Cambridge City Council meeting - April 4, 2011 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-30, regarding a report on a plan and timeline for the implementation of a curbside composting program.
Referred to Environment Committee - Davis
Apr 4, 2011
To the Honorable, the City Council:
In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-30, regarding a report on a plan and timeline for the implementation of a curbside composting program, Public Works Commissioner Lisa Peterson reports the following:
The Department of Public Works estimates that approximately 3,000 tons per year of food scraps could be diverted from the trash if a composting collection program were implemented city-wide.
Diverting food scraps from the trash would to reduce emissions of methane, a significant factor in climate change, from landfills. If residents had secure collection containers for food scraps and were asked to place food scraps in compostable bags, this could also be an effective strategy to improve how this material is handled and ultimately lead to greater rodent control.
While there is already limited organics collection from Cambridge businesses, the Recycling Center and schools with lunchroom composting programs, processing capacity is a major barrier to expansion. MassDEP has recognized this barrier, and in response launched a new task force on Building Organics Capacity in March 2011. Sixty stakeholders attended the first meeting with representation from industry, state and environmental advocacy organizations.
Notably, the City's recycling processor is working on a collaborative project to build an organics recycling facility in the Boston area that will be able to transfer material to farm digesters and compost facilities within the next several years.
When more processing capacity is available, the City will be able to consider expanding curbside yard waste collection to include food scraps.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-35, regarding a report on data regarding demographic and population trends though the year 2025.
Referred to Nbhd. & Long-Term Planning Committee (Seidel) and Human Services Committee (Reeves)
From: Brian P. Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development
Date: March 29, 2011
Subject: Council Order #10 of March 7, 2011 regarding demographic and population trendsIn response to the above referenced order we report the following:
Population projections for Cambridge are available from various sources.
The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) prepares projections of population, households, and employment as part of its long range planning activities. While Community Development staff provides assistance to MAPC prior to preparation of that organization's projections, they are prepared entirely by MAPC for that organization's use. The most recent iteration ofthe MAPC projections was released earlier this month to support development of Paths to a Sustainable Region 2035, the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization's long-range transportation plan. The most recent MAPC projections for Cambridge follow:
Year Population Households Employment 2010 (MAPC Projection) 109,474 46,130 103,015 2020 115,407 49,279 114,280 2030 121,531 52,694 119,914 2035 123,300 53,537 119,953
Projections can also be purchased from commercial sources, such as Claritas/Neilson and Geolytics. The Community Development Department does not prepare projections of demographic and population trends.
Earlier this month the U. S. Census Bureau released population counts for Massachusetts cities and towns. While these counts do not include projections, they will serve as the basis for future projections undertaken by various organizations.
Recent Census counts for Cambridge:
Year Population Households Employment 2000 (US Census) 101,355 42,787 -- 2010 (US Census) 105,162 44,032 --
The recently released population counts do not contain detailed information, such as age by cohorts, that would be helpful in understanding who lives in Cambridge. That information will be released later this spring. Over the summer, CDD staff will analyze this data and will present it to the City Council in the fall.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a $4,500 donation from Central Square LCC in support of an Adopt-A-Park agreement for Carl Barron Plaza to the Grant Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a $2,000 donation from the Alexander W. Kemp Foundation to the Grant Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance received for the Alexander W. Kemp playground at the Cambridge Common.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $20,118 in tree replacement funds received over the past several years from the Client and Commemorative Tree Program to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account and will be used to supplement City tree planting efforts.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $13,699 in tree replacement funds received from the Mormon Church to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account which will be used to plant trees in the East Cambridge neighborhood.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $9,700 in revenue received for damages to the Mount Auburn Plaza to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account and will be used for public plantings, maintenance and upkeep at City islands and plazas.
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents Grant for $2,375.40 to the Public Works Grant Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will allow for the training of 60 DPW employees on CPR, choking and first aid.
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $350,000 to the Community Development Public Investment Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account from the revenue sources described below to allow for the hiring of a consultant to work on the future development of Kendall Square and Central Square.
Apr 4, 2011
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am hereby requesting the appropriation of $350,000 to the Community Development Public Investment Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account from the revenue sources described below to allow for the hiring of a consultant to work on the future development of Kendall Square and Central Square.
A Request for Proposals was issued on Jan 13, 2011. Ten proposals were received on Feb 3, 2011. The Designer Selection Committee provided for under MGL Chapter 7 Section 38A ½ was convened and screened these proposals down to 4 finalists for interviews. These interviews were conducted and the proposal submitted by Goody Clancy was ranked highest, and recommended to the City Manager to enter a contract with.
Since this expense was not anticipated to occur in this fiscal year, and funding must be available in order to enter a contract, I am recommending the appropriation of $350,000 from 2 revenue sources:
1. $175,000 from a one-time increase in the PILOT payment from MIT; and
2. $175,000 from the payment for "Neighborhood Planning Studies" as project mitigation from Boston Properties.
Passage is recommended in order for this work to commence.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $30,187 in funds received from the MWRA to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to implement storm water management improvements to promote infiltration and reduce phosphorous from the parking lot runoff at the Morse School.
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Grant for $125,971 to the Public Investment Fund Water Extraordinary Expenditures account for renovations of the Winter Street Dam at the Hobbs Brook Reservoir.
12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-38, regarding a report on the feasibility of doing a "deep clean" of the City.
13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-30, regarding a report on the inspection of warm weather equipment in parks.
14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the request to re-file a zoning petition to amend Section 5.28.2 of the Zoning Ordinance. [Text of Manager's Agenda #14]
Referred to Ordinance Committee (Davis). Councillor Kelley voted NO on referral.
15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-24, regarding a further report on ticketing vehicles for being parking more than three feet from the curb due to snow banks, and Awaiting Report Item Number 11-37, regarding a report on the parking ticket appeal process.
16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-36, regarding a report on coordinating with the MBTA to allow parking within bus stops on the CT2 and 85 routes.
ON THE TABLE
1. That the City Manager is requested to restore funding for School Department clerical positions until a proper and negotiated process can be achieved with the Cambridge School Department and Unions representing the employees, and to report back to the City Council on the progress. [Order Number Fourteen of Apr 26, 2010 Placed on Table. Councillor Kelley made motions to take from table on May 10, 2010 failed 2-7-0, Sept 13, 2010 failed 4-4-1, Sept 27, 2010 failed 3-5-1, Dec 13, 2010 failed 3-6-0. Remains on Table.]
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-32, regarding a report on issues with the development of the former St. John's property site. [Charter Right exercised on City Manager Agenda Item Number Eighteen of May 24, 2010. Placed on Table June 7, 2010.]
3. An application was received from Tony LaVita, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 68 Middlesex Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Applications and Petitions Number Ten of June 7, 2010 Placed on Table.]
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-189, regarding a report on the legitimacy of the tax exempt claim of Education First. [Charter Right exercised on City Manager Agenda Item Number Nineteen of Jan 24, 2011. Placed on Table Jan 31, 2011.]
5. That the City Manager is requested to have the Community Development Department convene a meeting with neighbors in the vicinity of Grove Street and Blanchard Road, the Fresh Pond Master Plan Committee and other relevant parties to review the zoning along the golf course and the Fresh Pond Reservation in that area. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Five of Jan 24, 2011. Placed on Table Jan 31, 2011.]
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Amelia's Trattoria, requesting permission for ten tables and thirty-six chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 111 Harvard Street.
2. An application was received from Sola, requesting permission for two tables and eight chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 350 Massachusetts.
3. An application was received from The New Brand Sebastians, requesting permission for eight tables and thirty-two chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 415 Main Street (on Ames Street side).
4. An application was received from Harvard Square Business Association, requesting permission for a temporary banner across JFK Street at Mount Auburn Street announcing MayFair on Sunday May 1st.
5. An application was received from Harvard Square Business Association, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at City Hall announcing MayFair on Sunday, May 1st.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from United States Senator Scott P. Brown, transmitting thanks for contacting him regarding the proposal for a Veterans Trust Fund.
2. A communication was received from L. Renee Dankerlin, regarding visuals as part of zoning.
3. A communication was received from Preston Gralla, regarding St. James Condominium Proposal.
4. A communication was received from Young Kim, regarding City Manager Agenda Item 14 for Monday, April 4, 2011, relative request to refile a zoning petition to amend Section 5.28.2 of the Zoning Ordinance.
5. A communication was received from Rick Henry, transmitting a sketch of parking spaces on Hampshire and Springfield Streets.
