City Council
Wednesday, April 8, 2026, 12 p.m. (Boston time), Council Chambers
Video of the meeting
On the agenda
- Notice was received from Nicholas Ariniello, Assessing Commissioner, of the appointment of John McCourt as an Assistant Assessor, effective April 2, 2026. (2026-0768): Placed on file.
- Notice was received from Councilor Mejia regarding her absence from the April 8, 2026 City Council Meeting. (2026-0769): Placed on file.
- Communication from Councilor Coletta Zapata regarding East Boston Housing Stabilization Trust Fund Nominees. (2026-0770): Placed on file.
- Notice was received from the Mayor of the appointment of Alan Mack as an Associate Member of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board, effective immediately. (2026-0765): Placed on file.
- Notice was received from the Mayor of the appointment of Denisse Martinez as an Associate Member of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board, effective immediately. (2026-0766): Placed on file.
- Notice was received from the Mayor of the appointment of Sam Paster as an Associate Member of the Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board, effective immediately. (2026-0767): Placed on file.
- On the message and order, referred on February 4, 2026, Docket #0257, authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend the amount of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000.00) in the form of a grant, Planning / Neighborhood Development Funds, awarded by Boston Redevelopment Authority to be administered by the Office of Economic Opportunity & Inclusion. The grant would fund the launch and early implementation of the Commercial Acquisition Assistance Program (CAAP), the committee submitted a report that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed. (2026-0257): The report was accepted; the petition was passed.
- On the designation of Petition #228.07, referred on March 25, 2026, Docket #0630, - The Bussey House, 1203-1205 Adams Street, Dorchester, MA 02124 (in effect after April 22, 2026 if not acted upon), the committee submitted a report that the petition ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the petition was passed: yeas 12 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), absent 1 (Mejia). (2026-0630): The report was accepted; the petition was passed.
- Order for a hearing to discuss dedicating the new open space at Phillips Square to Tunney Lee Plaza. (2026-0178): Remains in
- Order for a hearing to review and strengthen Boston’s Summer Safety and Youth Programming Plan. (2026-0290): Remains in
- Ordinance amending City of Boston Code, Ordinances, 17-22, Road Safety and Accountability for Delivery Providers. (2026-0325): Remains in
- Order for a hearing to examine the Boston Police Department's protocols for releasing police body camera and dashboard camera footage. (2026-0638): Remains in
- Resolution recognizing April 13th, 2026 as Louis D. Brown Day of Civic Engagement. (2026-0783): The rules were suspended; the resolution was adopted.
- Resolution calling for an independent performance audit of Boston Public Schools' spending, staffing and resource allocation. (2026-0780): The rules were suspended; the resolution was adopted.
- Resolution calling for an independent performance audit of the City of Boston's operations and fiscal management. (2026-0781): The rules were suspended; the resolution was adopted.
- Resolution recognizing April as Autism Acceptance Month. (2026-0782): The rules were suspended; the resolution was adopted.
- Resolution to protect SNAP and in support of Department of Transitional Assistance workers. (2026-0784): The rules were suspended; the resolution was adopted.
- Order requesting certain information under section 17F regarding Boston Public Schools' school bus auto liability insurance coverage, including the non-renewal of the prior policy, the procurement of a new insurance provider, and all related safety, claims, and cost data. (2026-0779): The rules were suspended; the order was passed.
- Legislative Calendar for April 8, 2026. (GS-4/8/26)
- Resolution in memory of Stephen M. Bronchuk. (2026-0785)
- Resolution recognizing Emma Galletta. (2026-0786)
- Resolution in memory of Judith A. Gavin. (2026-0787)
- Resolution commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the 1986 Red Sox team and declaring April 3, 2026 "1986 Red Sox Day" in the City of Boston. (2026-0788)
- Resolution recognizing New Mission High School. (2026-0789)
- Resolution in memory of Lillie Mae Keizer. (2026-0790)
- Resolution recognizing Amanda Merricks. (2026-0791)
- Message transmitting certain information under Section 17F regarding the use of $558.7 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds in the City of Boston, passed by the Council on March 4, 2026. (2026-0764): Placed on file.
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0761, authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend the amount of Three Hundred Seventy-Five Thousand Dollars ($375,000.00) in the form of a grant, Red Sox Arts and Parks Program Grant, awarded by the Boston Red Sox to be administered by the Mayor's Office, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0761): Referred to
- Councilor Worrell called Docket #0762, message and order authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend the amount of Two Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($250,000.00) in the form of a grant, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program, awarded by the United States Department of the Treasury to be administered by the Office of Workforce Development. The grant would fund services to underserved populations in the most difficult-to-reach areas, both urban and rural, through free basic tax return preparation for qualified individuals, from the Committee on Labor and Economic Development.
