2. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of Charles J. Marquardt as an Election Commissioner for a four-year term, effective Apr 1, 2021.
Placed on File 9-0

Apr 5, 2021
To the Honorable, the City Council:

In accordance with Chapter 239 of the Acts of 1921 as amended, I am hereby transmitting notification of the reappointment of Charles J. Marquardt as an Election Commissioner, effective Apr 1, 2021.

Mr. Marquardt was first appointed as an Election Commissioner in 2016 to fill an unexpired term on the Commission. This recommendation is supported by the Cambridge Republican City Committee.

Very truly yours,
Louis A. DePasquale
City Manager

3. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a member of the Community Preservation Act Committee for a term of five years, effective Apr 5, 2021: Owen O'Riordan and Mary Flynn.
Placed on File 9-0

Apr 5, 2021
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointments of the following persons as members of the Community Preservation Act Committee (CPAC) for a term of five years, effective Apr 5, 2021:

Owen O’Riordan, Commissioner of Public Works
The Community Preservation Act (CPA) requires that the CPAC includes a member whose duties involve the oversight of parks. As the Commissioner of Public Works, Mr. O’Riordan’s knowledge and experience overseeing Cambridge parks and open spaces will be incredibly valuable to the CPAC and its work. He holds an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering and a master’s degree in Engineering Hydrology from the National University of Ireland, Galway, as well as a Professional Engineer accreditation. Mr. O’Riordan’s engineering background and extensive public construction expertise will also inform the CPAC as it reviews and recommends projects for funding.

Mary T. Flynn, Planning Board
The CPA also requires that the CPAC includes a member designated by the Planning Board. Ms. Flynn currently serves on both the Planning Board and the Harvard Square Kiosk Working Group and is a lifelong Cambridge resident. She also serves as Vice President and Budget Committee Chair for the Shirley-Eustis House Association Board of Governors, overseeing the preservation and maintenance of the historic Shirley-Eustis House and grounds in Roxbury as a museum for the education and enjoyment of the public. Recently retired, Ms. Flynn previously worked as the Manager of Facilities for the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority and, earlier in her career, as Deputy Director of the Cambridge Community Development Department. Ms. Flynn is a strategic planning leader with broad operations and development experience; key areas of expertise include real estate and facilities management, operational and capital budgeting, community development, and planning and zoning processes. Ms. Flynn holds a bachelor's degree in Government from Cornell University - where she is an active alumna - and an MBA from Boston University. Her knowledge and experience will be incredibly valuable to the CPAC and its work and will inform the CPAC as it reviews and recommends projects for funding.

4. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a new Associate Member of the Board of Zoning Appeal for a term of 5-years, effective Apr 5, 2021: Wendy Leiserson
Placed on File 7-2 (AM,JSW - NO)

Apr 5, 2021
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointment of the following person as a new Associate Member of the Board of Zoning Appeal for a term of 5-years, effective Apr 5, 2021:

Wendy Leiserson
Ms. Leiserson, is an attorney, a stay-at-home mom, and longtime resident of Cambridge. She previously worked as an Adjunct Professor in Nonprofit Law at Northeastern University School of Law. Ms. Leiserson served as the Assistant General Counsel for the Fund for Public Interest Research, Inc., where she advised non-profits organizations and non-profit employers on a variety of legal matters. Ms. Leiserson was also a Lecturer of Environmental Law at the State University of New York at Buffalo Law School, where she also received her Juris Doctor. Ms. Leiserson also holds a degree in social psychology and studied how design, architecture, and urban planning plays an important role on how groups interact and use their environment. Ms. Leiserson received her Masters of Law from Harvard Law School and is currently enrolled in the Harvard Law School Program on Negotiation and Mediation.

I am pleased to welcome Ms. Leiserson to the Board.

Very truly yours,
Louis A. DePasquale
City Manager

5. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $130,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Electrical Extraordinary Expenditures account which will fund the purchase of a new aerial bucket truck.
Charter Right - Nolan

Apr 5, 2021
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby requesting as appropriation of $130,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Electrical Extraordinary Expenditures account. This appropriation will fund the purchase of a new aerial bucket truck.

The new vehicle will replace an existing 17 year old aerial bucket truck with a smaller model. The truck will include a complete fit out with emergency lights and exterior cabinets.

The new truck will be used for streetlight repairs, holidays lighting and maintaining the municipal fire alarm and city fiber network and will be able to lift personnel to safely perform these and related duties.

Very truly yours,
Louis A. DePasquale
City Manager

6. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $750,000.00 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Department of Human Services Programs Extraordinary Expenditures account, to provide necessary funds to implement repairs to the 3 swimming pools located at the War Memorial Pool Facility.
Order Adopted 9-0

Apr 5, 2021
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby requesting the appropriation of $750,000.00 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund, Department of Human Services Programs Extraordinary Expenditures account to provide necessary funds to implement repairs to the 3 swimming pools located at the War Memorial Pool Facility.

In 2019, $75,000 was appropriated for a study to determine necessary repairs to the concrete and circulation system at the War Memorial Pool, including design services. The Department retained the services of CDM Smith to perform a comprehensive assessment of the 3 pool foundations and 2 circulating systems. The assessment was completed in 2020 and confirmed that the aging pool foundations and circulating systems would be at risk of failure at multiple locations if significant repairs are not made. A full design process has been completed, including construction methods, materials, and drawings, to define the interventions necessary to keep each of the 3 pools operating safely. Working with the School Department, the Department’s Recreation Division determined that the most appropriate and least disruptive time to do the work would be during the summer of 2021.

The use of Free Cash to fund larger projects, such as this one, once costs have been determined is part of our planned approach to fund such projects which are outside the Capital Budget Process.

I am recommending this appropriation to ensure the long term continued availability of this important School and City resource. With City Council approval, the project will go out to bid in April and it is expected that the work will be completed this summer.

Very truly yours,
Louis A. DePasquale
City Manager

7. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation to adopt with comments for further consideration, Article 8.000 Nonconformity Zoning Petition.
Referred to Petition 9-0

Apr 5, 2021
To the Honorable, the City Council:

Please find attached for your consideration, a Planning Board recommendation to adopt with comments for further consideration, Article 8.000 Nonconformity Zoning Petition.

Very truly yours,
Louis A. DePasquale
City Manager

Date: Mar 23, 2021
Subject: Article 8.000 Nonconformity Zoning Petition
Recommendation: The Planning Board RECOMMENDS ADOPTION, with comments for further consideration.

To the Honorable, the City Council,

On Mar 9, 2021, the Planning Board (the “Board”) held a public hearing to discuss the City Council Zoning Petition to amend Article 8.000 of the Zoning Ordinance to bring the Zoning Ordinance into conformance with the Supreme Judicial Court (SJC)’s interpretation of G.L. c.40A, §6 in Bellalta v. Zoning Board of Appeals of Brookline, 481 Mass. 372 (2019) (the “Petition”). The Petition would permit the alteration or enlargement of a preexisting dimensionally nonconforming detached single-family dwelling or two-family dwelling by special permit from the Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA). Staff from the City’s Law Department provided an overview of the Petition and answered questions from the Board, and there was one commenter from the public.

