2006 Calendar Pieces

Tues, Jan 3, 2006
7:30pm Planning Board meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Meeting Room)

2. PB#211 - 173 Pearl Street/10 Cpl. McTernan Street (Blessed Sacrament Church Property), Special Permit to convert the existing nonresidential buildings to multifamily residential use, Pearl Street LLC, Applicant. Deliberation and possible decision.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Tues, Jan 17
7:30pm Planning Board meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Meeting Room)

3. PB#201 - 113 Richdale Avenue, discussion and determination of major or minor amendment for design changes to the roof plans of the multifamily special permit.

4. PB#141 - Cambridge Research Park, continued discussion of changes to the Planned Unit Development Special Permit to increase the amount of theater use, allow more height for housing, and shift of some of the hotel use to ground floor retail and life science use.

Mon, Jan 23
5:00pm Special Presentation to highlight the Earned Income Tax Credit Coalition's free tax preparation assistance for low income and senior citizens for this tax credit which can provide financial benefits for low income person and seniors. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Feb 7
7:30pm Planning Board meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Meeting Room)

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Fri, Feb 10
9:30am The City Council's Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss Global Community Initiatives. (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 13
5:30pm Roundtable City Council meeting. Discussion of the plans of the Youth Center at the Huron Avenue VFW and whether dance activities can be accommodated there. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Feb 15
6:00pm School Department Budget Forum (CRLS High School Library)

Here's your chance, involved citizens! Nancy Walser & Patty Nolan are co-chairs of this year’s school budget process, and invite parents and other community members to a special budget forum Wednesday, February 15 at 6pm in the high school library.

This forum is the best opportunity for the public to let the school administration and the School Committee know their thoughts on budget items. By the time the budget is presented in mid-March, it is very late in the process, and more difficult to incorporate any suggestions or changes. Bring your ideas and comments. Let us know you care by attending!

At the Feb. 15 forum, the Superintendent and other school administrators will give a brief overview of their educational plans for CPS and how they are used to formulate the school budget. They will also discuss anticipated expenses and revenues for next year as well as the five-year financial picture for the schools. After the overview, there will be a give-and-take session, as opposed to a formal hearing. The session will be facilitated by us to ensure participation by all present.

As in the past, this forum represents an opportunity for members of the public to ask questions and to comment on the budgetary priorities and needs of the schools before the superintendent submits his final budget recommendation for next year to the School Committee.

It is important to stress that people do not have to wait for the forum or attend the forum to communicate their ideas. People should share their thoughts as early as possible.

Also, at a special meeting on Tuesday, March 14 in the high school media cafeteria (where the School Committee usually meets), the superintendent will make a public presentation of his FY07-08 budget recommendation. On Tuesday, March 21, there will be a public hearing on the budget also in the media cafeteria. The School Committee is expected to vote on the budget at its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 4, following another period of public comment.

The Superintendent's budget will be available at the meeting on March 14 and after that date in the public libraries, at schools and on the web at www.cpsd.us.

Feel free to contact us or any other school committee member with our questions and concerns. Our Executive Secretary Marilyn Bradshaw (617-349-6620) can help you reach any one of the seven members.

P.S. We debated: hold a budget forum on Valentine's Day, our usual Tuesday? hmmm. Would hundreds of people abandon their sweethearts for a budget presentation? We decided not to find out. Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! And Happy Susan B. Anthony Day (her birthday was February 15). What year? come to the forum with the answer, you'll get a treat!

Tues, Feb 21
7:30pm Planning Board meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Meeting Room)

7:30pm 1. Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

7:40pm PB#96, Major Amendment #1, Three Bow Street, amendment to convert the fourth and fifth floors of residential use to accommodate a residential program for a health care clinic (Section 4.33d (7), already in the building, and a waiver of the additional parking spaces that would be required (Section 6.35.1). Seda Ebrahimi and Vartan Keshishian, applicants.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, Feb 22
5:30pm The City Council's Government Operations and Rules Committee will conduct a public meeting to receive public testimony relative to the City Manager's performance and evaluation. (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 27
5:30pm City Council meeting (including vote to extend City Manager Robert Healy's contract to 2009) (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Mar 7
5:30pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the city's targeted emission reduction by 2010 and the renewable energy goals. (Ackermann Room)
7:30pm Planning Board meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Meeting Room)

7:30pm 1. Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

7:40pm Zimlicki, et al Petition (also known as Neighbors and Abutters of Blessed Sacrament) to amend the Zoning Ordinance in Section 5.28.25, 5.28.27, and 6.12(d) by amending the regulations related to open space, decks and the number of parking spaces required for conversion of nonresidential structures to residential use.

2. Pre-Application for 22 Water Street, a residential project in the North Point area.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, Mar 8
8:30am The City Council's Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to review what was previously done by the committee and to set an agenda for the committee. (Sullivan Chamber)
11:00am The City Council's Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to received an update on the city's actions with regard to affirmative action. (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Mar 9
9:00am The City Council's Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss Harvard University's Cowperthwaite Street construction site. (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 13
~~5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)~~ – Meeting cancelled

Wed, Mar 15
5:30pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the petition of the Neighbors and Abutters of Blessed Sacrament to amend the Zoning Ordinances in Section 5.28 Special Dimensional Standards Applicable to Dwellings, Article 5.28.27 Criteria for Approval of a Special Permit and Article 6.12 (d). This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:00pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the petition of the City Council, formerly known as the Sheketoff et al. petition, to amend the Zoning Ordinance from Business C-1 to Business A-2 in the area bounded by Massachusetts Avenue, Washburn Avenue and Gold Star Road. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

6:30pm Cambridge Democratic City Committee meeting (Senior Center, 806 Mass Ave, Central Square)
The primary agenda item for this meeting is to nominate three persons to succeed Lynne Molnar as one of the two Democrats on the 4-person Cambridge Election Commission. City Manager Robert Healy will make the final selection. The candidates are Robert Winters, Jennifer Singh, Gerry McDonough, and David Scondras.

6:00pm The City Council's Health and Environment Committee and Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a joint public meeting for an update on and discussion of the Urban Ring transportation project and its effects on Cambridge. (Morse School, 40 Granite Street)

7:30pm Planning Board meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Meeting Room)

7:30pm 1. Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

7:40pm City Council Petition (formerly known as the Sheketoff, et al Petition), to rezone an area of Massachusetts Avenue and Washburn Avenue currently zoned Business C-1 to Business A-2. The area would remain in the North Massachusetts Avenue Overlay District.

1. Zimlicki, et al Petition (also known as Neighbors and Abutters of Blessed Sacrament) to amend the Zoning Ordinance in Section 5.28.25, 5.28.27, and 6.12(d) by amending the regulations related to open space, decks and the number of parking spaces required for conversion of nonresidential structures to residential use, discussion and possible recommendation.

2. PB#179 - Update from the North Point Land Company regarding relocation of the Lechmere T Station site and project update.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, Mar 22
8:30am The City Council's Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will continue discussions on issues as they relate to neighborhoods including, but not limit to, neighborhood study updates, demographics preliminary feasibility and how it affects families, seniors, schools and work force training. (Sullivan Chamber)
11:00am The City Council's Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue to discuss the city's actions with regard to affirmative action and diversity training. (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 27
5:30pm Roundtable Meeting between City Council and School Committee. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Mar 29
5:00pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the cost of municipal energy including city services and the school department. (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Mar 30
5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the Police Department's traffic enforcement plan for Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)

3:00pm The City Council's Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss youth programming for youth centers. (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)

7:30pm Planning Board meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Meeting Room)

7:30pm 1. Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

7:40pm Planning Board petition to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map in the area called the Concord/Alewife Study Area.

1. PB#189 - 303 Third Street, minor amendment to extend the special permit and to approve the driveway modifications.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Thurs, Apr 6
11:30am The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting with the Department of Conservation and Recreation to discuss the Storrow Drive Tunnel Reconstruction Project. (Sullivan Chamber)
4:30pm The City Council's Finance and the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committees will conduct a joint public meeting to discuss Cambridge owning and operating its own municipal power company. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Apr 12
9:30am Special City Council Roundtable Meeting – A facilitated workshop on housing policy. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Apr 19
8:30am The City Council's Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss issues relating to the senior population as it relates to neighborhoods. (Sullivan Chamber)
11:00am The City Council's Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss plans for a citywide conversation on race and class, and to received additional information on affirmative action. (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Apr 25
9:00am The City Council's Economic Development, Training, and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to received an update on Harvard Square’s economic and cultural development. (Ackermann Room)
3:30pm The City Council's Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the 2006 Public Health Assessment, and to review information on youth diabetes in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Apr 26
5:30pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on re-filed proposal by the Planning Board to rezone the Concord Alewife area. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

10:00am The City Council's Housing Committee will conduct a public meeting to receive an update on Trolley Square and other affordable housing projects in the pipeline; and to discuss the selection process for residents for affordable housing. (Ackermann Room)

5:30pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss wind turbines and energy conservation. (Sullivan Chamber)

7:30pm Planning Board meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Meeting Room)

7:30pm 1. Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

7:40pm PB#212, 380 Green Street, Special Permit to convert the existing church building to four units of housing, Section 5.28.2. Church in Cambridge, LLC, applicant.