6. A communication was received from Dick Fanning and Jai Chawla, regarding the Grand Junction Railroad.
7. A communication was received from Richard Fanning, regarding Miami 21, Section 5.28, and Total Ordinance Review and Revision.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Welcome Theolonious Monkfish, an Asian fusion restaurant, to Central Square. Councillor Cheung
2. Congratulations to Will Gilson on being a named a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation award for Rising Star Chef of the Year. Councillor Cheung
3. Congratulations to Maura Kilpatrick on being a named a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation award for Outstanding Pastry Chef. Councillor Cheung
4. Congratulations to Joanne Chang on being a named a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation award for Outstanding Pastry Chef. Councillor Cheung
5. Congratulations to Tony Maws on being a named a semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation award for Best Chef: North East. Councillor Cheung
6. Best to wishes to East End House on their annual Cooking For A Cause event on Apr 1, 2011 in the Plaza Ballroom at the Seaport Hotel in Boston. Councillor Toomey
7. Retirement of Robert Curley from the Cambridge Fire Department. Mayor Maher
8. Resolution on the death of Edmund T. Lafferty. Mayor Maher
9. Best wishes to CCTV as they move into their new space at 438 Massachusetts Avenue. Councillor Reeves
10. Resolution on the death of Senior Airman Michael John Hinkle II. Councillor Decker
11. Resolution on the death of Brandon S. Hocking. Councillor Decker
12. Resolution on the death of Mary M. (Kiernan) Freitas. Councillor Toomey
13. Resolution on the death of Adam Carl "ZiD" Aries. Councillor Toomey
14. Resolution on the death of Grace E. (Friel) Brogan. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher
15. Congratulations to Amy Davies on being named the new Director of Harvard Kennedy School's MPA programs. Councillor Cheung
16. Congratulations to the Vinfen Corp on being nominated for the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Councillor Cheung
17. Congratulations to the Cambridge Fire Department on being nominated for the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Councillor Cheung
18. Congratulations to The Charles Stark Draper Laboratory on being nominated for the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Councillor Cheung
19. Encourage residents to participate in the Area IV Walk on May 21, 2011 from 11:00am- 2:30pm. Councillor Simmons
20. Congratulations to Caroline Hunter on receiving the Massachusetts Teachers Association's Human and Civil Right Award. Councillor Simmons
21. Resolution on the death of Alberta P. Graham. Councillor Simmons
22. Congratulations to Reverend Maurice S. Greaves on being appointed Senior Pastor of the Massachusetts Avenue Baptist Church. Councillor Simmons
23. Best wishes for a successful fundraiser to Community Labor United (CLU) on May 19, 2011. Councillor Simmons
24. Congratulations to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals on the occasion of its 145th anniversary. Councillor Simmons
25. Thanks to Robert McCarthy for his 24 years of service as the President of the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts. Councillor Toomey
26. Resolution on the death of John E. McCarthy. Councillor Toomey
27. Congratulations to Dr. Ilana Imrani-Cohen on receiving the Dr. Brenner Award from the Community Legal Services and Counseling Center. Councillor Decker
28. Congratulations to Michelle Fine on receiving the Dr. Brenner Award from the Community Legal Services and Counseling Center. Councillor Decker
29. Proclaim Apr 29, 2011-May 8, 2011 as Jazz Week in the City of Cambridge. Mayor Maher
30. Thanks to the Green Streets Initiative for encouraging Cambridge citizens to use alternative forms of transportation and be part of a healthier community. Vice Mayor Davis
31. Resolution on the death of Harold E. "Buddy" Pearson. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher
32. Resolution on the death of Rosario Morales. Councillor Simmons
33. Congratulations to the students and faculty of the Cambridgeport School on the occasion of its twentieth anniversary. Councillor Simmons
34. Happy 91st Birthday to Christina Nardella. Councillor Simmons
35. Congratulations to Damon Smith and Laura Mosman Smith on the birth of their son, Maxwell Benjamin Smith. Councillor Simmons
36. Congratulations and thanks to Cambridge Police Officers William Bates and Michael Cresta for their act of heroism in resuscitating a choking child. Mayor Maher
37. Declare Apr 29, 2011 as Arbor Day in the City of Cambridge. Mayor Maher
38. Resolution on the death of Joanna (Polidoro) Vesce. Mayor Maher
39. Speedy recovery wishes to Otavia Reis. Councillor Simmons
40. Urge residents to participate in the Billion Acts of Green Campaign in celebration of Earth Day 2011 on Apr 22, 2011. Councillor Simmons
41. Speedy recovery wishes to Mamie E. Barnes. Councillor Simmons
42. Condolences to the family of Cornelia Wilkins. Councillor Simmons
43. Appreciation to Kathy Orrick for her service to the citizens of Cambridge in her work at the Multi-Service Center. Mayor Maher
44. Speedy recovery withes to Emily Tauro. Councillor Toomey
45. Resolution on the death of Antonio J. Masci. Councillor Toomey
46. Happy 50th Birthday wishes to Mary Horgan. Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey
47. Congratulations to the CRLS students who will be inducted into the National Honor Society on Apr 7, 2011. Mayor Maher
48. Congratulations to Nicolas Guevara for winning a silver award in the National Scholastic Art Award Competition. Mayor Maher
49. Welcome Boomerangs to the City of Cambridge. Councillor Cheung
50. Retirement of Timothy Groves from the Cambridge School Department. Vice Mayor Davis
51. Congratulations to Robin Chase and Roy Russell for their contribution to the eco-mobility of the future. Vice Mayor Davis
52. Welcome wishes to Michael Eric Dyson as he gives the keynote address at the Haymarket Fund's 35th anniversary celebration in April. Councillor Simmons
53. Happy 60th Birthday wishes to Renae Gray. Councillor Simmons
54. Proclaim Apr 4-10, 2011 as Cambridge Public Health Week in the City of Cambridge. Mayor Maher
55. Honor Charles Sumner on the bicentennial anniversary of his birth. Councillor Reeves
56. Resolution on the death of Francis J. Smith Pierce. Councillor Reeves
57. Congratulations to Hungry Mother on winning Munch Madness, the Boston Globe's annual tournament of restaurants. Councillor Toomey
58. Congratulations to Kathleen Walsh-Malone for being named one of the best educators in the Teachers Rock contest. Mayor Maher
59. Congratulations to Deborah Jackson on being named President of Cambridge College. Mayor Maher
60. Happy 50th Birthday wishes to John Toomey. Mayor Maher
61. Happy Birthday wishes to Lori Landers. Councillor Simmons
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City department about replacing the lights on the Yerxa Road underpass. Councillor Simmons
2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to report to the City Council on the feasibility of converting the taxi stand spaces in front of Stellabella Toys in Inman Square back into parking spots or at the very least beginning the taxi stand time frame at 8:00pm. Councillor Cheung
3. That the City Manager is requested to begin filing the necessary paperwork with the Federal Railroad Administration to designate the East Cambridge railroad crossings as an official Quiet Zone. Councillor Cheung and Vice Mayor Davis
Charter Right - Toomey
4. That the City Manager is requested to relay opposition to additional train service through East Cambridge until a full environmental impact assessment and a public participation process are completed. Vice Mayor Davis and Councillor Cheung
Charter Right - Toomey
5. That the City Manager is requested to refer the Seattle Farm Bill Principles to the Food and Fitness Policy Council and ask for a report about how Cambridge should participate in this initiative. Vice Mayor Davis
Charter Right - Toomey
6. That the City Manager is requested to commit the necessary staff and resources to explore the possibility of increasing the number of Single Residency Occupancy units or studio apartments in Cambridge. Councillor Simmons
7. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Police Commissioner regarding increasing police visibility through more foot and bicycle patrols during the summer. Councillor Simmons
Charter Right - Toomey
8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the City Solicitor and other relevant City staff and report back to the City Council with a detailed and formal legal opinion on the ability of 5.28 conversions to bypass use prohibitions in the Table of Uses. Councillor Kelley and Councillor Cheung
Charter Right - Toomey
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate Massachusetts State Police officials and Harvard University officials regarding the opening of the off-ramps on Soldiers Field Road during Harvard University football games. Mayor Maher
10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City department heads and members of area university communities regarding the safety of nuclear reactors in Cambridge. Councillor Seidel
11. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the possibility of inclusion of visuals in Cambridge zoning documents to aid in the understanding of requirements and regulations. Councillor Seidel
Charter Right - Toomey
12. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the City Solicitor to determine whether the goals of the proposed bill in the Massachusetts House of Representatives Number 00958 (attached) could be accomplished by home rule petition, and, if so, to draft a home rule petition to be returned to the City Council by the City Council meeting of May 2, 2011. Councillor Seidel
Charter Right - Toomey
13. That His Honor the Mayor schedule a roundtable of the City Council to discuss demographic and population trends through the year 2025 as contained in Agenda Item Number Two of April 4, 2011. Councillor Reeves
14. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Community Development Department and the Planning Board to include the proposed requirement for ground floor retail in any zoning change affecting the North Massachusetts Avenue Retail Corridor. Councillor Cheung
15. That the City Council, in consultation with the City Manager, the Economic Development Division of Community Development Department and the Chair of Economic Development Training and Employment Committee develop an award ceremony which will acknowledge, on an annual basis, businesses for their philanthropic and social consciousness contributions to the City of Cambridge. Councillor Simmons
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee for a public meeting held on Feb 22, 2011 to discuss promoting and sustaining retail in North Cambridge.
2. 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 public meeting held on Mar 9, 2011 to continue discussing with the Civic Unity Citizen Advisory Committee the recommendations of the Cambridge Review Committee Report: "Missed Opportunities, Shared Responsibilities," and implementation of these recommendations.
3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee for a public meeting held on Mar 10, 2011 to receive as much information as is currently available on major current and prospective employers in Cambridge.
4. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public meeting held on Jan 26, 2011 to consider a report from the Historical Commission recommending that the City Council adopt an order to designate St. James Episcopal Church in Porter Square as a landmark.
St. James Church designated as a landmark, 8-0-1 (Kelley ABSENT).
