CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation on the Council Zoning Petition to exempt bicycle parking from gross floor area, Article 2.000. [The Planning Board recommends adoption of the petition as filed.]

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-52, regarding a report on the number of buildings, whether residential, commercial or municipal, using geothermal heating and/or cooling system.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-60, regarding a report on reasons for the traffic-calming installation on DeWolfe Street.

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-53, regarding a report on the obligations of taxi drivers to meet the unique needs of seniors and people with disabilities.  Referred to Health & Environment - Davis

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-61, regarding a report on keeping the main library open on Sundays throughout the summer months.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-59, regarding a report on the enforcement policy of graffiti vandals.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of Lead-Safe Grant (Round 12) Program Income of $9,704.84 to the Grant Fund Community Development Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will increase funds available to control lead hazards in eligible housing in Cambridge.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer in the General Fund of $5,000 from the Employee Benefits (salary adjustment) Salary and Wages account to the Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account to provide additional funds through the end of the fiscal year for the rental assistance program administered by the Multi-service Center.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-55, regarding a report on an information campaign relative to the conversion of TV signals from analog to digital.  Referred to Cable TV, etc. Committee - Davis

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program (EFSP), formerly from FEMA, for $12,000.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used to supplement fuel assistance payments.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $475.00 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account from the Tufts HEAT athletic program which will be used to purchase supplies to enhance the athletic activities offered at the Frisoli Youth Center.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an additional appropriation of the Low Income Heating Assistance Program grant for $39,975 funded by the Department of Health and Human Services to the Grand Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account.

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $2,375,369 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($94,490) and to the Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($2,640,879) and will cover the costs related to serving homeless persons in Cambridge as well as to cover grant administrative costs.

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Summer Food Program grant that is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture through the Massachusetts Department of Education for $151,994 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Salary and Wages account of $46,994 and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account $105,000 and will be used to provide nutritious meals to Cambridge youth at 26 sites throughout the City during the summer months when schools are closed.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-50, regarding a report on reasons for the blackout on March 17th in West Cambridge.

16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-68, regarding a report on the status of testing, and any associated results for pharmaceutical residue in the City's drinking water supply.

May 12, 2008
To the Honorable, the City Council:

In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-68, regarding a report on the status of testing, and any associated results for pharmaceutical residue in the City's drinking water supply, Managing Director of the Cambridge Water Department Sam Corda reports the following:

The Cambridge Water Department had submitted water samples for pharmaceutical residual compound testing. The results have shown there to be NO pharmaceutical residual compounds in the City of Cambridge’s drinking water.

Test Protocol and Results: The water samples were collected on March 24, 2008 by our laboratory staff and the water quality testing involved 86 different pharmaceutical compounds, a greater number than most other water systems chose to test for. Two samples were collected by Water Department Laboratory Staff. The first was our “drinking water” sample (treated water - water leaving the water treatment facility) and the second was our “raw water” sample (untreated water entering the treatment facility). The official results were received on Monday May 5, 2008 and are as follows:

Drinking Water: 86 pharmaceutical residual compound tests were performed - all were negative.

Raw Water: 86 pharmaceutical residual compound tests were performed – 3 were positive.
Carbamazepine 0.001 µg/l (1 part per trillion) – anticonvulsant
Cotinine 0.002 µg/l (2 parts per trillion) – nicotine metabolite
DEET 0.008 µg/l (8 parts per trillion) – personal mosquito spray

These results show that the processes within our Water Treatment Facility are “destroying” the pharmaceutical compounds. This was the same result as found in the research conducted by the American Water Works Association Research Foundation (AwwaRF). The AwwaRF research has found that primary disinfection by “ozonation” is a very effective “destroyer” of these pharmaceutical compounds.

Future Water Quality Testing Plans: The Cambridge Water Department is planning to take another set of samples in September 2008 and compare the results to the March samples. Based on this review the City will define the best time to sample, cold or warm water, and subsequently perform annual sampling and testing of these pharmaceutical compounds.

As a note the cost to perform this round of tests was $2,900.00 ($1,450.00 per sample) to test for 86 different pharmaceutical compounds.

Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager

17. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-34, regarding a report on plans to improve and maintain the MLK Plaza pocket park on Franklin Street between the Central Square Branch Library and the Manning Apartments.

18. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $873,598 from the General Fund School Salaries and Wages account to the School Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($691,630) and to the School Extraordinary Expenditures account ($181,968). In addition, I am requesting a $2,393 transfer in the General Fund from the School Travel and Training account School Extraordinary Expenditures account which include reallocations related to school improvement and professional development plans based on approved detail budget allocations by Principals.

19. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a request for approval for the City to discontinue a portion of Lopez Avenue in order to create additional open space, specifically a park.

CHARTER RIGHT
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-26, regarding a report on how many children with special needs or IEP's Human Services is making for in the after-school programs. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on City Manager Agenda Number Twenty-one of Apr 28, 2008.]  Placed on file under Rule 19 - No action taken

2. That the Ordinance Committee be directed to draft language to rescind Ordinance #1138 regarding posting of handbills and to prepare new language to provide that non-profit organizations and community groups may post flyers on utility poles with contact information and the responsibility to remove the posters after a specific amount of time. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on Order Number Twenty-one of Apr 28, 2008.]  Placed on file under Rule 19 - No action taken

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
3. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Co-Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Nov 18, 2004 for the purpose of considering proposed amendments to Chapter 2.74 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, the Police Review and Advisory Board Ordinance. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 14, 2005. [Four sections of the proposed amendment were passed to be ordained as amended. Ordinance #1284. The remaining proposed amendments to Chapter 2.74 remain on Unfinished Business.]

4. An application was received from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 84 Wadsworth Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No neighborhood association for that area. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Applications and Petitions Number Six of Sept 10, 2007. Sept 17, 2007 - Motion by Councillor Simmons to place on table carried on a voice vote of eight. Mayor Reeves recorded in negative on motion to place on table. Dec 17, 2007 - Referred to 2008-2009 City Council as Unfinished Business on motion of Councillor Simmons.]

5. An application was received from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 360 Memorial Drive between 296 and 120 Vassar Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No neighborhood association for that area. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Applications and Petitions Number Seven of Sept 10, 2007. Sept 17, 2007 - Motion by Councillor Simmons to place on table carried on a voice vote of eight. Mayor Reeves recorded in negative on motion to place on table. Dec 17, 2007 - Referred to 2008-2009 City Council as Unfinished Business on motion of Councillor Simmons.]

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Numbers 06-87, 07-83 and 07-138, regarding the status of putting the City's self-evaluation on the website. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on City Manager Agenda Item Number Sixteen of Dec 10, 2007. Dec 17, 2007 - Referred to 2008-2009 City Council as Unfinished Business on motion of Councillor Kelley.]

7. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a hearing held on Apr 3, 2008 to consider a proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to provide that bicycle parking not be included in the calculation of Gross Floor Area. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Apr 28, 2008. Planning Board hearing held Apr 15, 2008. Petition expires July 2, 2008.  Ordained 8-0-1 (Reeves ABSENT)

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow $8,630,000 to continue sewer projects in the Cherry Street/South Massachusetts Avenue, Agassiz, and Fresh Pond areas of the City. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2008.  Approved 7-1-1 (Kelley NO, Reeves ABSENT)

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow $1,000,000 to fund extensive improvements to the Lafayette Square Fire Station and Fire Headquarters. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2008.  Approved 8-0-1 (Reeves ABSENT)

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow $6,700,000 to fund the replacement of all City and public safety radio systems. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2008.  Approved 8-0-1 (Reeves ABSENT)

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from the Cambridge Arts Council, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at City Hall announcing the 29th Cambridge River Festival on Saturday, June 14, 2008.

2. Approval of constable bond surety received from Daniel F. Long.

3. A second application was received from Prille Brackett, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 171 Lakeview Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works, approval from four abutters and disapproval from four abutters. The neighborhood association abstains.  Amended

4. An application was received from Skikne Enterprises, Inc. d/b/a gnomon copy requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 1308 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department, Historical Commission and abutters.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from the family of Caesar and Florence Zani, transmitting thanks to the City Council for the expression of sympathy for the loss of their parents.

2. A communication was received from Jane Knowles, transmitting gratitude for the resolution passed by the City Council in honor of Jeremy R. Knowles.