No objection being heard, the matter was properly before the body. (2026-0762): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0734, for Annual Appropriation for the School Department for FY2027, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0734): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0735, approving an appropriation of Forty Million Dollars ($40,000,000.00) to the Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) Liability Trust Fund authorized under Chapter 32B, §20, as added by Chapter 479 of the Acts of 2008. The latest available OPEB actuarial valuation as of June 30, 2023 estimated the City’s unfunded liability at $2.68 Billion Dollars, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0735): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0736, approving an appropriation order authorizing the City of Boston to appropriate the amount of Three Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,500,000.00) from the City’s Capital Grant Fund to address the impact of transportation network services on municipal roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure or any other public purpose substantially related to the operation of transportation network services in the City. Such funds will be transferred and credited to the Capital Grant Fund from revenue received from the Commonwealth Transportation Infrastructure Enhancement Trust Fund, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0736): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0737, approving an appropriation order in the amount of Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000.00) from the Surplus Property Disposition Fund, credited to the Capital Fund for planning, design, and construction of coastal resilience solutions around the City, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0737): Referred to
- Councilor Weber called Docket #0738, message and order approving an appropriation order in the amount of Three Hundred Eighty-Four Million Seven Hundred Five Thousand Dollars ($384,705,000.00) for various capital improvement purposes for city departments including the Boston Center for Youth and Families, Boston Housing Authority, Boston Planning and Development Agency, Boston Public Library, Innovation and Technology, Environment, Fire, Mayor’s Office of Housing, Office of Arts & Culture, Parks and Recreation, Planning, Property Management, Public Health Commission, Public Works, and the Transportation Departments, from the Committee on Ways and Means.
No objection being heard, the matter was properly before the body.
On motion of Councilor Weber, the order was read a second time and again passed: yeas 11 (Breadon, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), nays 1 (Mejia), absent 1 (Coletta Zapata). (2026-0738): Referred to
- Councilor Weber called Docket #0739, message and order approving an appropriation order in the amount of Thirteen Million Eight Hundred Fifty-Five Thousand Dollars ($13,855,000.00) for various capital improvement purposes for the Boston Public Schools, from the Committee on Ways and Means.
No objection being heard, the matter was properly before the body.
On motion of Councilor Weber, the order was read a second time and again passed: yeas 11 (Breadon, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), nays 1 (Mejia), absent 1 (Coletta Zapata). (2026-0739): Referred to
- Councilor Weber called Docket #0740, message and order authorizing the City of Boston to enter into one or more lease, lease-purchase or installment sales agreements in Fiscal Year 2027 in an amount not to exceed Twenty-Eight Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($28,500,000.00). These funds are to be used by various City departments for the acquisition of equipment in furtherance of their respective governmental functions. The list of equipment includes: computer equipment (hardware and software), motor vehicles and trailers, ambulances, firefighting equipment, office equipment, telecommunications equipment, photocopying equipment, medical equipment, school and educational equipment, school buses, parking meters, street lighting installation, traffic signal equipment and equipment functionally related to, and components of, the foregoing, from the Committee on Ways and Means.
No objection being heard, the matter was properly before the body.
On motion of Councilor Weber, the order was read a second time and again passed: yeas 11 (Breadon, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), nays 1 (Mejia), absent 1 (Coletta Zapata). (2026-0740): Referred to
- Councilor Weber called Docket #0756, message and order approving an order appropriating One Million Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,400,000.00) from the income of the George Francis Parkman Fund. The funds are to be expended under the direction of the Commissioner of Parks and Recreation for the maintenance and improvement of Boston Common and Parks in existence as of January 12, 1887, from the Committee on Ways and Means.
No objection being heard, the matter was properly before the body. (2026-0756): Referred to
- Councilor Weber called Docket #0757, message and order approving an appropriation of Three Million Six Hundred Thousand Dollars ($3,600,000.00) from the 21st Century Fund, also known as the Public, Educational, or Governmental (PEG) Access and Cable Related Fund. Pursuant to Section 53F 3/4 of Chapter 44 of the General Laws, the funds may be used to support PEG access services, to monitor compliance with the cable franchise agreement, and for preparation of renewal of the franchise license, from the Committee on Ways and Means.