Following deliberation, Board members expressed overall support for the concept and acknowledged that it is important for the City to comply with state law. Board members raised the following questions and comments for further consideration by the Law Department:

• Why is the provision limited to detached single-family and two-family dwellings, should attached row houses have similar protection?

• The last sentence in the proposed language is repeated from the opening paragraph of Section 8.22.2. Is there a need to repeat it?

• Is the requirement to satisfy the special permit criteria in Section 10.43, particularly Paragraph (f) with reference to the City’s Urban Design Objectives, appropriate if municipal ordinances cannot impose a requirement greater than G.L. c.40A, §6?

At the conclusion of the hearing, the Board voted unanimously (6-0) to transmit a favorable recommendation with the above comments.

Respectfully submitted for the Planning Board,
Catherine Preston Connolly, Chair

8. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation to adopt both the Retail Uses Zoning Petition and the Home Occupations Zoning Petition, with comments for further consideration.
Referred to Petition 9-0

Apr 5, 2021
To the Honorable, the City Council:

Please find attached for your consideration, a Planning Board recommendation to adopt both the Retail Uses Zoning Petition and the Home Occupations Zoning Petition, with comments for further consideration.

Very truly yours,
Louis A. DePasquale
City Manager

Date: Mar 23, 2021
Subject: Retail Uses Zoning Petition and Home Occupations Zoning Petition
Recommendation: The Planning Board RECOMMENDS ADOPTION of both petitions, with comments for further consideration.

To the Honorable, the City Council,

On March 9, 2021, the Planning Board (the “Board”) held a public hearing to discuss the City Council Zoning Petition to amend various Articles of the Zoning Ordinance to revise definitions and use regulations for Retail or Consumer Service Establishments, and the City Council Zoning Petition to amend Section 4.21 of the Zoning Ordinance to revise regulations for permitted accessory Home Occupations (together, the “Petitions”). Staff from the City’s Community Development Department (CDD), who developed both Petitions in consultation with the City’s Law Department, provided an overview of both Petitions and answered questions from the Board. There were two commenters from the public.

The Board had previously heard these Petitions on Dec 1, 2020, at which time the Board received a full presentation from CDD staff and raised several comments, questions, and suggestions for further discussion. Both Petitions were later refiled in their original versions. Prior to the March 9 hearing, CDD provided a memo (dated March 4, 2021) that was prepared in consultation with the Law Department and addressed the issues raised at the December hearing, with suggested improvements to some parts of the zoning text. The Board hereby commends the suggestions in that CDD memo, which is attached to this recommendation.

Following deliberation, Board members expressed broad support for both Petitions, emphasizing their main objectives of modernizing outdated aspects of the Zoning Ordinance and making regulations easier for retail businesses and home occupations. Retail is a vital part of the urban fabric, and while retail faces many economic struggles (some of which have been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic), it is important to take timely action that will reduce regulatory burdens on businesses that are desired in Cambridge.

Board members acknowledged that the Petitions may not be perfect and that some aspects may benefit from further consideration, but recognized that improving the basic framework of the Zoning Ordinance is an important step that may lead to other substantive changes. If the Petitions are adopted in their current form and additional substantive zoning changes are desired, either in the near term or as the City’s understanding of retail continues to evolve, then the Board would encourage such changes to be addressed as they arise without needing to wait for another major overhaul to the zoning.

Board members raised the following specific issues for consideration:

• Further consolidation and simplification of retail use types in the Zoning Ordinance might help advance the goal of allowing more retail.

• Reconsider if it is necessary to refer to alcoholic beverages “served with meals” as part of the definition of Restaurant, given the tendency for some restaurants to have bars that people can patronize without being required to have meals, and for some bars to serve different types of food.

• How does the 1,250 square-foot size limit for Food Stands or Kiosks correspond to the typical sizes found in existing Food Halls, such as Time Out Market in Boston?

• The “Additional Allowed Retail” section could better clarify what is allowed or not allowed, although the suggested revisions in the attached CDD memo are helpful. It is also uncertain how the limitation on some additional retail uses of 25% of the hours of operation will be enforced.

• The proposed special permit considerations in Section 10.43.1 should be revisited to ensure there is a clear public objective. If the intent is for a use to be viewed more positively if it is identified in a City or neighborhood plan, that should be made clearer so that it is not viewed as a negative consideration. The façade design considerations should also be evaluated carefully for potential conflicts in how they would be applied, such as when considering a retail use that is allowed by special permit in a residential district that might not have an established retail character, and recognizing that such considerations would not be imposed on a retail use that is allowed as-of-right.

At the conclusion of the hearing, the Board voted unanimously (6-0) to transmit a favorable recommendation with the above comments.

Respectfully submitted for the Planning Board,
Catherine Preston Connolly, Chair

6. That the Cambridge City Council go on record supporting HD.3095 and SD.2155: An Act Improving Emergency Housing Assistance for Children and Families Experiencing Homelessness.   Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons

R-6     Apr 5, 2021
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: In February 2021, Cambridge State Representative Marjorie Decker, and her colleagues Representative Liz Miranda and Senator Adam Gomez introduced HD.3095 and SD.2155 – An Act improving emergency housing assistance for children and families experiencing homelessness – to the Massachusetts State Legislator; and
WHEREAS: Families with children face many barriers in securing Emergency Assistance (EA) shelter placements and related HomeBASE rehousing resources from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD); and
WHEREAS: Difficulties include accessing the application, multiple verifications requirements, and rules that force families to stay in unsafe places before being deemed "homeless enough" to qualify; and
WHEREAS: Unfortunately, families are disempowered and often do not have an advocate to help them navigate the process, which leads to far fewer families approved for shelter and HomeBASE benefits than are eligible; and
WHEREAS: This process leaves scores of children and families exposed to the trauma of unstably sheltered homelessness; and
WHEREAS: If passed, this legislation would build upon, and enshrine in statute, protections the Legislature has repeatedly passed in the budget process that do away with barriers to access and that strengthen reporting requirements; and
WHEREAS: This legislation would also create an ombudsperson office within the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development (EOHED) to provide families with systemic support and oversight over the day-to-day administration of the EA shelter and related HomeBASE programs; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That all families deserve a right to shelter with dignity and stability; and be it further RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record supporting HD.3095 and SD.2155 – An Act improving emergency housing assistance for children and families experiencing homelessness – and all the families in our community who rely on State resources for housing and stability; and be it further
ORDERED: That a copy of this order be sent to the Cambridge delegation in both the Massachusetts House and Senate as well as to the Governor’s office.

