2018 CCJ Notes - July through December
[items moved from main page]

Tues, Oct 30, 2018 -- Today's Homework Assignment:
Please identify which policies, if any, from Cambridge's Growth Policy Document should be changed.
[To the best of my knowledge, these important policies have never been part of the discussion among the current Envision Cambridge Advisory Committee or its various Working Groups. Indeed, some of the current recommendations growing from the Envision Cambridge process clearly contradict some of these current policies. - RW]

Cambridge Growth Policy - Toward a Sustainable Future
1993, updated 2007
[Full Document - with graphics and narratives]

Wrapping Up 2018

As we turn the corner to 2019 - a municipal election year - I will try to produce a narrative and some reflections on what went down during the last 12 months. For the curious, here is my list of things that went on in the Sullivan Chamber. It will be a challenge to cobble a coherent narrative from these and other events from this year, but I may give it the old college try in the next day or two (or maybe not). - RW

January
Election of the Mayor (Jan 1)
appointment of Special Ad-Hoc Rules Committee to review the City Council rules (Jan 8)
selection of Councillors Dennis Carlone and Craig Kelley as Ordinance Committee Co-Chairs (Jan 8)
Planning Board recommendation to adopt parts of the Kroon, et al, Harvard Square Zoning Petition (Jan 22)
City Council Rules amended and placed on Unfinished Business (Jan 22)
Rules Adopted (Jan 29)
Retirement of Renata von Tscharner from the Charles River Conservancy. Councillor Toomey (Jan 29)
Request for update on marijuana-related zoning and regulation (Jan 29)
Order #4 to explore funding options for the possibility of creating a Business Improvement District (BID) for Central Square. (Jan 29)
City Council Committee Assignments for the Council Term 2018-2019 (Jan 29)

February
Order #7 supporting Right of First Refusal Bill (Feb 5)
report on possibility of a supermarket opening at 20 Sidney Street (Feb 12)
Order #4 re: to establish a new working group to evaluated bike lane pilot (Feb 12)
Order #5 re: to create additional opportunities for the community to evaluate and understand the plan to redesign Inman Square (Feb 12)
AAA bond rating reports (Feb 26)
vote to approve the use of the new voting equipment and to discontinue the use of the existing voting equipment (Feb 26)
Retirement of Elaine DeRosa from the Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee (Feb 26)
Congratulations and thanks to William B. "Bill" King on the occasion of his retirement (Feb 26)
direct the new bicycle lane working group, once it has been convened, to hold a series of “listening sessions” at the senior buildings (Feb 26)
initiate study of pedestrian/bicycle/shuttle bridge at Alewife (Feb 26)
home rule petition for a Cambridge Right of First Refusal Legislation - Charter Right (Feb 26)

March
home rule petition for a Cambridge Right of First Refusal Legislation fails 3-6 (Mar 5)
Resolution on the death of William "Bill" Noble (Mar 5)
Carlone's cribbed text for First Refusal (Mar 5)
information from the Historical Commission relating to the proposed landmark designation for 40 Cottage Street - ignored by Council (Mar 5)
confer with the Election Commission regarding the possibility of instituting early voting in the 2019 municipal election (Mar 19)
block rates for water consumption and sewer use for the period beginning Apr 1, 2018 (Mar 26)
accepting the City of Boston's invitation to join their intergenerational housing pilot program (Mar 26)
conduct, compile, and publish an inventory of all City-owned vacant buildings and lots with the City's plans for them (Mar 26)
drafting of an Arts Overlay District ordinance in the Central Square Cultural District (Mar 26)
compile a list of single family homes which could be purchased by the Affordable Housing Trust and converted to Single Room Occupancies or Housing Cooperatives (Mar 26)

April
feasibility of requiring property owners to give the City written notice when a storefront becomes vacant (Apr 2)
work with Trinity Property Management to give the nearly 200 tenants of the EMF building additional time beyond Apr 30, 2018 (Apr 2)
FY19 submitted budget and appropriation orders (Apr 23)
Zoning Petition was received from Douglas Brown Et Al (Apr 23)
additional commitment of $20 million from the City’s budget is devoted each year over the next five years toward the City’s efforts to preserve and create affordable housing units (Apr 23)
proposal put forward by the City Manager to amend Chapter 12.16, Section 12.16.170 of the Municipal Code, (the “Street Performers Ordinance”) (Apr 30)
develop a program the “Cambridge Publicly Financed Municipal Election Program” for City Council and School Committee candidates (Apr 30)
provide a report on the history of Constellation Charitable Foundation's Parcel C in Kendall Square (Apr 30)
Zondervan proposes increases in Resident Permit Parking fees (Apr 30)

May
Resident Permit Parking fees - adoped 6-3 as amended (May 7)
Retirement of Stuart Dash from the Community Development Department (May 7)
develop a small business parking pilot that would allow temporary on-street employee parking during typical daytime operating hours (May 7)
small business parking pilot (Inman Sq) to allow temporary on-street employee parking voted 5-4 (May 14)
updated schedule for resubmitting a revised draft of the Outdoor Lighting Ordinance (May 14)
complete a tree canopy study based on the April 2018 LiDAR data before the end of 2018 (May 14)
Home Rule Petition - Inman Square reconfiguration (May 21)
Budget Approval (May 21)
Cured-In-Place Plastic Pipe (CIPP) and other plastic pipes (May 21)
create a structured commercial tax rate system for FY20 that prioritizes lowering the tax rate for small businesses (May 21)
activate the Front Lawn of City Hall in the afternoon with games (May 21)
housing eviction, etc. data collection request (May 21)
feasibility of expanding the curbside composting program to small businesses and nonprofits (May 21)

June
Cured-In-Place Plastic Pipe (CIPP) - Charter Right (June 4)
Vellucci Plaza Home Rule - Charter Right (June 4)
structured commercial tax rate system for FY20 - Charter Right (June 4)
Retirement of Virginia "Ginnie" Kelley from the Election Commission (June 18)
Retirement of Susan Maycock from the Cambridge Historical Commission (June 18)
Order to establish an aggressive new strategy to reduce the violence in the Port and Wellington-Harrington neighborhoods (June 18)
Three Zondervan tree Orders (June 18)
Committee Report on sale of adult-use cannabis (June 18)
Zondervan memo on Urban Forest Master Plan Task Force (June 18)
appropriation of $2,000,000 to provide funds for repairs at multiple firehouses (June 25)
revised draft of the proposed Surveillance Technology Ordinance (June 25)
Rainwater & Flat Roof Zoning Petition (Kelley, McGovern, Zondervan) (June 25)
community engagement and outreach – bicycle lanes in the area of South Massachusetts Avenue (June 25)
proposed zoning amendment to section 4.22 of the zoning code (Accessory Units) (June 25)
new initiative that will seek to place Port residents (ages 18 and over) on paths to jobs with family-sustaining wages (June 25)
proposed amendments to Street Performers Ordinance (June 25)

July
Failure to pass Brown-Nakagawa Petition to 2nd reading (July 30)
Cannabis regulation Zoning Petition (July 30)
many opposition letters re: Nakagawa-Brown (July 30)
Retirement of Ellen Shacter; death of George Teso; death of Richelle Robinson (July 30)
Sherman St RR quiet zone (July 30)

September
CPA votes (Sept 17)
appointment of Elaine DeRosa as a member of the Cambridge Housing Authority for a term of 5 years (Sept 17)
Planning Board recommendation to adopt the Cannabis Zoning Petition with suggested revisions (Sept 17)
Two Sancta Maria Orders (before we learned they were staying) (Sept 17)
Acceptance of Home Rule legislation re: Inman Sq. reconfiguration (Sept 17)
Zondervan's "rescind" effort re: Brown Petition (Sept 17)
establishment of Sherman Street Quiet Zone (Sept 24)
Housing Committee report on Overlay, etc. (Sept 24)

