Cambridge City Council meeting - April 23, 2012 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the FY13 submitted budget and appropriation orders.
Referred to Finance Committee - Decker
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $124,000 received from Harvard University to the Community Development Public Investment Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account to be used to pay for the purchase of two additional Hubway bike share stations, holding 10 bikes at each of the two stations.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $50,000 in medallion revenue to the License Commission Grant Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used to provide funding for the Accessible Cambridge Taxicabs (ACT) Management Program which manages and oversees all accessible vehicles in the City and coordinates and monitors services to seniors and persons with disabilities.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an increase in the appropriation of the Center for Families Children's Trust Fund grant in the amount of $7,000.00 to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used by the Center for Families to support family programs targeting parents of children up to six years, which include a variety of family support and parent education programs and resources. The additional funds will also be used for consultants, food and program supplies.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Temporary Emergency Shelter grant received from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in the amount of $34,141.73 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used to subcontracted to the Cambridge YWCA.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a donation from the Welstead family in the amount of $1,000.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used by the Center for Families to support two field trips for the program's participating families.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-39, regarding a report on the condition of the sidewalks in the Kendall Square area.
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item No. 12-28, regarding temporary ramps and obstructions in construction zones.
Tabled - Kelley
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the acceptance of Sections 18 and 19 of Chapter 188 of the Acts of 2010 which establish a local option to increase the maximum base amount on which the cost-of-living adjustment is calculated.
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to proposed revisions to Article 2, Section 2.24.050 of the Cambridge Municipal Code (the "Code") relative to the fees charged by the City Clerk for a Domestic Partnership Application.
Passed to 2nd Reading
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Police Review & Advisory Board for a term of five years, effective Apr 17, 2012:
Ann Coyne
Laurance Kimbrough
Lucy Murray-Brown
12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Board of Zoning Appeals effective Apr 18, 2012:
Lindsey Thorne-Bingham (Full Member, 5-year term)
Janet Green (Associate Member, 2-year term)
Andrea Hickey (Associate Member, 2-year term)
Kevin McAvey (Associate Member, 2-year term)
13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Human Rights Commissioner for three year terms effective Apr 18, 2012:
Brendan St. Amant
Adrian Velazquez
14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $13,000 from the General Fund Mayor's Office Travel and Training account to the General Fund Mayor's Office Other Ordinary Maintenance account to cover current and anticipated supply, service and other costs for the remainder of the fiscal year.
15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $11,917,462 from Free Cash to the General Fund Law Department Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account.
Referred to Finance Committee - Kelley
Apr 23, 2012
To the Honorable, the City Council:As I have informed the City Council previously, the disbursement of funds for the legal matters resulting from the 1998 Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination claim was paid from the Statutory Budget Category of "Travel and Training" (Judgment and Damages), and, that the City's Free Cash balance of over $102 million dollars would be the source of these funds. In order for that Statutory Budget Category to conclude Fiscal Year 2012 "in balance" it is necessary to appropriate the funds from Free Cash to Judgment and Damages.
Thus, I am hereby recommending the appropriation of $11,917,462 from Free Cash to the General Fund Law Department Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a recommendation that the City Council vote to approve the transfer of the Prince Hall Memorial monument from the Friends of Prince Hall Memorial Fund to the City of Cambridge, and to authorize me to accept the monument on behalf of the City on such terms and conditions as I deem appropriate and necessary.
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.]
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Simon's Coffee House requesting permission for three tables and six chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 1736 Massachusetts Avenue.
2. An application was received from Moksa LLC requesting permission for eight tables and thirty-two chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 450 Massachusetts Avenue.
3. An application was received from Yoki Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar requesting permission for a sign and an awning at the premises numbered 485 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development and abutters.
4. A zoning petition has been received from CJUF III Northpoint LLC to amend certain provision of the City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance that govern the Planned Unit Development in the North Point Residence District.
5. An application was received from Park Restaurant and Bar requesting permission for a blade sign at the premises numbered 59 JFK Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development, Historical Commission and abutter.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from John J. McGlynn transmitting sincere thanks for the resolution.
2. A communication was received from Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street regarding traffic issues on the Apr 9, 2012 Council Agenda.
