our community. I know the ADA is essentially an unfunded mandate, so it's really challenging for cities to do the amount of work that needs to be done to make sure our streets and our sidewalks are accessible to everyone. But I think it's really important as we come around the calendar and start looking at another budget time to understand where we stand as a city as far as accessibility with our sidewalks and what work there is, also possibly what grants we've already pursued and plans to update as far as complete updates that sidewalks will be brought into compliance because it's a massive project, but also looking at those sidewalks individually. So I'm just really trying to gather information so we can make the best decisions come budget time and making sure we're supporting work that really needs to be done in the city. So I move approval. Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. And I do want to point out, I know Councilor Marks introduced a similar paper back in June, but since then, so I think the last time we had a visit by Peter and Luke was actually, I believe, in October. I can't be positive, but I believe that was the last time we got the update as far as the number of different approaches that were going to be presented to the FAA as far as dispersion and mitigation of the onslaught of air traffic over Medford. And in the middle of August, August 15th, a decision came down from the FAA and they rejected all of the concepts that were presented. I know the mayor has expressed her dismay and I think it would be really helpful to get an update directly from Peter and Luke as far as where do we go from here. It's my understanding from some outreach we've gotten that this isn't good, but we're not without hope. So I think it'd be really effective for the council to know what are our options after this rejection from the FAA. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank my council colleague for bringing this forth and really echo what he said, where, um, not only we're in crisis right now and there's an even larger crisis looming. So I really appreciate that our state delegation, um, is leading on this. And I think it's, it's clear where this entire pandemic we've been trying to figure out where help is coming from different levels. And I think it's very clear that it's not coming from the federal level. So I think what we can do at the state level to, um, protect residents, uh, in Medford is really important. So, um, this of course has my support. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, just two questions for Adam. I know we had a resolution a few weeks ago as far as staffing in the elections office. And I was curious if there's an update on that. I know the mayor had also said that there is funding for part-time staffing. So I was just curious if you have an update on staffing from now until election day or however it might pan out.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Thank you. And then, um, do you have an update as far as, um, poll workers is, um, I guess need more. And then if people are still interested, are you still accepting people who want to help out? Um, and what's the best way for them to go through that process?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And I think you cut out for a second. If they, if they want to be poll workers, what's the best way for them to apply or reach out about that?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Marianne, for that extensive presentation and update. I really appreciate it. I did have some people reaching out as far as you mentioned the two positive cases, I believe, with the schools. Questions about, as far as maybe numbers for quarantining, because there are the positive cases and then there are the people who may need to quarantine, and obviously that would impact the number of staff available to support the school. So I'm curious if the quarantining numbers, if that's something that can be shared or has been shared or any information around that.
[Nicole Morell]: OK. Thank you. And thank you for that information about the flu clinics. I know you shared the date and time. Is there somewhere on the website people can find that information, too, and if more flu clinics are offered in the future?
[Nicole Morell]: Wonderful. Thank you. That's all I have.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I know, I think the clerk just referenced it. If just someone from the administration could just speak to the, just out of clarity, just the intent of Amendment 1.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I do want to thank the Historic District Commission and Mr. Goldschneider for their work they've put into this. The crux of it for me is what was raised before is that there is, unless we pass this Historic District Commission, there's really no authority to ensure that that compromise happens. There's no guarantee that that will ever happen if we do not pass this Historic District Commission. So that's where it hinges on for me. I've heard from countless members of the community who are in favor of this commission. I'm sorry of this district and the only people I've heard who are against it are those who stand to profit off of it. So I'm in favor of this district. It has my support and I I just look forward to actually voting on this. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Bears for bringing this forward. I think I appreciate you bringing this forward before it starts snowing as well. I think we talk often about how difficult it can be to cross certain streets in this city when you add snow. When you add those super high barriers of snow on the corners, you're now dodging traffic and having to hurdle over a snow mound. So I really think this is a conversation we need to have. I appreciate the wording and the attention to who should be responsible as this paper is written. I do have either an amendment or a B paper I'd like to offer. I know the city of Somerville references how wide a clearing should be, as Councilor Bears did reference. This is really an accessibility issue, whether you're with a walker, a stroller, a wheelchair. you know, a narrow path isn't going to do it. I know there's some, some strange stuff with the profound number of private ways we have in Medford where there's a lot of non-conforming sidewalks in the first place. So I do wonder if there could be language, um, just to talk about the width of a safe passage for consideration for mobility and accessibility issues, um, in the form of a B paper or an amendment.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. Could we add, I guess, the amendment would be to add to this discussion, focusing on the width of safe passage for consideration for wheelchairs, walkers, strollers, and anyone with mobility issues. Do you have that, Clerk Irvings?
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Marks for bringing this forward. I am often in that area on foot on my bike and you can travel along the beautiful Mystic River and then you're dumped out onto High Street there with really no crosswalk unless you head back towards Giles Cross and you're still crossing multiple streets. I've seen people get trapped there multiple times. And I don't understand when you travel towards Arlington, there's beautiful crosswalks. That rotary is very well handled. But when you get back towards Medford, it's a mess and it's a high traffic area. So I thank the councilor for highlighting this and pushing for action on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. This committee met. It's myself, Councilor Bears, and Councilor Marks. We had a number of representatives from the administration where we were able to ask questions as far as what the city is currently doing to address systemic racism programs that exist under the umbrella of public health, the Office of Diversity, and beyond. And we heard from a few members of the public and voted to keep papers in committee to keep discussing this as it's not a simple subject to address. and move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I did reach out to the clerk with an amendment to the record, which I believe was shared with the entire council, so move approval of the records as amended.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Similarly, I thank Councilor Marks for bringing forward that language because I wholeheartedly agree and support it. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. And I want to thank Ari and Adam and Jennifer for bringing this presentation before us tonight. I appreciate all the hard work of the Historic District Commission to kind of get to this level of compromise that hopefully we can see through. And ideally, this is a model, you know, going forward that we don't have to reach at the 11th hour, but something that we can see how we can work together moving forward to really preserve, balance the needs of the city. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Your suggested kind of solution was we could do first reading, second reading, and then if something changes by third, we still have that option to- It's still a third reading. Right. We still have the option to change should the compromise be met and things are satisfied.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Echoing a lot of what's been said already, this is something that is long overdue, and I thank the administration for introducing this, highlighting the fact that, as Councilor Mark said, this is, it's a review, it's just that. It's a long process that I think we absolutely need to start as soon as possible, and every election since I've lived in Medford, this has been an issue, and I think we owe it to the citizens of this city to move forward in good faith to do just what this is, which is review to look at what we're operating on, and I support this measure. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I think.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I understand the councilor's concerns around this. However, as the school committee doesn't report to the city council and there's not really much action we could take on this, I'm not sure I could support this, although I do support the amendment, so I'm conflicted there because as the amendment would later tie to budget ramifications, I understand that information is important to have. But regarding reports on truancy, I'm not sure what this body would actually do with something like that, especially considering the committee does not report to the council.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Um, this resolution is pretty self explanatory, but this was raised through a number of channels that because of the, uh, indoor gathering limits, um, and another number of other limits, a lot of, uh, recovery meetings have essentially kind of disappeared or stopped happening during the state emergency orders in a pandemic. This is, you know, some, um, organizations don't have zoom licenses. Some are at the mercy of the where the meetings are usually held and they're not reopening just yet. So I did reach out to the outreach and prevention team and they're aware of this issue and they did offer that they would do everything in their power to support 12-step programs that are seeking to meet as long as they follow state orders. But I did just want to raise this to ensure that this is top of mind for the administration and they're doing all they can to support local who are in recovery and seeking recovery right now because it's really making a massive impact on these meetings and people seeking help. So I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: It's one vote Special Permit for Site Plan Review.
[Nicole Morell]: If you can just add that to the motion, approve the Special Permit for Site Plan Review.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. Yes, this was before the board last year. The Chapter 40A identifies timeframes that the council has to act on a proposed amendment after it's submitted to them. And so the board acted, and then there were, I think, some Committee of the Whole meetings. The statutory timeframes weren't met. So this is starting anew with a a new proposal that changed slightly from the last one and is back before the board because it's a new proposed amendment.
[Nicole Morell]: The BRUPA definition was a proposed amendment from the council in the meeting where they referred it to you. The changes before that were a distinction in the C1 district about the number of barrels over seven barrels requiring a special permit, but under seven barrels being allowed. In the version you reviewed last year, it was all special permit CBA in the C1 district. And then also barrel definition was added as an associated matter with that.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. It was the end of, I think it was July 31, 2019. OK.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. So I can read that letter. So this is to John Falco from Chairman John DePriest, August 7th, 2019. Council paper 19-481 proposed amendment to chapter 94 zoning to add two new definitions and an additional line brewery to the principal uses set forth in the table of use regulations. Following a public hearing conducted on July 31st, 2019, the Community Development Board voted to recommend that the Medford City Council adopt the proposed amendment with the following change. Add the following after the last line in the definition for brewery. Quote, the facility may also provide food that is produced on site, produced off site, or produced with food trucks that are located on site. Thank you for consideration of this recommendation. John DePriest.
[Nicole Morell]: So yes, the last one, it was special permit for all proposed breweries in the C1. Now it's distinguished by size.
[Nicole Morell]: And just to clarify quickly, Andre, is this, this is the amendment as The proposed amendment as amended by the city council to include that.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe what she was going to say is that the city engineer has indicated that he can log back into the meeting if needed, if we have questions.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, we will need to turn this around fairly quickly if the ZBA meeting is next week, but we could turn that around tomorrow and Friday.
[Nicole Morell]: That's acceptable to me, yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, you guys can make a recommendation.
[Nicole Morell]: And we may not need all of those. And we can be in touch about canceling them if there aren't enough agenda items. But we wanted to give you guys an opportunity to do some items that were not as statutorily required and as some of the development review we've been doing. Ideas are welcome. Right.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank members of the school administration for being here tonight. I understand the acute and immediate need of the schools in this time as far as preparing for the safest possible environment, and I also understand just the need to be agile and responsive in these times, especially when metrics and goalposts keep shifting. So I thank you for your work on this, and I do hope we can move this paper forward tonight. My question is, Councilor Marks touched on this a bit about the HEPA filters, the $1,500 HEPA filters that are mentioned. And I apologize if I missed this, but is there a ballpark number of the number of these we might need?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And then just one more question through the chair if I could. Does the assessment point to that these HEPA filters would then meet the needs or is there a chance we're going to put these HEPA filters in and it's tested again and we find that we have to go, you know, even farther as far as the HVAC and things like that?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. So really what I'm hearing is essentially it's just the nature of the beast because of the way these standards are coming down and just looking into the building this way, things are changing and sometimes it can be hard to nail down exact amounts because of that, but the intention is there as laid out in these papers and in the email we got, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scott. Kelly, Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I don't really think this is the appropriate forum to debate signs at this point. I move approval of both papers.
[Nicole Morell]: I move approval of both papers.