October
Toomey orders pushing his campaign finance notions (Oct 1)
Icelandic crosswalk design (Oct 1)
Envision Cambridge draft recommendations to be reviewed by respective City Council committees (Oct 1)
request list of streets to drop to 20mph (Oct 1)
20mph limit committee report (Oct 1)
Additional $5 million appropriation from Free Cash toward Inman Sq. project (Oct 15)
Confirmation of Elaine DeRosa to the Cambridge Housing Authority Board (Oct 15)
Order requestiong written timeline of what steps must take place in order to take final vote on Affordable Housing Overlay (Oct 15)
Housing Committee for a public hearing held on Sept 27, 2018 to discuss Affordable Housing Overlay District (Oct 15)
Kelley memorandum regarding Inman Square Redesign Project (Oct 15)
Sundry communications received relating to opposition of City Envision proposal (Oct 29)
Order and HR Petition for early voting in City Council and School Committee elections (Oct 29)
Request for report on status of the Cambridge Street Bicycle Safety Demonstration Project (Oct 29)
Ordinance Committee report re: Cannabis Zoning (Oct 29)

November
Funding for new Police Reporting Station at 628 Massachusetts Avenue in Central Square (Nov 5)
Ending Broadband Task Force and funding digital equity research initiative (Nov 5)
Community Benefits Advisory Committee - evaluator, etc. (Nov 5)
Further Study Needed on First Street Garage (Nov 5)
Rethink Approach to Envision Cambridge (Nov 5)
resilience task force (Brown/Nakagawa) appointed - 25 members (Nov 19)
draft surveillance ordinance (Nov 19)
draft street performers ordinance amendments (Nov 19)
order calling for a student commission (Nov 19)
Simmons Order asking for region-wide discussion about affordable housing (Nov 19)
Order requestion draft zoning and public health regulations for urban farming (Nov 26)

December
report on the Grand Junction Overlay District (Dec 3)
easement and accepting the conveyance of a 2nd easement for the purpose of constructing a multi-use path along the Grand Junction Railway (Dec 3)
Alexandria zoning petition for Grand Junction Pathway Overlay District (Dec 3)
Flat Roof Zoning Petition again (Dec 3)
Accessory Dwelling Unit Zoning Petition again (Dec 3)
Order re: Inclusionary Tenants' Association (Dec 3)
Legal Opinion on Portland's Relocation Assistance Ordinance (Dec 3)
Order calling for committee or working group to help Council work through the goals and potential options of publicly financed elections (Dec 3)
various cannabis related orders (Dec 3)
Cannabis passed to 2nd Reading (Dec 3)
appointment of an Advisory Committee on Climate Resilience Zoning (Dec 10)
Legal Opinion on Portland's Relocation Assistance Ordinance adopted 9-0 (Dec 10)
Surveillance Ordinance ordained as amended (Dec 10)
Street Performers Ordinance ordained as amended (Dec 10)
City Council go on record in strong support of Bill H.4075, Act to Promote Housing Choices. Councillor Simmons (Dec 10)
City Council support of Bill H.4075, Act to Promote Housing Choices - fails 4-4-1 (Dec 17)
Cannabis zoning ordained (Dec 17)
City Clerk Donna P. Lopez for her 49 years of service to the City of Cambridge and best wishes for a truly happy and joyful retirement. (Dec 17)
Order asking for updating the Zoning Code's Table of Uses (Dec 17)
Order requiring that a business entity’s beneficial ownership be disclosed in all Cambridge real estate transactions (Dec 17)
Order for obtaining and analyzing further detailed and specific eviction data (Dec 17)
Announcement of the Mayor's Blue Ribbon Task Force on Tenant Displacement (Dec 17)

Featured recent stories in the Cambridge Chronicle (the paper of record):

If you would like to subscribe or pick up a free paper copy at various sites, I encourage you to do so. It really is The Paper of Record.

Cambridge City Council passes CCOPS law (Dec 26, 2018)

Recreational marijuana is here, so what’s the point of medical? (Dec 24, 2018)

Cambridge’s Kendall Cinema sells to billionaire ‘lover of cinema’ (Dec 20, 2018)

CPA fund lacks cash in Massachusetts (Dec 18, 2018)

Cambridge’s Transit Committee to pitch dozens of ideas to MBTA for improved bus service (Dec 17, 2018)

Cambridge police return to Central Square with opening of substation (Dec 11, 2018)

Paved path for pedestrians, cyclists breaks ground on Watertown-Cambridge Greenway (Dec 10, 2018)

‘A win-win for everyone:’ Plans for Millers River, Grand Junction path move forward (Dec 4, 2018)

FCC rule could gut funding for Cambridge community TV (Nov 30, 2018)

Two arrested, one injured after shootout in Cambridge (updated Nov 29, 2018)

Cambridge makes moves to start $25M renovation of fire headquarters (Nov 28, 2018)

Cambridge football loses late in game after Somerville rallies for win (Nov 22, 2018)

Cambridge residents asked to vote on budgeting (Nov 21, 2018)

Cambridge Mayor McGovern, City Manager DePasquale to deliver State of the City Address (Nov 21, 2018)

DA: Forensics link man with Cambridge ties to 1969 murder of Harvard student (Nov 20, 2018)

Cambridge leaders look for solutions after cyclist killed near Science Museum (Nov 20, 2018)

Controversial politics, early voting fueled turnout in Massachusetts elections (Nov 19, 2018)

Yard waste collection to continue through Dec 14 (Nov 16, 2018)

Baker open to fee hike to boost state CPA match (Nov 16, 2018)

Cambridge Police Department welcomes 10 new officers (Nov 13, 2018)

Cambridge cyclist killed by dump truck (Nov 9, 2018)

Enroot building housing almost a dozen Cambridge nonprofits to be sold (Oct 30, 2018)

Will a dog park be coming to the front lawn of Cambridge’s main library? (Oct 30, 2018)

Cambridge offering retrofit advisor service to help apartments and condos save energy (Oct 26, 2018)

Resident parking permits for 2019 available (Oct 26, 2018)

Cambridge man arrested for Craigslist post offering to buy cop killers a drink (Sept 19, 2018)

Members announced for new task force to support the arts in Cambridge (Sept 18, 2018)

Salvation for Sancta Maria: Nursing facility to remain open in Cambridge (Sept 17, 2018)

Global market complicates local recycling, frustrates residents (Sept 17, 2018)

Dec 25 - Which potential 2019 City Council election campaign accounts have been active this year?
[Let's be clear that not all of those listed will actually be candidates in 2019 and there may be others not listed here. You decide.]
You can sort the table or leave comments here.

PS (Dec 30) - I'm eager to see how much $$$ pours in during the last reporting period of the year. There is a $1000 contribution per year per candidate, and the most aggressive campaigns try to get in as much as they can before the end of the year so that they can do it again next year. - RW

Dec 23 - According to Cambridge GIS, the 24 inch cast iron water main under Craigie St. that failed today was installed in 1867 and lined in 1954. Thank you for your 151 years of service.

Election Methods in the News
Proposal for new Lowell election system coming soon (Lowell Sun, Nov 30, 2018)

You're Invited!

Kick off your weekend (and the holiday season!) with a Fifth Friday celebration
in #CentralSQ! Events will take place tomorrow (11/30) from 5-8pm on
City Hall Lawn and throughout Central Square, including:

• Tour of Workbar Cambridge
• Petting Zoo on City Hall Lawn
• Holiday Card Making at Eastern Bank
• Photo Booth with Santa at the Fire Station
• Record Swap at Cheapo Records
• Ornament Making Workshop at NuVu Studio
• Winter Cocktails & Live Music at La Fábrica
• Live Pop-up Art Gallery at 541 Mass Ave from the #CSQinColor Mural Project artists & friends
• Performance and Refreshments at Dance Complex
• Sock and Coat Drive throughout Central Square
• Board Game Night at 730 Tavern, Kitchen & Patio, provided by Pandemonium Books and Games
• Lighting Ceremony and unveiling of new Holiday Lights
• Hot Cocoa with a Cop at Amazon, provided by 1369 Coffee

Fifth Friday is brought to you by the Central Square BID, Starry, Cambridge Community Foundation
and the CSBA, with help from the Cambridge Savings Bank Street Team!

Friday, November 30 • 5 to 8pm • City Hall Lawn

Details & RSVP

Distribution of Cambridge voters by age: Nov 2012 - Nov 2018
(3 year increments - age groupings 18-20, 21-23, etc.)

Turnout figures for Early Voting (2018 - State Election)

Turnout figures for Early Voting (2016 - Federal Election)

Total Cambridge ballots cast in the 2016 Election was 53,282 (including Early Voting). 36.6% of ballots cast were done via Early Voting.

