Cambridge City Council meeting – April 3, 2006 – AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $2,000 donation to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account will be used to improve the Alexander W. Kemp playground.
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a donation from the Cambridge Health Alliance to the Cambridge Prevention Coalition in the amount of $5,000.00 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account to be used to support the Cambridge Teen Health Survey.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an additional appropriation of the Low Income Heating Assistance Program grant for $349,180.00 funded by the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($10,218.00), the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($334,962.00) and the Travel & Training account ($4,000.00) to continue operating the Low Income Heating Assistance Program serving Cambridge and Somerville.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of additional funds from the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance grant funded by the Department of Transition Assistance in the amount of ($343.36) to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account to be used for staff salaries for the Carey Men’s Transition Program operated by the Multi-Service Center.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $1,100 donation from the Cambridge Community Foundation to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support activities at the Frisoli Youth Center.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant for $2,375,036 to the Grant Fund Human Services Programs Salaries and Wages account ($86,175) and Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($2,288,861) to be used to cover costs associated with serving homeless persons in Cambridge.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of revenues received over the past several years from the Client and Commemorative Tree program for the amount of $60,233.92 to the Public Investment Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account and will be used to augment our street tree planting program, which in a typical year results in approximately 120 newly planted trees, either as replacements for ones removed from the same site, or new planting locations per citizen request.
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection for $35,000 to the Grant Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance account to be used to assist the City in promoting the recycling of organic materials to businesses.
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of rebates received from NSTAR for $13,695 to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to be used to support energy upgrades and energy advisory services.
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $82,200 in tree replacement funds from Harvard University to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to be used to plant trees in various area of the City.
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-17, regarding a report on ensuring that all crosswalks lead to curb cuts.
12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-03, regarding a report on the feasibility of purchasing the MBTA property in Harvard Square for economic development use.
13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation on the City Council Petition to amend the zoning ordinance to change the base zoning designation of the area at the eastern corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Washburn Avenue from Business C-1 to Business A-2.
14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to relative to a communication from the Planning Board which does not recommend the Zimlicki, et al Zoning Petition modifying provisions of Section 5.28.2 and Section 6.12 (d) relating to the provisions of parking and open space where non-residential buildings are converted to residential use, as filed.
15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-07, regarding a report on posting various departmental enforcement statistics on the City’s website.
16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $450,000 from the School General Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account to the School Debt Stabilization Fund to be used to fund future school capital projects and help offset fluctuations in future debt service revenues and expenses, subject to appropriation.
17. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $1,100,000 from the School General Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account to the School General Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account to provide funds to support a system wide plan for upgrading district infrastructure and network hardware and software, and school and department level hardware and software.
18. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $944,770 from the School General Fund Salary and Wages account to the School General Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($150,000) and to the School General Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account ($794,770) to be used to support expenditures for Rindge School of Technical Arts (RSTA) equipment ($213,000), custodial cleaning equipment ($359,000), facility improvements ($25,000), computer hardware and software ($97,770) and to support market research and outreach activities ($250,000).
19. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a request from Holiday Investments, LLC for a permanent aerial easement for a black metal fire escape balcony or connected fire escape balconies to be installed, repaired, replaced and maintained over a portion of the public sidewalk on the westerly side of Fayette Street located in front of Holiday’s premises at 371 Broadway. – Charter Right - Kelley
CHARTER RIGHT
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Cambridge being selected as the Accessible America 2005 grand prize award winner, and recognizes Cambridge as a national model for its focus on disability issues and for its successful design of programs, services and facilities. Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on City Manager Agenda Item Number Ten of March 20, 2006.
ON THE TABLE
2. Placed on Table on the motion of Councillor Simmons on April 11, 2005 on an order adopted relative to a communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, transmitting a recommendation from the License Commission to deny a jitney license application from Nautical Tours, Inc.
3. Vice Mayor Toomey notified the City Clerk of his intention to move reconsideration of the vote taken on March 6, 2006 adopting the recommendations of City Manager Item Number Eight of February 6, 2006 relative to a request from Spaudling & Slye to name fourteen streets at North Point. - ADOPTED
4. Placed on Table on the motion of Councillor Kelley on February 27, 2006 on Awaiting Report Item Number 06-06 of February 27, 2006, regarding a report on the legality of the banners in front of the Dunkin’ Donuts at 2480 Massachusetts Avenue and at other location in the City.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5. 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 November 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 February 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.]
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Central Kitchen, requesting permission for twelve tables and thirty-six chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 567 Massachusetts Avenue.
2. An application was received from the Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Temple Street sponsoring the annual North Cambridge Artists’ Open Studio (NoCA).
3. An application was received from Mone Anathan, requesting to widen an existing curb cut at the premises numbered 99 Garden Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works. Property owner (applicant) will construct and street opening permit must be pulled from Public Works. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association.
4. An application was received from Dream On, requesting permission for a pole sign at the premises numbered 299 Prospect Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and abutters.
5. An application was received from OM Restaurant & Lounge, requesting permission for six tables and twenty-four chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 92 Winthrop Street.
6. An application was received from the Tavern and Wish, requesting permission for ten tables and thirty chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 730 Massachusetts Avenue.
7. An application was received from the Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Brookline Street sponsoring the Dragon Boat Festival.
8. An application was received from Donald McInnes, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 48 Hawthorn Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works. Applicant will hire contractor to install curb cut and vegetation adjacent to driveway must be removed. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association.
9. An application was received from Savenor’s, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign, a display of merchandise, four tables and eight chairs in front of the premises numbered 92 Kirkland Street.
10. Approval of constable bond surety received from Fred W. MacDonald.
11. An application was received from Joe Sent Me, requesting permission for eight tables and sixteen chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 2388 Massachusetts Avenue.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Kathy Podgers, regarding persons with disabilities.
2. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding protocol.
3. A communication was received from Lawrence J. Adkins, Riverside Neighborhood Association, regarding process to consider Howard Street as a one way street.
4. A communication was received from Lawrence J. Adkins, Riverside Neighborhood Association, regarding eighty parking spaces in the Riverside Neighborhood - Western Avenue and Blackstone Street.
5. A communication was received from Lawrence J. Adkins, Riverside Neighborhood Association, regarding independently operated buses on Putnam Avenue and in the Riverside Neighborhood.
6. A communication was received from the family of Sergeant Marcus S. Futrell, transmitting thanks for your kind expression of sympathy.
