Cambridge City Council meeting - April 25, 2011 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the FY2011 submitted budget and appropriation orders.
Referred to Finance Committee
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a Constable With Power for a term of three years, effective the first day of January, 2011: James Desrosiers
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-39, regarding a report on removing the taxi stand in front of Stellabella Toys in Inman Square.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-29, regarding a report on a review of the traffic calming project at the intersection of Fifth & Gore Streets.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a recommendation from the License Commission to approve the application of Don Quijote Tours to amend their exiting route.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an increase in the appropriation of the Adult Basic Education (ABE) grant received from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in the amount of $2,610.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($2,110.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Travel and Training account ($500.00) and will support organizational membership in the Massachusetts Coalition for Adult Education and program supplies.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an increase in the appropriation of the Cambridge Housing Authority Computer grant received from the Cambridge Housing Authority in the amount of $2,699.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($2,640.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($59.00).
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an additional appropriation of the Temporary Emergency Shelter grant received from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in the amount of $184,930.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($13,000.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($171,930.00).
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an increase in the appropriation of the Pathways grant in the amount of $1,100.00 received from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), Adult and Community Learning Services to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($1,100.00).
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an increase in the appropriation of the Cambridge Prevention Coalition Massachusetts Department of Public Health Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS) grant received from the U.S. Department of Public Health and Human Services in the amount of $75,094.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($15,000.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($60,094.00).
CHARTER RIGHT
1. That the City Manager is requested to begin filing the necessary paperwork with the Federal Railroad Administration to designate the East Cambridge railroad crossings as an official Quiet Zone. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Three of Apr 4, 2011.]
Adopted
2. That the City Manager is requested to relay opposition to additional train service through East Cambridge until a full environmental impact assessment and a public participation process are completed. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Four of Apr 4, 2011.]
Adopted
3. That the City Manager is requested to refer the Seattle Farm Bill Principles to the Food and Fitness Policy Council and ask for a report about how Cambridge should participate in this initiative. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Five of Apr 4, 2011.]
Adopted
4. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Police Commissioner regarding increasing police visibility through more foot and bicycle patrols during the summer. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Seven of Apr 4, 2011.]
Adopted
5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the City Solicitor and other relevant City staff and report back to the City Council with a detailed and formal legal opinion on the ability of 5.28 conversions to bypass use prohibitions in the Table of Uses. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Eight of Apr 4, 2011.]
Failed on voice vote - 5 votes recorded in negative - only Kelley and Cheung in support
6. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the possibility of inclusion of visuals in Cambridge zoning documents to aid in the understanding of requirements and regulations. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Eleven of Apr 4, 2011.]
Adopted
7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the City Solicitor to determine whether the goals of the proposed bill in the Massachusetts House of Representatives Number 00958 (attached) could be accomplished by home rule petition, and, if so, to draft a home rule petition to be returned to the City Council by the City Council meeting of May 2, 2011. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Twelve of Apr 4, 2011.]
Tabled - Seidel
ON THE TABLE
8. That the City Manager is requested to restore funding for School Department clerical positions until a proper and negotiated process can be achieved with the Cambridge School Department and Unions representing the employees, and to report back to the City Council on the progress. [Order Number Fourteen of Apr 26, 2010 Placed on Table. Councillor Kelley made motions to take from table on May 10, 2010 failed 2-7-0, Sept 13, 2010 failed 4-4-1, Sept 27, 2010 failed 3-5-1, Dec 13, 2010 failed 3-6-0. Remains on Table.]
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-32, regarding a report on issues with the development of the former St. John's property site. [Charter Right exercised on City Manager Agenda Item Number Eighteen of May 24, 2010. Placed on Table June 7, 2010.]
10. An application was received from Tony LaVita, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 68 Middlesex Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Applications and Petitions Number Ten of June 7, 2010 Placed on Table.]
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-189, regarding a report on the legitimacy of the tax exempt claim of Education First. [Charter Right exercised on City Manager Agenda Item Number Nineteen of Jan 24, 2011. Placed on Table Jan 31, 2011.]
12. That the City Manager is requested to have the Community Development Department convene a meeting with neighbors in the vicinity of Grove Street and Blanchard Road, the Fresh Pond Master Plan Committee and other relevant parties to review the zoning along the golf course and the Fresh Pond Reservation in that area. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Five of Jan 24, 2011. Placed on Table Jan 31, 2011.]
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Life Alive Urban Oasis & Organic Cafe, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign, seven tables and eighteen chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 765 Massachusetts Avenue.
2. An application was received from Au Bon Pain, requesting permission for a blade sign at the premises numbered 1360 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development, Historical Commission and abutters.
3. An application was received from Ralph Barone, Assistant Property Manager, First Cambridge Realty Corporation, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 13-23 Suffolk Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association.
4. An application was received from George Katsiaficas, requesting permission to realign a curb cut only at the premises numbered 151 Dudley Street (on Jackson Street side); said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association.
5. An application was received from Stuart Moss, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 17 Madison Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association.
6. An application was received from George Davos, requesting permission to relocate an existing curb cut at the premises numbered 71-73 Normandy Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association.
7. An application was received from Cafe Barada, requesting permission for ten-twelve tables and thirty chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 2269 Massachusetts Avenue.
8. An application was received from Merek Franklin, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 136 Fayerweather Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association.
Charter Right - Kelley
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Carl F. Barron, transmitting thanks for the resolution on his speedy recovery.
2. A communication was received from the Department of Public Utilities, transmitting a copy of the Condensed Financial Return for the year ended Dec 31, 2010 for NSTAR Gas Company.
3. A communication was received from the Department of Public Utilities, transmitting a copy of the Condensed Financial Return for the year ended Dec 31, 2010 for NSTAR Electric Company.
