Watertown public meetings in 2025

Board of Assessors

The Watertown Board of Assessors will consider and vote on the FY26 actual real estate, personal property, and water and sewer lien warrants, as well as any other boat, motor vehicle, or supplemental warrants. The meeting will also include routine items such as reviewing and accepting the November 18, 2025 minutes, handling old and new business, and scheduling the next board meeting.

• Vote to approve FY26 Actual Real Estate Warrant
• Vote to approve FY26 Actual Personal Property Warrant
• Vote to approve FY26 Water and Sewer Lien Warrant
• Consider any other Boat, Motor Vehicle and/or Supplemental Warrants
• Review and vote on acceptance of November 18, 2025 minutes

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will discuss and vote on amending regulations for Motor Vehicles for Hire / Livery Licenses. The board will also review license applications and a one-time hour extension for a business at Arsenal Yards Blvd.

• Vote to amend Motor Vehicles for Hire / Livery License regulations
• One-time extension of hours for Buttermilk & Bourbon (100 Arsenal Yards Blvd) on December 31, 2025
• 6 Day and Sunday Entertainment License application for Revival Café & Kitchen (99 Coolidge Street)
• Change of manager for Kura Revolving Sushi Bar (101 Bond Square)
• Review of 2026 renewals for various alcohol, food, and auto dealer licenses

School Building Committee

The Watertown School Building Committee will consider and vote on change orders and amendments to the high school project budget. They will also approve monthly invoices for both the high school and middle school projects for November 2025, and receive updates on project progress, schedule, and upcoming milestones.

• Approval of SBC meeting minutes from 11/19/25 and 12/10/25
• Approval of November 2025 monthly invoices for the high school project
• Vote on change orders and amendments to the high school project budget
• Project schedule update and upcoming milestones for the high school
• Approval of November 2025 monthly invoices for the middle school project

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to approve minutes and schedule future meetings, and to consider two multi-family housing projects on Water Street and Mt. Auburn Street.

• Approval of November 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Confirmation of 2026 ZBA meeting schedule
• Review of 52-unit multi-family project at 108 Water Street
• Review of 7-unit multi-family project at 72 Mt. Auburn Street

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will meet on December 17, 2025, primarily for procedural items including approval of previous meeting minutes, selection of council member liaisons for grantees, and a status update on the FY26 grant process. No major decisions or funding approvals are on the agenda.

• Approval of abbreviated November minutes and grant allocation meeting
• Council member liaison grantee selections
• Status update on FY26 grant process
• Grantee info packets review
• No meeting scheduled for January; next meeting in February

Commission on Disability

The Watertown Commission on Disability will meet remotely on December 17, 2025. The agenda includes public comment, a guest speaker, and updates on several accessibility projects such as the Waverley‑Belmont Street Intersection, park path surfaces, and automatic doors for the new high school. The commission will consider an amended vote on the disability ASL interpreter expense for the Watertown Free Public Library. Additional items include sidewalk issues, detectable warnings, and a DPW trash/recycling disability sticker.

• Amended vote on Watertown Free Public Library disability ASL interpreter expense (Kim & Jay)
• Update on Waverley‑Belmont Street Intersection (Kim)
• Automatic doors for Watertown’s new high school (Kim & Jay)
• Arsenal Park Amphitheater path surface discussion (Lisa & John)
• DPW trash/recycling disability sticker proposal (Kim & Jay)

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will discuss a report from Liz Peck of Peck Policy Strategies on a needs assessment. The discussion includes lessons learned, edits to the report, distribution and promotion strategies, and next steps for the commission. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with roll call and minutes approval.

• Discussion of needs assessment report from Peck Policy Strategies, covering lessons learned, edits, distribution, and next steps

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Watertown City Council Committee on Economic Development and Planning will hold a discussion-only meeting to consider the qualifications and qualities desired for the Assistant City Manager for Community Development and Planning, as outlined in the city charter. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is limited to this single agenda item.

• Discussion of qualifications for Assistant City Manager for Community Development and Planning per Charter Article 3 Section 3A

Watertown Affordable Housing Trust

The Watertown Affordable Housing Trust will hold a public meeting to review meeting minutes and discuss a proposed compliance item at 72 Mt. Auburn Street. The body will also present findings from an Affordable Housing Incentives Study and vote to enter an executive session.

• Review minutes from October and November 2025
• 72 Mt. Auburn Street: proposed compliance with affordable housing requirement
• Presentation of MAPC Affordable Housing Incentives Study findings
• Vote to enter executive session regarding real property
• Public comment period for study through December 31, 2025

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Watertown City Council Committee on Public Works will meet on December 15, 2025. The committee will review the Hazard Mitigation Action Plan and make recommendations. No other agenda items are listed.

• Review and make recommendations on the Hazard Mitigation Action Plan

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Watertown Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will hold a remote meeting on Dec 15, 2025. Members will approve the Nov 17, 2025 minutes, propose the 2026 meeting dates, receive reports from the Energy and Sustainability Managers, and discuss a proposed ordinance on gas‑powered lawn equipment. The meeting will be streamed via WCATV and accessible online.

• Discussion of gas‑powered lawn equipment ordinance
• Proposed 2026 meeting schedule: Jan 26, Feb 23, Mar 16, Apr 27, May 18, Jun 15, Jul 20, Aug 17, Sep 28, Oct 26, Nov 16, Dec 21
• Approval of the November 17, 2025 committee minutes (draft)
• Energy Manager Report
• Sustainability Manager Report

Historical Commission Preliminary Review

The Watertown Historical Commission will conduct a preliminary review of two demolition permit applications under the Demolition Delay Ordinance. The chair and one commissioner will either determine the buildings are not significant or forward the applications for a full hearing.

• Preliminary review for 45 Whitney Street (demolition permit)
• Preliminary review for 57 Pequossette Street (demolition permit)

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will meet to discuss a final report from Liz Peck, share findings from a needs assessment, and plan next steps. The meeting also includes a discussion of lessons learned from a December 16th Action Plan Committee meeting. No votes or binding decisions are scheduled.

• Final report from Liz Peck to the Commission
• Sharing of findings from the Needs Assessment
• Discussion of lessons learned from December 16th Action Plan Committee meeting
• Planning next steps for the Needs Assessment

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to review submissions for a new logo. The body will discuss the purpose of the logo and determine next steps for the Logo Subcommittee.

• Review of logo submissions
• Discussion of the logo process and subcommittee next steps

Council on Aging

The Watertown Council on Aging will hold a remote meeting on December 10, 2025. The agenda includes roll call, review of prior meeting minutes, a director's report on senior services, and a public comment period. No specific votes, contracts, or ordinances are scheduled; the meeting is largely procedural.

• Director's Report on COA updates (Senior Center, 31 Marshall Street)
• Public Comments via remote participation or email

The board reviewed and approved the minutes from the November 12, 2025 meeting. A motion to adjourn the December 10, 2025 meeting was made and approved unanimously. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (Nov 12, 2025) – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

School Building Committee

The Watertown School Building Committee will consider and take action on two major items: purchasing the modular classrooms currently used for the High School construction project, and requesting the City Manager authorize agreements with the Owner's Project Manager and Feasibility Study Architect for design and bidding of a new middle school. The meeting will be held via Zoom on December 10, 2025.

• Consideration and action to purchase the modular classrooms currently in use for the High School construction project
• Consideration and action to request City Manager authorization for agreements with the on-call Owner's Project Manager and completed Feasibility Study Architect for the new middle school design and bidding
• Middle School Project – previously voted new middle school option moving forward

School Site Council

The Watertown Middle School Site Council will hold a regular meeting to discuss the School Improvement Plan and revisit action steps. Other agenda items are routine procedural matters including approval of prior minutes and setting meeting norms. The public may attend in person or virtually.

• Discussion of the School Improvement Plan

City Council

The Watertown City Council will hold public hearings and votes on several loan orders, including a $879,000 loan for Department of Public Works equipment, a $911,900 loan for How Park Phase I construction, a $1.156 million loan for Parker Building upgrades, a $95,000 loan for Phillips School security system improvements, and a $2.875 million loan for construction of multiple streets. The council will also consider a Bluebikes contract exceeding three years, a proposed ordinance to adjust the City Manager's salary, and a waste‑reduction ordinance. Additional routine reports and committee recommendations will be presented.

• Public hearing and vote on $879,000 loan for DPW equipment (Hydro Excavation Vactor Truck $695,000; Sewer and Stormwater Camera Truck $184,000)
• Public hearing and vote on $911,900 loan for How Park Phase I construction
• First reading on $1.156 million loan for Parker Building envelope and mechanical upgrades
• First reading on $95,000 loan for Phillips School security system enhancements
• First reading on $2.875 million loan for construction of Cottage Street, Sawin Court, Rifle Court, Lyons Street, Sexton Street, Cottage Lane, Molloy Street, Hearn Street, Winter Street, and potentially Brigham Street and Appleton Terrace

The council unanimously approved loan orders totaling $1.79 million for Public Works equipment and the How Park Phase I renovation. It also approved $1.5 million for the Nichols Ave Group Home, $2 million for the Willow Park redevelopment, and $610 thousand for the Commander's Mansion restoration. Additionally, the council authorized a letter to the MWRA supporting sewage‑overflow prevention.

• Approved $879,000 loan order for Public Works equipment (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved $911,900 loan order for How Park Phase I renovation (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Appropriated $1.5 million for 103 Nichols Ave Group Home from housing reserve fund (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Recommended $1 million from housing reserve and $1 million from unreserved budget for Willow Park redevelopment (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Appropriated $610,000 for Commander's Mansion restoration from historic preservation reserve (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Authorized sending a letter to the MWRA supporting sewage‑overflow prevention (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted minutes from November 12 and November 18 meetings (unanimous voice votes)

Public Arts and Culture Committee

This meeting of the Watertown Cultural District Partnership includes discussions on changes to the MA cultural district program, a report from the Outreach Coordinator, and a proposal to shift meetings to every other month starting in January, with a vote scheduled for the next meeting. The group also announces the date for Porchfest 2026.

• Discussion of changes to the MA cultural district program
• Outreach Coordinator report on website, Instagram, and Facebook
• Porchfest save-the-date: May 16, 2026
• Proposal to change meeting frequency to every other month starting January, with a vote in January
• Sharing of upcoming events and programs

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to approve minutes from previous meetings, discuss committee reports, and review topics including the FY26 budget, a student liaison program, and domestic violence awareness.

• Approval of minutes from 11/10/25
• Immigrant Rights Committee to update enforcement statement
• Discussion of FY26 budget
• Student Liaison Involvement in Commission Work
• Watertown Youth Risk Behavior Survey Results

The Human Rights Commission unanimously approved a draft letter to the City Council concerning Watertown's contract with Flock Safety for license‑plate cameras. It also approved updates to its immigration enforcement statement, a $300 allocation for an immigrant‑experience movie screening, a $300 allocation to support regional training events, a request for a city social‑media post for Human Rights Day, and added a member to the Logo Committee. Additional committee minutes were approved without dissent.

• Approved edits to immigration enforcement statement (8‑0)
• Approved draft letter to City Council about Flock Safety contract (8‑0)
• Approved request for city social‑media post for Human Rights Day (8‑0)
• Added Liz Aeschlimann to the Logo Committee (8‑0)
• Allocated up to $300 for immigrant‑experience movie screening (8‑0)
• Allocated up to $300 to support neighboring commissions training events (8‑0)
• Approved Immigrant Rights Committee minutes (8‑0)
• Approved Action Plan Committee minutes (8‑0)

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will vote on a two-year extension of the Local Motion bus contract and a WEA member's request for a child to attend Watertown Public Schools. The agenda also includes reports on the DESE Special Education determination, the Watertown Family Center annual update, the Farm to School initiative, and recognition of Vice Chair Lily Rayman-Read for eight years of service. Public participation is available in person and via Zoom.

• Two-year extension of Local Motion bus contract (vote)
• WEA member request for child to attend WPS (vote)
• DESE Special Education Determination report
• Watertown Family Center Annual Update
• Farm to School Initiative and introduction of new Garden Coordinator

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The Watertown Cultural District Partnership Marketing Subcommittee will review its marketing dashboard and discuss creating a 6‑18 month marketing plan. The plan will address short‑term goals such as partner event postings, recruiting missing partners, building a directory of cultural institutions, compiling a local media list, and identifying flyer locations. The subcommittee will also consider changing the schedule of its monthly meetings to a day other than Tuesday. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom.

• Review marketing dashboard (link provided)
• Develop 6‑18 month marketing plan with short‑term goals: partner event postings, recruitment, directory, media list, flyer locations
• Create partner directory of cultural institutions, galleries, school arts programs (link)
• Compile local media outreach list (Media Outreach List.xlsx)
• Reschedule monthly meetings to a day other than Tuesday

School Committee

The School Building Committee will discuss the purchase of a modular high school building and authorize agreements for the design and bidding of a new middle school.

• High School Project: Discussion and action on modular building purchase
• Middle School Project: Authorization for design and bidding agreements

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will meet remotely to review permits for two biotechnology companies and discuss lab operations. The meeting will include public comment and the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Review permit for Century Therapeutics at 99 Coolidge Avenue
• Review amendment for Dyno Therapeutics at 343 Arsenal Street
• Discuss LabShares at 66 Galen Street
• Approve minutes from November 13, 2025
• Meeting held via Zoom and phone

The BioSafety Committee approved the minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting (4‑0). It voted to recommend approval of the Century Therapeutics permit with an updated COI (5‑0). It also voted to recommend approval of the Dyno Therapeutics permit without conditions (5‑0).

• Approved November 13, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Century Therapeutics permit with updated COI (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Dyno Therapeutics permit without conditions (5-0)

Traffic Commission

The Watertown Traffic Commission will meet to approve minutes and discuss requests for pedestrian safety improvements, including crosswalks on Galen and Maple Streets, a stop sign on Irving Street, and parking signs on Arsenal Street.

• Approval of October and November commission minutes
• Discussion of crosswalk request on Galen Street at Maple Street
• Request for traffic calming on Myrtle Street
• Request for isolated Stop sign on Irving Street
• Request for parking limitation signs at 150 Arsenal Street

The Traffic Commission approved the minutes from the October 15 and November 18 meetings. It denied a crosswalk request at Galen Street and Maple Street, approved a review of signage for traffic calming on Myrtle Street, and approved installation of a stop line and Stop‑Ahead signage on Irving Street. The commission also denied parking‑limitation signage at 150 Arsenal Street and approved restriping the crosswalk and adding a rapid flashing beacon at 99 Grove Street. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved minutes of Oct 15 & Nov 18 meetings (unanimous)
• Denied crosswalk at Galen & Maple Streets (unanimous)
• Approved review of signage for Myrtle Street traffic calming (unanimous)
• Approved stop line and Stop‑Ahead signage on Irving Street (unanimous)
• Denied parking‑limitation signage at 150 Arsenal St (unanimous)
• Approved restriping crosswalk and installing rapid flashing beacon at 99 Grove St (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council: Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee will discuss an audit of recycling efforts, including how many toters are flagged weekly, education efforts, and consequences for repeat non-compliance. They will also receive DPW updates and solid waste metrics, and decide on future meeting formats.

• Review of Republic Services' weekly flagged-toter data compared to audit
• Discussion of education and re-education on recycling compliance
• Repeat non-compliance enforcement process
• Solid waste metrics review from Matt Bacon
• Decision on meeting format: virtual, in-person, or hybrid

The Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee approved the December 3 minutes without amendment. The committee received updates on the Republic contract, recycling calendar, and compost postcards, and reviewed a past recycling audit. Members discussed solid‑waste metrics and potential annual targets, but no formal action was taken. The next meeting is set for February 2, 2026, and there will be no meeting in January.

• Approved meeting minutes without amendment
• Scheduled next meeting for February 2, 2026 (hybrid)
• Confirmed no meeting will be held in January

Residents’ Advisory Committee

The Residents' Advisory Committee will accept minutes from September and November 2025, plan the 2026 meeting calendar, discuss a volunteer outreach video, and receive an announcement on the City Manager's Draft Administrative Code. The meeting then enters executive session to screen applicants for a position. Public comment can be submitted via email.

• Acceptance of minutes from September 30 and November 5, 2025
• Setting the calendar of 2026 RAC meetings
• Discussion of a video for volunteer outreach
• Announcement of City Manager's Draft Administrative Code
• Executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment or appointment

The committee unanimously approved the September 30, 2025 minutes and the November 5, 2025 minutes with corrections. Future meeting dates were set for January 14, April 8, and July 8, 2026. A motion was approved to move the meeting into executive session at 5:45 p.m. to interview and consider applicants.

• Approved September 30, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved November 5, 2025 minutes with changes (unanimous)
• Set future meeting dates: Jan 14, Apr 8, Jul 8, 2026
• Approved motion to enter executive session at 5:45 p.m.

Planning Board

The Watertown Planning Board will meet to approve minutes and appoint a designee to the Community Preservation Committee. The board will review site plans for two Accessory Dwelling Units and a mixed-use building, along with a sign permit request.

• Approval of November 5, 2025 meeting minutes
• Appointment of Planning Board designee to Community Preservation Committee
• Site Plan Review for 8-10 Kimball Rd (ADU)
• Site Plan Review for 15 Thurston Rd (ADU)
• Site Plan Review for 33 Mt Auburn St (5+ story, 40 units)

The Board approved the minutes from the November 5 meeting (4‑0) and appointed Abigail Hammett to the Community Preservation Committee (5‑0). It approved two accessory dwelling unit projects at 8‑10 Kimball Rd and 15 Thurston Rd (both 5‑0). It approved a sign special permit for 260 Arsenal Pl with a future illumination condition (5‑0) and conditionally approved the mixed‑use development at 33 Mt Auburn St with two added conditions (5‑0).

• Approved minutes of 11/05/2025 meeting (4-0)
• Appointed Abigail Hammett to Community Preservation Committee (5-0)
• Approved ADU at 8-10 Kimball Rd (5-0)
• Approved ADU at 15 Thurston Rd (5-0)
• Approved sign special permit at 260 Arsenal Pl with illumination condition (5-0)
• Conditionally approved mixed-use development at 33 Mt Auburn St with conditions 8D and 8E (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Watertown Conservation Commission will meet remotely on December 3, 2025, to hear a public hearing regarding a proposed 4-story residential building at 108 Water Street. The project involves a redevelopment of a commercial building and includes a basement parking garage, with approximately 20 square feet of the site located within the Riverfront Area.

• Public hearing for 108 Water Street redevelopment project
• Arsenal Park Phase B amphitheater update
• Remote participation via Zoom and phone
• Review of hazard tree at 580 Pleasant Street
• Acceptance of November 5, 2025, minutes

The Commission voted to allocate additional funding for an affordable housing project. It accepted a request to continue the determination of applicability for the 108 Water Street redevelopment to a future meeting. The Commission gave conditional administrative approval to address a hazardous tree at 580 Pleasant Street pending a certified arborist report. The meeting was adjourned by a 4‑0 roll‑call vote.

• Approved additional funding for affordable housing project (vote passed)
• Accepted request for continuance on 108 Water Street applicability determination
• Granted conditional administrative approval to work with property manager on hazardous tree at 580 Pleasant Street
• Tabled November Conservation Commission minutes to January meeting
• Motion to adjourn passed (4-0 roll‑call vote)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will receive a presentation from consultant Liz Peck of Peck Policy Strategies regarding recent focus groups. The body will discuss subsequent action steps and an update to the commission's logo.

• Presentation from Liz Peck of Peck Policy Strategies on focus group results
• Discussion of action steps following the needs assessment
• Human Rights Commission logo update

Consultant Liz Peck presented interim findings from three focus groups on disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and the general public. The commission discussed the presentation and noted that detailed action steps will be considered after the final needs‑assessment report is issued. A brief discussion was held about the commission logo, with a subcommittee meeting to be scheduled, but no formal decision was made.

Board of Library Trustees

The Watertown Library Trustees will review the FY26 budget and the FY27 budget proposal. They will also consider accepting donations and discuss the FY26 action plan. New staff introductions and routine reports are also on the agenda.

• Consideration and Action on Acceptance of Donations
• Consideration and Action on FY27 Budget
• FY26 Budget presentation in Financial Report
• FY26 Action Plan discussion
• New Staff Introductions

The trustees unanimously approved the minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting. They also approved the FY26 financial report and accepted a $10,000 donation from Friends of Project Literacy and a $200 donation from Brooke and Johne Heraty. The board unanimously adopted the FY27 budget proposal, which includes several staffing and program funding requests, to be submitted to the City Manager. The meeting was adjourned at 8:47 PM.

• Approved 11/6/2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 financial report (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 Friends of Project Literacy donation and $200 Heraty donation (unanimous)
• Approved FY27 budget proposal for City Manager submission (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Historical Commission Preliminary Review

The Historical Commission will hold a preliminary review meeting under the Demolition Delay Ordinance. The main item is a continuation of the preliminary review for 29 Adams Ave, where the commission will either determine the building is not significant or forward the application for a full hearing.

• Continuation of preliminary review for 29 Adams Ave (building permit application)

The Historical Commission completed its preliminary review of the building permit for the garage at 29 Adams Avenue. The commission determined that no public hearing is required and the permit may proceed. The determination was issued in a Letter of Determination to the applicant.

• Building permit for 29 Adams Avenue garage allowed to proceed (no public hearing required)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to discuss recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Watertown and review a draft updated statement on the matter. The agenda also includes a discussion on a Chelsea petition regarding ICE and the potential for the commission to make similar requests of Watertown.

• Discussion of recent ICE activity in and near Watertown
• Review of draft updated statement on ICE activity
• Discussion of Chelsea petition regarding ICE and potential local asks

The Immigrant Rights Committee voted 4‑0 to approve the draft updated statement on ICE activity for review by the full Human Rights Commission. The motion was made by Corey Barr and seconded by Gabriel Camacho. The committee also assigned Xin Peng to draft a letter to the City Council expressing concern about ICE and the use of FLOCK safety camera data, to be reviewed at the next commission meeting. No public comments were received.

• Approved draft ICE statement for full commission review (4-0)

City Council: Committee on Climate and Energy

The Committee on Climate and Energy will continue its discussion of the Climate and Energy Plan, focusing on revised metrics proposed by the Sustainability Coordinator. No votes or decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion-only item.

• Continued discussion of the Climate and Energy Plan
• Review of revised metrics proposed by the Sustainability Coordinator

The Climate and Energy Committee heard a presentation on updated metrics for the Climate Action Plan and gave status updates on several initiatives. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were taken during the meeting. Highlights included a $900 k grant for rooftop solar on the DPW building, completion of library electrification, 30 small businesses and 191 households receiving energy assessments, and the city fleet now 12% electrified. Future items such as a BERDO ordinance draft and a January Walker Pond community meeting were noted for later consideration.

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bike & Pedestrian Committee will meet to compile their feedback on proposed changes to the Active Neighborhood Guidance (ANG) for submission to the Department of Public Works. This is the only substantive item on the agenda; the meeting includes public comment procedures via email.

• Compiling committee feedback on ANG changes for DPW response

The Bike & Pedestrian Committee reviewed DPW‑proposed changes to the Arlington Street, Nichols Avenue, and Watertown‑Cambridge Greenway intersection. Members compiled feedback from the November meeting and additional comments from Sheila Fay. They agreed to draft a letter with this feedback to send to Tyler Glode.

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss working group updates and the city snow removal ordinance. Members will review pedestrian and bicycle signal timing and crash data. The meeting also includes administrative updates on committee vacancies and scribe duties.

• City snow removal ordinance check-in
• Pedestrian/bicycle signal timing and crash data next steps
• Arlington-Nichols-Greenway intersection and area update
• Live Well Watertown / Watertown TMA / bike program planning
• Complete Streets Working Group logistics and deliberations

School Site Council

The Hosmer School Site Council will meet to discuss its role and review the School Improvement Plan for the current school year. The meeting is largely procedural, with no votes or specific financial items on the agenda. The council will also address any other matters of business.

• Discussion of School Improvement Plan goals for 2025-2026
• Review of the role and responsibilities of the Site Council

City Council

The Watertown City Council will discuss and possibly approve first‑reading loan orders that appropriate $879,000 for Department of Public Works equipment and $911,900 for How Park Phase I construction. The agenda also includes possible action on the Middle School construction, renovation, or reuse and on leasing or purchasing modular classrooms for the High School project. A resolution to transfer $469,250 among reserve funds and a recommendation on the FY 2027 Budget Policy Guidelines will also be considered.

• First reading of loan order for $879,000 to purchase DPW equipment (hydro excavation vactor truck and sewer/stormwater camera truck)
• First reading of loan order for $911,900 to fund construction and administration costs for How Park Phase I
• Consideration and possible action on construction, reconstruction, renovation, or reuse of the Middle School and on leasing/purchasing modular classrooms for the High School project
• Resolution authorizing transfer of $469,250 from FY 2026 reserve funds to various personnel accounts
• Recommendation for City Council to adopt FY 2027 Budget Policy Guidelines

The council entered an Executive Session unanimously. It accepted the Arbor Day proclamation by voice vote. It also passed a unanimous motion directing the City Manager and School Committee to retain ownership of the modular classrooms.