3. A communication was received from Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street regarding City Manager Report #6 of Apr 9, 2012.
4. A communication was received from the Department of Public Utilities, transmitting a copy of the Condensed Financial Return for the year ended Dec 31, 2011 for NSTAR Gas Company.
5. A communication was received from the Department of Public Utilities, transmitting a copy of the Condensed Financial Return for the year ended Dec 31, 2011 for NSTAR Electric Company.
6. A communication was received from Kevin Mannering and Quinn Popcorn, 220 Renfrew Street, Arlington requesting the Cambridge City Council help in the efforts to promote the local economy by aiding the market in its relocation efforts.
7. A communication was received from MacKenzie Clark, Field Associate, Environment Massachusetts transmitting thanks for signing onto their letter in support of S 1664: An Act Improving Neighborhood Solar and Net-Metering in the Commonwealth and H 1776: An Act Relative to Net-Metering.
8. A communication was received from Claire E. Griffin transmitting thanks for the City Council resolution on the passing of her husband Edward.
9. Additional information distributed by Brad Bellows, 87 Howard Street, relating to population density and risk near nuclear reactors.
10. Pictures received from Gregg Moree of the Honey Fitz Presidential Yacht.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Patricia A. "Trisha" (DiRusso) Cusack. Councillor Maher
2. Speedy recovery wishes to Donna Layne. Vice Mayor Simmons
3. Speedy recovery wishes to Reverend Irene Munroe. Vice Mayor Simmons
4. Retirement of Theodore V. Whitney from the Cambridge Fire Department. Mayor Davis
5. Retirement of Paul Cokely from the School Department. Mayor Davis
6. Retirement of Helen Ford from the School Department. Mayor Davis
7. Resolution on the death of Russell G. McCollem. Councillor Toomey
8. Resolution on the death of Mary "Marie" (Camerato) Rita. Councillor Maher
9. Appreciation to Estella Johnson for her service to the City of Cambridge. Vice Mayor Simmons
10. Resolution on the death of Robert M. Young. Councillor Toomey
11. Resolution on the death of Timothy J. Decker. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Maher, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Toomey and Councillor vanBeuzekom
12. Resolution on the death of Dennis J. Edwards. Councillor Reeves
13. Resolution on the death of Joen E. Greenwood. Mayor Davis
14. Resolution on the death of Corinne Hawkins. Councillor Reeves
15. Resolution on the death of Francis Harte. Councillor Reeves
16. Resolution on the death of Marjorie Wade. Councillor Reeves
17. Happy 60th Birthday wishes to Charito Suarez. Councillor Reeves
18. Congratulations and thanks to Dr. Kenneth I. Guscott, former Honorary Consul at Boston, for his many years of service to the Jamaican Consulate in Boston. Councillor Reeves
19. Congratulations and thanks to Ms. Patricia Farr, former Honorary Vice Consul at Boston, for her many years of service to the Jamaican Consulate in Boston. Councillor Reeves
20. Best wishes to Brittni Reilly as she leaves her position as Site Coordinator/Americorps National Direct for Project LIFT. Councillor Decker
21. Best wishes to Jan van der Kuijp in his future endeavors and thanks for his work with Cambridge's Project LIFT. Councillor Decker
22. Best wishes to Rilwan Ajayi as he leaves his position as Site Coordinator/Americorps National Direct for Project LIFT. Councillor Decker
23. Happy Birthday wishes to former Cambridge City Councillor and State Representative Saundra Graham. Vice Mayor Simmons
24. Congratulations to Just-A-Start Corporation, Bunker Hill Community College, the Cambridge Community Development Department and the Cambridge Office of Workforce Development for the accomplishments achieved in the Cambridge Biomedical Careers Program. Councillor Toomey
25. Congratulations to the American Repertory Theater on being named the Best Theater Company by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
26. Congratulations to Elizabeth Warren on being named the Best Local Politician by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
27. Congratulations to Flour Bakery on being named the Best Bakery by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
28. Congratulations to the Phoenix Landing on being named the Best Sports Bar by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
29. Congratulations to Mr. Bartley's on being named the Best Burger by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
30. Congratulations to the Anna's Taqueria on being named the Best Burritos by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
31. Congratulations to Friendly Toast on being named the Best Diner by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
32. Congratulations Punjabi Dhaba on being named the Best Indian Restaurant by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
33. Congratulations to Koreana on being named the Best Korean Restaurant by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
34. Congratulations Ole Mexican Grill on being named the Best Mexican Restaurant by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
35. Congratulations to the Middle East on being named the Best Middle Eastern Restaurant by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
