Cambridge City Council meeting - January 23, 2023

Cambridge City Council meeting - January 23, 2023 - AGENDA
[Azeem, Simmons remote; then all remote after the Party for Socialism and Liberation hijacked the regular meeting]

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $500,000, from the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund, to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations Other Ordinary Maintenance account. The funds are part of the commitments that New England Development made related to zoning ordinance amendments and special permit conditions. (CM23#15)
pulled by Mallon; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Siddiqui ABSENT)

Jan 23, 2023
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby requesting an appropriation in the amount of $500,000 from the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund, to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations Other Ordinary Maintenance account. The funds are part of the commitments that New England Development made related to zoning ordinance amendments and special permit conditions.

Funds from this commitment will support the launch of an Artist-in-Residence program, a new initiative that will embed artists in various City departments and brings creative and multi-disciplinary thinking into municipal work. An initial $200,000 commitment for this program will fulfill a key recommendation of the 2019 Mayor’s Arts Task Force effort and offer new job opportunities to local artists. This program will be supported by the Arts & Cultural Planning Director in collaboration with Cambridge Arts.

The remaining funds will support other City initiatives focused on increasing access to cultural programming for residents and visitors. Initiatives such as a summer arts festival organized by a consortium of Cambridge’s largest independent performing arts organizations--Global Arts Live, Central Square Theater, The Dance Complex and Jean Appolon Expressions-- to celebrate diverse art and cultural voices.

Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager

2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order 2022 #283, regarding the feasibility of banning turns on red signal indications. (CM23#16)
pulled by Mallon; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Siddiqui ABSENT)

To: Yi-an Huang, City Manager
From: Brooke McKenna, Acting Chief, Traffic, Parking, + Transportation Department
Date: Jan 18, 2023
Subject: POR 2022 #283: Feasibility of banning turns on red signal indications

In response to the Council Order requesting a report on the feasibility of banning vehicles from making turns on red signal indications, we report the following:

It is widely agreed upon that restricting turns on red is a significant safety improvement for vulnerable road users and drivers in most scenarios. The act of turning on red often requires a driver to advance into the crosswalk and/or designated bicycle area to look for a gap in cross-traffic. When a suitable gap in traffic is identified for the turn to take place, compliance for yielding to vulnerable road users whose space has been encroached upon is low. Allowing turns on red shifts a driver’s attention to finding the quickest way through the intersection and away from being aware of other road users around them. This increases the likelihood that vulnerable road users are injured during turns at locations where turning on red is allowed.

By default, state law permits right turns after a complete stop at a steady red signal. See G.L. c. 89, §8. Left turns are also permitted at a steady red signal if traveling on a one-way street and turning onto another one-way street. In addition, the law permits local municipalities to restrict such turns by posting signage to that effect. As such, a turn on red is permitted under state law unless a “No Turn On Red” sign is posted. Due to the specific posting requirements under state law, the City cannot ban turns at red signal indications solely through a change to the City’s Traffic Regulations. Instead, a “No Turn on Red” sign must be posted at every location where such a restriction is deemed appropriate.

Given that a wholesale ban of turns on red cannot be accomplished solely through a change to the City’s Traffic Regulations, we propose the following to achieve the goal of restricting turns on red at all locations other than those where such turns do not pose a safety issue:

1. The Traffic, Parking, + Transportation Department will develop a policy that outlines our position that most turns on red should not be permitted and details the exceptions where such restrictions are not needed. We will make the policy available on our website.

2. By the end of 2023, the Department will identify and sign all locations where “No Turn on Red” signs are needed and not already installed, as well as documenting any locations identified as safe for turns on red. The use of “No Turn On Red” restrictions is already widespread in Cambridge; approximately 80% of the City’s intersections already have “No Turn On Red” signs at one or more approaches to the intersection.

3. We will reach out to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to work towards restricting turns on red at all appropriate locations under State control.

4. A modification of the Cambridge Traffic Regulations to include a provision for a no left turn on red regulation by removing the “right” turn specificity in the existing regulation:

Section 4.5 Traffic Control Legend:

(c) Steady Red Signal

(2) No driver of a vehicle facing a red indication shall make [any] ~~a right~~ turn where official “No Turn on Red” traffic signs are installed and maintained prohibiting such turn.

3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as a members of the newly formed Cambridge Cemetery Master Plan Advisory Committee: Henrietta Davis; Sophia Emperador; Robert J. Hutchins; Pastor Dr. Paul Kim; Anthony J. Spears; Reverend Thomas St Louis; Michael A. Sullivan, Esq.; Members of the Islamic Society of Boston (to be determined). (CM23#17)
Placed on File 9-0

Jan 23, 2023
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am writing to inform you that I have appointed the following members to the newly formed Cambridge Cemetery Master Plan Advisory Committee:

• Henrietta Davis

• Sophia Emperador

• Robert J. Hutchins

• Pastor Dr. Paul Kim

• Anthony J. Spears

• Reverend Thomas St Louis

• Michael A. Sullivan, Esq.

• Members of the Islamic Society of Boston (to be determined)

This committee will advise Public Works staff as they develop recommendations to guide improvements to the Cambridge Cemetery over the next decade.

The City Manager’s office posted a request for applications for the Cemetery Master Plan Advisory Committee on the city website from March 9 through April 6, 2020. Extensive direct outreach was also done to local faith communities, funeral directors, and those with an interest in urban landscapes and environments. The start of the Committee’s work was delayed due to the pandemic and associated changes to short-term operating priorities.

I am pleased to have a broad range of expertise and experience represented on this committee:

• Henrietta Davis retired from elective office after serving on the City Council for 18 years and serving as Mayor. Ms. Davis is a member of the Cambridge Net Zero Task Force and serves on the boards of the Mass Climate Action Network and MA Green Building Council.