Tues, Oct 30, 2018 -- Today's Homework Assignment:
Please identify which policies, if any, from Cambridge's Growth Policy Document should be changed.
[To the best of my knowledge, these important policies have never been part of the discussion among the current Envision Cambridge Advisory Committee or its various Working Groups. Indeed, some of the current recommendations growing from the Envision Cambridge process clearly contradict some of these current policies. - RW]

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Confirmed in Cambridge

Aug 23, 2018 - On Monday, August 20, 2018, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) confirmed that Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) has been found in Cambridge. EAB is particularly concerning because of the speed at which it kills Ash trees, generally within 1-3 years. Standing dead ash trees present a public safety risk due to how quickly their brittle branches will fail.

The City of Cambridge was the first municipality in New England to develop a comprehensive treatment strategy to protect the ash tree population on city property. Healthy Ash trees on city property, including street trees, have been protected from EAB through proactive treatments of TreeAzin over the past 3 years. TreeAzin is a product derived from seed extracts of the Neem tree and is administered by injection at the trunk of the tree. TreeAzin is listed by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) for use in organic production in the U.S. This pesticide is not hazardous to humans or animals. For more information on the City’s treatment program for EAB, please visit: www.cambridgema.gov/EAB

How do I know if I have an Ash tree?
According to University of Connecticut College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources Tree Guide, Ash trees have four identifying features:

1. Ash trees have compound leaves comprised of 7 to 11 leaflets.
2. The twigs are smooth, rigid and grayish and resemble bones.
3. The bark of mature trees is deeply furrowed.
4. They have opposing branches.

excerpted from http://clear.uconn.edu/info/EAB_quick_reference_guide.pdf

I have an Ash tree. What do I do?
If you have an ash tree on your property, please consider one of the following:

• Treat - If you have not yet begun a treatment program, we recommend that you work with a certified arborist to develop an ongoing treatment plan for your Ash tree. It is far more cost-effective to treat a healthy Ash tree than it is to remove it. You can find a certified arborist at www.massarbor.org.
• Remove - Dead and dying trees become a risk for public safety. Remove and replace unhealthy Ash trees with different species. Doing nothing may put you and your property at unnecessary risk.

For additional questions or concerns regarding Emerald Ash Borer in Cambridge, contact the City’s Urban Forestry staff at cambridgetree@cambridgema.gov.

Emerald Ash Borer Fact Sheet (DCR)

City of Cambridge Designated Early Voting Sites Locations, Dates and Hours for the State Election, November 6, 2018

Early voting will begin on October 22nd and continue through November 2nd for the State Election to be held on Tuesday, November 6th. In 2016, Massachusetts voters were given the opportunity to vote prior to Election Day through early voting. Previously the only way a registered voter could vote prior to Election Day was through absentee voting. Although absentee voting is still available for registered voters who qualify, only those who will be absent from their city or town on Election Day or have a disability that prevents them from going to the polls, or have a religious belief preventing the same, are legally allowed to vote by absentee ballot.

Unlike absentee voting, early voting is for every registered voter. Registered voters do not need an excuse or reason to vote early. Regardless of whether a voter wants to take advantage of early voting, vote absentee or vote on Election Day, the first step is making sure you are registered. To check to see if you are registered to vote, and to find information on how to register to vote, you may visit the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website: www.sec.state.ma.us/ele. If you need to register to vote, you may do it online by visiting: www.RegisterToVoteMA.com. All you need is a license or an I.D. issued by the Registry of Motor Vehicles to apply online. To be eligible to vote in the November 6th State Election, you must register to vote or make any necessary changes to your voter registration by the deadline of Wednesday, October 17th at 8pm.

Early voting can be done in person or by mail. In the City of Cambridge, early voting can be done in person at any of the five (5) designated early voting sites during the scheduled dates and times. Please note, however, once a voter has cast an early voting ballot, the voter may no longer vote at the polls on Election Day.

To request a ballot by mail, simply fill out an application or send us a written request with your name, Cambridge address, address where you want the ballot sent and your signature and mail it to the Election Commission, 51 Inman Street, Cambridge, MA 02139. You can download an application at www.CambridgeMA.gov/EarlyVoting.

We encourage all our citizens to exercise their right and take advantage of the opportunity to vote at one of the sites during the scheduled dates and times. For public convenience, the City of Cambridge will also offer weekday evening hours and weekend hours on Saturday, October 27, 2018 from 9am to 5pm.

CITY OF CAMBRIDGE EARLY VOTING SCHEDULE

Oct 7 - I recently merged the most recent voter history file from the Sept 4 Primary with my mega-database going back to 1997. If you have ever wondered how many people have voted in every Cambridge citywide election since then (including municipal elections, federal elections, primary elections, and special elections), there are now only 116 of us (and I personally know at least 52 of those 116). Maybe we should form a club. - RW

PS - I'll do some histograms and other goodies from the latest data when I have a few minutes to spare. I also take requests.

Cambridge City Manager Seeks Members for Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship - deadline extended

Sept 18, 2018 – Cambridge City Manager Louis DePasquale is seeking persons interested in serving on the Cambridge Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship (CIRC). The Commission consists of 11 volunteer members, who are appointed by the City Manager, following an application and interview process. The term of the appointment is three years. Commissioners are expected to be knowledgeable about immigrant rights and citizenship and must be residents of Cambridge. It is desirable for this Commission to be fully representative of the diverse Cambridge community.

Cambridge welcomes immigrants and wants to encourage their success and access to opportunity and advancement in this country. It will be a goal of this Commission to get the message of welcome out, through collaboration with organizations that already provide services and outreach to our immigrant community. The Commission will act as a centralizing organization in Cambridge, to address immigrant rights and citizenship issues through providing information, referral, guidance, coordination and technical assistance to other public agencies and private persons, organizations and institutions engaged in activities and programs intended to support immigrant rights and citizenship.

Commissioners are expected to work with other members of the Commission and staff to fulfill the goals and objectives of the Cambridge Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship Ordinance (CMC Chapter 2.123).

Individuals interested in being considered should apply by using the city’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline for submitting applications is not yet determined.

Speaking Freely - A few thoughts on the proposal to grant certain non-profit developers the right to build far more densely than others

Sept 29 - An interesting discussion is starting to develop on neighborhood listservs and on Facebook regarding a proposed "100% Affordable Housing Overlay". Here are a few thoughts (by me) from a couple of Facebook discussions on the issue. Pardon what may seem at times like "one hand clapping", but I selected only my comments out of the conversation(s).

If this proposal succeeds to game the system to deliver parcels to specific subsidized housing developers, the next step will be for city councillors to significantly increase the amount of taxpayer dollars available to develop those properties. And if you question any aspect of this, get ready to be maligned. If zoning limitations on height or density mean anything at all, they should be uniformly applied to ALL and not rigged to favor certain developers.

I think there's a lot of political pressure going on behind the scenes here in addition to the public meetings. The misinformation and misrepresentation being spread around is astonishing. I bought my multi-family house on a busy street with neighboring buildings almost within arms reach and no driveway not because I wanted those things but because I could not afford to do otherwise. If I had the resources to buy a house on a quiet street with a driveway and maybe even a garage I would have done that. The people who bought houses in lower density parts of the city and on quiet streets did so because that's what they wanted and they paid accordingly. That was not the manifestation of evil thoughts. It was simply a choice. Our current City Council apparently leans toward disrespecting the choices of its own residents. They have always had the capacity to create more subsidized housing by raising taxes and answering to the voters at the next election. I do believe they should be considering some density increases in most zones and allowing multi-family buildings in all zones in order to increase housing capacity, but it appears that more attention is being paid to social engineering than to the provision of housing.

You may not believe this but I have often been accused of being conflict-averse. It's actually kind of true. I generally choose to walk away from a fight. It takes a lot to get me going, and what it usually takes is a boatload of mendacity.

One of my greatest objections to the "Our Revolution" crowd that has inserted itself into Cambridge political discourse is the underlying agenda that property ownership is inherently evil and that it should be constrained whenever and wherever possible. We saw this with the "tenants right of first refusal" effort earlier this year which fortunately did not succeed. The political playbook is apparently to draw attention to those property owners and developers who behave badly and then apply the broad brush of condemnation to all property owners. This is why I steadfastly refuse to support any candidate who is associated with the "Our Revolution" cult. By the way, I have provided affordable housing to my tenants for 33 years without any prompting from government or activists. I am not alone.