8:00pm PB#213, 16-18 Bellis Circle, Special Permit to construct some or all of the residential structures further than 75 feet from the front lot line, Section 5.53.1-6. Baker Pond, LLC, applicant.

8:30pm PB#190, Major Amendment #1, 317-325 Fresh Pond Parkway, Special Permit to construct an auto repair facility (Section 4.37h), waive the development standards (landscaping and principal entrance) in the Parkway Overlay District (Section 20.60), waive the minimum number of parking spaces (Section 6.35) and relief from the setbacks for on grade parking (Section 6.44.1b). Reauthorization of previous permit. Eli Al-Lakkis, applicant.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, May 3
10:00am The City Council's Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY07 City Budget. (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, May 9
6:30pm   CORI Education Forum (Sullivan Chamber, Cambridge City Hall)
    On Tuesday, May 9, 6:30-9 p.m., in the Sullivan Chamber of City Hall, the Massachusetts Alliance to Reform CORI and the Cambridge City Council are co-sponsoring a citywide meeting along with the Union of Minority Neighborhoods, the Cambridge NAACP, the Cambridge Swedenborg Chapel, the Mass. Law Reform Institute, the Crime and Justice Institute, as well as State Senator Dianne Wilkerson, State Representatives Byron Rushing, Mike Festa, Maria St. Fleur, and others, to educate the public about the negative impact of Massachusetts' Criminal Offender Records Information system and the need for its reform. Refreshments will be served from 6:00-6:30pm.
    Speakers include: Mayor Ken Reeves, City Councilor Brian Murphy, Cambridge Police Commissioner Ronnie Watson, Chief Probation Officer Angelo Dinardo, Suffolk County Sheriff Andrea J. Cabral, Leonard W. Engle of the Crime and Justice Institute, Richard Ward of the Boston Foundation, Jackie Lageson of the University of Massachusetts, Boston, Maryanne Frangules of the Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery, Reverend June Cooper of the City Mission Society, Ernest Winsor of the Mass. Law Reform Institute and friends, neighbors, and relatives who are affected by CORI.
    For more information, contact the Mayor's Office at 617-349-4321, or MASS ALLIANCE TO REFORM CORI (MARC) at 617-541-4111. Also visit www.unionofminorityneighborhoods.org.

Wed, May 10
10:00am The City Council's Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY07 City Budget. (Sullivan Chamber)

5:30pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the proposal for WIFI. (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, May 11
10:00am The City Council's Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY07 School Department Budget. (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, May 16
7:30pm Planning Board meeting (Central Square Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)

7:40pm Woodford, et al Petition to amend the zoning from Residence C-1A and B and Industry A-1 to Residence C in the area of Concord Avenue, Fern, Field, and New Streets, and Bay State Road.

8:45pm PB#202, 21 Brookline Street, Major Amendment #1 to waive the ratio of full to compact sized parking spaces in the previously approved parking garage. No other aspects or conditions have changed.

9:00pm City Council Petition to amend the Zoning Ordinance to change the phrase "useable open space" to "private open space." This change would not affect any of the existing requirements or regulations.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, May 17
8:30am   The City Council's Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussions with emphasis on a senior panel and resource fair geared to issues of concern to the senior population and its relation to neighborhoods. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:15pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on and amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to change the language "useable open space" to "private open space." (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition from Eileen Woodford et al. (Tobin-Danehy Zoning Petition) requesting amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to rezone an area currently zoned Res. C-1A, Res. B, and Industry A-1 to Residence C in the area bounded by Bay State Road, Fern, Field, New Streets and Concord Avenue. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FAR, traffic and transfer of development rights relative to the Concord Alewife rezoning petition. (Sullivan Chamber)
7:00-9:00pm   Mid-Cambridge Neighborhood Association (MCNA) Annual Meeting (CRLS Media Cafeteria)

Thurs, May 18
10:00am The City Council's Public Facilities, Art and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public meeting to begin discussions on future plans for the former Graham and Parks and Longfellow Schools and the Police Station. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

Cambridge Green Building Bicycle Tour – Saturday May 20th, 2006

Orientation at 10:00am at Cambridge Common; ride departs at 10:30am.

Join the Cambridge Bicycle Committee for a leisurely ride through the streets of Cambridge as part of the city's annual GoGreen Month activities. The theme of this spring's bike tour is Green Buildings of Cambridge. The ride will take about two hours with a few short stops along the way where we'll hear about featured buildings. We'll be escorted by the Cambridge Police Bike Patrol. Refreshments will be provided at the end of the ride. Rain date May 21, same time. Announcements regarding rain and other information will be posted at http://www.cambridgebikes.org. There is no registration or charge for the tour -- just show up and enjoy!

Sat, May 20
7:00-11:00pm “Sweet Soul Supper” fundraiser for Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House (11:00pm at Walker Memorial at MIT, 142 Memorial Drive).
Festive evening of mingling and dancing, live acts performing energetic New Orleans music, hors d'oeuvres, a southern BBQ feast, and a silent auction. This event will raise money for the restoration of the Margaret Fuller House, so that it can continue to serve Cambridge residents with emergency food, school age programs, free computer classes, internet access, and targeted outreach to vulnerable young adults. A portion of the proceeds will go to a sister agency in New Orleans for repairs in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

Mon, May 22
4:00pm 2006 Scholarship Award Ceremony (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber) – The FY07 Budget is expected to be voted at this meeting.

6:00-8:00pm MBTA Fare Increase Public Workshop (Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
The MBTA is hosting a public workshop to give residents an opportunity to meet informally with MBTA staff, to discuss the proposed fare increase. Hearings and workshops are scheduled throughout the metro area. If you are unable to attend in Cambridge, or would like more information, go to http://www.mbta.com/insidethet/press_releases_details.asp?ID=1226

6:00pm License Commission General Hearing (Michael J. Lombardi Municipal Building, Bsmt. Conf. Room, 831 Mass. Ave.)
Normally, I don't list License Commission hearings, but the issue of outdoor seating and the serving of alcoholic beverages at restaurants has become controversial (for reasons that completely escape me). There are numerous license changes for this purpose on the agenda for this meeting. Specifically:

1) Application, P & E Restaurant, Inc. d/b/a Desfina Restaurant, Paraskeves Mallakis, Manager, holder of an All Alcoholic Beverages as a Restaurant license with 70 seats at 202 Third Street, for a change of premise description to include: 14 seasonal outside dining seats (7 tables) for the service of alcohol with food. 14 seasonal outside seating to be taken from their inside seats during the time they open seasonal seating to the public. This is in cap area #9.

2) Application, Lowhill, Inc. d/b/a Joe Sent Me, Alexander McCullough, Manager, holder of an All Alcoholic Beverages as a Restaurant license with 65 seats at 2388-2390 Massachusetts Avenue, for a change of premise description to include: 16 seasonal outside dining seats (8 tables) for the service of alcohol with food. 16 seasonal outside seating to be taken from their inside seats during the time they open seasonal seating to the public. This is in cap area #6.

3) Application, Tommy Doyle’s Pub & Restaurant, LLC d/b/a Tommy Doyle’s Pub & Restaurant, Michael Morgan, Manager, holder of an All Alcoholic Beverages as a Restaurant license at 96 Winthrop Street, for a change of premise description, to include: 36 outside patio dining seats for the service of alcohol with food. This applicant has also applied for a transfer of interest in the Limited Liability Company and to amend their Entertainment license as follows: Karaoke, juke box, 3 video games; pinball machine, or other automatic amusement device, 16 plasma t.v.’s. This is in cap area #1.

4) Application, NCL, Inc. d/b/a Sabra Grill, Joseph Rizkallah, Manager, holder of a Wine & Malt Beverages as a Restaurant license at 20 Eliot Street, has applied to transfer their license to Crazy Dough Harvard, LLC d/b/a Crazy Dough’s Pizza Company, Leon Biscoe, III, as the Manager, and change of location to 36 John F. Kennedy Street, Cap Area #1; total occupancy 55. This applicant has also applied for an increase in capacity from 35 to 55 seats inside and for an Entertainment license to include: one television and audio-tape machine/CD which may play music below, at, or above conversation level. Additionally this applicant is seeking approval to pledge the license to Trinity Realty Limited Partnership I.

