Cambridge City Council meeting - Apr 8, 2013 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Cambridge Council on Aging Board for a term of 2-years, effective May 1, 2013:
Miranda Heibel (Agency Representative)
Carole Feeney Withrow (Agency Representative)
Apr 8, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointment of the following persons as members of the Cambridge Council on Aging Board for a term of 2-years, effective May 1, 2013:
Miranda Heibel (Agency Representative):
Ms. Heibel is the Aging Information Director at Somerville Cambridge Elder Services and works collaboratively with partner agencies in the community as well as professionals to advocate for streamlined access to services for consumers. Additionally, Ms. Heibel has served on several committees at the national, state and local levels.
Carole Feeney Withrow (Agency Representative):
Ms. Feeney Withrow is the Senior Services Librarian at the Cambridge Public Library and has worked with seniors for the past 7 years, including at senior independent and assisted living residences. Ms. Feeney Withrow currently conducts monthly book talks, book groups and conversation groups at the Senior Centers, Neville Center and Neville Place, Youville House, Cadbury Commons and Cambridge Homes.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
ON THE TABLE
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-09, regarding a report on the use of coal and on Cambridge becoming coal-free. [City Manager Agenda Number One of Mar 5, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Mar 5, 2012.]
2. Urge greater cooperation from the Cambridge Housing Authority to better serve the people of Cambridge. [Order Number Two of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Apr 9, 2012.]
3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and other relevant departments in order to present to the City Council a map of Cambridge that shows, by location and by date, all of the areas where construction is and will be taking place over the coming decade. [Order Number Four of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Apr 9, 2012.]
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item No. 12-28, regarding temporary ramps and obstructions in construction zones. [City Manager Agenda Number Eight of Apr 23, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 23, 2012.]
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-35, which requests a report on whether there were any public safety officers that falsified their emergency medical training re-certification while employed by the City of Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Two of May 21, 2012. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on June 4, 2012.]
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-63 regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Vassar Street. [City Manager Number Twenty-three of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on July 30, 2012.]
7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City staff and report back to the City Council on whether a tagging program could be implemented to notify owners of bicycles that have been removed from sign posts by the Department of Public Works and contact information for retrieval of said bicycle. [Order Number Fourteen of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on July 30, 2012. Councillor Toomey recorded in the negative on Tabling.]
8. That the Cambridge City Council go on record urging the members of the Massachusetts Committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling to pass MA House Bill 4165, "An Act Relative to Speed Limits." [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eleven of Nov 19, 2012. Order Number Eleven of Nov 19, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Dec 3, 2012.]
9. That the City Manager is requested to work together with the appropriate city officials including the City Solicitor and report back to the City Council regarding modification of the ordinance (10.12.030) that links the awarding of a one yearlong Visitor Parking Permit per household to the purchase of a $25 Cambridge Resident Parking Permit. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013. Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on Feb 11, 2013.]
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-90, regarding a report on Executive Session to discuss lawsuits. [City Manager Agenda Number Seven of Feb 25, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Feb 25, 2013.]
11. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to determine the feasibility of implementing a pay-by-phone parking meter program in Cambridge, and report back to the City Council with recommendations as soon as possible. [Order Number Two of Mar 18, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Mar 18, 2013.]
12. An application was received from Alberto Cavallo requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 16 Channing Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No neighborhood association for that area. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor vanBeuzekom on Applications and Petitions Number Three of Mar 18, 2013. Applications and Petitions Number Three of Mar 18, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Cheung on Apr 1, 2013.]
13. An application was received from Phil Terzis, Abodez Development requesting permission to close the existing five curb cuts and replace them with two curb cuts at the premises numbered 563/603 Concord Avenue and 19 Wheeler Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor vanBeuzekom on Applications and Petitions Number Five of Mar 18, 2013. Applications and Petitions Number Five of Mar 18, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Cheung on Apr 1, 2013.]
14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-29, regarding a report on the feasibility of not allowing residents of new buildings to obtain on-street resident parking stickers. [City Manager Agenda Number Two of Apr 1, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 1, 2013.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
15. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public meeting held on Mar 7, 2013 to continue discussions on the petition by MIT to create a new Section 13.80 Planned Unit Development 5 (PUD-5) District; specifically to discuss Uses, Incentive Zoning, Community Fund, Housing and Sustainability. A presentation will be made by the Executive Director of Historical Commission on historic building. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Apr 1, 2013. Planning Board hearing held Jan 15, 2013. Petition expires Apr 15, 2013.
Ordained as Amended 7-1-0-1 (vanBeuzekom NO, Simmons PRESENT). Ordinance #1355. Revised Letter of Commitment approved unanimously.
16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Council Order Numbers 13 and 14 of Mar 18, 2013, regarding revised zoning language to the Section 11.700 entitled Interim Regulations for Medical Marijuana Uses. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Apr 15, 2013. Planning Board hearing held Jan 22, 2013. Petition expires Apr 22, 2013.
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
|1. An application was received from Sugar & Spice requesting permission for a sandwich board sign, one table to display merchandise, ten tables and twenty-four chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 1933 Massachusetts Avenue.
2. An application was received from Zinnia requesting permission for three tables to display merchandise in front of the premises numbered 1300 Massachusetts Avenue.
3. An application was received from Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 181 Massachusetts Avenue/22 Windsor Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association.
Tabled - Simmons
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 5th.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Ian A. Waitz,et al., School of Engineering, MIT transmitting strong support for the Institute's Kendall Square rezoning petition.
2. A communication was received from Joseph Collins, 100 Memorial Drive transmitting opposition to MIT plan for Kendall Square.
3. A communication was received from Deborah K. Fitzgerald, Kenan Sahin Dean, School of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, MIT encouraging the City Council to approve the Institute's rezoning petition for 26 acres of land in Kendall Square.
4. A communication was received from Valerie and John Stelling, 100 Memorial Drive transmitting support for MIT Kendall Square Initiative.
5. A communication was received from Martha Older regarding MIT sustainability.
6. A communication was received from Julie Wasserman, Second Street transmitting support for the Kendall Square Initiative.
7. A communication was received from Jay Wasserman, 34 Second Street transmitting support of the Kendall MIT re-zoning petition.
8. A communication was received from Quinton Y. Zondervan, President, Green Cambridge transmitting a copy of a letter to MIT President Reif regarding environmental issues raised by MIT's Kendall Square Initiative that have not yet been adequately addressed by MIT.
9. A communication was received from John Pitkin, 18 Fayette Street transmitting support of Quinton Zondervan's letter to the City Council on behalf of Green Cambridge regarding the Kendall Square PUD-5 rezoning petition.
10. A communication was received from Julian Cassa, Area 4 Leadership transmitting two letters regarding Housing and Community Benefits for the MIT zoning petition.
11. A communication was received from Fereydoun Safizadeh regarding the curb cut at 16 Channing Street.
12. A communication was received from Tom Stohlman, 19 Channing Street in opposition to the curb cut at 16 Channing Street.
13. A communication was received from Fleet Hill regarding the curb cut at 16 Channing Street.
14. A communication was received from Kathleen C. Granchelli, Media and Community Relations Director, Draper Laboratory transmitting Draper Laboratory's support of the MIT zoning petition.
15. A communication was received from Helen Elaine Lee, Professor Fiction Writing, MIT Comparative Media Studies/Writing, transmitting her misgivings about the MITIMCo. Petition to rezone land in Kendall Square.
16. A communication was received from Julian Cassa, Area Coalition Leadership requesting a compromise in the community benefits funding in the MIT petition to go to both the non-profits and the neighborhood associations.
17. Two communications were received from Tracy Licklider, 12 Ellery Street in opposition to the MIT building expansion.
18. A communication was received from Frederick P. Salvucci, Senior Lecturer and Research Associate, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, MIT urging the City Council to defer action on the MITIMCo petition.
19. A communication was received from Judith Nathans, 511 Putnam Avenue expressing her concern about MIT graduate housing.
20. A communication was received from Tom Stohlman, 19 Channing Street transmitting his concerns regarding the MIT PUD-5 zoning petition that will change an academic district into a commercial/office district, have less open space than what exits and will not meet the residential needs for Kendall Square.
21. A communication was received from Nirmal Daniere urging the City Council not to vote on the MIT petition.
22. A communication was received from Peggy Lynch, Greenhalgh Gardens in support of the MIT petition expiring until the graduate student housing study is completed.
23. Two communications were received from Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street in opposition to the MIT petition and the pressure that graduate student housing places on the neighborhood.
24. Two communications were received from Allen Penniman, 24 Lopez Street in support of the MIT zoning petition and in support of the amendment to allow a 50 foot height bonus for the market-rate and affordable housing.
25. A communication was received from Judy Johnson, 55 Antrim Street in opposition to the MIT petition.
26. A communication was received from Patrick W. Barrett, III, 234 Broadway in support of the MIT petition.
27. A communication was received from George R. Metzger, President of the Central Square Business Association in support of the MIT zoning petition.
28. A communication was received from Ovadia R. Simha urging the City Council to let the MIT petition expire.
29. A communication was received from Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street regarding the noise regulation regarding the MIT zoning petition.
30. A communication was received from Patricia Ramsey, 26 Corporal McTernan Street in opposition to MIT zoning petition and requesting that graduate student housing be built.
31. A communication was received from Emily Fletcher in support of the MIT zoning petition.
32. A communication was received from Esther Hanig, 136 Pine Street in support of the MIT zoning petition.
33. A communication was received from Carolyn A. Fuller, 12 Douglass Street in support of the amendment by Councillor Cheung to increase the height on the residential tower to 350 feet in the MIT petition.
34. A communication was received from Yoni Appelbaum, 217 Harvard Street in support of the MIT petition.
35. A communication was received from Randa Ghattas, 88 School Street in support of the MIT zoning petition.
36. A communication was received from Jean Tanous, 3 Howard Street requesting that MIT provide graduate student housing.
37. A communication was received from Hubert Murray in support of the MIT zoning petition and Councillor Cheung's amendment to increase the height of the residential tower to 350.
38. A communication was received from Lara Gordon, 289 Washington Street in support of the MIT zoning petition.
39. A communication was received from Saul Tannenbaum in support of the MIT zoning petition and the additional height offered as an amendment by Councillor Cheung.
40. A communication was received from L. Rafael Reif, President, MIT expressing gratitude for the opportunity to appear at the City Council meeting of April 1, 2013.
41. A communication was received from Gregory Bialecki, Secretary of Housing and Economic Development, Commonwealth of Massachusetts urging the support of accelerated growth of our innovation economy which is occurring in Kendall Square.
42. A communication was received from Thomas A Kochan, Professor of Management, MIT requesting the City Council to vote positively on the MIT zoning petition.
43. A communication was received from Samuel M. Allen, Professor of Physical Metallurgy, MIT in support of the MIT zoning petition.
44. A communication was received from Steven C. Marsh, Managing Director of Real Estate for MIT relating to the work done on the rezoning proposal by MIT.
