Cambridge City Council meeting - Apr 29, 2013 - AGENDA
RECONSIDERATION
1. Councillor Maher has notified the City Clerk of his intention to move reconsideration on the vote taken on Apr 22, 2013 to adopt an order for a curb cut at the premises numbered 16 Channing Street. An application was received from Alberto Cavallo requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 16 Channing Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No neighborhood association for that area. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor vanBeuzekom on Applications and Petitions Number Three of Mar 18, 2013. Applications and Petitions Number Three of Mar 18, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Cheung on Apr 1, 2013.]
Matter Reconsidered. Application Denied again 4-5 (Cheung, Decker, Maher, Reeves - YES; Kelley, Toomey, vanBeuzekom, Davis, Simmons - NO).
Note: City Clerk's record indicates "Order Adopted" - not sure what this means.
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow $2,180,000 to provide funds to supplement other financing sources for improvements to the Cambridge Common.
Passed to 2nd Reading
Agenda Item No. 1A Apr 29, 2013
ORDERED: That $2,180,000 is appropriated for the purpose of financing renovations to the Cambridge Common including the reconstruction and partial realignment of pathways, replacement of benches and trash receptacles, planting of trees, replacement of lighting fixtures and poles, improvements to entryways and any other costs incidental or related thereto; and that to meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the City Manager is authorized to borrow $2,180,000 under Chapter 44 of the General Laws or any other enabling authority.
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow $1,000,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of several streets and sidewalks.
Passed to 2nd Reading
Agenda Item No. 2A Apr 29, 2013
ORDERED: That $1,000,000 is appropriated for the purpose of financing the repair and/or reconstruction of streets and sidewalks on Amory Street and Fulkerson Street; and to meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the City Manager is authorized to borrow $1,000,000 under Chapter 44 of the General Laws or any other enabling authority.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow $54,658,000 to provide funds for construction of sewer separation, stormwater management and combined sewer overflow reduction elimination improvements within the City's Alewife Watershed, Harvard Square, Agassiz, and Cherry Street/South Massachusetts Avenue areas as well as the Sewer Capital Repairs Program.
Passed to 2nd Reading
Agenda Item No. 3A Apr 29, 2013
ORDERED: That $54,658,000 is appropriated, in addition to any amounts previously appropriated, for the purpose of financing the design and construction of the following water pollution abatement projects:
Alewife Watershed Area Sewer Separation and Stormwater Management Project, Harvard Square Sewer Separation and Stormwater Management Project, Sewer Capital Repairs Program, Agassiz Sewer Separation and Stormwater Management Project, Cherry Street and South Massachusetts Avenue Sewer Separation and Stormwater Management Project; including construction of sewer separation, stormwater management and combined sewer overflow reduction elimination improvements within the areas described above;
including without limitation all costs thereof as defined in Section 1 of Chapter 29C of the General Laws; that to meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the City Manager is authorized to borrow $54,658,000 and issue bonds or notes therefore under G.L. c.44 and/or Chapter 29C of the General Laws or any other enabling authority; that such bonds or notes shall be general obligations of the City unless the Treasurer with the approval of the City Manager determines that they should be issued as limited obligations and may be secured by local system revenues as defined in Section 1 of Chapter 29C; that the Treasurer with the approval of the City Manager is authorized to borrow all or a portion of such amount from the Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust established pursuant to Chapter 29C or the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority and in connection therewith to enter into a loan agreement and/or a security agreement and/or financial assistance agreement
with the Trust or the Authority and otherwise to contract with the Trust and the Authority and the Department of Environmental Protection with respect to such loan and for any federal or state aid available for the projects or for the financing thereof; and that the City Manager or any other authorized City official is authorized to enter into a project regulatory agreement with the Department of Environmental Protection, to expend all funds available for the projects and to take any other action necessary to carry out the projects.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow an additional $500,000 to provide funds for improvements to the Kendall Square area including Main Street between Broadway and Ames Street including the reconstruction of streets and sidewalks and the installation of new pedestrian-scale public lighting, street furniture, trees, and other beautification measures.