Wed, May 24
2:00-5:00pm Election Commission Meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)
Despite promises to the contrary, no agenda is available. It has never been available.

Thurs, May 25
6:00-8:00pm Pedestrian Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)
Regular meeting of the Cambridge Pedestrian Committee which reviews and initiates plans and policies to make walking safer and more attractive.
6:00-7:30pm Kids' Council Meeting (Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
Topic: Vision Planning and Priority Setting

Wed, May 31
7:00-9:00pm Trolley Square Forum hosted by North Cambridge Stabilization Committee (Location TBA)
"To allow city administrators, project officials, city councilors, trustees of CAHT, citizen members of the Trolley Square Advisory Committee, North Cambridge residents and business owners, and other stakeholders an opportunity to meet and communicate productively about these issues, the North Cambridge Stabilization Committee will host a public forum next Wednesday evening, May 31, 7-9 pm, at a suitable location in North Cambridge." CANCELLED

Mon, May 29
9:30am Memorial Day Parade and Observance – Parade from the Cambridge Common, thru Harvard Square, to the Cambridge Cemetery.

5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the issue of the anti-idling regulation and a follow up to the traffic enforcement management plan. (Sullivan Chamber)

6:30-10pm Friends of Alewife Reservation "Silver Maple Forest Forum and Bluegrass Band Benefit" (Temple Beth El, on the Cambridge-Belmont border on Concord Ave.) – A panel of scientists, environmental attorney, historian, and wildlife professionals lead a form on "Standing Strong on Forest Preservation" at 6:30pm, followed by an 8:30pm concert featuring the Reunion Bluegrass Band. $10 donation requested at the door. Refreshments will be provided.

Wed, May 31
10:00am-3:00pm   Spring Fair (Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
Please join us for great shopping, chances to win great raffle gifts and enjoy delicious home-baked snacks. For information call Lena Bell 617-349-6060.
2:00pm   Memorial Service for John Kenneth Galbraith (Memorial Church, Harvard Yard, Cambridge)
Scheduled to speak are Senator Edward M. Kennedy, George McGovern, Gloria Steinem, William F. Buckley, Arthur M. Schlessinger Jr., and Richard Parker, author of a biography of Mr. Galbraith. Overflow seating has been arranged for the Sanders Theatre on Oxford Street.
2:00-5:00pm   Board of Election Commission Meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)
Despite promises to the contrary, no agenda is available. It has never been available.
4:00pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the Cambridge Municipal Ordinance creating a Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition from MSNP Cambridge Acquisition, LLC requesting to amend the text of the Zoning Ordinance in Article 20.80 - Memorial Drive Overlay District by inserting "Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of computing lot area per dwelling unit, the provisions of Article 5.14 shall not apply" at the end of paragraph c. of Section 20.810. (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, June 1
4:00-5:00pm Porter Square Opening and Dedication (Porter Square Plaza)
Ceremony for the opening and dedication of the newly redesigned Porter Square plaza.
6:00pm Cambridge Historical Commission monthly meeting (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
For more information about the Commission, visit the department's web site at: http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/~Historic. Agendas may be viewed on the CHC web site: http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/~Historic/agendas.html

Mon, June 5
4:00pm The City Council's Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the issue of public safety. [Seems a bit redundant, doesn't it!] The committee may convene in Executive Session for the purpose of discussing the deployment of security personnel and/or devices. No votes will be taken in Executive Session. At its conclusion, the Council will reconvene in open session for its regular meeting at 5:30pm. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, June 6
4:00pm   The City Council's Government Operations Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the schedule and process for the City Council to set goals for the FY 08-09. (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm   The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss pedestrian issues relating to sidewalks specifically material used for sidewalks, tree roots, and sidewalk maintenance and repair and the report on provisions for parking for motorcycles, motor scooters and mopeds. (Sullivan Chamber)
7:30pm   Planning Board meeting (2nd Floor Meeting Room, 344 Broadway)

7:40pm MSNP Petition to amend Section 20.80 Memorial Drive Overlay District by inserting new language changing the lot area per dwelling unit.

8:00pm PB#214 - 77 Hurley Street, Special Permit for converting nonresidential to residential uses (Section 5.28.2) and for multifamily housing (14 units) (Sections 4.26 and 10.47). Boien, LLC, applicant.

1. Woodford, et al Petition to amend the zoning from Residence C-1A and B and Industry A-1 to Residence C in the area of Concord Avenue, Fern, Field, and New Streets, and Bay State Road. Discussion and possible recommendation.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, June 7
10:00am The City Council's Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue the discussion of affirmative action for City employees. (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, June 8
5:30-7:00pm GoGreen Business Awards (City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, 2nd Floor Conference Room)
Business awards program for organizations who are leaders in energy conservation, waste reduction, and transportation programs.
6:00-8:00pm Climate Protection Action Committee (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Sun, June 11
6:00pm Voting in Massachusetts: Problems and Prospects - Forum. (Arlington St. Church, Boylston & Arlington Sts., Boston)
Will your vote count? Are Mass voters disenfranchised or does that only happen in states like Ohio? Are young voters involved? Are elections bought rather than won? Are districts drawn fairly? These questions will be discussed by John Bonifaz and Jill Stein, candidates for Secretary of State (the officer who runs Mass elections), together with voting rights groups, including: Common Cause, Hyde Square Task Force, Mass Vote, Mass Voters for Fair Elections, Oiste, The Union of Minority Neighborhoods. Sponsored by: Mass Citizens for Voting Integrity and the Social Action Committee of the Arlington St. Church (H461k@aol.com, 617-262-5427).

Mon, June 12
2:00-3:00pm   Accessible America Award Presentation to Cambridge (City Hall, Sullivan Chamber)
Representatives of the National Organization on Disability (N.O.D.) in Washington, D.C. will present Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves and City officials with the grand prize in its annual Accessible America Contest. The $25,000 cash award, underwritten by United Parcel Service (UPS), recognizes Cambridge as a national model for its focus on disability issues and for its successful design and implementation of programs, services and facilities that are accessible to people with disabilities. The Accessible America Competition spotlights towns and cities that demonstrate exceptional commitment to offering people with disabilities full and equal opportunities to participate in the life of their community, including access to jobs, education, religious worship, voting, transportation, housing, and emergency preparedness planning. The prize money is intended to fund local disability-related inclusion efforts. For more information contact the Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities, 617-349-4692 or cthompson@cambridgema.gov.
5:30pm   City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
7:00-9:00pm    Cambridge Conservation Commission meeting (344 Broadway, City Hall Annex, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Tues, June 13
4:00pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting on the Concord/Alewife proposed zoning amendment to discuss the shopping center, with a presentation on what is possible under present zoning, what would be possible under the proposed zoning and what the owner envisions for the area. There will also be consideration of the environmental and infrastructure issues with regard to the proposed amendments. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:00pm   Public Meeting & Update on West Cambridge Youth and Community Center/VFW (688 Huron Avenue)
The City of Cambridge and its Architect, Cambridge Seven Associates, Inc. will present an update on the progress of the West Cambridge Youth and Community Center/VFW. Schematic design building plans, elevations and renderings will be presented. All are welcome and encouraged to attend!
6:30pm   The City Council's Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss why there are so many outages in the Area Four Neighborhood with NSTAR. (Auditorium, 225 Windsor Street, Fletcher-Maynard Academy)

Wed, June 14
2:00-5:00pm   Election Commission Meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)
Despite promises to the contrary, no agenda is available. It has never been available.
5:30pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a working meeting on Concord Alewife rezoning petition. No public comment. (Ackermann Room)
5:30-7:30pm   Cambridge Bicycle Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Thurs, June 15
8:00-10:00am Cambridge Recycling Advisory Committee Meeting (City Hall, Ackermann Room, 795 Mass. Ave.)

Sat, June 17
Noon-6:00pm Cambridge River Festival (Memorial Drive between JFK Street and Western Avenue)
The 27th annual Cambridge River Festival is a mile long festival of the arts featuring multiple performance areas, music, family entertainment, art-making activities, food and crafts. Music includes jazz, folk, blues, world, gospel. Nearest T station: Harvard Square.

