CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of the following persons as members of the Cambridge Historical Commission:
Name    Expiration
Chandra Harrington    6/26/2011
Robert G. Crocker    2/8/2011
Frank Shirley    9/20/2011
Jo M. Solet    9/20/2011

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a License Commission recommendation to approve the jitney application from Deacon Transportation, Inc. d/b/a Old Town Trolley Tours of Boston for an amendment to their route.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the block rates for water consumption and sewer use for the period beginning Apr 1, 2009 and ending Mar 31, 2010.

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) Grant for $1,760,284 to the Public Works Public Investment Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account for the CAM002 004 project area (Alewife Brook sewer separation and stormwater management project).

Mar 23, 2009
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby requesting the appropriation of a Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) Grant for $1,760,284 to the Public Works Public Investment Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account for the CAM002 004 project area (Alewife Brook sewer separation and stormwater management project).

This grant is being awarded to the City of Cambridge by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority to allow the design work to proceed. The overall program is anticipated to continue through various stages of construction until 2015 after which time the Concord Avenue/Huron Avenue neighborhood and the Whittemore Avenue neighborhood will be fully separated and at which time combined sewer overflows will be significantly reduced and water quality in the Brook will be greatly enhanced.

Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $18,453.84 within a DEP Municipal Recycling Incentive Program Grant from the DPW Grant Fund Salary and Wages account to the DPW Grant Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account to allow for the purchase of approximately 350 wheeled recycling toters to be provided to multi-unit buildings, schools and City buildings.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $100,000 from the Employee Benefits Salary and Wages account (Insurance) to the General Fund Fire Travel and Training (Judgments & Damages) account to cover medical services and/or prescription reimbursement costs for fire personnel injured in performance of their duties.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $111,000 from the General Fund Fire Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Fire Other Ordinary Maintenance account to cover additional energy costs for the remainder of the fiscal year.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-14, regarding a report on the status of the City's drinking fountains.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-05, regarding a report on plans for conducting an energy audit of City Hall.

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of John P. Mosher, as a Constable Without Power for a term of three years effective the first day of January, 2008.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-156, regarding the feasibility of placing a bus shelter at 2518 Mass Avenue for the #77 MBTA bus.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $348,515.50 to the Public Investment Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures accounts and will be used for street and sidewalk reconstruction.

CHARTER RIGHT
1. Charter right exercised by Councillor Decker on Committee Report Number One of Mar 9, 2009 regarding a report from Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee, for a meeting held on Feb 4, 2009 to follow up on red light camera enforcement.
Attached Order #20 supporting creation of local option for red-light camera traffic enforcement approved 5-4 after extended discussion. Voting in favor: Davis, Kelley, Maher, Seidel, Toomey; voting against: Decker, Reeves, Simmons, Ward. [The civil liberties red-herring was again invoked by Decker.]

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

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

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

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. Approval of constable bond surety received from Charles M. Durrah.

2. An application was received from Mass Chicken, requesting permission for five tables and twelve chairs for restaurant seating in front of 736 Massachusetts Avenue.

3. An application was received from Alan L. Johnson, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 135 Western Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association.  Charter Right - Reeves

4. An application was received from Susan M. Carter, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 41 Holden Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association.

5. An application was received from Cambridge Science Festival requesting permission for one temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Pearl and Norfolk Streets, fifty-seven banners on poles in Harvard Square and one hundred forty-six banners on poles along Massachusetts Avenue and Main Street announcing the Cambridge Science Festival Apr 25-May 3, 2009.

6. An application was received from J. Leu, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 11 Linnaean Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works with conditions. No neighborhood association for that area.

7. An application was received from Verizon Wireless, requesting permission for two awnings at the premises numbered 95 Mount Auburn Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department, Historical Commission and abutters.

8. An application was received from JP Licks Ice Cream Cafe, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign in front of 1312 Massachusetts Avenue.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Jim Pruett, Oakland, TN, transmitting thanks for removing cameras.

2. A communication was received from Representative William N. Brownsberger, transmitting thanks for the letter concerning H5113, An act relative to the operation of low speed vehicles.

3. A communication was received from Ruth A. Ryals, transmitting support for Lesley's zoning petition.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Oylan Dong, Prudential Spirit of Community Award honoree, for her volunteer service.   Mayor Simmons

2. Congratulations to Elizabeth Asefa on being chosen as one of sixteen students to be awarded a 2009 Youth Activist Scholarship by the National American Civil Liberties Union.   Mayor Simmons