3. A communication was received from Susan B. Lit, Chief Operating Officer, Linnaean Corporation/Bentley Publishers Inc., abutter to 1724 Massachusetts Avenue, objecting to City Council approval of the awning at 1724 Massachusetts Avenue on Apr 14, 2008.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Barbara T. (McQuade) Barry.   Councillor Toomey, Councillor Maher

2. Resolution on the death of Helen (Nobis) Capone.   Councillor Maher

3. Resolution on the death of Agnes M. "Brat" (Powers) Kelly.   Councillor Toomey

4. Resolution on the death of Mary A. (McCabe) O'Connell.   Councillor Toomey

5. Resolution on the death of Thadeusz "Teddy" Straube.   Councillor Toomey

6. Retirement of Madeline Amorosi from the Cambridge Public Library.   Mayor Simmons

7. Retirement of Paul J. Schlaver from the Consumer Council/Division of the License Commission.   Mayor Simmons

8. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Jordan Haerter.   Councillor Decker
9. Resolution on the death of Specialist Steven Christofferson.   Councillor Decker
10. Resolution on the death of Specialist Ronald Tucker.   Councillor Decker
11. Resolution on the death of Corporal Jonathan Yale.   Councillor Decker
12. Resolution on the death of Private First Class John Bishop.   Councillor Decker
13. Resolution on the death of Specialist Benjamin Brosh.   Councillor Decker
14. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Clay Craig.   Councillor Decker
15. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Mark Stone.   Councillor Decker
16. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Shaun Whitehead.   Councillor Decker
17. Resolution on the death of Specialist Lance Eakes.   Councillor Decker
18. Resolution on the death of Private Ronald Harrison.   Councillor Decker
19. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Bryan Bolander.   Councillor Decker
20. Resolution on the death of First Lieutenant Timothy Cunningham.   Councillor Decker
21. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Adam Kohlhaas.   Councillor Decker
22. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Adam Marion.   Councillor Decker
23. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Marcus Mathes.   Councillor Decker
24. Resolution on the death of Specialist David McCormick.   Councillor Decker
25. Resolution on the death of First Lieutenant Matthew Vandergrift.   Councillor Decker
26. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Jason Brown.   Councillor Decker
27. Resolution on the death of Captain Andrew Pearson.   Councillor Decker
28. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Ronald Blystone.   Councillor Decker

29. Congratulations to Junot Diaz for winning the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.   Councillor Reeves

30. Congratulations to the students and teachers of Martin Luther King jr. school for representing Cambridge at the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Action for Healthy Kids Legislative Breakfast at the State House.   Councillor Davis

31. Resolution on the death of Hilda Silverman.   Councillor Decker, Mayor Simmons

32. Thanks and best wishes to Father Kevin O'Leary, Pastor of St. Peter's Church, as he takes a new position at Holy Cross Cathedral.   Councillor Maher

33. Resolution on the death of Howard B. Michelson.   Councillor Davis

34. Happy 90th Birthday wishes to Muriel W. Turk.   Mayor Simmons

35. Congratulations to Senator Anthony D. Galluccio on receiving the Massachusetts Alliance of Portuguese Speakers (MAPS) Person of the Year.   Mayor Simmons

36. Appreciation to the Cambridge Police Department Traffic Supervisors/Crossing Guards for their important work in keeping children and adults safe on or across the streets of Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons

37. Appreciation to the members who have served on the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Commission (GLBT).   Mayor Simmons

38. Congratulations to Margaret Thomas, Richard Thomas and Lisa Doberteen, M.D. on their new book "Love & Limits: In and Out of Child Care, What Your Child Care Provider and Pediatrician Want You to Know."   Mayor Simmons

39. Condolences to the family of Allan T. McPherson and appreciation for his bravery and service.   Mayor Simmons

40. Appreciation to all public service employees of Cambridge and those who serve the Commonwealth and the United States.   Mayor Simmons

41. Appreciation to Shirley Papp on the occasion of her retirement.   Mayor Simmons

42. Appreciation to Wayne Ysaguirre, President and CEO of Associated Early Care and Education, for his commitment to children.   Mayor Simmons

43. Appreciation to Lillian Gallaher and Superintendent David Degou, Cambridge Police Department, for their research regarding Allan T. McPherson.   Mayor Simmons

44. Appreciation to Frank Mastromauro, owner of LaGroceria, for his contribution to the vibrancy of Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons

45. Resolution on the death of Lorraine O. "Rainey" (Knowles) Varone.   Councillor Toomey

46. Well wishes to the seniors of Cambridge for an enjoyable MIT Picnic on May 14, 2008.   Mayor Simmons

47. Thanks to collaborators, sponsors and staff for their work in making the Cambridge Science Festival a successful event.   Councillor Davis

