CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following Cambridge Police Officers assigned to the Traffic Division as public weighers for the calendar year 2009 to operate portable truck scales citywide: Lt. John Albert, Sgt. Michael Maffei, Officer William Arthur, Jr., Officer Anthony Cacciola, Officer David Szeto, Officer Timothy O'Brien

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as public weighers to operate scales for the calendar year 2009 at MICH-LIN transfer station, 45 Mooney Street: Stacey Walkinshaw Vossmer, Kimberly I. Mochi, Jo Ann Del Vecchio, Daniel Pasquarosa, Charles Wainwright, Charles J. Mabardy, Joseph Mabardy, Jr., James J. Mabardy, Theodore Barry & Michael Guerriero

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as public weighers to operate scales for the calendar year 2009 at Boston Sand & Gravel Co., 500 Front Street: Jake Howe, Dave Riccardi, Alan Carbone, Mike Ferguson, George Bento, Dave Thebarge, Charlene Bourque, Scott Prentiss, Jody Staples, Joseph Olsen, Ray Broderick, Steve O'Keefe, Bob Ferguson, Roland Baris & John Lyons

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Notre Dame Education Center grant in the amount of $10,300.00 funded by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($9,533.00), to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($665.00), and to the Grant Fund Human Services Travel and Training account ($102.00) which will supports the salaries of a part-time teacher to work with the students, assist with orientations, and to score writing assessments and covers a portion of the salary of a counselor and administrative staff person, as well as the cost of educational and office supplies and materials.

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Shelter Plus Care for Families with HIV/AIDS grant funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the amount of $133,308.00 to the Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will allow the City of Cambridge to subcontract with the Cambridge Housing Authority who will then issue housing subsidies to support families with HIV/AIDS in Cambridge.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the S-C Management grant in the amount of $2,199.00 received from the S-C Management Corporation to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($1,839.00) and the to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($360.00) and will one ESOL class at the 402 Rindge Avenue Apartments from Feb 1 to June 1, 2009.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $13,000 from the Employee Benefits Salary and Wages account (Insurance) to the General Fund Electrical Travel and Training (Judgments & Damages) account to cover medical services and/or prescription reimbursement costs for electrical personnel injured in performance of their duties.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a NSTAR energy incentive payment for $34,252 to the Public Investment Fund Police Extraordinary Expenditures account which is an incentive payment for energy efficient measures incorporated in the new Public Safety Building as part of NSTAR’s Construction Solution Program and will be used to offset construction costs.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $175,000 from the Employee Benefits Salary and Wages account (Insurance) to the General Fund Police Travel and Training (Judgments & Damages) account to cover medical services and/or prescription reimbursement costs for police personnel injured in performance of their duties.

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the Planning Board recommendation on the Alexandria Petition to amend the zoning map and ordinance in the East Cambridge neighborhood along Binney Street.  Referred to Petition

To the Honorable the City Council:

Subject: Alexandria Petition to amend the zoning map and ordinance in the East Cambridge neighborhood along Binney Street.

Recommendation. The Board appreciates the review process that the Ordinance Committee has undertaken, in concert with Alexandria and East Cambridge neighbors, holding numerous discussions to improve upon the plan for rezoning submitted early last year. Given the progress that has been made, the Board encourages all of the participants to continue this refinement process in the time that is left before the Council must act. The Board understands that many in the community would like more time to study the details. However, there is a very well-articulated proposal before the public, with time for additional fine-tuning before final consideration by the City Council.

Discussion: While the Board itself has not had the time to analyze the technical zoning language in great detail, it is clear that there are many very positive aspects to the current scheme, and it is important that these features remain in the rezoning, should the Council ultimately act favorably upon it.

• At the heart of the scheme is the provision for 2 acres of parkland in two strategic East Cambridge locations that will help mediate between existing residential uses and the new development. The provision of $1 million for park planning and design and the $8.5 million for construction is a major commitment on the part of the developer.

• The attention to activating the ground floors of all new development is in keeping with the thrust of the ECaPS plan, and is essential to making this part of the city work better for people – residents, workers, visitors, students. In particular, the commitment for approximately 30,000 square feet of retail and community space, carefully placed where it will do the most good, is commendable.

• The major difference between this plan and ECaPS is the shift in emphasis from residential use to encouraging biotech development. The Board supports the strengthening of this most important component of our community’s economy, particularly in these challenging times. At the same time, the commitment to include 220,000 square feet of housing, with a significant affordable component, is important to retaining a mixed-use environment.

• Noise impact from biotech development has long been an important neighborhood concern. The Board appreciates that there is a plan in this rezoning for addressing the noise issue more fully.

• The preservation of key historic buildings, as advocated by the Cambridge Historical Commission, is well-addressed.

• Based on plans from the 1960s, Binney Street has been made into a thoroughfare linking Kendall Square to regional traffic patterns, and plays a major role in area-wide traffic flow. While that traffic function will continue, this proposal would transform it from a barrier into a boulevard with a more urbane aspect. It will be lined with significant new buildings having ground floors well-connected to the public ways, and it will lead to the riverfront with a much more attractive streetscape. The plans for better landscaped setbacks, complemented by on-street parking, will do much to overcome the negative aspects of Binney Street as it currently exists. The Board encourages attention to redesign that would carry these improvements even further, with particular emphasis on reconfiguring the Binney median east of Third Street—it is also clear that the median does help protect the neighborhood from cut-through traffic west of Third Street, and any changes should be carefully analyzed as to traffic impacts.

• While the Board appreciates the commitment to obtaining LEED Silver ratings for new buildings, we would like to see an even higher level, recognizing the difficulties inherent in biotech construction.

Respectfully submitted for the Planning Board,

William Tibbs, Chair

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-155, regarding a report on the feasibility of launching a campaign similar to New York's Safe Streets for Seniors.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-121, regarding a report on whether the new Berkeley, California program to give city-backed loans to property owners who install rooftop solar-power systems is applicable to Cambridge.

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-01, regarding a report on Cambridge greenhouse gas reduction goal.

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-157, regarding a report on sending opposition to Channel 25's actions to switch from analog early.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-149, regarding a report on a review of Article XXIV Special District Parking Regulation.

16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the Governor's Proposed Budget for FY2010 as it relates to Cambridge.  Referred to Finance Committee

City Manager Letter

Feb 2, 2009

To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am enclosing the complete package of the Governor's Proposed Budget for FY2010 as it relates to Cambridge.

First, however, the Governor also has reduced the FY2009 Local Aid to Cambridge, upon which the City Budget was based in the amount of $2,605,447. This means that with only 5 months left in the fiscal year, serious expenditure reductions need to occur, as all other revenue sources are "flat" during this economic downturn.

The "net impact" of the FY2010 Proposed Budget from the Governor is more complicated to provide a simple analysis. Most importantly, none of these numbers are final until the House and Senate complete their budget deliberations, and reconcile differences and have the Governor's signature on a final FY2010 budget. This will not occur until late Spring, I surmise.

For Cambridge, the "best case" loss of State Aid for FY2010 is $5,628,010 or 14.1%. That assumes, however, the adoption of a 1% Meals Tax increase, and a 1% Room Tax increase that means over $3 million for Cambridge. As you know, this proposal has generated vocal opposition from the "hospitality industry." Without these, and other new revenues, the net loss to Cambridge for FY2010 is $8,665,954 or 21.7%.

It is clear, that any final budget will result in less State revenue to Cambridge. This means appropriate reductions in all areas, as the City is limited in its revenue sources other than State Aid and Property Taxes. Building permit revenues are down dramatically this year. Hotel/Motel Tax and Excise Tax will, most likely, barely make estimates, and water usage is down 4%, thus water and sewer revenues reflect a matching decline.

All City agencies must closely examine their expenditure plans for the remainder of this year, and anticipate reductions in the upcoming proposed budgets.

Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager

ON THE TABLE
1. Opposition to the closing of the Oliver Farnum Senior Health Center. [Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Maher on Order Number Fourteen of Nov 3, 2008.]

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Co-Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Nov 18, 2004 for the purpose of considering proposed amendments to Chapter 2.74 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, the Police Review and Advisory Board Ordinance. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 14, 2005. [Four sections of the proposed amendment were passed to be ordained as amended. Ordinance #1284. The remaining proposed amendments to chapter 2.74 remain on Unfinished Business.]

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Numbers 06-87, 07-83 and 07-138, regarding the status of putting the City's self-evaluation on the website. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on City Manager Agenda Item Number Sixteen of Dec 10, 2007. Dec 17, 2007 - Referred to 2008-2009 City Council as Unfinished Business on motion of Councillor Kelley.]

4. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Jan 6, 2009 to continue to discuss a petition filed by the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance in Section 20.88-Memorial Drive Overlay District. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Jan 26, 2009. Planning Board hearing held Dec 2, 2008. Petition expires Feb 17, 2009.  Ordained 9-0. Ordinance #1318

5. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Jan 6, 2009 to continue to discuss a petition to amend the zoning in the East Cambridge area filed by Alexandria Real Estate Equities. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Jan 26, 2009. Planning Board hearing held Nov 18, 2008. Petition expires Feb 17, 2009.

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Zing Pizza, requesting permission for two tables and four chairs for restaurant seating in front of 1925 Massachusetts Avenue.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from John Pitkin, regarding the current proposal for renovating the Cambridge Rindge and Latin School in the area between Cambridge Street, the CRLS media wing and CRLS Arts Building.

2. A communication was received from Representative William N. Brownsberger, transmitting thanks for the City Council resolution opposing the proposed toll hikes.

3. A communication was received from John Igo, EOPS Grant Request Receiver for Alewife vicinity, requesting a grant for a neighborhood walking tour and discussion of the area north of the red line from Magoun Street to Alewife Station.

4. A communication was received from Lenora Jennings, transmitting thanks for the kind expression of sympathy on behalf of her mother, Myrtle Johnson.