3. Resolution on the death of Michael W. Shannon, M.D.   Councillor Decker

4. Resolution on the death of Thomas J. Kelley.   Councillor Maher

5. Resolution on the death of the Honorable Reginald C. Lindsay.   Councillor Reeves

6. Resolution on the death of Lorraine (Gallagher) Howington.   Councillor Toomey

7. Retirement of Eileen Monaco from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Simmons

8. Retirement of Carol Murphy from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Simmons

9. Retirement of Anthony Marchetti, Jr. from the Public Works Department.   Mayor Simmons

10. Resolution on the death of Patrick J. Greaney.   Councillor Maher, Councillor Toomey

11. Resolution on the death of Corporal Donte J. Whitworth.   Councillor Decker
12. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Patrick A. Malone.   Councillor Decker
13. Resolution on the death of First Lieutenant Daniel B. Hyde.   Councillor Decker
14. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Jessica Y. Sarandrea.   Councillor Decker
15. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jeffrey A. Reed.   Councillor Decker

16. Condolences to the family of Thomas F. Sullivan.   Councillor Maher

17. Resolution on the death of Teresa F. (Talarico) Femino.   Councillor Maher

18. Proclaim Apr 10, 2009 as Lily Ann Rose Day in Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons

19. Thanks to the Cambridge Boat Club on the occasion of its centennial.   Mayor Simmons

20. Happy Birthday wishes to Hope Kelley.   Mayor Simmons

21. Thanks to all who contributed in the creation of "You Find Your Strength. A guide for women who are homeless by women who are or have been homeless."   Mayor Simmons

22. Congratulations to Justine Petrillo, Women's World Champion Four Square player and Runner-up Christina Laverenz.   Mayor Simmons

23. Best wishes to Swissnex Boston and the Consulate of Switzerland on the occasion of the opening of the Second Floor Pavilion.   Councillor Davis

24. Congratulations to Tara Knight on being named MVP for her U-12 hockey team.   Vice Mayor Seidel

25. Resolution on the death of Loretta "Tootie" (Carland) Wilson.   Councillor Toomey

26. Congratulations to Juanita Temple of the IBPOE of W on their 100th Anniversary.   Mayor Simmons

27. Thanks to Jeremy Shenk for his good work on behalf of the men and women of Cambridge in his role at the Service Employees International Union 615.   Councillor Decker

28. Happy 50th Birthday to Richard Colbath-Hess.   Vice Mayor Seidel, Mayor Simmons

29. Resolution on the death of Sara "Sally" (McCann) Goduti.   Councillor Maher, Mayor Simmons

30. Happy 100th Birthday wishes to Leo Ciccolo.   Councillor Maher, Mayor Simmons

31. Happy Birthday wishes to Rose Davis.   Mayor Simmons

ORDERS
1. Dedication of an appropriate site in the vicinity of Cambridge Street and Maple Avenue in honor of Dr. Charles A. Brusch.   Councillor Maher
Kelley voted NO

2. Dedication of an appropriate site in the vicinity of Fairfield Street and Rindge Avenue in honor of John D. Lynch.   Councillor Maher
Kelley voted NO

3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to discuss the installation of a fence at the park on the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Clarendon Avenue to create a safer atmosphere for children and parents using this park.   Councillor Toomey

4. Rescheduling of the City Council and School Committee Roundtable meeting to May 4, 2009.   Mayor Simmons

5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to discuss the creation of a mailing piece to be included in existing mailings that asks driveway owners to be courteous to others by utilizing their driveways as much as possible.   Councillor Toomey and Councillor Davis
Kelley and Simmons voted NO

6. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to ensure that dog waste bags will be provided at parks throughout the summer months in order to help keep the parks clean.   Councillor Toomey  Amended

7. That the City Manager provide a copy of the report and recommendations from "A Look at Women in Cambridge Now" to all City department heads and require them to report back by the start of FY10 on the ways in which they can implement the recommendations.   Mayor Simmons

8. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the possibility of doubling the number of solar panels to be installed on the high school using stimulus funds.   Councillor Davis and Vice Mayor Seidel

9. That the City Manager is requested to require appropriate City departments and staff to begin collecting data based on gender and to make available to the Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women and all other departments the gender based data while securing anonymity and confidentiality as appropriate.   Mayor Simmons

10. That the City Manager is requested to assign a grant writer to apply for funding that is available through President Obama's Economic Stimulus Proposal Workforce Investment Act and would benefit the youth of Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons

11. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to convene a public meeting in the near future with relevant City staff, local non-profits, tenants' associations and any other resources that may be helpful, with the goal of providing information and support for any homeowner or renter who may be having trouble paying their monthly bill and who may be facing the possibility of eviction from their home.   Vice Mayor Seidel

12. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Health Alliance to ensure that the Health Alliance will be mailing notices of its community meetings directly to their consumers.   Councillor Decker  Amended

13. That the City Manager is requested to obtain from the Fire Department how many black hydrants are in the West Cambridge area, and whether or not the number of black hydrants in West Cambridge is relatively high in comparison with the rest of the city.   Councillor Decker

14. Asking Harvard University and MIT, two of Cambridge's largest employers, to consider making the sacrifice to weather these tough economic times out without resorting to cutting its lowest wage workers for economic relief.   Councillor Decker

15. That the City Manager is requested to report to the City Council with a proposal to label trees at appropriate locations to educate Cambridge residents.   Councillor Davis

16. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the relevant departments such as Inspectional Services and the Community Development Department to address problems with the enforcement of existing regulations to protect light from one property from creating problems on nearby properties.   Councillor Davis

17. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Inspectional Services Department to prepare a response to the state's proposed stretch building code to be submitted to the state before the Apr 10, 2009 deadline for submission.   Councillor Davis

18. That the City Manager is requested to direct the City Solicitor to prepare a home rule petition to enable the City of Cambridge to establish a program similar to that of Berkeley, California which gives city-backed loans to property owners who install rooftop solar-power systems.   Vice Mayor Seidel and Councillor Davis

19. That the City Clerk is requested to recirculate the Public Safety Committee Report for the January 21, 2009 meeting, the purpose of which was to discuss crime trends.   Councillor Toomey  [Order adopted as a substitution for Councillor Decker's original Order (she had already left when the Late Order came up.]

20. The City Council go on record supporting red light camera enforcement.   Councillor Kelley and Councillor Toomey
Voting in favor: Davis, Kelley, Maher, Seidel, Toomey; voting against: Decker, Reeves, Simmons, Ward.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Health and Environment Committee, for a meeting held on Feb 24, 2009 to discuss dark sky principles and a variety of issues related to appropriate lighting and light pollution.

2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David Maher, Co-Chair of the Government Operations and Rules Committee, for a hearing held on Dec 9, 2008 for the purpose of considering a proposal to rename Plympton Street in honor of David Halberstam.

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

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

Wed, Apr 1
1:00pm   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss whether a program similar to the Harlem Children's Zone Office of College Success could advance the goal of college graduation for all low income students in Cambridge.  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm   The Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss promoting and harvesting fruit trees and the planting, care and maintenance of street trees.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

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

Tues, Apr 14
4:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition submitted by Lesley University to amend the Zoning Map and Article 20.000 of the Zoning Ordinance by adding "Section 20.200 Lesley Porter Overlay District." This meeting to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Apr 16
6:00pm   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the closing of the Riverside Health Clinic by the Cambridge Health Alliance.  (Location TBA)

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

Wed, Apr 29
6:00pm   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the closing of the North Cambridge Health Clinic by the Cambridge Health Alliance.  (Location TBA)

Thurs, Apr 30
9:30am   The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY10 City Budget. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Wed, May 6
9:30am   The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY10 City Budget. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, May 7
4:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to consider whether the City Council should petition to amend the zoning law with regard to yard definitions.  (Sullivan Chamber)
4:30pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting with regard to require aisle width for parking facilities in certain instances.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Tues, May 12
5:30pm   The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY10 School Department Budget. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, May 14
9:30am   The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY10 City Budget. (if necessary) This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, May 18
4:00pm   2009 Scholarship Award Ceremony  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

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

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

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

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

Mon, July 27
5:30pm   Special City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Sept 14
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Sept 21
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Mon, Oct 19
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Oct 26
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate an appropriate site in the vicinity of Cambridge Street and Maple Avenue in honor of Dr. Charles A. Brusch; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-2     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate an appropriate site in the vicinity of Fairfield Street and Rindge Avenue in honor of John D. Lynch; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public works to arrange for the sign.

O-3     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to discuss the installation of a fence at the park on the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Clarendon Avenue to create a safer atmosphere for children and parents using this park; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Commissioner of Public Works to ensure that the water fountains in this park are in proper working order.

O-4     Mar 23, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The School Department is requesting that the Mar 30, 2009 Roundtable of the School Committee and City Council be rescheduled due to a community forum being scheduled with finalist candidates for the Superintendent of Schools position; and
WHEREAS: The School Committee has indicated that May 4, 2009 would be a convenient date for rescheduling this Roundtable; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Roundtable meeting be rescheduled to May 4, 2009.

O-5     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Residents who make use of their driveways help to alleviate the problems of on-street parking for residents who do not have the luxury of off-street parking; and
WHEREAS: Some residents who have driveways and multiple vehicles do not make use of their driveways and occupy street spaces that could otherwise be used by residents who need to park on the street, adding to parking difficulties; and
WHEREAS: The is no way to enforce the use of driveways; and
WHEREAS: A city campaign asking residents with driveways to be courteous to on-street parkers by using their driveway as often as possible could raise awareness and improved the usage of driveways; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to discuss the creation of a mailing piece to be included in existing mailings that asks driveway owners to be courteous to others by utilizing their driveways as much as possible.

O-6     Mar 23, 2009  Amended
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to ensure that high quality dog waste bags will be provided at parks throughout the summer months in order to help keep the parks clean; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Public Works Commissioner install signage to remind dog owners about the proper disposal of dog waste; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Animal Commission with a view in mind to increase the dog license fee to include the cost of the animal waste bags and to further educate the public about the expense of the animal waste bags.

