2019 CCJ Notes - January through June
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City of Cambridge - Ten Year Sewer and Drain Infrastructure Plan

City of Cambridge - Five Year Sidewalk and Street Reconstruction Plan

City Council Chooses a City Clerk

June 17 - The City Council voted unanimously to choose Anthony Ivan Wilson as the next Cambridge City Clerk, pending contract negotiations.
[The City Clerks and City Managers of Cambridge]

Mar 27, 2019 – A few words on the "Overlay" proposal

Personally, this Overlay proposal obliterates over 35 years of what changes could be expected around where I live, and I don’t live in the upper crust part of town. The limiting factor has been the floor area ratio (FAR) – 1.0 for commercial and 0.75 for residential. I have always lived with the possibility that a higher building could appear next door, but that the footprint of the building would have to be smaller and additional setbacks would create a little breathing room between the buildings. That seemed like a reasonable expectation – one that I could easily live with.

During the time I have owned my triple-decker I negotiated with one neighbor so that a small extension would have a roof line that allowed light to continue to get to my first floor apartment. When the neighboring building changed hands and they wanted to add air conditioning units on the roof, I negotiated to ensure that they would be located far enough from my windows so that the added sound would be acceptable. These are the kinds of negotiations that happen when buildings are at or somewhat above the allowable density. Through it all I maintained very reasonable rents to all of my tenants since 1985.

If this Overlay proposal is approved, a new owner could build straight up to a height taller than my building with no setback whatsoever from the property line. Furthermore, the building could cover almost the entire lot yielding a density between 3 and 4 times what is allowed today. No sunlight whatsoever would get to my building. I would have no rights whatsoever to object.

Do I take this personally? Yes. If this were to happen I would likely look for another place to live after being here for over 40 years. So I’m looking now at the few potentially reasonable city councillors to step in and prevent this from happening. If adding to our already high percentage of subsidized housing units is your priority, you should really find a way to do this that doesn’t involve throwing me and others under the bus. – Robert Winters

Books on Cambridge History

Feb 10, 2019 - I'm cleaning up some old email today and found something I wrote a couple of years ago in response to a question about books on Cambridge history. Perhaps you'll find it useful. - RW

It's hard to say where to begin. There was a tradition of Cambridge history-writing in the 19th century that was largely lost during most of the 20th Century. The tradition seems to be having something of a 21st Century revival. Some of my favorites (and I've picked up many of these on eBay) are:

Lucius Paige's History of Cambridge (1877) - you can also read this on the web, e.g. https://archive.org/details/historyofcambrid00paigiala
I mention this one first because it is so often referenced in later histories.

The Cambridge of Eighteen Hundred and Ninety Six (a 50th Anniversary compilation published in 1896 commemorating the transition of Cambridge from Town to City in 1846)
This has a lot of good history in it. I have loaner copies available.

Survey of Architectural History of Cambridge, Volumes 1-5, by the Cambridge Historical Commission
These you can still pick up on eBay and they're at the Cambridge Public Library. I have multiple copies of each volume as loaners.
Volume 1 was originally published in 1967, but a 1989 update is practically a whole other book.

A City's Life and Times, Cambridge in the Twentieth Century, various authors, published by the Cambridge Historical Society, 2007.

Building Old Cambridge, by Susan Maycock and Charles Sullivan of the Cambridge Historical Commission, recently published and available (no sales tax!) at the Cambridge Historical Commission office as well as local bookstores (with sales tax).
This volume started out, I believe, as a successor volume to Volume 4 of the Survey of Architectural History of Cambridge (Old Cambridge), but it grew into something far more comprehensive.

There are at least, I believe, 5 oral history volumes put together by Sarah Boyer and the Cambridge Historical Commission. I believe they may all still be available for purchase at the CHC office, but some are also available at bookstores (and at the Library).

Cambridge on the Charles, by Alan Seaburg, Thomas Dahill, and Carol Rose, published by Anne Minerva Press. Alan and Thomas are friends and fellow Board members with the Middlesex Canal Association (I'm also the webmaster).

There are lots of other miscellaneous books that I really love, including Ten No License Years in Cambridge, published in 1898, that provides great insight into the temperance movement in Cambridge and the roots of the "good government" movement in the 20th Century. It's available in the Cambridge Room of the Main Library.

The books by Tip O'Neill all have some interesting bits and pieces about Cambridge in the 20th Century.

Robert Winters

Featured recent stories in the Cambridge Chronicle (the paper of record) - with some comments:

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.

’20 years gone': Mark Sandman’s legacy to be celebrated at Lizard Lounge (June 28, 2019)

State flag to be removed from Cambridge City Council chamber (June 25, 2019)

GUEST COLUMN: Residents appeal Wheeler development (June 25, 2019 by Ellen Mass and Kathy Johnson)

GUEST COLUMN: East Cambridge in development crosshairs (June 25, 2019 by Dennis Carlone)

Charles River water quality grade dips from A- to B (June 24, 2019)

Cambridge councilors to vote on removing state flag from chamber (June 21, 2019)

So what do Cambridge residents really think about separated bike lanes? (June 19, 2019)

Commissioner’s Award recipients honored during Public Works Week (June 19, 2019)

Cambridge Historical Commission to hold Cambridge Open Archives (June 19, 2019)

New Business Improvement District means cleaner future for Central Square (June 18, 2019)

Cambridge to update bike safety plan with more separated lanes in the works (June 17, 2019)

Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association to host fundraiser (June 16, 2019)

Cambridge Historical Society announces oral history project (June 13, 2019)

Grand opening celebration held at The Link (June 13, 2019)

MBTA Red Line delays expected for foreseeable future (June 12, 2019)

Cambridge looks to create its own TNC regulations (June 12, 2019)

Cambridge councilors look into limiting election donors seeking benefit from City (posted June 11, 2019)

Cambridge officials propose cleaning up area around Jerry’s Pond (posted June 4, 2019)

River Arts Festival to be held in Central Square (May 24, 2019)

‘Growing in the city:’ Green Cambridge returns to work at neighborhood farm (May 23, 2019)

Several Cambridge councilors object to fiscal 2020 school budget (May 21, 2019)

Somerville Hospital considering converting ED to urgent care clinic (May 20, 2019)

Can Cambridge Council remove state flag from its chambers? (May 17, 2019)

Independent review says no excessive force used in 2018 arrest of Harvard student in Cambridge (May 17, 2019)

Cambridge’s Vice Mayor Jan Devereux announces she will not seek reelection (May 14, 2019)

‘The heart of Cambridge:’ Eighteen of city’s oldest small businesses honored (May 14, 2019)

MAP: Here are 18 of Cambridge’s oldest businesses (May 9, 2019)

LETTER: Not too late to reconsider Vellucci Plaza plans in Cambridge (May 14, 2019 by Jonathan Harris)

Cambridge to consider ban on single-use plastic items (May 14, 2019)

Mount Auburn Cemetery abuzz after Bedford resident creates bee sanctuary (May 12, 2019)

Cambridge Democrats to elect delegates for convention (May 8, 2019)

GUEST COLUMN: Approval of Cambridge school budget was a mistake (May 7, 2019 by Leslie Brunetta)

Cambridge aims to reduce trash by 30% in 2020 as part of ‘Zero Waste Master Plan’ (May 7, 2019)

Election commissioners to discuss municipal ballot design (May 3, 2019)

Citizen scientists observe natural world at Mt. Auburn Cemetery (Apr 30, 2019)

Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler announces candidacy for city council (Apr 29, 2019)

2020 Cambridge budget plan addresses affordable housing, schools, sewers and streets (Apr 23, 2019)

Cambridge Emergency Communications recognizes dispatchers (Apr 23, 2019)

Early risers blossom at Mount Auburn Cemetery (Apr 19, 2019)

City renames streets to honor women’s suffrage (Apr 18, 2019)

Cambridge police say Naloxone is making a difference in overdose rates (Apr 17, 2019)

Study examines changes to Cambridge’s Port neighborhood (Apr 16, 2019)

DCR kicks off Memorial Drive project in Cambridge (Apr 15, 2019)

Cambridge will require separated bike lanes (Apr 10, 2019)

Cambridge resident marks 50th anniversary of her first Boston Marathon win (Apr 9, 2019)

Top earners: Who earned the most in 2018? (Apr 8, 2019)

Cambridge suffragists to be honored, thanks to push from young resident (Apr 3, 2019)

City Dance Party, Friday, June 28 7-11pm

Mass Ave. will be Closed to Traffic but Open for Dancing!

Join thousands of Cambridge residents and visitors who will gather on Massachusetts Avenue in front of Cambridge City Hall (795 Massachusetts Ave.) for the city’s annual Dance Party Friday, June 28, from 7-11pm. This event is free and open to the public. Take MBTA Red Line to Central Square and a short walk to City Hall!

The annual dance extravaganza with DJ spun music is a special opportunity for the entire Cambridge community to celebrate summer. After dark, colorful lights will be launched, adding to the magic of the evening.

Originally conceived in 1996 as part of the 150th anniversary celebration of Cambridge, the Dance Party returns each year attracting young and old to join in the festivities! The event is free and open to the public.

TRAFFIC IMPACTS: Massachusetts Avenue will be closed to traffic, from Prospect St. to Lee St. from approximately 6pm – Midnight. MBTA #1 Bus Line will reroute between Central Square and Harvard Square from approximately 6pm – Midnight and there will be no stop at City Hall.

For more information, contact Maryellen Carvello at 617-349-4301 or mcarvello@cambridgema.gov.

Dive into the tangled history of Cambridge politics and social activism at 7 local archives from June 24-28, 2019.

Archivists at each site will share treasures from their collections - photographs, art, posters, letters - that tell complex and unique stories about dynamic politicians and dedicated activists; fights over highways and development schemes; a strong mayor vs. Plan E.

See what an archive is, find out what archivists do all day, and see how you can use these resources to learn more about your family and community.

