Cambridge City Council meeting – May 15, 2006 – AGENDA
CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $116,070 received from the Zylon Litigation Settlement Fund to the Grant Fund Extraordinary Equipment account to provide reimbursement to the City for replacement bullet proof vests for police officers.
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a $75,000 reimbursement from Sprint Nextel to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Salary and Wages account ($15,000) and to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Extraordinary Equipment account ($60,000) to support the re-banding of city radios.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation $28,300 to the Grant Fund Emergency Communication Other Ordinary Maintenance account from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Health is part of their Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention and Control Program to provide funds to purchase of two licenses for an Emergency Medical Dispatch Protocol.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $183,648 from the School General Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account to the School General Fund Salary and Wage account ($57,095), School General Fund Travel and Training account ($100,247) and to the School General Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account ($26,306) related to re-allocations within School Department programs and statutory accounts and include reallocations related to school improvement plans, special education program transfers and school and department operating transfers. CHARTER RIGHT - KELLEY
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the supplemental appropriation of a grant from the Cambridge Housing Authority for $1,980.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Department Salary and Wages account to be used to support the Cambridge Employment Program.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of private donations to the Council on Aging in the amount of $1,135.00 to the grant Fund of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account to be used to provide additional food and nutrition services for seniors at the Cambridge Senior Centers.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an FY07 appropriation of an Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) from the Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for $139,018.00 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($6,951.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($132,067.00) to be used by to contract with local shelter providers to support operation and rehabilitation costs of shelter facilities as well as for homeless prevention activities and services for the homeless.
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a donation from the Boston Ultimate Disc Alliance in the amount of $1,000.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account to help support of the annual Cambridge Youth games.
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a Constable With Power for a term of three years, effective January 1, 2006: Albert Darling
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-59, regarding the status of ongoing renovations at 371 Broadway. CHARTER RIGHT - KELLEY
In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-59, regarding the status of ongoing renovations at 371 Broadway, Inspectional Services Commissioner Ranjit Singanayagam reports the following:City Manager Letter
May 15, 2006
To the Honorable, the City Council:
[Note: The City Council Order requesting this information asked whether the need for this 2nd egress was caused by a change in the configuration of the building (as opposed to a preexisting lack of 2nd egress). The building has been vacant for some time while undergoing extensive renovations, presumably for the purpose of converting it into condominiums. There is evidence that the existing means of egress have been transformed into private space in order to maximize the value of individual units, thus creating the need for alternate egress (in this case, over the public way). The issue here is whether it is appropriate to grant an easement over the public way in order to allow a private owner or developer to maximize the sale price of condominiums. The Manager's response is, to say the least, unresponsive.]
CHARTER RIGHT
1. That the City Manager is requested to take the appropriate steps to enable the City of Cambridge to acquire the former Graham and Park School on Upton Street, including eminent domain. Charter Right exercised by Mayor Reeves on Order Number Twenty-Four of May 8, 2006.
ON THE TABLE
2. Placed on Table on the motion of Councillor Kelley on February 27, 2006 on Awaiting Report Item Number 06-06 of February 27, 2006, regarding a report on the legality of the banners in front of the Dunkin' Donuts at 2480 Massachusetts Avenue and at other locations in the City.
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 November 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 February 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. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on March 15, 2006 for the purpose of considering a petition filed by the Neighbors and Abutters of Blessed Sacrament (NABS)/Alan Zimlicki et al. to amend the Zoning Ordinance with regard to yards, open space, parking and special permit criteria for the redevelopment of existing buildings. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after May 8, 2006. Petition expires June 13, 2006.
5. Proposed amendment to the Cambridge Municipal Ordinance regarding creating a Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after May 8, 2006.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization order to borrow $1,500,000 to continue sewer reconstruction projects in the Cambridge Highlands and Cambridgeport areas of the City. The question comes on adoption on or after May 15, 2006.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization order to borrow an additional $350,000 to finance the reconstruction of the pedestrian underpass at Yerxa Road. The question comes on adoption on or after May 15, 2006.
8. Proposed amendments to City Clerk fees. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after May 22, 2006.
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Atwood's, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign in front of the premises numbered 877 Cambridge Street.
2. An application was received from University Park Hotel at MIT, requesting permission for six tables and eighteen chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 20 Sidney Street.
3. An application was received from Mystic River Green-Rainbow, requesting permission for a table opposite the premises numbered 628 Massachusetts Avenue.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding bigotry in Cambridge.
2. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding crime.
3. A communication was received from Ellen Mass, President, Friends of Alewife Reservation, regarding the pathway from Alewife Reservation parking lot at Bulfinch Company on Discovery Park to Little Pond.
4. A communication was received from the Brigham and Flynn families, transmitting thanks to the City Council for the resolution on the death of their Aunt Gertrude V. Sullivan.