36. Congratulations to Theolonious Monkfish on being named the Best Sushi/Sashimi Restaurant by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
37. Congratulations to Veggie Galaxy on being named the Best Veggie Restaurant by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
38. Congratulations to Lorem Ipsum Books on being named the Best Used Bookstore by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
39. Congratulations to Mint Julip on being named the Best Women's clothing Store by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
40. Congratulations to the Wet Paint Nail Spa on being named the Best Manicure/Pedicure by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
41. Congratulations to Inman Oasis on being named the Best Massage by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
42. Congratulations to Pandemonium Books & Games on being named the Best Nerd Store by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
43. Congratulations to Garment District on being named the Best Vintage Clothing Store by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
44. Congratulations to ImprovBoston on being named the Best Comedy Club/Night by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
45. Congratulations to Flat Top Johnny's on being named the Best Place to Play Pool by the Boston Phoenix readers' selection of "The Best" of Greater Boston Places and Establishments. Councillor Reeves
46. Congratulations to Ramsey Beckett on receiving a Certificate of Achievement in the 2012 Princeton Prize in Race Relations program. Councillor Reeves
47. Thanks to the individuals and organizations that are participating in the Sustainable Seafood Teach-In on Apr 29, 2012. Mayor Davis
48. Declare Fri, Apr 27, 2012 as Arbor Day in the City of Cambridge. Mayor Davis
49. Congratulations to the recipients of the Annual Fair Housing Month Awards which will take place on Apr 25, 2012. Mayor Davis
50. Congratulations to the honorees of the 9th Annual Social Innovator Showcase at the Microsoft New England Research & Development Center at One Memorial Drive. Mayor Davis
51. Happy Birthday wishes to a special Cantabrigian. Mayor Davis
52. Congratulations to the 2012 recipients of CASPAR's Annual Community Celebration Awards. Mayor Davis
53. Thanks to the Rindge and Latin School community who have made the excellence of the school possible. Mayor Davis
54. Congratulations to dwelltime coffeebar and bakeshop on their new location at 364 Broadway. Mayor Davis
55. Congratulating Breakthrough Cambridge on their 20th Anniversary. Councillor Cheung
56. Congratulating Vice Mayor Simmons on her new role as a Democratic State Committee member. Councillor Cheung
57. Thanking Mr. Feld for his compliments toward the start up companies in Cambridge. Councillor Cheung
58. Congratulating Novartis on expanding their Cambridge campus. Councillor Cheung
59. Congratulating David H. A. LeBoeuf on being elected to the Democratic State Committee. Councillor Cheung
60. Resolution on the death of Phoebe (Vitoria) Correia. Councillor Toomey
61. Resolution on the death of Eric T. Christo. Councillor Toomey
62. Resolution on the death of Ralph Saya. Councillor Toomey
63. Happy Birthday wishes to Doris Bascomb. Councillor Reeves
ORDERS
1. That the FY2013 City Budget be referred to the Finance Committee, with the exception that the Budget Overview be postponed to a certain date, that being the Apr 30, 2012 City Council meeting and will be placed on Unfinished Business at which time the City Manager will give an overview of the 2013 City Budget. Councillor Decker
2. That the City Manager is requested to require immediate removal and responsible destruction of the insecticide imidacloprid and any insecticides within its possession that are in the class of insecticides called neonicotinoids. Councillor vanBeuzekom
3. That the City Manager is requested to urge all relevant City departments to assist in the Das Haus project which consists of technology to help decrease energy use in buildings of all types and to promote associated events. Mayor Davis
4. That the Cambridge City Council go on the record thanking Mr. Brad Bellows for his thoughtful and informed questions and MIT for its responsiveness and engagement of the topic of nuclear safety concerns. Mayor Davis
Referred to Public Safety Committee - Kelley
5. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the feasibility of converting portions of the 4th floor of City Hall, or some other under-utilized building space already owned by the City, into finding additional office space for the eight members of the City Council who do not currently have office space within City Hall. Vice Mayor Simmons and Councillor Cheung
6. That the matter of Reconsideration in Rule Sixteen of the revisions to City Council Rules be referred to the Government Operations and Rules Committee for review. Councillor Maher
Amended and Referred to Gov't Operations & Rules Committee
7. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Law Department to report back to the City Council on how the City Council may incorporate the use of electronic communications technology in the conduct of its business, including the parameters of and prerequisites for such use. Councillor Cheung
