Medford public meetings in 2024
84 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and act on a caucus to designate 2025 Council leadership. The agenda contains only this one action item, along with procedural items like call to order and adjournment.
- Caucus to designate 2025 Council leadership (Item 24-511)
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding its regular meeting with a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 94). The council will also consider a resolution requesting changes to the proposed Tufts dormitory project, a Welcoming City Ordinance, amendments to the surveillance ordinance, and a loan order for school HVAC and roof bonds. Several committee reports and petitions are on the agenda.
- Public hearing on proposed amendments to Medford Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 94
- Resolution to request changes to proposed Tufts dormitory project
- Loan order for School HVAC Infrastructure and Roof Bonds
- Water and Sewer Capital Stabilization Fund appropriation request
- Amendment to Special Permit for Signs at 3850 Mystic Valley Parkway (Meadow Glen)
City Council Public Health & Safety Cmte
The Public Health and Community Safety Committee will convene at Medford City Hall and via Zoom to consider a referral of the CCOPS ordinance. No other action or discussion items are listed on the agenda.
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss zoning ordinance updates with the Innes Associates team, as proposed by President Bears and Vice President Collins. This is the main action item on the agenda; no other substantive business is listed.
- Discussion of zoning ordinance updates (Item 24-033) with Innes Associates Team
City Council Governance Committee
The Governance Committee is meeting to discuss a resolution offered by Councilor Justin Tseng regarding updates to the City Charter. The agenda includes this action/discussion item and a review of papers in committee. No specific proposals or decisions are listed.
- Resolution 24-468 to discuss updates to the City Charter
City Council Res Services & Pub Engagement Cmte
The Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee will consider two resolutions: one to adopt a welcoming city ordinance and another to establish city council listening sessions. A third resolution proposes publishing a city council newsletter.
- Resolution 23-055: Consider Welcoming City Ordinance
- Resolution 24-073: Establish City Council Listening Sessions
- Resolution 24-354: Publish City Council Newsletter
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss zoning ordinance updates with the Innes Associates team. The agenda includes one action item, 24-033, which is the zoning update discussion. No other substantive items are listed.
- Discussion of zoning ordinance updates with Innes Associates Team (Item 24-033)
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Medford Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 94). The council will also consider referring the CCOPS ordinance to committee, petitions for common victualler's licenses, and a resolution on speed limits. Several items are tabled from previous meetings.
- Public hearing on proposed amendments to Medford Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 94
- Refer CCOPS Ordinance to Public Health & Community Safety Committee
- Petition for Common Victualler's License - Medford Donuts Cafe, Inc.
- Petition for Common Victualler's License - Buns House
- Resolution to request state DCR and DOT set 25 MPH speed limit on state roads
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding a special meeting to conduct a hearing on the allocation of the FY2025 property tax, as submitted by the Board of Assessors. This is the only substantive item on the agenda; the rest is procedural.
- Hearing on FY2025 property tax allocation (submitted by Board of Assessors)
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss a proposed Tree Ordinance, offered by Vice President Collins and Councilor Callahan. The agenda includes only this action and discussion item, along with procedural items like call to order and adjournment.
- Discussion of Tree Ordinance (Item 19-070)
City Council Res Services & Pub Engagement Cmte
The Medford City Council's Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee is meeting to discuss three resolutions: establishing City Council listening sessions, allowing the Director of Veterans' Services to offer housing incentives to veteran renters, and publishing a City Council newsletter. These are action and discussion items, not final decisions.
- Resolution to Establish City Council Listening Sessions (24-073)
- Resolution to Allow the Director of Veterans' Services to Offer Housing Incentives to Veteran Renters (24-351)
- Resolution to Publish City Council Newsletter (24-354)
City Council
The Medford City Council is meeting to discuss and vote on several items, including a proposed zoning ordinance amendment for a 'Green Score' (referred to the Community Development Board), supplemental appropriations for the FY2025 school and public works budgets from ballot questions 7 and 8, and authorization for a multi-year Bluebikes contract. The council will also consider a PARC grant and loan order for Riverside Plaza, a petition to amend a deed restriction at 12 Dell Avenue, and a request for a BJ's Wholesale Club representative to discuss construction concerns.
- Amendment to Zoning Ordinance - Green Score (referred to Community Development Board)
- Riverside Plaza - PARC Grant, Loan Order, and CPC Appropriation Approval Request
- Ballot Question 7 and 8 Overrides: Supplemental Appropriations for FY2025 Medford Public Schools Operating Budget and Department of Public Works
- Authorization of Future Bluebikes Contract Exceeding Three Years
- Petition to Amend Deed Restriction - 12 Dell Avenue
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss zoning ordinance updates with the Innes Associates Team, as proposed by President Bears and Vice President Collins. This is an action and discussion item, meaning the committee may take action or simply discuss the proposed updates.
- Discussion of zoning ordinance updates with Innes Associates Team (Item 24-033)
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding its regular meeting on November 12, 2024, to discuss several resolutions, including a compensation ordinance for elected officials, a roads update, and a volunteer tree planting program. They will also consider adopting the HERO Act local options and review capital stabilization fund appropriation requests from the Mayor. Several items are tabled from previous meetings, including a deed restriction petition and a BJ's Wholesale Club discussion.