In City Council Apr 4, 2011
ORDERED: That the Free Church of Saint James (Episcopal) also known as St. James's Church at 1991 Massachusetts Avenue be designated as a protected landmark pursuant to Chapter 2.78, Article III, Section 2.78.180 of the Code of the City of Cambridge, as recommended by vote of the Cambridge Historical Commission on November 4, 2010. The premises so designated are the historic church sanctuary building and the surrounding areas shown as parcels 49, 50 and 62 on Assessor's Map 181 and are recorded in Book 9979, Page 569, at the Middlesex South Registry of Deeds.
This designation is justified by the important associations of the church with the historical, social and architectural history of Cambridge, specifically in that its sanctuary building is the first of two Richardsonian Romanesque churches in Cambridge; the church was the home of an early and important ministry and the product of many prominent Cantabrigians as founders, benefactors and designers of the church; and that the church sanctuary building is the only Massachusetts example of the work of Henry Martyn Congdon, a noted New York ecclesiological architect.
The effect of this designation shall be to review by the Cambridge Historical Commission and the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness, Hardship or Non-Applicability before any other demolition and/or construction activity can take place within the designated area or any action can be taken affecting the appearance of the buildings that would in either case be visible from a public way or place, including the garden to which the church has committed to provide public access. The Commission shall not consider and shall have no jurisdiction over interior features or improvements, nor over any portion of the buildings not visible from a public way or place.
In making determinations with respect to further alterations to the work approved by said November 4, 2010 Certificate of Appropriateness or for alterations to the historic church sanctuary building itself, the Commission shall be guided by the terms of the landmark designation report dated November 4, 2010, and by Section VI, Standards and Criteria, and by the applicable sections of Chapter 2.78, Article III, of the Cambridge Municipal Code.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Apr 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 5
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Apr 6
5:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition originally filed by William A. Fox, et al. and re-filed by the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map by rezoning an area accessed via Cottage Park Avenue in North Cambridge from its current designation of Business A-2 to a new designation of Residence B. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition from Novartis to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map to create a new Special District 15 along a portion of Massachusetts Avenue between Albany Street and Windsor Street. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Apr 7
5:00pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to receive an update on proposed improvements to Massachusetts Avenue between Harvard and Porter Squares. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 11
5:30pm Roundtable Meeting on the City of Cambridge website, with particular attention to what information goes on the website and where on the website it appears. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 12
6:00pm Special School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Apr 13
10:00am The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss creating city goals under the banner of economic development. (Sullivan Chamber)
4:30pm The Government Operations and Rules Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss moving to a paperless City Council Agenda, connecting City Council goals and City Departments and City Council Committees to foster efficient and collaborative results and a proposed amendment of the Municipal Code to require posting of City Manager's contract 96 hours before it is to be voted on by the City Council. (Ackermann Room)
Thurs, Apr 14
5:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition from MIT and Forest City to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map by extending the Cambridgeport Revitalization Development District from Green Street out to Massachusetts Avenue in the area adjacent to Blanche Street. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Apr 20
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss creating a program in Cambridge similar to Boston's Department of Urban Mechanics to improve city service delivery. (Sullivan Chamber)
10:30am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss creating a capital budget for the development of internet and mobile based tools. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss ways to promote ground floor retail. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Apr 21
5:30pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the footbridge at Magazine Beach. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 25
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 26
3:30pm The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a follow up public meeting on detrimental city ordinances for businesses in the city. (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm The Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss future of curbside collection of organic waste and decreasing the use of plastic bags. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Apr 28
5:30pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting regarding traffic concerns about the East Cambridge roadways and the Lechmere Station. (Anastos Room)
Mon, May 2
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 3
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 4
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2012 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 5
4:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion on a zoning petition originally filed by Chestnut Hill Realty and re-filed by the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance by creating a new section that would allow for the creation of rental apartment units in the basement levels of existing multifamily residential buildings in Residence C Districts within 1200 feet of Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge Street or the Red Line. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm Ordinance Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 11
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2012 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 17
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 18
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2012 School Department Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 19
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2012 City Budget (if necessary). This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 25
5:00pm Ordinance Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 6
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, June 7
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 13
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Aug 1
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City department about replacing the lights on the Yerxa Road underpass.
O-2 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that two parking spots in front of Stellabella Toys in Inman Square, located at 1360 Cambridge St, were recently converted into taxi stands from 6pm-8am, in which any one parked during these times will be towed; and
WHEREAS: There are many small businesses in Inman Square that already suffer from chronic parking shortages. Removing two additional spots will only exacerbate an already serious problem that discourages shoppers from casually shopping and visiting multiple establishments; and
WHEREAS: Although many retail shops in Inman Square close at 6pm, many shoppers linger and do not return directly to their cars, putting them at risk under the new system for parking tickets and being towed; and
WHEREAS: During the holiday season (Thanksgiving to Christmas) many retail stores in Inman Square extend their hours to 8:00pm or 9:00pm; 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 look into the feasibility of converting the taxi stand spaces back into parking spots or at the very least beginning the taxi stand time frame at 8pm rather than 6pm and report back to the City Council.
O-3 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that many constituents are concerned about the loud train horns that are blown every night at the Grand Junction Line, Cambridge Street intersection; and
WHEREAS: There is already signage posted on the railroad tracks indicating that this is a "Noise Sensitive Area". However, because this area is not currently designated a "Quiet Zone" by the Federal Railroad Administration, railroad engineers are encouraged to continue to blow their horns loudly and repeatedly when approaching the crossing; and
WHEREAS: There are gates, flashing light and bells already installed at the intersection that provide sufficient indication that a train is approaching; and
WHEREAS: Even if only a partial Quiet Zone was implemented, where train horns were prohibited from 10pm to 7am, many constituents believe that this would greatly improve the quality of life for residents living near the train tracks; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to begin filing the necessary paperwork with the Federal Railroad Administration to designate the East Cambridge railroad crossings as an official Quiet Zone.
O-4 Apr 4, 2011
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to relay opposition to additional train service through East Cambridge until a full environmental impact assessment and a public participation process are completed; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to designate the appropriate department or departments to organize a series of public meetings and invite MassDOT, MBTA, MBCR, and CSX to hear resident concerns about additional service, particularly focusing on the disturbance caused by train horns.
O-5 Apr 4, 2011
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to refer the Seattle Farm Bill Principles to the Food and Fitness Policy Council and ask for a report about how Cambridge should participate in this initiative.
O-6 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Affordable housing is a necessity; and
WHEREAS: The City Council, through policy orders, resolutions and City Council goals, has made affordable housing a priority; and
WHEREAS: The need for affordable housing varies from individual to individual and from family to family; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge, through the office of the Community Development Department, has made changes to the city's housing practices that have increased the number of larger units to accommodate the housing needs of larger families; and
WHEREAS: Single Room Occupancy buildings and studios are in very short supply; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to commit the necessary staff and resources to explore the possibility of increasing the number of Single Residency Occupancy units or studio apartments in Cambridge.
O-7 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Public safety is an important concern of Cambridge residents and Cambridge elected officials; and
WHEREAS: Although the crime rate in Cambridge is very low, over the past month there have been several shootings in the city resulting in one fatality; and
WHEREAS: Crime tends to increase in summer months; and
WHEREAS: High police visibility is always a deterrent of crime; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Police Commissioner regarding increasing police visibility through more foot and bicycle patrols during the summer.
O-8 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: On Apr 7, 2008, the City Council passed an Order asking that the City Manager "report back to the City Council as to whether land-use planning and zoning could be used and/or modified to provide for more positive transitions for former church properties and other similar re-use issues"; and
WHEREAS: The Manager's response of Apr 28, 2008, offered to "prepare for discussion some options of how the regulation [Section 5.28.2 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance] might be altered to reduce neighborhood impact"; and
WHEREAS: It's not clear how far these discussions progressed; and
WHEREAS: Multifamily use in Residential B areas is specifically disallowed in the existing Table of Uses; and
WHEREAS: The City Council was never given a formal and detailed legal opinion on how 5.28 conversions are capable of bypassing clearly delineated use prohibitions in the Table of Uses; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be, and hereby is, requested to confer with the City Solicitor and other relevant City staff and report back to the City Council with a detailed and formal legal opinion on the ability of 5.28 conversions to bypass use prohibitions in the Table of Uses; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide a detailed report back to the City Council describing the extent and outcome of Community Development Department's discussions as noted in the Apr 28, 2008 City Manager Letter, as well as an updated analysis of projects that have obtained Special Permits under 5.28.2.
O-10 April 7, 2008 (Adopted unanimously)
COUNCILLOR MAHER
VICE MAYOR MURPHY
WHEREAS: The conversion of churches to housing in residential neighborhoods has led to some neighborhood concern and consternation as residents see large formerly vacant buildings become large multi-family residences; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development to report back to the City Council as to whether land-use planning and zoning could be used and/or modified to provide for more positive transitions for former church properties and other similar re-use issues.City Manager Letter
April 28, 2008
To the Honorable, the City Council:In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-57, regarding a report on whether land-use planning and zoning could be used and/or modified to provide for more positive transitions for former church properties and other similar re-use issues, Assistant City Manager for Community Development Beth Rubenstein reports the following:
The City Council has inquired as to whether land-use planning and zoning could be used andlor modified to provide for more positive transitions for former church properties and other similar re-use issues.
