Appropriations & Oversight Committee — 2026-01-20
Attendance
Jason Chen ; Cal Finocchiaro ; Bradley Freeman ; Maya Jamaleddine ; Manjula Karamcheti ; Elizabeth Kowal ; John Obremski ; Christopher Park ; Kimberly Vandiver ; Ryan Williams
Agenda
Minutes
Appropriations & Oversight Committee Tuesday, January 20, 2026, 7:15 PM City Council Chamber, 1st Floor 562 Main Street, Melrose, MA 02176 MINUTES I. CALL TO ORDER Kimberly Vandiver Vice Chair Jason Chen Cal Finocchiaro Maya Jamaleddine Manjula Karamcheti Elizabeth Kowal John Obremski Christopher Park Devin Romanul Ryan Williams Brad Freeman President, Ex Officio Devin Romanul Chair Meeting was called to order by Chair Romanul at 7:21 PM Attendee Name Title Status Arrived Kim Vandiver Vice Chair Present Jason Chen At-Large Present Cal Finocchiaro Ward 6 Present Maya Jamaleddine At-Large Absent Manjula Karamcheti Ward 1 Present Elizabeth Kowal At-Large Present John Obremski Ward 2 Present 7:24 PM Christopher Park Ward 3 Present Ryan Williams At-Large Present William Bradley Freeman President, Ex Officio Present Member Devin Romanul Chair Present II. MINUTES APPROVAL Motion to Approve minutes by unanimous consent without reading made by Chair Romanul. RESULT: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS] 1 AYES: Jason Chen, Cal Finocchiaro, Bradley Freeman, Manjula Karamcheti, Elizabeth Kowal, John Obremski, Christopher Park, Devin Romanul, Kim Vandiver, Ryan Williams NAYS: None ABSENT: Maya Jamaleddine III. PUBLIC COMMENT When: Jan 20, 2026 07:15 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: Appropriations & Oversight Meeting Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android: https://cityofmelrose-org.zoom.us/j/95331852026?pwd=v0tkdTjEGOes0s0AF67eHG0agIs8B4.1 Passcode:828534 Webinar ID: 953 3185 2026 Motion to Open public comment made by Chair Romanul at 7:22 PM There were no comments on the floor or via Zoom Motion to Close public comment made by Chair Romanul at 7:22 PM IV. GRANTS
A. (ID # 2025-867): Acceptance of Fiscal 2026 Local Cultural Council Allocation Motion to Recommend to full council made by Councilor Williams Seconded by Councilor Karamcheti All were in favor and motion passed RESULTS: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS] TO: City Council AYES: Jason Chen, Cal Finocchiaro, Bradley Freeman, Manjula Karamcheti, Elizabeth Kowal, John Obremski, Christopher Park, Devin Romanul, Kim Vandiver, Ryan Williams NAYS: None ABSENT: Maya Jamaleddine
B. (ID # 2025-868): Acceptance of Municipal ADA Improvement Grant Motion to Recommend to full council made by Councilor Vandiver Seconded by Councilor Williams All were in favor and motion passed RESULTS: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS] TO: City Council AYES: Jason Chen, Cal Finocchiaro, Bradley Freeman, Manjula Karamcheti, Elizabeth Kowal, John Obremski, Christopher Park, Devin Romanul, Kim Vandiver, Ryan Williams 2 NAYS: None ABSENT: Maya Jamaleddine Comments on Discussion: -Councilor Finocchiaro asked who does the approved work. It will be on-call contractors, state vendors/contractors, then put out to bid if necessary. The money must be spent by June 30. -Councilor Karamcheti asked if this money gets us close to accomplishing the city's ADA goals. No it does not, it's a long list and this will address the needs at older elementary schools that need extra care. It will focus on obtaining immediate access to first floors of the older buildings. It was very competitive to receive this grant. -Councilor Park asked how the schools were selected. The Winthrop, Horace Mann and Hoover schools were chosen since they do not currently have push-button access. The Lincoln and Roosevelt schools are newer and currently have push-button access. They are not sure of the Franklin school status.
C. (ID # 2026-3): Acceptance of EOHLC FY2026 Community Planning Grant in the amount of $100,250 Motion to Recommend to full council made by Councilor Williams Seconded by Councilor Karamcheti All were in favor and motion passed RESULTS: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS] TO: City Council AYES: Jason Chen, Cal Finocchiaro, Bradley Freeman, Manjula Karamcheti, Elizabeth Kowal, John Obremski, Christopher Park, Devin Romanul, Kim Vandiver, Ryan Williams NAYS: None ABSENT: Maya Jamaleddine Comments on Discussion: -Councilor Williams thanked them for pursuing this grant, especially to review outdated subdivision regulations. Which consultant will be used? They used Community Scale from previous work to help with the grant application process. This will be put out to bid and they have until June 2027 to use the money and hope to complete it within a year. -Councilor Finocchiaro asked for clarification on enabling a more diverse mix of housing types. Are you looking to change the zoning laws within neighborhoods? More data is available now to compare to the regulations to determine future dimensions, especially for multi-unit housing. -Councilor Karamcheti asked what are potential outcomes that residents could expect. They will have public engagement with visualization and data, resulting in zoning amendments for council's approval. Will this allow future plans to require less planning board and zoning board of appeals? Yes, potentially things that need variances today could be allowed by right. -Councilor Vandiver commented that this will help address concern that our zoning regulations currently are not compliant to our existing structures. Will this help us move to a point where we can build houses faster and better regarding 40B's? The goal is to reach 10% threshold of subsidized housing in our stock so we no longer have to approve 40B projects. Developers would no longer have the option of a 40B project then. -Councilor Williams stated that in August 2025 Melrose was at 8-9% for subsidized housing 3 inventory. Is there a pipeline in place that will push us to a higher number for Safe Harbor Status of 10% and when will we achieve that. All of the projects must be built, not permitted, to get an accurate count. Regarding current projects that have been permitted, we deed about 50 units to reach the 10% but that number is fluid until completion. Once we hit the 10% we will continue to build the multi-use housing in the proper zoning areas. -Councilor Finocchiaro asked how we will get community input. We will do surveys to reach a wider audience, hold meetings in person with the consultant, use best practices to get stakeholder feedback. -Councilor Karamcheti stated that our goal is to get to Safe Harbor Status. We want to have affordable housing in Melrose, she is not necessarily opposed to 40B, we need to be planned and purposeful about where it is built and co-designed. Will this help us be planned and purposeful to have a diverse type of housing in the city. This will allow a more varied stock of housing and this grant will aid in reaching that goal. It will examine the zoning districts across the region and compare to the built environment, showing how they don't match. This is not a Melrose specific problem. Many communities in the area have the same issue. This could allow neighborhood specific focus, and one ADU was recently approved as an example of this. -Councilor Park asked if the February 2022 housing production plan has been helpful to the public, especially as a guide and not necessarily adhered to. It has been very helpful, a lot of those sites are in production or permitted, and it's great when discussion occurs at public meetings. There is great data in the plan about housing, affordability in Melrose, and our residents' incomes. It's helpful and necessary to have the plan in order to claim safe harbor status from the state. V. ADJOURNMENT Motion to Adjourn by unanimous consent made by Chair Romanul at 7:49 PM Meeting was adjourned 4 Docusign Envelope ID: E0517824-4EE6-43A8-83BF-DDBDA4E9C646 FY26-LC-LCC-2463_Melrose Cultural Council_Contract December 03, 2025 Dear Jennifer Grigoraitis, Thank you for your participation in the Mass Cultural Council’s Local Cultural Council Program. We are pleased to inform you that City of Melrose for Melrose Cultural Council has been approved for a Local Cultural Council Allocation grant of $16,800 (FY26-LC-LCC-2463) from the Mass Cultural Council. Thanks to vigorous advocacy from the cultural sector, both the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the State Legislature showed strong, bipartisan support for the Mass Cultural Council, and its programs and services in the FY26 state budget. This allows us to continue to support Massachusetts’ dynamic artists and creative individuals, communities, cultural organizations, schools, and creative youth development across the Commonwealth. Below you will find your grant contract package, which includes award instructions, required attachments, and reporting obligations. Please review all materials carefully and sign the contract electronically within 14 calendar days of the date of this letter. Prompt execution will help us process your award as efficiently as possible. For questions about the contract, please contact the financial operations team at finance.helpdesk@mass.gov. For questions about the program please contact Lisa Simmons, Program Manager, Community Initiative at 617-858-2707 or lisa.simmons@mass.gov. Culture is ultimately about you. You play an integral role in creating and supporting a cultural life in Massachusetts that is vital, accessible, and thriving. Thank you for all that you do to elevate our rich cultural life in Massachusetts. Marc Carroll Michael. J. Bobbitt Chair Executive Director Page 1 of 6Docusign Envelope ID: E0517824-4EE6-43A8-83BF-DDBDA4E9C646 Contract Package Instructions Instructions for Completing this Standard Contract Document In this e signature document, you will complete the following: 1. Standard Contract: Review this document and sign and date it. In order to read the content that is hyperlinked in this document, save this document as a pdf to review it, then return here to sign. 2. Attachment A: Defines how the funds are to be expended following Mass Cultural Council regulations. Review this document and initial it to acknowledge that you have read and understand. If you have any questions about this document, contact Marc Sulmonte at 617-858-2823 or marc.sulmonte@mass.gov. Page 2 of 6Docusign Envelope ID: E0517824-4EE6-43A8-83BF-DDBDA4E9C646 COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS ~ STANDARD CONTRACT FORM This form is jointly issued and published by the Office of the Comptroller (CTR), the Executive Office for Administration and Finance (ANF), and the Operational Services Division (OSD) as the default contract for all Commonwealth Departments when another form is not prescribed by regulation or policy. The Commonwealth deems void any changes made on or by attachment (in the form of addendum, engagement letters, contract forms or invoice terms) to the terms in this published form or to the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications , the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions for Human and Social Services or the Commonwealth IT Terms and Conditions which are incorporated by reference herein. Additional non-conflicting terms may be added by Attachment. Contractors are required to access published forms at CTR Forms: https://www.macomptroller.org/forms . Forms are also posted at OSD Forms: https://www.mass.gov/lists/osd-forms . CONTRACTOR LEGAL NAME: City of Melrose for Melrose Cultural Council COMMONWEALTH DEPARTMENT NAME: Massachusetts Cultural Council (and d/b/a): MMARS Department Code: ART Legal Address: (W-9, W-4): 562 Main St City Hall Melrose MA 02176-3142 Business Mailing Address: 10 Saint James Ave., 3rd Fl., Boston, MA 02116 Contract Manager: Jennifer Grigoraitis Phone: 781-979-4440 Billing Address (if different): E-Mail: mayorsoffice@cityofmelrose.org Fax: Contract Manager: Marc Sulmonte Phone: 617-858-2823 Contractor Vendor Code: VC6000192116 E-Mail: marc.sulmonte@mass.gov Fax: Vendor Code Address ID (e.g. “AD001”): AD001. MMARS Doc ID(s): RFR/Procurement or Other ID Number: FY26-LC-LCC-2463 (Note: The Address ID must be set up for EFT payments.) _X_ NEW CONTRACT ___ CONTRACT AMENDMENT PROCUREMENT OR EXCEPTION TYPE: (Check one option only) Enter Current Contract End Date Prior to Amendment: _______, 20____. __ Statewide Contract (OSD or an OSD-designated Department) Enter Amendment Amount: $___________. (or “no change”) __ Collective Purchase (Attach OSD approval, scope, budget) AMENDMENT TYPE: (Check one option only. Attach details of amendment changes.) _X_ Department Procurement (includes all Grants - 815 CMR 2.00 ) (Solicitation Notice or RFR, and Response or other procurement supporting __ Amendment to Date, Scope or Budget (Attach updated scope and budget) documentation) __ Interim Contract (Attach justification for Interim Contract and updated __ Emergency Contract (Attach justification for emergency, scope, budget) scope/budget) __ Contract Employee (Attach Employment Status Form, scope, budget) __ Contract Employee (Attach any updates to scope or budget) __ Interim Contract with new Contractor (Attach justification for Interim __ Other Procurement Exception (Attach authorizing language/justification and Contract and updated scope/budget.) updated scope and budget) __ Other Procurement Exception (Attach authorizing language, legislation with specific exemption or earmark, and exception justification, scope and budget) The Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications and the following Commonwealth Terms and Conditions document are incorporated by reference into this Contract and are legally binding: (Check ONE option):_X_ Commonwealth Terms and Conditions __ Commonwealth Terms and Conditions For Human and Social Services __ Commonwealth IT Terms and Conditions COMPENSATION: (Check ONE option): The Department certifies that payments for authorized performance accepted in accordance with the terms of this Contract will be supported in the state accounting system by sufficient appropriations or other non-appropriated funds, subject to intercept for Commonwealth owed debts under 815 CMR 9.00 . __ Rate Contract. (No Maximum Obligation) Attach details of all rates, units, calculations, conditions or terms and any changes if rates or terms are being amended.) _X_ Maximum Obligation Contract. Enter total maximum obligation for total duration of this contract (or new total if Contract is being amended). $16,800 PROMPT PAYMENT DISCOUNTS (PPD): Commonwealth payments are issued through EFT 45 days from invoice receipt. Contractors requesting accelerated pay ments must identify a PPD as follows: Payment issued within 10 days __% PPD; Payment issued within 15 days __ % PPD; Payment issued within 20 days __ % PPD; Payment issued within 30 days __% PPD. If PPD percentages are left blank, identify reason: _X_agree to standard 45 day cycle __ statutory/legal or Ready Payments ( M.G.L. c. 29, § 23A ); __ only initial payment (subsequent payments scheduled to support standard EFT 45 day payment cycle. See Prompt Pay Discounts Policy.) BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT PERFORMANCE or REASON FOR AMENDMENT: (Enter the Contract