8. That the City Manager is requested to have the Parks and Urban Forestry Division of Public Works Department to allow the water for fountains and gardens to be turned on at the earliest possible date of the year and shut off at the latest possible date of the year. Councillor vanBeuzekom
9. That the City Manager is requested to investigate with city staff and prepare a report on how to establish an Community Choice Aggregation Network which will engage in electricity procurement for the entire City of Cambridge. Councillor vanBeuzekom
10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to determine if Cambridge can take similar steps towards being re-certified to regulate basic cable costs in the City of Cambridge and to report back to the City Council. Councillor Toomey
11. That the regular City Council meeting scheduled for Mon, May 7, 2012, be scheduled as a Roundtable with the Election Commission, the Kids' Council and the student School Committee members to discuss issues related to elections. Mayor Davis
(Councillor vanBeuzekom motion to amend to strike the word Roundtable and insert the word Special failed 2-6-1)
COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Patricia A. Berry, Executive Secretary to the School Committee, transmitting a copy of an order from the School Committee recommending the FY13 General Fund Budget of the Cambridge Public Schools be adopted in the sum of $144,987,705.00.
Referred to Finance Committee
2. A communication was received from Mayor Henrietta Davis regarding the response to Apr 9th Policy Order #2 on the Cambridge Housing Authority.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Apr 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting [Proposed budget submission] (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 24
5:30pm The Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss water conservation and energy efficiency as it pertains to the treatment and distribution of Cambridge's water and associated costs. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Apr 25
4:00pm Roundtable Meeting to receive an update from Goody Clancy and the Community Development Department on the Kendall Central Study. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Apr 26
2:30pm The University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting to plan the agenda for the committee for the 2012-2013 term. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting [Budget Overview] (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 2
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY2013 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 7
5:30pm Roundtable Meeting with the Election Commission. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 9
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY2013 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 14
4:00pm 2012 Scholarship Award Ceremony (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 15
4:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the petition of Forest City/MIT to amend the Zoning Ordinance by extending the Cambridgeport Revitalization Development District from Green Street out to Massachusetts Avenue in the area adjacent to Blanche Street and further to provide for the potential development of a residential building on Sidney Street between Massachusetts Avenue and Green Street. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 16
6:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY2013 School Department Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 17
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY2013 City Budget (if necessary). This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
2:00pm Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 21
5:30pm City Council Meeting [Budget Adoption] (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 23
4:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the petition to amend the Zoning Ordinance by adding to Section 5.50 entitled "Special Dimensional Regulations" a section 5.54 entitled "Special Regulations for Municipal Elementary and Middle (K-8) Schools. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 24
2:30pm University Relations Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, June 5
10:00am The Government Operations and Rules Committee will conduct a public meeting to review the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority's relationship with the city, how the CRA was set up and who is the CRA's governing body. (Ackermann Room)
Wed, June 6
4:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the petition from the Planning Board to rezone the North Massachusetts Avenue area. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 11
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 25
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, July 30
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Apr 23, 2012
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the FY2013 City Budget be referred to the Finance Committee, with the exception that the Budget Overview be postponed to a certain date, that being the Apr 30, 2012 City Council meeting and will be placed on Unfinished Business at which time the City Manager will give an overview of the 2013 City Budget.