7. A communication was received from Kathy Podgers, regarding emergency exits and their location in City Hall.
8. A communication was received from Kathy Podgers, regarding an accessible route.
9. A communication was received from Kathy Podgers, regarding blocked egress at City Hall.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Kevin M. Sullivan. Councillor Sullivan
2. Happy 25th Wedding Anniversary wishes top Richard and Joann Coffman. Vice Mayor Toomey
3. Congratulations to Kija Kim on the occasion of her recognition as the Massachusetts Small Business Person of the Year. Mayor Reeves
4. Happy 50th Birthday wishes to Linda Terry. Councillor Davis
5. Congratulations to GreenFuel on the opening of its new headquarters at 735 Concord Avenue in Cambridge. Councillor Davis
6. Resolution on the death of John W. Kenney Jr. Mayor Reeves, Councillor Sullivan
7. Resolution on the death of Jose F. Jorge. Vice Mayor Toomey
8. Resolution on the death of Paul T. Barton. Councillor Sullivan
9. Resolution on the death of Vincent "Jim" Mastrullo. Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Sullivan
10. Resolution on the death of Minnie (Marrone) Citro-Mari. Vice Mayor Toomey
11. Resolution on the death of Ruby W. (Wong) Chung. Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Decker
12. Resolution on the death of George C. Kelly. Councillor Sullivan
13. Congratulations to Anthony Ciccarelli on his appointment as Headmaster of Somerville High School. Vice Mayor Toomey
14. Congratulations to Nick Pappas and Sue Cornwall on the establishment of Lizzy’s Ice Cream shop on Church Street in Harvard Square. Councillor Galluccio
15. Appreciation to Doug Sacra for his work on green design and best wishes on his new business, Maple Hill Architects. Councillor Davis
16. Congratulations to the recipients of the awards presented by the Human Rights Commission in celebration of Fair Housing Month. Councillor Sullivan
17. Resolution on the death of Catherine V. "Kay" Cremens. Councillor Sullivan, Vice Mayor Toomey
18. Congratulations and appreciation to the Boston Women’s Fund and their honorees Donna Brazile and Julianne Malveaux for their work in empowering women and on the occasion of their annual celebration "Take A Stand 2006". Councillor Simmons
19. Congratulations to Jay and Julie Kiely on the birth of their son John Paul Kiely. Vice Mayor Toomey
20. Resolution on the death of Manuel Andrade. Vice Mayor Toomey
21. Resolution on the death of Nancy M. Tracy. Vice Mayor Toomey
22. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Marco Silva. Councillor Decker
23. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Bryan Lewis. Councillor Decker
24. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Corey Dan. Councillor Decker
25. Resolution on the death of Private Angelo Zawaydeh. Councillor Decker
26. Resolution on the death of Corporal Nate Yates. Councillor Decker
27. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Amanda Pinson. Councillor Decker
28. Resolution on the death of Specialist Carlos Gonzalez. Councillor Decker
29. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Dale Brehm. Councillor Decker
30. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Ricardo Barraza. Councillor Decker
31. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Amy Duerkson. Councillor Decker
32. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Brock Beery. Councillor Decker
33. Resolution on the death of Sergeant First Class Randy McCaulley. Councillor Decker
34. Resolution on the death of Specialist Antoine McKinzie. Councillor Decker
35. Resolution on the death of Specialist Frederick Carlson. Councillor Decker
36. Welcome to Dr. John Hope Franklin on the occasion of his speaking engagement at Harvard Law School on his book "Mirror to America." Mayor Reeves
37. Urge all residents to be cognizant that April is National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Mayor Reeves
38. Resolution on the death of Kathleen P. "Kay" (McAdam) Connolly. Councillor Galluccio
39. Best wishes to the Dance Complex on the Kickoff Party for Dance Month which will take place on May 6, 2006 at 8:00pm. Mayor Reeves
40. Resolution on the death of David Gerard Fraser. Councillor Galluccio
41. Resolution on the death of Corey Davis. Councillor Galluccio
42. Happy Birthday wishes to a special Cantabrigian. Councillor Sullivan
43. Get well wishes to Theresa Carrabino. Councillor Sullivan
44. Congratulations to the candidates who will be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation from the parishes of St. Peter’s, St. Paul’s and St. John’s churches. Councillor Sullivan
45. Congratulations to Judge Catherine White on the occasion of being honored by the Cambridge-Arlington-Belmont Bar Association for her distinguished service. Councillor Sullivan
46. Resolution on the death of John J. Rogers. Vice Mayor Toomey
47. Speedy recovery wishes to Kate Lynch. Councillor Sullivan
48. Resolution on the death of Joseph G. Metivier, Sr. Councillor Sullivan, Vice Mayor Toomey
49. Resolution on the death of Sophia Mitropoulos. Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio
50. Resolution on the death of Pauline B. Agard. Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio
51. Resolution on the death of Paul J. Ryan. Councillor Sullivan
52. Resolution on the death of Francis E. Phinney. Councillor Sullivan
53. Resolution on the death of Jennie Moscatel. Vice Mayor Toomey
54. Declare the week of April 9 through April 15, 2006 as National Telecommunications Dispatchers Week in the City of Cambridge. Mayor Reeves
55. Congratulations to the Department of Human Services and all participants in the 20th Annual City Run 5-Mile Road Race and 3-Mile Walk for a successful event. Councillor Davis
56. Congratulations to the Cambridge Green Streets Initiative for the successful "Walk/Ride Day" held on March 31, 2006. Councillor Kelley, Councillor Sullivan
57. Speedy recovery wishes to Father Kevin Toomey. Councillor Sullivan
58. Urge all residents to be cognizant of the Transition House Celebrate Spring fundraising event on May 10, 2006. Vice Mayor Toomey
59. Congratulations to Cubby Ugeletto. Councillor Sullivan
60. Appreciation for a posthumous award to Lieutenant John W. Kenney Jr. by the Margaret Fuller House. Mayor Reeves
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to investigate and report back to the City Council on the recently adopted program of the Boston City Council which gives seniors who own their own home $750.00 off their tax bill if they do volunteer work. Councillor Simmons
2. That the City Manager is requested to develop a comprehensive plan to address violent crime in our neighborhoods. Councillor Simmons
3. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Assistant City Manager for Human Services to arrange to have the dates and times of the Kids’ Council meetings posted on the City’s website. Councillor Simmons
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to look into the possibility of utilizing the technology employed by National Grid to repair and replace gas lines without digging up the entire street. Councillor Murphy
5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development to research and report back to the City Council on ways to strengthen the public participation and community benefit elements of the special permit process. Councillor Simmons
6. Dedication of an appropriate site in honor of Joseph Leonard. Vice Mayor Toomey
7. That the City Manager is requested to review the EPA’s Green Power Partnership program which is voluntary use of green power to reduce the risk of climate change; participants in the program benefit from the use of green power while supporting the development of new, renewable energy in the United States. Councillor Murphy
8. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Commissioner of Public Works to investigate the possibility of having trash can lids available for purchase. Councillor Simmons
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development and the Secretary of the Executive Office of Transportation to investigate the possibility of having additional community members on the Urban Ring CAC. Councillor Simmons
10. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Affordable Housing Trust to prepare an annual report so that the general public can learn about the work of the trust. Councillor Davis
11. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to ascertain which bus services are using which routes in Cambridge and what enforcement actions are used to ensure that buses only travel on their approved routes. Councillor Kelley
12. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to ascertain the City’s policies and plans to minimize bothersome vehicular noise as the warm weather approaches. Councillor Kelley and Vice Mayor Toomey