Section 5.28.2 of the Zoning Ordinance was developed to facilitate the conversion of non-residential buildings (including church buildings) to residential use. Adopted in 2001, this set of regulations allows for existing buildings to be converted to residential use by seeking a special permit that takes into account the area of the existing building in determining the number of units and allows relaxation of some of the gross floor area, height, setback and open space requirements. In order to obtain the special permit several criteria must be met, including demonstration that the conversion will not unduly impact adjacent properties and the supply of on-street parking.
The Community Development Department will prepare an analysis of projects which have obtained special permits under Section 5.28.2 over the last few years and will look at the kinds of relief which have been typical. We will then prepare for discussion some options of how the regulation might be altered to reduce neighborhood impact. This could include adding additional evaluative criteria for obtaining the special permit, limiting the kinds of relief allowed, or changing the formulas for calculation of the allowed number of dwelling units.
We anticipate that this work will take place over the summer and will be ready for discussion in fall 2008.
Very truly yours,
Robert W. Healy
City Manager
O-9 Apr 4, 2011
MAYOR MAHER
WHEREAS: Closures of off-ramps on Soldiers Field Road leading into Harvard Square during Harvard University football games make it difficult for residents and visitors to gain access to Harvard Square; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate Massachusetts State Police officials and Harvard University officials regarding the opening of the off-ramps on Soldiers Field Road during Harvard University football games.
O-10 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: Given the recent earthquake in northeastern Japan and resulting tsunami which caused damage to the Fukushima Daiichi and Daini nuclear plants; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City department heads and members of area university communities regarding the safety of nuclear reactors in Cambridge; 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-11 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: At a meeting of the Ordinance Committee on Mar 29, 2011, a presentation was made regarding the City of Miami's work on form-based zoning; and
WHEREAS: In the "Miami 21" Initiative, an overhaul of that city's zoning regulations, Miami city staff worked to create better documentation in order to provide clear and specific guidelines to planners and developers, create a more efficient permitting process and provide a stable environment for investment; and
WHEREAS: Improvements to Miami zoning regulations included providing photographs, diagrams, drawings and other visual aids along with the text of the zoning regulations; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the possibility of inclusion of visuals in Cambridge zoning documents to aid in the understanding of requirements and regulations.
O-12 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City Solicitor to determine whether the goals of the proposed bill in the Massachusetts House of Representatives Number 00958 (attached) could be accomplished by home rule petition, and, if so, to draft a home rule petition to be returned to the City Council by the City Council meeting of May 2, 2011.
Bill H00958 By Ms. Alice K. Wolf of Cambridge, petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 00958) of Kevin G. Honan and others relative to increasing motor vehicle fines by municipalities. Joint Committee on Transportation.
SECTION 1. Chapter 85 of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 11D the following new section:- Section 11E. Option of local government to increase penalties to improve behavior. Any city or town may choose to adopt this section to increase penalties for certain violations of chapter 85 of the General Laws. In any city or town which accepts the provisions of this section, each manager in a city having a Plan D or Plan E form of charter or the mayor, with the approval of the city council or board of aldermen in any other city, or the town councilor board of selectmen of a town may impose additional fines for certain violations of Chapter 85, as appearing in Section 11 B of Chapter 85.
SECTION 2. Section 11B of chapter 85 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2008 Official Edition, is hereby amended by inserting after the words "twenty dollars" in the last paragraph of subsection (11) the following words:- ", but in any city or town that has accepted Section 11E of Chapter 85, violations of any provision of this section except violations of clause (iii) of subsection (2) shall be punished by a tine of not more than $75"
SECTION 3. Chapter 89 of the General Laws, as so appearing, is hereby amended by inserting after Section 11 the following new section:- Section 12. Option of local government to increase penalties to improve behavior. Any city or town may choose to adopt this section to increase penalties for certain violations of Chapter 89 of the General Laws. In any city or town which accepts the provisions of this section, each manager in a city having a Plan D or Plan E form of charter or the mayor, with the approval of the city council or board of aldermen in any other city, or the town council or board of selectmen of a town may impose additional fines for violations of Sections 9 and 11 of Chapter 89.
SECTION 4. Section 9 of said chapter 89 of the General Laws, as so appearing, is hereby amended by inserting after the word "offense" in the last paragraph the following words:- ", but in any city or town that has accepted Section 12 of Chapter 89, any person violating the provisions of this section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $250 for each offense"
SECTION 5. Section 11 of said chapter 89 of the General Laws, as so appearing, is hereby amended by inserting after the word "$200" in the third paragraph the following words:- ", but in any city or town that has accepted Section 12 of Chapter 89, whoever violates any provision of this section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $250 for each offense"
SECTION 6. Chapter 90 of the General Laws is hereby amended by inserting after section 18A the following new section:- Section 18A½. Option of local government to increase penalties to improve behavior. Any city or town may choose to adopt this section to increase penalties for certain violations of Chapter 90 of the General Laws. In any city or town which accepts the provisions 'of this section, each manager in a city having a Plan D or Plan E form of charter or the mayor, with the approval of the city council or board of aldermen in any other city, or the town councilor board of selectmen of a town may impose additional fines for violations of Section 18A of Chapter 90.
SECTION 7. Section 18A of chapter 90 of the General Laws, as appearing in the 2008 Official Edition, is hereby amended in its tirst paragraph by inserting after the last sentence the following sentence:- In a city or town that has accepted Section 18A½ of Chapter 90, whoever violates any provision of any such rule shall be punished by a fine of $75.
O-13 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That His Honor the Mayor schedule a roundtable of the City Council to discuss demographic and population trends through the year 2025 as contained in Agenda Item Number Two of April 4, 2011.
O-14 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That a copy of the Economic Development, Training Employment Committee report of a hearing held on February 22, 2011, together with the attachments, be forwarded by the City Manager to the Community Development Department and the Planning Board; and be it further
ORDERED: That in light of the discussion contained therein, that the City Council go on record supporting the proposal presented by Main Street North Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Community Development Department and the Planning Board to include the proposed requirement for ground floor retail in any zoning change affecting the North Massachusetts Avenue Retail Corridor.
O-15 Apr 4, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Council, in consultation with the City Manager, the Economic Development Division of Community Development Department and the Chair of Economic Development Training and Employment Committee develop an award ceremony which will acknowledge, on an annual basis, businesses for their philanthropic and social consciousness contributions to the City of Cambridge.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee conducted a public meeting on Tues, Feb 22, 2011 at 5:35pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss promoting and sustaining retail in North Cambridge.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Vice Mayor Davis; Councillor Seidel; Councillor Kelley; Councillor Reeves; Stuart Dash, Director, Community Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); Les Barber, Director, Land Use, Planning and Zoning, CDD; Iram Farooq, Project Planner, CDD; Estella Johnson, Director, Economic Development Division, CDD; Elizabeth Bedell; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.
Also present were Eric Grunebaum, 98 Montgomery Street; Jai Chawla, 218 Thorndike Street; Leroy Cragwell, 13 Hubbard Avenue; Cairy Kim, 17 Norris Street; George F. McCray, 2301 Massachusetts Avenue; Jason Targoff, 4 Olive Place; Dirk deJong, 18 Clarendon Avenue; Janneke House, 10 Hilliard Street; Antje Danielson, 55 Washburn Avenue; John Darrah, 47 Reed Street; Ginna Reeder, 71 Pemberton Street; Michael Rome, 20 Gold Star Road; Rob Fawcett, 10 Heron Way, Duxbury; Terrence Smith, Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue; Robin Finnegan, 31 Hubbard Avenue; Margery Meadow, 43 Gold Star Road; Macky Buck, 20 Gold Star Road; Andrea Wilder, 12 Arlington Street; Lisa Coen, 2 Reed Street Terrace; Chris Marstall, 126 Montgomery Street; Mike Phillips, 57 Madison Avenue; Don Kaiser, 22 Seagrave Road; and Constanza Eggers.
Councillor Cheung opened the meeting and stated the purpose. In particular this meeting will discuss the retail corridor along Massachusetts Avenue and how to attract and retain retail in this area. The Community Development Department staff will discuss the outcome of a series of meetings held and the work done on the North Massachusetts Avenue corridor. At this time Councillor Cheung asked Stuart Dash to give an overview of the North Massachusetts Avenue area.
Mr. Dash stated that two years ago the North Massachusetts Avenue plan was reviewed and cited issues of concern. Five public meetings were held that engaged 50 - 60 people with a dialogue focused on streetscape, design quality and zoning. There has been emerging interest for additional retail along North Massachusetts Avenue. The last three meetings reviewed the current zoning and a stronger retail space was encouraged by the North Massachusetts Avenue residents. Discussions have been around changing the current zoning environment to attain retail space. Mr. Dash distributed a document that outlined the ways to consider encouraging ground-floor retail via zoning (Attachment A). He stated that in the 1980's there was a push to reduce the number of bars in residential areas. There is strong incentive to have retail on the ground floor with residential above. There is a North Massachusetts Avenue ground floor retail incentive proposal (Attachment B) which will invite further discussions at a future Planning Board meeting and then at City Council.
