Cambridge City Council meeting - February 4, 2019

RECONSIDERATION LIST
1. Legal Opinion on Portland's Relocation Assistance Ordinance (Reconsideration filed by Mayor McGovern)
Reconsideration Prevailed 9-0; Order Adopted 9-0 as Amended

CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as Public Weighers for calendar year 2019 to operate scales at CJ Mabardy Co./MICH-LIN, 50 Mooney Street: Charles J. Mabardy, Joseph Mabardy, Jr., Danial Pasquarosa, James Mabardy, Nicholas Santolucito, Adam Boivin, Bryan Burdge, Jo Ann Del Vecchio and Kevin McCormack.
Placed on File

2. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as Public Weighers for calendar year 2019 to operate scales at Boston Sand & Gravel Co, 500 Front Street: Alan Bishop, Wei Li, Kyle Patterson, Henry Doan, Walter Staples, Sam Magna, John Ehrenkranz, Mike Denahy, Mike Gilroy, Scott Prentiss, Joe Olsen, Greg Silva and David Kelley.
Placed on File

CHARTER RIGHT
1. An application was received from Citizens Bank, requesting permission for an illuminated projecting sign and 7 awnings at the premises numbered 822 Somerville Avenue, approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and no abutter response.
Placed on Unfinished Business - Devereux

2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City departments to conduct a formal and professional financial assessment of the additional value created for the owner/petitioner by up-zonings for developments of more than 50,000 square feet.
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
3. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to proposed amendments to the following ordinance: and proposed amendments to Chapter 14.04 of the Cambridge Municipal Code (the "Fair Housing Ordinance). Fair Housing (passed to a 2nd Reading) [AWAITING HOME RULE LEGISLATION-BEFORE PROPOSAL CAN BE ORDAINED]

4. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 18-108, regarding a report on offering early voting in City Council and School Committee Elections. [PENDING RESPONSE FROM LEGISLATURE]

5. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Dennis J. Carlone and Councillor Craig A. Kelley, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on Jan 9, 2019 to discuss a proposed amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.66 entitled “Tree Protection” to amend section 8.66.40 entitled “Applicability” and by adding a new section 8.66.055 entitled “Procedure for other projects.”

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Nicholas Faillace, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 32 Vineyard Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No neighborhood association in area 13.
Charter Right - Devereux

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Peter Valentine, 37 Brookline Street, regarding technology that ruins human life vs. the technology of the creator of all existence that is inside of you.

2. A communication was received from Robert J. La Tremouille, regarding alleged pending tree protections.

3. A communication was received from Robert J. La Tremouille, regarding I90 rebuild project - Secretary's designation of "preferred" alignment.

4. A communication was received from George Schneeloch, 81, School Street, Somerville, in support of Policy Order #6 requiring hands free use of phones and City Manager’s Agenda #4 on the 20 MPH speed limit.

5. A communication was received from Stephen Kaiser,191 Hamilton Street, regarding the fiscal implications of upzoning and Eversource seeking to expand their Electric Power Station on Fulkerson Street.

6. A communication was received from Alan Greene, 82 Fifth Street, in mild support of Policy Order #3 together with suggested amendments on the Eversource Substation at 135 Fulkerson Street.

7. A communication was received from Grace Johnson, 6 Antrim Street, on Committee Report #1 regarding a commission dedicated to providing a forum for exploring and addressing concerns of young adults in Cambridge.

8. A communication was received from Red T. Mitchell, 237 Franklin Street, regarding Black History Month.

9. A communication was received from Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler, 19 Trowbridge Street, in support of the Policy Order relating to bed bug infestation.

10. A communication was received from Charles Franklin, 162 Hampshire Street, in support of laws that increase traffic safety and the use of hands-free phone use.

11. A communication was received from Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street, transmitting Chapter 40A section 3 regarding exemptions to the zoning regulations and the two deeds for 135 Fulkerson Street.

12. A communication was received from Abra Berkowitz, 632 Massachusetts Avenue, in support of Policy Order #3 and transmitting a petition in opposition to the Eversource Substation.

13. A communication was received from Matthew Connolly, 13 Cornelius Way, in opposition to the Eversource Substation.

14. A communication was received from Carol O’Hare, 172 Magazine Street, urging the City to include in the River Street/Barron Plaza project sidewalk maintenance and report and the replace of dead trees.

15. A communication was received from Carol O’Hare, 172 Magazine Street, regarding the application for a sign by Citizens Bank.

16. A communication was received from Lawrence Bluestone, 18 Centre Street, expressing concern with the language in the up-zoning Policy Order.

17. A communication was received from Laura Holsen, 218 Thorndike Street, in opposition to locating a power substation at 135 Fulkerson Street.

18. A communication was received from Ruthann Rudel in support of lowering the speed limit on certain streets in the City to 20 MPH.

19. A communication was received from Nicola A. Williams, President, Cambridge Carnival International, Inc. regarding Policy Orders #10 and #11.

20. A communication was received from Skylar Deckoff-Jones regarding Committee Report #1 regarding a commission dedicated to providing a forum for exploring and addressing concerns of young adults in Cambridge.

2. That the City Council go on record recognizing February 2019 as Black History Month in the City of Cambridge. Councillor Simmons

4. Congratulations to Valerie Beaudrault on the occasion of her retirement from Simmons College. Councillor Simmons

6. Congratulations to Jordan Rosenthal on her Dean's List Recognition for the Fall 2018 semester. Councillor Mallon

7. Retirement of Michael Hughes from the Cambridge Fire Department. Mayor McGovern

9. Thanks to the sponsors, participating restaurants and breweries on the organization and success of the East Cambridge Fire Fundraiser on February 2, 2019. Councillor Toomey

ORDERS
1. Dedication sign in honor of Tom and Ray Magliozzi. Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

2. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the appropriate City departments to make the necessary provisions to televise and record the Ordinance Committee hearing on the “Tree Protection” proposed amendment scheduled for 5:30pm on Thurs, Feb 14, 2019. Councillor Kelley
Order Adopted

3. That the City Manager confer with Eversource and the appropriate City departments to undertake a series of studies and analyses related to finance, health and safety, building design, and long-term electricity needs before the construction of a substation in East Cambridge. Councillor Mallon, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted as Amended

4. That the City Manager work with the Cambridge Arts Council and the Community Development Department, particularly the Economic Development Department, to conduct inventories of both local arts organizations and private foundations that may support them. Councillor Mallon, Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

5. That the Central Square Massachusetts Avenue sidewalk maintenance/repairs and replacement tree planting become part of the River Street/Barron Plaza project to bring Central Square back to the original circa 1990 intent. Councillor Carlone, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mallon
Order Adopted

6. City Council support of traffic safety bills SD.847/HD.1653, SD.1461 and SD.1383/HD.1534. Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

7. Proclaim Feb 12, 2019 as Darwin Day in Cambridge. Councillor Zondervan, Mayor McGovern, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Carlone
Order Adopted

8. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City departments to televise and record the Economic Development and University Relations Committee hearing on Feb 13, 2019, beginning at 12:00pm so that those residents who are interested in the topic but unable to attend the hearing will be able to view the discussion on their own time. Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted

9. That the City Manager is requested to investigate the possibility of setting up an assistance fund/program to help low-income and/or elderly/disabled residents manage bed bug infestations. Councillor Kelley, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan
Order Adopted

10. Declare the month of June as Caribbean-American Heritage Month in the City of Cambridge. Councillor Zondervan, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted

11. That the City Council go on record in enthusiastic support of Authentic Caribbean Foundation’s efforts to implement the engagement strategy of the United States-Caribbean Strategic Engagement Act (H.R. 4939), in Massachusetts. Councillor Zondervan, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted

12. City Council support of “An Act promoting housing opportunity and mobility through eviction sealing (SD 526 and HD 3815 HOMES).” Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey
Order Adopted

13. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation and the Police Commissioner for a report on the “Super Sunday” road race that was held on February 3, 2019 and if the proper procedures were followed in issuing permits and when/if the neighbors were notified. Councillor Toomey
Order Adopted

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Sumbul Siddiqui, Chair of the Economic Development and University Relations Committee, for a public hearing held on Dec 12, 2018 to discuss formation of a city commission dedicated to providing a forum for exploring and addressing the concerns of undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate and other post-high school students in Cambridge.
Report Accepted, Placed on File as Amended

2. A communication was received from Paula M. Crane, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Alanna Mallon and Councillor Sumbul Siddiqui, Co- Chairs of the Human Services and Veterans Committee, for a public hearing held on Oct 25, 2018 to discuss the Summer Food Program Update.
Report Accepted, Placed on File

3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Dennis J. Carlone and Councillor Craig A. Kelley, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on Jan 15, 2019 on a petition from John Gargano on behalf of his client Hercules Kalogeropoulos, Cambridge Mobile Sound and Security, to amend the Zoning Ordinance Map in the area of 234 Monsignor O’Brien Highway from existing C-1 to Business A.
Report Accepted, Placed on File

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM OTHER CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from City Clerk Donna P. Lopez, transmitting a memorandum from Councillor Kelley regarding Tree Removal Comments.
Referred to Ordinance Committee (Feb 14 hearing)

To: Cambridge City Council
From: Craig Kelley, City Councillor
Date: January 31, 2019
Subject: Tree Removal Comments

Dear City Council:
Prior to the Ordinance Committee meeting on trees scheduled for 14 February, I wanted to share my foundational thoughts on tree protection and amendments to our Tree Protection Ordinance (TPO), Section 8.66 of our Ordinances, with you. It is crucial that we protect and enhance our tree canopy, but the amendments as presented to the Council did not accomplish that goal. I have some ideas, listed below, that I think will do a much better job of protecting our tree canopy.