13. Gathering of relevant data as it relates to traffic enforcement, violations issued, accident information and jurisdiction of the Cambridge Police with the view in mind of evaluating safety of Cambridge streets. Councillor Kelley
14. That the City Manager is requested to prepare a detailed response that clarifies the city’s curb cut policy. Councillor Kelley
15. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the relevant department directors and other appropriate agencies to determine the status of the City’s existing infrastructure and its capacity to absorb additional burdens. Councillor Kelley and Vice Mayor Toomey
16. That the Cambridge City Council go on record in opposition to proposed House Bill 4741 which would change the legislation guaranteeing public access to the waterfront in new developments at or abutting the ocean, rivers, wetlands, filled tidelands and other waterways. Councillor Kelley
17. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Superintendent of Schools about the reuse of the Police Station for School Administration or other use. Councillor Davis
18. Support for comprehensive immigration reform that combines a path to permanent status for immigrants already here and wider legal channels for those coming in the future with humane and effective enforcement at our borders. Councillor Decker
19. Formation of a partnership with Global Community Initiatives in our efforts to develop and implement a long-term vision for community development. Councillor Decker
20. That the City Manager is requested to direct the City Solicitor to prepare an amendment to the Zoning Ordinances to support wireless service for the public for City Council consideration. Councillor Davis, Vice Mayor Toomey and Councillor Sullivan
21. That in addition to conveying the City Council's congratulations on the 20th Annual City Run, the City Manager is requested to encourage the Assistant City Manager for Human Services to have the City Run staff consult with the Department of Public Health Healthy Living Cambridge program on the 3-mile walk competition that is part of this event. Councillor Davis, Vice Mayor Toomey and Councillor Sullivan
22. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Commissioner of Public Works to investigate whether School Street, in particular the vicinity of 95 School Street, needs to be repaired due to complaints received that the street is sinking and drainage problems exist. Councillor Sullivan and Vice Mayor Toomey
23. Reaffirming support for the Massachusetts Municipal Campaign's proposed bill to uncap the State Lottery and end the diversion of funds from local cities and towns. Councillor Sullivan and Vice Mayor Toomey
24. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Law Department to provide clarifying language for possible amendment to the Cambridge Responsible Employer Ordinance to insure that the original intent regarding medical coverage is stated clearly and concisely to avoid any misinterpretation. Councillor Sullivan, Vice Mayor Toomey, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Murphy and Councillor Galluccio
25. That the matter of tree trimming by public utility companies be referred to the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee. Councillor Davis, Councillor Sullivan
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee, for a meeting held on March 7, 2006 to discuss the city’s targeted emission reduction by 2010 and the renewal energy goals.
2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on March 15, 2006 for the purpose of considering a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to change the zoning for the remaining area north Massachusetts Avenue zoned Business C-1 to Business A-2. - Passed to 2nd Reading
3. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Civic Unity Committee, for a meeting held on March 8, 2006 for the purpose of continuing the discussion of the City’s affirmative action and diversity training policies.
4. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Civic Unity Committee, for a meeting held on March 22, 2006 for the purpose of continuing the discussion of the City’s affirmative action and diversity training for employees.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Apr 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 4
3:00pm The Human Services Committee will conduct a a public meeting to discuss youth programming for youth centers. (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
Thurs, Apr 6
11:30am The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting with the Department of Conservation and Recreation to discuss the Storrow Drive Tunnel Reconstruction Project. (Sullivan Chamber)
4:30pm The Finance and the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committees will conduct a joint public meeting to discuss Cambridge owning and operating its own municipal power company. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Apr 12
9:30am Special City Council Roundtable Meeting – A facilitated workshop on housing policy. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Apr 19
8:30am The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss issues relating to the senior population as it relates to neighborhoods. (Sullivan Chamber)
11:00am The Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss plans for a citywide conversation on race and class, and to received additional information on affirmative action. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 25
9:00am The Economic Development, Training, and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to received an update on Harvard Square’s economic and cultural development. (Ackermann Room)
3:30pm The Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the 2006 Public Health Assessment, and to review information on youth diabetes in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Apr 26
8:30am The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion as they relate to neighborhoods, specifically to received information about Transit Realty and the Bennett Street project, to received information about demographics available from Election Commission, Inspectional Services and School Department and information about space available for community meetings. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on re-filed proposal by the Planning Board to rezone the Concord Alewife area. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 1
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 2
10:00am The Housing Committee will conduct a public meeting to receive an update on Trolley Square and other affordable housing projects in the pipeline; to discuss the selection process for residents for affordable housing and to discuss any other matters that may come before the committee. (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss wind turbines and energy conservation. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 3
10:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY07 City Budget. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 9
10:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY07 City Budget. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 10
5:30pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the proposal for WIFI. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 11
6:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY07 School Department Budget. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 17
5:15pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on and amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to change the language "useable open space" to "private open space." (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition from Eileen Woodford et al. (Tobin-Danehy Zoning Petition) requesting amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to rezone an area currently zoned Res. C-1A, Res. B, and Industry A-1 to Residence C in the area bounded by Bay State Road, Fern, Field, New Streets and Concord Avenue. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 18
10:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY07 City Budget.
(if necessary) (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 22
4:00pm 2006 Scholarship Award Ceremony (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 23
2:00pm The Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting regarding youth diabetes in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 5
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 12
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 19
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 26
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Aug 7
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate and report back to the City Council on the recently adopted program of the Boston City Council which gives seniors who own their own home $750.00 off their tax bill if they do volunteer work.