5. A communication was received from Carolyn Shipley, regarding the city's snow clearing policies.

6. A communication was received from the Figueiredo family, transmitting thanks for the expression of sympathy on the loss of Emilia Figueiredo.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Retirement of Meredith Thompson from the School Department.   Councillor Maher

2. Resolution on the death of Michael J. McDermott Sr.   Councillor Toomey, Councillor Maher

3. Retirement of Joseph McElroy from the Public Works Department.   Mayor Simmons

4. Retirement of Janet McGann from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Simmons

5. Retirement of Loretta Saint-Louis from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Simmons

6. Retirement of Carol Bresnahan from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Simmons

7. Get well wishes to Stash Horowitz.   Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy

8. Congratulations to Benjamin Barnes on his nomination to serve as a judge in the Malden district.   Councillor Toomey

9. Retirement of Meta Williams from the Cambridge Housing Authority.   Mayor Simmons

10. Resolution on the death of Eva Markarian.   Councillor Toomey

11. Happy 60th Birthday to a special person.   Councillor Toomey

12. Resolution on the death of Shirley (MacDonald) Piccione.   Councillor Toomey

13. Resolution on the death of Patricia A. (O'Connor) Keegan.   Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Maher, Councillor Davis

14. Resolution on the death of Robert "Bo" Ahern Sr.   Councillor Maher, Councillor Toomey

15. Resolution on the death of Howlett E. "Howly" Chandler.   Councillor Maher

16. Congratulations to Professor Eric Lander on the occasion of being chosen to serve as co-chair of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.   Councillor Davis

17. Congratulations to Professor John P. Holdren on being chosen to serve as Assistant to the President for Science and Technology.   Councillor Davis

18. Resolution on the death of Edward J. Graham.   Councillor Toomey

19. Congratulations to Rachel Evelyn Jean-Louis on being named a Posse Scholar and wish her success in her future studies at Denison University.   Councillor Toomey

20. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Kyle J. Harrington.   Councillor Decker
21. Resolution on the death of Specialist Matthew M. Pollini.   Councillor Decker
22. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Roberto Andrade Jr.   Councillor Decker
23. Resolution on the death of Senior Airman Omar J. McKnight.   Councillor Decker
24. Resolution on the death of Pfc. Ricky L. Turner.   Councillor Decker
25. Resolution on the death of Private Sean P. McCune.   Councillor Decker
26. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Marquis R. Porter.   Councillor Decker
27. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Justin L. Bauer.   Councillor Decker
28. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Anthony D. Davis.   Councillor Decker

29. Retirement of Brian J. Dee from the Human Services Department.   Mayor Simmons

30. Best wishes to Robert J. McCarthy as he leaves his position as President of North Cambridge Catholic High School.   Councillor Toomey

31. Congratulations to Roger Boothe on receiving the 2009 Thomas Jefferson Award by the American Institute of Architects.   Councillor Toomey

32. Congratulations and thanks to the retirees of the Cambridge School Department for their service to the children of Cambridge.   Councillor Maher

33. Resolution on the death of Geneva Tallman Malenfant on Jan 25, 2009.   Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher

34. Resolution on the death of Clark "Jay" Deaver.   Mayor Simmons

35. Condolences to Mayor Sue Kay, Weymouth, on the loss of her husband Frank Kay.   Mayor Simmons

36. Congratulations to Maximilien Yelbi on his scholarship to Hamilton College and appreciation to Adam Travis and Akshata Kadagathur for their work with the Harvard Square Homeless Shelter.   Mayor Simmons

37. Congratulations to Robert K. and Shirley A. Johnson on their 50th Wedding Anniversary on Jan 31, 2009.   Mayor Simmons

38. Congratulations to Genzyme on the occasion of winning the J. Halston Parker Medal.   Mayor Simmons

39. Resolution on the death of Bridgette "Breeda" (Landers) Pacheco.   Councillor Toomey

40. Thanks to the TTT Mentor Program of TTT Foundation, Inc. for their dedication to the children of Cambridge and Boston.   Mayor Simmons

41. Congratulations to the students who participated in the TTT Mentor Program of TTT Foundation, Inc.   Mayor Simmons

42. Congratulations to Professor Daniel J. Meltzer on his appointment as Principal Deputy Counsel to the President in the administration of President Barack Obama.   Councillor Davis

43. Resolution on the death of Gabriel S. Ferreira.   Councillor Toomey

44. Resolution on the death of Frances A. Merra.   Councillor Toomey

45. Resolution on the death of Maria dos Anjos (Andrade) Vidinha.   Councillor Toomey

46. Resolution on the death of Clare B. Dewart.   Councillor Toomey

47. Resolution on the death of Domenic J. DePrimio.   Councillor Toomey

48. Resolution on the death of Philip A. "Tippy" Teeven.   Councillor Toomey

49. Resolution on the death of Marie (Witkin) Kargman.   Councillor Toomey

50. Best wishes to South Africa Partners for a successful 10th Anniversary Gala Celebration on Feb 7, 2009.   Councillor Davis

51. Thanks to all City staff and volunteers who helped make the "Harlem Children's Zone Report Back" a success.   Councillor Reeves

52. Congratulations to the Cambridge Community Chorus and their new Artistic Director Jamie Andrew Kirsch on their 2008 December Concert.   Councillor Reeves

53. Thanks to the Department of Public Works for the creative effort that went into the artistry of the 2008 holiday lighting.   Councillor Reeves

57. Congratulations to Robert W. Healy on the occasion of the dedication of the Robert W. Healy Public Safety Facility on Saturday, February 7, 2009.   Mayor Simmons

ORDERS
1. Support for the goals and ideals of Go Direct and the Direct Express card and hereby proclaim February 2009 as "Go Direct/Direct Express Month" in Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons

2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City department to explore ways to make raised sidewalks more visible to drivers.   Councillor Decker

3. That the City Council meeting of Mar 16, 2009 be cancelled due to the attendance of the City Councillors at the National League of Cities Conference.   Mayor Simmons

4. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with an update on the sale of Northpoint.   Councillor Toomey

5. That the City Manager is requested to prepare the necessary regulations to implement the recommendations of the Green Building/Zoning Task Force regarding the proposed zoning framework for wind energy systems in Cambridge.   Councillor Davis

6. City Council support of H.R. 5113, a bill that would authorize the operation of low-speed vehicles on some Massachusetts public roads.   Councillor Davis

7. That the City Manager is requested to report to the City Council on the effect of the new Bicyclist Safety Law on Cambridge.   Councillor Davis

8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works on the possibility of acquiring cameras and printers that take pictures of unshoveled sidewalks to assist in our efforts for snow removal compliance.   Councillor Toomey

9. Authorizing the City Clerk to file Home Rule Petition entitled "An Act authorizing the City of Cambridge to place municipal charge liens on real property in the City of Cambridge for nonpayment of any local charges, fees or fines".   Councillor Toomey

10. That the City Manager is requested to appoint appropriate staff in the city to be assigned to a Complete Count Committee to discuss, research, and advise the city on ways to increase the number of census surveys completed by Cambridge residents.   Mayor Simmons

11. Opposition to the US Census Bureau's proposed invalidation of US Census 2010 same sex data and commits to lobbying state and national leaders to understand that the only Complete Count possible validates all people and recognizes all legal marriages in its collection and reporting.   Mayor Simmons

12. Urging low-income working individuals and families to access the Earned Income Tax Credit cash refund and thanks to CEOC for their efforts to inform and assist the public in filing.   Mayor Simmons

13. That the City Manager is requested to create a plan for implementing a citywide customer service campaign and training program.   Mayor Simmons

14. That the City Manager is requested to investigate the matter of the Westley Avenue access to Linear Park being closed off and the possibility of re-opening it.   Councillor Kelley

15. That the City Manager is requested to ask the Planning Board to postpone issuing permits to MIT's 650 Main Street and the lot on the corner of School Street and Cherry Street until a satisfactory community process is organized.   Mayor Simmons

16. That the City Manager is requested to prepare a comprehensive packet of information about the Cambridge Energy Alliance including a cover letter and "lessons learned."   Councillor Seidel

17. Dedication of a location in the vicinity of Sargent Street in honor of the Earle Family.   Councillor Maher  Charter Right - Reeves

18. City Council opposition to the installation of these eight Department of Homeland Security surveillance cameras in Cambridge.   Councillor Decker and Councillor Seidel
adopted 9-0

19. Urge residents of Cambridge to compose Messages of Peace, Hope, and Change addressed to President Barack Obama, and to be collected and forwarded to the President by the Cambridge Peace Commission.   Mayor Simmons

20. That the City Manager is requested to provide information regarding the circumstances under which the Fusion Center would receive data from Cambridge City Departments or third party entities.   Councillor Decker
adopted 9-0 as amended

21. That the City Manager is requested to halt all work on the Department of Homeland Security camera network, to include supporting infrastructure, until the City Council and relevant City agencies have developed an appropriate regulatory framework to install and utilize this equipment.   Councillor Kelley
adopted 9-0; Reconsideration filed by Decker

22. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City agencies to contact building owners on Richdale Avenue between Walden and Upton Streets to ask the owners to work with the City to install lights on the side of their buildings for safety.   Councillor Decker

23. Urge Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry to vote in favor of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan (S.1).   Mayor Simmons

24. That the City Manager is requested to confer with Dennis Keefe, CEO of the Cambridge Health Alliance and Cambridge Chief Public Health Officer, to assure as much as possible, that those persons currently being served by the Riverside Neighborhood Clinic and the North Cambridge Jefferson Park Clinic are connected to a health care provider after the named clinics are closed.   Councillor Reeves

25. That the Cambridge City Council goes on record adopting the Metro Boston Hazard Mitigation Plan, Annex for the City of Cambridge dated March 2008.   Councillor Toomey

26. That the City Council adopt the City Council Objectives and Goals, July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2011.   Vice Mayor Murphy and Councillor Maher

27. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager to require planning staff to look at other impacts of the proposed overlay district and at what the outside parameters of future build out could be.   Councillor Davis

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Human Services Committee, for a meeting held on Dec 9, 2008 to discuss the recent 2½ day Practitioners' Institute with the Harlem Children's Zone (HCZ) and plan for a forum on the HCZ and next steps for supporting early childhood services.

2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Dec 11, 2008 to consider a petition by Lesley University to create a new Lesley Porter Overlay District in the area of Porter Square with a base Business C zoning district.

3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Chair of the Public Safety Committee, for a meeting held on Jan 21, 2009 to discuss crime trends and a Hazardous Mitigation Plan for Cambridge.

4. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Health and Environment Committee, for a meeting held on Jan 13, 2009 to discuss opportunities to grow fresh fruits and vegetables in Cambridge.

5. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David Maher and Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Government Operations and Rules Committee, for a public meeting held on Jan 27, 2009 to finalize the draft City Council objectives and rules for recommendation to the City Council.