As presented to the Council at our 28 January meeting, and as I explained then, the tree protection ordinance amendments do not seem to in any way constitute a “moratorium.” Instead, they simply clarify a ‘buy out’ process for removing significant trees, which our TPO defines as trees of at least 8” diameter at breast height. Keep in mind that ‘tree’ is a term that does not necessarily include everything that one might think is a tree and a professional arborist’s opinion might be needed to determine if vegetation qualifies as a tree, and might be covered by the TPO, or perhaps is a shrub and is not covered.

This amendment considered on the 28th, would have had, I believe, the following impacts:

1. No impact on projects already under a variety of permitting processes, such as a large project review. 55 Wheeler Street, for example, would not have been impacted.

2. No impact on affordable housing projects.

3. Smaller infill developers would be able to quantify the cost of removing ‘significant’ trees in the context of the overall financial implications of what can be multi-million dollar development projects. For example, 9 Donnell Street (pictures attached), according to their Special Permit application, seemed to have had five (5) significant trees on the property before the project started. At the end of the development project, most or all of them appear to have been removed. The surest way to keep such trees standing until the UFTF finishes its work would be to not issue special permits that allow infill development projects to move forward if significant trees would be impacted. We should consider this option in our TPO amendments.

4. Property owners wanting to remove larger trees would most likely be informed by their arborist, if we informed arborists of this new law, that a permit was required, and they would make the decision whether to pay the tree replacement fee or to wait for a permit. I suspect most would wait but perhaps for some people, even a five figure tree mitigation cost would not be a financial deterrent. Still, I suspect most people would want to follow the law rather than flout it and few would cut down larger ‘significant’ trees.

5. Property owners wanting to remove smaller trees, but still trees that are 8” DBH, would most likely find themselves surprised by enforcement action and fines when they use a handsaw and a stepladder to remove a tree. As shown in the attached pictures, not all “significant” trees are particularly big, and many people would not think twice about removing these trees as part of a home landscaping project. And as discussed above, what is actually a “tree” is a question that may require professional assistance in specific cases. I think it would be a real shame, and detrimental to our desires to ensure good governance, if removing small but still “significant” trees exposed property owners to drastic and unexpected financial harm.

6. Unless the ordinance had been further amended, if we were to have moved it forward on the 28th, it would likely have taken effect for all property owners starting on 12 February, immediately after its earliest possible ordination. Because we had discussed no comprehensive way to provide adequate notice to ensure property owners would know of this dramatic change, it is far too possible that property owners acting in good faith and with no notice of this new law would have broken it and suffered its consequences. Simply thinking that having this information presented on TV does not meet our obligation to inform the public about such significant changes in local law.

If we want to preserve our tree canopy while the Urban Forestry Task Force completes its work, we should amend the TPO to keep special permits from being issued to anyone who applies after the amendments are passed, to include smaller infill developers requiring a special permit.

And to make sure the Ordinance is both followed and does not have the unanticipated result of fining property owners for removal of something that truly does not seem “significant” but meets our statutory definition, we have to leave enough time between the passage of the ordinance and its taking effect for the City to send out a notification to every property owner and local arborist and landscaping company advising people of this change.

I look forward to discussing this issue with you in more detail at the Ordinance Committee meeting.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Feb 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Feb 5
1:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss a petition filed by the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge in Article 5.000 as it relates to rainwater and flat roofs. This hearing will be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
3:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss a petition filed by the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinances in section 4.22 to allow for a Special Permit for the alteration of a single, two-family or accessory structure in existence as of January 2019 to provide one accessory apartment if the appropriate conditions are met. This hearing will be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Feb 12
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting between the City Council and School Committee to conduct a preliminary discussion on the Cambridge Public School Departmental budget for FY20. This meeting will be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Feb 13
12:00pm Economic Development & University Relations Committee will conduct a public hearing to receive an update on the progress to date on the retail strategy plan and vacant storefront initiative. (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Feb 14
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss a proposed amendment to the Municipal Code to amend Chapter 8.66 entitled “Tree Protection” in section 8.66.055 entitled “Procedure for Other Significant Tree Removals” by adding new sentences at the end which reads, No such permits will be issued for one year subsequent to ordination except for dead, diseased or dangerous trees. Any tree removed in violation of this section shall require a payment into the tree replacement fund as per section 8.66.060. (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Feb 26
10:00am Human Services and Veterans Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the lessons learned from the death of Laura Levis, and to discuss what measures are being enacted to instill a greater level of confidence in local Cambridge Health Alliance centers to prevent another occurrence of this nature. This hearing will be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
2:00pm The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the MBTA’s Better Bus Project report as it relates to proposed changes to bus lines and service throughout Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm Roundtable/ Working Meeting between the City Council and School Committee to discuss plans for the Tobin/VLUS school design and construction process. This meeting will be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Feb 27
2:00pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public hearing to review unsolved and/or aging homicide investigations in Cambridge, to include “cold” case work and limitations, legal or tactical, on sharing relevant information with the general public. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss a proposed amendment to the Municipal Code in Title 12 entitled “Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places” by adding a new chapter 12.22 entitled “Cycling Safety Ordinance”. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Mar 6
1:00pm The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss how Transit Benefits Ordinance are used in other cities to further sustainable transportation goals, and whether Cambridge could benefit from implementing a Transit Benefit Ordinance. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Mar 13
3:00pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss under what circumstance the City of Cambridge might be interested in submitting a home rule petition to allow the City Council or another branch of Municipal Government to define, if, where and how public consumption of cannabis might be allowed in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Mar 20
4:00pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the implications of identity theft and cybercrime on local residents and businesses to include Cambridge Police Departmental responses to these events and possible proactive measures to help people protect against such crimes. (Ackermann Room)

Mon, Apr 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting - Budget Submission (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, May 1
9:00am Finance Committee hearing to discuss proposed FY20 City Budget (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, May 7
9:00am Finance Committee hearing to discuss proposed FY20 City Budget (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, May 8
6:00pm Finance Committee hearing to discuss FY20 School Department Budget (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, May 9
9:00am Finance Committee hearing to discuss proposed FY20 City Budget (if necessary) (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, May 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting - Budget Adoption (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Feb 4, 2019
MAYOR MCGOVERN
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider a request for a sign dedication in honor of the late Tom Magliozzi and his brother Ray, both of NPR’s “Car Talk” radio program fame, on the outside wall of DeGuglielmo Plaza, potentially in the shape of a ‘57 Chevy; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for their review and approval.

O-2 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the appropriate City departments to make the necessary provisions to televise and record the Ordinance Committee hearing on the “Tree Protection” proposed amendment scheduled for 5:30pm on Thurs, Feb 14, 2019.

O-3 Feb 4, 2019 Amended
COUNCILLOR MALLON
MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: In 2018, Eversource purchased a plot of land in East Cambridge adjacent to Alexandria Real Estate’s proposed Metropolitan Pipe site, as well as the Linden Park neighborhood, and the Kennedy Longfellow Elementary School; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has a goal to encourage distributed district energy generation and transition away from fossil fuel-based energy to renewable energy sources; and
WHEREAS: Public utility companies are not subject to municipal zoning regulations; however, it is still vital to ensure that the proper health and environmental impact studies have been conducted by the public utility company; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with Eversource and the appropriate City departments to ensure that Eversource has undertaken the following analyses and impact reports before moving forward with the construction of their substation:

• A financial disclosure and analysis of how the cost of the site in East Cambridge and construction of the substation will potentially impact costs for ratepayers, who have already faced increases this winter, particularly since the site alone, without construction factored in, cost Eversource $13 million

• A study demonstrating why this substation is required and how it affects the City’s goals of moving towards alternative energy sources, such as renewables

• An environmental impact study of the health and safety impacts of locating a large substation adjacent to a residential neighborhood and elementary school

• Renderings that show building and site design, and indicate the substation’s footprint, height, and other critical design features;

• Long term electricity demand projections for the City of Cambridge including, if available, the predicted need to expand or add other substations in Cambridge in addition to the planned substation at Fulkerson Street to satisfy anticipated future need for electricity;

• Renderings that show the planned distribution plan and streets that will be impacted to lay conduits;

and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to make the results of these analyses and impact reports widely available to the public with an emphasis on the direct abutters of the site; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Community Development Department and the Department of Public Works to report on how the construction of this substation will impact the City’s move towards renewable energy; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter as soon as possible.