I have to agree regarding the hypocrisy. I still often find myself "at the table" even when others object to my viewpoint. Indeed, I'm the only person on the Envision Cambridge Advisory Committee or the Envision Cambridge Housing Working Group who has never missed a meeting. Normally I would be very hesitant about speaking out while still serving on either body, but apparently other members feel no such constraint and I am very concerned about how things are being misrepresented. I'm also starting to get a bit concerned that these advisory committees may not be seriously heard, especially when viewpoints expressed do not align with City staff.

If CDD said they think this will produce NO subsidized housing (I prefer that term to "affordable") I'm inclined to believe they were being disingenuous in order to sell the proposal by minimizing objections. It should be OBVIOUS that they believe it will deliver at least some subsidized housing or they would not be forwarding the proposal.

As I stated, my expectation is that some subsidized housing may be produced. My chief objection is that one property owner will still have strict zoning restrictions while a neighboring property will be allowed up to four times the density if the owner/developer builds subsidized housing. I have provided affordable housing for 33 years and I cannot add an additional square foot to my property, yet those rules would be obliterated for a "non-profit" developer who may well charge "affordable" rents that are greater than mine.

I completely agree. I have never liked the fact that Cambridge has often "processed things to death", but the current trend is worse. The new Machiavellian norm is to ram something through and deal with the fallout later or not at all or, more likely, create a series of sham public meetings after all decisions have been made where only the color of the brick may be debated.

Let me add that I really hope this doesn't turn into a "green vs. affordable" false dichotomy. The real issue here is whether changes in City zoning policies should run roughshod over current regulations. Some changes are in order - as long as the zoning principles are applied uniformly. Enhancing and protecting tree canopy is a separate issue that deserves its own debate.

The next time I hear a City official say "no decisions have been made" when you know damn well that they have I may actually scream.

One consideration that does deserve attention is the fact that there are many properties now that are nonconforming because zoning limits were reduced long after these buildings were built. There is something to be said for having zoning regulations at least somewhat match the current built environment rather than be set artificially low. This shouldn't be a blank check. Some locations have buildings way above the surrounding neighborhood and I would never suggest that limits should be based on those exceptions. If so, East Cambridge would be nothing but Sullivan Courthouse buildings.

One fundamental problem here is that City staff and elected officials like to refer to "affordable housing" being a high priority for residents in order to justify any given policy. It's certainly true that people want housing to be affordable in the sense that a typical person or family can find a place to buy or rent within their budget, but this is not the same as advocating for a dramatic increase in subsidized housing (of which Cambridge already has a significant amount when you add up all the Housing Authority properties, Inclusionary housing units, etc.). Indeed, I think an argument can be made that the singular focus on subsidized housing may be contributing to the non-affordability of housing generally. The best affordable housing program ever conceived was the proliferation of multi-family housing, and that involved no government subsidy at all.

- Robert Winters

Deadline to Register to Vote and Availability of Absentee Ballots for the State Election, November 6th

The State Election will be held on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. For Cambridge residents not already registered, the last day to register to vote is Wednesday, October 17, 2018 until 8:00pm. The Office of the Secretary of State has developed an Online Voter Registration System at www.registertovotema.com. Individuals may use the online system to submit an online application, update their address or change their party affiliation. You must have a valid driver's license, learner's permit, or non-driver ID issued by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). If you do not have an RMV ID you can use the system to create an application. Print and sign the completed form and mail or bring it to the office of the Cambridge Election Commission.

Absentee Ballots are now available at the Cambridge Election Commission office. Any voter who is unable to go to the polls on Election Day due to physical disability, religious belief, or absence from the City may request an Absentee Ballot from the Commission. The deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is Monday, November 5th at noon. Absentee Ballots may be mailed to voters, or such voters may choose to vote at the Commission office during regular city office hours: Monday, 8:30am-8:00pm; Tuesday-Thursday, 8:30am-5:00pm; Friday, 8:30am-Noon.

The polls will be open on Election Day, November 6th from 7:00am until 8:00pm. For any additional information, please visit the Cambridge Election Commission office at 51 Inman Street, call 617-349-4361 or visit our website at www.cambridgema.gov/election.

Members Sought for New River Street Infrastructure and Streetscape Design Project Working Group

Sept 19, 2018 – The City of Cambridge is seeking volunteers to serve on a new Working Group to help guide the River Street Infrastructure and Streetscape Design Project. The group will advise City Manager Louis A. DePasquale and his staff on key issues related to the planning and design for this important project, which has three main components:

• River Street subsurface: Replace aging utility infrastructure so that critical utility services can continue to be provided to the community, and enhance the ability of the sewer and drainage systems to handle large storm events, in a sustainable manner, in an era of climate change;
• River Street surface: Create a streetscape design that enables people to travel safely and comfortably by various modes, while enhancing the neighborhood context, meeting environmental goals, and supporting local businesses;
• Carl Barron Plaza: Redesign the major public open space of Central Square, including considerations of public art, fixed and/or unfixed furniture, circulation, access, plantings, and landscaping.

The working group will consist of 12-15 members who will meet monthly for a period of 9-12 months, starting late fall 2018. The group will include residents, business, and institutional representatives and subject matter experts and who will work with city staff and a consultant to develop design principles and alternative design options. The process will culminate in a final design for River Street and Carl Barron Plaza, which will proceed into construction.

Individuals with interest in the River Street corridor, Central Square/Carl Barron Plaza, experience or expertise in relevant topics — transportation, accessibility, urban design and placemaking, landscape architecture, green infrastructure — and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse viewpoints to craft consensus solutions are encouraged to apply. Meetings of the Working Group will be open to the public.

For additional questions about the new Working Group, contact Jerry Friedman, Supervising Engineer, Department of Public Works at 617-349-9720 or jfriedman@cambridgema.gov.

Individuals interested in being considered should apply by using the city’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, October 12, 2018.

Share your opinions! 2018 Cambridge Resident Opinion Survey now open

In its ongoing efforts to identify ways to better serve the community, the City of Cambridge is currently conducting its biennial Resident Opinion Survey. The survey, which has been conducted since 2000, serves as an important evaluation tool that enables residents to rate city services and offer input on what the City of Cambridge does well and where it can make improvements.

The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete. Don’t miss this opportunity to let us know how you feel!

Take the 2018 Online City of Cambridge Public Opinion Survey.

Opinion Dynamics Corporation (ODC), a national public opinion polling firm with its own state-of-the-art telephone calling facility, will be coordinating the Resident Opinion Survey. ODC will be randomly calling 400 Cambridge households (a sub-set of which will be cell-phone only households) on behalf of the city to complete the survey. Every household will have an equal chance of being called.

A hard copy of the Resident Opinion Survey can be completed September 17 - October 1, 2018 during business hours at the following locations:

• City Manager’s Office, Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Ave., 617-349-4300
• Citywide Senior Center, 806 Massachusetts Ave., 617-349-6060
• North Cambridge Senior Center, 266B Rindge Ave., 617-349-6200
• Cambridge Public Library, 449 Broadway, 617-349-4030
• Central Square Branch Library, 45 Pearl St., 617-349-4010
• Collins Branch Library, 64 Aberdeen Ave., 617-349-4021
• O’Connell Branch Library, 48 Sixth St., 617-349-4019
• O’Neill Branch Library, 70 Rindge Ave. 617-349-4023

For additional information, please contact Lee Gianetti at 617-349-3317 or by email lgianetti@cambridgema.gov.

Fans of Ranked Voting See an Opportunity in Massachusetts (Sept 17, 2018, New York Times)
After the recount in the Mass. 3rd Congressional District, Lori Trahan's margin over Dan Koh increased from 122 to 145 votes and Dan Koh conceded. The victorious candidate had only 20.9% of the votes in this 10-candidate plurality winner-take-all election. Honestly, if the Massachusetts State Legislature can't understand the need to move to election systems that address problems of vote-splitting, spoilers, and other perverse effects then they really need to get educated or seek other employment. It's equally absurd that the victor in a relatively low turnout Democratic Primary should have no opponent in the General Election in November, but that's another conversation. You have to wonder why Massachusetts politicos continue to call themselves "progressive" (whatever that means) when they can't get basic things like fair elections right. [Note: No slight of the victorious Ms. Trahan intended - she's a great candidate who will likely prove to be a great representative in Congress.] - RW

Cambridge man arrested for Craigslist post offering to buy cop killers a drink (Sept 19, 2018, Cambridge Chronicle)
First it was that butthead on Essex Street, and now another butthead on University Road. Can we banish people from the Peoples Republic?