45. A communication was received from Brian Spatocco, MIT, Graduate Student Council transmitting a resolution declaring conditional support of the MIT Kendall Square Initiative.
46. A communication was received from Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street regarding the economic development, stabilization and enhancement of the arts in the city going forward with the development in Kendall Square and Eastern Cambridge.
47. A communication was received from Gerald Bergman, 82 Elm Street urging the refiling of the MIT zoning petition.
48. A communication was received from Phyllis Bretholtz, 65 Antrim Street in opposition to the MIT zoning petition.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Speedy recovery wishes to Maryann Young. Vice Mayor Simmons
2. Best wishes to Jessica Ferreira as she runs the 117th Boston Marathon and commend her efforts to raise funds for cancer research. Councillor Toomey
3. Retirement of Mary Hampton from the School Department. Mayor Davis
4. Thanks to Jacqueline F. Adams for her many years of dedicated service to the Cambridge Housing Authority Board. Mayor Davis
5. Resolution on the death of Alfred R. Gerardin. Councillor Maher
6. Continued good health wishes to Carolyn Bascomb. Vice Mayor Simmons
7. Continued good health wishes to Kenneth Bascomb. Vice Mayor Simmons
8. Happy 95th Birthday wishes to Muriel Turk. Vice Mayor Simmons
9. Congratulations to Chiang Li for being nominated for a 2013 ILC Immigrant Entrepreneur Award. Councillor Decker
10. Congratulations to Ashifi Gogo for being nominated for a 2013 ILC Immigrant Entrepreneur Award. Councillor Decker
11. Retirement of Richard "Dick" Woods from the Department of Public Works. Mayor Davis
12. Retirement of Kenneth "Boonie" Moore from the Department of Public Works. Mayor Davis
13. Congratulations to Biogen IDEC on receiving approval from the Federal Drug Administration to sell Tecfidera, the first oral pill for multiple sclerosis. Mayor Davis
14. Retirement of Paul Valentino from the Cambridge Housing Authority. Mayor Davis
15. Congratulations to Atentiv for being recognized as a Mass High Tech Company to follow by the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
16. Congratulations to Christy Fitzsimons on the recent reopening of the Dubliner Pub. Councillor Cheung
17. Congratulations to Scott Almeida on his new role as CFO of Recorded Future. Councillor Cheung
18. Congratulations to Leaf on their success thus far and best wishes for continued success. Councillor Cheung
19. Congratulations to ThriveHive on their success thus far and best wishes for continued success. Councillor Cheung
20. Congratulations to ShoutBot for being recognized as a Mass High Tech Company to follow by the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
21. Thanks to the Royal Sonesta, Michael Medeiros and Amanda Hurley for hosting the Cambridge Rindge and Latin Culinary Arts students. Councillor Toomey
22. Congratulations to Montserrat Minguell on the occasion of becoming a citizen of the United States. Mayor Davis
23. Happy 100th Birthday wishes to Mary Elizabeth Cloran. Councillor Maher
24. Retirement of Susan Glazer from the Community Development Department. Mayor Davis
25. Resolution on the death of Luis A. "Cuco" Collazo Ocasio. Councillor Toomey
26. Resolution on the death of Anne Strong. Mayor Davis
Strong, Anne M., 68, a 40-year resident of Cambridge, died on April 4 following a courageous battle with lung cancer.
She leaves behind her husband of 17 years, Charlie Allen; their daughter, Gwei Gwei Strong-Allen; two sons, Brian Jones of NY and Dylan Jones of Boston; and two step-children, Chip Allen of Somerville and Mary Allen of Cambridge and her daughter Mariana Mayes. Anne is also survived by her siblings Mary Tilghman and Selina Strong of CT; Sylvia Brooks of the Netherlands; and John Brooks of RI.
Anne dedicated her life to her family, community, and career. For the last 2 decades she worked tirelessly to create equal opportunities for inner-city girls to participate in athletics, particularly soccer. She was one of the founders of Cambridge Youth Soccer in the early 80's and was a CYS Board member up until her death. She coached Cambridge town and travel teams for years, and the City of Cambridge is honoring her with a bench in her name at Danehy Park.
Anne was a graduate of Smith College (BA, MA) and Suffolk University Law School. She devoted the early years of her legal career to public service, serving as both the Affirmative Action Officer and the Rent Control Hearing Board Officer for the City of Cambridge. She then transitioned to private practice, which she gave up in 1999 when she founded CityKicks, a program that brought the first after school soccer league to Boston middle school girls in underserved communities. After 10 years as Executive Director, she merged City Kicks with New England Scores. She was Director of Programming there until retiring in 2012.
Her passion in promoting the positive value of team sports, particularly in the ability to empower young women and engender self-esteem, was recognized with a 2002 Pathfinder Award from the Massachusetts Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. She was also the recipient of the Germaine Lawrence "Women of Excellence" award, and a "Heroes Among Us Award" at a Boston Celtics game. It can be said that her true reward was the hundreds of young girls' lives she touched.
Up until 6 months ago, Anne played in her own senior women's soccer leagues, was an avid sailor and skier and enjoyed the outdoors. Anne was also a true "Foodie;" many have enjoyed her wonderful meals and hospitality. Her energy and passion for family, friends and girls' athletics will be sorely missed. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, May 4 at 4:00 PM at St. James's Episcopal Church, 1991 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA.
In lieu of flowers please send contributions to the Strong Girls Fund, online at http://americascoresboston.org/annestrong/ or by sending a check payable to "America SCORES Boston/SGF" to America SCORES Boston, 29 Germania Street, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130.
27. Resolution on the death of May Blum Sidore Gruber. Mayor Davis
28. Congratulations to the members of the Special Olympic Bowling Tem on winning medals at the Special Olympic Tournament on April 7, 2013. Councillor Toomey
ORDERS
1. That the text of the MIT Zoning Petition be amended to increase the inclusionary housing from 15% to 18%. Councillor Decker
Withdrawn - Decker. This was meant to be a citywide proposal, and the Order will be resubmitted at a later date.
2. The Cambridge City Council go on record asking the Governor to explain the reason for excluding housing as a prerequisite for any bid placed before DECAM and further, the City Council asks the Governor to provide the date of when the purchase and sale of the Courthouse was signed and finalized. Councillor Decker
Adopted - Reconsideration Filed by Councillor Toomey
3. That the City Council formally go on record expressing its strong desire that M&M Cleaning, Inc. uphold the same high standards that the City itself holds, and that the company honor prevailing wage standards and offer health coverage to its employees. Vice Mayor Simmons
4. That the City Council go on record urging residents to be cognizant of Equal Pay Day on Apr 9, 2013. Councillor Cheung
5. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request from Lise Stern for a park in honor of Eitan Stern. Mayor Davis and Councillor Cheung
Amended via Order #5 of June 24, 2013 City Council meeting to Refer to Government Operations & Rules Committee
6. That the City of Cambridge call on the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to pass An Act Relative to State Contracting (S1472, H2883) in order to uphold community standards for good jobs for property service workers in the Commonwealth. Vice Mayor Simmons and Councillor Decker
7. That the City Council go on record supporting the efforts of City Manager Robert Healy and Police Commissioner Robert Haas to introduce a Home Rule petition at the state level that modifies the residency requirements for Cambridge Police Department applicants. Vice Mayor Simmons
8. That the City Manager is requested to look into the feasibility of installing bike racks on a sidewalk or in a parking space nearby to 1001 Massachusetts Avenue. Councillor Cheung
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Advisory Taxicab Subcommittee as to their recommendations on how the taxi and livery industry can modernize its services, provide heightened customer service, and protect drivers. Councillor Cheung
10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Inspectional Services Department as to the procedures in place for when an inspector takes a vacation or extended sick-leave and the potential of putting a back-up inspector in place to allow projects to move forward. Councillor Cheung
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Civic Unity Committee for a public meeting held on Dec 18, 2012 to explore the Cambridge Police Department's practices and policies surrounding minority hires, promotions, and recruitment efforts.
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair of the Housing Committee, for a public meeting held on Mar 28, 2013 to continue discussions on the status of the potential sale of 2 Mount Auburn Street.
3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public meeting held on Apr 2, 2013 to continue discussion on the petition by MIT to create a new Section 13.80 Planned Unit Development 5 (PUD-5) District; said report contains text of zoning language with changes since the Planning Board referral and a draft letter of commitment.
COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Councillor David Maher transmitting additional information received from Steven C. Marsh, Managing Director, Real Estate MITIMCo., regarding the MIT revised draft zoning amendment, a revised commitment letter and a table providing an overview of the public benefits contained in the revised commitment letter and the revised draft zoning ordinance amendments.
MISCELLANEOUS (LATE)
1. Oath of Office of William C. Bates as a Police Sergeant for the City of Cambridge.
2. Oath of Office of Jonathan G. Cameron as a Police Sergeant for the City of Cambridge.
3. Oath of Office of Victoria Bergland as a member of the Cambridge Housing Authority.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Apr 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 9
5:30pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to assess how other cities support neighborhood groups and examine how Cambridge could make use of these practices. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Apr 11
5:00pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss using the following strategies: "Don't Block the Box;" increased enforcement; and modified street layout/light cycles to improve pedestrian safety at the junction of Rindge and Massachusetts Avenues. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Apr 17
6:30pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a joint public meeting with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority to review the powers and potential of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority as it pertains to future development plans throughout the City of Cambridge. (Police Department, 1st floor, Community Room, 125 Sixth Street)
Thurs, Apr 18
5:30pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the need and potential for providing computer and internet access to Cambridge's youth population. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting & Budget Overview (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 23
5:00pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the impact of tour buses parking, loading/unloading and driving through Harvard Square and along Cambridge Street and the related impact of these buses on the neighborhood's air quality, noise and traffic. (Ackermann Room)
Mon, Apr 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 30
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2014 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss any and all issues related to gun safety, including the possibility of a gun buy-back program in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 6
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 9
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2014 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
4:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2014 School Department Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 13
4:00pm 2013 Scholarship Award Ceremony (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 14
2:00pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss how technology can be used to connect arts and culture to broader community goals. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 16
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2014 City Budget (if necessary). This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 29
6:00pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting for the purpose of developing measures through which immigrants in Cambridge can have improved access to computers and the internet. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Apr 8, 2013 Withdrawn - Decker. This was meant to be a citywide proposal, and the Order will be resubmitted at a later date.
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the text of the MIT Zoning Petition be amended to increase the inclusionary housing from 15% to 18%.
O-2 Apr 8, 2013
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: The Edward J. Sullivan Courthouse in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has been sold to a developer who did not propose housing; and
WHEREAS: Governor Deval Patrick made clear his commitment to create 10,000 additional units of multi-family housing per year in the Commonwealth in his "Compact Neighborhoods" initiative; and
WHEREAS: At least two other developers proposed to include housing in their bids; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Community has supported mixed use for this site that would include housing for families and individuals; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge residents desire an explanation from the Governor as to why his administration did not take into account the local needs and wishes of the community when awarding this bid; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: The Cambridge City Council go on record asking the Governor to explain the reason for excluding housing as a prerequisite for any bid placed before DECAM and further that the City Council asks the Governor to provide the date of when the purchase and sale of the Courthouse was signed and finalized.