Mon, June 19
5:00-6:00pm   Save Money, Save the Environment Presentation -- An Energy Saving Event! (Stata Center, Bldg. 32, Room 144, 32 Vassar St., MIT) With high energy prices effecting our daily lives and our environment, it is important we find ways to reduce our utility bills and also reduce our environmental impact. The Sierra Club, a national environmental organization, has put together a thirty minute presentation on how to reduce your home or rental unit's summer energy bill by half - helping you save money and save the environment! For more information, please contact blossom@mit.edu or go to http://web.mit.edu/wgrecycling/home_energy.html. Co-sponsored by the Sierra Club and the Working Group Recycling Committee. -- Refreshments will be served. Free and open to the public!
5:00pm   Special Presentation - Recognition of Cambridge Savings Bank/Just-A-Start/Community Development Department Affordable Housing Partnership (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, June 20
7:30pm Planning Board meeting (2nd Floor Meeting Room, 344 Broadway)

7:40pm PB#215 - 235 Albany Street, Project Review Special Permit (Section 19.20) for a student dormitory of approximately 247,000 square feet and with heights ranging from 34 to 53 feet. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, applicant. No additional relief is being sought.

1. PB#179 - North Point road profile of First Street between parcels Q and R, presentation.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, June 21
8:30am The City Council's Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue planning the Senior Fall Fair and to receive an update on the open house held on May 20, 2006 and the panel discussion on senior resources held on June 6, 2006. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss tree trimming by public utility companies, installation of traffic lights and NSTAR outages. (Sullivan Chamber) cancelled

Thurs, June 22
6:00-8:00pm Pedestrian Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Mon, June 26
4:00pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will hold an informal public working meeting with Community Development Department staff on the Concord/Alewife rezoning petition. No public comment. (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, June 27
5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the petition received from residents requesting that Howard Street be a one way, between River Street and Howard Street. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, June 28
2:00-5:00pm   Election Commission Meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)
Despite promises to the contrary, no agenda is available. It has never been available.
3:00pm   Special City Council Meeting to consider the Concord/Alewife rezoning petition, if the City Council does not take final action on said petition at the June 26, 2006 City Council Meeting. If the City Council takes final action on June 26, 2006, this Special Meeting will be cancelled. (Sullivan Chamber)
4:00pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing relative to the Parking and Transportation Demand Management Ordinance Recertification. (Sullivan Chamber)
4:30pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss with the City Solicitor and Community Development Department staff possible components of a draft amendment to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance to limit use conversion allowances to projects in which at least 65% of the original structure is to remain intact. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm   Community Preservation Act Committee Public Meeting (City Hall, Ackermann Room)
The meeting agenda will include the following: (1) CPA Committee vote on transfer of unexpended CPA project balances to Historic and Open Space reserves; and (2) regular meeting of the CPA Committee to present FY 07 Proposals for CPA grant expenditures.

Thurs, June 29
3:30pm The City Council's Economic Development, Training, and Employment Committee and the Government Operations and Rules Committee will conduct a joint public meeting to continue discussing how the strategic planning system like that of Global Community Initiative could be utilized in Cambridge to develop and implement a shared community vision. (Sullivan Chamber) cancelled, thankfully
6:00pm Cambridge Historical Commission monthly meeting (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
For more information about the Commission, visit the department's web site at: http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/~Historic. Agendas may be viewed on the CHC web site: http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/~Historic/agendas.html

Tues, July 11
4:00pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public woking meeting to continue discussion of the Eileen Woodford et al. (Tobin-Danehy) Zoning Petition requesting amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to rezone an area currently zoned Res. C-1A, Res. B, and Industry A-1 to Residence C in the area bounded by Bay State Road, Fern, Field, New Streets and Concord Avenue. (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss with the MBTA the issues of bus shelters, and advertising in bus shelters, bus and subway service. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, July 12
5:30-7:30pm Cambridge Bicycle Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Tues, July 18
5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting with the members of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committees to discuss issues concerning pedestrian safety, bicycle safety and traffic enforcement.

7:40pm City Council Zoning Petition to amend Section 5.28, Conversion of nonresidential to residential use conditions.

2. PB#141, Cambridge Research Park, approval of seasonal farmer's market use within the development.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, July 19
12:00pm The City Council's Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion of affirmative action policies and procedures with regard to city employees. (Ackermann Room)
2:00-5:00pm Election Commission Meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)
Despite promises to the contrary, no agenda is available. It has never been available.

Tues, July 25
6:00pm Special Meeting of the School Committee (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, CRLS, 459 Broadway)
The School Committee “may convene in executive session for the purpose of discussing strategy preparation for contract negotiations with non-union personnel as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining and/or litigation position of the School Committee.”
[What is this really saying? Reeves and Co. want to meet in private to plan a strategy for either not renewing School Superintendent Tom Fowler-Finn's contract or greatly restricting any contract extension. The reference to “litigation position” may be just a formality or a justification for taking this matter out of public view. I believe the only non-union personnel are the School Superintendent and the various school principals.]

Wed, July 26
2:00-5:00pm   Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)
Despite promises to the contrary, no agenda is available. It has never been available.
4:00pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing relative to the Planning Board proposed amendment to Section 5.28.27 Criteria for Approval of Special Permit when non-residential buildings are converted to residential use. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30-7:00pm   Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Boundary Study Committee meeting (City Hall, 795 Mass., 2nd Floor, Anastos Room) Ongoing meetings of the Avon Hill NCD Boundary Study Committee. For more information, http://www.cambridgema.gov/~Historic/avonhill_study.html

Thurs, July 27
5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss jitneys, to receive an update from the License Commission about complaints on the LMA jitney and to discuss responses to Awaiting Reports 06-38 and 06-100 regarding unauthorized bus lines using neighborhood streets. (Ackermann Room)
6:00-8:00pm Pedestrian Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Mon, July 31
6:00-8:00pm Fresh Pond Reservation Project Walkabouts (Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, Front door)
Come learn about the exciting restoration work going on at Fresh Pond Reservation. Meet Chip Norton, Watershed Manager, for a walk around the Northeast Sector Project site to find out more about the activities taking place.

Tues, Aug 1
7:30pm Planning Board meeting (2nd Floor Meeting Room, 344 Broadway)

7:40pm Special Permit #216 - Modifications to Collins Public Library at 64 Aberdeen Avenue

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, Aug 2
2:00-5:00pm Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)
Despite promises to the contrary, no agenda is available. It has never been available.
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting to discuss the recent shootings in Area Four. This meeting to be televised (on Cable TV channel 99, on which School Committee meetings are normally broadcast). (Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, 459 Broadway, Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room)

Thurs, Aug 3
6:00pm Cambridge Historical Commission monthly meeting ( Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
Public Hearing of the Cambridge Historical Commission. For more information about the Commission, visit the department's web site at: http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/~Historic. Agendas may be viewed on the CHC web site: http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/~Historic/agendas.html

Mon, Aug 7
5:30pm Special (Midsummer) City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
6:00 - 8:00pm Fresh Pond Reservation Project Walkabouts ( Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, Front door)
Come learn about the exciting restoration work going on at Fresh Pond Reservation. Meet Chip Norton, Watershed Manager, for a walk around the Northeast Sector Project site to find out more about the activities taking place.

Wed, Aug 9
2:00-5:00pm   Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)
Despite promises to the contrary, no agenda is available. It has never been available.
4:30pm   The City Council's Public Facilities, Art, and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the report received from the City Manager on amendments to the Municipal Code to ban leaf blowers. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30-7:30pm   Cambridge Bicycle Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Thurs, Aug 10
5:30-7:00pm Commission for Persons with Disabilities meeting (51 Inman St., 2nd Floor Conference Room)
Come learn more and share your ideas about disability and access in Cambridge.
6:00-8:00pm Climate Protection Action Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Mon, Aug 14
6:00-8:00pm Fresh Pond Reservation Project Walkabouts (Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, front door)
Come learn about the exciting restoration work going on at Fresh Pond Reservation. Meet Chip Norton, Watershed Manager, for a walk around the Northeast Sector Project site to find out more about the activities taking place.

5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the City's curb cut policies and whether any changes should be made, discussion to include abutter notification, timing of related building permits, criteria for requiring related traffic studies, effect of change of building use on existing curb cuts and any other issues pertaining to curb cut policies and practices. (Sullivan Chamber)

7:40pm Special Permit #217 - 450 Massachusetts Avenue. Nora Theater. Central Square Overlay District waivers of height (existing buildings), yard (existing buildings) and parking (existing and proposed buildings) requirements.

8:30pm Special Permit #218 - 303-305 Cambridge Street. Section 5.28.2 conversion of a non-residential building to two dwelling units.