[Nicole Morell]: you. Thank you, Mister President. Yeah, I want just to address one point. I know there are a number of things that were maybe misrepresented in that in those talking points that were actually addressed in this large packet. We got this this week, but I do just want to point out the fact that to your own calculations to counsel night's own calculations that over 11 50 homes over 11 years, that's about five homes a year. I just want to address the scare tactics being used in that. I don't think that's exactly millions of dollars that have been lost because of a demo delay at five homes a year. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, Mr. President, if I could just draw attention to rule number 17 of the council, just upon debatable merits, a councilor shall speak no more than three times or more than 15 minutes on a single issue. I think that's something that gets railroaded on this council often, and I just want to highlight that. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: No, I was just getting my mic ready. Oh, okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I know this is something that has been raised by Councilor Marks a few months back when these two lines, which are the express lines from Medford, were suspended, as we were told, temporarily in the earlier days of the pandemic. We do have in our packet this week some back and forth from the mayor and Todd Blake with the MBTA, and the way the MBTA inevitably thanked the mayor for advocacy is suspending these routes indefinitely in mid-August. So this is especially concerning to me because frontline workers, which are going into work every day, are people who are more likely to need public transportation. And we have essentially cut them off from these express routes, not we, the MBTA. And I did speak with our state delegation about this, and they are working on it. What they told me that we can do is really show a unified front on this, so I'm just asking moving approval on this paper to really demand that the MBTA reinstate these essential links and help people from Medford get on those express routes into Boston where they need to go get to work. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, and I thank my fellow Councilors for bringing this forth. I know we all heard from many residents about this and I did, I think we've talked about communication on a number of issues around this and I think it would be beneficial and I'd like to add it in the form of amendment to get a report from the clerk's communication that can be posted on the website or shared in another way that just addresses how we're addressing for this upcoming election to ensure that the mistakes that happened, and I know it has to do with volume and many issues, but that the mistakes that happened for the state primary do not happen again and people can have faith in whatever option or vehicle they use to vote for the November election. So I'd like to add that in the form of an amendment.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, I offer an amendment. Did it get a second? I offer an amendment. You offer an amendment? Yeah, to knock it. I can't remember if it's a second or not. On the main paper? Yes, on the main paper.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Bears for bringing this forth, because it is a reminder that it's not just us in here. It's our families. It's everyone we interact with in those essential activities. So any time you bring together X number of people, you increase the rate of potential transmission. So I think it's just important to note, it's not just us. It's everyone we interact with in the community. And it's a public health issue. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Morell. Councilor Scarpelli.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I mean, this is really an innocuous, ironically, an innocuous resolution. And I think there is, you know, the research and studies are still coming out, to Councilor Behr's point, about how this transmits. Sure, these, you know, you look at any spray, this actually doesn't do anything. And we're sitting in recirculated air, so we can't sit here and say, we just had long conversations about the air quality in the high school, and then it's, I'm at a loss for words here, because again, this is a very innocuous, have a conversation, look at some metrics, how do we move forward, resolution, and it shouldn't inspire this level of ire and anger and finger pointing.
[Nicole Morell]: We have Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I continue to be dismayed by the health decisions trying to be made by other people. You do not know people's medical histories, their underlying conditions, their level of safety in being here. And I'm just so dismayed by other people trying to make health decisions for people this entire time. I was only here for an hour until a fellow Councilor asked that I be removed. I've been here for what, six and a half hours? Because there is no safe option. There is a safe option for these council meetings. There is a safe option for these council meetings. There's not a safe option. There's not another option for people to vote. And I stand by my decision to protect democracy. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Through the chair, I'm not having a rally on Saturday. I just want to make that clear. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, this is pretty self-explanatory. I've had a few residents reach out about this. I know we have the dashboard. The dashboard is beautiful, but it does seem like there's a real opportunity at City Council meetings to hear from the administration, just a brief update about perhaps any changes, any different metrics, or how things are impacting things because I know we have, you know, it's seemingly every day that state unveils some new color map and what it means and, you know, the goalposts keep on moving. and changing so I think it would just be an opportune thing to have a representative from the administration just explain kind of where we are and any necessary updates. So I move approval. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I mean, I have the same question procedurally. My intention was just to get a response from the administration first and then understand how it might be introduced by them if it's something they're willing to do. I understand it's, yeah, procedurally it's something strange, but it's strange times.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Yeah. That's, yeah. I would ideally, yeah. Putting this to the administration, seeing how they would like to deliver it via communications from the mayor, communications from the administration. That could be added if they see fit, if it's something they agree to.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, my intention would be to have someone to actually speak from the administration because there is stuff online. There is stuff already in report form and this would just be kind of anything that's worth addressing that week, that needs to be addressed that week.
[Nicole Morell]: I see it in general as this being, you know, we have X number of people on the call right now, it just being that these are well attended and as opposed to having to hunt stuff down on the website and try to parse out data, just getting an update to say, okay, here's the numbers and here's how it impacts anything, or maybe it doesn't, or maybe there's not an update that week. Maybe it's not possible procedurally, but I think it is, it's information that's being asked for in the community and it's, this is a vehicle to provide it.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm just hoping because we do have the dashboard and there are numbers there, but sometimes it's a certain amount of parsing out and trying to understand, you know, looking at one screen and seeing what the state metrics say and how we're supposed to behave based on those numbers. And if we could get an update directly from the administration as far as our metrics and if it's changing any policies that week. But I do understand it's procedurally as far as being introduced as an agenda item, it's a little bit tricky. So my intention is just to deliver this to administration and get a response from them as far as how they might if they would be interested in delivering such a thing and how they might want to deliver it, whether it's communications from the mayor or something like that. But I do think there is a benefit to having a representative from the administration when possible to briefly address this.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, weekly would be nice, but I think I also, I'd be happy to amend the paper to have the administration at a frequency they deem necessary.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. If we could add the language at a frequency that the administration deems necessary in the form of an amendment.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. You can strike that language. We can strike that language. I'll second that amendment, Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm curious if we could amend that to add to a date certain, because this demo delay expires in October. So we would probably want to meet before the expiration to actually have this conversation. So make sure we do that in due time.
[Nicole Morell]: You're taking it Wednesday, right? It's OK.
[Nicole Morell]: No, I just had, okay, speak on that. Okay, so I'll thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: We have now Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I did have some residents reach out about this as well. So I thank Councilor Knight for bringing this forward. And I did speak with Ms. Briseño in the Office of Community Development, and she did say the grant money that is being used for some of these Jersey barriers would allow for it to be used for decorations too. So that's just helpful information for those businesses should this pass. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: If you go to participants, if you click participants, you can then search a list, and you can just type in and unmute people as you find their name.
[Nicole Morell]: I can see Marianne has her hand up, her virtual hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Alicia, you said that the project can be a similar project or however you word it, can be done as long as it's the same amount of time. What's that timeframe? 30 years.
[Nicole Morell]: No.
[Nicole Morell]: is to send this to subcommittee so that a deeper discussion can be had with experts in our administration, community members and council members. As these issues relate to our community, our history, and our city culture, my motion is to send it to the subcommittee on cultural arts and history. We don't exactly have probably the most fitting subcommittee that exists for this, and that's a conversation for a different time. But I do understand there's a number of items that are being kind of stacking up for committee of the whole, and this is a subcommittee that we could send to and ideally hold on hearing with all due urgency. And then that way we can report findings back up to the entire city council. So my motion is to send to the cultural arts subcommittee and I move approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, hold a public meeting, yep, where we can hear from our experts as well as community members.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, and I think Councilor Marks' point and I very much take that to heart. And I think that is and one of the intentions here where we can hear from the administration. I know Chief of Staff Rodriguez reached out to us about a grant opportunity they're pursuing. So understanding things like grants that are out there, we have a lot of experts in the community that have reached out and offered to have conversations. And I know they're at previous calls as well. So I think, I appreciate that and inviting as many people to the table as possible so that we can really work together on this and then bring stuff back to the city council that we can vote on and move forward on. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So I've had a number of members from Medford's art community reach out about this. So the idea behind these percent for arts programs which are usually put in place via ordinance is for community benefit and enrichment by having a decided upon percent of construction costs or fees of municipal capital investment to be designated for use for public artwork. So simple, they allocate a small portion of capital construction renovation budgets or something of the like for purchase, commissioning and installation of artworks that would be in the public space. This is the first time to my understanding that this has come up before the council. So I think, Again, it would be another item that would be to send to the cultural arts and history subcommittee where we could talk more deeply with representatives from our arts council and other groups. I know the arts council meets on Tuesday. So some of the members that brought this up to me are unable to attend. So sending this to subcommittee so that we can discuss how a program like this could potentially work in Medford, obviously something that council would have to vote on, but just to again, study it deeper and report it back up to the full council.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I believe this item came before the council at the last regular meeting. I think it was a pretty thorough discussion. It was pretty thorough even though the agenda item was vague and many people did not know what was going to be discussed. I believe we voted to bring this up again at a committee of the whole.
[Nicole Morell]: And Andre, I just want to correct the record there that the building commissioner reviewed this, not the city engineer.
[Nicole Morell]: And I believe we've also received comments from the other grantee along the right-of-way at 555 Winthrop Street, so Lorena can read that as well.
[Nicole Morell]: I also wanted to correct the record that that comment mentioned that Tim McGibbon had approved the road. And I just wanted to correct the record that that is not something that has taken place. And maybe if you would like to speak to that.
[Nicole Morell]: I believe it should be a separate vote on the waiver.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, I can do it. I don't have the exact language that Robin has drafted so eloquently. I may defer to her on those items.
[Nicole Morell]: I can go through a few items that are sort of more administrative. as conditions that I wanted to run by board members, if this is an appropriate time for that.
[Nicole Morell]: So let's see. Prior to endorsement, any changes must be shown on a revised subdivision plan, including a summary of conditions. The subdivision shall comply with all applicable standards and regulations as set forth in the Community Development Board Rules and Regulations, except for those for which a waiver has been approved. Consistent with Mass General Law, Chapter 41, Section 81U, after the expiration of 20 days without notice of appeal to Superior Court or Land Court, The board shall endorse the plan. This endorsement shall occur following the provision of a performance guarantee in accordance with Mass General Law, Chapter 41, Section 81U, in an amount determined by the city engineer and approved by the board. Said amount shall bear a direct reasonable relationship to the expected cost of the work, including inflation necessary to complete the work. The amount shall be revised from time to time on recommendation of the city engineer to reflect the remaining cost of the work. construction of the subdivision improvements shall be completed within two years of the date of endorsement of the plans by the board. And this project is subject to linkage fees, city of Medford zoning ordinance chapter 94 sections 94382. And in terms of conditions recommended by City staff compliance with conditions recommended by Timothy McGivern, city engineer, in a letter to the board dated August 18th, 2020. And we've discussed the fire chief's comments. So I think adding the the condition, the reworded condition about the The island in the middle, I need to look back at his comments specifically to see if, let me look at them now, if there are any others to include. His, Other one was about the 12 foot right of way for access to 553, 555 Winthrop Street shall be repaved all weather roadway and shall be as wide as boundaries allow. So if that is a condition that the board would like to attach. And then the recommendation about sprinklers is this other one.
[Nicole Morell]: OK. There was a comment letter, a few of them, but the most recent one we have from Marianne O'Connor, the director of public health. She did not submit a new one, but she has expressed that her conditions still apply. One of them is to submit a written plan for proper dust remediation. One of them is a detailed solid waste plan must be submitted to the board of health and that dumpster permits must be obtained for any dumpsters prior to construction beginning. and another that integrated pest management is required. And she goes into more detail on each of those in her letter. And then the other city comment letter that was not updated with the remand, but contains items that the author stated still apply is from Brian Cairns, Commissioner of Public Works. And the first two are, My understanding and Tim's comment number 47 on this is that the proponent will be working with the engineering department and the DPW to address concerns about the water main. So that takes care of his first two comments that were about his uncertainty about the water main. Hydrant locations will be determined by the fire department, noting that one hydrant must be on Winthrop Street. The minimum water main size is eight inch ductile piping and one inch copper services into the 10 residential lots. We'll also maintain a loop system around the property adhering to the 10 foot water and sewer separation. All standard testing for pressure and bacteria shall be in accordance with the DEP and AWWA standard. Water mains that intersect with other water main piping to the triple gated and open to the right All water services will be placed in the sidewalk with shutoffs off the property line. All service connection on the old six inch water main will be replaced with one inch copper to the property line with new shutoffs. All as built will be reviewed by water and sewer and the engineering divisions. Any work performed on water and sewer must be inspected before backfilling. Emergency phone numbers must be provided prior to any work being done on roads in Medford. Drawings and pre-construction meetings are advised. Any contractor working on water services must be a certified drain layer licensed with the city of Medford. and these are all items that were responded to by Mr. Champion, I believe had all been resolved, correct? Except for the water main that you were working with the city to accommodate.