And for some really GREAT news:
Salvation for Sancta Maria: Nursing facility to remain open in Cambridge (Sept 17, 2018, Cambridge Chronicle)

Annual Bow Tie Ride – Sunday, September 30
Assemble at 9:30am at the Cambridge Public Library Main Branch (449 Broadway). Ride departs at 10:00am.

Join the Cambridge Bicycle Committee for the most stylish bike ride in Cambridge! On this leisurely two-hour ride, we'll trace the bow-tie shaped boundaries of the city and celebrate cycling in Cambridge!

We will assemble at and depart from the Cambridge Public Library Main Branch. Midway through the ride, there will be a brief break at Danehy Park. As in other years, the ride will be supported by the Cambridge Police Department and there will be rolling street closures. We ask that riders be able to maintain a moderate pace to stick with the group.

The ride will end back at the Cambridge Public Library with a light snacks and a raffle. Thank you to our sponsor OoOtie for bringing the fashionable fun!

The ride will be postponed in the case of heavy rain. Announcements regarding rain will be sent to this email list and posted on www.cambridgebikes.org. There is no registration or charge for the tour -- just show up and enjoy!

Bow ties encouraged, but not required.

Free Document Shredding in Cambridge Saturday, Sept 29

The Cambridge Consumers’ Council will be helping residents safely dispose of unwanted records at a free document shredding event on Saturday, Sept 29, from 9am–1pm, at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. Reserved Parking is available on Bigelow St.

Documents will be destroyed on the spot in a highly advanced technical mobile shredding truck and sent for recycling. Information for consumer rights and safety will be available. Please note that this is event is based on first come, first served, or until the truck is full to capacity. Limit 5 paper size boxes per household or equivalent.

For more information, or to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the Consumers’ Council at 617-349-6150 or visit CambridgeMa.Gov/ConsumersCouncil.

Danehy Park Family Day – Saturday, Sept 15, 11am-4pm

Aug 29, 2018 – The City of Cambridge will host the 23rd Annual Danehy Park Family Day on Saturday, Sept. 15, from 11am-4pm. Enjoy a fun-filled day of children's amusement rides, live music, roving performers, arts and crafts, face painting, plus free hot dogs, chips, juice boxes, and T-shirts and kites (while supplies last)! Rain Date is Sunday, Sept. 16.

Danehy Park is a 55-acre facility located at 99 Sherman Street and New St. in North Cambridge. This free event, sponsored by the City of Cambridge, attracts over 4,000 people annually and offers something for everyone.

Free shuttle buses will be running throughout Cambridge neighborhoods and from the Alewife MBTA Station. Danehy Park can also be reached by #74 bus or #78 bus from Harvard Square; or #83 bus from Central Square. Picnics and lawn chairs are encouraged.

For more information, including entertainment schedule and shuttle bus pick-up locations, visit www.cambridgema.gov/DanehyParkFamilyDay.

The Marvelous Manholes of Massachusetts (Atlas Obscura, Aug 28, 2018)

Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women Vacancy

Aug 15, 2018 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking persons interested in serving on the Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women.

The Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women works in an inclusive manner to promote equity and justice for women and girls and advocates on their behalf with City departments and officials, local organizations and state government to increase their opportunities through program development, policy recommendations and public awareness in key issue areas identified by the Commission as significantly affecting women and girls. Commissioners support staff in their mission to create and promote programs that increase public awareness and understanding of multiple issues affecting women and girls, particularly marginalized women and girls, within the city; advocate to improve the quality of women’s and girls’ lives; and work to build coalitions and partner with other community organizations on these issues.

The Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women meets the second Wednesday of every month, from 6:30-8 p.m., at 51 Inman St., Cambridge, in the Women's Commission Conference Room, 2nd floor.

For more information about the Commission, contact Kimberly Sansoucy, Executive Director, at 617-349-4695 or ksansoucy@cambridgema.gov.

Individuals interested in being considered should apply by using the city’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, September 14, 2018.

Primary Election Results (selected contested races)

Candidate	Total	Pct.	Cambridge (100%)	Pct.
Governor (Democrat) - 100% reporting			Total = 18906
Jay Gonzalez -	346,873	64.42%	10,590	56.0%
Bob Massie	191,622	35.58%	8,151	43.1%
write-ins			165	0.9%
blanks			2,066
Governor (Republican) - 100% reporting			Total = 925
Charlie Baker -	173,776	63.89%	692	74.8%
Scott Lively	98,214	36.11%	232	25.1%
write-ins			1	0.1%
blanks			25
Lt. Governor (Democrat) - 100% reporting			Total = 18332
Quentin Palfrey -	305,771	58.91%	8,568	46.7%
Jimmy Tingle	213,313	41.09%	9,722	53.0%
write-ins			42	0.2%
blanks			2,640
Secretary of State (Democrat) - 100% reporting			Total = 19338
William Galvin -	433,213	67.56%	9,486	49.1%
Josh Zakim	208,011	32.44%	9,826	50.8%
write-ins			26	0.1%
blanks			1,634
Massachusetts US Senate (Republican) - 100% reporting			Total = 870
Geoff Diehl -	143,735	55.3%	373	42.9%
John Kingston	69,429	26.7%	275	31.6%
Beth Lindstrom	46,614	17.9%	215	24.7%
write-ins			7	0.8%
blanks			80
District 7, US House, Massachusetts (Democratic) - 100% reporting			Total = 10639
Ayanna Pressley -	59,815	58.6%	6,006	56.5%
Mike Capuano	42,252	41.4%	4,626	43.5%
write-ins			7	0.1%
blanks			180
Middlesex County District Attorney (Democratic) - 100% reporting			Total = 17781
Marian Ryan -	93,850	53.34%	8,164	45.9%
Donna Patalano	82,099	46.66%	9,583	53.9%
write-ins			34	0.2%
blanks			3,191
State Representative - 25th Middlesex District (Democratic) - 100% reporting			Total = 6663
Marjorie Decker -	5,666	85.0%	5,666	85.0%
Lesley Philiips	984	14.8%	984	14.8%
write-ins	13	0.2%	13	0.2%
blanks	744		744

Unofficial Results do not include Write-In, Auxiliary, Overseas Absentee or Provisional Ballots

How will I vote in Tuesday's Primary?

Sept 2, 2018 – The Massachusetts State Primary is now just two days away and we'll just have to wait and see who shows up to vote (because that's often what determines the outcome in elections like this). I never comment on my choices in municipal elections, but I think I can reveal my voting preferences for the Democratic Primary without trashing the objectivity of the CCJ for municipal elections.

I generally leave blank any uncontested elections because, well, why express a choice when you don't really have one? I make exceptions for candidates I actually like personally. So here goes:

Governor: Jay Gonzalez - He has worked in state government and he strikes me as thoughtful and practical. He also called me personally asking for my vote and, like most voters, that does sway me a bit. He comes across as eminently reasonable. His primary opponent, Bob Massie, comes across as an ideologue and, besides, my general rule is that if the Our Revolution gang likes a candidate I'm almost guaranteed to vote against that candidate. Regardless who the Democratic nominee is, he'll have an incredibly uphill battle against Charlie Baker. The choice of nominee for Lt. Governor could potentially alter that political calculus. See below.

Lieutenant Governor: Jimmy Tingle - The single most important quality I look for in a political candidate is his or her willingness to listen, learn, and potentially modify a position based on a better understanding. Jimmy has these qualities. He also has a sense of humor and, as perhaps my greatest political mentor once said to me, a good sense of humor is the best sign of a healthy mind. (Mr. Trump, by the way, has a nearly nonexistent sense of humor.) Jimmy also grew up down the street from where I live and, as Tip O'Neill says, "All politics is local." Quentin Palfrey is a pretty good "resumé candidate" who has and will perform admirably in governmental roles, but I doubt if he could ever be as receptive or as passionate as Jimmy Tingle in taking on whatever roles may be assigned to the next Lt. Governor. All this aside, the most important reason for Democrats to choose Jimmy Tingle is that he may actually sway some of the many voters who like Gov. Charlie Baker to vote for the Democratic ticket. I may be one of those voters. In any case, it will be an uphill battle to unseat Charlie Baker who is, by almost all accounts, enormously popular.