No objection being heard, the matter was properly before the body. (2026-0757): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0758, approving an appropriation order in the amount of One Million Seven Hundred Sixty-Three Thousand Ninety Dollars ($1,763,090.00) for the administrative and operating expenses of the City of Boston Community Preservation Committee (“CPC”) for Fiscal Year 2027, and a further appropriation order in the amount of Thirty-Nine Million Five Hundred Eighty-Seven Thousand Seven Hundred Ninety-Eight Dollars ($39,587,798.00) from the Community Preservation Fund’s (“the Fund”) estimated annual revenues for Fiscal Year 2027, to be appropriated and reserved for future appropriation, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0758): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0748, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Law Department revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to purchase goods and services to pay for repairs to city property. This revolving fund shall be funded by receipts from recoveries for damages to city property caused by third parties. The Law Department will be the only department authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall be capped at Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 12 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), not present 1 (Flynn). (2026-0748): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0753, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Mayor’s Office of Tourism revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to purchase goods and services to support events and programming on and around City Hall Plaza to advance tourism and promote participation in public celebrations and civic and cultural events. This revolving fund shall be funded by receipts from payments for the use of City Hall Plaza pursuant to CBC Chapter 11, section 7-14. The Mayor’s Office of Tourism will be the only unit authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall be capped at One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 12 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), not present 1 (Louijeune). (2026-0753): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0752, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Mayor’s Office of Arts & Culture revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to purchase goods and services to support the operation of the Strand Theatre. This revolving fund shall be funded by receipts from rental fees for the use of the Strand Theatre. The Mayor’s Office of Arts & Culture will be the only unit authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall be capped at Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 12 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), not present 1 (Louijeune). (2026-0752): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0745, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Distributed Energy Resource Revolving Fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to facilitate the purchase of offsets of greenhouse gas emissions which shall be associated with a portion of the electricity consumed by the City annually; and to operate, maintain, monitor, and expand the City’s existing solar arrays and Boston Public Schools’ combined heat and power facilities. This revolving fund shall be credited with any and all receipts from the sale of renewable and alternative energy certificates and demand response program revenues produced by combined heat and power units located at Boston Public Schools sites, and solar renewable energy certificates produced by the City’s photovoltaic arrays. Receipts and resulting expenditures from this fund shall not exceed One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 12 (Breadon, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), not present 1 (Coletta Zapata). (2026-0745): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0751, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Mayor’s Office of Arts & Culture revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to purchase goods and services to support public art to enhance the public realm throughout the City of Boston. This revolving fund shall be funded by receipts from easements within the public way granted by the Public Improvement Commission. The Mayor’s Office of Arts & Culture will be the only unit authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall be capped at Eight Hundred Thousand Dollars ($800,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 12 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), not present 1 (Louijeune). (2026-0751): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0744, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Environment Conservation Commission revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 for the purpose of securing outside consultants including engineers, wetlands scientists, wildlife biologists, or other experts in order to aid in the review of proposed projects to the Commission, per the City’s ordinance protecting local wetland and promoting climate change adaptation. This revolving fund shall be funded by receipts from fees imposed by the Commission for the purpose of securing outside consultants. The Environment Department will be the only department authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall be capped at Fifty Thousand Dollars ($50,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 12 (Breadon, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), not present 1 (Coletta Zapata). (2026-0744): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0747, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Boston Center for Youth & Families (BCYF) revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to pay salaries and benefits of employees and to purchase supplies and equipment necessary to operate the City Hall Child Care. This revolving fund shall be credited with any and all receipts from tuition paid by parents or guardians of children enrolled at the center. Receipts and resulting expenditures from this fund shall not exceed One Million One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,100,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 13 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell). (2026-0747): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0743, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Boston Public Schools revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to repair and purchase Boston Public Schools computer technology, including computers, mobile devices and instructional software. This revolving fund shall be credited with any and all receipts from equipment sales and repair fees for Boston Public Schools technology. Receipts and resulting expenditures from this fund shall not exceed Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 13 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell). (2026-0743): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0741, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Boston Public Schools revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to support the maintenance and repair of Boston Public Schools facilities, including custodial and utility costs for extended building time, floor refinishing, landscaping and building repairs. Receipts from Lease, Permit for Use and Parking Fees for Boston Public Schools facilities will be deposited in the fund. Boston Public Schools Facilities will be the only unit authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall not exceed Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 13 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell). (2026-0741): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0742, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Boston Public Schools revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 for Boston Public Schools Transportation costs, including bus and public transportation costs. This revolving fund shall be credited with revenue received by the Boston Public Schools Department for the provision of transportation to groups and entities for field trips and activities other than transportation to and from school. Receipts and resulting expenditures from this fund shall not exceed One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 13 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell). (2026-0742): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0749, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Boston Police Department revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to pay salaries and benefits of employees and to purchase supplies and equipment necessary to operate the Police Department Fitness Center. Revenue for this fund is derived from monthly membership fees. Receipts and resulting expenditures from this fund shall not exceed One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 13 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell). (2026-0749): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0750, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Boston Police Department revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to support the Canine Unit’s training programs for officers and police dogs from non-City of Boston law enforcement agencies. The Special Operations Division will charge tuition and other fees to outside law enforcement agencies for training with the Canine Unit. The tuition and other fees paid by outside agencies will be used to purchase training equipment, certify instructors, update facilities and provide funds for other training needs not otherwise budgeted. The Special Operations Division will be the only unit authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall be capped at One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00), the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 13 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell). (2026-0750): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0746, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Equitable Emissions Investment (BERDO) revolving fund outlined in Section 1(g) of BERDO for Fiscal Year 2027, pursuant to M.G.L. ch. 44 s. 53E1/2, to incur liabilities against and spend monies from such fund consistent with the Ordinance. This revolving fund shall be funded by receipts from Alternative Compliance Payments (ACP). ACPs are an approved emissions mitigation pathway that consists of payments equal to the average cost per metric ton of CO2e to decarbonize buildings. The Environment Department will be the only department authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall be capped at $1,500,000, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed: yeas 13 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell). (2026-0746): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0754, approving an order authorizing a limit for the Transportation Department revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027 to support the operation of the bikeshare program within the City of Boston. This revolving fund shall be funded by system-generated user revenues, sponsorship revenues, and advertising revenues. The Transportation Department will be the only department authorized to expend from the fund and such expenditures shall be capped at $1,400,000, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the order was passed.