[Nicole Morell]: Address to the satisfaction of the commissioner of public works, his comments.
[Nicole Morell]: Would it be appropriate to address to the satisfaction of the commissioner of public works to work with him?
[Nicole Morell]: So I believe a lot of these were addressed. It says triple gates are shown in the plan in your response. You commit to the utility contractor being on the city's approved list.
[Nicole Morell]: Pressure and bacteria tests will be in accordance with the EPA and AWWA standards. You say the hydrants have been coordinated with the fire department. and that the plans have been modified to have 10 feet of separation, except at the crossings. So it appears that all of these were addressed.
[Nicole Morell]: So you've reviewed and responded to each item in here. I just wanted to kind of have it on record in case some of these might still be outstanding. So it appears that you have addressed all of them from your responses too, but we don't have an updated letter from the commissioner.
[Nicole Morell]: And I think lighting as well, you've addressed separately. I think another condition that was discussed was about notification to the- The blast plan? Yeah, a blasting to the director of community development or her designee. And Tim, did you want us to add the vegetated area to the homeowners association for your comment?
[Nicole Morell]: And Robin has that language.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. So the Board of Appeals will be granting the special permit for site plan review as well as variances. So they could open the hearing and continue both items if they have not received comments from the CD board.
[Nicole Morell]: We went 8-0.
[Nicole Morell]: Good.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry, I just, I got kicked out. I'm back.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Rocco, thanks for being here. And I know we talked yesterday about this, but I just wanted, if you could address just for the public and the rest of the councilors how the anticipated length of this work and project from start to finish.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, hearing and seeing none, on the motion of councilor. I'm sorry? Sorry, President Falco, I see Laurel has her hand up. Oh, yes, I'm sorry. Let's see.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of council night. Mr. President. Yes. There's a new hand up. Joanna.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I had a number of residents reach out to me about this. I mean, this harkens back to a conversation we had earlier in the night, where you can just insert street name, and I almost saw someone get hit by a car trying to cross here. This is obviously an issue at Wrights Pond, where especially this year, with the permitting being a little bit changed, you might have much more frequent entrances and exits, and people have to travel up or they have to travel down to the farther crosswalks, which they themselves are fading. So after introducing this, I did have City Traffic Engineer Todd Blake reached out and we had a conversation. It's my understanding that the administration is looking at this as well as Representative Donato to try to find a solution. I guess there's a few mitigating factors that it's challenging to simply add a crosswalk. And I guess some other things have been held up as a result of the pandemic hitting. So this is something that the administration is working on, but I do move for approval.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to add that I thank my fellow councilors for their design ideas. And in talking with the traffic engineer and his areas of expertise, I understand that they're looking at the many ways they can approach this to be in compliance with certain ADA things, the sight line, all of that. They're definitely working on getting creative to make this a much safer crossing, whether the existing crossings, adding this crossing if possible. So I think the ideas are definitely there and to Councilor Knight's point, it's just making it happen. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I wanna thank Councilor Bears for bringing this forward. I have a few comments on this if I could just read them off. So some people will say this is symbolism, and I definitely agree. It's symbolic of the commitments that we've made as a city, and this is the easy thing. If we can't do the easy thing, how will we do the hard work? How will we ensure that in 5, 10, 15, 25, 50 years, we're not right back here having done nothing of substance and learned nothing? So the uncomfortable truth is that for far too long, this country has said that Black lives do not matter. Their disparate health outcomes, their housing discrimination, and unequal rates of school suspension, arrests, and imprisonment. We say they do not matter. We said they do not matter by saying that all men are created equal, but in fact, not meaning Black men. So through chattel slavery, segregation, limiting voting rights, and Jim Crow, we have said that black lives do not matter, which is why we must now state unequivocally that black lives do matter. To say so is not a political act. It's a statement of human rights. We've declared systemic racism a public health crisis in this city. And perhaps if we have a reminder in front of city hall every day, we will make good on the work that is needed to actually address this crisis. And for this, I support this measure. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Hello? I just found her and unmuted her.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Laurel. Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to reiterate my point that this is not a political statement. This is about human rights. The Office of Special Counsel found that Black Lives Matter is not a political statement. And to say that it is a political statement is something that you're able to do when your life, your lived experience, your day in, day out is not impacted. And it's a privilege to be able to say, hey, that's political. Whereas for everyone else, for the people affected, it's a human right. So thank you. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President, I just have a question around clarity. I think there's the original motion, just moving for approval for the original paper, and then there's Councilor Marks's, which is to receive and place on file. Are those separate? As I understand, there's two motions out there.
[Nicole Morell]: So we have Councilor Morell, then Councilor Knight, Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I'd like to offer an amendment to this ordinance. We've had a number of residents reach out. It seems that we're really remiss in not including a definition for brew pub in these additional definitions. I do have suggested language for that when the clerk is ready.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, now I have to find it, okay. Now I have to find it on my screen, sorry. Okay, a brew pub is an establishment that provides full onsite meal service and is also licensed to brew beer on the premises. A brewpub...
[Nicole Morell]: Yep.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. And a brewpub shall sell 25% or more of its beer on site and Last, a brew pub shall be categorized as a restaurant and not as a brewery for the purposes of zoning. There's a number of other cities and towns, sorry, and then that's the end of that. There's a number of other cities and towns that have the same definition. It varies a little bit, but it's the same intent. And I think it's something we definitely need to add to this ordinance.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Morell, did you want to speak? Yeah, I won't withdraw the amendment, and I don't see why we can't add this amendment, and then it goes to the CD board and get their opinion on all of these pieces together. And just point of note, I was not on the previous council that failed to act on this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Peers. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to add briefly, obviously there's been a lot of talk about Medford Brewing, but I know so much, or at least a portion of the back and forth about the brewery ordinance was related to food. So I think this is also something that really addresses that and establishing that restaurant type. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Harris. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I'll also be brief. I just want to add that as of yesterday, our seven-day average of new positive cases in the state of Massachusetts was the highest it's been in a month and a half, which is just to say, I mean, the numbers are still lower than many other states, but this is just to say this is very much an ongoing situation that we have to be nimble with. So I just look forward to getting that written response from the administration about plans moving forward and how we might adjust depending on the information coming out. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Andre, I've unmuted John Witten from KP Law at his request.
[Nicole Morell]: Sounds good. Thank you, Andre. I just wanted to reiterate because, again, we do have three new board members, so I think it will be helpful for the applicant to present and sort of give a summary of this as well. But I just wanted to give the high-level overview. A lot of it Andre just mentioned, but I'll highlight that the petitioner is seeking both an approval of a definitive subdivision plan and a special permit for site plan review. And both of those are for the 10-lot subdivision at 541 and 551 Winthrop Street. The original hearing was opened on May 15th, 2019 and was continued to September 11th, 2019 at the request of the applicant so that he could respond to questions by several department heads in their review of the project. At the September hearing, the board found that information necessary to ensure the access for public safety vehicles and the provision of proper utilities to ensure adequate water for domestic and firefighting purposes, sewage and storm drainage was deficient and thus the definitive subdivision plan was denied. The board also found that the site plan review application did not meet site plan review standards relative to imposing undue burden on sewers, sanitary, storm drains, water distribution systems, or similar public facilities that could have been avoided by modification to the plans and the special permit for site plan review was denied. This decision was appealed by the applicant and the project was remanded back to the community development board to hold a new public hearing in light of additional information submitted for consideration by the board. And so revised materials were submitted to the board in June. City departments reviewed and made some comments on that. And as a few materials were submitted today as well, given that many of you may not have had a chance to review that, and same with the city staff as well, I think I would ask that the to go over those items, what has been done since the September hearing, what was submitted as additional information today, and kind of discuss where that stands in that regard.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I'll find you. So Ed Champey and JJ Richa. Here we go. Unmute. Ed, you are unmuted.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I can share permission for that with a member of your team if they would like to do that.
[Nicole Morell]: J.J., you are now a co-host.
[Nicole Morell]: JJ, can you... And you should be able to share now, JJ.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Could you repeat her name again?
[Nicole Morell]: Andre, we have Renata Doros who would like to speak.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I'm going to unmute Peter now.
[Nicole Morell]: Peter, can I ask you to state your name and address for the record as well?
[Nicole Morell]: Len?
[Nicole Morell]: That would be great. Let me unmute you again, Mr. Libby. Your street address, please.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. OK. No, go ahead.
[Nicole Morell]: Annie, do we have others? We have some comments that have come in via email and phone, so I'm going to turn it over to Ali to read those into the record. great.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes. Peter, I believe, already spoke, so I'm going to go to Lev now.
[Nicole Morell]: Looks like the last one is Peter, who would like to speak again.
[Nicole Morell]: First is Navar.
[Nicole Morell]: Alex Lessenhop.
[Nicole Morell]: Dan Fairchild.
[Nicole Morell]: Alexis Smith?
[Nicole Morell]: I received one comment via chat here from Mina Sharma, 6th Street. And they say, one, to clarify, does this zoning amendment override the zoning of apartment one, apartment two, et cetera, should be a holistic review as opposed to casual requirement in certain zones? Two, what kind of commercial slash mixed use parking requirements would be imposed on the new building and the neighborhood? And is that at the discretion of city council? Three, why aren't we encouraging mixed use versus forcing it? Four, in light of COVID and the impact of small businesses everywhere, does forcing, and that's where it ends. I'm not sure if we can ask questions, but looking for clarification.
[Nicole Morell]: Mina, you should be unmuted.
[Nicole Morell]: Andrew, I think you missed the BJ's one.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure. Hold on one moment.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, you should be good.
[Nicole Morell]: Jessica Wall, you should be unmuted.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, B. Dan Fairchild, you are unmuted.
[Nicole Morell]: No, none have come in.
[Nicole Morell]: And just to confirm, Mark, you'll work with me on an extension of the timeframe, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: Great, perfect, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, I have unmuted Matt and Joe. And thank you guys for sticking around so late. If you want, I can just give sort of a brief overview of what you're asking for and the situation, and you can supplement it as you'd like, if that works.
[Nicole Morell]: And the proponent is requesting that the board reduce that bond amount. They requested that it be reduced down to $27,774. And the city engineer performed a site visit and a review of their reduction request. And his estimate came back at $38,126. So he'd like the city to hold on to a little bit more funding or bond amount than what the proponent had requested. He said that this estimate includes a 20% contingency, but this amount could be adjusted at the discretion of the board if you would like. So the board is being asked to vote whether to approve or deny this bond reduction and sort of what the amount would be. But the city engineer's estimate is for 38,126. And the second part of this is that The proponent had asked for the board's opinion on whether they could pursue full building permits. And I did get the city engineer's take on that. And he said, I take no exception to releasing the lots for full building permits. In fact, I prefer it. It is nice to have the houses built prior to final paving. It also gives the binder a time to settle in reducing things like potholes and sub-base related cracking in the finish. So that's just sort of an update on that.