1. Discussion of draft update of 1993 Toward a Sustainable Future: Cambridge Growth Policy Document.

2. Minor Amendment to Special Permit #199 to permit reconstruction of a three family house at the corner of Banks Street and Grant Street recently destroyed by fire.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

I. Minutes

II. Reports

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. Action Agenda

Old Business

New Business

1. Ethics Ordinance Report - Update

2. Elections

a. Wardens & Clerks Manual

b. Syllabus

c. Inspector Brochure

d. Polling Place Signs

3. Voter Registration

a. Bookmarks

b. College registration

4. Election Day Polling Place Evacuation Plan

5. Policy Manual - revisions

[Agenda forwarded from Councillor Toomey]

Thurs, Aug 17
5:00pm Special School Committee meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, CRLS, 459 Broadway)

By order of his honor(?), Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves, acting in accordance with chapter I, section 3 of the rules of the School Committee, there will be a special meeting at 5:00pm Thursday, August 17, 2006, in the Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, 459 Broadway. The committee may convene in executive session for the purpose of discussing strategy preparation for contract negotiations with non-union personnel as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining and/or litigation position of the School Committee.

[Note: If they do meet out of public view for this -- the most important vote the School Committee will take -- I recommend that everyone buy seven fat cigars, wrap each in a crisp dollar bill, and send one to each member of the School Committee to enjoy in the privacy of their smoke-filled back room.]

Mon, Aug 21
6:00 - 8:00pm Fresh Pond Reservation Project Walkabouts (Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, front door)
Come learn about the exciting restoration work going on at Fresh Pond Reservation. Meet Chip Norton, Watershed Manager, for a walk around the Northeast Sector Project site to find out more about the activities taking place.

Wed, Aug 23
6:00pm Meeting of the City's Community Preservation Act Committee (Sullivan Chamber, City Hall)

The City's Community Preservation Act Committee will take public comment on how we should spend the approximately 12.5 million dollars in CPA funds we'll get this fiscal year. The money can be spent on historic preservation, open space or affordable housing, with a minimum of 10% being spent on any one category. (If more than 10% is dedicated to Open Space, the amount over 10% may be used for site development (as in creating garden beds) instead of just for acquisition.) In the past, the city has spent 80% of its CPA funds (last year the total was 12 million, it was a bit less the previous two years) on affordable housing, 10% on open space and 10% on historic preservation.

If you have an opinion on this issue but can't make the meeting, e-mail may be sent to the Committee Chair, Assistant City Manager Richard Rossi at Rrossi@Cambridgema.gov.

Thurs, Aug 24
5:00pm   Special School Committee meeting (CRLS, Henrietta S. Attles meeting room)
By order of his honor, Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves, acting in accordance with chapter I, section 3 of the rules of the school committee, there will be a special meeting at 5:00pm Thursday, August 24, 2006, in the Henrietta S. Attles meeting room, Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, 459 Broadway. The committee may convene in executive session for the purpose of discussing strategy preparation for contract negotiations with non-union personnel as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining and/or litigation position of the school committee.
6:00-8:00pm   Pedestrian Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)
7:00pm   13th Annual Old-time Baseball Game (courtesy of Steve Buckley).  (St. Peter's Field, Sherman Street, North Cambridge)
    This is a great event. Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin will throw out the first pitch. Proceeds from this year's Old-time Baseball Game will benefit C-2 Mission, an organization that helps families affected by cerebral palsy and cystic fibrosis. The game begins at 7pm. Admission is free, though fans are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs as seating is limited. Online at www.oldtimebaseball.com.

Sun, Aug 27
7:00-10:00pm Cambridge Carnival (Kendall Square)
Caribbean Carnival is a colorful and festive celebration that is rooted in African traditions. Carnival secretly allowed public communication and cultural bonding for the African slave cultures from as far back as the 1600s. The rich rhythmic musicality and culture of the Caribbean can be seen as revelers masquerade through the streets in dazzling handmade costumes dancing to the beat of Carnival! Rain Date: September 17, 2006 For event schedule and more information, e-mail info@cambridgecarnival.com, call 617-492-2518, or visit www.cambridgecarnival.com.

Mon, Aug 28
6:00 - 8:00pm Fresh Pond Reservation Project Walkabouts ( Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, Front door)
Come learn about the exciting restoration work going on at Fresh Pond Reservation. Meet Chip Norton, Watershed Manager, for a walk around the Northeast Sector Project site to find out more about the activities taking place.

Wed, Aug 30
6:00pm Special School Committee meeting (CRLS, Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room)
By order of his honor(?), Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves, acting in accordance with chapter I, section 3 of the rules of the school committee, there will be a Special Meeting at 6:00pm Wednesday, August 30, 2006, in the Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, 459 Broadway. The committee may convene in executive session for the purpose of discussing strategy preparation for contract negotiations with non-union personnel as an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the bargaining and/or litigation position of the school committee.

Translation: They still have not settled on a contract with Superintendent Thomas Fowler-Finn, though supposedly a new short-term contract extension is in the works and could be settled (in Executive Session) at this meeting. The speculation is that Mr. Reeves (as Chair of the committee) has been the main cause of the secrecy in this matter. It has been suggested that he has tried to buy time to either swing another vote against Fowler-Finn or make the contract terms so miserable that Fowler-Finn will choose a negotiated exit. There is also some evidence that staff in the Mayor's Office have been soliciting letters and e-mail from students and others in opposition to Fowler-Finn as part of Reeves' campaign to oust him.

6:00pm Regular meeting of the Cambridge School Committee (CRLS, Henrietta S. Attles meeting room)

It is expected that the School Committee will publicly vote at this meeting on the contract extension for Superintendent Thomas Fowler-Finn that has been negotiated in Executive Session up to this point. There are indications that Mr. Reeves (the mayor and chair of the committee) will move for reconsideration of the vote. His purpose for this motion is unclear.

1. Request for Planning Board consent to a repetitive petition before the Board of Zoning Appeal, Section 10.51 of the Zoning Ordinance. [Case: 3 Sparks Street, Laurie S. Dietz, applicant: 53 square foot mudroom addition to dwelling. Denial of application filed with the City Clerk as BZA Case #9211 on January 13, 2006.]

2. Presentation and discussion of draft update of 1993 Toward a Sustainable Future: Cambridge Growth Policy Document.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

I. Minutes

II. Reports

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. Action Agenda

Old Business

New Business

1. Ethics Ordinance Report - Update

2. Elections

a. Wardens & Clerks Manual: Changes

3. Ward & Clerks Training

4. Voter Registration

a. College registration

b. Community events calendar

c. High School registration

5. Cambridge Housing Authority

6. Provisional Ballot Hearing

7. Policy Manual revisions (sec. 1 Election Procedures)

If you have an opinion on this issue but can't make the meeting, e-mail may be sent to the Committee Chair, Assistant City Manager Richard Rossi at Rrossi@Cambridgema.gov.

Thurs, Sept 7
6:00pm Cambridge Historical Commission monthly meeting (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
Public Hearing of the Cambridge Historical Commission. For more information about the Commission, visit the department's web site at: http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/~Historic. Agendas may be viewed on the CHC web site: http://www.ci.cambridge.ma.us/~Historic/agendas.html

I. Minutes

II. Reports

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. Action Agenda

Old Business

New Business

1. Ethics Ordinance Report - Update

a. New Hearing Date

2. Elections

a. Primary

(1) Spoiled Ballot Review

(2) Overvotes

(3) Confidentially registered voters

(4) Election Day: Review

b. General Election

(1) Set dates for Warden and Clerks Training

3. Warden and Clerks Training: Review

4. Voter Registration

a. Report on Kendall Square Theatre

b. VR Budget report

c. Sidewalk Sessions

d. Mapping Project

5. Request from WorldBoston

1:00pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the campaign to increase compact fluorescent light bulbs entitled "Changing the World One Household at a Time." (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Sept 13
10:00am The City Council's Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion of affirmative action policies and procedures with regard to city employees. (Ackermann Room)
5:30-7:30pm Cambridge Bicycle Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Thurs, Sept 14
5:30-7:00pm   Commission for Persons with Disabilities meeting (51 Inman St., 2nd Floor Conference Room)
Come learn more and share your ideas about disability and access in Cambridge.
6:00-8:00pm   Climate Protection Action Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)
6:00-8:00pm   Fresh Pond Advisory Board meeting (Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, First Floor Training Room)
Join the Fresh Pond Reservation Advisory Board for their September meeting! Agenda items to include:
* Dog Medallion Committee report
* Discussion of Reservation Access Plan
* Updates of current restoration projects on the Reservation
* Priorities for next 5 months
* Stewardship Honor Event

Mon, Sept 18
5:30pm City Council Roundtable meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Topic is “Excitement Lab Cambridge” -- No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised.
[This will likely be a forum at which the mayor repeats mini-speeches he's made in the past. Cambridge mayors are generally required by tradition to engage in a few colorful initiatives, regardless of their effectiveness. This term, Mr. Reeves will again tell us about his "European-style plaza" idea for property in Central square owned by the Naggar family or adjacent to it. This is the family who donated free use of a sizable storefront as a campaign office for Mr. Reeves in 2005. This sizable in-kind donation, well in excess of campaign finance limits, has never appeared on any of Mr. Reeves' campaign finance reports. I also expect Mr. Reeves to again extol the brilliance of Richard Florida as he re-tells the story of the role of the "creative class" as the key element in successful modern American cities.]