7. That the Cambridge City Council go on record supporting HD.1696: An Act Promoting Housing Stability for Families by Strengthening the HomeBASE Program.   Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons

R-7     Apr 5, 2021
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: In February 2021, State Representative Christine Barber introduced HD.1696 – An Act promoting housing stability for families by strengthening the HomeBASE program – to the Massachusetts State Legislator; and
WHEREAS: HomeBASE is a short-term transitional housing program that provides families that are eligible for Emergency Assistance shelter with $10,000 to be used for monthly help with rent, initial move-in costs, and/or resources to purchase basic furnishings, in tandem with case management and rehousing supports; and
WHEREAS: Families can elect to use HomeBASE when initially applying to shelter or as a tool to exit shelter. HomeBASE allows families to transition away from and out of shelter by providing resources as a pathway to stable housing; and
WHEREAS: HomeBASE currently is not established anywhere in state statute, leaving it vulnerable to yearly budget whims, and the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the agency that oversees HomeBASE, has decided that participants only can receive up to 12 months of HomeBASE benefits; and
WHEREAS: Families that are stably housed with HomeBASE can lose that support and end up being evicted or back in shelter after exhausting the $10,000 in HomeBASE benefits, even though evictions and shelter stays are more costly emotionally, physically, socially, and economically; and
WHEREAS: If passed, this bill would put the HomeBASE program into state statute and direct DHCD to provide renewals of HomeBASE rental assistance in 12-month increments to families and children who otherwise would be facing a return to homelessness, continue to meet basic eligibility guidelines, and are in good standing in the program; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record supporting HD.1696 – An Act promoting housing stability for families by strengthening the HomeBASE program – as it makes its way through the Massachusetts State Legislator; and be it further
ORDERED: That a copy of this order be sent to the Cambridge delegation in the Massachusetts House and Senate, and to the Governor’s office.

8. That the Cambridge City Council go on record supporting HD.3030 and SD.1802: An Act to Prevent COVID-19 Evictions and Foreclosures and Promote an Equitable Housing Recovery.   Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons

R-8     Apr 5, 2021
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: In February 2021, State Representative Frank Moran, and his colleagues, Representative Kevin Honan and Senator Pat Jehlen introduced HD.3030 and SD.1802 – An act to prevent COVID-19 evictions and foreclosures and promote an equitable housing recovery – to the Massachusetts State Legislator; and
WHEREAS: Since the moratorium on evictions and foreclosures was lifted in October 2020, Massachusetts has suffered a deadly second wave of coronavirus infections and the housing crisis has worsened; and
WHEREAS: These conditions took a dramatically disproportionate toll on communities of color and low-income people across Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS: Over 8,000 new eviction cases have been filed since October, and over 1,000 executions have been issued to landlords, meaning these families can be forcibly removed by sheriffs or constables: and
WHEREAS: While some new programs are providing important resources to prevent evictions, they are not enough to meet the needs of the people of the Commonwealth and many vulnerable residents are effectively excluded due to difficulty navigating the process; and
WHEREAS: If passed, this legislation would require landlords to pursue and cooperate with rental assistance programs before pursuing eviction, protect the most vulnerable tenants from forced removal for COVID-19 debts, and pause no-fault evictions during the state of emergency and recovery period; and
WHEREAS: Furthermore, this legislation would reinstate a pause on foreclosures and require forbearance based on federal policies and require the state to adopt equitable principles, flexibility, and simplification in the distribution of rental assistance funds; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That strong legislative action is required to protect public health, prevent displacement, address the serious financial distress resulting from the COVID-19 emergency, and ensure that racial disparities and economic inequality are reduced rather than deepened; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record supporting HD.3030 and SD.1802 – An act to prevent COVID-19 evictions and foreclosures and promote an equitable housing recovery – as it makes its way through the Massachusetts State Legislator; and be it further
ORDERED: That a copy of this order be sent to the Cambridge delegation in the Massachusetts House and Senate, and to the Governor’s office.

2. A communication was received from Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui, transmitting questions for the COVID-19 Update.
Placed on File 8-0-1 (DS - ABSENT)

COVID-19 UPDATE QUESTIONS

VICE MAYOR MALLON
1. How is CPH working to ensure that unsheltered, unhoused residents are fully vaccinated? Is CPH working with the First Step Outreach van and HSHS street outreach team to administer vaccines to unhoused residents who did not receive them while in shelter?

2. How are we ensuring Cambridge residents, or employees at organizations based in Cambridge, who do not have legal status feel safe making an appointment and getting vaccinated? The federal program administered through the drugstore program ask for State ID's, and in this eligibility group, a paystub/work ID is required to prove eligibility which many residents who do not have legal status cannot provide. How are we providing a) access to vaccines safely to these vulnerable residents and/or b) marketing information on which clinics do not ask for ID/paystubs to our residents without legal status?

COUNCILLOR NOLAN
1. The City council unanimously passed a policy order asking the city to waive all operating fees for businesses, including licenses, weights and measures, annual fees, etc. Since other cities like Somerville waived fees, the Council asked for Cambridge to at least match that and do even more in light of our resources. All the business associations in the city supported that order and confirmed that it would be helpful. Businesses have had some financial help - the community foundation, mayor’s relief, federal funding, but those do not come close to filling the gaps. Small businesses across the city are still struggling and need help. To date the city has only waived 40% of a few license fees (liquor licenses) and not waived any other fees. The total impact to date has been a loss of $800,000. The city is scheduled to get $87 million in additional unplanned for funds from the American Rescue Plan, which can be used for these purposes. What are the plans for waiving more fees?

2. Cambridge continues to have relatively low number of new cases compared to the county and the state and low hospitalization and thankfully few new deaths. However, we are terrible compared to many other countries and still experiencing new cases daily. Of the new cases, do we have any sense of the origin and whether it is the new variants? We know the age is trending down, and it is primarily younger residents. Are we still doing any contact tracing and/or interview to understand how the cases are being spread?

MAYOR SIDDIQUI
1. Can you share with the public what we’re learning about vaccines in children?

2. When vaccine supply becomes available, what is the plan to reach residents in North Cambridge, where we see one of the highest COVID case rates?

COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
1. It was great to see the announcement that Riverbend Park will be open on Saturdays and Sundays starting on April 10. Thank you to the City Manager and staff for working with DCR to make this happen. Besides outdoor-dining, what are the current plans to give residents more space on City-owned streets for the duration of the pandemic via the shared streets program or other programs?

2. With all Massachusetts residents age 16+ soon being eligible to receive the vaccine starting on April 19, what is the City doing to get this information out to Cambridge residents and what should residents know about signing up for a vaccination (where to sign up, how long delays based on supply of doses may be, etc.)?

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     Apr 5, 2021  Amended
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: In January 2020, Governor Baker signed bill H.5250, An Act Enabling Partnerships for Growth, into law; and
WHEREAS: This law, part of which is often referred to as the “Housing Choice Law,” issued several key reforms, including a change to statewide zoning laws that enable local officials to approve zoning amendments with a simple majority, rather than a two-thirds majority; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge’s affordable housing crisis demands a sense of urgency, and in order to effectively and efficiently increase the City’s affordable housing stock, we must understand how the Housing Choice Law could impact housing projects in our community; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development has been charged with issuing guidance on this law to municipalities, and convening a Housing Committee meeting with representatives from this office and local housing organizations will provide clarity on this law, ensure transparency in this discussion, and allow stakeholders to weigh in on this issue; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Housing Committee be and hereby is requested to schedule a hearing to discuss the Housing Choice Law and its potential implications for housing projects in Cambridge with representatives from the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, and community housing organizations; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Committee report back to the City Council in a timely manner.

