Cambridge City Council meeting - Feb 25, 2013 - AGENDA

CITY MANAGER AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-02, regarding a report on the repair of street lights that are not working at the intersection of Mt. Auburn Street, Gerry's Landing, and Fresh Pond Parkway and in the City of Cambridge.

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-65, regarding a report on Sunday openings at the Library.

February 25, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:

In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-65, regarding a report on Sunday openings at the Library, please be advised of the following:

The Main Library Sunday schedule begins on the first Sunday after Columbus Day and ends on the last Sunday in April.

Sunday openings have cost and service implications for the library system. According to our collective bargaining agreement, Sunday is not a required work day for CPLSA members. Therefore Sunday work is optional. It takes a minimum of 18 people (of varying skill levels and expertise) to open the Main Library on Sunday.

Our experience is that as the weather improves and vacations occur, Sunday staffing becomes more challenging. This fiscal year approximately one half of eligible staff members offered to work on Sundays. Library staff members work nights and weekends throughout the year. During the summer months, as everyone wants to take a summer vacation during the short 8 weeks window of July and August, it becomes challenging to staff even our regular library hours.

As stipulated in the CPLSA contract, to induce staff to work on Sundays, two compensation options are offered to induce staff to work on Sundays:

   • Time and a half pay
   • Double time comp time

As a result, the cost of opening for four hours on Sunday significantly exceeds the cost for the same time period during the week. While the time and a half option has an immediate financial impact, the double time comp time option also has a significant effect on our staffing. As staff members exercise their option to take their comp time, the library frequently must add additional hours to the schedule to cover that absence.

The City has placed a proposal for Sunday openings on the "collective bargaining table," and I am hopeful that some additional Sunday openings may result.

Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy City Manager

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-74, regarding a report on expanding the barbeque pilot program in parks throughout the City.

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Kids' Council effective Feb 10, 2013:
George Halfkenny, Community-at-Large member (3-year term)
Visceria Givans, Youth Representative (term expires upon graduation from High School)

Feb 25, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointment of the following persons as member of the Kids' Council effective Feb 10, 2013:

George Halfkenny, Community-at-Large member (3-year term)
Mr. Halfkenny grew up in Walden Square, has two children attending Cambridge Public Schools, has very strong ties to the community and will bring a valuable and unique perspective to the Kids' Council. He has been involved in the community in a variety of ways, including working on dismantling the School to Prison Pipeline in Cambridge and participating and organizing Restorative Justice Circles.

Visceria Givans, Youth Representative (term expires upon graduation from High School)
Visceria is a junior at CRLS and has been an active member of the Youth Involvement Subcommittee for two years. She has also been involved in many other activities, clubs and sports. Not only will Visceria learn a great deal from this opportunity, but she will also provide the Council with essential feedback from the perspective of a young person growing up in Cambridge.

Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a Constable for a term of three years, effective the first day of January, 2013:  James E. Jones, Whitman, MA

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-141, regarding a report on improving safety concerns at the Kennedy-Longfellow School and MLK School.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-90, regarding a report on Executive Session to discuss lawsuits.
Tabled - Kelley

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-02, regarding a report on the Hubway bikeshare program.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $369,310 to the Community Development Public Investment Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account to be used to pay for the purchase of three Hubway bike share stations, holding 10 bikes at each station from a Federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Grant passed through the Massachusetts's Department of Transportation ($125,822); Google ($88,400); Cambridgeside Galleria Mall ($85,000); Harvard University ($66,044); and Massachusetts Institute of Technology ($4,044).

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-01, regarding single occupancy vehicle target rates.
Referred to Transportation, Traffic & Parking Committee - vanBeuzekom

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-142, regarding a report on audio and visual upgrades/equipment in the Sullivan Chamber and other meeting spaces.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $183,441 from the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources' Green Communities grant program to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account and will be used to improve energy efficiency at the Peabody School, Gately Youth Center, and O'Neill Library.

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Council Order No. 14, dated 2/11/13 regarding the Forest City Petition and letter of commitment to ensure that it is consistent with other letters of commitment, and Council Order No. 15 dated 2/11/13 regarding whether the Forest City Petition would be considered spot zoning. [Legal opinion from Nancy Glowa, City Solicitor]
Referred to petition

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $4,895 from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) to the Grant Fund Police Other Ordinary Maintenance account which is a reimbursement for hosting the International Association of Crime Analysts (IACA) Crime Mapping and Analysis GIS Training in October 2012.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the City of Cambridge retaining the rare distinction of being one of 37 municipalities in the United States with three AAA ratings from the nation's three major credit rating agencies.

City of Cambridge Bond Ratings - 2013

February 25, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am pleased to inform you that the City of Cambridge retains the rare distinction of being one of 37 municipalities in the United States with three AAA ratings from the nation's three major credit rating agencies.  The City has received AAA ratings from Moody's Investors Service, Standard & Poor's and Fitch Ratings every year since 1999.

These ratings are in conjunction with the City's sale of $65.3 million in General Obligation bonds, which took place on February 19, 2013 to finance such capital projects as King Elementary School Renovations, Sewer Reconstruction, Old Police Station Renovations, Improvements to the Harvard Square Tunnel, Open Space Improvements, Acquisition of a Fire Ladder Truck and Pumper, Building Improvements, and Street and Sidewalk Improvements at Kendall Square.

In addition, Standard & Poor's reaffirmed its "strong" Financial Management Assessment (FMA) of the City.   An FMA of "strong" indicates that practices are strong, well embedded and likely sustainable. The strong rating indicates that the government maintains most best practices deemed critical to supporting credit quality and that these are well embedded in the government's daily operations and practices. Formal policies support many of these activities, adding to the likelihood that these practices will continue into the future and transcend changes in the operating environment or personnel.  

Based on this ongoing recognition from the rating agencies, especially during these challenging economic times for municipalities, the City Council can be justly proud of its sound fiscal policies.

I have attached the final rating opinions of Fitch Ratings, Moody's Investors Service and Standard & Poor's Corporation.  Listed below are highlights from the Fitch, Moody's and Standard & Poor's credit reports.

Fitch Ratings

Key Rating Drivers
Exceptional Financial Management: Management's conservative budgeting practices and prudent use of reserves has helped keep tax levy increases at moderate levels while the city faces growing employee-related costs.

Above-Average Reserve and Liquidity Levels: The city's positive financial profile is characterized by large reserves and ample liquidity. Additionally, the city's levy margin continues to grow favorably to the highest level in the city's history.

Economic Diversity Promotes Stability: The stable presence of higher education, healthcare, biotechnology, and life sciences industries supports the well-diversified economy with low unemployment and above-average wealth levels.

New Development Continues: Ongoing development within the city is projected to promote growth in assessed value, providing the city with tax levy flexibility for operations and debt service.

Moderate Debt Levels: Debt levels are moderate and expected to remain manageable, aided by the city's rapid amortization rate.

Credit Profile
Cambridge is located in Middlesex County across the Charles River from the city of Boston and is an important economic component for the Boston metropolitan area and Massachusetts as a whole. The city benefits from the presence of both Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology These institutions are the city's top two employers with a combined workforce of 19,000. The city continues to experience employment expansion amongst companies in the biotechnology and life and sciences sector. Leading biotech companies, including Novartis, Biogen Idec, Vertex, Pfizer Millennium and Genzyme, employ more than 8,500 Cambridge workers. Several major software and internet companies have recently established research and development operations in Cambridge including Microsoft, Google, and VMware. Cambridge continues to be recognized for its high level of venture capital investment totaling $305 million during the third quarter of 2012, as new ventures are attracted to Cambridge's highly skilled workforce, urban setting and proximity to cutting edge companies and research institutions.

The city's well-diversified economy is characterized by a low November 2012 unemployment rate of 3.8%. Numerous economic development projects are under way or in the planning stages and include expansions to existing corporate facilities and new offices or labs.

Exceptional financial management and planning are demonstrated by the city's strong financial position. The city continues to strategically use general fund reserves, including debt stabilization funds, to keep tax levies at moderate levels. Reserve levels remain strong. 

Conservative revenue projections and lower than estimated expenses helped overcome the use of reserves, which has typically been the city's experience. The city has historically maintained an unreserved fund balance well in excess of the city's fund balance policy requiring an unreserved general fund balance equal to at least 15% of the ensuing year's budgeted revenues.

Cambridge's $116 million of certified free cash for fiscal 2012 (up from $102 million in fiscal 2011) is the largest amount in the city's history. Fitch Ratings also notes that Cambridge's substantial $104 million of excess levy capacity under Proposition 2½ (up from $102.6 million) provides the city with significant financial flexibility.

Moody's Investors Service

Summary Rating Rationale
The Aaa rating reflects the city's large, diverse and stable tax base, which is anchored by world renowned higher education institutions and a growing research and development sector. 

Also incorporated into the Aaa rating are a healthy financial position which has remained historically stable, management's consistently conservative approach to budgeting and expenditure management and a favorable debt profile supported by healthy enterprise systems. 

Strengths

 Challenges

Highlights

COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT SPURS MODEST TAX BASE GROWTH
Cambridge's economy benefits from the presence of Harvard University (rated Aaa/stable outlook) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT, rated Aaa/stable outlook) -- which together enroll 27,940 students and provide employment for almost 19,000 full-time equivalent positions -- and the related vibrant biotechnology, pharmaceutical and life sciences employment base. Together these institutions comprise 42% of the jobs provided by the city's top 25 employers while building permits issued to the universities historically represent a significant portion of the city's annual activity. Cambridge's assessed value has remained strong during the economic downturn and lagging recovery, largely due to the ongoing expansion of the city's commercial sector. New development continues in the city, as evidenced by improving building permit activity. Fiscal 2012 building permit valuations totaled approximately $1.1 billion, resulting in $15.9 million in revenue to the city. This represents a significant increase over 2011 permit valuations of $503.2 million, and is largely a result of several large scale commercial developments primarily located in Harvard Square and Kendall Square districts. 

From 2007 through the fall of 2012, Cambridge has added approximately 898,000 square feet of commercial space, with several additional projects under construction. City officials report that over 6.3 million additional square feet of space, primarily slated for biotechnology research and development, is in various stages of construction, or is already completed, in the city's economic development districts. Cambridge's commercial vacancy rate compares favorably to metro Boston.