O-2 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to develop a comprehensive plan to address violent crime in our neighborhoods in light of the recent killing in Cambridgeport and in the best interest of community safety.
O-3 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Assistant City Manager for Human Services to arrange to have the dates and times of the Kids’ Council meetings posted on the City’s website.
O-4 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to look into the possibility of utilizing the technology employed by National Grid to repair and replace gas lines without digging up the entire street; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-5 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development to research and report back to the City Council on ways to strengthen the public participation and community benefit elements of the special permit process. Staff is requested to investigate how localities involve the public in their land permitting processes and to consider whether adding/strengthening criteria for (1) evaluating the extent to which public participation has been fostered by the developer and (2) evaluating and measuring public benefit more concretely could advance these goals.
O-6 April 3, 2006
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate an appropriate site in honor of Joseph Leonard; 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-7 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the EPA’s Green Power Partnership program which is voluntary use of green power to reduce the risk of climate change; participants in the program benefit from the use of green power while supporting the development of new, renewable energy in the United States.
O-8 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Commissioner of Public Works to investigate the possibility of having trash can lids available for purchase.
O-9 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for for Community Development and the Secretary of the Executive Office of Transportation to investigate the possibility of having additional community members on the Urban Ring CAC.
O-10 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Affordable Housing Trust to prepare an annual report so that the general public can learn about the work of the trust.
O-11 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Bus traffic on Cambridge streets subjects nearby residents to noise and unhealthy diesel fumes; and
WHEREAS: Bus traffic is limited to approved streets and routes in Cambridge in order to minimize the negative impacts on air quality, noise and traffic flow; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to ascertain which bus services are using which routes in Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to ascertain what enforcement actions are used to ensure that buses only travel on their approved routes; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-12 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: Warmer weather is approaching when more residents will be enjoying time outside their homes and in their homes with their windows open; and
WHEREAS: The noise from loud motorcycles, other vehicle mufflers and loud car radios can be very disturbing to residents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to ascertain the City’s policies and plans to minimize bothersome vehicular noise; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-13 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Cambridge’s streets and traffic patterns can be discomforting and even dangerous; and
WHEREAS: Effective policy making involving traffic requires accurate and relevant data; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager confer with the appropriate department heads to gather the following information:
*Cambridge Police Department’s enforcement statistics for 2005 and thus far into 2006, broken down to the extent that it is possible by violation, location and type of enforcement action (i.e. warning versus citation, truck versus automobile versus bicycle versus jaywalkers)
*Accident information for 2005 and thus far into 2006, to include location and type of accident (i.e. cars failing to yield right of way, running red lights, etc.)
*Limits of Cambridge Police Department’s jurisdiction and what agencies fill in those gaps and to what extent Cambridge can influence these agencies to make our streets safer (i.e. - who enforces traffic laws on Route 2 and on route 16; do Harvard and MIT Police make traffic stops and, if so, under what conditions); and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-14 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Curb cuts can have a significant impact on neighborhood on-street parking availability and neighborhood traffic patterns; and
WHEREAS: The enforcement of the City’s curb cut policy is not entirely clear; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to prepare a detailed response that clarifies the city’s curb cut policy to include:
* The adequacy of abutter notification procedures;
* The timing of related building permits; and
* The criteria for requiring related traffic studies, traffic calming measures and public planning;
and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to prepare the legal opinion that was unanimously requested by City Council Policy Order #29 of December 20, 2004 (Attached); and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on these matters in a timely fashion.
O-15 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: Cambridge is a very densely developed City with heavy traffic and extensive use of various mass transit modes; and
WHEREAS: New development in Cambridge is expected to add thousands of residential units and millions of square feet of development in coming years; and
WHEREAS: New development in Cambridge will put additional strains on existing infrastructure systems; and
WHEREAS: Existing infrastructure, to include roads, intersections, on-street parking, subway stops, parking lots and stormwater management systems, are frequently near, at, or even above capacity; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the relevant department directors and other appropriate agencies to determine the status of the City’s existing infrastructure and its capacity to absorb additional burdens; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-16 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts House of Representatives is now considering a bill (House 4741) that would change the legislation guaranteeing public access to the waterfront in new developments at or abutting the ocean, rivers, wetlands, filled tidelands, and other waterways; and
WHEREAS: This bill would simultaneously eliminate the ten-citizen appeal, and override the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP)’s own administrative review which currently dismisses frivolous appeals; and
WHEREAS: This bill would also make it more difficult for local zoning authorities to determine their own needs with respect to new research and development (R&D) projects, and otherwise weaken local zoning authority vis a vis the state’s powers and authority to override local zoning ordinances; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record in opposition to this proposed House Bill 4741; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this order to the Speaker of the House, Senate President and Cambridge’s State Representatives and Senators.
O-17 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Superintendent of Schools about the reuse of the Police Station for School Administration or other use; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on this matter.
O-18 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: Cambridge recognizes the dignity of all our immigrant residents, regardless of immigration status, and recognizes the importance of their many contributions to the social, religious, cultural and economic life of the City; and
WHEREAS: The difficulties faced by those seeking political asylum and the children born in Cambridge to parents given Temporary Protected Status who now face possible deportation, shed light on current policies that can lead to the unjustified loss of highly-valued Cambridge residents; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge opposed any efforts to transfer federal immigration responsibility to state and local officials, since these proposals might damage relationships with immigrant communities. Asking local law enforcement to check immigration status would tax our already overburdened police department and might also make immigrants more fearful of cooperating with law enforcement and reporting crimes; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge believes that criminalizing U.S. citizens, those who work with and for immigrants, and immigrants themselves is not a viable long-term solution to concerns over immigration and will continue separating families while preventing civic participation by all community members; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge believes there is no inherent conflict between national security and the preservation of liberty, and affirms its strong support for all U.S. military personnel service at home or abroad, condemns all terrorist acts wherever occurring and recognizes the important of ensuring homeland security; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has played a leading role in the protection of immigrant rights and has consistently promoted tolerance and respect for all residents, including immigrants, United States Citizens and their families; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record expressing its strong support for comprehensive immigration reform that combines a path to permanent status for immigrants already here and wider legal channels for those coming in the future with humane and effective enforcement at our borders.