O-2     Apr 5, 2021  Amended
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
WHEREAS: The climate crisis continues to worsen and disproportionately impacts the most vulnerable members of our community; and
WHEREAS: To effectively respond to this crisis, we need to completely decarbonize the US economy in the next ten years by enacting a Green New Deal at every level of government; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge’s extraordinary financial position and status as a global center of innovation represent a mandate for the city to truly lead the way on the most pressing issue of our time; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge is a true leader on constructing all electric net zero ready and net zero emissions municipal buildings, including the King Open/Cambridge Street Upper School Complex, but the vast majority of the city’s emissions come from commercial buildings, including especially laboratory buildings, which means total emissions have only continued to increase over time as we’ve added many millions of new square feet of commercial development; and
WHEREAS: All the technological and economic feasibility now exists to build all-electric net zero emissions buildings in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: While almost all of our building emissions come from the existing building stock, decarbonizing existing buildings is expensive and difficult, so we need to mandate net zero new construction as soon as possible; and
WHEREAS: On Dec 11, 2019, the Ordinance Committee of the Cambridge City Council voted to refer a proposed ordinance banning natural gas combustion in new buildings to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation; and
WHEREAS: Attorney General Maura Healey struck down Brookline’s proposed bylaw to ban natural gas hookups in new construction via the building code, making it legally challenging for Cambridge to adopt the proposed ordinance without a home rule petition; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Green New Deal Zoning Petition (attached) would provide a framework for accepting local emissions offsets to strengthen green jobs programs and energy efficiency upgrades to the existing building stock, creating economic opportunity for our most vulnerable residents who are too often left behind; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Green New Deal Zoning Petition would exempt all new housing construction, which is not a significant driver of emissions, while creating opportunities to improve energy efficiency and renewable energy deployment in the existing housing stock; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council is committed to rapid decarbonization in a way that creates economic opportunity and climate justice for our most vulnerable residents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council amend the Article 22 of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge entitled “SUSTAINABLE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT” to insert a new section 22.24.4 to read as follows:

22.24.4 Emissions Accounting.

The provisions in this section shall not apply to any residential buildings that include affordable units.

a. Embodied Emissions: As a condition of receiving an occupancy permit, the developer shall provide to CDD an accounting of the emissions generated by the construction of any Green Building Project. The Embodied Emissions shall be documented by a licensed engineer, using Passive House or other acceptable energy and emissions modeling software, and include:

1. Emissions for manufacturing all building materials used, including associated raw materials extraction, production and transportation.

2. Estimates for transportation emissions caused by delivering the materials to the construction site.

3. Emissions generated on the site by heavy equipment such as cranes.

b. The Embodied Emissions shall not include:

1. Emissions associated with installing renewable energy facilities on site, including but not limited to solar PV and solar hot water, air source and ground source heat pumps, and any other systems that substantially reduce the future emissions of the building.

2. Emissions generated from human labor (e.g. individual transport, small power tools, food consumption, etc.).

3. Emissions for transporting landscaping materials and plants to the site.

4. Emissions associated with installing electric vehicle charging infrastructure (EVSE).

c. Expected Annual Emissions. The developer shall present an accounting of the expected emissions to be generated by routine operation of the building over the course of one calendar year. Emissions will be calculated as metric tons of CO2 equivalent using a formula approved by CDD, taking into account the local emissions profile for the grid at the time the building is first occupied to convert grid electrical consumption (kWH) into emissions. The Expected Annual Emissions shall include:

1. Emissions from any permanently installed onsite combustion such as a natural gas boiler to heat the building.

2. Emissions from grid electricity delivered to the building for operating any permanently installed equipment and lights in the building, including but not limited to HVAC systems, elevators, and light fixtures.

d. The Expected Annual Emissions calculation shall not include:

1. Renewable energy systems such as solar PV systems installed prior to occupancy that net meter to the building itself.

2. Tenant plug loads and tenant installed on-site fossil fuel combustion (e.g. a natural gas appliance).

3. Backup generators.

4. Transportation emissions associated with the building operation.

5. Emissions associated with electric vehicle charging at the building.

e. Lifetime Expected Emissions. The Lifetime Expected Emissions from the building will be calculated based on a formula approved by CDD, and will include the following:

1. The expected decline of grid emissions, reaching zero no later than 2050.

2. Expected emissions reductions under the BEUDO regime.

3. Any long-term contracts to directly purchase 100% renewable energy sourced from the FERC New England region (such as solar or wind generated energy, or biogas) entered into between the building operator and certified (by CDD) providers of 100% renewable energy shall be subtracted from the total. For example, if the developer has signed a contract for 10 years for the total expected grid electrical consumption to come from renewable sources, the first 10 years of grid electrical consumption shall be considered emissions free and would not contribute to the lifetime expected total emissions.

4. The formula will assume that no grid emissions will be generated by the building past 2050, and that any on-site fossil fuel equipment will also have been replaced by 2050, so that the building emissions will be modeled as a declining schedule reaching zero no later than 2050.

f. Total Emissions. The Total Emissions expected to be generated by the building will be the sum of the Embodied Emissions and the Lifetime Expected Emissions.

g. The developer will present a payment schedule for how to zero out the Total Emissions of the building, using a social cost of carbon formula approved by CDD. The payment schedule may be annualized over a period not to exceed 10 years. The outstanding balance shall act as a lien on the property in case it is sold. Any offset must demonstrate direct benefits to low-income and minority communities in Cambridge, including economic opportunity through job creation and or financial savings through e.g. utility bill reductions. Acceptable offsets must be approved by CDD, and will include:

1. No less than 25% of the mitigation funds shall be spent on green jobs development programs, including education and training, to help build capacity for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in Cambridge. Any such program must be free of cost to participants, and successful completion of the program must lead to a certification in a specific skill such as, for example: Solar Installer, Weatherization Installer and Technician, Building Energy Analyst, Urban Forestry or Urban Agriculture. Specific criteria and certifications will be set by CDD via regulation.

2. Payment for energy efficiency upgrades to existing buildings located in the City of Cambridge.

3. Payment into the City of Cambridge Renewable Energy and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Revolving Fund for reducing emission in public projects, including affordable housing developments.

4. Payment for the installation of new solar PV systems to be located in the City of Cambridge.

5. Payment for the creation of community solar PV installations that benefit Cambridge residents by making discounted solar generated electricity available to them. Such systems need not be located in Cambridge but must be located in the Northeast Massachusetts and Boston (NEMA) load zone.

6. Payment for direct supply contracts of 100% renewable electricity from sources within the FERC ISO New England assigned to another building(s) in the City of Cambridge, including via participation in Cambridge’s Community Choice Electricity (CCE) program.

O-3     Apr 5, 2021
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the area near the intersection of Fairfield and Pemberton Streets needs some form of traffic-calming; and
WHEREAS: This area has local preschools nearby, where dozens of local children play and walk these streets to Bergin Park and to and from Peabody Elementary School; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department on traffic-calming solutions, such as speed bumps to be implemented in this area and report back to the City Council.