Incorporating a 3.8% population increase since 2000, the city's equalized value per capita is a robust $253,325 in fiscal 2013; despite the tax exempt status of nearly one-third of the tax base.

HEALTHY FINANCIAL POSITION CHARACTERIZED BY AMPLE RESERVE LEVELS AND PROACTIVE MANAGEMENT
Cambridge is expected to maintain a healthy financial position in the near term, although stabilization funds earmarked for debt service are expected to be depleted over the next several years. The city continues to benefit from ample financial flexibility and robust reserve levels, which position it to absorb an extended period of flat or declining state aid and sluggish local revenue growth. Cambridge's management team maintains formally adopted fiscal policies for its annual budgeting. Steady revenue streams, generated by its substantial and stable tax base, provide flexibility to address budgetary challenges.

AFFORDABLE DEBT BURDEN WITH MANAGEABLE CAPITAL NEEDS
Cambridge's debt obligations will remain affordable given a sizeable level of self-supporting debt and a rapid principal retirement schedule.

Self-supporting water and sewer system debt as well as the city's pay-as-you-go funding plan, budgeted at approximately $5 million annually, also contribute to Cambridge's favorable debt ratios. Direct debt is retired at an average pace of 81.2% within ten years.  

Outlook
The stable outlook reflects Moody's expectation that Cambridge will maintain a healthy financial position, given its strong reserve levels and history of balanced operations. Moody's also expects that the city will continue to improve funding ratios for pension and OPEB while maintaining a conservative approach to budgeting and expenditure management.

Standard & Poor's Corporation

Rationale
Standard & Poor's Ratings Services has assigned its 'AAA' long-term rating to Cambridge, Mass.' Series 2013 general obligation (GO) bonds and affirmed its 'AAA' long-term rating on the city's GO parity debt. The outlook is stable.

The ratings reflect our opinion of the city's: 

Standard & Poor's considers Cambridge's financial management practices "strong" under its Financial Management Assessment methodology, indicating practices are strong, well embedded, and likely sustainable. 

Outlook
The stable outlook reflects Cambridge's very strong financial position, experienced management team and strong financial management policies and practices. We do not expect to change the rating within the two-year outlook period as we expect the city's strong and resilient local economy and property tax base will continue to provide sound revenue to support the city's financial position. 

Economy: Diverse With Multiple Large Employers
The city remains an employment center: In 2011, the city was host to one job for every city resident. Cambridge is home to a concentrated cluster of world-recognized biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms that are attracted by the concentration of intellectual capital at Harvard; MIT; and the Whitehead Institute, a research and development think tank. Private biotechnology firms account for six of the city's 25 leading employers.

Finances
The total and available general fund balances both increased in fiscal 2012 due to a combination of both revenue and expenditure surpluses. A $27.0 million increase in the available general fund balance brought it to $126.7 million or 28.7% of operating expenditures. The total fund balance was $163.2 million or 37% of expenditures.

The fiscal 2013 budget increased by 2.9% from the prior budget, and the tax levy increased by 6.0%. The budget appropriates $9.0 million of free cash (general fund balance), which was reserved in the fiscal year-end 2012 balance sheet, along with some funds from non-general fund reserves. The city has agreements with eight of its 10 collective bargaining units; the teachers and firefighters contracts are still being negotiated, but management expects the settled contracts will be manageable. Cambridge's five-year financial forecast projects continued free cash appropriations of $8 million to $9 million, along with reductions from various stabilization reserve funds in line with the plans when those funds were established. The city's reserve policy requires at least a 15% general fund balance. 

Debt, Pensions, and Other Postemployment Benefits
Following this issuance, the city will have $68.5 million of authorized unissued debt remaining. We expect that the city's additional debt burden should remain moderate.

As of Jan. 1, 2012, the city's unfunded pension actuarial accrued liability increased to $237.8 million. The city recently pushed the full pension funding date back to 2029 from 2013, due to investment losses. Officials indicate that once the city fully funds the pension liability, it may dedicate the former pension funding to making payments for the other postemployment benefits (OPEB) liability, but they have not yet made a decision on this funding issue.

As of June 30, 2012, the unfunded OPEB actuarial accrued liability was $611.1 million. The city currently funds its OPEB on a pay-as-you-go basis, with a fiscal 2012 contribution of $22.5 million, or 5.1% of general fund expenditures. The city established an OPEB trust fund in December 2009 and made a $1.0 million contribution in fiscal 2013, and officials expect a $2.0 million contribution for fiscal 2014.

Very truly yours,
Robert W. Healy
City Manager

ON THE TABLE
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-09, regarding a report on the use of coal and on Cambridge becoming coal-free. [City Manager Agenda Number One of Mar 5, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Mar 5, 2012.]

2. Urge greater cooperation from the Cambridge Housing Authority to better serve the people of Cambridge. [Order Number Two of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Apr 9, 2012.]

3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and other relevant departments in order to present to the City Council a map of Cambridge that shows, by location and by date, all of the areas where construction is and will be taking place over the coming decade. [Order Number Four of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Apr 9, 2012.]

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item No. 12-28, regarding temporary ramps and obstructions in construction zones. [City Manager Agenda Number Eight of Apr 23, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 23, 2012.]

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-35, which requests a report on whether there were any public safety officers that falsified their emergency medical training re-certification while employed by the City of Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Two of May 21, 2012. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on June 4, 2012.]

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-63 regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Vassar Street. [City Manager Number Twenty-three of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on July 30, 2012.]

7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City staff and report back to the City Council on whether a tagging program could be implemented to notify owners of bicycles that have been removed from sign posts by the Department of Public Works and contact information for retrieval of said bicycle. [Order Number Fourteen of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on July 30, 2012. Councillor Toomey recorded in the negative on Tabling.]

8. That the Cambridge City Council go on record urging the members of the Massachusetts Committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling to pass MA House Bill 4165, "An Act Relative to Speed Limits." [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eleven of Nov 19, 2012. Order Number Eleven of Nov 19, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Dec 3, 2012.]

9. That the City Manager is requested to work together with the appropriate city officials including the City Solicitor and report back to the City Council regarding modification of the ordinance (10.12.030) that links the awarding of a one yearlong Visitor Parking Permit per household to the purchase of a $25 Cambridge Resident Parking Permit. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013. Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on Feb 11, 2013.]

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
10. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, Offfice of the City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public meeting held on Jan 30, 2013 to continue discussions on a zoning petition filed by Zevart M. Hollisian, Trustee of Garabed B. Hollisian Trust and L-Z Realty Trust and Seth D. Alexander, President, MIT Investment Management Company to amend the zoning Ordinance and Map by extending the Cambridgeport Revitalization Development District from Green Street out to Massachusetts Avenue in the area adjacent to Blanche Street; said petition includes a map and a commitment letter. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 25, 2013. Planning Board hearing held Jan 8, 2013. Petition expires Apr 17, 2013.
Ordained 9-0 as amended, Ordinance #1354 [Revised letter of commitment approved and made part of zoning 8-1 (vanBeuzekom NO)]

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from The Just Crust LLC requesting permission for a pre-existing blade sign at the premises numbered 49B Brattle Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development and Historical Commission.

2. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at City Hall announcing the Central Square Cultural District.

3. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at City Hall announcing the Central Square Cultural District.

4. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Pearl and Norfolk Streets announcing the Central Square Cultural District.

5. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Pearl and Norfolk Streets announcing the Taste of Cambridge on June 20th.

6. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Pearl and Norfolk Streets announcing the Taste of Cambridge on June 20th.

7. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Pearl and Norfolk Streets announcing the Dragon Boat Festival on June 8th and June 9th.

8. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at City Hall announcing the Cambridge River Festival on June 2nd.

9. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across JFK Street at Mount Auburn Street announcing the Cambridge River Festival on June 2nd.

10. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Pearl and Norfolk Streets announcing the Together Festival from May 13th-May 18th and Another Worlds Fair on May 18th.

11. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across JFK Street at Mount Auburn Street announcing Cambridge Open Studios North/West on May 11th and May 12th.

12. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at City Hall announcing Cambridge Open Studios East/Central on May 19th and May 20th.

13. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Pearl and Norfolk Streets announcing the Central Square Cultural District.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Peter Valentine, 37 Brookline Street regarding city food supply in an emergency.

2. A communication was received from Reverend Danny Dee Gug regarding ordination as an Interfaith Minister.

3. A communication was received from Wayne F. Patenaude transmitting sincere thanks for your thoughtful congratulations on his appointment to President and Chief Executive Officer of Cambridge Savings Bank.

4. A communication was received from Monica Raymond regarding not approving Forest City's petition.

5. A communication was received from Alec Papazian, 105 Norfolk Street #3, regarding upzoning support for parts of Central and Kendall Squares for commercial and residential development.

6. A communication was received from Marion Rogers, 304 Washington Street #1 regarding rejecting Forest City.

7. A communication was received from David Mattei, 238 Columbia Street transmitting opposition to Forest City's petition to up-zone the MIT-owned property at 300 Massachusetts Avenue.

8. A communication was received from Ugebai Powei regarding rejecting Forest City Petition.

9. A communication was received from Dara Glass, 21 Edmunds Street regarding rejecting Forest City Petition.

10. A communication was received from Parker Heckner, 105 Norfolk Street #3 transmitting support for development.

11. A communication was received from Suzanne Bas-Davis regarding rejecting Forest City Petition.

12. A communication was received from Kathleen Leahy Born, AIA, LEED AP Chair regarding the 2013 Annual Meeting of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority on Feb 27, 2013 at 5:30pm in the Community Room of the Robert Healy Public Safety Center, 125 Sixth Street.

13. A communication was received from Cheryl -Ann Pizza-Zeoli, ACT Voucher Co-Chair and Victoria Bergland, ACT Public Housing Co-Chair (Alliance of Cambridge Tenants) regarding the appointment of a tenant representative on the Cambridge Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.

14. A communication was received from Lee Farris, Steering Committee, Cambridge Residents Alliance regarding opposition to the Forest City up-zoning and up-zoning generally.

15. A communication was received from Ellen Sarot, 654 Green Street urging passage of Order #14 to evaluate and revise the Noise Ordinance.