O-2 Apr 23, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Associate Professor Chensheng Lu, Department of Environmental Health, at Harvard School of Public Health and colleagues announced on Apr 5th, 2012 that they have convincing evidence linking the phenomenon in which worker bees from a honey bee colony abruptly disappear (called Colony Collapse Disorder) to a commonly used insecticide called imidacloprid; and
WHEREAS: University Researchers in the United Kingdom also published this link between imidacloprid and Colony Collapse Disorder in March of 2012; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge uses this insecticide or an equivalent on the municipal golf course; and
WHEREAS: The Precautionary Principle, otherwise known as "employing avoidance of exposure as a risk management framework to manage persistent uncertainties"; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to require immediate removal and responsible destruction of the insecticide imidacloprid and any insecticides within its possession that are in the class of insecticides called neonicotinoids; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to explore and report back to the City Council the legal and logistic possibility of banning the use of this class of insecticide by anyone within the City of Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on this topic before the next City of Cambridge Request for Proposal bid cycle for all services that include insecticide applications.
O-3 Apr 23, 2012
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The energy efficiency pavilion called Das Haus is coming to Cambridge from June 18-27, 2012 and will be displayed at MIT on Vassar Street; and
WHEREAS: Das Haus is a project of the German-American Chamber of Commerce to display cutting-edge technology to help decrease energy use in buildings of all types; and
WHEREAS: MIT is hosting the pavilion and community partners including MIT will develop public programs to maximize the learning opportunities provided by Das Haus; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to urge all relevant City departments to assist in the Das Haus project and promote associated events.
O-4 Apr 23, 2012
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: In the aftermath of the April 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami that crippled the Fukushima nuclear power plant, the City Council asked the City Manager to address any nuclear safety concerns in the City of Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The City Manager responded to the City Council on May 23, 2011 indicating that the City's Fire and Police Departments work closely with MIT's Nuclear Reactor Laboratory, which is a research reactor and operates at about 1/500th of the power of a typical commercial power plant that generates electricity; and
WHEREAS: The City Manager's report also indicated that MIT's reactor is inspected regularly by state and federal authorities, all operators are trained and certified, and the Fire Department is satisfied with the safety and engineering protocols of the facility; and
WHEREAS: The City Council's Cable TV, Telecommunications & Public Utilities Committee held a public meeting on Sept 13, 2011 to further discuss the safety of MIT's reactor at which time MIT was asked to respond in writing to the questions raised; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Brad Bellows, who attended the public meeting, followed up with further questions submitted to the City Clerk, and the report of the Cable TV, Telecommunications & Public Utilities Committee meeting was submitted to the City Council, along with MIT's answers to the questions on Dec 12, 2011; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Brad Bellows followed up with further questions to which the City Council asked MIT to respond, and MIT provided further attached responses to the City Council on Apr 9, 2012; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on the record thanking Mr. Brad Bellows for his thoughtful and informed questions, including those related to MIT's desire to convert to the use of Lower Enriched Uranium (LEU) from Higher Enriched Uranium (HEU); and be it further
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record thanking MIT for its responsiveness and engagement on this important topic, and encourage MIT to redouble its efforts to assist the Department of Energy as it works to resolve technical issues related to LEU fuel development; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to transmit suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to Mr. Brad Bellows and the MIT Nuclear Reactor Laboratory encouraging the parties to continue a direct dialogue with one another, as needed, on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-5 Apr 23, 2012 Amended
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Along with the growing prevalence of voice mail, electronic mail, and cell phone technology over the past two decades, the pace of work in municipal government, as in all other areas of life, has been significantly accelerated and amplified. This has led the role of the Cambridge City Councillor to, by necessity, grow and evolve with the times; and
WHEREAS: As a consequence of this evolution and increased activity, the demands and expectations placed upon Cambridge City Councillors in 2012 are more substantial than they were even a generation ago; and
WHEREAS: At one time, it may have been reasonable to expect our elected officials to adequately discharge their duties from private offices, with City Hall being used mainly for City Council meetings, various other public meetings, and large private conferences, but this is no longer the case; and
WHEREAS: City Councillors now host regular meetings in City Hall with local business owners, prospective land developers, liaisons from the local educational institutions, liaisons from other governments, and most importantly, with their constituents. The need to locate and book space for these meetings becomes increasingly challenging as the number of meetings expands, and the resulting office shuffle can be disorienting to elected officials, support staff, and those they are meeting with; and
WHEREAS: This increased usage of City Hall, coupled with a constituent base that has come to question why they cannot routinely find their elected representatives working from within City Hall in a fixed location, suggests that the need for the City Councillors to have dedicated office space has become too apparent to ignore; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the feasibility of converting portions of the 4th floor of City Hall, or some other under-utilized building space already owned by the City, into finding additional office space for the eight members of the City Council who do not currently have office space within City Hall.