O-19 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: There are several key issues facing the citizens of Cambridge today including; a new "urban ring" proposed for rapid transit throughout the greater Boston area, a need for more affordable housing, significant development projects throughout our residential neighborhoods, a large new development proposed for East Cambridge, a loss of families and children in the schools, and increasing development pressure to build high end luxury housing, the need for protecting and creating more open space; and
WHEREAS: The City needs additional resources to address education, housing and economic development; a stronger voice for underrepresented citizens, a more effective policy framework for decision making, and fewer internal conflicts among the goals of sound environmental policy and a healthy economy; and
WHEREAS: Global Community Initiatives (GCI) would help Cambridge create a shared vision using a multi-stakeholder community mobilization process and then help create specific goals, targets, strategies, and indicators to implement a plan for sustainable development; and
WHEREAS: In Cambridge, GCI’s planning system would be used by the City Council to set annual goals for community leadership and to engage the whole community in a long-term comprehensive action plan that looks at least 30 years into the future to develop strategies to meet current and future needs; and
WHEREAS: By using longer term planning, the City can work to anticipate changing environmental and economic trends that could have a substantial impact on future generations; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record expressing its desire to form a partnership with GCI in our efforts to develop and implement a long-term vision for community development; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to GCI and the Ford Foundation on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-20 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the City
Solicitor to prepare an amendment to the Zoning Ordinances to support wireless
service for the public for City Council consideration.
O-21 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That in addition to conveying the City Council's congratulations on
the 20th Annual City Run, the City Manager be and hereby is requested to
encourage the Assistant City Manager for Human Services to have the City Run
staff consult with the Department of Public Health Healthy Living Cambridge
program on the 3-mile walk competition that is part of this event.
O-22 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the
Commissioner of Public Works to investigate whether School Street, in particular
the vicinity of 95 School Street, needs to be repaired due to complaints
received that the street is sinking and drainage problems exist.
O-23 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council has gone on record supporting the
Massachusetts Municipal Association's proposed bill to end diversion of State
Lottery funds from local cities and towns, for which it was intended; and
WHEREAS: The House is scheduled to debate the budget during the week of April
24, 2006, with the Senate to follow in mid-May; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record reaffirming its
support for the Massachusetts Municipal Campaign's proposed bill to uncap the
State Lottery and end the diversion of funds from local cities and towns; and be
it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record expressing its appreciation to
the many State Legislators who have voiced their support for this proposal; and
be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably
engrossed copies of this resolution to the Cambridge delegation and the
Massachusetts Great and General Court on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-24 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
MAYOR REEVES
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Responsible Employer Ordinance (hereinafter CREO), was
adopted by the City Council in 1995; and
WHEREAS: One of the objectives of CREO is "to ensure that local
resources are wisely invested in those applicable areas where there is maximum
promise that the benefits that accrue, including employment opportunities, will
be made available to City residents: [Ch. 2.66.303A]; and
WHEREAS: The City Council at the time of passage of CREO likewise took into
consideration a benefit package, which included medical plan coverage; and
WHEREAS: As part of current debates both locally and nationally has included
discussion about employers that avoid providing medical coverage, which has
driven up costs in free care pools in the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS: CREO Subsection 080A4 requires, "The bidder and all
subcontractors under the bidder must furnish at their expense, hospitalization
and medical benefits for all their employees employed on the project and/or
coverage at least comparable in value to the hospitalization and medical
benefits provided by the health and welfare plans in the applicable
craft..."; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of this City Council that
interpretation has been issued and followed that is inconsistent with the
original intent of CREO Subsection 080A4 (see attached); now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Law
Department to provide clarifying language for possible amendment to the CREO to
insure that the original intent is stated clearly and concisely to avoid any
misinterpretation.
O-25 April 3, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the matter of tree trimming by public utility companies be
referred to the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee held a public meeting on Tuesday, March 7, 2006 five o’clock and thirty-five minutes p. m. in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the city’s targeted emission reduction by 2010 and the renewal energy goals.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Brian Murphy; George Fernandes, City Electrician; Cynthia Griffin, Purchasing Agent; Ellen Katz, Fiscal Director, Public Works Department; John Bolduc, Environmental Project Manager, Community Development Department (CDD); Rosalie Anders, Environmental Planner, CDD; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk. Also present was Larry Chrétien, Executive Director, and Vanna Cohon-Rosenthal, Mass. Energy Consumers Alliance; Benny Lee and Michele Sprengnether, Green Decade; Adam Briggs, Clean Water Action Clean Energy Campaign; Fred Schlicher and Marc Breslow, Mass. Climate Action Network (MCAN); Malcolm Brown, Commissioner, Hull Light Board; Phil Wellons, 651 Green Street; Jonah Decola, Construction Manager, 13 Seventh Street; Nirmal Daniere, 42 Dana Street; Sue Butler, 14 Clinton Street; Karen Carmean, 1657 Cambridge Street; Decia Goodwin, 175 Chestnut Street; Berl Harman, 28 Banks Street; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; Jay Baldwin, 61 Fresh Pond Parkway; Alison Field-Juma, 363 Concord Avenue; Sam Seidel, 48 Maple Avenue; Bill Naumann, 12 Pleasant Street; David Prum, Thorndike Street; and Aviva Argote, 120 Henry Street.
Councillor Davis convened the meeting and stated the purpose. She introduced Larry Chretien from Mass Energy, who gave a presentation (ATTACHMENT A).
Larry Chrétien stated that Mass. Energy is a twenty-three year old nonprofit company with the dual mission of making energy affordable and sustainable. He discussed the goal to reduce emissions by 2010. His organization buys and sells renewable energy. His organization is a voluntary nonprofit with 65,000 customers who are from the National Grid. In 2002 the Mass. Technology Collaborative (MTC) spent money through the renewable energy trust. Environmental groups and municipalities do planning. Municipalities that participate were Boston, Cambridge, Somerville and Brookline. He stated that the price of energy and renewable energy certificates (REC) has risen. MTC has a clean energy choice program. Mass. Energy provides tax deductions and is forming partnerships to build wind turbines that have a 0% emission. Cambridge has pledged to reduce emissions by 20% by 2010. He cited the importance of purchasing renewable energy certificates and distributed an explanation of Renewable Energy Certificates (ATTACHMENT B). There are 150 people who have solar panels and they are selling renewable energy to Mass. Energy. He outlined some options to get to the 20% reduction goal by 2010. The options were:
Mass. Energy has a new program with MTC and New England Wind Fund. MTC will put money in escrow for wind turbines until it performs. Mass. Energy is looking for partners. The city’s portfolio should contain REC.
At this time Councillor Davis opened the meeting to the city staff.