16. A communication was received from Saul Tannenbaum, 16 Cottage Street supporting the Forest City petition.

I write in support of the zoning petition filed by Zevart M. Hollisian, Trustee of Garabed B. Hollisian Trust and L-Z Realty Trust and Seth D. Alexander, President, MIT Investment Management Company to amend the zoning Ordinance and Map by extending the Cambridgeport Revitalization Development District from Green Street out to Massachusetts Avenue in the area adjacent to Blanche Street.

As a member of the Central Square Advisory Committee, a committee created as part of your Policy Order to develop a plan for Central Square, I note that this development is aligned with the goals and objectives we outlined for Central Square.

This proposal is not perfect. I wish, for example, that the Council had not severed the original proposal for a housing tower and, instead, accepted the principle that housing was a key requirement and worked to make included housing acceptable to the community. I also wish that the community benefits included actual community benefits, not a sum of money that will disappear into Cambridge's general funds. Central Square needs improvements in lighting, open space, signage and traffic management. It's unfortunate that some creative public/private partnership wasn't created to advance these improvements more rapidly than would otherwise happen.

But wishes don't build buildings and bring needed progress. Developers do that, constrained by zoning and approval processes. I'm convinced that what Forest City plans to develop is in the best interests of Cambridge. It will replace a blighted block with office space and ground floor retail which will help knit together MIT and Central Square. This project, which has benefitted from extensive public input, is another step in Cambridge's shaping of its future as a vibrant, diverse, livable city.

Further, I believe the Council needs to take a firm leadership position in rejecting the misleading and fear-based campaign that has emerged in opposition to this project and development in general. Opponents first tried to downzone Central Square. When that failed, they said to wait for the Central Square Advisory Committee. When that Committee did not come to conclusions they wished, they sought to discredit the process and now seek a one year up-zoning moratorium during which they wish a City-wide study. Does one doubt that, if there were such a study, these opponents would just move their goalposts once again?

I urge the Council to quickly and decisively approve this zoning petition.

Sincerely, Saul Tannenbaum

17. A communication was received from Randa Ghattas, 88 School Street supporting the Forest City petition.

18. A communication was received from San Joy Mahahan, 950 Massachusetts Avenue in opposition to the Forest City petition.

19. A communication was received from Andrea Nash and Peter Berry, 18 Worcester Street in opposition to Forest City petition.

20. A communication was received from Martha Older, 19 Cameron Avenue in opposition to Forest City petition.

21. A communication was received from Elaine Spatz-Rabinowitz in opposition to Forest City petition.

22. A communication was received from Esther Hanig, 136 Pine Street in support of the Forest City petition.

23. A communication was received from Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street in support of Order #14 to evaluate and revised the Noise Ordinance.

24. A communication was received from Yoni Appelbaum, 217 Harvard Street in support Forest City petition.

25. A communication was received from Richard Clarey, 15 Brookford Street regarding Agenda Item #7.

26. A communication was received from James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place relating to single occupancy vehicles target rates.

27. Petition filed by Lee Farris, et al. requesting a one year moratorium on upzoning.

28. A communication was received from Gerald Bergman, 82 Elm Street regarding Forest City Development and Idenix Lawsuit.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Howard David Lavalle.   Mayor Davis

2. Resolution on the death of John SooHoo.   Councillor Maher

3. Resolution on the death of Caroline N. (Accardi) Calorio.   Councillor Maher

4. Congratulations to (Harry) Youn Tank Chung and Jiazhen Lu on their recent marriage.   Councillor Decker

5. Congratulations to Epizyme for ranking number eleven on the Forbes "Most Promising Companies" list.   Councillor Cheung

6. Congratulations to Alexandre Lee on her new role as Deputy Director of the Kendall Square Association.   Councillor Cheung

7. Congratulations to Timbre for their global expansion and recent attention from the investment community.   Councillor Cheung

8. Congratulations to Janneke House on her new role as Director of Member and Community Relations of the Kendall Square Association.   Councillor Cheung

9. Resolution on the death of Gail Elizabeth (Winters) MacIver.   Mayor Davis

10. Resolution on the death of Eitan Samuel Stern-Robbins.   Mayor Davis

11. Resolution on the death of Thomas G. Ashe.   Councillor Maher

12. Resolution on the death of Doris M. (Powers) O'Connor.   Councillor Maher

13. Resolution on the death of Eva M. Mahoney.   Councillor Maher

14. Happy 90th Birthday wishes to Mayor Emeritus Walter J. Sullivan.   Councillor Toomey, Councillor Maher

15. Congratulations to Saul Tannenbaum on launching a daily compilation of local news in and out of Cambridge titled Cambridge Happenings.   Councillor Cheung

16. Congratulations to Workbar on their announcement of the planning of a second location in Cambridge.   Councillor Cheung

17. Congratulations to Infinio Systems Inc. on being recognized as a Mass High Tech Company to Follow by the Boston Business Journal.   Councillor Cheung

18. Commend the students and alumni of Harvard University who called for the development of a Sustainable Investment Officer.   Councillor Cheung

19. Congratulations to the organizers of One Billion Rising, Cambridge's Valentine's Day flashmob, to end violence against women and girls around the world.   Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis

20. Thanks to Sprouts of Hope and Clara Wainwright for the creation and lending of a quilt which intends to engage those who live and work in Cambridge in an effort to make the city the most environmentally sustainable city in the world.   Mayor Davis

21. Congratulations to the city and community partners on the occasion of Cambridge receiving the inaugural Roadmaps to Health Prize from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.   Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung

22. Congratulations to Learning InSync for their work to enrich the lives of youth across the globe.   Councillor Cheung

23. Welcome Le Laboratoire to the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Cheung

24. Congratulations to Robert A. Weinberg on being honored as one of eleven scientists to receive the inaugural Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences.   Councillor vanBeuzekom

25. Congratulations to Eric Lander on being honored as one of eleven scientists to receive the inaugural Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences.   Councillor vanBeuzekom

26. Retirement of Larry Clarke from the Cambridge Police Department.   Councillor Toomey

27. Resolution on the death of Henrietta (Bourque) McElhenny.   Councillor Maher

28. Resolution on the death of Joseph James Carceo.   Councillor Maher

29. Congratulations to Callie Crosby for her work in broadcasting journalism.   Councillor Reeves

30. Congratulations to Cambridge Native Ben Affleck for his movie "Argo" winning Best Picture at the 85th Academy Awards.   Vice Mayor Simmons, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker

31. Condolences to the family of Starr T. Noble.   Vice Mayor Simmons

32. Welcome Winfred Rembert to the City of Cambridge.   Mayor Davis

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with Harvard University and Lesley University to ask them to refine their plowing procedures to avoid blocking sidewalks and residential driveways.   Councillor Cheung

2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works and the Department of Information Technology on the feasibility of implementing mobile applications related to snow removal and report back to the City Council.   Councillor Cheung

3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Election Commission and Information Technology Department on the feasibility of passing an ordinance that requires landlords to provide new tenants with a voter registration form when they move into a property in the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Cheung
Amended

4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works to refine their response procedures to uphold existing ordinances that prohibit the reservation of cleared on-street parking spaces and report back to the Cambridge City Council.   Councillor Cheung
Amended

5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Election Commission and Information Technology Department on the feasibility of providing a service in which residents are able to look up their voter registration status online.   Councillor Cheung

6. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Election Commission regarding the feasibility of including voter registration forms in the annual census mailings.   Councillor Cheung

7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and appropriate State departments to assess the current safety of the parking regulations as they relate to legal parking which blocks the right lane of Memorial Drive and develop a proposed plan of action to improve safety on Memorial Drive.   Councillor Cheung

8. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Darrah family to determine a suitable location in North Cambridge for a bench dedication for John Darrah.   Councillor Cheung
Amended

9. That the City Council schedule a roundtable/working meeting for Wed, Mar 27, 2013 at 5:30pm in the Sullivan Chamber to discuss the Central Square Advisory Committee Report report of the C2 Committee.   Mayor Davis
Amended

10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to determine the reason for a change in policy which denied The Green Room Experience to host a dance for CRLS teens.   Councillor Cheung

11. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the necessary departments to assess the feasibility and necessity of utilizing the services provided by the Springfield Data Center and MassGIS's Oliver mapping tool.   Councillor Cheung

12. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor and the appropriate city staff to evaluate the feasibility of revising the PTDM ordinance to include Parking and Transportation Demand Management Plans for "residential developments."   Councillor vanBeuzekom

13. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the City of Cambridge's experts on climate change - the Cambridge Climate Protection Action Committee (CPAC) and the Climate and Energy Specialists of the Community Development Department - to provide comments on Draft Climate Assessment Report.   Councillor vanBeuzekom

14. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City Solicitor to explain the details of the lawsuit between Idenix Pharmaceutical and the City of Cambridge.   Councillor vanBeuzekom
Amended

15. That the City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate city staff to compile a table that shows the quantity of registered vehicles in the following power source categories: Diesel; Electric; Hybrid; and traditional Gasoline engines for the years 2009 through 2013.   Councillor vanBeuzekom

16. That the City Manager is requested to add appropriate signage to the rear of the East Cambridge Fire Station on Gore Street to help identify the building.   Councillor Toomey

17. That the City Manager is requested to report to the City Council as to the reasons for the delay in appointing a new tenant representative to the CHA's Board of Commissioners, and to divulge a timetable for when a new individual will be appointed.   Vice Mayor Simmons

18. That the employment agreement, including Appendix A, between the City Council and Richard C. Rossi dated February 25, 2013 be adopted as the employment agreement between the City Council and Richard C. Rossi effective July 1, 2013 for a period of three years ending June 30, 2016.   Councillor Maher

19. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Community Development Department to provide information to the City Council on any incentive in the K2 guidelines for the creation of a shared machining space and rationale around 5% number for innovation space; at what percentage would the requirement be deemed 'unreasonable' and why.   Councillor Cheung

20. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to connect with the DOT and to provide an information packet to the City Council relevant to the future of the Volpe Site and report back to the City Council on this matter for the meeting of March 4, 2013, in advance of the National League of Cities event in Washington, DC.   Councillor Cheung.

21. That the City Manager is requested to engage an independent Energy Consultant to complete a study for a Cambridge Community Electricity Aggregation under MGL c.164 §134; and to then provide this study to the City Council for continued discussion.   Councillor vanBeuzekom

22. That the recommendations of the Dedication Committee dated February 21, 2013 for thirteen dedications be approved.   Councillor Maher

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Government Operations and Rules Committee, for a public meeting held on Feb 13, 2013 to continue discussions with Attorney Elizabeth Valerio, representing the City Council in negotiations with the next City Manager, Richard Rossi.

