Cambridge City Council meeting - April 10, 2023 - AGENDA
[Remote: BA,DC,DS; Absent: MM]
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as Public Weighers for the calendar year 2023 to operate scales at 500 Front St, Cambridge, MA 02142. (CM23#90)
pulled by Nolan (who was concerned about gender equity of public weighers who work for Boston Sand & Gravel); Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 23-11, regarding a review of the current state of mental health resources, particularly for underserved communities, within the CHA. (CM23#91)
pulled by Zondervan; Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Shannon Grant received from the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition’s Community Safety Initiative through the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, in the amount of $40,595.32, to the Grant Fund Police Department Salary and Wages account ($32,518.40) and the Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($8,076.92), which will be dedicated to hot spot patrols, youth violence reduction strategies, and the Focused Deterrence program, and to support a Teen Public Art Program at the Community Art Center. (CM23#92)
Order Adopted 7-1-1 (QZ - No; MM - Absent)
4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the supplemental appropriation of the FY22 Shannon Grant for $377.29 received from the Metropolitan Mayors Coalition’s Community Safety Initiative through the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to the Grant Fund Police Department Salary and Wages account ($377.29), these funds are dedicated to hot spot patrols in support of youth violence reduction strategies and the Focused Deterrence program. (CM23#93)
Order Adopted 7-1-1 (QZ - No; MM - Absent)
5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $78,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund City Clerk Other Ordinary Maintenance account to pay for costs associated with required legal advertising for legal notices, Council meeting agendas, hearings and petitions through the end of the fiscal year, as well as anticipated printing and postage costs. (CM23#94)
pulled by Nolan; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 21-71, regarding placing a cricket field in one of the Cambridge parks. (CM23#95)
pulled by Siddiqui; Toner asks about public process in determining uses for City-owned property; Mallon says site would be perfect for an affordable housing development; Zondervan proposes that tall affordable housing towers be built on this site on Larch Road; Carlone prefers mixed use w/o towers and proposes stormwater storage under buildings with zero parking; Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
April 10, 2023
To the Honorable, the City Council:In response to Awaiting Report #21-71 regarding placing a cricket field in one of the Cambridge parks, the Department of Human Services and the Department of Public Works, together with the City Manager’s office have worked collaboratively with members of the community who are interested in having cricket played in the city.
We have looked at a variety of venues across the city where the game could be best accommodated, including Danehy Park. While there are no fixed dimensions or definitive shapes associated with a cricket field, the space required is relatively large, shapes being generally circular or oval and can vary in size from approximately 350 ft to 500 ft in diameter. Having surveyed numerous locations throughout the city, it is now proposed that cricket be played at the Larch Road (formerly BB&N field) field. It has a large grass surface and can accommodate cricket together with soccer and softball.
Over and above the dimensions associated with the overall field the most important additional feature of a cricket field is the crease. The crease is the area within which the batsman and the opposing bowlers operate and is a rectangular area with a length of 66 feet between the bowling and batting stumps. The surface of the crease should be flat and smooth to allow for good bounce and spin of the cricket ball. In many instances the crease is a fine grass but in this instance, we are proposing to place a clay crease in the middle of the field and during games provide a bamboo/jute mat over the crease so as to provide for the best playing surface. The hope is to install the crease this Spring.
The Human Services Department has recently received a request from a group proposing to play cricket this spring and summer (May to September), Saturday and Sunday mornings at the Larch Road facility and expects to be able to work with them to accommodate their request.
Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang City Manager
7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a communication from DCR to the City regarding Memorial Drive closures. (CM23#96)
pulled by Nolan; Nolan and Azeem Late Order appealing DCR decision - Charter Right - Simmons; Zondervan and Nolan attempt to define “environmental justice”; Simmons notes that even with motor vehicles on Memorial Drive there are ample opportunities to “walk, bike, and crawl”; Mallon addresses “the elephant in the room” noting that incoming DCR Commissioner may provide opportunities to call in political favors to restore Saturday closures, suggests that Covid measures like outdoor patios, eviction protections, and Saturday road closures should all be continued; Carlone debunks suggestions by QZ,PN that Memorial Drive users are primarily suburban upper crust [the truth is that the Harvard Square area is like a mid-city blockage that pushes traffic to the periphery and that it’s largely local traffic that uses the Riverbend Park section of Memorial Drive]; Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a 2023 Quarter One update. (CM23#97)
pulled by Zondervan who uses opportunity to call for disarming of Cambridge Police and diverting 911 calls to HEART; Nolan wants more City Council control of City Budget before City Manager proposes it to City Council [I expect she will want to change the City Charter to gain more “executive” control over City Budget]; City Manager Huang recommends using summer months to work out a plan for deciding Goals & Objectives prior to developing the next Budget; Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Siyu Xiao, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 25 Suffolk 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. (AP23#18)
Charter Right - Zondervan
2. An application was received from Heather Dudko representing CAVA, requesting permission for a projecting sign at the premises numbered 18 Brattle Street approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and abutters proof of mailing has been provided. (AP23#19)
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
3. A request was received from Alexandria representing East Boston Savings Bank, regarding Revocation of Bond #107135183 for East Boston Savings Bank, 1739 Massachusetts Avenue. Response from the Inspectional Services Department has been received confirming said sign has been removed. (AP23#20)
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Sue Stafford, regarding strong support for the BEUDO amendments.
2. A communication was received from Pina Morganti, regarding strong support for the BEUDO amendments.
3. A communication was received from Bridget Hanna, regarding strong support for the BEUDO amendments.
4. A communication was received from Charles Teague, regarding opposition to Barrett Upzoning Petition on North Mass Ave.