At this time Michael Rome made a presentation on behalf of Main Street North Cambridge group entitled "North Massachusetts Avenue Zoning Requirement to Preserve Retail" (Attachment C). He stated that the 2010 North Massachusetts Avenue improvement study encouraged the neighborhood to articulate their desires. The streetscape was discussed. Residents wanted to maintain a vibrant retail environment. Five community meetings and two meetings with the Planning Board have been held. No opposition has been received at any of these meetings. Transportation is well served in this area with bike, bus and truck routes. Housing density has tripled. Within the last ten years there has been 158 new residential units created. North Massachusetts Avenue has a vibrant retail environment. We are trying to create a zoning incentive with the Planning Board for retail space. Loss of retail space affects the vibrancy of the area. Strong incentives are desired but incentives are not enough. Mixed Use Developments have succeeded on North Massachusetts Avenue for over 100 years. He stated that the City Council needed to address market inefficiency with a requirement for retail. Retail that already works is being preserved along Massachusetts Avenue. New retail has come to Massachusetts Avenue. North Cambridge can support additional retail but the City must require developers to replace retail with an equal amount of retail space in new North Massachusetts Avenue developments.
Councillor Cheung thanked the North Cambridge neighborhood for their presentation. He agreed that retail must be preserved in the North Massachusetts Avenue corridor.
Vice Mayor Davis stated that she would like to see retail and vibrancy retained in North Cambridge; how could this be achieved? Should it be by requirement or incentivized? There must be an economic incentive to make this work. She spoke about the cost of old space versus new space and development costs. In Harvard Square retail will be subsidized. Where do retail forces work and not work? She wants to understand what works.
Councillor Kelley stated that if retail space is not protected it will be lost. He would like to eliminate the incentive for housing. He favored comprehensive planning to make the avenue more vibrant.
Councillor Seidel stated that he intended to conduct a Neighborhood and Long Term Planning meeting to understand the dynamics of what happens in the marketplace. How many people do you need to support retail, he asked? Lesley University was required to put in retail and store fronts sat vacant for two years. He commented that Massachusetts Avenue is a retail corridor and needs to continue to be a vibrant space. Councillor Cheung commented that large institutional landlords could be a hindrance and extend the process.
Mr. Dash stated that the current conversation focuses on how retail can be protected. The discussion is now centered on requiring retail replacement on the ground floor on a building that is constructed where retail once existed. Ground floor retail is currently decentivized by City zoning but the City is attempting to create discentives for developers to develop only residential space. If, for example, if an office wanted to move into a former retail space it must retain the look and feel of retail so that in the future it can revert back to retail. This proposal will be presented to the Planning Board. This shift will enhance the vibrancy of North Massachusetts Avenue. It is getting harder to do retail in the city. Councillor Cheung commented that it is incumbent on the city to search out retail entities because it affects the quality of life of residents living in the city.
Councillor Kelley stated that reversing the housing incentive is a good idea.
Vice Mayor Davis stated that the city is currently in problem solving mode. Mr. Dash responded that the Planning Board will be informed of the discussions to date and he would try to add this to the Planning Board's schedule in mid-April.
At 6:18pm Councillor Cheung opened the meeting to public comment.
John Darren, 47 Reed Street, stated that it is all in what the market can bear. North Massachusetts Avenue has new businesses coming in and two new leases signed this week. The neighborhood is changing. There are fewer units with fewer people. Retail is changing to serve the changing neighborhood. Development always goes for the easy money. The easy money is residential units. Good retail generates increased sales and property tax revenue.
Estella Johnson, Economic Development Director, explained that the Community Development Department deals with retail throughout the city, encourages business nodes, helps to assist and organize businesses. The Community Development Department can help a business organization. The Economic Development Department finds retail that fits a location, provides new business statistics about the location and researches the types of businesses that would work in the area. The Community Development Department helps small retail with business development. She explained that landlords can rent to whomever they chose. Landlords look for a type of tenant; they want stability and do not want inexperienced tenants. Tenant/landlord negotiations could take months. She cited the negotiations for the Marino's site which took a year and in the end it still fell through. She contacts landlords and tries to find out what type of tenant they want. She outlined the workshops that CDD offers small businesses. The retail world has changed over the last ten years. She stated that this area does not have a business association. She will work with the business association when formed.
Antje Danielson, 55 Washburn Avenue, stated the need for a study to be done for this area after the zoning issue is resolved to fill the empty store fronts along Massachusetts Avenue.
Terrence Smith, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue, stated that he works with entrepreneurs who are looking for space in Cambridge. Zoning encourages housing and addressing this issue is important. He favored incentives for housing and retail. First floor buildings are the most at risk. All requirements must be reviewed to encourage business. He spoke about the underuse of parking. He stated that the city should figure how to have less regulation to encourage business. The "uses" need to be broad enough. Retail space needs to look like retail space.
Constanta Eggers encouraged diversity. Development is problematic. She spoke about visioning use, retail that will serve the neighborhood needs.
Jason Targoff, 4 Olive Place, spoke about walking and bicycling. It is easier to walk by stores than houses. A city growing organically rather than planned is better. Massachusetts Avenue retail has thrived and he urged maintaining the walkability issue. Encourage shopping locally -- have a variety of retail shops is important.
Macky Buck, 20 Gold Star Road, stated that she is a twenty-five year business owner; she runs a childcare business. She has personally witnessed Massachusetts Avenue change over the years. The area changes with fluctuation. North Cambridge has increased its density with housing. There have been 1,000 housing units added over the last ten years within a one-mile radius of Trolley Square. People want to stay in North Cambridge; it is a close community. She listed a number of businesses she could walk to along Massachusetts Avenue. This is a vibrant place. She wants this to continue to be vibrant.
Don Kaiser, 22 Seagrave Road, stated that North Cambridge is a stable neighborhood. Retail needs to be preserved for residential density.
Councillor Reeves stated that North Cambridge needs attention; it is not the strongest retail area. Arlington was a dry town and as a result North Massachusetts Avenue had a conglomeration of liquor stores. He stated that a discussion about retail cannot take place without owners present. Property owners need to understand the village and the needs of the neighborhood. Commercial real estate brokers have a control over whom is shown property. Landlords become captive to the real estate brokers. Mr. Rome informed the committee that the property owners were contacted about this meeting, but it was hard to get them together.
Vice Mayor Davis commented that the pattern of property ownership make a difference. North Cambridge has a lot of property owners.
George F. McCray, 2301 Massachusetts Avenue, stated that he is a forty year resident and business owner. He spoke on incentives. He outlined the problem with having a business association. Association members do not feel there is any incentive to become an association member because they can come to the city individually.
Eric Grunebaum, 98 Montgomery Street, expressed his appreciation for the retail near housing developments. He stated that it was a good idea to reach out to business owners. The variety of retail in North Cambridge works and he wants it to continue. He favored vision to continue the growth and to maintain retail.
Andrea Wilder, 12 Arlington Street, stated that when she commutes to Cambridge down Route 16 and the environment is jarring. There is a need for unity at Route 16 and Porter Square. She suggested that a sculpture be installed to let travelers know that they are entering Cambridge. She wanted more trees. There is a need for a place to sit when walking along Massachusetts Avenue. She stated that the housing turned into stores looks bad. Zoning could address this concern. She spoke of a city in Pakistan that has a series of markets that create a sense of togetherness and community. There is a need for awnings to cover pedestrians. Ms. Smith commented that awnings are a regulatory issue.
Lisa Coen, 2 Reed Street Terrace, spoke about how the demographics of the population is trending older. More retail on Massachusetts Avenue would allow her to stay and not use a car. She favored mixed use for North Cambridge and to make North Cambridge a destination. The city needs a parking lot in North Cambridge. One-hour parking meters are inadequate.
Chris Marshall, 126 Montgomery Street, stated support for retail on Massachusetts Avenue. Office space is being repurposed for internet business.
Cairy Kim, 17 Norris Street, supported retail space on Massachusetts Avenue. He walks and finds that Davis Square is more vibrant. In Porter Square there is no place for people to sit. He suggested making neighborhoods more family friendly. Mr. McCray commented that the design of Porter Square did not include seating in an effort to eliminate use by intoxicated individuals.
At this time Councillor Cheung made the following motion:
ORDERED: That a copy of the Economic Development, Training Employment Committee report of a hearing held on Feb 22, 2011, together with the attachments, be forwarded by the City Manager to the Community Development Department and the Planning Board; and be it further
ORDERED: That in light of the discussion contained therein, that the City Council go on record supporting the proposal presented by Main Street North Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Community Development Department and the Planning Board to include the proposed requirement for ground floor retail in any zoning change affecting the North Massachusetts Avenue Retail Corridor.
The motion - Carried.
Councillor Seidel expressed his concern supporting a proposal that is being worked on. He stated that this is a policy statement versus a specific stance. He spoke about establishing an identity, street trees, street furniture, light and streets.
Councillor Kelley stated that he was split on the issue of incentives versus requirement. He stated that he heard the need for requirement but not incentives. He favored requirement. Mr. Dash stated that the discussion that the Planning Board would have would be on the Main Street North Cambridge retail requirement for new development.
Councillor Cheung added the following e-mail received to be made part of the report as follows:
Attachment D - communication from CR Powers, the Bicycle Exchange.