O-4 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR MALLON
MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Cambridge is home to numerous arts organizations which provide our community with public art, arts and cultural events for residents, financial and professional support for artists, workforce development skills through the arts, advocacy opportunities for artists, and much more; and
WHEREAS: Many of these organizations rely heavily on private funding to cover their operating expenses; and
WHEREAS: Arts organizations in the Greater Boston Area rely on only a few large private foundations, whereas other major cities are home to a greater number of private donors, which reduces the disparities and competition amongst arts organizations; and
WHEREAS: Many Cambridge-based arts organizations have trouble acquiring funding sources outside the Greater Boston Area, as there is an assumption that their location in Cambridge comes with the benefits of robust financial resources both from private donors and municipal funding; and
WHEREAS: As the City looks for new ways to invest in the arts, we should not overlook the existing arts organizations – whether they are known to the City or not - some of which have been serving our community for decades; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Cambridge Arts Council and the Community Development Department, particularly the Economic Development Department, to conduct a City-wide survey of all existing arts organizations and their main mission; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager work with the Cambridge Arts Council and the Economic Development Department, to identify private foundations who have been regular contributors to arts organizations in the City; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager work with the Arts Council to publicize the results of the arts organizations inventory on the City’s website, Arts Council page, or other easily accessible public platform, so that individual artists can access a clearinghouse of networks and communities, and so that private donors have information about organizations which they can support; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager report back to the City Council in a timely manner.

O-5 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR MALLON
WHEREAS: Asphalt is an unsightly and temporary solution for brick and concrete sidewalk repair; and
WHEREAS: Many sidewalks in Cambridge that used asphalt as a temporary paving solution have become permanent fixtures; and
WHEREAS: Central Square in particular has many asphalt patches (45 totaling over 600 square feet along Massachusetts Avenue), as well as areas of missing brick pavers (4 totaling 25 square feet), dead or missing trees (15), and other needed repairs (broken concrete, lack of stone dust between pavers), which convey an “uncared for” image to citizens and the general public; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has initiated a public way upgrading along nearby River Street and Central Square’s Carl Barron Plaza that was recently approved by the City Council as a $34 million project; and
ORDERED: That the above Central Square Massachusetts Avenue sidewalk maintenance/repairs and replacement tree planting become part of the River Street/Barron Plaza project to bring Central Square back to the original circa 1990 intent.

O-6 Feb 4, 2019
VICE MAYOR DEVEREUX
MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Cambridge has adopted Vision Zero, and is committed to identifying and eliminating preventable causes of traffic fatalities and serious injuries; and
WHEREAS: In addition to Cambridge’s own policies and regulations, state laws will have a major effect on the City’s ability to protect road users’ safety and eliminate traffic fatalities; and
WHEREAS: Three significant traffic safety bills are currently under consideration by the Massachusetts legislature; and
WHEREAS: One of the three bills, SD.847/HD.1653: An Act to reduce traffic fatalities, would ensure basic, necessary traffic regulations to guarantee safety, such as lowering speed limits to 25 mph on certain state roads, setting a safe passing distance of vulnerable road users of at least three feet, and requiring safety measures like side guards, additional mirrors and backup cameras for state-owned and contracted trucks; and
WHEREAS: The second of the bills, SD.1461: An Act relative to automated enforcement, would give cities and towns, including Cambridge, the option to allow red light cameras and speed cameras to be placed in certain locations, an enforcement tool that has been proven to reduce speeding and serious crashes in states where it has been implemented; and
WHEREAS: The last of the three bills, SD.1383/HD.1534: An Act to prevent driver distraction and motor vehicle fatalities, would require that usage of mobile devices while operating a motor vehicle be hands-free; and
WHEREAS: These three bills have the strong support of advocacy groups such as the Vision Zero Coalition, Livable Streets Alliance, Walk Boston and are co-sponsored by members of the Cambridge delegation; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record in supporting these three traffic safety bills (SD.847/HD.1653, SD.1461, and SD.1383/HD.1534), and encouraging the Cambridge legislative delegation to continue to act in support of these bills; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Cambridge legislative delegation on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-7 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
MAYOR MCGOVERN
VICE MAYOR DEVEREUX
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: Feb 12, 2019, is the anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin in 1809; and
WHEREAS: Charles Darwin is recognized for the discovery of natural selection as the mechanism by which biological evolution occurs; and
WHEREAS: Darwin’s discovery of natural selection continues to serve as the foundation for ongoing advances in science, health, philosophy, art, education, and many other areas of modern life; and
WHEREAS: Darwin’s strength of character is evident in the great courage, wisdom, and honesty required to explore and publish the findings supporting natural selection as the mechanism by which biological evolution occurs in the face of at times strong opposition to these ideas; and
WHEREAS: The anniversary of Darwin’s birthday is an appropriate period on which to celebrate, reflect, and act on the principles of intellectual bravery, perpetual curiosity, and hunger for truth, which contribute to the well-being of all people; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has long been a leader in scientific research, technology innovation, and education, in the cause of human progress; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record declaring Feb 12, 2019 as “International Darwin Day” in Cambridge, in recognition of the important contributions Charles Darwin made to our civilization during his life; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Secular Society of MIT on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-8 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will hold a public hearing on Wed, Feb 13, 2019 from 12:00pm to 2:00pm to receive an update on progress made to date on the retail strategy plan and vacant storefront initiative; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City departments to televise and record this hearing in its entirety so that those residents who are interested in the topic but unable to attend the hearing will be able to view the discussion on their own time.

O-9 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
WHEREAS: Bed bug infestations have been increasing from near eradication to high levels over the past two decades and are the number one most difficult pest to control; and
WHEREAS: Eradicating bed bug infestations is difficult, complicated, costly, and time consuming as they are very resilient and resistant to many common pesticides, and the process is further complicated by the need for affected residents to work with family members, roommates, adjacent neighbors, landlords or management staff, and pest control professionals, the challenge of possibly moving heavy furniture and other items and the difficulty of allocating shared costs for what can be a very expensive process; and
WHEREAS: One Cambridge family has been fighting them off since Spring of 2018, has undergone four separate treatment methods totaling more than $6,100.00, and is still not confident they are permanently gone; and
WHEREAS: More information is available in this recently submitted City Council Communication from Officers in the form of a memorandum (Jan 28, 2019); now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate the possibility of setting up an assistance fund/program to help low-income and/or elderly/disabled residents manage bed bug infestations, perhaps similar to the City’s snow shoveling assistance program, and report back to the City Council on this issue.

O-10 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: June is National Caribbean-American Heritage Month, a time to recognize the significance of Caribbean people and their descendants in the history and culture of the United States; and
WHEREAS: This special month features events that celebrate the rich culture, traditions, and history of Caribbean people in the United States; and
WHEREAS: There is a long history of Caribbean-American people living and working in Cambridge; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council declare the month of June to be Caribbean-American Heritage Month in the City of Cambridge; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to Authentic Caribbean Foundation and the Institute of Caribbean Studies on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-11 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: As part of Caribbean-American Heritage Month, the annual Caribbean-American Legislative Week which will take place in Washington D.C. on June 18-22, 2019; and
WHEREAS: Former President Barack Obama signed into law the United States-Caribbean Strategic Engagement Act (H.R. 4939), which mandated the creation of a multi-year strategy for expanding and improving U.S. relations with the various governments of the Caribbean region, including in areas of security, diplomacy, prosperity, energy, education, and health; and
WHEREAS: The strategy was released by the State Department in 2017, and groups like the Authentic Caribbean Foundation, based in Boston, have since worked tirelessly to support implementation and engagement at the local, state, and federal level; and
WHEREAS: Authentic Caribbean Foundation will hold a forum on Feb 15, 2019 at the Massachusetts Statehouse to discuss the many opportunities Massachusetts has to contribute to implementation of the strategy, primarily in the areas of education, health, and trade; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record urging our entire Congressional Delegation to support implementation of the engagement strategy; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record in enthusiastic support of Authentic Caribbean Foundation’s efforts to implement the strategy in Massachusetts; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to our entire Congressional Delegation, Authentic Caribbean Foundation, and the Institute of Caribbean Studies, on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-13 Feb 4, 2019
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that on the morning of Feb 3, 2019, there was a road race that closed several streets in the East Cambridge area for hours; and
WHEREAS: Many residents have voiced concern over the road race due to the lack of prior notification of the race occurring; and
WHEREAS: It is imperative for residents to be made aware of road closures; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation and the Police Commissioner for a report on the “Super Sunday” road race that was held on Feb 3, 2019 and if the proper procedures were followed in issuing permits and when/if the neighbors were notified.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1 (Amended)
The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on Wed, Dec 12, 2018 at 12:00pm in the Sullivan Chamber to discuss the formation of a city commission dedicated to providing a forum for exploring and addressing the concerns of undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate and other post-high school students in Cambridge.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Siddiqui, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Mallon; Vice Mayor Devereux; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Sarah Stanton; Mark Gutierrez; and Paula M. Crane, Deputy City Clerk.