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Councillor Craig A. Kelley, regarding budget priorities.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Feb 2
5:00pm   Special Presentation for Black History Month  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Feb 3
5:00pm   The Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Feb 4
5:30pm   The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to follow up on the meeting held on Sept 10, 2008 on red light camera enforcement.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 9
5:00pm   Special Presentation for Black History Month  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Feb 10
5:30pm   The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss traffic enforcement data analysis.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 23
5:30pm   Roundtable Meeting with NSTAR. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Feb 24
5:00pm   The Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss outdoor lighting.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 2
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Mar 3
5:30pm   The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will continue discussions on analysis of traffic enforcement data.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 9
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 16
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 23
5:00pm   Special Presentation for Women's History Month  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Mon, Apr 6
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Apr 13
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Apr 27
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, May 4
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, May 11
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, May 18
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 1
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 8
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 15
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 22
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 29
5:30pm   Regular City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Federal Reserve Banks have launched a national campaign to encourage people to use direct deposit or the Direct Express prepaid debit card for the receipt of Social Security and other federal benefits; and
WHEREAS: Electronic payments are safer, easier and more convenient than paper checks and save taxpayers money; and
WHEREAS: The Treasury issued 70,000 checks in 2008 that fell prey to endorsement forgeries, totaling more than $64,000,000; and
WHEREAS: When there's a problem with a Social Security payment, nine times out of 10 it's with a paper check; and
WHEREAS: More than 231,000 Social Security and SSI income checks are issued in Massachusetts each month which, if converted to electronic payments, would save taxpayers more than $2.4 million annually; and
WHEREAS: Electronic payments are more secure, reliable, and cost effective than paper checks because they: help protect against identity theft and fraud; provide easier access to funds during emergencies and natural disasters; and provide citizens of Cambridge with more control over their money
WHEREAS: By working with the Cambridge Council on Aging and others, the sponsors of Go Direct/Direct Express are educating the people of Cambridge about the advantages of electronic payments and assisting people during the enrollment process; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record expressing their support for the goals and ideals of Go Direct and the Direct Express card and hereby proclaim February 2009 as "Go Direct/Direct Express Month" in Cambridge; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to send a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the organizers of the National Go Direct/Direct Express program on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-2     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: There have been reports that the raised crosswalks designed to slow traffic, such as those on Oxford, Walden, and Raymond Streets, are not visible enough to drivers, especially when the streets are covered with snow; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City department to explore ways to make these raised sidewalks more visible to drivers.

O-3     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Council meeting of Mar 16, 2009 be cancelled due to the attendance of the City Councillors at the National League of Cities Conference.

O-4     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with an update on the sale of Northpoint.

O-5     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to prepare the necessary regulations to implement the recommendations of the Green Building/Zoning Task Force regarding the proposed zoning framework for wind energy systems in Cambridge.

O-6     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: H.R. 5113, currently awaiting Governor Patrick's signature, is a bill that would authorize the operation of low-speed vehicles on some Massachusetts public roads; and
WHEREAS: These vehicles meet an alternative Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard which allows them to go at least 20 mph, but no more than 25 mph, on roads where the speed limit is 35 mph or less; and
WHEREAS: The law would allow electric vehicles, which have a smaller carbon footprint than the cleanest gas-powered cars, to be drive on city streets and as the grid gets greener, electric vehicles will become an even better alternative to fossil-fuel powered vehicles; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record supporting H.R. 5113; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to the Cambridge legislative delegation as soon as possible.

O-7     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Governor Deval Patrick signed the Bicyclist Safety Bill into law on Jan 15, 2009; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council on the effect of the new Bicyclist Safety Law on Cambridge.

O-8     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The City of Boston has equipped their snow removal enforcement staff with special cameras and printers that can take pictures of unshoveled sidewalks and print the picture on the citation; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has increased its efforts for snow removal compliance; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works on the possibility of acquiring the same equipment as the City of Boston to assist in our efforts for snow removal compliance.

O-9     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record authorizing the City Clerk to file on its behalf the attached Home Rule Petition entitled: "An Act authorizing the City of Cambridge to place municipal charge liens on real property in the City of Cambridge for nonpayment of any local charges, fees or fines"

O-10     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: National, state and local planning efforts are currently underway for the US Census 2010 which will take place in April of 2010; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge is reported to have a 62% return on Census surveys in 2000, a lower rate of return than Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, New Bedford, Quincy and All River - and lower than the national average of 67%; and
WHEREAS: The importance of collecting accurate census data is critical to planning, budgeting, and allocation of national funding to state and local municipalities; and
WHEREAS: The US Census 2010 is asking the City of Cambridge to support their efforts by forming a Complete Count Committee that will oversee recommendations for outreach and other measures that will increase the percentage of surveys returned by residents of Cambridge; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to appoint appropriate staff in the city to be assigned to a Complete Count Committee to discuss, research, and advise the city on ways to increase the number of census surveys completed by Cambridge residents.

O-11     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: National, state, and local planning efforts are currently underway for the US Census 2010 which will take place in April of 2010; and
WHEREAS: In order for the US Census Bureau to be consistent with the data requirements of the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA), it is currently being planned that the US Census 2010 data collected from Cambridge (and other Massachusetts) residents reporting as a "same sex spouse" will be changed to unmarried partner which in effect invalidates their legal marriage; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge is a national leader in support for same sex marriage and strongly disagrees with discriminatory legislation that denies equal rights to any person, class, or group of individuals; and
WHEREAS: It is incumbent upon local leaders to petition state and national level leaders to respond to discriminatory practices and work for swift and sweeping change toward equality and inclusion; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record in opposition to the US Census Bureau's proposed invalidation of US Census 2010 same sex data and commits to lobbying state and national leaders to understand that the only Complete Count possible validates all people and recognizes all legal marriages in its collection and reporting; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to state and national legislators, as well as key personnel at the US Census Bureau, on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-12     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is both a federal and state benefit for low-income working families that provides direct cash refund to households; and
WHEREAS: A family with two or more qualifying children who earns less than $38,646 or $41,646 if married filing jointly, is eligible for up to $4,824; and
WHEREAS: A family with one qualifying child who earns less than $33,995, or $36,995 if married filing jointly is eligible for up to $2,917; and
WHEREAS: Single workers between the ages of 25-64 who earn less than $12,880, or $15,880 if married filing jointly, and have no qualifying children are eligible for $438; and
WHEREAS: CEOC – the Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee is a certified IRS VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) site and provides a Free Tax Preparation Program - Get What’s Coming to You!; and
WHEREAS: CEOC provides free tax preparation, electronic filing, assistance in applying for the EITC and other tax credits, and can return the taxpayers' refund in 14 days or less; and
WHEREAS: CEOC provides this service at its 11 Inman Street office and in sites throughout the Cambridge community to make the filing process easy for taxpayers providing services in the following languages: Spanish, Haitian Kreyol, and Portuguese; and
WHEREAS: Last year CEOC returned over $2.2 million in earned income and child tax credits and state and federal refunds to over 1,500 tax filers; and
WHEREAS: Friday, Jan 30, 2009 is National EITC Awareness Day; and
WHEREAS: CEOC will sponsor Cambridge EITC days on Saturdays Jan 31st and Feb 7th, at which time CEOC will provide free tax preparation on a walk-in basis; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council recognizes the efforts of CEOC to inform the public and assist Cambridge and other area low-income working individuals and families to access the Earned Income Tax Credit and avoid for-profit tax preparer fees and encourages Cambridge individuals to take advantage of CEOC’s - Get What’s Coming to You! Free Tax Preparation Program; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Elaine DeRosa at the CEOC on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-13     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Many cities across the country have applied sound business philosophy and practice and in doing so have implemented cost-efficient and cost-saving customer service training for all appropriate personnel; and
WHEREAS: Everyone would benefit from a citywide campaign that recognizes the importance of providing excellent customer service to all who call, visit, or seek the services of the city, including internal constituents and colleagues as well as external constituents, citizens and consumers; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has long been a leader in creating best practice models and it is well proven in the non-municipal sector that investing in customer service training for personnel creates heightened efficiency and customer experiences that translate to satisfaction and savings; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to create a plan for implementing a citywide customer service campaign and training program.

O-14     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Westley Avenue provided an accessible entrance to Linear Park for many members of the North Cambridge community, allowing easier commutes to and from the MBTA station and other park amenities; and
WHEREAS: The access to Linear Park has recently been closed off, either by the MBTA or by some private party; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate this matter and report back to the City Council on the status of this park access area and the possibility of re-opening it.

O-15     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: MIT is seeking Planning Board permits relevant to the development of property at 650 Main Street which is in Area 4; and
WHEREAS: The Area 4 Coalition has expressed several concerns to the City Manager and City Council about adherence to green space requirements, traffic, proposed design of the building, and possible tenancy and usage after construction of 650 Main Street; and
WHEREAS: The Area 4 Coalition has also expressed concerns about the intended development or usage of the MIT-owned property at the corner of School Street and Cherry Street in Area 4; and
WHEREAS: The Area 4 Coalition is requesting they be allowed to participate in a wider conversation with the neighbors of Area 4 before the Planning Board makes final permitting decisions about 650 Main Street, and about proposed usage for the lot on the corner of School Street and Cherry Street; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ask the Planning Board to postpone issuing permits to either of these properties until a satisfactory community process is organized.

O-16     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Energy Alliance is an innovative approach to achieve carbon emissions reductions at the municipal level by working with residents and businesses to increase energy efficiency in their buildings; and
WHEREAS: Secretary Steven Chu, the new Secretary of Energy in the U.S. Department of Energy, has publicly stated that municipal efforts to reduce carbon emissions through increased efficiency in buildings is the "low hanging fruit" in combating climate change; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to prepare a comprehensive packet of information about the Cambridge Energy Alliance including a cover letter and "lessons learned;" and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ensure that this packet of information is sent to Secretary Chu at the U.S. Department of energy in a timely manner.

O-17     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record dedicating a location in the vicinity of Sargent Street in honor of the Earle Family; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-18     Feb 2, 2009  adopted 9-0
COUNCILLOR DECKER
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: As part of a Department of Homeland Security grant the City of Cambridge received funds to install eight security cameras throughout the city for the stated purposes of monitoring evacuation routes; and
WHEREAS: At the Jan 22nd Civic Unity hearing it was learned that these grants were made available to cities and towns across the country; and
WHEREAS: The Department of Homeland Security grant application was very flexible allowing communities to write their own application making it nearly impossible for the Department of Homeland Security to reject the application; and
WHEREAS: In the grant guidelines, communities must install the technology infrastructure along with the cameras; and
WHEREAS: Public safety officials were hard pressed to convincingly illustrate why these eight cameras would enhance and significantly expand their abilities to keep Cambridge residents safe (belief being that they already have the capacity to do this job); and
WHEREAS: The City Council has only recently learned of the existence of these surveillance cameras, although the planning and infrastructure installation has been going on for a long time (4-6 years according to some sources) and the cameras are scheduled to be turned on at the end of the month; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge is 6.2 square miles. Under extraordinary circumstances there would be a heavy increase in traffic - public safety officials already know where the traffic log jams will occur and can already identify alternative routes based on the eight locations of the cameras; and
WHEREAS: At this time, the potential threats to invasion of privacy and individual civil liberties outweigh the current benefits – which do not seem significant in improving public safety; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record opposing the installation of these eight Department of Homeland Security surveillance cameras; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ensure that these cameras not be installed in Cambridge.

O-19     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The citizens of Cambridge and their representatives on the Cambridge City Council have a strong tradition of communicating their ideas, beliefs, and hopes to their representatives in the United States Congress and to the President of the United States; and
WHEREAS: Our nation is facing both serious challenges and real opportunities for positive change; and
WHEREAS: On Nov 4, 2008, Barack Obama became the first African-American to be elected President of the United States based on a campaign that emphasized hope and change; and
WHEREAS: President Barack Obama said in his Inaugural Address that, "we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord" and that, like Cambridge, our nation is "shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth"; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Peace Commission is soliciting messages of peace, hope, and change from residents of Cambridge to be delivered to President Barack Obama; therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council urges residents of Cambridge to compose Messages of Peace, Hope, and Change addressed to President Barack Obama, and to be collected and forwarded to the President by the Cambridge Peace Commission; and
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to President Barack Obama; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge Peace Commission be and hereby is requested to collect the said messages and forward them along with a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Office of Public Liaison & Intergovernmental Affairs at the White House, through which everyone can participate and inform the work of the President, together with a request that the President reply to each individual who has forwarded a message through the Cambridge Peace Commission.