O-3 Apr 8, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has an excellent reputation as an employer that treats its workers with dignity and fairness, and which can rightly boast that its workers are paid prevailing wages and given access to affordable health care coverage; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the City's Purchasing Department has recently awarded a contract for janitorial services at the City's public libraries, senior center locations, and the Department of Human Services (bid #6040) to M&M Cleaning, Inc.; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council formally go on record expressing its strong desire that M&M Cleaning, Inc. uphold the same high standards that the City itself holds, and that the company honor prevailing wage standards and offer health coverage to its employees.
O-4 Apr 8, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has long been a champion of fairness, gender equality and socially-responsible business practices; and
WHEREAS: According to the United States Census Bureau and the National Women's Law Center, women in Massachusetts who work full time earn only about 81 cents for every dollar earned by men, a figure that is persistent across occupations and at all levels of education; and
WHEREAS: Throughout the current economic crisis, women in Massachusetts have experienced higher rates of economic insecurity than men, and are more likely to live in poverty and rely on public benefits; and
WHEREAS: Fair pay in the workplace would drastically improve the financial situations of women throughout the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS: Fair pay is an issue that strongly impacts families. More women are the primary breadwinner in their family than ever before. When women are not paid fairly, families suffer; and
WHEREAS: Fair pay is an issue that disproportionately impacts Hispanic, Latina, and African American women. In 2012, Hispanic and Latina women were paid only 59 percent of what white men were paid; and
WHEREAS: Fair pay is an issue that has the ability to impact a woman's economic security for the rest of her life. A lifetime of lower pay means that women have less overall income to save for retirement and that less income will be counted in Social Security and pension formulas; and
WHEREAS: This year, Equal Pay Day will be observed on Tues, Apr 9; and
WHEREAS: Equal Pay Day symbolizes the point in the next year to which a woman must work to achieve pay equity for the previous year. To match men's earnings for 2012, women would have to work from Jan 1, 2012 until Apr 9, 2013; and
RESOLVED: The City Council has previously gone on record in support of the Paycheck Fairness Act, federal legislation that seeks to eliminate the wage gap; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That, as an ardent supporter of gender equality, the City Council go on record urging residents to be cognizant of Equal Pay Day on Apr 9, 2013.
O-5 Apr 8, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request from Lise Stern for a park in honor of Eitan Stern; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for their review and approval.
O-6 Apr 8, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge recognizes that good jobs are essential to building strong communities, and that hard work should be rewarded; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge recognizes that property service workers throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have worked together to lift standards for janitors, security officers, and maintenance workers; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge affirms that jobs financed by taxpayer dollars, including contracted jobs, should uphold hard-won community standards and should not depress local wages; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge recognizes that it is a contradiction for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to require large private employers to provide adequate health insurance while at the same time the Commonwealth and its municipalities hire contractors that do not adhere to these rules; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge recognizes that when employers fail to provide employees with sufficient means to cover basic necessities such as food, rent, and health care, this burden falls squarely on the taxpayer in the form of public assistance programs such as food stamps, subsidized housing, and Commonwealth Care; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge recognizes that contractors that do not meet community standards undermine standards for all workers; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City of Cambridge affirms that responsible contractor policies establish a level playing field which ensures that contractors who provide a living wage and decent benefits to their workers, including healthcare, aren't routinely underbid by contractors who are not committed to the same ethical standards; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City of Cambridge call on the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to pass An Act Relative to State Contracting (S1472, H2883) in order to uphold community standards for good jobs for property service workers in the Commonwealth.
O-7 Apr 8, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Commonwealth of Massachusetts law dictates that applicants to a city's police department must meet strict residency requirements, which state that applicants must reside within a city for a full calendar year plus one day before being considered eligible to apply to that city's police department; and
WHEREAS: This law does not take into account those applicants who may have strong roots in the community, who may have graduated from that community's high school, but who may have left the community to pursue higher education for a period of four or more years. Many individuals will return to their city of origin upon college graduation, and may still consider their city of origin to be their primary home in the years immediately following college graduation; and
WHEREAS: The state law, as currently written, appears to make it unnecessarily difficult for those individuals who were born and raised in Cambridge, who left Cambridge for higher education, and who have returned to Cambridge upon college graduation, to apply to the Cambridge Police Department unless and until they have lived in Cambridge for one full year following college graduation. This requirement likely prevents many qualified individuals from ever applying to our police department, as they are forced to seek employment in other fields or in other communities; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record supporting the efforts of City Manager Robert Healy and Police Commissioner Robert Haas to introduce a Home Rule petition at the state level that modifies the residency requirements for Cambridge Police Department applicants. This modification will make it easier for individuals with strong Cambridge roots, who have left the City to pursue higher education, to return to Cambridge and pursue their dreams of becoming members of the Cambridge Police Department; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this Council Order to Governor Deval Patrick and members of the Cambridge delegation to the State House on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-8 Apr 8, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Biking is one of the City of Cambridge's most popular, healthful, and sustainable commuting options; and
WHEREAS: As we learn more about biking patterns throughout the City, we should ensure that communities frequented by bikers have an adequate number of bike racks and bike lanes; and
WHEREAS: Due to a lack of nearby bike racks, bicyclists have begun chaining their bikes on a fence in front of several businesses at 1001 Massachusetts Avenue, often blocking pedestrian access to the businesses; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to look into the feasibility of installing bike racks on a sidewalk or in a parking space nearby to 1001 Massachusetts Avenue and report back to the Cambridge City Council.
O-9 Apr 8, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge currently has a taxicab subcommittee that was established to review taxicab service issues and make recommendations to the Board of License Commissioners; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Advisory Taxicab Subcommittee is comprised of taxicab companies, taxicab drivers, taxicab passengers, local hospitality industry professionals, the Cambridge Office of Tourism, human service agencies, the Cambridge Consumers' Council, the Departments of Weights and Measures, the Cambridge Police Department, and the Cambridge Traffic and Parking Department and is chaired by the Executive Director of the License Commission; and
WHEREAS: Following a Boston Globe article reviewing the Boston taxi industry, the City of Boston has embarked on a reevaluation of existing industry regulations; and
WHEREAS: While some of the solutions proposed in Boston by taxi drivers include adopting a structure similar to that of Cambridge, some of the problems identified in the Globe article exist in Cambridge as well; and
WHEREAS: Given that the City of Boston is embarking on this effort and given that some of the issues of the taxi industry are regional in nature, including the dynamic between Boston and Cambridge cab companies, now is an appropriate time for Cambridge to also evaluate its regulatory policies; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Advisory Taxicab Subcommittee as to their recommendations on how the taxi and livery industry can modernize its services, provide heightened customer service, and protect drivers and how the City of Cambridge can be instrumental in assisting with these modernizations and report back to the City Council.
O-10 Apr 8, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Individuals and local businesses that are applying for large-scale building permits are required to receive approval from the following inspectors: plumbing, wiring, handicap access, zoning, and building; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that sometimes, when a required inspector takes a vacation or extended sick-leave, those seeking building permits are required to stall their procedures until the necessary inspector returns; and
WHEREAS: In some cases, new businesses have stalled plans for over six weeks waiting for the sign-off of the necessary inspector; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Inspectional Services Department as to the procedures in place for when an inspector takes a vacation or extended sick-leave and the potential of putting a back-up inspector in place to allow projects to move forward and report back to the City Council.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Civic Unity Committee held a public meeting on Dec 18, 2012 beginning at 3:07pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to explore the Cambridge Police Department's practices and policies surrounding minority hires, promotions, and recruitment efforts.
Present at the meeting were Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Robert C. Haas, Commissioner; Steve Williams, Superintendent; Christine Elow, Deputy Superintendent; Christina Giacobbe, Chief Administrative Officer, Cambridge Police Department (CPD); Neal Alpert; Nancy Schlacter, Assistant to the City Manager; Matt Nelson, Chief of Staff, Mayor's Office; John Clifford;, Kia Benjamin, Executive Assistant to the Police Commissioner; and Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office.
Vice Mayor Simmons convened the meeting and explained the purpose. She stated that she had sent a letter to Commissioner Haas on Nov 5 affirming her support of his work, but also asking what efforts are being done to recruit and promote minorities to the Cambridge Police Department. She then said that she wanted to raise several questions, without the expectation that they would necessarily be answered at this meeting. "We're just beginning the conversation today," she said.
Vice Mayor Simmons stated her confidence in the Cambridge Police Department and its commitment to having a diverse workforce.
Mr. Healy stated that the hiring and promotion process up to rank of Lieutenant is controlled by the Human Resources Division, Civil Service. He noted that the entry level examination is administered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He stated that the last exam that was administered for police and fire had the highest percentage of minorities taking the examination. The next exam will be in the spring of 2013 for the rank of patrol officer. In Cambridge there is residency preference. The requirement under the law is that one must have been a Cambridge resident for one year and a day prior to the date of the examination. He noted that a person can take the examination and move out of Cambridge the next day and still be considered a Cambridge resident. Mr. Healy explained that the background screening process for entry level police officers is rigorous and that excise tax, employment records, and voting records are checked to verify residency.
Mr. Healy presented a chart detailing the current makeup of the Cambridge Police Department and minority status from the rank of Superintendents to patrol officers. (Attachment A). He noted that currently there are 214 patrol officers and that 31% of those officers fall in the minority categories. He noted that within the upper ranks the percentage of minorities is not as high as he would like to see. He explained that the City of Cambridge has no leeway in the promotional process. As it relates to promotions, he noted that the standard process of a Civil Service bypass would be why the person below was absolutely better than the person above for a particular promotion. Mr. Healy stated that the goal is that the Cambridge Police Department reflects the community which it serves. There has been significant success at the patrol level. He noted that time has proven that it is very rare that an individual has not risen to the level of responsibility of Lieutenant to serve on the
command staff. The current experience shows that you need the seasoning and experience of a Sergeant in the field and a broader responsibility of a Lieutenant. The Cambridge Police Department command staff consists of eight people with one of color and one woman. He stated that the city is restrained by the state statute. Additionally, he noted that, while there had been a spike of interest in public service following the events of Sept 11, 2001, those levels have subsided in recent years, and he stated that fewer females are taking the examination. The City has little leeway in respect to the promotional process as it is structured under the Civil Service terms/agreement. Also, the tests are suited more to those who test better and are not necessarily designed to assess how well an officer will perform on the job.
