Cambridge City Council meeting - February 26, 2018

CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the City of Cambridge retaining its noteworthy distinction of being one of approximately 33 municipalities in the United States with AAA ratings from each of the nation’s three major credit rating agencies.
Placed on File

Feb 26, 2018
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am pleased to inform you, the taxpayers, and all our residents that the City of Cambridge has retained its noteworthy distinction of being one of approximately 33 municipalities in the United States with AAA ratings from each of the nation’s three major credit rating agencies. Each year since 1999, the City has received these ratings from Moody’s Investors Service, S&P Global Ratings, and Fitch Ratings. This achievement allows the City to finance important projects throughout Cambridge with the most favorable interest rate. The rating agencies highlighted the City’s strong financial position, including significant reserve levels; a large and diverse tax base; ample excess levy capacity under Proposition 2½; and a strong and experienced management team.

These ratings are in conjunction with the City’s sale of General Obligation bonds ($2.5 million in minibonds and $90.9 million in the competitive sale). The minibond sale took place from Feb 20-26, 2018 and the competitive sale will take place on Mar 1, 2018.

Capital projects funded in these sales include the King Open/Cambridge Street Upper School and Community Complex, sewer reconstruction, street and sidewalk reconstruction, and other municipal and school building renovations.

Based on this ongoing recognition from the rating agencies, the City Council can be justly proud of its sound fiscal policies. Additionally, I would like to thank the City’s Finance Team and Department Heads and staff for their commitment to prudently managing their budgets and programs. The City is fortunate to have such a strong and dedicated team.

Listed below are highlights from the Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s and Fitch credit reports. Attached are the individual rating opinions.

Moody’s Investor Services

Summary

Cambridge, Massachusetts (Aaa stable) benefits from a sizeable and diverse tax base that continues to grow significantly year over year. The city's economy is driven largely by the presence of Harvard University (Aaa stable) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT, Aaa stable) and the significant research and development sector. The city's financial position is strong with very healthy liquidity and reserves that are maintained by strong fiscal management. Both the debt burden and long term liabilities for pension and OPEB are will remain manageable over the near term.

Credit strengths

» Large and diverse tax base anchored by institutional presences and robust commercial sector

» Healthy financial position guided by formal policies

» Strong fiscal management

» Ample operating flexibility with excess levy capacity under Proposition 2½

» Expected to fully fund pension liability by 2026

Credit challenges

» High regional cost of living and cost of business

Rating outlook

The stable outlook reflects the strong fiscal management practices that we expect to maintain a healthy financial position given conservative multi-year budget forecasting and adherence to formal fiscal policies. The outlook also incorporates the stabilizing presence of the higher education institutions as well as the ongoing trend of consistent tax base growth from both appreciation and development.

Factors that could lead to a downgrade

» Material growth in the debt burden or pension liability

» Deterioration in the tax base or weakening of the local economy

» Trend of operating deficits leading to significant reduction in cash and reserves

Standard and Poor’s

Rationale

S&P Global Ratings assigned its 'AAA' rating and stable outlook to Cambridge, Mass.' series 2018A and 2018B general obligation (GO) municipal-purpose loan bonds and affirmed its 'AAA' rating, with a stable outlook, on the city's existing GO debt.

The rating reflects our opinion of the city's:

➢ Very strong economy, with access to a broad and diverse metropolitan statistical area (MSA);

➢ Very strong management, with strong financial policies and practices under our Financial Management Assessment (FMA) methodology;

➢ Strong budgetary performance, with operating surpluses in the general fund and at the total governmental-fund level in fiscal 2017;

➢ Very strong budgetary flexibility, with an available fund balance in fiscal 2017 of 52% of operating expenditures, and the flexibility to raise additional revenue despite commonwealth wide tax caps;

➢ Very strong liquidity, with total government available cash at 68.8% of total-governmental-fund expenditures and 7.5x governmental debt service, and access to external liquidity we consider strong;

➢ Adequate debt-and-contingent-liability position, with debt service carrying charges at 9.1% of expenditures and net direct debt that is 55.6% of total-governmental-fund revenue, as well as low overall net debt at less than 3% of market value and rapid amortization, with 80.1% of debt scheduled to be retired within 10 years, but significant medium-term debt plans and a large pension and other-postemployment-benefit (OPEB) obligation; and

➢ Strong institutional framework score

Very strong management

We view the city's management as very strong, with strong financial policies and practices under our FMA methodology, indicating financial practices are strong, well embedded, and likely sustainable.

Key factors include management's:

➢ Conservative revenue and expenditure assumptions in the budgeting process that focus on five years of historical information;

➢ Quarterly reports on budget-to-actual results and investments to the city's finance and investment committees, respectively;

➢ Long-term financial plan with credible assumptions;

➢ Five-year capital plan with identified funding sources, which it is expanding to include a municipal-facilities-improvement plan;

➢ Robust debt and investment policy it reviews at least annually to demonstrate adherence; and

➢ Reserve policy that requires maintaining a minimum 15% of expenditures

Outlook

The stable outlook reflects S&P Global Ratings' opinion of Cambridge's healthy and growing economy, which has aided in continued strong financial performance, supported by very strong management. We understand Cambridge currently expects to issue a significate amount of debt over the next few years; we, however, do not expect financial performance to deteriorate. Therefore, we do not expect to change the rating within the next two years because we believe Cambridge will likely sustain current financial performance and comparably high reserves. While unlikely to occur, we could lower the rating if fund balance were to deteriorate significantly or if debt were to weaken substantially.

Fitch Ratings

Analytical Conclusion

The city's 'AAA' GO bond rating and Issuer Default Rating (IDR) reflect our expectation for Cambridge to maintain healthy financial flexibility through economic cycles, consistent with a history of strong operating performance and budget controls. The city's superior financial profile reflects a wealthy and growing property tax base, moderate expenditure growth and demonstrated ability to reduce expenditures during economic downturns.

Fitch Ratings expects long-term liabilities to remain moderately low based on manageable capital needs, rapid principal amortization and a practice of fully funding actuarially determined pension contributions

Key Rating Drivers

• Revenue Framework: 'aaa'

Revenues are derived primarily from property taxes. Total general fund revenue growth of about 4.7% annually over the past 10 years has exceeded both U.S. GDP and CPI for the same period, reflecting property tax levy increases and strong growth in Cambridge's economy and tax base. The city maintains significant excess levy capacity under the state's Proposition 2 1/2 law, and Fitch expects revenue growth to remain strong.

• Expenditure Framework: 'aa'

The natural pace of spending growth is expected by Fitch to be in line with to below natural revenue growth over time. Carrying costs for long-term liabilities claim a moderate proportion of governmental spending. Principal amortization rates are rapid at 80% over 10 years, and a large portion of debt is self-supporting from user charges.

• Long-Term Liability Burden: 'aaa'

Cambridge's debt and unfunded net pension liabilities are moderately low at roughly 8% of estimated personal income. Fitch anticipates Cambridge's long-term liability burden to remain close to this level based on a manageable capital plan and a record of actuarially based pension funding.

• Operating Performance: 'aaa'

Careful expenditure management, combined with moderate tax levy increases and conservative financial forecasting, has led to very high reserves over the past decade. Fitch expects management to maintain a strong level of financial resilience through a typical economic cycle, with the reserves supplementing superior inherent budget flexibility.

Rating Sensitivities

• Expenditure Management: The IDR is sensitive to maintenance of the city's solid expenditure flexibility. Material reductions in the city's ability to manage spending, while unexpected, could pressure the rating.

In closing, the City Council and staff can be justly proud of our sound fiscal policies with the continued affirmation of our triple A ratings and the positive impact it has on our residents.