Also present were Sarah Gallop, Co-Director, Office of Government and Community Relations, MIT; Javin Pombra; Jack Reid; Skylar Deckoff-Jones; Chloe Morgan; Gwen Volmar; Burhan Azeem; and Peggy Barnes Lenart.

Councillor Siddiqui convened the hearing and reviewed the agenda of the hearing (ATTACHMENT A). She said other cities have university student commissions and she is excited to see what the need is in Cambridge. She stated that there are questions such as who would “own” the commission and what such a commission would look like as there are several models of such a commission. Councillor Siddiqui introduced Javin Pombra.

Mr. Pombra gave a summary of a PowerPoint presentation (ATTACHMENT B). He stated that he thought of this idea in September when he realized that there is a need in terms of college students. He said that one-third of adults in Cambridge between the ages of 18-24 go to a post- graduate program. He noted that there are thousands of students over three major colleges with housing in Cambridge. He stated that some of these students will likely to stay in the city where they attended school. He said that when a student graduates, policies of the City affect them. He said that while there is a standing Economic Development and University Relations Committee in place, having a committee with college and university students will provide a unique perspective to the conversations. He stated that these students can reach other students in their respective campuses. He said that students have perspectives that differ from the views of their school’s administration.

In terms of precedence of a commission Mr. Pombra said that given that there is a large population of university students, it would make sense to create a commission to obtain students’ views of housing, transportation, and other important issues in the city. He explained that in Austin, Texas, The College Student Commission was established to represent this constituency of the city by serving as an advisory board to the City Council concerning issues affecting the quality of life of higher education students in the Austin area. He explained that in Keene, New Hampshire, The College City Commission consists of 14 regular voting members. He noted that this commission conducts activities to promote improved relationships between the college and city communities. He highlighted that these commissions provide opportunities for students to contribute to city culture and economy. Mr. Pombra said that as youth engagement typically happens at the state or national level, a commission could be used as a tool to create a bridge between students and government.

Councillor Siddiqui said that she co-founded the Youth Council in the City of Cambridge sixteen years ago. She affirmed that engagement is key. She asked Ms. Peterson if this issue has come up in past. Ms. Peterson responded that the city wants to get young peoples’ voices into the conversations. She said that she does not believe that the city has thought particularly of having a commission of university aged students but noted that there has been increased focus on how to integrate the 18-35-year-old voices into the existing boards and commissions and planning efforts. Councillor Siddiqui requested data on the current city commissions who have university-aged or 18-35-year-old members.

Vice Mayor Devereux added that one current student served on the Harvard Square Advisory Committee.

Ms. Semonoff said that the city has seen some undergraduates participate. She said that the Family Policy Council had members who were Cambridge residents who then attended college in the city and later applied to be on the commission. She said that the purpose of what one is looking for would drive what makes sense. She said that if the purpose is to influence city policy, the focus should be on getting representation on existing commissions for bodies that address a certain issue. She said that the purpose is really important because if the goal is to influence specific policies, there may be more influence when working with the people who are proposing the policies.

Councillor Mallon said that she has had discussions with Councillor Siddiqui regarding a Millennial Commission. She stated that unfortunately, the city does not hear a lot of youth or diverse voices. She said that as it relates to Ms. Semonoff’s comments regarding joining existing commissions, Councillor Mallon said that if we want more youth on those commissions, the city would need to provide a springboard towards those commissions. She referred to a Cambridge Digs Deep conversation that took place a few weeks prior. She said that there is a need to bring people to the table. She said that leadership positions need to be created to enable people to feel that they are participating in a real way. She said that she would like to see this commission fleshed out. She remarked that she feels that it would be great for the Mayor’s Office to feed this work. She said that the challenge is that the Mayor changes every two years, so the committee may need to “live” in a different department to ensure continuity.

Councillor Mallon concluded by stating that there has been swell of students getting involved at the national level and there is the need for more students at the local level.

Vice Mayor Devereux said that the committee must determine whether this is a commission composed only of university students or whether it should be a commission composed of young people. She said that as Cambridge struggles with income equality and race and class issues, there would be criticism if the commission focused only on university students. She said that this is an important first step. She said that it is important that members of such a commission are Cambridge residents. She said that it would be great to have a young adult group.

Councillor Siddiqui said that there is a college success initiative and there are community college students in the City of Cambridge. She stated that a commission must be inclusive of all students, regardless of where they attend school. Skylar Deckoff-Jones said that the majority of graduate students are residents of Cambridge and often live in the city from 5-7 years. Jack Reid stated that even with undergraduates, it would not be difficult to find students who are registered to vote in the city.

Ms. Peterson added that the city could also do a better job when there are openings on various boards and commissions. She said that more targeted communication towards students would be beneficial.

Ms. Semonoff said that it is important for the city to understand the needs and interests of the 18-24-yearold age groups versus the 24-30-year-old age groups. She said that she imagines that the interests and needs of those 18-24 who are not in a post-secondary opportunity may be different from the interests of the 30-year old grad students. She said that it could be a rich conversation but the purposes of people coming together may be quite different.

Sarah Gallop said that a recent example that came to mind when Vice Mayor Devereux was speaking was when the City asked MIT if they would like to recommend people to serve on advisory committee that would look at the issue of South Mass Avenue safety improvement. She said that they went to the Graduate Student Council and asked for a representative to serve. She said that it was important to have a student’s view. She noted that the student was an asset to the committee. She said for MIT tries to have an undergraduate and graduate representative on their task forces or committees. She said that there is more interest among the graduate students to serve as opposed to the undergraduate students because a graduate student tends to feel more like a resident as they have an extended period of time in the city. She said that it has worked well. She said that it is important to MIT to hear the students’ perspectives around policy matters.

Councillor Siddiqui said that it is important that the City hear the student perspective as well. She asked Javin Pombra if he did any survey assessment among his peers. She asked him: What is the appetite that he is seeing as it relates to “plugging into the city?” She said that there is no specific program to introduce students to city organizations or city government. Mr., Pombra responded that many students live in the “Harvard or MIT bubble.” He said that we change the narrative as it relates to undergrads by specifically reaching out to them. He said that it should not only be university students. He said that a consistent commission that meets regularly ensures that members will bring information back to the school community. He said that many students that he spoke with do not know anything about the function of the City Council as they are focused on national and state politics.

Vice Mayor Devereux asked Mr. Pombra if he reads The Harvard Crimson. She said that the MIT student newspaper does not cover the City Council while The Harvard Crimson does. She encouraged Mr. Pombra to encourage the students to read The Harvard Crimson. Mr. Pombra said that The Harvard Crimson reporting is more reactive with not as much pre-coverage. Vice Mayor Devereux said reading The Harvard Crimson gives students the opportunity to know what issues are being discussed.

Councillor Mallon said that the creation of any such commission should include all young people. She said that she, Councillor Siddiqui and Mayor McGovern are working with the Youth Council to help them work on issues that are important to them. She stressed the importance of this connection. She said that when the city has issues on the City Council agenda, the people they hear from are pro or against said issue. She said that if The Harvard Crimson reports after the fact, this does not allow the opportunity for student input.

Councillor Siddiqui asked Burhan Azeem for his thoughts. Mr. Azeem stated that they want more ways to be engaged but added that he has does not have a concrete idea to facilitate engagement. He said that if there is a way to bring conversations closer to campus, more people would get involved.

Ms. Gallop said that the Envision Cambridge process would have been an interesting way to get students involved. She said that Envision was a long-term planning process that encompassed many topics. She asked Mr. Azeem if he had a general idea of how many students voted in the Participatory Budgeting process. Mr. Azeem said that he is aware of students voting in the Participatory Budgeting. Ms. Gallop noted that students are always welcome by neighborhood groups and associations. She said that the City listens to all these groups and this could be another avenue of involvement.

Gwen Volmar said that Northwestern makes it mandatory for all students to vote. She said that this may be a way to get students better involved. She said that if you have people in the room who have access and power to make issues concrete, it would be worthwhile to consider.

Ms. Gallop explained that Sloane has a program where students work as a team with non-profit agencies. She said that this is a volunteer opportunity where course credits are earned. She said that this is a natural place for synergies. Vice Mayor Devereux added that two Harvard students founded Y2Y Harvard Square which is a shelter for young adults in Harvard Square.