O-7     Mar 23, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Data from the US Census, the Cambridge Police Department, the Teen Health Survey, and other sources was collected to create the first ever Report on the Status of Women and girls in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Women outnumber males in almost half of the neighborhoods in Cambridge, single women head the majority of households in Cambridge, and more than 20 percent of Cambridge middle school-aged girls witnessed violence in their neighborhoods in a 12 month period; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge community stakeholders, policy analysts, and program directors attended the Women's Data Workshop to interpret and evaluate data from the Report on the Status of Women and Girls in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women partnered with the Cambridge Public Health Department and the Institute for Community Health to put forth recommendations for City departments and organizations to expand programming, policy, and funding opportunities in order to effectively deliver needed services and programs to women and girls in the community; and
WHEREAS: The Recommendations from A Look at Women in Cambridge Now submitted to the City Manager in February, 2009, underlined five key areas for enhancement - Economic Issues, Older Women, Women's Health, Women's Safety, and Young Women/Girls; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women created an online "community conversation" at cambridgewomen.blogspot.com to discuss the recommendations from the workshop, now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager provide a copy of the report and recommendations to all City Department Heads and require them to report back by the start of FY10 on the ways in which they can implement the recommendations made in A Look at Women in Cambridge Now.

O-8     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
VICE MAYOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the possibility of doubling the number of solar panels to be installed on the high school using stimulus funds.

O-9     Mar 23, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The lack of sufficient data on gender in programming, policy, as well as in the economic, social and political spheres, can give rise to costly and misdirected policies, plans and projects; and
WHEREAS: Gender specific data collection creates a more holistic and balanced understanding of a community; and
WHEREAS: Gender differences refer to economic and socio-cultural factors defined by background and community; and
WHEREAS: Understanding and accounting for gender inequalities in accessing resources helps to develop significant changes in intra-communal relations and women's empowerment; and
WHEREAS: Gender specific data collection would be easily administered with very little interruption and change in most procedures by which City Departments do business; and
WHEREAS: The Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Commission can identify a professional resource to assist the city in designing ways to collect data that separate gender and also allow for gender identification vs. biological gender; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to require appropriate City departments and staff to begin collecting data based on gender and to make available to the Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women and all other departments the gender based data while securing anonymity and confidentiality as appropriate.

O-10     Mar 23, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Cambridge youth between the ages of 16-24 would greatly benefit from grant funds available through President Obama's Economic Stimulus Proposal Workforce Investment Act; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to assign a grant writer to apply for funding (proposals for which are due in approximately 30 days) that would benefit the youth of Cambridge.

O-11     Mar 23, 2009
VICE MAYOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: The economic downturn has meant that people are losing jobs and having trouble paying the rent or the monthly mortgage bill; and
WHEREAS: There are community resources available to help residents plan and manage during difficult economic times; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to convene a public meeting in the near future with relevant City staff, local non-profits, tenants' associations and any other resources that may be helpful, with the goal of providing information and support for any homeowner or renter who may be having trouble paying their monthly bill and who may be facing the possibility of eviction from their home.

O-12     Mar 23, 2009  Amended
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Health Alliance has only had one community meeting, for which the City Council was only given one weeks notice, and notice of the meeting was not mailed to Health Alliance consumers; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Health Alliance to ensure that the Health Alliance will be mailing notices of its community meetings directly to their consumers as they are the primary ones that will be impacted by Health Alliance changes; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on whether or not the Health Alliance will be mailing notices of its community meetings directly to their consumers and said report to include copies of the notices of the community meeting to the City Council.

O-13     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: There is concern from the residents of West Cambridge regarding the black colored fire hydrants in the neighborhood; and
WHEREAS: It is understood that the color of the hydrant reflects the capability of the hydrant in gallons per minute or GPM, (Red hydrants pump 500 GPM, Orange hydrants pump 1,000 GPM, Green hydrants pump over 1,500 GPM, Blue hydrants pump 2,000 GPM); now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to obtain from the Fire Department how black colored hydrants are different from other hydrants in the city; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to obtain from the Fire Department how many black hydrants are in the West Cambridge area, and whether or not the number of black hydrants in West Cambridge is relatively high in comparison with the rest of the city; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with this information.

O-14     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: This City Council has learned that Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are making employee cuts; and
WHEREAS: Government support services have also diminished as a result of these tough economic times; and
WHEREAS: Other organizations have turned to their employees and viewed them as partners and collaborators in efforts to reduce cost and find budgetary savings, as opposed to layoffs; and
WHEREAS: When universities lay off employees, particularly employees in the lowest economic bracket, this not only has a devastating effect on the individual and their family, but also it has a cost to local and state governments who see an increase in social service needs; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: The City Council go on record asking two of its largest employers to consider making the sacrifice to weather these tough economic times out without resorting to cutting its lowest wage workers for economic relief; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-15     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council with a proposal to label trees at appropriate locations to educate Cambridge residents; and be it further
ORDERED: That this matter be referred to the Health and Environment Committee meeting about trees scheduled for Apr 1, 2009.