[Nicole Morell]: Sorry.
[Nicole Morell]: So the main comments that I incorporated, um, were around sort of language tweaks. And one of the things was bringing in some language about, um, looking at the city's project review and the permitting processes and things like that. So I tried to expand some of the areas to include that so that when the consultants come back, they'll know that they're looking at that as well, rather than just making a plan and looking at the zoning. We also want to understand the city's processes and what is included in that. I added some language around strengthening that public outreach piece and the public participation and really marketing the plan and making that a focus of how do we get responses from the community and how do we make sure all different parts of the community know that this is happening and are able to participate. I added some language that Christy sent about broad goals. And maybe I can actually just read those two. There are a few different areas where the RFP talks about goals and things, but this was an interesting sort of overarching goals of both the comprehensive plan and the phase two that would look at kind of the zoning and the processes. And it's to document a clear vision, connect a public investment in that vision. connect regulation to that vision, create a roadmap for thinking and acting from a comprehensive perspective and providing an excellent system for project review. So kind of bringing that comprehensive plan from theoretical down to like, what does this mean systems wise in the city? So those were sort of, and then some changes to some wording around placemaking, walkability, things like that.
[Nicole Morell]: We have an online permitting system. The city launched it right at the start of COVID. Right now, it's mainly just being used for building permits. it will be built out at some point to encompass the rest of it, but right, that's still sort of in flux, in process. So that's, I could mention that specifically if you want, but there is a software that the building department has committed to and is being trained on and the other department heads are being trained on. So I think that's sort of in progress.
[Nicole Morell]: That is also in progress. The assessor's office is, there's a consulting firm making that for them.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, so that's in progress. And then I would assume that part of since phase one is sort of the comprehensive plan and phase two is more looking at the the vision and goals from the comprehensive plan. What do we need to change in the zoning? What do we need to change in our processes to get there? And so that I would envision would include an update to that digital zoning map to reflect any zoning changes. But also the engineering department will sort of take ownership of that map once it exists. It'll be a GIS layer that can actually be edited and changed and exists already.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I guess there's sort of two terms. In my mind, there's like the term of like when you do the plan, but if it should be looking farther than that, I guess. There was some language about 10 to 20 years. That's something that I think if you guys have any input on, but there might be some things that wouldn't necessarily happen in 10 years that you might wanna start initial steps for or be planning for in a comprehensive plan, maybe.
[Nicole Morell]: I can take a stab at adding some language about what I'm hearing is... It'd be kind of a 10-year plan, but with a piece that is looking long-term, a long-term visioning piece that really focuses on where do we want to be in 30 years or so, and takes into account climate and key development areas and all of that. But the plan itself and the action items would be focused on that 10-year timeframe. Other things to emphasize will be making sure the plan has key performance indicators or some way to measure the success of implementation over time.
[Nicole Morell]: Am I missing anything?
[Nicole Morell]: So I could try to add some of that language in, send out the link again when that's been done and maybe give you guys a week or so to review it and send me any final comments. And with the expectation that we would put this out prior to the next meeting, so we wouldn't have another group conversation about it.
[Nicole Morell]: All right, is there a motion on the... I'm jinxed, that's Andre.
[Nicole Morell]: Bye.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information. For what purpose?
[Nicole Morell]: On the motion of, I'm sorry, Councilor Morell, I missed what you said, I apologize. I was just seeing if there were specific papers, if they could reference the specific papers they want to take out under suspension.
[Nicole Morell]: Just a point of clarification that the president had previously met and addressed a previously voted on resolution and more than 200 individuals have come out to previously scheduled meetings. So I just want that to be on the record.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor. Point of information, Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Is the motion to table this resolution, or is the motion to amend this resolution?
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information. Point of information, Councilor Morell. The paper that's being discussed does not reference Zoom, and that's why it's coming up.
[Nicole Morell]: There's just a group and an organization that keeps on being referenced. I'm not sure. I don't understand who's being referenced or being addressed.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm glad everybody thinks this is funny. Thank you, Mr. President. I do want to note that I do get frustrated by Zoom sometimes. I've had a few times where I've had my hands up. And I know when we have such high attendance, it's hard to see everyone with their hand up. And it's a little different if we're in the chambers and I were able to push the button and get online. But these are things that have to be done because we are still very much in the middle of a pandemic. I know things are being shared about how many budgets people have done. This is my first budget. But like every other Councilor, this is my first budget during a pandemic. I've only lived in Medford for seven years, but I've lived here long enough to hear the phrase Medford is not XY or Z city. So while I appreciate that the city of Canton met in person, I think we as Medford can identify a way to move forward. One way actually has been previously identified. I have been at the meetings, but I do welcome the president's absolute willingness to work with every Councilor and lead on this. the fact that many members of the public and members of the council and department heads and the administration have been on three budget meetings that did not go on. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: The resolution being discussed wasn't on the agenda. It was submitted under suspension.
[Nicole Morell]: I will stop after this, but I just want to say that I have very much respect to this, this council on this body. And that's why I showed up to the three budget meetings.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Director Nunley, so I know we've talked in previous meetings just about amounts or ratios for things like free cash that's preferred to have in the account. Does something like this exist in this type of account that's a recommended amount or ratio? I know you said you feel comfortable with this amount, but I don't know if there's anything else.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President? Yes, Council Member. Are you looking for physical hands, hands in the Zoom, either or?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Point of information, Councilor Raul. I'm actually in my office, not my bedroom. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information.
[Nicole Morell]: I just want to clarify that the phases of the reopening are not set by the belief that COVID is no longer a threat. It's based on the fact that there's now room in the hospital should more people get ill to that point. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to address the first question. I mean, it's endless work as far as, and ongoing work as far as bias and anti-racism. So, I mean, I've got books on the bookshelf. You know, I've got the, the new Jim Crow. I've got how to be an anti-racist. And there was a great event from the Boston Globe with the author of how to be an anti-racist last week. That was great. So those are just some highlights. And number two, I'll be specific. When I ran my first sign meeting as chair of the science subcommittee, Councilor Scarpelli was very giving of his knowledge and his time to help me run that meeting. And I'm very appreciative of that. And I continue to be appreciative of that. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So this is just a resolution simply to take this paper back up. It was originally introduced as 19-312 in the last session to establish a women or gender equity commission in the city of Medford by ordinance. So I've gotten much outreach over the past few months about this potential commission. And I think now with so many people looking for ways that they can be involved in what goes on at City Hall and lead Medford forward in these times. I think it's important that we advance it and bring it back to a committee of the whole to work out kind of the final issues around the ordinance. There's, of course, the intersectionality of issues of race, gender, and class that this commission would definitely focus on and advance forward. And I think it's a much needed ordinance at this time, as well as to have these conversations going forward so I it's just a motion to have this taken up at a future committee of the whole console moral Thank you for bringing this forward on this actually is on our list.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to echo Councilor Bears. For those who were able to attend the conversation on racism event online last week, this is something that came up repeatedly, issues with communication as far as them needing to be more equitable, and just a first step to making sure voices are heard from the community. So if this council is about action, this is a great first action we can take to really address some of the inequities that exist and not to call anyone out, but to the gentleman who struggled to find tonight's council agenda on the website, so did I. So there's obviously a lot of room for improvement. So I look forward to that and I support this. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to thank Councilor Marks for bringing this forward. I think this is a great opportunity to support our local businesses and their efforts for outdoor safe dining, and then also a great way to reimagine Medford and get some ideas to make us a much more multimodal city. So I support this. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: In efforts of working equitably moving forward, I found them stupendous.
[Nicole Morell]: If I could. Councilor Morell. Mr. President, I just want to note that we're just a few minutes shy of midnight. We've got 93 people on the call. So I want to thank everyone for coming out and sticking with us.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. So I thank Vice President Caraviello for bringing this forward, but I just have one concern with this. So it was my understanding that at our most recent budget update, our independent auditor suggested that we use the free cash a certain amount, I think, $6 million or somewhere around there was referenced. Obviously that's up to the mayor, but because we could get enough local receipts back to bring us back to the level we're at now and maintain our bond rating. So considering cuts are already being made that have been referenced and the fact that school will be much more expensive to run, it doesn't seem to me to be in the best interest of our city and our schools to then take any money we might get from a bailout and put that back into free cash. I feel like because the independent auditor said we're able to get back up to a good level with the receipts coming in, that money that, you know, again, we don't know if this money is ever coming, but if it does come, that be put back in to make up for those cuts that are already happening and bring people on and secure people's jobs and make sure our school is prepared and our city services are prepared for this coming fall. So unless it's amended, I can't vote for this at this point, just because I don't think that taking that money and not applying it where it's most needed is the most prudent decision. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just wanted to clarify what I was saying. I'm not saying I'm going to vote against the mayor using free cash. What I'm saying is the way this current resolution is written, the second part I do disagree with because I think if a federal bailout or a state level bailout or something comes down, that money should then be applied to the cuts that have already been made and to secure positions within the schools in the city. So that's where my level of disagreement is. I'm not going to vote against free cash, but just the way this resolution is written, I don't agree with the second part. So I just want to clarify that. So thank you. Thank you, Councilor Morell. Councilor Marks.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: He sent a message in the chat. Oh, let's see. Let me look at the chat here.
[Nicole Morell]: Hang on a second. I do see a raised hand, Mr. President.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Like my fellow councilors, I've received more than 100 emails in the past week plus with residents seeking information related to questions as far as what our police and Medford are doing to ensure the safety and support of all members of our community. And more specifically, what the current practices and policies of our police are, and how they might relate to recent policy suggestions that work to stop police violence and stop police killings throughout this country. So my intention with this is to send it to the public safety subcommittee for a future meeting held with all urgency. where the chief of police can attend and address these questions, as well as allow the subcommittee members and the public to ask more specific policy questions. I did talk to the chief earlier last week. It's my understanding that he's working on a public document to address a lot of these questions. But I do think this is something that needs to be taken up in a subcommittee so that we can have more specific questions and conversation around this. I do understand there's a Similar type motion, but I think this is something that we need to address as a subcommittee. And I move for approval to send the paper there.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, Councilor Bears for putting so much of that into a statement and putting it so well. So you alluded to this, but I'm gonna start by reading off a few statistics. So black Americans are nearly three times more likely than white Americans to be killed by police. Black women die of pregnancy related causes at a rate about three times higher than those of white women. Black Americans are dying of COVID-19 at a three times rate of white Americans. And black Americans face a higher risk of particle pollution than white Americans, which recent research has shown ties into the severity of COVID-19 cases. All of this does nothing to speak of the immense mental health toll of systemic and structural racism on black Americans. These are just a few highlights of the so-called social determinants of health. So to me, as has been referenced already by Councilor Bears, it's incredibly apparent that structural and systemic racism is a public health crisis. Saying so follows in line with statements of the American Medical Association, the American College of Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Public Health Association. However, simply naming this emergency does not get the work done. I'm committed, as I hope are my council colleagues, to work within our power and alongside our colleagues on the school committee and in the administration to work within our system and our structures to break down the systemic and structural racism that exists within this city and within this country. And I think the mayor, I had a line about us not being able to advance this work on our own. So I thank the mayor for coming out and supporting this statement. And that will allow us to dedicate resources and time to eradicate this issue. And I also speak to the fact that I received probably more than 100 emails from community members around this, from residents seeking change and conversations that have needed to happen for decades that we cannot and should not ignore any longer. So again, this resolution is not the work. It's asking for the work to begin and inviting our colleagues throughout city government to work on this intractable challenge. And I ask my fellow Councilors to support this resolution. And again, I thank the mayor for coming out with her declaration. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Bears. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, and I will just be brief. I just want to echo what Councilor Bears was saying. This is a starting point. It feels silly to say naming the problem because this is something that has existed since the beginning of our country. And as Marianne O'Connor said, this is a known issue, but it's naming it and it's starting these conversations. And absolutely, as I said, when I introduced this, this is not the work. The work starts from here. This is naming where we have to go from here. And again, as Councilor Behr said, this is responding to a direct call from the Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus I'm encouraging us to do this, to do this action. This is one of the many actions they're encouraging. So I'm trying to listen to those voices and move off that. And I want to, I'll stop talking as well. I want to give time for people to talk. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm not trying to delve too deep into this topic, but I think we need to watch carefully when we're asking people of color to do the unpaid labor of educating us. Racism is something white people had a very good part in, and I think we could definitely think of some ways we can do better by it, and not asking people of color in Medford to answer all of our questions and do all the work for us. So I just want to that on the record. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Um, just a quick question. Sorry if I missed this, Alicia, you referenced that this is coming from a program that's no longer going on. What program is that? The leak detection system. Okay, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. It's just a question for Adam. The reason for the extra funds, I guess, is there like because lack of use for hours or do we know the reason?
