Cambridge City Council meeting - Feb 23, 2015 - AGENDA
[This agenda lists only those items not acted upon at the recessed Fri, Feb 20, 2015 meeting.
Charter Right #2 was added from that meeting (though it properly will be on Mar 2 agenda).]
CHARTER RIGHT
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-133, regarding a report on property damage to private property during City street reconstruction projects. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on City Manager Agenda Number Ten of Jan 29, 2015.]
Placed on File under Rule 19 - No Action Taken
2. That the City Manager is requested to create and fund the position of ombudsman, with degrees of both organizational independence to serve as an advocate and organizational ties to be effective, to serve as a liaison with and an internal advocate for community members. Councillor Cheung, Councillor Carlone and Councillor Mazen [Charter Right exercised by Councillor McGovern on Order Number Ten of Feb 20, 2015.]
ON THE TABLE
3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Arts Council to determine the types of spaces that are most needed within the local arts community with the view of using the Foundry to fill those needs and to allocate appropriate funds to make appropriate upgrades for the purpose of creating a community arts center. (Order Amended by Substitution.) [Order Number Ten of Jan 27, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Mayor Maher on Jan 27, 2014.]
4. An application was received from Ting-hsu Chen requesting permission to widen the existing curb cut at the premises numbered 14 Soden Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Applications and Petitions Number Six of Feb 24, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Simmons on Feb 24, 2014.]
5. That the City Council go on the record in opposition to any type of casino project in the Greater Boston area whether constructed and managed by Mohegan Sun or Wynn Resorts. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Simmons on Order Number Five of June 16, 2014. Placed on the Table on the motion of Councillor Cheung on June 30, 2014.]
6. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on June 18, 2014 to discuss revisions to the Cambridge Municipal Code Section 9.04.050 (A) Defacing public property of Chapter 9.04 entitled "Offenses Against Property". [Committee Report Number Five of June 30, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Benzan on June 30, 2014.]
7. That as we undertake the Cambridge Conversations and the Master Planning Process, the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to study emerging business types in Cambridge and how they are affected by the use regulations in the Zoning Ordinance, and to recommend changes to the Zoning Ordinance that will help classify such businesses in a clear, rational way that supports the long-term interests of the community and instruct the Community Development Department to evaluate appropriate ways to facilitate home-based businesses above and beyond what is currently allowed. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor McGovern on Order Number Five of Sept 22, 2014. Placed on the Table on the motion of Councillor McGovern on Sept 29, 2014.]
8. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department and the Planning Board to begin testing strategies to enhance such engagement at the earliest opportunity by methods such as requiring developers to hold a public meeting in the neighborhood and provide a report along with the permit application describing public input and changes to the project as a result of such input and to suggest changes to the Planning Board rules, which could be adopted by the Planning Board and/or Zoning Ordinance, which could be enacted by the City Council to codify successful community engagement strategies. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor McGovern on Order Number Six of Sept 22, 2014. Placed on the Table on the motion of Councillor McGovern on Sept 29, 2014.]
9. Congratulations to Marvin Gilmore on the release of his biography Crusader for Freedom. [Charter Right exercised by Mayor Maher on Resolution Number Twenty-seven of Oct 20, 2014. Placed on the Table on the motion of Mayor Maher on Oct 27, 2014.]
10. An application was received from Muireann Glenmullen, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 48 Middlesex Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on Applications and Petitions Number Two of Jan 5, 2015. Placed on the Table on the motion of Mayor Maher on Jan 29, 2015.]
11. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Community Development Department to abandon the "Complete Street" plan for Pearl Street. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on Order Number Seven of Jan 5, 2015. Placed on the Table on the motion of Councillor Cheung on Jan 29, 2015.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
12. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on Nov 22, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code by adding a new Chapter 8.68 entitled "Concussion Prevention and Management in Youth Activities at City Facilities." The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Dec 23, 2013.
13. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on Dec 19, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.67 entitled relating to Plastic Bag Reduction. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 24, 2014.
14. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to an update on the Foundry Building process, including the City's plans to collaborate with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (the "CRA") to redevelop the Foundry building in a way that meets the vision and objectives expressed by the City Council and the community. City Manager Agenda Number Seventeen of Dec 15, 2014 Referred to Unfinished Business.