2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee, for a public hearing held on Feb 14, 2013 to conduct a follow-up meeting on the development in Kendall Square.

3. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom, Chair of the Environment Committee for a public meeting held on Jan 29, 2013 to discuss the creation of a Cambridge Community Choice Aggregation Network.

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Richard C. Rossi, Deputy City Manager, Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk and Alessandra Albano, Executive Assistant/City Council, The Dedication Committee transmitting their recommendations for dedications to the full City Council for approval.

February 21, 2013
The Honorable, the City Council:

The Dedication Committee recommends to the full City Council the following for approval:
• William Adario
• Julia Bibbins
• Mayor William Brooks
• Cremins Family
• James Crowley, Sr.
• Amadeu Cruz daQuelha
• Dr. Francis Downey
• John Gentile
• Leslie Kimbrough
• David Philips
• Joseph Schifferdecker
• Marian Schlesinger
• John Tennis

Sincerely,
Richard C. Rossi, Deputy City Manager
Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk
Allesandra Albano, Executive Assistant/City Council

2. A communication was received from Councillor David P. Maher transmitting a copy of a letter sent to Councillor Kelley.

February 13, 2013

Dear Councillor Kelley,

I am writing in response to your letter regarding your inability to make this afternoon's Government Operations Committee meeting. I assure you that the call of the meeting met all legal requirements.

For your information, I called the clerk on Friday, February 8, 2013 to place a hold on the Sullivan Chamber for the meeting. I asked the clerk not to officially post the meeting until I had confirmed that our attorneys would actually have the draft contract language ready for the council's review. Due to Friday's snowstorm, I was unable to reach the attorney until Monday morning, at which time, I notified the clerk to go forward with the posting for the meeting. Obviously, your desire to have ample notification and my desire to pass timely information on to my colleagues seems to be in conflict. I am certain that had I opted to wait a week to call the committee meeting for next week you would have criticized me for not doing it faster or for holding the meeting during school vacation week. Unfortunately, I have learned that some people are extremely hard to please.

I will tell you that seven of your colleagues were able to adjust their busy schedules in order to be at this afternoon's meeting. I assure you that I take my role as a Councillor and Chair of the Government Operations Committee quite seriously. Like you, I am paid very well in my role as a City Councillor. I also realize that being a Councillor necessitates being flexible with my schedule especially when dealing with important issues facing this great city. Realizing that this is the second Committee meeting in a row that you have missed I am available to bring you up to speed if you would find it helpful.

Sincerely,
David Maher
Chair

3. A communication was received from Councillor David P. Maher transmitting the proposed contract between the City of Cambridge and Richard C. Rossi as the next City Manager for the City of Cambridge.
Contract approved 7-2 [Kelley, vanBeuzekom voted NO]

4. A communication was received from Councillor David P. Maher transmitting a proposed amendment to the Forest City Zoning Petition and the Letter of Commitment as revised by Forest City to be accepted and incorporated into and made part of the Zoning Ordinance.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Feb 25
5:00pm   Special Presentation from the Sprouts of Hope.
5:30pm   Special Presentation Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Roadmaps to Health Prize.  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Feb 26
4:30pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussions on the petition by MIT to create a new Section 13.80 Planned Unit Development 5 (PUD-5) District; specifically to discuss the build form, including FAR, Height, Footplates, Open Space and Parking. This meeting to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Feb 28
3:00pm   The Housing Committee will conduct a public meeting to receive an update on the status of the potential sale of 2 Mount Auburn Street.  (2 Mount Auburn Street)

Fri, Mar 1
10:00am   The Community Health Committee and the Housing Committee will conduct a joint public meeting to discuss searching for a location to provide free meals to the homeless on Sundays.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Tues, Mar 5
12:30pm   The University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting for the purpose of touring Lesley University. The meeting will convene in the Sullivan Chamber and proceed to the tour.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Mar 7
4:30pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussions on the petition by MIT to create a new Section 13.80 Planned Unit Development 5 (PUD-5) District; specifically to discuss Uses, Incentive Zoning, Community Fund, Housing and Sustainability. This meeting to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mon, June 3
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 10
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 17
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 24
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the residents surrounding Lesley University and Harvard University have voiced strong concerns about their inability to utilize resident parking spaces and sidewalks as a result of university plowing practices; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with Harvard University and Lesley University to ask them to refine their plowing procedures to avoid blocking sidewalks and residential driveways.

O-2     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: As evidenced in the days following the recent snowstorm, the Department of Public Works provides exemplary and prompt snow removal services to the residents of the City of Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: In an effort to provide residents with up-to-the-minute updates about DPW operations, many cities, including the City of Boston, have harnessed mobile technology as a means through which to promote public safety and provide status updates about removal requests; and
WHEREAS: Implementing a GPS tracking system on City plows and integrating tracking information into a mobile application will allow residents to see the plowing status of local streets in their neighborhood, increasing their safety as they navigate the neighborhood; and
WHEREAS: Furthermore, a mobile application that allows residents to submit snow removal requests and view the removal requests of others will allow residents to tailor the requests they send to the City and view the status of all submitted requests with just the click of a button. Such an application will reduce the volume of requests received by the Department of Public Works by reducing duplicate submissions and status update inquiries; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works and the Department of Information Technology on the feasibility of implementing similar programs on Cambridge's mobile application and report back to the City Council.

O-3     Feb 25, 2013  Amended
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Political participation, especially in the form of voting, is essential to a democracy; and
WHEREAS: Registering to vote is not often a top priority for new residents; and
WHEREAS: Cities such as Madison, Wisconsin and Tallahassee, Florida have passed ordinances that require landlords to provide new tenants with a voter registration form when they move into their properties; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Law Department to prepare a draft ordinance on the aforementioned topic and report back to the City Council.
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Election Commission to consider a policy that will encourage and enable voluntary participation of landlords and management companies of multi-family units to provide current and new tenants with a Voter Registration Form and report back to the City Council.

O-4     Feb 25, 2013  Amended
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: According to the ordinance governing the removal of ice and snow from public streets and sidewalks, it is illegal to reserve cleared parking spots in the City of Cambridge by leaving objects in on-street parking spaces; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that although many residents have contacted the City of Cambridge to report violations of the aforementioned ordinance in their neighborhoods, there has been an inadequate response to these complaints, allowing spot saving to continue; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works to refine their response procedures to uphold existing ordinances that prohibit the reservation of cleared on-street parking spaces and report back to the City Council; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the relative City departments to develop a public awareness campaign to inform residents of both the illegality and the rude nature of placing objects in on-street parking spaces to reserve spots and to report back to the City Council on what such a campaign might consist of.

O-5     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Political participation, especially in the form of voting, is essential to a democracy; and
WHEREAS: Many cities across the Commonwealth, including Boston and Brookline, allow residents to look up their voter registration status online; and
WHEREAS: This service allows registered voters to verify their address, voting status, party affiliation, and polling location; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Election Commission and Information Technology Department on the feasibility of providing such a service in the City of Cambridge and report back to the City Council.

O-6     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Political participation, especially in the form of voting, is essential to a democracy; and
WHEREAS: All households in Cambridge are required to submit a completed census form in January or February each year; and
WHEREAS: If a citizen is not currently registered to vote, that information is evident on their census form; and
WHEREAS: Providing voter registration forms in the annual census mailings would reduce the impediments to registration for many nonvoters, as they are legally obligated to mail their census form back to the City; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Election Commission regarding the feasibility of including voter registration forms in the annual census mailings and report back to the City Council.

O-7     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that many commuters have expressed concern about the safety of current parking regulations on Memorial Drive that allows for legal parking which blocks the right lane of Memorial Drive; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and appropriate State departments to assess the current safety of the parking regulations and, if necessary, develop a proposed plan of action to improve safety in the before-mentioned area; 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-8     Feb 25, 2013  Amended
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Darrah family and with the neighborhood to determine a suitable location in North Cambridge for a bench dedication for John Darrah; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for review.

O-9     Feb 25, 2013  Amended
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Council schedule a roundtable/working meeting for Wed, Mar 27, 2013 at 5:30pm in the Sullivan Chamber to discuss the Central Square Advisory Committee Report report of the C2 Committee.

O-10     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has recently come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that the Green Room Experience was denied its request to host a dance for CRLS teens at a youth center and was told that it is no longer permitted to host dances for local teenagers at youth centers as a result of recent changes to policy; and
WHEREAS: The Green Room Experience, a company formed by CRLS students, began hosting these dances to provide local teens with an alcohol and drug-free environment in which they can socialize and build bonds of friendship within their community; and
WHEREAS: Their first dance was held at Russell Field without incident and was chaperoned by three off-duty CPD Officers; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to look into what led to such a change in policy and report back to the City Council.

O-11     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is opening a new data center in Springfield on July 1, 2013; and
WHEREAS: The Springfield Data Center will provide municipalities across the Commonwealth with state of the art services, including 10GB fiber (internal and external), redundant power conduit, full data backup, and disaster recovery services; and
WHEREAS: Furthermore, the Springfield Data Center has been designed to be an energy-sufficient and sustainable building, and recently applied for LEED gold standard rating; and
WHEREAS: Committed tenants thus far include the Department of Revenue, Office of the State Comptroller, Health and Human Services, Public Safety & Security, Administration & Finance, and the Treasury; and
WHEREAS: Because the construction of the Springfield Data Center was fully funded thanks in part to an ARRA grant, clients are only required to provide payment for their share of the utilities; and
WHEREAS: Furthermore, the Commonwealth's Information Technology Division also provides municipalities with access to Oliver, MassGIS's online mapping tool that provides the public with access to a mapping system that includes streets, surface water bodies and wetlands, tax parcel mapping, elevation, aerial photos, survey-derived town boundaries, and schools; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the necessary departments to assess the feasibility and necessity of utilizing the services provided by the Springfield Data Center and MassGIS's Oliver mapping tool and report back to the City Council.