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I want to thank Councilor Marks for bringing this forward and also echo the laudatory remarks on Peter and Luke. They're really phenomenal and are always there to answer questions. And also echo Vice President Caraviello, where right now plane travel is down. So we're getting a bit of a reprieve, but now is really the time where we have to keep advancing this because as Councilor Marks pointed out, Medford has been taking advantage of in the past and we don't wanna let up right now. And I do have concerns. This is something we need to raise right now as well, because I have concerns that there has been stuff coming out of the FAA of smaller airports having less flights going to them, but where do those flights go instead? Do they come into Boston instead? And do they go right over our Medford residents, you know, as an onslaught instead. So I'm thankful for Councilor Marks bringing this up and that this is moving forward. And hopefully we continue to work towards a resolution that can really make stuff more equitable for the residents in the area. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Bears. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I mean, Councilor Bears, really said it all. But this is just to help our local restaurants that are struggling to survive right now. And as the resolution says, this is can really be the difference between life or death for these local businesses and the way some of these third party apps work. Sometimes businesses restaurants actually lose money on individual orders, because of the way the rate fee is structured. And these are restaurants, a lot of them that do have, you know, you call their phone number, you can put in an order, but people are just so I think this is just something that I ask our Councilors to show support for our local restaurants and again to this concept as it is kind of like many things in this time. It is moving and shifting and our legislators are taking it up. But just to express the support for our local businesses and the movement of this at the state level.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Um, so I had several community members reach out to me and I'm sure my fellow Councilors about this day of mourning, um, that was actually yesterday, uh, to mark the terrible loss of more than 100,000 American, I'm sorry, 100,000 Americans. So losses that have likely touched every single one of us, um, through our friends, our family, our colleagues and our community members. Um, it's worth noting that the coronavirus has been particularly deadly to already marginalized members of our communities. the elderly in care homes, communities of color, those living in poverty. And I just think we must take the time as we have in previous meetings to mourn those that we've lost and to make a promise to ourselves to do better by those communities that are facing disproportionate impacts of this virus and this disease.
[Nicole Morell]: I can see George moving. We lost you for about maybe 15 seconds, sorry. Okay, figures. But as I was saying, I'll pick up somewhere in the middle, but the... Are you guys frozen again?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, everyone stop moving, sorry. So the coronavirus has been particularly deadly to already marginalized members of our community, elderly in care homes, communities of color, those living in poverty. And I just ask that we take a moment, as we have a few weeks in a row, but now the cumulative number of those lost, just to mourn those that have been lost and especially make a promise to ourselves to do better by those communities that are facing disproportionate impacts of this disease, because they have to be in the front lines, because they live in crowded housing, because they live in polluted neighborhoods. And I do have I do know we have at least one community member here that wants to speak after any councilor members Want to add anything?
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I think Judy is in the audience. She reached out about this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I wanna thank Councilor Knight for putting this forth and echo my council colleagues. As a new Councilor, you get pretty familiar with the DPW very quickly, and I was fortunate enough to take a tour throughout the whole yard with Brian and Steve, and they took me around, and I got to meet everyone and see the people that are super responsive, who are out there responding to residents, either going through us or going directly, and they are an instrumental part of this city, and so much of what the city is could not be possible without them. So I really wanna echo the thanks for their service. Thank you, Councilor Morell. Councilor Marks.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Kavyao. Councilor Morales. Thank you, Mr. President. Roberta, you mentioned that one of the reasons that people might not be getting through is that their landlord doesn't want to participate in the program. Could you just explain what that means?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, perfect.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Doug, just a question. So is this the this amount is finalized, this is what you know that this will cost, or is there a chance you may have to come back for more?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Bears, Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I also, I see the intention behind this, but this feels overly broad to me in its current form. Like Councilor Knight, I do have some reluctance in pushing something like this forward. The body is moving forward in a holistic approach to zoning and recodification of our existing laws. But as I understand, other cities have similar ordinances focusing on ratios, but they often rely on overlay districts to apply something like this, which, you know, seems more something I'd be more in favor of. I would also hope that with zoning ideas like this to encourage more mixed use, that the administration also is exploring ways to support and encourage businesses looking for these spaces. Opening up a business and having a business that's supportive of the community in Medford is much more than just having a physical space for it. But nonetheless, I would also support the motion to hear from the city board on this. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Vice President Caraviello. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I appreciate my colleagues focus on safety, but I'm just a little lost as to when we decided or how it was decided that we would be back in the chambers for this type of stuff. I do understand the frustration with these types of meetings. There's a certain amount that gets lost in them, but I think this, what we're doing right now is the temporary measure. We think there is a challenge with testing. We can test the city council and then we go and around our spouses who might be going to work or going to places. And that test doesn't matter if we're exposed in the next day. And if you've been paying attention to the news, the things that matter as far as contracting this is space and time. And if we're together for hours and we're in places where workers have to be because they can't work from home, I think it's just a risk. And again, I appreciate the idea behind this, but I feel like I'm a little lost as to where everyone going back to City Hall has been decided upon at this point.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President and Councilor Bears. Yeah, I just wanted to put this out to thank Paul and Nancy for their many years of service to the interested residents of Medford. I'm obviously a big fan of civic engagement, no matter what side of the aisle you're on. I think it's a laudable cause to volunteer your time in this way. And I just wanted to put it out there to thank and congratulate them on their many years of service to the residents of Medford that are interested. And I'm sure I will have much more appreciation for their dedication in the coming months. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: I think Councilor Knight actually had his hand up first.
[Nicole Morell]: You want to go first it's fine with me. Thank you, Mr. President. Just question for Tim remind me about the, the easements as far as the, the funding for the minor easements remind me just what that amount is and where it comes from.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. God's all night. God's love. Morel. Thank you, Mr. President. Just a few more questions. So, Tim, if you could remind me just procedurally what the steps are as far as between now and you know if this project's approved, uh, or what levels it has to be approved for work to actually begin. So I understand it's been approved by the mayor and then tonight we're voting on orders of the taking. Is there are there any additional things that the council has to vote on? And what stands between now and if the project were to start?
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, thank you. And remind me, these funding opportunities through Safe Routes to School, They're very competitive. How many about, do you know, are given out across the country, uh, are awarded, um, yearly or how often they're awarded?
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information, Councilor Morell. Is that conditional saying, well, like, you'll only vote for this if, or that's a suggestion on top of? No, that's not what I said.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, so I just want to echo what my council colleagues are saying is that I thank Councilor Knight for bringing this forward, and we really are in a place where the more information we have access to, the better we're able to act when that time comes, when the budget does come down. Municipalities are doing this, businesses are doing this, where they're looking at all scenarios, whether it's you know, a 5% cut, a 10% cut, a 15% cut in the money that's coming down so that we can really look at all of our options and understand when that budget does come out, what information we're working with. So, you know, part of the challenge of these times is the absolute level of uncertainty. So those places where we can get more information before it's time to act, I think is really essential. So I echo my council colleagues in that sense and support these resolutions.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. This one's pretty self-explanatory, but in recent days, we've seen Malden, Everett, Somerville earlier, Cambridge. We're surrounded by cities that have expanded their testing for their residents or universal testing for residents through partnerships with different health organizations or hospitals. And I think as there is talk at the state level of what these phases are going to look like as we work towards eventual reopening, I think we need to take a serious look at testing for our residents. As of last week, they updated the numbers and out of 351 cities and towns, Medford is still around 22 as far as rates of coronavirus cases. So I think this is something really important that we need to get an update from the administration on and understand where we are in this.
[Nicole Morell]: I do not know. I know Brookline is doing the random, I believe, antibody testing, but these, I pulled them out because they're doing the active infection testing.
[Nicole Morell]: I found them to be an order and move approval. Sorry to disappoint.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President, I think my question just got addressed I was just trying to identify whether there was idea of any in person public participation but this is solely to clarify for the council and then any representatives, relative to their specific budgets that would be presented, correct.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I was curious if Chief of Staff Rodriguez could clarify, are these like cotton washable masks or the single-use masks, if you could just provide a little information.
[Nicole Morell]: And will information be provided as far as, I guess, the recommended number of uses of this type of mask?
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I want to thank John and Roberta for coming out tonight. And John, to your point, I think this work is still so important. It goes on. And I think unfortunately, in times like this, cultural and art programs are usually the first to go. And so often history, personal history, city history is shared at these very meetings. So I agree with Vice President Caraviello that it's definitely a noble cause to do the upgrades we need to make sure we're preserving this history and making it accessible to the community. and particularly the elderly community that so enjoys it, as you mentioned. So I do support this.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I was just curious how often we could get updates on that percentage response rate.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. So just clarifying that the 232 pieces of sidewalk that were accomplished in 2019, that is with the 500,000, that was the amount of money?
[Nicole Morell]: So $500,000. OK. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Mr. Rundberg for bringing this up. I have heard from other constituents having the same concerns. I think there's a number of factors, obviously, to Vice President Caraviello's point. Some people just maybe don't care. They're not thinking. They don't think they're in danger. But, you know, there's access to masks. Not everyone has the financial means, the access. I know anything can be a mask, but not everyone has that. privilege time to even think about that when they're running out the door. And I think it's also just a challenge for our local businesses that have had to pivot so much. And I see the signs in West Bedford Square requiring people to wear masks, but I think there's just a challenge there as far as now they're pivoting their business to adjust to these closures. And also now they have to act as a sort of police to kick people out of their store, ask them to do certain things. perhaps it is going that full extent to have this further requirement that if we go this level, perhaps we'll catch at least a little bit more people trying to put these, getting these masks on for the protection and so that we can continue to flatten the curve and, you know, ideally reopen and get some sense of normalcy back in the future. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, Councilor Marra. Thank you, Mr. President. If Chief of Staff Rodriguez could speak to as far as enforcement of the current orders.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, just echoing a lot of my fellow councilors questions and thank you to Councilor Scarpelli for providing that information. Just some basic questions related to this that I think the administration can easily address. I'm curious, it's phase three out of how many phases, and understanding, will there be another request for money? Is that going to be the next fiscal year? Does this $500,000, when does that carry us to a future request? Is this it? So simple questions that the administration can address when the chief of staff comes on or when we revisit this.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, so I was just seeing, it's, I believe, I mean, it being called phase three, I just got from the fellow councilors, so understanding what the phase is, and when does this, is there, are we anticipating another request? Is this the final request of something like this? Yeah, I think those two cover it.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I mean, I think a lot of the questions, as we're trying to piecemeal get to an overview of this whole project, as Councilor Mark said. So I think if there's another phase or something like this comes up again, just an overview would be really helpful in understanding what we're being asked to approve.