title, purpose, fiscal year(s) and a detailed description of the scope of performance or what is being amended for a Contract Amendment. Attach all supporting documentation and justifications.) This is a grant of financial assistance to the Melrose Cultural Council to participate in the Local Cultural Council Program. Page 3 of 6Docusign Envelope ID: E0517824-4EE6-43A8-83BF-DDBDA4E9C646 SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM (SDP) PLAN Does the Supplier Diversity Program apply? __ If YES, the Contractor’s annual SDP commitment for this Contract is _X_ If NO, and the department is an Executive Department, enter the appropriate exemption: ANTICIPATED START DATE: (Complete ONE option only) The Department and Contractor certify for this Contract, or Contract Amendment, that Contract obligations: __ 1. may be incurred as of the Effective Date (latest signature date below) and no obligations have been incurred prior to the Effective Date. __ 2. may be incurred as _______, 20__ , a date LATER than the Effective Date below and no obligations have been incurred prior to the Effective Date. _X_ 3. were incurred as of July 01, 2025 , a date PRIOR to the Effective Date below, and the parties agree that payments for any obligations incurred prior to the Effective Date are authorized to be made either as settlement payments or as authorized reimbursement payments, and that the details and circumstances of all obligations under this Contract are attached and incorporated into this Contract. Acceptance of payments forever releases the Commonwealth from further claims related to these obligations. CONTRACT END DATE : Contract performance shall terminate as of June 30, 2026, with no new obligations being incurred after this date unless the Contract is properly amended, provided that the terms of this Contract and performance expectations and obligations shall survive its termination for the purpose of resolving any claim or dispute, for completing any negotiated terms and warranties, to allow any close out or transition performance, reporting, invoicing or final payments, or during any lapse between amendments. CERTIFICATIONS : Notwithstanding verbal or other representations by the parties, the “Effective Date” of this Contract or Amendment shall be the latest date that this Contract or Amendment has been executed by an authorized signatory of the Contractor, the Department, or a later Contract or Amendment Start Date specified above, subject to any required approvals. The Contractor certifies that they have accessed and reviewed all documents incorporated by reference as electronically published and the Contractor makes all certifications required under the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications under the pains and penalties of perjury, and further agrees to provide any required documentation upon request to support compliance, and agrees that all terms governing performance of this Contract and doing business in Massachusetts are attached or incorporated by reference herein according to the following hierarchy of document precedence, the applicable Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, this Standard Contract Form, the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications, the Request for Response (RFR) or other solicitation, the Contractor’s Response (excluding any language stricken by a Department as unacceptable, and additional negotiated terms, provided that additional negotiated terms will take precedence over the relevant terms in the RFR and the Contractor’s Response only if made using the process outlined in 801 CMR 21.07 , incorporated herein, provided that any amended RFR or Response terms result in best value, lower costs, or a more cost effective Contract. AUTHORIZING SIGNATURE FOR THE CONTRACTOR: AUTHORIZING SIGNATURE FOR THE COMMONWEALTH: X: X: Signature1 Signature3 _______________________. _______________________. Date: Date: DateSigned1 DateSigned3 _________________. _________________. Print Name: fieldSignerName1 __________________________________. Print Title: fieldSignerTitle1 Print Name: _____Catherine Cheng-Anderson__________________. ___________________________________. Print Title: _ Senior Director of Business Operations and Chief Financial Officer _. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Internal Use Mass Cultural Council Fiscal Department: Fiscal Review Completed: Signature2 ________________________________ Page 4 of 6Docusign Envelope ID: E0517824-4EE6-43A8-83BF-DDBDA4E9C646 Page 5 of 6Docusign Envelope ID: E0517824-4EE6-43A8-83BF-DDBDA4E9C646 Attachment A: Scope of Services The allocated amount or maximum obligation for the contracted city or town will be deposited in the local account for the local or regional cultural council, provided that the city or town: Maintain a revolving account for the local or regional cultural council as required by Massachusetts General Law, Chapter 10, Section 58 Report on said fund annually by completing the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s Local Cultural Council Account Form RESTRICTIONS: This grant to City of Melrose is restricted for use by Melrose Cultural Council. The local or regional cultural council will expend the funds following the procedures outlined in the Local Cultural Council Program Guidelines I have read and understood Attachment A: Initial fieldInitials1 ____ Page 6 of 6Publication Date: Tuesday, August 26, 2025 Contact: Jim Bracciale, Melrose Cultural Council Co-Chair Sarah Bolha, Melrose Cultural Council Co-Chair Email: melrosecultural@gmail.com Melrose Cultural Council Accepting Grant Proposals September 2 through October 16 for 2026 Calendar Year Melrose, MA: The Melrose Cultural Council (MCC) is seeking proposals for community- oriented arts, cultural, and interpretive sciences events and programming with broad public benefit and impact. The Local Cultural Council (LCC) annual grant application cycle opens Tuesday, September 2, and closes Thursday, October 16. The MCC’s goal is to provide financial support on a direct-granting basis to a variety of projects that appeal to the diverse population and cultures within our community — reaching adults of all ages, youth, children, families, and seniors. Information about the online application, eligibility guidelines, local priorities, and past grants can be found on our website: melroseculture.org/apply. Grant Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must present their events and programming during the upcoming calendar year (January 1-December 31, 2026) at a local ADA- compliant venue. Applicants are urged to closely read and follow the LCC Program eligibility guidelines and local priorities available on the Massachusetts Cultural Council website. As in our most recent grant cycle, the MCC may now fully fund approved projects, eliminating the need for applicants to seek additional sources of funding. We do not accept requests for capital expenditures, individual scholarships, or multi-year repeating programs. First- time applicants are encouraged to submit a proposal. Prospective applicants are welcome to contact the MCC to ask questions or to receive feedback on proposals before submitting. Grants are competitive, and not all requests are awarded or fully funded. In 2025, 32 grants were awarded, ranging from $300 to $3,000. In total, nearly $38,000 was disbursed to 2025 grant recipients. Priorities: Our 2026 priorities are informed by a recent community outreach survey. We are actively encouraging applications that address inclusion, diversity, and equity. Preference will be given to projects that build community through social connections and dialogue. We hope to elevate the voices and experiences of historically underrepresented groups by authentically reflecting and highlighting the current and historic diversity of Melrose residents through arts and culture. Projects that speak to the experience of Massachusetts artists and audiences who identify as BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA, immigrant, or live with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Proposals for innovative ideas, collaborations, and new initiatives that produce free public events and activities in outdoor spaces are most favorably welcomed. About the Council: The MCC is the local affiliate of the Massachusetts Cultural Council. Part of a statewide network in cities and towns funded by the legislature, MCC is committed to supporting programs that promote excellence, education, cultural diversity, inclusion, and equity to foster a rich and vibrant cultural life in Melrose. Additional funding for the 2026 funding cycle is provided by the City of Melrose through a free cash appropriation approved by the City Council. Grants are given to Melrose organizations, individuals, and Massachusetts artists/presenters in partnership with local organizations. We encourage and support programs across all arts disciplines — visual arts, music, theater, dance, writing, projects in the humanities, history, local culture, and interpretive sciences. ### 12/8/25, 11:20 AM Melrose – Mass Cultural Council Home / Find Your LCC / Melrose Melrose Cultural Council The Melrose Cultural Council is committed to supporting programs with public benefit that promote excellence, education, cultural diversity, inclusion, and racial equity to foster a rich and vibrant cultural life in Melrose. Priority is given to applications from Melrose organizations, individuals, and organizers. We encourage and wish to support programs across all arts disciplines, including the visual arts, music, humanities, drama, public art, murals, installations, and interpretive sciences. We encourage first time applicants. Requests for feedback are welcome before applying. Melrose Cultural Council will also entertain funding proposals from schools and youth groups. Our goal is to provide financial support to a variety of projects that collectively appeal to the diverse population and cultures of our community reaching adults of all ages, youth, children, families and seniors. The Melrose Cultural Council welcomes applications from a variety of identities inclusive of race, gender expression, gender identity, sexual identity, ability, religion, age, education, national origin, citizenship, and ethnicity. Contact Sarah Bolha melrosecultural@gmail.com 781-979-4440 https://melroseculture.org/ Address 562 Main Street Melrose, MA 02176-3113 Connect on Social Facebook Instagram Application Information https://massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/melrose/ 1/212/8/25, 11:20 AM Melrose – Mass Cultural Council FY26 Allocation $16,800 FY26 Local Priorities Applicants must present their events and programming during the upcoming calendar year (January 1-December 31, 2026) at a local ADA-compliant venue. Applicants are urged to closely read and follow the LCC Program eligibility guidelines and local priorities available on the Massachusetts Cultural Council website. As in our most recent grant cycle, the MCC may now fully fund approved projects, eliminating the need for applicants to seek additional sources of funding. We do not accept requests for capital expenditures, individual scholarships, or multi- year repeating programs. First-time applicants are encouraged to submit a proposal. Prospective applicants are welcome to contact the MCC to ask questions or to receive feedback on proposals before submitting. Grants are competitive, and not all requests are awarded or fully funded. In 2025, 32 grants were awarded, ranging from $300 to $3,000. In total, nearly $38,000 was disbursed to 2025 grant recipients. FY26 Local Guidelines Our 2026 priorities are informed by a recent community outreach survey. We are actively encouraging applications that address inclusion, diversity, and equity. Priority will be given to projects that build community through social connections and dialogue. We hope to elevate the voices and experiences of historically underrepresented groups that reflect and highlight the current and historic diversity of Melrose residents in an authentic way, through arts and culture. Projects that speak to the experience of Massachusetts artists and audiences who identify as BIPOC, Latinx, LGBTQIA, immigrant, or live with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Proposals for innovative ideas, collaborations, and new initiatives that produce free public events and activities in outdoor spaces are favorably welcomed. How Grant Recipients Are Paid Direct Grants FY26 Funding List A grant list will be published here after January 17, 2026 and once the Local Cultural Council has finalized their decisions. Mass Cultural Council publishes updates daily. Last update was made on December 8, 2025 at 03:46 PM UTC https://massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/melrose/ 2/2 GRANT AGREEMENT This Grant Agreement (“Agreement”) is made by and between the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, acting by and through the Executive Director of the Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) on behalf of the Secretary of the Executive Office for Administration and Finance (EOAF), and the City of Melrose through Mayor Jennifer Grigoraitis. PRELIMINARY STATEMENT The Grantee desires to obtain funding from EOAF in the amount specified in paragraph 1.2, as authorized under the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Five-Year Capital Investment Plan – FY2023–FY2027 and Chapter 140 of the Acts of 2022, Section 2, Item 1100-2515 for a Municipal ADA Improvement Grant to fund capital improvements or planning (the “Project”) as described herein. EOAF agrees to make the funds (“EOAF Grant”) available to the Grantee for the Project, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement and in compliance with all applicable state laws and regulations governing the disbursement and expenditure of state funds. The Grantee shall exercise complete management and oversight responsibility of the Project and agrees that the Commonwealth’s provision of state funding under this Agreement shall not in any way be construed as the Commonwealth assuming responsibility or liability for the completed Project. SECTION 1. PROJECT SCOPE 1.1 The scope of the Project to be funded under the EOAF Grant will include: Removing architectural barriers and making accessibility improvements to the Hoover, Winthrop, and Horace Mann Elementary Schools by installing accessible doors at each location. The Horace Mann school will also install an accessible lift, ramp, and railing. The Hoover School will also install accessible door handles at several locations. 1.2 The maximum EOAF Grant amount authorized to Grantee is $171,800. Disbursement of funds to Grantee is contingent upon MOD’s receipt of detailed, itemized invoices showing incurred expenses between the date of contract execution and June 30, 2026, as described in Section 2. SECTION 2. DISBURSEMENT OF EOAF GRANT 2.1 Disbursement of the EOAF Grant under this Agreement shall be made pursuant to the FY2023- FY2027 Capital Investment Plan; the information provided in the grant application; and any other information EOAF or MOD may require. The grant award will be disbursed upon MOD’s receipt of Grantee’s request for reimbursement as set forth in paragraphs 2.2 through 2.6. Grantees should submitPage all 1 of 4 invoices together to request reimbursement; Grantees should not submit invoices individually throughout the grant cycle. 