• Sophia Emperador is a landscape architect who focuses on the importance of landscape in an urban environment. Ms. Emerador is familiar with a wide breadth of landscape-oriented topics ranging from issues concerning urban ecology, hazard mitigation, climate change adaptation, and urban planning to creating designs with native species.

• Robert J. Hutchins is the owner of the Rogers Funeral Home in Cambridge, a member of the Massachusetts Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association and Order of the Golden Rule.

• Pastor Dr. Paul Kim, along with his wife, founded Berkland Baptist Church in 1981. Pastor Kim is a leader in the Southern Baptist Convention, and Asian-American Relations Consultant to the Southern Baptist Convention Executive Committee. He continues to serve as Pastor Emeritus at Antioch Baptist Church.

• Reverend Thomas St Louis is senior pastor and founder of New Covenant Church of Cambridge, a Haitian church located in Waltham. Reverend St Louis is a former executive member of the Cambridge Peace Committee, paralegal and a trained mediator.

• Anthony J. Spears is Director of A.J. Spears Funeral Home in Cambridge, and has directed funerals for multiple Boston area funeral homes.

• Michael A. Sullivan, Esq. is the Clerk of Courts in Middlesex Superior Court and served two terms as mayor of Cambridge.

• The Islamic Society of Boston (ISB) have expressed an interest in participating on the committee. They suggested two representatives - a Cambridge resident and a person familiar with ISB burial services. We are reserving two seats for them to fill.

Public Works has completed an inventory and analysis of the Cemetery. Work will now begin to develop site-specific schematic design solutions through the master plan process to improve the layout and operation of the Cemetery, propose additional full body and cremated remains burial options, and expand ornamental plantings. I expect the master plan to be completed by the spring of 2024.

I appreciate the willingness of these community members to serve and look forward to their contributions to the Cambridge Cemetery Master Plan Committee.

Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager

5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $390,000 from the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account. These mitigation funds have been received from the sources below and will be used for the design of a transportation connection between Terminal Road and Wheeler Street. (CM23#19)
pulled by Carlone; Order Adopted 9-0

Jan 23, 2023
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby requesting the appropriation of $390,000 from the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account. These mitigation funds have been received from the sources below and will be used for the design of a transportation connection between Terminal Road and Wheeler Street.

Source Amount

55 Wheeler Street SP330 $250,000

75/109 Smith Place SP359 $140,000

TOTAL: $390,000

The Alewife District Plan speaks to the importance of creating a connected and finer-grained network of streets and paths to provide better access within the district. A priority recommendation of the Alewife District Plan, and the current Alewife Zoning Working Group, is to connect Wheeler Street to Terminal Road. This funding will support the design of a transportation connection between Wheeler Street and Terminal Road with a goal of

• increasing connectivity in the area

• making safe and comfortable connections for people walking and biking

• improving response times for emergency response vehicles

• determining feasibility of options, including how much non-city space is required

• evaluating options for general purpose traffic connections

There will be a community process to evaluate the alternatives and inform the design process.

Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager

6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board report recommending that the City Council adopt the Climate Resilience Zoning Petition. (CM23#20)
Referred to Petition 9-0

Date: Jan 18, 2023
Subject: Climate Resilience Zoning Petition
Recommendation: The Planning Board recommends ADOPTION.

To the Honorable, the City Council,

On Jan 10, 2023, the Planning Board (the “Board”) held a public hearing on a Zoning Petition (the “Petition”) by the Planning Board to create two new Sections 22.80 “Flood Resilience Standards” and 22.90 “Green Factor Standard” and to amend Articles 2.000, 5.000, 19.000, and 22.000 to adjust development standards and urban design objectives with the goal of promoting resilience to the projected impacts of climate change.

Board members heard a presentation from Community Development Department (CDD) staff, heard comments from the public, and asked questions of CDD and Department of Public Works staff. After deliberation, the Board voted in strong support of adoption.

Board members commented on the importance of climate resilience and expressed a sense of pride that Cambridge is leading the region and the nation in thinking about this topic. The process of developing this proposal was cited by Board members as exemplary. It brought together stakeholders to discuss what can be achieved through zoning today, and involved compromises among different points of view to arrive at a consensus. This Petition represents a starting point for resilience standards that can be evaluated and considered over time. Board members also discussed complementary efforts being taken by the City to address climate resilience, and noted that most existing buildings are not required to meet new zoning standards.

Board members also found the Petition text to be clear and well-crafted given the complexity of the topic. The Petition takes a thoughtful and systematic approach to codifying resilience concepts through specific measures such as recoverable building design and tree planting. Many comments and suggestions made during the Board’s discussion of this proposal in November were incorporated into the Petition. Therefore, the Board does not have suggested revisions.

The Board voted 7-0 to transmit the above recommendation. One member was absent.