Secretary of State: Bill Galvin - The job of Secretary of State is more administration than policy, and Bill Galvin has done an extraordinary job running his office. He has modernized operations and is very receptive to the viewpoints of city and town clerks and elections officials across the Commonwealth. He has been criticized by his opponent (Josh Zakim) for not acting swiftly to enact several proposed reforms but, in each case, this has been either due to the fact that the authority lies with the state legislature (e.g. same day voter registration) or that elections officials across the state have expressed concerns about the logistics of the proposed change. It doesn't help Zakim's case that he comes across as arrogant and ill-informed (because he is arrogant and ill-informed).

Representative in Congress, 5th District: Katherine Clark - Though I don't usually vote in uncontested races, I actually do like Katherine Clark personally.

Representative in Congress - 7th District: Mike Capuano - This is NOT my district and I can't vote in this race, but if I could I would be voting for Mike Capuano, and I hope others will vote for him. Mike is one of the more straight-talking political people I've met over the years who shows an uncommon level of pragmatism. On that front, one of the single most pragmatic things a voter in this district can do is to reelect someone who will likely play a lead role on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure in the next Congress. Federal funding for transportation and infrastructure projects in Massachusetts is incredibly important - especially now. I have nothing personally against Ayanna Pressley and I certainly believe that representation should be proportional, but that same argument could just as easily be used to question why the Massachusetts congressional delegation is 9-0 Democrat even though the percentage of registered Democrats in Massachusetts is just 33.2% (with 55.1% unenrolled, 10.4% Republican, 0.3% Libertarian, and 1.0% other political designations).

State Senate, Middlesex & Suffolk District: Sal DiDomenico - Again, I don't generally vote in uncontested races, but I do like Sal DiDomencio personally and I appreciate the role that Sal's family has played in the social life of East Cambridge (even though Sal now lives in Everett).

State Representative, Twenty-Sixth Middlesex District - This is my House district and I will either leave it blank or write in the name of my favorite beer. There is an incumbent (Mike Connolly) but he doesn't represent my interests. I wish we had a choice in candidates and it's a real shame that we do not.

State Representative, Twenty-Fifth Middlesex District: Marjorie Decker - This is NOT my district and I can't vote in this race, but if I could I would be voting for Marjorie Decker. She technically has a challenger, but there is a zero percent chance that Rep. Decker will lose her seat. I really wish the district boundaries were different because I would gladly vote for Marjorie who has fought the good fight on many fronts in the state legislature. I actually view her as my state representative even though I don't live in her district.

Other State Senate and State Representative seats are uncontested and occupied by good people. I'll just leave it at that.

Clerk of Courts, Middlesex County: Michael Sullivan - Again, this seat may be uncontested but Michael and I have been friends for a quarter-century and I have a lot of respect for him.

District Attorney, Northern District: Marian Ryan - Though I don't closely follow the goings-on of the District Attorney's Office, Marian Ryan has consistently come across as a straight-shooting and very competent DA - even when some of the cases were controversial. There are some elected positions that paradoxically should not be overly political and the DA is definitely one of those positions. She has been quite "progressive" in her role balancing the need to prosecute aggressively when appropriate and to administer justice with compassion and fairness. Marian Ryan was born in Cambridge and raised in Somerville. I have nothing negative to say about the other candidate, Donna Patalano, but I'll have to stick with the very qualified incumbent on this one.

Now..... feel free to vote as I do, or ignore me completely, but please do learn about all the candidates and vote in the Primary on Tuesday. - Robert Winters

It's Party Time! - Number of registered Cambridge voters by party or political designation (at Aug 15, 2018 registration deadline)

Of these 67,669 registered voters, 4,923 of them registered in 2018 – 2606 Democrat (52.9%), 164 Republican (3.3%), and 2099 Unenrolled (42.6%).

There are now only 121 registered Cambridge voters who have voted in every citywide election since 1997.

Deadline to Register to Vote and Availability of Absentee Ballots for the State Primary, September 4, 2018

The State Primary will be held on Tuesday, September 4, 2018. For Cambridge residents not already registered, the last day to register to vote is Wednesday, August 15, 2018 until 8:00pm. The Office of the Secretary of State has developed an Online Voter Registration System at www.registertovotema.com. Individuals may use the online system to submit an online application, update their address or change their party affiliation. You must have a valid driver's license, learner's permit, or non-driver ID issued by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). If you do not have an RMV ID you can use the system to create an application. Print and sign the completed form and mail or bring it to the office of the Cambridge Election Commission.

Absentee Ballots are now available at the Cambridge Election Commission office. Any voter who is unable to go to the polls on Election Day due to physical disability, religious belief, or absence from the City may request an Absentee Ballot from the Commission. The deadline to apply for an Absentee Ballot is Friday, August 31st at 5:00pm. Absentee Ballots may be mailed to voters, or such voters may choose to vote at the Commission office during regular city office hours: Monday, 8:30am-8:00pm; Tuesday-Thursday, 8:30am-5:00pm; Friday, 8:30am-Noon. The office will be open for extended hours on the following dates:
Last Day to Register to Vote for the State Primary - Wednesday, August 15, 2018 from 8:30am-8pm.
Last Day to Apply for an Absentee Ballot Friday, August 31, 2018 from 8:30am-5pm.

The polls will be open on Election Day, September 4th from 7:00am until 8:00pm. For any additional information, please visit the Cambridge Election Commission office at 51 Inman Street, call (617-349-4361) or visit the Election Commission website at www.cambridgema.gov/election.

Cambridge Human Services Commission Vacancies

Aug 8, 2018 – City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking Cambridge residents interested in volunteering to serve on the nine-member Human Services Commission. The Commission advises the City Manager and the Assistant City Manager for Human Services on human services policy issues, needs assessment, and funding allocations.

With the Department of Human Service Programs, the Commission also promotes activities that enhance the quality of life for Cambridge residents. Over the years, the Commission has responded to local needs by recommending Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for a wide range of programs offered by the city and community agencies.

The Commission usually meets with the Assistant City Manager for Human Services on the second Thursday of each month from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. For more information, contact Mike Payack at 617-349-6208 or mpayack@cambridgema.gov. Commission members serve without compensation.

Applications to serve on this committee can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, September 7, 2018.

Members Sought for Mayor’s Arts Task Force

Aug 6, 2018 – Mayor Marc McGovern is seeking Cambridge residents interested in serving on the newly formed Mayor’s Arts Task Force. The Mayor’s Arts Task Force, Chaired by City Councillor Alanna Mallon, will be charged with the responsibility of producing a set of action-oriented policy recommendations that will promote diversity and investment in the arts, as well as support the Central Square Arts and Cultural District.

The Mayor’s Arts Task Force will be comprised of city staff, local community leaders, and members of the artist community. Candidates will provide guidance on:

• Policies the City can pursue that will continue to foster and promote arts that are reflective of the diverse communities that live in Cambridge
• Ensuring a robust funding source for our arts community using both city resources, and the resources of local companies
• Collaboration between the City, the Central Square Business Association, and local artists to strengthen Central Square as an Arts and Cultural District

The Mayor’s Arts Task Force will meet monthly on a Thursday, from September 2018 through June 2019, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm in City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA.

Applicants should email a letter of interest that addresses their qualifications to Afiyah Harrigan at aharrigan@cambridgema.gov. Letters of interest can also be dropped off to Afiyah Harrigan in the Mayor’s Office, 2nd Floor, Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline for submitting letters of interests is August 31, 2018.

City of Cambridge to Celebrate Bluebikes Expansion with Pop Up Events
Enjoy Treats, Giveaways and a Raffle on Thurs, Sept 6 and Fri, Sept 7

Aug 28, 2018 – On Thursday, Sept. 6 and Friday, Sept. 7, the City of Cambridge will host celebratory events to mark Bluebikes’ arrival into new neighborhoods. All community members are invited to attend the free events, which will include refreshments from local businesses, prize giveaways, a raffle for a free annual Bluebikes membership, and information about Bluebikes’ Income-Eligible Program.

The pop-up events will be held at two of Cambridge’s newest Bluebikes stations:

• 699 Mt. Auburn St. (outside of Star Market), Thursday, Sept. 6, 7:00am-10:00am
• Harvard St. at Greene-Rose Heritage Park, Friday, Sept. 7, 4:00pm-7:00pm

In addition to these locations, new Bluebikes stations were recently installed at Rogers St. at Land Blvd. and Massachusetts Ave. at Hadley St. / Walden St., with additional stations expected to be deployed in Cambridge this fall. This is part of Boston, Brookline Cambridge, and Somerville’s joint effort to expand options for sustainable transportation by increasing access to Bluebikes throughout the communities.