4. A communication was received from the family of Robbie Ameral, acknowledging your kind expression of sympathy.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Helen M. Clark. Mayor Maher
2. Resolution on the death of Richard Carl Anderson. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher
3. Resolution on the death of Joseph B. Furtak. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher
4. Congratulations to the staff of Forty Winks on the occasion of the store's one year anniversary. Councillor Cheung
5. Congratulations to David Beisel for his work and investing with early Internet startups and best wishes in future endeavors. Councillor Cheung
6. Resolution on the death of Phyllis M. Norton. Mayor Maher
7. Resolution on the death of Rita J. (Pelletier) Gautreau. Mayor Maher
8. Congratulations to the Central Square Theater on the occasion of 12th Night (of April) celebrating Willful Women on Apr 12, 2011. Vice Mayor Davis
9. Resolution on the death of Timothy F. "Frank" McCusker Sr. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher
10. Resolution on the death of Mary R. (Campbell) Sheehan. Mayor Maher
11. Thanks to the outgoing officers of the Cambridge Democratic City Committee for their service. Councillor Seidel
12. Congratulations to the newly elected officers of the Cambridge Democratic City Committee. Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons
13. Welcome Gather Here, a fabric, yarn and fibers store, to Cambridge. Councillor Seidel
14. Resolution on the death of Teresa A. (Rynne) McCusker. Councillor Toomey
15. Resolution on the death of Kathleen Mary Cuff. Councillor Toomey
16. Resolution on the death of William A. Edes. Councillor Toomey
17. Resolution on the death of Judy Colovos. Mayor Maher
18. Resolution on the death of Cecile Cyr. Mayor Maher
19. Resolution on the death of Lillian "Dolly" (Coleman) Cabral. Councillor Toomey
20. Resolution on the death of Truearia "Trudi" (Weston) Bonislawski. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher, Vice Mayor Davis
21. Resolution on the death of Margaret M. (Cusack) Norton. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher
22. Retirement of Virginia M. Kelley from the Assessor's Department. Mayor Maher
23. Congratulations to Jennifer Dever and Geoff Wood on their recent engagement. Councillor Toomey
24. Resolution on the death of Robert J. Cabral. Mayor Maher
25. Resolution on the death of Dr. William N. Lipscomb. Vice Mayor Davis
26. Thanks to the Cambridge businesses for their generosity and commitment in sponsoring Young Kim's Walk for Hunger. Councillor Cheung
27. Congratulations and best wishes to Alan M. Garber on being named the new Provost of Harvard. Councillor Cheung
28. Best wishes to the Cambridge Athletic Club on the opening of their third location in Tech Square on June 1, 2011. Councillor Cheung
29. Thanks to Henri Termeer, President and CEO of Genzyme Corporation, for his contributions to the City of Cambridge and for his role in making Kendall Square the most innovative square mile on the planet. Councillor Toomey
30. Resolution on the death of David M. Carvalho. Councillor Toomey
31. Resolution on the death of Joao S. da Silva. Councillor Toomey
32. Congratulations to the Cambridge Housing Authority and the graduates of the Tenth Work Force class who will be graduating on May 12, 2011. Vice Mayor Davis
33. City Council support of the YWCA's Stand Against Racism Campaign. Councillor Simmons
34. Urge residents to be cognizant that April is Alcohol Awareness Month. Councillor Simmons
35. Encourage residents to take part in the Cambridge Open Studios events which will be taking place in May at various locations throughout the city. Councillor Simmons
36. Condolences to the family of Mamie E. Barnes. Councillor Simmons
37. Resolution on the death of Linwood Elliott. Councillor Simmons
38. Acknowledge the month of April as Fair Housing Month. Councillor Simmons
39. Acknowledge the week of Apr 23-30, 2011 as National Child Immunization Week. Councillor Simmons
40. Condolences to the family of Professor Manning Marable. Councillor Simmons
41. Acknowledge the 64th anniversary of Jackie R. Robinson's integration of Major League Baseball. Councillor Simmons
42. Congratulations to Deborah Jackson on her appointment as the new President of Cambridge College. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Reeves
43. Best wishes to the participants and organizers of the 25th Annual Cambridge Rindge and Latin School photography exhibit on May 12, 2011. Councillor Simmons
44. Congratulations to Sergeant Kathleen M. Murphy, Officer Brian A. Mushlin, Officer Douglas Murrell, Officer Christopher Samuel, Sergeant Larry K. Clarke, Office Daniel P. Burroso, Officer Marlon H. Rivera, Officer Stephen E. Bikofsky, Officer Philip P. McDavitt, Officer Peter A. Vellucci, Jr., Officer Brendan Pasco, Officer Nicholas J. Mochi, Detective Daniel McNeill and Detective Beth C. Halloran on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's William J. Carroll Letter of Commendation. Councillor Simmons
45. Congratulations to Lieutenant Stephen P. Ahern, Detective Lieutenant Francis T. Boyle, Sergeant Maureen B. Ford, Officer Timothy F. O'Brien and Detective Stephen K, Edwards on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's 25 Years of Service Award. Councillor Simmons
46. Congratulations to Erric Richard, James E. Maybury, Nick Maceus and Jimmy Tingle on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Allen T. McPherson Service Award. Councillor Simmons
47. Congratulations to Detective Daniel McNeil on being awarded the Detective of the Year Award by the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Simmons
48. Congratulations to Officer Bukowe Yam, Officer Craig Labastie, Officer Stephen E. Bikofsky, Officer Steven S. Allen, Officer Raymond R. Pina Jr., Officer Jarred Cabral, Officer Paul Callinan, Officer Christopher Ahern, Officer Andrew Topozoglou and Lieutenant Leonard DiPietro on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Herbert Halliday Lifesaving Ribbon. Councillor Simmons
49. Congratulations to Lieutenant Leonard J. DiPietro, Sergeant John M. Lopes, Officer Michael Daniliuk, Officer David J. Fimiani, Officer John J. Jones, Officer Christine M. Levesque, Officer Nicole A. Pacheco, Officer Christopher M. Ponte, Officer Simon Valentin, Detective Steven B. Magalhaes and Detective Charlotte E. Morris on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Larry Burke Community Services Award. Councillor Simmons
50. Congratulations to Sergeant Kevin P. McGoldrick on the occasion of receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Law Enforcement Award. Councillor Simmons
51. Congratulations to the Officer Timothy P. Lawton on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's William Loughrey Medal of Valor. Councillor Simmons
52. Congratulations to Gladys Martinez on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Non-sworn Employee of the Year Award. Councillor Simmons
53. Congratulations to Officer Stephen E. Bikofsky on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Patrol Officer of the Year Award. Councillor Simmons
54. Congratulations to Deputy Superintendent Lester J. Sullivan and Deputy Superintendent J. Michael Walsh on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Retirement Award. Councillor Simmons
55. Congratulations to Officer Oswaldo R. Ortiz on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Specialist Officer of the Year Award. Councillor Simmons
56. Congratulations to Lieutenant Chris D. Bertolino on receiving the Cambridge Police Department's Superior Officer of the Year Award. Councillor Simmons
57. Happy 50th Birthday wishes to Budget Director David Kale. Councillor Toomey
58. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Quadi Shareem Hudgins. Councillor Decker
59. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Christian Anthony Saracho Garcia. Councillor Decker
60. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jorge Antonio Scatliffe. Councillor Decker
61. Resolution on the death of Major Wesley James Hinkley. Councillor Decker
62. Resolution on the death of Specialist Gary Lee Nelson III. Councillor Decker
63. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Vorasack Thomas Xaysana. Councillor Decker
64. Resolution on the death of Petty Officer 3rd Class Micah Aaron Hill. Councillor Decker
65. Resolution on the death of Sion K. Chambers. Councillor Reeves, Councillor Decker, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Maher
66. Congratulations to Assistant City Manager for Human Services Ellen Semonoff on being appointed by President Obama as a member of the Advisory Group on Prevention, Health Promotion and Integrative and Public Health. Councillor Decker, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Maher
67. Congratulations to Fred and Irene Ireton on their 50th Wedding Anniversary. Councillor Decker
68. Congratulations to Timothy and Catherine Decker on their 40th Wedding Anniversary. Councillor Decker
69. Acknowledge May 22, 2011 as Harvey Milk Day. Councillor Simmons
70. Best wishes to Cambridge Family and Children's Service on their 18th Annual Circle of Friends Gala and Auction on May 11, 2011. Councillor Simmons
71. Resolution on the death of Paul O'Connor. Mayor Maher
72. Congratulations to the Harvard Square Business Association on their centennial year. Councillor Decker
73. Congratulations to Cambridge Fire Department Lieutenant David House, Firefighter Vinroy Paul, Firefighter Joseph Hallissey and Firefighter Gary Plunkett on being awarded the 2010 Heroism and Community Service Award by Firehouse Magazine. Mayor Maher
74. Congratulations to Cambridge Firefighter and Paramedic Reneau Cherant on being awarded the 2010 Heroism and Community Service Award by Firehouse Magazine. Mayor Maher
75. Retirement of William Johnson from the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department. Mayor Maher
76. Resolution on the death of George R. Lund Sr. Mayor Maher
77. Congratulations to Joe Maguire on being honored by Cambridge Family and Children's Services. Mayor Maher
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation with the plan for maintaining service at Lechmere Station through the construction at Science Park and how long the Green Line will be impacted due to these upgrades. Councillor Toomey
2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City department heads to investigate whether it is feasible to install additional lighting in all of the municipal parking lots located in Central Square. Councillor Cheung
3. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development, the Executive Director of the Arts Council and the Executive Director of the Historical Commission with the view of submitting a proposal for the Massachusetts Cultural Council's Cultural Districts Initiative. Councillor Cheung
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City staff and report back to the City Council on the feasibility of allowing property owners to get separate sewerage and water meters so that people are not charged sewerage rates for water used outside the home. Councillor Kelley
Charter Right - Kelley
5. That the regular City Council meeting scheduled for Mon, May 9, 2011 be changed to a Round Table for the purpose of discussing the planning process for Kendall and Central Squares with the Community Development Department and the consulting firm Goody Clancy. Mayor Maher
6. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works about putting trash barrels on Pearl Street, particularly around bus stops and intersections, to deal with littering. Councillor Simmons
Amended
7. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to create a plan which would reduce the overall pedestrian crossing distance of the highway to the relocated Lechmere Station by reducing the proposed number of traffic lanes, either through lanes or dedicated turn lanes, and to work with the MassDOT to implement the plan and report back to the City Council. Councillor Toomey
8. That the City Manager is requested to examine the opportunities for putting white roofs on municipal buildings, including schools buildings. Vice Mayor Davis
9. That the City Manager is requested to report to the City Council on how the city can prepare for heat waves and the opportunities to help low-income residents acquire air conditioners through the help of the public utility and also how the public can turn in the inefficient devices. Vice Mayor Davis
10. That the City Manager is requested to improve the appearance of the ground floor of the First Street Garage by removing the boards and repairing the windows and making other facade improvements as necessary that will enhance the appearance of the streetscape. Councillor Toomey
11. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with a complete and comprehensive list of all concessions made to the City and broader Cambridge community by developers and the universities in exchange for zoning relief, special permits, or Council approval. Councillor Cheung
Charter Right - Reeves
12. That the FY2012 City Budget be referred to the Finance Committee, with the exception that the Budget Overview be postponed to a certain date, that being the May 2, 2011 City Council meeting and will be placed on Unfinished Business at which time the City Manager will give an overview of the FY2012 City Budget. Councillor Decker
13. That the City Manager is requested to review all PILOT agreements with non-profits and institutions in the city. Vice Mayor Davis and Councillor Simmons
Charter Right - Kelley
14. That the City Manager is requested to make the necessary arrangements to have the portrait of Sion Chambers, if available, exhibited in City Hall for a period of reflection and remembrance and also that a short biography of Sion Chambers accompany the memorial. Councillor Simmons and Councillor Reeves
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee for a public meeting held on Mar 3, 2011 to discuss how inclusionary zoning could be used to build additional space for entrepreneurs in the City that does not compete or hinder the options we have currently.
Referred to Unfinished Business - Cheung
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee and Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee for a joint public meeting held on Mar 22, 2011 to discuss the future of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority.
COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from City Councillor E. Denise Simmons, transmitting her withdrawal from the Transportation, Traffic and Parking, Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Human Services, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations and University Relations Committees.
The Honorable David P. Maher
Mayor of Cambridge
Cambridge City Hall
795 Massachusetts Avenue,
Cambridge, MA, 02139
Mar 10, 2011
Dear Mayor Maher,
I am writing to inform you that I would like to withdraw my participation from the following committees of the City Council: Transportation, Traffic and Parking; Neighborhood and Long Term Planning; Human Services; Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations and the Committee on University Relations. A strong commitment to public service is the foundation of my political career, but while I strongly believe in public service, I have come to realize that the number of committees that I sit on has become an impediment to my effectiveness as a City Councillor. And so with much sadness, I kindly request that I be withdrawn from the committees listed above.