O-20     Feb 2, 2009  adopted 9-0 as amended
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: As part of the Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Response, the Commonwealth Fusion Center in Maynard, Massachusetts, collects and analyzes information from all available sources to produce and disseminate actionable intelligence to stakeholders for strategic and tactical decision-making in order to disrupt domestic and international terrorism; and
WHEREAS: This Fusion Center was the first of its kind created under the leadership of Governor Romney - without the approval of the State Legislature; and
WHEREAS: There are now 66 of these centers around the country; and
WHEREAS: The goal of the Fusion Center is to collect data from a variety of sources for example, – traffic departments, libraries, for the purposes of analysis and identification of potential threats; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge may have contributed, either voluntarily or by request, information to the Fusion Center; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager is hereby requested to inform the Council as to what City Departments contribute, or have contributed, whether voluntarily or otherwise, information to the Fusion Center, and the nature of that information; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide information regarding the circumstances under which the Fusion Center would receive data from Cambridge City Departments or third party entities.

O-21     Feb 2, 2009  adopted 9-0; Reconsideration filed by Decker
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The City has installed surveillance cameras acquired as part of a grant from the Department of Homeland Security; and
WHEREAS: The City Council and City agencies have not formalized a policy around the use of these surveillance cameras nor is it clearly understood what might happen to recorded data in the future; and
WHEREAS: Many members of the public are concerned about how these cameras might intrude upon their reasonable expectations of privacy; and
WHEREAS: It is difficult to discuss this issue without a better understanding of the underlying grant that provided the cameras and related infrastructure; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to put the grant that provided these surveillance cameras in a prominent place on the City's website; and be it further
ORDERED: That if security concerns preclude such placement of the grant, that the City Manger be and hereby is requested to post on the website what information is allowed and to report back to the City Council on why any parts of the grant could to be shared with the public and to explain, to the extent allowed, what those parts of the grant state; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to halt all work on the Department of Homeland Security camera network, to include supporting infrastructure, until the City Council and relevant City agencies have developed an appropriate regulatory framework to install and utilize this equipment.

O-22     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City agencies to contact building owners on Richdale Avenue between Walden and Upton Streets to ask the owners to work with the City to install lights on the side of their buildings for safety.

O-23     Feb 2, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: In recognition of the growing need for additional funding for programs aiding victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence and stalking, the Senate Appropriations Committee passed an economic stimulus bill entitled the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan (S.1) on Tues, Jan 27, 2009; and
WHEREAS: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan (Bill S.336) proposes an increase in funding for the violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), which if passed will augment opportunities for programs in the Cambridge community, such as Transition House, to continue to meet the growing demand for services that victims and survivors depend on; and
WHEREAS: The continuing economic turmoil faced in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will likely increase the amount of people who shall be depending upon the various social service programs and organizations that exist in Cambridge; many of the social service organizations are struggling to meet the demands placed upon them, and their ability to provide essential services to our community shall be crippled without additional funding; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record strongly urging Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry to vote in favor of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Plan (S.1); and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-24     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with Dennis Keefe, CEO of the Cambridge Health Alliance and Cambridge Chief Public Health Officer, to assure as much as possible, that those persons currently being served by the Riverside Neighborhood Clinic and the North Cambridge Jefferson Park Clinic are connected to a health care provider after the named clinics are closed.

O-25     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council goes on record adopting the Metro Boston Hazard Mitigation Plan, Annex for the City of Cambridge dated March 2008.

O-26     Feb 2, 2009
VICE MAYOR MURPHY
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council hereby adopts the City Council Objectives and Goals, July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2011 (attached).

O-27     Feb 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager to require planning staff to look at other impacts of the proposed overlay district and at what the outside parameters of future build out could be.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Human Services Committee conducted a public meeting on Dec 9, 2008 at one o’clock and five minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The meeting was held for the purpose of continuing to discuss the recent 2½ day Practitioners’ Institute with the Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ) and plan for a forum on the HCZ and next steps for supporting early childhood services.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Sam Seidel; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Nancy Tauber, School Committee member; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Lei Anne Ellis, Department of Human Services (DHSP), Childcare and Family Services Support Division Head; Michelle Farnum, Services (DHSP) Youth Programs Division Head; Mina Reddy, Director of the Cambridge Learning Center, DHSP; Claude Jacob, Chief Public Health Officer; Jasmine Palmer, Coordinator, Pathways for Family Success, Cambridge Health Alliance; Daryl Mark, Cambridge Public Library; Julie Roach, Head of Children’s Room, Cambridge Public Library; Mary Wong, Director of the Kids' Council; Lynn Hall, Cambridge Public Partnership; Steven Swanger, Director of Workforce Development, Cambridge Housing Authority; Barbara Kibler, Director of the Margaret Fuller House; Meg Gray, Childcare Resource Center (CCRC); Randi Epstein, CCRC; Joyce Colman, The Guidance Center; Claire Koen, Family Liaison; Michael Delia, Director of the East End House; Emily, East End House; Rebecca Gallo, East End House; Khari Milner, Director of the Cambridge Public School and Afterschool Partnership; Betty Bardige, President of the Cambridge Community Foundation; and John Clifford.

Councillor Reeves opened the meeting and explained the purpose. He began with a brief overview of the plans for the HCZ Report Back Forum. He said that the goal of the event is to publicize and disseminate the information about the HCZ as broadly as possible, with special attention to agencies and persons who work with children. He informed the committee that MIT has volunteered the Broad Institute as a location for the forum on Jan 14, 2009. He said that the Broad Institute auditorium seats approximately 200 people and asked for suggestions as to whom they should invite. There ensued a discussion out of which came many additional names for the list of invitees.

After some additional discussion of the plans for the upcoming forum, Councillor Reeves invited Ms Semonoff and her staff to present information about what programs in Cambridge resemble the HCZ Baby College. He noted that unlike the HCZ, Cambridge has been reluctant to tell parents not to use some disciplinary methods that are proscribed by child development professionals but constitute the cultural norm in some of the variety of cultures and ethnicities that make up the Cambridge family population, for example, spanking. Ms. Semonoff said that the two strongest messages of the Baby College to parents are brain development and discipline. Part of their message is that the New York Child Protection Agency will remove children from the home for spanking incidents. Another more positive strategy utilized by the HCZ is setting/negotiating limits. Ms Semonoff distributed a list of Cambridge programs that all do some of the parent education and support that is the hallmark of the Baby College (Attachment A). She said that the staff has selected to present for this meeting programs whose work is very focused on parenting skills, and introduced Lauren Leikin to begin to describe these programs.

Ms. Leikin then described the Let’s Talk program. The program is based on research that documents that there is a significant vocabulary difference between middle class and lower income kids at early ages and that the way to bridge the gap is for parents to talk more to their children. A lot of parents do not engage with their children in this way. It is fundamentally directed at changes in the way parents interact with their children. This program works really hard to serve a multicultural population. It starts at birth with a visit to the mother in the maternity ward and goes on from there. The program includes workshops. There are several common themes, including literacy, health and positive interactions. There is nothing that addresses discipline directly. In response to a question from Councillor Reeves about how many children and families the program served, Ms. Leikin said that she would need to provide the statistics after the meeting. (Ms. Leikin subsequently submitted this information (Attachment B). Ms. Leikin said that intensive parenting work is best done in small groups. It is very difficult to ask parents to change the way that they parent their children.

Ms. Colman said that discipline comes up constantly with the Guidance Center population. The biggest challenge is translating and bridging the different cultural spheres. In the families that she sees, parents just cannot do one more thing; attending a parenting class is not in the realm of possibility. Usually when parents are coming, it is because of something related to a problem that the parent has. She said that a lottery for a month’s rent would be a huge incentive to the families that she sees.

Ms. Hall said that as wonderful a program as the Baby College is, if there were no follow-up after Baby College, you might as well toss the Baby College program out the window. It is important to support someone to learn a new skill over and over. Ms. Leikin said that is why the network of collaboration we have in Cambridge can be so valuable in providing that continuing support.

Ms. Leikin said that Cambridge’s Pathways to Family Success is another example of a program that embodies the wrap-around support/literacy approach for families for young children. Home visits are an important aspect of the services. Literacy Ambassadors visit each family one or two times. They are working on "deepening the dosage," but they have found very positive outcomes after one visit. Between the ages of 0 to pre-school, the parents interact with the program seven times." She emphasized the availability of family support in languages other than English. Ms. Palmer, Coordinator of the Pathways program said that the parenting sessions in the Pathways program are about meeting the parents where they are. The parents go through the whole program as a cohort, a group

In response to Ms. Kibler’s question of whether the literacy program reaches every family, Ms. Leikin said that the first step of the program is sending a baby bag with a book for the baby to all Cambridge residents with newborn children. The program then continues with home visits for about 200 families. Ms Ellis said that the City of Cambridge collaborates in 700 plus home visits per year. Put together, we have a lot of providers who are working on a safety net for Cambridge children and families. The questions for Cambridge relate to how intentional we are or are not in our outreach.

Ms. Colman said that when we look at how we can translate HCZ to Cambridge programs, we see that we have the curricula and we have the resources. What we do not have is the ability to track children in between programs. If she could choose where to add funds, she would choose outreach workers and coaching and training for outreach workers.

Councillor Seidel said that perhaps the Cambridge model might be about a net, so that when families fall, they won’t fall very far, whereas the HCZ is about putting families on a positive trajectory.

Ms. Bardige agreed. She stated that one of the things that HCZ has is that everyone is on the same track. One thing we have in Cambridge is a place where many children have lots of resources and many families feel left out of that process. We need to have some things that every child must have. She added that we also have to think about peer groups for children and for parents that move through time. She also said that we should say to parents that we are going to work together to make sure that their children are ready to thrive. Cambridge has a whole lot of programs and a whole lot of energy. We need a more tightly coordinated network, but we already have the commitment to take that step forward.

Councillor Davis asked if Cambridge is tracking whether there are more children entering kindergarten ready to learn after all of these services. Ms. Ellis replied that they have asked that public schools track the preschool programs in their kindergarten assessment. Ms. Hall added that it is a very slow process to track these programs. The School Department could do better. Councillor Davis said that she is excited about being able to look at children from 0 to 5 with more information based on data that can help create bridges.

Ms. Koen expressed her agreement with Councillor Seidel’s safety net metaphor. She said that Cambridge could look at more mandates that would help make sure that there are certain things that every child in Cambridge gets.