O-6 Apr 23, 2012 Amended
COUNCILLOR MAHER
WHEREAS: Several Cambridge City Council Rules may require revision; and
WHEREAS: Rule 14 has a typographical error in the second sentence; the word "be" should by "by" and correcting the typographical error would make the readability of the rule clear; and
WHEREAS: Revisions are needed to Rules 7, 15, 18, 22, 24 and 34 to provide gender neutral language; and
WHEREAS: City Council Rule Sixteen relates to reconsideration and states any member may move reconsideration; and
WHEREAS: Rule Sixteen is not consistent with Robert's Rules of Order on reconsideration which states that reconsideration can only be made by a member who voted on the prevailing side; now therefore be it and
ORDERED: That the matter of Reconsideration in Rule Sixteen of the City Council Rules be referred to the Government Operations and Rules Committee for review.
WHEREAS: Rule 21 outlines the requirement of recording roll call votes reflecting the votes of individual members and revision of this rule to identify not only the presence of a voting member and recording in the minutes how each member voted on a particular topic is needed; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the matter of the City Council Rules noted above be referred to the Government Operations and Rules Committee for review.
O-7 Apr 23, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Residents commonly expect that the City of Cambridge, heralded as it is an international capital of innovation and intellect, should constantly seek to improve on its use of technology and community involvement in its service to the common good; and
WHEREAS: Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised 11th Edition, which the City Council is now operating under, includes provisions for electronic meetings including video, audio and teleconferencing; and
WHEREAS: That Attorney General has set guidelines related to the use of technology in the open meeting law; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Law Department to report back to the City Council on how the City Council may incorporate the use of electronic communications technology in the conduct of its business, including the parameters of and prerequisites for such use.
O-8 Apr 23, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Most Cambridge City playgrounds and parks have water fountains with delicious Cambridge drinking water; and
WHEREAS: The fountains, water features and water for community gardens is shut off and drained in late Fall to prevent damage to pipes; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge residents and visitors to Cambridge parks enjoy having water available to drink and garden with in as many days that are possible within the season; and
WHEREAS: In Cambridge the last frost date is generally Apr 21st and the first frost day is generally Oct 30th; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to have the Parks and Urban Forestry Division of Public Works Department to allow the water for fountains and gardens to be turned on at the earliest possible date of the year and shut off at the latest possible date of the year; and be it further
ORDERED: That a report on this topic is prepared and presented back to the City Council prior to Memorial Day, the traditional Spring water turn-on day for the City of Cambridge.
O-9 Apr 23, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: A Community Choice Aggregation Network is a system adopted into Massachusetts state law [MGL Chapter 164: § 58 & 247] in 1997 that enables local governments to pool, or aggregate, the electric loads of residents, businesses and municipal facilities to make possible the purchase and sale of electrical energy; and
WHEREAS: Our modern electrical system contains three parts: the generation of electricity (power plants, wind farms, photovoltaics), the transmission of electricity (high-voltage lines) and the distribution of electricity (neighborhood transformers and substations); and
WHEREAS: A Community Choice Aggregation Network obtains an electricity generator portfolio that meets the needs of the community while using the existing electricity provider for transmission services and distribution services; and
WHEREAS: There are many reasons that a community chooses to develop a Community Choice Aggregation Network. Two specific reasons being 1) to purchase electricity from a cleaner energy supply that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and 2) to purchase electricity at a lower rate; and
WHEREAS: Currently, nearly one million Americans in over 6 different states benefit from receiving electricity through a Community Choice Aggregation Network; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Cape Light Compact company is a local example of a Community Choice Aggregation Network within the state of Massachusetts that is successfully serving Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard electricity consumers; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities approved on Apr 5, 2012 the merger between Boston's NSTAR and Northeast Utilities of Connecticut -- a merger that will create New England's largest utility; and
WHEREAS: The current cost (Apr 1, 2012) of the basic NSTAR electricity rate is 7.928 cents per kilowatt hour and the NSTAR Green electricity rate is 14.185 cents per kilowatt hour; and
WHEREAS: The merger of these two companies includes a rate freeze through 2016 for NSTAR customers that may be helpful to residents, yet these rates are still (as noted by the US Energy Information Administration) the highest rates in the United States. It is likely that the rates offered by this company will continue to rise in the future; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council has a desire to decrease costs of electricity to consumers by providing the most affordable rates possible; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate with city staff and prepare a report on how to establish an Community Choice Aggregation Network which will engage in electricity procurement for the entire City of Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the final report of this investigation be referred for a discussion in a meeting of the Environment Committee.