Very truly yours, Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager

2. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of the following person as a Constable With Power for a term of three years, effective the first day of January, 2018: Albert Darling
Placed on File

3. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a new member of the Human Rights Commissioner for a term of three years, effective Feb 26, 2018: Kuong Le
Placed on File

4. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as a members of the Half Crown-Marsh Neighborhood Conservation District Commission for a term of three years, effective Feb 26, 2018: James Van Sickle, Jo Solet, Maximilian Frank and Rory A. O'Connor
Placed on File

5. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of of $27,875.80 in additional municipal access fees to the General Fund Cable Television Other Ordinary Maintenance account to provide additional payments to Cambridge Community Television (CCTV).
Adopted 9-0

6. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a new member of the Conservation Commission for a term of three years, effective Feb 26, 2018: Elyss Magnotto-Cleary
Placed on File

7. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a request for the City Council vote to approve the use of the new voting equipment and to discontinue the use of the existing voting equipment effective immediately.
Adopted 9-0

Feb 26, 2018
To the Honorable, the City Council:

As discussed at the Special Meeting of the City Council on Tues, Feb 20, 2018, regarding the presentation by the Election Commission to the City Council of new voting equipment, the City Council is required by MGL Chapter 54, Section 34 to approve the use of the new equipment and the discontinuance of the use of the existing equipment prior to the City’s use of the new equipment in elections. Attached is additional information received from Executive Director of the Election Commission Tanya Ford. Funding for the purchase of the new voting equipment was included in the FY17 Budget.

The vote must be one hundred and twenty days (120) prior to the next election. The State Primary will be held on Tues, Sept 4, 2018.

Accordingly, I am requesting the City Council vote to approve the use of the new voting equipment and to discontinue the use of the existing voting equipment effective immediately.

Very truly yours, Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager

To: Louie DePasquale, City Manager
From: Tanya L. Ford, Executive Director
Date: Jan 25, 2018
Re: New Voting Equipment
Cc: Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager

The Election Commission recently purchased 38 ImageCast Precinct Tabulators and operating software to replace the existing equipment which was purchased in 1996. The contract was awarded to LHS Associates in the amount of $332,900. LHS Associates is a company which the Election Commission has worked with in the past. In 1996 the City of Cambridge implemented use of a computerized voting system. That equipment was also purchased from LHS Associates. The new voting equipment has been certified for use for elections in Massachusetts by the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Elections Division.

The new voting equipment will be capable of processing both the traditional, “plurality” type system of voting as well as the proportional representation or “preference” type voting system. LHS will also acquire the software/modification needed to suit PR elections. LHS Associates will provide orientation, installation, testing, poll worker training and onsite election supervision. The software for our PR election is currently underway and should be ready for testing and certification over the next year. However, the existing software and equipment is capable of being used for the 2018 State Primary and General Election. The Election Commissioners and I believe that the 2018 elections would be the best time to introduce the new system to the voters of Cambridge.

Prior to utilizing the new equipment for the upcoming elections, the city council must vote to discontinue use of the existing equipment and approve the use of the new voting machines. The vote must be one hundred and twenty days (120) prior to the next election. The State Primary will be held on Tues, Sept 4, 2018. According to MGL Chapter 54 Section 34“ A city of town may, by vote of a majority of the city council or by majority of the board of selectman, at a meeting held at least one hundred and twenty days before the primary, preliminary election or election at which voting machines are to be used, determine upon and purchase, lease, and order the use of thereof at the primaries, preliminary election and elections of state, city or town officers in such city or town; and thereafter at all primaries and elections of state, city or town officers in that city or town, until otherwise ordered by the city council in a city…”

I am requesting an opportunity to present LHS Associates and the new voting equipment to the City Council so that the Council can evaluate the product prior to voting.

Feb 26, 2018
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record approving the use of new voting equipment and discontinue the use of the existing voting equipment effective immediately as required by MGL Chapter 54, Section 34.

8. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 18-16, regarding a report on Inman Square construction.
Placed on File

9. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a request for an aerial license for a structural canopy to be constructed over a portion of the public sidewalk in front of property located at 21 Erie Street.
Adopted 9-0

10. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 17-86, regarding a report on the enforcement of idling-trains.
Placed on File

11. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 17-88, regarding a report on providing clarification for the benefit of residents, visitors, and business owners on how the City views its obligations and constraints regarding marijuana enforcement and regulations; and Awaiting Report Item Number 18-8, regarding a report on any work that is currently underway regarding regulating adult use marijuana and to suggest next steps to the Council no later than Feb 26, 2018.
Placed on File

12. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $241,830.00 from Free Cash to cover the cost of equipment and medical screening of 17 new firefighters.
Adopted 9-0

13. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $164,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Fire Department Extraordinary Expenditures to replace EMS Coats for all presently employed firefighters, and update 22 sets of bunker gear for present members.
Adopted 9-0

14. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Homeland Security Grant from the City of Boston for $18,917.77 to the Grant Fund Fire Salary and Wages account. The City has received this grant, as reimbursement, for trainings performed in conjunction with the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI).
Adopted 9-0

15. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Urban Areas Security Initiative (UASI) through the City of Boston’s Office of Emergency Management for $50,000.00 to the Fire Department Extraordinary Expenditures account which will be used for dive team and marine unit equipment.
Adopted 9-0

16. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the 2017 Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the amount of $35,188 to the Grant Fund Fire Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used to purchase bicycles and related equipment (carry bags, lights/siren,) as well as uniforms for CFD personnel who will be deployed during planned and unplanned events to facilitate patient access during medical emergencies in our densely populated and congested City.
Adopted 9-0

17. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness (HMEP) Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the amount of $5,050.00 to the Grant Fund Fire Travel & Training account which will provide funding to assist in sending Cambridge Fire Department members to a hazardous material conference in Baltimore, MD.
Adopted 9-0

18. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation in the amount of $2,500 donated from the Carl Barron Awards for Administrative Excellence to the Fire Department, Other Ordinary Maintenance Account which will be used for the Carl Barron Awards for Administrative Excellence, to be awarded to members of the Cambridge Fire Department.
Adopted 9-0

19. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the State Executive Office of Public Safety for $10,407.00 to the Grant Fund Fire Salaries and Wages account ($8,207.00), Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($1,800.00) and Travel and Training account ($400.00) to provide funds to continue the Student Awareness of Fire Education (SAFE) Program.
Adopted 9-0

20. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the State Executive Office of Public Safety for $3,207.00 to the Grant Fund Fire Salaries and Wages account ($2,500.00) and Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($707.00) to provide funds for the Senior SAFE Program that educates seniors on the dangers of fire and its effect on people, property, and the environment.
Adopted 9-0

CHARTER RIGHT
1. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the Final Landmark Designation Report for the Hovey & Markham Cottages as follows: ~~2A. Property located at 40 Cottage Street; and~~ 2B. Property located at 44 Cottage Street.
Adopted 9-0

2. 40 Cottage Street landmark designation report placed on Unfinished Business.

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. A petition was received from Cambridge Science Festival requesting a temporary banner to be hung across Massachusetts Avenue at Norfolk Street, thirty-eight banners on poles in Harvard Square, eighty-eight banners on poles along Massachusetts Avenue, from Memorial Drive to Harvard Square, ten banners on poles along Broadway, from Ellery Street to Felton Street and ten banners on poles along Cambridge Street, from Trowbridge Street to Hovey Street announcing the upcoming Cambridge Science Festival Apr 13-22, 2018.
Order Adopted

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Peter Valentine, 37 Brookline Street, regarding not allowing money worshippers to overbuild.

2. A communication was received from Roy Russell and Robin Chase, 40 Cottage Street, regarding Landmark designation.

3. A communication was received from Martha Ondras, regarding a forwarded communication from Patrick Herron, PHD on Alewife Pedestrian Bridge.

4. A communication was received from Patrick Herron, Mystic River Watershed Association, 20 Academy St. Arlington, regarding Alewife Pedestrian Bridge.

5. A communication was received from Rashid Hasson, regarding 2018 Fair Housing plus Civil Rights Conference.

6. A communication was received from Jana Odette, 176 Larch Road, regarding bike pattern in front of Skenderian's.

7. Sundry e-mails received on support of the protected bike lanes, relative to Policy Order #4 of Feb 12, 2018 Council Meeting. Copies are on file for review in the City Clerk’s office.

8. A communication was received from Tichaona Chinyelu, 812 Memorial Drive, regarding Beer and Wine License for Mobil gas station at Rive and Memorial Drive.

9. A communication was received from Eric Grunebaum, Envision Alewife Working Group, 1 Broadway, regarding transit issues.