[Nicole Morell]: George, you're muted.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I just had a question regarding what priority means. Is it time bound? Is there a certain amount of time that Medford families can apply and then it would go down the list to other families? I'm just curious for clarity on what priority signifies.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I want to thank everyone who brought this forward. I know this was put together with some amount of speed because this is what's necessary at these times. This crisis is happening in real time and people's needs are happening in real time and different levels of government can act at different levels of speed. And I think we need to respond to this as much as we can. This crisis impacts people differently. A lot of us are fortunate enough to be able to work from home. We continue our work and we don't notice it. There are people that this is making a huge impact on. 22 million people applying for unemployment throughout the country. These are incredible numbers. And I think we're going to see the demand. And I think there's been a lot of questions about an agency like ABCD facilitating this. And I think those questions have been answered and addressed in the sheer scope of the challenge and the fact that ABCD goes farther to follow people and help them really in the ways they need to be helped when they do qualify for these programs. My father led one of the sister organizations to ABCD for the entirety of his career. And I've seen how this impacts communities, how it impacts people who need these programs. And I have all the faith in programs like ABCD to facilitate these things and to help people and to do the vetting and to make sure that Medford is put first. And to the point that has been made before, if we don't do this, nothing's happening. Of course, there is a small amount of risk as we kind of build the plane as we're flying it, but we're in unprecedented times. And I think this is something that we do need to move forward with to help Medford families and to offer something for people who are really struggling right now. So I look forward to supporting this. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Scarpelli. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to also extend my congratulations. Like anyone in the city, if you've had anything to do with politics, you have to go through Henry. So I've been fortunate enough to establish a relationship with him, and I want to congratulate them both. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: The grand finale. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to echo my fellow councilors, thank Councilor Bears for bringing this up. I know we had talked many months ago about the budget coming sooner, but obviously these are kind of extenuating circumstances where we need a bit of a heads up before we get to that point, not only as a body, but I think the general public, you know, deserves to kind of know a little bit more about where we stand. Obviously, we're down on meals taxes, receipts and hospitality tax receipts and things like that. And we operate on pretty tight margins in the first place. And as Medford has never done an override, our margins and our budgets are pretty tight. So I think just understanding what we're operating with as a body and also so that our general public can understand what kind of things we're looking at in these dire times. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Bears. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I want to echo my colleagues and thanking my other colleagues for bringing this forward. Councilor Scarpelli made a really good point that, you know, we do have potholes and we have deterioration on our streets, but so much of this is this patchwork, and it really becomes a public safety issue. A lot of times, say, bike riders, walkers, runners are dodging this patchwork, and now they're in traffic, and now there's a car swerving around them, or we're going up farther, or it's just It's a great way, it's a trip hazard. So I think this is really a public safety issue that needs to be addressed and be addressed by the people. I look forward to supporting this and I thank my Councilors for raising the issue in such a way. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, just since this was reprinted just from the original meeting where I had the erroneous information the current cap is at 40,000. But in short, this is a program, as you read it allows seniors meeting certain criteria and the city, and under an income cap to defer their real estate taxes until they either sell their home or pass away. And currently our cap sits at $40,000, and the idea was to raise this. We're able to raise this as high as the senior circuit breaker tax income credit. And I believe for fiscal year 21, that would be $60,000. We, by voting on this now, would go into effect for fiscal year 21. So it came up last year, last year, last week, the idea of a $50,000 cap. I think originally we were all thinking of doing more, but in light of to raise the cap to $50,000 for fiscal year 21.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, as the statute is written, it says just, it says by a vote of the council alderman, whatever. I spoke, the clerk has his hand up.
[Nicole Morell]: But as I said, as the state statutes ran it, the wording I believe is by a vote of, it can be said by a vote of. It's actually fairly kind of a... I was just gonna say if we wanna pass this resolution and then we have the committee reports at the end of the meeting to the correct point, whether it's through the... this resolution or adopting the committee report, it seems like we should have our bases covered. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I'd be happy to add a B paper that when this is set and finalized, that it go out in the next send of real estate, tax bills, a notification that this program does exist in the deadline. I don't, maybe it would be too soon to send in the next one as the deadline is April 1st of next year, but just actually including that with a future set of bills.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah. Yeah. And it honestly, it might get lost during this time anyway. So perhaps closer to when the deadline is for the program.
[Nicole Morell]: Mr. President. Councilor Marks.
[Nicole Morell]: The deadline's actually april 1st of next year. Okay, so if we sent it out in the next tax bill, everybody should have a correct That's the bill that everybody gets that owns homes Yeah, and it may be I mean i'm fine leaving uh it as um, just saying a future bill and perhaps deferring to the assessors when it would be be most beneficial or there's not other stuff that has to go out as well to send it out. I mean, we can conjecture as far as what people might do if they get it in there six months from now, whether they'll lose that paper and forget about it. So I'd be happy to just defer to the administration.
[Nicole Morell]: Correct. Right. Right.
[Nicole Morell]: I can address it if... Sure. So the question is, so this item will be deferred until April 1st question. So the deadline for fiscal year 2020 was April 1st of this year, and we would have had to set the rate actually by the end of the previous fiscal year. So we have to, this rate has to be decided by the end of this fiscal year in order for it to be enacted for fiscal year 2021. And the deadline to apply for that is April 1st of 2021. Okay. I think I saw an okay.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes, thank you, Mr. President. So I just want to note and really reiterate that House Bill 440 urges the Massachusetts legislature to take action to pass a measure to enable independent public retirement systems to use their prudent judgment in regards to fossil fuel divestment. So it's important to note that this body's support of the bill does not codify any action by the city, but it simply expresses our support of a bill that would allow us to divest from fossil fuels at some time in the future, should we choose to do so. So I bring this forth, Councilor Bears and I bring this forth at the behest of many citizens that have reached out in the city of Medford, and a number of which are actually in the retirement system in the city. By de facto investing our retirement funds in fossil fuels, we tacitly support emissions that contribute to climate change and all the damage associated with it, including air pollution and any issues and ailments caused by it. And I think it's, we as a city, It's very hard for us to work towards climate change adaptation and mitigation in one office while we invest in the very industry that's caused the need for such things in another. So the current crisis also highlights just how vulnerable and sensitive our systems are. And we can't continue to invest in a system that damages the very planet we live on and exacerbates all natural crises. And that's kind of my stump for that.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Perak. As I understand Perak, In a previous decision brought forth from the Somerville City Council, and I know there are actually people on this call who are very well versed in that, they advised against it, but they actually, at a later date, they went back on that decision, I believe, or just decided that it was actually not the best advisement as far as ways to invest. So because that independent board had advised against it, they were, the Somerville City Council was unable to pass their measure. And that's why this has come up in this form, because I see Councilor Scarpelli has his hand raised. If people can offer, yeah, I mean, that's my poor retelling of it, so.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, thank you, Mr. President. So this isn't just like a feel good kind of, so Bill, I mean, it does feel good, but the boards do need specific legislative authority because the way it is designed, and I do know that there are people on the call that can speak to this, but it's not just that there is specific authority that is needed.
[Nicole Morell]: Point of information. Thank you, Councilmember Mox. Point of information, Councilmember Morell. So this won't codify any decision by our public, our retirement system. This will just say we have, it will give bodies like the public retirement system in Medford, it will give them the option to make this decision. It doesn't divest. It doesn't do anything. It just gives the option to make that decision at a future date, should they choose to.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. First, I want to start off commending the administration for the sheer amount of information they've been presenting online through reverse 911, social media, It's definitely been helpful in these times when everything is changing so fast. But there is still a certain amount of our community that might not be reached by these measures. So I think it's definitely whatever we can do to get a mailing out to or a physical piece of mail out to our residents so that they understand not only what's going on in the city, but relevant to recent congressional policy that's been passed as far as how it impacts individuals, those seeking unemployment, as well as small businesses and that whole program. So again, I do understand that everything is changing by the minute. I mean, you can see it just in this meeting, the fact that where stuff is being withdrawn because stuff has changed in the few days since we submitted. But I do think it's important that we view an opportunity to work with the administration to do a print material to reach people we might not be reaching otherwise.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, to to Councilor Baer's point, I think it's It's including information that's not gonna change. It's the city services that are available to people. And I think we also have to look at this through an equity lens and not every house has access to the internet or they follow on Facebook or they signed up for the reverse 911s and all that. There are people that are not aware of the resources that the city has right now. And there may very well be people who actually they need those resources and they don't have the information about them because of the methods of dissemination we have used so far. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I just want to thank Councilor Bears for bringing this forth. I think this is really important right now. I think we're kind of building the plane as we're flying it as this crisis necessitates. So I think setting up teams like this, task force like this to respond to the pressing needs of our community are really important. And again, getting that cohesive messaging moving forward too as well. So I thank him and I look forward to supporting this.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, yeah, thank you, Mr. President. So we met to go over the signed denials that had come in during the moratorium. We had Mr. Bravuso and Mr. Moki with us to kind of answer any questions. And so we reviewed the three that came in during that time. And then Mr. Bravuso also provided some just ideas for future amendments to the sign ordinance that would help people compliant and really bring it up to date.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, we didn't, the action was, I think it was to keep the papers in committee and then.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Caraviello. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I also agree with my colleagues as far as this not being of the road we want to go down or the response. But I think something is important with the city board recommendation is that for design standards that the building commissioner could draft up. I think, as I understand it, there is a little bit of a gray area with some of this stuff that if the building commissioner could draft some design standards, it would help him to act a little bit more in favor with the attended existing ordinances as far as enforcement and what goes on on lots right now. I don't know if that's something we want to bring up at a later date, but I think it's just something we don't want to lose. Again, I agree. It's not something we should go forward with in general, the zoning change in general, but I do think the design standards are something important we should look into. Thank you, Councilor Morell. Councilor Marks.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Yes.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I see that residents were mailed, abutters were mailed about this. Is that certified mail usually? Is there a way of just confirming receipt of this? I just know sometimes we have issues with notification.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So with the asphalt replacement, would that be curb-to-curb repaving in this instance, or would it be like patchwork? you may be opening up in a way that would only necessitate that, but just for clarity.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So I've been in touch over the past few months with both the building commissioner and the acting city solicitor to try to get an update on this. And the most recent update I have from the city solicitor is the developer is actually in land court with a complaint against the city for this. And that's been continued to at least May, likely further out because of the COVID-19 public health crisis. not really a ton of answers, but I think this may be a reason it's kind of hard to get answers on this right now, is there's ongoing legal proceedings that will really only get probably slowed down at this point, just because of what we're dealing with these days.