Recess. (2026-0754): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0763, for your approval an order authorizing the City of Boston to submit to the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) a Statement of Interest for Melvin H. King South End Academy, located at 90 Warren Ave in the South End of Boston. The Statement of Interest describes and explains the deficiencies and the priority categories for which the City of Boston may be invited to apply to the MSBA in the future, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0763): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0760, for your approval an appropriation order in the amount of Eight Hundred and Sixty Thousand Dollars ($860,000) for the Cemetery Division of the Parks and Recreation Department and the Trust Office of the Treasury Department to be funded from the Cemetery Trust Fund established under Chapter 13 of the Acts of 1961, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0760): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, authorizing the City of Boston to accept and expend the amount of Ten Million Nine Hundred Twenty-Five Thousand One Hundred Forty Dollars and Seven Cents ($10,925,140.07) in the form of a grant, FY26 Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) Grant Program, awarded by United States Department of Homeland Security, passed through the MA Executive Office of Public Safety & Security, to be administered by the Police Department. The grant would fund increasing BPD's ability to detect, identify, track and monitor unmanned aircraft systems within the City of Boston, the committee submitted a report recommending that the order ought to pass. (2026-0759): Referred to
- On the communication, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0771, received by the City Clerk from the Boston Landmarks Commission for City Council action on the designation of the Petition #147.89 - The Copley Plaza Hotel, Back Bay (in effect after April 30, 2026 if not acted upon), the committee submitted a report recommending that this designation ought to be approved. (2026-0771): Referred to
- Ordinance Establishing a Childcare Access Fund. (2026-0772): Referred to
- Order for a hearing to discuss the status of the City of Boston's Curbside Food Waste Collection Program. (2026-0773): Referred to
- Order for a hearing to explore pro-growth redevelopment tools for under-performing commercial properties in Boston. (2026-0774): Referred to
- Order for a hearing on equity in athletic funding and access across Boston Public Schools. (2026-0775): Referred to
- Order for a hearing to explore the creation of a public-private lending agency in Boston. (2026-0776): Referred to
- Order for a hearing to discuss the role, responsibilities, and staffing levels of the Office of Neighborhood Services (ONS) in light of Boston's fiscal crisis. (2026-0777): Referred to
- Order to amend Rule 46 of the Rules of the Boston City Council for Municipal Years 2026-2027. (2026-0778): Referred to
- On the message and order, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0733, for Annual Appropriation and Tax Order for FY2027, the committee submitted a report recommending the order ought to pass in an amended draft.
Councilor Weber moved to substitute language in the committee report. Seconded by Councilor Durkan.
The substitute committee report was properly substituted.
Councilor Mejia objected to accepting the committee report.
Recess.
Committee members polled: yeas 6 (Weber, FitzGerald, Coletta Zapata, Louijeune, Pepén, Worrell), nays 1 (Culpepper). Yeas prevailed.
Councilor Coletta Zapata offered an amendment. Seconded by Councilor Durkan.
Councilor Weber recused himself from discussion of the amendment.
The amendment was properly before the body.
Recess.
On motion of Councilor Coletta Zapata, the amendment was withdrawn.
Councilor FitzGerald offered an amendment. Seconded by Councilor Flynn.
The amendment was properly before the body.
Councilor Coletta Zapata in the chair.
Councilor Breadon in the chair.
Motion by Councilor Mejia to lay the amendment on the table. Seconded by Councilor Flynn.
The motion did not prevail; yeas 4 (Durkan, Flynn, Mejia, Worrell), nays 9 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, FitzGerald, Louijeune, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber).
Councilor FitzGerald moved to close debate. Seconded by Councilor Durkan. Motion prevailed; yeas 10 (Culpepper, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), nays 3 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan).
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment passed; yeas 10 (Culpepper, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), nays 3 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan).
Councilor FitzGerald offered a second amendment. Seconded by Councilor Durkan.
Councilor Weber recused himself from discussion of the amendment.
The amendment was properly before the body.
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment passed; yeas 12 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Mejia, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Worrell), not present 1 (Weber).
Councilor Flynn offered an amendment. Seconded by Councilor Murphy.
The amendment was properly before the body.
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment did not pass; yeas 2 (Flynn, Murphy), nays 11 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Louijeune, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell).
Councilor Flynn offered a second amendment. Seconded by Councilor Murphy.
The amendment was properly before the body.
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment did not pass; yeas 2 (Flynn, Murphy), nays 10 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Louijeune, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber), not present 1 (Worrell).
Councilor Flynn offered a third amendment. Seconded by Councilor Murphy.
The amendment was properly before the body.