- Resolution to discuss compensation ordinance for elected officials
- Resolution to receive update on roads
- Resolution to establish volunteer tree planting program
- Resolution to adopt local options of HERO Act
- Capital Stabilization Fund appropriation requests from Mayor
City Council
The Medford City Council is meeting to consider several items, including a resolution to adopt local options of the HERO Act, a zoning amendment for the Mystic Avenue Corridor, and a proposed wage adjustment for the parking union. They will also review committee reports and hear public participation.
- Resolution to adopt local options of HERO Act
- Amendment to Zoning Ordinance - Mystic Avenue Corridor District
- Proposed wage adjustment for Parking Union
- Capital Stabilization Fund appropriation requests
- Transfer and acquisition of rights in Paper Way
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss proposed updates to the Medford Zoning Ordinance, presented by the Innes Associates team. The meeting is held via Zoom due to early voting in the Council Chambers. Public comments can be submitted by email.
- Discussion of Zoning Ordinance Updates with Innes Associates Team (Item 24-033)
City Council Res Services & Pub Engagement Cmte
The Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee will consider two resolutions: one to publish a City Council newsletter and another to discuss modernizing the Human Rights Commission's enabling ordinance. The meeting is open for public comment via email or in person.
- Resolution 24-354 to publish a City Council newsletter
- Resolution 24-069 to discuss modernizing the Human Rights Commission's enabling ordinance
City Council Public Health & Safety Cmte
The Medford City Council's Public Health and Community Safety Committee is meeting to discuss three resolutions: drafting an ordinance to secure rights to gender-affirming care, exploring ordinances and policies to protect reproductive rights, and discussing the installation of sanitary facilities in public spaces. These are discussion and action items, meaning the committee may take action or simply discuss next steps.
- Resolution to draft ordinance securing rights to gender-affirming care (22-379)
- Resolution to discuss potential ordinances and policies to protect reproductive rights (22-453)
- Resolution to discuss installation of sanitary facilities in public spaces (24-470)
City Council
The Medford City Council is meeting to consider a capital stabilization fund appropriation request from the mayor, an election warrant for November 2024, and several items eligible for third reading, including a wildlife feeding ordinance and an EV charging revolving fund. The agenda also includes petitions, committee reports, and tabled items from previous meetings.
- Capital Stabilization Fund Appropriation Request from Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn
- Medford Election Warrant November 2024
- Wildlife Feeding Ordinance - eligible for third reading
- Establish an EV Charging Revolving Fund - eligible for third reading
- Petition for Grant of Location - National Grid (Hale Avenue)
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss a resolution proposing a question-and-answer session about potential Proposition 2.5 overrides. This is the main action item on the agenda; no other substantive business is listed.
- Resolution 24-475 to hold a Q&A session on proposed Proposition 2.5 overrides
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Medford City Council Planning & Permitting Committee will convene at 6:00 P.M. in the City Council Chamber and via Zoom to conduct procedural business and discuss zoning ordinance updates. The meeting is open to the public and accessible online or by phone.
City Council Governance Committee
The Governance Committee is meeting to discuss a resolution proposing updates to the City Charter. The agenda includes only this discussion item, with no other substantive business listed.
- Resolution 24-468 to discuss updates to the City Charter
City Council Public Health & Safety Cmte
The Public Health and Community Safety Committee will meet to discuss two proposed ordinances: one addressing overgrowth and another updating rodent control regulations. Both items are under discussion, not final decisions.
- Resolution 24-036: Discuss an Overgrowth Ordinance
- Resolution 24-461: Discuss Updates to the Rodent Control Ordinance
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and take action on a capital stabilization fund appropriation request submitted by Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn. The agenda includes only this one action item, along with procedural items like call to order and adjournment.
- Capital Stabilization Fund Appropriation Request (Item 24-473) offered by Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn
City Council Public Works & Facilities Cmte
The Public Works and Facilities Committee will hold a discussion on MassDOT plans for the Medford Square/Main Street intersection, as proposed in a resolution by Councilor Emily Lazzaro. The meeting is open to the public and includes a call to order, roll call, and adjournment.
- Resolution to host discussion of MassDOT plans for Medford Square/Main Street intersection
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding its regular meeting on October 1, 2024, with several resolutions and petitions on the agenda. They will discuss a resolution about Tufts University's decision to disinvest from the Neighborhood Fellows Program, a resolution to hold a Q&A session for seniors about Proposition 2½ overrides, and a resolution supporting Question 2 to replace the MCAS graduation requirement. The council will also hear a petition for a common victualler license for Nazar Market and a request from National Grid to amend a previously approved grant of location. Several items are tabled or pending readings, including a wildlife feeding ordinance and an EV charging revolving fund.