Attachment E - communication from Gary R. Drinkwater, Drinkwater's
Attachment F - communication from Laura Barricelli, LMT, Co-owner Sollievo Massage & Bodywork
Attachment G - communication from Jennifer Hegarty, Capone Foods
Attachment H - communication from Janneke House, Executive Director, Cambridge Local First Executive Committee
Councillor Cheung thanked all attendees. The meeting adjourned at 7:35pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Civic Unity Committee held a public meeting on Mar 9, 2011 beginning at 6:44pm in the Community Room of the Healy Public Safety Facility, 125 Sixth Street. The purpose of the meeting was to continue discussing with the Civic Unity Citizen Advisory Committee the recommendations of the Cambridge Review Committee Report: "Missed Opportunities, Shared Responsibilities," and implementation of these recommendations.
Present at the meeting were Councillor E. Denise Councillor Simmons, Chair of the Committee; Deputy Superintendent Steven DeMarco, Cambridge Police Department (CPD); Margaret Drury, City Clerk; Muna Kangsen; Brian Corr, Executive Director, Cambridge Peace Commission, Advisory Committee; Estelle Disch, Advisory Committee; Attorney Sean Hope, Advisory Committee; Dr. Janie Ward, professor, Simmons College, residence 30 Parker Street, Advisory Committee; Sally Haslanger, MIT professor, residence, 395 Washington Street, Advisory Committee; Marc Levy, writer and editor, Cambridge Day blog.
Councillor Simmons convened the meeting and explained the purpose. Councillor Simmons expressed her thanks to Commissioner Haas and the CPD for hosting the meeting in the CPD Community Room. Councillor Simmons noted that during the meeting of Feb 9, committee members were asked to read Missed Opportunities, Shared Responsibilities: The Final Report of The Cambridge Review Committee in order to have a conversation about the report's recommendations at today's meeting. Councillor Simmons then invited members present to comment on the recommendations, including what may have been left out.
Councillor Simmons noted that the while the CPD has been proactive in implementing some of the recommendations, the CPD has not been as effective in communicating what it has done and is currently doing with residents of Cambridge. She also reiterated her strong recommendation that the CPD designate someone already on staff to handle its communications with Cambridge residents. Councillor Simmons also emphasized the need for closer working relations between the CPD, the Harvard and MIT Police, the Transit Police and the MBTA and asked what efforts had been taken to foster collaboration between these disparate police forces.
Professor Haslanger noted that while some collaboration between CPD, Harvard and MIT Police would be helpful, each police force has a distinct mission. She cited MIT's concerns about protecting the first amendment rights of students and sensitivity over immigration, which the MIT community expects the MIT Police Force to take into account in their work. She would not want this perspective to be compromised. MIT faculty members are told by the MIT administration in certain circumstances it is important to call MIT police rather than city police. There are many international students for whom MIT faculty and staff have an in loco parentis feeling. Deputy DeMarco stated that the process of increasing collaboration has begun. CPD has incorporated Harvard and MIT police departments into CPD in-service programs. This kind of collaboration provides an opportunity to address differences as well as commonalities.
Councillor Simmons also noted that the CPD should have a mission statement on its website. Deputy DeMarco said that the CPD does have a mission statement on its website and is currently involved in a department-wide process to revamp the mission statement. The mission statements of each unit of the CPD are being revamped and the CPD's mission statement will be based on the revamped unit mission statements.
With regard to what may have been left out from the report, Attorney Sean Hope noted that while the report contained a lot of information about the expectations of the CPD, it contained very little in the way of CPD's expectations of the community. Attorney Hope wondered if the community at large knew that they could be arrested in their own homes. Mr. Hope said that he thought the de-escalation portion of the report was very powerful. He would like to see more information on what police expectations are of citizens on a day-to-day basis.
Dr. Ward noted that the report presented answers to questions that it raised but she was not certain whether those questions were the ones the community at large needed to have answered. She said that the report may not have spoken/addressed the communities' most important questions. Dr. Ward wondered whether the incident would have garnered that much attention if it had happened to her and not a celebrity professor.
Marc Levy said that the report was awful because it was focused on the wrong issue. Mr. Levy observed that while the report mentioned de-escalation several times, the report dedicated only a page to the issue of disorderly conduct which was cited as the basis for Professor Gate's arrest. Mr. Levy also stated that Officer Crowley knew that there was no robbery in progress at Professor Gate's home when he was arrested and questioned whether it was necessary to de-escalate a situation that should never have occurred in the first place. He does not believe that Sergeant Crowley ever had any actual fear.
Attorney Sean Hope observed that although the report was commissioned after the Gates affair, he thought that the report was about police conduct in general, especially going forward, rather than the specifics of the Gates/Crowley incident. That has been done ad nauseum. Mr. Hope said he was pleased to hear that the CPD was contemplating various de-escalation strategies. Mr. Hope also stated that it was a good step for the CPD to question its own legitimacy in the community from time-to-time and applauded the CPD's legitimacy training.
Dr. Ward observed that as soon as a crisis with racial overtones occurs, people become very interested in talking about moving forward without a thorough examination of what happened until the next incident occurs. Dr. Ward further stated that she believes the same to be true of the Gates affair. Professor Haslanger noted that despite the Beer Summit, there is a still a gaping wound in the community as a result of the Gates affair which needs to be healed. With regards to race, Attorney Sean Hope noted that race cuts both ways and acknowledged that many people had a perspective that was in part informed by race and that is why it was important to examine the Gates affair in a broader context. Healing one incident does not heal all of them. Agreeing with Hope about the multiplicity of contexts in which to view the arrest of Professor Gates and the report which ensued, Dr. Ward stated that race and class were both important variables in the arrest and subsequent crisis.
Brian Corr agreed that even though the issues of race and class were both at play in the Gates affair, the community, in its conversations, focused mainly on race. Mr. Corr also stated that while in the US in general and in Cambridge in particular people are much more comfortable talking about race than socioeconomic class. This particular incident involved an African American of higher socioeconomic class than the white police officer, which added a further complexity to the intersection of race and class.
Councillor Simmons stated that while Missed Opportunities focused a great deal on legitimacy, de-escalation and recruitment, it did not touch on social class. In 1947, when the Civic Unity Committee was first established, part of the mission that was assigned to it was to address issues such as social class. Missed Opportunities did not address social class and the Civic Unity Committee has not completed the mission that was first assigned in 1947. Councillor Simmons stated the conversation about race and class was an important conversation, but wondered how best to conduct it without the divisiveness that always seems to characterize these conversations. She added that despite the difficult nature of the conversation around race and class, Cambridge was well equipped to handle this conversation. She said that she is taking from this conversation that the Advisory Committee is recommending that such a conversation should be held.
Dr. Ward noted two different dynamics in the conversation about race and class. Dr. Ward averred that while the remedy for race revolves around equality, with regards to social class the remedy often gets murky. Dr. Ward stated that the Gates affair was about privilege and the inability to see one's class privilege because of their race. With regards to the impact of social class on the Gates affair, Attorney Hope stated that the conversations in the African American community regarding the Gates affair were focused on race and not class and wondered how to have a conversation about race and class that was outcome-driven. She also noted that establishing an historical record is one significant outcome that should not be overlooked.
At this juncture Professor Haslanger stated that it would be important to establish a structure that would help to facilitate this conversation well into the future. Councillor Simmons agreed with Professor Haslanger and stated that despite the best efforts there will be more incidents that highlight the issue of race and class. She queried whether the structure suggested by Sally would benefit from having a single individual lead the conversation. Ms. Disch agreed with Councillor Simmons and Professor Haslanger that issues of race and class warrant an ongoing conversation. Councillor Simmons agreed with Mr. Hope's point that the results must be outcome driven.
Alluding to school reform in Cambridge, Brian Corr stated that people generally tend to see how they are disadvantaged and, in so doing, become oblivious to the advantages they enjoy. Professor Haslanger noted that there were some town and gown issues that Missed Opportunities did not cover. At this juncture, Dr. Ward inquired if members of the committee were deploying individual recommendations to what was otherwise a systemic problem. Dr. Ward stated that while dialogue is important in addressing issues of race and class, systemic action beyond the purview of those doing the talking is necessary. Alluding to the reference to school reform, Dr. Ward stated that the same issues that were raised during the merger of the Cambridgeport School are been raised about the Innovation Agenda and averred that then as now, a lot of important issues were not discussed.
Reiterating his contention that Missed Opportunities did not address any of the key issues raised by the arrest of Professor Gates, Marc Levy inquired distinguished the right to free speech from disorderly conduct, stating that in the aftermath of Professor Gates' arrest many lawyers stated that Gates would not be found guilty of any crime except perhaps acting in a contemptuous manner towards a Police Officer. Levy noted that Professor Gates' record was never expunged. There must be a clear line between what is disorderly conduct and what is merely the noisy exercise of freedom of speech.
Brian Corr questioned what would happen if such a clear distinction were made. Attorney Hope then stated that he can envision a situation in which such a clear line would not be very helpful, noting that disorderly conduct arrests can be hard to prove. Deputy DeMarco stated that he did not think a bright line delineating freedom of speech from disorderly conduct was possible, and that evaluation of the difference requires one to place themselves in the shoes of the officer doing the arrest or responding to the call. Deputy DeMarco stated that the police can make an arrest when there is a warrant involved; consent is given or because of extraneous circumstances. Highlighting the extent to which the arresting officer's judgment is at play in a disorderly conduct arrest, Deputy DeMarco noted that case law stipulates that the a police officer can break down the door to an apartment to turn the music off and charge the violator with disorderly conduct.