This year's participating archives:

MIT Museum

The Cambridge Room at the Cambridge Public Library

Harvard Semitic Museum

Harvard Art Museums Archives

Cambridge Historical Commission

Cambridge Historical Society

Mount Auburn Cemetery

REGISTRATION OPENS MAY 31

Info here: http://www.cambridgema.gov/openarchives

This event is free but registration is required.

Questions? 617-349-4070 or chcarchives@cambridgema.gov

Recycle Your Mattress for Free!

The City of Cambridge has partnered with UTEC, a nonprofit organization serving proven-risk young adults, to provide free weekly curbside mattress and box spring recycling services. Approximately 100 tons of mattresses are trashed in Cambridge each year, taking up a massive amount of space in landfills compared to other waste. This initiative will support the city’s goals of reducing waste and is launched in accordance to guidelines from the City’s Zero Waste Master Plan.

“This program will build upon our current waste diversion programs,” said Commissioner Owen O’Riordan, Department of Public Works. “By scheduling a pickup, you can divert mattresses from clogging landfills, while helping an outstanding social enterprise. UTEC will pick up, deconstruct, and recycle mattresses. The textiles and foam will be recycled into new carpeting or padding. The steel will be melted and recycled into a new steel product.”

The Mattress Recycling Program is partially funded by a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. This is a free service to Cambridge residents, but advanced scheduling is required. For more information, visit CambridgeMA.gov/Mattress. To schedule a pick up, visit https://utec-mattress.org/schedule/.

Note: Mattress Recycling is one of three social enterprises that offer paid work experience as part of UTEC’s intensive programming for young adults. UTEC is dedicated to helping young adults ages 17-25 overcome the very real challenges of poverty, gang involvement, unemployment, and cultural barriers that are pervasive in our communities. When these young adults succeed, the community sees the greatest positive impact on public safety, public health and economic development. To learn more about UTEC’s mission and its social enterprises, visit www.UTECinc.org.

Acapulco Gold Rush
You wanted cannabis? Welcome to the future of Cambridge retail.

List of scheduled "community meetings" for proposed marijuana retailers [Full Schedule w/contact info here]
Apr 25 - The list keeps growing every day. Apr 30 - More listings! May 2 - Even more listings!

* - Registered Marijuana Dispensary proposing to expand to Marijuana Retailer

Future of First Street Garage Community Meeting, June 19

The City of Cambridge is holding a community meeting on Wednesday, June 19 at 6:30pm at the Kennedy-Longfellow School, 158 Spring St., Cambridge to provide the community with an update on the status of the proposed disposition of a leasehold interest in 420 unassigned parking spaces and approximately 9,000 square feet of ground floor area intended for retail use in the City-owned First Street Garage property located at 55 First Street.

The meeting will include a summary of the LMP GP Holdings LLC’s disposition proposal received by the city and an update on the First Street Area Parking Planning Study commissioned by the city’s Director of Traffic, Parking, and Transportation in connection with the proposed disposition. The city is seeking the public's input on the proposed leasehold disposition of 420 unassigned parking spaces and approximately 9,000 square feet of ground floor retail space in the First Street Garage.

You can learn more or sign-up for email updates about the First Street Garage at CambridgeMA.gov/FirstStreetGarage.

Following the June 19 community meeting, public hearings will be conducted at the Planning Board and City Council in accordance with the provisions of the city’s disposition ordinance, Chapter 2.110 of the Cambridge Municipal Code. A City Council vote will be required in order to approve of the proposed disposition of the leasehold interest. State law (G. L. Chapter 30B) also requires that when public land or property is disposed of, proposals must be solicited from interested buyers prior to selecting a buyer. The city issued a Request for Proposals pertaining to the proposed leasehold interest, and conditionally awarded the proposed leasehold interest to LMP GP Holdings LLC subject to the process that must be conducted pursuant to the disposition ordinance and the vote of the City Council on the proposed disposition.

For additional information, please contact Lee Gianetti, Director of Communications, at 617-349-3317 or lgianetti@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, June 19

6:30pm   Future of First Street Garage Community Meeting  (Kennedy-Longfellow School, 158 Spring St.)

Final Report Available In advance of the public meeting taking place on Wednesday, June 19th at 6:30 pm at the Kennedy-Longfellow School (158 Spring Street), the City of Cambridge is pleased to release the Final Report for the First Street Area Parking Planning Study, which was completed by the consulting team of Kleinfelder and McMahon Associates. The complete report is available online at www.cambridgema.gov/firststreetgarage, and consists of three items:
  • Cover memo from Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Director Joseph Barr, summarizing the conclusions and providing a recommendation to the City Manager.
  • Summary report that provides a condensed overview of the study process, analysis, and conclusions.
  • Full report that documents the data collection, data analysis, scenario review, and conclusions.
We invite the community to review this report so that residents can be as informed as possible prior to the public meeting.
[First Street Area Parking Planning Study Report Summary] [First Street Area Parking Planning Study Final Report]

Celebrate Fresh Pond Day Saturday, June 15

Join the Cambridge Water Department at its annual Fresh Pond Day on Saturday, June 15, from 11am–3pm, to celebrate Fresh Pond Reservation. Fresh Pond Reservation is truly Cambridge's green gem - an urban wild that protects Fresh Pond, Cambridge's in-city drinking water reservoir. Fresh Pond Day serves as an annual community tribute to this unique Reservation that is a vital natural resource, an invaluable sanctuary for wildlife, and a beloved recreational escape in the city. This event is free and open to all; all dogs must be leashed.

Fresh Pond Day events will be at and around the Walter J. Sullivan Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, Cambridge. Use of public transit and bicycles to get to the event is strongly encouraged. Bus routes 72, 74, 75, 78; & Alewife T are all nearby. Visitors arriving by car are asked to park at the Tobin School on 197 Vassal Lane.

Events Schedule
11:00am-2:00pm   Learn to Stilt Walk
11:00am-3:00pm   Open House of the Water Treatment Plant
11:00am-2:15pm   Live Music from Allston Rock Records
2:30pm-3:00pm   Global Water Dance Performance
11:00am-3:00pm   Free bike tune-ups and bike rodeo; learn about pond life animals with Nature Knowledge for Kids; Junior Ranger badge activities; learn how to fix a leak

Peruse our community tables to learn more from various city departments and local organizations involved in sustainability and outdoor recreation.

Please note that rain or extreme weather cancels this event. For more information, visit www.cambridgema.gov/freshpondday or contact Ranger Tim at 617-349-6489, tpuopolo@cambridgeMA.gov.

Magazine Beach: Shoreline Restoration and PM Patio Work Begin,
Planning for Parkway Improvements, Education, Cleanups & More

Phase II-1 Will Be Starting Soon
Bids are in and in the next weeks DCR will sign a contract to improve the shoreline and Powder Magazine surround. The goal of this work is to replace invasive plants with native ones; to add trees, seating and a dry shoreline path; and to expand the patio and terrace, making it a better site for its future community tenant. $55,000 of community contributions will go towards these improvements, along with many City and State dollars. Thank you, all!

Thank You, Volunteers!
Many thanks to the CRLS’s Charles River Cleanup Project for gathering fallen branches and sticks into piles along the park’s paths and to DCR for whisking them away. With high winds, dead wood is falling, including two mature trees in the grove on Feb. 25. Many thanks also to Boston College High and Riverside Boat House for cutting down some of the shoreline’s willow hedges before the red-winged blackbirds nest there. And thanks, CRC, for loaning the tools. As part of Phase II-1, we’ll be opening up some river views.

Third Grade Charles River Curriculum Rolls Out at Park
In late April, start watching for schools groups at the park. They will be learning by observing about the river habitat—the plants and animals that live there—and they will be collecting data about river herring needs at different stages in their life cycles. The herring will be appearing soon, too.

UMass Amherst Landscape Architecture Students Design Magazine Beach
Three UMass students are focusing on the park this spring as their senior capstone project. April 29, they’ll present their designs. We’re eager to see the fruits of their studies!

Coming Soon…
*Magazine Beach Summer Events 2019 Kick-Off Friday, June 21 and the Veterans Memorial Pool Opens Saturday, June 22. Summer is just ahead! More about our programs here in the next month.

Magazine Beach Updates is brought to you by the Magazine Beach Partners, a 501c3. We work with the Mass. Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to make Magazine Beach a more welcoming and vibrant park, connecting its community and stewarding its natural grounds. We advocate for the park; we raise money for park improvements; and we organize events and cleanups with partners the Charles River Watershed Association, Charles River Conservancy, the Riverside Boat Club, and so many others! It won’t happen without you, so please join in our efforts and like us on Facebook, too.

40th Annual Boston Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival

Come help us celebrate the 40th Annual Boston Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival on Sunday, June 9th, 2019, from 12:00-5:00pm rain or shine! The Boston Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival is the oldest dragon boat festival in North America, founded in 1979.

Located by John W. Weeks Foot Bridge on the Charles River between JFK Avenue and Western Avenue, this year’s festival will feature a record 76 teams, with over 1500 paddlers, from all over Massachusetts, New England the US and Canada, competing in ten categories designated with special races and medals for the Colleges including Financial Institutions, Corporate, Health Care, College, Chinese University Alumni, Women’s, Club, Community and Recreational and Cancer Survivors Divisions.

Spectators will be able to watch brightly colored, 39 foot, Hong Kong style dragon boats as they race on a 500-meter course up the Charles River from the Western Avenue Bridge to the Weeks Footbridge.

The Dragon Boat Races start in the early morning and the cultural programs and festival will begin at 12 Noon. All programs are free and family friendly for visitors. Sponsors, founders, dignitaries and committee members will dot the eyes of the dragon head on each boat in a traditional Eye-dotting Ceremony. This is an ancient Chinese ceremony that is believed to enable the dragon to soar with the utmost power. The Eye-dotting Ceremony will take place at Noon at the docks on Boston side with the accompaniment of a traditional Chinese waist drum dance that will progress over the John W. Weeks Footbridge to open the festival.