10. A communication was received from Ed Beucler, 37 Cottage Street, regarding Landmark Designation.

11. Communication received from Bill Kane, 101 Main Street, in support of Policy Order #16 declaring February 28, 2018 as Henri A. Termeer Day in Cambridge.

12. Communication received from Edward Woll, Jr. 79 Dana Street, regarding Inman Square and the bike policy.

13. Communication received from Doug Brown, 35 Standish Street, in support of Policy Order #7 to enhance the connectivity at Alewife.

14. Communication received from Valerie A. Bonds, 808 Memorial Drive, relative to Policy Order #15 and her opposition to the petition of the Mobile Gas Station’s petition for a liquor license for the sale of low end beer and wine.

15. Communication received from Carol O’Hare, 172 Magazine Street, regarding Policy Orders #1, 11, 15 and 17.

16. Communication received from Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street, regarding Policy orders #15, 17 and 18.

17. Communication received from Cathie Zusy, 202 Hamilton Street, President of the Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association in opposition to the petition for a liquor license at 816 Memorial Drive and 271 Brookline Street.

18. Communication received from Lucinda Beard, Belmont, MA regarding Resolution # 5 on the second annual Children’s March and Love Rally held by the Fayerweather Street School.

19. Communication received from Eric Grunebaum, 98 Montgomery Street, regarding the City’s intention for the Envision Cambridge process and the Alewife Working Group’s purpose.

20. Communication received from Heli Meltsner, 74 Avon Hill Street, in support of landmarking 40 and 44 Cottage Street.

21. Communication received from Manny Rogers, 392 Cambridge Street, in opposition to Policy Order #17, the Right of First Refusal.

22. Communication received from D. Margaret Drury, 1 Dudley Court, regarding the Quadrangle part of Alewife which has the potential of being a good place to live and work if the transportation and connectivity issues are not addressed soon.

23. Communication received from Charlie Allen, 44 Cottage Street, supporting the landmark designation for both the Hovey-Markham cottages on 40-44 Cottage Street.

24. Communication received from Jin Ouyang, 20 Lambert Street, in opposition to Policy order #17, the Right of First Refusal legislation.

25. Communication received from Peter Nugent, 163 Magazine Street, regarding his concerns on Policy Order #17, the Right of First Refusal legislation.

26. Communication received from Patrick Barrett, 41 Pleasant Street, urging the City Council to abandon Policy Order #17 relating to home rule legislation on the Right of First Refusal.

27. Communication received from Jesse Gordon, 52 West Street, Randolph, regarding Policy Order #7 and proposing a 30-foot footbridge connecting Acorn Park Drive and CambridgePark Drive.

28. Communication received from Irma Bickerstaff, 6 Notre Dame Avenue, expressing concern that the Tenant Right of First Refusal proposed legislation will create a multitude of problems for Cambridge residents including high property taxes for all homeowners.

29. Communication received from Ron Axelrod, 26 Shepard Street, regarding Policy Order #17 and stated that it is divisive, unfair and confiscatory.

30. Communication received from Ruth Ryals and James Cornie, 115 Upland Road, regarding Policy Order #17 and disappointed that there has been no outreach to small property owners.

31. Communication received from Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street, transmitting an article entitled Hacking Elections is Easy from the Cybersecurity Think Tank.

32. Communication received from George Carrett, Norfolk Street, transmitting research links for references for the Tenant Right of First Refusal legislation.

33. Communication received from Linda Levine, 26 Mt. Auburn Street, board member of the Small Property Owners Association, urging the City Council to drop Policy Order #17 on the Right of First Refusal.

34. Communication received from Melissa Zampitella, Executive Director, Alewife Transportation Management Association, regarding the connectivity of the Alewife area.

35. Communication received from Jonathan Austin, 219 Brookline Street, in support of the landmark designation of 40-44 Cottage Street.

36. Two communications received from Kathy Watkins, 90 Fawcett Street, regarding Policy Order #17 and 18 and transmitting the Cambridge Residents Alliance support for a bridge connecting the Quadrangle to the Triangle area of Alewife.

37. Communication received from Elizabeth Stern, 20 Cambridge Terrace, requesting answers to questions concerning Policy Order #17, the Right of First Refusal legislation.

38. Communication received from Jane Ross, 8 Kilsyth Road, Brookline, regarding Policy Order #17, the Tenant Right of First Refusal legislation.

39. Communication received from Henry Vandermark, 33/31 Cambridge Terrace, requesting that in the body of Policy Order #17 the words “at no cost to property owners” be stricken.

40. Communication received from Kenneth Eisenberg, 200 Hampshire Street, urging the City Council to support Policy Order #17.

41. Sundry communications received from the students at the Fayerweather Street School, regarding violence in schools because of firearms.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Retirement of Mary E. "Marybeth" Cosgrove from the City Clerk's Office. Mayor McGovern

2. Retirement of Elaine DeRosa from the Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee. Councillor Toomey, Councillor Simmons, Mayor McGovern

R-2 Feb 26, 2018
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
MAYOR MCGOVERN

WHEREAS: Elaine M. DeRosa served as the Executive Director of the Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee, Inc. (CEOC) from 1998 to 2018 where she successfully spearheaded numerous advocacy campaigns, public policy initiatives, and programs related to affordable housing, hunger, and health care; and

WHEREAS: Elaine first joined CEOC in 1972 as a college intern, and held various positions throughout her distinguished career at CEOC including Community Organizer, Community Health Advocate, and Family Planning Executive Director; and

WHEREAS: Elaine also served on the board of the Cambridge Health Alliance where she played an instrumental role in opening the Teen Health Center, Women’s Health Center, and the Birth Center; and

WHEREAS: Elaine brought an impressive ability to strategically rally and organize people around important causes, a winning spirit, and an infectious sense of humor to her role as Executive Director of CEOC; and

WHEREAS: Elaine was often found buried in her crowded office where she earned the reputation of never having thrown a piece of paper away since she first joined CEOC 40 years ago— coworkers joked that Elaine should not be able to retire until she had cleaned her office, and that if that were the case, she would be here another 40 years; and

WHEREAS: In addition to her extensive work with CEOC, Elaine was an active and well-known member of the Cambridge community and attendee at City Council meetings, and earned herself the nickname “Mayor of Central Square” after friends noted that they were unable to walk through the Square without multiple people stopping to talk to her; and

WHEREAS: Elaine has dedicated her life’s work to implementing CEOC’s mission and vision, tirelessly working to make a positive difference in the lives of countless members of the Cambridge community: her knowledge, passion, and dedication have inspired those around her, and the tremendous ripple effects from her many years of service will continue to better the lives of countless individuals and families throughout Cambridge for many years to come; and

WHEREAS: Elaine has earned the respect, admiration, and gratitude of so many throughout the Cambridge community, both from those who have directly benefited from her work and those who have worked alongside her; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record expressing its appreciation to Elaine M. DeRosa for her unwavering commitment to fighting poverty and to creating avenues for economic stability; and be it further

RESOLVED: In recognition of her longstanding advocacy, that Mayor Marc C. McGovern present her with a key to the City of Cambridge to commemorate her important contributions over the course of her 46 years of service; and be it further

RESOLVED That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Elaine M. DeRosa on behalf of the entire City Council.