- Resolution to discuss Tufts University's disinvestment from Neighborhood Fellows Program
- Resolution to hold Q&A session for seniors on Proposition 2½ overrides
- Resolution to support Question 2 (replacing MCAS graduation requirement)
- Petition for Common Victualler License - Nazar Market
- Request for Amendment to Grant of Location - National Grid
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee will discuss proposed zoning ordinance updates presented by the Innes Associates Team. This is a discussion and action item, meaning the committee may take action on the proposals. The meeting is open to the public with options for in-person, virtual, and written participation.
- Discussion of zoning ordinance updates with Innes Associates Team (Item 24-033)
City Council
The Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee will consider two resolutions: one to publish a City Council newsletter and another to create a residents' guide to council procedures. Both items are up for discussion and possible action; no votes are listed on the agenda.
- Resolution 24-354 to publish a City Council newsletter, offered by Matt Leming and Isaac Bears
- Resolution 24-370 to create a Residents' Guide to City Council Procedures and Processes, offered by Justin Tseng
City Council Public Health & Safety Cmte
The Medford City Council's Public Health and Community Safety Committee is meeting to discuss two proposed ordinances: one addressing overgrowth and another updating the rodent control ordinance. Both items are under discussion, not final decisions.
- Resolution to discuss an overgrowth ordinance (24-036)
- Resolution to discuss updates to the rodent control ordinance (24-461)
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding its regular meeting with several items for discussion and decision. Key items include a resolution to discuss updates to the City Charter, a resolution on installing sanitary facilities in public spaces, and a request from the Mayor for Capital Stabilization Fund appropriations. The council will also continue a petition for a special permit for Panda Express hours and consider unfinished business such as a wildlife feeding ordinance and an EV charging revolving fund.
- Resolution to discuss updates to the City Charter (24-468)
- Resolution to discuss installation of sanitary facilities in public spaces (24-470)
- Capital Stabilization Fund Appropriation Requests from Mayor (24-467)
- Continued petition for special permit for hours - Panda Express (24-439)
- Wildlife Feeding Ordinance (23-449) - unfinished business
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss zoning ordinance updates with the Innes Associates Team, as proposed by President Bears and Vice President Collins. This is a discussion and action item, meaning the committee may take action on the proposal. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.
- Discussion of zoning ordinance updates with Innes Associates Team (Item 24-033)
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding its regular meeting with several items for discussion and decision, including a special permit hearing for Panda Express, a request to update linkage fees, and a proposal to establish an EV charging revolving fund. The agenda also includes resolutions on rodent control, wildlife feeding, and the reappointment of the city clerk, along with several tabled items from previous meetings.
- Special permit hearing for Panda Express (continued)
- Request to update linkage fees in Medford
- Establish an EV Charging Revolving Fund
- Reappoint City Clerk Adam L. Hurtubise
- Petition for Common Victualler License - Nazar Market
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Medford City Council Planning and Permitting Committee will convene at 7:00 P.M. in the City Council Chamber to conduct procedural business. The committee will discuss zoning ordinance updates presented by the Innes Associates team, as proposed by President Bears and Vice President Collins.
City Council Public Health & Safety Cmte
The Public Health and Community Safety Committee will meet to discuss a proposed ordinance regulating wildlife feeding. The meeting is procedural with no other concrete items listed.
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding its regular meeting with several public hearings, including a special permit for Panda Express and an amendment to a previously approved grant of location. The council will also discuss resolutions on rodent infestation, request records of claims against the city, and consider supporting a ballot question on legalizing certain natural substances. Several items are tabled or pending readings, including a wage adjustment for non-union personnel.
- Special permit hearing for Panda Express (24-439)
- Resolution to discuss rodent infestation (24-449) and request rodent control with Tufts Medicine and Malden (24-451)
- Resolution to support Question 4 on November ballot (24-452)
- Mayor's communication to amend personnel ordinance for Social Services Coordinator (24-458)
- Petition to amend deed restriction at 12 Dell Avenue (23-412)
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Medford City Council Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss and take action on zoning ordinance updates, presented by the Innes Associates Team. The agenda includes one action item and a call to order, with no other substantive business listed.
- Discussion and action on zoning ordinance updates (Item 24-033)
City Council
The Medford City Council will hold its regular meeting, including votes on several items. Key actions include a third reading of a wage adjustment ordinance for non-union personnel and a first reading of the South Street Historic District Ordinance. The council will also consider a resolution to authorize the State Auditor to examine transparency and accountability, and a donation request from the Boston Foundation for Pride activities. Several items are tabled or have reports to follow.
- Third reading of Wage Adjustment, Non-Union Personnel Amendments A, B, and C
- First reading of South Street Historic District Ordinance
- Resolution to authorize State Auditor to examine transparency and accountability
- Donation request from Boston Foundation Corporation for Pride Month activities
- Petition to amend deed restriction at 12 Dell Avenue (tabled)
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole will review the 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda. No other action or discussion items are listed for this meeting.
City Council
The Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee will discuss resolutions regarding city council communications. These items include a proposal for a city council newsletter and a guide to council procedures for residents.