Councillor E. Denise Simmons
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Apr 25
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 26
3:30pm The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a follow up public meeting on detrimental city ordinances for businesses in the city. (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm The Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss future of curbside collection of organic waste and decreasing the use of plastic bags. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Apr 28
5:30pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting regarding traffic concerns about the East Cambridge roadways and the Lechmere Station. (Anastos Room)
Mon, May 2
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss creating a program in Cambridge similar to Boston's Department of Urban Mechanics to improve city service delivery. (Sullivan Chamber)
10:30am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss creating a capital budget for the development of internet and mobile based tools. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 3
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm The Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion with the Civic Community Advisory Committee of the recommendations of the Cambridge Review Committee report and implementation of these recommendations. (Ackermann Room)
Wed, May 4
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2012 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 5
4:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion on a zoning petition originally filed by Chestnut Hill Realty and re-filed by the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance by creating a new section that would allow for the creation of rental apartment units in the basement levels of existing multifamily residential buildings in Residence C Districts within 1200 feet of Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge Street or the Red Line. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition by the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance in Section 5.28.2-Conversion of Nonresidential Structures to Residential Use and Section 4.29 clarifying the allowances of additional uses as permissible under Section 5.28.2. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 9
9:00am The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a follow-up public meeting on the current and prospective employers in the city and to discuss the employers that the Chamber of Commerce has contacted. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm Roundtable Meeting to receive an update from the Goody Clancy consultants and Community Development Department on the planning process for Central/Kendall Square area. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 10
6:00pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss (1) update on marijuana use in Cambridge and whether an amendment to the Municipal Code to prohibit smoking marijuana in public places is needed and (2) Cambridge Police Department's plans for maintaining and enhancing public safety during the upcoming summer months. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 11
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2012 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 12
6:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2012 School Department Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 16
4:00pm 2011 Scholarship Award Ceremony (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 17
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 19
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2012 City Budget. (if necessary) This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 25
5:00pm Ordinance Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 6
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, June 7
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 13
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, June 28
3:00pm The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss creating the city's economic development goals. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Aug 1
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Apr 25, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the MBTA is planning improvements to the elevator system at Science Park and the construction will impact service at Lechmere Station; and
WHEREAS: Shuttle buses may be used to continue service at Lechmere during this time; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and report back to the City Council with the plan for maintaining service at Lechmere Station through the construction and how long the Green Line will be impacted due to these upgrades; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to include the Lechmere Station service information on the City website during the time that services are impacted.
O-2 Apr 25, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Currently, municipal parking lots located in Central Square require payment until 10pm; and
WHEREAS: Central Square suffers from a lack of lighting, putting evening parking lot patrons, who have to get out of their cars and walk a long distance in a secluded area to buy a parking ticket, at risk for being robbed and/or assaulted; and
WHEREAS: Many of the Central Square municipal parking lots can be perceived as dangerous; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City department heads to investigate whether it is feasible to install additional lighting in all of the municipal parking lots located in Central Square or whether these before mentioned parking lots can be converted to a meter system, in which patrons don't have to wander around a deserted parking lot to pay for a parking ticket and report back to the City Council with the best course of action.
O-3 Apr 25, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: In July 2010, Massachusetts passed legislation to establish state-designated cultural districts in cities and towns throughout the Commonwealth. The legislation calls for the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC) to carry out this mandate by establishing criteria and guidelines for cities and towns to apply for state-designated cultural districts; and
WHEREAS: The statute that created cultural districts has specific goals: to attract artists and cultural enterprises; encourage business and job development; establish the district as a tourist destination; preserve and reuse historic buildings; enhance property values; and foster local cultural development; and
WHEREAS: Any city or town in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts is eligible to apply for a cultural district designation. Applications with a strong management plan; well-defined strategic goals; a plan to fully utilize local cultural assets through creative programming and marketing; and that include the community's unique history and topography, are likely to be the most successful; and
WHEREAS: The current legislation includes no new funds for grants or other financial rewards to communities - at least in its first year. It does, however, call for the MCC to work with other state agencies to identify any services and programs that would support cultural districts throughout the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS: It is in the best interest of the City of Cambridge to constantly look for new ways to reinvigorate and grow our local economy and the areas of Kendall, Central, Harvard, Lechmere, Inman and Porter Squares would all benefit from the MCC's attention; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development, the Executive Director of the Arts Council and the Executive Director of the Historical Commission with the view of submitting a proposal for the Massachusetts Cultural Council's Cultural Districts Initiative and report back to the City Council.
O-4 Apr 25, 2011
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Water use in Cambridge is equated to sewerage use with the result that water used for irrigation or other outside purposes gets charged towards a bill payer's sewerage bill even if it did not wind up in the sewer; and
WHEREAS: Such extra billing may discourage people from using water from their homes to irrigate public trees or for similar outdoor functions; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City staff and report back to the City Council on the feasibility of allowing property owners to get separate sewerage and water meters so that people are not charged sewerage rates for water used outside the home.
O-5 Apr 25, 2011
MAYOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the regular City Council meeting scheduled for Mon, May 9, 2011 be changed to a Round Table for the purpose of discussing the planning process for Kendall and Central Squares with the Community Development Department and the consulting firm Goody Clancy.
O-6 Apr 25, 2011 Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The appropriate disposal of trash is a public health imperative; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works about putting trash barrels on Pearl Street, particularly around bus stops and intersections, to deal with littering; and be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Public Works Department to pay special attention to the area around the Central Square Library.
O-7 Apr 25, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The Craigie Drawbridge will be reopening to traffic on Apr 26, 2011 at 7:00am; and
WHEREAS: During repairs of the bridge, traffic in the area decreased as a result of commuters finding alternative ways to deal with the closure either through public transportation or alternative routes; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Department of Transportation's (MassDOT) plan for the O'Brien Highway calls for an increase in lanes to handle additional traffic; and
WHEREAS: The bridge closure has proven that, with proper design, traffic in the area can be reduced to more manageable levels; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to create a plan which would reduce the overall pedestrian crossing distance of the highway to the relocated Lechmere Station by reducing the proposed number of traffic lanes, either through lanes or dedicated turn lanes, and to work with the MassDOT to implement the plan and report back to the City Council.
O-8 Apr 25, 2011
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: White roofs decrease the need for air conditioning in the summer; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to examine the opportunities for putting white roofs on municipal buildings, including schools buildings; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council and the Environment Committee on this matter.
O-9 Apr 25, 2011
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The very young and the very old are most vulnerable to extremely high temperatures over a period of many days; and
WHEREAS: One of the most dangerous aspects of climate change is extreme weather such as heat waves; and
WHEREAS: Not all households have adequate air conditioning and many old air conditioners are not energy efficient, raising the electrical load and threatening outages; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council on how the city can prepare for heat waves and the opportunities to help low-income residents acquire air conditioners through the help of the public utility, NSTAR and other sources, and also how the public can turn in the inefficient devices.
O-10 Apr 25, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The ground floor retail space at the First Street Garage continues to be an eyesore along the First Street corridor; and
WHEREAS: The City has recently invested in a First Street reconstruction which will add metered parking along the street; and
WHEREAS: Efforts to make the storefronts more attractive will help to compliment the work the city has already completed and improve the atmosphere at that block for pedestrians and other nearby businesses; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to improve the appearance of the ground floor of the First Street Garage by removing the boards and repairing the windows and making other facade improvements as necessary that will enhance the appearance of the streetscape.