48. Congratulations to Odanes Omel on being named the 2008 Taxicab Driver of the Year.   Councillor Toomey, Mayor Simmons

49. Congratulations to the recipients of the Outstanding Employee Awards.   Mayor Simmons

50. Congratulations to Kate Mattes on receiving the Raven Award by the Mystery Writers of America.   Vice Mayor Murphy

51. Happy 50th Birthday wishes to Stephen D'Amato.   Vice Mayor Murphy

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to report on the timetable for installation of the solar panels that the City is installing at the Frisoli Youth Center and the Department of Public Works' Frazier Building.   Councillor Davis

2. That the City Manager is requested to review the policy on the idling of vehicles and transmit to the City Council information on how idling is reduced in taxis, school buses, and fleets of delivery trucks, and city and state vehicles, as well as the number of tickets that have been issued for idling in the past year.   Councillor Davis  Amended

3. That the City Manager is requested to transmit to the City Council information about the inspection program for multifamily buildings.   Councillor Davis

4. That the City Manager is requested to transmit to the City Council a timetable for the temporary and permanent repair of Central Square sidewalks.   Councillor Davis

5. That the City Manager is requested to investigate the possibility of putting a public toilet in the refurbished Lafayette Square Fire Station.   Councillor Davis

6. That the City Manager is requested to ask all City Department Heads to provide in writing, within a designated period of time (i.e., 1 year), Standard Operating Procedures for their department that include details of staff positions, functions, and narrative or step-by-step procedures standard operations and functions.   Mayor Simmons  Referred to Gov't Operations and Rules Committee

7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments on why the youth Hip Hop Concert for Justice sponsored by Centro Presente was cancelled.   Councillor Decker  Amended

8. That the City Manager is requested to locate and provide a total of $66,000 additional funding to CEOC food pantries for FY’09, to cover $60,000 for an increase in food and $6,000 for an increase in fuel costs.   Mayor Simmons and Vice Mayor Murphy

9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the CEO of the Cambridge Health Alliance to provide the City Council a break-down and further detail regarding the FY08-09 budget for staffing/personnel, services, the Cambridge Teen Health Center, Healthcare for the Homeless, Institute for Community Health, Physician Consultation, and Administrative Services.   Councillor Decker

10. That the City Clerk is requested to revise the abutter form used by the City for signs and awnings.   Councillor Davis

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee, for a meeting held on Apr 16, 2008 to discuss the issues involving safe routes to school (SRTS).

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, May 12
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, May 13
6:00pm   The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY09 School Department Budget. This meeting to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, May 14
9:30am   The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY09 City Budget (if necessary). This meeting to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, May 15
1:00pm   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss services in Cambridge for children and their families during early childhood.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, May 19
4:00pm   2008 Scholarship Award Ceremony  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, May 21
5:30pm   The Claims Committee will conduct a public meeting to consider claims filed against the city.  (Anastos Room)

Wed, May 28
5:30pm   Roundtable Meeting with the School Committee to discuss matters relevant to children and youth 0-18. No public comment. No votes will be taken.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 2
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, June 3
12:00pm   The Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss with the Health Department the issues of trans-fats, senior falls and the goals of the committee.  (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)

Mon, June 9
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, June 10
4:30pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance to boundaries of the Massachusetts Avenue Overlay District and to allow by special permit, lots within the overlay district that are zoned BC and have a contiguous portion of the lot in the adjacent residential district, underground parking and increased allowable FAR of 1.60 for hotels, to be calculated using the entire lot area. This meeting to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 16
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 23
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, June 30
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, July 28
5:30pm   Special City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Sept 8
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Sept 15
5:30pm   Roundtable Meeting to discuss matters relevant to School Committee and City Council communication strategies.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Sept 22
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Oct 6
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Oct 20
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Oct 27
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 3
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 10
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 17
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 24
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 1
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 8
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 15
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 22
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 29
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     May 12, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report on the timetable for installation of the solar panels that the City is installing at the Frisoli Youth Center and the Department of Public Works' Frazier Building.

O-2     May 12, 2008  Amended
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the policy on the idling of vehicles and transmit to the City Council information on how idling is reduced in taxis, school buses, and fleets of delivery trucks such as FedEx and DHL, city and state vehicles; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council about who is responsible for enforcement of the idling ordinance and the number of tickets that have been issued in the past year.