2.2 It is understood and agreed that the grant provided under this Agreement shall be used solely to pay for capital expenses associated with the Project. Expenses relating to project administration and management shall be assumed by the Grantee, including without limitation: (i) salaries and wages of Grantee staff; (ii) legal fees; (iii) travel, meal and entertainment expenses; (iv) overhead and supplies; (v) project costs incurred prior to the execution and subsequent to termination of this Agreement; and (vi) costs of any other service or activity not related to the Project. 2.3 The Grantee shall keep detailed records of all activities associated with the Project, including, without limitation, all disbursements made pursuant to this Agreement, any modifications of the Project, and any additional funding from sources other than the EOAF Grant. EOAF and MOD shall have the right to examine all records kept by the Grantee related to the Project. 2.4 The Grantee shall be responsible for any cost overruns that occur during implementation of the Project. 2.5 All approved expenses must be incurred by June 30, 2026. Grantee will forfeit reimbursement for any remaining award unused by June 30, 2026. The Executive Office for Administration and Finance shall give due consideration to any extenuating circumstances presented in writing by the applicant and may waive this restriction at its discretion. 2.6 The Grantee shall submit a request for reimbursement that includes a cover letter and itemized invoices of all reimbursable costs incurred for the Project no later than July 17, 2026. The cover letter should include (i) the total amount of reimbursement sought by the Grantee; (ii) an explanation of each invoiced expense; and (iii) an explanation of any funding for the Project from sources other than the EOAF Grant. The itemized invoices shall not include costs excluded from reimbursement in paragraph 2.2. The Commonwealth may reject any requests for reimbursement received after July 17, 2026 and any request to reimburse expenses outside the scope of the EOAF Grant. SECTION 3. REPORTING 3.1 Upon completion of the Project, the Grantee shall furnish to MOD (i) photo documentation of the project in its before, during, and after phases and (ii) a statement from the Grantee describing how the project improved accessibility in their community. 3.2 Grantees should be prepared to furnish the following on MOD’s request: (i) copies of all permits and approvals issued in connection with the Project; (ii) any outstanding Page 2 of 4 vendors’ invoices, certified payment vouchers, cancelled checks or other documentation verifying actual expenditures in connection with the Project; (iii) documentation evidencing commitment of funds to the Project from sources other than EOAF, including documentation associated with the issuance of bonds or notes to finance the cost of the Project; (iv) a certificate of occupancy of the Project or portions of the Project as applicable by law. SECTION 4. COMPLIANCE WITH ALL APPLICABLE LAWS/REGULATIONS 4.1 The Grantee and its consultants and contractors shall comply with any and all federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations, orders or requirements that apply to the Project, including but not limited to: (i) Executive Order 592 relating to nondiscrimination, diversity, equal opportunity and affirmative action in hiring and employment practices; (ii) the State Prevailing Wage Law (M.G.L. Ch.149, Sections 26 to 27H); (iii) Title VI of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964, as amended; (iv) Environmental Impact Requirements (M.G.L. Ch. 30, Sections 61 to 62I); (v) Historic Preservation Requirements (M.G.L. Ch. 9, Sections 26 to 28) and applicable regulations; (vi) Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 USC 12132) and applicable regulations and guidance, including the 2010 ADA Design Standards; (vii) Architectural Access Board Requirements (M.G.L. Ch. 22, Section 13A) and applicable regulations; (viii) the MBTA Communities Act (M.G.L. Ch. 40A, Section 3A); and (ix) legal requirements relating to municipal or state-assisted construction and design projects, including those under M.G.L. c. 30B, c. 7C, c. 7,and c. 149, as applicable. Specifically, the Grantee agrees that any work completed under the project will conform with either 521 CMR or the 2010 ADA Design Standards, whichever is more stringent. 4.2 This Agreement shall in no way relieve the Grantee from the full force and application of any laws, rules, regulations and orders or requirements. SECTION 5. INTEREST OF MEMBERS OR EMPLOYEES OF THE GRANTEE 5.1 No officer, servant, agent, or employee of the Grantee has participated or will participate in any decision relating to the development and implementation of the Project that affects directly or indirectly their personal interest or the interest of any corporation, partnership, or proprietorship with which they are directly or indirectly affiliated. Furthermore, no officer, servant, agent, or employee of the Grantee shall have any direct or indirect interest in any contract made in connection with the Project nor shall in any way violate M.G.L. Chapter 268A. SECTION 6. AMENDMENTS Page 3 of 4 6.1 No amendment to this Agreement nor any material change to the scope of the Project funded under this Agreement shall be made by the Grantee without the prior written approval of MOD. SECTION 7. SEVERABILITY OF PROVISIONS 7.1 If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall not be affected thereby, and all other parts of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect. For the Grantee: _____________________________________________ ____________________________________ Name Title _____________________________________________ ____________________________________ Signature Date For the Massachusetts Office on Disability, on behalf of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts: _____________________________________________ ____________________________________ Name Title _____________________________________________ ____________________________________ Signature Date Page 4 of 4 COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS | STANDARD CONTRACT FORM This form is jointly issued and published by the Office of the Comptroller, the Executive Office for Administration and Finance, and the Operational Services Division as the default contract for all Commonwealth Departments when another form is not prescribed by regulation or policy. The Commonwealth deems void any changes made on or by attachment (in the form of addendum, engagement letters, contract forms or invoice terms) to the terms in this published form or to the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications, the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions for Human and Social Services, or the Commonwealth IT Terms and Conditions which are incorporated by reference herein. Additional non-conflicting terms may be added by Attachment. Contractors are required to access forms at macomptroller.org/forms or mass.gov/lists/osd-forms. CONTRACTOR INFORMATION COMMONWEALTH INFORMATION Contractor Legal Name Department MMARS Code d/b/a Contract Manager Name Legal Address Business Mailing Address As entered on Form W-9 or Form W-4 Contract Manager Name Billing Address If Different Phone Fax Phone Fax Email Email Vendor Code MMARS Doc ID(s) VC Vendor Code Address ID RFR/Procurement or Other ID Number e.g. “AD001”. AD Note: The Address ID must be set up for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) payments. NEW CONTRACT CONTRACT AMENDMENT Procurement or Exception Type (Check one option only) Current Contract End Date Amendment Amount PRIOR to Amendment Or Enter “No Change” Statewide Contract (OSD or an OSD-designated department.) Amendment Type Collective Purchase Check one option only. Attach details of amendment changes. (Attach OSD approval, scope, and budget.) Amendment to Date, Scope, or Budget Department Procurement - Includes all Grants 815 CMR 2.00. (Attach updated scope and budget.) (Attach Solicitation Notice or RFR, and Response or other procurement supporting documentation.) Interim Contract with Current Contractor (Attach justification for Interim Contract and updated scope/budget.) Emergency Contract (Attach justification for emergency, scope, and budget.) Contract Employee (Attach any updates to scope or budget.) Contract Employee (Attach Employee Status Form, scope, and budget.) Other Procurement Exception (Attach authorizing language/justification and updated scope/budget.) Interim Contract with new Contractor (Attach justification for Interim Contract and updated scope/budget.) Other Procurement Exception (Attach authorizing language, legislation with specific exemption or earmark, and exception justification, scope, and budget.) TERMS AND CONDITIONS The Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications and the following document are incorporated by reference into this Contract and are legally binding. Check ONE option: Commonwealth Terms and Conditions Commonwealth Terms and Conditions for Human and Social Services Commonwealth IT Terms and Conditions COMPENSATION Check ONE option. The Department certifies that payments for authorized performance accepted in accordance with the terms of this Contract will be supported in the state accounting system by sufficient appropriations or other non-appropriated funds, subject to intercept for Commonwealth owed debts under 815 CMR 9.00. Rate Contract (No Maximum Obligation). (Attach details of all rates, units, calculations, conditions or terms and any changes if rates or terms are being amended.) Maximum Obligation Contract. Total maximum obligation for total duration of this contract (or new total if contract is being amended): Page 1 of 2 Updated 07/01/2025 MMARS Doc ID(s) PROMPT PAYMENT DISCOUNTS (PPD) Commonwealth payments are issued through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) 45 days from invoice receipt. See Prompt Pay Discounts Policy. Contractors requesting accelerated payments must identify a PPD as follows: Payment issued within: 10 days % PPD. 15 days % PPD. 20 days % PPD. 30 days % PPD. If PPD percentages are left blank, identify reason: Statutory/legal Ready Payments (M.G.L. c. 29, § 23A) Agree to standard 45-day cycle Only initial payment BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT PERFORMANCE or REASON FOR AMENDMENT Enter the Contract title, purpose, fiscal year(s) and a detailed description of the scope of performance or what is being amended for a Contract Amendment. Attach all supporting documentation and justifications. SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM (SDP) PLAN Does the Supplier Diversity Program apply? YES If YES, the Contractor’s annual SDP commitment for this Contract is NO If NO, and the department is an Executive Department, enter the appropriate exemption: ANTICIPATED START DATE (Complete ONE option only.) The Department and Contractor certify for this Contract, or Contract Amendment, that Contract obligations: 1. may be incurred as of the Effective Date (latest signature date below) and no obligations have been incurred prior to the Effective Date. 2. may be incurred as of , 20 , a date LATER than the Effective Date below and no obligations have been incurred prior to the Effective Date. 3. were incurred as of , 20 , a date PRIOR to the Effective Date below, and the parties agree that payments for any obligations incurred prior to the Effective Date are authorized to be made either as settlement payments or as authorized reimbursement payments, and that the details and circumstances of all obligations under this Contract are attached and incorporated into this Contract. Acceptance of payments forever releases the Commonwealth from further claims related to these obligations. CONTRACT END DATE Contract performance shall terminate as of , 20 , with no new obligations being incurred after this date unless the Contract is properly amended, provided that the terms of this Contract and performance expectations and obligations shall survive its termination for the purpose of resolving any claim or dispute, for completing any negotiated terms and warranties, to allow any close out or transition performance, reporting, invoicing or final payments, or during any lapse between amendments. CERTIFICATIONS Notwithstanding verbal or other representations by the parties, the “Effective Date” of this Contract or Amendment shall be the latest date that this Contract or Amendment has been executed by an authorized signatory of the Contractor, the Department, or a later Contract or Amendment Start Date specified above, subject to any required approvals. The Contractor certifies that they have accessed and reviewed all documents incorporated by reference as electronically published and the Contractor makes all certifications required under the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications under the pains and penalties of perjury, and further agrees to provide any required documentation upon request to support compliance, and agrees that all terms governing performance of this Contract and doing business in Massachusetts are attached or incorporated by reference herein according to the following hierarchy of document precedence, the applicable Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, this Standard Contract Form, the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certificatio ns, the Request for Response (RFR) or other solicitation, the Contractor’s Response (excluding any language stricken by a Department as unacceptable), and additional negotiated terms, provided that additional negotiated terms will take precedence over the relevant terms in the RFR and the Contractor’s Response only if made using the process outlined in 801 CMR 21.07, incorporated herein, provided that any amended RFR or Response terms result in best value, lower costs, or a more cost effective Contract. AUTHORIZING SIGNATURE FOR THE CONTRACTOR AUTHORIZING SIGNATURE FOR THE DEPARTMENT Signature and date must be captured at time of signature. Signature and date must be captured at time of signature. Signature Date Signature Date Print Name Print Title Print Name Print Title Page 2 of 2 Updated 07/01/2025 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Administration–Engineering–Water–Sewer–Facilities Parks–Forestry–Highway–Sanitation–Cemetery–Fleet CITY OF MELROSE Elena Proakis Ellis, P.E., BCEE City Yard, 72 Tremont Street Director of Public Works Melrose, Massachusetts 02176 Telephone – (781) 665-0142 E-mail: eproakis@cityofmelrose.org MEMORANDUM To: Mayor Jennifer Grigoraitis Melrose City Council From: Elena Proakis Ellis, P.E., Director of Public Works cc: Kerriann Golden, CFO/Auditor Lauren Grymek, Chief of Staff Polina Latta, Human Resources Director Cari Berman, Superintendent of Schools James Troup, Deputy DPW Director – Administration & Finance Date: December 12, 2025 Re: Massachusetts