Tues, Sept 19
7:00am-8:00pm Massachusetts State Primary Election Day
The Elections Dept. staff will convene at 8:30pm at the Mass. Ave. Senior Center for the official tabulation of the votes.

Thurs, Sept 21
6:00-8:00pm RiverSing 2006 on the banks of the Charles River (Weeks Footbridge)
Revels and the Charles River Conservancy present the 3rd annual "RiverSing," an outdoor sing-along celebrating the Autumnal Equinox and the beauty of the Charles River parklands. From atop the Weeks Footbridge spanning Allston and Cambridge in the glow of late afternoon sun, Revels music director George Emlen, along with giant puppets Osun and Poseidon (created by Underground Railway Theater and the Puppet Collaborative) will lead everyone gathered on the banks of the river in song. RiverSing can be easily reached by public transportation. Nearest T: Harvard Square on the Red Line. Walk down JFK to the River and turn left. Lyrics for the evenings songs can be obtained by e-mailing riversing06@yahoo.com. For more information, please visit www.revels.org or call 617-972-8300.

Mon, Sept 25
5:15pm   Special Presentation recognizing NSTAR and the Cambridge Boy Scouts for their spring compact fluorescent light bulb fundraising promotion. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm   The City Council will conduct a public hearing to discuss the property tax rate classification. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:00-8:00pm   Fresh Pond Reservation Project Walkabout -- Come learn about the exciting restoration work going on at Fresh Pond Reservation. Meet Chip Norton, Watershed Manager, for a walk around the restoration project sites. Bring walking shoes and your questions! Meet at the front door of the Walter J. Sullivan Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway.

7:00-9:00pm Cambridge Conservation Commission public administrative meeting. 344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

7:00pm Administrative Topics: 1) Accept Meeting Minutes; 2) Commission Updates; 3) Community Preservation Act Open Discussion - Green Ribbon Report; 4) Submittal Requirements Open Discussion; 5) Review the Public Meeting Law Materials; 6) Draft Agenda for October 16, 2006

6:00-7:00pm Community Garden Informational Session (4th Floor Conference Room, 344 Broadway)

A public informational session regarding community gardening. Please feel free to contact Jennifer Wright at 617-349-4680 or jwright@cambridgema.gov with any comments or questions.

6:00pm License Commission General Hearing (Michael J. Lombardi Municipal Building, Basement Conference Room, 831 Mass. Ave.)

Application: Serene Chocolates, LLC d/b/a Serene Chocolates, Sandy Francis, Manager, has applied for a Common Victualer's license for 16 seats in the lower level of 1105 Massachusetts Avenue. The hours of operations are Monday through Saturday from 10:00am to 9:00pm and Sundays from 12:00noon to 6:00pm. Said applicant has also applied for an Entertainment license to include audio tape machine/CD only playing background music below ordinary conversation level and radio. -- Decision

Application: VRL Realty Trust, holder of an approved (July 27, 2006), but not yet issued Garage and Gasoline license for an underground garage for 31 vehicles at 773 Concord Avenue, to clarify resident and visitor parking at this location. -- Decision

Application: Flying Toad, Inc. d/b/a Cambridge Common, Holly Ann Heslop, Manager, holder of an All Alcoholic Beverages as a Restaurant license; 280 seating capacity at 1667 Massachusetts Avenue (cap area # 4), for a change of premise description, to include the service of alcohol with food on 28 seats on City sidewalk to be used as a patio. (The 28 outside patio seats will be taken from their inside seating capacity during the season). -- Decision

Application: Temple, Inc., d/b/a Temple Bar & Grille, Peter Lee, Manager, holder of an All Alcoholic Beverages as a Restaurant 1:00am license at 1688 Massachusetts Avenue, to increase their hours of operation until 2:00am on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and Sundays when Monday is a legal holiday. -- Decision

Hearing, Disciplinary: Gill A. Aharon d/b/a Lily Pad, 1353 Cambridge Street, holder of a one day license for an event on August 20, 2006, due to Police being dispatched to 1353 Cambridge Street on a complaint of loud music. Officers could hear the live music outside. When the Officers entered the Lily Pad they witnessed a crowd and a live band inside. The officers could not locate the person in charge. After Police Officers cleared the crowd, a man approached and identified himself as the person in charge. (Police Report is available). -- Decision

Review: Grand Prix Café, Peter Georgiou, Manager, holder of a Common Victualer’s license and Entertainment license, (1 TV and Radio) at 2257 Massachusetts Avenue, for a 6 month review of their license. -- Decision

Application: Yes, LLC, located at 155 Bodwell Street, Avon, Massachusetts, Jeffrey Rudman, Manager, for a Disposal Company license in the City of Cambridge. -- Decision

Application: The Cheesecake Factory Restaurants, Inc. d/b/a The Cheesecake Factory of Cambridge, Lewis Schwartz, Manager, holder of an All Alcoholic Beverages as a Restaurant license at 58-120 First Street, for a change of manager to Nicholas Laganas. -- Decision

Application: Asia2 Boston, LLC d/b/a Rendang, Bikram Yonjan, Manager, for a new Wine and Malt Beverages as a Restaurant license at 57 John F. Kennedy Street, with a total seating capacity of 120. Hours of operation from 11:00am until 1:00am, seven days per week. This applicant has also applied for an Entertainment license to include: Audio Tape Machine/CD only playing background music below ordinary conversation level, audio tape machine/CD which may play music below, at or above conversation level, 3 TV’s and other Device described as follows: Stereo. This license if approved is in Cap Area #1 and is non-transferable and has no value. -- Decision

Hearing, Policy: The Board of License Commissioners shall meet for final comments and discussion of the Alcohol CAP policy. -- Decision

Ratifications: (1) Medallion 232 Delivrance Cab, Inc., Debtor; Medallion Funding Corp., Creditor; (2) Medallion 72 Muller Cab, Inc., Debtor; Progressive Credit Union, Creditor

For more information, contact Elizabeth Lint Phone: 617-349-6140, TTY: 617 349-6112, elint@cambridgema.gov.

7:40pm City Council Petition to amend the Zoning Map at a portion of lot numbered 78 on Assessor's Plat #267C from the existing B-2 and Alewife Quadrangle Northwest Overlay District to Residence B. This lot is also known as 61R Smith Place.

8:00pm Special Permit (#218), 303-305 Cambridge Street, to waive the parking requirement as permitted in Section 6.35.1 for the proposed conversion of two floors of nonresidential to residential use. This proposal was originally heard on August 15, 2006 without the request for the parking waiver. Gary Gilbert is the applicant.

8:15pm City Council Petition to amend the Zoning Map at the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Washburn Avenue that is currently zoning Business C-1 to Business A-2. This petition was formerly known as the Robert Sheketoff, et al Petition.

1. PB#168, 75 Amherst Street, MIT Media Lab, Minor Amendment for an extension of time.

2. PB#197 - 201 Brookline Street, Minor Amendment to add roof decks on two of the six residential units. Review of the final modifications to the site plan and building.

3. PB#201 - 113 Richdale Avenue, Minor Amendment to add a roof deck. Review of the landscaping proposal at 35 CambridgePark Drive.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, Sept 27
2:00pm The City Council's Housing Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss follow up of the roundtable meeting of the City Council and the Affordable Housing Trust, including a strategy for coordination of long-term housing goals. (Sullivan Chamber)
2:00-5:00pm Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)

I. MINUTES

II. REPORTS

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. ACTION AGENDA

Old Business

New Business

1. Ethics Ordinance Report - Update

2. Elections

a. Primary

(1) Debriefing

b. General Election

(1) Warden and Clerks Training (cards)

(2) Manual, Brochure and Syllabus

(3) Test Deck - November 1, 2006

3. Voter Registration

a. Voter Registration Training (October)

b. Sidewalk Sessions/Community events

c. Review Voter Registration Distribution sites

d. CRLS

Thurs, Sept 28
4:00-5:30pm   Affordable Housing Trust Meeting (City Hall, Ackermann Room, 795 Mass. Ave.)
6:00-8:00pm   Pedestrian Committee meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)
7:00-9:00pm   Candidates Debate -- 24th Middlesex House seat (being vacated by Anne Paulsen)
Democrat Will Brownsberger will square off against Republican Libby Firenze in a debate hosted by The Alewife, the N. Cambridge newspaper. Candidates Night will be held at the Masonic Hall, 1950 Mass. Ave. More information is available at (617) 354-3307.