O-16     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: At a Health and Environment meeting on Feb 24, 2009, dark sky principles and a variety of issues related to light pollution and appropriate lighting were discussed; and
WHEREAS: Also discussed was the enforcement of existing ordinances and the potential need for additional zoning language, particularly in Article 19 relative to special permits; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council about potential amendments that can be made to the zoning ordinance to bring city lighting more in line with dark sky principles; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the relevant departments such as Inspectional Services and the Community Development Department to address problems with the enforcement of existing regulations to protect light from one property from creating problems on nearby properties; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council by July 1, 2009 on this matter.

O-17     Mar 23, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Inspectional Services Department to prepare a response to the state's proposed stretch building code to be submitted to the state before the Apr 10, 2009 deadline for submission.

O-18     Mar 23, 2009
VICE MAYOR SEIDEL
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The City of Berkeley, California has recently adopted an innovative new program to give city-backed loans to property owners who install rooftop solar-power systems; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the City Solicitor to prepare a home rule petition to enable the City of Cambridge to establish a similar program.

O-19     Mar 23, 2009  [Substitute Order ]
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to recirculate the Public Safety Committee Report for the Jan 21, 2009 meeting, the purpose of which was to discuss crime trends.

O-19     Mar 23, 2009  [Original Late Order]
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: Communities should always be vigilant in taking precautions to help create a safe and secure neighborhood; and
WHEREAS: There may be types of crimes that are correlated with a downturn in the economy, for example, a number of cars in Neighborhood 9 have had their tires stripped and stolen, and it may be helpful to residents to know of other crimes to be on heightened alert for; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ask the Cambridge Police Commissioner to submit to the City Council a list of crimes that have been on the rise that could be reasonably correlated with a downturn in the economy; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with this information.
[Note: This Order was replaced by Councillor Toomey's Order after it was pointed out that the Public Safety Committee had already taken up the issue at its Jan 21, 2009 meeting. Councillor Decker had already left when the Late Order came up. It pays to actually READ the City Council meeting materials, including the Committee Reports.]

O-20     Mar 23, 2009 AMENDED
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record supporting local option legislation on red light camera enforcement; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to the Cambridge Legislative Delegation.
Voting in favor: Davis, Kelley, Maher, Seidel, Toomey; voting against: Decker, Reeves, Simmons, Ward.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Health and Environment Committee held a public meeting on Tues, Feb 24, 2009 at five o'clock and five minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss dark sky principles and a variety of issues related to appropriate lighting and light pollution.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Sam Seidel; Margaret Drury, City Clerk; and Penny Peters, chambermaid to Councillor Davis. Present from the city administrative staff were Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Lester Barber, Director of Zoning and Land Use Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); Stuart Dash, Director of Community and Neighborhood Planning, CDD; and Iram Farooq, project planner, CDD; George Fernandes, City Electrician; and Rangit Singanayagam, Commissioner of Inspectional Services. Also present were several members of the Cambridge community, who are identified as part of the report.

Councillor Davis convened the meeting and explained that she called the meeting to discuss complaints about lighting, protection of the dark sky from light pollution and energy efficiency opportunities as they pertain to lighting. Councillor Davis stated her intent to begin the meeting with a description by city administrative staff of the regulatory framework and invited Mr. Barber to describe the zoning laws that regulate lighting.

Mr. Barber said that there are not many requirements in the Zoning Ordinance. He cited Section 6.46 Lighting, a subsection of Article 6.40, Design and Maintenance of Off Street Parking Facilities and Section 7.20 Illumination, a subsection of Article 7, Signs and Illumination, commonly referred to as the Sign Ordinance.

Mr. Barber noted that the emphasis in Section 6.46 appears to be focused on ensuring adequate lighting. Section 6.46 provides that "Off street parking facilities which are used at night shall be provided with adequate lighting installed and maintained in such a manner so as not to reflect or cause glare on abutting or facing residential premises nor to cause reflection on facing residential premises nor to adversely affect safe vision of operators of vehicles moving on nearby streets. A recommended standard for lighting is a minimum intensity of one foot candle on the entire surface of the parking facility."

The Sign Ordinance prohibits illuminated commercial signs in residential areas and establishes regulations for illuminated commercial signs in business, office and industrial districts. Section 7.15 provides that "All lighting [for all permitted signs] shall be indirect, continuous, and installed in a manner that will prevent direct light from shining onto any street or adjacent property. Flashing or intermittent light creating flashing, moving, changing or animated graphics is prohibited". . . [with certain exceptions]. Section 7.20 Illumination provides that in Residence A,B, C and C-1 districts no outdoor floodlighting or decorative lighting except lighting primarily designed to illuminate walks, driveways, outdoor living areas or outdoor recreational facilities shall be permitted, and that all permitted permanent outdoor lighting in these districts shall be continuous, indirect and installed in a manner that will prevent direct light from shining onto any street or adjacent property.