O-11 Apr 25, 2011 Charter Right - Reeves
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge, in all departments and facets, has a long history of championing transparency, accessibility and responsiveness in aspiration of good governance; and
WHEREAS: In that spirit, the City of Cambridge should always aim to improve civic participation through access to information and a continued dialog with the public sector; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council and developers have a long history of working together to achieve community goals and preserve the area's unique charm; and
WHEREAS: Many developers in Cambridge deserve applause for having forfeited some of their goals, adopted city goals, and not pursued pure profit maximization in an effort to support the community; however, this information is not well publicized, acknowledged, or available; and
WHEREAS: Residents should be allowed access to the most up to date development plans for the City. Access to this information would allow them the ability to formulate more knowledgeable opinions on upcoming proposals; and
WHEREAS: Similarly, residents should have access to the most up to date details of community benefits packages associated with any given development; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with a complete and comprehensive list of all concessions made to the City and broader Cambridge community by developers and the universities in exchange for zoning relief, special permits, or Council approval. Such a listing should include the name of the party making said promise, a description of the development and the concession made to the City, and the current status; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate department heads to develop a process and procedures to monitor and oversee future concessions made to the City as a result of zoning or other projects, etc. Said list should be regularly maintained and posted on-line for residents to see what benefits are obtained from development and these institutions.
O-12 Apr 25, 2011
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the FY2012 City Budget be referred to the Finance Committee, with the exception that the Budget Overview be postponed to a certain date, that being the May 2, 2011 City Council meeting and will be placed on Unfinished Business at which time the City Manager will give an overview of the FY2012 City Budget.
O-13 Apr 25, 2011 Charter Right - Kelley
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review all PILOT agreements with non-profits and institutions in the city.
O-14 Apr 25, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to make the necessary arrangements to have the portrait of Sion Chambers, if available, exhibited in City Hall for a period of reflection and remembrance and also that a short biography of Sion Chambers accompany the memorial.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee conducted a public meeting on Thurs, Mar 3, 2011 at 5:05pm the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss how inclusionary zoning could be used to build additional space for entrepreneurs in the City that does not compete or hinder the options we have currently.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Kelley; Councillor E. Denise Simmons; Nancy Glowa, Deputy City Solicitor; Susan Glazer, Deputy Director of Community Development Department (CDD); Pardis Saffari, Associate Planner, Economic Development Division, CDD; Elizabeth Bedell; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.
Also present were Peter Carty, Vice President Real Estate, Genzyme; Charlie Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street; Patrick Rowe and John McQuaid, MIT; Patrick Verbeke, Valti; Terrence Smith, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce; Travis McCready, Kendall Square Association; Jesse Baerkahn, Twining Properties; Michael Grill, 1035 Cambridge Street; Tim Rowe, CIC; and Rich McKinnon, McKinnon and Company.
Councillor Cheung opened the meeting and explained the purpose. There are a number of small companies looking for locations in Cambridge but are deterred because Boston offers cheaper options. Beta House looked for space in Cambridge but could not find any. Cambridge has more demand than supply. . Tim Rowe had an idea of using inclusionary zoning as it is done for housing and applying it to office space. The purpose of this meeting is to try and figure out if there are any avenues, not already thought of, to make business space more affordable and help keep businesses in Cambridge. This is a brainstorming exercise. Councillor Cheung asked Ms. Glazer how inclusionary zoning works and if it could be used for office space.
Ms. Glazer responded that CDD helps small businesses. She cited examples such as site searches and the CDD staff talks to realtors to find available space. Inclusionary zoning is a housing ordinance and was devised during the rent control era. She stated that inclusionary zoning will not be suitable for start-up companies. Chapter 40A states that specific density bonuses can be granted for things such as housing and traffic because these are a public benefit. There is no provision for private benefits. The inclusionary ordinance was preceded by a long study. Time was taken to study and develop the inclusionary housing. Best practices could be reviewed to see if they exist. Inclusionary zoning began in 1998. The state law was amended to provide density for housing for public benefit.
At 5:14pm Councillor Cheung opened the meeting to public comment.
Travis McCready, KSA, appreciates the conversation and stated that is a timely topic. Incubators have gone main stream and are cropping up all over the United States The free market is doing an effective job for incubators. He suggested that the city focus on finding physical space and recycling the space for these incubators. There is a need for 1000-2000 square feet spaces for incubators. He stated that for tech startups the barriers are low; for bio tech the barriers are high and for clean tech startups the barriers are low as well. Not all incubator space is equal.
Ms. Glazer commented that the problem is everyone wants to be in one-quarter mile of MIT or East Cambridge. She commented that maybe the buildings in West Cambridge may suit these businesses. A deterrent for incubators is unlit buildings.
Terry Smith spoke about zoning regulatory issues. Class A, B, and C real estate in Cambridge is being used. There is an underuse of space because property owners choose not to renovate space because of regulatory issues. He stated that the problem is not just the zoning ordinance but it is an issue of existing buildings being under utilized. He stated that there was space in West Cambridge, Concord Avenue and Alewife. He stated that there is a different dynamic for space in Cambridgeport and Main Street. He spoke about incentivizing to use underutilized space. Councillor Cheung asked Mr. Smith if there is a regulation barrier. Mr. Smith responded zoning issues prevent making decisions.
Peter Carty spoke about return on investment. Space becomes too expensive. He suggested that MIT makes space available for rent to incubators. Mr. Smith commented that property owners are charging more because there is more supply.
Mike Grill, 1035 Cambridge Street, stated that his property was renovated 10 years ago with money from Cambridge. The property contains 125,000 square feet of space. It includes 17 companies which employ 40 people. There are 30 different tenants. Currently there is 15,000 square feet of available office space. His property is the cheapest professionally managed office space in Cambridge. The offices are cubicles and are 1/3 to 1/2 the cost of CIC space. He stated that there were obstacles to leasing space. He stated that his property has all the fixings for what is being sought. Mr. Grill stated that he discussed available space with Beta House but the owner had specific needs and that was the reason why he did not come to Cambridge Street. He stated that he is constantly negotiating with companies. Most startup companies have specific needs and specific reasons why they do not come to Cambridge. He outlined the limitations he finds: no redline, the CT2 bus does not run frequently enough, the 69 bus runs great in the morning and at night but not during the day, and real estate taxes. He said that he is charged full rate for vacant space. He suggested reducing real estate taxes. He spoke about issues of parking. There are some free parking spaces around the building but metered spaces have a one-hour limit. He stated that he will have parking spaces taken away if he does not reduce his Single Occupancy Vehicles (SOV).