• Entered Executive Session (unanimous roll call)
• Accepted Arbor Day proclamation (unanimous voice vote)
• Directed City Manager and School Committee to retain ownership of modular classrooms (unanimous roll call)

Historical Commission Preliminary Review

The Historical Commission will hold a preliminary review meeting under the Demolition Delay Ordinance to assess two building permit applications. The Commission Chair and one Commissioner will determine whether each property is significant or forward the application to the full Commission for a hearing. This is not a public hearing; public questions can be emailed.

• Preliminary review of building permit for 30-32 Maple Street
• Preliminary review of building permit for garage demolition and replacement at 29 Adams Avenue
• Determination by Chair and one Commissioner under Section 153.04 of Demolition Delay Ordinance

The commission completed its preliminary review of the building permit for 30‑32 Maple Street and issued a determination that no public hearing is required and the permit may proceed. The application for 29 Adams Avenue, a garage demolition and replacement, was continued to a hearing on December 1, 2025 at 9 a.m. No other actions were taken.

• Determination that 30‑32 Maple Street building permit may proceed (no public hearing required)
• Continued 29 Adams Avenue garage demolition/replacement application to Dec 1 2025, 9 a.m.

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The Public Arts and Culture Committee will review and vote on a sculpture walk featuring 32 works by 21 artists. The body will also vote on a draft public art policy and discuss upcoming projects like the Edible Watertown exhibit and River of Light program.

• Vote on 32 sculptures by 21 artists for Community Sculpture Walk
• Vote on draft Public Art Policy (Evaluation and Additional Resources)
• Review of Edible Watertown exhibit and River of Light program
• Report on 'the light between' pop-up at Sullivan Park
• Next meeting scheduled for January 26, 2026

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will discuss the status of its needs assessment, including past focus groups and a debrief presentation from November 10. It will outline the timeline and process for delivering the final needs assessment report and consider next steps after the assessment is completed. The commission will also review a proposed update to its logo.

• Needs Assessment Status: past focus groups and presentation on 11/10 debrief
• Timeline and process for final Needs Assessment report to the commission
• Human Rights Commission next steps after completion of the needs assessment
• Human Rights Commission logo update

The committee received updates on the Human Rights Commission needs assessment, including a draft expected by December 5. Members were informed that a more accessible presentation is planned for December 2 and that the full commission will review the final report later. The logo subcommittee will reconvene after rescheduling its meeting. No formal actions or votes were taken.

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to review status updates and discuss stormwater education. The agenda includes a follow-up on a CRWA presentation regarding flooding.

• Faire on the Square results
• CRWA presentation on flooding follow-up
• General Stormwater Education and Outreach goals

The committee approved the August 21 and September 18, 2025 meeting minutes, the latter with amendments. Members agreed to meet again in December to discuss the committee’s structure and focus areas. The next meeting was set for Dec 18, 2025 at 4 pm.

• Approved August 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved September 18, 2025 meeting minutes with amendments
• Agreed to reconvene in December to discuss committee structure and focus areas
• Scheduled next meeting for Dec 18, 2025 at 4 pm

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will meet to confirm the appointment and reappointment of several members to the Public Arts & Culture Committee and the Historic District Commission.

• Confirm appointment of Lei Ma to Public Arts & Culture Committee
• Confirm reappointment of Dawn Scaltreto to Public Arts & Culture Committee
• Confirm appointment of Brendan Shanahan to Historic District Commission
• Confirm reappointments to Historic District Commission
• Confirm reappointment of Matt Hanna to Public Arts & Culture Committee

The council voted to confirm Lei Ma to the Public Arts & Culture Committee for a term ending November 15, 2027. Brendan Shanahan was confirmed to the Historic District Commission for a term ending November 15, 2026. Dawn Scaltreto, Harvey Steiner, Linda Sternberg, and Matt Hanna were each reappointed to their respective committees for terms ending November 15, 2028. All motions passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote.

• Confirmed Lei Ma to Public Arts & Culture Committee (term ends November 15, 2027) – 3-0
• Confirmed Brendan Shanahan to Historic District Commission (term ends November 15, 2026) – 3-0
• Reappointed Dawn Scaltreto to Public Arts & Culture Committee (term ends November 15, 2028) – 3-0
• Reappointed Harvey Steiner to Historic District Commission (term ends November 15, 2028) – 3-0
• Reappointed Linda Sternberg to Historic District Commission (term ends November 15, 2028) – 3-0
• Reappointed Matt Hanna to Public Arts & Culture Committee (term ends November 15, 2028) – 3-0

School Site Council

The Watertown High School School Site Council will meet virtually to hear a Principal's Update and review Objective #2 of the School Improvement Plan. They will also approve meeting notes from September 25, 2025. No votes on funding or policy changes are scheduled.

• Review of SIP Objective #2
• Principal’s Update
• Approval of September 25, 2025 meeting notes

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will hold continuation of show cause hearings for Deluxe Town Diner, Olespana Whiskey & Tapas, Shiraz Cuisine, and Perfection Plus, with potential license cancellation. The board will also review a new BYOB application for Caspian Persian Cuisine at 72 Bigelow Ave, consider a one-day hours extension for Buttermilk & Bourbon until 2:00AM on November 26, and approve several special one-day events.

• Show cause continuation for Deluxe Town Diner (627 Mt Auburn St) — wine and malt license cancellation
• Show cause continuation for Olespana Whiskey & Tapas (645 Mt Auburn St) — all alcohol license cancellation
• Show cause continuation for Shiraz Cuisine (72 Bigelow Ave) — all alcohol license cancellation
• Show cause continuation for Perfection Plus (493 Pleasant St) — auto repair license cancellation
• Review of new BYOB application for PAHA Corp dba Caspian Persian Cuisine (72 Bigelow Ave)

The Licensing Board voted unanimously to approve a road race hosted by Donahue's Bar & Grill, an hour‑extension for Buttermilk & Bourbon, a Solstice event by Friends of Mt. Auburn Cemetery, and two Armenian Cultural Center celebrations. Each approval was recorded with a 3‑0 vote. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Donahue's Bar & Grill annual road race (3-0)
• Approved Buttermilk & Bourbon one‑day extension of hours (3-0)
• Approved Friends of Mt Auburn Cemetery Solstice event alcohol provision (3-0)
• Approved Armenian Cultural and Education Center November 28 celebration (3-0)
• Approved Armenian Cultural and Educational Center New Year's Eve celebration (3-0)

Community Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee will discuss an additional request for the Willow Park Redevelopment project and hear a presentation on an application for Commander's Mansion. The committee will also consider the future CPC chairperson and receive a coordinator update on CPA funds and project financial tracking.

• Willow Park Redevelopment - additional request presentation
• Commander's Mansion application presentation
• Future CPC chairperson discussion
• CPA funds update as of 9/30/25
• Project financial tracking update

The committee approved a $2 M award to Preservation of Affordable Housing and the Watertown Housing Authority for the Willow Park Redevelopment, with $500,000 released on invitation to submit a full state application and the remaining $500,000 on notification of state funding. It also approved $610,000 for Phase I of the Commander’s Mansion building envelope renovation and elevator modernization. A motion transferred $1 M from the budgeted reserve to the community housing reserve. Bob DiRico was elected interim chair for a three‑month term.

• Approved $2 M Willow Park Redevelopment award (conditional release) – vote: Bob DiRico, Jamie O’Connell, Matt Walter, Amy Plovnick, Abigail Hammett, Dennis J. Duff, Allison Eck, Allen Gallagher
• Approved $610,000 Commander’s Mansion Phase I renovation – vote: Allison Eck, Jamie O’Connell, Matt Walter, Abigail Hammett, Dennis J. Duff, Amy Plovnick, Bob DiRico, Allen Gallagher
• Approved transfer of $1 M from budgeted reserve to community housing reserve – vote: Bob DiRico, Jamie O’Connell, Abigail Hammett, Dennis J. Duff, Allison Eck, Amy Plovnick, Matt Walter, Allen Gallagher
• Elected Bob DiRico as interim chair (3‑month term) – vote: Jamie O’Connell, Amy Plovnick, Dennis J. Duff, Bob DiRico, Allison Eck, Abigail Hammett, Matt Walter, Allen Gallagher
• Accepted October 16, 2025 minutes as written – vote: Dennis J. Duff, Allison Eck, Jamie O’Connell, Bob DiRico, Amy Plovnick, Matthew Walter, Abigail Hammett, Allen Gallagher
• Adjourned meeting – vote: Jamie O’Connell, Amy Plovnick, Allen Gallagher, Bob DiRico, Allison Eck, Matt Walter, Dennis J. Duff, Abigail Hammett

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will meet on November 19, 2025 via Zoom. Commissioners will review the status of the logo contest, including submissions received and the gift‑card reward. They will consider options for adjusting the due date, expanding the audience, or other methods to increase submissions, and will report recommendations to the full commission at the December meeting.

• Review status of Human Rights logo contest submissions
• Discuss gift‑card reward for logo contest
• Consider adjusting contest due date
• Consider opening contest to a broader audience
• Prepare report for full commission meeting in December

School Building Committee

The Watertown School Building Committee will meet to approve monthly invoices for the High School and Middle School projects, review project progress, and vote on budget changes and schedule updates.

• Approval of High School Project monthly invoices for October 2025
• Approval of Middle School Project monthly invoices for October 2025
• Vote on budget changes, change orders, and amendments for the High School Project
• Review of High School Project progress and schedule updates
• Review of Middle School Project status

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review two new applications. One seeks additions to a non‑conforming building at 114 Marshall St. The other proposes replacing an office building with a 52‑unit multifamily development at 108 Water St. The board will also approve minutes from the October 22, 2025 meeting and a minor modification request for an affordable unit at 104 Main St.

• 108 Water St: request to replace office building with 52‑unit multifamily housing
• 114 Marshall St: request for additions to non‑conforming building coverage and yard setback
• 104 Main St: minor modification for location of three‑bedroom affordable unit
• Approval of meeting minutes from October 22, 2025

The board approved a Special Permit Finding to allow construction of two additions within a non‑conforming side‑yard setback and building coverage at 114 Marshall St, with a 5‑0 vote. It also approved a minor modification to relocate an affordable three‑bedroom unit from a townhouse to a flat unit at 104 Main St, voting 4‑1. The October 22, 2025 meeting minutes were approved unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved Special Permit Finding for two additions at 114 Marshall St (5-0)
• Approved minor modification of condition 19a to relocate affordable unit at 104 Main St (4-1)
• Approved October 22, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will hear a guest speaker on ADA tagging for 311 requests, discuss and vote on the updated cost of ASL & CART services for a Library accessibility event, and receive updates on multiple accessibility projects including the Waverly-Belmont Street intersection, Arsenal Park amphitheater path, and accessible entrances at City Hall. The meeting also includes committee reports and approval of previous minutes.

• Guest speaker on ADA tagging for 311 requests
• Discussion and vote on ASL & CART cost for Library accessibility event
• Update on Waverly-Belmont Street intersection accessibility
• Update on accessible entrances at City Hall
• Discussion of cracks in pavement on pathway from Whites Avenue to Waverly Avenue

The commission voted 9-0 to allocate $3,000 to each food pantry and $1,000 to the Community Fridge. It also approved funding for two ASL interpreters and CART services for the Unity Breakfast on Jan. 19, 2026. The October meeting minutes were accepted 7-0, and the treasurer’s report showing a $7,500 increase and $137,335.90 available was approved 9-0.

• Approved $3,000 donation to each food pantry and $1,000 to Community Fridge (9-0)
• Approved covering two ASL interpreters and CART services for Unity Breakfast Jan 19, 2026 (9-0)
• Accepted October meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved treasurer’s report showing $7,500 increase and $137,335.90 available (9-0)

Board of Health

The Watertown Board of Health will hold a public hearing and vote on determinations for two bodywork establishments: Sunflower Spa at 32 Mount Auburn Street and Health Hall at 2 Bigelow Avenue. They will also review permit applications for Foghorn Therapeutics at 99 Coolidge Avenue and FTGEN at 155 Arlington Street. The meeting includes a public comment period and staffing updates.

• Hearing and vote on Body Work Establishment determination for Sunflower Spa at 32 Mount Auburn Street
• Hearing and vote on Body Work Establishment determination for Health Hall at 2 Bigelow Avenue
• Review of permit application for Foghorn Therapeutics at 99 Coolidge Avenue 501
• Review of permit application for FTGEN at 155 Arlington Street

The Board approved permits for Foghorn Therapeutics at 99 Coolidge Avenue and FTGEN at 155 Arlington Street, each passing with a 2‑0 vote. It then voted 2‑0 to revoke the permits of Sunflower Spa (32 Mount Auburn Street) and Health Hall (2 Bigelow Avenue) for sexual and zoning violations. Minutes for the August, October and November meetings were tabled to the December meeting.

• Approved permit for Foghorn Therapeutics – 99 Coolidge Avenue (2-0)
• Approved permit for FTGEN – 155 Arlington Street (2-0)
• Revoked permit for Sunflower Spa – 32 Mount Auburn Street (2-0)
• Revoked permit for Health Hall – 2 Bigelow Avenue (2-0)
• Tabled minutes for August 20, 2025, October 22, 2025, and November 19, 2025 to December meeting

Board of Assessors

The Watertown Board of Assessors will vote on accepting October 28, 2025, minutes and reviewing uncollectible motor vehicle excise taxes. The meeting will also include a vote to enter executive session to discuss confidential abatement applications.

• Vote to accept October 28, 2025, minutes
• Review and vote on uncollectible motor vehicle excise taxes
• Vote to enter executive session for confidential abatement applications
• Review and vote on October 28, 2025, executive session minutes

The Board accepted the October 28, 2025 minutes by unanimous vote. It also approved the FY2013 uncollectible motor vehicle excise tax unanimously. The Board then moved into executive session and later adjourned the meeting.

• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY2013 uncollectible vehicle excise tax (unanimous)
• Moved to executive session (approved)
• Adjourned the meeting (approved)

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission will hold a special meeting to review a request from City Manager George Proakis regarding the parking fine associated with snow emergency violations. No other items are on the agenda.

• Request by City Manager George Proakis to review the parking fine for snow emergency violations.

The Traffic Commission voted to accept the recommendation to increase the snow‑emergency parking fine to up to $100 per violation. The motion was made by Mr. Magoon, seconded by Ms. Gallagher, and passed unanimously. The City Manager plans to request City Council support for the higher fine. No other actions were taken.

• Approved increase of snow‑emergency parking fine to up to $100 per violation (unanimous)

School Site Council

The Watertown Middle School Site Council will meet on November 18, 2025, at 4:30 PM in the WMS Library or virtually. The agenda includes revisiting action steps and discussing the School Improvement Plan, along with routine items such as approval of prior minutes and meeting norms.

• Revisit action steps from previous meetings
• Discussion of the School Improvement Plan
• Acceptance of prior meeting minutes
• Setting meeting norms

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Watertown City Council Committee on Public Works will meet on November 18, 2025 to review and make recommendations on the Hazard Mitigation Action Plan. The meeting includes remote participation options. No votes or other actions are on the agenda.

• Review and make recommendations on the Hazard Mitigation Action Plan

The Public Works Committee met on Oct 22, 2025 to review FY 2026 loan orders for local road and connector road projects and to discuss the Chapter 90 Fair Share Amendment. The committee presented recommendations for full‑depth reconstruction of several streets in 2026 and updates on ongoing projects, but no formal approvals, votes, or actions were recorded by the City Council. Public comments were received on tree‑canopy protection and sidewalk conditions.

Watertown Affordable Housing Trust

The Watertown Affordable Housing Trust will discuss a proposed affordable housing plan for 33 Mt. Auburn Street and vote to enter an executive session to consider real property matters. The meeting will be held in-person and virtually on November 18, 2025.

• Discussion of affordable housing plan for 33 Mt. Auburn Street
• Introduction of new Senior Planner/Housing Will Downie
• Vote to enter executive session for real property negotiations

The Watertown Affordable Housing Trust voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the affordable housing plan for the 40‑unit development at 33 Mt Auburn Street, with the Chair and staff to work with the applicant on parking allocation and management. The meeting also noted a future December 16 meeting and discussed parking management language for 108 Water Street, but no decisions were made on those items.

• Recommend approval of 33 Mt Auburn Street affordable housing plan (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a proposed amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. The body will also consider a First Reading of a 'Skip the Stuff' Waste Reduction Ordinance and a temporary modification to the Winter Parking Ban.

• Public Hearing and Vote on Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment
• First Reading of 'Skip the Stuff' Waste Reduction Ordinance
• Consideration of Temporary Winter Parking Ban Modification
• Consideration of Revised Administrative Code
• Review of Assistant City Manager Qualifications

The council voted unanimously to adopt the proposed amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. A motion was passed unanimously directing the City Manager to incorporate public feedback on the draft Administrative Code and return a redlined version. The first reading of the “Skip the Stuff” waste‑reduction ordinance was scheduled for the December agenda.

• Adopt FY2026 budget amendment (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Instruct City Manager to take feedback on Administrative Code draft and return redlined revision (unanimous voice vote)
• Place first reading of “Skip the Stuff” waste‑reduction ordinance on December agenda

Developer Community Meeting

The Watertown Zoning Board will hold a public information meeting on November 17, 2025, to present the redevelopment proposal for 45‑59 Mount Auburn Street. The project includes a 4+ story building with 153 residential units, about 9,830 sq ft of retail space, and parking for 94 vehicles. Attendees can ask questions and provide comments about the plan. The meeting will be in the Lower Hearing Room at City Hall and also available via Zoom.

• Presentation of the 4+ story mixed‑use development at 45‑59 Mount Auburn Street
• Discussion of 153 residential units and ~9,830 sq ft of retail space
• Review of on‑site parking provision for 94 vehicles (87 garage, 7 exterior)
• Public comment period for community feedback
• Access to project files via provided Laserfiche link

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will review several reports and then vote on the FY27 budget goals and the recommended capital improvement plan. They will also approve minutes from prior meetings, appoint a member to the LABBBW Board of Directors, and conduct a second reading and vote on multiple policy proposals. The meeting includes a public forum, a teaching and learning showcase, and updates from student representatives.

• FY27 WPS Budget Goals
• FY27 School Committee Recommended Capital Improvement Plan
• 2025/2026 Appointment to the LABBBW Board of Directors
• Policy second reading and vote on ECAF: Security Cameras in Schools
• Policy second reading and vote on GBEBC: Gifts To And Solicitation By Staff

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Watertown Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will hold its November 17 meeting remotely. The agenda includes routine items such as approval of October minutes, reports from the Energy and Sustainability Managers, a membership and administrative code update, and a status report on environmental ordinances. The committee will also consider any new business that arises.

• Approval of October meeting minutes
• Energy Manager Report
• Sustainability Manager Report
• Membership and administrative code update
• Ordinance status report

Historical Commission Preliminary Review

The Watertown Historical Commission will hold a preliminary review meeting for two demolition permit applications. Under the Demolition Delay Ordinance, the Commission Chair and one Commissioner will determine whether the properties are significant. The applications are for 22 Stoneleigh Circle and 119 Church St (demolish garage and replace). The public may attend via Zoom, but this is not a public hearing.

• Preliminary review of building permit application at 22 Stoneleigh Circle
• Preliminary review of building permit application at 119 Church St (demolish garage and replace with new garage)
• Meeting conducted under Section 153.04 of the Demolition Delay Ordinance
• Determination will either declare building not significant or forward application to full Historical Commission hearing

The Historical Commission Chair and a member completed a preliminary review of two building applications. They determined that the building permit for 22 Stoneleigh Circle may not proceed at this time. They also determined that the demolition application for 119 Church Street may proceed. No public hearing was required for either application.

• Building permit for 22 Stoneleigh Circle may not proceed (preliminary review)
• Demolition application for 119 Church Street may proceed (preliminary review)

Public Shade Tree Removal Hearing

The Watertown City Hall Lower Hearing Room will hold a Public Shade Tree Removal Hearing on Thursday, November 13 at 5:00 PM. The hearing, required by Chapter 87 of the Massachusetts General Laws, will consider proposals to remove six trees at various city locations. Each listed tree includes its species and trunk diameter. No decision has been made yet; the hearing allows public input.

• 12 Bradford Road – 32" DBH Acer platanoides
• 55 Emerson Road – 18" DBH Acer platanoides
• 3 Green Street (Tree on Main St) – 32" DBH Acer platanoides
• 144 Madison Ave – 33" DBH Acer saccharum
• 500 Belmont Street – 10" DBH Tilia cordata

City Council: Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight

The Budget and Fiscal Oversight Committee will discuss and make recommendations on the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Policy Guidelines. This is the only substantive item on the agenda, with no other decisions or public hearings listed.

• Discussion and recommendations on Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Policy Guidelines

The Budget and Fiscal Oversight Committee recommended that the City Council adopt the FY2027 Budget Policy Guidelines as drafted. Councilor Gardner made the motion, Councilor Izzo seconded, and the motion passed 3‑0. The Committee will use the established ranking method and submit the final ranked guidelines to the Manager after Council ranking. Both meetings were adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Motion to recommend adoption of FY2027 Budget Policy Guidelines passed 3-0 (Gardner motion, Izzo second)
• Committee adjourned the November 5 meeting by unanimous vote
• Committee adjourned the November 13 meeting by unanimous vote

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will review FY26 grant applications and make allocation and denial decisions. The board will also discuss a partnership with PACC regarding the 'River of Light' project. Approval of the previous meeting's minutes is also on the agenda.

• Review of FY26 WCC grants and discussion of grantee applications
• Grant allocations and denials
• Discussion of WCC/PACC partnership for 'River of Light'
• Approval of October meeting minutes
• Next steps for grant process and partnership

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold public hearings to determine if the houses at 45 Mt. Auburn St. (continued from October 9) and 157 School St. are preferably preserved, and whether to impose demolition delays. The Commission will also review and accept the minutes from the October 9 meeting.

• Continued public hearing to determine if house at 45 Mt. Auburn St. is preferably preserved and if demolition delay will be imposed (Andy Mann, The Triad Group, Representative).
• Public hearing to determine if house at 157 School St. is preferably preserved and if demolition delay will be imposed (Kenneth Leitner, Esquire, Representative).
• Review and acceptance of minutes from the October 9, 2025, Historical Commission meeting.

The commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the October 9, 2025 meeting. It voted 5‑2 to deem the house at 45 Mt. Auburn St. historically significant and preferably preserved, and then voted 4‑3 to impose a two‑year demolition delay on that property. The commission also voted 7‑0 that the house at 157 School St. is not historically significant nor preferably preserved.

• Accepted October 9, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Declared 45 Mt. Auburn St. historically significant and preferably preserved (5‑2)
• Imposed a two‑year demolition delay on 45 Mt. Auburn St. (4‑3)
• Found 157 School St. not historically significant nor preferably preserved (7‑0)

BioSafety Committee

The BioSafety Committee will review permit applications from Foghorn Therapeutics (99 Coolidge Avenue #501) and FTGEN (155 Arlington Street), and an amendment to an existing permit from Tectonic Therapeutic (490 Arsenal Way #200). The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Permit review: Foghorn Therapeutics – 99 Coolidge Avenue #501
• Permit review: FTGEN – 155 Arlington Street
• Amendment review: Tectonic Therapeutic – 490 Arsenal Way #200
• Approval of draft minutes from October 9, 2025

The committee approved the October 9, 2025 meeting minutes by a 3‑0 vote. It then voted 3‑0 to recommend the Board of Health approve the Foghorn Therapeutics permit at 99 Coolidge Avenue. A second 3‑0 vote recommended Board of Health approval for the FTGEN permit at 155 Arlington Street. No formal decision was made on the Tectonic Therapeutic amendment.

• Approved October 9, 2025 minutes (3‑0)
• Recommended BOH approval of Foghorn Therapeutics permit (3‑0)
• Recommended BOH approval of FTGEN permit (3‑0)

Council on Aging

This is a procedural meeting of the Watertown Council on Aging. The agenda includes roll call, review of prior meeting minutes, a director's report on Senior Center updates, and a public comment period. No specific votes or new business items are listed.

• Director's report on COA updates
• Public comment period for Senior Center matters

The board reviewed prior minutes and discussed SNAP funding impacts, emergency assistance funds, and listed community food‑pantry partners. No formal approvals, denials, or other actions were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 4:48 PM after a motion to adjourn passed with all members in favor.

• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will review grant applications and make funding allocations for Fiscal Year 2026. The meeting will also discuss a partnership with the Watertown Community Center and PACC regarding the 'River of Light' event.

• Review of FY26 WCC grants
• Grant allocations and denials
• WCC/PACC partnership re: 'River of Light'
• Discussion of grantee applications

The council approved the October 2025 minutes with unanimous support. Members reviewed each F26 grant proposal, with three members recusing themselves from specific grants due to conflicts of interest, and voted on all proposals. The council then voted to cancel the meeting scheduled for November 13, with all members in favor.