5. A communication was received from Paola Cappellaro, regarding supporting after school policy order.
6. A communication was received from Marianna and David Rowlands, regarding supporting after school policy order.
7. A communication was received from Susie Jang, regarding supporting after school policy order.
8. A communication was received from Steve Garafalo, regarding support after school policy order.
9. A communication was received from Pete Warrington, regarding supporting after school policy order.
10. A communication was received from Haining Gouinlock, regarding supporting after school policy order.
11. A communication was received from Andrea Love, regarding supporting after school policy order.
12. A communication was received from Tracy Barbaro and Zenas Lu, regarding supporting after school policy order.
13. A communication was received from Diana Smith, regarding strong support for the BEUDO amendments.
14. A communication was received from Rachel Wyon, regarding strong support for the BEUDO amendments.
15. A communication was received from Elinor Actipis, regarding support for the after school policy order.
16. A communication was received from Rebecca Richman Cohen, regarding supporting after school policy order.
17. A communication was received from Leah Nickel, Paul Worster, Ayla and Emmy Worster, regarding supporting after school policy order.
18. A communication was received from Juliet Simpson, regarding supporting after school policy order.
19. A communication was received from Mara E Murray Horwitz, regarding supporting after school policy order.
20. A communication was received from Sam Fentress, regarding supporting after school policy order.
21. A communication was received from Sudha Natarajan, regarding supporting after school policy order.
22. A communication was received from Jill Linnell, regarding supporting after school policy order.
23. A communication was received from Peter Glick, regarding support for PO#52 - Garden Street.
24. A communication was received from Nicole Lim, regarding supporting after school policy order.
25. A communication was received from Alexandra Grassian, regarding support for PO#59.
26. A communication was received from Kristen Roggemann, regarding support of after school PO#59.
27. A communication was received from Arthur MacEwan, regarding BEUDO and action to help avert disastrous climate change.
28. A communication was received from Annie Michaelis, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
29. A communication was received from Margery Davies, regarding strong support for the BEUDO amendments.
30. A communication was received from Elizabeth Henry, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
31. A communication was received from Ashley Miller, regarding support of the after school policy order.
32. A communication was received from Gina Solman, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
33. A communication was received from Dariana Vasquez, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
34. A communication was received from Tina Lieu, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
35. A communication was received from Sahithi Madireddy, regarding strong support for the BEUDO amendments.
36. A communication was received from Crystal Komm and Chris Potter, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
37. A communication was received from Greg Jordan, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
38. A communication was received from Maria Cortes, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
39. A communication was received from Amar Bhide, regarding the Traffic Department’s report on the Garden and Linnaean Street neighborhood bike lanes and traffic patterns.
40. A communication was received from Anna Spera and Jean Spera, regarding support for PO#52.
41. A communication was received from Emily Axelrod, regarding support of Paul Toner’s proposals contained in Charter Right #1.
42. A communication was received from Patricia McGrath, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
43. A communication was received from Chris Willard and family, regarding Garden Street.
44. A communication was received from Nathan Hasson, regarding Garden Street.
45. A communication was received from Neil Goodwin, regarding Garden Street.
46. A communication was received from Bonnie Miller, regarding support of Charter Right Agenda Item #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
47. A communication was received from Joan Pickett, regarding support of Charter Right Agenda #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
48. A communication was received from Catalina Arboleda, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
49. A communication was received from John Pena, regarding the Garden and Linnean Street proposed modifications.
50. A communication was received from Nina Herrera, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1.
51. A communication was received from Elizabeth Neustadt, regarding the Garden Street Policy Order.
52. A communication was received from David E. Sullivan, regarding support in principle for the Barrett zoning petition.
53. A communication was received from Mary Jane Kornacki, regarding support for policy order for Garden Street accommodations.
54. A communication was received from Candace Young, regarding Charter Right Agenda #1.
55. A communication was received from Vickey Bestor, regarding Charter Right Agenda #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
56. A communication was received from Tania Yannas, regarding support for Garden Street Policy Order.
57. A communication was received from Christine Falzone, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
58. A communication was received from Barbara Bliss, regarding the Garden Street proposal.
59. A communication was received from Ausra Kubilius, regarding Charter Right Agenda #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
60. A communication was received from Nicole Lopes, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
61. A communication was received from Arif Hussain and Sarah Figge Hussain, regarding support for PO#59.
62. A communication was received from Clare Rager, regarding support of expanding after school availability (PO #59).
63. A communication was received from John Hanratty, regarding support for Garden Street Policy Order.
64. A communication was received from Nike Tirman, regarding Traffic Department Mar 30 – Traffic Analysis.
65. A communication was received from Glover Taylor, regarding the Garden Street Policy Order.
66. A communication was received from Don Lessard, regarding Garden Street.
67. A communication was received from Eileen McCullough, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
68. A communication was received from Sam and Frank Reece, regarding Garden Street/Walker Street Traffic Department improvements.
69. A communication was received from Denis Sukachev, regarding Garden Street bike lanes.
70. A communication was received from Shelagh Hadley, regarding Garden Street bike lanes, etc.
71. A communication was received from A. Jarrard, regarding Garden Street cycling.
72. A communication was received from Paula Cortes, regarding the Garden Street Policy Order.
73. A communication was received from Shawdee Eshghi, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1.
74. A communication was received from Michael A. Connolly, regarding Garden Street.
75. A communication was received from Helen Snively, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1.
76. A communication was received from Austin Ledzian, regarding POR 2023 #52.
77. A communication was received from Rob Cannata, regarding supporting after school policy order.
78. A communication was received from Beth Gamse and Judy Singer, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
79. A communication was received from Vi Nguyen, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
80. A communication was received from John Bright, regarding support for Charter Right #1 (Policy Order for Garden Street Accommodations).