The Eye-dotting Ceremony will be followed by cultural programs, demonstrations and performances in the festival tent on the Cambridge side. There will be traditional Chinese music, Chinese Yoyo performance, Filipino, Chinese and Indian Dance performances, Korean Tae Kwon-Do presentation, as well as returning favorites such as Dragon and Lion Dances, Chinese martial arts and traditional Japanese Taiko drumming.

This year there is a special treat that cannot be missed. A special delegation from Longquan China, seven celadon masters with UNESCO intangible cultural heritage status, will demonstrate the making of this ancient ceramic art. This group has also donated a new Dragon Boat to our fleet.

We will bring to visitors interactive cultural demonstrations. Join in a Taiji demonstration on the banks of Charles by Storrow Drive, try your own lion dance with Gunkwok Lion Dance Troupe or give square-dancing a try.

Visitors young and old will find fun, inspiration and cultural engagement with beautiful hands-on Chinese arts and crafts. Come also to sample various Asian foods featuring Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese and more lining the side of Memorial Drive.

The Boston Dragon Boat Festival is sponsored in part by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, State Street, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Eastern Bank and South Cove Community Health Center, Greater Boston Chinese Culture Association, Cambridge Arts Council, Longquan China and Boston Dragon Boat Festival Committee.

Traditionally held on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month (late May to mid June on the solar calendar), the Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the life and death of Qu Yuan (340-278 BCE). A political leader of State of Chu, Qu Yuan is recognized as China’s first distinguished poet. Qu Yuan lost the king’s favor and was banished from his home state of Chu because of his opposition to the prevalent policy of compromise to the powerful state of Qin. In exile, he wrote the poem, “Encountering Sorrow,” which shows a great loyalty to his state and its people. In 278 BCE, Qu Yuan learned the news that Chu had been conquered by Qin. Heart broken, he drowned himself in the Mi Lo River. The people of Chu rushed to the river to rescue him. Too late to save Qu Yuan, they splashed furiously and threw zong-zi (traditional rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves) into the river as a sacrifice to his spirit and to keep the fish away from his body.

Today, Dragon Boat Festivals and races are popular around the world. The first Dragon Boat Festival in the United States was held in Boston in 1979, the first in North America. It is now the largest Asian cultural festival in New England. The Boston festival is used as a vehicle to promote Asian cultures and dragon boat racing, as well as to bring diverse communities together in Boston and the surrounding areas. Every year, more than 20,000 people lined the banks of the Charles to enjoy the festivities and performances.

Website https://www.bostondragonboat.org

May 14 - Announcement from Vice Mayor Devereux

It’s May in an odd year and political engines are warming up across Cambridge. But you won’t hear any noise coming from my campaign bike because I will not be joining the race this year.

My decision not to seek re-election for a third term on the City Council is personal, not political. I am very proud of my policy work and my record, and of the positive contributions I've made to civic engagement and civil discourse.

But I have found it difficult, if not impossible, to strike a healthy, sustainable work-life balance, and I need to step back and reclaim time and space for my family, my friends and myself. I appreciate all the kind words, support, expertise and mentoring people have offered me over the course of my political journey, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow through public service.

There are still seven months left in this term, and I look forward to continuing to serve as Vice Mayor without also having to juggle campaigning. There’s still plenty left on the Council’s docket and more is sure to be added between now and the end of the year.

Onward!
Jan

May 7, 2019 - New City Council candidates emerging from winter hibernation

The incumbents (assuming, for the moment that they all seek reelection) will be joined by a number of challengers. Here's the list so far:

Several other candidates who ran in 2017 are expected to run again in 2019. They'll be added as confirmed.

2019 Cambridge City Council Campaign Bank Reports
You can sort the table by any field or open the full spreadsheet which will be frequently updated.

PS (May 14): There is also at least one new School Committee candidate – Ayesha Wilson, 15 Concord Ave., 02138; Birth Year 1982.

City of Cambridge Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day June 8

The second Household Hazardous Waste collection day of 2019 will take place on Saturday, June 8, from 9:00am-1:00pm, at Danehy Park, Field St lot (enter at Field & Fern St). This event is free and open to Cambridge residents (proof of Cambridge residency required).

Proper disposal of materials helps protect public health and environment. A list of accepted items can be found at CambridgeMA.gov/hazardouswaste.

Not sure how to dispose of items properly? Download the “Zero Waste Cambridge” app for iPhone/Android or visit CambridgeMA.gov/TheWorks to use the “Get Rid of It Right” search tool.

Accepted Items:
Batteries: Vehicle & Non-Alkaline
Car Fluids: Antifreeze, Brake, Engine Degreaser, Transmission
Car Tires (max four per household)
Chemicals: Cleaners, Glues, Removers, Photography & Swimming Pool
Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Mercury Items: Thermometers & Thermostats
Paints: Oil-Based & Latex
Poisons: Insecticides, Pesticides & Weed Killers
Prescription Medicines (also accepted year-round at Police Dept. 125 Sixth St)
Propane Cylinders (20 lbs. or less only)
Waste Fuels: Antifreeze, Gasoline, Kerosene, Sterno & Motor Oil (motor oil accepted year-round)

Items NOT Accepted:
NO Alkaline Batteries
NO Ammunition, Fireworks & Explosives (call Fire Dept. at 617-349-3300)
NO Asbestos (requires proper disposal)
NO Bleach or Ammonia
NO Commercial/Industrial Waste
NO Construction Debris
NO Empty Aerosol Cans
NO Compressed Gas Cylinders
NO Infectious or Biological Waste
NO Radioactive Waste
NO Smoke Detectors
NO Syringes (call Health Department at 617-665-3848)

Cambridge Arts River Festival - June 1, 2019

Lineup: Mermaid Promenade, Climate Action Extravaganza, Music, Dance, Theater, Sculpture Race

June 1, 2019, 11:00am – 6:00pm

Central Square Cultural District along Massachusetts Avenue
from Prospect Street to Sidney Street and beyond

FREE

cambridgeartscouncil.org/riverfestival

The Cambridge Arts River Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary by bringing the river to the Central Square Cultural District on Saturday, June 1, from 11:00am to 6:00pm. The festival will fill the neighborhood with four stages of music plus dance, theater, immersive art experiences, and vendors selling crafts, international foods and craft brews. Admission is free.

This year’s festival features the debut of the Mermaid Promenade. Marching bands and giant puppets will dance down Massachusetts Avenue at 4:00pm. All are invited to join in the parade. Just show up in your favorite marine-themed costume and be part of the festivities. (18,000 people have already registered their interest in the parade on Facebook.)

At the Climate Action Extravaganza, try the electric car ride and drive sponsored by Reach Strategies and Eversource, build solar panels, ride e-bikes, and make a protest t-shirt with Wee the People. Elsewhere in the festival, paint a mural with Liz LaManche about how women small-scale farmers are on the frontlines against hunger and climate change. Hear poetry about our warming world at the Poetry Tent. Cambridge Arts is moving the festival toward being a zero-waste event. This year half the festival stages will be solar-powered and we’re eliminating plastic water bottles and offering compost bins.

The festival day kicks off with the madcap People’s Sculpture Race at 11:00am. Then multiple stages come alive with music, dance and theater from noon to 6 p.m. Laszlo Gardony brings his piano jazz to the Jazz, R&B, & World Music Stage. On the Folk & Roots Stage, hear Billy Wylder’s foot-stomping roots rock and Alisa Amador’s groovy blend of rock, jazz and alternative folk. Paper Citizen offers indie pop and Adam and the Flood raps over stark rock on the Rock, Indie and Alternative Stage. The Youth Stage presents singing, dance, musical theater, improv comedy and a drumline.

Festival visitors can paint a city snow plow truck; watch poems being printed by a 2-ton steamroller; and go on a tour of murals around Central Square.

Food (barbecue, Indian, Jamaican, Mediterranean, Thai, among others), arts and crafts will be available for sale. Then relax at one of the festival’s Beer Gardens with a cool drink from local breweries.

Join us on June 1 and see why Boston Magazine named the Cambridge Arts River Festival the area’s best arts festival in 2017 and 2018.

Festival Program and Schedules

DCR Begins Planning for Memorial Drive Greenway Improvements—Phase III
April 11, DCR held a Listening Session for parkland improvements from the BU Boathouse (east of the rotary) to the Eliot Bridge. We are thrilled that DCR will be replacing broken paths and planting new trees, in this way realizing ideas from their 2002 Charles River Master Plan. But first, they want to hear our priorities. Please share your thoughts by Thursday, May 9 here or mail them to: DCR Office of Public Outreach, 251 Causeway Street, 6th floor, Boston, MA 02114. For more about the project and Thursday's program program, click here.

AECOM is overseeing this design process for DCR. They are currently gathering information on existing conditions and their next public meeting will be in late June. They hope to have bid documents out by June of 2020 and to complete construction by 2022, before work starts on I-90.

Coming Soon…
*ArtBoat Paintings on Exhibit at MIT, Opening: Monday, April 22nd, 4:30-6:30 pm (at the Wiesner Gallery, MIT student center, 2nd floor) Through May 23. Last July Laura Perovich of the Media Lab brought ArtBoat to Magazine Beach. Now she’s bringing to the public images from this event and others from Chelsea and Herter Park in Participatory Self-Portrait. This is collaborative exhibit investigates art, environment, and community in our past and present. Come shape and be shaped by this interactive installation.

*Earth Day Cleanup April 27, 9am-12noon, rain or shine To sign up, contact Sasha at svallieres@thecharles.org. It’s great to be working outside!

*Run of the Charles Relay at Magazine Beach Sunday, April 28, 11am-3pm The CRWA needs volunteers on and off the water. For further info, click here. Contact Meg Rivett at 508.698.6810 X10 to sign up or email: rotc@crwa.org.

Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities Vacancies

Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking persons interested in serving on the Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) advisory board.