• Approved October 2025 minutes (Morgan approved, Greg seconded, all in favor)
• Reviewed and voted on each F26 grant proposal; three members recused from specific grants
• Cancelled the November 13 meeting (all in favor)

City Council

The Watertown City Council will consider several public‑service petitions from NSTAR (Eversource) to install conduit for electrical service at three locations. The council will also vote on a proposed loan of $2,200,000 to fund construction and oversight of roadway, sidewalk and utility reconstruction on Fifth Avenue as outlined in the FY 2025‑2029 Capital Improvement Plan. Additional items include a property‑tax levy allocation order for FY 2026 and a resolution to accept six donated picnic tables.

• Public hearing and vote on NSTAR petition for conduit at Cross Street (≈12 ft) to serve 2‑10 Cross Street
• Public hearing and vote on NSTAR petition for conduit at Alden Road (≈14 ft) to serve 23 Alden Road
• Public hearing and vote on NSTAR petition for conduit at Mount Auburn Street (≈14 ft) to serve 780‑784 Mt Auburn Street
• Public hearing and vote on a $2,200,000 loan to fund Fifth Avenue roadway, sidewalk and utility reconstruction
• Public hearing and vote on an order allocating the property‑tax levy among property classes for FY 2026

The council adopted the October 28, 2025 minutes and approved three Eversource location grants. It authorized a $2,200,000 loan to fund road, sidewalk and utility work on Fifth Avenue. The council also adopted the maximum 1.75% commercial tax shift and a 35% residential exemption for FY 2026, and accepted six donated picnic tables from Home Depot.

• Adopted minutes from the October 28, 2025 meeting (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Eversource grant of location on Cross Street (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Eversource grant of location on Alden Road (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Eversource grant of location on Mt. Auburn Street (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved $2,200,000 loan order for Fifth Avenue road, sidewalk and utility reconstruction (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Adopted maximum commercial tax shift of 1.75% for FY 2026 (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Adopted residential tax exemption of 35% (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Accepted gift of six Home Depot picnic tables (unanimous voice vote)

Public Arts and Culture Committee

This is a routine meeting of the Watertown Cultural District Partnership. Items include acceptance of September minutes, a Marketing Subcommittee report, an Outreach Coordinator report on website and Instagram, and sharing of upcoming events and programs. No votes on ordinances or contracts are on the agenda.

• Acceptance of September meeting minutes
• Marketing Subcommittee report
• Outreach Coordinator report on website and Instagram
• Sharing of upcoming events and programs

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will hear a presentation on its needs assessment by Liz Peck of Peck Policy Strategies. Commissioners will discuss recent immigration enforcement activity and preparations for Human Rights Day on December 10. The meeting includes two public comment periods.

• Presentation on Human Rights Commission Needs Assessment by Liz Peck
• Discussion of recent immigration enforcement activity
• Planning for Human Rights Day on December 10
• Public comment period before discussion
• Public comment period after discussion

The Human Rights Commission approved the October 20, 2025 minutes by an 8‑0 vote. It decided it does not have capacity to host a Human Rights Day event on December 10 and will instead create a public service announcement with Watertown Cable Access Television. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved October 20, 2025 minutes (8-0 vote)
• Decided not to host Human Rights Day event on Dec 10
• Planned public service announcement with Watertown Cable Access TV

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Watertown Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee will vote on a representative to the Complete Streets Working Group and discuss the Arlington-Nichols-Greenway intersection. Other agenda items include pedestrian signal timing, crash data, and updates on a committee vacancy and developer projects.

• Vote on representative from WBPC to the Complete Streets Working Group
• Debrief on ANG (Arlington-Nichols-Greenway) intersection
• Discussion of pedestrian signal timing and traffic crash data
• Update on LiveWell Watertown collaboration including grants
• Update on WBPC open seat vacancy

The committee approved the minutes from the October 6, 2025 meeting. It decided to form a signal timing working group, led by Adrian Hauck with Jamie Burke and Eileen Botti as members. The committee also appointed Jamie Burke as one of two Watertown Complete Streets Working Group representatives.

• Approved October 6, 2025 meeting minutes (moved and passed)
• Created signal timing working group; Adrian Hauck to lead with Jamie Burke and Eileen Botti
• Appointed Jamie Burke as a Watertown Complete Streets Working Group representative

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will discuss and potentially take action on a continuation of the O'Some Cafe contract, including a financial report. Multiple library policies—collection development, meeting room, borrowing, lending to decertified libraries, and community fridge placement—are up for action. The board will also consider acceptance of donations and capital submissions for FY27.

• O'Some Cafe update and consideration of contract continuation
• Acceptance of donations and FY26 budget report
• Consideration and action on collection development, meeting room, borrowing, and lending-to-decertified-libraries policies
• Consideration and action on community fridge placement
• Consideration and action on capital submissions for FY27

The trustees unanimously approved the minutes from the October 8 meeting and renewed the O’Some Café contract through September 2027. They accepted two monetary donations totaling $2,100 and adopted amendments to the collection development, meeting‑room, borrowing, and decertified‑library lending policies. The board also approved FY26 financial reports and authorized FY27 capital improvements, including chimney repair, equipment upgrades, painting, and lobby/stairs recarpeting.

• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Renewed O’Some Café contract through September 2027 (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 financial report (unanimous)
• Accepted donations of $500 and $1,600 (unanimous)
• Adopted amended Collection Development Policy (unanimous)
• Adopted amended Meeting Room Policy (unanimous)
• Adopted amended Borrowing Policy (unanimous)
• Approved FY27 capital improvements (unanimous)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to discuss the status of a logo contest with Watertown Public Schools. The meeting is held virtually via Zoom on November 5, 2025.

• Discussion of Human Rights Commission Logo Contest with Watertown Public Schools
• Meeting held via Zoom
• Public comment via email

The Human Rights Commission discussed the school logo contest and noted they will wait until the November 12 deadline to determine if there are enough submissions to form a formal selection committee. A draft evaluation rubric was reviewed and feedback was provided, but no vote or official action was taken.

City Council: Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee will discuss the compost program's enrollment numbers, a mailer, and a billboard. They will also address a request for documentation on refrigerant removal from appliances and review the solid waste metrics from the 2022 Climate and Energy Plan. The proposed 'Skip the Stuff' ordinance and future meeting format will be topics of discussion.

• Compost program update: enrollment numbers, mailer status, and billboard
• Discussion of documentation request on refrigerant removal from refrigerators and air conditioners
• Review and possible revision of solid waste metrics in the 2022 Climate and Energy Plan
• Discussion of the 'Skip the Stuff' ordinance
• Decision on future meeting format: virtual, in-person, or hybrid

The Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee approved the prior meeting minutes without amendment. The committee received updates on the Republic strike, recycling calendar mailing, and upcoming recycling events. They discussed compost program outreach, refrigerant disposal procedures, and solid‑waste metrics, recommending annual target improvements. The “Skip the Stuff” ordinance remains scheduled for a City Council vote in November.

• Approved meeting minutes without amendment

Residents’ Advisory Committee

The Residents' Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes from September 30, discuss outreach efforts including a volunteer video and media outreach, and receive an announcement on the City Manager's Draft Administrative Code. The committee will then enter executive session under MGL 30A Section 21(a)(8) to consider applicants for employment or appointment, after which the public meeting will not reconvene.

• Acceptance of minutes from September 30, 2025
• Outreach: Video for Volunteers, Media Outreach, and Faire Reflections
• Announcement of City Manager's Draft Administrative Code
• Executive session to consider or interview applicants for employment or appointment by a preliminary screening committee
• Next meeting scheduled for December 3, 2025

The Residents’ Advisory Committee approved four interview questions for a volunteer recruitment video after a motion and second. The review of the September 30, 2025 meeting minutes was deferred to the next meeting. The committee also voted to enter executive session under MGL C.30A §21(a)(8).

• Approved four interview questions for a volunteer video (motion by Gohar, seconded by Liz)
• Deferred review of September 30, 2025 meeting minutes to the next meeting
• Moved meeting to executive session per MGL C.30A §21(a)(8) (motion by Gohar, seconded by Liz)

City Council: Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight

The Committee of the Budget and Fiscal Oversight will hold a meeting to discuss and make recommendations on the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Policy Guidelines. This is a discussion item, not a final decision. The meeting includes both in-person and remote participation options.

• Discussion and recommendations on Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Policy Guidelines

School Committee

The Building and Grounds Subcommittee will discuss and vote on the Capital Improvement Plan. They will also discuss Middle School updates. This is a subcommittee meeting of the Watertown School Committee.

• Discussion and vote on Capital Improvement Plan
• Discussion only on Middle School Updates

Planning Board

The Watertown Planning Board will consider several site plan reviews for converting basements and garages into accessory dwelling units (ADUs) at six properties, and a special permit for a 52-unit multi-family housing development at 108 Water St replacing an office building. The board will also review a Comcast broadband equipment center at 25 Clarendon St and approve minutes from the October 8 meeting.

• 108 Water St: special permit for 52-unit multi-family development with 27 parking spaces
• 10 Coolidge Hill Rd: basement conversion to ADU in two-family district (continued from Oct 8)
• 216 Common St, 34 Walnut St, 885 Belmont St, 61 Oakley Rd: ADU conversion site plan reviews
• 25 Clarendon St: Comcast broadband equipment center with site plan updates
• Approval of October 8, 2025 meeting minutes

The Planning Board unanimously approved the site‑plan for Comcast’s broadband facility at 25 Clarendon St, adding a requirement to submit a landscaping plan. It also approved five accessory dwelling unit conversions—10 Coolidge, 216 Common St, 34 Walnut St, 885 Belmont St, and 61 Oakley Rd—each by a 4‑0 vote. All approvals were recorded by roll‑call vote.

• Approved Comcast broadband facility site plan with landscaping condition (5‑0)
• Approved ADU conversion at 10 Coolidge (4‑0)
• Approved ADU conversion at 216 Common St (4‑0)
• Approved ADU conversion at 34 Walnut St (4‑0)
• Approved ADU conversion at 885 Belmont St (4‑0)
• Approved ADU conversion at 61 Oakley Rd (4‑0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider a Wetland Decision setting 2026 meeting and filing dates. It will hold a public hearing on the Notice of Intent for renovating the Dealtry Memorial Pool at 138 and 114 Pleasant Street, including the pool, concrete area, and deck in a flood‑prone riverfront zone. The commission will also receive updates, vote on a new chair, and accept minutes from the October 8 meeting.

• Wetland Decision – establish 2026 meeting and filing dates
• Public hearing on Dealtry Memorial Pool renovation (Notice of Intent) at 138/114 Pleasant Street
• Nomination and vote for a new Conservation Commission chair
• Agent report on ongoing site visits and possible Notice of Violation for Bell Watertown
• Acceptance of minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting

The Conservation Commission voted 7‑0 to approve the renovation of the Dealtry Memorial Pool at 138 Pleasant Street, adding special order conditions. Commissioners also elected Patrick Towler as the new chair (6‑0) and moved the 2026 filing deadline to November 12 (6‑0). The October 8, 2025 meeting minutes were accepted (5‑0).

• Approved moving the 2026 filing deadline to November 12 (6-0)
• Elected Patrick Towler as new Chair (6-0)
• Accepted October 8, 2025 Conservation Commission minutes (5-0)
• Closed public hearing for 138 Pleasant Street Dealtry Pool renovations (7-0)
• Approved 138 Pleasant Street Dealtry Pool renovations with special order conditions (7-0)
• Adopted suggested conditions for the Dealtry Pool project, including perpetual mitigation area and biodegradable erosion controls (7-0)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:45 PM (7-0)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will review a timeline provided by consultant Liz Peck and examine demographics from focus group participants. The body will also discuss the distribution of remaining gift cards and a logo contest.

• Review of timeline from Consultant Liz Peck
• Overview of focus group participant demographics
• Plan for remaining gift cards
• Human Rights Commission Logo Contest

City Council

The Board of Assessors will meet to review September 2025 minutes and motor vehicle commitments. The meeting includes a vote to enter executive session to discuss confidential exemption and abatement applications.

• Review and vote on acceptance of September 16, 2025 minutes
• Review and vote on exemption applications in executive session
• Review and sign Motor Vehicle Commitment IV, V and Boat Commitment
• Public comment via email to [email protected]

The Board unanimously approved the September 16, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved the 2025 Motor Vehicle Excise Tax amounts: IV $250,042.58, V $180,853.21, and Boat $2,327.00. The Board voted to enter an executive session and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved September 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Motor Vehicle Excise Tax IV $250,042.58, V $180,853.21, Boat $2,327.00 (unanimous)
• Moved to executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Education and School System Matters

The Watertown City Council Education Committee will vote to confirm the appointment of Mathew McCarthy as a member of the Watertown Community Access Television (WCATV) Board of Directors, with a term ending September 15, 2028. The committee will also confirm the reappointment of David Stokes to the same board for a term ending September 15, 2028. No other agenda items are listed.

• Confirm appointment of Mathew McCarthy to WCATV Board (term until Sep 15, 2028)
• Confirm reappointment of David Stokes to WCATV Board (term until Sep 15, 2028)

The committee voted to approve Matthew McCarthy's appointment to the Watertown Cable Access Board of Directors, with a term ending September 15, 2028. The committee also approved David Stokes' reappointment to the same board, also ending September 15, 2028. Both motions passed.

• Approved Matthew McCarthy appointment to Watertown Cable Access Board (2-0)
• Approved David Stokes reappointment to Watertown Cable Access Board (3-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss options for the Watertown Middle School and consider a loan order for roadway and utility work. The body will also review a fund transfer for public buildings and the property tax levy allocation for Fiscal Year 2026.

• Proposed $2,200,000 loan for roadway, sidewalk, and utility reconstruction of Fifth Avenue
• Proposed $175,470 fund transfer from City Council Reserve to Public Buildings account
• First reading on the Fiscal Year 2026 property tax levy allocation
• Discussion on options for the Watertown Middle School

The City Council approved the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting by voice vote. No other actions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the October 28 session.

• Adopted minutes from Oct 14 2025 (unanimous voice vote)

School Committee

The School Committee will vote on several policy items including the use of ECAF body cameras in schools, restrictions on staff gifts, and rules for student fundraising. The body will also discuss religious holiday assessments and a social media policy.

• Vote on ECAF-Body Cameras in Schools
• Vote on GBEBC – Gifts To And Solicitation By Staff
• Vote on JJE – Student Fund-Raising Activities
• Discussion on Assessments and Homework: Religious Holidays
• Discussion on Social Media Policy

Developer Community Meeting

The Watertown Zoning Board will hold a public information meeting on Oct. 27, 2025 to present the proposed redevelopment of 45‑59 Mount Auburn Street. The project proposes a 4+ story mixed‑use building with 153 residential units, about 9,830 sq ft of retail space, and parking for 94 vehicles. Attendees may ask questions and provide comments on the plans.

• Presentation of 4+ story mixed‑use redevelopment at 45‑59 Mount Auburn Street
• Proposal includes 153 residential units
• Approximately 9,830 sq ft of retail space planned
• Parking garage for 87 vehicles plus 7 exterior spaces
• Public comment period for community feedback

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will meet to review the budget development process, calendar, and priorities for Fiscal Year 2027. The agenda includes discussion on potential fee increases and user fees for school instruments.

• Review of Budget Development Process
• Budget Calendar FY27
• Budget Priorities FY27
• Potential Fee Increases
• Request for Small User Fee for School Owned Instruments

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The committee is reviewing a draft Public Art Policy, specifically sections on care, maintenance, and artist calls. Members are also receiving updates on various community art projects and events.

• Review of draft Public Art Policy 'Care and Maintenance' and 'Call for Art' sections
• River of Light event scheduled for January 17, 2026, with $2,000 from Watertown Community Foundation and $3,000 projected from Watertown Cultural Council
• Community Sculpture Walk call for applications open until November 2, 2025
• River Run mural installation delayed to Spring 2026 due to permitting
• Open for Business collaboration with MassArt students at Sullivan Park from November 3-17

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will hear a report on 2025 MCAS data, consider approving a Washington D.C. field trip, and discuss the FY27 budget calendar. The committee will hold first readings on several policies including security cameras and gifts to staff, and is scheduled to vote on three policies: competency determination, middle school pathway exploration, and CTE recruitment.

• Presentation of 2025 MCAS data
• Vote on Washington D.C. field trip
• FY27 budget calendar discussion
• First reading of policies on security cameras, gifts to staff, student fund-raising, parent/booster relations, building access, visitors, meal modifications, and parent advisory councils
• Second reading and vote on policies IKFE Competency Determination, WPS Middle School Pathway Exploration, and CTE Recruitment, Admissions, Retention Requirements

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing to review an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness regarding the installation of solar panels at 18 Common St. The meeting will be conducted remotely.

• Review and accept minutes from June 26, 2025
• Review and accept minutes from September 25, 2025
• Public hearing: Solar panels at 18 Common St.
• Meeting held remotely via Zoom and WCATV

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee Outreach Working Group will meet remotely to recap a recent PFAS event, discuss updates for Eco Fest 2026, and explore new engagement activities and audiences. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled; the session is focused on planning and outreach.

• Recap of a recent PFAS public engagement event
• Updates on planning for Eco Fest 2026
• Discussion of new outreach activities and target audiences

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Public Works Committee will discuss and make recommendations on two loan orders in the FY 2026 Capital Improvement Program: a $2,875,000 loan for local road construction and a $2,300,000 loan for connector and longer street projects, both slated for summer 2026. The committee will also consider policy guidance and plans for a $390,000 Chapter 90 Fair Share Amendment appropriation. Decisions will be recommended to the full City Council.

• Review FY 2026 Capital Improvement Program item #42: $2,875,000 loan for local road construction (summer 2026)
• Review FY 2026 Capital Improvement Program item #42: $2,300,000 loan for connector/longer street projects (summer 2026)
• Review FY 2026 Capital Improvement Program item #44: policy guidance for $390,000 Chapter 90 Fair Share Amendment appropriation

The Committee on Public Works met on Oct 22, 2025 to review and recommend FY26 Capital Improvement Program items #42 (proposed $2,875,000 loan for local road construction and $2,300,000 loan for connector/longer street projects) and #44 (proposed $390,000 Chapter 90 Fair Share Amendment). The meeting included DPW updates on street conditions, ongoing projects, and future design plans. No formal approvals, denials, or vote tallies were recorded, so no substantive decisions were made.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a hearing and vote on a tobacco violation for Independent Z at 354 Arsenal Street, and review permit applications for Psivant Therapeutics Inc. at 66 Galen Street and ChemPartner at 480 Arsenal Way. The board will also review draft tobacco regulations and discuss staffing and flu clinics. The meeting is remote only.

• Public hearing on tobacco violation for Independent Z (354 Arsenal Street)
• Permit application review for Psivant Therapeutics Inc. (66 Galen Street)
• Permit application review for ChemPartner (480 Arsenal Way)
• Review of draft tobacco regulations
• Staffing updates and flu clinic discussion

The Board approved the September 17, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved the permit applications for Psivant Therapeutics Inc. at 66 Galen St. and ChemPartners at 480 Arsenal Suite 160. The Board upheld a tobacco sales violation by Independence Z, rejecting the fine dispute. Minutes from August 20, 2025 were tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (2-0 vote)
• Approved Psivant Therapeutics Inc. permit (66 Galen St.) (2-0 vote)
• Approved ChemPartners permit (480 Arsenal Suite 160) (2-0 vote)
• Uphold tobacco violation for Independence Z (2-0 vote)
• Tabled August 20, 2025 minutes (no vote recorded)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on a request to allow construction within non-conforming front and side yard setbacks for a first-floor addition and expanded garage at 57 Pequossette St. The board will also vote to approve meeting minutes from September 24, 2025, and consider entering executive session to discuss strategy in three pending lawsuits concerning 9-11-13 Boyd Street.

• 57 Pequossette St: request for variances to build first-floor addition and expanded garage within non-conforming setbacks
• Approval of September 24, 2025 meeting minutes
• Executive session discussion of litigation strategy for three Land Court cases (23 MISC 000619, 25 MISC 000087, 25 MISC 000265) involving 9-11-13 Boyd Street

The board approved the September 24, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4‑0‑2 vote. It unanimously approved a special permit finding to allow construction within a non‑conforming side‑yard setback for the 57 Pequossette St project (6‑0). The board also voted to enter an executive session to discuss pending litigation, passing the motion 4‑0‑2.

• Approved September 24, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
• Approved special permit finding for 57 Pequossette St side‑yard setback (6-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss pending litigation (4-0-2)

Commission on Disability

The Commission will begin with audience issues, which take priority over regular business. A guest speaker will present a summary of the Watertown Transportation Study. The chair will provide updates on several accessibility projects, including the Waverly‑Belmont intersection, ADA signage, and accessible entrances at City Hall. The meeting will also include acceptance of minutes, a treasurer’s report, and committee reports on ongoing accessibility matters.

• Update on Waverly‑Belmont Street Intersection
• Update on Francis Food Mart
• ADA signage as recommended by the KMA Report
• Reasonable accommodation language on city agendas & event notices
• 311 request tagging to include accessibility option updates

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the August and September meetings. The board discussed numerous updates on transportation study recommendations, accessibility projects, budget balance, and upcoming community events, but no additional actions were formally approved or denied. Future items such as interpreter requests for the 2026 Unity Breakfast and possible donations will be voted on at later meetings.

• Accepted August & September meeting minutes (vote 7-0)

Elections

The City Clerk's office will conduct ballot testing in preparation for the upcoming general election on November 4, 2025. No policy decisions or votes are scheduled; the agenda item is procedural. Residents are informed of the testing activity.

• Ballot testing for the November 4, 2025 general election

Public Shade Tree Removal Hearing

The Watertown Tree Warden will hold a public hearing to consider the proposed removal of one red maple tree at 22 Green Street. The tree has a diameter of 14 inches at breast height. The hearing is required under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 87.

• Proposed removal of one 14-inch DBH Acer rubrum (red maple) at 22 Green Street

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Economic Development and Planning Committee will discuss the ARPA-funded study on improving city-supported mobility and make a recommendation on preferred options. They will also receive an update on the consideration and recommendation of Transportation Network Company (TNC) funds. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Presentation and discussion of ARPA-funded study for improving city-supported mobility, with recommendation on preferred options
• Update on consideration and recommendation of Transportation Network Company (TNC) funds

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning voted 3‑0 to continue discussion of the mobility study at a future meeting. It also voted 3‑0 to recommend that the City Council appropriate $59,525.50 of 2024 Transportation Network Company funds to support the Pleasant Street Watertown Connector shuttle. Both motions were approved unanimously by the voting members.

• Continue discussion of the mobility study at a future meeting (vote 3‑0)
• Recommend City Council appropriate $59,525.50 TNC funds to the Pleasant Street Watertown Connector shuttle (vote 3‑0)

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee's Curriculum Subcommittee will meet to receive an update on the 2025 MCAS results. The agenda consists only of this discussion item plus procedural call to order and adjournment.

• 2025 MCAS updates presentation and discussion

Watertown Affordable Housing Trust

The Watertown Affordable Housing Trust will discuss affordable housing plans for two specific properties and the 2026-2030 Housing Plan goals. The body will also address Fair Housing trainings and a real property matter in executive session.

• Affordable housing plan for proposed new development at 108 Water Street
• Request to substitute a 3BR rental unit for a 3BR condo unit at 104 Main Street
• Goals and strategies for the Housing Plan 2026-2030
• Fair Housing trainings scheduled for October 23 and November 12, 2025
• Executive session regarding the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property

The Trust voted 7‑0 to recommend approval of the amended affordable housing plan for the 52‑unit 108 Water Street condominium project, with pending work on parking allocation. The Trust also voted 7‑0 to recommend approval of a modification to the 104 Main Street project, swapping an affordable condo unit for a comparable affordable rental unit. Minutes from the July 15 and September 10 meetings were approved unanimously (6‑0).

• Approved recommendation for 108 Water St affordable housing plan (amended) – vote 7-0
• Approved recommendation to modify 104 Main St affordable unit from condo to rental – vote 7-0
• Approved minutes of July 15 and September 10 meetings – vote 6-0

Developer Community Meeting

33 Mt. Auburn Street LLC will host a required public information meeting for a proposed 5+ story mixed-use redevelopment at 33 Mt. Auburn St. The meeting will present site context, conditions, and redevelopment plans, and provide an opportunity for community questions and comments.

• Public Information Meeting for 33 Mt. Auburn St. redevelopment
• Proposed 5+ story building with 40 residential units and 2,590 sf commercial retail
• Meeting location: Lower Hearing Room, Administration Building, 149 Main Street
• Project applicant: 33 Mt. Auburn Street LLC
• Contact: Pete Doucet ([email protected])

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will discuss collaboration with Watertown Public Schools, update on Indigenous People's Day event, plan for Human Rights Day, and a film screening of 'America's Family' at the library. Committees will report on needs assessment and revised complaint form. A Fair Housing event is scheduled for October 23rd.

• Discussion of collaboration with Watertown Public Schools
• Update on Indigenous People's Day event
• Film screening of 'America's Family' at Watertown Free Public Library
• Action Plan Committee update on Needs Assessment and Focus Groups
• Fair Housing Event on October 23rd

The Watertown Human Rights Commission voted unanimously to adopt the October 8 meeting minutes. Commissioners also approved co‑sponsoring a winter film screening at the public library with a panel discussion. The revised resident complaint form was accepted without opposition.