Respectfully submitted for the Planning Board,
Catherine Preston Connolly, Chair

CHARTER RIGHT
1. An application was received from Deborah Fawcett, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 17 Fresh Pond Parkway; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Charter Right – Zondervan, Jan 9, 2023] (AP23#4)
Order Adopted 9-0

2. That the City Council adopt the Specialized Stretch Code, as outlined in 225 CMR 22.00 and 225 CMR 23.00, with an effective date of July 1, 2023. [Charter Right – Toner, Jan 9, 2023] (PO23#4)
Toner motion to Table Failed 2-7 (DS,PT-YES); Order Adopted 7-1-0-1 (DS-PRESENT, PT-NO)

O-4 Jan 9, 2023
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: In 1999 Cambridge joined the Cities for Climate Protection and for more than twenty years has consistently sought to be a leader in sustainability by launching many programs and initiatives to address the need to reduce emission pollution and do all it can to address the ongoing and increasingly dire threat of climate change; and
WHEREAS: In 2009, the Cambridge City Council voted to adopt the Stretch Energy Code in order to require greater energy efficiency than the mandatory statewide base code; and
WHEREAS: In March of 2021, Governor Baker signed the Climate Act of 2021, passed by the Massachusetts State Legislature after more than a year of public debate and advocacy and discussion, which, among other parts of the law, directed the State Department of Energy Resources to develop a net zero stretch code to update the current Stretch Energy Code for adoption by municipalities in the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS: In 2019, the City Council unanimously passed a resolution urging the Massachusetts Board of Building Regulation and Standards to update the stretch code to require net zero building construction and enthusiastically supporting state legislation supporting a net zero energy stretch code; and
WHEREAS: The City’s 2015 Net Zero Action Plan, which included many public meetings of a large group of stakeholders, calls for the City to advocate for an updated stretch code in support of net-zero objectives; and
WHEREAS: The City’s 2021 Net Zero Action Plan Update specifically calls for the City to advocate for, adopt, and implement the Specialized Net-Zero Stretch Code as soon as available; and
WHEREAS: The 2021 Climate Crisis Working Group, after engaging in a robust public process, recommended adopting the net zero stretch code as a key action for the city to take as soon as possible, which was in the report adopted and approved unanimously by the Cambridge City Council on August 1, 2022; and
WHEREAS: The Net Zero Specialized Stretch Code has been under active public discussion since the passage of the 2021 Climate Act, with the City and the City Council and many residents advocating publicly for a stronger code, with hundreds of comments; and
WHEREAS: The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on November 16, 2022 to investigate how and when the City can implement the Specialized Stretch Code in anticipation of state action; and
WHEREAS: After a drafting process which included a series of public hearings throughout the year, with hundreds of comments and several well attended public hearings, on December 23, 2022, the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources published the updated Stretch Code and new Specialized Opt-in Code; now therefore be
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record adopting the Specialized Stretch Code, as outlined in 225 CMR 22.00 and 225 CMR 23.00, with an effective date of July 1, 2023; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the City Solicitor to ensure the adoption of the code meets state requirements, and work with all relevant departments to ensure that all residents, organizations, and relevant entities are aware of the Specialized Code as soon as possible.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
3. That the Ordinance Committee refer Categories M (Shared Vehicle) and N (Publicly-accessible, Privately-owned Electric Vehicle Charging System) of the Cambridge Transportation Decarbonization and Congestion Mitigation Bill, along with definitions, to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. Ordinance #2022-13 as Amended. [Expired Sept 27, 2022] (PO22#150)

4. An Ordinance has been received from Diane P. LeBlanc City Clerk, relative to Emissions Accounting Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2022-20). [Passed to 2nd Reading Dec 9, 2022; To Be Ordained on or after Jan 9, 2023; Expires Mar 6, 2023] (ORD22#20)

5. An Ordinance has been received from Diane P. LeBlanc City Clerk, relative to Ordinance #2022-23 Removing the Limit on BZA Compensation. [Passed to 2nd Reading Dec 9, 2022; To Be Ordained on or after Jan 9, 2023; Expires Mar 14, 2023] (ORD22#23)

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Marianne Crane, regarding protected bike lanes “listening” sessions.

2. A communication was received from Joan Pickett, regarding implementation of the City’s Urban Forestry Master Plan.

3. A communication was received from Justin Saif, regarding the Brown Zoning Petition.

4. A communication was received from Melissa Ludtke, regarding support for the adoption of Policy Order #4, the new Specialized Stretch Code for new construction and substantial renovations.

5. A communication was received from Suzanne Preston Blier, regarding the Brown Petition and Harvard Square Zoning Petition amendment.

6. A communication was received from Helen Snively, regarding support of the Brown Petition.

7. A communication was received from Larry and Lynn Cetrulo, regarding the Brown petition.

8. A communication was received from Steve Harris, regarding support for the Brown Zoning Petition.

9. A communication was received from Helene Bank, regarding support for the Brown Zoning Petition.

10. A communication was received from Suzanne Watzman, regarding support for the Brown proposal.

11. A communication was received from Stephen Fitzsimmons and Orawan Saejao Fitzsimmons, regarding support for the Brown Petition and Zoning Amendment number 3.

12. A communication was received from Robin Greeley, regarding support for the Brown Petition for incremental zoning changes.

13. A communication was received from John Trever, regarding support for the Brown Zoning Petition.

14. A communication was received from Guillemette Simmers, regarding the Brown Petition.

15. A communication was received from Guillemette Simmers, regarding the Brown Petition.

16. A communication was received from Guillemette Simmers, regarding the Brown Petition.

17. A communication was received from Guillemette Simmers, regarding the Brown Petition.

18. A communication was received from Guillemette Simmers, regarding the Brown Petition.

19. A communication was received from McKelden Smith, regarding support for the Brown Zoning Petition and the proposal to limit bank frontages in Harvard Square.

20. A communication was received from Susan Strang, regarding the Brown Zoning petition.

21. A communication was received from Walter McDonald, regarding the Brown Zoning petition.

22. A communication was received from Patty Zerhusen, regarding support for the Brown Zoning petition.

23. A communication was received from Susan Strang, regarding the Brown Zoning petition.

24. A communication was received from Beth Kon, regarding Brown Zoning petition.

25. A communication was received from Young Kim, regarding the traffic study and plan for congestion at Massachusetts Avenue and Alewife Brook Parkway.