Mr. Bolduc stated that renewable energy is identified in the Climate Protection Plan. Cambridge purchases energy from TransCanada. RPS should be at 20% by 2010 based on city policy. Eight million kilowatt hours are needed to meet the goal by 2010. The city is encouraging solar systems. Porter Square shopping plaza, MIT and the City Hall Annex have solar systems. MTC has generous grants and Cambridge will take advantage of the grants. The new police station will be the fourth green building. He stated that Cambridge Savings Banks has purchased RECs.
Councillor Davis questioned Mr. Fernandes about the TransCanada contract up to 2010. Mr. Fernandes stated that more REC could be purchased as time goes on, but cost is a factor. Ms. Griffin stated that the she did not know the option of the current contract. Mr. Chrétien suggested the contract should have a provision that would allow modification to the contract.
Ms. Katz spoke on energy conservation. The city departments work independently of each other. An energy information system is being developed. What the city is consuming is the issue. Data from NSTAR will be collected and reports will be provided monthly. City has entered a third party contract for natural gas with Health Energy Financing Authority (HEFA). The purchasing policy for the city has been improved to encourage purchasing energy star appliances. Old HVAC systems are being upgraded with efficiency options. The efficiency program is related to the clean energy goal stated Mr. Bolduc. Ms. Katz stated that the lighting in the Central Square library was upgraded and the New Street garage lighting was upgraded to high efficiency lighting.
Councillor Murphy questioned the cost of new certificates to purchase interest in wind turbine. Mr. Fernandes stated that REC cost $27,000 for each 1% of energy through TransCanada. Mr. Chrétien stated that most suppliers are not able to get RECs. He suggested that a long-term contract would reduce the cost to $25-$30. There is a significant break in price for REC in 5-10 year contracts.
Councillor Murphy asked what is the cost of a wind turbine. Mr. Malcolm Brown, Commissioner, Hull Light Board, stated that the cost is three million dollars for 1.8-2.0 megawatt for a wind turbine. The wind turbine in Hull was put on top of capped landfill and it is more expensive; 4,000 REC = l megawatt of energy. Cambridge needs 8,000 RECs to meet our goal.
Councillor Davis asked if the School Department was included in the energy consumption. Ms. Katz responded in the affirmative. Councillor Davis suggested reviewing the energy costs for both city and the school department.
At six o’clock and twenty-five minutes p. m. Councillor Davis opened the meeting to public comment.
Sue Butler stated that landfills in Cambridge are 150 feet deep and problems may arise in windmill siting.
Alison Field-Juma stated that there is a sense of urgency from residents for clean energy. She wanted Cambridge not to contribute to the problem. She was excited about the energy information system and the data it would provide the city.
Sam Seidel stated that he noticed that the energy industry is realigning itself. He asked if NSTAR is alienating itself. Mr. Chretien stated that the issue is whether Cambridge wants to buy energy from NSTAR or TransCanada, be a municipal aggregator or focus on wind turbine. The energy industry is consolidating. He urged the city to focus on the most important aspect, the goal, and to make sure that RECs are in the portfolio.
Decia Goodwin asked if the cost of RECs would go up in the future. Mr. Chretein stated that Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont and Maine have RECs in their portfolios. The energy people want to change the rules and definitions. RECs prices will fall and no wind turbines will be built if the rules are changed. The public needed to watch the rules to ensure that the rules are not changed. Ms. Goodwin asked if the data is available by meter. Ms. Katz responded that the data is available by accounts and is identified by the facilities. Neville Manor will not be included in the data. The streetlights are included stated Mr. Fernandes.
David Prum, Thorndike Street, stated that the price of RECs would go down. Cost to environment with wind turbine is the cheapest. Mr. Chretein stated that owning and operating a wind turbine is more complicated. Financing, insurance and maintenance needed to be reviewed. There is also the risk involved if the turbine is not performing. Councillor Davis stated that she would schedule a meeting that would focus on the wind turbine option. Mr. Prum asked if two wind turbines would have Cambridge meeting its goal. Mr. Chretein responded in the affirmative.
Mark Breslow, Mass. Climate Network stated that the cost at $27,000 equaled $70.00 per megawatt hour. There are seven cities in Connecticut that are supporting clean energy and information was distributed about the purchases (ATTACHMENT C).
Jonah Decola asked if grants for turbines are being investigated. He suggested that the city apply for grants to offset the cost of turbines. Councillor Davis supported looking into the grants. Mr. Chretein stated that at the federal level the wind production tax credit expires in December 2007. He spoke about CRE Bonds for municipalities. MTC has information on the web on this matter.
Councillor Davis asked about MTC matching RECs. Mr. Chretein stated that the RECs are purchased from TransCanada and MTC would not match the RECs purchased from TransCanada.
Michele Sprengnether encouraged residents and businesses to purchase RECs. Cambridge could purchase a large amount of RECs. She envisioned solar panels on flat roofs.
Karen Carmean asked what is the return on the investment of a wind turbine. Mr. Chretein stated that a modest 10 –15% rate of return on investment is paid. Mr. Brown spoke about Bill # 3294, if passed, would allow more municipal light companies. His wind turbine paid for itself in four years this was due in part to the long-term contract. It was expected to take twelve years. If Cambridge does not become a municipal light company owner, Mr. Chretein suggested a wind turbine where 80% of RECs are sold.
Fred Schlicher, Mass. Climate Action Network, asked how long is the contract with TransCanada. Councillor Davis stated that the contract runs to 2012 and is renewable. He submitted a series of questions on the targeted emission reductions by 2010 (ATTACHMENT D). He asked what is the total cost of energy in the city, what is the base use and level of change and what is the level of increase in energy for Cambridge over the last few years. Ms. Katz stated that these questions would be reviewed.
Robert Winters questioned the location of the wind turbine. Could a wind turbine be located out of state. Mr. Chretein stated that to benefit from MTC grants the wind turbine needed to be built in New England where it is windy. The wind turbine did not have to be located in Cambridge. He suggested Hull and Fairhaven. There are 119 cities and towns that have been determined to have good wind resources.
Berl Hartman asked if there was any commitment for Cambridge to reduce CO2 emissions. Mr. Bolduc stated that the goal is to reduce emissions by 20% of the 1990 level by 2010.
In conclusion Councillor Davis stated that ways to review this issue is to:
Look at RECs;
Look into wind turbine; and
Conservation.
Councillor Davis thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at seven o’clock and fifteen minutes p.m.
For the Committee,
Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on March 15, 2006, beginning at seven o’clock and fifteen minutes P .M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The hearing was held for the purpose of considering a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to change the zoning for the remaining area of north Massachusetts Avenue zoned Business C-1 to Business A-2.