Commissioner Haas stated that he has been frustrated by the selection and promotional process and that he has been trying to change the process for the last couple of years. He stated that 28%-32% of the eligible workforce will take the promotional examination. He affirmed that the last examination had the highest fail rate because the tests are convoluted. And the tests as written do not, in his opinion, necessarily lead to the most qualified individuals. He stated that it is the responsibility of the Cambridge Police Department to teach supervisory skills and to ensure that CPD officers have the necessary skills to aid in the decision-making process. He stated that currently the police department is in a situation where the promotional list is almost exhausted and stated that he is determined to change the process. He then spoke of the residency issue and noted that in the last hiring process it was interesting to see the highest numbers in the veteran and minority categories. He
stated that there is a high rate of failure among female candidates taking the Physical Abilities Test (PAT) and that he has great issues with this. He stated that in the occupation of policing, problem solving is a main component. There are a number of issues that deter the city from getting the best candidates. An officer learns by going through rank positions and the city needs to develop staff with on the job training. He affirmed that the majority of rank and file embrace the current promotional process and concept and believe that it is a fair process. Commissioner Haas also noted that he has met with some resistance in his desire to change the promotional exam from the police union, since there is a general comfort with the familiar.
Councillor Reeves questioned Ms. Giacobbe about recruitment. He stated that Cambridge presumes that there is a natural pipeline for this and asked if the city is enticing the best possible candidates. Ms. Giacobbe then gave a brief overview of the many ways in which the CPD is reaching out to the community to heighten interest in law enforcement. She stated that the CPD maintains a great presence at the high school level and noted that there are 10-15 internships annually where the student can see what police work entails. She noted that the Youth Academy is a very successful program, as well. She stated that since there has been some downtime between examinations, the CPD has been working diligently to develop strategies to promote interest in the career of law enforcement. She stated that social media will be undertaken as well as notification to media outlets and an open house will take place in partnership with the Human Resources Division to let residents know about the
examination. She stated that the Affirmative Action Office works with recent graduates in the notification of upcoming examinations. She stated that outreach officers visit local establishments , including the mall, barber shops, and the hospitals, to inform prospective applicants of their career options within the CPD. She also said that the CPD hosts an examination preparatory class with 50-60 participants. From these participants, a distribution list is kept in order to keep these interested persons engaged. She noted that engagement with the youth at an early age is paying off because there are many people who request internships. Another new strategy is a recruitment video that will be on cable. She stated that suggestions and ideas for the video are welcome.
Vice Mayor Simmons questioned the baseline requirements to take examination. Ms. Giacobbe stated that a person needs to have a high school diploma or GED and must be 21 years of age. She stated that the Human Resources Division does have rules regarding residency. She noted that it is problematic for students who leave the city to attend college as this affects the residency requirement. Vice Mayor Simmons then asked for clarification regarding the residency status of students who leave the city to attend college. Commissioner Haas stated that if a student leaves the city to attend college, they will lose their residency requirement and special legislation would have to be enacted to change that requirement. He stated that he would like to see legislation that would maintain residency status for ten years for a student who graduated from a Cambridge high school. He stated that this would encourage kids to go after life experiences knowing that they would be welcomed back to their
community. Vice Mayor Simmons stated that most students keep Cambridge as their primary address no matter where they go to school and to penalize them is wrong.
Councillor Reeves stated that he was very pleased with the outreach that the CPD is undertaking. He stated that a sociologic trend shows that there is a new group in our midst who have sons and daughters who have gone to college and have been unable to find employment following graduation for an extended period. He lamented that, because of the residency requirements, this is a group of people who are stuck sitting at home, unable to apply for positions in the CPD, even though they may be qualified for the work. Vice Mayor Simmons stated that it is about changing the attitudes of young people as they pursue post-graduate work. She stated that the clergy would be a positive addition to the CPD's outreach efforts, as the local clergy may have knowledge of congregants who are unemployed and potentially suitable candidates for jobs in the CPD. She stated that fraternities and sororities could be an additional source of outreach. Mr. Healy stated that the job requirements of police and
fire personnel can be something that makes one pause. He recognized that on the pay scale there are incentives for night and weekend differential pay. He also noted that due to the rotation schedule of police officers, an officer works six weeks before getting a Saturday and Sunday off. He suggested that this kind of schedule may be off-putting for those who might otherwise have considered applying to the CPD.
Councillor Reeves stated that he knows a police officer who has been with CPD less than ten years who earns $170,000 per year. He stated that this is a wonderful opportunity but stated that the mindset of interested candidates does not seem to translate that. Commissioner Haas stated that there has been a decline in people taking the examination. He noted that 134 participants took the last examination. This is an indication that many are not looking to public safety as a career. Vice Mayor Simmons stated that there needs to be an infusion of information into the neighborhoods, kids, families, and guidance counselors to bring attention to this as a viable career option.
Commissioner Haas stated that absent a Bachelor's or Masters you will not make a lot of money in policing. He noted that candidates understand that with a high school and college degree they can make a decent living, but that the CPD must compete for these candidates against other, potentially easier or more lucrative jobs. He stated that Cambridge is sought after in the policing field. He noted that there are 100-150 applicants for transfer from other cities and towns.
Councillor Kelley stated that the city is challenged by demographics outside of its control. He questioned what we can do to successfully attract candidates, particularly qualified minority candidates, that may also be lured into careers with big corporations that are also looking to increase their diversity. He noted that this is not an issue that is exclusive to Cambridge.
Councillor Reeves stated that 30% minorities is a great achievement, and it represents a tremendous improvement in the numbers since he was first elected to the City Council. He noted that within the upper ranks there was a problem that preceded the current Commissioner. He stated that inclusion is key. He stated that he has spoken with minority officers and he feels that when he brings up the promotion issue, they do not seem interested.
Vice Mayor Simmons responded to Councillor Reeves' observation and asked if part of the reason that minority officers he has spoken with seem less interesting in pursuing promotions has something to do with police details and access to overtime opportunities. Mr. Healy responded that patrol officers, sergeants and lieutenants can work details but that command staff cannot. Deputy Superintendent Elow stated that there are patrol officers who make more money than she does. She noted that when she studied for the Sergeant examination, her life was on hold for ten months. She was not doing anything but studying. It is a huge commitment of time, focus and money. She noted that one must have a personal desire to undertake the large volume of studying that takes place. Ms. Giacobbe added that the command staff has taken a larger responsibility in mentoring officers in all areas of the department, and they encourage officers to participate in the promotional examination. She stated that
many officers are interested in first line work and they do not want to give that up as they enjoy the interaction that goes hand in hand with patrol work.
Councillor Reeves stated that another challenge is that Cambridge has not attracted a mass of gay, bi, transsexual officers. He stated his wish that Cambridge have more self-identified people who came to Cambridge as openly gay. Cambridge is a place that embraces all. He stated that the Spanish officers have increased. Vice Mayor Simmons added that Asian officers have increased as well. Commissioner Haas stated that the CPD reaches out to a wide array of people, and that the CPD generally does a good job of communicating with the community about the work they are engaged in. Vice Mayor Simmons replied that she respectfully disagreed, pointing out that she has had this conversation with the Commissioner on numerous occasions.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she is happy to hear that there can be proposed legislation regarding the examination and its requirements. Mr. Healy stated that both he and Commissioner Haas have opted to change the promotional test so that the city will be better served. He stated that special legislation relative to the entry level status is important as well. He has given his approval to move forward with the promotional process aspect.
Councillor vanBeuzekom questioned if the Home Rule Legislation would be solely for the purpose of the residency requirement piece. Mr. Healy answered in the affirmative.
Vice Mayor Simmons questioned that if Cambridge were to write a Home Rule Petition, would the majority of the legislature need to adopt this as well. Commissioner Haas answered in the affirmative.
Vice Mayor Simmons stated her intent to submit language for a policy order requesting the City Manager to prepare language for a Home Rule Petition that modifies the residency requirement for Cambridge Police Department applicants.
Councillor vanBeuzekom then asked what the police examination consists of. Mr. Healy stated that it is a general purpose knowledge exam. He stated that it is a test that you can prepare for but that there really is no studying that can be done. Ms. Giacobbe stated that the Human Resources Division does distribute a preparatory booklet. She also noted that the CPD recently graduated 16 new officers, from an original pool of 40 applicants that initiated the process 18 months ago. Commissioner Haas then told the committee that the timeframe for a recruit is eighteen months from the time they apply to the time that they graduate. This time is used for a background investigation, medical exam, psychological testing and physical abilities testing.
Vice Mayor Simmons questioned what can be done to encourage officers to pursue higher ranking positions within the CPD in an effort to have a more balanced and diverse spectrum of employees. Commissioner Haas stated that he wants to remove impediments in terms of test taking. He stated that 20% of eligible officers will take the exam. He stated that if an officer does not score within the top four they would likely not be promoted. Commissioner Haas stated that he wants to remove that impediment. Vice Mayor Simmons questioned if it is within Commissioner Haas's ability to remove that impediment. Commissioner Haas responded that the examination issues need to be addressed. He stated that the city would need to put out an RFP and then find qualified testing agencies which are approved by the Human Resources Division. The examination would then be administered by the HRD and the appeal process would remain within the Human Resources Division. Ms. Giacobbe stated that there have been
discussions with the unions and officers letting them know that they are trying to change the exam. This will encourage greater participation. She did note that the majority of the unions have voted down the change in the past, as they have a comfort level with the exam as it is currently written. As a point of information, Ms. Giacobbe noted that the promotional examination takes place every three years.
Vice Mayor Simmons then questioned what other steps the city could take to achieve the goal of diversifying the command staff, beyond going through the long and uncertain process of trying to change the exam. Commissioner Haas stated that a more radical process would be to opt out of the civil service aspect. He stated that the CPD has actively solicited and encouraged officers to take exam yet there is reluctance to participating in this process. He stated that changing the exam is the best way to meet the goal of diversifying the command staff, and he is optimistic that he will, ultimately, be able to have the exam changed. Vice Mayor Simmons offered her support for this initiative. She stated that people in the current system need to know how to succeed as it relates to promotions. As it relates to diversity, she stated that she would like to attract openly gay members to the CPD.
Councillor Kelley then asked about lateral transfers. Commissioner Haas stated that there is a lot of latitude when it comes to choosing a lateral transfer candidate. He stated that Cambridge attracts the cream of the crop in lateral transfers. He noted that he only utilizes the lateral transfer list when there is not a viable list.
Superintendent Williams stated that changing the promotional examination will bring a larger group of people into the process. He noted that the percentage of officers who took the test in past years was approximately 70%. To have the number of officers currently taking the test at 28% is reflective of the test. He stated that understanding what the examination is about and familiarity with the process will put test takers ahead of the curve.
Mayor Davis stated her support for this effort.
Vice Mayor Simmons thanked all those present for their participation.
The meeting adjourned at 4:37pm.
For the Committee,
Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Housing Committee held a public Thurs, Mar 28, 2013 at 2:40pm in Community Room at 2 Mt. Auburn Street.