26. A communication was received from Nike Tirman, regarding Garden Street continued traffic hazard.

27. A communication was received from Nancy Hausman, regarding the Brown Zoning petition.

28. A communication was received from Mary Jane Kornacki, regarding the Brown Zoning petition.

29. A communication was received from Ann Stewart, regarding support for the Brown zoning petition to amend articles 4, 5 and 8.

30. A communication was received from Aileen C. Freeman, regarding justice for Sayed Arif Faisal.

31. A communication was received from Steve Wineman, regarding police shooting of Arif Sayed Faisal.

32. A communication was received from Diane O’Toole, regarding testimony for ORD22-16.

33. A communication was received from Andy Nash, regarding recent police shooting.

34. A communication was received from Stephanie Guirand, regarding the fatal officer-involved shooting in Cambridgeport (Council Agenda Item #1).

35. A communication was received from Sydney H. Russell Leed, regarding the fatal officer-involved shooting in Cambridgeport.

36. A communication was received from Bill Wendel, regarding the city abandoning its misguided effort to close or ban pregnancy centers.

37. A communication was received from Manraj Gill, regarding the fatal police-involved shooting of Sayed Arif Faisal.

38. A communication was received from Jesse Lowe, regarding defunding police and funding HEART.

39. A communication was received from Steven Nutter, regarding support for PO23#4.

40. A communication was received from Young Kim, regarding comments for 1/9/23 City Council meeting.

41. A communication was received from Cathy Hoffman, regarding what to do now in the aftermath of the shooting.

42. A communication was received from Annemarie Grant , regarding the fatal shooting of Sayed Arif Faisal.

43. A communication was received from Marilee Meyer, regarding letter for #3 and #7, and questions about STRETCH CODE.

44. A communication was received from Seth Federspiel, regarding comments for 1/9/23 City Council meeting.

45. A communication was received from Pampi and Ankana, regarding removing police from mental health crisis response.

46. A communication was received from Betsey Chace, regarding Cambridge’s killing of Arif.

47. A communication was received from Margery Davies, regarding Net Zero Specialized Stretch Code, PO23#4.

48. A communication was received from Kavish Gandhi, regarding 2222 Mass Ave, low threshold shelter.

49. A communication was received from Suzanne Preston Blier, regarding HSNA letter on 17 Fresh Pond Parkway curb cut.

50. A communication was received from Sharon Britton, regarding Condominium Alliance’s objection to BEUDO process and amendments.

53. A communication was received from Elizabeth H. Bohlen, regarding note for the upcoming special meeting about the shooting of Sayed Faisal.

55. A communication was received from Gabriela Romanow, regarding Net Zero Specialized Stretch Code.

56. A communication was received from Deb Ashman, regarding Net Zero Stretch Code PO23#4.

57. A communication was received from Giuseppina Morganti, regarding PO23#4 - Net Zero Specialized Stretch Code.

59. A communication was received from Louise Parker, regarding 1/18/23 Special Council Meeting on Policy Protocols.

60. A communication was received from Caitlin Tricomi, regarding demand for a more just Cambridge and divestment to alternatives to policing.

61. A communication was received from Anton Hester Rae, regarding de-funding CPD and reinvesting in communities.

62. A communication was received from Debra Griffin, regarding support for defunding the police and reinvesting funds towards alternative community safety responses like HEART.

63. A communication was received from Margaret Hughes, regarding funding Cambridge HEART.

64. communication was received from Robert J. LaTrémouille, regarding the Mass. Dept. of conservation and recreation is unfit for its duties on the Charles River.

65. A communication was received from Eli Silvert, regarding public comment on Cambridge PO22#312.

66. A communication was received from Susan Ringler, regarding Cambridge Police.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Jose Rodriguez on his retirement from the Department of Public Works. Councillor Toner

2. Congratulations to Jean Bracken on her retirement from the Department of Public Works. Councillor Toner, Councillor Simmons

3. Congratulations to William Connell on his retirement from the Water Department. Councillor Toner

12. Congratulations on the Retirement of Lieutenant Stephen Boyle. Councillor Toner

15. Congratulations on the Retirement of Firefighter Peter Mickiewicz from the Cambridge Fire Department. Councillor Toner

16. Congratulations to Jason Targoff for his achievements as the United States Youth Soccer National Volunteer of the Year. Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone

17. Congratulations to Ruth Erickson on her exhibit at The Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston titled “To Begin Again: Artists and Childhood”. Mayor Siddiqui

18. Condolences to the family of Emma Watkins, former Director of the Cambridge Citywide Senior Center. Councillor Simmons

19. Congratulations to Estelle Disch on a very special birthday. Councillor Simmons

20. Congratulations to appreciation to Ranjit Singanayagam, Commissioner of Cambridge's Inspectional Services Department, on his retirement. Mayor Siddiqui

21. Congratulations to Julia Mateus, Marisa Da Cosa, Sophie Costa, Stephanie De Carvalho, Marina Do Carmo and Ana Luisa Silva for being the recipients of The Dr. Leitao Memorial Scholarship Fund. Councillor Toner

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager ask the City Solicitor to provide a legal opinion concerning (1) whether there is a two-year bar on considering repetitive zoning petitions that have been unfavorably acted upon by the Council, (2) if so, whether that bar on repetitive petitions would prohibit the Council from moving forward with a Council initiated lab use zoning petition if there is unfavorable action on the pending Callender, et al. Petition, and (3) if so, what types of changes to zoning petition would be necessary for it to no longer be considered a repetitive petition. Councillor McGovern (PO23#8)
pulled by McGovern; Rules suspended to take with Committee Report #6; Order Adopted 9-0

2. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request from the McKinnon family for a bench dedication in honor of Richard McKinnon. Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons (PO23#9)
Rules suspended to take with Committee Report #6; Order Adopted 9-0; Referred to Economic Development & University Relations Committee and to NLTP Committee 9-0

3. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City personnel to explore the special permitting fees and bicycle parking requirements that are required of local recreational cannabis dispensaries, to provide a report on how these requirements may impact these businesses, and to determine whether these requirements may need to be modified or eliminated. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner (PO23#10)
pulled by Simmons; Order Adopted 9-0 as Amended

4. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to determine the feasibility of purchasing the property located at 37 Brookline Street, former home of Peter Valentine, with the intent of utilizing this as a community arts space. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (PO23#11)
pulled by Simmons; Order Adopted 8-1 (Toner-NO)

5. That the City Manager continue our current policy of towing cars on street cleaning days and come back to the Council with a plan to create an annual fund to reimburse economically disadvantaged residents who are unable to pay the towing fee before the beginning of towing season. Councillor Toner (PO23#12)
Charter Right - Zondervan

6. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to have the appropriate City staff establish the framework that will allow for the immediate elimination of the bicycle parking fees imposed upon Economic Empowerment and Social Equity applicants and cannabis operators in the City of Cambridge. Councillor Simmons (PO23#13)
Charter Right - Zondervan

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. The Ordinance Committee conducted a hearing on Sept 10, 2019 at 12:00pm regarding AP19#75: Refiled Zoning Petition - Grand Junction Pathway Overlay District. [report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Present: Carlone, Devereux, Mallon, Kelley, McGovern, Siddiqui, Toomey, Zondervan
Absent: Simmons
[Note: This meeting was already reported Sept 23, 2019.]

2. The Ordinance Committee conducted a hearing on Sept 26, 2019 at 2:00pm regarding PO19#206: Zoning Petition on Special Permit Criteria. [report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Present: Carlone, Devereux, Kelley, Mallon, Zondervan, Simmons, Siddiqui
Absent: McGovern, Toomey

3. The Ordinance Committee conducted a hearing on Nov 12, 2019 at 12:00pm, regarding a proposed amendment to Article 22 of the Zoning Ordinance – Green Building Requirements. [report]
Present: Carlone, Devereux, Mallon, Siddiqui, Zondervan
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Absent: Kelley, McGovern, Simmons, Toomey
[Note 1: This meeting was already reported Nov 18, 2019.]
[Note 2: The report actually shows testimony from “Councillor Patricia M. Nolan” - even though she did not assume office until January 2020.]

4. The Finance Committee met to conduct a public meeting on Dec 15, 2022 to discuss the City Council’s budget priorities and to discuss how to incorporate those priorities into the FY24 budget ahead of the FY24 budget cycle. [report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Present: Carlone, Nolan, Toner, Mallon, Siddiqui
Remote Present: Azeem, McGovern, Simmons, Zondervan
Absent: None

5. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Jan 3, 2023 regarding Citizens Zoning Petition from Patrick Barrett et al. North Mass Ave BA-5 Zoning District Petition – AP22#52. [report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Present: Mallon, McGovern, Nolan, Zondervan
Remote Present: Azeem, Carlone, Simmons, Toner
Absent: Siddiqui

6. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Jan 4, 2023 regarding the Citizens Zoning Petition from Duane Callender, et al. Cambridge Lab Regulation Zoning Amendment – AP22#53. The Committee voted favorably to forward Citizens Zoning Petition from Duane Callender, et al. Cambridge Lab Regulation Zoning Amendment – AP22#53 to the full City Council with a recommendation to forward to the Economic Development and University Relations Committee and to the Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebration Committee. The Committee voted favorably to request a legal opinion concerning (1) whether there is a two-year ban on considering repetitive zoning petitions that have been unfavorably acted upon by the Council, (2) if so, whether that ban on repetitive petitions would prohibit the Council from moving forward with a Council initiated lab use zoning petition if there is unfavorable action on the pending Callender, et al. Petition, and (3) if so, what types of changes to zoning petition would be necessary for it to no longer be considered a repetitive petition. [Note: This request appears on this agenda as a policy order.] [report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File; Referred to Economic Development & University Relations Committee and to NLTP Committee 9-0
Present: Mallon, Nolan, Toner, Zondervan
Remote Present: Azeem, Carlone, McGovern, Simmons
Absent: Siddiqui

7. The Housing Committee held a public meeting on Jan 10, 2023 to get an update from the Community Development Department on planning underway to develop changes in the City’s affordable homeownership programs. [report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Present: Simmons, Carlone, Mallon, (Siddiqui, Zondervan)
Remote Present: Azeem, McGovern
Absent: None

COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Diane P. LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF23#15)
Placed on File 9-0

2. A communication was received from Mayor Siddiqui, transmitting information from the School Committee. (COF23#16)
Placed on File 9-0

3. A communication was received from Councillor Zondervan relating to Stretch Energy Code and Specialized Code. (COF23#17)
Placed on File 9-0

Tues, Jan 24
3:00pm The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting on Jan 24, 2023, at 12:30pm to continue its Nov 22, 2022 discussion of the environmental and economic impact of BEUDO on residential, business, and academic properties/communities. This will be a roundtable discussion with the Community Development Department, representatives from Eversource, the business community, universities, and large commercial/residential property owners.

Wed, Jan 25
3:30pm The Cambridge City Council will reconvene on Wed Jan 25, 2023, at 3:30pm to continue the Special Meeting that was recessed on Jan 18, 2023, to discuss protocols, processes, and training of the Cambridge Police Department related to the fatal, officer involved shooting of Sayed Faisal. As this is a continuation of the 1/18/23 meeting, there will be no public comment heard.