5. Congratulations to the Fayerweather Street School on the occasion of the second annual Children's March & Love Rally. Mayor McGovern

6. That the City Council congratulates Omari Thom, the founder of Fair America, for his activism and engagement which supports progressive candidates, particularly on issues of immigration. Councillor Mallon

7. Resolution on the death of former Cambridge Police Officer and President of the Policeman's Association Joseph Bellissimo. Councillor Mallon

12. Happy 20th Wedding Anniversary to Renee and Jamie Townes. Councillor Simmons

14. Best wishes to Phyllis Newton on her retirement from the Fletcher Maynard Academy. Councillor Simmons

15. Congratulations to Patrick Wardell on the birth of his first grandchild, Rowan Patrick Cook. Councillor Simmons

16. Happy Birthday wishes to Alice Pedro. Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toomey

19. Retirement of Frederick Powell from the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department. Mayor McGovern

20. Congratulations to Spare Change News on its 25th Anniversary. Mayor McGovern

22. Congratulations to Noah Weinberg and Lila Berinsky on the occasion of receiving a Disney Summer of Service grant to combat climate change. Councillor Zondervan

26. Condolences to Retired Fire Chief Gerald Reardon and Director of Assessment Robert Reardon on the death of their mother Catherine "Kay" Reardon. Councillor Toomey

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the appropriate City personnel to determine why there continues to be significant audio and video difficulties during live internet broadcasts of City Council meetings, how these difficulties can be resolved. Councillor Simmons
Charter Right - Simmons

2. That the City Manager and the Mayor’s Office are requested to direct the new bicycle lane working group, once it has been convened, to hold a series of “listening sessions” at the senior buildings throughout Cambridge in order to ensure that our senior residents, who might otherwise be unable to attend the various hearings to weigh in on this issue, will have adequate opportunities to have their voices heard on an issue that could have an outsized impact upon them. Councillor Simmons, Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

3. Cancellation of the Regular City Council Meeting Mar 12, 2018. Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

4. That the Regular City Council Meeting on Mon, Apr 9, 2018, be changed to a Roundtable/Working Meeting for the purpose of discussing the draft version of the Climate Change Preparedness & Resilience Plan for Alewife. Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

5. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City departments to create additional Safety Zones for safer streets. Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Devereux
Charter Right (as Amended) - Simmons

6. Proclaim Mar 1, 2018, as Cambridge White Ribbon Day, and the week of Feb 26 to Mar 2, 2018, a celebration of the work of Cambridge and its partners in a cohesive effort to end all gender-based violence in all its manifestations. Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

7. That the City Manager is requested to consult with City staff on the feasibility of initiating a formal transit study and action plan of the Alewife area in response to unanimous concerns of the Envision Alewife Working Group regarding the need for a pedestrian/bicycle/shuttle bridge from the Quadrangle area along Concord Avenue across the railroad tracks to the Triangle area on Cambridgepark Drive and a commuter rail stop which would be critical to create neighborhoods that are safe and healthy for residents and businesses. Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Carlone
Order Adopted

8. Dedication Marker for Katherine "Kitty" Knox. Councillor Simmons
Order Adopted

10. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with an explanation of the causes of the Cambridge Common drainage problems. Councillor Kelley, Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Devereux
Order Adopted

11. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and the Cambridge Police Department to increase enforcement of relevant parking laws around the Enterprise Rent-A-Car location at 25 River Street. Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

12. City Council support to expedite the relocation of the Cambridge District Court from Malden back to its originally assigned jurisdiction within the City of Cambridge. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Toomey
Order Adopted as Amended

13. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with an explanation of why it took so long to repair the public toilet in Harvard Square and what proactive methods are being taken into consideration to prevent this interruption of service from happening again, at either the Harvard Square or the Central Square public toilet. Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Devereux
Order Adopted

14. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department regarding what further improvements can be made to improve safety for all users of the intersections of Walden Street with Concord Avenue, Garden Street and Sherman Street. Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Carlone
Order Adopted

15. That the City Manager ensure that appropriate measures have been taken to allow residents at 808/812 Memorial Drive to voice their concerns about a proposed Mobil Gas Station liquor license before any action is taken by the License Commission. Councillor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted as Amended

16. Declare Feb 28, 2018, in conjunction with Rare Disease Day, be recognized as Henri A. Termeer Day in the City of Cambridge. Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

17. That the City Manager is requested to direct the City Solicitor to draft language for a home rule petition for a Cambridge Right of First Refusal Legislation. Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Siddiqui
Charter Right - Simmons

18. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department to develop a timeline for the next Incentive Zoning Nexus Study. Councillor Siddiqui, Mayor McGovern, Councillor Simmons
Order Adopted

19. That the City Manager is requested to work with City staff to provide easily accessible needle safety information, to include emergency needle or syringe removal and disposal contacts, on the City’s website. Councillor Kelley, Councillor Carlone
Order Adopted

20. Proclaim Feb 28, 2018, to be Rare Disease Day in the City of Cambridge, in recognition of the research and education that remains in finding cures for patients the world over. Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted

21. City Council endorsement of H.3610, "An Act Temporarily Preventing Firearm Access for Extremely Dangerous or Suicidal Individuals." Mayor McGovern, Councillor Mallon
Order Adopted

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Deputy City Clerk, Paula Crane, transmitting a report for a City Council public hearing held on Tues, Feb 20, 2018 for the purpose of the City Council and the public to view the new voting equipment purchased by the Election Commission.
Referred to Agenda #7, Report Accepted, Placed On File

Feb 26, 2018

The City Council held a public meeting on Tues, Feb 20, 2018 beginning at 2:00pm in the Ackermann Room to allow for members of the City Council and members of the public to view new voting equipment which has been purchased for the Election Commission.

Present at the meeting were Mayor Marc McGovern; Councillor Dennis Carlone; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey; Councillor Sumbul Siddiqui; Councillor Quinton Zondervan; Councillor Alanna Mallon; Councillor E. Denise Simmons; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Tanya Ford, Executive Director; Lesley Waxman, Assistant Director; Polyxane Cobb, Election Commissioner; Larry Ward, Election Commissioner, Election Commission; Nancy Glowa, City Solicitor; Lee Gianetti, Director of Communications and Community Relations; Maryellen Carvello, Office Manager, City Manager’s Office; Nora Bent; Anna Lee Hirschi; Wil Durbin, Chief of Staff, Mayor’s Office; and Paula M. Crane, Deputy City Clerk.

Also present were Jeff Silvestro, President, LHS Associates; John Hawkinson; and John Gintell.

Mayor McGovern convened the hearing at 2:03pm and introduced Ms. Ford. Ms. Ford took the opportunity to introduce Mr. Jeff Silvestro to the City Council and invited him to share information regarding the updated voting equipment.

Mr. Silvestro stated that he is the President and Owner of LHS Associates. He provided an informational handout for those present (ATTACHMENT A) and gave a brief overview of same. He noted that LHS Associates has been supporting Cambridge elections since 1992. He stated that there are over 100 cities and towns in Massachusetts who are using this system with 680 tabulators in service. He explained the features and benefit of the product including full digital scanning technology, internal diverter, dual and removable commercial memory cards, marginal mark detection and complete end-to-end system auditability.

Councillor Toomey stated that had had some concerns when the election was transitioned to a computerized system as opposed to a manual system. He said that he read a recent article in the Boston Globe noting that there was discussion about returning to a paper ballot. Mr. Silvestro responded that in the article, it was the LHS type of system that was being referred to as it is a paper-based system.

Councillor Toomey asked if there is any room for any type of mischief with this equipment. Ms. Cobb responded that the State is ahead of the curve by allowing audits that will be done after every election. She noted that Cambridge has been audited in the past and will likely be audited in the future. She noted that these audits act as a protection.

Councillor Toomey asked about the probability of the system being hacked. Mr. Silvestro responded that the hardware has a robust internal security with more encryption in the election media.

Councillor Zondervan stated that he is a software engineer. He asked what the difference is in terms of hardware/software between the current and the new machines. Mr. Silvestro replied that the equipment is being replaced due to the fact that some of the parts for the current machines are not being manufactured anymore. He explained that the method of voting is the same but the updated hardware takes an image of the ballot with a full touch LED screen which increases voter interaction. He explained that the Dual Threshold Detection is the only system that has this capability. He said that they added a mark detection error that will pick up and ask the voter if they meant this vote with the ability to cancel a ballot if it is incorrect. The intention is to make sure that every recount and audit comes out exact.

Councillor Zondervan said that he is excited about the possibility but does raise privacy concerns because its seems that there may be more back and forth interactions with poll workers which will lead to a backup of people in line. As it relates to privacy concerns, Mr. Silvestro added that with the larger screen and easy text, it allows instructions to come up more visibly and in multiple languages. He explained that this screen allows less need for election staff to assist the voter, therefore giving the voter more independence.

Councillor Zondervan asked about the mechanism for updating software. Mr. Silvestro answered that it is a flash software update.