The purpose of the meeting was to continue discussions on the status of the potential sale of 2 Mt. Auburn Street.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Chris Cotter, Housing Director, Community Development Department (CDD); Cassie Arnaud, Housing Planner, CDD; John Andreo; John Clifford; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present were Tom Lucey, Director, Community Relations, Harvard University; Peter Daly, Executive Director, HRI; Jane Carbone, Senior Project Manager, HRI; Joe Deignan, Resident Services Coordinator, HRI; Mike Johnston, Deputy Executive Director for Administration, Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA); Ellen Schacter, Attorney, Greater Boston Legal Services; Elaine DeRosa, Executive Director, CEOC; Cheryl-Ann Pizza Zeoli, Alliance for Cambridge Tenants (ACT); John VanSaun, President, 2 Mt. Auburn Tenants Association; Robert McCoy, Richard C. Wadman, Myra McCoy, Barbara A Bland, Barbara Biddle, Isabel Tellez, Elinor Kennedy, Mary Martell, Regina Van deRydt, Mike Roberts, John Gregoli, Helen Brady, Bowen Robinson, Joyce Margairs, Esther Maxwell, Pat Jones, Eurine Lashley, Virginia Jay, Oneta Robinson and Shirley Attanasio all residents of 2 Mt. Auburn Street; and Robert LaTremouille, 875 Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor Decker convened the meeting and explained the purpose. She asked Mr. Daly and Mr. Lucey if there was a newer update. Mr. Lucey stated that there is nothing new to share. Mr. Daly stated that when the agreement is signed then the building can be inspected. HRI needs six weeks to have engineers, architects and surveyors inspect the building and then we will have a good sense of what HRI is buying. Councillor Reeves commented that the Easter Bunny said HRI will pay less and fix more of the building. Mr. Daly stated that HRI has an idea of what repairs are needed and now that there is an agreement HRI will spend money for the inspection. When a building is bought repairs costs can be built into the financing. Councillor Decker asked Mr. Daly what the best way is for residents who have questions to contact HRI. Mr. Daly responded that big questions should be directed to him; rehab questions to Ms. Carbone and to Mr. Deignan for resident service coordination questions. This
contact information will be made available to the residents either through the mail or information put under their apartment doors.
Ms. Lashley stated that the residents would like central air conditioning rather than putting in and taking out of air conditioners from windows. Mr. Daly stated that he is unsure whether this is feasible. Harvard is still the owner and any routine repairs should be addressed to Harvard.
Councillor Reeves stated that at the Massachusetts Hall meeting a request was made for an on-going group be created from Harvard to respond to the residents at 2 Mt. Auburn. He asked has Harvard answered this request. Mr. Lucey stated that Harvard is working on this request. Councillor Reeves requested that Harvard include John VanSaun. He praised Mr. Daly for his dialogue with the residents. Mr. VanSaun spoke about the sooner the group is established and the information provided to all with nothing left out the better. He suggested a questionnaire on each apartment; there is quite a discrepancy on what repairs are needed on an apartment by apartment basis. It is important that HRI has the whole picture.
Councillor Decker opened the meeting to public comment.
Virgina Jay asked what if HRI does not buy the building. Mr. Lucey stated this is not in the scenario. Harvard will retain ownership.
Councillor Reeves asked when HRI takes ownership of the building to whom does the rent get paid. Mr. Daly responded that the rent is paid to the management company; HRI cannot receive the rents.
Mike Roberts thanked all persons involved in this matter. HRI could have said no to purchase this building; it is a headache. Mr. Daly has a commitment to affordable housing in the City of Cambridge.
Robert La Tremouille spoke about how long this housing is protected. He spoke about a 1970 variance decision on 2 Mt. Auburn Street (ATTACHMENT A). Councillor Decker outlined the City's position on this building. Harvard is legally bound to keep this building affordable housing for the elderly. Harvard does not oppose this position and this preserves long term affordability. HRI is in the business of preserving affordable housing. HRI would be legally bound to keep this building affordable housing.
Councillor Reeves questioned who would select the tenants. Mr. Daly stated that the management company will select the tenants from the CHA list. Mr. Johnston stated that the CHA maintains an elderly housing listing.
Councillor Reeves spoke about the poor management of Winn Properties. He wanted HRI to let the resident group know what is expected of the management company. When Harvard held the building it was good. When the private management company took over the building the service delivery was poor. Mr. Daly stated that there will be better management with the new ownership. HRI is a hands-on company. HRI wants to bring programs to the building.
Richard Wadman spoke favorably about the management of Winn. The maintenance employees are outstanding. Winn Management, he said, has sponsored trips. Councillor Decker added that if HRI does not choose Winn as the management company the maintenance people do not have to be eliminated. HRI will collect pertinent information about the building. HRI's job is to hear all the experiences of the residents and work with the residents to make what works for the residents work. She suggested that over the next six weeks HRI appoint a person with regular office hours and a regularly scheduled time when HRI will talk to the residents and how HRI will respond back to the residents. Mr. Daly stated that HRI will work with Harvard to get this information to the residents.
John VanSaun spoke about the issue of disability and diminishing ability of the residents. Harvard, he said, never uses the word disabled. He stated that at a minimum he wants this addressed and clarified. He stated that the age span of the residents in the building is 50-100 years of age. Fourteen apartments in the building are required to be leased to disabled residents aged 65 or older. Independent living is becoming harder.
Councillor Decker stated that HRI and Harvard need to have a regular presence in this building. She suggested a partnership with the tenants, ACT and CEOC. She stated that she and Councillor Reeves will have a regular presence in this building.
Cheryl-Ann Pizza-Zeoli informed the residents that HRI purchased the Inman Square apartments. HRI had a person on site for the residents and provided notice help to the residents. It was a good system. The Preservation Agreement contained all the requirements for the renovation process. Councillor Decker suggested using the template used at the Inman Square apartments. Ms. Schacter stated that there is a separate right for tenants who need to relocate. Mr. Daly stated that during the day if contractors are working in an apartment the Community Room would be available for displaced tenants or a vacant unit will be utilized during the day. Mr. Lucey stated that Harvard does want to set up a process to address working with the group of residents.
Councillor Reeves spoke about aging in place. He commented that the Essex Street building has a dining room that serves lunch and dinner. The first and second floors are for infirmed residents that need assistance. The amenities are wonderful. The City Council wants 2 Mt. Auburn Street to have this feel also. He hoped that Harvard will assist in the transition time.
Eurine Lashley asked if HRI could obtain information on the renovation process that occurred at JFK and LBJ Apartments. Councillor Decker commented that HRI and the CHA has the needed information and experience on this matter.
Ellen Schacter stated that CSLS has been involved with tenant relocation and would be willing to look at the model relocation program. Tenants have relocation rights.
Oneta Robinson requested a refund of $300 for a rug she purchased for her apartment.
Eurine Lashley stated that when she moved in Harvard's policy pertained to all residents. However, with the management company all things changed. She wants the same policy for all. Councillor Reeves explained that longer term residents had tile in their apartments. Then when newer residents moved in they had rugs in their apartments. When the longer term residents wanted rugs installed they were told no, but the management company was embarrassed into putting in rugs.
Councillor Decker again stressed the importance of dialogue between the residents and HRI. She stated that the tenants need to come together to have a conversation. She suggested the tenants enlist the aid of Ellen Schacter to ensure the conversations.
Shirley Attanasio stated that the maintenance employees to a good job. She thanked the City Council and Mr. VanSaun.
A resident asked about pets being allowed. Mr. Daly stated that HRI allows small animal, but the animals must be in control and not bother their neighbors. HRI will review history and policy on this issue. Ms. Schacter stated that pets are an issue. The buyer buys with the current conditions.
Councillor Decker asked when the tenants can expect information from HRI.
Mr. Daly responded that the information would be provided next week.
Ms. Carbone informed the tenants that an inspection will be done tomorrow. The building will be inspected for environmental issues, lead and asbestos. Next week a structural engineer will inspect the units and the building envelope. The physical condition of building is included in the rehab plan. Mr. Daly stated that a notice would be given to the tenants before hand on the inspections.
Richard Wadman stated that he has waited eight years for new carpeting. Who is responsible for the carpeting? Mr. Daly responded that the management company informs the property owner and the owner provides for the repair. Councillor Decker stated that HRI will always respond to the tenants.
Mike Roberts stated that tenants are uncomfortable criticizing the management company. He suggested to Mr. Daly to develop a questionnaire to be mailed to all tenants, including security, with a space for "other conditions" to be collected at the manager's box. Mr. Daly announced that information given in confidence will remain confidential with HRI. Councillor Reeves stated that HRI is not perfect, but will try as hard as it can to work with the tenants. Sometimes things go awry. Mr. Daly is committed to affordable housing.
Mr. VanSaun stated that HRI personnel are more committed, sincere and trustworthy. He stated that Mr. Daly has earned his trust. Harvard has a confidentiality agreement with HRI. Funding is not limitless. Mr. Daly will have to make hard choices and will make these choices in the best interest of the tenants.
Councillor Decker thanked all those present for their attendance and participation.
The meeting was adjourned 3:45pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair
Committee Report #3
The Ordinance Committee held a public meeting on Tues, Apr 2, 2013 beginning at 4:10pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to continue discussion on the petition by MIT to create a new Section 13.80 Planned Unit Development 5 (PUD-5) District.
Present at the meeting were Councillor David Maher, Chair of the Committee; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Leland Cheung; Councilor Marjorie C. Decker; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development Department (CDD);Roger Boothe, Director, Urban Planning, CDD; Stuart Dash, Director, Community Planning, CDD; Iram Farooq, Zoning and Land Use Project Planner, CDD; Jeff Roberts, Project Planner, CCD; Pardis Saffari, Associate Planner, Economic Division, CDD; Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Environment and Transportation Planning, CDD; Chris Cotter, Housing Director, CDD; Charlie Sullivan, Executive Director, Historical Commission; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present were Steven Marsh, Managing Director, Real Estate, MIT Investment Management Company; Israel Ruiz, Executive Vice President and Treasurer, MIT; Martin Schmidt, Professor, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and Associate Provost, MIT; Michael Owu, Director of Real Estate, MIT; Sarah Gallop and Paul Paravano, Co-Directors of Government and Community Relations, MIT; Attorney Anthony Galluccio; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; Terry Smith, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, 859 Mass. Avenue; Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street; James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place; Pearl Freir, 1 Broadway; Brian Dacey, l Broadway; Johannes Fevehaut, 1 Kendall; Maggie O'Toole, l Kendall; Fred Salvucci, 6 Leicester Street, Brighton; Katherine Radeljic, 454 Windsor Street; Donald Sheehan, 150 Freeport Street; Mark Fortune, Building Trades; Marty Walsh, Building Trades; John Hawkinson; D. Margaret Drury and Kathy Born, CRA Board member; Brian Gilman, 1 Broadway; Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green
Street; Mike Connolly, 20 Harding Street; Walter McDonald, 172 Magazine Street; Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street; Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street; Gary Dmytryk, 2440 Massachusetts Avenue; Hong Liu, 1673 Cambridge Street; Barbara Broussard, 148 Third Street; Nancy Ryan, 4 Ashburton Place; Charlie Teague, 23 Edmunds Street; Rudy Belliardi, Wellington-Harrington Neighborhood Association; and Sam Seidel, 381 Broadway.