Thurs, Jan 26
12:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on Thurs, Jan 26, 2023 at 12:00pm on a Zoning Petition by the Planning Board to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge by creating two new Sections 22.80 “Flood Resilience Standards” and 22.90 “Green Factor Standard,” and by amending Articles 2.000, 5.000, 19.000, and 22.000 to adjust development standards and urban design objectives with the goal of promoting resilience to the projected impacts of climate change.

Mon, Jan 30
5:30pm The City Council and School Committee Joint Budget Roundtable/Working Meeting

Tues, Jan 31
12:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the FY24 Capital Budget, and future investment priorities in Cambridge’s physical infrastructure ahead of the FY24 budget cycle.
5:30pm The Charter Review Committee (Remote Only)

Tues, Feb 7
3:00pm The Economic Development and University Relations & Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue its Dec 7th, 2022 discussion of the attached zoning amendments and the Callender citizen petition proposing a technical definition of lab use and a restriction on new instances of the lab use in fragile districts including Central Square, Harvard Square, and Cambridge Street and possible alternative recommendations to address neighborhood concerns. This will be a roundtable discussion with the Community Development Department and representatives of impacted businesses, universities, property owners and residents.

O-4 Jan 23, 2023
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
WHEREAS: The City Council, and the entire City of Cambridge, were deeply saddened when Cambridge resident Peter Valentine passed away on August 9, 2022 at the age of 80; and
WHEREAS: Peter Valentine was a true Cambridge original, an artist, and a unique individual in the very best sense of the word, and over his decades residing at 37 Brookline Street, he turned the exterior of the home and its surrounding fence into an eye-catching artistic statement in and of itself, one that was beloved and sought out by members of the Cambridge community and by visitors to our city; and
WHEREAS: The City Council recognizes the importance of finding ways of preserving and promoting the local arts community, the contributions of artists like Peter Valentine, and the legacy of Mr. Valentine himself; and
WHEREAS: Peter Valentine’s house is a unique and valuable property that could, if properly utilized, be transformed into a fitting memorial for this most beloved figure as well as become a vital hub for the local arts community; and
WHEREAS: The property could potentially be utilized as a hub for the local arts community, including having uses such as artist housing, artist studios, exhibition spaces, art classes, and other community events; and
WHEREAS: The yard of the property could potentially become the Butterfly Preserve that Peter Valentine had wanted it to be, providing green open space, a sense of magic and possibility, and a community gathering space close to Central Square (an area of the City that currently lacks green spaces); and
WHEREAS: The acquisition of this property would have numerous benefits for the City, including potential for greater community engagement and cultural enrichment; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to determine the feasibility of purchasing the property located at 37 Brookline Street, former home of Peter Valentine, with the intent of utilizing this as a community arts space, to engage with the family of Peter Valentine and with members of the Cambridgeport community on this endeavor, and to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner.

O-5 Jan 23, 2023 Charter Right - Zondervan
COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS: The City Manager and staff have provided the City Council with a report on the possibility of piloting a “no towing” policy on street cleaning days partly due to the Council’s desire to reduce any financial hardship on economically disadvantaged residents; and
WHEREAS: The report suggests that if, the City pursues a “no towing” policy:
• the cost of the program will increase by 10% to 20%
• the city will be required to use leaf blowers to get around parked cars.
• the fine can only be increased to $50 creating little financial incentive for residents to move their cars.
• the streets will be less clean as a result of “no towing”
Therefore, be it so
ORDERED: That the City Manager continue our current policy of towing cars on street cleaning days and come back to the Council with a plan to create an annual fund to reimburse economically disadvantaged residents who are unable to pay the towing fee before the beginning of towing season.

O-6 Jan 23, 2023 Charter Right - Zondervan
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to have the appropriate City staff establish the framework that will allow for the immediate elimination of the bicycle parking fees imposed upon Economic Empowerment and Social Equity applicants and cannabis operators in the City of Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner.

AWAITING REPORT LIST
19-66. Report on whether it is possible to reduce or eliminate Building Permit Fees for 100% affordable housing development projects, through an exemption or other means and investigate what types of real estate tax abatements are possible for 100% affordable housing moving forward.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern (O-3) from 6/3/2019

19-147. Report on installing hearing loop technology inside the Sullivan Chamber as part of the upcoming renovations to City Hall, and in other critical City meeting venues wherever possible and other accessibility improvements.
Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 10/28/2019

20-6. Report on the acquisition and implementation of interpretation services for City Council meetings and other public City meetings.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern (O-8) from 1/27/2020

20-27. Report on the advantages and disadvantages of continuing with Civil Service, and the process by which Cambridge could exit Civil Service.
Councillor Nolan (O-5) from 6/22/2020

20-60. Report on analyzing eviction data from 2018 through 2021 and come back with a plan on how to use this data to inform our next action steps.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-8) from 11/2/2020

20-72. Report on the condition of 105 Windsor Street and cost estimates of any repairs needed and provide recommendations on how to develop any other underused properties based on an inclusive public process centered in the Port neighborhood.
Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #1) from 12/14/2020

21-9. Report on providing an overview of various programs and services that are designed to assist the City’s chronically unhoused population and those in danger of becoming unhoused, along with the metrics by which the City determines the effectiveness of these programs.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-1) from 2/22/2021

21-10. Report on whether or not the City can require written notice be sent to all abutters, both property owners as well as tenants, regarding the scheduling of a hearing regarding the extension of a building permit request to the Planning Board.
(O-5) from 2/22/2021

21-14. Report on presenting options to the Council to ensure that the staff at Albany Street are properly compensated for their work, and that guests are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (Calendar Item #3) from 3/8/2021

21-29. Report on updating the Parental Leave Policy for employees.
Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 4/26/2021

21-30. Report on increasing the affordable homeownership stock over the next 10 years by financing the construction of affordable homeownership units through a bond issue of no less than $500 million.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #1) from 5/3/2021