Councillor Siddiqui stated that it would be helpful to have a clear policy as it relates to where a student can vote when attending undergraduate or graduate school. She said that Cambridge does have a transient population and the idea of something consistent where people can plug in is important to think about.

Mr. Pombra said that at the very least, more engagement of youth is needed. He said that university students like it when things are close by. He said that the best way to get to youth is through youth.

Ms. Semonoff asked if we are talking about all youth of a certain age or is it university student focused. She said that the purposes might be different for each group. She said that the decision point about which direction to move in really depends on the goals. She said that what is trying to be accomplished would drive the population that is most likely to be engaged. She said that one way that the City has gathered information is when the Mayor or City Council hosted a Town Hall Meeting which provides an opportunity for some speaking on the part of the Mayor or city leaders and smaller groups to have conversations about specific topics. She said that this could help to figure out the best structure that might help drive this work.

Vice Mayor Devereux agreed that a Town Hall Meeting could be an interesting way to get at this issue. She said that she feels that this could be an extension of the Youth Council. She said that her understanding is that each year, the Youth Council has a project that they focus on. Vice Mayor Devereux said that Find It Cambridge grew out of the need to better inform families of course selection. She said that this was an unmet need until the Youth Council worked on this issue. She said that a City commission, in most respects, is used in an advisory capacity and they do not usually take a position. She said that it is more of an input and engagement committee and does not have a direct-action approach.

Emily Dexter stated that the School Committee is interested in post-secondary outcomes and people. She said students that grew up in Cambridge and go to college are in a very unique position. She said that engaging these people as ambassadors to the universities would be a good idea. She stated that some people in the 18-29 age group have children in the Cambridge Public Schools. She said that The Harvard Crimson used to cover many topics in Cambridge and in the Cambridge Public Schools. She noted that she has not seen any reporters or coverage at the School Committee meetings.

Mr. Azeem said that may be worthwhile for institution specific engagement. For example, Mr. Azeem said that there are 10,000 students at MIT. He said that if there is a focus on life experiences of these students, it is more worthwhile to have it on campus. He asserted that if you provide give people an easy platform, you will hear more input. He said that if a City Council meeting were to take place on the grounds of MIT once or twice a semester, more students would be engaged. He said that having events on campus provide for a good vehicle in which to obtain information.

Councillor Mallon said that she likes the idea of a Youth Town Meeting to determine if there is an appetite for this type of engagement. She said that two Harvard University students recently ran for the City Council and this speaks to the idea of young people who want to affect change. She said that we cannot assume that students are too busy. She said that interfacing with city leadership is an opportunity to make connections and work on specific projects.

Councillor Mallon said that she likes the idea of a Youth Town Meeting to determine if there is an appetite for this type of engagement. She said that one Harvard University student recently ran for the City Council and one Harvard University student for School Committee, this speaks to the idea of young people who want to effect change. She said that we cannot assume that students are too busy. She said that interfacing with city leadership is an opportunity to make connections and work on specific projects.

Vice Mayor Devereux took the opportunity to inform the attendees of the City of Cambridge State of the City address that will take place this evening. She noted that this address will be livestreamed, and all are welcome to attend.

Ms. Gallop said that the City Council sets goals each year. She said that they evolve to reflect the current need of the community. She said that these goals will give a sense of the City’s current focus.

Emily Dexter stated that it would be helpful to have an infrastructure in place so that City Hall could interface with student groups.

Mr. Pombra said that the students have a lot of opportunities to learn from the City Council. He stated that need to find a bridge between the opportunities and the youth. He said that there needs to be some way to get more people and students involved and attend these meetings. He said that there is a limited amount of outreach and understanding as to what the opportunities are. Vice Mayor Devereux affirmed that it always comes down to a communication issue.

Peggy Leonard said that this is a good conversation. In terms of students who are interested in sustainability and how it integrates with other City goals, she advised that there is an advisory committee that will meet with the City Manager over the upcoming year. Gwen Volmar noted that there is now a Harvard Graduate Student Union. She said that it may be an interesting point of contact for the committee and the conversation as a whole.

Javin Pombra noted that within the colleges and universities there is typically a group of students that are appointed to act as student liaisons. He said that if these groups could meet with the City Council and come to City Council meetings, it would be great. He said that they could then report on the meetings and send out informative e-mails which could be a first step in outreach.

Ms. Gallop said that most City Councillors have newsletters that are quite information. She said that signing up for these newsletters would be beneficial to learn about important issues around the City.

Councillor Siddiqui said that she would like the committee to continue discussions on this issue. She stated that it is important to look at better ways to communicate with students. She said that she likes the idea of Town Hall Forum. She indicated that she will continue to chair meetings on this topic and will continue to work with those students present.

Councillor Siddiqui thanked all those present for their attendance.

The hearing adjourned at 1:12pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Sumbul Siddiqui, Chair

Committee Report #2
The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on Oct 25, 2018 at 10:00am in the Sullivan Chamber to discuss the Summer Food Program Update.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Mallon, Co-Chair; Councillor Siddiqui, Co-Chair; Vice Mayor Devereux; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Commissioner Branville Bard, Cambridge Police Department; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Janice Alger, Assistant Director for Administration; Kathy Mitchell, Personnel Administration; Carla Grajeda, Adam Corbiel, Recreation and Aquatics Director; Derrick Harris, Recreation Manager; Vladimir Pierre, Department of Human Services (DHSP); Shira Gubb, Assistant Director Assistant Director for Human Resources, Cambridge Public Library; Liana Ascolese; Liz Walker; and Paula M. Crane, Deputy City Clerk.

Also present were Leran Minc and Krissy Scommegna, Project Bread.

Councillor Mallon read the Call of the Meeting and noted two handouts regarding the Community Profiles for Cambridge and Somerville received from Project Bread (ATTACHMENTS A & B).

Ms. Semonoff began by stating that she is pleased to announce that a hot breakfast will be available to all pre-schools beginning in November. She stated that DHSP is excited to think about other work that can be done. She introduced Kathy Mitchell.

Ms. Mitchell gave an overview of the Summer Food Service Program data (ATTACHMENT C) and the Summer Food Site List (ATTACHMENT D) handouts. She explained that the City Manager approved funding over the past year to continue the operation of two sites (Gore Street and Hoyt Field) that were no longer eligible. She said that in addition to eligibility, getting kids to come to the parks and open sites is challenging. She said that teens are a problem because there remains a stigma amongst older children. She said that past initiatives such as the Let’s Move campaign attracted more kids to the parks for those events.

Ms. Semonoff said that in the past there were a number of schools that 50% or more of the students received free and reduced lunch. She explained that schools became eligible as well as the parks surrounding that school. She said that as it relates to a decrease in numbers, the schools have done a better job distributing children of all socioeconomic status across the city so there were not high numbers in particular areas which meant that many schools no longer qualified. She said that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education determined that the schools are not really neighborhood schools and therefore they made determination that the City could not use a school’s site as the basis. She said this was a big deal. She said that it is now based more on the census track which is what makes it challenging to serve sites previously served.

Adam Corbiel said that each year, the Recreation Department is able to hire high school students. He said it is an early work experience for young people. He noted that there are many returning students who are presented with leadership opportunities. He said that all sites have made simple investments to get more movement activities. He said that when activities are offered, there is more participation at the parks. He said that construction at Russell Field was the reason that it was not a food site and the food site moved to Rindge Towers.

Vladimir Pierre added that there is a small group of managers that are former park workers. He said that this sets these kids up for success via goalsetting and creating a network support system. He said that this gave them the opportunity to plan for important milestones and expectations. He said that training helped round out life skills as well as job skills.

Ellen Semonoff said that one of the challenges is that there is not a high daily average at Fresh Pond Apartments. She said that the same meal must be served at all sites on the same day. She said that individuals are not allowed to take one piece of the lunch, they must take the whole meal. She said that the meals cannot be tailored.

Councillor Mallon asked if it is possible to buy vegetarian meals through a separate account.

Ms. Semonoff said that in terms of the payment mechanism, she imagines that the City could figure it out. She said that Cambridge faces the same challenges as others and it is challenging to do things that are logically useful. Another challenge is that they are required to serve lunch at the same time to all the participants. She said that at the Tobin School, there were multiple programs who wanted lunch at different times and the regulatory mechanisms make it challenging. She said that when the King Open School goes back, they will have a large building coming on line wherein all the programming that happens in that building, the students will be eligible. This will be another opportunity.

Vice Mayor Devereux said that as a vegetarian, she is curious about who produces the food. Ms. Mitchell said that the City procures its own vendor. She said that the City is provided with a menu and then a decision is made. She said that they provide 2-3 days where there are vegetarian options but noted that the remaining days are meat. Vice Mayor Devereux said that a plant-based diet is healthier and better for the planet. She said that plant-based meals can be made appealing. She said that she would be pleased to see vegetarian meals for lunch and breakfast. Ms. Semonoff responded that she would be interested in other communities’ experience. She said that they work with the Department of Public Health Nutrition Department to ensure the quality of the food. She said that this meal program will be the thing that will mostly attract kids to eat vegetarian. Kathy Mitchell said that there is an education component involved in this as well.