Councillor Maher convened the meeting and explained the purpose. The meeting is being televised by audio and visual devices. The petition will be revised and there will be a letter of commitment presented by MIT.
Steven Marsh introduced MIT staff. He stated that he had introductory remarks where were entered into the record as follows:
I want to thank all of the stakeholders for contributing to a thoughtful and productive 3 year planning process. The Kendall Initiative represents high level planning principles articulated through the K-2 planning process. Cambridge City Council and the Planning Board have helped us to articulate many new precedents in the zoning and commitment letter and we hope it can provide context in future Kendall Square zoning moving forward. The community benefits represented in this initiative are multi-fold.
There are tangible benefits like significant new taxes and jobs along with more subtle benefits like high volume of small retail space and innovation spaces. Lastly, MIT has always considered itself a partner with the community. Our community benefits associated with the Kendall Initiative total almost 20 million dollars in cash payments to the City not including the construction and number of on-site affordable housing units.
We are very proud of what the City and Community and MIT have accomplished around this initiative but as President Reif indicated last night MIT's relationship with the City goes far beyond Kendall Square and this petition and this process has broadened our perspectives on this partnership. We have learned a great deal and know it will help refocus our relationship in the years to come.
Mr. Marsh addressed the handout entitled Kendall Square Initiative (ATTACHMENT A). This project began three years ago. This is about the development of 7 parking lots of which 3 will remain for future academic use. A total of three lots are identified for commercial and housing development. Innovation Landing at One Broadway is one of the anchors for Kendall and is a mixed use development of housing, office/innovation space and retail space. The gateway at the T stop at Main Street will be enhanced. Conceptual and visual slides of the East Campus Gateway with and without the MIT Press building were included in the handout. Access to the River was also included on page 13. Improvements to Point Park and Wadsworth Street will provide direct access to the River. Since the Planning Board referral MIT has worked with the Ordinance Committee and the City Council to evolve this petition for the better. He highlighted some of the changes made.
Mr. Marsh distributed a document entitled MIT Kendall Square Initiative Overview of Changes to the Zoning Language since the Planning Board Referral (ATTACHMENT B). This document contains the changes to the red lined proposal of the Planning Board. Changes were made to the zoning language in Section 13.810.3, Community Benefits, Section 13.89.1, Noise, Section 13.810.0, Signage and Section 13.89.2, Housing.
In the Community Fund the credit language was eliminated. The Community Fund is still $10.00 per square foot. Open space and transit were separated from the workforce development. Approximately $5 million (50%) of the payments will occur within the three years of the adoption of the zoning amendment. An acoustical reporting requirement was added to the noise section. "Substantially altered" was added to the definition of the noise compliance along with new buildings. Additional references to Article 7, the sign ordinance, were eliminated from the petition. Inclusionary housing was increased to 18% of the units at Innovation Landing at One Broadway. It was noted by Councillor vanBeuzekom that the change to Section 13.89.2 to increase inclusionary housing percentage to 18% was not contained in the revised zoning language provided by MIT. (ATTACHMENT C). MIT acknowledged that this was a clerical error on their part.
Mr. Marsh discussed the (ATTACHMENT D) an overview of the items contained in the draft letter of commitment. The draft letter of commitment appears as (ATTACHMENT E). He stated that MIT will study the parcel adjacent to the Grand Junction between Main Street and Memorial Drive to consider the feasibility of the Community Path on CRA property. The study will be completed in eighteen months from the adoption of the zoning amendment. There are engineering issues. MIT will contribute $500,000 to begin construction of the Community Path. The Cherry street lot will be conveyed to the city or a third party designed by the city within 90 day of said request. A community process will begin around the Cherry Street site. MIT is committed to use union labor for all building trades all new commercial buildings. This will create about 15 new apprentice opportunities for Cambridge residents. MIT will incorporate in their lease agreements for the PUD-5 that their tenants must notify workforce
development of all new job opportunities. In addition MIT will contribute $20,000 annually for 10 years for an apprentice program. Local retail and diversity is important to this area. MIT is not looking to bring in chain stores. Diverse and exciting retail is what is being sought. MIT has included an Open Space and Retail Advisory Committee. The advisory committee will provide input on programming of the public spaces n the PUD-5. The committee will include representatives from the neighborhood, arts and other community organizations. On the real estate tax issue the commercial buildings, if converted to exempted institutional uses, will be removed incrementally from the tax rolls over a five year period. This was changed from the current three year period contained in MIT's PILOT agreement with the City of Cambridge. MIT will contribute $4 for each new square foot of commercial use, including office and lab space, to an established fund to support non-profit organizations. The first
$1 million to this fund will be made 90 days after the adoption of the zoning amendment. The second $1 million will be made 3 years after the adoption of the zoning amendment. MIT will provide additional innovation space equal to 5% of new gross floor for emerging companies that require space larger than typical innovation space, but less than 5,000 square feet. This is an additional 5% to the 5% innovation space contained in the petition. MIT will commit to 8% of the area required for housing to be micro units of 300-550 square feet. This will result in thirty units of residential leases for micro housing units requiring a covenant by the tenant not to apply for a residential parking permit.
Mr. Marsh distributed a Public Benefit comparison Chart (ATTACHMENT F).
He highlighted the jobs and taxes. There will be 2,500 jobs plus posting requirement with the city; 1300 construction jobs with the Apprentice Pathway program. It is expected to generate more than $10 million in taxes per year. Incentive zoning payments will be $4.3 million; $10 million to the Community Fund will cover the open space and transit and workforce, $4 million to the Community Benefits Organization and improvements to the Community Path, Apprentice Pathway and acquisition of the Cherry Street lot valued at $1.2 million.
Councillor Maher opened the meeting to comments by the City Council.
Councillor Cheung stated that is a markedly positive improvement petition. He was in favor of the changes made by MIT with reference to the Red Cross building set back, the PILOT 5 year tax provision, incubator housing and the trigger to building housing before commercial, the creation of a housing liaison for graduate housing component, the workforce apprenticeship program and the additional innovation space for a total of 10%. He questioned how the 300 square foot minimum for micro housing units was arrived at. Like all housing the most expensive part of housing units is the kitchen and bathroom. Shrinking the square footage shrinks the price of the unit. At One Broadway there is an interesting opportunity with the CIC building may make a connection to working and living. Councillor Cheung asked about lease period for innovation housing. Mr. Marsh stated that a one year lease is being envisioned, but the market will determine. Councillor Cheung asked where else would innovation
space be considered around the one-mile radius of Kendall Square. Mr. Marsh responded that the one-mile radius extends from the Charles River at the Longfellow down to Memorial Drive at the BU Bridge. This is where innovation is occurring in Cambridge. MIT is trying to create flexibility to accommodate the emerging companies in this area.
Mayor Davis stated that she wanted this to be made a sustainable district and to make it a model for other district to be determined in the City and for other developments. She is pleased with the addition of the community organization benefit. Non-profits are crumbling in the city. She was pleased about the workforce component. Bolstering skills and oversee the jobs is a good thing. She spoke about the skills needed for the workforce at Kendall Square. Older and younger people are looking for innovation housing. Community type housing was preferred rather than individual units. She spoke of co-housing. She would ask for a verbal commitment that MIT will explore this type of housing. Mr. Marsh stated that through this process MIT has learned how important community is. Housing is being planned to have it a community feel. He spoke about the jobs piece. Pathways and workforce development are community benefits and MIT is pleased to support the Margaret Fuller House. Mr. Owu stated
that Innovation Landing at One Broadway is a mixed use building and it will be unique building in Cambridge. Mayor Davis thanked MIT for the public school program document distributed by MIT in support for the Cambridge Public Schools (ATTACHMENT G). She suggest to MIT to make the programs more visible to Cambridge residents.
Vice Mayor Simmons stated that she believed the documents are a step in the right direction. The presence of MIT President at City Council meeting of April 1st shows that the City has captured the attention of MIT. She is pleased with the community path and the lot at 35 Cherry Street. She stated that she would like the Cherry Street lot conveyed on the adoption of the PUD. She stated she does not want to ask for the lot, MIT should just give it to the City now. She is glad with MIT's commitment to the use of union labor, the pathway program and the $20,000 paid annually for ten years for an apprentice program. She would broaden the notification to the Office of Workforce Development to include the School Department. The commitment to locally based retail does not fully speak to her concern for independent entrepreneurs. Vice Mayor Simmons stated that she would like to see more attention paid to this and that the cost per square foot not be prohibitive for small businesses. She is
pleased with Open Space and Retail Advisory Committee and the public space. She noted that there was no mention about the historic buildings in the petition. She expressed her concern that the commercial uses not be flipped to academic and come off of the tax rolls. On the list of MIT program supporting the Cambridge public school she did not see mention of the MITES program or the AREA 4 Days. She strongly felt that it would be great to get material before the meeting to read it. She asked Councillor Maher to explain the process going forward.
Councillor Maher stated that the Ordinance Committee Report would appear on the Agenda for the April 8th City Council meeting. Vice Mayor Simmons stated that she was not comfortable with the community benefits, the timing of the transfer of the Cherry Street lot and the retail.
Councillor Decker stated that this is a work in progress. She pushed MIT to build 18% inclusionary housing and the fact that MIT came back with 18% is not insignificant point to her. It is important to her to expand affordable housing. Inclusionary zoning is one of the significant ways to expand affordable housing. The moderate units are above the 18% affordable units. She was concerned with the tax revenue. She wanted to maximum the tax revenue coming into the City and MIT has responded. There have been many changes that have taken place with the petition. She had questions about the community benefits. Her questions were on who appoints the advisory committee, who sits on the committee and who decides where funding is spent. She asked Councillor Maher for his idea on going forward and the community benefits piece. Councillor Maher stated that the original community benefits of $10 million are identified for open space improvements not owned by MIT, transit and workforce
development. The language has evolved since it was first brought to the City Council and is simpler now. The categories identified came from the K2 study. This formula and direction of the three segments came from the K2 committee. This will be the catalyst to make improvements to open space areas in Kendall Square. It is an exciting time to better connect with the young people in our workforce and employ them in the companies that are growing in Kendall Square and the success in the innovation community. Councillor Maher stated his concern was the omission of "community benefits" that the City Council had talked about which is how to connect to the non-profit communities and the programming going on in our neighborhoods. Today MIT has outlined with an additional $4 million in commitment and it is 40% increase in the $10.00 that will go into the community fund. Councillor Maher stated that he has met with Mr. Healy to explore the right avenues to ensure that the funds are
funneled through to make sure that they are going to the right places. He stated that during May and June the City Council will be looking into adopting a structure into which the money will be distributed. Councillor Decker stated that her concern was the governance of this funding. Councillor Maher stated that the subject be is in the Government Operations and Rules Committee and he will be scheduling a meeting on this matter in the future. Non profits will be invited to be partners at the table to discuss this. Mr. Healy has done research into looking at the best way to facilitate this. There is an anti-aide section in the Massachusetts Laws that states that municipalities cannot support non-profits that are not buying services from the City. He stated that the Affordable Housing Trust Fund has a mechanism that could be employed in a similar fashion for the community benefits. However, this was enacted through enabling legislation. The City is looking to see if this legislation
could be amended or the scope expanded to include the community benefits. The City Manager feels there may be another avenue to explore which may be less time consuming.