Ms. Semonoff said that many of the people in this room have worked hard for a very long time to knit together services that are not easily connected. There is a great deal of uncertainty about which programs will survive this year’s state and federal budget cuts.

Mr. Milner said that HCZ has the community connection of the mission. Cambridge has the resources. He said that services for 0 to 5 year-old children could go a little further in building parents’ trust that they can get help. We can encourage the spirit of connection. And then the parents can take control.

Councillor Reeves asked Mr. Swanger if he believes that the Cambridge net is catching 50% of the children and families in need of the net. Mr. Swanger responded in the negative. He added that what he sees that has worked is the case management system where families are identified and there is someone who works with them from birth to graduation. What he sees all too often is services that work kind of like a pinball machine. The HCZ has one organization; Cambridge has multiple organizations. We need to focus on how we can guide people to move through these organizations in a rational way – basically coaching families to move through the system and take advantage of the resources.

Ms. Bardige expressed her agreement with Mr. Swanger and added that the research shows that this must start early. Mr. Milner said that there is a need for someone to help build the relationships between the services. There are families we have missed.

Councillor Reeves said that he would like to focus more on the children that we have missed.

Councillor Reeves thanked all those for their participation. The meeting adjourned at two o’clock and fifty- four minutes PM.

For the Committee,
Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair

Committee Report #2
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Dec 11, 2008 beginning at four o’clock and forty-three minutes PM in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the hearing was to consider a petition by Lesley University to amend the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge to extend the Business C District along the centerline of Massachusetts Avenue for 160 feet in a southerly direction from its current location at the centerline of Roseland Street and its intersection with the centerline of Massachusetts Avenue, to the northerly sideline of Frost Terrace so as to encompass all of the land in Assessor’s Map Block 153, Lots 1 and 18 and the adjacent portions of Roseland Street and Massachusetts Avenue abutting those lots; to amend the Zoning Map to create a new Lesley Porter Overlay District encompassing portions of the Business C district in Porter Square in the vicinity of Massachusetts Avenue, Mt. Vernon Street, Roseland Street and Somerville Avenue.

The petition would amend the Zoning Ordinance to create a new Section 20.200 - Lesley Porter Overlay District to augment the existing zoning regulations to allow for the establishment of an art district, to enhance the ground floor retail uses and to encourage retention of historic buildings in the Porter Square area. The Lesley Porter Overlay District would allow a Floor Area Ratio of 2.5 for all educational uses by Planning Board Special Permit; allow the existing height and setbacks of historic structures; and allow the parking and loading requirements to be waived by Planning Board Special Permit.

Present at the hearing were Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Councillor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Sam Seidel; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey; Mayor E. Denise Simmons; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Nancy Glowa, Deputy City Solicitor; Susan Glazer, Director of the Community Development Department (CDD); Lester Barber, Director of Zoning and Land Use Planning, CDD; Stuart Dash, Director of Community and Neighborhood Planning, CDD; and Taha Jennings, Planner, CDD.

Vice Mayor Murphy opened the meeting and explained the purpose. He announced that this is the first hearing on the topic of Lesley University’s proposal to rezone property that Lesley owns in Porter Square and that he expects that there will be more meetings of the Ordinance Committee on this topic. He invited the petitioners to present the petition.

William Doncaster, Director of Public Affairs, Lesley University began the presentation. He said that although this is the first meeting with the Ordinance Committee on this issue, there has been a two-year process that featured monthly meetings of Porter Square residents and businesses and Lesley University staff. Mr. Doncaster said that the roots for this proposal were the desire to move the Art Institute, which Lesley now owns, to Cambridge and, as part of the Art Institute planning process, conversations with neighbors about the need for a more thoughtful and long-term vision for Porter Square. He announced that the Lesley Board of Trustees recently approved a master plan for Lesley University. Mr. Doncaster also said that the ground-up construction at 1663 Massachusetts Avenue is Lesley University’s first ground-up construction project since 1953.

Attorney James Rafferty then described the proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance. He said that the proposed criteria for granting special permits in the overlay district are still being discussed by the university and the community. He believes that the language regarding open space and parking can be improved. The proposed overlay district would allow for transfer of development rights in the parking areas across from the Porter Exchange Building to lower the density around Mt. Vernon Street, but that is looking far into the future.

Stan Drucker, Dean of the Art Institute of Boston (AIB) described the enthusiasm of the AIB community about bringing this almost 100 year old art college to Cambridge. They look forward to many connections to the Cambridge community, including the public schools.

Jason Forni, architect, described the only building that has been planned for development. He said that they worked hard with the community to produce community values to inform the plans. Items of potential interest of the community include an art gallery, space for the Maude Morgan collection, and an arts common. The historic church on the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Roseland would be moved to the south side of the site and transformed into an art library. In response to a question from Councillor Davis about the width of the sidewalk for the proposed project, Mr. Forni said that it would be about 15 ft., comparable to the sidewalk at the Porter Exchange Building.

Vice Mayor Murphy then invited public comment.

Stephen Diamond, 61 Frost Street, stated that he is one of the directors of the Agassiz Neighborhood Association. Many in the neighborhood are happy to have a new art school. He himself is very positive. The association sent out a survey to several hundred residents in the area. So far they have received 127 responses. He submitted a report on the results to date (Attachment A). The results show a lot of mixed feelings, but some themes have emerged. Their association has been working with Lesley for two years in a very good relationship. The results showed the most concern about parking, traffic, congestion and mitigation of construction problems. Just behind that was concern about the loss of open space. The zoning petition is still under discussion.

Gordon Moore, 9 Rutland Street, stated that he has participated in the community meetings. He said that there are eleven properties owned by Harvard and Lesley between Massachusetts Avenue just past the Common and Porter Square. Although the survey did not show a strong interest in having an art school at Porter Square, there was an openness to the idea. They still have a lot of work to do to get to the items of concern.

Susan Breen, 7 Arlington Street #22, stated that she lives right across from the project. This project is potentially exciting for the area but she does have concerns regarding construction mitigation in the short term. She also stated that she believes this project is something that should be done by special permit, not as-of-right within the existing zoning. She added that she wants more information on the overlay district criteria and provisions.

Attorney Rafferty stated that under the proposed amendments every building Lesley is contemplating require a special permit.

Adrienne Bisko, 5 Arlington Street, expressed concern about parking. Lesley University does not plan to add any parking spaces. She is not sure that this is realistic.

Peter Kinder, 7 Arlington Street, stated that he has lived there for 7 ½ years, and in Cambridge for 32 years. He said that he was speaking on his own behalf and also as a representative of the Oxford Court Trustees. Oxford Court consists of 105 units of residential housing, and they have not been involved in these neighborhood/university discussions.

Councillor Davis suggested that the chair reassure those present that there will not be quick action on this petition. Councillor Maher said that this petition will remain in committee. Councillor Davis described the additional steps that will take place. There will be a Planning Board hearing and more meetings of the Ordinance Committee.

Councillor Reeves asked whether the city staff is looking at the entire area, especially with regard to traffic. Mr. Dash said that the city staff has looked closely at the traffic in this area. Harvard also did a significant traffic analysis, and Lesley has hired a traffic consultant. In general they have a good idea of the traffic issues. Because every individual proposal will have to be by special permit, there will be additional scrutiny of traffic issues during the special permit process.

Councillor Reeves asked whether they are seeing the beginning of "canyonization" of Porter Square. Mr. Dash said the proposed rezoning reduces the height allowed by the current zoning. Councillor Reeves said that he hopes if there is to be an art school, there will be some significant public art.

Councillor Davis made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is required to confer with the Assistant City Manager to require planning staff to look at other impacts of the proposed overlay district and at what the outside parameters of future build out could be.

The motions passed on a voice vote without objection.

Councillor Kelley said that this is an exciting proposal, albeit shoe-horned into a tight space. This appears to him to be a significant up zoning. He would like to see a comparison of what could be built under current zoning and what could be built under the proposed amendment. He asked about a provision that the ground floor retail will not count in the FAR. Mr. Rafferty said that this could be a compromise with an institutional owner that has no intrinsic interest as a landlord in ground floor retail.

Councillor Kelley asked what happens if the retail does not work or if Lesley decides it needs the ground floor for retail. What kind of iron clad guarantee is there for ground floor retail? Attorney Rafferty said that there is the North Massachusetts Avenue Overlay zoning district. Lesley has recognized the desire and importance of ground floor retail and the new art school will provide customers to sustain it. Mr. Doncaster said that Lesley values the stretch of Massachusetts Avenue between Porter and Harvard Square. They see it as something that attracts students.

Councillor Kelley said that the Planning Board is not a very high barrier. If the developers meet the criteria, the permit will be given. Attorney Rafferty said that is the legal definition of what a special permit is.

Councillor Seidel asked how Lesley dealt with the physical separation of the proposed expansion plan. Mr. Doncaster said that essentially they looked at it as three different campuses.

Councillor Seidel asked if they had design plans for the other campuses. Mary Lou Batt, Vice President for Administration, Lesley University, said they have planned uses, but no specific designs. Councillor Seidel asked what is the total square footage of building that is envisioned. Ms. Batt said that she would get the number. Councillor Seidel asked whether the proposed art building requires a transfer of development rights. Ms. Batt said yes, from the west side. The total F.A.R. would be 390,000-400,000 square feet with 100,000 square feet underground. Sixty five percent of the students would live on campus.

Councillor Kelley stated that we need a much more detailed discussion of parking. He said he would like a better rationale for including a corner of a lot that has an existing building on it into the area for which the zoning amendment is proposed. Ms. Batt said that neighbors asked then to put all the property that Lesley owned into the map.

Councillor Reeves asked if they intend to keep the Porter Exchange retail uses. Mr. Doncaster replied in the affirmative.

Councillor Reeves moved that the matter remain in committee with the understanding that there will be further outreach and dialogue with the community. The motion passed on a voice vote without objection.

Vice Mayor Murphy and Councillor Maher thanked all those present for their attendance. On a motion from Councillor Reeves, the meeting adjourned at six o’clock and eight minutes PM.

For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor David Maher, Co-Chair

Committee Report #3
The Public Safety Committee held a public meeting on Wed, Jan 21, 2009 at six o’clock and ten minutes p.m. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss crime trends and a Hazardous Mitigation plan for Cambridge.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor David Maher; Police Commissioner Robert Haas; Deputy Fire Chief Gerard Mahoney; Public Works Commissioner Lisa Peterson; City Engineer Owen O’Riordan; Project Manager Martin Pillsbury, Metropolitan Area Planning Council; Jason Alves; and Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present was Emily Hogan, Harvard Crimson.

Councillor Toomey convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He proceeded to the discussion on crime trends.

With the downturn in the economy Councillor Toomey stated that crime has increased in other communities. He asked if there has been a noticeable shift in crime in Cambridge.

Police Commissioner Haas stated that unarmed robberies have increased by 17% over 2007 numbers. Burglaries and larceny have increased. North Cambridge had three armed robberies; women who were accosted late at night. In November there were three also, mostly iPods. Drug activity is down.