Event attendees will receive a Bluebikes Passport Card. Those who attend at least one event at each of the four municipalities and get their Passport Card stamped will receive $15 off their new or next annual membership, as well as a limited-edition T-shirt. For a full list of pop-up events in each municipality, visit https://www.bluebikes.com/blog/expansionevents.

About Bluebikes – Bluebikes is public transportation by bike. Owned and jointly governed by the municipalities of Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, and Somerville, Bluebikes offers a fast, fun, and affordable transportation option. Today, users can ride any of the 1,800+ bikes to and from the 200+ stations across the region. By the end of 2019, the municipalities will provide 3,000 bikes and 300 stations for their residents, workers, and visitors. Since launching in 2011, more than 7 million trips have been taken on Bluebikes, including nearly 900,000 trips so far in 2018. For more information, visit https://www.bluebikes.com/.

Tuesday, September 4, 2018 Primary - List of Offices & Candidates (Cambridge)

If you are registered with any political party, you may only vote in that party's primary. Unenrolled voters may choose to vote in any party primary. Choosing to vote in a particular party's primary does NOT enroll you as a member of that party.

[Check your voter registration status]     [Where do I vote?]

New ImageCast Voting System for the City of Cambridge

The City of Cambridge is thrilled to announce the launch of the newly acquired ImageCast Vote Tabulators which will be utilized for the first time for the upcoming State Primary, Tuesday, September 4, 2018. We wanted to give our voters a brief introduction to the new equipment to provide a glimpse of what to expect on Election Day. While the design of the new tabulator is similar to the AccuVote system used in past elections, there are some new features which improve its usability. The new design makes it easier to navigate and is more user-friendly. Election workers at each polling location have been trained to assist the voter, if needed, during their introduction to the new equipment. One of the new features of the ImageCast Vote Tabulator is that the voter will be able to see if their ballot has been cast successfully or if a ballot error has been detected. If an error is detected, the voter will be provided with the option of having the ballot returned to them to make the correction or to cast the ballot without correction. After an option has been selected by the voter they will then proceed with casting their ballot. Voters are advised to watch the LCD screen on the tabulator to confirm that their ballot has been successfully cast.

PLEASE DON’T FORGET TO VOTE!

Temporary Locations for the State Primary, September 4 & New Polling Location

1) Due to renovations, those who vote in Ward 3 Precinct 3, Salvation Army Headquarters, 402 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge will vote next door at the Lafayette Square Fire Station, 378 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge (Entrance on Sidney Street) for the 2018 State Primary. The Cambridge Board of Election Commissioners approved the temporary relocation of the polling precinct for Ward 3 Precinct 3 at a meeting held on Wednesday, June 1, 2018.

2) Those who vote in Ward 9 Precinct 3, Haggerty School, 110 Cushing Street, Gym, Lawn Street Entrance, Cambridge will no longer vote at this location. The new voting location will be Corcoran Park Community Building, 1 Corcoran Lane, Cambridge. The Cambridge Board of Election Commissioners approved the relocation of the polling precinct for Ward 9 Precinct 3 at a meeting held on Wednesday, March 14, 2018.

3) Due to renovations, those who vote in Ward 10 Precinct 1, Russell Apartments, 2050 Mass. Ave., Cambridge will vote at the Peabody School Gym, 70-R Rindge Ave., Cambridge (Entrance in rear of building). The Cambridge Board of Election Commissioners approved the temporary relocation of the polling precinct for Ward 10 Precinct 1 at a meeting held on Wednesday, April 18, 2018.

Cambridge Polling Locations for 2018 State Primary Election

Aretha Franklin, the ‘Queen of Soul,’ Dies at 76 (Aug 16, 2018 - NY Times)

Everything else seems of lesser importance today.

Frances Deguglielmo Tingle

Also, this very sad note from our great friend, Jimmy Tingle: "On Aug 15 the Tingles lost their matriarch and longtime inspirational leader with the passing of Frances Tingle. We will suspend most campaign activities until after services are complete on Mon, Aug 20. We very grateful for everyones well wishes and support in this difficult time." Mrs. Tingle was 90 and a longtime neighbor on Broadway in Cambridge. - RW

TINGLE, Frances DeGuglielmo Age 90, of Cambridge, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2018 after a long illness in her home surrounded by her loving family. Frances is survived by her four loving children, James Tingle, Jr. and his wife, Catherine, Garrett Tingle and his wife Janice, Ruth Crowley and her husband Peter, Robert Tingle and his wife Margaret of Arlington. She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years James "Cotton" Tingle of Arapahoe, NC and 9 brothers and sisters, the Honorable Joseph DeGuglielmo, Very Rev. Antonine DeGuglielmo, OFM, Mary Frisoli, Robert DeGuglielmo, Lillian Ferraro, Austin, Walter, Lawrence and Joan DeGuglielmo. Known as "Mama Tingle" she leaves behind 7 grandchildren; Garrett, Alyssa, Michela, Aidan, Joseph, Jennifer, Seamus and 3 great-grandchildren, Brooklyn-Rose, Austin, Jaxton and many loving nieces and nephews. Frances Tingle was born in Cambridge to parents Austin and Mary DeGuglielmo. She graduated from Emmanuel College with a degree in social work. After raising four children she returned to the workforce at Bioran Medical Laboratory, where she worked for more that 15 years rising to the level of Billing Supervisor. Frances was a passionate volunteer in her church and community and known for her generosity. She enjoyed playing scrabble, bridge and writing her memoirs. Her family and friends will remember her as a devoted mother and friend who opened her door to everyone. "Frannie" was witty, feisty and fun-loving and we will miss her dearly. Funeral from the Donovan-Aufiero Funeral Home, 140 Otis St., CAMBRIDGE, Monday at 10 AM followed by a Rite of Christian Burial in St. Francis Church, 325 Cambridge St., Cambridge, Monday at 11 AM. Visiting Sunday 4-8 PM. For guest book visit http://donovanaufierofuneralhome.com/.

**SAVE THE DATE**
Saturday August 18: DPW and Cambridge Public Library will be hosting a Fix-It Clinic at the Main Branch of CPL, 449 Broadway. Save broken items and clothes and get them fixed.

Cambridge Conservation Commission Members Sought

July 24, 2018 – City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking two Cambridge residents to fill vacancies on the Cambridge Conservation Commission. The Conservation Commission is responsible for administration of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (WPA), a state law governing activities in and immediately adjacent to local wetlands, waterways, and floodplains.

The Commission holds two regularly scheduled public meetings each month to review permit applications under the WPA, issue permits, and conduct other business related to the management of Cambridge’s natural resource areas.

The Conservation Commission consists of seven members appointed by the City Manager to serve three-year terms. Cambridge residents with expertise in landscape architecture, civil/environmental engineering, hydrology, ecology, or law are encouraged to apply.

Applications to serve on this committee can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, September 7, 2018.

Availability of Absentee Ballots for the State Primary, September 4, 2018

The State Primary will be held on Tuesday, September 4, 2018. Absentee Ballots are now available at the Cambridge Election Commission office. Any voter who is unable to go to the polls on Election Day due to physical disability, religious belief, or absence from the City may request an Absentee Ballot from the Commission. The deadline to apply for an Absentee Ballot is Friday, August 31st at 5:00pm. Absentee Ballots may be mailed to voters, or such voters may choose to vote at the Commission office during regular city office hours: Monday, 8:30am-8:00pm; Tuesday-Thursday, 8:30am-5:00pm; Friday, 8:30am-Noon. Last Day to Apply for an Absentee Ballot Friday, August 31, 2018 from 8:30am-5pm.

The polls will be open on Election Day, September 4th from 7:00am until 8:00pm. For any additional information, please visit the Cambridge Election Commission office at 51 Inman Street, call (617-349-4361) or visit the Election Commission website at www.cambridgema.gov/election.

Temporary Locations for the State Primary, September 4 & New Polling Location

1) Due to renovations, those who vote in Ward 3 Precinct 3, Salvation Army Headquarters, 402 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge will vote next door at the Lafayette Square Fire Station, 378 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge (Entrance on Sidney Street) for the 2018 State Primary. The Cambridge Board of Election Commissioners approved the temporary relocation of the polling precinct for Ward 3 Precinct 3 at a meeting held on Wednesday, June 1, 2018.