O-3     May 12, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to transmit to the City Council information about the inspection program for multifamily buildings: What is the purpose? What fees are involved? How is information transmitted to the public about this program?; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter by the end of June.

O-4     May 12, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: There are many defects in Central Square sidewalks, including missing bricks and cement blocks that are raised, depressed, or spalled; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to transmit to the City Council a timetable for the temporary and permanent repair of Central Square sidewalks.

O-5     May 12, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate the possibility of putting a public toilet in the refurbished Lafayette Square Fire Station.

O-6     May 12, 2008  Referred to Gov't Operations and Rules Committee
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have long been considered a form of best practice in business and government, allowing for the smooth transition of personnel as administrations change, employees shift roles, or unforeseen circumstances occur including natural and unnatural happenings and disasters; and
WHEREAS: It is a burdensome to new personnel filling vacancies, existing personnel who carry the responsibility of training, and the taxpayers who pay for excessive staff hours that could be replaced by appropriate written Standard Operating Procedures that would provide a step-by-step support to the functions of specific employees and departments, and their programs and functions; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager is hereby requested to ask all City Department Heads to provide in writing, within a designated period of time (i.e., 1 year), Standard Operating Procedures for their department that include details of staff positions, functions, and narrative or step-by-step procedures standard operations and functions.

O-7     May 12, 2008  Amended
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments on why the youth Hip Hop Concert for Justice sponsored by Centro Presente was cancelled; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-8     May 12, 2008
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MURPHY
WHEREAS: The rising cost of gas has impacted transportation costs, which has in turn impacted the transport and provision of highly essential foods and product to the food pantries of Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: CEOC food pantries are in dire need of additional funding to support the needed provision of food and product to the impoverished, low income and elderly individuals and families of Cambridge who so desperately rely on these resources; and
WHEREAS: The City Manager’s budget includes an increase of $18,000 which helps address the significant need but is not sufficient to address all outstanding need; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to locate and provide a total of $66,000 additional funding to CEOC food pantries for FY’09, to cover $60,000 for an increase in food provided and $6,000 for an increase in fuel costs.

O-9     May 12, 2008
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the CEO of the Cambridge Health Alliance to provide the City Council a break-down and further detail regarding the Cambridge Health Alliance FY08-09 budget; staffing/personnel, services, the Cambridge Teen Health Center, Healthcare for the Homeless, Institute for Community Health, Physician Consultation, and Administrative Services; and be it further
ORDERED: That this information also include a break-down and further detail of the neighborhood health clinics and explain why only the expenses relative to the Windsor & Gore Street Clinics are included in the budget summary.

O-10     May 12, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to revise the abutter form used by the City for signs and awnings.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee held a public meeting on Wed, Apr 16, 2008 at five o’clock and thirty-six minutes p. m. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the issues involving safe routes to school (SRTS).

Present at the meeting were Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Sam Seidel; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey; Robert Haas, Police Commissioner; Lieutenant Jack Albert, Sergeant Kathleen Murphy, Police Department; Sue Clippinger, Director, Traffic, Parking and Transportation; Susanne Rasmussen, Director, Environmental and Transportation Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); Stephanie Groll, PTDM Officer, CDD; James Maloney, Chief Operating Officer, School Department; Jose Wendell, Health Children’s Task Force; and Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were Deborah Galef, Janice Katz-Christy and Mark Goldberg, Parents; and Samantha Kuntz, student.

Councillor Kelley convened the meeting and explained the purpose. Many people knew about this meeting as he received many e-mails which are attached to this report (Attachments A-J). He chose the time of the meeting so that members of the public could attend. He asked Ms. Rasmussen to give an overview on what the city is doing.

Ms. Rasmussen gave an overview on what the city has been doing on SRTS. Cambridge has a natural environment that makes walking and biking acceptable. Forty-five percent (45%) of residents who work in Cambridge walk to work. Cycling is increasing; it is up 70% in the past five years. Traffic calming includes visual and physical ways to slow traffic and projects near schools get top priority in addition to the City’s efforts to add more overall. A map of traffic calming project locations was distributed. The city works with the School Department on installation of bike racks. School crosswalks are marked and maintained. Flashing lights for 20 MPH are used in all school areas. Public schools are on the map. The travel assistance programs are reviewed yearly by Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Police and School Departments for the crossing guards and their locations. Buses are used for children who travel over a mile to school and for after school programs.