O-10 Apr 23, 2012
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the FCC has ruled that the City of Boston should be re-certified to regulate cable television costs due to a lack of competition in the area; and
WHEREAS: Comcast is currently the only cable provider in the city of Cambridge; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to determine if Cambridge can take similar steps towards being re-certified to regulate basic cable costs in the City of Cambridge and to report back to the City Council.
AWAITING REPORT LIST
12-02. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the repair of all street lights that are not working in Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 01/23/12 (O-1)
12-08. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on instituting a ban on plastic bags.
Councillor Decker, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 01/23/12 (O-10)
12-12. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on zoning changes for the Sullivan Courthouse and neighboring parcels.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 01/30/12 (O-7)
12-16. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether there is sufficient funding for a successful farmers' market season.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/06/12 (O-4)
12-18. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on implementing EBT and debit card machines for city-wide use.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/06/12 (O-6)
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)
12-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the ownership status of the Cambridge Street overpass and on the abilities of universities and other organizations to close off property owned by them but enjoyed by the public.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/13/12 (O-6)
12-25. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing a process which would require developers seeking zoning relief to build a model of the area impacted by the proposed developments.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/13/12 (O-12)
12-26. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on resurfacing the courts at the Jimmy Johnson Street Hockey Rink and providing lighting for the playing area.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher & Vice Mayor Simmons 02/13/12 (O-13)
12-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on mechanism to include temporary ramps and more visible paint of obstructions in an effort to make construction zones safer for pedestrians and bicyclist.
Councillor Kelley 02/13/12 (O-16)
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)
12-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a plan for implementing separate trash or recycling curbside pick up for small businesses along existing curbside pick up routes.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/05/12 (O-1)
12-35. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether there were any public safety officers that falsified their emergency medical training re-certification while employed by the City of Cambridge.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 03/05/12 (O-3)
12-37. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installing traffic calming measures on Norfolk Street between Broadway and Hampshire Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/05/12 (O-7)
12-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the condition of the sidewalks in the Kendall Square area.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 03/19/12 (O-2)
12-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improper leases and rental of owned affordable housing units.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/19/12 (O-3)
12-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what additional measures could be taken to improve the amount of municipal green purchasing by city government, including at the school department.
Mayor Davis, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/19/12 (O-4)
12-42. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on reevaluating pedestrian safety concerns at the intersection of Coolidge Avenue and Mt. Auburn Street and the x-shaped intersection where Mt. Auburn crosses Fresh Pond/Gerry's Landing.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/19/12 (O-6)
12-43. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility and desirability of developing an off-leash dog park in or nearby Area 4.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/19/12 (O-9)
12-44. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the proposal by Global Oil LLC will impact Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/19/12 (O-10)
12-45. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on testing all city-operated community gardens for toxins in the soil.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/19/12 (O-15)
12-46. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the accident at the corner of Dover Street and Massachusetts Avenue. Referred back by Councillor Kelley for more information at meeting of 4/9/2012.
Councillor Kelley, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/26/12 (O-3)
12-47. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on legal requirements for public notices and meetings of the Planning Board and Board of Zoning Appeals.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 04/02/12 (O-2)
12-48. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of expanding LED lighting across the City.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/09/12 (O-6)
12-49. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the paving materials used by Boston on their crosswalks as well as the data in the Jacobs Report.
Councillor Cheung 04/09/12 (O-10)