O-12     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The goals of the City's Transportation Demand Management Program are to improve mobility and access, reduce congestion and air pollution, and increase safety within the City; and
WHEREAS: The Parking and Transportation Demand Management (PTDM) Ordinance is a section of the Cambridge Municipal Code (Chapter: 10.18) that reduces vehicle trips and traffic congestion in the City by requiring Parking and Transportation Demand Management Plans for commercial parking facilities and other types of non-residential parking facilities over a specified size; and
WHEREAS: Throughout the City of Cambridge there will be an anticipated increase in "residential buildings" and more than 5,225 new residential units are proposed and permitted to be built; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor and the appropriate city staff to evaluate the feasibility of revising the PTDM ordinance to include Parking and Transportation Demand Management Plans for "residential developments;" and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the revised ordinance language to the Cambridge City Council for review, discussion and implementation.

O-13     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: A 60-person Federal Advisory Committee that consolidates the wisdom of thirteen national agencies into one vision that empowers the Nation with "global change science" has been convened and identified as the National Climate Assessment and Development Advisory Committee; and
WHEREAS: This committee has written the latest Draft Climate Assessment Report which is the nation's third climate assessment report, and is a comprehensive analysis of the latest and best peer-reviewed science on the extent and impacts of global warming on the United States; and
WHEREAS: This draft document is available for review online until Apr 12, 2013 at http://ncadac.globalchange.gov/; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City of Cambridge's experts on climate change - the Cambridge Climate Protection Action Committee (CPAC) and the Climate and Energy Specialists of the Community Development Department - to provide comments on this draft report; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to share the comments submitted by the City of Cambridge with the City Council.

O-14     Feb 25, 2013  Amended
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Transparent communication between the City leadership and the residents of the city are key to good governance; and
WHEREAS: From time to time ordinances that protect the residents of the city need revision; and
WHEREAS: Recently the Idenix Pharmaceutical Corporation challenged, via a lawsuit, the City of Cambridge's authority to regulate noise volumes established by the city's noise ordinance (Chapter 8.16 of the Cambridge Municipal Code); now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer withe the City Solicitor to explain the details of the lawsuit between Idenix Pharmaceutical and the City of Cambridge -- especially now that this lawsuit has been dropped; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the City Solicitor in conjunction with the License Commission to evaluate and revise the City's noise ordinance with the express purpose of strengthening this ordinance, so that it successfully protects the health of the residents of the city and successfully keeps the volume of noise pollution to appropriate levels within our city's residential neighborhoods; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on these matters.

O-15     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge collects or has access to data pertaining to vehicles registered within its city limits; and
WHEREAS: Data over time allows the city to see and act upon trends in the data; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the appropriate city staff to compile a table that shows the quantity of registered vehicles in the following power source categories: Diesel; Electric; Hybrid; and traditional Gasoline engines for the years 2009 through 2013; and be it further
ORDERED: That this data table be provided to the City Council.

O-16     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: Gore Street is a common pedestrian route for people traveling to and from Lechmere Station; and
WHEREAS: The East Cambridge Fire Station is not easy to recognize for people taking this route who may at some point need assistance; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to add appropriate signage to the rear of the East Cambridge Fire Station on Gore Street to help identify the building.

O-17     Feb 25, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: Last October, the City Manager invited each CHA public housing tenant council to submit a list of candidates to fill the seat of Jacqueline Adams, whose term on the Cambridge Housing Authority's Board of Commissioners expired on October 1, 2012. A total of eight candidates had been nominated to the City Manager for this position, yet as of February 2013, Ms. Adams continues to serve on the Commission, and the City Manager has yet to name her successor; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council as to the reasons for the delay in appointing a new tenant representative to the CHA's Board of Commissioners, and to divulge a timetable for when a new individual will be appointed.

O-18     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the employment agreement, including Appendix A, between the City Council and Richard C. Rossi dated February 25, 2013 be adopted as the employment agreement between the City Council and Richard C. Rossi effective July 1, 2013 for a period of three years ending June 30, 2016. [Attachment]

O-19     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Community Development Department to provide information to the City Council on the following issues:
  •1. Is there any incentive in the K2 guidelines for the creation of a shared machining space;
  •2. Rationale around 5% number for innovation space; at what percentage would the requirement be deemed 'unreasonable' and why.

O-20     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to connect with the DOT and to provide an information packet to the City Council relevant to the future of the Volpe Site; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter for the meeting of March 4, 2013, in advance of the National League of Cities event in Washington, DC.

O-21     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to engage an independent Energy Consultant to complete a study for a Cambridge Community Electricity Aggregation under MGL c.164 §134; and to then provide this study to the City Council for continued discussion.

O-22     Feb 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the recommendations of the Dedication Committee dated February 21, 2013 for thirteen dedications be approved.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Government Operations and Rules Committee, a committee of the whole on the issue relating to the selection of a City Manager, held a public meeting on Wed, Feb 13, 2013 beginning at 4:42pm in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to continue discussions with Attorney Elizabeth Valerio, representing the City Council in negotiations with the next City Manager, Richard Rossi.

Present at the meeting were Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Cheung, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Decker, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Mayor Davis and Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Sandra Albano, Executive Assistant to the City Council; Paula M. Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were Attorney Elizabeth Valerio.

Councillor Maher convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He announced that the meeting is being televised. He stated that the meeting will move to executive session and will not reconvene in open session.

Councillor Toomey made motion to open public comment. No one appeared. Public comment was closed on motion of Councillor Toomey.

At this time Councillor Toomey made a motion to move to executive session to continue discussion to conduct a strategy session for contract negotiations with the next City Manager and to negotiate with the next City Manager. The question now came on the motion to move to executive session and the roll was called and resulted as follows:
YEAS: Councillor Cheung, Councillor Maher, Councillor Toomey, Mayor Davis and Councillor Decker - 5
NAYS: None - 0
ABSENT: Councillors Kelley, Reeves and vanBeuzekom and Vice Mayor Simmons - 4

and the motion to move to executive session - Carried

Councillor Maher was in receipt of a communication from Councillor Kelley which was made part of the record (ATTACHMENT A).

Councillor Cheung made a motion to adjourn and the roll was called and resulted as follows:
YEAS: Councillors Cheung, Decker and Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillors Toomey and vanBeuzekom and Mayor Davis - 7
NAYS: None - 0
ABSENT: Councillors Kelley and Reeves - 2

And the motion to adjourn - Carried.

The meeting adjourned at 5:30pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair

Committee Report #2
The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee held a public meeting on Thurs, Feb 14, 2013 at 3:15pm at the Cambridge Innovation Center Conference Room, 1 Broadway, Cambridge, MA.

The purpose of the meeting was to conduct a follow-up meeting on the development in Kendall Square.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor vanBeuzekom; Roger Boothe, Director of Urban Design, Community Development Department (CDD); Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Iram Farooq, Zoning and Land Use Project Planner, CDD; Pardis Saffari, Associate Planner, Economic Division, CDD; and Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk.

Also present at the meeting were John Hawkinson, Staff Report, The Tech; Tom Stohlman, 19 Channing Street; Gary Dmytryk, 2440 Mass. Ave.; Moira Forberg, 19 Cedar Street, Somerville; Barry Zevin, CRA member, 67 Hampshire Street; Andrew Vitvitsky, Journalist; Paula Evans, Founder, Community Charter School; Michael Owu, Real Estate Director, MITIMCo.; Sarah Gallup, Co-Director, Office of Government and Community Relations, MIT; Maureen McCaffrey, MIT; John Sanzone, Friends of the Grand Junction Path; Christopher Hert, CEO, SBR Health, 2 Broadway; Ed Roberts, Chair, Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship Program; Kevin Wiant, CEO, Charlestown, MA; Tim Rowe, Founder, Cambridge Innovation Center, 1 Broadway; Carl Kay, 350 Third Street; Emily Fletcher, Managing Director, E-Squared, 127 Thorndike Street; Bob Simha, 6 Blanchard Road; Joe Maguire, Vice President, Alexandria Real Estate; Barbara Broussard, East Cambridge Planning Team, 105 Spring Street; Anna Ivey, 5 Merrill Street; Mimi Evans, CEO/Co-Founder, Sales Quest; Drew Reiu, Senior Director, Iora Health; Brian Spatocco, President, GSC; Robert Winters, MIT; Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street; Catherine Kellogg, 13 Humboldt Street; Chris Meehan, Schneider Associates; Kristen vonHoffmann, 205 Walden Street; Carlos Martinez Vela, Executive Director, Venture Café Foundation; Marc D'Amore, Consultant, 69 North Margin # B, Boston; and Mark Levy, Cambridge Day.

Councillor Cheung opened the meeting and stated the purpose. He stated that this meeting would include brief presentations and a roundtable discussion of the framework currently under consideration for the long term vision and plan for Kendall Square. He outlined the agenda of the meeting. Mr. Rowe will discuss Lab Central and Hack Kendall, CDD will discuss K2C2 process, MIT will discuss their zoning proposal, long-term plans for Kendall Square will be discussed by attendees, and finally a discussion of how the Volpe site figures into the long term plan.

Tim Rowe, founder of the Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) and president of the Kendall Square Association, stated that he organized Hack Kendall. All planners of Kendall Square were invited to a brain storming session. There were surprising commonalities in the plans of the 430 people who attended. He discussed Lab Central. A $5 million grant from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will fund Lab Central. The property owned by MIT at 700 Main Street will host the location of Lab Central where a lab bench can be rented.

Next Iram Farooq gave a PowerPoint presentation on the Kendall Square Plan Area wide Zoning Recommendations prepared by Community Development Department (ATTACHMENT A). Councillor Cheung commented that he is pleased with the recommendations that have come from the K2C2 process, but they have yet to come before the City Council.

MIT was represented at the meeting by Sarah Gallop, Michael Owu and Maureen McCafferty. Ms. Gallop stated that Kendall Square is changing and moving into the future. MIT has a zoning proposal before the Planning Board and the Ordinance Committee. This proposal has been discussed in the community for three years. The current zoning proposal has been improved dramatically. At this time Mr. Owu reviewed the presentation of the zoning proposal that was presented at the Ordinance Committee on Jan 24, 2013 (ATTACHMENT B).

Councillor Cheung stated that he would like information on the Volpe property as the City of Cambridge and its representatives consider the options that the K2 study envisions for the future of that site.

Councillor Cheung opened the meeting to public comment at 4:05 PM.