81. A communication was received from Ester Schiano-Brown, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
82. A communication was received from Young Kim, regarding City Manager Agenda Item #3 and Charter Right Item #1 regarding Garden Street Accommodations.
83. A communication was received from Malcolm D Bliss, regarding Charter Right Item #1.
84. A communication was received from Zoë and Dan Anderson, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1.
85. A communication was received from Shellburne Thurber, regarding proposed alternatives to the present traffic configuration in north Cambridge.
86. A communication was received from Scott Ehrmann, regarding Policy Order for Garden Street Accommodations.
87. A communication was received from Hannah Goodwin, regarding the 2400 Mass Ave Zoning Petition (North Mass Aven BA-5 Zoning District Petition - Ordinance #2022-21).
88. A communication was received from Miriam Goldstein, regarding supporting after-school policy order.
89. A communication was received from Itamar Turner-Trauring, regarding Policy Order #4.
90. A communication was received from Gavin Lund, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1/PO #52.
91. A communication was received from Tim Russell, regarding 4/3 City Council Meeting: Vote No on Charter Right Item #1.
92. A communication was received from Scott Brightly, regarding Charter Right Item #1.
93. A communication was received from Andrew Lawrie, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
94. A communication was received from Elizabeth Houghteling, regarding Garden Street.
95. A communication was received from Arthur P Dempster, regarding Garden Street/Walker Street Traffic Department Improvements.
96. A communication was received from Eugenia Schraa and Amanda Beatty, regarding supporting PO #59/Petition for expanded after school with 480+ signers.
97. A communication was received from Hurst and Ann Hannum, regarding the Garden Street Policy Order.
98. A communication was received from Madeleine Aster, regarding opposition to the Barrett Petition.
99. A communication was received from Laurie Pessah, regarding the Garden Street design.
100. A communication was received from Mark Steffen, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
101. A communication was received from Lee Stabert, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
102. A communication was received from Anna Gosline, regarding support for after school PO#59.
103. A communication was received from Ju Yon Kim, regarding supporting after school policy order.
104. A communication was received from Becca Lester, regarding supporting PO #59 - Petition for expanded after school.
105. A communication was received from Kerry Ryan Chance, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
106. A communication was received from Ryan Grams, regarding Charter Right Item #1 (Garden Street).
107. A communication was received from John Martin, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
108. A communication was received from Caleb Hurst-Hiller, regarding PO#59 – supporting after school expansion/access.
109. A communication was received from Kate Skubecz, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
110. A communication was received from Matt Goldstein, regarding supporting PO#59.
111. A communication was received from Barbara Anthony, regarding the Garden Street Policy Order.
112. A communication was received from Jose Jimenez, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
113. A communication was received from Abigail Starr, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
114. A communication was received from Peter Lowber, regarding Garden Street.
115. A communication was received from Andrea Gabert, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
116. A communication was received from Patrick Ward, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
117. A communication was received from Michael Mahoney, regarding Charter Right Item #1.
118. A communication was received from Tiffany Clapp, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
119. A communication was received from Patrick Barton, regarding #22-79 Garden Street, CMA 2023 #89.
120. A communication was received from Aaron Greiner, regarding Garden Street.
121. A communication was received from Annette LaMond and Joe Moore, regarding support for Garden Street Policy Order.
122. A communication was received from Chi-Chi Zhang, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
123. A communication was received from Allyson Goose, regarding supporting after school PO#59.
124. A communication was received from Alison Munroe, regarding support for Cambridge Afterschool programs/policy update.
125. A communication was received from Ben Flaim, regarding Garden Street plea.
126. A communication was received from Eugenia Schraa and Ming-Tai Huh, regarding support for Barrett Petition/ORD 2022 #21.
127. A communication was received from Wendy Harman, regarding Charter Right Agenda Item #1 (Garden Street Policy Order).
128. A communication was received from Marilee Meyer, regarding support of Chart Review extension.
129. A communication was received from Michael McIntosh, regarding support for Policy Order #3 (first proposed Mar 20).
130. A communication was received from Joanne Moore, regarding Garden Street Policy Order.
131. A communication was received from Rose Mous, regarding City Manager Agenda Item #3 and Charter Right Item #1 regarding Garden Street Accommodations.
132. A communication was received from Angela Bisanti, regarding City mandate to reduce greenhouse gas.
133. A communication was received from Heather Hoffman, regarding Barron v. Kolenda.
134. A communication was received from Susanne Freidberg, regarding exempting condominiums from proposed BEUDO amendment.
135. A communication was received from Jerome Berkeley, regarding BUEDO condominium exemption.
136. A communication was received from John MacDougall, regarding support for BEUDO amendments.
137. A communication was received from Harold D. Spilker III, regarding exemption condominium BEUDO amendments.
138. A communication was received from Young Kim, regarding Traffic congestion at Alewife Brook Pkwy and Mass. Ave. 8:30AM (SeeClickFix#12524562).
139. A communication was received from Sam Fentress, regarding disappointment that Riverbend Park Saturdays are ending.
140. A communication was received from Hazel Malcolmson, regarding BEUDO.
141. A communication was received from Andrew Ray, regarding Riverbend Park.
142. A communication was received from John Leo, regarding recent Department of Conservation and Recreation Memorial Drive decision.