- Resolution to Publish City Council Newsletter (24-354)
- Resolution to Create a Residents' Guide to City Council Procedures and Processes (24-370)
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee will discuss updates to the city's zoning ordinance. The discussion involves the Innes Associates Team regarding item 24-033.
- Zoning Ordinance Updates with Innes Associates Team (24-033)
City Council
The Medford City Council will consider an ordinance to create a South Street Historic District and review several mayoral communications. Items include budget requests for the Community Preservation Committee and a feasibility study for Medford High School. The council will also address business licenses and a resolution regarding methadone clinic zoning.
- Ordinance creating a South Street Historic District
- Appropriation for Medford High School MSBA Feasibility Study
- Resolution regarding licenses, permits, and zoning of methadone clinics
- Special Permit for hours for The Great American Beer Hall, LLC
- Common Victualler License for Raising Cane Restaurant LLC
City Council
The Medford City Council will hold a special meeting to conduct a closed-session vote on a workers compensation settlement. The meeting will also include unfinished business items tabled from previous meetings, such as a deed restriction amendment and a request to meet with BJ's Wholesale Club.
- Executive Session - Workers Compensation Settlement (24-408)
- Petition to Amend Deed Restriction - 12 Dell Avenue (23-412, tabled)
- Request to meet with BJ's Wholesale Club (24-031, tabled)
- Petition for Class II Auto Body License - Finest Auto Body, Inc (24-352, tabled)
- Quarterly Presentation on City’s Financial Health by Chief Financial Officer/Auditor (22-026)
City Council
The Medford City Council will hold public hearings and consider several major items, including a proposed zoning ordinance amendment, a National Grid location grant, and multiple Proposition 2½ ballot questions for funding schools, DPW, and a new fire headquarters. The council will also review the FY2025 budget submission and discuss supporting the School Committee budget.
- Public hearing on proposed amendments to Medford Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 94
- Petition for Grant of Location for National Grid at 171 Park Street
- Proposition 2½ Override Order and Ballot Question for Schools and DPW
- Proposition 2½ Debt Exclusion Order and Ballot Question for Fire Headquarters
- FY2025 Budget Submission from Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn
City Council Public Health & Safety Cmte
The Medford City Council's Public Health and Community Safety Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on a resolution to draft a wildlife feeding ordinance. The agenda includes one action item and a period for papers in committee. Public comment can be submitted by email.
- Resolution 23-449 to draft a wildlife feeding ordinance
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding its regular meeting on May 28, 2024, to discuss and vote on a range of items, including proposed zoning ordinance amendments, a resolution to support the School Committee budget, and several license petitions. The agenda also includes reports from various committees and resolutions recognizing heritage months.
- Zoning Update Project - Proposed Amendments to the Medford Zoning Ordinance - Package #1 (24-367)
- Resolution to Review All Options in Supporting the School Committee Budget and Review the Mayor's Budget Needs (24-371)
- Petition For a Common Victualler License - The Great American Beer Hall, LLC (24-364)
- Request for Appropriation - Community Preservation Committee (24-366)
- Petition to Amend Deed Restriction - 12 Dell Avenue (23-412)
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee will discuss zoning ordinance updates with the Innes Associates team. This is a discussion and action item, meaning the committee may take action on the proposed updates. The meeting is held via Zoom only.
- Discussion of zoning ordinance updates with Innes Associates Team (Item 24-033)
City Council Admin & Finance Committee
The Medford City Council Administration and Finance Committee will convene at 6:00 P.M. in the City Council Chamber at Medford City Hall and via Zoom. The agenda lists only a call to order, roll call, and a single offered item (Commercial Vacancy Tax) without further details or action.
City Council
The Medford City Council's Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee's Listening Sessions Subcommittee is meeting to discuss a resolution to establish City Council listening sessions. The resolution was offered by Councilors Anna Callahan, Justin Tseng, and Emily Lazzaro. The meeting is scheduled for May 15, 2024, at 5:15 PM in the City Council Chamber and via Zoom.
- Resolution 24-073 to establish City Council listening sessions
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole will convene its sixth preliminary budget meeting for fiscal year 2025. This meeting is part of the annual budget process and will take place at Medford City Hall and via Zoom.
- Annual Budget Process for FY2025 - Preliminary Budget Meeting #6
City Council
The Medford City Council holds its regular meeting to receive committee reports, hold a Community Development Block Grant hearing, act on petitions for auto-body and lodging licenses, and review several resolutions. The agenda also includes communications from the mayor and city officers, public comment, and updates on past tabled items.
- Hearing on Community Development Block Grant Program Year 50 Annual Action Plan (24-099)
- Petition for Class II Auto Body License - Finest Auto Body, Inc (24-352)
- Petition for Lodging House License - Tufts University (24-353)
- Resolution to Review Annual Surveillance Report (24-074)
- Resolution to Support 'Work To Ban Equity Theft' State Legislation (24-356)
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Medford City Council’s Planning and Permitting Committee will convene at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber and via Zoom to conduct routine business. The only substantive item listed is a zoning ordinance update presented by the Innes Associates team. No other decisions or discussions are specified in the agenda.
