America's 250th anniversary; volunteers are welcome and more details will follow. On Wednesday, September 9, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, David D'vorne will host “Fighting Rising Energy Costs” at the Human Services Building, 27 Warren Street, room 1, covering ways to make homes more energy efficient and providing an overview of the new community solar project approved for the landfill. On October 4, an EV car show will be held in conjunction with the Somerville Craft Show and Street Fair; the Environmental Commission is seeking local EV owners interested in showcasing their vehicles.

Council President Vroom

Council President Vroom thanked everyone who came out for National Night Out, including the Police Department, first responders, and community organizations, as well as the Recreation Department for its dunk tank and other activities.

7. Meeting open to the public

All voted in favor and the meeting was opened to the public.

Public comment

Zoltan, owner of Tea's Up in downtown Somerville, said that as a new business owner he has noticed sales declining compared to last year and that not enough people, particularly younger people, are coming downtown to spend money at local businesses. He said that outside of scheduled weekend events there is little drawing people downtown, and that the Downtown Somerville Alliance (DSA) should be doing more to help local businesses succeed through promotion. He noted he has not seen his or other local businesses promoted and that new customers have asked him for a map or brochure of local businesses that does not currently exist. He also raised concerns about the lack of public restrooms during downtown events, noting that visitors often go from store to store looking for one. He offered to share ideas for creating more resident-focused events, not necessarily costly ones, to draw people downtown on weekdays and weekends.

Discussion

Council President Vroom asked if the DSA is still maintaining its website and whether the business map on it is current.

Administrator Sluka said he would look into it.

Council Member Pitts said the website does not appear to include photos or listings of local businesses.

Council Member Stravic asked about a downtown kiosk.

Public comment continued

Council President Vroom resumed the public comment session.

Kenneth Lee, property owner with units on Division Street, said the concerns raised were valid. He cited safety concerns downtown, including incidents involving homeless individuals in the area, and inadequate parking during large downtown events. He said the Borough needs to plan for these issues while also working to bring more business to the area.

Close public comment

All voted in favor and the meeting was closed to the public.

Discussion — Downtown Somerville Alliance

Council President Vroom said the Borough could do more to promote underutilized parking, including the deck on Veterans Memorial Drive, next to Warren Street. There’s also a deck behind Edge 2. He said the Borough would also check on the DSA website and follow up with the DSA regarding updating its website to include business listings and photos.

Council Member Bonner agreed the website should not concentrate only on events. She offered to take a list of suggestions to a DSA meeting.

Council Member Stravic asked about the borough kiosk.

Council Member Bonner said the kiosk on Division Street was managed by the county and is no longer there.