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment did not pass; yeas 2 (Flynn, Murphy), nays 10 (Breadon, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Louijeune, Mejia, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), not present 1 (Coletta Zapata).
Councilor Mejia offered an amendment. Seconded by Councilor Murphy.
The amendment was properly before the body.
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment did not pass; yeas 3 (Culpepper, Mejia, Worrell), nays 9 (Breadon, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber), not present 1 (Coletta Zapata).
Councilor Mejia offered a second amendment. Seconded by Councilor Murphy.
The amendment was properly before the body.
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment did not pass; yeas 4 (Culpepper, Mejia, Murphy, Worrell), nays 9 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Pepén, Santana, Weber).
Councilor Mejia offered a third amendment. Seconded by Councilor Murphy.
The amendment was properly before the body.
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment did not pass; yeas 4 (Flynn, Mejia, Murphy, Worrell), nays 9 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Louijeune, Pepén, Santana, Weber).
Councilor Culpepper offered an amendment. Seconded by Councilor Murphy.
The amendment was properly before the body.
A roll call vote was taken; the amendment did not pass; yeas 5 (Breadon, Culpepper, Flynn, Murphy, Worrell), nays 7 (Coletta Zapata, Durkan, FitzGerald, Louijeune, Pepén, Santana, Weber), not present 1 (Mejia).
Recess.
The substituted report was accepted; Docket #0733, the order as amended was passed; yeas 12 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), nays 1 (Mejia). (2026-0733): Referred to
- On the message and ordinance, referred on April 8, 2026, Docket #0755, establishing a revolving fund for Fiscal Year 2027, pursuant to M.G.L. ch. 44 s. 53E1/2, to support the establishment and operation of the bikeshare program within the City of Boston, the committee submitted a report that the ordinance ought to pass. (2026-0755): Referred to
Roll-call votes
- On the designation of Petition #228.07, referred on March 25, 2026, Docket #0630, - The Bussey House, 1203-1205 Adams Street, Dorchester, MA 02124 (in effect after April 22, 2026 if not acted upon), the committee submitted a report that the petition ought to pass.
The report was accepted; the petition was passed: yeas 12 (Breadon, Coletta Zapata, Culpepper, Durkan, FitzGerald, Flynn, Louijeune, Murphy, Pepén, Santana, Weber, Worrell), absent 1 (Mejia).: Accepted 12-0
- Resolution calling for an independent performance audit of Boston Public Schools' spending, staffing and resource allocation.: Passed 6-5
- Resolution calling for an independent performance audit of the City of Boston's operations and fiscal management.: Failed 4-8
- Resolution to protect SNAP and in support of Department of Transitional Assistance workers.: Adopted 12-0
Documents
Summary
The Boston City Council met April 8, 2026, opening with a clergy invocation by Pastor Kiki and two presentations by Councilor Culpepper recognizing the New England Center for Arts and Technology (NECAT) and Higher Ground Boston. The council read and referred the FY2027 budget-related dockets (0733–0758) to committees, approved docket 0257 (commercial acquisition assistance program grant) and docket 0630 (Bussey House landmark designation, 12-0 roll call), and heard committee reports on summer youth safety, delivery-provider road safety, and BPD body camera footage protocols, all remaining in committee. New matters included a childcare access fund ordinance (0772), a hearing on curbside food waste collection (0773), commercial redevelopment tools (0774), BPS athletics equity (0775), a public-private lending agency (0776), and an Office of Neighborhood Services review (0777). Resolutions for independent performance audits of BPS (0780) and city operations (0781) failed on roll call votes, while resolutions recognizing Autism Acceptance Month (0782), the Louis D. Brown Day of Civic Engagement (0783), and protecting SNAP and DTA workers (0784) were adopted. The meeting closed with memorials and adjournment until April 15, 2026.
Transcript
3:34 and.
10:31 I'm.
11:22 Like.
12:04 Oh.
15:17 Thank you so much.
15:20 Good afternoon everyone.
15:23 I call to order today's meeting
15:24 of boston city council.
15:27 Viewers can watch the
15:30 council meeting live on
15:31 youtube@boston.Gov backslash
15:33 city council dash tv.
15:35 At this time I ask my
15:36 colleagues and those in the
15:37 audience to please silence
15:39 their cellphones and electronic
15:40 devices.
15:43 Also pursuant to rule 42 I
15:45 remind all in the chamber that
15:48 no demonstration of approval or
15:49 disapproval from members of the
15:50 public will be permitted.
15:51 Thank you.
15:54 Mr clerk, will you please call
15:55 the roll to ascertain the
15:56 presence of a quorum?
16:04 Councilor breadon here.
16:06 Council color as opposed to
16:06 council culpeper.
16:07 Councilor durkan.
16:08 Councilor.
16:09 Fitzgerald.
16:11 Councilor flynn.
16:12 Yeah.
16:13 Councilor louijeune here.
16:13 Councilor mike.
16:14 Here.
16:15 Councilor murphy.
16:16 Councilor.
16:17 Pippin.