• Approved minutes from 9.8.25 (vote 8-0)
• Approved co‑sponsorship of "America’s Family" film screening at the library (vote 8-0)
• Approved revised Human Rights Commission complaint form (vote 8-0)

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will meet remotely on October 20, 2025, to approve draft minutes, review reports on energy and sustainability, and discuss the City Manager's proposed Administrative Code.

• Approval of draft September minutes
• Energy Manager and Sustainability Manager reports
• Transportation working group update
• WE3C Membership Update
• City Manager’s proposed Administrative Code

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will hold a remote meeting on October 16, 2025, to approve prior meeting minutes, receive updates on outreach efforts including results from the Faire on the Square, and hear a follow-up presentation from the Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) on flooding. No votes on ordinances or contracts are scheduled. The next meeting is set for November 20, 2025.

• Acceptance of minutes from August 21 and September 18, 2025 meetings
• Brief report on Faire on the Square results
• CRWA presentation on flooding follow-up
• Discussion of general stormwater education and outreach goals

Community Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee will hold a hybrid meeting on October 16, 2025. They will hear a presentation on the 103 Nichols Avenue Group Home project and discuss the application, along with the Commander's Mansion Rehabilitation Application. The committee will also approve draft minutes from previous meetings.

• Project presentation for 103 Nichols Avenue Group Home
• Discussion of 103 Nichols Avenue Application
• Discussion of Commander's Mansion Rehabilitation Application
• Approval of draft minutes from July 17 and September 18, 2025

The committee voted to recommend the 103 Nichols Ave group home project for the full requested amount, subject to loan‑closing, a CEDAC commitment letter, and a set‑aside for future solar panel bidding. The elevator was added to the Commander’s Mansion building‑envelope funding request. The minutes from July 17 and September 18, 2025 were each accepted, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved recommendation for 103 Nichols Ave project (full amount) with three conditions (unanimous, 9 votes)
• Included elevator component in Commander’s Mansion building‑envelope funding request
• Accepted July 17, 2025 CPC minutes (Duff, Gallagher, O’Connell, DiRico, Walter, Hammett in favor; Eck, Plovnick, Mayo present)
• Accepted September 18, 2025 CPC minutes (Walter, Gallagher, Plovnick, Mayo, Duff in favor; DiRico, O’Connell, Hammett, Eck present)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will hold hearings for four businesses regarding license status and review a new application for Caspian Persian Cuisine. The board will also discuss pro-rating alcohol licenses for their first year of issuance.

• Hearing for Perfection Plus LLC (493 Pleasant St) auto repair license
• Hearing for Deluxe Town Diner (627 Mt Auburn St) wine and malt license
• Hearing for Olespana Whiskey & Tapas (645 Mt Auburn St) all alcohol license
• Hearing for Shiraz Cuisine (72 Bigelow Ave) all alcohol license
• Application for Caspian Persian Cuisine (72 Bigelow Ave) for common victualler and entertainment licenses

The Licensing Board approved a talent‑show event at Arsenal Yards and a Shake Shack license amendment, each by a 3‑0 vote. It also approved several alcohol‑related licenses for PAHA Corporation, again 3‑0 each, and adopted a payment plan for Cinema World’s Chapter 11 extension. Finally, the board approved a pro‑rating schedule for first‑year Chapter 73 alcohol licenses, also by 3‑0.

• Approved Arsenal Yards talent‑show event (3‑0)
• Approved Shake Shack ownership change license amendment (3‑0)
• Approved Common Victualer license for PAHA Corporation (3‑0)
• Approved 6 Day Entertainment license for PAHA Corporation (3‑0)
• Approved Sunday Entertainment license for PAHA Corporation (3‑0)
• Approved payment plan for Cinema World Chapter 11 license extension
• Approved pro‑rating of first‑year Chapter 73 alcohol licenses (3‑0)
• Continued licensing hearings for several applicants to later dates

School Building Committee

The School Building Committee will consider approving September 2025 invoices for both the high school and middle school projects. A key item is a vote on change orders and amendments to the high school project budget. The committee will also receive updates on project progress, schedule, and upcoming milestones.

• Approval of SBC meeting minutes from 9/17/25
• Approval of monthly invoices for high school project – September 2025
• Vote on high school project budget change orders and amendments
• High school project progress and schedule update
• Middle school project update and invoice approval

Traffic Commission

The Watertown Traffic Commission will discuss and vote on several traffic and parking items, including a request for a new crosswalk on Galen Street at Maple Street, a parking restriction on Carroll Street, and continued discussions on Russell Avenue. The commission will also review temporary handicap parking, signage requests, and a safety presentation on Summer Street.

• Review of temporary handicap parking space at 21 George Street
• Request for Dead End/Private Way signage on Arsenal Street at Arsenal Court
• Request for a crosswalk spanning Galen Street at Maple Street
• Informational presentation on safety improvements to Summer Street
• Request to restrict parking on east side of Carroll Street from Lowell Avenue to 47 feet north

The Traffic Commission approved the minutes from September 2025 meetings. It extended a temporary handicap‑only parking space at 21 George Street for twelve months, installed dead‑end signage at Arsenal Court, and tabled a proposed crosswalk at Galen Street. The commission also ordered a traffic study of Summer Street and adopted parking restrictions on Russell Avenue and Carroll Street.

• Approved September 4 and September 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Extended handicap‑only parking at 21 George Street for 12 months (unanimous)
• Installed Dead End and Private Way signage at Arsenal Court entrance (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on crosswalk at Galen Street at Maple Street (unanimous)
• Directed DPW to conduct a traffic study of Summer Street when appropriate (unanimous)
• Prohibited parking on east side of Russell Avenue from Mt. Auburn Street to Broadway and restricted two spaces at #12 to HP only (unanimous)
• Prohibited parking on east side of Carroll Street from Lowell Avenue to 47 ft north (unanimous)

City Council: Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee

The Solid Waste and Recycling Advisory Committee will review the city's waste hauling contract and plan for a new contract process starting January 2026. The body will also discuss the compost program and the removal of refrigerants from disposed appliances.

• Open bid for the City of Watertown waste hauling contract
• Planning for a new contract in January 2026 to replace the Republic contract
• Review of compost program signups and participation mailers
• Request for DPW documentation on refrigerant removal from refrigerators and air conditioners
• Possible revision of Solid Waste metrics in the 2022 Climate and Energy Plan

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Alana Solomon was approved and appointed, completing the committee’s membership. Members agreed that the committee’s role on the upcoming 2028 waste‑hauling contract is advisory only and will not involve monetary negotiations. The next meeting was set for November 5 and will continue on the first Wednesday of each month.

• Minutes approved without amendment
• Alana Solomon approved and appointed as committee member (completes membership)
• Committee agreed monetary negotiations for the 2028 waste‑hauling contract are not within its role
• Committee may advise on updating contract provisions to meet Mass DEP regulations and the 2030 Solid Waste Master Plan
• Refrigerants discussion deferred to next meeting
• Solid waste metrics inclusion in the 2022 Climate and Energy Plan deferred to next meeting
• Meeting scheduled for November 5 and the first Wednesday of each month thereafter
• Future virtual meeting format to be discussed at the next meeting

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings and vote on a proposed loan for Bemis Park and an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. The body will also review the Fiscal Year 2027 budget process and confirm several board and committee appointments.

• Proposed $1,350,000 loan order for Bemis Park construction and administration costs
• Public hearing and vote on a proposed amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
• Proposed Resolution regarding the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Process
• Reappointment of Samantha Henry and James Vershbow to the Watertown Cable Access Board of Directors
• Appointment of Allison Eck to the Community Preservation Committee

The council adopted the minutes from the September 2 and September 23, 2025 meetings. It approved a FY27 budget‑process resolution, a FY26 budget amendment moving funds to the Watertown Square account, and a loan order authorizing $1,350,000 for Bemis Park construction. The council also confirmed reappointments to the Watertown Cable Access Board and appointed a new member to the Community Preservation Committee.

• Adopted September 2, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted September 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved FY27 budget‑process resolution (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted FY26 budget amendment moving funds to Watertown Square account (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved $1,350,000 loan order for Bemis Park construction (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Confirmed reappointment of Samantha Henry to Watertown Cable Access Board (unanimous voice vote)
• Confirmed reappointment of James Vershbow to Watertown Cable Access Board (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved appointment of Allison Eck to Community Preservation Committee (unanimous voice vote)

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will discuss logistics for its focus groups scheduled on October 9 and October 16, including outreach, sign‑ups, visual check‑in, child care, and other details. The commission will also review a proposed update to its logo. No formal decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Focus group outreach and sign‑up logistics for October 9 and October 16
• Review of Human Rights Commission logo update

The commission reviewed logistics for focus groups scheduled on October 10 and 16, including outreach, sign‑ups, childcare, and food coordination. Susan Musinsky reported on a logo update collaboration with Watertown Public Schools. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold public hearings to determine if three specific buildings are preferably preserved. If preservation is determined, the commission may impose demolition delays.

• Preservation and demolition delay review for 18-20 Washburn St.
• Preservation and demolition delay review for 45 Mt. Auburn St.
• Preservation and demolition delay review for 1 Rosary Drive

The Historical Commission found the house at 18‑20 Washburn Street historically significant and voted 5‑0 to preserve it. A motion for a two‑year demolition delay also passed unanimously (5‑0). No decision was made on the 1 Rosary Place property.

• House at 18‑20 Washburn St declared historically significant (5‑0)
• Two‑year demolition delay approved for 18‑20 Washburn St (5‑0)

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will review permit applications for Psivant Therapeutics Inc. at 66 Galen Street and ChemPartner at 480 Arsenal Way. The meeting will also consider amendments to vivarium regulations. Standard agenda items include approval of September 4 minutes, public comment, and scheduling future meetings.

• Permit application – Psivant Therapeutics Inc., 66 Galen Street
• Permit application – ChemPartner, 480 Arsenal Way
• Amending vivarium regulations

The BioSafety Committee approved the September 4, 2025 minutes (4‑0). It voted to recommend approval of Psivant Therapeutics Inc.'s permit to the Board of Health with the condition to add emergency representatives (4‑0). It also voted to recommend approval of ChemPartner's permit to the Board of Health, subject to four specified conditions (4‑0).

• Approved September 4 minutes (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Psivant Therapeutics Inc. permit to BOH, add emergency reps (4-0)
• Recommended approval of ChemPartner permit to BOH, require pest control contract (4-0)
• Recommended approval of ChemPartner permit to BOH, require expanded agent list and cell lines (4-0)
• Recommended approval of ChemPartner permit to BOH, require vivarium floor plan with chemicals, gases, oxygen concentrate (4-0)
• Recommended approval of ChemPartner permit to BOH, require IACUC‑approved protocols and vivarium approval (4-0)

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will meet remotely to recap a recent PFAS event, begin planning for Eco Fest 2026, and discuss new engagement activities. No votes or binding decisions are anticipated; the session is primarily discussion and planning.

• Recap of a PFAS-related public event
• Initial planning for Eco Fest 2026
• Discussion of new engagement activities and audiences

Council on Aging

The Watertown Council on Aging will hold its regular meeting on October 8, 2025. The agenda includes a roll call, review of the prior meeting minutes, a Director’s Report with updates, an opportunity for public comments, and adjournment. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Roll Call
• Review of prior meeting Minutes
• Director’s Report: COA Updates
• Public Comments for the Council on Aging
• Adjourn

The council approved the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes. It adopted a fee increase for fitness classes while subsidizing a few classes for low‑income seniors. The board also approved launching a Heart to Home pilot that will provide $6 frozen meals on site and hired a new case worker, David Blake, to start October 27. The meeting was adjourned at 4:54 PM.

• Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (motion approved at 4:04 PM)
• Adopted fee increase for fitness classes with subsidies for limited‑income seniors
• Approved launch of Heart to Home pilot program offering $6 frozen meals
• Approved changes to Emergency Assistance program income‑limit guidelines
• Approved hiring of new case worker David Blake to start October 27
• Recorded RID new ruling on rider bag assistance (informational)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor, at 4:54 PM)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a sign special permit for the Armenian Museum of America and other tenants. A site plan review for an accessory dwelling unit at 10 Coolidge Hill Rd has been continued to November 5, 2025.

• Sign Special Permit request for 65 Main St (Armenian Museum of America and other tenants)
• Site Plan Review for an Accessory Dwelling Unit at 10 Coolidge Hill Rd (continued to Nov 5)

The Watertown Planning Board approved the Sign Special Permit for the Armenian Museum of America, adding several amended conditions, by a 5‑0 vote. The board also approved the minutes from the September 10, 2025 meeting (5‑0) and continued the 10 Coolidge hearing to November 5, 2025. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of 9/10/2025 meeting (5-0)
• Continued 10 Coolidge hearing to Nov 5, 2025
• Approved Sign Special Permit with amended conditions (5-0)
• Condition: Banner designs must be approved by staff at changeover
• Condition: Applicant must seek mural input from Public Arts and Culture Committee, staff has final sign‑off

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will consider and take action on several items, including accepting donations, adjusting hours for Yo-Yo Ma, and approving a Watertown Cultural Council Grant. They will also discuss designating the library as a polling place and closing for HVAC replacement. The meeting will conclude with an executive session on collective bargaining with the library union.

• Consideration and Action on Hours Adjustment for Yo-Yo Ma
• Consideration and Action on Library as Polling Place
• Consideration and Action on Closure for HVAC Replacement
• FY26 Budget and Financial Reports
• Executive session on collective bargaining with library union

The trustees unanimously approved the minutes from the September meeting and the FY26 financial report. They authorized the library to serve as a polling place on November 4, opening at 6:00 a.m. and closing at 10:00 p.m. Additional unanimous actions included adjusting hours for the Yo‑Yo Ma event, accepting several donations, and granting authority to close the library for HVAC replacement as needed.

• Approved September 4 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 financial report (unanimous)
• Accepted donations: $1,000 (Evan Kantrowitz), $1,375 (Fenway Health), $1,787.09 (City Events Dept), and collection from Suzanne Giroux, Alex Liazos, John Portz (unanimous)
• Adjusted library hours for Yo‑Yo Ma event on Nov 21 (unanimous)
• Approved library as polling place on Nov 4, 6:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Granted authority to close library for HVAC replacement up to three days (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy (passed by roll call)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will hold two public hearings: a continued hearing on renovating the Dealtry Memorial Pool at 138 Pleasant Street within floodplain and riverfront areas, and a new hearing on site improvements at 25 Clarendon Street within the 200-foot Riverfront Area. The commission will also consider a Certificate of Compliance for 550 Arsenal Street and receive updates on Arsenal Park Phase B landscaping.

• Continued public hearing: 138 Pleasant Street (Dealtry Memorial Pool) – Notice of Intent for pool renovation within Bordering Land Subject to Flooding and Riverfront Area (MassDEP #321-0190)
• New public hearing: 25 Clarendon Street – Notice of Intent for site improvements including pavement removal, landscape islands, generator yard, and parking within 200-ft Riverfront Area (Comcast owner)
• Wetland decision: 550 Arsenal Street – Request for Certificate of Compliance (MassDEP #321-0096, Alexandra Real Estate Equities)
• Update: Arsenal Park Phase B – landscaping updates (MassDEP #321-0181)
• 2026 meeting and filing dates to be discussed

The Commission declined to issue a Certificate of Compliance for 550 Arsenal Street after members raised maintenance concerns. It approved the 25 Clarendon Street redevelopment with a Special Order of Conditions and closed the public hearing for that project. The September 3, 2025 minutes were accepted, and the filing/meeting schedule was amended to update the July meeting date.

• Denied Certificate of Compliance for 550 Arsenal Street (members declined to vote for issuance)
• Approved 25 Clarendon Street redevelopment with Special Order of Conditions (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing for 25 Clarendon Street project (unanimous)
• Accepted September 3, 2025 commission minutes (unanimous)
• Amended filing and meeting schedule to update July meeting date (unanimous)

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will meet to review committee operations, financial status, and administrative guidelines for Fiscal Year 2026. The meeting will include a review of input forms and a calendar update.

• Review of FY26 committee operations
• Financial status report
• Review of input forms
• Guidelines booklet review
• Calendar review

The council approved the September 2025 meeting minutes and formally adjourned the October 8 session. Members decided that fundraising is no longer needed because the council cannot fundraise independently. Committee assignments for FY26 were confirmed, and several action items were delegated for future work.

• September 2025 minutes approved (Lois abstained, all others in favor)
• Fundraising discontinued – council cannot individually fundraise
• Grant Education committee assigned to Nick and Trisha
• Oversight committee assigned to Lois, Morgan, and Angela
• Communications committee assigned to Greg, Phyllis, and Lawrence
• Adjournment approved (Morgan approved, Phyllis seconded, all in favor)

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The Watertown Cultural District Partnership Marketing Subcommittee will meet to formalize a dashboard and develop a 6-18 month marketing plan, including goals for partner outreach, SEO, and press coverage.

• Formalize marketing dashboard
• Develop 6-18 month Marketing Plan
• Discuss short-, mid-, and long-term goals
• Review TDMD updates
• Schedule next meeting

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Economic Development and Planning Committee will vote on appointing Allison Eck as a member of the Community Preservation Committee. The term would run until February 1, 2027. No other agenda items are listed.

• Appointment of Allison Eck to the Community Preservation Committee (term expires Feb 1 2027)

Councilor Gannon moved, and Councilor Piccirilli seconded, a recommendation to confirm Allison Eck as an At-Large member of the Community Preservation Committee. The City Council voted unanimously (3-0) to approve the recommendation. Her term will run until February 1, 2027.

• Approved recommendation to confirm Allison Eck as At-Large member of the Community Preservation Committee (term until Feb 1, 2027) (3-0)

City Council: Committee on Rules and Ordinances

The Watertown City Council Committee on Rules and Ordinances will hold a public hearing to discuss a draft ordinance concerning single-use food and beverage items. No vote or decision is scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and public input. The session includes remote participation options.

• Draft Ordinance Relative to Food and Beverage Single-Use Items

The Rules and Ordinances Committee approved several amendments to the draft Skip the Stuff ordinance, including changes to definitions and the removal of a restricted packaging provision. The committee then voted to recommend the amended ordinance to the full City Council for consideration and adoption.

• Amend definition of Full-Service Food Establishment (117.02 D) – approved 2-1
• Amend definition of Single-Use Foodware Accessory (117.02 H) – approved 3-0
• Strike subsection 3 of section B in 117.05 Restricted Packaging – approved 3-0
• Recommend the amended Skip the Stuff ordinance to City Council – approved 3-0

Historical Commission Preliminary Review

The Historical Commission will conduct a preliminary review of a demolition permit application for 157 School St. The review determines if the building is historically significant or if a full hearing is required. The meeting is held via Zoom only.

• Preliminary review of demolition permit application for 157 School St
• Meeting held via Zoom only
• Public may email questions to [email protected]

The Watertown Historical Commission conducted a preliminary review of demolition permit DEMO #25-14 for 157 School Street. Acting Chair Marilyn Roach and Member Joseph Panto concluded the review. Their written determination states the demolition application may not proceed at this time. No vote tally was recorded.

• Demolition permit for 157 School St. denied (preliminary review)

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee Policy Subcommittee will discuss and vote on several new and revised policies, including body cameras in schools, gift solicitation by staff, and student fundraising. They will also consider new policies on access to buildings, meal modifications, and parent advisory councils, as well as a new middle school pathway exploration policy and CTE recruitment requirements. Additionally, they will hold a discussion-only item on assessments and homework related to religious holidays.

• ECAF – Body Cameras in Schools (Additions)
• GBEBC – Gifts To And Solicitation By Staff (Additions)
• EFBA – School Food And Nutrition – Meal Modifications (NEW)
• WPS Middle School Pathway Exploration Policy (NEW)
• CTE Recruitment, Admissions, Retention Requirements (NEW)

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will vote on field trips to Model UN conferences and Washington, D.C., and review policies regarding competency determination and middle school pathways.

• Model UN field trips to BOSMUN and EagleMUNC
• Next Generation Learning Challenge field trip to Washington, D.C.
• Extension of gym space rental waiver to 2025/2026
• First reading of IKFE Competency Determination policy
• First reading of WPS Middle School Pathway Exploration policy

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bike & Pedestrian Committee will discuss specific intersection areas and the Mt Auburn Street reconstruction. The body will also review the Faire on the Square and Safe Routes to School.

• Arlington-Nichols-Greenway intersection and area conversation
• Traffic Commission October 15th meeting regarding Russell Avenue
• Faire on the Square debrief
• Safe Routes to School
• Mt Auburn Street reconstruction questions

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee moved and passed the acceptance of the September 8, 2025 minutes. No other formal actions, approvals, or denials were recorded. The remainder of the meeting consisted of updates, data presentations, and discussion of safety improvements at the Arlington‑Nichols intersection and other street projects.

• Accepted September 8, 2025 minutes (passed)

Human Rights Commission

The commission will discuss the consultant's needs assessment and set timelines for the upcoming report. It will plan focus groups scheduled for October 9 and October 16, including outreach and sign‑up procedures. The meeting also includes a logo contest involving Watertown Public Schools students. Action steps and the next meeting schedule will be reviewed.

• Needs assessment conducted by consultant Liz Peck
• Focus groups on October 9 and October 16 – facilitation guide, sign‑ups, outreach
• Timeline for consultant report to the commission
• Review of action steps and scheduling of next meeting
• Human Rights Commission logo contest with Watertown Public Schools students

The commission set its next meeting for October 9, 2025. Members discussed logistics for upcoming focus groups, including food, child care, and note‑taking, but no formal actions were approved. An update on the school logo contest was shared, with no decision made on the selection committee. The meeting adjourned at 1:12 PM.

• Scheduled next meeting for October 9, 2025

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee will review and edit materials for a street improvement request along the Arlington/Nichols/Greenway corridor. The committee will also discuss next steps for the project.

• Review and edit materials for Arlington/Nichols/Greenway street improvement request
• Discuss next steps

The Bike & Pedestrian Committee met on October 1, 2025, to review a presentation for Tyler Glode of the Department of Public Works. Members Eileen Botti and Jamie Burke presented slides and discussed condensing content and moving examples to an appendix. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Residents’ Advisory Committee

The Residents’ Advisory Committee will conduct its regular business, including accepting the September 3, 2025 minutes and sharing outreach announcements. The meeting includes an executive session, closed to the public, to consider and interview applicants for employment or appointment by a preliminary screening committee. The committee will set its next meeting for November 5, 2025.

• Accept minutes from September 3, 2025
• Outreach and announcements (Faire on Square, Cable TV media, recruitment)
• Executive session to interview employment applicants (closed meeting)
• Next meeting scheduled for November 5, 2025

The committee unanimously approved the September 3, 2025 meeting minutes. Members discussed creating a roughly 3‑minute video about city boards and agreed to limit interview responses to four questions. Specific work was assigned to develop the questions, check release requirements, explore production options, and contact board chairs.

• Approved September 3, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Sam Ling, seconded by Gohar Meliksetyan, all five members voted yes)
• Agreed to limit video interview to four questions
• Gohar Meliksetyan assigned to formalize the four questions
• Liz Cremens assigned to research release requirements for video participants
• Sam Ling assigned to look into production technology and contact WCATV
• Kathryn Madden assigned to contact board chairs about the video
• Recommended video length be about 3 minutes, featuring WE3C, Conservation, Stormwater (and possibly Bike/Ped)
• Moved to Executive Session at 5:37 PM by approved motion

School Site Council

The School Site Council will meet to conduct introductions and review the 2025-2026 School Improvement Plan. The body will specifically discuss Objective 1 of the plan.

• Review of 2025-2026 School Improvement Plan
• Discussion of Objective 1

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to replace two manually operated wood garage doors with one mechanically operated wood door at 265 Mt. Auburn St. The commission will also review and accept minutes from its June 26, 2025 meeting. The meeting is conducted remotely via Zoom and televised on WCATV.

• Public hearing: 265 Mt. Auburn St. — request to replace two wood garage doors with one mechanically operated wood garage door

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will review a recap of the recent Faire on the Square. It will discuss plans for Eco Fest 2026. The group will consider new outreach items to support its mission. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Faire on the Square recap
• Eco Fest 2026 planning
• New outreach items to consider

Traffic Commission

The Watertown Traffic Commission will discuss several resident requests for traffic calming, signage, and parking changes. The body will review specific proposals for street safety improvements and a traffic study.

• Slow Down signage request for Beechwood Ave
• Safety improvements at Lowell Avenue and Carroll Street
• Pedestrian crossing signal request for Belmont Street at Duff Street
• LED Stop sign upgrades at Pearl Street and Fayette Street
• Traffic study and speed bump consideration for Watertown Street near Casey Playground

The commission denied a request for slow‑down signs on Beechwood Avenue. It approved parking restrictions on both sides of Lowell Avenue and Carroll Street and added an all‑way stop at that intersection. It also approved a rapid flashing beacon at Belmont Street/Duff Street, warning plaques at Pearl Street stop signs, a traffic study of Sycamore Street, and continued study of Watertown Street near Casey Playground, all by unanimous vote.

