Paul Johnson

The Council meeting covered various administrative and project-related topics. Key discussions included a vacancy on the Library Board of Trustees, the appointment of an independent audit firm for fiscal year 2021, and the issuance of an RFP for audit services starting with fiscal year 2022. The Council approved highway and pedestrian access easements, adopted a re-precincting plan based on census data, and appropriated Transportation Network Company funds for TMA dues, Bluebike operating costs, and shuttle services. The meeting also included a letter of support for a grant application for electric vehicles, confirmation of appointments to the Watertown Housing Authority and Conservation Commission, and a tribute to retiring Council members.

The meeting included a review of recent accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists to evaluate the potential for Complete Streets improvements. Updates were provided on the MAPC Wellness Grant and the Complete Streets resolution, along with a discussion regarding road configurations. The committee addressed the improper removal of a bike rack by the MBTA, plans for bicycle parking at the Watertown Yard, and public transport crosswalk issues for Route 73. Additionally, progress on the Watertown Greenway path negotiation and connections near Arsenal Park were reviewed.

The council discussed various items including the appointment of a member to the Stormwater Advisory Committee, a proclamation honoring a retiring member of the Board of Health, and a policy regarding the use of the MAPC list for workforce diversity. A public hearing was held for a loan order regarding a water meter replacement program and an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2022 budget, both of which were approved. Additionally, the council addressed re-precincting plans, confirmed appointments to the Environment and Energy Efficiency Committee and the Stormwater Advisory Committee, and reviewed requests for information regarding street maintenance and memorials.

The committee discussed the Watertown High School redesign project, focusing on site access, bike parking facilities, and alternative transportation incentives for the new high school and swing space at Moxley Field. The committee also coordinated participation in the Faire on the Square event and organized a bike station and rodeo at Little Greenough. Additionally, the committee noted plans for a future presentation on the 311 program by the IT director.

The committee reviewed the initial three chapters of the Bicycle Pedestrian Plan, noting the comprehensive nature of the data while identifying concerns regarding responsibility, sidewalk conditions, crash reduction strategies, and project prioritization. Staff provided an update on the upcoming launch of the BlueBikes share contract. Additionally, the committee discussed a potential collaboration with the Watertown Faces Climate Change transportation committee.