Councillor Decker stated that it is important to have non-profits at the table for the community benefits discussion. This process needs to be transparent.
Councillor Decker stated that she is happy with the apprenticeship program and the pathway program. Mr. Marsh spoke about the need to create the pathway program that allows people in the adjacent neighborhoods access. MIT wants to make sure that Cambridge residents benefit from this development. Councillor Decker spoke about union construction jobs with benefits. She wants to make sure that Cambridge residents in apprenticeship programs now can complete the program and go into jobs as well as Cambridge residents on the waiting lists are included in the apprenticeship program.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated she is surprised and pleased. This is a step in the right direction. She is pleased with conveyance of lot at 35 Cherry Street; it should just be given. Open space programming is good. She likes the language in the draft Commitment Letter # 2 under Conditions to MIT's Commitments. It is amazing the amount of MIT programming for the public schools. This is making MIT a part of Cambridge. It is not clear that you are adding 5% to the innovation space. Mr. Marsh stated that it is an increase over the original commitment of innovation space of 5%. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked about the compliance of the decibel level in this district. Ms. Farooq stated the proposed language denotes MIT would be subject to the commercial noise standards. Mr. Marsh stated that when the zoning is changed the property would become taxable. The parcels would be taxed on their full value. The parcels become taxable at a higher value. Councillor vanBeuzekom suggested a permit
revenue column on the public benefits chart. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she would ideally like net zero for these buildings. She would value a higher level of commitment of sustainability. She would like a higher level of commitment by MIT on sustainability. She asked about a zone for food trucks without the engines running. She would like to see this.
Councillor Reeves stated that this has been a long, good journey for the city, citizens and the institution. The importance of working together and through issue has been reached with this proposal. K2C2 process did look into Kendall Square and is reflected in the work done by MIT. He did not see the Upward Bound Program listed as something that MIT has done for the Cambridge Public Schools. As a good neighbor of Area 4 he hopes that Margaret Fuller House receives technical and financial assistance for a capital improvement project. Fletcher Maynard Academy is a special model. What does MIT think of its role as a neighbor? Would this school be considered as a school that could be assisted by MIT? He asked if Mr. Manfredi is designing the towers. Mr. Marsh stated that Mr. Manfredi has worked with MIT in this process. No decision has been about the architects for this project. The faculty, administration and governance at MIT will be included in the process. Implementation will be
done with a managerial focus. Place making is important to MIT, both at the gateway and at One Broadway. Councillor Reeves commented that Mr. Manfredi was presented as the architect. This is a perceptible shift. Departments of Urban Studies and Planning run by universities do not include the political aspect of the process.
Councillor Kelley stated that anything dealing with education deserves a more detailed discussion than zoning.
Councillor Cheung suggested listing the on the public benefits sheet the percentage of where the benefits are being put in the City.
Councillor Decker stated that she wanted in writing a list of all the additional sites that the institute would be looking to address future programming needs of the institute. One concern for her is that lands is being taken off academic use and are you confident that it is not needed for academic programming in the future. She also wanted people identified in the apprenticeship program that they are in fact Cambridge residents. She also wanted in writing the commitment on vibrancy for the space and what this means. Zoning relief and building construction does not lead to vibrancy. She suggested partnering with community arts center for this space. She wants a commitment that the space is educational as well as for art. Councillor Decker stated that the City Council did not adopt k2C2. She stated that the City Council will decide policy on the community benefits funding. It is not a given that the $10 million must be spent. She was not in favor of binding the City Council to the
three segment areas outlined by the K2C2 that the City Council has not adopted. It does not make any sense to her to spent $10 million on open space, transit and workforce development and $4 million on non-profits.
Councillor Cheung stated that community benefits are a policy decision that the City Council has to come to a consensus on. He stated that he wanted to make sure there is a limitation of bank frontage in the design guidelines. He spoke about incentivizing the innovation space. In 13.83.2 d Councillor Cheung asked about incentivizing more innovation space and increasing it further. Ms. Farooq stated that this section is a FAR exemption of 50% of the space built for innovation would be exempt from FAR in the district. In the Kendall Square process the exemption was up to 10% exemption. Looking at the tradeoffs it is possible to increase the incentivize amount. Councillor Cheung stated that he would like to increase the 10% to 20%. Councillor Maher stated that if this is increased it would only be increased in this PUD-5. Mr. Murphy stated this does only apply to the PUD-5. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked if this applies to the space within the PUD-5. Mr. Murphy stated that the bonus
provision only applies to this PUD. Innovation space over and above the requirement could be in 1.25 miles outside of the PUD. The innovation space can be within the PUD or outside the PUD for the extra space. The bonus provision only applies to this PUD. Councillor Maher suggested that CDD be requested to draft language for Monday on this matter. Councillor Cheung the one residential tower proposed behind One Broadway limited to 300 feet and over 250 feet we get middle income housing in addition to the 18% housing requested by Councillor Decker how do we get more housing into this area? This is the only proposal to put housing in Kendall Square. There will be 60 affordable units and 15 middle income units in this building. If there were more height could there be more housing? Mr. Murphy stated that there are additional set-backs with the increase in height. You would get more housing with increased height. This is a City Council decision. Councillor Cheung any impact that could not
be addressed through the Planning Board process. Mr. Murphy stated that this would require going through the Planning Board process for review. Councillor Cheung stated that he wanted CDD to present language increasing the height to 350 feet and how many additional units of housing would be achieved and an analysis of the set-backs.
Councillor Kelley stated that would not support going to a height of 350 feet.
At 6:14pm Councillor Maher opened the meeting to public comment.
Terry Smith, 21 Manassas Avenue, Director of Government Affairs, Chamber of Commerce, 859 Mass. Avenue stated that the chamber members supported the MIT petition which would allow for more retail, housing, open space and innovation space and a better Kendall Square.
Pearl Frier, stated that she has an office at One Broadway. She spoke in favor of MIT petition and supported the Innovation space. It is critical to keep the innovation cycle going. Kendall Square is the envy of the world, but zoning should not be carte blanche.
Brian Dacey, Cambridge Innovation Center, urged support for the MIT petition. He stated that he served on K2 Committee to develop a plan. MIT supports the plan. The MIT petition is critical for the health of Kendall Square.
Johannes Fevehaut, One Kendall Square, stated that he runs a biotech company at One Kendall Square. He came to the area as a student and is excited to be part of the development of the area.
Maggie O'Toole stated that she works in Kendall Square. She supports the MIT petition. People in her age group have moved to Cambridge because of the work and live life of Kendall Square.
Katherine Radeljic stated her support for the MIT the petition. She wants to live in Cambridge. She spoke about the university being integrated into the community.
Donald Sheehan, Local 103 IBEW, stated that he was pleased to work with Brian Dacey and the innovation center. Companies want to come to Cambridge. He spoke about the pathway apprenticeship program - he has spoken in favor of the apprenticeship program for many years. This is the first time this program is in writing by MIT.
Steve Kaiser, 181 Hamilton Street, distributed a graph entitled Planning Checklist for Kendall (ATTACHMENT H). He stated that he has had a change of mind because of the lack of planning and the need for planning for Kendall Square. There are 15 elements of planning on this list and the only item completed is the zoning. No other elements of planning have been completed. A letter of commitment and agreements but planning has not been done. Plans should come before the zoning; it was done in reverse. The MIT petition is still premature; the petition should have been submitted at the end of the K2 process. We are in a bind if we want to do good planning. There is a mitigation plan by MIT to build a piece of the Grand Junction Path. The problem is the Grand Junction path is blocked off in Somerville by the proposed Green Line construction. Green Line plan needs to be changed. Bad planning needs to be resolved so that zoning petitions are not re-filed because of planning not being done.
James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place, spoke about decrease of honey bees which pollinate the trees. He spoke about pesticides and its effect on all. Colony collapse disorder is what is happening in Cambridge. People are being pushed out because they cannot live here. Can innovation be applied to the retail sector? He asked why buildings are not being repurposed for retail. There is a need for 1000 units of graduate housing and 500 units of residential. Community benefits should be decided before the petition is voted on. HUD has requirements for jobs for Cambridge residents, but the CHA does nothing about this.
Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street, thanked MIT for the changes to the petition regarding noise for new and existing buildings. The commercial decibel level is higher than for residential. This is dangerous noise. She spoke about "feasible" measures of noise. Who determines what is feasible and how the public safety is protected. The Noise Ordinance as it stands is inadequate and needs to be amended. This issue needs to be address to radically reduce the levels and increase the enforcement.
Mike Connelly, 20 Harding Street, Secretary for the Association for Cambridge Neighborhoods, urged the City Council to let the petition expire. Affordability and availability of housing and environmental are the issue. Graduates are taking units of housing from families. If the petition is left to expire it will give time for the report on the graduate student housing study to be received. This petition does not go far enough to affect global climate change. Revitalization of Kendall Square is not contingent on this petition.
Walter McDonald, 172 Magazine Street spoke about the Memorial Drive sub-height district. It is 1/3 mile along the River. The height of the building in this area is limited to 100 feet. The MIT proposal wants the height limit increased to 150 feet. The buildings fronting Memorial Drive have been renovated or rebuilt. If there is not a clear need for a change in height in this area the Ordinance Committee should not make this change
Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street, stated that the public should have been given a red line version of the petition and the changes to the commitment letter. This should be part of protocol. She approved the change regarding the sign ordinance. She spoke about noise. MIT has made changes to mechanical noise, new building and substantially altered building will be subject to best noise dampening standard and will include an acoustical reporting standard. This is a mixed use development, with residential, commercial and retail, there is no reason that the noise standards should be the most rigorous, namely residential. Even the residential standards are also out of date. A state of the art noise standard should be included in the petition by MIT. She demanded that MIT impose the most rigid noise standards.
Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street, stated that Kendall Square is also on the Planning Board's agenda this evening. It is distressing that people have to leave the Ordinance meeting to go to the Planning Board meeting. She thanked Councillor Decker for acknowledging the fact that MIT is an academic institution and land should be used for academic purposes. If MIT cannot state why they do not need this land then the City Council should not pass this petition. MIT has passed on institutional planning to MITIMco. Harvard, Lesley and Northeastern have all run out of room. MIT has all these valuable commercial buildings which may become academic. Why are we putting commercial building on potential academic land? The world will not come to an end if the City Council does not vote on this petition on Monday.