Passed to 2nd Reading
Agenda Item No. 4A Apr 29, 2013
ORDERED: That $500,000 is appropriated, in addition to any amounts previously appropriated, for the purpose of financing improvements to the Kendall Square area, including Main Street between Broadway and Ames Street, including the reconstruction of streets and sidewalks and the installation of new pedestrian-scale public lighting, street furniture, landscaping and related improvements; and to meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the City Manager is authorized to borrow $500,000 under Chapter 44 of the General Laws or any other enabling authority.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $62,000 from the Water Fund Salary and Wages account to the Water Fund Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account to cover an accidental disability retirement lump sum settlement.
Approved
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $40,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance account appropriation will fund the feasibility study for the Foundry building. Additional, this request is in response to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-87 and 12-105 as well as several other Council Orders related to this matter.
Approved
Apr 29, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am hereby requesting the appropriation of $40,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance account. This appropriation will fund the feasibility study for the Foundry building.
The study will include a review of existing conditions of the structure, building envelope, mechanical and electrical and fire protection systems, and other conditions that may affect the future use of the building.
Preliminary level code-mandated upgrades will be identified as well as improvements consistent with the City's green and fuel efficiency goals, and other improvements that may be responsible investments for a publicly owned building.
The study will also identify project constraints, implementation challenges and probable cost budgets for appropriate re-use which may include public, private or a combination of both.
We anticipate the study will be completed by the end of May 2013.
Additional, this request is in response to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-87 and 12-105 as well as several other Council Orders related to this matter.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
CHARTER RIGHT
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-18, regarding a report on the possibility of voluntary participation of landlords and management companies of multifamily units to provide current and new tenants with a Voter Registration Forms. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Cheung on City Manager Agenda Number Five of Apr 22, 2013.]
Report accepted and referred to Gov't Operations & Rules Committee - Cheung
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-21, regarding a report on the feasibility of including voter registration forms in the annual census mailing. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Cheung on City Manager Agenda Number Six of Apr 22, 2013.]
Report accepted
ON THE TABLE
3. 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.]
4. 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.]
5. 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.]
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item No. 12-28, regarding temporary ramps and obstructions in construction zones. [City Manager Agenda Number Eight of Apr 23, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 23, 2012.]
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-35, which requests a report on whether there were any public safety officers that falsified their emergency medical training re-certification while employed by the City of Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Two of May 21, 2012. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on June 4, 2012.]
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-63 regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Vassar Street. [City Manager Number Twenty-three of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on July 30, 2012.]
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City staff and report back to the City Council on whether a tagging program could be implemented to notify owners of bicycles that have been removed from sign posts by the Department of Public Works and contact information for retrieval of said bicycle. [Order Number Fourteen of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on July 30, 2012. Councillor Toomey recorded in the negative on Tabling.]
10. That the Cambridge City Council go on record urging the members of the Massachusetts Committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling to pass MA House Bill 4165, "An Act Relative to Speed Limits." [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eleven of Nov 19, 2012. Order Number Eleven of Nov 19, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Dec 3, 2012.]
11. That the City Manager is requested to work together with the appropriate city officials including the City Solicitor and report back to the City Council regarding modification of the ordinance (10.12.030) that links the awarding of a one yearlong Visitor Parking Permit per household to the purchase of a $25 Cambridge Resident Parking Permit. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013. Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on Feb 11, 2013.]
12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-90, regarding a report on Executive Session to discuss lawsuits. [City Manager Agenda Number Seven of Feb 25, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Feb 25, 2013.]
13. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to determine the feasibility of implementing a pay-by-phone parking meter program in Cambridge, and report back to the City Council with recommendations as soon as possible. [Order Number Two of Mar 18, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Mar 18, 2013.]
14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-29, regarding a report on the feasibility of not allowing residents of new buildings to obtain on-street resident parking stickers. [City Manager Agenda Number Two of Apr 1, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 1, 2013.]