Made up of 11 members who serve three-year terms in a volunteer capacity, the CCPD board meets on the second Thursday of every month at 5:30pm. CCPD seeks to build a membership that reflects the cultural and racial diversity of the city, is cross-disability in nature and representative of the different geographical areas of the community. Members must be current residents of Cambridge.

CCPD works dynamically to maximize access to all aspects of Cambridge community life for individuals with disabilities, and strives to raise awareness of disability matters, to eliminate discrimination, and to promote equal opportunity for people with all types of disabilities – physical, mental and sensory. CCPD members are expected to work with other members and CCPD staff to fulfill the goals and objectives of the CCPD Ordinance (CMC Chapter 2.96). CCPD members are expected to attend monthly meetings, participate in subcommittees, and work on various short and/or long-term projects, as needed.

For more information, contact Kate Thurman, Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities at ccpd@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4692 (voice) or 617-492-0235 (TTY).

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 relevant experience and the kinds of disability-related issues or projects that interest them 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. For assistance with filling out applications, contact the Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities at ccpd@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4692 (voice) or 617-492-0235 (TTY). The deadline for submitting applications is Friday, May 31, 2019.

Memorial Day Flags - 2019, Boston Common

2019 Outstanding City of Cambridge Employee Award Winners

City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2019 Outstanding City Employee Award. The annual award recognizes a select number of employees for superior performance, positive attitude, hard work and dedication to public service. The recipients will be honored at a ceremony on Friday, May 10, at 9:00am, in the Sullivan Chamber of Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. All are welcome to attend.

During the ceremony, the City Manager will also present the Brian Murphy Award to a City employee who is committed to making government improve the lives of others. [Note: Deputy City Manager Lisa Peterson was chosen to receive the Brian Murphy Award.]

Congratulations to our 2019 Outstanding City Employees:

• Hector Acevedo, Manager, Find It Cambridge, Human Services Department
• Elizabeth Belmonte, Training Supervisor, Emergency Communications
• Christina Correia, Animal Control Officer, Animal Control Department
• John Galli, Asst. Dir., Community Learning Center, Human Services Department
• Kessen Green, Director of Outreach & Community Programs, Police Department
• Claude-Alix Jacob, Chief Public Health Officer, Public Health Department
• Mary Legere, Personnel Analyst, Public Works Department
• Elizabeth Liss, Education Liaison, Mayor’s Office
• Steven Lopez, Sr., Fire Apparatus Repairman, Fire Department
• Matthew Nelson, Principal Budget Analyst, Budget Department
• Michael Rodgers, Senior Laborer, Public Works Department
• Pardis Saffari, Senior Economic Development Manager, Community Development Department
• Nancy Vargas, Administrative Assistant, Electrical Department

City of Cambridge Board of Election Commissioners
Modifying the Municipal Ballot Design for the City of Cambridge

The City of Cambridge Board of Election Commissioners would like to invite the public to a meeting on Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at 5:30pm at the Election Commission, 51 Inman Street, 1st Floor to discuss modifying the design of the City Council and School Committee Municipal Election ballots. The Board requests that anyone who is unable to attend the meeting, please submit questions and comments at elections@cambridgema.gov.

In Cambridge Municipal Elections, voters rank the candidates in order of preference by marking numbered ovals next to the candidates’ names. With twenty-six (26) candidates for City Council in 2017, the highest number of candidates since Proportional Representation was computerized in 1997, it became evident that ballot modifications would be needed to address a further increase in the number of candidates and to improve the usability.

Instead of having the same number of ovals as candidates, the Election Commission is considering capping the number of ovals at fifteen (15). There would be no limit to how many candidates run for City Council or School Committee, but the ballot would only have fifteen ovals next to each name, even if there are more than fifteen candidates.

Most Cambridge voters will be able to continue voting the same way they always have. In the past five elections, the average voter ranked five candidates on their ballot. Over 95% of voters ranked fifteen or fewer candidates.

The modified ballot will not change the results of the election. Election data from the 2013, 2015 and 2017 Municipal Elections was tested, and it was determined that the results would have been the same if voters had been limited to fifteen choices.

The Election Commission anticipates that this change will make the ballot easier for the voter to read and mark, leading to fewer spoiled ballots.

Update: There will be an Election Commission meeting on Wed, May 22 at 5:30pm where they are expected to vote on the proposal.

Featured recent stories in the Cambridge Chronicle (the paper of record) - with some comments:

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 council discusses rise in affordable housing budget (Mar 26, 2019)

Teacher negotiations next as Cambridge advances proposal for longer school day (Mar 22, 2019)

Cambridge police deputy superintendents inducted into Hall of Fame (Mar 20, 2019)
[Stephen Ahern and Jack Albert]

Uproar over GLX cuts to Union Square station accessibility (Mar 19, 2019)

GUEST COLUMN: Instead of affordable overlay, raise real estate taxes (Mar 19, 2019)

Brookline resident reflects on 1971 takeover of Cambridge building (Mar 18, 2019)

GUEST COLUMN: Why the zoning appeal on Vellucci Plaza matters (Mar 18, 2019 by John Pitkin)

GUEST COLUMN: Proposed zoning overlay in Cambridge is a major opportunity (Mar 20, 2019)
[Ed. Note: This is a propaganda piece was written by two Board members of A Better Cambridge (ABC), a subsidized housing advocacy group with an affiliated political action committee (PAC) promoting candidates in the 2019 municipal election.]

Cambridge offers glimpse of possible affordable housing future (Mar 8, 2019)

Cambridge earns AAA rating for 20th straight year (Mar 6, 2019)

Proposed bus fare hikes, route changes raise concerns at Cambridge meetings (Mar 4, 2019)

East Cambridge Planning Team to hold annual elections (Mar 4, 2019)

Cambridge community invited to vote for design finalists (Mar 1, 2019)

Thurs, Apr 25

6:00pm   The City Council's Housing Committee will conduct a public hearing to continue discussions on the Affordable Housing Overlay District and other related matters.  (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)

Will the Cambridge City Council now refer this half-baked and problematic proposal to the City Council and Ordinance Committee as a zoning petition? Or will they acknowledge that there has been insufficient analysis regarding the intended and unintended consequences?

At a minimum, the City Council should first refer this to the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee before proposing it as a zoning ordinance change. - RW

Note: Apparently, the Housing Committee voted to recommend this travesty to the City Council as a zoning petition.

Community Preservation Act Working Committee Meeting May 16

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) Committee will hold an organizing meeting Thursday, May 16, from 6-7:30pm, in the Ackermann Room of Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

The purpose of this working committee meeting will be to discuss CPA financials, anticipated 2020 funding resources, and refinement of the proposed schedule.

Upcoming Community Preservation Act Committee meetings include a public hearing on project recommendations June 20, a public meeting on CPA Allocation recommendations on July 31, and a decision-making meeting on Sept 17.

The Community Preservation Act (CPA) was created by a state law (MGL Chapter 44B) to help cities and towns preserve the character of their community. In 2001, Cambridge residents voted to adopt the CPA which allowed a 3% surcharge on Property Tax bills to fund affordable housing, open space, and historic preservation projects. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides "matching" funds in addition to those raised locally by the surcharge. The percentage of the state "match" will vary from year to year, depending on the number of participating communities and fees paid at the Registry of Deeds. Each year, at least 10% of annual CPA revenues shall be spent or set aside for later spending on open space, historic preservation and community housing. The remaining percentage can be used towards any of the three funding categories.

For more information, visit CambridgeMA.gov/CPA.

City of Cambridge Seeks Volunteers for 2019 Participatory Budgeting Cycle
Recruitment for Outreach Committee Underway

The City of Cambridge is seeking volunteers to serve on the Participatory Budgeting Outreach Committee for the upcoming 2019 Participatory Budgeting cycle. Volunteers will help ensure that the next Participatory Budgeting process, which will run from June – December 2019, engages as many community members as possible.

This year, $1 million will be set aside to fund the winning projects. Participatory Budgeting (PB) is a democratic process in which community members directly decide how to spend part of the City’s capital budget.

Outreach Committee members will serve from May-December 2019 and will assist with:

• Organizing community events and promoting PB through their networks and social media
• Attending monthly outreach check-in sessions from May-November (no meeting in September)
• Distributing PB fliers, doorhangers, and posters around Cambridge
• Setting up and/or volunteering for at least four idea collection events in June/July
• Setting up and/or volunteering for at least four voting events in December
• Working in mobile voting teams during Vote Week in December to increase voter turnout
• Recruiting volunteers to serve as Budget Delegates

Cambridge residents interested in serving on the PB Cambridge Outreach Committee can apply online at pb.cambridgema.gov or by contacting Matt Nelson in the Budget Office at pb@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4270. The deadline to apply is May 17, 2019.

City of Cambridge Seeking Members for Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Transit Advisory Committees
Application Deadline Extended to May 17

City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking persons interested in serving on the city’s Bicycle, Pedestrian or Transit Advisory Committees. Members are expected to attend monthly meetings as well as review materials and engage in projects outside of regular meetings. Below is more information on each of these committees.

Bicycle Committee
The Bicycle Committee works to improve conditions for bicyclists in the City of Cambridge and promote bicycling as a means of transportation. Activities include: organizing and participating in public events such as biannual community bike rides; reviewing plans for street construction; commenting on proposed development projects; creating promotional materials to encourage bicycling in the city; and working with city departments on network planning. Committee members must be prepared to work on projects outside of standing meeting times. This committee generally meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 5:30-7:30pm at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, Cambridge. For more information about the Cambridge Bicycle Program, visit: CambridgeMA.Gov/bikes. For questions about the committee, contact Cara Seiderman, cseiderman@cambridgema.gov, 617-349-4629.