O-4     Apr 5, 2021  Amended
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is associated with a group of developmental disorders conditions, comprising a wide range of symptoms, skills, and abilities levels of disability that can affect anyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or socioeconomic background; and
WHEREAS: With more than 3.5 million Americans living with ASD, it is estimated to be the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network (ADDM), affecting 1 in 54 children in the United States; and
WHEREAS: In March 2021, the Autism Society announced it was formally shifting references of “Autism Awareness Month” to “Autism Acceptance Month,” to foster acceptance to ignite change through improved support and opportunities in education, employment, accessible housing, affordable health care and comprehensive long term services; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has proudly observed April 2nd as Autism Acceptance Day in years past and recognizes and accepts Cambridge's autistic students and residents with Autism; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record declaring April 2021, as “Autism Acceptance Month” in the City of Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to light up City Hall blue red for Autism Acceptance Month from April 12-16, 2021.

O-5     Apr 5, 2021
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: On the City's website, the Community Development Department has a page that lists the known neighborhood organizations, along with the best contact information for each organization; and
WHEREAS: These listings are designed to aid all those (including City staff) who wish to distribute important, timely information throughout the community, such as notifying residents of upcoming community meetings; and
WHEREAS: This contact list currently features some outdated information, which has at times frustrated the efforts of the City and others who have sought to distribute important information to City residents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to ensure that all the information on the City's list of neighborhood organizations be updated, that a specific staffer be tasked with ensuring that the information is updated on an annual basis, and that the City Manager be and is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss Awaiting Report response on Harvard Square street closures.

Date: Tues, Nov 24, 2020, 3:00pm; Sullivan Chamber
Present: Nolan (Chair), Carlone, Mallon, McGovern, Zondervan

The Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning; Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on Tues, Nov 24, 2020 at 3:00pm in the Sullivan Chamber to discuss the Awaiting Report response on Harvard Square street closures (ATTACHMENT A).

Present at the hearing were Councillor Nolan, Chair of the Committee, Naomie Stephen, Executive Assistant to the City Council, and Paula M. Crane, Deputy City Clerk.

Present via Zoom were Councillor Carlone; Vice Mayor Mallon; Councillor McGovern; Councillor Zondervan; Mayor Siddiqui; Councillor Simmons; Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler; Iram Farooq, Deputy City Manager for Community Development; Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Environment and Transportation Planning; Melissa Peters, Director of Community Planning; Lisa Hemmerle, Economic Development Director, Community Development Department (CDD); Joseph Barr, Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation; Gerard Mahoney, Acting Fire Chief, Cambridge Fire Department; Katherine Watkins, Senior Engineer, Department of Public Works (DPW); Jack Albert, Superintendent; Rick Riley, Traffic Enforcement Unit, Cambridge Police Department; Matt Nelson, City Manager’s Office; Sam Ellsworth, City Solicitor’s Office; Suzanne Blier; Denise Jillson, Executive Director, Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA); Itamar Turner-Trauring; Cynthia Cheng; Laury Hammel; and Christopher Mackin.

Councillor Nolan convened the hearing and read the Call of the Meeting and the Governor’s Executive Order regarding remote participation. She asked for a Roll Call to indicate a quorum for the hearing.

Councillor Nolan stated that this is a continuing conversation with a long history. She said that the City Council passed a Policy Order in September 2020 (ATTACHMENT B) on the implementation of a pilot program to close some streets on weekends and possibly weeknights in Harvard Square. She said that the City Council knows that this is an idea that many cities have successfully jumped on. She stated that the City has done a piece meal approach which is wonderful but she noted the question of a longer-term vision for Harvard Square with a successful street closure program understanding that that the City would want to help local and small businesses, promote sustainable transit and create a vibrant street life in our retail districts. She listed some cities that have implemented as a pilot, and later expanded and made permanent street closures such as Burlington Vermont, Boulder Colorado, Copenhagen Demark, and others that are cold water cities that continue to have their streets closed (or more open) to delivery traffic as well as pedestrian and bike traffic through the winter.

Councillor Nolan opened the hearing to Public Comment.

Suzanne Blier, 5 Fuller Place, stated that the Harvard Square Neighborhood Association (HSNA) Steering Committee has voted in support of this to enliven and bring Harvard Square to its fullest potential as a thriving center for residents, visitors and businesses. They have taken a close look at the HSBA’s traffic report. They have also spent time re-envisioning the sketch that Councillor Nolan put together. She said that rather than going through a large city-run structure on this, they asked for the HSNA and HSBA, to be asked to come together with a small business network, bicyclists, and City staff and other key people, to come up with a preliminary plan to bring back to the City for consideration. She noted that at this juncture, the Harvard Square Advisory Group is a problem. She said that she has asked the City to revise those that are on the group based on the Harvard Square zoning petition and that has not happened. She explained that she worries that if this were to go into that group, it might move out from cohesiveness. She said that she is delighted that Councillor Nolan has brought in other cities that have done this effectively as key models.

Denise Jillson, HSBA, 2203 Massachusetts Avenue, stated that the HSBA has advocated for years for a formal street closure program for Harvard Square that takes into account the competing needs of the business district and the desires of the community while further realizing that Harvard Square is a transportation hub and that vehicular traffic is a reality. She said that they are fully prepared, and have been ready, to pilot a program and were hoping to do so last summer. Complications from Covid prevented that from happening. She said that the City Manager’s response is comprehensive and thoughtful and addresses concerns while realizing the collective mission. It is interesting that the creative improvements that have been implemented have lent itself to a wonderful streetscape. She said that she hopes that the programs will be lasting and expanded upon. She said that she looks forward to partnering with the City and larger community to keep Harvard Square robust.

Itamar Turner-Trauring, 139 Oxford Street, stated that he has been biking on Memorial Drive and it has become a community space. He noted that he would like to focus on what is wanted in the short and long term. He said that it would be great to turn Harvard Square into an open space for people to go. He said that it would be great to envision opening Harvard Square to more people with open streets and booths for stores and restaurants. He said that it is possible to open spaces, even in the cold, to come together as a community.

Cynthia Cheng, 3928 Milton Street, stated her support for the proposal to close off certain streets in Harvard Square. She said that the reconstruction is being discussed for long term, but with Covid it is an opportunity to actualize these plans. She said that the 6-foot distance difficulty would be alleviated with more space available. She said that she appreciates the opening of Memorial Drive on Sundays and it does make a difference. She said that with the onset of winter, it is important for people to get the opportunity to be outside while they can.

Laury Hammel, 90 Putnam Avenue, stated that he is a resident of Harvard Square and what makes a City wonderful is how much open space there is and how much walking space there is. He said that he regularly uses Memorial Drive on the weekends. He suggested that the remaking of this area will have a major impact on the community and economy. He said that this will impact the joy and feeling of being in a community. He noted that he would like this to happen more quickly.

Christopher Mackin, JFK Street, stated that he has lived in Harvard Square for years. He said that he would like the City to move ahead and appoint people to the Harvard Square Advisory Committee which is a vital first step. He said that there is potential for pedestrian crossings and making Harvard Square more pedestrian-friendly. He pointed out that the Dunster Street crossing between Cambridge Savings Bank and the Smith Center would be a real advance to make that a dedicated pedestrian crossing as well as the Church Street and Massachusetts Avenue intersection.