Robert Winters asked if there is an anticipated schedule of dates for when the zoning language will emerge from CDD for K2C2. Ms. Farooq responded that a roundtable/working meeting was held by the City Council on C2. The Planning Board has discussed K2C2 and will be on the Planning Board's agenda to discuss. The Planning Board will schedule more meetings on C2 before the C2 language will be forwarded. As for K2 the first part is the MIT zoning proposal. The Planning Board will meet on Feb 19, 2013 on the MIT petition and recommendations will be made. The petition expires on Apr 24, 2013. The C2 zoning petition will be filed later in the summer.

Christopher Hert stated that he has a start-up at CIC. His concern is the companies that either big or small; middle sized companies have difficulty finding space near Kendall Square.

Emily Fletcher stated that open space is important to her. The Biogen cut-through is dangerous. She would like the Volpe site opened up. Mr. Dash informed the committee that the open space process for Kendall Square is being launched and the first meeting will be held in a few weeks.

Ed Roberts stated that he runs the MIT Entrepreneurship Program. He questioned the 5% innovation space implementation and whether it would be sufficient. He noted that the small, less expensive back streets space, that entrepreneurs used to build companies in, was largely eliminated with the growth of Kendall Square. He questioned whether the 5% would be sufficient to replace that space. Space matters in the founding and growth process. He commented on the old buildings under the purview of the Historical Commission. Some of the buildings are old and useless. It would be beneficial to MIT to tear down the building closest to the MBTA station and rebuild. He stated that he does not understand the level of authority that the Historical Commission has over the site.

John Hawkinson explained that the Historical Commission has the power to recommend historical landmarking of sites, but the City Council adopts the recommendation of the Historical Commission. There is no challenge to the landmarking. Ms. Farooq commented that the most interesting places are places where we work with what we had and it creates a richer fabric. Mr. Roberts stated that the loss of the F&T Diner was the loss of the restaurant; not the building. Mr. Owu stated that the historical buildings are affecting the gateway/node. This is still being discussed with the Historical Commission. The three historical buildings represent the history of Kendall Square that without them could be lost. Mr. Boothe added that it is about memory and history, not just the building. He stated that he is in agreement with the historical position. Ms. Broussard stated that the ECPT discussed the Press building. The Press building did not offer handicapped retail and the building could be put to better use. The Clock Tower does represent Kendall Square.

Bob Simha commented on the historical perspective. In 1965 Kevin Lynch laid out designs for Kendall Square. Principles for MIT East Campus were laid out. The principles were followed for many years. South of Main Street would be used for the expansion of MIT academic and now the agreement is being violated. Chapter 40A is being violated also as this is an institutional district. The Clock Tower at 238 Main Street is a valuable building, but the other two buildings are not of historical significance. MIT planning has been done for 50 years. The city and the university will suffer if the right steps are not taken.

Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street, stated that academics must come first with MIT. MIT must not become a commercial entity with a school attached.

Paula Evans asked how will there be opportunity for low income housing and workforce readiness training. She would like her Charter School to be involved in the planning process on the workforce development.

A discussion ensued about the 5% start up space. Ms. Broussard stated that if large developments are built and space for intermediate companies are not built, all business will die. Ms. Farooq stated that 5% is a feasible number in an attempt to not tip the balance. Mr. Owu stated that the broader context is that if all buildings were torn down there is existing stock that has been renovated and have become historical stock. MIT has small and medium business space. The newer buildings could not be built if there is not enough revenue to support them. There is some space to accommodate middle business.

Tom Stohlman spoke about the need for shared machining space. MIT has a challenge to make sure that the Clock Tower does not disappear. Cambridge embraced its destiny with inviting MIT to come to Cambridge in 1911.

Ed Roberts stated that companies get started by students, not graduates. A close location to the business is needed. Start up space close by is needed for students to start businesses while continuing their education.

Carl Kay spoke about not needing a car for physical interaction. He commented that he was surprised that Zip Car was not mentioned. There is a need for a grocery store. There is a risk if MIT builds out slowly. Councillor Cheung stated that he has met with representatives from grocery stores but the question that is asked is how many people are nearby to use the store. Ms. Broussard informed the committee that Watermark II will have a small grocery store.

Emily Fletcher asked if community Wi-Fi is being planned for the Kendall Square. Mr. Rowe explained that there is a move away from Wi-Fi; 4G is in tablets. Wi-Fi would be more successful in the parks. Google may do this here.

Bob Simha stated that the MIT property has not been debated by the MIT faculty. He stated that the worst thing would be to put people in tall tower buildings. This will condemn the faculty to a lack of connection.

Brian Spatocco spoke about the lack of transportation from Kendall Square. More bus lines are needed. Councillor Cheung asked how the transportation fits into the K2 design.

At this time Councillor Cheung made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Community Development Department to provide information to the City Council on the following issues:
• 1. Is there any incentive in the K2 guidelines for the creation of a shared machining space;
• 2. Rationale around 5% number for innovation space; at what percentage would the requirement be deemed ‘unreasonable' and why; and

The motion - Carried.

Tim Rowe stated that the innovation space should be 10%. The 5% is what there is now and if you want this to grow it could grow to 10%. Ms. Farooq stated that it is hard to evaluate innovation space. Councillor Cheung stated that he wanted the innovation space comparison between past and present. Mr. Maguire commented that there are layers to community benefits. If the developer does not know the cost of the community benefits; it is skewed. Manufacturing is different in this environment. Mr. Owu stated that the 5% came from Mr. Rowe as a guess at what would be ‘reasonable'.

Barry Zevin stated that the footplates are longer; fat buildings do not foster collaboration. He spoke about the outside space.

Councillor Cheung made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to connect with the DOT and to provide an information packet to the City Council relevant to the future of the Volpe Site; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter for the meeting of Mar 4, 2013, in advance of the National League of Cities event in Washington, DC.

The motion - Carried.

Barry Zevin stated that the City sold the Volpe site for $1.00 for the promise of economic development that has not been delivered.

Bob Simha stated that if open space is not made to make this area a nice place to live and work then we will have made a big mistake.

Kristen vonHoffman asked if the affordable housing is middle or low income or both. Councillor Cheung responded that it is a combination.

Councillor Cheung thanked those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at 5:10pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair

Committee Report #3
The Environment Committee held a public meeting on Jan 29, 2013 at 4:07pm in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the creation of a Cambridge Community Choice Aggregation Network.

A Community Choice Aggregation Network allows the City to pool together a group of electricity customers large enough to command leverage on the market and with sufficient legal authority and financial flexibility to command contracts from energy suppliers that satisfy local environmental and economic goals (identifying "greener" source options and reducing the cost of electricity).

Present at the meeting were Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom, Chair of the Committee; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Leland Cheung; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Environment and Transportation Planning; Meghan Shaw, CDD's Outreach Director for the Cambridge Energy Alliance; Savitri Khalsa; and Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office.

Also present were Leo Sullivan, Global Montello Group; and from Tufts University: Brenda Pike, Betsy McDonald, Josh Laufer and Mengmeng Zhon.

Councillor vanBeuzekom convened the meeting. She stated that this meeting would explore the concept of a Cambridge Community Choice Aggregation Network.

She stated that the City Council adopted Policy Order #9 of Apr 23, 2012 asking the City Manager to investigate and prepare a report on how to establish a Cambridge Community Choice Aggregation Network that would engage in electricity procurement for the City of Cambridge.

The city manager replied to this Policy Order with a report on Jan 14, 2013 and a recommendation that the report be referred to the appropriate City Council Committee for further analysis and review. The city manager's report contained a 2-page summary from the city solicitor noting the general legal framework for the creation of a municipal energy aggregation program and the state's 42-page Guide to Municipal Aggregation in Massachusetts (a document created by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs).

Councillor vanBeuzekom used the power point labeled Cambridge Community Choice Aggregation - Exploring the Concept to review what energy aggregation is; the MA history of energy aggregation; its benefits; its challenges; and necessary next steps for Cambridge to move forward with this concept. (Attachment A)

Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that Mr. Healy's report was complicated but ultimately hopeful. She then explained what "community energy aggregation" is. Energy Aggregation is a method cities use to purchase electricity. In 1997, Massachusetts legislation allowed for the first time, cities to purchase electricity for residents and small businesses. Energy aggregation combines into one large purchaser residential & small business electricity customers.

Councillor vanBeuzekom then reviewed "Understanding Your Utility Bill." Noting that there are three parts of an electric utility bill:
1. Supply of energy portion (~50% of bill)
2. Transmission of energy (NStar role) from source of energy
3. Distribution of energy (NStar role) within local area

Energy aggregation affects only the "supply" part of the electricity bill. The last two parts of the bill (transmission + distribution) are the "delivery service" portion of a utility bill.

Councillor vanBeuzekom explained that the three main electric source rates available in Cambridge presently range from 6 cents to 13 cents per kilowatt hour -- the price/kWh increases when the source of the energy supply is from a "greener" or "renewable" source. *

NStar Basic:
$0.0679/kWh		 20% Renewable:
$0.07351/kWh		 100% Green:
$0.13410/kWh

Individuals may select to buy electricity from NStar Basic @ $0.0679/kWh; or they may purchase electricity that is created from 20% renewable sources @ $0.07351/kWh; or they may purchase electricity that is created from 100% wind sources @ $0.13410/kWh. The cost of the 100% Green option is more than double the cost of the NStar Basic option. To get a sense of this unit of energy, 1 kWh is equal to ten 100-watt light bulbs left burning for an hour. The average urban residential consumer uses approximately 8,000 kWh each year.

Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that NStar buys electricity on the open market in 6ix month increments. The cost for producing this electricity fluctuates depending on market conditions. The cost of the electricity production is passed directly on to the customer.

Presently, NStar Basic electricity supply is created using a mix of approximately 92% fossil fuels and 8% renewable sources. On the NStar website it states that in approximately seven years from now (2020) the NStar Basic has the state-mandated goal of being created from 20% renewable sources.

Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that many people use NStar as their electricity provider because it is the "default provider" in the area. Other options for the purchase of electricity exist but individuals have to work to seek them out and implement them. The other options are more expensive than NStar Basic so many individuals stay with the least expensive and "less green" option over purchasing electricity that is produced from a "greener" source, such as wind or solar.

Next, Councillor vanBeuzekom reviewed information relating to the 1997 MA legislation that deregulated electricity within the state. First of all, she emphasized that residents who do not want to participate in this program have the ability to simply "opt-out" of energy aggregation.