LATE COMMUNICATIONS
38. A communication was received from Jason Pramas, 375A Harvard Street, in support of the adjunct union drive at Lesley.
39. A communication was received from Sarah Slavick, in support of the faculty union organizing and bargaining at Lesley University.
40. A communication was received from Hasson Rashid, 820 Mass. Ave., regarding affordable housing and the homeless.
41. A communication was received from Bjorn Poonen, 303 Third Street, in support of retaining the option of a 7.5 acre park on the Volpe site.
42. A communication was received from Nancy Ryan, 4 Ashburton Place, for the Cambridge Residents Alliance Executive Committee regarding the Volpe site.
LATE RESOLUTIONS
26. Resolution on the retirement of Sarah Boyer. Councillor Toomey
27. Resolution on the death of Lois E. Jones. Councillor Simmons
28. Resolution on the death of Anne Pauline Greenwood. Mayor Maher
29. Resolution on the death of Harvey Fisher. Mayor Maher
30. Resolution on the death of Dorothy "Anne" Bonacci. Mayor Maher
31. Resolution on the death of Frances R. Anciello. Mayor Maher
32. Resolution on the death of Catherine "Barbara" Blackwood. Mayor Maher
33. Resolution on the death of Larry Prift. Councillor Toomey
34. Resolution on the death of Steve Dupont. Councillor Toomey
ORDERS
From Jan 29 meeting agenda
3. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Human Services Department, Community Development Department, Health Department and any other relative departments as well as local shelters to determine a way to fund and supply an additional 100 shelter beds as soon as possible so that the City can better address the immediate shelter needs of our homeless community members while ongoing conversations are taking place regarding long-term solutions to this crisis. Councillor McGovern
Amended
4. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Mayor to reach out to representatives and city officials in Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Everett, Somerville, and Watertown, to gauge interest in forming an inter-city committee which would meet three times per year to discuss and develop strategies for common issues that would be best handled regionally with support from the state. Councillor McGovern, Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor Cheung
Amended
7. That the City Manager is requested to contact the current owners of the Vail Court property and demand that graffiti be removed, exterminators assess the property, and any other maintenance that would improve the appearance and safety of this building be conducted immediately. Councillor McGovern, Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor Simmons
Amended; Charter Right - Mazen
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and elected officials from Somerville to arrange a public meeting of the two cities to discuss regionalism and potential regular scheduling. Councillor Mazen
Failed on Voice Vote
21. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of the Cambridge Common renovation project along with an update on next steps and the projected date of completion. Councillor Carlone
24. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development and report back to the City Council with language that could create a Grand Junction Overlay District that would help to create incentives and ensure the completion of the Grand Junction Multiuse Path. Councillor Toomey
25. That the City Manager is requested to determine the feasibility of executing the recommendations of the STEAM Working Group with the appropriate City departments. Councillor Mazen, Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor Carlone and Councillor McGovern
26. That the City Manager is requested to determine the feasibility of creating a survey in collaboration with the Community Development Department and other appropriate departments to gather data on the positive impact of the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance on the lives of Cambridge residents and families and to determine the feasibility of hosting a town hall meeting where tenants and families who benefit from the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance can come together to share their experiences and provide valuable feedback on how to perfect the program. Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor McGovern and Councillor Cheung
Charter Right - Simmons
27. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to determine the feasibility of renaming Area 4 "The Port." Vice Mayor Benzan
Amended
From Feb 2 meeting agenda
29. That the City Manager work with all relevant City Staff to revise the proposed zoning for the Volpe site to include an option for a 7.5 acre public park as originally planned. Councillor Carlone
Referred to Ordinance Committee - Kelley
36. That the City Manager confer with the Mayor and various boards and agencies of the City to confers such a working group. Councillor Cheung
37. That the City Manager apply on behalf of the City of Cambridge for a Code for America fellow under the program detailed here: http://www.codeforamerica.org/blog/2015/01/21/bring-the-code-for-america-fellowship-to-your-local-government/ Councillor Cheung, Councillor Mazen
Amended; Approved 5-3-1 (Kelley, Simmons, Toomey - NO; Benzan - PRESENT)
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Feb 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Thurs, Feb 26
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to continue the discussion on a petition from Normandy/Twining to amend Article 20.000 of the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge by adding a new Section 20.800 entitled Mass and Main Residential Mixed Income Subdistrict within the Central Square Overlay District. This hearing to be televised. (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Mar 2
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Tues, Mar 3
4:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to continue discussions on the zoning petition filed by Whitehead Institute to amend the Zoning Ordinance, Sections 14.32.1 and 14.32.2 to provide for an increment of 60,000 square feet of GFA to be allowed by special permit in a portion of the MXD District, in Section 14.70 by retitling "Special Provisions Applicable Within the Ames Street District" and by adding a new Section 14.72 "Special Provisions Applicable Outside the Ames Street District. (Lombardi Conference Room, 831 Mass. Ave.)