Councillor Carlone asked if the new equipment would perform fractional transfer. Ms. Cobb replied that fractional transfer is a problem because a hand recount cannot be done. Ms. Waxman replied that the City cannot switch to a fractional transfer without a Charter change and noted that new machine would not change anything about how Proportional Representation is counted.

Councillor Toomey questioned if the machine will notify a voter if there is a mistake as opposed to a poll worker notifying a voter that there is a mistake. Mr. Silvestro answered in the affirmative. Ms. Cobb added that the name of a candidate does not appear on the screen and the new equipment is more secure as it relates to confidentiality.

Mayor McGovern asked about necessary staffing on Election Day. Ms. Ford responded that there will continue to be poll workers, clerks and wardens available on Election Day. Mr. Silvestro emphasized that over 100 cities and towns in Massachusetts use this system.

Councillor Simmons asked if the current system is outdated. Mr. Silvestro explained that the new system is similar but updated with newer equipment. Councillor Simmons asked if the new system will affect people that the City hires for Election Day. Ms. Ford responded that it will not affect the number of workers that are hired for Election Day. Mr. Silvestro added that LHS Associates, Inc. will have representatives on site for the first election. He added that a tutorial can be put on the City’s website to inform voters of the updated equipment and processes.

Councillor Simmons asked if the new equipment will be used for all future elections. Mr. Silvestro explained that currently no company has Proportional Representation software built but added that LHS Associates, Inc. is currently in development to create software modification.

Councillor Carlone asked if the new hardware will lead to faster results on election night. Mr. Silvestro responded that it depends on how quickly the memory cards are received to get the memory cards uploaded.

Councillor Zondervan asked if the new system is going to be used in the upcoming fall election. Mr. Silvestro responded in the affirmative. He noted that the new units will be delivered mid-April which will be followed by Election Commission staff. He said that poll workers will be trained as well. He explained that LHS Associates, Inc. is obligated to develop a Cambridge-specific poll worker guide. He said that the new machines will be in use for Election Day in September. He added that LHS Associates, Inc. will be on-site until the day after the election.

Councillor Zondervan asked about the municipal election. Mr. Silvestro stated that the software modification for the municipal election is on a different timeline. He said that they are working on initial modifications with the hope that they will get the software package in June. He said that it is the hope that the data version will be finalized with Election Commission sign off sometime in January of 2019 with completion in June of 2019.

Councillor Zondervan asked if they re-run old elections to verify accuracy of the equipment. Mr. Silvestro responded in the affirmative.

Councillor Toomey asked if there is any way to make the circles used to mark a voter’s candidate choice can be made larger for senior citizens. Mr. Silvestro responded in the negative. Councillor Toomey asked if there is a maximum number of candidates that can be listed on a ballot. Mr. Silvestro responded that the bid was 32 X 32 oval with a double-sided capability.

Mayor McGovern thanked all those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at 2:31pm on a motion by Councillor Simmons.

For the Committee,
Mayor Marc McGovern

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Feb 26
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Mar 22
4:00pm Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, May 1
9:00am Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the FY2019 City Budget (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, May 8
9:00am Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the FY2019 City Budget (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, May 9
6:00pm Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the FY2019 School Department Budget (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, May 10
9:00am Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the FY2019 City Department Budget if Needed (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, May 14
4:00pm 2018 City of Cambridge Scholarship Awards Ceremony This ceremony to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, May 15
5:00pm Housing Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Feb 26, 2018 Charter Right - Simmons
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has long been invested in making it as easy as possible for residents and those interested in viewing City Council meetings to do so via broadcasting these meetings on television and on the City’s website; and
WHEREAS: Within the past two years, the City has invested a great deal of resources in upgrading our ability to broadcast our City Council meetings, yet the online broadcasts continue to be plagued by various technical difficulties, which have continued to frustrate the efforts of those wishing to view our meetings online; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City personnel to place a contact number on the City Council’s website for the public to call when experiencing difficulties in viewing City Council meetings online; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the appropriate City personnel to determine why there continues to be significant audio and video difficulties during live internet broadcasts of City Council meetings, how these difficulties can be resolved, and to report back to the City Council in a timely manner.

Proposed Amended Version (Zondervan)
O-1 Feb 26, 2018
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has long been invested in making it as easy as possible for residents and those interested in viewing City Council meetings to do so via broadcasting these meetings on television and on the City’s website; and
WHEREAS: Over the past two years, despite the City’s substantial investment of resources in upgrading our ability to broadcast our City Council meetings, the online broadcasts regularly continue to be plagued by various technical difficulties, which have often frustrated those wishing to view our meetings online in real time; and
WHEREAS: Many other Massachusetts cities, including Boston, simulcast their live City Council meetings on YouTube and have been largely free of the technical difficulties reported in Cambridge, and YouTube may well provide Cambridge an outlet that can more successfully broadcast our City Council meetings to our residents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct 22-Cityview to explore the possibility of simulcasting live streams of City Council meetings on YouTube or an equivalent free-to-use live-streaming platform with sufficiently high bandwidth; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City personnel to place a contact number on the City Council’s website for the public to call when experiencing difficulties in viewing City Council meetings online; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the appropriate City personnel to determine why there continues to be significant audio and video difficulties during live internet broadcasts of City Council meetings, how these difficulties can be resolved, and to report back to the City Council in a timely manner.

O-3 Feb 26, 2018
MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: The 2018 Congressional City Conference hosted by the National League of Cities will take place in Washington, D.C., from Mar 11 through 14, 2018; and
WHEREAS: A majority of City Councillors will be attending the Conference, making quorum impossible; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Regular City Council Meeting scheduled for Mon, Mar 12, 2018, be and hereby is cancelled.

O-4 Feb 26, 2018
MAYOR MCGOVERN
ORDERED: That the Regular City Council Meeting scheduled for Mon, Apr 9, 2018, be and hereby is changed to a Roundtable/Working Meeting for the purpose of discussing the draft version of the Climate Change Preparedness and Resilience Plan for Alewife.

O-5 Feb 26, 2018 Charter Right as Amended - Simmons
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
VICE MAYOR DEVEREUX
WHEREAS: The City’s recently adopted Vision Zero Action Plan will create much needed safety zones which will lower the speed limit to 20 MPH in the five major squares in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90, Section 18B; and
WHEREAS: The Vision Zero Action Plan also calls for exploring additional safety zone locations and “including safety zones in the toolbox of traffic calming solutions” over the course of the next three years; and
WHEREAS: Recent close calls, accidents, and fatalities in our City have highlighted the need for more immediate intervention and the urgent creation of safety zones not only in the five major squares, but also more broadly across the city including (but not limited to) areas containing schools, parks, youth centers, small residential streets, senior centers, senior housing, public housing, or anywhere else in close proximity to land-uses serving vulnerable populations; and
WHEREAS: In 2016, the City Council voted in support of posting advisory speed limit signage to encourage that motor vehicles travel at a speed lower than that which is required by law, but no further action was taken on the matter and the concept of advisory speed limit signage was not included in the Vision Zero Action Plan; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Police Department recently received a $50,000 grant to support and supplement speed enforcement and traffic safety; and
WHEREAS: Research has shown that increasing the enforcement of speed limits and other traffic laws reduces crash rates and traffic injuries; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with City Staff to explore the possibility of accelerating the timeline for establishing safety zones on roads adjacent to land-uses serving vulnerable populations, including (but not limited to) the aforementioned examples, from a 3 year goal to something more immediate in accordance with Chapter 90, Section 18B; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with all relevant City staff and departments to examine the feasibility of posting advisory signage to broadly encourage ~~a motor vehicle speed limit of 15 MPH~~ slow speeds in areas serving vulnerable populations; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with all relevant City staff and departments to examine the feasibility of increasing enforcement of our traffic laws prominently and immediately, including but not limited to stronger enforcement of: running red lights in safety zones, illegal right turns on red, speeding, and failure to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks.