* Note: If electricity is produced by solar, wind, tides, waves, biomass, or geothermal energy then it is a renewable resource. Otherwise it is not. Electricity is largely produced by power stations burning fossil fuels. In New England it is mainly natural gas. Nuclear fission can also be used to produce electricity. All these sources are not renewable resources. (Note: Some call nuclear power renewable; others do not.)

She noted that the Cape Light Compact was the first municipal aggregation formed in MA. It was formed in the late 1990's. It aggregates electricity for over 200,000 Cape energy users. More recent municipal electricity aggregations have formed in the towns of Ashland, Lunenburg, Lanesborough and Marlborough. Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that the Massachusetts Municipal Association has been promoting aggregation for cities and towns as a method of saving money for residents. Cities and towns such as Natick, Greenfield, Framingham, Holliston, Springfield, Haverhill, Lexington, North Andover, Methuen and Chelmsford are currently exploring the possibility of energy aggregation.

Councillor vanBeuzekom next outlined the rough steps necessary to create an energy aggregation which include -- the authorization by the city manager and the city council for a study to explore energy aggregation within the city of Cambridge; preparation of an Energy Aggregation Plan to be submitted the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities; and the preparation of an RFP for competitive Energy Suppliers. If the decision to move forward with energy aggregation is approved, the city would then find an energy supplier that meets the specifications of the RFP.

City Manager Healy noted that energy aggregation is a complex undertaking but he knows it is "feasible." He feels it is important to first complete a step-by-step analysis to determine if municipal aggregation is a significant benefit to the residents of Cambridge. He stated that the city is very fortunate in that it has a particularly skilled energy staff within the Environmental and Transportation Planning Division of the Community Development Department. He felt that much of the work involved with this undertaking has already been completed by this in-house staff - and that the finer points to be further explored could again be completed by this in-house staff - including deciding how to use and pay a consultant for this project.

He also wanted to make sure everyone recall that the City of Cambridge and all the city buildings are supplied by an electricity supply contract with TransCanada. This TransCanada contract runs through December, 2015. He stated that this agreement has provided the city with significant savings over the years. In regards to a municipal aggregation network, he confirmed that one of the greatest advantages of municipal aggregation is the potential that more of the cities electricity is sourced from renewable or green sources. It was noted that the municipal energy supply could be added to the Community Aggregation once this contract expires.

Councillor vanBeuzekom then moved to a further review of the benefits of energy aggregation. She stated that the collective city-wide reduction in utility costs can be roughly estimated to be between $2 to $4 million/year. She noted that this may seem like a minimal savings if viewed per customer (roughly $50 per customer per year) but the collective citywide savings of $4 million is significant. This is $4 million that will go directly back into the local economy.

She noted that the greatest benefit of energy aggregation is the opportunity it gives the city to source electricity that is created through renewable sources. A program of energy aggregation can continue to support the city's Climate Protection Plan, which makes the case for local action to reduce Cambridge's greenhouse gas emissions. The 2011 Climate Action Status Report summarizes many ways the city is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Energy aggregation directly relates to the 4th strategy listed in the report, which is "Purchase 20% of energy from green power sources."

Director of Environment and Transportation Planning, Suzanne Rasmussen affirmed that the ability to have a higher portion of the electricity source come from renewable sources is definitely the greatest benefit of energy aggregation.

Councillor vanBeuzekom noted another benefit with implementing energy aggregation, is that the process is not intrusive to city residents. No action is required on their part. Residents will not experience any significant change in their utility bill or service when the energy source is shifted to energy aggregation. One small portion of the text on the bill shifts (the energy source), the rest of the bill is identical.

Councillor vanBeuzekom felt also that regular communications from the city regarding options for purchasing electricity might be communicated to the residents. She noted that these opportunities for communication are educational and actively teach and engage residents on issues around energy.

She also wanted to make sure that everyone realizes that the city has the option to return to NStar as the energy supplier if NStar offers a more competitive product. NStar changes its contracted electricity rates every 6 months. She noted that recently some local towns have made the decision to suspend their aggregation network and return to NStar as the energy supplier, because when the time to renew their contract came, NStar became more competitive. They will have the option to return to an aggregation model when another supplier becomes competitive.

Councillor vanBeuzekom reviewed possible drawbacks to energy aggregation. Getting through all the hurdles and paperwork for putting energy aggregation in place requires a relatively complex application process with the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities. She also noted the possibility, that NStar electricity rates might became competitive during the alternative energy supplier contract term. Because of this, some customers may not be happy with their short-term locked-in rate. She noted the importance of an educational component for this type of program; so that individuals understand the program -- which will require mail and website follow-up. She concluded that some may see the necessary costs that the city puts forward to analyze the pros and cons of an energy aggregation network and the oversight of legal contracts as a drawback.

In relation to the possibility that individuals may not care to be locked into a 6-month energy aggregation rate -- Ms. Rasmussen noted that the cost of NStar's electricity supply is set as a 6-month contract. The daily fluctuation in market conditions does not affect this locked-in contract pricing. She noted that the price changes every six months -- so when it is suggested that customers might be discontented to be locked into a higher rate, the reality is that this is for a very short period of time.

Ms. Rasmussen agreed that great cost savings for energy aggregation has not yet been experienced in Massachusetts. Based on information she has researched, 4 of 6 communities that had full aggregation plans are currently in suspension because a competitive product was not available.

Brenda Pike believed that - even though Marlboro has suspended its aggregation plan - the city has seen an energy aggregation savings benefit over time - roughly $2 million. Ms. Rasmussen noted that the energy market tolerates relatively short term contracts. The price of electricity goes up and down. The city has a great deal of flexibility in regards to short term energy contracts. It will not to be caught in a bad situation due to, for example, a locked-in twenty-year contract.

Meghan Shaw the CDD's Outreach Director for the Cambridge Energy Alliance made a presentation regarding how the City of Cambridge might proceed with an energy aggregation network. Her presentation Municipal Electricity Aggregation - City of Cambridge Overview details the step by step process the city might use. (Attachment B)

She defined what "municipal electricity aggregation" is and noted its benefits. She then explained that 90% of all Cambridge electricity accounts are eligible for energy aggregation. There are 49,458 electricity accounts and 44,784 of these accounts are NStar Basic accounts.

Next, Ms. Shaw walked the group through each step the City of Cambridge might follow to establish a municipal electricity aggregation. The final page of this presentation shows a 12-month timeline for completing each step along this process.

How Does Energy Aggregation Work?

Municipality Role

Adopt a policy that defines the goals of municipal aggregation

a) Decide what type and how much renewable content is required

b) Decide the emissions profile of the electricity supply
  Release an RFP to acquire an Aggregation Vendor
  Approve the electricity supply contract secured by the Aggregation Vendor
Aggregation Vendor Role Manage the Dept. of Public Utilities approval process
  Manage public education and customer relations
Electricity Supplier Role Manage enrolling customers and customer opt-outs
  Supply electricity that satisfies ISO NE requirements, including electricity content disclosure label
NStar Role Bill customers and collect payments

Ms Shaw noted that the aggregation vendor handles the complete process -- including drafting the aggregation plan that is submitted to the Dept. of Public Utilities on the city's behalf. The aggregation vendor also assumes all the fees for this endeavor and there is no cost to the city. She noted that other cities have paid for the services of the aggregation vendor via a small administration fee - which is a small percentage of the entire electricity contract and is paid by the electricity supplier. This fee does not show up on electricity bills because it is paid directly from the electricity supplier to the aggregation vendor (sample rate fee: 1/10 of 1% per kilowatt hour).

Ms. Shaw noted that the City Manager and the City Council approves or denies the final electricity supply contract provided to the city by the aggregation vendor.

Mr. Sullivan, an aggregation energy consultant, encouraged the city to move forward with setting up an energy aggregation - noting that the process can take from six months to one year. He noted that once the city has done the paperwork and completed all the steps related to aggregation - the city will then be ready to proceed "when and if" it chooses to move forward.

Mr. Sullivan noted that when there is a change in the electricity supplier, while it is true that there is no disruption in service to customers, the state requires that customers be notified about any change thirty days in advance. He said that Department of Public Utilities regulations also require a letter be sent to every "metered customer" announcing the energy aggregation as well as every time an energy supplier changes.

Ms. Rasmussen also noted that less than 5% of customers choose to opt out of this program. She stated that it is important to note that customer bills can change even if the price of electricity is locked in place -- due to changes in the transmission or distribution pricing.

Ms. Rasmussen commented on the bigger picture of electricity consumption citywide. She wanted to be sure everyone understood that 10% of Cambridge customers are large energy users. The energy consumers within Kendall Square use half of the total energy consumed within the city. Because of this, the large energy users do not use NStar Basic service -- they have negotiated electricity rates that are less than those offered by NStar Basic service. She stated that the overall percentage of renewable energy consumed in the city may not be as significant as one might think. Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that -- there would still be savings in the quantity of carbon used. Mr. Sullivan noted that the consumers who are on a private supply are not part of this program and therefore do not relate to the discussion.

Meeting members than posed questions and made comments on the topic.

Councillor Cheung noted that municipal aggregation seems like a good idea, but he wondered why four communities have suspended their aggregation programs. Mr. Sullivan noted that these suspensions are generally due to fluctuations in the price of electricity within the energy market. Mr. Sullivan stated that when it is time to renegotiate a contract, the energy market temporarily spikes up, and the energy aggregated rate may not competitive. Communities revert back to the original utility due to this situation. News articles about these communities also state that the suspensions were put in place due to price.

Ms. Shaw explained that the action taken by each community depends also on the goals of their municipal aggregation plan. Each municipality has its own unique contract requirements. She noted that public details regarding what suspended cities were looking for in their contract are not known. Without knowing the terms of the supplier contract, it is hard to know if the reason for suspension was due to price -- due to the availability of renewable content within the contract, or both.

Councillor Chueng asked what the cost of aggregation is to the city. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that if the city used the aggregation vendor model outlined in the presentation Municipal Electricity Aggregation - City of Cambridge Overview then it would cost the city very little money if any at all. The city would contract with an aggregation vendor who would be paid a fee based on the total kilowatt hours consumers bought. Beyond this, the salaries of city staff who work on this project would be part of the overall cost to the city.

Next, there was a short discussion about what next steps the city might follow to create an energy aggregation network.