Sat, Sept 30
11:00am-4:00pm Danehy Park Family Day (Danehy Park)
This annual community event features arts and crafts, interactive children's stage, roving performers, music, children's amusement rides, and free hot dogs, chips, and sodas (while supplies last). Free and open to the public.
3:00-7:00pm What the Fluff? A Tribute to Union Square Invention (Union Square Plaza, Somerville)

Tues, Oct 3
11:00am The City Council's Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the issue of Community Policing and the items that were referred to the committee on this subject. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Oct 4
2:00pm Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)

I. MINUTES

II. REPORTS

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. ACTION AGENDA

Old Business

New Business

1. Ethics Ordinance Report - Update

2. Elections

a. Primary

(1) Debriefing

b. General Election

(1) Warden and Clerks Training

(2) Manual, Brochure and Syllabus

3. Voter Registration

a. Voter Registration Training

b. CRLS

c. Danehy Park Event - report

5:00pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the petition of the City Council to amend the Zoning Map from Business C-1 to Business A-2 in the area bounded Massachusetts Avenue, Washburn Avenue and Gold Star Road. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the petition of the City Council, to amend the Zoning Map in a portion of the northwest quadrangle of the Alewife area from Industry B-2 and Alewife Quadrangle Northwest Overlay District to Residence B. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

Sun, Oct 8
10:15am Cambridge Bike Committee Fall Ride (Cambridge Common)
We ride the Cambridge Bow-Tie route again, biking 16 miles at an easy pace through and around our bow-tie shaped city. Starts and ends at Cambridge Common. Meet at 10:15am for 10:30am departure. Don't forget to wear your bow tie! (A shorter half-a-loop option ending at Harvard Square's Oktoberfest is available.) For more information, visit cambridgebikes.org.

Thurs, Oct 12
6:00pm The City Council's Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the state of our neighborhoods; our common knowledge is our advantage. (Sullivan Chamber)
[Note: Based on this description, I have no idea what this meeting is about.]

Sat, Oct 14
10:00am 14th Annual Tour de Somerville - "Streets, Rails, and Trails" (meet at Seven Hills Park, behind the Somerville Theatre in Davis Square)
This annual tour of Somerville by bicycle is sponsored by the Somerville Bicycle Committee, Friends of the Community Path, and the Mass. Central Rail Trail Coalition. It's a family-friendly, 8-mile bicycle ride. Our theme this year is "Streets, Rails, and Trails". We'll start by exploring the back streets of Somerville's mostly-flat Ward Two. Then we'll ride alongside future extensions of both the Somerville Community Path and the MBTA Green Line, looking at railroad rights-of-way from a variety of viewpoints. Finally, we'll return to Davis Square on the existing paved Community Path. If it rains, we'll postpone the ride to Sunday, October 15, same starting time and location. For more information, call 617-628-8895. Email: sbc@ci.somerville.ma.us.

Historic Bicycle Tour of Middlesex Canal - Sunday, October 15

On Sunday, October 15, 2006, the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission, the Middlesex Canal Commission and the Middlesex Canal Association will sponsor the 4th annual historic bicycle tour of the southern portion of the Middlesex Canal. The Canal was the “big dig” of the end of the 18th century. Completed in 1803 after 10 years of construction, the Canal connected the Merrimac River in what is now Lowell with the Charles River at Sullivan Square in Charlestown. In many ways it served as a model for later canals including the Erie Canal. The Canal remained in operation for 50 years, providing both passenger and freight service, but could not compete successfully with the Boston and Lowell Railroad which began operation in the 1830's.

The ride will meet at the Canal marker on the Sullivan Square MBTA station at 9:00am. From there we will ride about 28 miles to the Canal Museum on the Millpond in North Billerica. We will make a lunch stop in Woburn. We recommend that you bring a lunch, but it will be possible to buy a sandwich there. We should get to North Billerica in time for anyone who wants to catch the 3:07pm train back to Boston. The ride will then follow the northern section of the Canal another 10 miles from North Billerica to Lowell and catch the 5:00pm train back from there.

The route is pretty flat and level and we will average 5 miles per hour, so the ride will be an easy one for almost any cyclist. Along the way we will stop at a number of remnants and restored sections of the Canal, as well as the mansion of Loammi Baldwin, the chief engineer of the Canal (who discovered the Baldwin apple while building the Canal), the two remaining aqueducts (which carried the Canal over rivers and brooks), and the northern end of the floating towpath that carried horses over the Millpond.

The ride will be led by Dick Bauer of the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission, Robert Winters of the Middlesex Canal Association, and Bill Kuttner of the Shirley-Eustis House and will go ahead rain or shine. For more information, contact Dick at dick.bauer@alum.mit.edu (617-628-6320), Robert at robert@middlesexcanal.org, or Bill at bkuttner@ctps.org.

For more information about the Middlesex Canal go to: http://www.middlesexcanal.org.

Cue Sheets for the Ride (PDF)

7:30pm Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

7:40pm PB#219 - 77-79 Hurley Street, Special Permit to convert a nonresidential building to 9 residential units (Section 5.28.2) and waiver for 8 parking spaces (Section 6.35.1). Campbell Lofts, LLC, applicant.

2. PB#202, 21 Brookline Street, minor amendment for parking garage design change.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, Oct 18
2:00pm Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)

I. MINUTES

II. REPORTS

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. ACTION AGENDA

Old Business

New Business

1. State Election

a. Warden and Clerks Training

b. Manual, Brochure and Syllabus Review

c. Request for Auditor's services

d. Request to Dispose Unused Primary Ballots

2. Voter Registration

a. Review VR sessions

b. CRLS

c. Mapping

3. Designated Health Care Facilities

6:00pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will hold a public meeting to discuss the scope of work of the energy construction consultant and to received an update on the compact fluorescent light bulbs campaign. (Sullivan Chamber)

Sat, Oct 21
10:00am-2:00pm Senior Fall Fair (Sullivan Chamber and Senior Center)
The City Council's Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee and the Human Services Department are planning to hold a Senior Fall Fair.

Mon, Oct 23
4:30pm City Council Roundtable meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Presentation and discussion on the results of the 2006 Citizen Satisfaction Survey. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised.
6:30pm Public forum for community prioritization of City Council goals sponsored by the Government Operations and Rules Committee (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)

Tues, Oct 24
6:00-9:00pm CANDIDATE FORUM of Republican Candidates. (Ryles Club (upstairs), 212 Hampshire St.)
The Cambridge Republican City Committee presents a CANDIDATE FORUM of Republican Candidates. October 24th, 2006. 6-9pm at the Ryles Club (upstairs), 212 Hampshire St. Featuring State Rep. candidates Henry Irving, Libby Firenze and Keither Mercurio as well as AG candidate Larry Frisoli and Governor's Council candidate Bill Barabino, and hopefully more. Public invited; free food, cash bar. You MUST read and agree to the Attendance Disclaimer at http://www.cambgop.com/disclaimer.htm before attending.

Wed, Oct 25
2:00pm Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)

I. MINUTES

II. REPORTS

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. ACTION AGENDA

Old Business

New Business

1. State Election

a. Warden and Clerks Training

(1) Handicapped voting equipment (training)

b. Manual (Forms)

c. Election Day and Night

(1) Volunteers and students: policy

d. Request to Dispose Unused Primary Ballots

2. Designated Health Care Facilities

2:00pm The City Council's Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion of the cap policy in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will hold a public meeting to discuss the proposal for wireless internet access for Harvard Square. (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Oct 30
5:00pm State Rep Alice Wolf and Henry Irving to Debate the Issues (Central Square Library, 45 Pearl Street)
On Monday, October 30th, at 5:00pm, State Representative Alice Wolf and Republican candidate Henry Irving will meet to discuss and debate issues of statewide and local importance. The location is the Cambridge Public Library in Central Square, 45 Pearl Street. Co-sponsoring the event will be the Cambridge Democratic City Committee and the Cambridge Republican City Committee. The discussion is expected to run for approximately 50 minutes, so please come a bit early to be in your seats at 5:00pm. Thank you.
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

I. MINUTES

II. REPORTS

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. ACTION AGENDA

Old Business

New Business

1. State Election

a. Warden and Clerks Training

(1) Handicapped voting equipment (training)

b. Election Day and Night

Mon, Nov 13
5:30pm City Council Roundtable Meeting to set City Council goals. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Central Square Library)

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

I. MINUTES

II. REPORTS

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. ACTION AGENDA

Old Business

New Business

1. State Election

a. Counting Overseas Absentee Ballots - 11/17/06 at 5 p.m.

b. Disposition of Provisional Ballots

2. Public Hearing on 2006 Elections

3. Census

Mon, Nov 27
5:30pm City Council Roundtable meeting to discuss the License Commission's cap policy. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:00-8:00pm Fresh Pond Reservation "Virtual" Project Walkabout (Walter J. Sullivan Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, Cambridge, Front door) -- Learn about the current restoration projects at Fresh Pond Reservation from the comfort of the first floor Training Room at the Water Treatment Facility. Water Department staff will "walk" participants through the project site with the use of photos and project design plans.