Pedestrian Committee
The Pedestrian Committee works to promote walking and to help create a more comfortable, safe, and pleasant environment for walking in Cambridge. It advises on the design of roadway projects and policies related to traffic calming, traffic signals, and sidewalk design. It also identifies intersections and other locations where it is difficult to walk, makes suggestions about proposed development projects as they affect people on foot, and undertakes other activities to promote walking. Committee members must be prepared to work on projects outside of standing meeting times. This committee generally meets on the fourth Thursday of each month from 6-8pm at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, Cambridge. (Note: November and December meetings are on the third Thursday.) For more information about walking resources in Cambridge, visit: CambridgeMA.Gov/citysmart. For questions about the committee, contact Cara Seiderman, cseiderman@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4629.

Transit Advisory Committee
The Transit Advisory Committee advances an agenda for a robust public transit system for all who live, work, and visit Cambridge, including the transit services provided by the MBTA and EZRide, among others. The committee membership represents a cross-section of stakeholders, including: businesses and large institutions; commuters; persons with disabilities; neighborhood residents with low income; elderly, youth, and students; and transit advocates. The committee advises on city positions and policies on transit service planning, scheduling, infrastructure modernization, expansion and long-term sustainable funding for transit by the Commonwealth. This committee generally meets on the first Wednesday evening of each month from 5:30-7:30pm. For more information, contact Tegin Teich, tteich@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4615. Visit the committee’s webpage at: CambridgeMa.Gov/transitadvisorycommittee.

Application Process
Applications are sought for a diverse group of dedicated individuals who are representatives of people who live and/or work in Cambridge. Members are expected to attend monthly meetings, review materials, and engage in projects outside of regular meetings. Appointments are made by the City Manager and are for two years of service. Applications to serve on any of these committees can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at www.cambridgema.gov/apply and selecting the respective committee(s) of interest. A cover letter and resume or 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 for above referenced boards is May 17, 2019.

Spring Showers Bring Limited Time Offer on Rain Barrels

Capture the rainwater from your roof and store it in a rain barrel for later use in your garden. If rainwater is not captured and allowed to soak back into the ground, rivers and streams do not have the chance to sustain or "recharge" themselves. By capturing rainwater, you are reducing stormwater runoff, conserving water and recharging the groundwater.

A 60-gallon rainwater collection system is available to Cambridge residents for $69. This offer is valid until midnight on May 15, 2019. To provide the lowest cost, the company is arranging for a general delivery of the rain barrels on Wednesday, May 22, from 4-7pm, to Cambridge Public Works, 147 Hampshire St.

For more information, to order online and to check out the design and variety of color options, visit The Great American Rain Barrel Company website, www.greatamericanrainbarrel.com select “Massachusetts” and “Cambridge” under Shop Community Programs. You can also order by phone 1-800-251-2352 and specify the City of Cambridge promotion.

City Manager's FY2020 Budget Message and Significant Budget Modifications

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 councillors pass tree removal moratorium (Feb 27, 2019)

GUEST COLUMN: Boston’s Urban Four must lead the state’s micro-mobility revolution (Craig Kelley, Feb 27, 2019)

Ranked-choice voting could change Massachusetts elections (Feb 25, 2019)

Housing crisis fuels homelessness in Cambridge, statewide (Feb 20, 2019)

A breakdown of 40B affordable housing (Feb 13, 2019)

Cambridge Community Center launches anniversary fund (Feb 11, 2019)

Cambridge School Committee authorizes investigation of member’s use of N-word; students say voices overlooked (Feb 7, 2019)

Warm Hearts for Warm Feet Wool Sock Drive returns for second year (Feb 6, 2019)

Neighborhood association elects new officers at annual meeting (Feb 6, 2019)

MBTA proposes 6.3 percent fare hike (Jan 28, 2019)

Should students have a say on policy? (Jan 28, 2019)

STATE HOUSE ROUNDUP -- Federal employees feel shutdown’s bite (Jan 21, 2019)

Cambridge eliminates fees for street performers (Jan 15, 2019)

Police continue to seek answers, assistance in Cambridge murder (Jan 11, 2019)

Cambridge looks to add gender-neutral option on birth certificates (Jan 8, 2019)

Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest accepting submissions (Jan 8, 2019)

City of Cambridge Seeking Volunteers to Serve on Foundry Advisory Committee

Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking volunteers to serve on the Foundry Advisory Committee. The Committee is made up of community members who serve in an advisory capacity to the City of Cambridge and the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA), to help ensure that the Foundry building’s (101 Rogers Street) redevelopment and ongoing operation remains consistent with the Vision and Objectives established in the Demonstration Plan.

This group provides regular updates to the City Manager and to the CRA Executive Director on proposed uses within the Foundry building, which is in the process of being redeveloped and operated consistent with the vision and objectives that grew out of an extensive community planning process. Once the building is redeveloped, the Committee will also review any proposals for significant capital changes to the building as they affect the Foundry’s objectives.

Meetings are held quarterly and are open to the public. The Committee provides annual updates to the CRA Board at regular Board meetings, which provides an additional forum for public input. Members of the Committee will be appointed by the City Manager to a term of 3 years.

The City Manager seeks individuals with demonstrated ability to work effectively on a team with diverse opinions to craft consensus recommendations. The Committee is intended to include experience and expertise in related topic areas, as well as representation from various neighborhoods within the city, and local non-profit and community organizations.

Additional information regarding the Foundry building is available on the project webpage: www.cambridgeredevelopment.org/foundry.

The deadline for submitting applications is Fri, Apr 26, 2019. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume, or 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.

For more information, contact the City Manager's Office at 617-349-4300 or citymanager@cambridgema.gov.

The Belmont Historical Society Presents – Destination Watertown: The Armenians of Hood Rubber
A Program by Local Filmmaker Roger Hagopian

Date: Sunday, April 7, 2019, 2:00pm     Location: Assembly Room – Belmont Memorial Library (336 Concord Ave., Belmont)
A documentary of the immigrant workers of the Hood Rubber Company, a once bustling shoe and boot factory from 1896 until its closing in 1969. Learn about life in the factory and the factory's impact on the local community. [Flyer for event] [Video on YouTube]

City of Cambridge Seeking Members for Technical Advisory Group on Future of Mobility Implementation Blueprint

City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking volunteers to serve on a new Technical Advisory Group that will provide guidance during the development of the Future of Mobility Implementation Blueprint. The Blueprint’s goal is to help the City of Cambridge prepare for and shape new mobility options in a way that meets established community goals, meets the mobility needs of all people who live in, work in, and visit Cambridge, and is well integrated with our sustainable transportation system.

The Blueprint will help provide clarity and specific, practical direction for strategies that support diverse transportation options and technological innovations, such as micromobility devices, electric vehicles, and autonomous vehicles, while ensuring that they do not adversely impact, but rather complement, progress towards other city goals related to safety, equity, traffic congestion, transit and goods movement reliability, transportation network connectedness, GHG emissions and climate resilience. The development of the Blueprint will result in transportation trend analysis, strategies and actions that allow the City of Cambridge to shape how new mobility is introduced in the city, a residential/neighborhood EV charging pilot design, a proposed regulatory strategy, and recommended approaches to public engagement.

Applicants with subject matter experience in a field that would help to inform a robust and equitable Future of Mobility Implementation Blueprint are encouraged to apply. This includes applicants with technical expertise in existing and emerging mobility, included but not limited to, connected and automated vehicles, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, micromobility (i.e. electric scooters, electric skateboards, electric bicycles), mobility aggregator apps, shared mobility services, mobility data management systems, public transit, bicycling and walking. It also includes applicants who represent community interests related to transportation, including other city departments, underserved communities such as low income and persons with disabilities, neighboring communities, such as Boston and Somerville, health and safety, and local and regional transportation advocacy groups.

The Technical Advisory Group will consist of 15-20 members and will meet up to six 6 times over the course of the project to provide feedback and input on the Blueprint. The group is expected to begin meeting in May and will likely meet three to four times prior to July. The remaining two to three meetings will be scheduled between July 1, 2019 and June 30, 2020. The Advisory Group may also be asked to prepare for a robust, productive discussion at each meeting by reading materials in advance, or to provide feedback between meetings as needed through emails or electronic polls.

For additional questions about the Future of Mobility Technical Advisory Blueprint, contact Stephanie Groll, Parking and Transportation Demand Management Officer at 617-349-4673 or sgroll@cambridgema.gov, or Bronwyn Cooke, Sustainability Planner at 617-349-4604 or bcooke@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, Apr 12, 2019.

Zero Waste Master Plan Draft open for comment

For more than a year, the City has been developing a Zero Waste Master Plan. The City is seeking your feedback on the Draft Plan and the six Appendices. Visit CambridgeMA.Gov/ZWMP to review and submit comments until March 15, 2019. The final Zero Waste Master Plan will be made public by April 4.

Feb 28 - The City of Cambridge has embarked on a path to Zero Waste to build upon its current waste management system and programs. The development of a Zero Waste Master Plan (ZWMP) and strategy is intended to assist with achieving the City’s goals of reducing waste and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The public is invited to review a draft version of this plan and send comments through March 15, 2019, to recycle@cambridgema.gov.

The recommendations developed for the ZWMP will help support the Department of Public Works’ (DPW) guiding principles of providing high-quality public services, protecting and supporting the health of employees and the public, and managing costs and reducing trash. Learn more about how the City's 25,000 tons of trash, recycling and composting is sorted - what's landfilled, incinerated, recycled and composted - in Appendix 1 of the Zero Waste Master Plan.

The Zero Waste Master Plan (ZWMP) will guide the City in:
• Meeting trash reduction goals of 30% reduction by 2020 and 80% reduction by 2050 from 2008 waste levels.
• Maintaining high quality public services to manage waste disposal
• Maximize operational efficiency
• Protecting employee health and safety
• Evaluating costs for managing waste
• Exploring the impact of waste reduction on GHG emission goals

The ZWMP will also coordinate with the efforts of the citywide comprehensive plan, Envision Cambridge.

For more information, visit CambridgeMA.gov/zerowastemasterplan.