Ms. Farooq noted that Article 19 of the Zoning Ordinance, Project Review, in Section 19.33(9), sets forth an urban design criterion of outdoor lighting requiring a design that will provide the minimum lighting necessary to ensure adequate safety, night vision and comfort, while minimizing light pollution.

Commissioner Singanayagam said that most of the complaints to the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) about lighting are based on the Section 7.20 provision of the Sign Ordinance. He added that the Sanitary Code contains a requirement for adequate lighting for safety.

Councillor Davis then invited Kelly Beatty, Senior Contributing Editor, Sky and Telescope Magazine, Chair of the New England Light Advisory Group and board member of the International Dark Sky Organization, to discuss preservation of the dark sky. Mr. Beatty's presentation is summarized in a hard copy of the slide show (Attachment 1), with which he accompanied his remarks. Nighttime light is meant to light up the ground, but much of it goes straight up into the sky instead. Street lights are the single biggest source of light pollution. Fully shielded street lights prevent this light pollution, and a lot of Cambridge's streetlights are fully shielded. Security pack lights on buildings constitute another serious source of light pollution.

In addition to creating sky glow, which can render the Milky Way invisible to entire urban regions, light pollution causes glare that can create significant visual impairment, can have serious environmental effects upon nocturnal species and migrating birds and can possibly increase incidences of cancer among human beings. Light pollution also represents an unacceptable energy waste.

Councillor Davis invited questions about Mr. Beatty's presentation from other City Councillors.

Councillor Seidel asked about a requirement in a California municipality for use of a certain type of streetlight that does not disrupt astronomical activities. Mr. Beatty said that the type of light to which Councillor Seidel is referring is low sodium light, which produces a monochromatic gleam. It is not very popular. Everything looks gray.

Councillor Davis asked Mr. Beatty what he would recommend that Cambridge do to reduce light pollution. Mr. Beatty said that a three-fold attack is needed:
* Amend the zoning to require that developers show a lighting plan.
* Pass an ordinance to control the existing and future lighting through quantifiable requirements. (Mr. Beatty suggested looking at the draft model lighting ordinance on the International Dark-Sky Association website at www.darksky.org.)
* Control municipal street lighting and security lighting - evaluate it for necessity, and use fully shielded lights.

Mr. Beatty informed the committee that street lights are not required by law, and there are usually many places where fewer lights would provide all the light necessary. Councillor Davis said that police should see the photo in Mr. Beatty's slide presentation in which a spotlight on a walkway did not increase security; rather, the glare from the light rendered a person standing on the walkway invisible from farther down the walkway. When the spotlight was shielded, the person could be seen clearly.

Councillor Davis then opened the discussion for questions and comments from all present.

Thomas Stohlman, 19 Channing Street, Co-Chair of the Mt. Auburn Neighborhood Association, described the association's experience during the permitting process for the Mt. Auburn Hospital expansion, as they attempted to reach agreements to limit the light that spills over into the neighborhood. There was a cooperative process to get standards written into the special permit. The problem is with enforcement.

Fleet Hill, 22 Longfellow Road, Co-Chair of the Mt. Auburn Neighborhood Association, said that a condition of the special permit is that the light is only for the hospital campus, but the unshielded lighting from the interior of the patients' rooms shines brightly on nearby residences. The hospital's position is that patients cannot be told to keep their shades down. There is also a band of light in the lobby and a canopy that do not comply with the condition of keeping the light on the campus. She added that the lighting in the parking area works well and is not obtrusive.

Ms. Hill said that there is ongoing dialogue. Neighborhood and hospital representatives meet quarterly. Some lighting issues have been addressed. The big problem is that the residents thought that they were protected and they were not. The language in the special permit is too vague, and it is difficult to figure out how to get enforcement.

Councillor Davis said that perhaps it is time to take the regulation of lighting to a more sophisticated level of establishing quantifiable requirements, in a fashion similar to the way that the Noise Ordinance has evolved to include more measurable standards.

John Sheff, 12 Inman Street, stated that he is an amateur astronomer. He belongs to the Amateur Telescope Makers of Boston and works for the Harvard Observatory. He also gives talks on the information from the NASA space centers. He said that no one can see the Milky Way from Cambridge. Many people have asked him why we can no longer see the stars.

Glenn Heinmiller, 84 Sherman Street, lighting designer, suggested reducing energy waste in street lights by retrofitting the street lights to a lower wattage. Twice as bright is not twice as good. For example, street lights along Massachusetts Avenue between Harvard Square and Arlington could be dimmer without significantly impacting safety or visibility. He submitted a letter and attached material on "EnviroSmart" streetlights being used in the City of Calgary, Alberta, Canada (Attachment 2). In response to a question from Mr. Heinmiller, Mr. Fernandes agreed that there are areas of Cambridge that are over-lit, but said that most of the calls he gets are requests to increase the amount of light.