Wed, Mar 4
5:30pm The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public hearing to consider a presentation from Mothers Out Front and to discuss ways of advancing the goal of net zero emissions by promoting the use of renewable energy and exploring the potential for a utility aggregation program. (Lombardi Conference Room, 831 Mass. Ave.)
Mon, Mar 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Wed, Mar 18
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the C2 portion of the K2C2 Study. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Wed, Mar 25
4:00pm The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public hearing to receive updates and to discuss next steps for the shared-use, rail-with-trail path along the City's Grand Junction corridor. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Mar 26
5:30pm The Housing Committee will meet. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Apr 6
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public hearing to receive an update from the City Manager's Office on the measures it has taken to increase diversity and fairness within the City's workforce since taking office. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 13
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 11
4:00pm 2015 Scholarship Award Ceremony (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 1
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-3 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015 Amended
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council and City Administration is very much concerned with the challenges faced by those struggling with homelessness in our community; and
WHEREAS: A recent Boston Globe article pointed out that on any given night there is a shortage of approximately 100 shelter beds in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The Human Services and Veteran's Committee will be evaluating the City's Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness, which is currently in year nine and focuses on many long-term solutions to this crisis; and
WHEREAS: Although the City must focus on these long term solutions such as transitional and affordable housing; job training; mental health and substance abuse care; and hunger, there is an immediate need to shelter and feed people each and every night, particularly during these cold winter months; and
WHEREAS: The closing of the Long Island Shelter in Boston has further added to the lack of shelter beds in the metropolitan area; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Human Services Department, Community Development Department, Health Department and any other relative departments as well as local shelters to determine a way to fund and supply an additional 100 shelter beds as soon as possible so that the City can better address the immediate shelter needs of our homeless community members while ongoing conversations are taking place regarding long-term solutions to this crisis; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the homeless situation for women and families.
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council as soon as possible regarding any recommendations or plans to address this immediate need.
O-4 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015 Amended
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge shares state elected officials with the surrounding communities of Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Everett, Somerville, and Watertown; and
WHEREAS: These communities share many of the same challenges including the lack of affordable housing, education needs, poverty, public transportation, and environmental issues; and
WHEREAS: Despite sharing these challenges and being geographically close to one another, elected officials and city administrators from these communities never gather together to discuss these regional and shared interests; and
WHEREAS: The gathering of elected officials and city administrators from these communities to discuss these issues could lead to a unified effort to lobby the state for greater support to address these and other issues; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Mayor to reach out to representatives and city officials in these other communities to gauge interest in forming an inter-city committee which would meet three times per year to discuss and develop strategies for common issues that would be best handled regionally with support from the state.
O-7 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015 Amended; Charter Right - Mazen
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The property located at Vail Court has long been a blight on the surrounding community; and
WHEREAS: The current owners have shown no willingness to maintain this abandoned property; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact the current owners of the Vail Court property and demand that graffiti be removed, exterminators assess the property, and any other maintenance that would improve the appearance and safety of this building be conducted immediately; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to levy any fines legally allowed by the City if the property owners fail to address these needs; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to also investigate whether the current parking taking place on this property is legally permitted and meets safety standards, and if not to take immediate action to shut down this parking lot; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to notify the owners of Vail Court that they must respond in writing, to the City Manager within 30 days of receiving said notice with their long term plans for this property or the City will take legal action including the possibility of taking the property by eminent domain.