143. A communication was received from Duncan MacArthur, regarding letter to City Council.
144. A communication was received from Mike Nakagawa, regarding the Barrett Petition.
145. A communication was received from Talía Brown, regarding after school programs.
146. A communication was received from former City Clerk, D. Margaret Drury, thanking the City Council on the resolution regarding her retirement from the Board of Cambridge Redevelopment Authority.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations on the retirement of Lieutenant Robert Grey from the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner
2. Congratulations on the retirement of Patrol Officer Jerry Jean-Baptiste from the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner
3. Congratulations on the retirement of Lieutenant Thomas Ahern from the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Simmons
4. Congratulations on the retirement of Patrol Officer Hercot Miller from the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Simmons
5. Congratulations on the retirement of Maureen Van Stry. Councillor Toner, Councillor Simmons
6. Congratulations on the Retirement of Sergeant Susan Kale from the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner
7. Congratulations on the retirement of Jean Kuropatkin. Councillor Toner
8. Congratulations on the retirement of Debra Morris. Councillor Toner, Councillor Simmons
9. Congratulations on the retirement of Matilde Santos. Councillor Toner
10. Congratulations to Christine Burke on her 50th Birthday. Councillor Toner
11. Congratulations on the retirement of Arthur Moy from the Cambridge Fire Department. Councillor Toner
12. Congratulations on the retirement of Patrick Quirke. Councillor Toner
13. Congratulations on the promotion of Temporary Lieutenant Ameer A. Moustafa from the Cambridge Fire Department. Councillor Toner
14. Congratulations on the promotion of Temporary Lieutenant Victor M. Clarke. Jr. from the Cambridge Fire Department. Councillor Toner
15. Congratulations on the promotion of Firefighter Cameron R. Moyer from the Cambridge Fire Department. Councillor Toner
16. Congratulations on the promotion of Firefighter William B. Whalen from the Cambridge Fire Department. Councillor Toner
17. Resolution on the death of Ned Handy. Councillor Carlone, Councillor Toner
R-17 Apr 10, 2023
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR TONERWHEREAS: The City Council was deeply saddened at learning of the death of Ned Handy on February 27, 2023, at the age of 100; and
WHEREAS: Ned leaves behind a loving wife, Margaret, and daughter, Jenifer; and
WHEREAS: Ned’s passing will leave a void in the lives of all his surviving family, neighbors, and friends; and
WHEREAS: Ned will be sorely missed by all he touched and loved; and
WHEREAS: In WWII, Ned spent 13 months as a prisoner of war in the German POW camp Stalag 17, going on to graduate from MIT after the war, and to become a city planner; and
WHEREAS: Ned became Block Grant Director for the City of Cambridge, working with a team of dedicated professionals for 30 years, and was proud to work alongside them for the good of the people of Cambridge; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy for the family of Ned Handy at this time of such personal loss; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Handy family on behalf of the entire City Council.
18. Resolution on the death of Barbara Fox. Councillor Toner
19. Resolution on the death of Annette Kathleen Hyness Eng. Councillor Toner
20. Congratulations to Club Recreativo Lusitania on the occasion of the Club’s 100th Anniversary. Councillor Toner
21. Congratulations to the Cambridge Program’s Cambridge Warrior Basketball Team - 6th time Mass State Division 1 Special Olympics Basketball Champions. Councillor Toner
22. Thanks to Nancy Woods for her service to the Cambridge Public Library. Mayor Siddiqui
R-22 Apr 10, 2023
MAYOR SIDDIQUIWHEREAS: Nancy Woods served the Cambridge community through her honorable work on the Cambridge Public Library Board of Trustees from 1999-2023; and
WHEREAS: During her time on the Board of Trustees, Nancy brought thoughtfulness, passion, and energy to her nearly twenty-five years of work helping the Library to achieve its vision of creating a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, people live their best lives, and democracy thrives; and
WHEREAS: Among her several lasting impacts and achievements on the Board, Nancy helped to realize the award-winning Main Library as it now exists today. In 1995, Nancy co-chaired the Library 21 committee with Deputy City Manager, Richard Rossi, to restart the expansion process of the Main Library. The committee prioritized identifying what Cambridge residents felt was important for the Library, and through a series of public meetings, a symposium, investigations of libraries across the nation, surveys, and published articles, the Committee determined the programmatic requirements needed to create a Library that would become the “civic heart of the city.” Her work on the Library 21 Committee is preserved in the Library’s Archives and Special Collections for researchers to discover the details of the democratic process the Committee created to bring community consensus to the project; and
WHEREAS: Nancy will be missed by Cambridge Public Library and her fellow Trustees members, including Karen Kosko, who said that “Nancy Woods is a dedicated volunteer who eagerly shared her experience and wisdom with all ages. We honor Nancy for selflessly serving on our Trustees for the Cambridge Public Library for decades”; and
WHEREAS: The City Council wishes to extend its appreciation to Nancy Woods for her contributions to the Cambridge Public Library; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record thanking Nancy Woods for her years of service; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Nancy Woods on behalf of the entire City Council.