Office on Disability (MOD) Grant Acceptance – Melrose Schools The City has been awarded a grant in the amount of $171,800 for accessibility improvements at the Melrose Public Schools. Following on the successful completion of a MOD grant last year to install automatic door openers at Melrose High School and repair openers at the Horace Mann School interior, along with braille signage at the MHS/MVMMS campus, the City applied for and was awarded a new MOD grant for implementation this year. The scope of work includes the following items: • Automatic door openers at Hoover, Horace Mann, and Winthrop Elementary Schools, including mechanical, electrical, and security infrastructure to install pushbutton openers at the entrances to these three elementary schools. These door openers must be tied into existing security systems for fob access and access from the school offices. • Stage lift and ramp at Horace Mann Elementary School All Purpose Room, including electrical and mechanical equipment, as well as structural reinforcement of the floor beneath the lift. • Exterior railing on the ADA ramp at Horace Mann Elementary School, including materials and labor. • Door handle replacement at select interior doors at the Hoover Elementary School to facilitate opening interior doors for students with specific needs. We hereby request the City Council’s acceptance of the grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Office on Disability in the amount of $171,800. The grant agreement document is attached for your reference. The funds will be expended from a dedicated project account set up by the CFO/Auditor and reimbursed by the Commonwealth as funds are expended. Thank you for your consideration of this request. COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS | STANDARD CONTRACT FORM This form is jointly issued and published by the Office of the Comptroller, the Executive Office for Administration and Finance, and the Operational Services Division as the default contract for all Commonwealth Departments when another form is not prescribed by regulation or policy. The Commonwealth deems void any changes made on or by attachment (in the form of addendum, engagement letters, contract forms or invoice terms) to the terms in this published form or to the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications, the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions for Human and Social Services, or the Commonwealth IT Terms and Conditions which are incorporated by reference herein. Additional non-conflicting terms may be added by Attachment. Contractors are required to access forms at macomptroller.org/forms or mass.gov/lists/osd-forms. CONTRACTOR INFORMATION COMMONWEALTH INFORMATION Contractor Legal Name City of Melrose Department MMARS Code Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities OCD d/b/a Treasurer/Town Hall Contract Manager Name Julissa Tavarez Legal Address 562 Main Street Melrose MA 02176 Business Mailing Address As entered on Form W-9 or Form W-4 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 300, Boston, MA 02114 Contract Manager Name Lori Massa Billing Address If Different same as above Phone (781) 979-4190 Fax Phone Fax N/A 617-573-1114 N/A Email lmassa@cityofmelrose.org Email Julissa.Tavarez@mass.gov Vendor Code MMARS Doc ID(s) SCOCD321026330000398 VC6000192115 Vendor Code Address ID RFR/Procurement or Other ID Number HLCOneStop2026 e.g. “AD001”. AD001 Note: The Address ID must be set up for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) payments. NEW CONTRACT CONTRACT AMENDMENT Procurement or Exception Type (Check one option only) Current Contract End Date Amendment Amount PRIOR to Amendment Or Enter “No Change” Statewide Contract (OSD or an OSD-designated department.) Amendment Type Collective Purchase Check one option only. Attach details of amendment changes. (Attach OSD approval, scope, and budget.) Amendment to Date, Scope, or Budget Department Procurement - Includes all Grants 815 CMR 2.00. (Attach updated scope and budget.) (Attach Solicitation Notice or RFR, and Response or other procurement supporting documentation.) Interim Contract with Current Contractor (Attach justification for Interim Contract and updated scope/budget.) Emergency Contract (Attach justification for emergency, scope, and budget.) Contract Employee (Attach any updates to scope or budget.) Contract Employee (Attach Employee Status Form, scope, and budget.) Other Procurement Exception (Attach authorizing language/justification and updated scope/budget.) Interim Contract with new Contractor (Attach justification for Interim Contract and updated scope/budget.) Other Procurement Exception (Attach authorizing language, legislation with specific exemption or earmark, and exception justification, scope, and budget.) TERMS AND CONDITIONS The Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications and the following document are incorporated by reference into this Contract and are legally binding. Check ONE option: Commonwealth Terms and Conditions Commonwealth Terms and Conditions for Human and Social Services Commonwealth IT Terms and Conditions COMPENSATION Check ONE option. The Department certifies that payments for authorized performance accepted in accordance with the terms of this Contract will be supported in the state accounting system by sufficient appropriations or other non-appropriated funds, subject to intercept for Commonwealth owed debts under 815 CMR 9.00. Rate Contract (No Maximum Obligation). (Attach details of all rates, units, calculations, conditions or terms and any changes if rates or terms are being amended.) Maximum Obligation Contract. Total maximum obligation for total duration of this contract (or new total if contract is being amended): $100,250.00 Page 1 of 2 Updated 07/01/2025 MMARS Doc ID(s) PROMPT PAYMENT DISCOUNTS (PPD) Commonwealth payments are issued through Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) 45 days from invoice receipt. See Prompt Pay Discounts Policy. Contractors requesting accelerated payments must identify a PPD as follows: Payment issued within: 10 days % PPD. 15 days % PPD. 20 days % PPD. 30 days % PPD. If PPD percentages are left blank, identify reason: Statutory/legal Ready Payments (M.G.L. c. 29, § 23A) Agree to standard 45-day cycle Only initial payment BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF CONTRACT PERFORMANCE or REASON FOR AMENDMENT Enter the Contract title, purpose, fiscal year(s) and a detailed description of the scope of performance or what is being amended for a Contract Amendment. Attach all supporting documentation and justifications. FY26 Community Planning Grant Program - Housing Production Plan Implementation - See Attachment B for more details. SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM (SDP) PLAN Does the Supplier Diversity Program apply? YES If YES, the Contractor’s annual SDP commitment for this Contract is NO If NO, and the department is an Executive Department, enter the appropriate exemption: Grant Program ANTICIPATED START DATE (Complete ONE option only.) The Department and Contractor certify for this Contract, or Contract Amendment, that Contract obligations: 1. may be incurred as of the Effective Date (latest signature date below) and no obligations have been incurred prior to the Effective Date. 2. may be incurred as of , 20 , a date LATER than the Effective Date below and no obligations have been incurred prior to the Effective Date. 3. were incurred as of , 20 , a date PRIOR to the Effective Date below, and the parties agree that payments for any obligations incurred prior to the Effective Date are authorized to be made either as settlement payments or as authorized reimbursement payments, and that the details and circumstances of all obligations under this Contract are attached and incorporated into this Contract. Acceptance of payments forever releases the Commonwealth from further claims related to these obligations. CONTRACT END DATE Contract performance shall terminate as of June 30, 2027 , with no new obligations being incurred after this date unless the Contract is properly amended, provided that the terms of this Contract and performance expectations and obligations shall survive its termination for the purpose of resolving any claim or dispute, for completing any negotiated terms and warranties, to allow any close out or transition performance, reporting, invoicing or final payments, or during any lapse between amendments. CERTIFICATIONS Notwithstanding verbal or other representations by the parties, the “Effective Date” of this Contract or Amendment shall be the latest date that this Contract or Amendment has been executed by an authorized signatory of the Contractor, the Department, or a later Contract or Amendment Start Date specified above, subject to any required approvals. The Contractor certifies that they have accessed and reviewed all documents incorporated by reference as electronically published and the Contractor makes all certifications required under the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications under the pains and penalties of perjury, and further agrees to provide any required documentation upon request to support compliance, and agrees that all terms governing performance of this Contract and doing business in Massachusetts are attached or incorporated by reference herein according to the following hierarchy of document precedence, the applicable Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, this Standard Contract Form, the Standard Contract Form Instructions and Contractor Certifications, the Request for Response (RFR) or other solicitation, the Contractor’s Response (excluding any language stricken by a Department as unacceptable), and additional negotiated terms, provided that additional negotiated terms will take precedence over the relevant terms in the RFR and the Contractor’s Response only if made using the process outlined in 801 CMR 21.07, incorporated herein, provided that any amended RFR or Response terms result in best value, lower costs, or a more cost effective Contract. AUTHORIZING SIGNATURE FOR THE CONTRACTOR AUTHORIZING SIGNATURE FOR THE DEPARTMENT Signature and date must be captured at time of signature. Signature and date must be captured at time of signature. Signature Date Signature Date Print Name Print Title Print Name Print Title Caroline “Chris” Kluchman Director of Livable Communities Page 2 of 2 Updated 07/01/2025 Attachment A Scope of Service ATTACHMENT A: SCOPE OF SERVICES AND ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS FY2026 Community Planning Grant Program Contract I. CONTRACT The Contractor is responsible for accessing and reviewing the contents of the documents referenced below, as compliance with each is a binding component of this Contract: A. This Attachment A is attached to and made a part of the COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS STANDARD CONTRACT FORM. THE COMMONWEALTH TERMS AND CONDITIONS and the Contractor’s Budget, as approved by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (“EOHLC” or the “Executive Office”) are attached hereto as Exhibits. B. This Attachment A incorporates by reference the Community Planning Grant Program Application as applicable. C. This Attachment A, all attached Exhibits and other Attachments, and all documents incorporated by reference herein, are referred to, collectively, as the Contract. D. This Contract represents the entire agreement between the Contractor and EOHLC, and any prior or contemporaneous representations, promises, or statements by the parties, that are not incorporated herein, shall not serve to vary or contradict the terms set forth in this Contract. E. If any term or condition of this Contract is declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be illegal or in conflict with any law, the validity of the remaining terms and conditions shall not be affected, and the rights and obligations of the parties shall be construed and enforced as if this Contract did not contain the particular provision held to be invalid. II. SCOPE OF SERVICES AND COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS The Community Planning Grant Program provides funding for a variety of activities related to community planning, such as a community plan, zoning revision, or planning for housing. As these are planning and zoning grants, grant funds must either: (1) support direct community engagement efforts to involve community members in the planning process, or (2) produce planning or zoning document(s) and/or related materials in draft, phased, or final product form. The Contractor shall use this contract funding to provide services in accordance with the terms of the attached Budget, the terms of this Contract, and any subsequent Contract amendments. ALL EXPENSES MUST BE INCURRED ON OR BEFORE JUNE 30TH OF THE FISCAL YEAR IN WHICH THEY OCCUR (FY 2026 – YEAR 1; FY 2027 – YEAR 2). Any later change in services and activities to be provided by Contractor shall be made only with the prior approval of EOHLC, in accordance with Section III.C. below. Revised: October 2025 The Contractor shall carry out these activities in conformance with all applicable federal and state laws and requirements, including without limitation, statutes, rules, regulations, administrative and executive orders, ordinances, and codes, as they may be issued and amended, and this Contract shall in no way relieve the Contractor from the full force of any laws, rules, regulations and orders, or requirements. EOHLC reserves the right to issue future administrative guidance. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable guidelines, information memoranda, list serves, or other guidance EOHLC may issue, amend, or supplement from time to time. III. ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS A. Reporting Responsibilities of the Contractor 1. The Contractor, and any entity under subcontract, having costs chargeable to Contract funds shall maintain Contract records in accordance with Section 7 of the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions including without limitation, a record of planned activities, a record of activities carried out, and an explanation of any changes in program activities. Consistent failure to meet these and all reporting responsibilities of the Contractor and the provisions of this Contract may negatively impact future awards of EOHLC capital grant programs. 2. The Contractor shall comply with all records and reporting requirements set forth in this Contract. 3. The Contractor shall submit to EOHLC in writing a schedule of the Contractor's estimated drawdowns of grant funds prior to fully executing a Contract. The Contractor shall update the schedule of estimated drawdowns of grant funds at the beginning of each fiscal year of the Contract, if the Contractor becomes aware of substantial changes to the original estimate, or as requested by EOHLC. 