Councillor Davis said that she is very concerned about the late night lighting of parks like Donnelly Field, and asked whether the lighting in those fields could be reduced. Mr. Fernandes said that the lights on three poles are kept on. There is a need for up-lighting in baseball fields so that players can see the ball in the air. There also is a safety issue at that field, and many neighbors have requested that there be lights on at night. It might be possible to place some additional lights lower on the polls to serve as the night lighting when there are no ball games. Mr. Fernandes said that the biggest obstacle to overcome in trying to reduce the level of lighting is the popular perception that light equals safety. Mr. Heinmiller said that it is not the amount of light that matters; it is the distribution of the light as well as what overall level of light people are adjusted to.

Mr. Beatty said that there are mechanisms to enable streetlights to be turned off halfway through the night, but there is no half-night rate from NSTAR. State legislation for a half-night rate is pending. He also suggested asking the police for statistics on nighttime break-ins in the second half of the night.

Matt Latchford, Cambridge, noted that half-night lighting would make the light bulbs last twice as long.

Cathy Korsgren, 10 Hollis Street, stated that she lives right by the parking lot of St. John's Church, which provides an excellent example of the light pollution problem. There are security lights three stories up on the building to light both the church and the parking lot. Last fall they installed 15 foot high bright lights around the parking lot. Councillor Davis observed that it sounds like there should be a conversation involving the church, the residents and city staff. Mr. Beatty said that many lights can be retrofit with shields.

Charles Teague, 23 Edmunds Street, described his experience with attempting to get the City's assistance in dealing with security wall pack lighting in particular parking lots near his residence. In all cases but one, the lights in question are still there. In all cases, he first contacted the owners and requested that they remove the lights and they declined. Then he tried the City Electrician, the ISD and a City Councillor. The only light that he was successful with was an NSTAR light. Mr. Fernandes was very helpful. Inspections need to occur at night and ISD does not have anyone who works at night. Mr. Beatty agreed that the issue of enforcement needs careful attention. He asked whether the police could be used.

Mr. Beatty reminded everyone that Earth Hour will take place on Mar 28th from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to turn all of their lights off and look at the sky. Boston is taking the celebration one step further.

Councillor Davis asked those present if anyone would be interested in participating in a continuing effort on this subject. She thanked those present for their attendance and participation. The meeting was adjourned at 6:33 P.M.

For the Committee,
Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair

Committee Report #2
The Government Operations and Rules Committee held a public hearing on Dec 9, 2008 beginning at five o'clock and ten minutes p.m. in the Sullivan Chamber. The hearing was held for the purpose of considering a proposal to rename Plympton Street in honor of David Halberstam.

Present at the hearing were Councillor David Maher and Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Councillor Sam Seidel; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury; Charles Sullivan, Executive Director of the Historical Commission; and Owen O'Riordon, City Engineer.

Vice Mayor Murphy convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He invited the petitioner to make a presentation. Former Mayor Francis H. Duehay testified in support of the proposal to rename Plympton Street in honor of David L. Halberstam, and submitted a copy of the testimony for the record (Attachment A). The testimony was provided in a letter signed by 61 individuals. Mr. Duehay outlined David Halberstam's career as a distinguished and talented journalist. While an undergraduate at Harvard, he was a writer for the Crimson, sports edition and managing editor. Mr. Duehay submitted several articles for the record, an article by Neil Sheehan entitled "The Combatant" (Attachment B), an article by Bob Ryan entitled "Honoring Halberstam" (Attachment C) and an article by Jamison A. Hill in the Crimson (Attachment D).

He said that Mr. Halberstam was one of the most important journalist of his generation, and one of the most distinguished journalist alumni of Harvard University and of the Harvard Crimson.

Mayor Simmons stated that she is proud that David Halberstam was a part of the City. Although she did not know him personally, he was obviously a man of integrity.

Vice Mayor Murphy listed letters received by the Committee, which are attached to this report (Attachment F). Vice Mayor Murphy then moved to public testimony.

Peter Palches, Martha's Vineyard, spoke in support of renaming the street in honor of David Halberstam. He said that as an educator, he wanted to make the case for renaming the street. If it is named Halberstam Street, many people will want to know about David Halberstam. Mr. Palches stated that David Halberstam stood against state-sanctioned injustice and was willing to stand up to power.

Phillip Cronin, 3 Lincoln Lane, Cambridge, stated that he is one of the three trustees of the Harvard Crimson, which owns the land at 14 Plympton Street, and spoke in opposition to the proposal. David Halberstam and his brother Michael died too early in life. Mr. Cronin said that he was a very good friend of both of them, and the last thing David Halberstam would want is a street named after him. Other than the change of Boylston Street to John F. Kennedy Boulevard, there have been no other streets renamed in the Harvard Square area. The Crimson building at 14 Plympton Street has come to have an identity of its own as 14 Plympton Street. Over 20 Crimson editors have won Pulitzer Prizes. Franklin Delano Roosevelt was a Harvard Crimson writer and president of the Crimson. John F. Kennedy was the business editor.