Councillor Siddiqui said that numbers have decreased since 2016. She asked if the City has heard concerns from families or the Community Engagement workers. Kathy Mitchell said that they have not heard any feedback. She said that some sites are happy not to site a program because of the bureaucratic paperwork. Ms. Semonoff said that as the schools become more economically diverse, so have the programs. Programs that formerly served 60% free and reduced are serving closer to 35% or 40%. She said that as programs become diverse, that is another piece of the program.

Councillor Mallon asked when it will be known what sites are eligible for 2019. Ms. Mitchell responded that they will know in April.

Leran Minc and Krissy Scommegna gave an overview of a PowerPoint Presentation titled, “Innovative Ways to Expand Summer Eats in Cambridge” (ATTACHMENT E). Mr. Minc stated that Cambridge will have to work creatively to expand its Summer Eats program in different parts of the city based on limited eligibility to host open sites. He said that this can be mitigated by the city choosing to fund sites on their own and not receive federal reimbursements at said sites. As it relates to Summer Eats at housing properties, he noted that barriers can include crossing the street to get to a site. He said that the best practice is to plan with residential service coordinators and outreach with door knockers. He gave the Meadowbrook Apartments as an example of activities that partner with and engage the community. He gave examples of Summer Eats work that is being done in the Mattapan Branch of the Boston Public Library that coincide meals with programming and noted the possibility of a potential site at the Central Square Library. As it relates to increasing participation at park sites, he said that observation at the park at different times of day will help to determine when people spend time there. He said that it is important to let the community dynamics shape which parks are sites.

Mr. Minc said that currently all open sites in Cambridge serve lunch at the same time period. He noted that teens tend to eat later so he suggested the possibility of extending the lunch period. He said the offering of breakfast in situations where there is solid all day programming would be beneficial. He said that it would be beneficial to serve snacks in the late afternoon where kids congregate.

Mr. Minc talked about the type of meals that add flexibility such as taco salads. He said that having a container of meat on side also helps. He noted that this is creative solution. He explained that at sites where there may be location to keep food at a certain temperature, leftovers could be provided.

Councillor Mallon thanked Mr. Minc and Ms. Scommegna for their presentation.

Vice Mayor Devereux asked about Magazine Park which is a state beach. Mr. Minc responded that he did not see much eligibility along the river and said that this site may need to be a city-funded program. He said that there is always the option of having closed sites and explained that the regulation for a closed site is that you do have to collect financial information. He said that a Recreation Department can partner with the State to do that, but it is more difficult to accomplish. Mr. Corbiel said that the Morse School is a better opportunity.

Vice Mayor Devereux asked if the inclusion of a meal is part of the Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program. Ms. Semonoff said that some are enrolled in programs where lunch has been a piece of the program. She said that it depends on if they are working at a site that is eligible. She said that the city does not have a program that serves all. Vice Mayor Devereux said that although it would be logistically difficult, some sort of voucher may work. Vice Mayor Devereux asked if the city thinks about where the teen will be able to get the lunch because they are in a program. Ms. Semonoff said that it is a great question, but the assignment process would not prioritize where you could lunch over what the young person was interested in being engaged in. She said that within the programs, a number are teen sites. She said it would be interesting to think about other opportunities. Kathy Mitchell said that there has been discussion. Vice Mayor Devereux noted the possibility of a mobile program. Chrissy Scommegna said that a mobile program has been used in other areas.

Councillor Siddiqui said that she would love to see the daily average increase. She said that contests and giveaways are creative ideas. She said that she would like to hear more about how difficult or easy it is to make partnerships. Ms. Scommegna said that it completely depends on capacity, promotion and outreach. She said that looking at outreach strategies is important. Ms. Semonoff explained that all the open sites are staffed and there are recreational activities happening at those sites. She added that there is also a Book Bike at least one day per week. She said that it is possible to spike attention at any given site by bringing something jazzier that day but the challenge is that often it means that the summer camps are the ones who bring children to come when there is something is happening. She said that there may just be a shift from one location to another. She said that there is more that can be done. She said that the City of Cambridge is the sponsor of every recreation program in the city and Mr. Pierre runs large, young basketball leagues. She said that it may be feasible to combine a meal with those programs. She questioned if a dinner site is allowed if it is only two nights per week. Ms. Scommegna responded in the affirmative. She said that as a site, you can pick days of the weeks, but it must be part of the plan and cannot change throughout the summer. Mr. Minc added that you can do a site just once during the summer and never do it again.

Councillor Mallon said that she sees that one of the challenges is that the staff of the summer food program is quite small. Councillor Mallon said that her drycleaner has the trading cards with the Cambridge police Department and she said that she is intrigued with the idea of using trading cards.

Councillor Mallon said that the new plaza outside the Central Square Library opens a lot of opportunity to host a meal program. She said that the libraries are packed with kids in the summer, so if there is any way to combine programming and meal programs, it would be extremely beneficial. Councillor Mallon noted that the O’Neil Library Branch is out of the census tract. She asked if there is an appeal process. Ms. Scommegna answered in the negative.

Councillor Mallon said that she is intrigued by the mobile program in Worcester. She said that the Boston Police Department has an ice cream truck and she would like to see a Cambridge version as a truck going into the neighborhoods would make it easier. She asked if there been any collaboration with the Cambridge Police Department door to door campaign in terms of promotion of the services available. Ms. Semonoff replied that this is a joint effort that is conducted with the Cambridge Police Department. She noted that this effort is conducted in all the housing developments.

Councillor Mallon asked if there is an opportunity at the Fresh Pond Apartments because leaving the building is a barrier for some. Ms. said that the problem is staffing. She explained that the work comes down to three people working the Summer Food Program. She said that if management could take on the responsibility, that would be a great option. Mr. Corbiel said that other potential sites are land under the City’s control. Ms. Semonoff said that the city is not unwilling to investigate if there is a housing development that has physical space and wants to partner with the city. She said that she can speak with the Cambridge Housing Authority to determine if there is any willingness to partner in this regard. She said that many children from housing developments are the same kids that the city is focused on how to get into the summer camps, so it is important to ensure that a site makes sense.

Vice Mayor Devereux said that the city takes on the cost of delivering to Gore Street and Hoyt Field. She asked how much a site costs and she questioned if this is on a per meal basis. Ms. Semonoff explained that the city funds staff as well as the meals. Vice Mayor Devereux said that if we are talking about challenges of finding children where they are, the city should try to fund more. Ms. Semonoff said that the cost is $5,000 per site and she noted that the bigger challenge is to serve the kids in the census tract so that a meal site can be run. Vice Mayor Devereux asked if Just-A-Start is a partner at the Fresh Pond Apartments. Kathy Mitchell responded in the negative.

As it relates to the new MLK Park next to the Central Square Library, Vice Mayor Devereux asked about the interest in providing adult meals and cost of same. Ms. Semonoff said that this site would be very close to the Senior Center where meals are offered every day. She said that she would be weary of making that a site to experiment with adult meals.

Councillor Mallon said that she uses the same vendor for the Backpack Program as the summer meal program. She said that the cost of a meal is approximately $3.00. In terms of Just-A-Start partnership, she said that Homeowner’s Rehab, Inc. (HRI) is doing a lot of work with Food For Free and it has been successful. She said that HRI wants to ensure that their residents get on-site services for food.

Councillor Mallon asked if Clement Morgan Park is within the census tract. She said that the Margaret Fuller House is right around the corner and it could be a beneficial site. Ms. Semonoff said that it is worth being in communication with the Community Arts Center and the Margaret Fuller House. She said that they have been more interested in later afternoon programming. She said that the city is happy to explore whether that is something that they would find useful. Councillor Mallon said that this location has a beautiful lawn and seems like a great location.

Councillor Mallon asked Ms. Scommegna if Project Bread is available to work with the team to put some of these things into action or to assist in brainstorming. Ms. Scommegna responded that part of her role is to help communities figure out ways to increase summer participation. She said that she is willing to help in any way.

Mr. Minc said that as it relates to adult or vegetarian meals, Project Bread is attempting to advocate to the USDA and state with regards to incorporating the adults who bring their children to a food program. He said that if Cambridge is involved in piloting programs, Project Bread would enthusiastically assist in this regard.

Ms. Scommegna reminded all participants to watch for the Summer Meals Program Kickoff event at the end of January or the beginning of February.

Councillor Mallon and Councillor Siddiqui thanked all those present for their attendance.

The hearing adjourned at 11:35am.