Tues, Nov 28
2:00-5:00pm Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)

I. MINUTES

II. REPORTS

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. ACTION AGENDA

Old Business

New Business

1. State Election - Debriefing

2. Public Hearing on 2006 Elections (December 6, 2006)

3. Census

5:00pm The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the appointment and the responsibilities of the joint committee of the School Committee and the City Council to discuss laptop computers for high school students. (Sullivan Chamber)

7:30pm Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

PB#220: Relocation of two wood frame buildings to 1637-1653 Massachusetts Avenue. Special Permit waiver of various North Massachusetts Avenue Overlay District design standards, Section 20.100.

PB#221: Construction at 1587, 1581-1583, and 1595 Massachusetts Avenue of a 234,000 square foot student services and classroom building with a 700 car below grade garage. Special Permits under Sections 19.20 - Project Review Special Permit and Sections 6.43.5 and 10.45 for a 40-foot wide curt cut in the Residence C-3 district.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Thurs, Nov 30
5:30pm The City Council's Claims Committee will conduct a public hearing to consider claims filed against the city. (Anastos Room)

Mon, Dec 4
5:00-6:30pm   Cambridge Water Board meeting (Walter J. Sullivan Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, 2nd Floor Conference Room)
3:00pm   The City Council's Government Operations and Rules Committee will conduct a public meeting to finalize the language of the FY-08 City Council Goals for submission to the full City Council for its review and vote. (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm   City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

7:30pm Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

7:40pm City Council Petition to amend Section 19.23 - Special Permit Threshold for Project Review in the Business A, A-1 and A-2 districts, by lowering from the existing 50,000 to 20,000 square feet; and requiring a greater setback of 20 feet from residential districts, as well as limiting the height of those portions of buildings within 50 feet of a residential district 35 feet

2. PB#199 - Grant and Cowperthwaite Streets. Request to relocate the bicycle parking to the outdoors and reduce the number of bicycle parking to 12. Determination as a Minor Amendment.

3. PB#200 - 880 Memorial Drive. Request to increase the gross floor area (approximately 4,000 square feet) internal to the buildings and on the exterior for accessibility. Determination as a Minor Amendment.

For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617-349-4647; TTY: 617-349-4621, at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov.

Wed, Dec 6
5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the following: city plans to address pedestrian issues related to the new Lechmere Station and Awaiting Report 06-77 regarding weekly inspections by bicyclists of potholes and other defects on main bicycle routes. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:00-8:00pm Election Commission meeting and Public Hearing (51 Inman Street, First Floor or Cambridge Senior Center)
The Cambridge Election Commission will hold a public hearing on the 2006 elections. This will focus on the mechanics of the election, with opportunities for comments, concerns and questions about the recent election, and recommendations for changes in future elections.
Personal note: I am a member of the Technical Working Committee for Computerization of the Cambridge Elections (TWCC), one of the more knowledgeable people in town about the mechanics of our elections, and probably the person who has attended more Election Commission meetings than anyone else in the city. It's a shame to see that this hearing is scheduled at a time which prevents me from participating, except possibly for the first few minutes. (I teach every Wednesday night at the Harvard Extension School.) In the past, former Executive Director Teresa Neighbor (and possibly an Election Commissioner or two) would have contacted me before scheduling such a meeting. It causes me to wonder if this hearing is meant to actually serve a purpose or if it's just for show. I suspect the latter.

Thurs, Dec 7
6:00pm Cambridge Historical Commission meeting and Public Hearing (806 Mass. Ave. - Senior Center)
7:00-9:00pm Fresh Pond Reservation Circulation and Access Plan Public Information Meeting (Walter J. Sullivan Water Treatment Facility, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway, 1st Floor Training Room)
Meeting Agenda:
* Findings of Fresh Pond Reservation user survey
* Review of goals of the Fresh Pond Reservation Master Plan
* Current conditions of Reservation trails and access points
* Priorities for future access projects

Sat, Dec 9
9:00am-noon   Urban Ring Public meeting (The Hotel at MIT, 20 Sidney St.)
    The Massachusetts Executive Office of Transportation (EOT) is pleased to announce public meetings to discuss Phase 2 of the Urban Ring Project. The project team will present information about the Urban Ring Phase 2 project, a proposed bus rapid transit line that would serve a circumferential "ring" passing through Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Medford and Somerville. The presentation will cover the project background, status of the planning process and preliminary proposals for route alternatives.
    There will be three meetings in the Urban Ring communities : two evening meetings in a public meeting format (presentation and discussion) and one Saturday morning meeting in a workshop format (presentation, breakout discussion groups and general discussion). The presentations will be the same at all meetings, and we will try to maximize the time available for public comment at all meetings. You are encouraged to attend any of the meetings. The meeting notice is attached to this e-mail for your reference.

Mon, Dec 11
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm Recognition of Friends of the Council on Aging (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Dec 12
11:30am The City Council's Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss Electro Muscular Disruption Technology, and guns and gun traffic. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The City Council's Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss city plans to address pedestrian issues related to the new Lechmere Station. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Dec 13
4:30pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a proposed order for the City Manager to require utilization of a more protective noise affidavit. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to require public review for smaller scaled residential and commercial development in B, BA-1 and B-2 districts and reduced heights and increased side yard requirements in these districts under certain circumstances. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:45pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the proposed consolidation of the Half Crown and Marsh Neighborhood Conservation Districts. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:15pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the recommendation from the Cambridge Historical Commission on the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Boundary Study. (Sullivan Chamber)
7:00pm   The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the question of whether all neighborhood conservation districts should have the same review standards. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30-7:30pm   Cambridge Bicycle Committee Meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)

Thurs, Dec 14
8:00-9:30am Recycling Advisory Committee Meeting (City Hall, Ackermann Room, 795 Mass. Ave., Cambridge City Hall)
2:00-5:00pm Election Commission meeting (51 Inman Street, First Floor)

I. MINUTES

II. REPORTS

1. Executive Director's Report

2. Assistant Director's Report

3. Commissioners' Reports

III. ACTION AGENDA

Old Business

New Business

1. State Election - Debriefing

A. Auditor's Report [2:30pm]

B. Election Day - parking

2. Public Hearing on 2006 Elections - Review

3. Annual Census - 2007

4. The Vault (Police Dept. move)

Mon, Dec 18
5:00pm   Special Presentation - Cambridge Pop Warner B Team Cheerleaders and Coaches (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   Special Presentation - Verna's Donut Shop (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

7:30pm Update by Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

7:40pm Public Hearing on PB#222 – 22 Water Street, Planned Unit Development Special Permit (Section 13.70) first public hearing for the Preliminary Determination and Project Review Special Permit (Section 19.20) for 392 residential units in the North Point Residence District. The applicant requests the Planning Board find (1) the project eligible for the Waiver of Height Limitations - Section 13.74.35 to permit a maximum height of 150 feet and (2) the project eligible for Additional Gross Floor Area for Above Ground Structured Parking - Section 13.79.2. There will be a second public hearing scheduled for the Planned Unit Development Final Development Plan at a later date to be determined.

1. PB#200 – 880 Memorial Drive. Request to increase the gross floor area (totaling approximately 4,000 square feet) internal to the dormitory building by inserting additional floor area in some two story spaces and by adding covered walkways and porches and vestibules on the exterior of the three wood frame building to accommodate handicapped accessibility. Determination as a Minor Amendment.

Public comments are taken only during a Public Hearing. During its discussion and deliberation on General Business items, the Planning Board does not solicit public comment. For further information concerning this agenda, please call Liza Paden at 617/349-4647, or Lester Barber at 617/349-4657 at the Cambridge Community Development Department, or email lpaden@cambridgema.gov. The Community Development Department TTY line is 617/349-4621.

Thurs, Dec 21
6:00-8:00pm Pedestrian Committee Meeting (344 Broadway, 4th Floor Conference Room)