21-36. Report on developing a holistic plan for managing the traffic and congestion in the Alewife area.
Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-2) from 5/17/2021

21-43. Report on referring the Cambridge HEART proposal for funding consideration and to engage in a public community process to discuss this proposal and its implementation.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan (Calendar Item #1) from 6/7/2021

21-46. Report on the feasibility of purchasing properties for sale in the Alewife area to address City goals.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone (O1) from 6/14/2021

21-50. Report on providing an update on the cost of each license and permit required by businesses, which business license and permit fees are set under state law, which are set by ordinances, and which are determined administratively, as well as which licenses and permits the City has the discretion to waive entirely.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-9) from 6/14/2021

21-52. Report on examining stipend models for the City’s multi-member bodies.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan (O-8) from 6/28/2021
[Note: There was a response to this at the Oct 24, 2022 City Council meeting]

21-60. Report on reviewing the residential parking permit program to determine whether the criteria for this program can be modified to limit the issuance of residential permits to vehicles that are primarily utilized for personal, non-commercial use.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 9/13/2021

21-67. Report on working with the staff at the Cambridge Historical Commission, the DCR Commissioner, and members of Cambridge’s state delegation to approve, fund and execute the design and installation of a suitable historic marker by April 2022 to recognize the vision of Frederick Law Olmsted and others in transforming the Cambridge riverfront landscape.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Zondervan (O-6) from 9/27/2021

21-71. Report on placing a cricket field in one of the Cambridge parks.
Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-5) from 10/18/2021

21-74. Report on supporting the Uplift the Solar Energy Industry in Massachusetts coalition.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-12) from 10/18/2021

21-94. Report on proposing possible zoning language that would achieve the goals of incentivizing all construction to be fossil fuel free through a possible special permit process.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-1) from 12/13/2021

21-98. Report on Reaffirming Commitment to the Goal of 100% Renewable by 2035.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan (O-5) from 12/13/2021

22-2. Report on meeting with the impacted residents and businesses on northern Massachusetts Avenue to discuss their ideas and suggestions for addressing their concerns.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey (Calendar Item #2) from 1/10/2022

22-7. Report on providing a legal analysis of what uses are currently permitted on the golf course land, information on the history, residency and other demographic information on membership data of golf course users, and any environmental constraints.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem (Calendar Item #1) from 1/31/2022

22-8. Report on determining the feasibility of establishing additional compensation for the City’s essential employees in accordance with the considered State legislation framework.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Toner (O-1) from 2/7/2022

22-13. Report on determining how to better integrate more parent response into their decision-making process as they make changes that can have undue impacts upon the families they serve.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (O-3) from 3/7/2022

22-14. Report on the findings of the “Future of Telework” Committee, and to explain the city’s current policy regarding a remote work policy.
Vice Mayor Mallon (O-5) from 3/7/2022

22-18. Report on working with staff of the BB&N school to provide a solution to cars idling beyond the five-minute legal limit, stalled traffic, blocked driveways, and a forced one-way path up Buckingham Street toward Concord where drivers face the risk of coming head-to-head with a vehicle trying to bypass the pickup line; and, such as a tiered drop-off system, a parking area for parents, or more drop-off and pick-up locations.
Councillor Nolan (O-4) from 3/21/2022
Report received and accepted.

22-21. Report on considering a guaranteed income program that expands on Cambridge RISE and targets families in poverty.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner (O-5) from 4/11/2022

22-23. Report on providing an analysis of the impact of current curb cut policies, including (but not limited to) an explanation of the administration’s current procedures for notifying and conducting outreach to abutters and neighbors, the criteria for evaluating curb cut applications, and an approximation of the number of residential parking spaces that have been lost to new curb cuts each year over at least the last decade.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Toner (O-8) from 4/11/2022

22-24. Report on determining what repairs to 205 Western Avenue would be needed to inhabit the space to allow the Cambridge Community Center to house their program.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-1) from 4/25/2022

22-25. Report on how the city can meet the goals for diversity and inclusion, while ensuring that any required professional expertise and/or specific knowledge that may be statutorily required will continue to be represented.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Carlone (O-2) from 4/25/2022
[Note: There was a response to this at the Oct 24, 2022 City Council meeting]

22-28. Report on looking into the feasibility of placing a covered bike rack at City Hall using FY23 Capital Budget Funding.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem (O-2) from 5/2/2022

22-29. Report on introducing a pilot program to open two of our youth centers during the evening and weekend hours during the summer.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui (O-1) from 5/9/2022

22-30. Report on adding $1.94 linkage fee to Housing Contribution Rate that is specifically targeted for job training.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern from 5/9/2022

22-33. Report on consulting with the Executive Director of the Council on Aging, Somerville and Cambridge Elder Services, and the Executive Director of Cadbury Common to determine the feasibility of re-establishing some form of the Kate’s Café Monthly LGBTQ+ Community Dinners either at Cadbury Common or at another suitable location.
Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui (O-2) from 5/16/2022

22-34. Report on providing the progress on the Terminal Road connection and any related projects. See Mgr #5
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Carlone (O-4) from 5/16/2022

22-35. Report on ensuring that every possible material used in construction projects are as safe and healthy and free of potential toxins as possible, and ensure that all construction and manufacturing vendors commit to disclosing all ingredients and using non-toxic materials.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-6) from 5/16/2022

22-36. Work on Implementing Recommendations from Working IDEAL Report.
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 5/23/2022

22-37. Report on consulting with the appropriate City staff in determining the feasibility of establishing a new “Talent Officer” role for the City.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 5/23/2022
[Note: There was a response to this at the Oct 3, 2022 City Council meeting]