16:18 Councilor santana here.
16:20 Councilor weber.
16:21 And councilor worrell.
16:22 A quorum is perfect.
16:23 Thank you.
16:26 I've been informed that the by
16:27 the truck of the quorum is
16:27 present.
16:30 now it is my pleasure to invite
16:31 ,uh, councilor weber to
16:34 introduce today's this week's
16:34 clergy.
16:39 Okay.
16:42 hello.
16:43 good afternoon.
16:44 Um.
16:46 Uh, today's clergy, uh.
16:48 Want to come up here?
16:50 Uh, yes.
16:52 Is doctor do for fluorescence?
16:55 Uh, also known as pastor kiki.
16:58 Um, you know, I first, uh I got
17:00 to know, uh, pastor kiki before
17:02 ,um, I even got involved in.
17:06 Politics from his work with my
17:08 wife's, uh, organization that
17:09 does refugee resettlement in
17:10 the region.
17:14 Um, and you know, it's his
17:14 work.
17:17 Uh, you know, it's part of his
17:18 work with the church but his
17:19 work in the community.
17:22 Um, I know you know, all of us
17:23 are concerned with the
17:25 treatment of immigrants in our
17:26 country right now.
17:27 Uh.
17:28 but, you know, on the front
17:30 lines in the community that is,
17:33 uh, experiencing the pain of,
17:35 um, what is happening in our
17:35 country.
17:37 Uh, you know, as much or more
17:38 so than any other communities
17:41 that are a haitian community.
17:43 Uh, and that's why, you know,
17:43 I've been.
17:46 Uh, proud to stand by.
17:47 Pastor kiki.
17:50 Uh, whenever, uh, you know, I
17:50 can help.
17:55 Um, uh and I know, uh, he and,
17:57 uh, you know,
17:58 councilor louijeune and others
17:59 have been fighting.
18:02 Uh, to extend tps status.
18:05 For uh for haitians and through
18:06 their efforts.
18:07 Uh.
18:09 they managed to support, uh
18:10 ,congresswoman I honor
18:12 presley's discharge petition to
18:14 bring an extension of tps.
18:16 Status up for a vote in the
18:18 house of representatives and.
18:19 This started.
18:20 Several months ago.
18:22 I think you need 218
18:22 signatures.
18:23 They started.
18:25 With 8 or 9 signatures and it
18:26 was phone.
18:28 Calls and you know, all over
18:30 the country going uh, you know,
18:31 reaching out to.
18:32 Uh to.
18:33 To reps from all over the place
18:35 and they managed to get.
18:35 There and.
18:36 it's um you know, it's
18:38 really an example uh, for
18:40 me for stepping up for a
18:41 community that that needs our
18:41 help.
18:42 And so I.
18:43 Just want to thank, uh.
18:44 Pastor kiki for.
18:45 Being here and.
18:46 Uh, uh.
18:48 Give him the.
18:49 mic.
18:50 This year.
18:54 Uh, thank you so much, uh,
18:56 council for this, uh, gracious
18:56 invitation.
18:57 Uh.
18:57 Thank you.
18:59 All the, uh, councilors thank
19:02 you for your leadership and
19:04 also for your dedication, uh,
19:06 to continue to represent, uh,
19:08 the constituents of the city
19:09 of boston.
19:11 I would definitely ask you to
19:14 stand as we are about to pray.
19:16 I think my lord and savior
19:17 jesus christ for saving me.
19:18 uh, had cancer.
19:18 That's.
19:20 Year went to surgery.
19:22 But today I'm alive.
19:24 To GOD be the glory.
19:27 Let's pray.
19:32 The heavenly father, we come
19:34 before you today with a heart
19:35 full of gratitude.
19:42 We thank you for the counselors
19:45 basis.
19:45 the work they do on a daily
19:48 Your words remind us in romans
19:51 13 and one that authority is
19:54 established by you and proverbs
19:55 1434 tells us that's
19:58 righteousness exalt nation but
20:01 unjust is and sin is a reproach
20:01 to any people.
20:05 Therefore or GOD we pray that
20:07 righteousness guide this
20:09 council that integrity, justice
20:11 and moral flaherty influence
20:13 chamber.
20:13 every decision made in this
20:15 Lord of resurrection power.
20:16 We thank you for easter.
20:18 Father.
20:21 and then we thank you for
20:23 the victory that you're
20:25 bringing to earth the hope and
20:29 the courage and now oh GOD, we
20:31 remember your holy requirements
20:34 in micah six eight.
20:35 What does the lord require
20:38 of you to add justly to love
20:41 mercy and to walk humbly before
20:41 your GOD?
20:44 So today on behalf of these
20:47 counselors, we pray grant them
20:50 the strength to pursue justice
20:52 to defend the oppressed, uplift
20:55 the vulnerable and ensure
20:57 fairness and equity for all our
20:58 residents in boston.
21:01 Fill the hearts with mercy so
21:03 that compassion guide the
21:05 policies and every decision
21:07 shows concern for human dignity
21:07 .