4. The Contractor shall submit written quarterly progress reports to EOHLC in compliance with the following deadlines and requirements using a form provided by EOHLC. Progress reports shall be submitted on or before the 15th day of the month following the last month of the quarter, except in instances when the due date shall fall on a weekend or holiday where reports would be due the following full business day after the deadline. EOHLC may delay reimbursement to the Contractor if the Contractor consistently fails to submit timely progress reports or other documents required under this Contract. Any such action by EOHLC shall be preceded by written notification of the intent to delay such reimbursement, which may be done electronically, and allow for the Contractor to make reasonable written explanation regarding the occurrence, and the remedy of the issue. Failure by the Contractor to reply to EOHLC’s written notification or to comply with specific instructions from EOHLC shall be treated as a breach herein and under Section 4 of the Revised: October 2025 Commonwealth Terms and Conditions. EOHLC further reserves the right to consider past performance under the Community Planning Grant Program when evaluating an applicant’s initial submission. Progress report deadlines are as follows: Progress Report FY Quarter Reporting Period Due Date FY26 Q3 Contract start date to 3/31/2026 4/15/2026 FY26 Q4 4/1/2026 to 6/30/2026 7/15/2026 FY27 Q1 7/1/2026 to 9/30/2026 10/15/2026 FY27 Q2 10/1/2026 to 12/31/2026 1/15/2027 FY27 Q3 1/1/2027 to 3/31/2027 4/15/2027 FY27 Q4 4/1/2027 to 6/30/2027 7/15/2027 For any FY26 grant that is granted a contract extension, the Contractor shall continue to furnish quarterly progress reports on the 15th day of the month following the end of the quarter for the duration of the extended contract. 5. The Contractor shall submit a copy of the planning or zoning document(s), or other project outcome(s) produced with grant funding. Document(s) should be delivered by July 31, 2027. If documents cannot be delivered by July 31, 2027, the Contractor must submit written notification via email to the program representative by July 31, 2027, stating when the documents will be submitted. In accordance with Section III.A.4, failure to submit document(s) required under this Contract may (i) result in delayed reimbursement; (ii) may be treated as a breach of the Contract; and (iii) will be considered when evaluating applications for future grant awards. 6. The Contractor shall continually assess its performance of the Contract- supported activities to ensure that the performance objectives outlined in the Contract are achieved. This includes, but is not limited to, the Contractor’s monitoring that applicable schedules are met, and performance objectives are achieved in accordance with the activities delineated in the Contract. The Contractor shall promptly inform EOHLC in writing, which may be done electronically, of the following conditions which may affect its deliverable objectives and performance as soon as they become known: a. Problems, delays, or adverse conditions which will materially affect the Contractor’s ability to attain deliverable objectives. This disclosure shall be accompanied by a statement of any actions taken or contemplated by the Contractor, and any assistance needed from EOHLC to resolve the situation. Failure by the Contractor to communicate promptly or to respond promptly to communications from EOHLC may result in the denial by EOHLC of any budget or schedule change requests by the Contractor, as provided in Section III.C. Revised: October 2025 b. Favorable developments or events which will enable the Contractor to meet the deliverable Contract objectives sooner than anticipated or at less cost than originally projected. 7. The Contractor shall submit all progress reports electronically to EOHLC’s assigned program representative with a copy to: McKenzie Bell, Senior Community Grants Coordinator mckenzie.bell@mass.gov 8. EOHLC shall advise the Contractor within thirty (30) days of receiving any report if it is not acceptable to EOHLC. The Contractor shall submit an acceptable report no later than 14 days from receipt of such advice from EOHLC. 9. The Contractor, and any entity under subcontract having costs chargeable to Contract funds, shall maintain Contract records in accordance with Section 7 of the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, including, without limitation, a record of planned activities, a record of activities carried out, and an explanation of any changes in program activities. 10. Within five business days of receipt, the Contractor shall provide EOHLC with copies of any and all exception reports and written communications of an audit or review of the Contractor and any written final reports of such audits or reviews that the Contractor receives during the Contract term from the state Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and/or the Office of the State Auditor. Such reports or communications may be provided electronically. 11. Within five business days of being served with any pleading in a legal action filed with a court or administrative agency related to this Contract or which may affect the Contractor’s ability to perform its obligations hereunder, the Contractor shall notify EOHLC of such action and deliver copies of such pleadings to EOHLC. Such reports or communications may be provided electronically. 12. The Contractor will submit any other reports or information requested by EOHLC by the due date specified in EOHLC’s request. The Contractor shall promptly make available to EOHLC or to an auditor or contractor approved by EOHLC such material information regarding the Contractor’s activities as may be requested by EOHLC. B. Payment Mechanism and Fiscal Obligations EOHLC agrees to provide payment for the services described under this Contract, pursuant to the following payment mechanism: 1. Cost Reimbursement. The Contractor shall submit to EOHLC written requests for cost reimbursement on EOHLC’s Community Planning Grant Revised: October 2025 Invoice form (Community Planning Invoice), or other such form as EOHLC may specify. Only requests for cost reimbursement for authorized capital expenses, pursuant to the capital funds from the state’s capital budget, that are completed within the dates of service of an invoice, and that take place within the length of the contract, are authorized for reimbursement. 2. Community Planning Invoices should be submitted no more than once a month and should include the range of the dates of service being submitted for reimbursement. 3. All payments are contingent upon receipt of the availability of funds, authorization by the Executive Office of Administration and Finance and the Massachusetts Comptroller, and the provisions of the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions. In accordance with 815 CMR 2.00 and state finance law, EOHLC is under no legal obligation to compensate the Contractor, or to obtain additional funding, for any costs or other commitments which are outside the scope of the executed Contract and which have not been approved by EOHLC. 4. In no event shall the sum of any and all payment by reimbursement exceed the maximum amount payable to the Contractor hereunder. Requests for payment by cost reimbursement will be honored and funds will be released based on submission by the Contractor, with review and acceptance by EOHLC, of required data and reports as detailed in this Contract, the availability of funds, and the Contractor’s satisfactory compliance with the terms of this Contract. Each request for payment by cost reimbursement must be made on the Community Planning Invoice. By submitting the Community Planning Invoice, the Contractor represents that in accordance with the Contract, including the Contractor’s Budget as approved by EOHLC, articles have been furnished, services have been rendered, or obligations have been incurred by a person authorized to incur such obligations. EOHLC’s fiscal representative will provide additional billing instructions, if necessary, to the Contractor via email. When submitted electronically, the Community Planning Invoice should be attached to the email submission in one email attachment. Any other documents, such as vendor invoices, must be submitted as separate attachments. In addition to the Community Planning Invoice, requests for payment by cost reimbursement shall also contain sufficient detail, supporting records, and documentation to support costs. Records to substantiate the Contractor’s claims hereunder may include, without limitation, payroll Revised: October 2025 records, accounting records, and purchase orders that are sufficient to document the Contractor’s program and financial activities under this Contract. The request for cost reimbursement shall be submitted electronically to the attention of: Brett Morton, Fiscal Representative brett.morton2@mass.gov with a copy to EOHLC’s assigned program representative and: McKenzie Bell, Senior Community Grants Coordinator McKenzie.Bell@mass.gov 5. All requests for cost reimbursement for expenses incurred in FY2026 – Year 1 must be submitted on or before July 15, 2026; and all requests for cost reimbursement for expenses incurred in FY2027 – Year 2 on or before July 15, 2027. Reimbursement requests submitted after the close of these Fiscal Year deadlines in this Section shall not be accepted or paid. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to require that any subcontractor submit invoices in a manner that meets these requirements and deadlines. 6. The Contractor shall submit the final Community Planning Invoice on or before July 15, 2027. With the submission of the final Community Planning Invoice, the Contractor shall return to EOHLC any unexpended funds that are reflected in the final reconciliation, subject to Section III.B above. C. Budget or Schedule Changes 1. Any subsequent change in the services and activities to be provided by the Contractor in accordance with the attached Budget, including, but not limited to, extensions of time, requires prior written approval from EOHLC’s assigned program representative listed in Section III.A.7. Requests for any amendments or extensions shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by EOHLC and may be approved or denied by EOHLC at its discretion. Consideration shall only be extended to Contractors who are in adherence with Section III.A.6 and other requirements of this Contract. Requests to amend or extend the end date of the Contract must be received by EOHLC on or before March 15, 2027. EOHLC will provide an Extension Request Form template that the Contractor must fill out and submit to EOHLC’s assigned program representative by April 1, 2027. This Contract shall not be extended if a request to extend the end date is made after such deadline or if the Contractor fails to submit a timely Extension Request Form. No waivers to this clause shall be granted. Revised: October 2025 The Contractor shall submit final reports and forms electronically to EOHLC’s assigned program representative with a copy to: McKenzie Bell, Senior Community Grants Coordinator McKenzie.Bell@mass.gov 2. Budget Amendments. The Contractor may transfer funds among the line items in the Budget, only with the written permission of EOHLC. No amendment to the Contract shall be required for such change. The Contractor shall submit a request for such change electronically to EOHLC’s representatives, listed in Section III.B.4, at least 30 days prior to requesting reimbursement funds under such change. If EOHLC does not respond within 30 days of receipt of the requested change, it will be deemed to have approved of the change. D. Signage, Acknowledgment, Publicity, and Logos 1. Signage. The Contractor may erect or post a sign at a location where Contract funds have been used indicating that financing is being or has been provided in part by EOHLC as part of the Community Planning Grant Program, subject to compliance with the zoning by-laws or ordinances of the municipality in which the sign is to be erected or posted. The sign shall include the following statement: “Funds for this Project have been provided by a Community Planning Grant provided by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.” 2. Acknowledgment. If Contract funds are expended by the Contractor on the preparation or production of a brochure or other publication, the brochure or publication shall include the following statement: “This publication was funded by a Community Planning Grant provided by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.” 3. Publicity; Other Materials. The Contractor may disseminate, publish, or reproduce documents produced in whole or in part pursuant to this Contract, provided that the Contractor furnishes to EOHLC copies of any such documents thirty (30) days prior to publication, and provided that such documents include the acknowledgment required under Section III.D.2. The Contractor may copyright any books, publications, or other copyrightable materials produced under this Contract, provided that the Contractor shall provide to the Commonwealth as appropriate an irrevocable, nonexclusive royalty-free right to reproduce, publish, or otherwise use or authorize others to use the copyrighted material. 4. Logos. If the Contractor wishes to include an Agency logo on any signage or other materials produced in accordance with this section, it may contact EOHLC’s assigned program representative, listed in Section III.A.7, for the appropriate copy of a logo. Revised: October 2025 5. Submission to EOHLC. Any sign, publication, or other material produced in accordance with this section must be submitted in advance to EOHLC’s assigned program representative, listed in Section III.A.7, no later than thirty (30) days before posting or distribution. If EOHLC does not respond within thirty (30) days of receipt of the material, it will be deemed to have approved of the material. EOHLC reserves the right to require that the Contractor provide to EOHLC photographs, video, or other media and/or documentation, if applicable, or copies of such materials, of any project financed in part by EOHLC under the Community Planning Grant Program. E. Audit or Financial Review EOHLC reserves the right under this Contract to secure its own independent audit or financial review of the Contractor’s (or Subcontractor, if applicable) records if, in its sole discretion, EOHLC determines that it is necessary for any reason. F. Monitoring EOHLC may monitor the Contractor’s (or Subcontractor, if applicable) compliance with the Contract. The Contractor shall allow EOHLC and its representatives access to all its books and records pertaining to this Contract. G. Conflict of Interest, Licensure, and Debarment 1. The Contractor shall not engage in any business or personal activities or practices or maintain any relationships which conflict in any way with the full performance of the Contractor’s obligations hereunder. 