15. An application was received from Novartis Institute for Biomedical Research requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 181 Massachusetts Avenue/22 Windsor Street (State Street between Windsor Street and Osborn Street); said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Applications and Petitions Number Three of Apr 8, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Apr 8, 2013.]
Order adopted
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
16. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on Apr 3, 2013 to discuss an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to create a new Section 6.100 Bicycle Parking, and to create a new definition for Bicycle Parking in Article 2.000, modify the yard standards in Article 5.000 as they relate to bicycle parking and modifying various sections of Article 6.000 to remove references to bicycle parking. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after May 6, 2013. Planning Board hearing held Mar 19, 2013. Petition expires June 17, 2013.
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for two temporary banners across Massachusetts Avenue at City Hall and across JFK Street at Mount Auburn Street announcing National Poetry Slam Aug 12-18, 2013.
2. An application was received from David Perry, Hines Interests Limited Partnership requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 165 CambridgePark Drive; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association.
3. An application was received from Prellwitz Chilinski requesting permission for a blade sign at the premises numbered 221 Hampshire Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development and abutter.
4. A zoning petition has been received from Jenny Popper-Keizer, et al., requesting the City Council amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map from SD-8A to Residence C-1 in the area bounded by Allston Street to the north, Putnam Avenue to the south, Sidney Street to the west and Waverly Street to the east.
Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board
Cambridgeport Fulmore Park Area Zoning Petition
Whereas the Cambridgeport neighborhood surrounding Fulmore Park is an established and successful residential area consisting chiefly of triple-deckers in wood frame construction; and
Whereas in contrast to the other three sides of Fulmore Park that are zoned C-1 the eastern side is zoned SD-8A; and
Whereas the undersigned petitioners believe that the sanctity of open space should be preserved by having congruous housing around all four sides of neighborhood parks such as Fulmore; and
Whereas it seems increasingly likely that the SD-8A district will be redeveloped at a density which is out of scale with "Residence C-1", and undesired by the abutting community; and
Whereas the undersigned petitioners believe that the livability of the Fulmore Park neighborhood will be greatly enhanced by encouraging small scale residential development and discouraging high-density or non-residential development;
NOW THEREFORE, we the Undersigned respectfully petition the Honorable City Council of the City of Cambridge, to amend the Zoning Ordinance and Map by doing the following:
A. Rezone from SD-8A to Residence C-1 the section of SD-8A bounded by Allston Street to the north, Putnam Avenue to the south, Sidney Street to the west and Waverly Street to the east.
5. An application was received from Robert Pimental requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 320 Webster Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association.
6. An application was received from Hit Wicket requesting permission to change ownership of a pre-existing awning and sign at the premises numbered 1172 Cambridge Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development and abutter.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Saul Tannenbaum, 16 Cottage Street regarding RSS Feeds for the City website.
2. A communication was received from John Hawkinson regarding RSS feeds.
3. A communication was received from Robert J. McGowan, et al. regarding support for the Superior Court decision City of Cambridge v. Fawcett Oil Company, Inc., et al.
4. A communication was received from Doug Hanna and Alex Slive, S+H Construction transmitting thanks for the resolution on winning Remodeler of the year from the Builder's Association (BRAGB).