Mr. Carty stated that he would like to see incubators in every neighborhood in the city. He stated that price is a major problem. Real estate issues attract people to certain areas.
Tim Rowe, CIC stated he has worked on this problem for twelve years. He has a partnership with MIT and has provided space. He pays market rates. He stated that he has found investing heavily in the space improved productivity of the space. He stated that there are 350 startup companies at CIC. There were 91 businesses in his location. He stated that intense designed space can get costs down. Mr. Grill added that he charges $100 per month for his space. Mr. Rowe stated that he is cheaper than Beta House. Mr. Carty added that CIC is a Rolls-Royce; Beta House charges $400-$450 per month.
Mr. Rowe stated that innovation is being held back in Kendall Square because of cost. He stated that "total" cost needs to be considered. He stated that the main issue is office category; not the cost. He explained that CIC made space for Mass Challenge but Boston wanted them and the space was available for five years at a zero cost. Mass Challenge is subsidized. He stated that he cannot give 20,000 square feet of space out for free. He stated that Cambridge lacks an innovation super structure. It is expensive to provide life science space for startups. He also spoke of safety issues. He suggested that the city sponsor machine space for culinary incubations as done in Jamaica Plains.
Rich McKinnon stated that he has worked in development in Cambridge for years. He stated that it is hard to satisfy the PTDM ordinance. He stated that he wanted incubator companies to be encouraged to stay and grow in Cambridge. Companies, he said, have an inherent fear of growth in Cambridge. He spoke about the character and reputation of companies.
Councillor Kelley asked what the city can do to better communicate. He stated that he does not understand the problem of the PTDM ordinance for these businesses. Residents have issues with the PTDM ordinance.
Councillor Cheung stated that the purpose of this hearing is to gather ideas and to put them on the table. Mr. Rowe stated that his company is here without subsidy but is concerned about businesses that are subsidized. He stated that more innovation in Cambridge could not be done by having a subsidy for entrepreneurs rather than a subsidy for space. Mr. Grill added that this is a section 8 voucher program for businesses.
Mr. Rowe stated that space today is cheap. He spoke about a business where the Cambridge option was good, but the Boston option was extremely good.
Mr. McKinnon stated that the only way to be on a level playing field is for Cambridge to move back to the regulations in 1970. Subsidy could be a competitive advantage.
John McQuaid, MIT, stated that he does negotiations for MIT. He stated that MIT provided Mr. Rowe with capital to build out. MIT is not in the business of giving away money or space, he stated. MIT works hard to create the right space for entrepreneurs. A letter of intent was signed for a venture company for One Broadway. Inclusionary zoning works in housing for low income population. A judgment is made on the income level. As a company who decides who is eligible, he asked? Mr. Rowe stated that CIC and Mr. Grill have space.
Mr. Carty stated that people want to be in Kendall Square.
Mr. Rowe commented that there is space in Kendall Square, but not subsidized. He suggested an international exploration to see what is done elsewhere. Incubators he stated are not succeeding.
Mr. Smith stated that more space is needed. There is a risk to a company reputation when it expands. He stated that the Chamber of Commerce supported the PTDM ordinance with the sunset clause.
Mr. McKinnon stated the Kendall Square panache is its location to MIT.
Jesse Baerkahn stated that there is a danger of city government offering consideration with zoning. He stated that there is no real objective standard. He suggested having clearly defined standards.
Tim Rowe stated that entrepreneurs want to be near MIT.
Councillor Cheung explained his concerns with businesses moving to California. Not all businesses can be in Kendall Square. He stated that what is happening is due to the regulations. He stated that this is a fact finding meeting and that there are no clear answers or solutions. He suggested looking at other cities to see what they are doing for inspiration. There are ways to improve in Cambridge. A company moving to California is a capital issue not a space issue.
Mr. Rowe stated that venture capital money will allow 48 start-up companies to rent for free.
Councillor Cheung commented that there is no low-cost bio lab space. Mr. Carty stated that lab space is specialized; it is difficult to add to CIC. Mr. Rowe added that labs are expensive to build.
Councillor Cheung stated that he went to a machine shop in Somerville. He stated that he would like these types of businesses in Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung stated that business in the city should feel that Cambridge is approachable. He thanked all attendees.
The meeting adjourned at 6:33pm.
For the committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Economic Development, Training and Employment and the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committees conducted a joint public meeting on Tues, Mar 22, 2011 at 3:40pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the future of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Seidel, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee; Councillor Cheung, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee; Councillor Kelley; Councillor Reeves; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development (CDD); Estella Johnson, Economic Development Director, CDD; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.
Also present were Joseph Tulimieri, Executive Director, Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA); Dave Pallio, Technical Support, CRA; Walter Jacobs, MIT Investment; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; Charlie Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street; Terrence Smith, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue; Travis McCready, Kendall Square Associates; Professor Gerald Kayden, Harvard University School of Design; Bob Simha; and James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place.
Councillor Seidel opened the joint meeting and stated the purpose. This is a joint meeting because the CRA is an important participant from a planning and economic development perspective in Cambridge. The CRA has a fascinating history. He is looking forward into the future of the CRA. Councillor Cheung stated that the CRA has an impact on the city and its development. How the CRA came together and how should it look going forward will lead to a more thorough understanding. This meeting is a fact finding meeting.
Councillor Seidel stated that Professor Kayden would discuss the decision of the Kelo v. City of New London.
At this time Joseph Tulimieri, Executive Director, CRA provided information about the CRA. He stated that the CRA and Kendall Square are spoken in the same breath. The CRA was established in 1956 by enabling act. The City Manager and the City Council appoint four members; the governor appoints one state member. Over the years there have been several projects administered in the city by the CRA. There were five projects identified as urban renewal projects: Riverview Urban Renewal Project at 221 Mt. Auburn Street, the Rogers Block project on Main Street, Riverside, Cambridgeport and Donnelly Field. These five plans were results of the acquisition of blighted open space areas. The Kendall Square project began as a project of the US government to establish NASA in the city but later became an urban renewal plan. He stated that in the CRA process four approvals are needed: one from City Council, the planning board, the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority, and the Commonwealth of Mass. The original Alewife feasibility study was done by the CRA, but federal funding ran out. A project was done on Third Street - the Broad Canal -- which was a project that the owners of One Broad Canal and One Broadway collaborated. An eminent domain taking was done and was funded by the developer. He stated that the Kendall Square projects as the acquisitions and the locations were done people with skills were packaged. An Electronics Research Center (ERC) was proposed by NASA in the Kendall Square area. NASA transferred its interest in the site in Kendall Square to The Department of Transportation for a transportation systems center in 1970. The CRA has been a service provider for the last 12 years providing service to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the other communities. All of the projects involved yielded 5,000,000 square feet of commercial development, 200 housing units consisting of condos sales and rentals. As a result the Commonwealth of Massachusetts looked at this involvement model to do economic development. There are three models: involvement model which is the CRA model, institutional model which is the MIT and a private developer model and third is just a private developer.