Gary Dmytryk, 2440 Mass. Avenue, stated that these are exciting times for Kendall Square. This building project in the heart of Kendall Square will have an impact on Kendall Square. He urged the City to put everything on the table for the benefit for all. He suggested putting a square in Kendall Square. He spoke about the possibility without the historical building or the street in Kendall Square. He spoke about building a great public space and the need for graduate and postgraduate housing. Our neighborhoods make a vital contribution to MIT. He would like to see MIT carry a greater share of the housing responsibility. This is the time for the City Council to ask MIT for a commitment on housing.
Hong Liu, 1673 Cambridge Street, supported any economic opportunity for city. A magic circle should be around the area on map on page 5 which is a walking mile. All would thrive.
Barbara Broussard, 248 Third Street, stated that shops, homes and parks are the motto for ECPT. She would like to see 75% of shops be small and independent. She supported graduate students housing needs. She would like to see a series of parks call the pearl necklace.
Charlie Teague, 23 Edmonds Street, was pleased with the conveyance of the Cherry street lot. He spoke on sustainability and the missed opportunity for this area. Net zero is doable and affordable. This is the time for a living campus at MIT. He spoke about the 5000 graduate student beds needed.
Rudy Belliardi, Wellington-Harrington, spoke about meeting with MIT. Many issues have been addressed.
Sam Seidel, 381 Broadway, stated that the City Council should move forward with the MIT petition. This petition has been before the City Council for 3 years. This innovation game that Cambridge is part of is real, it is global. Cambridge needs to embrace this innovation.
Councillor Kelley stated that if this petition were passed on Monday there is no reason why changes cannot be made to address regulations covering acoustical issues, green building energy efficiency at a later time.
Councillor Toomey made a motion to refer the revised zoning language and draft letter of commitment to the full City Council. The motion carried on a voice vote.
Councillor vanBeuzekom highlighted additional changes to the zoning petition as follows:
1. Increasing from 120 feet to 150 foot maximum along the River in section 13.86.3 was put into the petition to allow for transferable rights in the future. She would like to know this was put into the petition.
2. This is a residential area and it is troublesome that the noise level is commercial. She would like the noise level in 13.89.1 to be residential or residential/industrial.
3. In the Commitment Letter she would like MIT to commit, before doing the housing study, to create the same number of housing for residents for the number of jobs created.
4. In 13.89.4 add "net zero were feasible."
5. In section J in the Letter of Commitment she would like a comment from the Law Department on whether it is legal to deny residents a resident parking permit.
6. Clarification of the two community benefit funds.
7. In section 13.89.1 remove the word "feasible."
8. A comparison table showing what is currently allowed by zoning and what is being changed by the zoning
Councillor Maher thanked all those present for their attendance. The MIT petition expires on April 15th and will be taken up on April 8th.
The following communications were received and made part of the record:
Communication from Tim Rowe, President, KSA, in support of the MIT petition and urging the City Council to approve the petition (ATTACHMENT I).
Communication from Jack Spengler, Akira Yamaguchi Professor of Environmental Health and Human Habitation, Harvard University School of Public Health, regarding the opportunity with the MIT petition for Cambridge to be a distinguished civic leader for a sustainable community (ATTACHMENT J).
Communication from Joseph A. Aiello, 207 Charles Street, in support of the MIT petition (ATTACHMENT K).
On motion of Councillor Toomey the meeting adjourned at 7:28pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
AWAITING REPORT LIST
12-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what steps the City will take to help the general public keep track of awaiting maintenance issues on things like park equipment, graffiti, sidewalks, etc.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/13/12 (O-4)
12-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the no left turn on the Cambridge Common and to remove the bicycle prohibition on certain streets, such as Whittemore Avenue. Referred back for additional information on 3/5/2012.
Councillor Kelley 02/13/12 (O-17)
12-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improper leases and rental of owned affordable housing units. Reconsideration filed by Councillor Toomey on 6/11/2012. Report referred back to City Manager for more information on motion of Councillor Toomey on 6/18/12.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/19/12 (O-3)
12-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of finding additional office space for the City Council.
Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/23/12 (O-5)
12-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on current status of the Inlet Bridge and what steps the City can take to ensure that agreements with the Commonwealth are upheld.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 05/21/12 (O-1)
12-71. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of converting the vacant lots at the corner of Watson and Brookline Streets and at 35 Cherry Street to community gardens or open space.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 06/04/12 (O-10)
12-78. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on expanding the number of Cambridge parks/playing fields with public toilets. Referred back to the City Manager on 6/18/12 on motion of Councillor Kelley.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-5)
12-81. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meeting with No. Mass Avenue neighbors, businesses and neighborhood groups about whether additional alterations to the median strip would be appropriate.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-9)
12-87. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the potential uses of the Foundry Building.
Councillor Toomey 06/04/12 (O-19)
12-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the installation of lower and decorative lighting along Cardinal Medeiros Avenue.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-6)
12-104. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on data requested on the Andrews Petition during an Ordinance Committee hearing last term that has not yet been received.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-34)
12-105. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on answering questions regarding the Foundry Building in order to move the community process forward.
Councillor Cheung & Councillor Toomey 07/30/12 (O-35)
12-106. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on facilitating affordable housing opportunities for middle class families.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-13)
12-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the number of Cambridge residents that are working as part of organized labor on development projects along with the percentage of minority and women members and what sort of communication takes place with the Rindge School of Technical Arts and local Unions.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-14)
12-108. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on applying and participating in the Cities of Services program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-19)
12-109. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what strategies other cities have used to dissuade land-banking.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-21)
12-115. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on making accommodations for voters when elevators are not working or there are other barriers at polling locations on election days. Referred back for additional information by Councillor Decker on 10/22/2012. Further report provided and referred back by Councillor Decker on 11/5/2012.
Councillor Decker, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/24/12 (O-6)
12-120. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of creating a municipal exterminator and/or contracting exterminators to help eradicate rodent problems in the City.
Councillor Toomey, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 10/01/12 (O-3)
12-123. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on suggestions to control the rodent population.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/22/12 (O-3)
12-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of finding additional secure locations for the disposal of prescription drugs.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-4)
12-125. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of installing recycling bins adjacent to trash bins.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-5)
12-126. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of ensuring all city sponsored committee hearings (such as the E-gov committee) are available online.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-6)
12-128. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a pilot program for installing mini exercise stations on major walking routes throughout the City.
Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 11/19/12 (O-1)
12-129. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installation of additional public drinking fountains working in conjunction with the Arts Council on interesting designs.
Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 11/19/12 (O-2)
12-130. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing a process to promote universal design and visitability in all Cambridge Public buildings.
Mayor Davis and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-3)
12-132. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on incorporating permanent bathroom facilities at the Cambridge Common; conduct a study for permanent bathroom facilities in all public squares; and provide a list of all locations where portable bathroom facilities are currently used.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Vice Mayor Simmons 11/19/12 (O-8)
12-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on preparing language to amendment the Municipal code banning polystyrene-based disposable food containers.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-10)
12-136. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a plan of action to reinforce and secure restaurant bins in a way that separates food waste for composting.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-14)
12-137. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on an analysis of the entire past election of wait times and strategies for what would be necessary to reduce wait times to less than 10 minutes and on making information available on wait times at polling locations throughout the day. Referred back for more information by Councillor Decker on 12/17/2012.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 11/19/12 (O-16)
12-140. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on special permit process pursuant to MGL 40A as it relates to the impact of re-filing a zoning petition on pending special permits for special permits that have been granted.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-9)
12-150. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on convening a task force to look into the creation of providing permanent public restrooms at high volume locations such as public parks and squares.
Mayor Davis 12/10/12 (O-16)
12-152. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing a reduced small business parking rate for local business owners at city garages.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 12/17/12 (O-1)
12-153. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to ban tandem tractor-trailers from entering the city with a view in mind of requiring large freight vehicles of a certain size to transfer freight to a smaller vehicle before entering the city.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 12/17/12 (O-4)
12-154. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the sale of the Sullivan Courthouse including what zoning changes will be needed and reasons for Leggat McCall being chosen as the developer.
Councillor Toomey 12/17/12 (O-9)
12-156. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on preparing language to create a Pathway Overlay District.
Councillor Toomey 12/17/12 (O-12)
12-157. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the cost, user price, and payback period if Cambridge were to build its own broadband network
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-8)
13-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of a gun buy-back program.
Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 01/14/13 (O-5)
13-04. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the City's plans for the property located at 205 Western Avenue.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-6)
13-09. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving logistical challenges of deliveries and trash removal to and from businesses as they related to adjacent residents.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-11)
13-12. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of participating in the Code for America Peer Network.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 01/28/13 (O-6)
13-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meeting with NSTAR officials to establish a firm timeline for maintenance and replacement plans for the transformers and electrical systems that serve the city to ensure that local businesses and residential communities are fully serviced.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 02/11/13 (O-5)
13-17. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing mobile applications related to snow removal and operations information.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-2)
13-18. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of voluntary participation of landlords and management companies of multifamily units to provide current and new tenants with a Voter Registration Form.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 02/25/13 (O-3)
13-19. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on refining procedures to uphold existing ordinances that prohibit the reservation of cleared on-street parking spaces by placing objects in the spots.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-4)
13-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of providing a service in which residents are able to look up their voter registration status online.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-5)
13-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of including voter registration forms in the annual census mailing.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-6)
13-23. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on why the Green Room Experience was denied its request to host a dance for CRLS teens at a youth center.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-10)
13-24. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on assessing the feasibility of necessity of utilizing the services provided by the Springfield Data Center and MassGIS's Oliver mapping tool.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-11)
13-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on applying for the Code for America Fellowship Program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/04/13 (O-1)
13-30. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a system for informing the public of the status of maintenance and repair issues for things such as park equipment, graffiti, sidewalk hazards, and so forth, potentially including iReport.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 03/04/13 (O-5)
13-31. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the city could manage its street snow clearance issues without dumping snow back on crosswalks and driveways.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/04/13 (O-6)
13-32. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what flooding, drainage, sightline, maintenance and traffic flow issues exist at Linear Park and who is responsible for addressing them.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 03/04/13 (O-7)
13-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of adding a RSS feed options to all of the City's websites.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 03/04/13 (O-8)
13-34. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the current investigate of the murder of Charlene Holmes.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 03/18/13 (O-1)
13-35. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans to publicize the upcoming special election.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/18/13 (O-5)
13-37. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of installing fiber-optic conduits when doing sewer reconstruction.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor Toomey 03/18/13 (O-7)
13-38. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on measures Cambridge can take to prevent the transport of ethanol.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/18/13 (O-8)
13-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of implementing a "Don't Block The Box" policy for Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-4)
13-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways in which the Cambridge Works Program might affiliate itself with Building Pathways, an intensive program sponsored by the Boston Building Trades Council.
Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-5)
13-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on conferring with SuperTours as to the feasibility of altering their bus tour route to one that provides more interesting sightseeing opportunities to tour participants while improving the quality of life of residents of Cambridge Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-8)
13-42. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of shortening the traffic light cycle times at the intersection of Broadway and Ames Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-10)
13-43. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how Cambridge can include a participatory budgeting portion in the 2014 budget.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-12)