2) Those who vote in Ward 9 Precinct 3, Haggerty School, 110 Cushing Street, Gym, Lawn Street Entrance, Cambridge will no longer vote at this location. The new voting location will be Corcoran Park Community Building, 1 Corcoran Lane, Cambridge. The Cambridge Board of Election Commissioners approved the relocation of the polling precinct for Ward 9 Precinct 3 at a meeting held on Wednesday, March 14, 2018.

3) Due to renovations, those who vote in Ward 10 Precinct 1, Russell Apartments, 2050 Mass. Ave., Cambridge will vote at the Peabody School Gym, 70-R Rindge Ave., Cambridge (Entrance in rear of building). The Cambridge Board of Election Commissioners approved the temporary relocation of the polling precinct for Ward 10 Precinct 1 at a meeting held on Wednesday, April 18, 2018.

Cambridge Polling Locations for 2018 State Primary Election

Saturday Morning Coffee Thoughts

July 7 – Summertime in Cambridge can be, at least for some of us, far less political than the rest of the year. The City Council is on hiatus (well, I suppose the business of sucking up to potential voters never really ends), party conventions have come and gone, and the fall elections (both primary and general) are a couple of months away. My focus of late is more on Linear Algebra and electrical upgrades than on contemplating whether or not a few trees will impact climate change or whether Traffic Czar Joe Barr will be successful in his quest to make all driving in Cambridge unbearable.

I found the latest poll for the Massachusetts Democratic Primary for Governor (June 30, WBUR/MassINC) to be particularly interesting. Apparently Jay Gonzalez has 21% support to Bob Massie's 15% support in a two-man race. That's a total of 36% support, so apparently 64% of Democrats don't actually give a damn about either of these two guys or, more likely, they never heard of them. Actually, the poll really did ask that question and 61% of voters never heard of Gonzalez and 55% never heard of Massie. This compares to the 2% of voters who never heard of Charlie Baker and the 68% of voters who have a favorable view of him.

That same poll indicates that Secretary of State Bill Galvin has 44% favorable and 9% unfavorable ratings. His primary competitor Josh Zakim has a 14% favorable rating, and 62% of voters never heard of him (even though I suppose most of them know of the bridge named for his dad). If they were voting today it would be 49% Galvin over Zakim's 18% with the rest not giving a damn either way.

It's unfortunate that in the general election each party's Governor and Lt. Governor candidates have to run together. I hope Jimmy Tingle gets the Democratic nod over Quentin Palfrey for Lt. Governor but, alas, the Baker/Tingle ticket is off the table.

A well-meaning political blogger recently asked me about the various interesting local legislative races in Cambridge, i.e. the Mass. House and Senate races. All I could tell her was that listening for crickets would be far more rewarding. Virtually all of the incumbents are running unopposed. The only exception is Marjorie Decker's 25th Middlesex district in which she's opposed by a perennial loser. In my district (26th Middlesex) I will likely write in the name of my favorite beverage rather than the incumbent. How did we get to the point where our choices are so abysmally limited? Sometimes I think we would do better if we chose our legislators the same way jurors are selected - at random from street listings.

I read on Boston.com the other day that the organizers of the Women’s March event in January on the Cambridge Common this past January received a bill for some of the police details and emergency medical technician services after the event, and that the ACLU is suing the City as a result. They have a good case, I suppose, but it makes me wonder why the Cambridge Carnival organizers have not been billed even though there have been actual shootings at their events.

I was a bit startled to learn at the recent hearings on the Nakagawa-Brown Zoning Petition (also marketed as the "Climate Safety Petition" or the "Flood & Heat Resilient Cambridge Petition") that my house was shown on a narrow future waterway separating the rest of Mid-Cambridge and an island extending into The Port neighborhood. What's curious about this is that even when you adjust the 1 to 10 dial in the Surging Seas tool to the maximum, you'd have to go to at least 11 to make this happen. Alas, nothing like a little fear to assist in your political organizing. By the way, the Planning Board voted 6-1 against this petition and the City Council did not seem at all pleased when informed that the petition would kill the funding for necessary renovations to the Miller's River Apartments in East Cambridge. In any case, I still have to decide if I should start stocking up on sandbags or just buy a boat for commuting to work. Maybe we can just excavate the streets and turn Cambridge into Venice. Then we can argue for Inclusionary Gondolas. - RW

Public Open House: Boston Properties Infill Development Concept Plan Phase 2 / 325 Main Street Development Proposal

Wednesday, August 1, 2018
80 Broadway, Cambridge MA (basement under Meadhall)
Doors open at 5:30pm
Presentation will begin at 6:15pm

There will be food, a scale neighborhood model, stations based on topic area with experts in that topic from the design team to answer questions, and CoUrbanize will be recording public feedback along the way.

Follow the project on Boston Properties CoUrbanize website: https://courbanize.com/projects/kendallsquared/updates

For more detailed information on the project you can click here and here to download two PDFs.

Cambridge’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School Project Achieves LEED® Platinum Certification
Building Design Embodies Net Zero Ideals

July 30, 2018 – The City of Cambridge is proud to announce that the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lower School and Putnam Avenue Upper School Project has earned LEED® Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. This is highest rating attainable in this category, based on Version 2009 for schools. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)* provides third-party verification that a building was designed and built using strategies aimed at improving environmental performance.

The 170,000 square foot complex located at 100-102 Putnam Avenue opened in December 2015 as the first near net zero school building in Cambridge. It houses the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lower School, the Putnam Avenue Upper School, and the Department of Human Service Programs’ Preschool, After-School, and Community School programs.

Projects pursuing LEED certification earn points across several categories, including energy use and air quality. With a score of 89, the MLK Jr. school building is the second highest scoring new LEED for Schools project in the nation (just behind Dunbar Senior High School in Washington DC, also designed by Perkins Eastman).

Designed by Perkins Eastman and constructed by Rich-Caulfield MLK Venture, the building embodies Net Zero ideals and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) in action. Throughout the building are embedded opportunities for students to explore the arts, sustainability, and engineering concepts, including math-themed interactive artwork and interpretive displays with signage illuminating the facility’s use of insulation and sustainable materials, consideration of natural light, and reliance on systems for solar energy collection, geothermal heating, and grey water reclamation. PhotoVoltaic panels help generate over 40% of the building’s electrical needs; geothermal wells reduce heating and cooling loads, and an underground storage tank collects rainwater that is used for non-potable water. The building is designed to use 60% less energy than typical educational buildings in New England and is a literal teaching tool with cutouts in the corridors that show the mechanical system at work. This enables students to understand how the energy they use, and save, manifests. Signage is placed throughout the schools explaining these processes.

“We were extremely proud to have built a high-quality sustainable facility that serves the children of Cambridge and enhances the neighborhood,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “This project and prestigious recognition were the result of an incredible collaboration between the City, Cambridge Public Schools, the architect, the contractor, and the leadership of Deputy City Manager Lisa Peterson and the Cambridge City Council.

For more information on the LEED certification process and green buildings in Cambridge, visit http://www.cambridgema.gov/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainablebldgs.

About LEED: *LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) provides third-party verification that a building or community was designed and built using strategies aimed at improving environmental performance, including energy savings, water efficiency, CO2 emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of resources and sensitivity to their impacts. The LEED program was developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. LEED provides building owners and operators a concise framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions.

City of Cambridge Municipal Buildings with LEED certifications:
Cambridge City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway (Gold 2005)
Russell Field House, 82 Clifton St. (Certified 2008)
Robert W. Healy Public Safety Facility, 125 Sixth St. (Silver 2010)
War Memorial Building Renovation, 1640 Cambridge St. (Silver 2010)
Cambridge Public Library, 449 Broadway (Silver 2010)
West Cambridge Youth & Community Center, 688 Huron Ave. (Silver 2011)
Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, 459 Broadway (Gold 2013)
Alice K. Wolf Center, 5 Western Ave. (Gold 2015)

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lower School and Putnam Avenue Upper School Project Classroom
Photo by Robert Benson, Courtesy Perkins Eastman

Sun, July 22 - Still laying low while all the electrical work and other renovations are completed on the homefront. We're under siege! I hope to be back writing about civic stuff very soon. - RW