City Council 10-13-26

The Medford City Council’s 17th regular meeting on October 13, 2026, approved a committee report on the RFP for the next phase of the zoning project; the report’s approval was not a contract award or vendor selection. The Council also approved a reallocation of school capital funds, with five votes in favor and two members absent. Medford Public Schools’ COO said funds no longer needed for completed or state-funded work would be redirected to projects including intercom replacements, a fridge/freezer condenser, Roberts School drainage and fire-pump repairs, and a hot-water-tank replacement. No dollar amounts or vendors were stated.

The Council voted 7–0 to override the mayor’s veto and approve the Boston Avenue Neighborhood Quarter District zoning ordinance as adopted on September 15, including allowing purpose-built student housing by right in the BA3 subdistrict; this changes the approval framework for future development. A proposed framework for payments in lieu of taxes and community benefits involving major institutions, including Tufts, was referred to the Committee of the Whole for further discussion. Councilors and firefighters also discussed legal expenses and arbitration settlements, including reported outstanding awards and legal bills, and sought further information; no related spending authorization or procurement award was made. No vendor selections or contract awards were identified.