23. Congratulations to the nonprofits working with the City for their commitment and service to Cambridge residents, and urge all citizens to recognize the Community Development Programs and the important role they play in our community. Mayor Siddiqui
ORDERS
1. City Manager Performance Review Ad Hoc Committee. Mayor Siddiqui (PO23#64)
pulled by Siddiqui; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
2. That at the City Manager is requested to light up City Hall blue, pink, and yellow on Apr 19, 2023, for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness. Mayor Siddiqui (PO23#65)
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
3. The City Council go on record celebrating the work of 911 professionals who work tirelessly every single day, and recognizing the week of Apr 9 - Apr 15 as National Telecommunicators Week. Mayor Siddiqui (PO23#66)
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
4. That the City Manager is requested to direct the City Solicitor to provide the City Council with a legal opinion on the earliest possible date that potential changes to the charter could be voted on by the electorate, assuming the Charter Review Committee submits proposed changes to the City Council by the new Dec 31, 2023 deadline. Councillor Zondervan (PO23#67)
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
5. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments and state agencies to mitigate traffic impacts and to formally request DCR to reconsider its decision to not close Memorial Drive on Saturdays. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem (PO23#68)
Charter Right - Simmons
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. The Health and Environment Committee conducted a public hearing on June 7, 2022 to discuss the adverse impacts of gas-powered leaf blowers and recent bans on their use in other jurisdictions. [text of report]
Report Accepted; Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
Present: Nolan, Carlone, McGovern
Remote Present: Azeem, Zondervan
2. The Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebrations Committee held a public meeting Mar 22, 2023 to discuss potential amendments to the Affordable Housing Overlay. [text of report]
Report Accepted; Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
Present: Carlone, Nolan, Zondervan, McGovern, Mallon
3. The Finance Committee held a public meeting Mar 23, 2023 to review the FY24 Police Department’s budget before it is submitted to the City Manager, and to review any budget proposal items related to body cameras. [text of report]
Report Accepted; Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
Present: Carlone, Nolan, Azeem, Mallon, McGovern, Toner, Zondervan, Siddiqui (late), Simmons (late)
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF23#62)
Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
2. A communication was received from Mayor Siddiqui, transmitting information from the School Committee. (COF23#63)
Placed on File 8-0-1 (MM - Absent)
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Apr 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Tues, Apr 11
12:30pm The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public meeting to review plans for solar and renewable energy installations in the city, including report on solar expansion and works by the CEA (Cambridge Energy Alliance) and potential for solar on city owned water supply land, and any other items related to renewable energy.
5:30pm The Charter Review Committee (Zoom only)
Wed, Apr 12
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public meeting to continue the discussion on the proposed amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance, Ordinance #2021-26.
Thurs, Apr 13
9:30am The Housing Committee will hold a public meeting to continue discussing potential amendments to the Affordable Housing Overlay district as outlined in the Nov 21, 2022 policy order adopted by the City Council.
3:30pm The Ordinance Committee will meet to hold a Public Hearing on the Citizens Zoning Petition received from Michael Monestime et al. regarding Outdoor Use Zoning in the Central Square Cultural District.
Mon, Apr 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Tues, Apr 25
3:00pm The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public meeting to review and discuss the update on Urban Forest Master Plan and to discuss how to improve tree health and tree canopy across the City.
5:30pm The Charter Review Committee (Zoom only)
Wed, Apr 26
12:30pm The Ordinance Committee will meet to continue the discussion on potential changes to Chapter 2.78 Historical Buildings and Landmarks, Proposed Ordinance #2022-11, as amended in Committee on Mar 7, 2023.
Mon, May 1
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Wed, May 3
3:00pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on Citizens Zoning Petition from Craig Kelley, et al. – Cambridge Transportation Emissions Reduction and Car Sharing Act (APP 2023 #9).
Mon, May 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Tues, May 9
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the City and School budgets covering the fiscal period July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024.
Wed, May 10
6:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the School Department budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024.
Mon, May 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Tues, May 16
10:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the City and School budgets covering the fiscal period July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024.
Thurs, May 18
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing (if necessary) to discuss the City and School budgets covering the fiscal period July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024.
Mon, May 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Wed, May 24
3:00pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on the Citizens Zoning Petition received from Charles Jessup Franklin et al., regarding allowing new construction hat is similar in size and shape as existing buildings for the purpose of promoting housing and first floor retail.
Mon, June 5
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, June 12
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, June 26
5:30pm City Council Meeting
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Apr 10, 2023
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: The City Council is tasked to administer a performance review on the City Manager on an annual basis; and
WHEREAS: The annual performance review process was determined by the full City Council in February of 2023, and included that the Mayor designate a City Manager Performance Review Ad Hoc Committee with a Chair to coordinate the process; and
WHEREAS: That City Manager Performance Review Ad Hoc Committee of the Cambridge City Council be formed for the purpose of evaluating the City Manager with the following four (4) City Council members:
• Councillor Toner (Chair)
• Vice Mayor Mallon
• Councillor Simmons
• Councillor Nolan
Now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager Performance Review Ad Hoc Committee confers with the Law Department prior to any meeting to discuss confidentiality and open meeting law issues; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager Performance Review Ad Hoc Committee will ensure the full City Council has input into the City Manager’s evaluation.
O-2 Apr 10, 2023
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge shares a strong concern for children and families fighting Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH); and
WHEREAS: CDH is a birth defect that affects 52,000 babies each year, occurring when a baby’s diaphragm fails to fully form, allowing abdominal organs into the chest cavity and preventing lung growth where 50% of babies born with CDH do not survive; and
WHEREAS: Many locations around the world light up on April 19th for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness to raise awareness and honor those children and families that fight so hard in testing circumstances; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That at the City Manager be and is hereby requested to light up City Hall blue, pink, and yellow on April 19, 2023, for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Awareness.
O-3 Apr 10, 2023
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: In 1991 the United States Congress declared the second week of April to be National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, celebrating 911 professionals who serve as public safety telecommunicators; and
WHEREAS: National Telecommunicators Week honors those who are the first point of contact in an emergency, who work 24/7 and 365 days of the year in a range of emergencies; and
WHEREAS: Every year, we celebrate and uplift the work of the Cambridge Emergency Communications Department, but the last two years, their work has been more important than ever as they responded to a public health crisis; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Emergency Telecommunications Dispatchers (ETD) during the COVID-19 response screened patients with over 4,600 calls for COVID symptoms, responded to social distance violations and provided residents with information to safeguard them from exposure to the virus in addition to their day-to-day duties and responsibilities associated with supporting Police, Fire and EMS operations; and
WHEREAS: In 2022, the Emergency Telecommunications Dispatchers answered an average of 124 emergency calls and approximately 308 non-emergency calls per day, totaling approximately 181,000 calls and 124,000 calls for service per year, with increased projections for FY23; now therefore be it
ORDERED: The City Council go on record celebrating the work of 911 professionals who work tirelessly every single day, and recognizing the week of Apr 9 - Apr 15 as National Telecommunicators Week.