The City also has educational and promotional programs. Cycle Kids is a program implemented by the Police Department. Understanding Bike Safety Program is in six schools and will be added to a seventh. Fourth, fifth and sixth graders participate in this program. The program teaches children to ride bikes and promotes safe cycling. The program will reach all schools. Commissioner Haas stated that if requested by the school, bike safety classes have been offered. The Green Streets Alliance also promotes cycling to school. The Healthy Children’s Task Force implements the healthy living kids program to promote healthier living and follows the 5-2-1 guideline. Councillor Kelley added that school buses cannot be taken by a child after sixth grade unless there is a younger sibling. He asked if there is a reason why private and pre-schools are not on the map. Ms. Rasmussen stated that only public and charter schools are on the map. There are thirteen private schools in the city. Ms. Clippinger stated that traffic calming is being done as opportunities arise, regardless of public or private school. Sergeant Murphy stated that the Police Department responds to complaints or requests for support from all schools.

Ms. Katz-Christy questioned the traffic lights at BBN and the Baldwin School. Ms. Clippinger stated that flashing signals are reviewed for necessity of installation. Different schools have different needs and the City is happy to fill in safety gaps at any school to solve problems, but not just to distribute stuff, so the goal is to tailor the "stuff" to what is needed.

Councillor Seidel asked if SRTS versus infrastructure are differentiated, if the City identifies routes to schools. Ms. Clippinger stated that there is no prioritizing of routes, but they do look at the infrastructure around schools. School choice makes it difficult to designate routes commented Ms. Rasmussen. Mr. Goldberg commented that the "cow path effect" allowed people to see where other people went and to follow them. Ms. Clippinger noted that the closer one is to a school, the clearer the important infrastructure is for children. But there is not much infrastructure difference for a child or an adult, signs need to be 7’ high, norms need to be norms across the board so children will recognize them as they grow up. The City tries to make walking easy for all.

Councillor Kelley stated that SRTS is targeted to urban and sub-urban areas. He distributed a SRTS guide (Attachment K). Mr. Goldberg commented that speed, complexity and non-street routes are areas of concern for SRTS.

Councillor Kelley inquired about a route finder for bike routes. This is still under discussion responded Ms. Rasmussen. This may be a regional system option. She discussed a system that creates a profile based on type of commuter and then plots a route. There is a challenge because of the many one-way streets. Ms. Wendell stated that some one-way streets have a bike lane going the other way. Ms. Rasmussen commented that there are four such streets in the city and that the number of one-way streets the City has can limit "legal" options on the most convenient routes, through there is one on Norfolk Street because Prospect Street is such a tough place to bike.

Ms. Rasmussen also noted that there will be a crossing island at Broadway and bump outs on Cambridge Street. She also stated that curb extensions are always narrower than parked cars. Ms. Katz-Christy commented that curb extensions get in her way when there are no parked cars. Ms. Rasmussen responded that a variety of traffic calming measures is used.

Ms. Katz-Christy asked if there is signage. Councillor Seidel asked are routes prioritized to get more bikes on specific routes for both children and commuters. Ms.

Rasmussen responded that the priority is to make all streets safe for bikes; technology could be used to get the best route to reach a destination. They do not want to force cyclists to go any particular way and often people do not want to bike further than they have to. The computer mapping system would be regional, but it is not clear when it will be available. Councillor Seidel stated that he would be interested in showing bike trip numbers without detours versus cyclists on safer detour routes. The more bikes there are the safe the travel is stated Ms. Rasmussen. Hampshire Street is a direct route that is used by cyclists because it is a desire line. Councillor Kelley asked about flagging safe, popular routes and used the example of the underpass at Yerxa Road and Walden Square – cyclists can travel a long way without using Mass. Avenue; but this is not generally known. MIT and Harvard University have places where cyclists cannot ride a bike. Ms. Galef stated that children should not be encouraged to bicycle on Inman Street or North Beacon. Mr. Goldberg stated that Mass. Avenue has aggressive traffic and he avoids this area.