Councillor Nolan invited Iram Farooq to comment on some of the work of the Community Development Department (CDD) in this regard. Ms. Farooq explained that the Awaiting Report Response was the combined work of many City departments, most of which have representatives on Zoom. She said that many heads together helped frame the memo that the committee is considering. She stated that as it relates to the question about the Harvard Square Advisory Committee and updating its composition, it is a fair criticism. She said that CDD in partnership with the City Manager’s office are responsible to make sure that it is brought into alignment which has not happened up until now. She said that they are committed to bringing that into alignment and have recently had conversations to put forth a call and update the committee to be consistent with the zoning. She explained that this group is involved in proposed new developments and reviews and comments on the utilization of the monies from the Harvard square Improvement Fund. She said that that piece will diminish from their role, but they anticipate that other non-zoning aspects can be a steward of this groups work.

As it relates to the Awaiting Report Response, Ms. Farooq said that in putting together the response, they spoke to a large number of stakeholders, including the HSBA, HSNA, local business owners, City Manager’s Advisory Committee for Small Businesses, Cambridge Fire Department, Cambridge Police Department, for comments on this work. She said that the Fire Department commented on the impact of street closures and what kind of management of that operationally will be required. Ms. Farooq noted that paramount in the short term is how we can ensure that it is in support of the small businesses in the square. She said that as Ms. Jillson and Susanne Blier have noted the innovative work that has happened as it relates to parking in the square during Covid.

Ms. Farooq presented a Harvard Square Activation Slide (ATTACHMENT C ). She said that this is summarizing what the City has articulated as the next steps for Harvard Square. She explained that in terms of closures that have already been put into place, there are some partial and full closures of Winthrop Street and a segment of Bow Street that has been closed. She said that there have been conversations about partial closure on Homer and discussion about Holyoke that is underway. She said that Palmer Street was meant to be a shared street with a primarily pedestrian feel. In addition, this is a street where there is a lot of loading activity to support businesses. She said that there is potential to amplify the pedestrian nature. She said that closing Brattle Street between Elliot and Church Streets is an opportunity and further conversations and analysis must take place.

Chief Mahoney stated that the Fire Department is charged to prompt timely responses to all emergencies. He noted that the Cambridge Fire Department does have some concerns about any type of restriction of traffic flow in and around Harvard Square. He said that it is a main pathway for apparatus responding to the Mount Auburn area, sections of Brattle Street, and the immediate vicinity of Harvard Square. He asked for due consideration to be given to emergency response routes. Councillor Nolan said that there are a number of cities, particularly in Europe, who are older and more cramped that are narrower than Cambridge and the City would want to benefit from best practices of other cities moving forward.

Councillor Carlone stated that he agrees with what CDD and the administration has said as far as first steps. He noted the general support from residents and the business community. He said that in Munich in 1969, they were laying out streetscape and changed basically all to pedestrian access. He said that Copenhagen is the perfect example of a cold weather environment. In California, what they have done downtown in remarkable. It is a grid and as alluded to by the Chief, we are a colonial streetscape in Harvard Square which is perfect for pedestrians. He said that it isn’t just the carpet of a room, it is the façade and the activities. He stated that we have to begin to look at urban design that programs the activity. He agrees with Ms. Farooq that lighting is key in Palmer Court. He said that the most exciting places are places that have active retail, restaurants and public infrastructure such as fountains. He said that one of the key things is that we have to do this in steps. He said that what was outlined by CDD is right. We must make pieces work and then build on over time. Councillor Carlone stated that he feels that the improvements on Palmer Street are a poor first step. He said that we must bring activity to this space.

Councillor McGovern stated that this is a great opportunity. He stated that he remembers the street performers and live activity in his younger days and said that he would like to see that again. He said that the question for him is about the layout and how it will affect emergency vehicles. He said that we have to look at what is in front of us in Cambridge. He said that there will be more discussion and he looks forward to that. He said that it is important to include all groups in upcoming discussions.

Councillor Zondervan stated that he is confused about the emergency vehicle conversation. He said that even if we close a section of the street to traffic, it doesn’t mean that it is inaccessible to emergency vehicles. He encouraged experimentation and suggested that it be made a routine practice and eventually permanent. He noted that he would like this conversation moved forward ASAP.

Vice Mayor Mallon stated that in Harvard Square there has been some real collegiality to work together and she would like to continue that relationship. She said that we have a lot of experts in the City that will help guide the process. She said that the residents are the experts on how to use Harvard Square. She said that one of the reasons to ramp up the conversation is because of safety and the need for more space in business districts. She said that we must think about pedestrianizing the area to bring more vitality to the area. Her question is that in the spirit of collegiality, when originally talking about River Street and Carl Barron Plaza, there was a charette to bring together stakeholders. She wonders if there is an opportunity to do one or two charettes as they are short and bring a lot of people together and she supports a quicker process.

Ms. Farooq responded that this seems like a reasonable approach. She noted that the one constraint is that it would have to happen in a Covid safe way, and it may not look like the kind of charette that we are typically used to. Ms. Farooq said that as it relates to Palmer Street, they would like to have conversations with abutting property owners, the neighborhood association, and the business association.

Vice Mayor Mallon said that in Kendall Square, the CRA uses coUrbanize that does a lot of their work online and this may be an interesting way to proceed. Ms. Farooq said that they have used coUrbanize and it is a coordination so that people can weigh in at their convenience. She noted that she will explore that. Vice Mayor Mallon said that she supports the idea that Palmer Street needs to be a place. She hopes that we are being intentional about creating that space. Councillor Nolan said that she is curious if outreach has been done.

Ms. Farooq said that they talked to peer communities within the United States and outside with some frequency about a host of topics, including the workings of how to create pedestrian friendly spaces. She said that they find those communities coming to Cambridge to ask how it is creating places that we have in Cambridge. She said that in each conversation, we learn and they learn and it is a give and take. She said that she has not had explicit conversations around the Harvard Square issue, however, they have talked to peer communities about better pedestrian access and flow, particularly in business districts.

Susanne Rasmussen stated that she has intimate knowledge of Copenhagen and it was a long time ago that pedestrian streets were created. She said that it was a difficult birth, but pedestrian streets are the norm in a lot of places. Ms. Farooq said that most of the places started with one street or two streets. That is the right model to socialize it with the community. She said that there is often anxiety so to do it gradually allows people to get comfortable. She said that Covid has provided interesting opportunities. She said that people are more willing to experiment with blocking off parking spaces, etc. to utilize for pedestrian activities. That experiment will yield long term benefits. She noted that it is prudent to bring the community along is by doing this work gradually.

Joseph Barr said that National Association of City Transportation Officials (NACTO) is a resource to connect with to get additional information. He said that it is important to note that there is also history of pedestrianized streets that have failed and later removed because of negative impact. He noted the importance of building on success and moving forward deliberately. He said that as it relates to conducting a charette, it can be challenging and difficult to talk about just one topic in Harvard Square so we must be deliberate about what the conversation will be about.

Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler stated that in addition to opening spaces, the safety part is crucial. He said that the current design is not working. He said that he would like to see how more streets in Harvard Square can look like Winthrop Street. He said that there was discussion about pilot closures, and he asked about the status of that. Ms. Farooq responded that Kathy Watkins was the person who quarterbacked the Harvard Square improvements over ten years ago that resulted both in the changes to Palmer Street and Winthrop Street that we currently see. She said that the difference partly has to do with the characters and the land uses on either side and the design character of the building. She said that Winthrop actually has activities that spill out onto the street as well as an active park next to it which changes the character in a way that is very hard to replicate at a place like Palmer Street where both the adjacent buildings don’t actually front onto Palmer as it is the back alley way that filters a lot of loading activity that is crucial for those businesses. She said that we must keep in mind loading activity which is the lifeblood of the businesses. Ms. Farooq said that they are thinking of Brattle as a test pilot and they do need to have more conversations with businesses in the area. She said that there needs to be targeted discussions and then build from there.

Kathy Watkins said that Palmer and Winthrop were done almost 15 years ago. She said that Winthrop was a more natural street because of the activities and Palmer was a little more of a stretch. She said that some of those streets were completely inaccessible to drivers with very narrow sidewalks so that was one of pushes for the big change. She said that the artist that worked with the City on Palmer street had a number of ideas for activating the private spaces along the street knowing that you do not have that natural activity. For a variety of reasons with the property owners, that piece of the project never got implemented. She said that a lot of the work of CDD is trying to implement that type of activity where there is more interest along the street. She said that in terms of what it would take, they are full reconstruction projects so the idea is to figure out what can be done in the shorter term. Mr. Barr stated that they are open to shorter term testing but for this calendar year, it is challenging at this moment. He said that the other piece is that we do not want to open additional space and not being used in a productive way. They would want to ensure that there was a sense of how space would be programmed and ensuring that there is enough pedestrian activity to make the space well-used.

Councillor Carlone said that Councillor McGovern talked about access for emergency vehicles. Anything that would be done would have to include a space for emergency vehicles. He said that Harvard owns much of Harvard Square and the beauty of that is Harvard is interested in participating in this. He stated that we will work in phases and enhance Palmer Street, but we must look at the whole system. Harvard would pay a good chunk of the cost. He said that Harvard owns buildings that are non-academic with retail on the ground floor. They are good stewards as it relates to rent. We need to get them involved. He said a Copenhagen urban designer designed Times Square. He has turned that into a pedestrian mecca. He noted that there are people in this region who are well versed in these issues.

As it relates to Covid transmission and being outside, Vice Mayor Mallon said that there was a recent the day before with four epidemiologists and bio scientists who have said that research says that outdoor transmission does not happen. She said that we must be gradual, but she wants to build into an iterative process. She gave the example of shared streets. She said that it is okay to make mistakes and adapt. She said that the only way to make changes is to respond and adapt to concerns from residents and businesses.

Councillor Nolan said that this may be a small pilot that is built upon. She reminded all that it is an iterative process and the initial response. If we are considering for next spring, we need to plan now to have pilots in place for the spring. She said that there have been orders hoping for a pilot a year ago. She said that she would like to plan now for a pilot to take a couple of streets that are not designated and determine where to do a pilot. She said that being outside is the best thing we can do. She asked for a 30-second video to be shown which is in Waltham on Moody Street. She said that this was done in the fall with 4-5 streets which totally transformed the city. Everyone was outside and it was safe. She said that the owners were pleased because the décor was permanent. She said that the traffic commissioner in Waltham initially wanted this just for the summer but there was pushback. The commissioner now says that the restaurant owners are saying that this is why they were able to stay in business. She said that we don’t want other cities around us to get ahead of us. She asked if Cambridge could plan now for a pilot in the spring.

Ms. Farooq said that the ideas articulated as next steps are what they see as the pilot. She said that the intention is to have a pilot deployed in the spring. She said that conversations will take place now with businesses, business associations, the neighborhood, and Harvard University. She said that in terms of outdoor dining, the Cambridge restaurant community is very decentralized. While it can help in some places to close off four blocks along one street, the city’s approach is to support the restaurant community throughout the city. Councillor Nolan said that the City should start with Harvard Square.

Matt Nelson added that one advantage to Moody Street in Waltham is that the restaurants are very close to each other. He explained that to set that situation up for Brattle Street specifically, the City was willing and able to give more space to restaurants. He said that some businesses did not want to move into parking spaces this summer and fall. He said that the spaces will still be available in the spring. He explained that with State laws, the patio has to be in front of the restaurant and then to either side as long as it is continuous. Therefore, the restaurants have to have a patio close to their establishments which makes it difficult to inspire outdoor dining, especially with alcohol involved. Mr. Barr said that they are open to this and in April they had conversations with business associations as to their needs and what was useful to their neighbors. He said that the City has stepped up on the whole to support dozens of establishments. He noted that the City is open to moving forward with additional changes in the future.

Mr. Nelson stated that as it relates to outdoor dining on public way, outdoor dining regulations are different in each city. He noted that the City of Boston ended their program on December 1st, but Cambridge has extended its timeframe by 60 days. He noted that the City has talked with all outdoor dining restaurants to ensure that the patios can be moved in an out due to potential snow or snow emergencies or the installation of jersey barriers so plows can take care of the snow and the patios can stay in place. Ms. Hemmerle said that they are talking with businesses and a regional economic development group since the beginning of the pandemic. She stated that most towns are closing up outdoor dining on December 1st. She said that she appreciates the conversation and knowing that there will be a deliberative process to pilot street ideas and as we may be facing another winter, we must help all businesses as much as possible.

Councillor Carlone stated that it was mentioned that some closed streets have not been successful and that is true. The reason those streets have not succeeded is that they were surrounded by large department stores with dead walls. He said that what is needed are small shops where the activity is outside and not all enclosed inside. He said that when he visited Denver, they were laying pavement on their pedestrian mass transit street and it was 4-inch granite stones to make it clear that it isn’t a roadway and was durable for winter. If Harvard is interested in participating, we have to expand what works traditionally in these places. He said that painted asphalt does not work.

Vice Mayor Mallon stated that she appreciates the staff for the level of work over the last few months to ensure that outdoor dining is a reality. She said that there are pockets that have been well-used, and it has been an asset to the restaurant community. She said that it is exciting to build off the success of that program.

Councillor Nolan thanked all staff and businesses who have worked very hard. She said that the next steps include involvement of the City Council to support the efforts to move forward. She said that we must work towards a pilot expanding streets. She said that there have been a lot of ideas about the need for an iterative process. Councillor Nolan noted that steps will be taken by City staff of some kind of a charette and she would like to have planning in place for a spring pilot program. She noted her preference to open streets up to more pedestrian and public transit to facilitate a more vibrant public square. Councillor Nolan said that she looks forward to continuing conversations with the Harvard Square Advisory Group, stakeholders, pedestrian, and bicycle committees on the vision of the Harvard square.

Vice Mayor Mallon made a motion to close Public Comment.
The roll was called and resulted as follows:
YEAS: Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon, and Councillor Zondervan - 4
ABSENT: Councillor McGovern – 1
and Public Comment was closed.

Ms. Farooq said that they will proceed with formulating the pilot in more detail over the winter to move towards implementation in the spring. She reemphasized all departments as equal partners in the transformation.