2. The Contractor shall not knowingly employ or compensate any employee of the Commonwealth during the term of this Contract, unless such arrangement is permitted under the provisions of M.G.L. c. 268A. Employment of former Commonwealth employees shall also be in compliance with the provisions of M.G.L. c. 268A. 3. The Contractor represents and warrants that as of the effective date, it has, and that at all times during the term hereof it shall have, at its sole expense, all licenses, certifications, approvals, insurance, permits, and other authorizations required by law to perform its obligations hereunder. The Contractor shall maintain all necessary licenses, certifications, approvals, insurance, permits, and other authorizations required to properly perform activities under this Contract, without reimbursement by the Commonwealth or other adjustment in Contract funds. Further, the Contractor warrants that all employees, agents, and subcontractors performing services under this Contract shall hold all required licenses or certifications, if any, to perform their responsibilities. Revised: October 2025 4. The Contractor certifies that the Contractor and its principals are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, declared ineligible, or voluntarily excluded from participation in this transaction by any federal or state department or agency. The Contractor agrees to immediately notify EOHLC if the Contractor becomes suspended or debarred, or if any licenses, certifications, approvals, insurance, permits, or any such similar requirement necessary for the Contractor to properly perform become revoked, withdrawn, or non-renewed during the Contract period. H. Enforcement, Suspension, and Termination 1. Enforcement of this Contract and all rights and obligations hereunder are reserved solely to the Contractor and EOHLC, and not to any third party. 2. EOHLC may use increased or additional monitoring and reporting as part of its enforcement actions. 3. EOHLC’s grant application review includes a review for civil rights compliance. EOHLC reserves the right to place conditions on this grant if there is an administrative or judicial finding, decision, opinion, order, or other outcome concerning any civil rights matter(s) that is adverse to the Contractor or any of their subcontractors. Such conditions may be added by EOHLC through administrative guidance or email, without the need for a formal contract amendment. 4. This Contract may be terminated pursuant to Sections 4 and 5 of the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions. 5. EOHLC may provide the Contractor with written notice to decrease or cease Contract activity. Effective upon receipt of notice from EOHLC, or a later date specified therein, the Contractor agrees to decrease, suspend, and/or terminate Contract activity in conformance with the terms of such notice. 6. Upon the termination or expiration of this Contract, the Contractor shall continue to cooperate with all audit, records, and monitoring requirements. 7. Within a maximum of 90 days following the date of expiration or termination of this Contract, the Contractor shall submit all reports and data required by this Contract. I. Non-Discrimination In The Provision of Services The Contractor shall not deny services or otherwise discriminate in the delivery of services because of race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status or children, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, receipt of federal, state, or local public assistance or housing subsidies, veteran/military status, or because of any other basis prohibited by law. The Contractor agrees to comply with all applicable federal and state statutes, rules Revised: October 2025 and regulations and administrative and Executive Orders prohibiting discrimination, including without limitation, the Americans with Disabilities Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. §§ 12101 et seq.), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (29 U.S.C. § 794), Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended (42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d et seq.), the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended (42 U.S.C. §§ 6101 et seq.), M.G.L. c. 151B, M.G.L. c. 272 §§ 92A, 98, and 98A, M.G.L. c. 111 § 199A, 42 U.S.C. 9918 (c) and 45 C.F.R. 80. J. Confidentiality 1. The Contractor certifies that it has established sufficient internal policies to carry out its obligations hereunder. 2. The Contractor shall keep all state records and information, wherever obtained, confidential at all times and comply with all state and federal laws concerning the confidentiality of information. The Contractor shall hold all personal data relating to Contract-supported personnel and applicants or recipients of Contract-supported programs and activities in accordance with Section 6 of the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, the Standard Contract Form and its Instructions and Contractor Certifications, and all applicable Federal and state privacy and confidentiality laws and regulations, including M.G.L. c. 66A,“Massachusetts Fair Information Practices Act;” M.G.L. c. 93H, Security Breaches; 801 CMR 3.00: Privacy and Confidentiality, and 201 CMR 17.00: Standards for the Protection of Personal Information of Residents of the Commonwealth. The Contractor shall take all required measures to protect the security of personal data it receives, and shall ensure that its software and security meets, at a minimum, the “Enterprise Information Security Policies and Standards” adopted by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Technology Services and Security (“EOTSS”), available at https://www.mass.gov/handbook/enterprise- information-security-policies-and-standards, or any successor standards thereto. 3. Pursuant to the Standard Contract Form and its Instructions and Contractor Certifications and the Commonwealth Terms and Conditions, the Contractor certifies that the Contractor has reviewed and shall comply with all information security programs, plans, guidelines, standards and policies that apply to the work to be performed under this Contract, that the Contractor shall communicate these provisions to and enforce them against its subcontractors, and that the Contractor shall implement and maintain any other reasonable and appropriate security procedures and practices necessary to protect personal information to which the Contractor is given access as part of this Contract, from unauthorized access, destruction, use, modification, disclosure, or loss. In addition, consistent with the requirements of the Standard Contract Form and the state information security policies, the Contractor’s employees shall generally not conduct Contract business through or send confidential information to employees’ personal email accounts. In addition, the Contractor will promptly notify EOHLC in the event of any security breach Revised: October 2025 including unauthorized access, disbursement, use or disposal of the personal records and information. In the event of a security breach, the Contractor will cooperate with EOHLC and its authorized representatives and will provide access to any information necessary to respond to the security breach. 4. The Contractor shall notify its agents, employees, subgrantees, and assignees who may come into contact with state records and confidential information that each is subject to the confidentiality requirements set forth herein. 5. The Contractor shall deliver to EOHLC, within 14 days of a written request by EOHLC following termination of this Contract, such personal data relating to this Contract as EOHLC may request; provided, that the Contractor may keep copies of any personal data delivered to EOHLC; and provided further, that for the purposes of this sentence, the term, “personal data”, shall not include the Contractor’s personnel records. K. Fraud, Waste, and Abuse The Contractor shall maintain and use systems and procedures to prevent, detect, and correct fraud, waste, and abuse in activities funded under this Contract. The Contractor’s failure to reasonably prevent, detect or correct fraud, waste, and abuse may be taken into account in any future EOHLC awards. Revised: October 2025 FY22 CP Budget Melrose Attachment B Budget FY2026 Community Planning Grant Program Name of Contractor Project Manager Include name of Subcontractor if Name, email, and phone number applicable Include name and contact information of person preparing report if different from project manager City of Melrose Name: Lori Massa Email: lmassa@cityofmelrose.org Phone: (781) 979-4190 Project Name Housing Production Plan Implementation Project Description Brief Summary of Project Melrose will update its zoning and subdivision regulations in alignment with its Housing Production Plan. Project Tasks Cost by Task Consultants/Prof. Fees $100,000.00 Meeting Expenses/Events $250.00 Project Supplies/Materials $0.00 Other/Miscellaneous $0.00 TOTAL $100,250.00 rev. 8/2025 Bid Solicitation: BD-25-1100-EED01-EED01-111802 Header Information Bid Number: BD-25-1100-EED01-EED01-111802 Description: Community One Stop for Bid Opening 06/04/2025 Growth - FY2026 Round Date: 11:59:00 PM Purchaser: Daniel Billings Organization: Executive Office of Economic Development Department: EED01 - Economic Development Location: EED01 - Economic Development Fiscal Year: 25 Type Code: NS - Non-Statewide Solicitation Allow Electronic No Quote: Alternate Id: Required Date: Available Date : 01/24/2025 12:00:00 AM Info Contact: Website: www.mass.gov/onestop, Email: Bid Type: OPEN Informal Bid No onestop@mass.gov Flag: Purchase Method: Blanket Begin Date: 01/24/2025 End Date: 07/01/2025 Pre Bid Conference: Visit www.mass.gov/onestop for a schedule (or recordings) of the informational One Stop Webinars. Prospective applicants can also receive feedback by submitting an Expression of Interest. Bulletin Desc: The Community One Stop for Growth is a single application portal and collaborative review process for community and economic development grant programs that make targeted investments based on a Development Continuum. Single- and multi-year grants awards will be made from various programs through EOED, EOHLC, and/or MassDevelopment via the One Stop Full Application. Expressions of Interest accepted through March 26, 2025. For the most up to date program information, visit www.mass.gov/onestop. Ship-to Address: Robin Pezzone Bill-to Address: Robin Pezzone Print Format: 1 Ashburton Place-Room 2101 1 Ashburton Place-Room 2101 Boston, MA 02108 Boston, MA 02108 US US Email: eoedap@mass.gov Email: eoedap@mass.gov Phone: (617) 788-3610 Phone: (617) 788-3610 File Attachments: FY26 Community One Stop for Growth NOFA Form Attachments: Required Quote Attachments SBPP (Small Business Purchasing YES Program) Eligible?: See SBPP requirements and exceptions at www.mass.gov/sbpp : Item Information Item # 1: ( 00-00-00-00-0000 ) The Community One Stop for Growth is a single application portal and collaborative review process for community and economic development grant programs that make targeted investments based on a Development Continuum. Single- and multi-year grants awards will be made from various programs through EOED, EOHLC, and/or MassDevelopment via the One Stop Full Application. Expressions of Interest accepted through March 26, 2025. For the most up to date program information, visit www.mass.gov/onestop. U N S P S C Code: 00-00-00 Grant Opportunity 00-00-00-00 Grant Opportunity 00-00-00-00-0000 Grant Opportunity Qty Unit Cost UOM Total Discount Amt. Total Cost 1.0 Manufacturer: Brand: Model: Make: Packaging: Bid Tab Exit Copyright © 2025 Periscope Holdings, Inc. - All Rights Reserved. MASS_AWS_PROD Commonwealth of Massachusetts EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF HOUSING & LIVABLE COMMUNITIES Maura T. Healey, Governor Kimberley Driscoll, Lieutenant. Governor Edward M. Augustus Jr., Secretary Via email: jgrigoraitis@cityofmelrose.org September 30, 2025 The Honorable Jennifer Grioraitis City of Melrose 562 Main Street Melrose, MA 02176 Dear Mayor Grioraitis: Application: Melrose 00723 Congratulations on Melrose’s successful application to the FY26 Round of the Community One Stop for Growth. On behalf of the Healey-Driscoll Administration, I am pleased to inform you that a grant in the amount of $100,250.00 from the Community Planning Grant Program has been approved to support the Housing Production Plan Implementation project. The Community Planning Grant Program will start contracting in the coming weeks. We will send an email to the municipal CEO and project contact identified in your application with pre-contracting information and tasks to complete, and an invitation to an online training related to grant administration and contract guidance. Please contact McKenzie Bell, Senior Community Grants Coordinator, at McKenzie.Bell@mass.gov with questions. Please be advised that this letter does not constitute an agreement or contract with the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) or the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the grant award is not final until the organization has executed a contract with the EOHLC. You should not proceed with any grant activities until a contract is in place. The receipt of grant funds is contingent upon the grantee being able to certify that it will comply with the Massachusetts General Laws, including G.L. c. 40A, § 3A, the MBTA Communities Act. Compliance with the MBTA Communities Act is determined by the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities. Finally, public announcement of this award is embargoed until the Administration has had the opportunity to formally announce it through a public event and/or media release. Please refrain from sharing or publicizing news about this award outside of your organization until it is officially announced. Sincerely, Edward M. Augustus Jr. Secretary, EOHLC 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 300 www.mass.gov/eohlc Boston, Massachusetts 02114 617.573.1100 OFFICE OF PLANNING AND CITY OF MELROSE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT City Hall, 562 Main Street Melrose, Massachusetts 02176 LORI MASSA Telephone - (781) 979-4190 Director & City Planner M E M O R A N D U M TO: Mayor Jennifer Grigoraitis Melrose City Council FROM: Lori Massa, Director & City Planner cc: Kerriann Golden, CFO/Auditor Lauren Grymek, Chief of Staff Maya Noviski, Senior Planner Adam Forrester, Assistant Planner DATE: January 5, 2026 RE: Housing Production Plan Implementation Project Grant Acceptance The City has been awarded a $100,250 FY2026 Community Planning Grant to support the continued implementation of the City’s Housing Production Plan. Housing is area of critical need as is outlined in the Housing Production Plan and with this grant we will hire a consultant to work with our staff and Zoning Subcommittee of the Planning Board to solicit community input and craft revisions to our regulations that will enable a more diverse mix of housing types. This work will build off of the City’s past successes and support our local and regional housing goals. We hereby request the City Council’s acceptance of the grant from the Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities (EOHLC) through the Community One Stop for Growth Program in the amount of $100,250.00. The grant agreement document is attached for your reference. The funds will be expended from a project account set up by the CFO/Auditor and reimbursed by EOHLC as funds are expended. Thank you for your consideration of this request.