Councillor Maher spoke of a house break in November in West Cambridge. Commissioner Haas reported that the person was apprehended.

Councillor Kelley stated that the numbers are so small trends cannot be determined.

Commissioner Haas explained staffing issues. The deployment was changed. The bike patrols will start in spring. Last year 40 bike patrol officers were deployed in two teams of two in the day shift in northern and southern sections of the city. Bike patrol assignments were very specific last year he stated.

Councillor Kelley stated that he receives complaints of loud noise and fowl language. He notices that these same offenders usually appear in the Chronicle in drug related incidences. How can this be addressed proactively, he asked? Commissioner Haas responded that if a trend or pattern develops the police attempt to resolve the issue. A nuisance complaint can be sent to the police via e-mail. The police will investigate. If appropriate, landlords will be notified. What is the best way to contact the police with lower level complaints asked Councillor Kelley? Commissioner Haas stated that neighborhood sergeants answer all e-mails. There are three ways to remain anonymous. They are:
Drug hot line;
Confidential e-mail and
Text messaging.

The neighbors are the eyes and ears of the neighborhood and the police need their cooperation.

Councillor Maher informed Commissioner Haas of his concern about the increased number of panhandlers at intersections. With the current snow the roads are narrower and the panhandlers endanger themselves and motorists. He urged the Police Commissioner to review this situation. Commissioner Haas stated that the police have the right to move a person out of the street. It is more difficult to move someone from a public sidewalk. The police have concurrent jurisdiction with the state police. Councillor Kelley asked if the state police have jurisdiction at Route 16 and Mass. Avenue. Commissioner Haas responded in the affirmative. However, if the complaint is overt Cambridge police can handle the situation; but the area is state police jurisdiction. There is a specific line of delineation between local police and state police. Incidences occurring at Route 16 would be referred to the state police for follow-up. At what point does Cambridge say that the state police are not fulfilling their responsibility. If this situation occurs he will have a conversation with the officials at the state police. It is difficult to regulate panhandling. Panhandlers are usually passive and do not accost the public.

At the conclusion of this portion of the meeting Commissioner Haas stated that he would report back on the issue of panhandling.

At six o’clock and twenty-seven minutes p.m. this portion of the meeting adjourned.

The committee proceeded to the discussion on the Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Councillor Toomey requested Public Works Commissioner Lisa Peterson to give a general overview on the Hazard Mitigation Plan.

Commissioner Peterson stated that the plan is related to natural hazards. She gave background information on the plan. The Federal Disaster Mitigation Act was passed in 2000. The regulation required that communities adopt a local multi-hazard mitigation plan in order to be eligible to receive funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). A grant from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) a natural hazard mitigation plan was developed for Boston, Brookline Cambridge, Chelsea, Everett, Malden, Medford, Melrose and Somerville. The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) has worked on the project which began in 2004. MAPC has worked with communities to identify hazard areas. The purpose of the plan is to prevent loss of life and identify actions that can be taken to minimize the impact of natural hazards including flooding, earthquakes, hurricanes and winter storms. The Cambridge plan was development with input from the Water, Public Works, Community Development, Human Services, Health, Historical and Emergency Management Departments. Several planning meetings and a public meeting were held on the plan. The plan can be view on the Public Works website. The goal is to prevent or reduce loss of life, injuries and property from natural hazards by the use of long-term strategies. Statewide sources were used in the risk phase to identify data. The Cambridge plan was reviewed, revised and resubmitted to FEMA. This must be done every five years to receive funding. City Council approval of the plan makes Cambridge eligible for funding. Two projects were put on waiting list by FEMA; they are to provide help to private property owners to install back flow preventers and to install a SCADA system at the Fresh Pond pump station.

Councillor Maher asked the cost. Commissioner Peterson stated that the request for the two projects is less than $100,000; of which $50,000 would be for the back flow preventers. Councillor Maher commented that there are a lot of problems without money to fix them. Mr. O’Riordan commented that there is an engineering aspect needed to fix the problems and this is costly. Councillor Maher asked would the problems at Huron Avenue and Vassal Lane been prevented by back flow water preventers. Mr. O’Riordan responded in the affirmative. Councillor Toomey asked if the general public knows about this. Mr. O’Riordan stated that there is a regulation in place but the fix can be difficult. There were 30 locations where flooding is an issue and a significant risk in Cambridge. Cambridge has addressed and mitigated flooding issues since 1990. The 10-12 plans were developed. Cambridge’s infrastructure is not as bad as other communities. Dammed rivers abut Cambridge. Cambridge is flat. A large project with 5 million gallons of tankage was building under Cambridge streets.

Councillor Kelley asked what this interprets in rain water. Mr. O’Riordon stated that the goal is to protect property for a minimum of a ten year storm and to protect against flooding. The cost of 330,000 gallons of tankage is $5 million. Utilities need to be removed to install tanks and construction can take 1 – 1 1/2 years to complete. Councillor Maher commented that large projects require mitigation plan. Mr. O’Riordan stated that projects in the flood plain require two separate storage systems; progress and improvements have been made in Cambridge.

Councillor Toomey cited that in 1998 heavy rains occurred and the dams opened. He had flooding in this house. Mr. O’Riordan stated that high tides affected this situation. It is feasible to install a third pump at the Mystic Dam.

Councillor Kelley spoke of flooding at Alewife in 1996. Deputy Chief Mahoney stated that years ago in heavy rains the Inman Square Fire house would flood. Mr. O’Riordan stated that Cambridge is responsible for the Stoney Brook and Hobbs Dams. The Water Department monitors the dams monthly. A structural engineer examines the dams every two years.

Councillor Toomey asked why the rain water does not seep into the ground. Mr. O’Riordan responded that the water table is 8-10 feet below grade. The ground water table is not interfered. Storm water is treated and removed.

Mr. Martin Pillsbury, Project Manager, MAPC, informed the committee that Cambridge provided in-depth input and as a consequence there is more detail in the plan. The plan has been reviewed and approved by FEMA and MEMA. Cambridge is eligible for funding.

Councillor Kelley submitted a list of question for the record (ATTACHMENT A). He discussed damage from a category 4 hurricane. Mr. O’Riordan stated that this is a medium risk. Councillor Kelley asked how the public can understand the problems and damages from a category 2, 3, or 4 hurricane. He praised the plan. Where the city goes from here, he asked. Mr. Martin stated that variables are done on a computer. Category 2 or 3 is possible; category 4 is unlikely to occur. To anticipate what kind of damages could occur and what the city could do to be prepared is the reason the plan must be reviewed every five years. He further suggested that the initial committee should be the same group to review the plan. Councillor Kelley asked if a category 2 or 3 hurricane occurred could the plan be taken from the table with recommendations. Mr. Martin responded that the Mitigation Plan is not an emergency response plan. The Mitigation Plan helps to prevent damage from natural disasters. The Federal Disaster Mitigation Act is a new act. It supplements the emergency response plan to be less vulnerable to damages.

Councillor Kelley stated that the Housing Authority and the School Department were not included in the development committee. Commissioner Peterson informed the committee that the departments did in fact participate, in letter form, but did not attend the meetings. An "all hazards" approach is used by the city. The School Department and the CHA were involved in the evacuation and community plan. Deputy Chief Mahoney stated that Cambridge has a CEMP plan. The Hazardous Material Rescue Plan comes from the Fire Department and deals with the city’s response. Emergency Plans become situation specific. Schools have been surveyed by the Red Cross for shelters. Plan includes who needs to be contacted. The CEMP plan comes from the Emergency management Department. Commissioner Peterson stated that the Roundtable scheduled for Jan 26, 2009 will answer questions on the planning process for the city.

Councillor Kelley asked if there was any injury getting around in a winter (snow) hazard. Commissioner Peterson stated that the city has made substitutive improvements on winter storms.

Councillor Toomey applauded the outstanding job done by Public Works in shoveling the handicapped ramps, bus stops and schools with this last storm. Councillor Kelley commented that Cambridge is as good as it can be with snow clearance. He asked about the cost of the snow removal. Commissioner Peterson responded that this year’s 43" of snow cost over $1 million. A supplemental appropriation will be required in February 2009. Ice storms are horrible to remove. A discussion ensued about plowing around corners. Commissioner Peterson stated that people who live on corners find it difficult to remove the snow. The city’s goal is compliance, not revenue. Councillor Kelley asked if the city removed street furniture. Commissioner Peterson responded that street furniture is removed, when the city is able to remove it. Snow dumping is not allowed in the Harbor.

At the conclusion of the meeting Councillor Toomey submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council goes on record adopting the Metro Boston Hazard Mitigation Plan, Annex for the City of Cambridge dated March 2008.

The motion – Carried on a voice vote.

Councillor Toomey thanked all those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at seven o’clock and twenty-three minutes p.m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Chair

Committee Report #4
The Health and Environment Committee held a public meeting on Tues, Jan 13, 2009 at five o’clock and five minutes p.m. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss opportunities to grow fresh fruits and vegetables in Cambridge.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Commissioner of Public Works; Jennifer Wright, Director, Conservation Commission; Stephanie Ackert, Division Head, Planning and Development, Department of Human Services Programs (DHSP); George Hinds, Senior Manager, Youth Programs, DHSP; Emma Watkins, Director, Citywide Senior Center; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); Luisa Oliveira, Lead Safe, CDD; Rosalie Anders, Project Administrator, Environmental and Transportation Planning (CDD); Dawn Olcott, Cambridge Public Health Department; Jose Wendell, Cambridge Public Health Department; Michael Gormley, Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA); Penny Peters; and Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were Suzanne Shepard, 955 Mass. Avenue #205; Daniel Tom, 320 Columbia Street, Apt. 2; Ellie Kobek, 69R Gore Street; Phoebe Sinclair, Community Liaison, 20 Sacramento Street; Hong Liu, 1673 Cambridge Street; Robin Bledsoe, 2130 Massachusetts Avenue #6C; Marsha Gorden, 2 Chauncy Street # 2; Kari Keulzer, 19 Copley Street; Daniel MacPhee, 1 Russell Street #304; Tim Kiely, 107 Gore Street #10; Madeline McDowell, 237 Franklin Street #18F; Frank Connelly, 198 Fayerweather Street; Amy Tourras-Hardt, 38 Middlesex Street; Monica VanBuskirk, 179 Harvard Street; Joanna Herlihy, 410 Norfolk Street; Helen Snively, 1 Fayette Park; Peggy Kutcher, 4 Washington Avenue; Steve Morr-Wineman, 26 McTernan Street #4; Rebecca Nesson, 38 Plymouth Street; Hatch Sterrett, 12 Boardman Street; Maddy McDowell, 237 Franklin Street; Peter Daly, HRI, 280 Franklin Street, Cambridge; David Leslie, Executive Director, Food for Free, 11 Inman Street; and Jane Hirschi, City Sprouts.