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and take action on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Action Plan for fiscal year 2025, as offered by the Office of Planning, Development, and Sustainability. The agenda includes only this one substantive item, along with procedural items like call to order and adjournment.
- Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Action Plan for FY2025
City Council Res Services & Pub Engagement Cmte
The Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee will discuss three resolutions: modernizing council communications and outreach, updating the Human Rights Commission's enabling ordinance, and establishing city council listening sessions. No final votes are expected; these are discussion items.
- Resolution 24-015: Discuss modernizing council communications and outreach strategy
- Resolution 24-069: Discuss modernization of Human Rights Commission's enabling ordinance
- Resolution 24-073: Establish city council listening sessions
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the annual budget process for fiscal year 2025 in a preliminary budget meeting. This is the main action item on the agenda; no other substantive items are listed.
- Preliminary budget discussion for FY2025
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding public hearings on special permit requests for extended hours at Snappy Patty's (454 High Street) and Pinky's Pizza (165 Main Street). The council will also consider several resolutions, including reviewing the annual surveillance report, supporting state PILOT legislation, and discussing council processes, along with routine items like food truck permits and committee reports.
- Special permit hearing for Snappy Patty's, 454 High Street, for hours
- Special permit hearing for Pinky's Pizza, 165 Main Street, for hours
- Resolution to review annual surveillance report
- Resolution to support state PILOT legislation (S.1836/H.2963)
- Food truck permits for Hormel Stadium events (May-June 2024)
City Council Public Works & Facilities Cmte
The Public Works and Facilities Committee will discuss and take action on the Pavement Management Plan update (item 24-084). This is the only substantive item on the agenda; the rest is procedural. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.
- Discussion and action on Pavement Management Plan Update (24-084)
The committee discussed the Pavement Management Plan Update (Paper 24-084), with city staff reporting mid-seven-figure spending on road work and plans to increase in-house and contracted work. No formal decisions were made; the meeting ended with adjournment.
- Adjourned meeting (5-0)
City Council Planning & Permitting Cmte
The Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss two items: zoning ordinance updates with the Innes Associates team, and affordable housing training through the Mass Housing Partnership. No final decisions are expected; these are discussion items.
- Zoning Ordinance Updates with Innes Associates Team (Item 24-033)
- Affordable Housing Training - Mass Housing Partnership (Item 24-083)
City Council Committee of the Whole
The City Council held a preliminary budget meeting for FY 2025, reviewing the general fund budget of $179,604,106 and school budget of $71,227,145. Finance Director Bob Dickinson provided an overview, noting no budget transfers are expected currently. The Council approved three motions: requesting new growth projections, requesting FY 2024 budget shortfall updates, and shifting $1,800 for videographer pay, all in a 6-0 roll call vote (Councillor Tseng absent). No final budget was adopted.
- Approved motion to request new growth projections for last three fiscal years (6-0)
- Approved motion to request FY 2024 department budget shortfall updates (6-0)
- Approved $1,800 shift from 5240 to 5202 for videographer pay (6-0)
City Council Res Services & Pub Engagement Cmte
The Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee will review two resolutions: one to modernize the city council’s communications and outreach strategy, and another to establish regular listening sessions with residents. The meeting is procedural with no votes scheduled.
- Resolution 24-015: Discuss modernizing council communications and outreach strategy
- Resolution 24-073: Propose establishing city council listening sessions
City Council Committee of the Whole
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the annual budget process for fiscal year 2025. This is a preliminary budget meeting, so the council is reviewing and discussing budget matters rather than taking final votes. The agenda includes only this budget discussion item and procedural items.
- Preliminary budget discussion for FY2025
The City Council held its first-ever preliminary budget meeting, hearing presentations from the Council on Aging, Medford Community Media, and Veterans' Services. No final budget decisions were made; the meeting was informational. The Council approved a motion to request data on PEG fees paid by Comcast and Verizon.
- Approved motion to request PEG fee numbers from Comcast and Verizon (6-0, Scarpelli absent)
- Heard Council on Aging budget request of $275,226.29
- Heard Medford Community Media budget request of $204,427.37
- Heard Veterans' Services budget request of $443,552
City Council
The Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss and take action on zoning ordinance updates presented by the Innes Associates Team. The agenda includes one action item and a period for papers in committee.
- Discussion of zoning ordinance updates with Innes Associates Team (Item 24-033)
The Planning and Permitting Committee discussed a zoning ordinance update with Innes Associates, covering site plan review, Dover exemptions, and potential studies. The committee approved a motion to gather policy input from council members and add relevant studies to the Innes memo. No final zoning changes were made; the process is ongoing.
- Approved motion to request policy input from Council members and add studies to Innes memo (4-0, Scarpelli absent)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:12 p.m. (4-0, Scarpelli absent)
City Council
The Public Health and Community Safety Committee will meet to receive a presentation on the annual surveillance report (item 24-074). This is an action and discussion item, meaning the committee may discuss and potentially act on the report. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.