At this time a slide show was presented outlining the history of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority. Mr. Tulimieri stated that under Section 112 housing credits provided up to 1/2 of 1/3 of the cost of the housing project with HUD providing the other 2/3. Incentives such as infrastructure construction, land "write downs, Chapter 121A tax agreements, reduction in taxes on personal property and tax increment financing were used to assist public projects. CRA had a slogan "the best office space in Boston is not in Boston". He explained the importance of zoning, having the developer in place and being ready when the market is hot. He discussed the Urban Renewal Plan Amendments from 1977 - 1980. In 1980 - 1993 Cambridge experienced a building boom. Biotech came to Cambridge beginning in 1993 through 2000. In 1993 there was an urban renewal plan amendment to accommodate the Biogen expansion. There are 190 firms in the biotech cluster. In 2000 Cambridge declared a building moratorium. He gave a brief overview on the following biotech companies: Amgen, Genzyme, Novartis, Whitehead and Broad Institute.
In 2001 the focus was on housing. In Kendall Square, on parcel one, zoning was put in place for residential uses for Third and Binney Streets and the Volpe site. There were 500 units of housing developed by Extell. Housing was constructed in Cambridge Center. Twining Properties developed housing on Third Street and Kendall Crossing built 54 residential units with ten being subsidized. Mr. Tulimieri stated that the projected GFA, by uses, for Cambridge Center is 2.9 million square feet.
He outlined other factors of the Kendall Square. It is the site of an award winning parking garage, roof top gardens and pedestrian walkway from East Cambridge to the Charles River.
Councillor Seidel asked how the CRA works with the city and developers. Councillor Cheung added how CRA works with other property owners.
Mr. Tulimieri responded that the CRA is directed by the City Council to an area for urban renewal. The roll of the authority is to:
Land assembly;
Relocation;
Demolition;
Clearance of buildings and
Marketing strategy.
The relationship is the authority and development. When land is available the authority must indicate its intent to dispose of the land. Once the contract with the developer is in place the CRA is still involved in the process. There is 10+ acres of land in parcel one and two that was converted to commercial development and lab space. The CRA continues to review, monitor and certified that buildings are built in accordance with the plan. If Boston Properties wants to modify first floor space it must go to the CRA for design and review. When there is a building proposal the proposal goes to a design review panel. A Planning Board member serves on the design review panel. The comments of the design review panel are presented to the developer.
Councillor Seidel asked Mr. Tulimieri to explain the assembly, building and planning relationship piece.
Mr. Tulimeri stated that the development plan is a little more than zoning; it includes controls. Kendall Square included development guidelines. Specific plans for generic uses in urban renewal areas can get modified. Master plans get modified. Zoning is modified by the Planning Board and the City Council.
Councillor Cheung questioned Mr. Tulimieri about his experience with the Broad Institute and the modified plan, is this the norm? Mr. Tulimieri stated that GFA is controlled by the Mixed Use Development (MXD) and the urban renewal plan. Councillor Cheung asked what other projects, other than Kendall Square, were successful. Mr. Tulimieri stated that all projects are successful. Dilapidated, slum areas and garages were eliminated by the urban renewal process.
Councillor Kelley stated that he was confused about property ownership. Mr. Tulimieri explained that the CRA owns the property and disposes it. The CRA had oversight over the master plan. The Boston Properties property must be reviewed by CRA and the authority has continuing control over the development.
At this time Councillor Seidel asked Professor Kayden for his comments about Kelo v. the city of New London.
Professor Kayden stated that the Kelo case was controversial. The decision centered on exercising eminent domain powers for economic purposes. He gave a brief outline of the Kelo case. The petitioner Susette Kelo filed suit when the New London Development Corporation (NLDC) began condemnation proceedings of her property. Her property was being taken because it was near a proposed research facility proposed by Pfizer, Inc. Ms. Kelo had made extensive improvements to her property. The petitioners claimed that that taking of their property would violate the "public use" restriction in the Fifth Amendment to the Constitution. The property was not blighted. The case went to the Supreme Court. Ms. Kelo challenged that the taking was not for public use. The proposed taking was to generate jobs and tax revenue. The Supreme Court ruled that this taking was a public use. An outcry of infringement of property rights ensued after this decision was filed. Subsequent to this decision forty states have changed their eminent domain taking laws. However, Massachusetts has made no changes to the eminent domain law. The definition of "blighted" is being considered to tighten up or removed. The economic development for public purposes has been an issue. Councillor Seidel commented that the city is out of the business of taking land for economic development, but could the CRA still do this, he asked?
Professor Kayden responded that the city, the CRA and not for profit corporations all have the authority to take land. Councillor Seidel asked where the money comes from for eminent domain takings. Mr. Tulimieri stated that funding comes from state and federal funds. The CRA can issue bonds and the city backs the bonds.
Councillor Kelley asked if a building structure or use had to be changed when property is taken by eminent domain. When taken a property can be sold or leased responded Professor . Mr. Tulimieri added that in development agreements the disposition of property could be done with conditions.
Councillor Reeves commented that the challenge is to get people to Kendall Square. The next phase of development in Kendall Square is being discussed. Nightlife and weekend life is not vibrant in Kendall Square. He spoke about the vision for Kendall Square. The CRA has not been clear about the vision for Kendall Square. Mr. Tulimieri commented that the Kendall Square urban renewal area is only one part of Kendall Square. The CRA has partnered with the Kendall Square Association (KSA) to market Kendall Square. The CRA has three projects to finish in Kendall Square. The CRA has discussed with Mass. DOT the Longfellow Bridge improvements. Linear Park, from Main Street to Binney Street, will be done in phases. This project is being revisited due to financial concerns.
Councillor Reeves asked if the CRA had a comprehensive vision for Kendall Square. Mr. Tulimieri stated that the master plan framework for Kendall Square had design guidelines. The document has been amended since 1975. This needs to be reviewed again. The CRA has met with design consultants.