RESOLUTION
1. Congratulations to Proletariat for being recognized as a Mass High Tech Company to follow by the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
2. Congratulations to Marian T. Ryan on being appointed Middlesex District Attorney. Mayor Davis
3. Resolution on the death of John V. Drinan. Councillor Maher
4. Resolution on the death of Dorothy H. (England) McSheffery. Councillor Maher
5. Congratulations to Jane Taylor, owner of Raw Fitness Performance, on her recent grand opening at 201 Monsignor O'Brien Highway. Councillor Cheung
6. Resolution on the death of Krystle M. Campbell. Councillor Cheung
7. Resolution on the death of Martin Richard. Councillor Cheung
8. Resolution on the death of Lu Lingzi. Councillor Cheung
9. Congratulations to the graduates of the Cambridge Works Program. Mayor Davis, Councillor Reeves, Councillor vanBeuzekom
10. Happy Birthday wishes to Christopher and Herma Parham. Councillor Reeves
11. Thanks to MIT and public safety officials who organized the memorial service for Officer Sean Collier and sympathy to MIT community in this time of loss. Mayor Davis
12. Resolution on the death of William Thomas. Councillor Reeves, Mayor Davis
13. Happy 91st Birthday wishes to Charlie Christo. Councillor Toomey
14. Happy Birthday wishes to Janie Jeffers. Vice Mayor Simmons
15. Thanks to the Cambridge firefighters who were recently commended for their work at the Boston Marathon Finish Line on April 15, 2013. Mayor Davis
ORDERS
1. That the City Council refer to the Ordinance Committee and the Planning Board, for hearing and report, the proposed changes to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance relating to rainwater separation in residential buildings. Councillor Kelley
Approved - Davis voted NO
2. That the City Council looks forward to the French Parliament's historic decision being signed into law by President Francois Hollande as soon as possible, and to other countries across the globe following France's lead. Vice Mayor Simmons
3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department to investigate Cambridge railroad crossing improvements which will allow the City to formally apply to the Federal Rail Administration for establishment of Quiet Zones. Councillor vanBeuzekom
4. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to clarify the expiration date for zoning petitions filed in the City of Cambridge - either 90 days from the date of the first City Planning Board meeting or 90 days from the first City Council Ordinance Committee meeting. Councillor vanBeuzekom
5. That the City Manager is requested to direct the City Solicitor to clarify whether private driveways and apartment garages may be rented to car owners that are unrelated to the property and by what process can these spaces be legally rented. Councillor vanBeuzekom
Charter Right - Toomey
6. That the City Manager is requested to work with all relative departments to apply to the Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) for grants that will fund publicly accessible electric vehicle charging stations; electric vehicles; and hybrid vehicles. Councillor vanBeuzekom
7. That the City Manager is requested to provide to the Cambridge City Council an explanation of how the City of Cambridge Police Department and the FBI work together to collect and share local intelligence information and respond to reports on individuals that are identified as potential terrorists. Councillor vanBeuzekom
Withdrawn by Councillor vanBeuzekom
8. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the City's efforts to develop a working group to review and report on dog park issues in Cambridge. Councillor Kelley
9. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the City's efforts to develop a working group or other commission or committee to review and report on public bathroom issues in Cambridge. Councillor Kelley
10. That the City Manager is requested to assess the progress of the LED Street Light conversion project thus far and report back to the City Council. Councillor Cheung
11. That the City Council formally go on record urging the Cambridge Health Alliance to maintain its Child Assessment Unit and its Adolescent Unit in their current, independent incarnations. Vice Mayor Simmons
Charter Right - Simmons
12. That a location be determined for a dedication ceremony for a long-time Cambridge resident who has contributed much to the City of Cambridge. Councillor Decker, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Maher and Councillor Reeves
Referred to Gov't Operatuions & Rules Committee - Maher
13. That the City Council meeting on May 13, 2013 to be a Special City Council meeting to receive the debriefing of the events at the Boston Marathon and allow the meeting to be televised and allow for public comment. Mayor Davis
Kelley voted NO
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Apr 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Apr 30
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2014 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss any and all issues related to gun safety, including the possibility of a gun buy-back program in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 6
5:00pm Special Presentation thanking all first responders and all public safety officials. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 7
5:30pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss enforcement of loud car radios and motorcycle mufflers. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 9
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2014 City Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
4:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2014 School Department Budget. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 13
4:00pm 2013 Scholarship Award Ceremony (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 14
2:00pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss how technology can be used to connect arts and culture to broader community goals. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 15
2:00pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to review the Cambridge Alert System and any other public notice system used for public safety issues. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 16
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss FY2014 City Budget (if necessary). This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
4:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss a zoning petition from Charles D. Teague, et al., requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance to clarify existing law so that said law can be enforced by inserting text after Section 7.20 Illumination, with the existing text to be retained and labeled as Section 7.23 Lighting Restrictions for Residential Districts. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 22
4:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss a zoning petition from Michael Phillips, et al., requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance to the Special District 2 (SD-2) zoning district in North Cambridge. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 29
6:00pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting for the purpose of developing measures through which immigrants in Cambridge can have improved access to computers and the internet. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, July 29
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 21
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 28
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 25
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 2
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Flat roofs and associated central drains on residential three story homes can lead to more stormwater entering Cambridge's sanitary sewer; and
WHEREAS: These flat roofs may be on homes that have been insulated or otherwise improved for energy efficiency with the result that snow and/or ice during the winter may build up in amounts unanticipated by the original building designers; and
WHEREAS: Climate change appears to be bringing more episodes of heavy snow and rainfall during winter months than was experienced in past years and with clogged drains this results in more buildup of snow, ice and water on flat roofs than may be safe, especially with an energy-efficient building; and
WHEREAS: Retrofitting flat roofs on residential three story houses would alleviate snow, ice and water buildup safety concerns and would decrease the amount of stormwater going into Cambridge's sanitary sewer system; and
WHEREAS: The expensive alteration of putting a pitched roof on a flat roof could be offset by the added value of increasing interior space in the existing home and possible improving other options for room use; and
WHEREAS: The extra height and living space created as a result of installing a pitched roof may negatively impact neighbors; and
WHEREAS: The Special Permit process used for other challenging zoning situations may be appropriate in this case; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council refer to the Ordinance Committee and the Planning Board, for hearing and report, the following changes to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance 5.23 height exceptions:
Section 5.55: Special Provisions for Rainwater Separation in Residential Buildings
In an effort to further the City's storm-water management, modifications to the applicable dimensional requirements of this Article 5.000, in particular regarding FAR and height limitations, may be authorized by Special Permit from the Board of Zoning Appeal for eliminating rain-water from sewer lines
• On residential buildings with a flat (concave) roof, on which a drain pipe collects water from the roof and combines it with household waste-water, discharging into a single outflow pipe to the municipal sewer line
• Provided that the resulting construction authorized by the Special Permit entirely eliminate rain water entry from the concerned roof into said sewer line
• And that said rain water is either recycled or led down to the ground to follow its natural path
A Special Permit may allow the construction of a partial additional level within the following limitations
• Additional height not to exceed 10 ft. above the existing roof line of the building
• Additional FAR not to exceed 20% of the existing FAR of the building
• This addition may not become an independent or separate dwelling from the floor below the roof.
Furthermore, in enhancing sustainable development and alternative energy sources (Article 22), additional positive consideration will be given to "sensibly green" projects that improve the (a) use of passive solar heating, convective cooling, seasonal shading with natural plants, (b) harvesting and/or using rainwater at the roof level or floors below, (c) planting flowering bushes and vegetation attractive to pollinating insects at the roof level, (d) maximizing the use of natural light, and (e) harmonization of the new roof profile with surrounding buildings.
O-2 Apr 29, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
RESOLVED: That the City Council formally go on record congratulating France for recently expanding the list of nations that allow same-sex couple to marry, bringing the total number to fourteen; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council looks forward to the French Parliament's historic decision being signed into law by President Francois Hollande as soon as possible, and to other countries across the globe following France's lead.
O-3 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Federal law allows communities nationwide to diminish the effects of train horn noise by establishing Quiet Zones; and
WHEREAS: In a Quiet Zone a railroad company is directed to cease the routine sounding of locomotive horns when approaching railroad crossings that intersect with public streets; and
WHEREAS: Many residents are disturbed, especially late at night, by train horns that are blown to warn residents; and
WHEREAS: Localities desiring to establish a Quiet Zone are first required to mitigate the increased risk caused by the absence of a horn by reviewing the scope, requirements, and costs involved with improving each crossing's safety; and
WHEREAS: There is a maximum of six roadway/rail crossings located within the City of Cambridge; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department to investigate Cambridge railroad crossing improvements which will allow the City to formally apply to the Federal Rail Administration for establishment of Quiet Zones; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council regarding this request.