- Annual Surveillance Report presentation (item 24-074)
The City Council's Public Health and Community Safety Committee received the annual police surveillance report (Paper 24-074) and voted to place it on file. The report covered the body-worn camera program launched in December 2023, including costs, usage, and redaction practices. No policy changes were made; the committee only received the report and filed it.
- Received annual police surveillance report and placed it on file (4-0, Councillor Leming absent)
City Council
The Medford City Council is meeting to discuss and vote on several resolutions, including creating a rental registry, amending the linkage fee ordinance, and opposing a landfill. They will also hold a public hearing on a special permit for additional signage at Raising Cane's on Fellsway. Several committee reports and unfinished business items, such as a deed restriction amendment and a leaf blower ordinance, are on the agenda.
- Resolution to create a rental registry (24-059)
- Resolution to bring linkage fee ordinance into compliance with state law (24-056)
- Public hearing on Raising Cane's special permit for additional signage at 760 Fellsway (23-319)
- Resolution to oppose landfill endangering MWRA water supply (24-061)
- Resolution to support state 'Make Polluters Pay' legislation (24-064)
City Council
The Medford City Council Governance Committee will meet on March 26, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. in the City Council Chamber. The agenda includes only procedural items with no voting or discussion items listed beyond a call to order and roll call.
City Council
The Administration and Finance Committee is meeting to discuss two resolutions: one to bring the city's linkage fee ordinance into compliance with a state act, and another to add affordable housing to the linkage fee structure. These are action and discussion items, meaning the committee may vote or make recommendations. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.
- Resolution 24-056: Bring linkage fee ordinance in compliance with state's Act Establishing the Ordinance
- Resolution 24-057: Add affordable housing to the linkage fee structure
The Administration and Finance Committee voted to report out proposed changes to Medford's linkage fee ordinance, which would bring it into compliance with state law and add affordable housing to the fee structure. The committee approved corrections to the draft and sent it to the full council for zoning amendment review. No final decision was made; the ordinance will proceed through the zoning process.
- Approved corrections to linkage fee ordinance draft (unanimous)
- Reported linkage fee ordinance changes out of committee (unanimous)
City Council
The Medford City Council’s Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss a proposed food truck ordinance. The meeting is procedural and does not include formal decisions.
- Food Truck Ordinance (20-020) proposed by Former Councilor Knight
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding its sixth regular meeting, with a public hearing on a special permit for Cambridge Health Alliance at 1 Cabot Road, and several motions including linkage fee updates, a budget ordinance, and discussions on FY2024 budget shortfalls and fire department personnel. Several items are tabled or continued from prior meetings.
- Public hearing: Cambridge Health Alliance, 1 Cabot Road, special permit for medical office use
- Resolution to request linkage fee updates (24-047)
- Resolution to bring linkage fee ordinance in compliance with state act (24-056)
- Resolution to add affordable housing to linkage fee structure (24-057)
- Motion for Superintendent of Schools and Acting Finance Director to inform Council on FY2024 budget shortfalls (24-052)
The Medford City Council approved a special permit and site plan review for Cambridge Health Alliance to establish a medical office at 1 Cabot Road, with conditions from the Community Development Board. The Council also approved first reading of a budget process ordinance, approved resolutions regarding fire department discussions and linkage fee updates, and referred several other items to committees.
- Approved special permit and site plan review for CHA medical office at 1 Cabot Road (6-0, Collins absent)
- Approved first reading of budget process ordinance (6-0, Collins absent)
- Approved resolution to invite fire department leadership for discussion (as amended)
- Approved resolution to schedule Committee of the Whole on fire chief civil service process (as amended)
- Approved resolution requesting linkage fee formula update (as amended)
- Referred linkage fee code change to Administration and Finance Committee
- Referred affordable housing linkage fee resolution to Administration and Finance Committee
- Approved committee reports on wildlife feeding, zoning updates, and communications
City Council
The Medford City Council met as a Committee of the Whole to discuss budget priorities and approved a set of recommendations to send to the Mayor. The main motion, passed unanimously, recommends a level-service budget that includes meeting the Medford Public Schools and Library funding requests and maintaining all grant-funded positions. The Council also approved a separate resolution requesting a DPW cost analysis for in-house road repair equipment versus bonding, and voted to report the recommendations to the Mayor.
- Approved level-service budget recommendation including schools, library, and grant-funded positions (7-0)
- Approved recommendation to increase City Solicitor salary by $49,871 and Assistant City Solicitor by $37,178 (7-0)
- Approved recommendation for seed money to update financial software or hire staff (7-0)
- Approved B-Paper requesting DPW cost analysis for road repair equipment vs. bonding (7-0)
- Approved motion to report recommendations to Mayor and adjourn (7-0)
City Council
The Medford City Council's Planning and Permitting Committee is meeting to discuss zoning ordinance updates with the Innes Associates team, along with several pending items including tenant health and safety inspections, housing petitions, and fee schedules. The meeting includes both action items and papers in committee, with most items being discussions rather than final votes.