• Denied Slow Down signage on Beechwood Ave (unanimous)
• Approved parking restrictions on both sides of Lowell Ave, 44 ft west of Carroll St (unanimous)
• Approved parking restrictions on both sides of Lowell Ave, 29 ft east of Carroll St (unanimous)
• Approved parking restrictions on both sides of Carroll St, 41 ft south of Lowell Ave (unanimous)
• Approved installation of an All‑Way Stop at Lowell Ave & Carroll St (unanimous)
• Approved rapid flashing beacon at Belmont St & Duff St (unanimous)
• Approved supplemental “Cross Traffic Does Not Stop” warning plaques on Pearl St stop signs (unanimous)
• Approved traffic study of Sycamore St (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Watertown Zoning Board of Appeals will first approve the meeting minutes from July 23, 2025. It will then hear two applications for non‑conforming side‑yard setbacks: one at 101 Standish Rd for a second‑floor addition, and another at 227 Orchard St for a two‑story rear addition.

• Approve minutes from the July 23, 2025 meeting
• Review variance request at 101 Standish Rd for a second‑floor addition within a non‑conforming side‑yard setback
• Review variance request at 227 Orchard St for a two‑story rear addition within a non‑conforming side‑yard setback

The board approved a special permit for 101 Standish Rd allowing a second‑floor addition within a non‑conforming side‑yard setback, with conditions to omit a shower window and complete the gambrel outline. It also approved a special permit for 227 Orchard St to extend the non‑conforming right‑side setback for a two‑story addition, adding a condition for plantings beneath rear windows. Both motions passed unanimously 5‑0.

• Approved July 23, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved special permit for 101 Standish Rd addition within non‑conforming side‑yard setback (5-0)
• Approved special permit for 227 Orchard St two‑story addition with setback extension and landscaping condition (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Commission on Disability

The Watertown Commission on Disability will discuss and vote on funding for ASL and CART services for Disability Awareness events on October 20-21 and for a WHRC Disability Focus Group on October 9. Other agenda items include updates on detectable warnings at North Beacon & Beechwood, the Waverly-Belmont Street intersection, accessible entrances at City Hall, and a sidewalk obstacle at Common & Bellevue Street.

• Discussion & Vote for WFPL for Funding for ASL & CART for October 20-21 Disability Awareness Events
• Discussion & Vote on Access CART/ASL for WHRC Disability Focus Group October 9
• Final Report: Detectable Warnings at North Beacon & Beechwood
• Update on Waverly-Belmont Street Intersection from Wayne Chouinard
• Accessible Entrances at City Hall

The commission voted 7-0 to fund ASL and CART interpretation for the WFPL film screening and panel on Oct. 20‑21, with a ceiling of $1,300. It also approved up to $650 for ASL and CART support at the WHRC Disability Focus Group on Oct. 9, passing 7-0. Minutes from the May and June meetings were accepted unanimously. Several reports were noted or postponed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved up to $1,300 for ASL and CART at WFPL events (7‑0)
• Approved up to $650 for ASL and CART at WHRC Disability Focus Group (7‑0)
• Accepted minutes for May & June meetings (7‑0)
• Postponed Plans Review report to next month
• Noted hiring of new ADA coordinator Jay Terminiello (informational)

City Council

The Watertown City Council will hold an executive session to discuss a real‑estate transaction for the Urban Revitalization Project. It will then conduct public hearings and votes on several loan orders, including a $1,886,000 loan to replace the Department of Public Works roof and related equipment. The council will also consider a first reading of an amendment to the FY2026 budget and confirm CBIZ CPAs as the independent audit firm for FY2025.

• Executive session to consider purchase, exchange, lease, or value of real estate for the Urban Revitalization Project
• Public hearing and vote on a $1,886,000 loan to fund DPW roof and mechanical equipment replacement
• Public hearing and vote on a $60,000 loan to purchase an electric vehicle and install shelving
• Public hearing and vote on a $250,000 loan for IT infrastructure buildout in the Parker Annex second floor
• First reading on a proposed amendment to the Fiscal Year 2026 budget

The council unanimously approved three loan orders: $1,886,000 for Department of Public Works roof and mechanical equipment replacement, $60,000 for an electric‑vehicle purchase, and $250,000 for IT infrastructure at the Parker Annex. It also entered Executive Session for the Urban Revitalization Project, adopted the September 9, 2025 minutes, and accepted the Economic Development and Planning Committee report with its action item to assist the Community Preservation Committee.

• Entered Executive Session for Urban Revitalization Project (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted September 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved $1,886,000 loan for DPW roof and mechanical equipment replacement (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved $60,000 loan for electric‑vehicle purchase (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved $250,000 loan for IT infrastructure at Parker Annex (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Accepted Economic Development and Planning Committee report (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved action item to offer Council President assistance to Community Preservation Committee (unanimous voice vote)

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will discuss proposed edits to its complaint form and process to improve public accessibility. The commission will also review updates to its website page. Public comment will be accepted after the discussion.

• Proposed edits to the Human Rights Commission complaint form and process
• Proposed updates to the Human Rights Commission website page

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The Public Arts and Culture Committee will review a draft Public Art Policy and vote on endorsing the annual Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration. The body will also receive updates on the Community Sculpture Walk and various local arts initiatives.

• Vote on endorsing Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration on October 12
• Review of Public Art Policy draft pages 3-7
• Community Sculpture Walk call for art open until November 2, 2025
• River of Light event scheduled for January 17, 2026 with $2,000 from Watertown Community Foundation to Mosesian Center for the Arts
• Call for Art: Open for Business open until October 26, 2025

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee is holding a hybrid meeting. The sole agenda item is a discussion of the upcoming Traffic Commission meeting. No votes or specific proposals are scheduled.

• Discussion of upcoming Traffic Commission meeting

The committee reviewed the Traffic Commission’s proposed bike facility changes for Russell Avenue. No formal decisions were made; members discussed the proposal and agreed to draft a comment letter for the upcoming Traffic Commission meeting. Jamie Burke will collect feedback and prepare talking points for the letter.

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will discuss its budget expenditure for the Indigenous People's Day celebration, including a flyer titled "World in Watertown." The commission will also provide a general update on outreach, review interview questions, and set a timeline for its upcoming report. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as roll call and acceptance of minutes.

• Budget expenditure discussion for Indigenous People's Day celebration
• Review and sign‑off on interview and focus‑group questions
• Proposed timeline for the commission's report
• General update on outreach and sign‑ups

The Human Rights Commission approved the minutes from the August 14 and September 4 meetings by a 3‑0 vote. The commission also approved a $500 budget allocation for the Indigenous People’s Day event by a 3‑0 vote. The proposed timeline for the final report was not discussed due to time constraints. No public comments were received.

• Approved August 14 and September 4 minutes (3-0)
• Allocated $500 for Indigenous People’s Day celebration (3-0)

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The committee will meet remotely to appoint new members and review results from Faire on the Square. The meeting includes a presentation and FAQ session from the CRWA.

• New SAC member appointments
• Faire on the Square results
• CRWA presentation/FAQ

School Committee

The Curriculum Subcommittee will meet to discuss student services and reading list processes. The body will also review requirements for Career and Technical Education (CTE) and world language graduation standards.

• CTE Recruitment, Admissions, and Retention Requirements
• Updated DESE Competency Determination Requirements
• Summer Reading List Process Review
• Graduation Requirements Report: World Language
• Student Services Reviews Update

Community Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee will review updates on several CPA projects and a draft GIS Story Map. The body will also discuss a contract extension for a housing consultant and an offer of support regarding committee leadership.

• Updates on CPA projects: Saltonstall Park, Old Burying Ground and Common Street Cemeteries, 103 Nichols Ave Group Home, and Commander's Mansion Exterior
• City Hall Paintings Signage update
• Draft GIS Story Map of CPA Projects
• Housing Consultant Contract Extension discussion
• Action on Offer of Support regarding CPC Leadership

The committee voted to postpone acceptance of the July 17, 2025 minutes until the next meeting. It also approved a one‑year extension of the housing consultant contract at the same funding level. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Deferral of July 17, 2025 minutes approved (all members voted in favor)
• Housing consultant contract extended for one year at same amount (all members voted in favor)
• Meeting adjourned (all members voted in favor)

Licensing Board

The Licensing Board will hold a continued hearing for an auto dealer license, consider show cause orders for two motor vehicle repair shops, and discuss possible cancellation of licenses for three restaurants. The board will also review the status of an annual safety inspection for Deluxe Town Diner and reconsider a vote to change meeting times.

• Continued hearing for Sarah Kichikova LLC auto dealer license at 53 Duff St
• Show cause hearings for Pleasant Car Care Inc and Perfection Plus LLC (motor vehicle repair licenses)
• Discussion of possible cancellation of Shiraz Cuisine Inc license
• Discussion of possible cancellation of Olespana Whiskey and Tapas license
• Review of safety inspection and possible action on Handmade Brands Inc d/b/a Deluxe Town Diner

The Licensing Board approved four special one‑day events and a livery license, each by a 3‑0 vote. It retained Sunday operating hours for Pleasant Car Care Inc with a new stipulation that work bays stay closed except for vehicle moves. The Board also voted to change future meeting times to 6:00 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month starting November 20, 2025.

• Approved Knights of Vartan Ararat Lodge fundraiser (Sept 25 2025) – 3‑0
• Approved St James Church wedding reception (Nov 1 2025) – 3‑0
• Approved St James Church annual bazaar (Oct 17‑18 2025) – 3‑0
• Approved Hellenic Cultural Center wedding reception (Oct 11 2025) – 3‑0
• Approved Roar Education & Visa Consulting LLC livery license – 3‑0
• Retained Pleasant Car Care Inc Sunday hours with work‑bay closure stipulation
• Changed meeting time to 6:00 p.m. on third Thursday of month starting Nov 20 2025

School Building Committee

The Watertown School Building Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss updates on both the Middle School and High School projects. Key actions include approval of monthly invoices for August 2025 for both projects and a vote on a change order for the High School project budget. The committee will also review the High School project progress and schedule updates.

• Middle School Project – Update
• Approval of SBC Meeting Minutes from 8/20/25
• Approval of Monthly Invoices – Month of August 2025 for Middle School Project
• Approval of Monthly Invoices – Month of August 2025 for High School Project
• High School Project – Total Project Budget Update & Vote Change Order

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet remotely to review a permit application for Ingenia Therapeutics at 490 Arsenal Way #100B and discuss tobacco regulations. The agenda also includes reviewing draft minutes from August 20, 2025, and staff updates on body works and flu clinics.

• Review permit application for Ingenia Therapeutics at 490 Arsenal Way #100B
• Discussion of tobacco regulations
• Review of draft minutes from August 20, 2025
• Staff updates on body works and flu clinics
• Meeting held remotely via Zoom and WCATV

The Board approved the permit application for Ingenia Therapeutics at 490 Arsenal Way #100B with a 2‑0 vote. The minutes for the August 20 and September 17 meetings were approved. The review of tobacco regulations was postponed to the October meeting. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved Ingenia Therapeutics permit (2-0 vote)
• Approved minutes for August 20, 2025 and September 17, 2025
• Tabled review of tobacco regulations to October meeting

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to consider a motor vehicle commitment totaling $317,097.73, review minutes, and receive updates on NSTAR appeals and Department of Revenue submission status. The board will also vote on exemption applications in executive session.

• Review and vote on Motor Vehicle Commitment III - $317,097.73
• Update on NSTAR v. Board of Assessors final count fiscal year 2025 appeals
• Review and vote on exemption applications (executive session)
• Review and vote on August 5, 2025, minutes
• Submission Status Department of Revenue

The Board approved the minutes from the August 5, 2025 meeting and the Motor Vehicle Excise for 2025.03, both unanimously. The Board voted to enter an executive session to discuss confidential exemption applications. The next Board of Assessors meeting was scheduled for October 28, 2025.

• Approved August 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Motor Vehicle Excise 2025.03 – $317,097.73 (unanimous)
• Moved to Executive Session (motion passed)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion passed)
• Scheduled next Board meeting for October 28, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.

Developer Community Meeting

The petitioner will hold a public information meeting on September 16, 2025, to discuss a proposed 3-story residential addition of 8 units to an existing office building at 72 Mount Auburn Street. The project includes converting the office space to a residential unit and providing 5 accessory parking spaces.

• Public meeting for 9-unit residential project at 72 Mount Auburn Street
• 3-story residential addition of 8 units to existing historic wood frame structure
• Conversion of existing office building to residential unit
• Accessory parking for 5 cars
• Project located in WSQ-2 zoning district

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will meet to discuss and make recommendations for strengthening community notice requirements on upcoming projects, including demolition applications. The meeting will be held in person at the Richard E. Mastrangelo Council Chamber and will also be available remotely via Zoom and WCATV.

• Discussion on strengthening community notice requirements for demolition applications
• Meeting held at Richard E. Mastrangelo Council Chamber
• Remote participation available via Zoom and phone
• Meeting televised on WCATV

The committee voted 3‑0 to recommend that the City Council ask the administration to add the complete petitioner’s demolition application to the city website and to send a subscriber email/text notice when the public hearing notice is published 14 days in advance. The motion was made by Councilor Piccirilli and seconded by Councilor Gannon. The committee also asked the Department of Community Development & Planning to review the zoning and demolition ordinance language and provide an analysis to the City Council for possible future changes.

• Approved motion to recommend posting complete demolition applications on the city website (3‑0)
• Approved motion to recommend subscriber email/text notice when public hearing notice is published (3‑0)
• Committee requests DCDP to review ordinance language and present analysis to City Council

School Committee

The Policy Subcommittee will discuss and vote on two items: implementing body cameras in schools and updating the medication delegation policy (JLCD: Administering Medicines to Students). Both are up for decision at this meeting.

• Discussion and vote on Body Cameras in Schools
• Discussion and vote on Medication Delegation policy update (JLCD)

Developer Community Meeting

This is a community meeting for a proposed transit-oriented housing redevelopment at 108 Water Street. The developer, WSQ Development LLC, will present plans for a 52-unit, 4+ story residence. The meeting includes time for public questions and comments before a formal application is submitted.

• Proposed 52-unit, 4+ story transit-oriented housing at 108 Water Street
• Pre-application community meeting required by Watertown Zoning Ordinance
• Project team: WSQ Development LLC; contact Julian Bradley Lewis
• Meeting held at Hibernian Hall and online on September 15, 2025
• Notice sent to property owners within 500 feet of the site

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will meet to approve meeting minutes, a collective bargaining agreement with custodians, and the superintendent's salary increase for FY26.

• Approval of July and August meeting minutes
• SEIU888 Custodians Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028
• Superintendent FY26 Salary Increase
• 2025-2026 Superintendent Goals
• FY26 Budget Report

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will receive reports from the Energy and Sustainability Managers, discuss ongoing ordinance priorities, and receive updates from transportation, NetZero, and outreach working groups. The meeting will also review materials and tasks for a PFAS film event scheduled for September 28. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Energy Manager report on energy demand management
• Sustainability Manager recap of Faire On The Square
• Discussion of ordinance priorities
• Updates from Transportation, NetZero, and Outreach working groups
• Review of PFAS film event materials and tasks for 9/28

Historical Commission

The Watertown Historical Commission will hold a public hearing to determine if three properties should be preserved and if demolition delays are imposed. The meeting will be conducted remotely on September 11, 2025.

• Acceptance of minutes from the July 10, 2025, hybrid meeting
• Public hearing for 18-20 Washburn St. (continued to Oct. 9)
• Public hearing for 19 Stoneleigh Rd. (continued to Oct. 9)
• Public hearing for 45 Mt. Auburn St. (continued to Oct. 9)
• Final meeting for Commissioner Edward G. McCourt

The commission accepted the July 10, 2025 minutes without amendment. It voted 5‑1 that the house at 19 Stoneleigh Road is historically significant and should be preserved. It then approved an 18‑month demolition delay for that property by a 4‑2 vote. The meeting was adjourned after other items were noted and a discussion on the Southside survey was tabled.

• Accepted July 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Declared 19 Stoneleigh Rd house significant and preferably preserved (5-1)
• Approved 18‑month demolition delay for 19 Stoneleigh Rd (4-2)
• Tabled discussion of Southside survey preliminary review (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Watertown Council on Aging meeting will conduct roll call, review the minutes from the prior meeting, receive a report from Director Lydia McCoy on senior services updates, allow public comments, and then adjourn. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Roll Call
• Review of prior meeting minutes
• Director’s Report: COA Updates
• Public Comments for the Council on Aging
• Adjournment

City Council: Committee on Education and School System Matters

The Committee on Education and School System Matters is meeting to discuss and confirm two reappointments to the Cable Access Corporation Board of Directors. The appointments are for Samantha Henry and James Vershbow, with terms expiring September 15, 2028. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Confirm reappointment of Samantha Henry to Cable Access Corporation Board of Directors (term through Sept 15, 2028)
• Confirm reappointment of James Vershbow to Cable Access Corporation Board of Directors (term through Sept 15, 2028)

Councilor Airasian moved to recommend the City Council approve the reappointment of Samantha Henry to the Watertown Cable Access Board, with a term expiring September 15, 2028; the motion was seconded by Councilor Izzo and passed 2-0. Councilor Airasian also moved to recommend the reappointment of James Vershbow to the same board, with a term expiring September 15, 2028; the motion was seconded by Councilor Izzo and passed 2-0.

• Approved reappointment of Samantha Henry to WCAC Board (term until Sep 15, 2028) – vote 2-0
• Approved reappointment of James Vershbow to WCAC Board (term until Sep 15, 2028) – vote 2-0

Watertown Affordable Housing Trust

The Watertown Affordable Housing Trust will review and discuss the next iteration of goals and strategies for the 2026-2030 Housing Plan, along with proposed changes to Sections II and III of the current 2020-2025 Plan. The board will also introduce new Human Services Director Jenna Bancroft, consider fall 2025 fair housing trainings, and vote to enter executive session to discuss real property acquisition. The meeting will be held remotely with public access via Zoom, phone, email, and televised on WCATV.

• Introduction of Jenna Bancroft as Human Services Director
• Discussion of 2026-2030 Housing Plan goals and strategies
• Proposed changes to Sections II and III of the 2020-2025 Housing Plan
• Fair Housing Trainings planned for Fall 2025
• Vote to enter executive session for real property purchase/lease negotiations

Because a quorum existed only from 6:21 to 6:29 PM, the Trust did not approve any agenda items. No votes were recorded, and the meeting consisted of introductions, announcements, and plans to discuss items at future meetings.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a site plan review to convert a basement into an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) at 62 Cottage St. The board will also consider an extension request for a conditional approval at 532/560 Pleasant St. Staff will provide updates on zoning ordinance amendments, the Open Space Plan, Watertown Square Plan implementation, and other studies.

• Site Plan Review for ADU conversion at 62 Cottage St (PZ-25-14)
• Extension request for conditional approval at 532/560 Pleasant St (PB2022-02)
• Zoning Ordinance Amendments update
• Watertown Square Plan Implementation update
• Affordable Housing Incentives Study update

The Planning Board approved the minutes of the July 9, 2025 meeting by a 4‑0 vote. It granted a one‑year permit extension for 532/560 Pleasant St with required progress updates and a maintenance plan, approved 5‑0. The Board also conditionally approved the ADU application at 62 Cottage St, adding a note to the plot plan, approved 5‑0.

• Approved minutes of 7/09/2025 (4-0 in favor, 1 abstention)
• Approved one-year extension for 532/560 Pleasant St with conditions (5-0 in favor)
• Conditionally approved ADU at 62 Cottage St, adding plot‑plan note (5-0 in favor)

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will meet to review grant applications, discuss the status of the current grant cycle, and consider updates on the logo contest and the Faire on the Square.

• Review of grant applications and liaison follow-up
• Financial status report
• Logo contest prize follow-up
• Faire on the Square vendor listing
• Guidelines booklet review

The council approved the August 2025 minutes with Nick approving, Lawrence seconding and all members in favor. Members voted to adopt the Grant Education Committee charge, with Angela approving, Greg seconding and unanimous support. A motion to adjourn the meeting was also approved unanimously.

• Approved August 2025 minutes (Nick approved, Lawrence seconded, all in favor)
• Approved Grant Education Committee charge (Angela approved, Greg seconded, all in favor)
• Adjoined the meeting (Lawrence approved, Nick seconded, all in favor)

City Council

The Watertown City Council will hold public hearings and vote on loan orders to fund major projects. Items include a $2,750,000 loan for highway and sidewalk work on Poplar, Partridge, Pequosette, Irving Park, Royal and Green Streets, and a $418,000 loan for sewer infiltration and inflow reduction. The council will also consider first‑reading loan orders for a $1,886,000 DPW roof replacement, a $60,000 electric vehicle purchase, and a $250,000 IT infrastructure buildout in the Parker Annex. Additional agenda items cover presentations, committee reports, and a $382,000 fund transfer to support the police collective bargaining agreement.

• Public hearing and vote on $2,750,000 loan for highway and sidewalk reconstruction on Poplar St, Partridge St, Pequosette St, North & South Irving Park, Royal St, and Green St
• Public hearing and vote on $418,000 loan for infiltration/inflow reduction and sewer rehabilitation
• First reading of $1,886,000 loan order to replace Department of Public Works roof and mechanical equipment
• First reading of $60,000 loan order to purchase an electric vehicle and install shelves (subject to Green Communities grant)
• First reading of $250,000 loan order for IT infrastructure buildout on the second floor of the Parker Annex

The council adopted the minutes from the August 12 meeting and moved agenda item 9A to the current session, both by unanimous voice votes. Councilors approved the proclamation honoring the 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines, also by unanimous voice vote. The City Manager's goals for fiscal year 2026 were approved without opposition. The council voted to approve the design plans for the Bemis and How playground renovations, allowing the projects to proceed.

• Adopted August 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Moved agenda item 9A up for discussion (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved proclamation honoring the 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved City Manager fiscal year 2026 goals (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Bemis and How playground renovation plans (unanimous voice vote)

Public Arts and Culture Committee

This is a routine meeting of the Watertown Cultural District Partnership. The committee will accept prior minutes, hear a marketing subcommittee report including new subcommittee positions and a community engagement specialist update, and discuss upcoming events: the Faire on the Square on September 13, 2025, and planning for Porchfest 2026. New business includes posting events on the website and rescheduling the October meeting due to Indigenous Peoples' Day.

• Marketing subcommittee positions: co-chairs Matthew Stephens and Kristen Kenny, secretary Jeannette Belcher-Schepis, member Doug Orifice, staff support Erin Rathe, Danielle Drapeau, Liz Helfer
• Faire on the Square on September 13, 2025: WCD will share a tent with Watertown Cultural Council; collateral due by September 10 to Liz Helfer
• Porchfest 2026: kickoff meeting scheduled for late October
• Proposed October meeting dates: October 6 or October 20, 2025 (moved from October 13 due to Indigenous Peoples' Day)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will consider a funding request for Indigenous People's Day presented by Jennifer Wolfrum of the Pigsgusset Initiative. The agenda also includes discussions on revising the commission's complaint form and a specific complaint submission from Xin Peng. Committee reports include approval of Action Plan Committee minutes and a stipend increase for a consultant for focus group spending.

• Funding request for Indigenous People's Day from Jennifer Wolfrum of the Pigsgusset Initiative
• Discussion and possible revision of the Human Rights Commission complaint form
• Review of Xin Peng complaint form submission
• Action Plan Committee report including stipend increase for consultant
• Discussions on Watertown Pride 2026 and Faire on the Square 2025

The commission unanimously approved the August meeting minutes and a motion to partner with the library to screen an immigrant‑rights film. It referred the Indigenous People’s Day funding request to the Action Plan Committee and approved swapping a $2,000 focus‑group budget for an equal stipend increase for consultant Liz Peck. Commissioners also agreed that two members will record a joint public‑service announcement and will set the next meeting date using a doodle poll.

• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Referred Indigenous People’s Day funding request to Action Plan Committee
• Approved collaboration with library to host immigrant‑rights movie screening (unanimous)
• Agreed Sarah Zoen and Mel Poindexter will record a joint PSA message
• Approved replacement of $2,000 focus‑group allocation with stipend increase for consultant Liz Peck (unanimous)
• Decided to schedule next meeting via doodle poll

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The committee will discuss pedestrian signals in Watertown and the Arlington-Nichols-Greenway intersection area. Members will also review updates regarding developments at 108 Water St and 33 Mt Auburn St.

• Review of Arlington-Nichols-Greenway intersection slides and survey flyer
• Updates on 108 Water St and 33 Mt Auburn St developer meetings
• Review of pedestrian signals in Watertown
• Feedback on the Arsenal Park new bike/ped path
• Coordination for the Faire on the Square event

The Bike & Pedestrian Committee confirmed that meetings will remain in a hybrid format. It reviewed updates on the Arlington‑Nichols‑Greenway intersection, farmer’s market, and recent development projects, but no formal approvals or rejections were recorded. Several topics, such as pedestrian signals and the Traffic Commission’s bike‑lane proposal, were slated for discussion at future meetings.

Historical Commission

The Watertown Historical Commission will hold a virtual preliminary review to determine whether each of five listed properties is historically significant. The commission may either declare a building not significant or forward the application to a full hearing. No final decisions will be made at this meeting; it is an initial assessment.