Upcoming Waste Events
Fri. 3/15: Last day to comment on Draft Zero Waste Master Plan.
Mon. 3/25: MassRecycle Summit, Sheraton Hotel Framingham.
Thurs. 4/4: New recycling program begins--TBA in March.
Sat. 4/6: Hazardous Waste Day for Cambridge residents, near 125 Munroe St.
Sat 5/18: Fix-It Clinic at Cambridge Public Library, 449 Broadway.

City of Cambridge Announces Inman Square Loyalty Program
The Program Encourages Patrons to Support Local Inman Square Businesses During Construction

The Cambridge Community Development Department will launch the Inman Square Loyalty Program on Friday, March 1. The Loyalty Program is designed to encourage Cambridge residents, employees, and visitors to continue supporting local businesses in the Inman Square business district during the Inman Square Intersection Improvements Project construction period. Those who participate in the Inman Square Loyalty Program will be entered in a monthly raffle.

To participate in the Inman Square Loyalty Program:

• Pick up an Inman Square Loyalty Card at participating Inman Square businesses.
• Make six purchases at participating businesses each month and get your Loyalty Card stamped after each transaction.
• Return your completed Loyalty Card to drop boxes located throughout Inman Square.

The Community Development Department will select two winners at the end of each month through a raffle drawing. Winners will receive a $50.00 gift certificate to an Inman Square business of their choice. Customers are limited to submitting one completed Loyalty Card per month.

“Our local businesses are an important part of our community and I am pleased that we are piloting this new program to help encourage residents and visitors to continue patronizing businesses during the upcoming construction project,” said Louis DePasquale, City Manager. “I appreciate the close collaboration between our City departments and the local business community to make this pilot a reality.”

“The pilot Inman Square Loyalty Program is part of our efforts to mitigate City construction-related impacts for local businesses,” said Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager for Community Development. “Inman Square is a vibrant part of Cambridge’s retail economy, and the program encourages people to continue enjoying its diverse dining and shopping options during construction.”

The Community Development Department, Department of Public Works, and City Manager’s Office are collaborating with the East Cambridge Business Association, the Inman Square Neighborhood Association, the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, and Cambridge Local First to provide additional resources and programming that will support local businesses during the Inman Square Intersection Improvements Project.

“Supporting small business owners becomes even more important when they face construction projects,” said Jason Alves, Director of East Cambridge Business Association. “The Inman Square Loyalty Program will help remind people of the positive impact they can have on their community each and every time they make a decision to spend their dollars locally. It will be great to see the community get behind our businesses and win some prizes that will further support those impacted.”

To learn more about upcoming events and resources related to Inman Square construction mitigation efforts, visit cambridgema.gov/ShopInman.

Nominations Sought for Outstanding City of Cambridge Employee Awards

March 8, 2019 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking nominations for the 2019 Outstanding City Employee Awards program which recognizes employees for exemplary performance and contributions that go above and beyond job requirements.

Cambridge city government is made up of dedicated employees who strive to provide a high level of quality services to all its citizens. The annual awards ceremony provides a special opportunity to give extra recognition to a few exemplary individuals who will be recognized at a special awards ceremony on Friday, May 10, 2019.

The Outstanding City Employee Awards are designed to recognize contributions that are above and beyond job requirements. Criteria for determining outstanding performance include:

• Demonstrated strong leadership and a high level of commitment to the city and its residents.
• Demonstrated outstanding customer service to the public and/or fellow employees.
• Developed an innovative or creative solution to a problem.
• Made superior contribution to the success of a project, completing work on time and within budget.
• Donated significant time to activities that benefit the Cambridge community. Encouraged and valued community involvement.
• Demonstrated an exceptional ability to work in a multicultural organization.
• Consistently contributed to better city operations.

All City employees are eligible for nomination. Anyone who lives or works in Cambridge may nominate one or more city employees for recognition. Individuals are not limited as to how many employees s/he chooses to nominate, but must submit a separate Nomination Form or letter for each employee. An employee may not nominate her or his own supervisor or department head for recognition.

Nominations are due by Friday, April 12, 2019 and can be submitted online. Alternatively, a signed nomination letter may also be submitted in person to the Personnel Department, Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue, 3rd Floor, via fax to 617-349-4312, or email to mcarvello@cambridgema.gov.

For more information, see this story in the news section of the city's website, CambridgeMA.gov, or contact Maryellen Carvello at mcarvello@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4300.

Rabies Vaccination Clinic for Dogs Only – Saturday, Apr 6
Annual Dog Licenses also Available

Cambridge Animal Commission will be holding a Rabies Vaccination Clinic for dogs only on Saturday, April 6, from 9-11am, at the Cambridge Department of Public Works, 147 Hampshire St. Cost is $15 per dog; cash or check only please.

State laws require that all dogs and cats over the age of 6 months be vaccinated against rabies. A vaccination clinic for cats has not been planned, though there are clinics in the area that administer low cost programs for rabies vaccinations.

Annual dog licenses for Apr 1, 2019 - Mar 31, 2020 will also be issued at the Rabies Vaccination Clinic. The fee for a dog license for a spayed/neutered dog is $10, or $30 for a dog that is not spayed or neutered. State law requires that all dogs over 6 months have a current dog license. Please note that all current dog licenses expire on Mar. 31, 2019. The fine for an unlicensed dog is $50. In order to obtain a dog license, owners must have a current rabies vaccination.

Cambridge residents can apply for or renew their dog’s license online, CambridgeMA.gov/doglicense, or download the paper application and renew via mail or in person, following instructions on the respective form.

For your pet’s safety at the Rabies Vaccination Clinic, dogs must be leashed at all times. You are still welcome to attend if your dog is up to date on its rabies vaccination and you just need a license. Please bring a current rabies vaccination certificate and proof of spay or neuter if your dog has not been licensed in Cambridge before.

Rabies has and will continue to be present in Cambridge and throughout the Commonwealth. The best thing you can do for your pet (dogs and cats) is to have it vaccinated and to teach your family and friends to avoid contact with wild animals. The basic rule is to “leave wildlife alone.”

When you are outside with your dog, please adhere to the leash law. When you are in shared use areas in the city, always have your dog under control and within your sight (particularly at Fresh Pond). Regulations are posted in shared use areas and at designated dog parks in the city. Cat owners should keep their cats indoors as it’s a safe and controlled environment.

As always, the Cambridge Animal Commission would like to remind dog owners of the three L’s of dog ownership – License, Leash, and Love your pet.

For more information, please call the Cambridge Animal Commission Office at 617-349-4376. If we are not in the office, please leave a voicemail with a convenient time and number to return your call.

Street Cleaning and Yard Waste Pickup Resume Monday, April 1
Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event on Saturday, April 6

Street cleaning and yard waste pickup in Cambridge will be resuming for the season on Mon, Apr 1, 2019. The next Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day in Cambridge will be held on Sat, Apr 6, from 9am–1pm, at the Volpe Transportation Center; entrance near 125 Munroe St. Below are more details regarding these services and information on registering for notifications.

Street Cleaning
Public Works mechanically sweeps each street in Cambridge once per month, April through December (weather permitting). Signs are posted on each residential street indicating the schedule. In order to ensure that streets are properly cleaned, cars must move off the side of the street being swept to avoid being ticketed and towed. Cars must remain off the side of the street until the time indicated on the sign, even if the sweeper has already made a pass down the street, since it will often return to do it again. Citywide street sweeping includes twice yearly vacuum sweeping to improve storm water quality.

Yard Waste Collection
Separate yard waste collection begins Apr 1, 2019 and continues through Dec 13, 2019. Please be sure to set yard waste out by 7:00am on your regular collection day, or after 6:00pm the night before. Yard waste is not accepted in plastic bags by recycling or trash crews. Place yard waste in barrels marked with City-issued stickers and facing the street, or in lawn refuse bags sold in most hardware stores. Barrels and bags must be set on the curb apart from the trash. Do not staple or tape bags. Bundle small twigs and branches with string. Contact Public Works at 617-349-4800 to request Yard Waste stickers.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day
The City of Cambridge holds four Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Days in 2019. Proper disposal of materials helps protect public health and the environment. A list of accepted items can be found at www.CambridgeMA.gov/HazardousWaste.

Service Schedules and Notifications
Residents can find their curbside collections and street cleaning schedules by entering their address in the “My Cambridge Schedule” tool at www.CambridgeMA.gov/theworks. Notifications are now available by text message, email, or app notifications by downloading the “Zero Waste Cambridge” app for iPhone/Android. Those previously signed up for reminders through ELine should re-subscribe using the scheduling tool or by downloading the app. Residents are also encouraged to visit www.CambridgeMA.gov/theworks and use the “Get Rid of It Right” tool to search how to properly dispose of items.

This may be the best case yet for the need for Ranked Choice Voting:
Correia remains Fall River mayor in election stunner (Boston Globe, March 13, 2019)
Correia was simultaneously thrown out of office by a majoprity of voters in a recall election, and elected back to the same office in a 35% plurality vote in a field of five candidates seeking to become the new Mayor (including Corriea). This is just plain perverse.

City of Cambridge Health & Human Services Job Fair – March 27

The City of Cambridge Office of Workforce Development, is sponsoring a Health & Human Services Job Fair on Wed, Mar 27, from 11am-1pm, at the Central Square Library, 45 Pearl Street in Cambridge.

This will be a great opportunity for job seekers to connect with employers such as Boston Children’s Hospital, Cambridge Health Alliance, City of Cambridge DHSP Youth Programs, Community Resources for Justice, Fenway Health/AIDS Action Committee, Franciscan Children’s Hospital, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Morgan Memorial Goodwill Industries, Mount Auburn Hospital, Nurtury, Perkins School for the Blind, Spaulding Hospital/Cambridge, and Vinfen.

Those who plan to attend should remember to research companies and job opportunities before the job fair and to apply for appropriate positions online.

The Office of Workforce Development is part of the City's Department of Human Services Program. For more information, contact Josh Foley at 617-349-6259 or jfoley@cambridgema.gov.