For the Committee,
Councillor Alanna M. Mallon, Co-Chair
Councillor Sumbul Siddiqui, Co-Chair

Committee Report #3
The Ordinance Committee, comprised of the entire membership of the City Council, held a public hearing on Tues, Jan 15, 2019 at 3:03pm in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the hearing was to conduct a public hearing on a petition from John Gargano on behalf of his client Hercules Kalogeropoulos, Cambridge Mobile Sound and Security, to amend the Zoning Ordinance Map in the area of 234 Monsignor O’Brien Highway from existing C-1 to Business A (ATTACHMENT A).

Present at the hearing were Councillor Carlone and Councillor Kelley, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Vice Mayor Devereux; Councillor Mallon; Councillor Siddiqui; Councillor Toomey; Councillor Zondervan; Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Jeff Roberts, Senior Manager for Zoning and Development, CDD; Swaathi Joseph, Project Planner, CDD; Arthur Goldberg, Deputy City Solicitor; and City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were Attorney Anthony Gargano representing his client, Hercules Kalogeropoulos, owner of Cambridge Mobile Sound and Security, 234 Monsignor O’Brien Highway and Attorney Maria Saccoccio, 55 Otis Street.

Councillor Carlone convened the hearing and stated the purpose. He announced that the hearing was being audio and video recorded. He outlined the format of the hearing.

Councillor Carlone invited the petitioners to come forward. Attorney Gargano, representing his client, Mr. Kalogeropoulos, owner of Cambridge Mobile Sound and Security to come forward.

Attorney Gargano stated that his client is not ready to make a formal presentation on the petition and requested that the petition remain in committee.

Councillor Carlone noted that in this case the City will not present their findings.

Councillor Kelley moved to public comment at 3:07pm.

Councillor Siddiqui asked if there would eventually be another Ordinance Committee hearing on this petition. Councillor Carlone responded it is possible or the time may expire.

Marie Saccoccio 55 Otis Street, stated that she is an attorney and lives in the area. She stated that she is here with one of the abutters. She explained that there was a meeting held at the East Cambridge Planning Team and there was a unanimous decision to reject consideration of this zoning petition. She stated that she is prepared with an elaborate presentation, but there seems to be no reason to present and she has received assurances that this will die in committee.

Councillor Toomey stated that by remaining in committee the petition will expire on its own and that there will be no additional hearings.

Councillor Carlone noted that this is the intention of the petitioner.

Vice Mayor Devereux asked what the expiration date is. The chair announced that the petition expires on Apr 15, 2019. She asked by letting this expire rather than voting it down what impact this has on the petition being refilled. Councillor Carlone stated that the petition could be refiled.

Attorney Gargano announced that it is not the intention of his client to refile this petition.

Councillor Zondervan asked why this petition is being kept in committee. Councillor Carlone responded that the petitioner has requested that this be kept in committee and the petition will expire on Apr 15, 2019.

Councillor Carlone moved that the petition remain in committee - and on a voice vote of seven the motion carried.

The following communications were received:
A communication from Anna and Jean Spera, 12 Sciarappa Street, in opposition to the zoning petition filed by Mr. Kalogeropoulos (ATTACHMENT B).
A communication from Charles Hinds, President of the East Cambridge Planning Team, in opposition to the rezoning petition for 234 Monsignor O’Brien Highway (ATTACHMENT C).
A communication was received from Alice Costa, 25½ Winter Street, in opposition to the zoning petition for 234 Monsignor O’Brien Highway (ATTACHMENT D).

Councillor Carlone and Councillor Kelley thanked all those present for their attendance.

The hearing adjourned at 3:11pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chair
Councillor Craig Kelley, Co-Chair

AWAITING REPORT LIST
16-26. Report on the possibility of the City Council implementing a zoning change, on the permitting of all new restaurants where a wood-fired oven is used as a significant method of food preparation. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Devereux, Councillor Kelley (O-5) from 4/4/2016

16-42. Report on plans for the former Riverside Community Health Center on Western Avenue, including transfer of ownership of the building to the City and the process for determining future usage. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Vice Mayor McGovern (O-1) from 5/2/2016

16-83. Report on drafting possible legislation and other recommendations for interim actions to identify and address the public health impacts of any commercial wood-fired ovens. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Mayor Simmons (Calendar Item #4) from 10/31/2016

16-101. Report on the potential of building below market rental housing on City-owned parking lots along Bishop Allen Drive. On a communication from Councillor McGovern requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons (O-4) from 12/12/2016

16-108. Report on whether people displaced and qualify for Emergency Status who are using Section 8 in other cities or towns can retain their resident preference for the purpose of Inclusionary Housing. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey (O-4) from 12/19/2016

17-22. Report on the potential growth of next-generation wireless technology in the City, to include: the expected footprint of citywide coverage from just one company and what market competition might produce; the integration of public and private infrastructure to support the network; what local standards the City might hope to maintain relative to aesthetics and safety; and how this new technology fits into our Broadband access plans. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Devereux, Councillor Kelley (O-14) from 2/27/2017

17-87. Report on a schedule for resubmitting a revised draft of the Outdoor Lighting Ordinance that incorporates clearer wording and/or more clearly explains each section in less technical jargon and is more coherent in its entirety, with the goal of seeing such an Ordinance adopted by the end of this City Council term. On a communication from Councillor Kelley and Councillor Devereux requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Devereux (O-8) from 9/18/2017

18-6. Report on information regarding electronic device usage by City-elected officials.
Councillor Toomey (O-7) from 1/22/2018

18-15. Report on any other relevant City Department to gain a sense of who is purchasing buildings in Cambridge.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 2/5/2018

18-21. Report on the feasibility of initiating a formal transit study and action plan of the Alewife area in response to unanimous concerns of the Envision Alewife Working Group.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Siddiqui (O-7) from 2/26/2018

18-37. Report on the possibility of accepting the City of Boston's invitation to join their intergenerational housing pilot program.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey (O-1) from 3/26/2018

18-38. Report on inventory of all City-owned vacant buildings and lots and the City's plans for them, if any.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Siddiqui (O-2) from 3/26/2018

18-44. Report on ensuring an additional commitment of $20 million from the City’s budget is devoted over the next five years toward the City’s efforts to preserve and create affordable housing units.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui (O-6) from 4/23/2018

18-53. Report on an updated schedule for resubmitting a revised draft of the Outdoor Lighting Ordinance that incorporates suggestions from the Light Cambridge Committee by June 11, 2018.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Carlone (O-1) from 5/14/2018

18-60. Report on a small business parking pilot that would allow temporary on-street employee parking during typical daytime operating hours.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #1) from 5/14/2018

18-61. Report on commissioning a public art piece, statue, or memorial that would commemorate the dedication of women in Cambridge to passing the Nineteenth Amendment.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Siddiqui (O-5) from 6/4/2018

18-65. Report on working with the Mayor’s Summer Youth Program and other appropriate City departments to organize a Town Hall Meeting for Cambridge youth.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mallon, Mayor McGovern (O-5) from 6/18/2018

18-66. Report on establishing a Young Adult Civic Unity Committee to be modeled after the Citizen Civic Unity Committee and to recruit applicants from all across the community and across all socio-economic backgrounds.
Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 6/18/2018

18-68. Report on determining the permitting and legality issues of Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing in the City of Cambridge.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Zondervan (O-11) from 6/18/2018

18-73. Report on establishing and implementing a dynamic new initiative that will seek to place Port residents (ages 18 and over) on paths to jobs with family-sustaining wages.
Councillor Simmons (O-6) from 6/25/2018

18-83. Report on an action plan to work with the City’s Community-Based Organizations to create a network of summertime evening programming to reduce the threat of violence in the City’s public spaces in 2019 and beyond.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Mallon (O-9) from 7/30/2018

18-85. Report on the feasibility of appointing an advisory committee to work through resiliency elements raised during the Envision process and through the Brown petition.
Councillor Toomey (O-13) from 7/30/2018

18-86. Report on the feasibility of adopting a policy of replacing any failed 4000K LED streetlights with warmer alternatives as opportunities arise, and offering shielding/filtering upon request from nearby residents whenever possible.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-14) from 7/30/2018

18-87. Report on the navigational editing capabilities of the City of Cambridge.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Mallon, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-16) from 7/30/2018

18-90. Report on the feasibility of establishing a crosswalk at the intersection of Soden Street and Western Avenue.
Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #3) from 9/24/2018

18-91. Report on drafting a plan that shall allow the Mayor’s Annual Harvard Senior Luncheon to be held regardless of the weather conditions.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui (Calendar Item #4) from 9/24/2018

18-93. Report on the sale of The Constellation Center's Parcel C in Kendall Square.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Toomey (Calendar Item #7) from 9/24/2018

18-94. Report on considering to work with consultants and other available resources to help incorporate data access and management concerns into discussions, permits and licenses for new mobility platforms.
Councillor Kelley (Calendar Item #8) from 9/24/2018