• 27-29 Laurel Street – demolition permit application
• 1 Rosary Drive – demolition permit application
• 1-3 Dwight Street – building permit application
• 61-63 Palfrey Street – building permit application

The Watertown Historical Commission conducted a preliminary review of demolition permits for 27‑29 Laurel Street and 1 Rosary Drive, and building permits for 1‑3 Dwight Street and 61‑63 Palfrey Street. It determined the Laurel Street demolition may proceed without a public hearing, while the Rosary Drive demolition requires a public hearing and cannot proceed at this time. The building permits for Dwight Street and Palfrey Street were approved to proceed without a public hearing.

• Demolition at 27‑29 Laurel Street may proceed (no public hearing required)
• Demolition at 1 Rosary Drive may not proceed; public hearing required
• Building permit for 1‑3 Dwight Street may proceed (no public hearing required)
• Building permit for 61‑63 Palfrey Street may proceed (no public hearing required)

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will meet virtually on September 4, 2025, to discuss ongoing needs assessment logistics, including outreach materials, stipends, and stakeholder engagement. The commission will also receive an update on the Youth Logo Design Contest, including a proposal from Susan Musinsky. The meeting includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.

• Discussion of needs assessment: outreach strategy, logic model, and stakeholder engagement
• Review of resources for stipends and waiver form for needs assessment
• Youth Logo Design Contest update with Susan Musinsky proposal
• Public comment via email or virtual meeting

Traffic Commission

The Traffic Commission will hold a special meeting to address a single request from the Director of Public Works. The body will discuss restricting parking on a specific section of Russell Avenue.

• Request to restrict parking on the east side of Russell Avenue from Mount Auburn Street to Bellevue Road

The commission reviewed a revised plan to restrict parking on the east side of Russell Avenue and add a bicycle lane. Residents voiced concerns about parking loss, school traffic, and bike usage. After discussion, the commission voted to table the parking restriction proposal. The motion passed unanimously.

• Table parking restriction discussion on Russell Avenue (unanimous)

BioSafety Committee

The Watertown Biosafety Committee will meet remotely on September 4, 2025. They are scheduled to review a permit application from Ingenia Therapeutics at 490 Arsenal Way and discuss amending vivarium regulations. The committee will also approve minutes from August 7, 2025.

• Permit application for Ingenia Therapeutics at 490 Arsenal Way
• Discussion of amending vivarium regulations
• Approval of draft minutes from August 7, 2025
• Public comment period

The committee approved the minutes from the August 7, 2025 meeting by a 5‑0 vote. The committee then voted 5‑0 to recommend that the Board of Health approve Ingenia Therapeutics' permit application without conditions.

• Approved August 7 minutes (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Ingenia Therapeutics permit (5-0)

Board of Library Trustees

The Board of Library Trustees will meet to discuss financial reports, including the FY26 budget and Burke Fund, and consider a library director review. Under new business, the board will vote on accepting a Watertown Cultural Council grant and approving committee expense purchases. The meeting also includes a public forum and action on donations.

• Consideration and action on Watertown Cultural Council Grant
• Consideration and action on committee expense purchases
• Library Director Review under old business
• FY26 Budget financial report
• Consideration and action on acceptance of donations

The trustees unanimously approved the meeting minutes and the FY26 financial report. They accepted $240 in donations, local history photographs, and a Lewandos sign. The board approved a $1,000 application to the Watertown Cultural Council Grant for the 2026 Pride Event. They also approved a $1,000 transfer from the trustee fund to finance a library hygiene station.

• Approved minutes (amended) – unanimous
• Approved FY26 financial report – unanimous
• Accepted $240 donations, photographs, and Lewandos sign – unanimous
• Approved $1,000 Watertown Cultural Council Grant application – unanimous
• Approved $1,000 transfer to fund hygiene station – unanimous
• Motion to adjourn meeting – unanimous

Residents’ Advisory Committee

The Residents’ Advisory Committee will conduct its regular procedural business, including call to order, roll call, acceptance of minutes, and outreach announcements. The meeting will then enter an executive session to consider and interview applicants for employment or appointment by a preliminary screening committee. After the executive session, the committee will schedule its next meeting and adjourn.

• Executive Session – interview applicants for employment/appointment by preliminary screening committee

The Residents’ Advisory Committee approved the July 23, 2025 meeting minutes with votes yes from Sam Ling, Theo Offei, Kathryn Madden and Liz Cremens. The committee then voted unanimously to enter executive session to interview and consider applicants. The next RAC meeting was scheduled for September 30, 2025. Arrangements were confirmed for a RAC table at the Faire on the Square on September 13.

• Approved July 23, 2025 minutes (4-0 vote)
• Entered executive session to interview applicants (unanimous)
• Scheduled next RAC meeting for September 30, 2025
• Confirmed RAC table at Faire on the Square on September 13

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Economic Development and Planning Committee will discuss and make recommendations on leadership support for the Community Preservation Committee. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as call to order, roll call, public comment, and adjournment. No other agenda items are listed.

• Discuss and make recommendations on leadership support for the Community Preservation Committee

The Economic Development & Planning Committee voted to recommend that the City Council offer the Council President, or a designee, to assist the Community Preservation Committee chair during its transition. The motion was made by Councilor Vincent Piccirilli, seconded by Councilor John Gannon, and passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote. No other actions were taken.

• Recommend City Council provide President or designee to assist CPC chair (3-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review requests for Certificates of Compliance for two properties and hold a public hearing regarding pool renovations. The body will also review meeting dates for 2026.

• Public hearing for renovating the pool, concrete area, and deck at 138 Pleasant Street (Dealtry Memorial Pool)
• Certificate of Compliance request for 485-615 Arsenal Street
• Certificate of Compliance request for 64 Pleasant Street
• Review of 2026 filing and meeting dates

The Conservation Commission voted to approve the issuance of a Certificate of Compliance for 485-615 Arsenal Street (MassDEP filing #321-0165) and for 64 Pleasant Street (MassDEP filing #321-0178). All members present agreed to each motion. The June 4, 2025 minutes were accepted and the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 pm.

• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 485-615 Arsenal Street (MassDEP #321-0165) – unanimous vote
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 64 Pleasant Street (MassDEP #321-0178) – unanimous vote
• Accepted June 4, 2025 Conservation Commission minutes – unanimous vote
• Adjourned meeting at 9:30 pm – unanimous vote

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The Marketing Subcommittee is meeting to establish leadership roles and define its purpose. The group is mandated to develop a 6-18 month Marketing Plan to increase visibility for the Watertown Cultural District and its partners.

• Discussion of Subcommittee Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary roles
• Development of a 6-18 month Marketing Plan
• Identification of gaps in audience, outreach, and promotion
• Content creation coordination with city staff

City Council

The Watertown City Council will hold an informational presentation by Innes Land Strategies. The presentation will outline the role of a redevelopment authority for the Watertown Square Revitalization Plan. Council members will learn about the planned work for the next year. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Informational presentation by Innes Land Strategies on the Watertown Square Revitalization Plan

The council convened a special meeting and heard an informational presentation from Innes Land Strategies on the Watertown Square Revitalization Plan and the role of a redevelopment authority. Council members asked questions about demonstration projects, state approvals, and the planning process. No motions, votes, or formal actions were taken during the meeting.

City Council: Committee on Public Works

The Committee on Public Works will meet to discuss the confirmation of four appointments. These include two members for the Stormwater Advisory Committee and two members for the Memorialization Committee.

• Reappointment of Nancy Hammett to Stormwater Advisory Committee (term expires July 15, 2027)
• Appointment of Lilia Moscalu to Stormwater Advisory Committee (term expires July 15, 2027)
• Appointment of Ani Aroyian to Memorialization Committee (term expires September 15, 2026)
• Appointment of Ellen Trudel to Memorialization Committee (term expires September 15, 2027)

The Committee on Public Works recommended and the City Council approved the reappointment of Nancy Hammett and the appointment of Lilia Moscalu to the Stormwater Advisory Committee, each for a term ending July 15, 2027. The Council also approved Ellen Trudel's appointment to the Memorialization Committee for a term ending September 15, 2027. All three motions passed unanimously (3‑0). The scheduled interview of Ani Aroyian for the Memorialization Committee was canceled.

• Reappointed Nancy Hammett to Stormwater Advisory Committee (term expires July 15, 2027) – passed 3‑0
• Appointed Lilia Moscalu to Stormwater Advisory Committee (term expires July 15, 2027) – passed 3‑0
• Appointed Ellen Trudel to Memorialization Committee (term expires September 15, 2027) – passed 3‑0
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – passed 3‑0

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss the MVP Grant and the status of resident members. Members are planning for the Faire on the Square and Life Friendly Garden Tour. The meeting will also address the committee's role in the Watertown Climate and Energy Plan.

• MVP Grant status update
• Planning for Faire on the Square (9/13/25)
• Planning for Life Friendly Garden Tour (9/17/25)
• Review of stormwater tasks in Watertown Climate and Energy Plan

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee's working group will review and edit materials for a street improvement request along the Arlington/Nichols/Greenway corridor. They will also discuss next steps for the project.

• Review and edit materials for Arlington/Nichols/Greenway street improvement request
• Discuss next steps for the improvement request

Licensing Board

The Watertown Licensing Board will consider changing its regular meeting day and time. It will also vote on a temporary extension of premises for Medium Rare restaurant and approve several one-day event permits, including a police relief association road race and cultural events.

• Discussion on changing the meeting day of the week and time
• Medium Rare at 107 Bond Sq requests temporary extension of premises on September 10, 2025
• Watertown Police Relief Association 5k road race at Arsenal Yards on September 21, 2025
• Greater Boston Nepali Community cultural event at ACEC, 47 Nichols Ave on August 23, 2025
• The Tigrean Community Center Inc fundraising event at ACEC, 47 Nichols Ave on September 13, 2025

The Licensing Board approved several one‑day event licenses, each with a 2‑0 vote. Licenses were granted for a 5k road race, a church family gathering, a Tigrean Community Center fundraiser, and a temporary extension for Medium Rare. The board also approved a Greater Boston Nepali Community fundraising event. Finally, the board changed the regular hearing schedule to the third Monday of each month at 6:00 pm, effective October 20.

• Approved Watertown Police Relief Association 5k Road Race (Sept 21, 2025) – 2‑0
• Approved St James Church family gathering (Aug 30, 2025) – 2‑0
• Granted license for Greater Boston Nepali Community fundraising event (Aug 23, 2025)
• Approved Tigrean Community Center fundraising event (Sept 13, 2025) – 2‑0
• Approved Medium Rare temporary extension of premises (Sept 10, 2025) – 2‑0
• Approved change of hearing schedule to third Monday at 6:00 pm, starting Oct 20 – 2‑0

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Outreach Working Group is meeting to coordinate upcoming public events. The group will discuss preparations for Faire on the Square, Eco Fest 2026, and a PFAS event.

• Faire on the Square preparation
• Eco Fest 2026 planning
• PFAS event and website content review

School Building Committee

The committee will approve minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. It will approve July 2025 invoices for Lowell Elementary, the high school, and the middle school projects. Members will receive updates on the high school project's progress, schedule, and overall budget. A vote will be taken on a change order that alters the high school's total project budget.

• Approve Lowell Elementary School invoice
• Approve High School Project July 2025 invoice
• Vote on change order for High School Project total budget
• Approve Middle School Project July 2025 invoice
• High School Project progress and schedule updates

Board of Health

The Watertown Board of Health will meet remotely on August 20, 2025, to approve a permit for VidaVinci at 66 Galen Street and discuss tobacco regulations. The meeting will include reviews of draft minutes, public comment, and updates on department staffing and rodent control.

• Approval of permit application for VidaVinci at 66 Galen Street
• Review of draft minutes for July 16, 2025
• Discussion of tobacco regulations checklist
• Updates on department staffing and rodent control
• Remote-only meeting via Zoom and WCATV

The Board approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. It approved a permit for VidaVinci at 66 Galen Street. The review of tobacco regulations was postponed to the September meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved minutes for July 16, 2025 (2‑0)
• Approved permit for VidaVinci at 66 Galen Street (2‑0)
• Tabled review of tobacco regulations to September meeting

Commission on Disability

The Watertown Commission on Disability will meet remotely to discuss funding requests for American Sign Language (ASL) and CART services, review updates on city accessibility projects, and accept minutes from previous meetings.

• Funding request for ASL/CART for October Disability Needs Assessment Focus Group
• Funding request for ASL/CART for October 20-21 Disability Awareness Events
• Update on detectable warnings at North Beacon and Beechwood streets
• Update on Waverly-Belmont Street intersection
• Acceptance of minutes for May and June meetings

Commission members reviewed several accessibility topics, including tree‑related sidewalk issues, detectable warnings, and upcoming events. No formal approvals or budget allocations were adopted. Member Nayo Franck announced she will leave the commission when her term ends in November. The board agreed that signage is not an acceptable solution for the Arsenal Street sidewalk problem.

• Nayo Franck announced she will step down from the commission after her term ends in November
• Commission concluded that signage is not an acceptable solution for the Arsenal Street sidewalk issue

Election Commission

The Election Commission will hold a public drawing to determine the order of candidates' names on the ballot for each office. The meeting includes call to order, roll call, the ballot position drawing, and adjournment.

• Public drawing to determine ballot order for each office

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will discuss and vote on an update on federal funding and the application of fee waivers, including the process for obtaining them, details of FY25 usage, and the field trip fund. The committee will also review the budget calendar and expense report scheduling, and discuss Stripe Payments via ParentSquare.

• Discussion and vote on update on federal funding
• Application of fee waivers: process, FY25 usage, field trip fund details
• Overview of the Budget calendar
• Expense report scheduling (monthly vs. quarterly)
• Discussion of Stripe Payments via ParentSquare

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will convene in executive session to discuss strategy regarding superintendent salary negotiations and a litigation matter. The open meeting includes action items such as votes on a new cell phone policy for elementary and middle schools, a collective bargaining agreement with custodians, and policy revisions. Reports cover middle school academic data, a high school cell phone pilot, and superintendent draft goals.

• Executive session to discuss strategy on superintendent salary negotiations and a litigation matter
• Vote on new cell phone policy for Watertown Elementary Schools and Watertown Middle School
• Vote on SEIU888 Custodians Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028 (collective bargaining agreement)
• Second reading and vote on Policy ACAC Title IX Revision and Policy ADDA Background Checks
• Approval of Watertown Public School Handbook Part 2

School Committee

The School Committee will vote on several policies including a new cell phone policy for elementary and middle schools and the SEIU888 custodians' contract for 2025-2028. They will also discuss superintendent draft goals and review the FY26 budget. The meeting begins with an executive session on superintendent salary negotiations.

• Vote on Watertown Public School Handbooks Part 2
• Vote on new cell phone policy for elementary and middle schools
• Vote on SEIU888 Custodians Memorandum of Agreement 2025-2028
• Review of 2025-2026 Superintendent Draft Goals
• Review of FY26 Budget

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will hear reports from the Energy and Sustainability Managers, then discuss planning for the Faire on the Square, including review of PFAS materials. The meeting will also cover ordinance priorities, updates from transportation, NetZero, outreach, and PFAS film event working groups, and note upcoming dates for the Faire and a PFAS film screening.

• Energy Manager Report
• Sustainability Manager Report
• Faire on the Square planning and PFAS material review
• Discussion of ordinance priorities
• Working group updates: transportation, NetZero, outreach, PFAS film event

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet virtually to discuss working with Watertown Public Schools on a commission logo and review stakeholder engagement and next steps. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.

• Working with Watertown Public Schools Students on Commission Logo
• Stakeholder Engagement discussion
• Review Next Steps & Next Meeting Date

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will consider updates to its goals and priorities for fiscal year 2026. Members will also hear community survey results, discuss committee assignments, and receive a financial status report. The meeting includes routine items such as accepting the June minutes and reviewing the calendar.

• Vote to accept June meeting minutes
• Review and edit FY26 goals and priorities statement
• Presentation of FY26 community survey results
• Discussion of FY26 committee assignments and chairs
• Financial status report for FY26

The council unanimously approved the June 2025 minutes. Sally Young was re‑appointed as the PAC liaison for FY26 with all members in favor. FY26 committee assignments were set: Grants education (Nick and Trisha), Communication (Greg and Phyllis), and Oversight (Lois, Morgan, Angela). The council noted it has received $17,000 from the city and expects about $16,400 from the MCC.

• Approved June 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Sally Young as PAC liaison for FY26 (unanimous)
• Established FY26 Grants education committee: Nick and Trisha
• Established FY26 Communication committee: Greg and Phyllis
• Established FY26 Oversight committee: Lois, Morgan, Angela
• Noted receipt of $17,000 city allocation for FY26
• Anticipated $16,400 MCC allocation for FY26

City Council

The Watertown City Council will hold public hearings and votes on utility pole permits for Eversource and National Grid, and authorize a $2.75 million loan for street and sidewalk reconstruction projects.

• Public hearing on Eversource utility pole permit in Belmont Street
• Public hearing on National Grid gas infrastructure work in Lexington Street
• Public hearing on National Grid gas work in Boyd Street, Arundel Terrace, and Bigelow Terrace
• First reading on $2.75M loan for Poplar Street, Partridge Street, and other street reconstruction
• First reading on $418,000 loan for sewer rehabilitation

The council adopted the minutes from the July 8 and July 24 meetings. It confirmed the appointments of Martin Solomon and Joseph Ganno to the Solid Waste & Recycling Advisory Committee. The council unanimously approved petitions from Eversource and National Grid for utility work on Belmont Street, Lexington Street, and the Boyd/Arundel/Bigelow area.

• Adopted July 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Adopted July 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Confirmed Martin Solomon and Joseph Ganno as Solid Waste & Recycling Advisory Committee members (automatic per charter)
• Approved Eversource petition for stub pole and anchor pole on Belmont Street (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved National Grid petition for gas line work on Lexington Street (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved National Grid petition for gas line work on Boyd, Arundel, and Bigelow Terraces (unanimous roll‑call vote)

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The Watertown Cultural District Partnership will consider a vote to create a Marketing Subcommittee aimed at elevating the visibility of the district and its partners. The committee will also receive updates on upcoming events including the Watertown Arts Market, Faire on the Square, and planning for Porchfest 2026. Previous meeting minutes and outreach reports are on the agenda.

• Vote to create a Marketing Subcommittee for the Watertown Cultural District
• Faire on the Square on September 13, 2025; registration closes August 22
• Porchfest 2026 kickoff meeting scheduled for late October/early November
• Watertown Arts Market on August 9, 2025
• New Porchfest committee members added

City Council: Committee on Climate and Energy

The City Council Committee on Climate and Energy will hold a public hearing on August 11, 2025 to gather residents’ views on the City’s Climate and Energy Plan and its priorities. The meeting will be available in person in the third‑floor conference room and via Zoom or phone. No decisions are scheduled; the session is for discussion and information gathering.

• Public hearing to collect feedback on the City’s Climate and Energy Plan
• Remote participation options: Zoom link and toll‑free phone numbers

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to discuss committee reports, including updates on needs assessments and immigrant rights, and to review the FY26 budget. The agenda also includes revisions to the complaint form and plans for a table at Faire on the Square.

• Discussion of FY26 budget
• Revisions to complaint form
• Action Plan Committee updates
• Immigrant Rights Committee updates
• Table at Faire on the Square

The Human Rights Commission approved the minutes from the prior meeting by a 9‑0 vote. It then approved a $2,000 budget to fund focus‑group stipends, facilitator gift cards, food, babysitting, translation and other needs‑assessment costs, also by a 9‑0 vote. The commission approved edits to its immigration‑enforcement statement with a 9‑0 vote. The commission plans to staff a table at the September Faire on the Square.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved $2,000 budget for focus‑group needs assessment (9-0)
• Approved edits to immigration‑enforcement statement (9-0)
• Decided to have a commission table at the September Faire on the Square (no vote recorded)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to discuss proposed edits to its human rights statement and potential collaborations with the Watertown Police Department and local library. The body will also consider additional actions to support immigrant neighbors.

• Proposed edits to HRC Statement in Support of Human Rights for All
• Potential public forum on ICE with Watertown Police Department
• Immigrant Justice/Food Justice event with Library planned for Fall 2025
• Discussion of additional actions in support of immigrant neighbors

The committee moved to approve specific edits to the Human Rights Commission statement on ICE, and the motion was seconded, but no vote result was recorded. Members also discussed a possible public forum with the Watertown Police Department and a fall immigrant‑justice event, both of which were left for future consideration. No formal actions were approved, denied, or tabled during this meeting.

City Council: Committee on Rules and Ordinances

The Committee on Rules and Ordinances will discuss confirming the reappointment of Jimmy Tsekrekas as an alternate member to the Licensing Board for a term expiring February 15, 2028. This is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Discussion and potential confirmation of Jimmy Tsekrekas as alternate member to the Licensing Board (term through February 15, 2028)

The committee recommended and the City Council confirmed John C. Bartley as a Licensing Board member for a term ending February 15, 2028. The council also confirmed Jimmy Tsekrekas as an alternate Licensing Board member for the same term. Both motions passed unanimously with a 3‑0 vote.

• Confirmed John C. Bartley to Licensing Board (term until Feb 15, 2028) – vote 3-0
• Confirmed Jimmy Tsekrekas as alternate Licensing Board member (term until Feb 15, 2028) – vote 3-0

BioSafety Committee

The BioSafety Committee will review a permit application and a presented amendment. The body will also discuss amending vivarium regulations.

• Permit application review for Vida Vinci at 66 Galen Street
• Amendment presentation for Dyno Therapeutics at 343 Arsenal Street
• Discussion on amending vivarium regulations

The BioSafety Committee approved the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes with a 5‑0 vote. It then voted 4‑0 to recommend that the Board of Health approve the Vida Vinci permit at 66 Galen Street without conditions. No other decisions were recorded.

• Approved July 10, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Vida Vinci permit without conditions (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review and vote on accepting June 2025 minutes and discuss open appeals. The meeting will include a vote to enter an executive session to review confidential exemption applications.

• Vote to accept June 24, 2025, minutes
• Review of Fiscal Year 2025 appeals
• Vote to enter executive session
• Review of confidential exemption applications
• Indexing Income/Asset limits referred to committee

The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the June 24, 2025 meeting. It signed the Authorization for Submissions to the Department of Revenue. The Board voted to convene an executive session to handle confidential exemption applications and then adjourned the meeting. The next Board of Assessors meeting was scheduled for September 16, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.

• Approved June 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Signed Authorization for Submissions to DOR
• Voted to convene executive session on exemption applications
• Voted to adjourn the meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for Sep 16, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.

City Council: Committee on Rules and Ordinances

The Committee on Rules and Ordinances will discuss and vote on confirming John Bartley to the Licensing Board and reappointing Jimmy Tsekrekas as an alternate member, both with terms expiring February 15, 2028. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Confirm appointment of John Bartley to the Licensing Board (term to Feb 15, 2028)
• Confirm reappointment of Jimmy Tsekrekas as alternate member to the Licensing Board (term to Feb 15, 2028)

The Committee on Rules and Ordinances recommended John C. Bartley for a new term on the Licensing Board, and the City Council approved the recommendation unanimously. The committee also recommended Jimmy Tsekrekas for reappointment as an alternate member of the Licensing Board, and the City Council approved that recommendation unanimously as well.

• Confirm John C. Bartley to Licensing Board (term until Feb 15, 2028) – approved 3-0
• Confirm Jimmy Tsekrekas as alternate Licensing Board member (term until Feb 15, 2028) – approved 3-0

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Watertown Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee will discuss preparations for its involvement in the Faire on the Square on September 13, 2025. The agenda also includes working group discussions on the Live Well Watertown collaboration and the Arlington/Nichols/Greenway project. Other items include approving minutes from July 14, debriefing recent meet-and-greets, and reviewing the committee's image library. The meeting is remote-only and public comment is accepted by email.

• Faire on the Square involvement: September 13, 2025, 12-5pm
• Working group discussion: Arlington/Nichols/Greenway
• Working group discussion: Live Well Watertown collaboration
• Acceptance of minutes from July 14, 2025, meeting
• Debrief from recent meet & greets

The Bike & Pedestrian Committee approved the minutes of its July 14, 2025 meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the remaining agenda items were informational updates or topics slated for future discussion.

• Approved minutes of July 14, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will review similar needs assessments and discuss the design of a focus group for its own assessment. Key logistics and available resources will also be addressed, along with parameters for a subcommittee approval request. No votes or binding decisions are on the agenda.

• Review of similar needs assessments
• Focus group design discussion
• Logistics and resources for needs assessment
• Parameters for Liz Peck seeking subcommittee approval

The committee decided the previous meeting minutes will be reviewed at the next full Human Rights Commission meeting. They confirmed focus groups are scheduled for October 14 at the library. The consultant will revise her logic model based on committee feedback, and was told she may continue outreach provided Open Meeting Law is not violated.