Mr. Cronin said that there are other issues as well. One is the cost and inconvenience. The other is that the Crimson opposes this petition. The Harvard Crimson also deserves to be honored, and one way to do that is to preserve Plympton Street and thus the Crimson address of 14 Plympton Street.

Malcolm Glen, current president of the Harvard Crimson, Inc., spoke in opposition. He said that when he was asked to write his address, he automatically responded "14 Plympton Street." Many distinguished people have been associated with the Crimson. They would support giving a block of Plympton Street an honorary name of Halberstam Street, but the name of Plympton Street has a sacred meaning for those who have been associated with the Crimson over the years.

Frank Connolly, 67 Governors Avenue, Medford, representing the Graduate Council of the Harvard Crimson. He said that he is very reluctantly opposing changing the name of Plympton Street. David Halberstam is one of the brightest lights in the Crimson anthem, but there are many other Crimson graduates who have gone on to equally distinguished careers. He also noted the not inconsiderable inconvenience and cost of the change of address, and the cost to the Crimson, in terms of tradition.

Warren Little, 35 Bristol Street, spoke in support of this petition. He and David were good friends while at Harvard and remained friends after graduation. Many street names in Cambridge have been changed over the years. We residents are now comfortable with the change of Boylston Street, to JFK Boulevard. In deciding on whether to so honor David Halberstam, the City Council should take into account his stands against institutional racism and mistaken wars.

Panas Bhayani, Harvard student and member of the Harvard Crimson, spoke in opposition.

Leroy Cragwell, Chairman of the African American Heritage Alliance, spoke in support of the name change and submitted a petition signed by members of the Alliance. He said that David Halberstam went south to report on the civil rights movement and to expose institutional racism.

Vice Mayor Murphy invited Charles Sullivan, Director of the Cambridge Historical Commission to speak. Mr. Sullivan submitted a letter for the record (Attachment E). He summarized the letter in his testimony opposing renaming Plympton Street but supporting the adoption of an honorific designation of the first block from Massachusetts Avenue to Bow Street in memory of David Halberstam.

Councillor Davis stated that she believes that the compromise of creating an honorific block without officially naming the street is a good idea. She also said that the City Council should commit to making available to the public having information about the person who has been thusly honored.

Councillor Reeves said that he has seen the New York City honorific and it does seem to work although it can become confusing. Councillor Reeves stated that the City Council also needs to adopt some criteria for naming a corner.

Councillor Seidel stated that it sounds like the compromise is a sensible way to proceed. He does not feel particularly burdened by history. New people come along and new history is written.

Councillor Maher moved that the matter remain in committee. He said he would like a little more investigation of the post office issue. He would also like Mr. Sullivan to provide the Committee with a little more information on the history of the street. The motion to keep the matter in Committee passed on a voice vote without objection.

Councillor Maher and Vice Mayor Murphy thanked those present for their participation. The hearing was adjourned at six o'clock and twenty minutes P.M.

For the Committee,
Councillor David Maher, Co-Chair

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

08-156. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #11
RE: report on remedy to placing a bus shelter at 2518 Mass Ave. for the #77 bus.
Mayor Simmons 12/22/08 (O-2)

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

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

09-05. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #9
RE: report on plans for conducting an energy audit of City Hall.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 01/12/09 (O-7)

09-11. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the removal of the Homeland Security Surveillance cameras and infrastructure and who is responsible for the removal.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 02/09/09 (O-7)

09-12. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on test data for lead levels on artificial turf at fields and tot lots.
Councillor Davis 03/02/09 (O-9)

09-13. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the cause of the fire at 923-925 Massachusetts Avenue.
Vice Mayor Seidel 03/02/09 (O-8)

09-14. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #8
RE: report on the status of the city's drinking fountains.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Ward 03/02/09 (O-6)

09-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the Belmont Uplands silver maple forest.
Councillor Davis, Vice Mayor Seidel, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward 03/02/09 (O-2)

09-16. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on opportunities for electric vehicles to recharge in Cambridge.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Seidel, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward 03/02/09 (O-5)

09-17. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possibility of creating a publicly accessible, appropriately confidential database of broad average or median neighborhood rents for retail space.
Vice Mayor Seidel and Full Membership 03/09/09 (O-4)

09-18. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on status and implications of obtaining payment for delinquent taxes and how entities such as the MBTA and US Government could be on the tax delinquent list.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 03/09/09 (O-8)

09-19. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on change in policy limiting a visitor pass to two blocks of houses they are visiting.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/09/09 (O-11)

09-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the circumstances of the termination of 3 Aces Pizza's leasing agreement with Harvard University.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 03/09/09 (O-12)

09-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on survey of surrounding cities and towns on the hours of operation of their libraries and a survey of patrons as to their needs and desires with respect to library hours.
Councillor Davis 03/09/09 (O-14)