18-96. Report on how the City views internet-based platforms as opportunities for outreach and communication and what sort of guidelines have been, or are being, developed to help everyone understand how the City’s various departments do or do not utilize these communication resources and how any communications on these platforms are managed so that the messaging and information is kept up-to-date.
Councillor Kelley (Calendar Item #10) from 9/24/2018

18-99. Report on the creation and implementation of a survey or other feedback mechanism for individuals who have been in contact with the Human Rights Commission.
Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mallon (O-2) from 9/24/2018

18-100. Report on taking all possible immediate actions to preserve and restore Linear Park.
Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Kelley (O-3) from 9/24/2018

18-101. Report on identifying ways to raise awareness about the prevalence of food allergies and decrease the level of risk posed by food remnants left in public parks and playgrounds.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Mallon, Councillor Carlone (O-1) from 10/1/2018

18-103. Report on seeking a formal response from CVS as it relates to a racial profiling incident.
Councillor Simmons (O-6) from 10/1/2018

18-104. Report on a list of streets where it is recommended that the speed be reduced to 20 MPH. See Mgr #4
Vice Mayor Devereux (O-10) from 10/1/2018

18-105. Report on the feasibility of placing a condition in the public bidding documents prohibiting municipal contractors from displaying any signage other than company markers and contact information on vehicles.
Councillor Siddiqui, Mayor McGovern, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-1) from 10/15/2018

18-107. Report on prioritizing the Public Safety outreach measures in the FY20 budget.
Councillor Mallon, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Simmons (O-5) from 10/15/2018

18-108. Report on offering early voting in City Council and School Committee Elections.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui (O-1) from 10/29/2018

18-109. Report on the feasibility of fencing off an area on the North side of the Joan Lorentz park for a dog park or at another suitable location in Mid-Cambridge.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Siddiqui (O-2) from 10/29/2018

18-110. Report on determining whether unisex bathrooms can be installed in City Hall, or whether existing bathrooms could be modified into unisex bathrooms.
Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui (O-3) from 10/29/2018

18-111. Report on addressing the increase of TNC-associated vehicles stopping in the middle of streets and bicycle lanes.
Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 10/29/2018

18-112. Report on determining what measures would best serve to prevent vehicles from blocking the Fresh Pond Mall's driveway onto Alewife Brook Parkway.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Kelley (O-8) from 10/29/2018

18-113. Report on coordinating a walk down Rindge Avenue, covering at least from Haskell Street to Sherman Street, to analyze the congestion and intersections with interested residents to try to find mitigating solutions or to explain why mitigation may not be possible.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Zondervan (O-12) from 10/29/2018

18-114. Report on opportunities and plans to increase signage or other communication efforts to help ensure that all users of Brattle Street between Eliot and Mason Streets understand the cyclists may be using Brattle Street in the opposite direction of prevailing motor vehicle traffic.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-14) from 10/29/2018

18-115. Report on the current status of the Surveillance Technology Ordinance and a date the City Council can expect an updated version of the proposed Ordinance.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Carlone (O-16) from 10/29/2018

18-116. Report on the current status of any City Hall renovation plans and a timeline of planned events.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Toomey (O-17) from 10/29/2018

18-118. Report on funding additional City summer food sites and collaborate on creative and innovative ways to engage participants in programming that will increase the use of open food sites.
Councillor Mallon, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Siddiqui (O-1) from 11/5/2018

18-119. Report on evaluating the existing capacity of fire stations in the Kendall Square area and whether a new fire station is needed, and if so, determining the feasibility of locating a plot of land for this use.
Councillor Mallon, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toomey (O-2) from 11/5/2018

18-122. Report on the possibility of posting a "no trucks" sign on Hancock Street.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Siddiqui (O-3) from 11/19/2018

18-123. Report on ensuring funding for our municipal media services.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor McGovern (O-9) from 11/19/2018

18-124. Report on contacting the owners of Twin City Plaza about the leasing of parking spaces for construction vehicles instead of storing the vehicles on Gore Street.
Councillor Toomey (O-10) from 11/19/2018

18-127. Report on providing a timeline when the City Council can expect to receive the draft zoning and public health regulations for urban farming.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Mallon, Councillor Zondervan (O-1) from 11/26/2018

18-129. Report on conducting a comprehensive, independent planning, and parking study of the neighborhood and use of the First Street Garage within 6months.
Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (Calendar Item #1) from 11/19/2018

18-130. Report on working with the Chair of the Civic Unity Committee, the Director of the Cambridge Library, the Director of 22-CityView, the Director of the Women’s Commission, and any other appropriate City personnel to begin planning for a public discussion in recognition of 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Mallon, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-3) from 12/3/2018

18-131. Report on the use of the cigarette disposal box program, how they are functioning, how many the City has installed, how often they are emptied, if the program will be expanded, and any other relevant program details.
Councillor Kelley, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Mallon (O-4) from 12/3/2018

18-132. Report on the negative traffic impact regarding the Davis Square Neighborhood Plan.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-5) from 12/3/2018

18-133. Report on raising the fines for blocking both loading zones and bike lanes to a comparable rate to Boston for the 2020 fiscal year.
Councillor Mallon, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Kelley (O-9) from 12/3/2018

18-134. Report on creating a more inclusive city website, including an Open Meeting Portal registration form that does not require the use of gendered pronouns, salutations or titles.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mallon (O-11) from 12/3/2018

18-136. Report back on submitting a proposal that candidates would agree to not accept donations from person outside of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Councillor Toomey (O-15) from 12/3/2018

18-137. Report on reviewing the FCC Regulations on Small Cell Technology.
Vice Mayor Devereux (O-18) from 12/3/2018

18-138. Report on Improving Pedestrian Safety and all relevant traffic calming measures to reduce speeding, implementing different paving surfaces, narrowing traffic lanes, installing pedestrian crossing placards affixed to the ground and adding raised intersections.
Mayor McGovern, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Zondervan (O-1) from 12/10/2018

18-139. Report on the possibility of planting a substantial-sized tree at the corner of Inman Street and Massachusetts Avenue, directly on the front lawn of City Hall.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Zondervan (O-2) from 12/10/2018

18-140. Report on updating the Table of Uses and determining the frequency of regularly updating the Table of Uses.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui (O-1) from 12/17/2018

18-141. Report on safe way to bring power to the curb and across sidewalks to power electric vehicles.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan (O-2) from 12/17/2018

18-142. Report on targeting advertising efforts to education cyclists about riding safely and responsible, sharing the road especially at intersections.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Toomey (O-3) from 12/17/2018

18-143. Report on requiring a business entity's beneficial ownership and residential real estate beneficial ownership transactions be disclosed in all Cambridge real estate transactions.
Councillor Siddiqui, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 12/10/2018

18-144. Report on the process for obtaining and analyzing further detailed and specific eviction data.
Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Carlone (O-6) from 12/17/2018

19-1. Report on the recently adopted regulations of the short-term rental revenue and the necessary steps to impose and access the revenue from the excise and community impact fees.
Mayor McGovern (O-4) from 1/7/2019

19-2. Report on allocating a percentage of hotel/motel tax revenue and adult use cannabis tax revenue to the arts in the FY20 budget.
Councillor Mallon, Mayor McGovern (O-5) from 1/7/2019

19-3. Report on establishing a Central Square Improvement Fund and allocate no less than 25% of funds generated to the arts.
Councillor Mallon, Mayor McGovern (O-6) from 1/7/2019

19-4. Report on the City's 1% for arts ordinance, which projects have met the threshold and which have fallen short, and whether it can be adjusted to account for ensuring that all mediums and disciplines of art, including live performance art, receive funding.
Councillor Mallon, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 1/7/2019

19-5. Report on how to provide public representation to the major project Selection Committees.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone (O-14) from 1/7/2019

19-6. Report on outlining how a prolonged Federal Government shut-down may impact the people of Cambridge.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mallon, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Siddiqui (O-1) from 1/14/2019

19-7. Report on Boston’s Electric Vehicle Charging Station Home Rule Petition and propose similar language for the City Council to consider.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Carlone (O-2) from 1/14/2019

19-8. Report on whether the department is monitoring aged pipelines to prevent unexpected breaks and if information on the age of the pipes is readily available.
Councillor Toomey (O-3) from 1/14/2019

19-9. Report on determining what facilities, parking changes, and other improvements to the pavement conditions are possible to make Cambridge’s stretch of Webster Avenue a Complete Street.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui (O-4) from 1/14/2019

19-10. Report on establishing a system of information-sharing and/ or alternative method for making available that data which may be of beneficial use to the City in analyzing displacement.
Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mallon, Councillor Carlone (O-6) from 1/14/2019

19-11. Report on the feasibility of eliminating the use of plastic water bottles at City and School events.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Mallon (O-4) from 1/28/2019

19-12. Report on the legality and constitutionality of the proposed “Cambridge Publicly Financed Municipal Election Program” and the “Cambridge Municipal Election People’s Pledge.”
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Kelley (O-8) from 1/28/2019