• Approved review of previous minutes at next full commission meeting
• Approved focus groups scheduled for October 14 at the library
• Approved consultant to edit logic model per committee suggestions
• Provided clarification that outreach may continue if Open Meeting Law is not breached

City Council: Committee on Economic Development and Planning

The Committee on Economic Development and Planning will discuss and vote on confirming three appointments to the Community Preservation Committee for terms expiring in 2026, 2027, and 2028. The appointments are Amy Plovnick (2026), Christina Murphy (2027), and Marissa Mayo (2028). No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Confirm Amy Plovnick to Community Preservation Committee for term expiring Feb 1, 2026 (unexpired term)
• Confirm Christina Murphy to Community Preservation Committee for term expiring Feb 1, 2027 (unexpired term)
• Confirm Marissa Mayo to Community Preservation Committee for term expiring Feb 1, 2028

The Economic Development & Planning Committee interviewed candidates and discussed leadership challenges for the Community Preservation Committee. The committee voted 3‑0 on four motions to recommend that City Council refer the issue of CPC leadership support and confirm appointments of Marissa Mayo (term ending Feb 1 2028), Amy Plovnick (term ending Feb 1 2026) and Christina Murphy (term ending Feb 1 2027). After the meeting, Christina Murphy withdrew, so no council action on her appointment is pending.

• Recommend City Council refer to the committee for CPC leadership support (vote 3‑0)
• Recommend City Council confirm Marissa Mayo to CPC, term expiring Feb 1 2028 (vote 3‑0)
• Recommend City Council confirm Amy Plovnick to CPC, term expiring Feb 1 2026 (vote 3‑0)
• Recommend City Council confirm Christina Murphy to CPC, term expiring Feb 1 2027 (vote 3‑0; she later withdrew)

Board of Library Trustees

The Watertown Board of Library Trustees will discuss and possibly vote on a statement of policy responding to feedback on the suggested summer reading list. The board will also consider acceptance of donations, review FY25/FY26 budgets, and take action on the 2026 gallery application proposal, a WCOD request, and an after-hours event.

• Statement of Policy in Response to Suggested Summer Reading List Feedback
• Consideration and Action on Acceptance of Donations
• Consideration and Action on 2026 Gallery Application Proposal
• Consideration and Action on WCOD Request
• Consideration and Action on After Hours Event

The Watertown Library Trustees approved the FY26 financial report and a $2,610.75 donation to Project Literacy. They affirmed the library's current Collection Development Policy, accepted the 2026 gallery applications, and approved a $1,300 grant for live captioning services. The board also authorized extended library hours on November 21, 2025 for a Yo‑Yo Ma livestream event.

• Approved FY26 financial report – motion passed unanimously
• Approved $2,610.75 donation from Watertown Community Foundation to Project Literacy – motion passed unanimously
• Affirmed commitment to the current Collection Development Policy – motion passed unanimously
• Approved 2026 gallery applications – motion passed unanimously
• Approved $1,300 grant to Watertown Commission on Disabilities for live captioning – motion passed unanimously
• Approved extended library hours on November 21, 2025 for Yo‑Yo Ma livestream – motion passed unanimously

City Council: Committee on Public Safety

The Committee on Public Safety will meet to discuss the confirmation of two appointments to the Traffic Commission.

• Appointment of Daniel Grieneisen to the Traffic Commission (term expires May 15, 2026)
• Appointment of Ryan McMorrow to the Traffic Commission (term expires May 15, 2027)

The Committee on Public Safety recommended Daniel Grieneisen and Ryan McMorrow for the Traffic Commission. The City Council confirmed both appointments, with terms ending May 15, 2026 and May 15, 2027. Each motion passed unanimously with a 3-0 vote. The meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm.

• Confirmed Daniel Grieneisen to Traffic Commission (term expires May 15, 2026) – vote 3-0
• Confirmed Ryan McMorrow to Traffic Commission (term expires May 15, 2027) – vote 3-0

City Council

The Watertown Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee will meet to review recent data collection efforts and coordinate with CTPS, followed by a brainstorming session for future meetings.

• Review of recent Committee data collection and CTPS data coordination efforts
• Discussion of survey document and template for outlining future meeting issues
• Brainstorming session for next steps

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee assigned staff to gather data, conduct a site visit, and collect community feedback on the Arlington/Nichols intersection. Zeke Mermell will coordinate with City Engineer Tyler Glode and Planning Division leadership for a peak‑hour site visit. Eileen Botti will edit and recirculate a survey, and Amy Plovnick will forward safety notes from a cyclist. Jenny Wang will share an unlisted YouTube video of intersection counts.

• Zeke Mermell to contact City Engineer Tyler Glode and Planning Division leadership for site visit (assigned)
• Eileen Botti to edit and recirculate intersection survey (assigned)
• Amy Plovnick to send safety notes and cyclist email to Eileen (assigned)
• Jenny Wang to share intersection count video via unlisted YouTube link (assigned)
• Committee to review Bike‑Ped Plan and Complete Streets Prioritization Plan for intersection mention (assigned)
• Collect community survey responses at Farmer’s Market and consider site surveys (planned)

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The Watertown Public Arts and Culture Committee will review and vote on a call for art for the 2026-28 Community Sculpture Walk and discuss a draft of the Public Art Policy. They will also receive updates on a $5,000 Mass Cultural Council grant, upcoming events including the Watertown Arts Market and Faire on the Square, and a resignation from a subcommittee.

• Vote on call for art for 2026-28 Community Sculpture Walk
• Review of draft Public Art Policy
• $5,000 Mass Cultural Council Community Experiences Grant for Sculpture Walk
• Resignation of Jay Wilson from Governance & Funding subcommittee
• Upcoming events: Watertown Arts Market on August 9 and Faire on the Square on September 13

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will vote on student handbooks for elementary, middle, and high schools. The body will also consider a collective bargaining agreement for SEIU888 custodians and a new cell phone policy for elementary and middle schools.

• Vote on Watertown Elementary, Middle, and High School handbooks
• First reading of new cell phone policy for elementary and middle schools
• SEIU888 Custodians Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028
• Policy revisions for Title IX (ACAC) and Background Checks (ADDA)
• Superintendent 2024/2025 Annual Evaluation Composite

City Council: Special Meetings

The City Council will meet remotely on July 24, 2025, to consider a proposed letter regarding a dispute with Republic Waste Services. The meeting will include a roll call and a recess or adjournment.

• Discussion on proposed letter to Republic Waste Services regarding trash collection dispute
• Roll call
• Remote meeting held via Zoom and WCATV

The council voted to send the attached letter to Republic Waste Services urging the company to resolve the labor dispute and protect public health. The motion passed unanimously. The council then adopted a motion to adjourn the meeting, also unanimously.

• Approved sending letter to Republic Waste Services (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to adjourn meeting (unanimous)

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will hear updates on PFAS screening outreach and review plans for Mass Save energy surveys and focus groups. No decisions or contracts are listed; the agenda is informational. The meeting is remote‑only and will be televised on WCATV.

• PFAS screening outreach presentation
• Mass Save surveys and focus group discussion

Residents’ Advisory Committee

The Watertown Residents’ Advisory Committee met on July 23, 2025 at 5:00 PM. The committee accepted the minutes from the May 7 and June 11, 2025 meetings. It reviewed board, commission, and committee criteria and then entered an executive session to interview applicants for employment or appointment. The next meeting was scheduled for September 3, 2025.

• Accept minutes from May 7, 2025 and June 11, 2025 meetings
• Review board/commission/committee criteria and characteristics
• Executive session to interview applicants for employment or appointment
• Schedule next meeting for September 3, 2025

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the May 7 and June 11 meetings. It also unanimously approved the suggested updates to the city webpage about boards, commissions, and committees. The August RAC meeting was cancelled, and the council moved into an executive session to interview and consider applicants.

• Approved minutes of May 7 and June 11 RAC meetings (unanimous)
• Approved suggested updates to City webpage on Boards/Commissions/Committees (unanimous)
• Cancelled the August RAC meeting (no vote recorded)
• Moved to Executive Session to interview and consider applicants (motion passed, no vote recorded)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider requests for variances and additions to residential properties. The board is reviewing cases involving setback non-conformity and Floor Area Ratio (FAR) increases.

• 42 Frank St: accessible addition and driveway variance (PZ-25-7)
• 177 Westminster Ave: increased FAR and rear yard setback for a new dwelling unit (PZ-25-9)
• 61-63 Palfrey St: half-story with dormers and FAR increase up to 0.625 (PZ-25-12)

The Zoning Board approved the minutes from the June 25, 2025 meeting by a 5-0 roll‑call vote. It then approved special permits for three projects—42 Frank St, 177 Westminster Ave, and 61‑63 Palfrey St—each by a unanimous 5-0 vote. The board also passed a motion to adjourn the meeting, approved 5-0.

• Approved June 25, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved special permit finding and variance for 42 Frank St (5-0)
• Approved special permit finding and special permit with conditions for 177 Westminster Ave (5-0)
• Approved special permit for increased FAR at 61‑63 Palfrey St (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)

Tree Warden

The Tree Warden will hold a hearing to consider the proposed removal of eight public shade trees. The removals are requested due to home construction.

• Proposed removal of 6 Norway Maples
• Proposed removal of 2 American Elms
• Location: 20 Keith Street

Public Hearing

The Watertown Cable Access Corporation Board will hold a public ascertainment hearing on July 22, 2025 at 6:00 PM. The board will solicit public comments on Comcast’s compliance with its existing cable license, the city’s future cable access needs, and the impact of WCA‑TV as a community resource. No formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for gathering feedback.

• Comcast compliance with its cable license
• City’s future needs related to cable access
• Impact and role of WCA‑TV in the community

City Council: Committee on Human Services

The Watertown City Council Committee on Human Services will vote to confirm the reappointment of Leo Patterson, David Leon, and Jill Hyde to the Affordable Housing Trust. Each appointment would continue until June 30, 2027. No other matters are listed on the agenda.

• Confirm reappointment of Leo Patterson to the Affordable Housing Trust (term expires June 30, 2027)
• Confirm reappointment of David Leon to the Affordable Housing Trust (term expires June 30, 2027)
• Confirm reappointment of Jill Hyde to the Affordable Housing Trust (term expires June 30, 2027)

The Watertown City Council Committee on Human Services held a public meeting on July 21, 2025 to consider reappointments to the Affordable Housing Trust. After interviewing each nominee, the committee voted 3‑0 to recommend reappointing Leo Patterson, David Leon, and Jill Hyde for terms ending June 30, 2027. The meeting was then adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Recommended Leo Patterson reappointment to the Affordable Housing Trust (vote 3-0)
• Recommended David Leon reappointment to the Affordable Housing Trust (vote 3-0)
• Recommended Jill Hyde reappointment to the Affordable Housing Trust (vote 3-0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (vote 3-0)

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will hold a remote meeting to discuss ordinance priorities, receive reports from the Energy Manager and Sustainability Manager, and get updates from working groups on transportation, NetZero, and outreach. They will also decide on administrative matters including whether to meet in August and upcoming co-chair changes.

• Energy Manager Report
• Sustainability Manager Report
• Discussion of Ordinance Priorities
• Working Group Updates – Transportation, NetZero, Outreach
• Administrative Decisions on August meeting and co-chair changes

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee voted to approve the May meeting minutes unanimously. The committee then voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 8:20 p.m.

• Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:20 p.m. (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Personnel and City Organization

The Committee on Personnel and City Organization will hold a discussion on the reorganization plan submitted by the City Manager. No votes are scheduled; the meeting is for deliberation only. The public may attend in person, via Zoom, or by phone, and comments can be emailed.

• Discussion on the Reorganization Plan as submitted by the City Manager

The Watertown City Council Personnel and City Organization Committee met on July 21, 2025 to review the City Manager’s reorganization plan. Members approved a motion, unanimously, to recommend the Council approve the amended organization, which moves four department heads to report directly to the City Manager and places the Veterans Services Officer under Human Services. The committee reported no objections to posting the Veterans Services Officer position. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous vote.

• Committee recommends City Council approve the amended organization (unanimous)
• No objections to posting the Veterans Services Officer job

Human Rights Commission

This is a regular working meeting of the Watertown Human Rights Commission, held virtually. The commission will discuss a needs assessment, a logic model, and stakeholder engagement activities. No votes or decisions on specific policies are scheduled; the meeting focuses on planning and mapping.

• Discussion of Needs Assessment for commission priorities
• Discussion of Logic Model for commission initiatives
• Debrief of Mapping Activity
• Stakeholder Engagement Activity discussion
• Scheduling of next meeting

The Human Rights Commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting with a 3‑0 vote. Consultant Liz Peck presented plans for focus groups and an early draft logic model, but no formal actions were taken on those items. The next meeting is scheduled for July 28 or July 31, depending on member availability.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (3-0)
• Set next meeting date for July 28 or July 31, pending availability

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will review the town's compliance status and stormwater regulations. The body will also discuss funding needs and select upcoming education and outreach projects.

• Status update on MVP grant
• Review of stormwater regulations and Watertown compliance status
• Discussion of stormwater funding needs and resources
• Selection of outreach projects including Faire on the Square
• Review of SAC member status

The Stormwater Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the June 12, 2025 meeting. It also approved the committee’s participation as a town group with a 6‑ft table and two chairs at the Faire on the Square on September 13. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved June 12, 2025 SAC minutes (motion Magoon, second Aoki)
• Approved town group booth at Faire on the Square – 6‑ft table & two chairs (Sept 13)

Licensing Board

This meeting consists of procedural items only: approval of previous minutes, board organization, and comments from police and board members. No new license applications or public hearings are scheduled.

• Acceptance of minutes from June 18, 2025 meeting
• Board organization and election of chair
• Additional comments by Police and Board

The Licensing Board designated Jim Tsekrekas to serve in place of absent member John Labadini. The board then voted unanimously to elect and approve Sandra Kasabian Hoffman as the new chair of the board.

• Designated Jim Tsekrekas to sit for absent member John Labadini
• Elected and approved Sandra Kasabian Hoffman as board chair (unanimous)

Community Preservation

The committee will review CPA financials and project reports. Members will discuss onboarding new leadership and the relationship between the committee and the Affordable Housing Trust. The meeting includes a re-vote on motions from June 26, 2025.

• CPA Funds as of 2025-6-26
• Community Preservation Coalition Membership Renewal
• Onboarding new members and leadership transition planning
• Discussion on Community Preservation Committee and Affordable Housing Trust relationship
• Re-vote of 6/26/25 motions regarding minutes and election of temporary officers

The committee accepted the minutes from June 26, May 15, and April 17, 2025. It renewed its Community Preservation Coalition membership for $7,900. Allen Gallagher was elected interim chair after a nomination and confirmation vote. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:33 PM.

• Accepted 6-26-2025 minutes (7 in favor)
• Renewed Community Preservation Coalition membership $7,900 (8 in favor)
• Elected Allen Gallagher as interim chair (7 in favor, 1 abstention)
• Accepted 4-17-2025 minutes (8 in favor)
• Accepted 5-15-2025 minutes (7 in favor, 1 present)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

School Building Committee

The School Building Committee will approve monthly invoices for the High School and Middle School projects, vote on budget changes, and review project schedules and feasibility studies.

• Approval of High School monthly invoices for June 2025
• Approval of Middle School monthly invoices for June 2025
• Vote on total project budget update and change orders
• High School project progress update
• Middle School feasibility study update

Board of Health

The Board will vote on permit applications for five biotech companies located at 19 Coolidge Hill Road, 66 Galen Street, 313 Pleasant Street, 99 Coolidge Avenue, and another site on Galen Street. It will also hold a tobacco violation hearing and vote on a violation for Arsenal Wine & Spirits at 111 Arsenal Street, and review draft tobacco regulations. Additional agenda items include accepting minutes, public comment, staffing updates, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve permit for TACs Bio Sciences – 19 Coolidge Hill Road
• Approve permit for Lifemine Therapeutics – 66 Galen Street
• Approve permit for General Fluidics – 313 Pleasant Street
• Approve permit for Topo Therapeutics – 99 Coolidge Avenue
• Approve permit for Nano Diagnostics, Inc. – 66 Galen Street

The Board approved permit applications for five biotechnology companies—Lifemine Therapeutics (66 Galen Street), TACs Bio Sciences (19 Coolidge Hill Road), General Fluidics (313 Pleasant Street), Topo Therapeutics (99 Coolidge Avenue), and Nano Diagnostics (66 Galen Street)—each with a 3‑0 vote. The Board also voted 3‑0 to uphold a three‑day suspension and $1,000 fine for Arsenal Liquors after a sale to a minor. The minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously (3‑0).

• Approved Lifemine Therapeutics permit (3-0)
• Approved TACs Bio Sciences permit (3-0)
• Approved General Fluidics permit (3-0)
• Approved Topo Therapeutics permit (3-0)
• Approved Nano Diagnostics permit (3-0)
• Upheld 3‑day suspension for Arsenal Liquors (3-0)
• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (3-0)

Historical Commission Preliminary Review

The Historical Commission will determine if five specific properties are historically significant. Based on these reviews, the body will either decide the buildings are not significant or forward the applications to the Commission for a hearing.

• Demolition permit application: 19 Stoneleigh Road
• Demolition permit application (garage): 81-83 Commonwealth Road
• Building permit application: 168-170 Fayette Street
• Demolition permit application: 45 Mt. Auburn Street
• Building permit application including garage removal: 414 Mt. Auburn Street

The commission completed a preliminary review of four applications. It denied the demolition request for 19 Stoneleigh Road and for 45 Mt. Auburn Street, requiring a public hearing for the latter. It approved the demolition of the garage at 81‑83 Commonwealth Road and approved the building permit for 168‑170 Fayette Street. No public hearings were needed for the approved actions.

• Demolition at 19 Stoneleigh Road may not proceed
• Demolition of garage at 81‑83 Commonwealth Road may proceed
• Building permit for 168‑170 Fayette Street may proceed
• Demolition at 45 Mt. Auburn Street may not proceed (public hearing required)

Watertown Affordable Housing Trust

The Watertown Affordable Housing Trust will continue discussing draft goals and strategies for the Housing Plan 2026-2030. The board will also brainstorm affordable housing incentives to test during a study, with public comments welcome. The meeting will conclude with a vote to enter executive session to consider real property negotiations.

• Approval of minutes from June 23, 2025 meeting
• Continued discussion of Housing Plan 2026-2030 draft goals and strategies
• Brainstorming affordable housing incentives for a study period
• Vote to enter executive session for real property purchase or lease negotiations

The Watertown Affordable Housing Trust unanimously accepted the minutes from its June 23, 2025 meeting. Trustees continued discussion of the draft 2026‑2030 housing plan, reviewing goals, strategies, and potential incentives. The board noted the recent approval of the first ADU at 76 Hovey Street and the first development in the new Watertown Square zone at 75 Spring Street. The next regular meeting was scheduled for September 10, 2025.

• Approved June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next regular meeting for September 10, 2025

Cultural District Partnership

The Watertown Cultural District Partnership will discuss forming a new Marketing subcommittee, outlining its purpose and staff support. The meeting will also review the June minutes, present the annual partner report, and provide updates on upcoming events such as the Arts Market, Faire on the Square, and Porchfest 2026.

• Proposal to create a Marketing subcommittee
• Annual Partner Report with Mass Cultural Council results
• Updates on Watertown Arts Market (materials due Aug 4)
• Announcement of new Porchfest 2026 committee members
• Discussion of community outreach and event listings

The partnership accepted the June 2025 minutes after a motion by Liz and a second by Susan, with two members abstaining. Funding for the 2026 Porchfest was approved, with a kickoff planned for late October. The next meeting was scheduled for August 11, 2025 at 4 pm via Zoom. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Accepted June 2025 minutes (motion by Liz, seconded by Susan; two members abstained)
• Approved funding for 2026 Porchfest (kickoff planned for late October)
• Scheduled next meeting for Aug 11, 2025 at 4 pm via Zoom

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will discuss updates on the Safe Space Project, recruit volunteers for sticker canvassing, and vote on 2026 Pride Committee members. The agenda also includes reports on a recent forum regarding ICE activity and a collaboration with neighboring commissions.

• Discussion on Safe Space Project updates and volunteer recruitment
• Vote on 2026 Pride Committee voting member recruitment
• Report on recent forum in Belmont regarding ICE activity
• Collaboration with neighboring Human Rights Commissions
• Action Plan Committee working with Elizabeth Peck for Needs Assessment

The Human Rights Commission approved the meeting minutes (7‑0). It voted to let World in Watertown list the commission as a co‑sponsor of the Safe Space Project (8‑0). The commission also authorized Corey Barr to contact the Belmont Human Rights Commission to discuss the recent ICE forum (9‑0) and approved procedural changes to public comment and a plain‑language revision of the complaint form (both 9‑0).

• Approved minutes from 6/9/25 (7-0)
• Approved World in Watertown co‑sponsorship of Safe Space Project (8-0)
• Approved Corey Barr to inform Belmont Human Rights Commission and seek a meeting (9-0)
• Approved taking public comment out of order for Jacky van Leeuwen (9-0)
• Approved redrafting the complaint form in plain language (9-0)

Bike & Pedestrian Committee

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee will discuss working group items including the Arlington/Nichols/Greenway intersection and a collaboration with Live Well Watertown. Members will also meet new Open Space Senior Planner Michelle Moon and review preparations for Faire in the Square. Other topics include artistic bike rack ideas, a Summer Street traffic inquiry, and materials ordering for WBPC branding.

• Working group discussion on Arlington/Nichols/Greenway intersection
• Meet and greet with Open Space Senior Planner Michelle Moon
• Faire in the Square involvement preparations
• Artistic bike rack ideas from a resident and bike rack selection process
• Summer Street traffic inquiry

The Bicycle & Pedestrian Committee formally approved the minutes from the June 2, 2025 meeting. No other actions were decided during the July 14, 2025 session.

• Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (approval moved and accepted)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to elect a temporary chair and review draft statements. The body will discuss a specific statement regarding the Republic Strike and a generic statement for quick deployment.

• Election of Temporary Chair
• Draft Statement on Republic Strike
• Draft Generic Statement for Quick Deploy

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will discuss and vote on several policies, including new cell phone regulations for Watertown Middle School and elementary schools. Other agenda items include revisions to Title IX procedures, background check requirements (SORI/CORI), and approval of student handbooks for all grade levels. The meeting includes public participation via Zoom.

• Cell phone policies for WMS and elementary (supplementary materials from June 23)
• Policy ACAC: Title IX Revision
• Policy ADDA: Background Checks (SORI/CORI)
• Future Opt-Outs (discussion)
• Handbooks: Watertown High School, Watertown Middle School, Elementary, and Part II

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will hold a continued public hearing to determine if the house at 12 Wheeler Lane should be preserved and if a demolition delay is necessary. The body will also discuss the 2025 Memorial Day Parade and the 2025 Historic Preservation Awards Ceremony.

• Public hearing for 12 Wheeler Lane regarding preferable preservation and demolition delay

BioSafety Committee

The BioSafety Committee will meet remotely to review permit applications for five different entities. The committee will also consider the approval of draft minutes from June 5, 2025.

• Permit review: TACs Bio Sciences – 19 Coolidge Hill Road
• Permit review: Lifemine Therapeutics – 66 Galen Street
• Permit review: General Fluidics – 313 Pleasant Street
• Permit review: Topo Therapeutics – 99 Coolidge Avenue
• Permit review: Nano Diagnostics, Inc. – 66 Galen Street

The BioSafety Committee approved the June 5, 2025 minutes (4‑0). It then voted to recommend approval without conditions of applications from TACs Bio Sciences, Lifemine Therapeutics, General Fluidics, Topo Therapeutics, and Nano Diagnostics to the Board of Health (each 4‑0). No other actions were taken.

• Approved June 5, 2025 minutes (4‑0)
• Recommended approval of TACs Bio Sciences – 19 Coolidge Hill Road to BOH (4‑0)
• Recommended approval of Lifemine Therapeutics – 66 Galen Street to BOH (4‑0)
• Recommended approval of General Fluidics – 313 Pleasant Street to BOH (4‑0)
• Recommended approval of Topo Therapeutics – 99 Coolidge Avenue to BOH (4‑0)
• Recommended approval of Nano Diagnostics, Inc – 66 Galen Street to BOH (4‑0)

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Watertown Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will hold a remote meeting to plan outreach for PFAS screening. Members will also reflect on and brainstorm effective outreach methods. The meeting includes a welcome and will adjourn after discussion.

• Welcome
• PFAS screening outreach planning
• Effective outreach – reflection and brainstorm
• Adjourn

Planning Board

The Planning Board will first approve the minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting. It will then consider a by‑right site‑plan review request to convert part of the first floor and the entire second floor of the carriage house at 76 Hovey St into a protected‑use Accessory Dwelling Unit. No other items are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of meeting minutes from April 9, 2025
• Site‑plan review request for 76 Hovey St to convert portions of a carriage house to an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

The board approved the minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting by a 4-0 vote. It then conditionally approved the petitioner’s request to convert the carriage house at 76 Hovey Street into an accessory dwelling unit, also by a 4-0 vote. The approval is subject to compliance with state law, zoning regulations, and required condo association consent.

• Approved minutes of 4/09/2025 meeting (4-0)
• Conditionally approved ADU conversion at 76 Hovey St (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on water and sewer rates for Fiscal Year 2026. The body will also consider several fund transfers for capital projects and review a City Manager reorganization plan.