O-9 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
WHEREAS: Cambridge faces a number of issues that are also pertinent to neighboring municipalities, including: urban planning, affordable housing and education; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge and Somerville are closely interconnected communities and should explore opportunities to collaborate on regional issues; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge City Councillors and City officials ought to have regular opportunities and incentive to directly coordinate with their Somerville counterparts; and
WHEREAS: Corresponding departments between Cambridge and Somerville could form partnerships and share information on issues that affect both cities such as the upcoming Green Line extension; and
WHEREAS: A committee, working group, or department initiative could be formed to explore the best methods of forming regional partnerships across the Greater Boston Area; and
WHEREAS: Somerville has already been through the Master Plan process, sharing of information on this process would be beneficial for Cambridge, and similar reciprocity could be established for Somerville; and
WHEREAS: These meetings could eventually include surrounding municipalities such as Arlington, Belmont, Boston, and Watertown; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and elected officials from Somerville to arrange a public meeting of the two cities to discuss regionalism and potential regular scheduling; and be it further
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-21 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: A number of months ago, the City of Cambridge fenced off portions of the area around Cambridge Common in anticipation of a major rehabilitation project; and
WHEREAS: Residents have expressed concern and frustration over that fact that much time has elapsed without many visible signs of work or progress on the project; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of the Cambridge Common renovation project along with an update on next steps and the projected date of completion.
O-24 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: Planning for the Grand Junction Multiuse Path continues to advance and portions of the first portions of the path are slated for construction starting in Spring 2015; and
WHEREAS: While support for the path grows there are many design and land issues that need to be resolved along the corridor to ensure a future where the Grand Junction Multiuse Path is a safe and viable transportation option through all of Eastern Cambridge; and
ORDERED: Providing flexibility to property owners along the Grand Junction by creating a Grand Junction Overlay District could help to solve some of the conflicts that have been identified in various feasibility studies, preserve safe setbacks needed to create a viable path, and eliminate any conflicts with possible additional rails; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development and report back to the City Council with language that could create a Grand Junction Overlay District that would help to create incentives and ensure the completion of the Grand Junction Multiuse Path.
O-25 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Educational equity is critical for economic mobility and for addressing structural inequality; and
WHEREAS: For the past ten months representatives from local universities, corporations, community non-profits, the School Department, and the Human Services department have been meeting regularly as part of a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) working group; and
WHEREAS: The STEAM Working Group mandate is to develop a plan that improves coordination within and between out of school time STEAM programs for youth and adults, ultimately increasing the breadth and scope of educational opportunities for underserved communities; and
WHEREAS: The Working Group builds off of the work conducted by former Mayor Henrietta Davis's city-wide STEM inclusion roundtable and the work of various City departments, as well as work done by previous councils; and
WHEREAS: Over the course of many months of research and citywide conversation, the STEAM Working Group has officially recommended that the City of Cambridge: make a citywide commitment to becoming a world-class STEAM city; establish a STEAM portal for internships and opportunities; create a STEAM Center in the city for learners of all ages; create a comprehensive network of internships to match the skill level and interests of all learners; and launch a communications and outreach campaign drawing all families into the full range of educational and economic opportunities in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The STEAM Center will provide hands-on STEAM learning activities, exhibitions, workshops, presentations, and job training, eventually establishing satellite neighborhood STEAM Centers; and
WHEREAS: Achieving " comprehensive network of internships requires the City to inventory and categorize existing internships, facilitate collaboration with potential host organizations to create new internships, and collaborate with researchers to evaluate and improve the entire network's existing internship experiences; and
WHEREAS: A communications and outreach campaign launched by the City should sponsor "Wow" projects to engage students, adults, and the entire community in complex interdisciplinary projects, should: use branding, newsletters, social media, email, mailings, and street teams to assure an increase in equity and participation; hold frequent neighborhood information sessions and focus groups to build residents' knowledge about STEAM and Out of School Time opportunities, and to garner feedback on program activities; offer STEAM tours to build excitement and interest; establish a STEAM youth advisory group; and engage STEAM stakeholders and industry in leading this campaign; and