- Zoning Ordinance Updates with Innes Associates Team (24-033)
- Update on Complaints and Inspection Process for Reporting Health & Safety Issues for Tenants (21-070)
- Safety Improvements at Cotting, West & North Intersection (21-543)
- Housing Home Rule Petitions (22-310)
- Rent Stabilization Home Rule Petition (24-049)
The Planning and Permitting Committee met with zoning consultant Innes Associates to begin a two-year zoning ordinance update. The committee approved two motions: requesting comments from the Building Commissioner, ZBA Chair, and CD Board Chair by April 5, and asking councillors to submit policy issues by the same date. No substantive zoning changes were adopted; the project is in early discussion stages.
- Approved motion to request zoning comments from Building Commissioner, ZBA Chair, CD Board Chair by April 5 (5-0)
- Approved motion for councillors to submit policy issues for zoning project by April 5 (5-0)
- Approved keeping the item in committee and adjourning (5-0)
City Council
The Medford City Council's Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee is meeting to discuss a resolution on modernizing council communications and outreach, and to review several pending items including establishing a Gender Equity Commission, a Youth Commission, and a Beautification Committee, as well as other resident engagement and equity-related proposals.
- Resolution to discuss modernizing council communications and outreach strategy (24-015)
- Resolution to establish a Gender Equity Commission (19-312)
- Resolution to establish a Youth Commission (21-351)
- Resolution to establish a Beautification Committee (22-291)
- Resolution to consider Welcoming City Ordinance (23-055)
The Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee approved a series of motions to launch a City Council newsletter, create short-form video summaries, develop a social media policy, and distribute a budget input survey. The committee also authorized the chair to create a sign-up form for rotating newsletter/video duties and to work with the Communications Director on distribution. No final votes were taken on the broader communications strategy; the motions were approved unanimously.
- Approved motion to start City Council Newsletter content summarizing meetings and upcoming events (unanimous)
- Approved motion for chair to create sign-up form for rotating newsletter/video duties and calendar (unanimous)
- Approved motion to work with Communications Director on newsletter distribution and email list (unanimous)
- Approved motion to draft a social media policy for review (unanimous)
- Approved motion to present a budget input survey at next meeting (unanimous)
- Approved motion to join and approve all motions (unanimous)
City Council
The Medford City Council will meet on March 12, 2024, to discuss and vote on several items, including a resolution to develop a real estate transfer fee home rule petition and updates on the FY 2024 budget shortfalls. The council will also hear reports from various committees and consider public petitions, including a deed restriction amendment and a request for a BJ's Wholesale Club representative to address neighborhood concerns.
- 24-041: Resolution to Develop Real Estate Transfer Fee Home Rule Petition
- 24-052: Superintendent of Schools and Acting Finance Director to discuss FY 2024 Budget Shortfalls
- 23-319: Raising Cane’s (760 Fellsway) Special Permit for Additional On-Premises Signage
- 23-369: 96-104 Winchester Street, PDD-1 Planned Development Special Permit and Site Plan Review
- 23-412: Petition to Amend Deed Restriction at 12 Dell Avenue (tabled since September 2023)
The Medford City Council approved a special permit and site plan for a 65-unit residential building with 4,000 sq ft of commercial space at 100 Winchester Street, including 15% affordable units. The council also approved the first reading of a leaf blower ordinance that phases out gas-powered blowers, and established a General Stabilization Fund. Several other items were tabled, including a proposed budget ordinance and resolutions on a real estate transfer fee and fire department matters.
- Approved 65-unit residential building at 100 Winchester St with 15% affordable units (7-0)
- Approved first reading of Leaf Blower Ordinance phasing out gas blowers by 2028 (6-1)
- Established General Stabilization Fund (6-0)
- Approved $1.07M in Community Preservation Act funding recommendations (7-0)
- Approved MBTA Accessible Transit Infrastructure plan (7-0)
- Tabled Budget Ordinance until next meeting (6-1)
- Tabled real estate transfer fee home rule petition resolution (6-1)
- Approved renaming to 'Elections Department' (7-0)
City Council
The Medford City Council’s Public Health and Community Safety Committee will meet to discuss and potentially advance a resolution to draft a wildlife feeding ordinance. The meeting is procedural, with no other concrete decisions or discussions listed beyond this item.
- Resolution to Draft Wildlife Feeding Ordinance (23-449)
The Public Health and Community Safety Committee discussed a proposed wildlife feeding ordinance (Paper 23-449) and voted to refer it to KP Law for legal review before the next meeting. The committee also voted to recirculate the document to relevant city staff and keep the paper in committee. No final decision was made on the ordinance itself.
- Referred wildlife feeding ordinance to KP Law for legal review (5-0)
- Recirculated ordinance to relevant city staff and kept paper in committee (5-0)
City Council
The Planning and Permitting Committee will review a resolution proposing a new ordinance requiring landlords to notify tenants about housing stability protections. The meeting also includes a 2021 update on tenant complaint and inspection processes.