Cambridge Awarded AAA Ratings
Nations three major credit rating agencies affirm City’s status for 20th year

March 4, 2019 – The City of Cambridge has retained its noteworthy distinction of being one of approximately 33 municipalities in the U.S. to earn AAA ratings from each of the nation's three major credit rating agencies. Each year since 1999, the city has received these ratings from Moody's Investors Service, Standard & Poor's and Fitch Ratings.

“I want to acknowledge the City Council’s leadership for adopting and maintaining sound fiscal policies, and city department heads and staff for their commitment to prudently managing their budgets and programs,” said City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “One of the many factors contributing to the city receiving these ratings is our strong and dedicated team.”

The AAA ratings are in conjunction with the city's sale of $90.6 million in General Obligation bonds. These sales will finance capital projects such as King Open and Cambridge Street Upper Schools and Community Complex, sewer reconstruction, street and sidewalk reconstruction, and other municipal and school building design and renovations.

Over the last 20 years, the AAA rating has enabled the city to finance a variety of major capital projects at very favorable rates that, in turn, result in savings to taxpayers.

As the city undertakes a significant increase in debt issuance over the next few years to fund it's school rebuilding program, the AAA rating will play a significant role in enabling the city to secure the most favorable interest rates. This is especially important as the city embarks on funding its third school project (Tobin Montessori and Vassal Lane Upper Schools) with an estimated cost of $250 million. Overall, including the Tobin School project, the city is projected to spend a total of $505 million for the three school projects. In addition, the bonding schedule includes significant obligations for renovations to Fire Headquarters and other city buildings.

“We take a long-term approach to our fiscal planning, and our fiscal strategies and management practices have real impacts on Cambridge taxpayers,” said City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “We’ve built significant reserves, which in part serve as the city’s insurance policy, and our financial success is only possible because of the collaboration that occurs between the City Council and the city administration.”

Below are excerpts from the Rating Agencies reports. (Download Full Reports)

Moody’s Investors Service
Cambridge, Massachusetts (Aaa stable) benefits from a sizeable and diverse tax base that continues to grow significantly year over year. The city's economy is driven largely by the presence of Harvard University (Aaa stable) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT, Aaa stable) and the impressive research and development sector. The city's financial position is strong with very healthy liquidity and reserves that are maintained by strong fiscal management. Both the debt burden and long term liabilities for pension and OPEB are conservatively managed and will remain manageable over the near term.

Credit strengths cited include:

• Large and diverse tax base anchored by institutional presences and robust commercial sector;
• Healthy financial position guided by formal policies;
• Strong fiscal management;
• Ample operating flexibility with excess levy capacity under Proposition 2½; and
• Expected to fully fund pension liability by 2026

Fitch Ratings
The city's 'AAA' GO bond rating and Issuer Default Rating (IDR) reflect Fitch Ratings’ expectation for Cambridge to maintain a high level of financial flexibility through economic cycles, consistent with a history of strong operating performance and budget controls. The ratings further reflect the city's wealthy and growing property tax base, moderate expenditure growth and its demonstrated ability to reduce expenditures during economic downturns.

Fitch expects long-term liabilities to remain low based on the city's manageable capital needs, rapid principal amortization, continued growth in economic resources and a practice of fully funding actuarially determined pension contributions.

Standard & Poor’s Corporation
The rating reflects our opinion of Cambridge's extremely strong property tax base that continues to grow within the Boston metropolitan statistical area (MSA), supporting continued positive budgetary performance that has led to improved reserves. The city has a favorable debt profile with the ability to absorb additional debt plans.

Key factors cited include management's:

• Conservative revenue and expenditure assumptions in the budgeting process that focus on five years of historical information;
• Quarterly reports on budget-to-actual results and investments to the city's finance and investment committees, respectively;
• Long-term financial plan with credible assumptions;
• Five-year capital plan with identified funding sources, which it is expanding to include a municipal-facilities-improvement plan;
• Robust debt and investment policy it reviews at least annually to demonstrate adherence; and
• Reserve policy that requires maintaining a minimum 15% of expenditures.

Feb 23 - Which potential 2019 City Council election campaign accounts have been active this year? (Updated)
[Not all of those listed will actually be candidates in 2019 and there may be others not listed here. You decide.]

2019 Cambridge City Council Campaign Bank Reports - The Usual Suspects - You can sort the table by any field or open the full spreadsheet

Cambridge Community Electricity Program to Fund Development of Local Solar Project, Provide Savings to Consumers
The City’s new contract with Direct Energy will increase local renewable energy production and provide lower electricity rates than Eversource Basic Service.

The Cambridge Community Electricity Program is launching a new model for using the City’s electricity aggregation to directly create more local renewable electricity. Effective January 15, 2019, the program will collect a small amount of money, $0.002/kWh, from all participants as part of their regular electricity bill, which will be used to fund a new local solar project. Once built, the solar project will provide green electricity to everyone enrolled in the Cambridge Community Electricity Program.

The new program model is made possible through a 24-month electricity supply contract with Direct Energy. This contract offers new program prices that are fixed from January 2019 through January 2021. Participants in the Standard Green option will receive greener electricity than available through Eversource Basic Service by supporting the new local solar project. The Standard Green price will change to 11.12 cents/kWh, which is lower than Eversource’s January 2019 through June 2019 residential price of 13.704 cents/kWh.

The previous 100% Green option is now the new and improved 100% Green Plus option, which current 100% Green participants will be automatically enrolled in. 100% Green Plus participants will continue to receive 100% renewable electricity through the purchase of renewable energy certificates (RECs) from existing renewable energy projects in New England and will receive additional solar electricity from the local solar project. The 100% Green Plus price will be 11.94 cents/kWh, also less than Eversource’s winter 2019 Basic Service price. Any Cambridge resident or business can opt into 100% Green Plus at any time.

“This innovative model for our Community Electricity Program supports Cambridge’s local economy and furthers our renewable energy goals without having a negative impact on personal finances,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “We are proud to continue pioneering programs that lower the carbon footprint of our community in cost-effective ways.”

Beginning in February 2019, Direct Energy will replace Agera Energy as the supplier listed on Eversource electricity bills. Participants will continue to receive and pay one bill from Eversource, which will be responsible for delivering electricity to Cambridge and for addressing power outages. Those who are eligible for discounts from Eversource will continue to receive the same benefits. Those with solar panels on their property will continue to receive net metering credits, which will be calculated based on the Eversource Basic Service rate, not on the program rate.

Savings cannot be guaranteed for future Eversource rate periods because Eversource’s prices change every 6 months for residential and small business customers and every 3 months for large business customers. Program participation is not required; participants can opt out of the program at any time with no penalty or fee and return to Eversource Basic Service.

All active accounts will be automatically enrolled in the new contract with Direct Energy unless participants choose to opt out. New Eversource electricity accounts in Cambridge will also be automatically enrolled in the program.

To switch between Standard Green or 100% Green Plus enrollment options or to opt out of the program, call Direct Energy at 1-866-968-8065. Cambridge residents and businesses currently enrolled with the Cambridge Community Electricity Program do not need to take any action to continue their enrollment as part of this new program model.

Additional information is available on the program website at www.masspowerchoice.com/cambridge. Questions or comments can be directed to Cambridge Community Electricity program consultants at 1-844-379-9934 or cambridge@masspowerchoice.com.

Launched in July 2017, the Cambridge Community Electricity Program is an electricity aggregation, which uses the bulk purchasing power of the entire community to negotiate a price and increase the amount of renewable energy in the City’s electricity supply. The City uses a competitive bidding process to choose an electricity supplier for residents and businesses and to secure the best price possible for the community while advancing the City’s sustainability goals.

Project Update

Residents, and business owners and staff are invited to stop by a Coffee Talk to meet with City staff and contractors and ask questions related to current and upcoming construction in Inman Square.

Thursday, March 14th
9:00am-10:30am
Olé Restaurant
11 Springfield St.

Additional Coffee Talks will be held monthly throughout the project at different times and locations to accommodate as many interested neighbors as possible.

If you have questions or concerns about the Inman Square project, you may contact Kate Riley, DPW Community Relations Manager at (617) 349-4870 or kriley@cambridgema.gov. More information about the project in general, as well as the December 2018 Construction Update newsletter can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/InmanSquare.

Calling all Cambridge Neighbors!
Cambridge FOUNDRY

In 2021, a new center for the arts and STEM will open at 101 Rogers Street. The Foundry building is a historic building reuse project that will allow the Cambridge community to enjoy performances, be creative and make things, and attend workshops to learn new skills.

Join the Foundry Consortium at Abigail’s Restaurant over coffee and scones for our first discussion about what you would like to see happening at the Foundry.

Saturday, March 16, 2019
10:00am–12:00pm
Abigail’s Restaurant
291 Third Street
Cambridge, MA 02142

Please RSVP by Friday, March 15, 2019. If you know someone who would be interested in joining us, please forward this email or download our flyer.

Call for Cambridge Artists: Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest
Winners Will Receive Prize Money and Artwork Will Be Displayed in Vacant Storefront Windows

Jan 3, 2019 – The City of Cambridge invites local artists to submit their work to the Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest. The program, designed by the Community Development Department and Cambridge Arts, aims to energize neighborhoods by filling empty store windows with reproductions of locally-made art.

Five finalists, chosen through a jury and public voting process, will each be awarded a one-time honorarium of $1,000. These winning designs will be available for Cambridge property owners to print and display in vacant ground-floor storefronts throughout the city.

“The City’s Retail Strategy Plan identified vacant storefront activation as a key recommendation for enhancing Cambridge’s retail environment,” said Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager for Community Development. “This contest is a unique opportunity for local artists to make our commercial districts more vibrant and engaging.”

“In Cambridge, we’re always looking for opportunities for our artists and businesses to partner—from the Central Square Mural Project and the Central Square Cultural District to our Creative Marketplace Exhibitions program,” said Jason Weeks, Executive Director of Cambridge Arts. “The Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest is another way the arts can make our city a more dynamic and engaging place to live, work, and explore.”