O-6 Feb 26, 2018
MAYOR MCGOVERN
HEREAS: White Ribbon Day is recognized in Massachusetts on Thurs, Mar 1, 2018, and the White Ribbon Campaign is an internationally celebrated movement inviting men to join the fight against all gender-based violence; and
WHEREAS: Every sector of our population, regardless of race, culture, income, and lifestyle, is impacted by violence against women and all forms of gender-based violence; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge will continue to work to stop all forms of violence through its numerous innovative programs and initiatives throughout the city, including the formation of the male-led Mending Cambridge group, which works to engage men and boys in ending violence against women and all gender-based violence; and
WHEREAS: On White Ribbon Day, Mending Cambridge will engage men and boys as agents of change on an issue historically addressed by women by hosting an interactive dialogue about sexual harassment on Mar 1, 2018; and
WHEREAS: A spotlight of a white ribbon will be illuminated on City Hall upon passing of this resolution for the week leading up to White Ribbon Day; and
WHEREAS: White Ribbon Day will reinforce Cambridge’s commitment that violence against women and all gender-based violence is not tolerated—this, in turn, will promote healthier gender attitudes and overall community health; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That Mayor Marc McGovern and the City Council go on record proclaiming Mar 1, 2018, as Cambridge White Ribbon Day, and the week of Feb 26 to Mar 2, 2018, a celebration of the work of Cambridge and its partners in a cohesive effort to end all gender-based violence in all its manifestations; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to City Manager Louis DePasquale, Chief Public Health Officer Claude Jacob, Cambridge Police Commissioner Branville G. Bard, Jr., and Cambridge Rindge and Latin School Principal Damon Smith on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-7 Feb 26, 2018
VICE MAYOR DEVEREUX
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: Since November of 2016, a master planning process for the City of Cambridge, called Envision Cambridge, has been underway beginning in Alewife; and
WHEREAS: To support the work of City staff and hired consultants, several working groups of residents and community stakeholders have been formed, including a 14-member Envision Alewife Working Group, whose charge is to “…help guide the Alewife district study and develop comprehensive and actionable recommendations for the area”; and
WHEREAS: As work has progressed, the views of the members of the Envision Alewife Working Group have at times diverged from those of city staff and consultants, though all involved are advocating for the best possible plan to enhance this neighborhood for housing, economic development, open space, and transportation; and
WHEREAS: All 14 members of the Envision Alewife Working Group signed a letter dated Nov 29, 2017 expressing concerns over the lack of transit and access improvements being presented for the area, especially given the large scope of development that has been completed, is in process, and is being envisioned for the future; and
WHEREAS: A draft of this letter was presented at a City Council Roundtable Meeting regarding Envision Cambridge held on Nov 20, 2017 at which time members of the City Council generally shared the view that it is essential to include plans for a bridge crossing the railroad tracks to connect development on Concord Avenue to development on Cambridgepark Drive, the Alewife T station, and a potential long-discussed Commuter Rail station at Alewife; and
WHEREAS: The unanimous letter by the Envision Alewife Working Group, attached to this Policy Order, is here being formally submitted to the City Council, as the Envision Cambridge planning process gives our City a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a well-connected, green, diverse, and accessible community that balances the need for affordable housing, commercial space, open space, fabrication/light industrial space, and transit access; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has an opportunity to continue to be a leader in transit-oriented development; and
WHEREAS: In this neighborhood, there will be approximately 20,000 residents and employees, adjacent to a commuter rail line and subway station, but only half have convenient and safe access to the subway station and none have access to a commuter rail line at Alewife; and
WHEREAS: It is critical that we include transit access as a key part of the Envision Cambridge plan; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record supporting the letter presented by the Envision Alewife Working Group in stating that a pedestrian/bicycle/shuttle bridge from the Quadrangle area along Concord Avenue across the railroad tracks to the Triangle area on Cambridgepark Drive and a commuter rail stop are critical to create neighborhoods that are safe and healthy for residents and businesses; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with City staff on the feasibility of initiating a formal transit study and action plan of the Alewife area in response to these unanimous concerns of the Envision Alewife Working Group, and report back at a Transportation and Public Utilities Committee hearing to be scheduled in early spring 2018.

Nov 29, 2017
To the Honorable City Council:

The undersigned are members of the Envision Alewife Working Group. We have spent many hours hearing from urban planning experts of all kinds and discussing how Cambridge can realize the vision of Alewife as a sustainable, resilient, mixed-use district with convenient and safe connections within the neighborhood and to the rest of the city and region, along with amenities that support interaction and social ties among its residents.

Connectivity is at the core of this vision and thus it is the strong belief of the entire Working Group that a pedestrian/bicycle/shuttle bridge from the “Quadrangle” across the railroad tracks to the “Triangle” is essential to the creation of diverse, connected and healthy spaces for living and working with a reduced need to utilize cars for commuting and for daily routines within the neighborhood.

Further, it is desired that this bridge also incorporate a commuter rail-stop. Such a rail-stop would provide commuters now arriving from the west and working in the Triangle and Quadrangle with easy access to public-transit alternatives and would be an important step toward addressing regional traffic challenges. Thus, we request that the city immediately initiate an effort to study and catalyze these projects while identifying potential benefits of combining a bridge and rail-stop into a single structure.

It should be noted that there is recent precedent for a new commuter rail-stop at Boston Landing which comprises far less development than the Triangle and Quadrangle.

In addition, there are members of our Working Group who strongly believe that the dead-end of Cambridge Park Drive should be solved by introducing a grade-crossing (or underpass or bridge) and that a pedestrian/bike bridge be built over the Little River, connecting Cambridge Discovery Park as well. Combined, these four projects have the potential to be transformative, connecting three disconnected pie slices of Alewife.

Time is of the essence in the construction of these transit and connectivity upgrades.

As the Quadrangle continues to fill with residents and workers, the future commuting patterns are being set. If no easy bicycle, rail and subway access is available, the immense traffic problems now afflicting Alewife will only further deteriorate and may adversely impact long-term economic viability and growth for the area.

We suggest that the same level of “visioning” our Working Group is now applying to the private realm – for example new buildings envisioned in the Quadrangle and the Fresh Pond Mall – ought to also be applied to the public realm, including transportation infrastructure and open space.

It will be an historic failure of vision and ambition if we do not address this issue while there is still the opportunity to do so. We might ask, when will Cambridge next embark on such a comprehensive citywide plan?

We are therefore asking that the City Council request the City Manager to direct City staff to take all necessary steps to make a bridge and rail-stop a reality as soon as possible and consider an auto connection point and Little River crossing as well. We are also requesting that the City analyze, produce and disseminate detailed information regarding engineering feasibility and projected costs for the possible solutions to these connectivity problems.

We are further recommending that the relevant State Senators and Representatives, the State Dept. of Transportation, and other key stakeholders be brought into this conversation as soon as practicable. The status quo is unacceptable.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Members of the Alewife Working Group – Unanimously:
Bill Ahern, wahern@chelaw.com
Doug Brown, douglas_p_brown@yahoo.com
James Butler, jamesbutler@cambridgeselfstorage.com
Catherine Preston Connolly, catherineprestonconnolly@gmail.com
John DiGiovanni, jdigiovanni@trinityproperty.com
Mark DiOrio, mrd@Bulfinch.com
Margaret Drury, drurybischoff@comcast.net
Karen Dumaine, kdumaine@transactionassoc.com
Margaret Gadon, mgadon@gmail.com
Jennifer Gilbert, jennifer.gilbert@gmail.com
Eric Grunebaum, egrunebaum@aol.com
Tom Ragno, tragno@ks-prop.com
Sam Stern Jones, samsternjones@gmail.com
Geoff Wood, geoffrey.e.wood@state.ma.us

O-8 Feb 26, 2018
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Katherine T. “Kittie” Knox was a bicycling pioneer who resided in Cambridge in the late 1800s who brought down barriers of racial and gender-based discrimination, and it is only fitting that the City should find a location in the city to place a suitable marker to commemorate her life and legacy; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for review.

O-9 Feb 26, 2018
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge lost a beloved resident, activist, and inspiration when Renae D. Gray passed away on Jan 24, 2017, and it is only fitting that the City should find a location in the city to place a suitable marker to commemorate her life and legacy; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for review.