- Resolution 24-042: Discuss Housing Stability Notification Ordinance
- Paper 21-070: Update on tenant health and safety complaint process
City Council
The Administration and Finance Committee voted to report the proposed Budget Ordinance (22-494) to the full City Council, accepting all tracked changes and adjusting the effective date of Article 5 to upon passage. The ordinance aims to increase transparency in city spending, with some provisions delayed until January 2025. The committee also approved a motion to swap the order of sections 3-102 and 3-103.
- Accepted all tracked changes to Budget Ordinance 22-494 (approved)
- Swapped order of sections 3-102 and 3-103 (approved)
- Changed effective date of Article 5 to upon passage (approved)
- Reported ordinance to next Council Meeting (approved)
City Council
The Medford City Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss a proposed leaf blower ordinance (item 21-057), offered by Former Council President Morell and President Bears. The agenda contains only this one action item, with no other substantive business listed.
- Discussion of leaf blower ordinance (21-057)
City Council
The Medford City Council will convene its fourth regular meeting of 2024 to receive committee reports, hear a planned development special permit, and consider several resolutions and petitions. The meeting includes procedural items, reports from standing committees, and communications from the mayor and city officers.
- Planned Development Special Permit - 1 and 3-20 Walkling Court
- Petition For Cleaning & Dyeing License by Antoine Vo
- Resolution to Discuss an Overgrowth Ordinance
- Resolution to Develop Real Estate Transfer Fee Home Rule Petition
- Resolution Regarding Schedule of Annual Budget Process for FY2025
City Council
The Governance Committee will review the 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda as amended, and discuss two items referred from the City Council: a report on errors in the 2023 municipal election process and a study of pro-democracy reforms. No final votes are scheduled; this is a discussion and action item meeting.
- Resolution 24-006: review of 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda
- Paper 23-474: 2023 Municipal Election Process Errors & Accountability Report
- Paper 24-024: Study of Pro-Democracy Reforms
City Council
The Medford City Council’s Planning and Permitting Committee will convene at 6:00 P.M. in the City Council Chamber and via Zoom. The agenda lists only procedural items and previously discussed topics, with no new decisions or discussions scheduled.
City Council
The Public Health and Community Safety Committee will discuss a resolution to establish a warming/cooling center for adults experiencing homelessness, and review the 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda. Several older items are also in committee, including a replica handgun ban ordinance and a face surveillance ban ordinance.
- Resolution 24-023: Warming/Cooling Center for Adults Experiencing Homelessness
- Resolution 24-006: Review of 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda
- Paper 15-749: Replica Handgun Ban Ordinance (in committee since 2017)
- Paper 20-289: Face Surveillance Ban Ordinance (in committee since 2020)
- Resolution 23-015: Renew efforts to reduce nip litter around city
City Council
The Medford City Council's Resident Services and Public Engagement Committee is meeting to discuss and act on several resolutions, including reviewing the 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda, modernizing council communications and outreach, and implementing bi-annual diversity, equity, and inclusion training. The committee will also consider a number of previously filed items, such as establishing a Gender Equity Commission, a Youth Commission, and a Beautification Committee, as well as creating a user-friendly public participation guide and updating the city website.
- Resolution to review the 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda
- Resolution to discuss modernizing council communications and outreach strategy
- Resolution on bi-annual diversity, equity, and inclusion training
- Resolution to establish a Gender Equity Commission (19-312)
- Resolution to establish a Youth Commission (21-351)
City Council
The Medford City Council will hold its third regular meeting on February 6, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chamber at Medford City Hall. The agenda includes resolutions on Black History Month, adult education for plant medicine, and a warming/cooling center for homeless adults, along with reports from various committees.
- Resolution to Begin Zoning Ordinance Updates with PDS Staff and Innes Associates
- Resolution to Support Adult Access and Education for Plant Medicine
- Warming/Cooling Center for Adults Experiencing Homelessness
- Commercial Vacancy Tax proposal
- Transportation Demand Management Ordinance
City Council
The Medford City Council’s Administration and Finance Committee will meet to review the 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda as amended on January 24. The meeting also includes a discussion of past resolutions, including legal services, PILOT commission drafts, and budget ordinances.
- Resolution 24-006: Review 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda (amended Jan 24)
- Municipal Mini Bonds Program (17-378)
- Resolution 20-047: Hire additional legal services
- Resolution 20-021: Draft ordinance for PILOT commission
- Resolution 22-494: Draft budget ordinance for the City of Medford
City Council
The Medford City Council Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss and vote on a resolution proposing a governing agenda framework for 2024-2025. The meeting is procedural, focusing on setting priorities and requesting proposals from councilors.
- 24-006: Resolution to propose 2024-2025 Council Governing Agenda Framework
City Council
The Medford City Council will review several resolutions on January 23, 2024, including proposals to modernize council communications, update the city website, and discuss a temporary shelter. The meeting will also include reports on past actions and updates on deferred items.
- Resolution to discuss modernizing council communications and outreach strategy (24-015)
- Resolution to discuss updating the city website (24-016)
- Resolution to discuss proposed temporary shelter within the city (24-017)
- 90-day report on draft ordinances requested during 2020-2021 term (22-039)
- Tabled petition to amend deed restriction at 12 Dell Avenue (23-412)