WHEREAS: The STEAM portal will function as a searchable database of STEAM/Out of School Time internships, activities, and opportunities, including an integrated calendar, searchable map, feedback options for learners and families, and feedback options for Out of School time programs, also including a digital badge system that will allow learners to track their own activities, progress, and options while communicating accomplishments to mentors and OST programs; and
WHEREAS: The most critical, central STEAM Working Group recommendation charges the City to establish and gather funds for a 3-4 person STEAM Coordination Office to implement the set of working group recommendations over 3-5 years or beyond; and
WHEREAS: The STEAM Coordination Office will work across city departments, the schools, companies, universities, nonprofits, and other organizations fulfill these recommendations as a community-wide effort; and
WHEREAS: The STEAM Working Group also recommends convening a standing STEAM advisory group that includes members from the current STEAM Working Group, STEAM professionals, community members, parents, educators, learners, and other stakeholders, to bring valuable feedback to the STEAM Coordination Office and to review accomplishments, short-term goals, and long-term vision; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to determine the feasibility of executing the above recommendations with the appropriate City departments; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to present a plan for shared city and corporate financing of the STEAM Coordination Office and report back to the City Council; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-26 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015 Charter Right - Simmons
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council passed the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance in 1998 and has since created 822 units of affordable rental and ownership housing completed in new developments located throughout the city; and
WHEREAS: With an emphasis on creating affordable units on-site as part of new residential developments, the Ordinance has become a model for other communities looking to address affordability for lower-income residents in high-cost areas, and has worked to ensure that the socio-economic diversity of the community is reflected in new housing; and
WHEREAS: Article 11.200 of the Zoning Ordinance states that the purposes of incentive zoning provisions and inclusionary housing provisions are to promote the public health, safety and welfare by encouraging the expansion and upgrading of the City's housing stock while accommodating the expansion of housing and commercial opportunities in the City; and to provide for a full range of housing choices throughout the city for households of all incomes, ages and sizes in order to meet the City's goal of preserving diversity; and
WHEREAS: Article 11.200 of the Zoning Ordinance also states that the purposes of incentive zoning provisions and inclusionary housing provisions are to mitigate the impacts of commercial and residential development on the availability and cost of housing and especially housing affordable to low and moderate income households; to increase the production of affordable housing units to meet existing and anticipated housing and employment needs within the City; and to provide a mechanism by which commercial and residential development can contribute in a direct way to increasing the supply of affordable housing in exchange for a greater density or intensity of development than that otherwise permitted as a matter of right, among other things; and
WHEREAS: The Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance is often undervalued and misunderstood; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to determine the feasibility of creating a survey in collaboration with the Community Development Department and other appropriate departments to gather data on the positive impact of the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance on the lives of Cambridge residents and families; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to determine the feasibility of hosting a town hall meeting where tenants and families who benefit from the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance can come together to share their experiences and provide valuable feedback on how to perfect the program, and report back to the Council.
O-27 Jan 29, 2015 Feb 23, 2015 Amended
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
WHEREAS: Prior to the filling in of Boston's Back Bay and Charles River marshes, brackish saltwater reached into what is now Area 4; and
WHEREAS: After landfill allowed Cambridge to expand over the area now known as Cambridgeport, this entire portion of Cambridge was known as the "Old Port;" and
WHEREAS: Cambridge's "Old Port" was split into two planning zones, Area 4 and Area 5, by the Cambridge Community Development department, with Massachusetts Avenue as the dividing line; and
WHEREAS: The "Port" name went to Area 5, today known as Cambridgeport, where the waterfront is currently located, and inland Area 4 lost its name and became known by its neighborhood planning designation, which is also its police zone; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to determine the feasibility of and to engage the Fletcher-Maynard School to create a community process that would culminate on Area 4 Pride Days for the renaming Area 4 "The Port" and report back to the City Council in a timely manner.