Councillor Nolan thanked all those present for their attendance.

Councillor Carlone made a motion for adjournment.
The roll was called and resulted as follows:
YEAS: Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon, and Councillor Zondervan – 4
ABSENT: Councillor McGovern – 1
and the meeting adjourned at 4:56pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Patricia Nolan, Chair

I. Discussion

1. A communication was received from Councillor Nolan, transmitting items for discussion including the City’s memo in response, and a map representing one possible vision.

2. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department, the Economic Development Department, the Harvard Square Business Association, the Harvard Square Neighborhood Association and Harvard University on the implementation of closing several blocks of streets in Harvard Square as soon as possible to vehicular traffic, with the exception of deliveries, using the attached map as one possible vision. [CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL SEPT 14, 2020]

3. A communication was received from Iram Farooq, Assistant Cit Manager, transmitting communication for the Nov 24, 2020 Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee hearing.

Committee Report #2
The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will meet to conduct a public hearing to discuss snow removal on sidewalks and streets in Cambridge.

Date: Tues, Feb 16, 2021, 10:00am; Sullivan Chamber
Present: Sobrinho-Wheeler (Chair), Mallon, Zondervan
Absent: Nolan, Toomey
Also Present: Simmons, McGovern

Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler called the meeting to order.

Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler opened the floor to a presentation from City staff.

Susan Michiko, Executive Director of the Cambridge Council on Aging

Owen O'Riordan, Commissioner of Public Works, explained that the winter weather program has expanded significantly over the last number of years. There is a significant concentration on addressing issues associated with cyclists and providing a safe way for them to travel. The department of public works meets with the Human Services Department and the Disabilities Commission on an annual basis about snow removal. In 2017, 2018, and 2019, the city council has been provided with reports regarding the overall snow program. He further explained the challenges with removing snow from bicycle lanes.

John Nardone, Deputy Commissioner of Public Works, made a PowerPoint presentation which is included with these notes. He provided historical data about snow fall in Cambridge. The department consults with two weathers to forecast snow events. Preparation for snowstorms start days before the event. He explained that they work with the police on parking bans and towing operations. The school department is in charge of clearing schools. The water department clears all the property that surrounds the reservation. He further explained the challenges related to clearing bike lanes. Mr. Nardone described the types of equipment used to clear snow. He explained how the configuration of a street could hinder snow clearing.

Joseph Barr, Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation, gave a Power Point presentation with is attached to these minutes.

Mr. Barr explained some of the difference between snow removal in Montreal versus Cambridge. Montreal; gets twice as much snow as Cambridge. He explained that local residential streets in Montreal are not generally plowed to bare pavement. He explained that in Montreal, the city blows snow right on to the lawns of homeowners. He explained that sidewalks abut streets in Montreal making them easier to clear with a plow.

Brendan Tierney from Walk Boston stated clear sidewalks are crucial to mobility in the winter. He explained that there are a patchwork of snow clearing regulations in Massachusetts. He stated that sidewalks that are not properly cleared can strand people in their homes.

Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler opened the floor to public comment.

Suzanne Blier, 5 Fuller Place, encouraged the city to really make an effort to plow the sidewalks. She stated that roughly one in three of the residents of Cambridge who walked to work. She strongly encouraged the bike lanes be cleared as well.

Jason Alves, Executive Director of the East Cambridge Business Association, thanked the city for their snow removal efforts. He expressed concern about how flex post bike lanes will interact with snow removal.

Vice Mayor Mallon moved to close public comment
YEA: Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mallon, Zondervan
ABSENT: Nolan, Toomey

In response to a question from Vice Mayor Mallon about who clears snow in Central Square, Mr. O'Riordan, stated that the city clears the area around Carl Barren Plaza. He stated that the BID has done a wonderful job in terms of addressing snow clearance in that area as well. He added that a lot of the city’s new projects incorporate raised crosswalks which helps with snow clearance.

Vice Mayor Mallon stated that she has noticed significant improvements in snow clearance in central square. In response to a question from Vice Mayor Mallon about the use of Mooney Street for snow hauling, Mr. O'Riordan, explained that location is private property and the city does not have access. He stated that the City has worked with Harvard University to find places to haul snow. He explained that the city is looking at melting equipment to help remove snow.

In response to a question from Vice Mayor Mallon about how snow equipment navigates certain streets, Mr. Nardone stated that for narrow streets the city can use small pick-up trucks. He stated that large equipment cannot be used on fields.

Mr. O'Riordan described what the Department of Public considers when purchasing snow equipment, including speed and capacity. The problem is the city eight of these pieces of equipment at the moment, and three or four of them that are broken down. Repairing this equipment is very intensive.

Councillor Zondervan stated that the Department of Public Works is doing heroic work, but the city is not doing a good job. He stated that the city should remove cars during snowing clearing and hire people to clear sidewalks.

Mr. O'Riordan explained that the city is looking for places to store snow and will have to buy snow melters in the future.

In response to a question from Councillor Simmons about clearing bike paths, Mr. O'Riordan explained the challenges related to clearing bike paths.

Mr. Barr added that city currently leaves the separated bike lane flex posts in the street during snow clearing operations.

Councillor McGovern explained how handicapped parking spaces often go uncleared of snow. He encouraged the city to clear snow from handicapped parking spaces. He also stated that 50% of people who do not clear sidewalks get fined. He stated that the city could hire people to clear sidewalks and bill people who have not cleared their sidewalk.

In response to questions from Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mr. O'Riordan stated that when the city is expecting a reasonably heavy snowfall, they start looking for contractors, as well as city employees to commit to clean up. The city generally has between 150 to 170 pieces of equipment on the street to address that storm. He explained that it is a competitive process with other communities because contractors are in short supply. The city is spending 24 to 48 hours trying to address the immediate storm and its impact and then immediately after that cleaning all of the bus stops and the adjacent pedestrian ramps on the sidewalks. Mr. O’Riordan stated that they try to hire shovelers every year, the city may get two or three showers for the first night of the storm, but it is hard to keep them for the following days.

Mr. Nardone added that it is hard to hire contractors for shoveling and plowing.

In response to questions from Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler about fines, Mr. O’Riordan stated he is happy to have a conversation with the law departments about placing liens against property owners. His memory is that there are very limited mechanisms available to in terms of ensuring people pay their fines.

In response to questions from Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler about clearing key corridors, Mr. Barr stated that city has spotty data about pedestrian traffic patterns. He stated that the data is not currently being used for snow removal. He stated that officials know most of the busy intersections.

In response to questions from Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler about increasing the role of the larger institutions in snow removal, Mr. O'Riordan stated that the city has not has conversation with them about expanding the role in the community. They have discussed making sure that disabled parking spaces around their campuses are always cleared. He stated that staff would be happy to have those conversations.

In response to a question from Vice Mayor Mallon about buying snow removal equipment for the business improvement districts, Mr. O'Riordan stated that would create significant liability issues.

Vice Mayor Mallon moved to adjourn.
YEA: Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mallon, Zondervan
ABSENT: Nolan, Toomey

2. A communication was received from Deputy Commissioner, Public Works, John Nardone, transmitting a presentation for the Transportation & Public Utilities Committee meeting.