Ms. Katz-Christy stated that people like her and other cyclists are trend setters; it is important to know the law and to be safe on bicycles. Bikes have as much right to the road as cars. Mass. Avenue is her street and she does not want to be sidelined off to side streets. The Yerxa Road underpass can be a racing strip with cyclist-pedestrian conflicts. Sherman Street is terrible for pedestrians and cyclists due to speeding. Signage that pushes cyclists to the right is problematic. People are "begging" her to be able to bike. She wonders about private school numbers versus public school numbers and the traffic generated by school drop-off and pick-up. Cyclists belong everywhere commented Councillor Kelley. If the focus is on small streets cyclists will not use all roadways. Ms. Katz-Christy stated that people want to cycle, but do not feel safe. The culture is to chauffeur. She would like the City to develop mode split data as it is too personal for other adults to gather. It would be great to have baseline information. Councillor Kelley asked if there is statistics on mode splits to public and private schools. There are only statistics on the school staff responded Ms. Rasmussen. Mr. Maloney stated that school staff lives outside the city and almost drive. BBN parents do not carpool informed Sergeant Murphy. Ms. Rasmussen stated that the Shady Hill School is under the PTDM and must file a report. She explained the PTDM requirement for Shady Hill School. A non-resident facility that increases its parking supply more than 20 spaces must file a PTDM report outlining the non-solo driving mode. The employer needs to do a survey of employees. It is a self-monitoring program monitored by CDD. The Shady Hill School is the first school to do this and it is a difficult site and incentives must be provided for parking facility expansion.

Councillor Kelley stated that DCR stated realigning traffic lights is expensive. DCR uses consultants. Councillor Kelley stated that he put in a CRS regarding the Wendell Street walk light across Mass. Avenue. Ms. Clippinger explained the difficulty. The change is identified. The computer model is check and if acceptable the change is made. All lights on Mass. Avenue would change. This is why it is not so easy to do. Mr. Goldberg commented that the walk light on Walden Street creates more traffic on alternate routes and that there is a ripple effect that pushes traffic onto streets like Raymond Street when traffic calming is done on major streets.

Ms. Wendell suggested moving bike lanes between parked cars and sidewalks. "Bikes First" boxes at lights would be safer for cyclists. There is a need to plan for the future and that there will be a need for more capacity in the long term. Ms. Rasmussen stated that bike lanes between parked cars and sidewalks require more space and impede into parking and travel areas. Ms. Wendell stated that perhaps this would work in areas where there are wider sidewalks.

Ms. Rasmussen informed the committee that most accidents on bike happen in intersections. It is viewed to be unsafe to have bike lanes on the inside between the curb and parked cars.

Councillor Kelley asked about traffic calming on Mt. Auburn Street and the impact on traffic. Ms. Rasmussen stated that when changes are made there are complaints. US drivers’ unfamiliarity with cycling makes things even tougher, but with a larger critical mass of cyclists it may be time to start changing paradigms. The City has removed traffic lanes, such as in Central Square, and while people did complain, the complaints eventually died down.

Ms. Katz-Christy stated that the state or federal SRTS program would like to work with Cambridge The School Department is doing nothing on this; it has slipped down the priority list stated Mr. Maloney. Ms. Clippinger stated that the Mass. based arm of SRTS generally requires that a group of parents be based at the individual schools. Mr. Maloney further stated that Cambridge has a district wide system; children come from all over the city. The demands on school based management, MCAS, school climate, budgeting, etc. makes it difficult to implement a SRTS program. If SRTS floats up from the bottom, it is more likely to work. There is just one person, the Principal, between him and any individual school. Each school has multiple buses and who would coordinate all the different locations and destinations. The problem is from an organizational standpoint because no one is responsible from the community for SRTS commented Councillor Kelley. The state program uses state resources and to be effective someone in community needs to take ownership and responsibility for the program. Mr. Maloney stated that school start time that walking needs to be safer and the cut-off for taking a bus are one mile and one and a half miles depending on the child’s grade. Another issue is that principal turn-over is high. Ms. Katz-Christy stated that Lowell has a city-wide system and that SRTS is working with Lowell public schools. SRTS is a community building experience.

Councillor Kelley stated that if a group of parents were responsible for SRTS would the School Department encourage principals to be involved. Mr. Maloney cautioned that the School Department is its own entity and principals work for the School Department, not the City. Ms. Clippinger stated that the state model wants school based groups, organized and led by parents.

Councillor Kelley spoke about spending for transportation for special needs children. Mr. Maloney stated that in the city outside special needs transportation is an issue.