O-4 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to clarify the expiration date for zoning petitions filed in the City of Cambridge - either 90 days from the date of the first Planning Board meeting or 90 days from the first City Council Ordinance Committee meeting; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council regarding this request.
O-5 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Some city residents and property owners have a private driveway parking space or a private rental unit parking space that they do not personally require; and
WHEREAS: Some rental properties may have overbuilt parking and therefore have excess capacity; and
WHEREAS: Parking in the City of Cambridge is often a challenge and a creative solution to this challenge is to lease unused parking spaces; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the City Solicitor to clarify whether private driveways and apartment garages may be rented to car owners that are unrelated to the property and by what process can these spaces be legally rented; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council regarding this request.
O-6 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The State of Massachusetts has unveiled a new $2.5 million program aimed at providing grants to municipal fleets that are purchasing electric or plug-in hybrid passenger vehicles, as well as to support the installation of electric vehicle charging stations; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) will be administered by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and will offer grants up to $7,500 per electric vehicle and up to $15,000 per publicly accessible electric vehicle charging station; and
WHEREAS: Over the lifetime of an electric vehicle, the owner can reduce fuel consumption by more than 6,000 gallons of gasoline, reduce fuel costs by thousands of dollars, and cut reliance on foreign oil; and
WHEREAS: This incentive program is intended to increase the use of zero-emission and plug-in hybrid vehicles that will provide significant air pollution emission reductions; and
WHEREAS: This program will support the state's aggressive emission reduction goals set to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 and 80 percent by 2050; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with all relative departments to apply to the Massachusetts Electric Vehicle Incentive Program (MassEVIP) for grants that will fund publicly accessible electric vehicle charging stations; electric vehicles; and hybrid vehicles, (application due date is June 30, 2013); and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council regarding this request.
O-7 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide to the Cambridge City Council an explanation of how the City of Cambridge Police Department and the FBI work together to collect and share local intelligence information and respond to reports on individuals that are identified as potential terrorists.
O-8 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the City's efforts to develop a working group to review and report on dog park issues in Cambridge.
O-9 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the City's efforts to develop a working group or other commission or committee to review and report on public bathroom issues in Cambridge.
O-10 Apr 29, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has been estimated that by 2015, energy-saving light emitting diode (LED) lamps will be leading the way in providing cost-effective, environmentally-friendly, and energy-conserving lighting solutions to municipalities across the nation; and
WHEREAS: Most recently, the San Francisco Bay Area has led the charge in a regional effort to upgrade over 200,000 municipal street lights to LED technology, which will lead to over 50 percent energy savings over existing infrastructure; and
WHEREAS: On Oct 15, 2012, City Manager Healy announced the first phase of the LED Street Light conversion project, the goal of which was to convert approximately 6,400 street lights and 575 park lights to LED over the next three fiscal years; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to assess the progress of the LED Street Light conversion project thus far and report back to the City Council.
O-11 Apr 29, 2013 Charter Right - Simmons
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: It has come to the City Council's attention that the Cambridge Health Alliance, in a cost-cutting measure, is planning to consolidate its Child Assessment Unit, which treats children ages 3 to 12 who suffer from acute mental illness, with its Adolescent Unit, which treats young adults ages 13 to 19. There is a great concern that this consolidation will negatively impact the level and availability of treatment for all children, who have come to rely upon this facility for its exemplary care, and that Cambridge children under the age of 8 will have no local facilities to turn to for care, should this measure come to pass; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council formally go on record urging the Cambridge Health Alliance to maintain its Child Assessment Unit and its Adolescent Unit in their current, independent incarnations, so that the families of Cambridge will continue to be well served; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Patrick Wardell, Chief Executive Officer of the Cambridge Health Alliance, on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-12 IN CITY COUNCIL April 29, 2013 COUNCILLOR DECKER COUNCILLOR TOOMEY COUNCILLOR MAHER COUNCILLOR REEVES ORDERED: That a location be determined for a dedication ceremony for a long-time Cambridge resident who has contributed much to the City of Cambridge; and be it further ORDERED: That this be forwarded to the Dedication Committee to determine the steps necessary to carry out the intent of this order.