In response to a question about the CRA current members, a discussion ensued about state appointed members, vacancies and holdover members.
Councillor Seidel asked what the future of the CRA is.
Mr. Simha commented that every important key development decision has been the result of the political attitude on the part of the City Council when the decision occurred. The initial urban renewal project in 1950 set in motion a comprehensive planning process. The City Council identified things it wanted action on. Some decisions were good, some not so good. He urged the City Council to look hard at all property that comes before the City Council. He outlined the history of the urban renewal plan and the NASA development. There existed a decade of land assembly, location, demolition and economic decline. When the decision was made on how to use the land the contest was fierce. A MXD was required and it was defeated. Now thirty years later you are looking at the results. He cautioned using the CRA proposal. In 1980 there was a comprehensive planning package for East Cambridge. Over the last thirty years there have been four economic cycles in this area alone. He asked how the City Council gets from policy decisions to implementation. He spoke of consolidation of existing companies and not counting on the same economic activity for this area. He urged the City Council to think hard about the decisions made and to give direction to the City Manager.
Councillor Cheung stated that biotech in Kendall Square is putting all the eggs in one basket. Biotech is growing here, but not as fast as the industry standard. Mr. McCready added that Kendall Square verses other clusters - there is a sense of balance in Kendall Square. Kendall Square has a 50% split of technology and biotech companies that other clusters do not have. Cambridge is successful, but wants vitality. Mr. Simha stated that the focus is on economic drivers. The principal driver is the institutions. Graduate students are walking away from the city due to the lack of housing. Ms. Johnson commented that she has compared Cambridge to other communities. Our young people and innovation are being taken away from Cambridge. Everyone is catching up to Cambridge. Young people want a house with a yard.
Councillors Seidel and Cheung thanked all attendees. The discussions will continue. What is built today will be here for thirty years.
The meeting adjourned at 5:30pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair, Neighborhood & Long Term Planning Committee
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair, Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee
AWAITING REPORT LIST
10-50. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on options for amending the ordinance to allow for permitting of civic organizations to use public space after hours.
Councillor Cheung 03/22/10 (O-18)
10-57. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Harvard using the Jesuit properties for affordable housing and whether Harvard will offer other properties in the same neighborhoods for the purpose of developing affordable housing.
Councillor Decker & Councillor Cheung 04/05/10 (O-20)
10-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a standard set of resources, facility privileges, tools, and barebones operating budget the unfunded commissions may use in their work of enacting Council policy.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/10/10 (O-7)
10-89. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a delineation of the boundaries of Joan Lorentz Park.
Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/24/10 (O-11)
10-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on railroad crossing safety policies and procedures, including equipment maintenance and repair in the City of Cambridge.
Councillor Seidel 09/13/10 (O-16)
10-150. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of Cambridge participating in the Bixi bike-sharing program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 10/04/10 (O-6)
10-165. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways the City can work with the MAPC on opportunities related to the $4 million grant award to the MAPC on behalf of the Metro Boston Consortium for Sustainable Communities.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 11/01/10 (O-3)
10-173. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the particular facts and general principles to support affordable housing as part of the mitigation in zoning mitigation negotiations.
Councillor Decker 11/08/10 (O-12)
10-176. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of creating a "Bonding Program" for the purpose of ensuring that a process exists to enable the completion of work on projects where a developer fails to comply with an agreed upon community mitigation agreement. Mayor Maher and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-3)
10-177. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meetings with presidents of Cambridge colleges/universities to work out a proposal that they will pay the tuition and fees for students graduating from Cambridge public high schools.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-7)
10-178. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing an RFP for experimental music venues and space in Central Square.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-8)
10-180. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of developing a formula/mechanism for receiving revenues negotiated during zoning changes and the possibility such revenues generated by a formula for distribution to community based non-profits.
Mayor Maher & Councillor Simmons 11/22/10 (O-12)
10-181. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the current formula that the City uses to calculate linkage payments for large scale projects.
Mayor Maher & Councillor Simmons 11/22/10 (O-13)
10-183. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the state of the law relating to community benefits as mitigation in zoning amendment petitions.
Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-1)
10-184. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of the Cambridge Farmers Market using space for the winter months in the ground floor of the First Street garage or other suitable space.
Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-2)
10-185. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing a "pilot program" for Clean Tech Start-Ups in the first floor of vacant First Street garage.
Mayor Maher and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-4)
10-186. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible options for providing more support for the homeless youth in Cambridge.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-5)
10-190. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing the 311 system in Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/20/10 (O-2)
11-02. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on unfair financial burden placed on same-sex married employees of Cambridge. Referred back by Councillor Cheung on 3/7/2011 for additional information.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor Toomey 01/10/11 (O-3)
11-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possibility of allowing homeowners alternatives to alter flat roof structures to create better rain water runoff collection.
Mayor Maher, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 01/10/11 (O-5)
11-05. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Enterprise Rental using the City sidewalk as a parking lot. Referred back by Councillor Reeves for additional information on 2/14/2011.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 01/10/11 (O-7)
11-06. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the Responsible Employer Ordinance was complied with in regard to the recent bid on water-proofing project in Lafayette Square.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 01/10/11 (O-9)
11-12. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on any foreseeable tax revenue implications of Vertex's decision to leave Cambridge.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor Seidel 01/31/11 (O-4)
11-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what incentives were given to Vertex as part of their relocation deal and evaluate how Cambridge could offer those same incentives to companies it is attempting to lure from out of state to the City.
Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 01/31/11 (O-15)
11-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of retaining the traffic light on Memorial Drive at Magazine Street.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/07/11 (O-3)
11-22. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on SCM funding shortfalls. Referred back for additional information by Councillor Cheung on 2/28/2011
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/14/11 (O-1)
11-25. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on other potential prescription drop off sites around the City.
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 02/28/11 (O-4)
11-27. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on recent trip of Public Safety officials to Israel and on the City's policies regarding the provision of professional development of City officials by private entities.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 02/28/11 (O-20)
11-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible projects that could be completed with the help of Code for America.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-1)
11-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a review of the traffic calming project at Gore & Fifth Streets.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-2)
11-32. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on adding flood lights in the Danehy dog park.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-7)
11-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of using City-installed and City-managed cameras as part of an overall safety program for the immediate Clifton Street area.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-8)
11-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on removing the taxi stands in front of Stellabella Toys in Inman Square at 1360 Cambridge Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/04/11 (O-2)
11-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the safety of nuclear reactors in Cambridge.
Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 04/04/11 (O-10)