O-10 Feb 26, 2018
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
VICE MAYOR DEVEREUX
WHEREAS: Since the completion of the Cambridge Common renovations, the paths across the park do not drain properly, and are therefore prone to collecting water in pools; and
WHEREAS: This pooling poses both comfort and safety issues to the public as the puddles, of various depths, create inconvenient obstacles for pedestrians in warmer weather that become truly dangerous when frozen during colder weather; and
WHEREAS: Residents have been reporting that the paths’ drainage has been problematic since their installation and have been inquiring as to when the issue will be addressed and the drainage problems fixed; and
WHEREAS: In email exchanges with City Staff which have been ongoing for over a year, it was stated that the City was working with MassDOT and the contractor with an expectation to have the issue resolved by Spring of 2017, but excess water is still an ongoing issue; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with an explanation of the causes of the Cambridge Common drainage problems, an expected date that the paths will be redone so that they drain properly, and any lessons City staff may have learned about the renovation process so that future contractual work does not result in similar problems.

O-11 Feb 26, 2018
MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: The Central Square branch of Enterprise Rent-A-Car (25 River Street) that fronts Western Avenue, River Street, and Franklin Street has been observed to park commercially operated vehicles so that they encroach upon the sidewalks around the facility, obstructing the public way for pedestrians; and
WHEREAS: Residents have repeatedly voiced their concern to Enterprise Rent-A-Car over the practice, which places pedestrians closer to traffic as they walk around parked commercial vehicles, reduces sidewalk width below ADA compliance, and converts portions of the public way to commercial use; and
WHEREAS: Despite these appeals, commercially operated vehicles continue to be recorded obstructing the public way; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department and the Cambridge Police Department to increase enforcement of relevant laws around the Enterprise Rent-A-Car location with the goal of compliance; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the City Solicitor to issue a cease and desist letter to Enterprise Rent-A-Car.

O-12 Feb 26, 2018 Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: For the past eight years, the Cambridge District Court has been relocated to a building in Medford, a move that has made it significantly difficult, in some cases prohibitively so, for too many Cambridge residents looking to utilize the Court’s services who have been unable to travel out to that location; and
WHEREAS: Far too many members of the Cambridge community, particularly those who have been impacted by domestic violence, have reported that traveling to Medford is a significant enough burden that many have not been able to avail themselves of the Court’s services, and this can have far-reaching and negative repercussions upon their lives; and
WHEREAS: Numerous local domestic violence advocates have impressed upon the members of the City Council the importance of relocating the Cambridge District Court back to its originally assigned jurisdiction within the City of Cambridge, and while there has been some discussion about this return to Cambridge hopefully taking place in 2020, far too many people will be negatively impacted in the meantime; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record expressing strong support to expedite the relocation of the Cambridge District Court from Malden back to its originally assigned jurisdiction within the City of Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to the members of the Cambridge Delegation to the State Legislature, and to Judge Roanne Sragow, on behalf of the entire City Council.
ORDERED: That the City Manager and the Mayor be and hereby is requested to meet with the Honorable Ralph D. Gants, Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court, the Honorable Paula M. Carey, Chief Justice of the Trial Court, and Jonathan S. Williams, Court Administrator, the Executive Office of the Trial Court to discuss this matter further.

O-13 Feb 26, 2018
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
VICE MAYOR DEVEREUX
WHEREAS: The public toilet in Harvard Square is an important public amenity in a high traffic area and has recently experienced service interruption due to frozen pipes caused by January’s frigid temperatures; and
WHEREAS: The toilet suffered from the same type of service interruption from frozen pipes during last year’s frigid winter; and
WHEREAS: The public toilet project was complex in both its siting and construction and took more than one year to complete and open for public use; and
WHEREAS: An update posted on the City’s website stated that the repairs would be completed early in the week of Feb 4th but those repairs did not happen on time; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with an explanation of why it took so long to repair, and what proactive methods are being taken into consideration to prevent this interruption of service from happening again, at either the Harvard Square or the Central Square public toilet.

O-14 Feb 26, 2018
VICE MAYOR DEVEREUX
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: Walden Street experiences a high volume of traffic between Concord Avenue and Sherman Street and is apt to be clogged with bumper-to-bumper traffic at peak hours; and
WHEREAS: The intersection of Walden Street and Garden Street is in close proximity to a school, playground, and park; and
WHEREAS: Walden Street at Garden Street has a relatively new curb extension on one side, but a raised four-way crosswalk was considered at one point; and
WHEREAS: The intersection of Walden Street and Sherman Street also is very busy, and is further complicated by a large construction project on the Northwest corner that blocks sight lines and often obstructs or narrows the road and sidewalks; and
WHEREAS: A new development is beginning on the Southeast corner of Walden Street and Concord Avenue on the site of the former gas station, which may further compromise safety for people moving through the intersection and using the sidewalks; and
WHEREAS: None of these four busy streets offers any protection for people on bikes; and
WHEREAS: Residents have expressed concerns about safety of all three of these intersections; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department and report back to the City Council on what further improvements can be made to improve safety for all users of the intersections of Walden Street with Concord Avenue, Garden Street and Sherman Street.

O-15 Feb 26, 2018 Amended
COUNCILLOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR ~~CARLONE~~ SIMMONS
MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: It has come to the City Council’s attention that the Mobil Gas Station, located at 808/812 Memorial Drive, has applied for a malt and wine beverages liquor license; and
WHEREAS: The application for said license has been met with significant opposition from the residents of 808/812 Memorial Drive, with many residents voicing concerns that the increased availability of alcohol in this location could potentially negatively impact them, particularly school-age/minor children, religious communities, and seniors who live there; and
WHEREAS: No other gas station in Cambridge has been granted a license to sell alcoholic beverages of any kind; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the License Commission and any other relevant City department to take appropriate measures to ensure that the residents of 808/812 Memorial Drive are given adequate opportunity to weigh in with their concerns prior to any final decisions on this matter.

O-16 Feb 26, 2018
MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has been graced with many luminary individuals throughout our centuries, forming a lineage of innovators and leaders, entrepreneurs and humanitarians who helped give shape to our community as they reshaped the world and its people; and
WHEREAS: To this line we commit Henri A. Termeer, a pioneer and revolutionary in the biotech field, whose inspiration stimulated the development of an industry, and whose life’s work transformed the lives of those who suffered hopelessly with rare genetic diseases; and
WHEREAS: Termeer spoke of Massachusetts’ “responsibility to lead, to use the talents and capabilities [our state] built over many years,” sentiments he manifested in promoting a “patient centric” approach in building the rare disease industry, and as CEO of Genzyme, co-founder of the Network for Excellence in Health Innovation, and member of the MIT Corporation, all based here in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: In addition to his contributions to science and medicine, Termeer was known for his thoughtfulness, philanthropy, and endless energy which he dedicated to helping others aspire in the healthcare industry to be bold, and think big; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Mayor and City Council of Cambridge do hereby honor the life and example of Henri A. Termeer, who reminds us all to give more, to question further, and to strive harder in pursuit of an end to the maladies and inequities of this world; and be it further
RESOLVED: That His Honor the Mayor, on behalf of the entire City Council, hereby declares that Feb 28, 2018, in conjunction with Rare Disease Day, be recognized as Henri A. Termeer Day in the City of Cambridge, a City that he helped to make synonymous with biotechnical innovation; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Henri A. Termeer Tribute Committee, and to his family, his wife Belinda, and children Adriana and Nicholas on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-19 Feb 26, 2018
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: Improperly discarded syringes and needles are a City-wide safety concern; and
WHEREAS: Residents have reported finding syringes and needles on sidewalks, streets, and in parks and are unsure of what to do when they come across them; and
WHEREAS: There are some resources set up to assist residents such as the Cambridge Police Department or Cambridge Fire Department who will respond to calls, and some self-disposal kiosks at health centers and the Police Department, but a clearly defined and publicly understood 24/7 needle response option does not exist; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City and Cambridge Public Health Department staff to create a formal 24/7 response program for residents to report, and the City to remove, dangerous syringes and needles; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with City staff to provide easily accessible needle safety information, to include emergency needle or syringe removal and disposal contacts, on the City’s website; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this issue.