O-13 IN CITY COUNCIL April 29, 2013 MAYOR DAVIS WHEREAS: On April 22, 2013, the City Council voted to schedule a Roundtable to receive a debriefing on the tragic events at the Boston Marathon and the events that followed on April 18-19, 2013; now therefore be it ORDERED: That the City Council meeting on May 13, 2013 to be a Special City Council meeting to receive the debriefing of the events and allow the meeting to be televised and allow for public comment.
AWAITING REPORT LIST
12-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the no left turn on the Cambridge Common and to remove the bicycle prohibition on certain streets, such as Whittemore Avenue. Referred back for additional information on 3/5/2012.
Councillor Kelley 02/13/12 (O-17)
12-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improper leases and rental of owned affordable housing units. Reconsideration filed by Councillor Toomey on 6/11/2012. Report referred back to City Manager for more information on motion of Councillor Toomey on 6/18/12.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/19/12 (O-3)
12-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of finding additional office space for the City Council.
Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/23/12 (O-5)
12-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on current status of the Inlet Bridge and what steps the City can take to ensure that agreements with the Commonwealth are upheld.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 05/21/12 (O-1)
12-71. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of converting the vacant lots at the corner of Watson and Brookline Streets and at 35 Cherry Street to community gardens or open space.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 06/04/12 (O-10)
12-78. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on expanding the number of Cambridge parks/playing fields with public toilets. Referred back to the City Manager on 6/18/12 on motion of Councillor Kelley.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-5)
12-81. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meeting with No. Mass Avenue neighbors, businesses and neighborhood groups about whether additional alterations to the median strip would be appropriate.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-9)
12-87. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #6
RE: report on the potential uses of the Foundry Building.
Councillor Toomey 06/04/12 (O-19)
12-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the installation of lower and decorative lighting along Cardinal Medeiros Avenue.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-6)
12-104. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on data requested on the Andrews Petition during an Ordinance Committee hearing last term that has not yet been received.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-34)
12-105. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #6
RE: report on answering questions regarding the Foundry Building in order to move the community process forward.
Councillor Cheung & Councillor Toomey 07/30/12 (O-35)
12-106. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on facilitating affordable housing opportunities for middle class families.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-13)
12-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the number of Cambridge residents that are working as part of organized labor on development projects along with the percentage of minority and women members and what sort of communication takes place with the Rindge School of Technical Arts and local Unions.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-14)
12-109. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what strategies other cities have used to dissuade land-banking.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-21)
12-115. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on making accommodations for voters when elevators are not working or there are other barriers at polling locations on election days. Referred back for additional information by Councillor Decker on 10/22/2012. Further report provided and referred back by Councillor Decker on 11/5/2012.
Councillor Decker, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/24/12 (O-6)
12-123. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on suggestions to control the rodent population.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/22/12 (O-3)
12-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of finding additional secure locations for the disposal of prescription drugs.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-4)
12-126. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of ensuring all city sponsored committee hearings (such as the E-gov committee) are available online.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-6)
12-128. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a pilot program for installing mini exercise stations on major walking routes throughout the City.
Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 11/19/12 (O-1)
12-129. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installation of additional public drinking fountains working in conjunction with the Arts Council on interesting designs.
Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 11/19/12 (O-2)
12-130. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing a process to promote universal design and visitability in all Cambridge Public buildings.
Mayor Davis and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-3)
12-132. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on incorporating permanent bathroom facilities at the Cambridge Common; conduct a study for permanent bathroom facilities in all public squares; and provide a list of all locations where portable bathroom facilities are currently used.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Vice Mayor Simmons 11/19/12 (O-8)
12-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on preparing language to amendment the Municipal code banning polystyrene-based disposable food containers.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-10)
12-136. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a plan of action to reinforce and secure restaurant bins in a way that separates food waste for composting.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-14)
12-137. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on an analysis of the entire past election of wait times and strategies for what would be necessary to reduce wait times to less than 10 minutes and on making information available on wait times at polling locations throughout the day. Referred back for more information by Councillor Decker on 12/17/2012.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 11/19/12 (O-16)
12-140. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on special permit process pursuant to MGL 40A as it relates to the impact of refiling a zoning petition on pending special permits for special permits that have been granted.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 11/19/12 (O-9)
12-150. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on convening a task force to look into the creation of providing permanent public restrooms at high volume locations such as public parks and squares.