Mr. Levy then inquired if the CPD had made any efforts to create some parameters for levying a disorderly conduct charge. Deputy DeMarco noted Police Officers do not like making disorderly conduct arrests, but have to do so anyway at times. Councillor Simmons than inquired if the term disorderly conduct was a catch-all term for various offenses. Deputy DeMarco stated that there are a few categories of cases such as domestic violence cases where arrests are mandatory and confirmed that the police maintain a lot of discretion in many other types of arrests. Clerk Drury then cited the extensive CPD report analyzing disorderly conduct arrests that was included in the report of the last Civic Unity Committee meeting. She stated that the report contained information about changes that the CPD has already made in the area of disorderly conduct arrests especially with regard to training and to requiring an increased level of detail in police reports involving disorderly conduct arrests.
Councillor Simmons noted that Missed Opportunities did not touch on the rights of the community vis a vis the police, nor talk about temperament. Professor Haslanger agreed. She said that in light of the amount of literature on garbage collection residents receive, you would expect some literature about the rights of the community vis a vis the police. Attorney Hope agreed with the need for this kind of practical information and then stated that he thought the report failed to create a balance between constitutional issues and practical information.
Dr. Ward stated that in the aftermath of the Gates arrest, many people worried about what would happen to them in a similar situation if Professor Gates, given his stature, could be treated the way he was by the police and affirmed her believe in an inclusive conversation that addresses the perspective of the police and that of the community.
Councillor Simmons thanked all those present for their participation. She said that she would look at the possible meeting dates and contact committee members when a date has been established. The meeting was adjourned at 8:28pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor E. Denise Councillor Simmons, Chair
Committee Report #3
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee conducted a public meeting on Mar 10, 2011 at 8:36am in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to receive as much information as is currently available on major current and prospective employers in Cambridge.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor E. Denise Simmons; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development, Community Development Department (CDD); Susan Glazer, Deputy Director, CDD; Estella Johnson, Director, Economic Development Department, CDD; Chris Basler, Project Planner, Economic Division, CDD; Pardis Saffari, Associate Planner, Economic Division, CDD; Emily Cataneo, Cambridge Chronicle; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.
Councillor Cheung opened the meeting and stated the purpose. He stated that this meeting arose from a rumor circulating that the reason a major pharmaceuticals company recently left Cambridge was that their request for a curb cut had gone ignored for ten years. Councillor Cheung stated that knowing how responsive the City Manager is to major employers in Cambridge, that idea seemed absolutely untenable. Nonetheless, the rumor highlights the need for the City to proactively reach out to major employers and corporate taxpayers in Cambridge to check in. Especially with those that do not have dedicated government liaisons. Councillor Cheung stated that he has spoken with City Manager Robert Healy regarding this outreach and Mr. Healy stated his willingness to reach out to businesses as a show of good will.
Estella Johnson stated that she works in collaboration with the Mayor and the Chamber of Commerce to reach out to businesses. Ms. Johnson stated that she visits at least ten of these businesses or companies each year. When asked how the choice is made and which business or company she will visit, Ms. Johnson responded that the decision is typically made by the Mayor and the Chamber of Commerce. At these visits there will usually be a presentation explaining their individual business or company. There is no systematic or thorough program for regularly visiting top employers in Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung then moved on to the Large Business Survey Pool (Attachment A*) which is a list of "for profit" businesses or companies in the news that list employees in Cambridge. This list does not include non-profits such as Harvard, MIT, Lesley University, Cambridge College, the Mount Auburn Hospital or Cambridge Hospital.
Councillor Cheung went through the survey and asked Ms. Johnson and the Community Development Department staff what the status of visits were for each business.
Ms. Johnson stated that the mid-size companies are looking for space to grow into and that there is competition from Waltham, Lexington and Boston where the rents are cheaper. She stated that these companies base their decision on where to locate on the bottom line. She stated that only a few companies that come to Cambridge will leave Cambridge. She stated that in ten years only two companies have done so. That is a rarity. Ms. Johnson commented that the Community Development Department would like to establish good relationships that will open up the lines of communication. She stated that by the time the Community Development Department hears that a company is leaving Cambridge, it is too late for the CDD to make a move.
Pardis Saffari, CDD, stated that businesses want to keep all of their buildings in one central location with available land to allow for growth. Since Cambridge does not have large areas of land available, it would make sense to concentrate on small to mid-size businesses.
Brian Murphy commented that Microsoft is not on the Large Business Survey Pool as they do not participate in surveys. He commented that it is reported that Microsoft has 500 employees although this has not been verified by the city.
Brian Murphy stated that it is important to reach out to all businesses and relay the message "that the door is always open."
Councillor Denise Simmons stated the importance of visiting the businesses as their contribution to the tax base benefits programs in the City of Cambridge. Councillor Simmons stated that it is important to rotate the visitation schedule among the businesses.
Councillor Simmons made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Council, in consultation with the City Manager, the Economic Development Division of Community Development Department and the Chair of Economic Development Training and Employment Committee develop an award ceremony which will acknowledge, on an annual basis, businesses for their philanthropic and social consciousness contributions to the City of Cambridge.
The motion carried on a voice vote.
Councillor Simmons then raised the question about the Alexandria properties. Ms. Johnson responded that companies coming to Cambridge do not want to wait for a property to become available. They are typically looking at a much shorter timeframe.
Councillor Simmons then stated that she believes that if the City had had a conversation with Vertex they may not be looking elsewhere.
Ms. Johnson stated that Economic Development Division of CDD sends letters to Cambridge businesses and informs them that they have been recognized as part of the Cambridge community and that the city appreciates their business. She stated that business owners like this and has found that these letters get framed and displayed.
Councillor Cheung then reviewed with the attendees the Notable Transactions of 2010 (Attachment B) and a list of companies in Cambridge who are in need of more space and whose renewals are upcoming (Attachment C).
Councillor Simmons asked if the City in any way recognizes companies that are moving into the City such as a welcome letter or welcome package. Ms. Johnson stated that the City does not currently but did, in the past, send out welcome packages containing informational material. Councillor Simmons stated her desire to re-visit the idea of welcome packages with updated information. Councillor Cheung questioned Ms. Johnson on the feasibility of updating the welcome packages. Ms. Johnson stated that it can be done but a team would be needed to carry this out.
Councillor Cheung asked if a list could be compiled of companies that are coming to Cambridge. Ms. Johnson stated that she can coordinate with the Chamber of Commerce, the License Commission, the City Clerk's Office and any other relevant department which would have insight into businesses that are starting up in Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung asked that this information be compiled for the next Economic Development, Training and Employee Committee meeting. He also stated that at the next meeting there should be discussion on how to reach new companies.
Ms. Johnson stated that she maintains good relationships with large real estate brokers who may have information regarding businesses interested in locating in Cambridge before the City has learned of it. She stated that these businesses typically keep their information close to the vest and do not come to the City of Cambridge directly to show their interest.
Ms. Glazer stated that there is interesting and important information relating to the City of Cambridge on the Community Development Department's website and that the department has a brochure entitled "Just the Facts" with useful information as well. The Deputy City Clerk suggested that the Community Development Department forward some of these brochures to the City Clerk's Office as that is the office where a business certificate is filed.
Councillor Cheung thanked all those present for their participation. The meeting adjourned at 9:33am.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
* All attachments are on file at the Cambridge City Clerk's Office
Committee Report #4
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Jan 26, 2011 beginning at 5:08pm in the Sullivan Chamber. The purpose of the hearing was to consider a report from the Historical Commission recommending that the City Council adopt an order to designate St. James Episcopal Church in Porter Square as a landmark. A copy of the report is attached (Attachment A).
Present at the hearing were Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair of the Committee; Mayor David P. Maher; Councillor Leland Cheung; Vice Mayor Henrietta Davis; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Charles Sullivan, Executive Director of the Cambridge Historical Commission; Sarah Burke, preservation planner, Historical Commission; William King, Chair of the Historical Commission; the Reverend Holly Antolini, Pastor of St. James Church; Gwen Noyes, 175 Richdale Avenue, officer, Oaktree Development; Young Kim, 17 Norris Street; and Elaine Callahan, Newton.
Councillor Seidel convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He invited Mr. Sullivan to present the recommendation of the Historical Commission. Mr. Sullivan said that St. James Episcopal Church consists of a sanctuary built in 1888, an 1884 parish hall with additions of 1912 and 1958, and the Knight's Garden, purchased in 1915. The sanctuary is Cambridge's version of the Trinity Church in Boston. It is a Romanesque Revival structure built in 1888, an excellent and rare example of the Richardsonian Romanesque style in Cambridge. It has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1983. Title to the St. James property is held by the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts.
Mr. Sullivan said that the present recommendation stems from a proposal by the church and Oaktree Development, Inc. to raze the parish hall complex and construct a new building. Oaktree bought the adjacent carwash property in 2008 and proposed development of the site. In 2009 the church and the diocese agreed to explore a condominium arrangement with Oaktree. If the proposed condominium project receives regulatory approval, the church and Oaktree will pool their land, demolish the parish house and construct a new building. St. James will own the sanctuary building, the garden and a new parish house on the first floor of the new building and Oaktree will sell the residential condominiums. Some proceeds from the sale will go to St. James and be used to establish an endowment fund for the maintenance and restoration of the historic building.