21:10 provide them with humility so
21:12 they lead not for personal
21:14 again but in service with
21:16 integrity and accountability.
21:18 Lord, as your word states in
21:21 proverbs 1114 where there is no
21:23 guidance a people force but in
21:25 abundance of counselors that
21:26 there is safety.
21:28 MAY this council be a place
21:31 of wise councilor and unity and
21:32 in abundance of counselors.
21:35 Make this body an instrument
21:37 of renewal bringing life where
21:39 there is despair, justice where
21:41 there's inequality and unity
21:42 where there is division.
21:46 Bless every counselor, staff
21:47 member and constituted their
21:48 servant.
21:50 MAY your wisdom guide the
21:52 discussions, peace governs the
21:54 interactions and the
21:55 righteousness uplift not only
21:58 this council but this city and
21:58 nation.
22:00 We entrust this session into
22:00 your hands.
22:01 Oh GOD.
22:03 Trust in your promise.
22:07 Father that as we acknowledge
22:09 you you will direct the path.
22:10 Father.
22:12 As many people address you by
22:14 many names I pray through your
22:16 precious son name jesus christ
22:17 and the people of GOD and so.
22:19 Amen.
22:21 Thank you so much.
22:23 and I recite the pledge
22:23 of allegiance.
22:28 But the flag of the united
22:30 states of america and to
22:32 republic for which it stands
22:34 one nation under GOD,
22:37 indivisible with liberty and
22:37 justice for all.
22:46 Thank you, pastor kiki.
22:51 Uh, I know um we have two
22:52 presentations today.
22:54 counselor culpeper is
22:55 recognizing higher ground
22:58 boston and uh, also the new
22:59 england center for the arts and
23:01 technology counselor culpeper.
23:02 If you'd like to join us.
23:04 And wait five minutes for each
23:04 of your presentations.
23:12 Thank you, MADAM PRESIDENT.
23:15 I like amanda good and martin
23:17 hemsley to join me on the
23:17 podium.
23:25 The founder uh, mc hat and the
23:28 chair of the board.
23:32 In your mind you might not
23:35 remember but last week that
23:39 food that we ate was food
23:41 prepared by the young folks
23:43 that nick had so they couldn't
23:44 make it this morning because
23:45 they out preparing food for
23:45 others.
23:48 But I hope you remember the
23:52 taste of that food that we had
23:54 last week and that it will
23:56 stick for you with you for
23:57 years to come.
23:59 For many of those barriers to
24:01 employment can feel isolating
24:05 and overwhelming a cycle that's
24:07 incredibly difficult to break
24:08 all alone.
24:10 But nick heart believes that
24:12 with the right environment, the
24:14 right skills and the right
24:15 people in your corner.
24:18 Meaningful change is not just
24:20 possible but it's achievable.
24:22 Nick had meets people where
24:25 they are wrapping their arms
24:26 around them and walking
24:28 alongside of them as they build
24:30 toward something lasting.
24:33 Through hands on culinary
24:35 training and you had some last
24:37 week participants gain real
24:39 kitchen experience but the work
24:41 goes far deeper than cooking.
24:44 Nick is equally committed to
24:46 social emotional development
24:48 and career readiness, giving
24:50 folks the confidence and the
24:52 purpose they need to thrive
24:54 long after they leave the
24:56 program founded on the belief
24:58 that growth appears just
25:01 doesn't happen but it happens
25:03 best without judgment.
25:05 Nick had prepared individuals
25:07 not just for a job but for a
25:11 life of financial stability and
25:12 self-sufficiency.
25:15 It is an honor to present this
25:17 resolution to nick and we are
25:20 so pleased to have martin
25:22 hensley, the founder here and
25:25 the board of director CHAIRMAN
25:25 Madri.
25:26 Good.
25:28 Let me just read this to you,
25:29 martin man.
25:30 Come on.
25:37 city council city of boston
25:40 and city council official
25:41 resolution presented by
25:43 councilor minyard culpeper
25:46 beard resolve that the boston
25:48 city council extended its
25:50 congratulations to the new
25:52 england center for arts and
25:54 technology in recognition
25:56 of nick katz dedication,
25:58 leadership and contributions to
26:00 workforce development and
26:02 economic opportunity have made
26:04 it one of boss's most
26:05 successful training
26:06 organizations since its
26:10 founding in 2013, providing
26:12 unemployed or underemployed
26:14 adults with tuition free
26:16 culinary training and career
26:18 services that prepare them for
26:21 careers in food service and the
26:23 hospitality industries.
26:24 And be it further resolved that
26:27 the boston city council extends
26:29 his best wishes for your
26:31 continued success that this
26:33 resolution be duly signed by
26:36 the PRESIDENT Of the city
26:38 council and attested to a copy
26:40 they have transmitted by the
26:43 clerk of the city of boston by
26:45 elizabeth bratton, PRESIDENT
26:47 Of the city council hereby the
26:49 clerk of the city of boston
26:52 attesting to offered by minyard
26:56 culpeper on APRIL 8th two,
26:57 2026.