22-38. Report on establishing a method of ensuring that anti-bias training is incorporated into the City’s hiring process at all levels.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 5/23/2022

22-40. Report on developing a standardized, transparent, and cohesive community engagement plan for the entire, department-wide municipal government.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 6/6/2022

22-42. Report on directing the appropriate City staff to establish a “community healing initiative” plan to address the issues in our city.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 6/13/2022

22-43. Report on establishing a notification system to all neighborhood residents, regardless of whether they own or rent their homes, within a set area where neighborhood disruptions such as infrastructure work or demolitions are scheduled to occur.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 6/13/2022

22-44. Report on working with DCR and all relevant City departments to expand Memorial Drive closures in the summer and fall of 2022. Report Received and Accepted In Council Dec 5, 2022
Councillor Zondervan (O-6) from 6/13/2022

22-46. Report on a plan for piloting more street closures for pedestrianization in Harvard Square.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon (O5) from 6/27/2022

22-49. Report on Establishing a Task Force on Cambridge’s African American/Black Residents.
Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 8/1/2022

22-50. Report on establishing Black Men and Boys Commission.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons (O-8) from 8/1/2022

22-55. Report on the status of the long-term water projections and on what measures could be taken to conserve water.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O14) from 8/1/2022

22-57. Report on Policy Order to investigate shared EV or Hybrid free bus service.
Councillor Toner, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-16) from 8/1/2022

22-60. Report on revising the City block party and play streets signature requirements to a more reasonable threshold, and shorten the timeline between application and event date, and provide more guidance to residents seeking a permit.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui (O-5) from 9/12/2022

22-61. Report on communicating to the Cambridge Health Alliance the City Council’s support for the reopening of the Cambridge Birth Center for deliveries as soon as possible and City Council support for the protection of existing birth centers and the creation of new birth centers in Cambridge.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-9) from 9/12/2022

22-64. Report on t detailing how other comparable municipalities handle their street corner dedication processes and on ways to honor those individuals who may not ultimately have a street corner named after them but who nonetheless deserve to have their names and accomplishments recognized.
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 9/19/2022

22-66. Report on a plan to install “Walls of Honor” at each home baseball and softball field honoring past and current coaches and volunteers.
Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 9/19/2022

22-67. Report on necessary preparations for the next Housing Committee meeting in the discussion on potentially allowing multifamily housing to be built citywide.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Simmons (O-6) from 9/19/2022

22-68. Report on touring the facility at 2222 Massachusetts Avenue regarding transitioning the facility into a non-congregate homeless shelter with accompanying services.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (O-10) from 9/19/2022

22-69. Report on a community process on the future use of 105 Windsor Street.
Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (O-11) from 9/19/2022

22-70. Report on the legislation passed by the Somerville City Council banning limited services pregnancy centers.
Vice Mayor Mallon (Calendar Item #3) from 10/3/2022 Committee Report

22-71. Report on convening an advisory group to determine ways in which the City can work to lift up the voices and experiences of the descendants of the Indigenous People who currently reside in our community.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-1) from 10/3/2022

22-73. Report on working with the Law Dept., to automatically provide an initial legal opinion to the City Council and the City Clerk at least three business days in advance of the first Public Hearing on any amendment to the Code of Ordinances formally introduced in the City Council.
Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern (O-7) from 10/3/2022

22-74. Report on installing a new irrigation system in Danehy Park as soon as possible and better prepare for tree watering efforts in the future and report on any needed or ongoing irrigation improvements to other parks across the city.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (O-9) from 10/3/2022

22-75. Report on receiving input from the Vision Zero, Pedestrian, Bicycle Committee, the Council on Aging, the Transit Advisory Committee, the Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board, Cambridge Police Department, and any other departments, to review and revise the Cambridge Street Code, promulgate the updated guide throughout the city, and develop recommendations for staffing and methods of improving traffic enforcement.
Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (Calendar Item #2) from 10/17/2022

22-76. Report on updating the posted City Council rules on the website and other locations where posted, to properly reflect the change made to Rule 24c that adds the sentence “individuals will be heard in the order that they signed up whether they are participating in person or remotely.
Vice Mayor Mallon (O-1) from 10/17/2022
Report received and accepted.

22-80. Report on providing a comprehensive list of current Cambridge policies that impact the cost of local commercial and residential development and those that are known to be in the pipeline, to note whether similar policies exist in the neighboring cities of Boston and Somerville.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (Calendar Item #2) from 11/14/2022

22-81. Report on setting a goal for participation in Green Plus and how to improve marketing and communication efforts for the CCE program and consider door to door outreach, and mailings which have been effective for other efforts to be sent to all Cambridge CCE participants marketing the 100% renewable option.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui (O-1) from 11/14/2022

22-82. Report on extending the Outdoor Dining Policy and continue to allow winter outdoor dining as has been the case in the last two years.
Councillor Zondervan (O-2) from 11/14/2022
[Note: There was a response to this at the Nov 21, 2022 City Council meeting]

22-83. Report on determining how the City could adopt G.L. c. 40, sec. 60B, created under the Municipal Modernization Act, which allows cities and towns, through their respective legislative bodies, to provide for Workforce Housing Special Tax Assessments Zones (WH–STA) as an incentive to create middle-income housing.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (O-16) from 11/21/2022

22-84. Report on working with the residents at 931 Massachusetts Avenue to identify and provide a short-term parking spot in front of 931 Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons (O-1) from 12/5/2022

23-1. Report on researching if the Barrett et al. Petition would need to be refiled should there be a Letter of Commitment attached to the rezoning.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern (O-2) from 1/9/2023

Source	Amount
55 Wheeler Street SP330	$250,000
75/109 Smith Place SP359	$140,000
TOTAL:	$390,000