Artwork must be uploaded to an online submissions form by Friday, Feb 8, 2019 at noon. Original artwork—from paintings and prints to photographs and graphic designs—must be formatted into a digital, high-resolution PDF file that can be printed to paper or vinyl and is adaptable to a variety of window sizes. Designs must be original and not infringe on any copyrighted material.

Semi-finalists, chosen by a jury, will be announced in February 2019, followed by a public vote to help determine finalists. The five finalists will be announced in March 2019, with installations expected later in the spring.

For more information about the contest’s submission and selection process, visit www.cambridgema.gov/StorefrontContest.

Residents Sought for Board Vacancy on Cambridge Human Rights Commission

Jan 4, 2019 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking a resident to fill a vacancy on the Cambridge Human Rights Commission.

The Cambridge Human Rights Commission (CHRC) seeks Cambridge residents representing the diversity of Cambridge. Commissioners are expected to attend monthly meetings, participate in subcommittees on outreach and public education, and work with Commission staff on the investigation, mediation, and resolution of complaints filed with the Commission which allege discrimination in housing, public accommodations, employment or education based upon race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, family status, military status or source of income.

The Human Rights Commission is made up of 11 members who serve three-year terms. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month at 6pm.

The deadline for submitting applications is February 8, 2019. Applications 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, 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.

For more information, contact Nancy Schlacter, Cambridge Human Rights Commission, at 617-349-4396 or nschlacter@cambridgema.gov.

Members Sought to Fill Vacancies on the Cambridge LGBTQ+ Commission

Jan 10, 2019 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking individuals to fill vacancies on the LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer) Commission. Prospective Commissioners must either reside or work in Cambridge.

The mission of the LGBTQ+ Commission is to advocate for a culture of respect and to monitor progress toward equality of all persons with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity. The Commission also promotes policies and practices that have a positive effect on the health, welfare and safety of all persons who live, visit or work in the City of Cambridge with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity and expression.

The Commission normally meets on the 4th Thursday of each month, from 6-7:30pm, at Windsor Street Community Health Center, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 119 Windsor St., Cambridge. Commissioners are expected to volunteer some time outside of meetings for various projects.

The deadline for submitting applications is February 8, 2019. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume, or 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.

For more information about the Commission, visit www.CambridgeMA.Gov/lgbtqplus. Minutes, and other information can be found there. Visit the Commission’s FaceBook page at: CambridgeLGBTQ+Commission.

City of Cambridge Sets Up Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund for Residents Impacted by Jan. 14 Fire on Cambridge and Hunting Streets

Jan 14, 2019 – Today, an early morning four-alarm fire ocurred at 6 Hunting St. and 851/855 Cambridge St. The initial time of the call was at 5:42am, with the fourth alarm being issued at 6:33am. In total, 12 engines, seven ladders, two squads, one rescue, and numerous chief officers and support units were on scene. No serious injuries have been reported, with only minor injuries reported due to falls on the ice.

In addition to Cambridge Fire Department, fire companies from Somerville, Belmont, Boston, Brookline, Waltham, and Watertown aided at the fire scene. Fire companies from several cities and towns, including Arlington, Boston, Brookline, Newton, and Waltham, provided station coverage in Cambridge and responded to numerous unrelated incidents in the city during the fire.

“I want to thank the men and women of the Cambridge Fire Department for their quick action to contain the fire and protect the building exposures in this highly congested neighborhood,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasqaule. “Losing your home and your belongings to a fire is a devastating tragedy, and I know how difficult this time is for the impacted residents. I was proud that our staff and the American Red Cross were able to work with the displaced residents this morning to get them set-up with emergency housing, debit cards, and access to money from the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund. These residents have a long road ahead of them, and the City will continue to be here to assist them as they figure out how to move forward."

The cause of fire is under investigation by the Cambridge Fire Department’s Fire Investigation Unit and the State Fire Marshal’s Office. As part of that investigation, all residents, property managers, and owners of the buildings involved will be interviewed, and a thorough review of any files, reports, or other relevant information connected to the structures will be conducted.

The Cambridge Fire Department will have no comment on the cause and/or origin of the fire until that investigation is complete.

Support of Impacted Residents
At approximately 8am, the City of Cambridge opened a shelter for impacted residents and neighbors at the Frisoli Youth Center located 61 Willow St.

Staff from the City Manager’s Office, various City departments, Metro Housing Boston, Cambridge Housing Authority, and the American Red Cross assisted displaced residents. The Mayor, Vice Mayor, and numerous City Councillors and School Committee members visited the shelter to speak with the impacted residents.

“The first responders, City staff, local businesses, non-profits, and neighbors who responded quickly and effectively to this morning’s fire deserves our gratitude and praise. They are Cambridge’s strength and pride,” said Cambridge Mayor Marc C. McGovern.

851/855 Cambridge Street is a four-story structure with eight residential units and commercial space, and 6 Hunting Street is a three-story structure with two residential units. In total, 22 individuals in nine units were displaced (1 unit was vacant).

As part of their services, the American Red Cross provided every displaced individual with a $125 debit card for incidental supplies and every household with a $260 debit card for emergency hotel costs. Additionally, the Red Cross will follow each case for up to 45 days, as necessary. Each household will also receive follow-up support from the appropriate housing agency and all relevant City departments.

Additionally, the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund will provide displaced residents with $600 per person with a max of $2,400 per unit. Checks totaling $11,400 from the Disaster Relief Fund will be available to 19 residents tomorrow morning. The remaining three residents are currently out of state. The public can help the impacted families by donating to the Mayor's Disaster Relief Fund at www.cambridgema.gov/MayorsDisasterReliefFund. Alternatively, donations can be made in person through the Finance Department's cashier window at City Hall or mailed to address below:

Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund
c/o Finance Dept.
Cambridge City Hall
795 Massachusetts Ave.
Cambridge, MA 02139

Members Sought for New Grand Junction Multi-Use Path Design Working Group

Jan 3, 2019 – The City of Cambridge is seeking volunteers to serve on a new Grand Junction (GJ) Design Working Group to help guide the design of the Grand Junction (GJ) Multi-Use Path between the Charles River at the BU Bridge, and the Cambridge-Somerville city line. The group will advise Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale and his staff on key issues related to the planning and design for this important “Grand Junction Multi-Use Path and Conceptual Transit Design” project.

The GJ Design Working Group will consist of 15-20 members, including residents, businesses, property owners, institutions, standing city committees, and other interested parties.

Individuals with interest in the Grand Junction corridor, the neighborhoods along the corridor, and experience or expertise in relevant topics — transportation, accessibility, urban design and placemaking, landscape architecture — and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse viewpoints are encouraged to apply.  Meetings of the GJ Design Working Group will be open to the public.

For additional questions about the new GJ Design Working Group, contact Tegin Teich, Transportation Planner, Community Development Department at 617-349-4615 or tteich@cambridgema.gov.

Individuals interested in being considered should apply by using the city’s online application system at 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 Thursday, January 31, 2019.

Foundry Property Management RFP -- Seeking Responses!

The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA), in partnership the Lemelson-MIT Program (a leader in the Foundry Consortium), is seeking Proposals for Property Management Services for the Foundry.

Later this year, the Foundry site will start construction...and before too long, we will have a vibrant community center for creativity and collaboration, buzzing with programs!

Therefore, the CRA is now seeking a property management firm. The successful respondent will be offered a two-part contract to provide consulting services to the CRA during the design and construction phases of the Foundry, and to provide property management services to the Foundry Consortium once the building is operational.

The full RFP can be downloaded from the CRA website, where we will also post addenda as needed: www.cambridgeredevelopment.org/jobs-contracting

There will be a site visit for interested parties on January 23rd at 10:00am. RFP responses are due on Thursday, February 14, 2019 by 4:00pm.

Interested parties are encouraged to register their interest before they apply by emailing Erica Schwarz at eschwarz@cambridgeredevelopment.org.

Michael Atiyah, Mathematician in Newton’s Footsteps, Dies at 89 (New York Times, Jan 11, 2019)

Jan 21 Cable Update: As of Friday morning I have the full XFinity "Triple Play". I'm intrigued by the additional science-related channels I can now get, and it was kinda nice watching "The Wizard of Oz" and "The Shawshank Redemption" (one of my all-time favorites), but I'm already feeling nostalgic for the simplicity of the limited channel selection of good old broadcast TV via the roof antenna. This is going to take some getting used to. - RW

PS - I'll get around to some more civic writing soon. This TV stuff (plus rehabbing two apartments in my triple-decker) is very disruptive. Pitchers and catchers report on Feb 13. - RW

Jan 13 Note: I will shortly be going into "radio silence" as Internet access disappears for a few days at home starting later today. I'll try my best to keep up at work. The Evil Empire (Internet, Cable TV, and phone) arrives here on Wednesday (Jan 16). Municipal Broadband may be a nice goal, but that will have to wait for another day here on the home front. I guess I can look forward to watching Red Sox games at home. Pitchers and catchers report on Feb 13 - just 31 days from now. - RW

Jan 16 Update: Well, the "Triple Play" is still just a "Double Play" because Comcast was unable to produce a cable box that actually worked (they tried two before quitting). They'll be back on Friday to try again, but at least I have Internet now. In the meantime, I'm back to using the old reliable roof antenna. I also noticed that the cable modem provided by Comcast throws off enough heat to warm my living room. Is this normal? I guess "Energy Star" isn't part of their language. Time to shop for a better modem. - RW

Jan 18 Update: As of this morning I have the full "Triple Play". I'm intrigued by the additional science-related channels I can now get, and it was kinda nice watching "The Wizard of Oz" On Demand this afternoon, but I'm already feeling nostalgic for the simplicity of the limited channel selection of good old broadcast TV via the roof antenna. This is going to take some getting used to. - RW

PS - I'll get around to some more civic writing soon. This TV stuff (plus rehabbing two apartments in my triple-decker) is just so disruptive. Pitchers and catchers report on Feb 13 - just 26 days from now. - RW