27:00 It's my pleasure to present
27:02 this resolution to
27:03 council city.
27:07 Uh many thanks
27:07 council culpeper.
27:07 For this.
27:09 invitation and for your
27:11 support of our funding request
27:13 and also want to thank, uh,
27:14 councilor mayor oh no, she's
27:16 well.
27:16 not here for her support as
27:18 Um, I think that you've heard
27:19 from the councilor pretty much
27:20 everything about our program.
27:22 The important news is that
27:24 we're going to be moving next
27:26 year into nubian square into a
27:26 new building.
27:28 Um, we've circulated
27:30 information to all
27:31 council members when we were
27:33 here a couple of weeks ago and
27:34 we look forward to your
27:35 continued support.
27:37 thank you for having us
27:40 today.
27:41 Council.
27:42 I just want to thank you for
27:43 all your support.
27:45 Um, as a lifelong resident
27:46 of roxbury, I'm excited about
27:48 our move to nubian square and I
27:49 look forward for many, many,
27:52 many more uh, years to come and
27:54 really wanted on behalf of our
27:56 students alumni board, just
27:57 thank you for the citation
27:58 today and look forward to
28:00 working together in the future.
28:02 Okay.
28:03 I could invite our
28:04 colleagues up for a photograph
28:05 please.
28:06 Thank you.
28:21 present this past.
28:26 Um.
28:31 Some that.
28:42 Thank you, thank you, thank
28:42 you.
28:43 Yeah.
28:43 Thank you.
28:47 I appreciate.
28:53 Everyone.
28:54 Um.
28:55 Yeah.
28:56 Um.
29:02 Brandy higher ground.
29:30 the true honor to introduce
29:32 boston's higher ground a
29:34 transformative backbone
29:36 organization whose work touches
29:37 the lives of children and
29:39 families across our country.
29:43 This vision is my prayer.
29:45 And while I do this work in
29:47 boston where every child has
29:49 access to high quality
29:52 education, housing and health
29:53 services, higher ground has
29:56 built a coalition of over 65
29:59 partners including hospitals,
30:01 universities, government
30:03 agencies all working together
30:05 to ensure no child and no
30:09 family falls to the cracks from
30:12 stabilizing housing and their
30:14 students and their families to
30:15 bridging the educational
30:16 achievement gap.
30:19 They don't simply provide
30:21 services they build the
30:23 foundation for families to
30:25 stand on their own and thrive
30:26 long term.
30:29 We are incredibly we are
30:29 incredibly.
30:32 Let me say one more time we are
30:34 incredibly fortunate to have
30:37 higher ground impact in our
30:39 community and it is with deep
30:41 gratitude that we recognize the
30:42 essential work that they do
30:43 every day.
30:46 Please help me welcome the
30:49 executive executive director
30:51 brandy, who is here with us
30:51 today.
30:55 Brandy and terry.
30:57 Dairy dairy.
31:01 What did you say for the.
31:02 Dga?
31:05 you please help me welcome
31:09 the executive director brandy
31:12 and d.J who was here with us
31:13 today.
31:14 Give him a round of applause.
31:17 Give me a round of applause for
31:17 making it through.
31:18 I'm here.
31:20 let me read this resolution
31:20 .
31:30 City of boston and city
31:32 council official resolution
31:33 presented by councilor minyard
31:37 culpeper be resolved that the
31:39 boston city council offers its
31:41 graduate congratulations to
31:44 higher ground boston in
31:46 recognition of higher ground
31:48 dedication to advancing equity
31:50 and strengthening community
31:52 collaboration, they have made a
31:54 leading become a leading force
31:57 in boston's collective impact
32:00 efforts by serving as a
32:02 backbone organization and
32:05 catalyst across sectors, higher
32:07 ground bring together community
32:12 members, schools, churches and
32:14 partners to address systemic
32:15 inequities through its
32:17 commitment to shared leadership
32:21 ,continuous collaboration and
32:22 community driven solutions.
32:25 Higher ground work to eliminate
32:27 disparities and build
32:29 sustainable opportunities for
32:31 children and families across
32:31 boston.
32:34 And be it further resolved that
32:36 the boston city council extends
32:38 its best wishes for your
32:40 continued success that this
32:41 resolution be duly signed by
32:43 the PRESIDENT Of the city
32:45 council and attested to a copy
32:47 they have transmitted
32:49 transmitted by the clerk of the
32:52 city of boston signed by
32:55 PRESIDENT Of the city
32:56 councilor elizabeth breadon
32:58 offered by minako pepper.
33:02 Thank you for all that you do,
33:02 huh?
33:06 Thank you.
33:07 Good afternoon everyone.
33:10 No no no y'all can do it.
33:11 Good afternoon everyone.
33:14 All right so as
33:15 councilor culpepper said my
33:16 name is doctor brandy brooks.
33:18 I'm the executive director
33:19 of boston's higher ground and
33:21 it is an honor and a privilege
33:22 to receive this citation today
33:23 .
33:24 And it is an honor and a