Mayor Davis 12/10/12 (O-16)
12-152. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing a reduced small business parking rate for local business owners at city garages.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 12/17/12 (O-1)
12-153. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to ban tandem tractor-trailers from entering the city with a view in mind of requiring large freight vehicles of a certain size to transfer freight to a smaller vehicle before entering the city.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 12/17/12 (O-4)
12-154. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the sale of the Sullivan Courthouse including what zoning changes will be needed and reasons for Leggat McCall being chosen as the developer.
Councillor Toomey 12/17/12 (O-9)
12-156. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on preparing language to create a Pathway Overlay District.
Councillor Toomey 12/17/12 (O-12)
12-157. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the cost, user price, and payback period if Cambridge were to build its own broadband network
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-8)
13-04. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the City's plans for the property located at 205 Western Avenue.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-6)
13-09. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving logistical challenges of deliveries and trash removal to and from businesses as they related to adjacent residents.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 01/14/13 (O-11)
13-12. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of participating in the Code for America Peer Network.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 01/28/13 (O-6)
13-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meeting with NSTAR officials to establish a firm timeline for maintenance and replacement plans for the transformers and electrical systems that serve the city to ensure that local businesses and residential communities are fully serviced.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 02/11/13 (O-5)
13-17. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing mobile applications related to snow removal and operations information.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-2)
13-19. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on refining procedures to uphold existing ordinances that prohibit the reservation of cleared on-street parking spaces by placing objects in the spots.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-4)
13-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of including voter registration forms in the annual census mailing.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-6)
13-24. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on assessing the feasibility of necessity of utilizing the services provided by the Springfield Data Center and MassGIS's Oliver mapping tool.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 02/25/13 (O-11)
13-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on applying for the Code for America Fellowship Program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/04/13 (O-1)
13-32. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what flooding, drainage, sightline, maintenance and traffic flow issues exist at Linear Park and who is responsible for addressing them.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 03/04/13 (O-7)
13-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of adding a RSS feed options to all of the City's websites. Referred back to the City Manager by Councillor Cheung on 4/22/2013.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 03/04/13 (O-8)
13-34. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the current investigate of the murder of Charlene Holmes.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 03/18/13 (O-1)
13-35. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans to publicize the upcoming special election.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/18/13 (O-5)
13-37. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of installing fiber-optic conduits when doing sewer reconstruction.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor Toomey 03/18/13 (O-7)
13-38. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on measures Cambridge can take to prevent the transport of ethanol.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/18/13 (O-8)
13-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of implementing a "Don't Block The Box" policy for Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-4)
13-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways in which the Cambridge Works Program might affiliate itself with Building Pathways, an intensive program sponsored by the Boston Building Trades Council.
Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-5)
13-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on conferring with SuperTours as to the feasibility of altering their bus tour route to one that provides more interesting sightseeing opportunities to tour participants while improving the quality of life of residents of Cambridge Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-8)
13-42. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of shortening the traffic light cycle times at the intersection of Broadway and Ames Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-10)
13-43. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how Cambridge can include a participatory budgeting portion in the 2014 budget.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 04/01/13 (O-12)
13-45. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the taxi and livery industry can modernize its services, provide heightened customer service, and protect drivers.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/08/13 (O-9)
13-46. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the procedures in place for when Inspectional Service inspectors are on vacation or extended sick leave so that projects that need inspecting are not delayed.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/08/13 (O-10)
13-47. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of updating the Library's room usage policy to allow for an online calendar and request system.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/22/13 (O-2)
13-48. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of providing City Councillors with more Exchange server space to send, receive and store emails.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/22/13 (O-3)
13-49. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on recommendations for the next steps on updating the City's nexus study.
Councillor Cheung 04/22/13 (O-10)