[Nicole Morell]: I want to stop you before you go through the whole thing. We had a number of individuals who wanted to, well, we originally submitted, I originally submitted this for the meeting that got canceled and we had a number of individuals that wanted to Councilor Peruzza. I will speak on this but they are unable to make this meeting so motion to table to the next meeting.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to further amend the original paper just so that after the line about immediate moratorium on rent, mortgage payments, evictions, and foreclosures, I know Councilor Bears inserted residential commercial properties, and then just insert the phrase it makes sense, it's kind of a long sentence now, just those people, to clarify them, so those people impacted directly by the COVID-19 pandemic. So for reasons that it's not just like a blanket, so people impacted by that are those we would be focused on.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Yeah, I'm fine with that amendment because the amendment is to sentences that would no longer exist as it is amended by Councilor Baer. So that is fine by me.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to thank you for suggesting that amendment regarding the PPEs. In my full-time role, I've actually been transitioned away from a lot of my normal duties to really help triage an effort to coordinate donations of PPEs to facilities in need. And I'm seeing these emails come through every day of facilities that you would think or you would hope have the level of PPE they need, and they certainly do not. So I think having a better understanding of our levels in Medford And if there is a need for more and, you know, having those numbers so we can explore making sure we're not running out and that we're not asking our first responders and just anyone who needs this kind of personal protective equipment to do without. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I think you're going to say be a motion to waive the reading of the example framework.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, yeah, I'll withdraw. I couldn't find it in the, um, I was looking through the agendas. I sort of looked through the minutes with the agendas. This was an, uh, I think this was an amendment to actually add the permitting. So, uh, I couldn't find it in the agendas. So yeah, I can withdraw this. Okay, no problem.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay. Let's do that. just the reason for, just to speak on it, the reason for this coming up is I'm sure everyone saw, or a lot of people saw the bins in the Aldi's parking lot. There's just an incredible amount of things dumped in front of them. And I think the mayor, she acted on this very quickly and she was able to get people out to clean it up. But I think, I understand that we are in strange times right now and things aren't moving as fast as they normally would. But I think this is actually an issue of public health and we had to divert resources last week, city resources to go clean up this mess that shouldn't be there in the first place. So I think this is something that we do need to, whether it's following up the city solicitor and we'll send this along this framework as well to help guide that. But I think it is something we do need to move on.
[Nicole Morell]: I can add clarity. So this just has to be, when I checked with DLS, this just has to be passed by the end of June for it to go into effect for FY21. So we do have time to pass it. We obviously should move on it as soon as possible so we don't forget or lose it or whatever. But we way missed the deadline to pass this for FY20. That would have had to have been done last June. So we're looking at FY21 for this.
[Nicole Morell]: I mean, I can't remember what words we're using. I can remember what adjectives we found.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just wanted to clarify. So these don't have any impact on the budget as far as these changes. These are simply entitled only, and they don't remove any other. They're not replacing any other positions, correct?
[Nicole Morell]: I want to give you the money Thank You console and I console morale Thank You mr. President. I just want to echo my colleagues and thank you both for coming out I know you're both here early. So thank you for sticking with us and taking the time to present on this It's it's so great to have another space for public art in the city and then combining it with the actual utility of benches Is is beautiful. So thank you for bringing this forth
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Knight for bringing this forward. And I believe sending to the city solicitor, the acting city solicitor for an opinion on this change is the right thing to do. And I agree that this is done in an effort to actually increase participation and that people can understand what's going to be on the agenda and what they can come to speak on and make plans to actually come out to the council to speak on those items. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I mean, I just want to reiterate. I think this is really just the changing of how numbers are assigned. We're not limiting speech. And to Councilor Behr's point, the gentleman's point, and just discussions we had about perhaps looking at our rules in general, maybe it is an option to move that public participation to the beginning of the meeting and in the interest of the community. But it's not limiting speech. It's simply just procedural. So I support it.
[Nicole Morell]: Just as I understand, I mean, the big issue with this change is just saying that this is reserved for only matters requiring council action per law. So I think it's just clarifying the response people can expect. So if they fall under these categories, they can expect that we can act on it as required by law as opposed to issue of another sort that we might not even be, we can deliberate on, but the action we can take is limited to, you know, maybe asking the administration to do something. It's not under our purview by law. So I think this is just adding clarification and helping set expectations to the public that already exist, but just being very clear about the process. And again, not about limiting speech, but just being clear about procedural things. And that's why I voted in favor of it. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I have a number of concerns with this text amendment. I understand your request to send to the building commissioner, but I see it as being overly broad and really runs the risk of implying that the public asset of street parking is actually owned by individuals who are closest to it, which, of course, is not the case. By adding curb cuts, we are further limiting parking, and with this being overly broad, it's unclear. Does someone several houses down from where this was taken, if they haven't had parking in front of their house for decades, are they allowed to apply for this? But none of this speaks to the fact that this would have an environmental impact. It would increase the amount of impervious surface in the city. Pervious surface and green infrastructure such as trees and dirt and soil are really important to mitigate the amount of stormwater drain off that goes into the Mystic River. We already have flooding issues in the city by adding more pavement. We run the risk of exacerbating them. I do worry that also because of this, mature and significant trees will be under threat as people seek to make space to lay down asphalt. I also have concerns that the buffer zones referenced are too vague. You can look around the city at buffer zones that already exist. There's maybe some mulch, maybe one tiny bush. This definitely looks to Kind of impact neighbors who are around that suddenly their neighbors are parking with their headlights on what was formerly a front yard. They have headlights in their window. And then also, often we talk about beautification in this chamber and beautification of the city. And while I know beauty is in the eye of the beholder, I feel that parking on your front lawn, adding asphalt to formerly green, And green infrastructure hardly goes far in the way of beautification of this city. So as I said, I have a number of concerns on this proposed text amendment. So thank you. Thank you. Council morale.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to echo my fellow Councilors and thank the Madaris family for coming out tonight and for doing all those extra steps to make sure our awareness is really raised. It's a proud moment to have someone from our own community doing work that's going to reach so many people and raise awareness for so many people. As I understand, there's 300 million people around the world. who are affected by rare diseases. So I appreciate the work you're doing in Medford and around greater Boston to raise awareness. And I thank you for taking the time to come here and also share the ribbons that I know I'll wear with pride. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank you both so much for coming out tonight and putting all the work into this. My life outside this council is I work in sustainability. And I had a bunch of points I was going to make, but you guys hit them all in the presentation. So I thank you for doing that. In the world of sustainability, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the task at hand. And I think that's why it's so important what you did, things where we can make change, places where we can start. And then hopefully we can go farther from here even as well. And I'm glad that there is the school, the research going on to see what we can do for a feasible replacement. There's a lot of things to think of when it comes in. To that and I'm so glad that's already moving forward and as you pointed out there We are surrounded by areas that already have bands like this in place. So I think for local businesses and stuff like that that would be affected by that the ordinance of course builds in time to find alternatives and then there are these communities around us where businesses are making this work and they can reach out so I thank you so much for taking the initiative to collect those signatures, bring this before the council, and just do such a thorough presentation. And I'm so happy to support this. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I'm just curious if there might be loud music or any sound to be expected during this time.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So recently had a local business owner reach out and say that they had reached out to the city about a storefront improvement program, and they were told that we no longer run the program or we no longer issue funds. So these are local programs that provide financial support to businesses looking to improve or update their public facing. Facades I did reach out to Ashley Williams the CDBG administrator for the city to see if we could find out more She said in her time with the city three and a half years The program hasn't been run and it was kind of hard-pressed to find the last time this program has been run I actually did find reference to it in a job posting from 2019. So it seems there was previous interest in this but several our neighboring communities run these type of programs where they either offer a 0% deferred payment loan or a or matching grant funds. And a lot of times these funds are small. In many communities, they're capped around $2,000. And I think with many of our local businesses operating on razor-thin margins, this program with small amounts of funds would actually make all the difference. So these programs are funded a number of different ways. So depending if it is a spot basis for a business where decay or blight can be identified, CDBG would possibly fund that. Same thing with businesses being in a certain census track, which we might not qualify for. But I think there's also the option where, with the business district parking funds that, as we were updated, I believe, have been found, for lack of a better word. Perhaps this is a way where we can directly fund businesses or support businesses to increase that curb appeal and beautification that we talk about so often in this city. In this chamber. So really all I'm asking for is the city to provide an update on the sass of the program because that's Some hard to find and just to understand the level of interest so that as businesses do look for this program because this program does exist in Cambridge and blue burn and Worcester and still win in a number of surrounding communities as businesses come into Medford or they've been here for a long time and they're looking for this kind of support. We're able to give them an answer, point them in the right direction. And also to that end, there is the public meeting on March 11th for the CDBG five-year consolidated plan and one-year annual action plan where they are seeking public input. So I think having this update from the city from the status or interest in a program like this would be timely, understanding that public meeting is coming up on the 11th.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I support exploring this a little bit further. I was remiss during that meeting and understanding the handicapped spaces. I'm sure there are no handicapped spaces that would be removed as part of this that are proposed to be removed, but just understanding that those spaces. and the accessible spaces do remain for the people that need them. To the point of this debate over the bike lane to nowhere, I think people are missing the point that this is a safe route to school. So that lane is right around the school. The idea is that children will be in that safe, protected bike lane and get to the school safely. Adults can then merge into traffic bike riders can then merge into traffic as they are used to in many points through many cities I understand the residents who are concerned about having to cross the street if they have to park across the street The point of this project is to make that street safer so that people can cross so that people as they drive through that corridor they see bikes, they see pedestrians, they see cars, they understand this isn't an area that I just fly through. This is an area that has the flashing crossing right now, that has a crossing guard, and you can go to that area in the mornings and watch the crossing guard almost get hit by cars. So I think we are running the risk of losing this money by not being able to see the forest through the trees. And people talk about not having money to do things in Medford and we have a million dollars to make these streets safer, to make the streets safer in front of our school, to support children getting to school, to support alternative transportation to school, to remove some of the cars from the area because people are walking, because people are biking. And we're looking for ways to lose this money. So I do support exploring it further, seeing if there are options where we can come to a compromise. But I think we are not seeing the bigger picture here. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: I did clarify with the city engineer that this funding is based on the multimodal. So it's walking and biking. So the compromise has to include biking in some way.
[Nicole Morell]: As I understand, we do have a bike network plan. I don't know how old it is, but I have seen it. There is a bike network plan that exists.
[Nicole Morell]: Yeah, I could go. I don't want to make this a debate about bikes, which it seems it has turned into, but just a Many people who cycle and ride their bike to work are also own cars, drive cars. When they're biking, they're not in their car. They're not damaging the roads the same way a car does. They're not adding to congestion the same way a car does. Bikes aren't perfect. None of this is perfect. We're retrofitting old infrastructure. But it's a bigger issue. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I was basically going to say everything that was just said as a communications professional. There's a number of avenues we can take. But also, I know, not that I've ever gotten a ticket, but I know when you're trying to figure out how to deal with that ticket, you end up on the Park Medford website. So if there was a place to kind of explain, here's a number of reasons you, and I know it says it on the ticket, but while you're here looking at your ticket issue, let's see some other things that you should probably be aware of parking in Medford. So I think just easy access to this information in addition to signs, in lieu of signs and painting that we can't have everywhere. Thank you, Councilor Murray.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I really just want to echo what my fellow councilors have been saying. I appreciate everyone for coming out, for the mayor, for putting this forward, and to Mary, and for really putting a fine point on the fact that we have a number of great programs going on in Medford, but the funding mostly comes from outside, or almost entirely comes from outside sources. I emailed Sarah about this, and she gave me a great listing of different ways that these services are delivered and can be delivered beyond just kind of like the standard food bank that we think of different ways to have people get access to this stuff. So again, echoing Councilor Knight and the point that looking as it's budget time, funding sources are ways that we can really address this problem and help to add on to how we can fix this problem in Medford. Thank you. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So going back to the cable splicing, which you mentioned is once that work starts, it's 24 hours, it's around the clock. What kind of sound can we expect from that? And then also lighting.
[Nicole Morell]: Okay, and then how soon after the work is completed on these areas can we expect that curb to curb?