Councillor Davis opened the meeting and explained the purpose. At the last meeting held on July 29, 2008 a lot of interest was expressed regarding opportunities to grow fruits and vegetables so the issue will be revisited. The City Manager was asked to explore opportunities to grow fruits and vegetables, specifically through community gardens. There is a wait list of eighty for community garden plots.

Deputy City Manager Rossi spoke about the progress made thus far. The city has communicated with DCR about gardening on their land; but there has not been much progress as of yet. The land adjacent to 1010 Memorial Drive could be a proposed community garden. He turned the meeting over to Jennifer Wright, Director, Conservation Commission.

Ms. Wright stated that there are five key points.
1. New land opportunity: 30 plots in Lopez Park. The plots and a coordinator have been assigned.
2. Fresh Pond Park is underutilized. A consultant has been hired to review drainage and to amend the soil. Fifteen plots will be laid out.
3. Public Works and CDD look at land in the city for gardening space. The plaza at Hampshire and Elm could possible yield 10-15 plots.
4. A map was submitted showing the location of the residents who are on the wait list for plots.
5. A draft of the five year open space plan includes community gardens as a priority.

Councillor Davis stated that the City Council could help with the DCR. A plot in the Longfellow School area includes 1-2 plots. Mr. Rossi stated that he would discuss this with the neighborhood. Councillor Reeves informed the committee that Mr. Winters waters this plot. Councillor Davis stated that she would welcome additional plot sites. Mr. Rossi would ask the Chamber of Commerce if a business entity would donate space for a community garden. The city would then make the land ready for gardening.

Councillor Davis asked Mr. Gormley if the Housing Authority offered gardening plots. Mr. Gormley responded that Corcoran Park has a community garden.

Councillor Davis suggested container gardening. Commissioner Peterson explained that Public Works will have an education session in March on container gardening. Soil, seedlings and 2-3 gallon containers will be given out to educate people on container gardening. Soil and composting will be discussed. The goal is to get people to plant more. Councillor Davis suggested recycled pots could be used for this program.

Councillor Davis spoke about the interest in establishing a Food Policy Committee to look at food issues. Ms. Olcott stated that she is looking at what is feasible for Cambridge for a Food Policy Council. She will do a presentation at the next meeting and inform the committee when recommendations would be forthcoming. Boston also is considering a Food Policy Council.

Councillor Davis stated that the next meeting of the committee would discuss a Food Policy Council and the distribution of fruits and vegetables, including discussing how fruits and vegetables could be distributed to food pantries. She spoke about the Chicago’s 49th Ward Green Corps which encourages planting a row of food for the hungry. She suggested that a percentage of growth could be turned over to Food for Free.

Councillor Reeves spoke about the Mayor of Chicago taking an interest in planting. There are tropical flower gardens with fruit in Chicago. The business community is interested. Access to water is important. Some of the homeless are hired to water the gardens in Chicago.

Councillor Davis mentioned the City Sprouts Initiative. Ten schools have gardens. Commissioner Peterson spoke of twelve youth who participated in the Green Sense Program last summer and learned about energy efficiency. She would like to expand this program.

At five o’clock and thirty-six minutes p. m. Councillor Davis opened the meeting to public comment.

Frank Connelly suggested that City Hall lawn be developed to grow fruits and vegetables. He also suggested a year round farmers market. Councillor Davis stated that a group of volunteers could work on this to see if the farmers are willing. The city could assist. She suggested vegetables could be planted on the City Hall lawn.

Ms. Liu commented that a lot of health issues could be solved with healthy foods. She spoke about edible fruit trees. Are the city fruit trees safe, she asked? Mr. Rossi responded that he did not know how safe the Fresh Pond apple trees are. He spoke about spraying the trees. A city gardening space could be dedicated for fruit bearing trees. Councillor Davis added that the City Council asked that more fruit trees be planted. Commissioner Peterson did not recommend street fruit trees. Fruit left lying on the ground attracts rodents. They could be planted in community gardens or passive areas. Councillor Davis stated that she would follow up on this at the next meeting of this committee. Mr. Rossi stated that the soil in the community gardens is tested. Sites such as 238 Broadway, Neville and Squirrel property had the soil removed and replaced. Ms. VanBuskirk suggested there be a registry to allow people to come and pick the fruit from privately owned trees.

Helen Snively spoke about a new idea whereby private land is gardened by other people other than the owners. She offered to be the contact person.

Amy Tourras-Hardt is a community garden coordinator. She spoke about management issues with the gardens, specifically water accessibility and organic gardening information. There are no rules or sites set aside for organic gardening. Mr. Rossi stated that it is a good idea to have organic gardens. He would look into the watering issue. Ms. Tourras-Hardt stated that management is an intensive process. Fallow plots are not identified. These need to be surveyed. She spoke of plot turnover. It was suggested that the rules and regulations, including turnover, of the community gardens be posted on line.

Six plots cannot be used at the Squirrel site because of flooding. Hatch Sterrett stated that the in 2004 Squirrel Brand Park was done over by the city. It contains 34 plots. The soil and pavers were replaced but flooding continues to date. The path needs to be raised; could be a drainage problem. Overwatering is a problem at the Squirrel Brand garden.

Joanna Herlihy suggested using CPA money on community gardens. Mr. Rossi commented that agricultural land could be purchased as the opportunity arises. The issue is not money but opportunity stated Councillor Davis, and asked people to keep their eyes open for such opportunities.

Kari Kuelzer suggested an agriculture fair similar to the one held in Martha’s Vineyard. Councillor Davis stated that this could possibly be held in conjunction with Danehy Park Day.

Ellie Kobek spoke of the city’s self sufficiency to feed its people. She suggested working with the universities to develop a vertical planting garden.

Hong Liu stated that it is a value issue – lawn versus fruit and vegetables. Cooking, preparation and education are also important commented Councilor Davis.

Michael Gormley spoke about the rodent control program in Cambridge. Commissioner Peterson stated that the city’s issue is that people have to harvest their fruits and not let it stay on the ground as food for the rodents. Community gardens are not a problem if managed properly and education is done. There are rodents at Fresh Pond because of the fruit frees stated Mr. Rossi.

Tim Kiely asked if the City Sprouts plots were underutilized in the summer. Ms. Jane Hirschi, Director, City Sprouts, stated that the program includes 6-8th graders, aged 11-14. It is an education program. School gardens are underutilized. The school gardens belong to the schools, not to City Sprouts. Mr. Kiely asked if there was a way that the gardens could be used over the summer.

Mr. Rossi mentioned the possibility of a city farm. The city owns land, formerly the caretaker’s house, at the reservoir in Lincoln. If the land was developed as a farm it could be used as an educational tool. He will look into this idea.

David Leslie, Food for Free, informed the committee that on a ¼ acre of land 6,000 pounds of organic produce was produced last year and donated to Food for Free.

Luisa Oliveira stated that people do not know where to begin to garden. The city needs to be stewards to convert people to gardening.

Maddy McDowell, a Manning Apartment resident, stated that residents who live in elderly housing and who cannot garden could be used as gardening teachers.

Rebecca Nesson requested that better information be available on line. Specifically where and how to apply for a garden plot. She also would like kid friendly organic plots. Mr. Rossi requested a volunteer to work with the city to develop this. Commissioner Peterson stated that there is a survey about the Department of Public Works and she welcomed comments from the public. Ms. Watkins added that the Senior Center would love to collaborate on education.

A request was made to Commissioner Peterson about whether her department could deliver compost at the beginning and end of the growing season. She replied that the Public Works Department is not set up to do this; however the Public Works Department has compost that the public can pick up. In response to a question by Councillor Davis, Commissioner Peterson stated that mulch is handled similarly to compost. Mr. Sterrett stated that compost bins are provided to the community gardens. He suggested building platforms under compost bins. The city would try to provide mulch on walkways.

Councillor Davis praised the Housing Authority’s flower gardens.

Commissioner Peterson stated that the Public Works has two landscape gardeners. One of her employees would be a resource for the container gardening. She will ask about mixing vegetables and flowers.

Councillor Davis suggested a meeting on community garden plots which are not used.

Mr. Sterrett supported networking. He informed the committee that residents banded together to take care of their homes and streets. Area Four residents planted bulbs in their neighborhood through the Home Streets Initiative.

Councillor Davis stated that the next meeting will be a follow-up on the following matters:
Establishing Food Policy Council;
Distributing fruits and vegetables;
Feed the hungry; and
Planting a row for the hungry.

An additional meeting in March will discuss:
Community garden management;
Fruit trees;
Info on web;
Year round farmers market;
Education;
Agricultural fair and
Possibility of a Cambridge farm.

Councillor Davis thanked those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at six o’clock and thirty-five minutes p.m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair

Committee Report #5
The Government Operations and Rules Committee held a public meeting on Jan 27, 2009 beginning at 9am in the Ackermann Room to finalize the draft City Council objectives and rules for recommendation to the City Council.

Present at the meeting were Councillor David Maher and Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Councillor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Sam Seidel; Councillor Craig Kelley; City Manager Robert W. Healy; Deputy City Manager Richard Rossi; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Sandra Albano, Assistant to the City Council; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Jack Regan, consultant, Metis Consulting, Bedford, was also present.

Vice Mayor Murphy convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He invited Mr. Regan to review the draft objectives and goals with those present. Mr. Regan reminded the committee that at the final facilitated goal-setting session, it was agreed that the goals would go back to the process design team of the Co-Chairs, the City Clerk, the Assistant to the City Council and the consultant to prepare a draft of the objectives and goals for the Government Operations Committee to review and to come to agreement about what would be recommended to the full City Council. The draft sets forth the objectives in the order of priority established at the goal-setting meetings, although they are not numbered and nor should they be. Thereupon the Committee commenced its review of the draft.

Under the objective to evaluate city expenditures with a view of maintain a strong fiscal position and awareness of the impact on taxpayers, there was a discussion of whether to include a requirement that the Council adopt a budget which would result in no more than a specified percentage of the tax levy. Vice Mayor Murphy explained that they had planned to include a cap which would be based on an amount that the City Manager believed was achievable without cutting services substantially, but the State still has not provided the City with the actual amount by which Cambridge’s state aid will be cut. Mr. Healy said that they do know that the amount will be significantly more than had been expected and could amount to $28 million. He said that he does not recommend setting a cap before they know what the state cuts would amount to. Mr. Kelley said he believes that the fact that there will be bigger cuts than originally expected is a reason to adopt a cap. Councillors Davis and Seidel also argued against a cap at this time, although they recognized the importance of understanding and educating the public to understand that the City will have to make tough decisions about what should or should not be funded in light of the cuts in state aid that are coming. With only one councillor present arguing for a cap, it was decided that no cap would be recommended.

Other changes were made to improve clarity and to make the goals document easier for the public to understand, for example, most of the times for completion of particular goals were changed from dates expressed as FY (fiscal year) deadlines to calendar dates, and a goal for a plan to increase the percentage of children who enter kindergarten "at grade level" was changed to increasing the percentage of children who enter kindergarten "with appropriate skills and ready to learn." A copy of the revised draft is attached to this report for consideration and adoption by the City Council (Attachment A).