Transcript
▶ 38:02 Devin Romanul: as counselors Chen Occhio, Karen Shady, Koal Park Williams, and President Freeman. This serves as a notice of a quorum for the record in accordance with the open Meeting law. This meeting is being recorded and broadcast live on MMTV. I'll now motion by unanimous consent to approve the minutes from our most recent meeting. Seeing no objection, these minutes are approved. I'll now motion by unanimous consent to open the floor for public comment. Seeing no objection, the floor is now open. This is the portion of the meeting where anyone can speak, speak on any item on our agenda tonight. Do we have anyone in the audience who would like to speak? Is there anybody online? No one online. Alright.
▶ 38:44 Devin Romanul: No one found our meeting terribly interesting. That's too bad. Um, it's good stuff tonight. Alright, if there's no objection, I'll motion to close. Public comment. Seeing none, we are now closed. Alright. First on our agenda this evening, ID number 20 25 8 6 7. Acceptance of fiscal 2026 Local cultural council allocation. Joining us is member of the administration. Good evening. Hi. Good evening, counselors. I'm Lauren Grig, chief of Staff. Nice to see returning counselors and welcome to the new ones as well. Um, so before you is the annual allocation from the Massachusetts Cultural Council that every city in town receives, um, for arts and culture. So our annual allocation this year, um, is just under $17,000.
▶ 39:31 I think it's 16,800, which is the same as last year. And we have our local Melrose Cultural Council Committee that, um, does a lot of grant making and gives this money out to Melrose Nonprofits and individuals to put on programs like the opening doors, concert, things that happen, you know, at the BB Estate Open Studios tour. Um, lots of different free community events throughout the year. Um, chamber of Commerce, summer stroll. So these organizations, it's a, it's a grant opportunity for these organizations to help fund a lot of the programs and events that we all attend throughout the year. Thank you so much. Any members have any questions? Councillor Williams. Motion to approve. Second motion to approve by Councillor Williams.
▶ 40:14 Devin Romanul: Seconded by, uh, Councillor Karen Shady on discussion. All in favor? Aye. Aye. All those opposed the ayes haven't. Thank you so much. Thank you. Also note for the record, we're joined by Councillor Reky. Good evening. Good evening. How you doing? Pretty well. How are you? Good. Good. Thank you. Alright. Second on our agenda tonight, ID number 2025. 8 6 8 acceptance of municipal a DA improvement grant. Joining us evening is Director Pro EGUs Ellis. Thank you. Hello. Hello. And I'm joined by Gary Hale from the Commission on Disability. Um, thank you for having us. And so this is, uh, we're requesting an acceptance of a grant in the amount of $171,800, um, from the Massachusetts, uh, office of Disability.
▶ 41:11 And we had successfully applied for a smaller grant last year. Got it. Did a fantastic project at, um, both the Horseman and the high school to add some automatic door openers and some other, uh, accessible signage. Um, and so we thought since that went so well, we would apply for a bigger amount. And so Gary and I and Pauly Lata worked together, um, to submit this application that includes automatic door openers at the Hoover Horse, Mann and Winthrop Elementary Schools. These are the on the exterior doors, one set at each school, um, including all of the mechanical, electrical and security infrastructure to install push button openers, um, uh, stage lift at the Horace Mann Elementary School in the all-purpose room
▶ 41:55 Cal Finocchiaro: to get up onto the stage. Right now, there's no accessible way for someone to get up onto the stage. Um, and then there's a ramp into the A PR that is not a compliant, um, slope. So we're gonna replace that, uh, an exterior railing on the a DA ramp outside the Horseman Elementary and some door handle replacements in the Hoover School to make the doors easier to open for, um, students who have trouble with the knobs that are there now. Terrific. First, I believe we have Councilor Ro. Yes. Thank you. Uh, chair Remodel. Um, this is very exciting news to get all these improvements to the schools. It's obviously needed and, um, it's great. It's great to hear that these kids are gonna, um, have these, especially the lift onto the stage.
▶ 42:42 Cal Finocchiaro: You know, that's, that's something that we would typically think of, but that's so important. Um, I just wanted to ask, uh, who would do the work? Who's gonna be doing the work? Is this gonna be work that is gonna be bitted out or It'll be a combination of some of the work can be done by, um, on-call contractors that we already have under contract, some by state contract vendors. And then if there's anything that doesn't fit either of those two categories, then we could go out to bid. But we're hoping that between the on-call contracts and state contracts, we can, we can do all the work. Nice. And timeframe wise, where, where were you Thinking? I believe we have to spend it by June 30th. Do you recall?
▶ 43:16 Manjula Karamcheti: Yes. Alright, great. So be quick. Excellent. Thank you. I'm next counselor, Karen Shady. Um, first I just wanted to say thank you. Applying for these grants takes a lot of time, energy, and, um, a lot of diligence in proofreading and all those kinds of things. So I really appreciate you making the effort. This is extremely important and it's a list of things I think we've wanted to do for a long time. So very much appreciate you finding the resources to do this work. I also had a question about timeline, but that has been answered. So I guess just more perspective wise, with this funding, are we close to getting all the things that we would like to get done in terms of the school? Or are we still the schools? Are we still far off?
▶ 44:04 Manjula Karamcheti: How far off are we in terms of accessibility in the city? Um, I know we've had studies and that kind of thing. A ballpark would be helpful. It's just when we think about Melrose One community for all, we want everyone to have access. So just kind of curious where this puts us in terms of all the work that we wanna do. Do you have any comments on that One? Um, it's a long list as you probably know. Yes. And we have, uh, a lot, a number of, uh, venerable elementary schools and that, um, could use some work here and there. Uh, I think what we're trying to take care of is, uh, the immediate access, particularly to the ground floor. Um, these are older buildings. They're not terribly conducive to putting elevators in.
▶ 44:52 So it's really important for the first floors to be as accessible as possible. And, um, you know, if we can take another shot, um, next year, that'd be great. We we're not really sure we would get this one because there's a lot of competition. There were 21 million, um, um, dollars in bids and they only had $6 million to give out. So, uh, we are really pleased to, to get this grant, uh, in the amount that we did. Um, and I, I think these improvements would be important, um, because after all the schools are, you know, not only is it important for the accessibility for the kids, but uh, they really are community buildings. So, um, parents and grandparents and other family members and city council members go to these schools for events
▶ 45:48 and, and activities of, of the kids. And, uh, uh, really, uh, excited to have these improvements be able to be made this year. Well again, thank you so much because I know that you're, you and your the committee are really leading the charge in a lot of this work and your efforts to prioritize are really appreciated. Up next, councilor Park. Thank you, chair Romanul. Um, I would like to echo my fellow counselors and saying thank you for taking the initiative on getting this grant. Uh, I had a question about, uh, the, the selection of the schools that were given, uh, the funds to install the accessible doors. So you had mentioned, or it's written that it's Winthrop Horse, Mann and Hoover. Does it, is that to say that Lincoln and Roosevelt
▶ 46:39 and the other schools are on the list to do, or are, do they already have the accessibility doors and how did you find up? Roosevelts are newer and I believe they both have push button mm-hmm. Entry, uh, Franklin, I don't remember if we, so we visited the schools together and we picked out the ones that we thought were both the highest need and the most feasible to install from a, just from a logistical perspective. Um, and I can't remember if Franklin already has one or not, but that would be the only one that wouldn't. The middle school definitely does, and we've now addressed the high school through last year's grant. And then the Roosevelt and the Franklin have them, I mean, excuse me, the Roosevelt and the Lincoln.
▶ 47:18 Devin Romanul: Okay. Um, okay. So it's just the Franklin that it remains potential That I just don't remember whether it has it or not, but, but yeah, these were the three, you know, elementaries, uh, K through five that didn't have Them. Okay. That's great. I'm pleased to hear that. Councillor Vandiver, Thank you very much for applying for this grant, getting this grant. And uh, I'd like to make a motion to recommend second Motion by Councilor Vandiver to recommend Motion by Councillor William or to second it council on discussion. All those in favor? Aye. All opposed? The ayes have it. Thank you so much. Thank you very much for your advocacy and getting the grant. We're so appreciative. Alright. And last but not least, particularly
▶ 48:01 Devin Romanul: for the housing enthusiast in the room ID number 20 26 3 acceptance of the, uh, E-O-H-L-C-F-Y 26 Community Planning grant in the amount of 100 and 200, $100,250. We're now joined by Ms. Masa. Thank you so much for coming in. Yes, thanks for having me. I'm Lori Masa. I'm the Director of the Office of Planning and Community Development. Uh, we applied for a grant from the Executive Office of Housing and Lable communities, uh, for this, um, grant to, um, implement some of our, uh, housing production plan goals around zoning. Um, so we reified our zoning ordinance in the fall of 20, um, 24, which was a huge effort. And at that point we discussed this kind of phase two, um, work. And so now we're got the grant, um, to hire a consultant
▶ 48:52 to work with planning staff, planning board, zoning board, uh, the zoning subcommittee of the planning board. Um, and to kick off this, um, this effort. So we'll likely be looking at our neighborhoods and the dimensions that are, um, required within them to look at, you know, the built conditions and can we build housing, um, the, the way that we, our neighborhoods are built right now. And also look to, um, other kinds of housing types that, um, would fit within the, the context of, um, the neighborhoods. And then also look at our subdivision regulations, um, which are very outdated, um, and often require many waivers when we do get subdivisions. Um, so we wanna take a look at those as well.
▶ 49:38 Ryan Williams: Terrific. Thanks so much. Councillor Williams. Just wanted to say thank you for pursuing this, especially the subdivision regulations, which are something that I find particularly egregious given that they have enormous, massive parcel sizes compared to the standard parcel size in the city. Um, and I think they create really out of character housing as a result. So I really appreciate you guys looking into this. Um, I wanted to ask, is this consultant the one that was doing some of this work prior with you? Have you got a consultant in mind? So we did, um, in the application process, you often need to have a kind of an estimate from, um, a consultant. So we did reach out to the community scale who we had worked
▶ 50:17 Cal Finocchiaro: with, um, with the zoning reification. Um, we will be putting this up to bid. So, um, we'll see what we come back with. Excellent. And what do you think about a timeline? So we, um, said in the grant we would, um, hope to have a year long process, um, for this work. Um, we do have until the end of, um, well June 20, um, 27 to use the money. Nice. Thank you. Mm-hmm. Councilor for no chiro. Thank you. Uh, chair model. So when you say enable a more diverse mix of housing types, um, and are you looking I I just, I I don't understand this as sure as much as I, um, probably should. I dunno. But, um, the zoning in the all, all of this sort of, I'm trying to understand a little bit better. Um, does that mean that you're looking
▶ 51:05 to change the zoning laws within like the neighborhoods to, So within the neighborhoods there's, you know, many different zoning districts. So when we talk about this, it's um, like looking specifically at the district and the blocks and um, you know, we have the capability now of kind of having so much data around the existing conditions and, and what's there and then compare it to what the regulations are. Um, so it is kind of a, um, a, a, a close look. And so we're not talking about like neighborhoods in general, but, you know, looking at where two families are allowed or like looking at our townhouse, um, building type right now and, you know, what really do we want those dimensions to be for that kind of housing.
▶ 51:50 So, you know, looking at that kind of, we call missing middle housing of like, you know, three to six or 10 units and, and where, um, we do allow for that kind of housing in Melrose, we're pretty progressive in that way, but then do the dimensions actually match what we wanna see, um, with, with some of those housing types. So, so potentially maybe adding more units to those lots or reducing or, well, It's, it's things like, you know, we have lot sizes that you never see in Melrose. So if, you know, we look at what the built condition is and make the regulations match that, then there could be a potential that you could, um, you know, have a single family house, you know, in a, in a very large side yard.
▶ 52:33 Manjula Karamcheti: Um, where now you'd have to get a variance in order to do that. Um, so those are the kinds of things, um, that we'd be looking at. I see. Okay. Thank you. Councilor Ki Treaty. Um, I think my line of questioning is sort of similar to Councilor Rios, but I was just hoping that you could give sort of a, through this grant and the implementation, like what could some potential outcomes be that residents could expect? So we will have a public engagement, you know, as part of this and try to do some great vis visualization. 'cause the dimensions can be well boring, but also can be, you know, depending on what it is. Um, hard to understand. So we're, you know, really wanna have some great visuals and data for the public.
▶ 53:17 Manjula Karamcheti: So, um, we'd go through that process and then have zoning amendments that would come back to you for approval. The, the subdivision regulations would go to, um, the planning board, but a lot of those, um, in terms of lot sizes and things would be zoning that, um, the city council would approve. It would just be more of like the road sizes and things that, um, would go to the planning board And just related to that with the planning board, the zoning board of appeals with the potential like recommendations and zoning changes, then not, we wouldn't need certain, um, proposals to go through the planning board and the zoning zoning board of appeals because like obviously the, the regulations would change.
▶ 54:03 Kimberly Vandiver: So those approvals and those discussions wouldn't be necessary Potentially, potentially, you know, things that right now need variances to be built could be by. Right. Oh, Councillor ver Thank you. Uh, thank you for bringing this to us. I have two questions. Um, the first is, uh, so if I'm understanding correctly, correct me if I'm wrong, th this would, uh, help address the concern that I hear people say frequently. I've heard it anyways frequently, um, that we have these, these zoning regulations, but a lot of existing neighborhoods that we love actually would not be compliant according to our zoning regulations. Right. So this would be matching up kind of when you say the built environment, kind of the reality
▶ 54:49 Kimberly Vandiver: that we have today with, with how we're describing ourselves, right? Yes, yes. Okay, great. And, um, I, I guess my other question, comment is, it's as, um, as you know, we have several 40 Bs active one, um, kind of pending in my ward, but we've had 40 Bs throughout the city. Um, and would you say that this would help us, um, move to a point where we can build houses the way that we have agreed upon according to our zoning code faster, better so that we don't, aren't potentially subject to as many 40 B situations? So the, um, 40 B is related to our subsidized housing inventory. This kind of housing, um, would have to have, um, eight or more units in order to have an affordable unit that would then go on the subsidized housing inventory.
▶ 55:42 So, um, you know, once we hit the, the 10% threshold of having our number of, uh, housing units on the subsidized housing inventory, 10% of our total stock on that inventory, um, then we wouldn't be, um, subject to having to approve 40 B projects. So it's, um, you know, then developers wouldn't necessarily have the option of proposing a 40 B project. They have to stick with the, the zoning that's in place for that property. Um, so it's kind of, I would say indirectly related to, you know, getting, um, housing that, that we want to have here. Um, which we, we do have a lot of this kind of housing, so kind of a legal legalizing it and being able to, to build more of it. Um, but it would be kind of the, it's it's typically the,
▶ 56:36 Kimberly Vandiver: the larger projects that have more inclusionary housing that then goes on the subsidized housing inventory that affects the, that kind of, um, our threshold of where we are in terms of needing to accept 40 Bs. Okay. Great. Uh, well I look forward to seeing as this goes through what comes back as far as the zoning, potential zoning amendments and I, I really appreciate that we're looking at this and making sure that we're tuned up to the way we'd like it to be Councillor Williams. Yeah, thank you. And I want to ask for the discretion of the chair because I have a question that's not directly related to the order, but it came up in the course of discussion with Councillor Vandiver in August, 2025.
▶ 57:13 Ryan Williams: The state said our SHI, our subsidized housing inventory was at about 9%, 8.9%. And do you see, do you foresee a pipeline at this moment that would push us to a higher number? And if so, just ballpark or do you think we're headed because we're about 1% away from Safe Harbor status at this point? So where are we headed in terms of Next year building housing next year or two, you know, what's coming down the line? What's been, um, floated that hasn't been, you know, uh, put before the board yet to Reach the 10%? Yeah, yeah, so it, um, it's, it's hard to give a number always because with the 40 B projects, they're put, we, we put them on the subsidized housing inventory, we can put them on right when they're permitted.
▶ 57:55 If they're not constructed, they're taken off. Mm-hmm. And so, um, until, you know, all of the projects are actually built, the number is gonna fluctuate over time. But in terms of all of the ones that have been permitted, um, we need about 50 units, um, to hit the 10%. But again, it's, you know, that is always kind of a moving target. Um, so once we hit that number, then we'll be able to, um, continue to build housing in the dis zoning districts that we want multi-family housing and mixed use projects, so we're not stopping the housing, uh, you know, building housing at that point. It's just in, you know, what kind of permitting and where those projects are coming. Appreciate it. Thank you.
▶ 58:40 Next I have Councillor Occhio, followed by Councillor, Karen Shady. Sorry. Last question. You talked about, um, community input. What, how are you gonna go about that? So we'll do, um, you know, typically surveys to try to reach a wider audience, but then also, um, holds, you know, meetings, um, in person and, um, so with the consultant and then our staff, um, you know, do best, best practices for getting, uh, as much information as we can from, from the public. And then also, you know, stakeholders that are, um, you know, we work with on projects that have, um, kind of a different kind of feedback. So we'll try to get as much input, um, from the, the public and, um, and then that all comes back to you for mm-hmm.
▶ 59:29 Manjula Karamcheti: Um, before anything's approved. Um, probably my last question, but we'll see. Um, you know, I, in terms of like getting to Safe Harbor, I mean, that's really the goal. We want to have affordable housing in Melrose, and, you know, and thinking about 40 B, that's not necessarily something I'm opposed to because it is an avenue to have affordable housing. So I think it's more about being planned and purposeful about where affordable housing is and that it's like co-designed between the developer and the city. And so do you anticipate this grant being helpful as part of like, us being planned and purposeful regarding getting to Safe Harbor and making sure that we have a diverse array of housing
▶ 1:00:22 for, for the city. So it will, um, be a way of building more housing at, you know, varying types. Like we, we want different, we want our housing stock to be varied. So that's what really the goal of this, um, grant will be, is, you know, so, um, the Metropolitan Area Planning Council is actually, um, doing a big project for, you know, kind of this exact, um, goal of looking at the, um, zoning districts across the region, um, and looking at, you know, with GIS data, um, what's the built environment is and, um, what the zoning districts are and looking, uh, showing kind of how, um, they don't match. And so we knew we were gonna be doing this project, but they're actually also doing this at the same time.
▶ 1:01:14 So I think the timing will, will be helpful to use their work and then kind of go from there to, um, work with a consultant, um, and the staff and the boards to, um, continue that work. So it's not a Melrose specific problem. Most communities in this area have this, um, issue where, you know, in the seventies somebody created these zoning districts and dimensions, not necessarily districts, but dimensions of like, okay, this is what we think it should be, and then there's like a copy and paste and, you know, and so, um, now we can, you know, be more thoughtful and look, um, you know, at closely at each neighborhood, um, to see, you know, what's there, what do we want to allow for being built there, um,
▶ 1:02:00 and have different kinds of housing. So one example that, um, was just approved recently was the accessory dwelling unit. That's another, you know, kind of housing that adds a small unit, um, in a neighborhood and generally, you know, minimal impact. And so those are the kinds of things that, um, we're looking for. Um, as opposed to specifying, you know, taking a look at some of the larger redevelopment, um, districts which, um, were more recently rewritten in the city. Um, and, you know, those can always kind of use fresh eyes and um, and attention. But, um, with this grant, we're hoping to do those, um, implementation steps in the zone in the housing production plan that is more of a focus on the neighborhoods,
▶ 1:02:48 which really, um, you know, those, uh, dimensions haven't really changed much, um, you know, since the seventies. Terrific. And I have one more person in line, but I just wanna note for our members, it is 7 46, so we should wrap up shortly. I believe I have, uh, Councillor Park. Thank you. Um, right. So, so, uh, thank you for, for applying for this grant. And I'm, I'm curious, having been in the process of, uh, being in, uh, some of the meetings throughout the course of the past few years with regards to some of the housing, uh, how, I know we had a housing production plan back in that was conducted February of 2022. How have you found that to be in terms of worthwhile and was it useful to, to the public?
▶ 1:03:32 Because I, and I asked this because I know that the 1424 Tremont Street project was largely, uh, outside of the scope and recommendation of the pro the housing production plan in terms of the size. And, um, it seemed to be that a lot of people, uh, reference the housing production plan as a guide, but not to be followed or adhered to. So what are your thoughts on that and how valuable has the 2022 housing production plan been? It's been really valuable. We've gotten, um, a lot of, I think, development, when you put a document out that shows that Melrose wants housing and, um, we've, a lot of those development sites are, you know, under construction or permitted, and, um, those projects are moving along.
▶ 1:04:20 Um, it's always great when a plan is, uh, discussed at public meetings and people know it's there and they look at it. And, you know, that particular site, it had three stories, the zoning dis the zoning allowed for more, um, stories, so people kind of latched onto that one particular, um, you know, thing and height in the, um, in the plan. Um, but generally it has great data about, um, housing and about affordability in Melrose, um, and our, uh, residents incomes. And, um, there's a lot of good data in the plan. So it's also really helpful to have a housing production plan because in order to, um, claim safe harbor, um, from the state, you have to produce a number of housing units and have your housing
▶ 1:05:11 Devin Romanul: production plan certified. If you don't have the housing production plan, um, you can't, uh, have, uh, safe harbor for, you know, that specific kind of safe harbor. So it's been really, it's been really helpful to have the plan. Thank you Councilor Williams. I would like To make motion to approve to the full counsel Second. Second Motion made by Councilor Williams, seconded by Councilor Karen Shady on discussion. All those in favor? Aye. All those opposed the ayes have it. Thank you very much, director Maim. Thank you. Seeing as that is our last agenda item, how motion by unanimous consent to adjourn. Seeing no objection, we are now adjourned. Great work, everybody. Yeah. Good evening. The time is seven 50 on Tuesday, January 20th, 2026.