Ms. Rasmussen stated that a policy would be crafted and then passed through the City Council and City Manager as well as an RFP to acquire an aggregation vendor. She also explained that it is important to define the goals of municipal aggregation. The potential to have the electricity customers within the city use electricity that is sourced from renewable sources is very important. The Environment and Transportation Planning Department is willing to suggest what type and how much renewable content be required by the municipal aggregation. She also noted that it is important to decide on the emissions profile of the electricity supply. Once the goals of the plan are adopted, the ongoing work for the city is to manage the vendor and approve contracts.

Mr. Healy stated that when Greenfield was looking into energy aggregation, they paid $15,000 for a feasibility study. Since Cambridge is larger, he stated that the cost for studying or analyzing the pros and cons of a Cambridge energy aggregation might be in the range of $25,000.

Councillor Chueng questioned why the city would NOT pursue aggregation services and questioned if there is a "catch." Mr. Healy responded that the greatest merits of this program are that it provides a greater opportunity for purchasing a higher portion of the energy source from green or renewable energy than is possible currently. He noted that the opt-out provision is also attractive.

Councillor Cheung inquires as to why the city has not participated in aggregation to date.

Mr. Healy stated that aggregation is a vehicle that assists communities to purchase green or renewable energy. The money savings part of this proposal is not huge and therefore should not be emphasized. He believes there is also an important educational process that needs to be undertaken for the citizenry. He noted, that there are many vehicles for getting information to the public and that this concept needs to be carefully introduced and communicated through the community education process. It all must be planned carefully.

Ms. Shaw stated that the power markets are complicated and the complexity of aggregation is daunting. She noted that one reason community energy aggregation is on the horizon now, is that aggregation vendors have gotten more familiar with the process and are providing consulting services to communities.

Ms. Rasmussen again noted that the city is currently under contract with TransCanada until 2015 for municipal energy. Mr. Sullivan stated that TransCanada is not currently relevant -- that the municipal buildings and street lights, etc supplied via this electricity contract would come into play in 2015.

Ms. Shaw stated that because the City of Cambridge purchases such a great quantity of power -- the city will have strong buying power in the 2015 energy marketplace.

Mr. Sullivan stated that if the city of Cambridge begins now, in 2015 the city may also be able to aggregate with other towns.

At this time Councillor vanBeuzekom made the following motion:

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to engage an independent Energy Consultant to complete a study for a Cambridge Community Electricity Aggregation under MGL c. 164 § 134; and to then provide this study to the City Council for continued discussion.

The motion: - Carried.

Councillor vanBeuzekom thanked all those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at 5:15pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom, Chair

AWAITING REPORT LIST
12-02. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #1
RE: report on the repair of all street lights that are not working in Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 01/23/12 (O-1)

12-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what steps the City will take to help the general public keep track of awaiting maintenance issues on things like park equipment, graffiti, sidewalks, etc.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/13/12 (O-4)

12-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the no left turn on the Cambridge Common and to remove the bicycle prohibition on certain streets, such as Whittemore Avenue. Referred back for additional information on 3/5/2012.
Councillor Kelley 02/13/12 (O-17)

12-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improper leases and rental of owned affordable housing units. Reconsideration filed by Councillor Toomey on 6/11/2012. Report referred back to City Manager for more information on motion of Councillor Toomey on 6/18/12.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/19/12 (O-3)

12-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasbility of finding additional office space for the City Council.
Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/23/12 (O-5)

12-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on current status of the Inlet Bridge and what steps the City can take to ensure that agreements with the Commonwealth are upheld.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 05/21/12 (O-1)

12-65. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #2
RE: report on an explanation as the when the main library will be open on Sundays.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/21/12 (O-2)

12-71. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of converting the vacant lots at the corner of Watson and Brookline Streets and at 35 Cherry Street to community gardens or open space.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 06/04/12 (O-10)

12-74. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #3
RE: report on the feasibility of expanding the barbeque pilot program in parks throughout Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-13)

12-75. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of providing a map of long term parking spots for rent on the city website.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-16)

12-78. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on expanding the number of Cambridge parks/playing fields with public toilets. Referred back to the City Manager on 6/18/12 on motion of Councillor Kelley.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-5)

12-81. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meeting with No. Mass Avenue neighbors, businesses and neighborhood groups about whether additional alterations to the median strip would be appropriate.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-9)

12-87. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the potential uses of the Foundry Building.
Councillor Toomey 06/04/12 (O-19)

12-90. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #7
RE: report on Executive Session to discuss lawsuits.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-5)

12-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the installation of lower and decorative lighting along Cardinal Medeiros Avenue.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-6)

12-104. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on data requested on the Andrews Petition during an Ordinance Committee hearing last term that has not yet been received.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-34)

12-105. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on answering questions regarding the Foundry Building in order to move the community process forward.
Councillor Cheung & Councillor Toomey 07/30/12 (O-35)

12-106. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on facilitating affordable housing opportunities for middle class families.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-13)

12-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the number of Cambridge residents that are working as part of organized labor on development projects along with the percentage of minority and women members and what sort of communication takes place with the Rindge School of Technical Arts and local Unions.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-14)

12-108. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on applying and participating in the Cities of Services program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-19)

12-109. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what strategies other cities have used to dissuade land-banking.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-21)

12-111. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving pedestrian safety on Western Avenue at Kinnaird and Pleasant Streets.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-24)

12-115. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on making accommodations for voters when elevators are not working or there are other barriers at polling locations on election days. Referred back for additional information by Councillor Decker on 10/22/2012. Further report provided and referred back by Councillor Decker on 11/5/2012.
Councillor Decker, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/24/12 (O-6)

12-120. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of creating a municipal exterminator and/or contracting exterminators to help eradicate rodent problems in the City.
Councillor Toomey, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 10/01/12 (O-3)

12-123. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on suggestions to control the rodent population.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/22/12 (O-3)

12-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of finding additional secure locations for the disposal of prescription drugs.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-4)

12-125. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of installing recycling bins adjacent to trash bins.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-5)

12-126. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of ensuring all city sponsored committee hearings (such as the E-gov committee) are available online.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-6)

12-128. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a pilot program for installing mini exercise stations on major walking routes throughout the City.
Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 11/19/12 (O-1)

12-129. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installation of additional public drinking fountains working in conjunction with the Arts Council on interesting designs.
Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 11/19/12 (O-2)

12-130. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing a process to promote universal design and visitability in all Cambridge Public buildings.
Mayor Davis and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-3)

12-132. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on incorporating permanent bathroom facilities at the Cambridge Common; conduct a study for permanent bathroom facilities in all public squares; and provide a list of all locations where portable bathroom facilities are currently used.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Vice Mayor Simmons 11/19/12 (O-8)

12-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on preparing language to amendment the Municipal code banning polystyrene-based disposable food containers.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-10)

12-135. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on preparing an ordinance regulating procedures that organizations would have to follow in the event of a concussion.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-13)

12-136. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a plan of action to reinforce and secure restaurant bins in a way that separates food waste for composting.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-14)

12-137. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on an analysis of the entire past election of wait times and strategies for what would be necessary to reduce wait times to less than 10 minutes and on making information available on wait times at polling locations throughout the day. Referred back for more information by Councillor Decker on 12/17/2012.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 11/19/12 (O-16)

12-140. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on special permit process pursuant to MGL 40A as it relates to the impact of re-filing a zoning petition on pending special permits for special permits that have been granted.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-9)

12-141. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #6
RE: report on improving safety concerns at the Kennedy-Longfellow School and the MLK School.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 12/03/12 (O-1)

12-142. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #11
RE: report on audio and visual upgrades/equipment in the Sullivan Chamber and other meeting spaces.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 12/03/12 (O-7)

12-143. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the cause and other details of the Nov 29, 2012 power outage.
Mayor Davis and Full Membership 12/10/12 (O-4)

12-150. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on convening a task force to look into the creation of providing permanent public restrooms at high volume locations such as public parks and squares.
Mayor Davis 12/10/12 (O-16)

12-152. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing a reduced small business parking rate for local business owners at city garages.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 12/17/12 (O-1)

12-153. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to ban tandem tractor-trailers from entering the city with a view in mind of requiring large freight vehicles of a certain size to transfer freight to a smaller vehicle before entering the city.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 12/17/12 (O-4)

12-154. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the sale of the Sullivan Courthouse including what zoning changes will be needed and reasons for Leggat McCall being chosen as the developer.
Councillor Toomey 12/17/12 (O-9)

12-156. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on preparing language to create a Pathway Overlay District.
Councillor Toomey 12/17/12 (O-12)

13-01. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #10
RE: report on the Single Occupancy Vehicle (SOV) target rate for the City; data explaining how the City is doing in meeting its SOV target rate and future plans for reducing the actual SOV rate.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 01/07/13 (O-1)

13-02. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #8
RE: report on the first phase of the Hubway Bike-Share program.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 01/07/13 (O-2)

13-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of a gun buy-back program.
Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 01/14/13 (O-5)

13-04. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the City's plans for the property located at 205 Western Avenue.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-6)

13-05. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of participating in the International Open Data Hackathon.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-7)

13-06. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on conferring with the appropriate departments to initiate a plan of action setting up a procedure for future construction projects, especially for older buildings that may contain hazardous materials.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-8)

13-07. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on adding the iReport platform to the ongoing IT strategic planning process.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-9)

13-08. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the impact of the federal cuts on the continuum of care.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-10)

13-09. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving logistical challenges of deliveries and trash removal to and from businesses as they related to adjacent residents.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-11)

13-11. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on participating in the Municipal Performance Management Program.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 01/28/13 (O-2)

13-12. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of participating in the Code for America Peer Network.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 01/28/13 (O-6)

13-13. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of banning tobacco sales in pharmacies and drug stores.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 01/28/13 (O-9)

13-14. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ensuring that information from the Feb 5th meeting between DPW and D'Allesandro Construction regarding construction on Western Avenue at the intersection of Putnam Avenue be made available to the public.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 02/11/13 (O-3)

13-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meeting with NSTAR officials to establish a firm timeline for maintenance and replacement plans for the transformers and electrical systems that serve the city to ensure that local businesses and residential communities are fully serviced.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 02/11/13 (O-5)

13-16. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on working with DCR to insure that oversize vehicles not be allowed to travel on Memorial Drive.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 02/11/13 (O-11)