Mr. Sullivan stated that in the course of the Historical Commission's review of the proposed project, the Commission requested and received the developer and the church's agreement on a number of issues, including guarantees that the Knight's Garden would remain publicly accessible and that part of the proceeds from the project would be used to establish an endowment fund to ensure the maintenance and preservation of the church building, which is a fragile structure. In light of the public interest in preserving an important historic building and establishing a stream of funding dedicated to its maintenance, the Historic Commission recommends that the City Council adopt an order designating the St James Church as a landmark.
Councillor Seidel then invited comment from the public.
The Reverend Holly Antolini, Pastor of St. James Episcopal Church, stated that they have been through a long and thorough process to arrive at these agreements. Both the Cambridge Historical Commission and the Massachusetts Historical Commission have been deeply involved. She urged the City Council to adopt an order to landmark the church.
Elaine Callahan, Newton, submitted written material (Attachment B) from herself and Jaqueline Kelly, Blake Street, and expressed their concern about the Knight's Garden. She spoke in opposition to removing that garden. The garden is a landmark in itself. It was designed by John Nolen, a world renowned city planner, as a green, contemplative space. Nolen's garden is an independently assessed plot and should be independently landmarked. She described John Nolen's many achievements and stated that we should not have to sacrifice a landmark for another landmark just for money because the church could not manage their budget. She urged the city to take the Knight's Garden by eminent domain. This garden allows a view of the church that should not be lost.
Gwen Noyes, 175 Richdale Ave., officer of Oaktree Development, stated that they have been working carefully with the church and the Historical Commission. She urged the Ordinance Committee to recommend adoption of the landmark order.
Young Kim, 17 Norris St., stated that he came to this hearing to observe the process. He walks in that area every night. This is the first that he has heard of the garden. The park is lovely and he urged that it be saved. Councillor Cheung asked if the condominiums have already been approved Mr. Sullivan stated that they have been approved by the Historical Commission, the Mass Historical Commission and the Planning Board. He stated that the plan for the condominium building includes a retail space along Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor Cheung asked about the park property. Mr. Sullivan said that the Historical Commission certainly considered the Knight's Garden and John Nolan's stature. The church is a very fragile structure. The Historical Commission has given the church money for historical preservation in the past. The church has become much more expensive to maintain. In recommending the plan and the landmark designation, the Historical Commission sought to ensure that the church would be protected for the foreseeable future. The Historical Commission agreed with the church that the condominiums would provide an income stream for the preservation. The open space has been under used for many years. The Historical Commission made sure that the new project would incorporate a garden with public access. Yes, there is a loss, but it is balanced by the preservation of the church.
Councillor Cheung asked Mr. Sullivan how the Historical Commission knows that the church will be maintained. Mr. Sullivan said that an endowment fund will be established with the proceeds. The income may not be enough to accomplish all but it will provide a baseline. Properly managed, an endowment should run in perpetuity. The vestry has been working with their diocese and they are very focused. In response to a question from Councillor Cheung Mr. Sullivan stated that the planning board has approved the project however the project is still subject to an additional garden review.
Vice Mayor Davis said that there is no question that the church is a very significant landmark for North Cambridge this is an opportunity for the city Council to do something good for North Cambridge she asked Mr. Sullivan what would happen without the landmark designation Mr. Sullivan said that without funds to maintain them, churches fall into disrepair. This is the case with urban churches in general.
Councillor Seidel thanked Mr. Sullivan and the members of the Historical Commission for the work that they have done on this landmark report. He added that he too would prefer not to have to make a trade-off either, but the church building has a very strong value for Cambridge.
Reverend Antolini reaffirmed that from the churches perspective the garden and a garden with public access, is very important. They have worked very hard on the plan for the new garden to make the garden even more of a focus than the present garden has been in recent years.
Vice Mayor Davis moved that the Ordinance Committee forward the Historical Commission's report with the recommendation to landmark St. James church to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation.
Councillor Seidel thanked all those present for their attendance. The hearing was adjourned at 5:55pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Sam Seidel, Co-Chair
AWAITING REPORT LIST
10-50. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on options for amending the ordinance to allow for permitting of civic organizations to use public space after hours.
Councillor Cheung 03/22/10 (O-18)
10-57. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Harvard using the Jesuit properties for affordable housing and whether Harvard will offer other properties in the same neighborhoods for the purpose of developing affordable housing.
Councillor Decker & Councillor Cheung 04/05/10 (O-20)
10-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a standard set of resources, facility privileges, tools, and barebones operating budget the unfunded commissions may use in their work of enacting Council policy.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/10/10 (O-7)
10-89. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a delineation of the boundaries of Joan Lorentz Park.
Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/24/10 (O-11)
10-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on railroad crossing safety policies and procedures, including equipment maintenance and repair in the City of Cambridge.
Councillor Seidel 09/13/10 (O-16)
10-150. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of Cambridge participating in the Bixi bike-sharing program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 10/04/10 (O-6)
10-155. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the process for discussing the report "Missed Opportunities Shared Responsibility" throughout the community and ensuring community groups have ample opportunity to discuss the report.
Councillor Decker 10/04/10 (O-12)
10-165. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways the City can work with the MAPC on opportunities related to the $4 million grant award to the MAPC on behalf of the Metro Boston Consortium for Sustainable Communities.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 11/01/10 (O-3)
10-173. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the particular facts and general principles to support affordable housing as part of the mitigation in zoning mitigation negotiations.
Councillor Decker 11/08/10 (O-12)
10-176. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of creating a "Bonding Program" for the purpose of ensuring that a process exists to enable the completion of work on projects where a developer fails to comply with an agreed upon community mitigation agreement.
Mayor Maher and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-3)
10-177. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meetings with presidents of Cambridge colleges/universities to work out a proposal that they will pay the tuition and fees for students graduating from Cambridge public high schools.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-7)
10-178. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing an RFP for experimental music venues and space in Central Square.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-8)
10-180. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of developing a formula/mechanism for receiving revenues negotiated during zoning changes and the possibility such revenues generated by a formula for distribution to community based non-profits.
Mayor Maher & Councillor Simmons 11/22/10 (O-12)
10-181. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the current formula that the City uses to calculate linkage payments for large scale projects.
Mayor Maher & Councillor Simmons 11/22/10 (O-13)
10-183. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the state of the law relating to community benefits as mitigation in zoning amendment petitions.
Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-1)
10-184. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of the Cambridge Farmers Market using space for the winter months in the ground floor of the First Street garage or other suitable space.
Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-2)
10-185. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing a "pilot program" for Clean Tech Start-Ups in the first floor of vacant First Street garage.
Mayor Maher and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-4)
10-186. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible options for providing more support for the homeless youth in Cambridge.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-5)
10-190. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing the 311 system in Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/20/10 (O-2)
11-02. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on unfair financial burden placed on same-sex married employees of Cambridge. Referred back by Councillor Cheung on 3/7/2011 for additional information.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor Toomey 01/10/11 (O-3)
11-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possibility of allowing homeowners alternatives to alter flat roof structures to create better rain water runoff collection.
Mayor Maher, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 01/10/11 (O-5)
11-05. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Enterprise Rental using the City sidewalk as a parking lot. Referred back by Councillor Reeves for additional information on 2/14/2011.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 01/10/11 (O-7)
11-06. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the Responsible Employer Ordinance was complied with in regard to the recent bid on water-proofing project in Lafayette Square.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 01/10/11 (O-9)
11-12. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on any foreseeable tax revenue implications of Vertex's decision to leave Cambridge.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor Seidel 01/31/11 (O-4)
11-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what incentives were given to Vertex as part of their relocation deal and evaluate how Cambridge could offer those same incentives to companies it is attempting to lure from out of state to the City.
Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 01/31/11 (O-15)
11-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of retaining the traffic light on Memorial Drive at Magazine Street.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/07/11 (O-3)
11-22. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on SCM funding shortfalls. Referred back for additional information by Councillor Cheung on 2/28/2011
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/14/11 (O-1)
11-24. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #15
RE: report on ticketing vehicles for being parked more than three feet from the curb due to snow banks. Referred back for additional information by Councillor Toomey on 2/28/2011
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 02/14/11 (O-8)
11-25. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on other potential prescription drop off sites around the City.
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 02/28/11 (O-4)
11-27. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on recent trip of Public Safety officials to Israel and on the City's policies regarding the provision of professional development of City officials by private entities.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 02/28/11 (O-20)
11-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible projects that could be completed with the help of Code for America.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-1)
11-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a review of the traffic calming project at Gore & Fifth Streets.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-2)
11-30. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #1
RE: report on plan and timeline for the implementation of a curbside composting program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-3)
11-31. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #13
RE: report on inspection of warm weather equipment in parks.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-6)
11-32. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on adding flood lights in the Danehy dog park.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-7)
11-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of using City-installed and City-managed cameras as part of an overall safety program for the immediate Clifton Street area.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-8)
11-35. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #2
RE: report on data regarding demographic and population trends through the year 2025.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-10)
11-36. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #16
RE: report on coordinating with the MBTA to allow parking within bus stops on the CT2 and 85 routes.
Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 03/21/11 (O-2)
11-37. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #15
RE: report on parking ticket appeals process and that parking ticket appeals happen in a timely manner.
Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/21/11 (O-3)
11-38. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #12
RE: report on the feasibility of doing a "deep clean" of the city, including extra street sweeping, removal of graffiti and trash collection.
Councillor Decker, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/21/11 (O-6)