O-4 Apr 10, 2023
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the City Solicitor to provide the City Council with a legal opinion on the earliest possible date that potential changes to the charter could be voted on by the electorate, assuming the Charter Review Committee submits proposed changes to the City Council by the new Dec 31, 2023 deadline; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on this matter as soon as possible.
O-5 Apr 10, 2023 Charter Right - Simmons
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
WHEREAS: During the past three years, Memorial Drive’s Riverbend Park was extended to Saturdays in addition to Sundays and for longer time period than statutorily required, to the benefit of residents across the area, especially in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: On February 27, 2023, the Cambridge City Council voted 7-2 to direct the City Manager to work with state agencies to ensure Saturday and Sunday operation of Riverbend Park starting in the first weekend of Spring 2023 and ending on the last weekend of Fall 2023; and
WHEREAS: On March 3, 2023, the City Manager delivered a formal request to the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) requesting full weekend closure of Memorial Drive and offering the City’s services to mitigate traffic impacts on neighboring streets, but despite this request, DCR made the decision to limit Riverbend Park access to Sundays from 11:00am to 7:00pm from the last Sunday of April though the second Sunday on November; and
WHEREAS: In their letter to the City Manager, DCR cites environmental justice concerns which should be considered, and yet environmental justice would lead to expanding Riverbend Park hours and days as closing Memorial Drive to cars leads to less noise, air pollution in the neighborhood and fewer people driving cars; and
WHEREAS: Over half of Cambridge is considered an environmental justice neighborhood which means dedicated open spaces like Riverbend Park provide for cleaner air, opportunities for outdoor recreation, and thus greater environmental justice for many residents of the city, especially those living with less open space including the neighborhoods along Riverbend Park
WHEREAS: DCR has not released data on air or noise pollution or traffic impacts due to Saturday operation of Riverbend Park which makes it impossible to determine the impact of Riverbend Park; and
WHEREAS: In their response, DCR cites Chapter 457 of the Acts of 1985 to defend this decision, but the state law governing the closure of Memorial Drive issues a minimum number of closures and does not limit DCR’s ability to provide additional closures, consistent with the fact that the state closed portions of Memorial Drive to cars starting in 1975, for ten years prior to the bill’s enactment; and
WHEREAS: The City’s survey data from residents showed that 94% of Riverside respondents use the open space multiple times a year, while only 24 individuals (10%) described that they “experienced bad traffic”; and
WHEREAS: The overwhelming majority of residents and elected leaders in Cambridge have publicly supported Riverbend Park being open on Saturdays and Sundays for much of the year; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record expressing its disappointment at the DCR decision, and to ask the DCR to release information about the evaluation framework which was used to reach this decision, including any studies of traffic counts, measurements of noise or air pollution impacts, details of written community feedback received by the DCR, and discussions with elected officials and how they were factored into this framework; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments and state agencies to mitigate traffic impacts and to formally request DCR to reconsider this decision, in line with the will of the City Council; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and is hereby requested to forward a copy of this policy order to the incoming DCR Commissioner, and the entire Cambridge state delegation.
AWAITING REPORT LIST
19-66. Report on whether it is possible to reduce or eliminate Building Permit Fees for 100% affordable housing development projects, through an exemption or other means and investigate what types of real estate tax abatements are possible for 100% affordable housing moving forward.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern (O-3) from 6/3/2019
19-147. Report on installing hearing loop technology inside the Sullivan Chamber as part of the upcoming renovations to City Hall, and in other critical City meeting venues wherever possible and other accessibility improvements.
Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 10/28/2019
20-6. Report on the acquisition and implementation of interpretation services for City Council meetings and other public City meetings.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern (O-8) from 1/27/2020
20-27. Report on the advantages and disadvantages of continuing with Civil Service, and the process by which Cambridge could exit Civil Service.
Councillor Nolan (O-5) from 6/22/2020
20-60. Report on analyzing eviction data from 2018 through 2021 and come back with a plan on how to use this data to inform our next action steps.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-8) from 11/2/2020
20-72. Report on the condition of 105 Windsor Street and cost estimates of any repairs needed and provide recommendations on how to develop any other underused properties based on an inclusive public process centered in the Port neighborhood.
Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #1) from 12/14/2020
21-9. Report on providing an overview of various programs and services that are designed to assist the City’s chronically unhoused population and those in danger of becoming unhoused, along with the metrics by which the City determines the effectiveness of these programs.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-1) from 2/22/2021
21-10. Report on whether or not the City can require written notice be sent to all abutters, both property owners as well as tenants, regarding the scheduling of a hearing regarding the extension of a building permit request to the Planning Board.
(O-5) from 2/22/2021
21-14. Report on presenting options to the Council to ensure that the staff at Albany Street are properly compensated for their work, and that guests are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (Calendar Item #3) from 3/8/2021
21-29. Report on updating the Parental Leave Policy for employees.
Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 4/26/2021
21-30. Report on increasing the affordable homeownership stock over the next 10 years by financing the construction of affordable homeownership units through a bond issue of no less than $500 million.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #1) from 5/3/2021
21-36. Report on developing a holistic plan for managing the traffic and congestion in the Alewife area.
Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-2) from 5/17/2021
21-43. Report on referring the Cambridge HEART proposal for funding consideration and to engage in a public community process to discuss this proposal and its implementation.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan (Calendar Item #1) from 6/7/2021
21-46. Report on the feasibility of purchasing properties for sale in the Alewife area to address City goals.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone (O1) from 6/14/2021
21-50. Report on providing an update on the cost of each license and permit required by businesses, which business license and permit fees are set under state law, which are set by ordinances, and which are determined administratively, as well as which licenses and permits the City has the discretion to waive entirely.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-9) from 6/14/2021
21-60. Report on reviewing the residential parking permit program to determine whether the criteria for this program can be modified to limit the issuance of residential permits to vehicles that are primarily utilized for personal, non-commercial use.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 9/13/2021
21-67. Report on working with the staff at the Cambridge Historical Commission, the DCR Commissioner, and members of Cambridge’s state delegation to approve, fund and execute the design and installation of a suitable historic marker by April 2022 to recognize the vision of Frederick Law Olmsted and others in transforming the Cambridge riverfront landscape.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Zondervan (O-6) from 9/27/2021
21-71. Report on placing a cricket field in one of the Cambridge parks. See Mgr #6
Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-5) from 10/18/2021
21-74. Report on supporting the Uplift the Solar Energy Industry in Massachusetts coalition.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-12) from 10/18/2021
21-94. Report on proposing possible zoning language that would achieve the goals of incentivizing all construction to be fossil fuel free through a possible special permit process.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-1) from 12/13/2021
21-98. Report on Reaffirming Commitment to the Goal of 100% Renewable by 2035.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan (O-5) from 12/13/2021
22-2. Report on meeting with the impacted residents and businesses on northern Massachusetts Avenue to discuss their ideas and suggestions for addressing their concerns.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey (Calendar Item #2) from 1/10/2022
22-7. Report on providing a legal analysis of what uses are currently permitted on the golf course land, information on the history, residency and other demographic information on membership data of golf course users, and any environmental constraints.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem (Calendar Item #1) from 1/31/2022
22-8. Report on determining the feasibility of establishing additional compensation for the City’s essential employees in accordance with the considered State legislation framework.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Toner (O-1) from 2/7/2022
22-13. Report on determining how to better integrate more parent response into their decision-making process as they make changes that can have undue impacts upon the families they serve.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (O-3) from 3/7/2022
22-14. Report on the findings of the “Future of Telework” Committee, and to explain the city’s current policy regarding a remote work policy.
Vice Mayor Mallon (O-5) from 3/7/2022
22-23. Report on providing an analysis of the impact of current curb cut policies, including (but not limited to) an explanation of the administration’s current procedures for notifying and conducting outreach to abutters and neighbors, the criteria for evaluating curb cut applications, and an approximation of the number of residential parking spaces that have been lost to new curb cuts each year over at least the last decade.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Toner (O-8) from 4/11/2022
22-24. Report on determining what repairs to 205 Western Avenue would be needed to inhabit the space to allow the Cambridge Community Center to house their program.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-1) from 4/25/2022
22-29. Report on introducing a pilot program to open two of our youth centers during the evening and weekend hours during the summer.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui (O-1) from 5/9/2022
22-30. Report on adding $1.94 linkage fee to Housing Contribution Rate that is specifically targeted for job training.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern from 5/9/2022
22-33. Report on consulting with the Executive Director of the Council on Aging, Somerville and Cambridge Elder Services, and the Executive Director of Cadbury Common to determine the feasibility of re-establishing some form of the Kate’s Café Monthly LGBTQ+ Community Dinners either at Cadbury Common or at another suitable location.
Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui (O-2) from 5/16/2022
22-35. Report on ensuring that every possible material used in construction projects are as safe and healthy and free of potential toxins as possible, and ensure that all construction and manufacturing vendors commit to disclosing all ingredients and using non-toxic materials.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-6) from 5/16/2022
22-36. Work on Implementing Recommendations from Working IDEAL Report.
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 5/23/2022
22-38. Report on establishing a method of ensuring that anti-bias training is incorporated into the City’s hiring process at all levels.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 5/23/2022
22-40. Report on developing a standardized, transparent, and cohesive community engagement plan for the entire, department-wide municipal government.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 6/6/2022
22-42. Report on directing the appropriate City staff to establish a “community healing initiative” plan to address the issues in our city.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 6/13/2022
22-43. Report on establishing a notification system to all neighborhood residents, regardless of whether they own or rent their homes, within a set area where neighborhood disruptions such as infrastructure work or demolitions are scheduled to occur.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from
22-46. Report on a plan for piloting more street closures for pedestrianization in Harvard Square.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon (O5) from 6/27/2022
22-49. Report on Establishing a Task Force on Cambridge’s African American/Black Residents.
Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 8/1/2022
22-50. Report on establishing Black Men and Boys Commission.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons (O-8) from 8/1/2022
22-55. Report on the status of the long term water projections and on what measures could be taken to conserve water.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O14) from 8/1/2022
22-57. Report on Policy Order to investigate shared EV or Hybrid free bus service.
Councillor Toner, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-16) from 8/1/2022
22-61. Report on communicating to the Cambridge Health Alliance the City Council’s support for the reopening of the Cambridge Birth Center for deliveries as soon as possible and City Council support for the protection of existing birth centers and the creation of new birth centers in Cambridge.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-9) from 9/12/2022
22-64. Report on t detailing how other comparable municipalities handle their street corner dedication processes and on ways to honor those individuals who may not ultimately have a street corner named after them but who nonetheless deserve to have their names and accomplishments recognized.
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 9/19/2022
22-66. Report on a plan to install “Walls of Honor” at each home baseball and softball field honoring past and current coaches and volunteers.
Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 9/19/2022
22-67. Report on necessary preparations for the next Housing Committee meeting in the discussion on potentially allowing multifamily housing to be built citywide.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Simmons (O-6) from 9/19/2022
22-68. Report on touring the facility at 2222 Massachusetts Avenue regarding transitioning the facility into a non-congregate homeless shelter with accompanying services.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (O-10) from 9/19/2022
22-69. Report on a community process on the future use of 105 Windsor Street.
Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (O-11) from 9/19/2022
22-70. Report on the legislation passed by the Somerville City Council banning limited services pregnancy centers.
Vice Mayor Mallon (Calendar Item #3) from 10/3/2022 Committee Report
22-71. Report on convening an advisory group to determine ways in which the City can work to lift up the voices and experiences of the descendants of the Indigenous People who currently reside in our community.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-1) from 10/3/2022
22-73. Report on working with the Law Dept., to automatically provide an initial legal opinion to the City Council and the City Clerk at least three business days in advance of the first Public Hearing on any amendment to the Code of Ordinances formally introduced in the City Council.
Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern (O-7) from 10/3/2022
22-74. Report on installing a new irrigation system in Danehy Park as soon as possible and better prepare for tree watering efforts in the future and report on any needed or ongoing irrigation improvements to other parks across the city.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (O-9) from 10/3/2022
22-75. Report on receiving input from the Vision Zero, Pedestrian, Bicycle Committee, the Council on Aging, the Transit Advisory Committee, the Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board, Cambridge Police Department, and any other departments, to review and revise the Cambridge Street Code, promulgate the updated guide throughout the city, and develop recommendations for staffing and methods of improving traffic enforcement.
Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (Calendar Item #2) from 10/17/2022
22-80. Report on providing a comprehensive list of current Cambridge policies that impact the cost of local commercial and residential development and those that are known to be in the pipeline, to note whether similar policies exist in the neighboring cities of Boston and Somerville.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (Calendar Item #2) from 11/14/2022
22-83. Report on determining how the City could adopt G.L. c. 40, sec. 60B, created under the Municipal Modernization Act, which allows cities and towns, through their respective legislative bodies, to provide for Workforce Housing Special Tax Assessments Zones (WH–STA) as an incentive to create middle-income housing.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (O-16) from 11/21/2022
23-2. Report on the need for a special permitting process for cannabis dispensaries, special permitting fees and bicycle parking requirements that are required of local recreational cannabis dispensaries, to provide a report on how the special permit process, and these requirements may impact these businesses, to determine whether these requirements may need to be modified or eliminated.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner (O-3) from 1/23/2023
23-3. Report on determining the feasibility of purchasing the property located at 37 Brookline Street, former home of Peter Valentine, with the intent of utilizing this as a community arts space.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (O-4) from 1/23/2023
23-4. Report on establishing the framework that will allow for the immediate elimination of the bicycle parking fees imposed upon Economic Empowerment and Social Equity applicants and cannabis dispensary operators.
Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #2) from 2/6/2023
23-6. Report on determining the best ways to promote bike safety with a particular focus on expanding the distribution of bike lights throughout the City.
Councillor McGovern, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zondervan (O-3) from 2/6/2023
23-7. Report on providing publicly-accessible traffic stop, arrest and citation police data on a new Procedural Justice Dashboard.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern (O-4) from 2/6/2023
23-8. Report on exploring additional less-than-lethal alternatives that pose the smallest risk of injury when deployed for standard issue in the Cambridge Police Department.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Toner, Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 2/6/2023
23-10. Report on engaging with community groups and the City’s existing multi-member bodies to design the next iteration of the Cambridge Community Electricity Aggregation program.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-11) from 2/6/2023
23-11. Report on reviewing the current state of mental health resources, particularly for underserved communities, within the Cambridge Health Alliance. See Mgr #2
(O-12) from 2/6/2023
23-12. Report on options of how to increase overnight resident street parking in the vicinity of Rogers Street.
Councillor Zondervan (O-13) from 2/6/2023
23-13. Report on evaluating the feasibility of financially supporting free meals for all students for the School Year 2023/24.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern (O-4) from 2/13/2023
23-15. Report on continuation of Riverbend Park closures on Saturdays and Sundays. See Mgr #7
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor Mallon (Calendar Item #1) from 2/27/2023
23-16. Report on Police Details and the need for having armed vs. unarmed officers and the possibility of having civilian flaggers.
Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Carlone (Calendar Item #2) from 2/27/2023
23-17. Report on the feasibility of automated traffic enforcement as well as using unarmed CPD traffic details for future discussion Automated/Unarmed Traffic Enforcement.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan (Calendar Item #3) from 2/27/2023
23-18. Report on creating a policy that will ensure the City is notified whenever a high-rise building over six floors experiences elevator failures.
Councillor Simmons (O-1) from 3/6/2023
23-19. Report on the feasibility of installing Automated External Defibrillators at all public parks and practice fields, and any other public place as appropriate.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-2) from 3/6/2023
23-20. Report on the feasibility of providing municipally-funded housing vouchers similar to programs in Somerville and Boston.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-6) from 3/6/2023
23-21. Report on funding the HEART initiative and negotiate a contract for services with HEART, to include but not limited to HEART responding to certain 911 calls.
(Calendar Item #1) from 3/20/2023
23-22. Report on providing a license agreement, as well as direct financial and regulatory support for the continued and uninterrupted operation of Starlight Square.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 3/20/2023
23-23. Report on providing a legal opinion which clarifies the state law on zoning petition signature requirements to ensure clarity and lawful deliberation in the future.
Councillor Nolan (O-1) from 4/3/2023
23-24. Report on providing free menstrual products in all gender bathrooms particularly Public Library branches and all city owned buildings.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan (O-2) from 4/3/2023
23-25. Report on developing a three-year plan to expand and improve After School Care. Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 4/3/2023
23-26. Report on reviewing the Citizens Zoning Petition received from Michael Monestime et al. regarding Outdoor Use Zoning for the Central Square Cultural District (AP23#12) for form and content.
Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan (O-5) from 4/3/2023