[Nicole Morell]: Also more up. Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilors carry on Falco for bringing this forth as I did not have the pleasure to attend the MMA training. I did a little research on this myself. So to your points, it's cough saving it diverts waste and then the fact that you're doing the work. At that actual site, you're removing the fuel costs associated with transporting these very heavy materials. So I'm excited to see this. I support this. And I appreciate you guys for raising something that's just one small way to move Medford forward in a more sustainable way. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Present.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So I do apologize. So the current minimum for Medford is actually $40,000. In a last session, this body Adjusted the interest rate and also at some point that cap was adjusted I found some pages on the website that need to be updated with the current cap But even at that level of $40,000 for the income cap Medford still lags behind surrounding cities in this state program So for people that don't know this is a state program that Medford takes part in that allows residents who meet certain criteria And are over the age of 65 to defer their property taxes until their house is sold or they pass away Medford like every other municipality has to set an income cap on this and an interest rate as I said The interest rate was lower to 5% last session and I think the members of this body who helped to pass that But in regards to the income cap at $40,000 For context Somerville's limit is 57,000 Cambridge is 53,000 and it should be noted that both of these communities have owner occupied exemptions, which we do not have in Medford, so I As far as kind of tools in our tools box to help people who need it to get relief from their property taxes were really limited. So I think it's important that we make sure we're at the highest level allowed by the state so that as many people who do wish to take part in this program can. I think I check with the chief assessor the city assessor. Believe only two households currently take part in the program. So I understand it's not for everyone with the interest rates and the way the interest rate actually Changes at the time of the owner passing away or being sold But the state does allow us to raise this cap to the senior circuit breaker tax credit And I do understand that other communities rather than having to come back to this income cap time and again They're wording it such that this program is in their city is for people who meet the requirements with income not exceeding the state cap calculated under Clause 41A of Section 5 of Chapter 59. So that's something that as the state adjusts, Medford would adjust along with it. So I'm raising this now and my motion is to send this to Committee of the Whole in either February or March so it's something that we can have the city assessor come out and explain to us how this program, if more people were to take part in this at this higher income cap or other potential caps, how it would just affect cash flow so that we can look at that during budget time as we have these, Meetings hopefully earlier, as we discussed already in this meeting, and I'd also like to add a beat paper so that when that rate is set, this does go up as a notice in the next property tax bill. The deadline to apply for this program is April 1st, so it would be hard for this. We can't do it this time around, but knowing when this rate is set. just so people are aware of this program because it is a program from the state that people around the state take part in. And I want to make sure that Medford residents do know about it. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Um, so when this, when we set or Whether we stay with the current cap, if we pick a new cap, whatever it is, after we have this committee of the whole, that we include a notice of this program the next time property tax bills are sent out.
[Nicole Morell]: I heard, the number I got from the assessor this week was two households.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. So, yeah, we introduced this because I know I feel already a lot of questions from residents about what voice residents and the city has in this process process. And we're in a somewhat unprecedented place with three applications. At this time for 40 B projects. So I did speak with the mayor about this, and she informed me that she'll be engaging an expert to speak with department heads in City Hall on 40 be within the next couple of weeks. And that is something that Councilors will be invited to, um, hopefully something we can report back out on. And then I guess that mass housing will also provide a consultant so that something else she may be pursuing So just options to look at so just the idea that when this is in place after we've had these meetings these briefings Having a public meeting or committee the whole set to this so that we can have someone a department had someone from the building department who is up to speed on where we stand with all these applications and what power we have can present this out and provide a bit of a forum for people to ask questions about what this will look like going forward. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Those records? I found them to be excellent.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I just want to echo my colleagues and congratulate you on this really impressive athletic feat. It's a proud moment for Medford and I look forward to seeing many more great things from you in the future.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I also want to thank Councilor Marks for bringing this up and doing so much research and also thank the residents for all the research they have done. The emails I've received, this is really kind of a deep issue, complicated by the fact that the FCC, beyond the 1996 Telecommunications Act, came down last year and basically removed a lot of the power that local governments have to regulate this kind of thing. So the challenge of the one benefit is that almost every city around the country is dealing with this. So there is a lot to learn from, as Councilor Mark said, people who are successfully developing ordinances to make sure the needs of their communities are being met. So I support those resolutions and I thank Councilor Marks for going even farther than suggesting ordinance work and seeing what we can get from the state delegation because This isn't just affecting Medford. This is affecting the whole state, and we deserve the support at the state level and beyond. So thank you. Thank you, Councilor Morell.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank You Mr. President like councillor bears I have not had the pleasure many of you had of working with Carol so many years, but I do thank her for her long service to the city and Being a stalwart and the many people like her as administration change as Councilors change Having those people that are in the office that are those warm faces that you can depend on and that really reflect the city of Medford I think they mean so much to people that come here one day they come here all the time so I thank her for her many years of service and hope she enjoys her retirement.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. I thank Councilor Knight for bringing this up again. I know last session, everyone kind of went into the virtues of collecting these and the fact that any time you do a river cleanup, any cleanup in the city, you may as well have a separate bag for nymphs because that's pretty much what you're picking up the entire time. So really, anything we can do to get these, you know, off the streets off out of our waterways there it's obviously not just a medford problem and literally if they get thrown on the road in medford it's not just a medford problem because they're so light they go on the water they go on the drains they they blow around so anything we can do to um get all at least some of this plastic um out of our environment so i support this thank you consular morale consular beers i hate to speak twice um but i think
[Nicole Morell]: That's a morale. Thank you Mr. President. I want to thank Councilors Falco a night for bringing this forward. This is something I raised at our legislative meeting. The commission that I get the most questions about is is the traffic commission. That's the one at least the one that meets at a time that's really hard to me for people to get to. So I think it's important that we make these meetings accessible and it goes a long way. I think in goodwill and people understanding how to move things forward, how to get issues addressed that they face all the time moving throughout the city. So I fully support this resolution.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Marks. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. I want to thank Councilor Bears for introducing this. I think beyond the conversations that can happen, this can also probably go a long way in Absolving some of the friction that can sometimes happen between you know people in the city and Tufts because when you don't have when things happen behind closed doors People tend to fill in the blanks and make up their own stories So I think having open conversations as this, you know, if this does move along is really a good thing So I look forward to this coming to fruition. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Bears. Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. So yeah, the idea behind introducing something like this is to use those powers that are given to us by the state. Laws and to beyond, you know actual codes whether it's in these Short-term rentals posting things like parking practices like trash pickups so that as these are in the neighborhoods They have as little impact on surrounding neighbors as possible while people guests can still go in there And beyond that the idea one of the stronger things that Medford can do is publishing a public registry of these short-term rental accommodations that are throughout the city This is done with considerations to privacy, and we can determine what type of relevant information should be listed relevant to where stuff is located. So, again, the idea of safety and really just minimizing the impact that these rentals have on surrounding neighbors. Thank you. Councilman Knight.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Councilor Knight. Councilor Morell. Thank you miss Barbara for for raising this to us something I hadn't even thought of before and I echo Councilors caraballo and night and just understanding Whether we're in compliance and and even just seeing checking with the traffic engineer what kind of control we have over these lights as far as the how fast they flash and I'm a big proponent of pedestrian safety, and I do wholly support other measures like raised crosswalks and things like that. But in the efforts of just getting this done and getting this up faster, I understand that these flashing lights are really what we can do now and what we can get out for pedestrian safety. So just thank you for raising that and understanding the balance we have to play as far as considering all aspects in something like this. So thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you. Council night. Council of Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Just another question about Zamboni's as far as what the lifeline lifetime is on these.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President, and thank you, Councilor Falco, for introducing this. I'm really excited to see this come up so early in session. As Councilor Bears mentioned, it's something that we were really kind of working on behind the scenes. I'm excited to see it come up. Something worth noting is that beyond kind of the power of the purse that something has like this, which I'm really excited about, is The trustees can really play a role in policy, be advocates for policy, and a lot of times when you build this board in the right way, you have people that are experts in these areas of affordable housing, of development, and you get a diversity of ideas and people that can really help. Steward the city along as we make these decisions and I know we've got some great housing advocacy advocacy groups that already exist in the city And I think this would be something really powerful to kind of to codify some of the work that's already being done So I look forward to this coming to fruition.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. To really kind of echo what Councilor Marks was saying, when we look at these signaling issues, making sure we're thinking beyond the cars, there are people on foot, they're on bikes. And as traffic builds up, people tend to make hasty decisions that make it even more tricky for people to get through crosswalks, to get through on bikes. So just ensure that we're looking at really a holistic approach to safety in these intersections.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Have other cities in the surrounding community agreement, have they been through this process before and set up the same way, do you know?
[Nicole Morell]: OK, thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Thank you, Mr. President. Yeah, I just want to say that I support moving forward with this. I know I was with a group of people that stayed here very late. One July night, I believe it was, around 11 p.m., very excitedly speaking in favor of Brewery, including at least one councilor. So I'm just excited to see this moving forward. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: I'm pretty sure it's a lime bike I just drove by last night.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. Thank you, Mr. President. Um, I'd like to echo a few of the points made by Councilor Marks, you know, really just that lead time because of the weekend, having that extra time to understand the agenda. A lot of times the agendas are written in a way that if you don't come to council meetings regularly, it can seem like a different language. So taking the time to really understand and absorb what's actually going to come before the council. Um, and I think Councilor Marks for bringing up childcare and the coordination that needs to go into that. A lot of times women are the primary caregivers, and when you limit the planning time for child care, you look who can actually come out and speak on an issue. Something that actually hasn't been mentioned is Tuesday nights, all the city hall staff is already home, so you have those parking spaces. Wednesday nights, if you move the meetings, then the parking lot is full, you have a contentious issue. People who maybe are waffling about coming to a meeting, they see the lot's full, they leave, they don't come in. So that's something we have to consider. And then going back to the point of resolutions under suspension, that happens under the purview of this body. So even beyond setting a rule, it's up to the discretion of each and every Councilor here. So having that discretion, deciding, you know, there is stuff that's gonna be timely that you want to bring up that very night. but a lot of times it can wait to be put on the agenda. So I think that's just things to think about and why Tuesday might, you know, may work better historically and now and going forward. Thank you, Councilor Morell. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Councilor Morell. I had the distinct pleasure of working with Solicitor Rumley as we were trying to explore potential women's commission by ordinance. And I was always so impressed with his ability to really hear what people were asking for and come back with stuff that is just absolutely perfect and by the letter of the law. And in lieu of really a formal training for new councilors, Solicitor Romley was very kind to incoming councillor bears and myself as far as Giving us kind of just a lay of the land and sharing as much information as he could to make us Make this job a little bit easier for us and help us be the best at this job So I thank him for his many years of service to the city And I'm just sad that I will not get to work with him in an official capacity Thank You councillor Morell consulate beers
[Nicole Morell]: I just wanted to echo Councilor Bears. Representation is so important in politics, and I think, you know, just showing that politics is for everyone. Everyone deserves a voice. And also, I believe the new mayor is perhaps the fifth woman mayor in the city, so also count it as one more crack in that glass ceiling. Thank you.
[Nicole Morell]: Sure, yeah, I did. I just, I mean, I don't have any more information than anyone else. I live close to this. Okay, I live close to this ongoing, whatever it is at this point, this ongoing hole, yeah. And yeah, we could talk circles around this because there's a number of issues. I believe there's no sidewalk on the other side. That's the portion where there's no sidewalk on Rent the, It's a mess, and I don't have the answers. I don't even know what's going on, so I agree. I would just love to be able, for myself, I live near there, but also, as people ask, to be able to give them an answer.