O-20 Feb 26, 2018
MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Rare Disease Day is an annual awareness day dedicated to educating the general public about rare diseases and their associated challenges, including what patients, families, and caregivers face each day in battling these diseases; and
WHEREAS: People with rare diseases have tremendous unmet needs, including misdiagnosis, long wait times time to receive correct diagnosis, and limited treatment options; and
WHEREAS: The theme for Rare Disease Day 2018 is research, an endeavor in which Cambridge stands at the forefront globally with large portions of our residents, workforce, and research institutions dedicated to advancing biotechnical solutions for diseases that afflict humankind; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That His Honor, the Mayor, on behalf of the entire City Council, proclaims Feb 28, 2018, to be Rare Disease Day in the City of Cambridge, in recognition of the research and education that remains in finding cures for patients the world over, and with optimism that the answers to those challenges may be found in Cambridge.

O-21 Feb 26, 2018
MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR MALLON
WHEREAS: The epidemic level of gun violence in our nation reflects a failure of leadership to take meaningful steps to protect Americans, including the most vulnerable in our schools; and
WHEREAS: As our student populations have so powerfully articulated, it’s time for our elected officials to act to prevent future attacks; and
WHEREAS: Legislation filed by State Representative Marjorie Decker would allow Massachusetts courts to issue an “extreme risk protection order” to “suspend or surrender” firearms in the possession of individuals posing a risk to themselves or others, taking into account whether the individual: has recently made a violent threat against self or others; demonstrated a pattern of violent acts against others; is suffering from dangerous mental health issues; violates an abuse prevention order; has been convicted of domestic violence; and/or has unlawfully or recklessly used a firearm; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council endorses H. 3610, “An Act Temporarily Preventing Firearm Access for Extremely Dangerous or Suicidal Individuals,” sponsored by Representative Marjorie Decker, and commends her for taking a leadership role to protect the residents of this City and of the Commonwealth from further gun violence; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Representative Marjorie Decker on behalf of the entire City Council.

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

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

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

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

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

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

17-33. Report on bringing Massachusetts closer to 100% renewable energy by 2035, and ensure that the benefits of renewable energy are realized by Massachusetts residents from all walks of life and supporting a goal of using 100% clean and renewable energy in Cambridge, including in building energy use and transportation, by 2035. On a communication from Councillor Devereux requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Devereux, Vice Mayor McGovern (O-13) from 4/24/2017

17-53. Report on determining if new facilities are needed by either DPW or CFD to best carry out their respective missions in the future and, if so, what type of facilities they would need and how much space that would require and where they might possibly be located. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toomey (O-7) from 6/26/2017

17-60. Report on the feasibility of making the section of Kinnaird Street between River Street and Western Avenue into a one-way. Referred back to the City Manager to arrange community meeting on motion of Vice Mayor McGovern on Nov 13, 2017. On a communication from Councillor McGovern requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons (O-4) from 8/7/2017

17-70. Report on the status of the City’s plans to review and possibly implement a municipal Broadband system. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Kelley (O-22) from 8/8/2017

17-71. Report on a proposal to design, fund and implement a bike and electric personal vehicle transportation study to provide the City with a comprehensive explanation of who is going where, why and under what conditions via bike or personal electric vehicle. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Kelley (O-23) from 8/7/2017

17-77. Report on the intersection of Cedar Street and Rindge Avenue with the goal of clarifying traffic patterns through the intersection. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Kelley (O-6) from 9/11/2017

17-82. Report on possible solutions to regulatory or legislative gaps on the local or state level that would help clarify how emerging types of conveyances can most safely and effectively be incorporated into Cambridge’s Urban Mobility planning and infrastructure investments. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Devereux, Councillor Kelley (O-15) from 9/11/2017

17-86. Report on the necessary steps to enforce the anti-idling state law in residential areas by the Sept 25, 2017 City Council meeting. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session. See Mgr #10
Councillor Toomey (O-6) from 9/18/2017

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

17-88. Report on providing clarification for the benefit of residents, visitors, and business owners on how the City views its obligations and constraints regarding marijuana enforcement and regulation. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session. See Mgr #11
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Toomey (O-9) from 9/18/2017

17-95. Report on the status of the all-electric, leaf-blowing park pilot, the effectiveness of the battery-operated equipment, the potential for expanding the all-electric park program, and steps being taken on enforcement and training and to inquire the feasibility of requiring or advising landscape companies to provide or require safety masks for workers. On a communication from Councillor Devereux requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Devereux (O-6) from 9/25/2017

17-108. Report on the feasibility of requiring developers to post a signboard at development sites requiring Large Project Review or a Special Permit with contact information for a site manager, a brief description of the project (including whether it is residential, commercial, or mixed-use, and, if residential, the total number of units and inclusionary units, an expected completion date, and a rendering of the street-facing elevation), and a web link where more information is available. On a communication from Councillor Devereux requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Councillor Devereux (O-2) from 10/16/2017

17-110. Report on the status of the implementation of the EnerGov software across various City departments to streamline the permitting process. On a communication from Councillor Devereux requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Sessions.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Devereux, Councillor Mazen (O-5) from 10/16/2017

18-4. Report on exploring mechanisms for achieving greater levels of snow clearing by the city and increase the public response during major snow events or heavy snow winters.
Councillor Zondervan, Mayor McGovern, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-5) from 1/22/2018

18-5. Report on contacting Sira Naturals for the purpose of gathering information regarding sales figures, customer demographics, and other relevant operational information.
Councillor Mallon (O-6) from 1/22/2018

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

18-7. Report on the possibility of changing the snow removal exemption to include two and three-family houses.
Councillor Toomey (O-1) from 1/29/2018

18-8. Report on any work that is currently underway regarding regulating adult use marijuana and to suggest next steps to the Council no later than Feb 26, 2018.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Mallon, Councillor Siddiqui, Mayor McGovern (O-2) from 1/29/2018

18-9. Report on necessary repairs to the Gold Star Mothers Park and all play and water feature, including drainage issues, with an eye towards mitigating the impacts of local construction and the development of a plan with the community for improving this significant piece of open space.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Toomey (O-3) from 1/29/2018

18-10. Report on creating a list of mitigated meeting and conference room private spaces that are available to the public, what the exact eligibility of using these spaces is, and making the list available to the public.
Councillor Toomey (O-5) from 1/29/2018

18-11. Report on the potential of utilizing trenchless technology, micro tunneling and/or pipe jacking to lessen the time and impact on the residents of Gore Street.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Mallon (O-6) from 1/29/2018

18-12. Report on maximizing the community benefits from and mitigating the impacts of the Cambridge Crossing sewer construction.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toomey (O-8) from 1/29/2018

18-13. Report on efforts to expand the number of electric vehicle charging stations, the feasibility of appropriately placing electric vehicle chargers on residential streets where there is need, the status of possible City fleet replacement to electric vehicles, expanded outreach and education on available rebates and incentive programs, and the feasibility of requiring developers to include a greater number of electric vehicle charging stations in new or substantially renovated multi-unit buildings.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Zondervan (Calendar Item #1) from 1/29/2018

18-14. Report on whether the Community Development Department will apply for the Targeted Brownfields Assessment Grant regarding Jerry's Pond.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-1) from 2/5/2018

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

18-16. Report on the plan to redesign Inman Square and to provide input, including: walk-in clinics between now and the next community meeting and making more details available online. See Mgr #8
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Siddiqui (O-5) from 2/12/2018

18-17. Report on the current status of zoning language and public health regulations for the keeping of hens and food cultivation and proposed next steps to advance the Urban Agriculture initiative.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor McGovern (O-2) from 2/12/2018

18-18. Report on the success of the Polystyrene Ordinance, including implementation, enforcement, and remaining concerns among the business community.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Siddiqui (O-3) from 2/12/2018

18-19. Report on the possibility of reconfiguring the traffic lights and pedestrian signals at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue, Prospect Street, and River Street to stop all traffic and allow for an “ALL WALK” pedestrian signal and further to review improvements to the No Left Hand signage.
Councillor Mallon, Councillor Siddiqui (O-6) from 2/5/2018

18-20. Report on repairing Rufo Road as soon as possible.
Councillor Toomey (O-8) from 2/5/2018