Present at the hearing were Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Committee, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Councillor Craig Kelley, Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves, Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Vice Mayor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr. and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development and Lester Barber, Director of Zoning and Land Use for the Community Development Department.
Councillor Murphy convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He invited the Community Development Department to give a brief overview of the petition.
Mr. Barber stated that this petition resurrects a citizen petition originally submitted in 1991. The petition affects the only remaining area that is still zoned Business C-1. The zoning was originally C-1 all along north Massachusetts Avenue. Now it is Business A-1. The proposed changes would make the existing north Massachusetts Avenue Business A-1. Mr. Barber submitted a written comparison of the current and proposed zoning (Attachment A).
Councillor Murphy then invited public comment.
Robert LaTrémouille, 875 Massachusetts Avenue, stated that he originally suggested the changes proposed by this petition.
David Connolly, attorney for the owner of Marino’s restaurant, the affected land, stated that zoning should be part of a plan, not a reaction to fear that a particular plot will be developed. In 1991, 1997 and 1998 this change was considered by the City Council and rejected. Nothing has changed that would justify this rezoning. It is not fair to rezone this parcel when someone is trying to determine what to do with his or her property. The owner will be filing a written protest. Attorney Connolly requested that the City Council take no action on the petition.
Charles Teague, 18 Edwards Street, stated that he came to this hearing because his neighbors on Washburn Avenue could not be here. They are very concerned about the potential of a 60-foot development that could take place under the current zoning.
Kathy Podgers, Pearl Street, explained to the City Council what the residents of Cambridge want. The current zoning is a patchwork. Cambridge residents need to think about what Cambridge will look like in 20 to 30 years.
Councillor Murphy then invited questions and comments from members of the City Council.
Councillor Galluccio asked if the area in the petition is the only area of Business C-1 zoning in the City. Mr. Barber answered in the affirmative. In the 1991 rezoning the parcel was left out by clerical error. The original Sheketoff petition was an attempt to correct the error, but it was not ordained.
Councillor Kelley stated that he takes exception to Mr. Connelly’s comment that there have been no changes to current rezoning. There have been huge changes. To lose a beautiful restaurant for another faceless condominium development would be very unfortunate.
Councillor Davis motioned to forward to the petition to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation.
Councillor Sullivan moved to amend the motion to a motion to forward the petition with no recommendation. The amendment was accepted by Councillor Davis a as a friendly amendment. The motion as amended was passed on a voice vote without objection.
Councillor Murphy and Councillor Sullivan thanked all those present for their participation.
The meeting was adjourned at seven o’clock and thirty-five minutes P.M. on a motion by Vice Mayor Toomey.
For the Committee,
Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chair
Committee Report #3
The Civic Unity Committee held a public meeting on Wednesday, March 8, 2006, beginning at eleven o’clock and three minutes a.m. in the Sullivan Chamber for the purpose of continuing the discussion of the City’s affirmative action and diversity training policies.
Present at the hearing were Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Committee and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Michael Gardner, Director of Personnel, Duane Brown, Director of Affirmative Action, Robert Stevens, Director of Veterans’ Services and member of the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee and Leroy Cragwell, 13 Hubbard Avenue, member of the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee.
Councillor Simmons convened the hearing and explained the purpose. She stated that she would like the committee to look at the City’s affirmative action policies for employees and to revisit the 1997 Race and Class forum. She stated that she would also be interested in looking at the project undertaken by the City of Boston, which trained facilitators for a citywide conversation about race and class. She noted Cambridge engaged in related projects in 1945 and in the 1997 - 1998 forum entitled "Cambridge Forum on Race and Class: ‘The Trouble I’ve Seen: Cambridge begins the difficult discussion on race and class.’"
Councillor Simmons then moved the discussion to the City’s affirmative action policy and asked Mr. Brown when it was last updated. Mr. Brown said he was not sure when the policy was last updated. The Affirmative Action Plan, as required by the state Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) and federal Executive Office of Communities and Development/Department of Community Affairs (EOCD/DCA) regulatory agencies, was updated last May.
Councillor Simmons asked how often the plan is updated. Mr. Brown said that because MCAD found the plan satisfactory at the last review, the plan must be submitted again within five years, and sooner if regulatory changes require changes in the plan. Mr. Brown agreed to provide a copy of the policy and the plan. Councillor Simmons said that she would like to know what the City’s goals are. She asked who are the highest ranking persons of color employed by the City and whether they are on the level of the Assistant City Managers and the next executive level.
Councillor Simmons then requested an outline of the process for city employees who have a complaint that the city has discriminated against him or her.
Mr. Brown said that the employee has a choice. Employees can file with Duane Brown, the Director of Affirmative Action, or they can go to the Personnel Director, Mr. Gardner or to the Women’s Commission. An employee can also go directly outside to the MCAD. If they come to Mr. Brown, it is his responsibility to tell them all of their options, including MCAD and EOCD.
Mr. Brown said that typically, when an employee comes to see him, that person is not sure whether the issue is discrimination. The employee just knows that something is wrong on the job and that he or she is not happy. Mr. Brown said that 98% of the time the problem is supervision management.
Mr. Brown said that for every hire in the administration and official level (01 and 02), he, as Affirmative Action Director, must be consulted at the time that there is a vacancy. He is usually involved in the process, either giving them resources for advertising or participating in the screening and hiring committee.
Councillor Simmons stated that she would like to see an affirmative action hiring history as well, including information as to what are the goals, have we ever reached them and, if so, what happened.
Mr. Brown said that the 01 category includes department heads, their deputies and division heads in large departments. Currently there are eleven employees in that category who are persons of color. He explained that affirmative action hiring goals are set based on information from Cambridge responses to the census long term form. From that information, statistics as to the percentage of persons of color residing in Cambridge and employed in each EEO category, the goals changed last July in Cambridge. The parity figure for 01 employees changed from 16.3% to 19%. At the same time several persons of color in the 01 category left the City for other positions. Mr. Brown added that Cambridge has reached the priority goal for most of the other categories. Currently the 01 category is just under 14%, with a target goal of 19%. He said that two of the last people hired in the 01 category have been persons of color.
In response to a question from Councillor Simmons, Mr. Brown said that 27% of the City of Cambridge workforce should be persons of color. That parity goal changed last July from 25.5%, based on the census results. Mr. Brown said that the City’s numbers peak and dip. The category we always struggle with is the 01 category. Any time there is an 01 vacancy, City staff work very hard to get a diverse pool of applicants and maximize the opportunity to reach the City’s affirmative action goal.