O-29 Feb 2, 2015 Feb 23, 2015
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: As Kendall Square continues to experience remarkable growth and transformation, it becomes increasingly important to nurture the public realm, and as even greater density is proposed, it should be complemented by significant public open space; and
WHEREAS: In 2001, the City's Eastern Cambridge Planning Study recommended a large park on the site of the U.S. DOT Volpe Center in Kendall Square; and
WHEREAS: Subsequently, the city council adopted zoning to require a 7.5-acre public park as part of any future redevelopment of the Volpe site; and
WHEREAS: Over the years, as individual proposals for new development and greater density have been considered, residents have relied on the expectation of a future provision of a significant open space on the Volpe site; and
WHEREAS: City Staff recently presented an initial rezoning proposal for the Volpe site to the Planning Board; the new proposal would reduce the required public open space from 7.5 acres to just 2.5 acres; and
WHEREAS: On Jan 14, 2015, members of the East Cambridge Planning Team voted unanimously to reaffirm their desire to preserve the full amount of required open space on the Volpe site; and
WHEREAS: While the Connect Kendall Square design competition is likely to yield additional ideas for the allocation of open space throughout the area, residents nevertheless expect the City to honor the commitment for a park on the Volpe site; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager work with all relevant City Staff to revise the proposed zoning for the Volpe site to include an option for a 7.5 acre public park as originally planned; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager report back to the council on this matter.
O-36 Feb 2, 2015 Feb 23, 2015
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: At the most recent roundtable between the Cambridge City Council and the Planning Board, the City Manager suggested that a working group of representative members from the City Council, Planning Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, License Commission, and any other boards charged with enacting Council policy may be useful in identifying areas of ambiguity in ordinance and zoning that the Council could clarify to make its intent more clear and focus to the work of these agencies on cases genuinely in need of specific attention; and
WHEREAS: Such a group could either propose amendments to ordinance or zoning or could help the Council by identifying areas in need of attention, with the goal of making the city more efficient, responsive, and hospitable; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Mayor and various boards and agencies of the City to confers such a working group.
O-37 Feb 2, 2015 Feb 23, 2015
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to apply on behalf of the City of Cambridge for a Code for America fellow under the program detailed here: http://www.codeforamerica.org/blog/2015/01/21/bring-the-code-for-america-fellowship-to-your-local-government/
AWAITING REPORT LIST
14-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what options exist for dedicated office space for members of the City Council.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Carlone 04/28/14 (O-5)
14-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the potential for creating a program to enable bilingual high school students to learn language interpretation skills and to practice those skills at community meetings and events throughout the City.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Mazen, Councillor McGovern & Councillor Cheung 06/02/14 (O-5)
14-57. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on drafting an ordinance that would limit the sale of single-serving PET bottles of 1 liter or less and develop a task force to provide clear guidelines for this ordinance.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mazen & Vice Mayor Benzan 06/09/14 (O-3)
14-69. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on forming a pilot street team of engaged youth and residents as an experimental model for more consistent departmental outreach, community engagement, youth engagement and civic engagement.
Councillor Mazen 06/30/14 (O-13)
14-74. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on publicizing and convening a community meeting within 72 hours of any catastrophic event that could impact public safety. Referred back by Councillor Simmons on 12/8/14 for additional information.
Councillor Simmons 07/28/14 (O-3)
14-78. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of launching a homeless donation meter program.
Councillor Simmons 07/28/14 (O-10)
14-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing a Neighborhood Captain Program.
Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Benzan 07/28/14 (O-11)
14-81. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to ensure that the apprentice program provision remains part of the Cambridge Employment Plan.
Councillor McGovern & Councillor Simmons 07/28/14 (O-14)
14-89. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the outsourcing of City jobs and how outside vendors are chosen.
Councillor Simmons & Councillor McGovern 09/08/14 (O-2)
14-90. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the City's hiring process and on what kind of professional development and career advancement programs are offered to existing employees.
Councillor Simmons & Councillor McGovern 09/08/14 (O-3)
14-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a summary of previous recommendations for the Volpe Center site included planning studies such as but not limited to, ECAPS, Neighborhood Planning Studies, K2, and efforts by the East Cambridge Planning Team and that the report summarize zoning and zoning overlays, and outline the development potential and limitation of this area.
Councillor Toomey 09/08/14 (O-4)
14-97. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the ML King School construction project is in compliance with the Cambridge Employment Plan ordinance.
Councillor McGovern, Vice Mayor Benzan & Councillor Simmons 09/15/14 (O-9)
14-98. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on travel route taken by circus animals and provide copies of proposals to ban exotic animals from Somerville and Plymouth to members of the Ordinance Committee.