Councillor Kelley said that the City Council really needs to think through a process to deal with the decisions that will need to be made about budget cuts. A lack of process that results in each City Councillor bringing 40 constituents to fight to maintain a particular service or expenditure serves no one well. Perhaps the Finance Committee should play a role.

Vice Mayor Murphy then invited public comment.

Gary Dougherty, 4 Trowbridge Place # 10, stated that he is speaking on behalf of the children of Cambridge who will lose the Children’s Library at the Main Public Library while the Main Library closes to get ready for its move to the new building, and will lose Sunday library hours. In addition, there is not much table space at the branch libraries. He does not believe that the Main Library will be completed in 2009. Based on the record of one of the main contractors, he expects that it will be nine or ten months before the new library is open. He requested that the City Council look into the possibility of the City renting one of the empty buildings in Harvard Square as a children’s library until the library opens.

Mr. Rossi stated that the library construction is on schedule and will be completed in 2009, He expects that the move will take place in about eight months from now.

Mr. Regan reminded the Committee that there had been discussion about follow-up on the progress of the goals, particularly the ones that were seen as high priority. In that discussion they discussed quarterly follow-up, perhaps at roundtables.

Councillor Maher and Vice Mayor Murphy thanked those present for their participation. Vice Mayor Murphy congratulated and thanked Mr. Regan for his work. He said that Mr. Regan had not only done an excellent job of facilitating and focusing the process; he also moved the City Council to a new level, both in terms of establishing measurable goals and in introducing the World Café.

Councillor Seidel agreed and stated that the City Council needs to publicize the fact that they have actually done what several participants in the World Café wanted them to do, that is they decreased the number of objectives and focused on measurable goals.

Vice Mayor Murphy submitted an email communication from Carolyn Shipley for the record (Attachment B).

The meeting was adjourned at 10:42am.

For the Committee,
Councillor David Maher, Co-Chair
Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair

CITY COUNCIL OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
JULY 1, 2009 – JUNE 30, 2011

Mission Statement
The City of Cambridge is dedicated to improving the quality of life for everyone in our community in an environment of excellence while maintaining a strong financial position including awareness of the impact on taxpayers

The Objectives and Goals of Our City Council

Foster Community and support Neighborhood Vitality. Support opportunities for citizens to participate in setting city priorities and to know each other within their neighborhoods and across the city.

* An Annual World Café to engage citizens from different backgrounds and neighborhoods to discuss the state of the city and its priorities.

* Forty annual neighborhood events that foster community and support neighbors getting to know each other (e.g., block parties).

* A pilot Get to Know Your Neighbor Campaign in 4 neighborhoods by 6/30/10.

* A report by a citizen/business/staff task force on Improving Sidewalk Activity by 6/30/10.

Evaluate City expenditures with a view of maintaining a strong fiscal position and awareness of the Impact on Taxpayers.

* As part of the FY10 and FY 11 budget process, an exploration of the potential consolidation of departments (including the School Department) providing similar services with the intention of better delivery of those services at a reduced cost.

* An adopted FY10 and FY 11 budget that ensures delivery of quality services to residents while maintaining a reasonable tax rate.

Strengthen and support Public Education and other learning in Cambridge for the benefit of residents of all ages.

* By June 30, 2010, a plan to increase the percentage of children entering kindergarten with the appropriate skills and "ready to learn".

* A long-term capital assessment of elementary schools, undertaken in collaboration with the School Committee, in FY10 (in order to prepare school buildings to meet educational needs of 21st century)

* A long term home for Community Learning Center by FY12.

Value and support the racial, socioeconomic, cultural and religious Diversity of our city.

* A complete plan for Aging in the Community by end of June 30, 2010 (including services and physical aspects, housing options, retail, transportation, green space, for all incomes).

* Annual report to the City Council on affirmative action adherence leading to a Plan (with measurable goals) to increase racial and cultural diversity in city employment. First report by the end of June 30, 2010.

* An increased level of recruitment and opportunities for membership on boards and commissions.

Promote a Healthy Environment by adopting environmentally sound and energy efficient practices throughout the community.

* Green Jobs recommendations developed by Jan 1, 2010.

* 500 newly planted city trees per year by June 30, 2010.

* A comprehensive green zoning regulation plan for sustainable development by June 30, 2011, which includes noise issues.

* Sufficient sidewalk width to accommodate street trees when possible in all street and sidewalk reconstruction.

Preserve and create Affordable Housing for low, moderate and middle-income residents, including families.

* New affordable housing pilot programs which focus on moderate income residents affected by development, including municipal employees.

* Reports from Cambridge universities on their current housing for staff and their plans for increasing housing for their staff as part of the Planning Board Town/Gown discussions, beginning with the 2010 Town/Gown Reports.

* A demographic analysis of future needs and an assessment of preferred housing types for senior housing by June 30, 2010.

Promote doing business in Cambridge and work to strengthen our mutually beneficial partnerships with businesses and universities.

* A report to the City Council’s Economic Development Committee on successful nightlife campaigns in 3 communities across the US by 6/30/10.

* A set of zoning initiatives and negotiation to sustain and expand ground floor retail.

* All neighborhood studies undertaken by CDD to include a discussion of appropriate retail mix and recommendations for achieving that mix.

ABOUT THE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS
This pamphlet outlines the objectives and goals of the City Council for July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2011.

The goals are the product of an in-depth bi-annual process that the City Council has followed since 1996. The Government Operations and Rules Committee is charged with overseeing the goal setting process for the Council.

Since 2000, the process has included a statistically valid telephone survey of the opinion of Cambridge residents with regard to city services and city government. The process also includes an opportunity for Cambridge citizens to gather together to voice their concerns and opinions about what the City Council should focus on in setting its goals. This year, the Government Operations and Rules Committee hosted a "World Café" – an interactive conversational format that allowed diverse and creative points of view about Cambridge’s needs to emerge -- as the public comment opportunity. A cross section of Cambridge residents spent the evening in a series of facilitated dialogues on the topic of "What is it important to focus on to improve life in Cambridge?" The enthusiastic reaction of the participants has persuaded the City Council that the "World Café" should be repeated as a regular city event to foster community.

The City Council used the information from the survey and the World Café in a two-session facilitated discussion hosted by the Government Operations Committee. This year the City Council focused on ensuring that for each of the Council’s broad, highly visionary and multi-year objectives, the Council delineated S.M.A.R.T. shorter term goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Results-Oriented and Time-Bound). Particularly in this time of economic uncertainty and a continuing decline in state and federal financial support, the City Council must ensure that Cambridge’s resources go to support goals that are results-oriented with outcomes that can be seen and measured. The Council goals were adopted by the City Council on XXXXX. These objectives and goals will guide the annual budget planning process.

Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor David P. Maher, Co-Chair
Government Operations and Rules Committee

AWAITING REPORT LIST
08-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what process is being followed to develop programs for the new West Cambridge Community Center.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/17/08 (O-15)

08-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on changes to the intersection of River Street and Mass Avenue to allow more pedestrian crossing time before vehicles are allowed to turn.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-15)

08-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how local construction lighting could be limited to the minimum necessary for safety.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 06/02/08 (O-2)

08-101. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on working with Boston to create a policy to keep truck traffic to a minimum within the City.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-25)

08-105. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of using the parcel on Binney and Fulkerson Streets for a dedicated dog park.
Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Murphy & Mayor Simmons 07/28/08 (O-40)

08-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ensuring that the responsibility of the developers for a safe crossing will be upheld by the MBTA and that plans will coincide with the vision of future development.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/08/08 (O-5)

08-108. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the position the City can take on altering the NorthPoint special permit now that the land swap is no longer necessary.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/08/08 (O-7)

08-109. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the progress of addressing rodent complaints and whether the number of complaints has increased or decreased.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/08/08 (O-8)

08-121. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #12
RE: report on whether the new Berkeley, California program to give city-backed loans to property owners who install rooftop solar-power systems is applicable to Cambridge.
Councillor Seidel, Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/22/08 (O-16)

08-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether there has been an increase of arrests of homeless persons or people in need of services in Central Square.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-14)

08-139. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the fiscal lessons from the budgets in the wake of the last recessions and implications for the next few budgets in Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 11/03/08 (O-11)

08-140. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the ownership of Fifth Street between Bent & Binney Streets and the ownership of Rogers Street from Fulkerson to Third Streets and ensure maintenance of these roadways.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 11/17/08 (O-1)

08-141. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of awarding points to affordable housing applicants based on the number of times they've applied.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 11/17/08 (O-5)

08-148. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on appointing a public housing or Section 8 tenant to fill the existing vacancy on the Cambridge Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 12/08/08 (O-2)

08-149. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #15
RE: report on a review of Article XXIV Special District Parking Regulation and on proposed remedies to residents' concerns who live in Harvard University dormitories and housing developments constructed after Oct 27, 2003.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 12/08/08 (O-8)

08-150. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how many businesses similar to Biogen have relocated some or all of their personnel from Cambridge-based offices, whether there is an indication that others will be leaving, and what the strategies are to keep businesses in Cambridge.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 12/08/08 (O-9)

08-151. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on status of pedestrian access in and around Russell Field.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 12/08/08 (O-10)

08-152. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of establishing a Walden Street Cattle Pass observation point.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 12/15/08 (O-1)

08-153. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on security cameras installed in Cambridge by the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 12/15/08 (O-4)

08-154. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the fire hydrants closest to 72-74 Lexington Avenue were functioning properly during the recent fire.
Councillor Decker 12/15/08 (O-12)

08-155. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #11
RE: report on the feasibility of launching a campaign similar to New York's Safe Streets for Seniors.
Mayor Simmons 12/22/08 (O-1)

08-156. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on remedy to placing a bus shelter at 2518 Mass Ave. for the #77 bus.
Mayor Simmons 12/22/08 (O-2)

08-157. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #14
RE: report on opposition to Channel 25's actions to switching from analog early.
Councillor Decker 12/22/08 (O-5)

08-158. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible funding to deal with hoarding and to preserve housing.
Councillor Davis 12/22/08 (O-8)

09-01. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #13
RE: report on goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the City by 20% below 1990 levels by 2010.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 01/05/09 (O-1)

09-02. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on why trains must idle for extended periods of time in the area of Cambridge Street.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 01/12/09 (O-2)

09-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the fatal pedestrian accident in the Mt. Auburn Shaw's supermarket this past fall.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 01/12/09 (O-5)

09-04. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the fatal pedestrian accident on Oxford Street on Jan 6, 2009.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 01/12/09 (O-6)

09-05. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans for conducting an energy audit of City Hall.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 01/12/09 (O-7)

09-06. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on hours that computers are available to the public in city facilities.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 01/12/09 (O-10)

09-07. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans to eliminate Sunday library hours.
Councillor Toomey 01/12/09 (O-17)