City Council 09-15-26

The City Council of Medford, Massachusetts, held its regular meeting on September 15, 2026, addressing a variety of community and municipal issues with a strong focus on procurement, zoning, and legal matters. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a Community Preservation Committee appropriation of $8,500 for the Berry Park College Avenue plantings project led by Trees Medford, highlighting community-driven capital improvement efforts. The council also approved several common victualler licenses for local businesses, including the reopening of Ebisuya Market and Razos Grill, supporting local economic development. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the final approval of amendments to the Boston Avenue Neighborhood Corridor District zoning ordinance, which involved detailed presentations on building height step-back requirements, shadow studies, and the regulation of purpose-built student housing, including debates on permitting processes and residency requirements. The council voted to adopt the Community Development Board's recommendations with modifications, including a 10-foot step-back and changes to student housing provisions, with plans for further legal review and public input on certain aspects. Additionally, the council passed a resolution to support resident or Attorney General intervention in ongoing litigation concerning a city ordinance on values-based investment policies, expressing concerns about the mayor's handling of the city's legal defense and emphasizing the importance of upholding city laws. Other procurement and administrative matters included the appointment of a council member to the police chief hiring committee, discussions on improving enforcement of municipal fines through tax roll collections under Chapter 40U, and the introduction of a public tree ordinance to manage city-owned trees. The meeting also addressed the need for clearer communication and legal oversight in zoning and city administration, with calls for filling the city solicitor position to ensure proper legal guidance. Overall, the meeting reflected active council engagement in procurement decisions, zoning reforms, legal strategy, and community development initiatives.