• Public hearing and vote on FY2026 water and sewer rates
• Transfer of $1,002,795 for EV chargers and Watertown Library HVAC
• Transfer of $1,275,000 for ice rink floor reconstruction and compressors
• Transfer of $2,900,000 for Middle School and Watertown Square stabilization
• Transfer of $82,000 for police video system and security switch replacement

The council adopted the minutes from the June 10 and June 24 meetings. It approved a 3.5% increase in water and sewer rates for fiscal year 2026. It also approved four fund transfers totaling $2.15 million for police video security, OPEB funding, DPW salt‑shed repairs, and EV chargers plus library HVAC upgrades. All motions passed unanimously.

• Adopted June 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted June 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved FY 2026 water and sewer rate increase of 3.5% (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved $82,000 transfer to police video security replacement (unanimous)
• Approved $720,000 transfer to OPEB trust fund (unanimous)
• Approved $334,000 transfer to DPW salt‑shed repair (unanimous)
• Approved $1,002,795 transfer for EV chargers and library HVAC replacement (unanimous)

City Council

This Historical Commission meeting, scheduled for July 1, 2025, has been cancelled and will be rescheduled. The meeting was intended for preliminary reviews of demolition and building permit applications at several properties.

• Meeting cancelled and rescheduled
• Preliminary review: 19 Stoneleigh Road (demolition permit application)
• Preliminary review: 81-83 Commonwealth Road (building permit application)
• Preliminary review: 81-83 Commonwealth Road (demolition permit application—garage)
• Preliminary review: 168-170 Fayette Street (building permit application)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission Action Plan Committee is holding an initial meeting with a needs assessment consultant to discuss the consultant's proposal, plan for the remainder of 2025, and invoicing for FY25. The meeting will also cover scheduling the next meeting and includes a public comment period.

• Initial meeting with Needs Assessment Consultant
• Discussion of consultant proposal and plan for remainder of 2025
• Invoicing for FY25
• Scheduling next meeting

The Human Rights Commission agreed to pay as much of the $3,000 consultant fee as possible from its FY25 budget, with the remainder to be covered in FY26. The next meeting was set for July 17 at 1:00 PM. Commissioners also decided to postpone setting a regular meeting frequency until the process evolves.

• Allocate up to $3,000 consultant payment from FY25 budget (remainder FY26)
• Schedule next meeting for July 17 at 1:00 PM
• Defer decision on meeting frequency (bi‑weekly vs. weekly) until later

Human Rights Commission

The Action Plan Committee of the Human Rights Commission will elect a chair and consider three proposals to hire a consultant for a Human Rights Commission Needs Assessment. The committee will review bids from Elizabeth Peck Policy Strategies, Francesca Korte, and Noel Martin Rubio (Future Tense Strategies), then make a hiring decision based on aggregate rankings.

• Election of chair for the committee
• Consideration of proposals from three consultants for a needs assessment
• Hiring decision on consultant for Human Rights Commission Needs Assessment
• Public comment accepted via email or during the Zoom meeting

School Committee

The School Committee will discuss and vote on salary adjustments for non-aligned staff and committee members for FY26. The body will also consider Memorandums of Agreement for collective bargaining with WEA Unit B and SEIU888 Custodians for 2025-2028.

• FY26 Salary Adjustments for Non-Aligned Staff
• FY26 Salary Adjustment for School Committee (effective January 2, 2026)
• WEA Unit B Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement
• SEIU888 Custodians Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement

Historical Commission

The Watertown Historical Commission will hold a public hearing to determine whether the house at 57 Pequosette St. is preferably preserved and, if so, whether a demolition delay should be imposed. This is the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Public hearing on preferably preserved status and possible demolition delay for 57 Pequosette St., applicant Scott Dyer

The commission held a public hearing on the condition of the house at 57 Pequosette St. A motion was made and seconded that the house was not preferably preserved. All members voted in favor, so the motion passed. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Motion that 57 Pequosette St. not preferably preserved – passed (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – passed (unanimous)

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will hold a continued public hearing for a certificate request at 72 Mt. Auburn St., where the applicant proposes either an attached addition or a new building to create 8 residential units while preserving the existing building. The commission will also consider site plan changes including removal of surface parking and updated landscaping. Additionally, the commission will review and accept minutes from the May 29, 2025 meeting.

• Continued public hearing for 72 Mt. Auburn St. certificate request (Bennie Ber, AIA, for Young Construction Co., Inc.)
• Proposed addition or new building for 8 residential units, maintaining existing office and residential unit
• Site plan changes including removal of surface parking and updated landscaping
• Acceptance of minutes from the May 29, 2025 Historic District Commission meeting

Community Preservation

The Community Preservation Committee will hold a public hearing on the 2025 Draft CPA Annual Report and receive an update on Walker Pond and Saltonstall Park. The committee will also elect new chairs and discuss other CPA projects.

• 2025 Draft CPA Annual Report public hearing
• Walker Pond and Saltonstall Park update by Open Space Planner Michelle Moon
• Election of committee chairs
• Approval of minutes from April 17 and May 15, 2025
• Coordinator update on CPA projects

The committee unanimously accepted the April 17 and May 15 meeting minutes. A motion was passed to keep Mark Kraczkiewicz and Jon Bockian as CPC chairs until new members are appointed. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:52 PM.

• Accepted 2025-4-17 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Accepted 2025-5-15 minutes (vote by show of hands)
• Continued Mark Kraczkiewicz and Jon Bockian as chairs until new members are appointed (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:52 PM (unanimous vote)

City Council

The Watertown Traffic Commission will discuss a proposal from the Assistant Director for Energy Management to modify the city's regulations regarding public electric vehicle parking spaces. The commission will also consider approving the minutes from the May 28 meeting and address any new business.

• Request to modify regulations for public electric vehicle parking spaces
• Approval of minutes from May 28, 2025 meeting
• New business

The commission approved the minutes from the May 28, 2025 meeting. It then amended Section 13 of the Traffic Rules and Regulations, changing “will” to “shall” in paragraphs c) and d) and removing the word “still” from paragraph d). No new business was presented and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved May 28, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Amended Section 13 wording: changed “will” to “shall” and removed “still” (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board

The Zoning Board of Appeals will approve the minutes from its May 28 meeting and then consider several pending applications. Continued cases include requests at 75 Spring St, 5 Bancroft St, 237 Warren St, and 42 Frank St. New applications will be reviewed for projects at 24 Chandler St, 177 Westminster Ave, and 8 Buick St.

• 75 Spring St – request to construct a new 5‑unit multifamily building (PZ‑24‑12)
• 5 Bancroft St – roof reconstruction, steeper pitch, half‑story addition, new stairs (PZ‑25‑3)
• 237 Warren St – front‑yard parking and setback changes to replace driveway (PZ‑25‑4)
• 24 Chandler St – extend and enclose first‑floor porch, increase FAR (PZ‑25‑8)
• 177 Westminster Ave – increase FAR and add a dwelling unit to existing single‑family home (PZ‑25‑9)

The Zoning Board approved the May 28 minutes by a 7‑0 vote. It approved the updated plans for 75 Spring St (4‑0) and 5 Bancroft St (5‑0). The board granted a variance for 237 Warren St allowing a side‑driveway parking solution (5‑0). It also continued the 42 Frank St case to July and approved special permits for a rear addition at 24 Chandler (both 5‑0).

• Approved May 28 minutes (7-0)
• Approved 75 Spring St updated plan (4-0)
• Approved 5 Bancroft St design changes (5-0)
• Granted variance for 237 Warren St parking (5-0)
• Continued 42 Frank St case to July 23 (5-0)
• Approved special permit for 24 Chandler rear addition and FAR increase (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will hold a routine meeting to vote on the preliminary real estate and personal property warrants, approve prior meeting minutes, and discuss any old or new business. The meeting is open to public comment via email.

• Vote and signing of Preliminary Real Estate Warrant
• Vote and signing of Preliminary Personal Property Warrant
• Review and vote on June 3, 2025, meeting minutes

The Board approved the June 3, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It then approved and signed a Real Estate Commitment of $83,170,088.29 and a Personal Property Commitment of $4,751,547.63, both unanimously. The next Board meeting was set for August 5, 2025.

• Approved June 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Real Estate Commitment $83,170,088.29 (unanimous)
• Approved Personal Property Commitment $4,751,547.63 (unanimous)
• Scheduled next Board meeting for August 5, 2025

City Council

The Watertown City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on borrowing $8.9 million for Victory Field and $5.8 million for Parker Annex renovations. The body will also consider salary adjustments for the City Auditor and Municipal Policy Analyst, and approve various capital project transfers.

• Public hearing and vote on $8,932,206 loan for Victory Field construction
• Public hearing and vote on $5,778,000 loan for Parker Annex renovation
• Public hearing and vote on ordinances adjusting City Auditor and Municipal Policy Analyst salaries
• Resolution approving $26,545.80 for the Watertown Food Pantry
• Resolution authorizing $2,000,000 transfer to Middle School Stabilization account

The council unanimously approved an $8,932,206 loan order to fund construction and reconstruction of Victory Field outdoor recreational facilities. It also approved a $5,778,000 loan for renovating the Parker Annex, including ADA upgrades. Salary ordinances were adopted to raise the City Auditor’s salary to $145,000 and set the Municipal Policy Analyst’s salary at $75,000. All motions passed by unanimous roll‑call vote.

• Approved $8,932,206 loan order for Victory Field construction (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved $5,778,000 loan order for Parker Annex renovation (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved ordinance raising City Auditor salary to $145,000 (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved ordinance setting Municipal Policy Analyst salary at $75,000 (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved expenditure of $26,545.80 gifts of funds for Watertown Food Pantry (unanimous roll‑call)
• Entered Executive Session to discuss litigation strategy (unanimous roll‑call)

Watertown Affordable Housing Trust

The Trust will continue discussions on goals and strategies for the 2026-2030 Housing Plan. The meeting includes a public comment period and a scheduled executive session to discuss real property transactions.

• Continued discussion of 2026-2030 Housing Plan
• Community Preservation Committee public hearing on June 26, 2025
• Executive session regarding the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property

The board unanimously accepted the minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting. A motion to enter executive session to consider real‑property issues was approved by a 5‑0 vote, with Zoe Weinrobe not voting. No other formal actions were taken.

• Minutes of May 20, 2025 meeting unanimously accepted
• Motion to go into executive session passed 5‑0 (Zoe Weinrobe not voting)

School Committee

The School Committee will vote on Memoranda of Agreement for 2025-2028 collective bargaining with WEA Units A, D, B, and SEIU888 units, including custodians, nutrition workers, and administrative assistants. They will also consider transferring remaining FY25 funds to Special Education Prepaid Tuition. Reports include Personal Electronic Device Task Force recommendations and 5E's Survey Results. The meeting starts with an executive session on bargaining strategy.

• Vote on WEA Unit A Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028 collective bargaining
• Vote on SEIU888 Custodians Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028
• Transfer of remaining FY25 funds to Special Education Prepaid Tuition
• Personal Electronic Device Task Force recommendations report
• Superintendent End of Year Goal Review and evaluation process overview

School Committee

The Watertown School Committee will vote on six Memorandum of Agreements with various employee unions for the 2025-2028 collective bargaining agreements, including teachers (WEA Unit A), paraprofessionals (Unit D), administrative assistants (Unit B), custodians, nutrition workers, and administrative assistants (SEIU888). The meeting also includes a report on Personal Electronic Device Task Force recommendations and a review of the superintendent's end-of-year goals. The committee will first adjourn to executive session to discuss bargaining strategy.

• Vote on WEA Unit A Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028
• Vote on WEA Unit D Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028
• Vote on WEA Unit B Memorandum of Agreement for 2025-2028
• Vote on SEIU888 Custodians, Nutrition Workers, and Administrative Assistants MOAs for 2025-2028
• Presentation of Personal Electronic Device Task Force Recommendations

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will conduct interviews for a Needs Assessment Consultant. The meeting also includes approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Interview of applicants for Needs Assessment Consultant

The Human Rights Commission held its Action Plan Committee meeting on June 17, 2025. The commission interviewed Elizabeth Peck, a candidate for the needs‑assessment consultant role, and reviewed her background. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded, and the meeting adjourned at 9:36 a.m.

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will hold virtual interviews to evaluate candidates for a Needs Assessment Consultant. No other decisions or actions are scheduled. The meeting is otherwise procedural.

• Interview for Needs Assessment Consultant applicants

The Human Rights Commission held an interview session to evaluate two candidates for a needs‑assessment consultant. No motions or votes were taken, and no decisions were approved or denied.

School Building Committee

The committee will vote on change orders and budget updates for the High School project. Members will also consider and take action on feasibility study findings for the Middle School project.

• High School Project: Vote on budget change orders and amendments
• Middle School Project: Action on feasibility study findings
• High School Project: Approval of May 2025 monthly invoices
• Middle School Project: Approval of May 2025 monthly invoices
• High School Project: Progress and schedule updates

Commission on Disability

The Commission on Disability will hear updates on several ongoing accessibility projects, including curb cuts at Mt. Auburn-Summer intersections, the AI3 Parker School transition plan, and detectable warnings at North Beacon & Beechwood. The only scheduled vote is on accepting the minutes from the April meeting.

• Update on Mt. Auburn-Summer Intersections curb cuts and detectable warnings
• AI3 Parker School Transition Plan update
• Detectable Warnings at North Beacon & Beechwood
• Update on Waverly-Belmont Street Intersection from Wayne Chouinard
• Reasonable Accommodation Policy: Next Steps

The Watertown Commission on Disability voted to accept the minutes from the April 2025 meeting. The motion was made by John, seconded by Naomi, and passed with an 8‑0 vote. No other formal actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved April meeting minutes (8-0)

Licensing Board

The Watertown Licensing Board will review five pending license applications, including outdoor dining, common victualer, and entertainment permits. The board will also accept the minutes from the May 15, 2025 meeting and receive notices of upcoming one‑day community events. No other decisions are listed on the agenda.

• 3D Group Inc dba Conley’s Pub & Grille – outdoor dining license, 164 Belmont St
• O’Some Café LLC dba O’Some Café – common victualer license, 123 Main St
• XZH II dba New Ginza – entertainment license, 63 Galen St
• Lalibela Ethiopian Cuisine LLC dba Lalibela – alcohol license transfer, common victualer, entertainment, Sunday entertainment, 5 Spring St
• Acceptance of minutes from the May 15, 2025 Licensing Board meeting

The Watertown Licensing Board granted a special license for the Armenian Bone Marrow Walk‑a‑Thon and two all‑alcohol special licenses for Visnja Zarak’s Tipsy Tea Party and 160th Anniversary Gala, each approved by a 2‑0 vote. The board also unanimously approved an alteration of premises for Conley’s Pub & Grille and a common victualer license for O’Some Café at the public library. All approvals were subject to conditions requested by the Police Department.

• Approved special license for Armenian Bone Marrow Walk‑a‑Thon (2‑0)
• Approved special all‑alcohol license for Tipsy Tea Party (2‑0)
• Approved special all‑alcohol license for 160th Anniversary Gala (2‑0)
• Approved alteration of premises for Conley’s Pub & Grille (unanimous)
• Approved common victualer license for O’Some Café at 123 Main St (unanimous)

WE3C - Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee

The Environment & Energy Efficiency Committee will hear the Energy Manager and Sustainability Planner reports, receive updates from the Trees, Transportation, BERDO, and Outreach working groups, and discuss volunteer planning for a PFAS presentation scheduled for September 28.

• Energy Manager Report
• Sustainability Planner Report
• Volunteers to plan PFAS presentation/event scheduled for September 28 (led by Lauri Murphy)
• Working group updates – Trees, Transportation, BERDO, Outreach

The committee approved the April meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 p.m. was also approved unanimously. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment at 8:30 p.m. (unanimous)

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will meet virtually on June 13, 2025. After standard opening items, the commission will enter an executive session under G.L.c. 30A, sec. 21 a(8). The session will be used to interview or consider applicants for employment or appointment by a preliminary screening committee, and to review Needs Assessment Consultant proposals. Public participation is limited to online viewing and email comments.

• Executive session to interview/consider employment applicants
• Review of Needs Assessment Consultant proposals

Stormwater Advisory Committee

The Stormwater Advisory Committee will review status updates on the Watertown Middle School Stormwater Walk and a Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Grant. The body will also discuss target audiences and methods for sharing educational content.

• Watertown Middle School Stormwater Walk status update
• Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Grant update regarding block party dates and office hours
• Discussion on education and outreach target audiences and content sharing
• Planning for Farmer's Market and Faire on the Square events

The Stormwater Advisory Committee approved the minutes from its April 15th, 2025 meeting after a motion by Tolman and a second by Glode. No other formal actions or votes were recorded during the June 12th session.

• Approved April 15th, 2025 meeting minutes (motion Tolman, second Glode)

Council on Aging

The meeting scheduled for June 11, 2025, has been canceled. The record indicates it is rescheduled for July.

Residents’ Advisory Committee

The Residents' Advisory Committee will consider criteria and characteristics for municipal boards, commissions, and committees. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and a closed executive session to screen applicants for appointment. No public votes on ordinances, contracts, or funding are scheduled.

• Discussion item: Board/Commission/Committee Criteria and Characteristics
• Executive Session under MGL 30A, Section 21(a)(8) to interview appointment applicants (meeting will not reconvene)
• Next meeting set for July 2, 2025

The committee postponed voting on the May 7, 2025 minutes until the next meeting. At 5:15 p.m., a motion moved the meeting into executive session to interview and consider applicants. The public portion of the meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

• Deferred approval of May 7, 2025 minutes to next meeting
• Moved to executive session to interview and consider applicants
• Public meeting adjourned at 7:45 PM

Cultural Council

The Watertown Cultural Council will vote on accepting April meeting minutes, a new logo, and FY26 officers. They will also discuss a community survey, form FY26 committees, recap 2025 grantees, and plan the August 9 Watertown Arts Market. Public comment may be submitted by email.

• Vote on FY26 officers (chair, vice chair, etc.)
• Discussion and vote on a new WCC logo
• Watertown Arts Market scheduled for Saturday, August 9, 2025 – volunteers needed
• Celebration/recap of 2025 grantees
• Community survey planning for FY26

The Cultural Council decided to retain the existing logo, passing the motion 5‑3. Members elected Lois Pond as Chair, Morgan Henderson as Treasurer, and Angela Tramontano as Secretary for FY 2026 by unanimous vote. The meeting was formally adjourned after a motion to adjoin was approved unanimously.

• Kept old logo through next grant season (5‑3 vote)
• Elected Lois Pond as Chair for FY 2026 (unanimous)
• Elected Morgan Henderson as Treasurer for FY 2026 (unanimous)
• Elected Angela Tramontano as Secretary for FY 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjoin the meeting (unanimous)

City Council: Committee on Human Services

The Committee on Human Services will discuss and possibly vote on confirming the reappointment of Corey Barr to the Human Rights Commission for a term expiring April 1, 2028. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Discussion and potential confirmation of Corey Barr's reappointment to the Human Rights Commission (term through April 1, 2028)

The Human Services Committee considered the reappointment of Corey Barr to the Human Rights Commission. Councilor Gannon moved to approve the reappointment, seconded by Councilor Bays, and the motion passed 3-0. The committee then approved a motion to adjourn the meeting, also by a 3-0 vote.

• Approved reappointment of Corey Barr to Human Rights Commission (3-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (3-0)

City Council: Committee on Personnel and City Organization

The Committee on Personnel and City Organization will discuss confirming the reappointment of Richard Moynihan to the Board of Assessors for a term expiring May 15, 2028. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Discussion of reappointing Richard Moynihan to the Board of Assessors (term through May 15, 2028)

The Personnel and City Organization Committee interviewed Richard Moynihan for reappointment to the Watertown Board of Assessors. The committee voted unanimously to recommend his reappointment for a term ending May 15, 2028. No other actions were taken.

• Committee recommended reappointment of Richard Moynihan to Board of Assessors (unanimous)

City Council

The Watertown City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on an ordinance adjusting Council members' salaries, and a Committee of the Whole hearing on the FY 2026 budget. Several resolutions will transfer funds between various city accounts, including $70,000 to the litigation account and $580,000 for City Hall improvements. The council will take the first reading of two loan orders: $8,932,206 for construction and reconstruction of Victory Field recreational facilities, and $5,778,000 for renovating the Parker Annex. An executive session will discuss strategy for non‑union personnel salary negotiations.

• First reading of loan order $8,932,206 to fund construction and reconstruction of Victory Field recreational facilities
• First reading of loan order $5,778,000 to fund renovation of Parker Annex, including masonry, fire suppression, ADA upgrades
• Resolution transferring $70,000 from the FY 2025 City Council Reserve to the FY 2025 Litigation account
• Resolution transferring $580,000 from the FY 2025 Planned Debt account to the Public Buildings account for City Hall improvements
• Public hearing and vote on a proposed ordinance adjusting the City Council's salary

The City Council voted unanimously to raise councilors' salaries to $15,000 and the President's salary to $22,000 per year, effective Jan 2 2026. The Blue Ribbon Committee was directed to reconvene every five years to review compensation, while a proposal to further increase the President's salary for School Committee duties was rejected. The council also entered an executive session on non‑union personnel salaries and adopted the May 27, 2025 minutes. A motion to cut $172,555 from the City Manager budget and add the same amount to the Fire Department for a second ALS ambulance was presented, but the minutes do not record a vote outcome.

• Adjust City Council members' salaries to $15,000 per year (effective Jan 2 2026) – approved unanimously (voice vote)
• Adjust City Council President’s salary to $22,000 per year (effective Jan 2 2026) – approved unanimously (voice vote)
• Require Blue Ribbon Committee to meet every five years to assess compensation – approved unanimously (voice vote)
• Proposal to consider additional increase for President’s salary reflecting School Committee role – rejected unanimously (roll call vote)
• Adopt minutes from May 27 2025 meeting – approved unanimously (voice vote)
• Enter Executive Session on non‑union personnel salary matters – approved unanimously (roll call vote)
• Motion to reduce City Manager budget by $172,555 and increase Fire Department budget by $172,555 – motion made; outcome not recorded
• Public comments on pet‑shop ordinance and other matters – no formal decision recorded

Cultural District Partnership

The Watertown Square Cultural District Partnership will discuss a $3,000 Watertown Community Foundation grant for Porchfest 2026 and whether to repeat the YardArt program. Members will also accept May minutes and hear reports on recent events including the State of the Arts celebration, Porchfest, and Watertown Pride.

• Discussion of $3,000 grant for Porchfest 2026
• Report on Porchfest 'After Hours' at WCA-TV and Ritcey East
• Discussion on whether to hold YardArt again
• Annual Partner Report due July 1
• Report on 5/21 State of the Arts event at Bar'Cino

The partnership approved the May 2025 meeting minutes after a motion and second. Members voted to formally discontinue the YardArt project, with the motion passing overwhelmingly and one abstention. No other formal actions were taken during the meeting.

• Approved May 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Discontinued YardArt project – motion to bury project passed, one abstention

Human Rights Commission

The Watertown Human Rights Commission will discuss committee reports including the Action Plan for consultant hiring and the FY25 budget, as well as multiple discussion items such as a recap of Watertown Pride, plans for Juneteenth 2025, and updates on the commission's logo, social media, and complaint process. No votes are scheduled; the meeting is primarily for discussion and planning.

• Committee Reports: Action Plan for Consultant Hiring Process & FY25 Budget
• Discussion: Watertown Pride Recap
• Discussion: Juneteenth 2025
• Discussion: Human Rights Commission Logo and Banner
• Discussion: One Pager for Complaint Process

The Human Rights Commission voted unanimously to approve the minutes from the prior meeting. It also approved a motion allowing the Action Plan Committee to hire a consultant for a needs assessment before June 30. Additional motions to approve the Rules Committee minutes and to adjourn the meeting were each passed unanimously.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved hiring consultant before June 30 (8-0)
• Approved Rules Committee minutes (7-0)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (8-0)

Public Arts and Culture Committee

The Public Arts and Culture Committee will review grant applications for the Community Sculpture Walk and discuss upcoming events, including the River of Light festival and the 100 Years of Arshile Gorky mural.

• Grant applications: $5,000 MCC Experiences grant pending, $5,000 WCF Engagement grant not awarded
• River of Light festival scheduled for January 17, 2026, with $2,000 funding from Watertown Community Foundation
• Mosaician Center for the Arts 20th Anniversary Celebration held on May 22
• Community Sculpture Walk call for art for 2026-28 season to be voted on in July
• Next meeting scheduled for July 28, 2025

Historical Commission Preliminary Review

The Watertown Historical Commission will conduct a preliminary review of revised building permit plans for 57 Pequossette Street. The review follows Section 153.04 of the Demolition Delay Ordinance and will decide whether the building is not historically significant or should be forwarded to the full commission for a hearing.

• Preliminary review of 57 Pequossette Street (revised building permit application) under Section 153.04 of the Demolition Delay Ordinance

The Watertown Historical Commission conducted a preliminary review of the revised plans for 57 Pequossette Street. The Chair and a commission member concluded that the building permit application may not proceed at this time. No vote tally was recorded.

• Building permit application for 57-Pequossette-St not approved to proceed (preliminary review)