Councillor Simmons said that there are not very many of those positions and there are not many vacancies, so every time we do not hire a person of color, it is a major disappointment in terms of meeting the City’s affirmative action goals, she stated that she has not seen a commitment to keep a position open until a person of color is hired; particularly in view of the fact that these positions do not turn over often, she believes that should be the policy. She asked how many 01 category positions Cambridge has. Mr. Gardner said that currently there are 96% of 01 positions.
Councillor Simmons asked if there are any vacancies in that category. Mr. Gardner said that two will be vacant but are not yet, so they are not recruiting yet. Those positions are the Director of the Election Commission and Director of the Women’s Commission.
Councillor Simmons stated that she also would like an update on cultural competency training. She asked if there is continuing education or is it just for new hires.
Mr. Brown said that in addition to the mandatory baseline diversity training that the City requires for all employees, he co-facilitates with Diane Klayman, the City’s Training Director, a "Valuing Differences" six-part series. Each session is three to four hours long. He believes the next series will be in September. This is not the mandatory baseline diversity that every employee gets; it is optional. The mandatory training is one that is a four-hour training.
Councillor Simmons asked why it is optional. Mr. Brown said that the training is much more effective when it is not mandatory.
Councillor Simmons said that she would like to know how many people in each department have taken this training.
Councillor Simmons set the next meeting for March 22, at 11:00 a.m., as a follow-up on this affirmative action discussion. She also described the meeting that she wants to have on Race and Class, and asked Mr. Brown to supply information about the Race and Class program discussion that the City of Boston sponsored. She said that she would like a citywide conversation on race and class that would describe:
* Where we have been
* Where we are now
* Where we hope to be.
Mr. Cragwell, 13 Hubbard Avenue, member of the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee, expressed his appreciation for the discussion that happened today. He said that he is pleased with the determination and intensity of the questions that were asked as well as Mr. Brown’s ability to respond.
Robert Stevens, Director of Veterans’ Services, member of the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee, said that as Director of Veterans’ Services he is mandated to be part of the Advisory Committee because veterans are a protected classification under the state and federal discrimination laws. He said that the topic of affirmative action is very close to his heart. It is important to support racial parity and it is also good to take a look at where we are.
Mr. Gardner stated that he and Mr. Brown work collaboratively to ensure fairness and follow the law. He said that with regard to the percentages of persons of color employed by the City, in comparison with other cities and towns, although Cambridge is not where we want to be, and there always room for improvement, Cambridge is miles ahead of other communities.
Councillor Simmons agreed but noted that of those who have much, much is expected.
Mr. Brown highlighted the issue of the municipal police officers exam, and how much work Cambridge put in to make sure that a large and diverse population of young Cantabrigians took the exam.
Councillor Simmons commended the City on this accomplishment and emphasized that the next step is getting them working in Cambridge. She thanked those present for their participation. The meeting was adjourned at eleven o’clock and fifty-five minutes a.m.
For the Committee,
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair
Committee Report #4
The Civic Unity Committee held a public meeting on Wednesday, March 22, 2006, beginning at eleven o’clock and two minutes a.m. in the Sullivan Chamber for the purpose of continuing the discussion of the City’s affirmative action and diversity training for employees.
Present at the hearing were Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Committee and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Michael Gardner, Director of Personnel, Duane Brown, Director of Affirmative Action, Robert Stevens, Director of Veterans’ Services and member of the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee, Leroy Cragwell, 13 Hubbard Avenue, member of the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee.
Councillor Simmons convened the hearing and explained the purpose. She began with a discussion of a follow-up for the 1998 report entitled "Cambridge forum on Race and Class ‘The Trouble I’ve Seen: Cambridge begins the difficult discussion on race and class.’" (Attachment A). She noted that the report included specific recommendations regarding affirmative action. Some have been implemented, for example, diversity training. There are other recommendations with which more can be done.
Mr. Brown distributed information on the Boston community conversations program. (Attachment B). Councillor Simmons said that she would like to invite someone who participated in the Boston plan. She would like to also involve Charles Ogletree and also Lani Guinier. Councillor Simmons said that her ideal schedule would be to have the community conversations over the summer and early fall and the culminate in a citywide meeting which updates the recommendations from the 1998 forum.
Councillor Simmons then moved to the topic of affirmative action. Mr. Brown distributed the additional information on affirmative action requested at the last meeting: a description of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) job categories (Attachment C); a report on the people of color representation by EEO for the City of Cambridge employees (Attachment D); the City of Cambridge Affirmative Action Program Years (on file with this report in the City Clerk’s Office); the Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Policy (Attachment E), and a report on the City of Cambridge Voluntary Diversity Training Program Statistics (Attachment F).
The discussion focused on how Cambridge positions fit into the EEO categories. In addition to the report on People of Color by EEO Category in Cambridge (Attachment D), the discussion encompassed the material presented on pages 16-32 (Attachment G) of the City of Cambridge Affirmative Action Program, an analysis of EEO Categories. Councillor Simmons requested that Mr. Brown further annotate the material to provide information specific to Cambridge as to which positions fit into which classifications. Mr. Brown agreed.
Councillor Simmons asked how many people of color there are in the 01 category (administrators and officials). Mr. Gardner stated that there are twelve people. Mr. Brown stated that this represents 14% of the total employees in the 01 categories. He said that based on the City’s goals, which in turn are based on the federal goals as being representative of the City’s population in this category, is 19.6%. Councillor Simmons asked if the population of persons of color dropped, would the goal be decreased. Mr. Brown explained that it would be a matter for City discussion. The federal data is now updated periodically through samples by American Fact Finders. The 2000 census information was not available until last year, but there will continue to be periodic updates.
Councillor Simmons asked how the City determines which jobs belong in which categories. Mr. Brown stated that it is by the federal classification list.
Councillor Simmons asked Mr. Brown to take the EEO categories and put in the City of Cambridge positions within them with a breakdown by departments within three weeks.
Councillor Simmons asked about the Affirmative Action Advisory Committee. Mr. Brown said that the committee meets monthly. Members are appointed by the City Manager. The committee includes residents, employees and members of the business community. The City Manager is currently looking for one resident member. The vacancy has been advertised in several newspapers.
Councillor Simmons stated that at the next meeting of the committee on April 19, 2006, the discussion would focus on the issue of planning for citywide conversations on race and class. In addition the committee would receive the requested information on how city positions fit into the EEO classifications.
Councillor Simmons thanked all those present for their participating. The meeting was adjourned at twelve o’clock and four minutes p.m.
For the Committee,
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair