SECTION 1. The mayor of the city of Somerville may appoint special police officers for the city as the mayor deems necessary for the safety and protection of the citizens.

 SECTION 2. Special police officers appointed under this act shall have the same power to make arrests and to perform other police functions as reserve and intermittent police officers in or upon lands or structures owned, used or occupied by Somerville Housing Authority residents and staff and to perform any police duties arising therefrom. Special police officers appointed under this act shall be subject to the applicable training requirements of such officers established by the municipal police training committee and the city.

 SECTION 3. Special police officers shall be appointed for a term to be determined by the mayor, subject to removal by the mayor with the recommendation of the chief of police. Special police officers shall be confirmed by the city council and sworn before the city clerk who shall keep a record of all such appointments and the term of appointment.

 SECTION 4. The Somerville police chief may, in the Chief’s sole discretion, adopt rules and regulations, policies, procedures, and requirements that shall be applicable to all or certain special police officers including, but not to be limited to, requirements regarding medical examinations to determine continuing capability to perform the duties of a special police officer, requirements for training, requirements for firearms licensing and qualifications, manner of performance of duties, and requirements regarding uniforms and equipment.

 SECTION 5. Special police officers appointed pursuant to this act shall not be subject to chapter 31 of the General Laws, section 99A of chapter 41 of the General Laws, or chapter 150E of the General Laws.

 SECTION 6. This act shall take effect upon its passage.