Councillor Kelley asked what is the best way to keep the conversation going about SRTS. Mr. Maloney stated that School Committee and political buy in is needed and that there are lots of resources with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and the Police Department and so forth. The School Department would work with staff and pilot a program and a school. A core pilot school is needed for the formal state SRTS stated Ms. Clippinger. Mr. Maloney stated that a national or regional model may be too rigid and may require personnel to do report required by the state. Councillor Kelley stated that he does not want to start a program to have it fail. He would get parental involvement.

There was a question about walk signals, to whit Ms. Rasmussen responded that the signals are generally concurrent signals, but that at "T" intersections the lights are often exclusive and that is the case at some specific safety-driven locations. Concurrent signals work better for pedestrians because the wait time is otherwise too long for pedestrians to wait and they jaywalk. "LPI," which is a delayed light for drivers, in many cases puts pedestrians in the crosswalk before cars start to move.

Ms. Katz-Christy suggested simplifying the traffic signs to encourage a bicycling and pedestrian friendly city.

Councillor Kelley thanked all attendees for their participation.

The meeting adjourned at six o’clock and fifty-five minutes p. m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair

AWAITING REPORT LIST
08-25. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report how many children with IEP's receive out of school assistance either written or not written into their plans.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 03/03/08 (O-5)

08-26. Report from the City Manager:
RE: how many children with special needs or IEP's DHSP is making accommodations for in the after-school programs. Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Apr 28, 2008.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 03/03/08 (O-9)

08-34. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #17
RE: report on plan to improve and maintain the MLK Plaza, the pocket park on Franklin Street and the Central Square Branch Library and the Manning Apartments.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 03/03/08 (O-22)

08-38. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on status of CPA funding for this upcoming year.
Councillor Seidel, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/17/08 (O-7)

08-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what process is being followed to develop programs for the new West Cambridge Community Center.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/17/08 (O-15)

08-48. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on public education campaigns and traffic enforcement campaigns to increase bicycling safety.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/24/08 (O-11)

08-49. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing mini-grants for seniors and other low-income residents who might need to purchase flood insurance.
Councillor Maher and Full Membership 03/24/08 (O-14)

08-50. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #15
RE: report on reason for blackout on March 17th in West Cambridge.
Councillor Maher and Full Membership 03/24/08 (O-15)

08-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on policy of managing ad hoc public memorial sites.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 03/31/08 (O-2)

08-52. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #2
RE: report on number of buildings, whether residential, commercial or municipal, using geothermal heating and/or cooling systems.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 03/31/08 (O-3)

08-53. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #4
RE: report on the obligations of taxi drivers to meet the unique needs of seniors and people with disabilities.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis and Full Membership 04/07/08 (O-1)

08-54. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of installing security cameras at the Russell Field athletic complex.
Councillor Kelley, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Maher, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Toomey 04/07/08 (O-2)

08-55. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on information campaign regarding the conversion of TV signals from analog to digital.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 04/07/08 (O-3)

08-59. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #6
RE: report on the enforcement policy of graffiti vandals and how many people have been apprehended.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 04/14/08 (O-1)

08-60. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #3
RE: report on reasons for the traffic-calming installation on DeWolfe Street.
Vice Mayor Murphy and Full Membership 04/14/08 (O-7)

08-61. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #5
RE: report on keeping the main library open on Sundays throughout the summer months.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 04/14/08 (O-9)

08-62. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a line item explanation accounting for every dollar given to the Cambridge Health Alliance.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 04/14/08 (O-10)

08-63. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the Cambridge Health Alliance is maintaining women's health services at the East Cambridge Neighborhood Health Clinic.
Councillor Decker 04/14/08 (O-11)

08-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on an update on the implementation of a trans-fat ban.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-10)

08-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on changes to the intersection of River Street and Mass Avenue to allow more pedestrian crossing time before vehicles are allowed to turn.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-15)

08-66. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the shortage of visitor parking at Neville Center.
Vice Mayor Murphy and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-17)

08-67. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of multiple small holes in the street pavement found in groups on various City streets.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-18)

08-68. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #16
RE: report on the status of testing, and any associated results, for pharmaceutical residue in the City's drinking water supply.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-19)

08-69. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on testing of the Longfellow Bridge and the results of the environmental review.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher & Councillor Kelley 04/28/08 (O-20)