Vice Mayor Benzan 09/15/14 (O-13)
14-106. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the best way to implement a plan to solicit and receive payment in addition to real estate taxes from willing participants and used to support city services.
Councillor Toomey 10/20/14 (O-2)
14-111. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of hosting a Cambridge Challenge Competition for Transportation that offers a prize to the resident or group of residents that come up with the best viable solution to solve our greatest traffic issues.
Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern & Councillor Mazen 10/20/14 (O-16)
14-113. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of reducing the minimum income requirement under the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance for single person households made up of a senior and/or disabled resident and provide any challenges associated with the proposed reduction.
Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Carlone 10/20/14 (O-19)
14-118. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on negative impacts of street-narrowing initiatives.
Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor Kelley & Councillor McGovern 10/27/14 (O-4)
14-119. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on review of drone use in Cambridge for developing a City regulation or Ordinance on such use.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Mazen 10/27/14 (O-5)
14-121. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic flow issues, number of collisions, traffic enforcement efforts and possible safety improvements in the area of Rindge Avenue from Cedar to Clifton Streets.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Mazen 10/27/14 (O-8)
14-122. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on organizing a series of meetings with residents to discuss the future of North Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Mazen 10/27/14 (O-9)
14-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of hosting an open air STEAM festival in coordination with the Cambridge Science Festival.
Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern & Councillor Mazen 10/27/14 (O-12)
14-127. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on best way to implement PaperHealth in Massachusetts Area Hospitals.
Councillor Mazen 10/27/14 (O-15)
14-129. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of the Masse Hardware sites at 243 and 253 Walden Street for affordable housing.
Vice Mayor Benzan & Councillor McGovern 10/27/14 (O-17)
14-130. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether preference points can legally be allotted to all city employees for affordable housing units.
Councillor Cheung & Vice Mayor Benzan 11/03/14 (O-1)
14-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how private citizens can best protect their property and claim redress for alleged damages from private contractors during City-funded construction projects. Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on 1/29/2015.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Mazen & Vice Mayor Benzan 11/10/14 (O-1)
14-135. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the legal limitation of the City to regulate all manner of vehicular traffic within Cambridge borders, including loading and unloading zones, truck and bus timing regulations.
Councillor Kelley 11/10/14 (O-6)
14-137. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of posting speed limit signs of 20-25 miles per hour on city streets.
Councillor Carlone 11/24/14 (O-2)
14-139. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a feasibility study and subsequent action plan, instituting suffrage for immigrants in Cambridge.
Councillor Mazen 11/24/14 (O-5)
14-140. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing a Garden of Peace.
Vice Mayor Benzan 11/24/14 (O-7)
14-142. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the City divesting from all manner of engagement with Dow Chemical Company, including Retirement Board investments.
Councillor Mazen 11/24/14 (O-12)
14-145. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible changes to the "Super Crosswalk" including the bike crossing at Church Street.
Councillor Kelley 12/08/14 (O-12)
14-146. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the citywide planning efforts will impact staff workload and any capacity considerations the City Council should take into account when contemplating these or other initiatives.
Councillor Cheung 12/08/14 (O-13)
14-147. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to streamline both the City's process and the City's technology for replying to Massachusetts Public Records Law requests and to examine how major cities' open data and FOIA requests are handled, including options for a full time data management team including representatives of the City Clerk's office, the City Solicitor's office, and IT.
Councillor Mazen 11/24/14 (O-13)
14-148. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on allowing a Veteran Owned Business classification similar to Women and Minority Owned Businesses.
Councillor Toomey 12/15/14 (O-5)
15-02. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of taking Vail Court lot by eminent domain.
Vice Mayor Benzan 01/05/15 (O-3)
15-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on constructing 1,000 brand new affordable housing units in the City by the end of this decade.
Councillor Simmons 01/05/15 (O-9)
15-04. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on next steps to converting the Watertown Branch rail line from Concord Avenue to the Fitchburg Line corridor into a shared-use path either by way of city purchase and construction or by way of private landowner construction. Calendar Item Number 2 of 1/29/2015 - date of Adoption.
Councillor Mazen, Councillor Kelley & Councillor McGovern 01/05/15 (O-2)