5. A communication was received from the King family, transmitting appreciation to the City Council for the resolution you extended to their family.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of James Finbarr Sullivan. Councillor Sullivan
2. Congratulations to the Manuel Rogers Sr. Center for Portuguese Culture and Studies and the Cambridge Public Library on the occasion of the Grand Celebration of Portuguese Cultures exhibit on May 17, 2006. Councillor Sullivan
3. Resolution on the death of Jane Tondorf-Dunne. Councillor Sullivan
4. Congratulations to the graduates of the Cambridge Biomedical Careers Program. Councillor Sullivan
5. Congratulations to Massachusetts Municipal Director Geoff Beckwith on the occasion of being the recipient of the 2006 Distinguished Public Administrator Award by the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Society of Public Administrators. Councillor Sullivan
6. Congratulations to John Curran on the occasion of being appointed Maynard's Town Administrator. Councillor Sullivan
7. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Robert Moscillo. Councillor Decker
8. Resolution on the death of Corporal Robbie Light. Councillor Decker
9. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Benjamin Zieske. Councillor Decker
10. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Joseph Proctor. Councillor Decker
11. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Christopher Eckhardt. Councillor Decker
12. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Gavin Reinke. Councillor Decker
13. Resolution on the death of Specialist Bryan Quinton. Councillor Decker
14. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Elisha Parker. Councillor Decker
15. Resolution on the death of Captain Brian Letendre. Councillor Decker
16. Resolution on the death of Corporal Stephen Bixler. Councillor Decker
17. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Nathan Vacho. Councillor Decker
18. Resolution on the death of Specialist Teodoro Torres. Councillor Decker
19. Resolution on the death of 1st Sergeant Carlos Saenz. Councillor Decker
20. Resolution on the death of Private Alva Gaylord. Councillor Decker
21. Resolution on the death of Corporal Cory Palmer. Councillor Decker
22. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Matthew Fenton. Councillor Decker
23. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Leon Deraps. Councillor Decker
24. Congratulations to Where Magazine and Guest Informant on the occasion of its 18th Annual Silver Plume Awards. Mayor Reeves
25. Congratulations to Cambridge-Ellis School teacher Jodi Crawford on the occasion of being named a recipient of the 2006 Disney Teacher Award. Councillor Murphy
26. Thanks to the Cambridge Public Library staff and the staff at Harvard Fogg Art Museum for an educational family night on May 10, 2006. Councillor Kelley, Councillor Sullivan
27. Congratulations to Cambridge Naturals on the occasion of its Grand Opening at its new location in the Porter Square Shopping Center on May 13, 2006. Councillor Murphy
28. Congratulations to Beverly Gibbons on the occasion of being named Woman of the Year by the Massachusetts General Hospital. Councillor Galluccio
29. Congratulations to the winner of the 2006 Golden Broom Award. Councillor Davis
30. Happy 90th Birthday wishes to Carl Barron. Councillor Simmons
31. Thanks to Bill Sage for his hard work and dedication to the Cambridge community and best wishes in his future endeavors. Councillor Decker
34. Resolution on the death of Sister Rupert McHugh (Marguerite Louise McHugh). Councillor Sullivan
40. Resolution on the death of Mary A. (Barrett) McWatters. Councillor Galluccio
41. Congratulations to Father Fred Barr on the occasion of the 30th Anniversary of his Ordination. Vice Mayor Toomey
42. That this City Council go on record extending a warm welcome to Cambridge to our distinguished visitors. Councillor Decker
43. Congratulating Ann Kokinda on graduating from Lesley College. Councillor Murphy
44. Congratulating Craig Dorsett on graduating from Boston College. Councillor Murphy
45. Congratulations to the new owners of the Plough and Stars. Councillor Sullivan
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to provide the City Council with any plans for traffic calming on lower Fayerweather Street and in the area of the Fayerweather Street School including speed bumps. Councillor Galluccio
2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works, the Assistant City Manager for the Community Development and the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department relative to correcting the hazardous condition at the corner of Mass Avenue, Putnam Avenue and Mount Auburn Street. Councillor Sullivan
3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to reach out to all interested parties, abutters and the Riverside Neighborhood Association on the subject of making Howard Street one-way. Councillor Simmons
4. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works look into making minor repairs to Clement Morgan Park (the tot lot and basketball court). Councillor Simmons and Mayor Reeves
5. That the City Manager is requested to provide whatever financial assistance is legal and necessary to ensure that the community and retail spaces at HRI's Trolley Square development best fit the needs of the surrounding North Cambridge community and that appropriate uses are not limited by lack of funding for either rental costs or fitting out expenses. Councillor Kelley and Councillor Sullivan
6. That the City Manager is requested to consult with appropriate staff members to determine the construction schedule for Alden Park at the Junction of Sacramento and Oxford streets with the goal of encouraging a construction start immediately after school ends so that the Park will be available to Baldwin students sooner during the School Year 06/07. Councillor Kelley and Councillor Sullivan
7. That the City Manager is requested to consult with appropriate staff to determine the limitations on use of Community Preservation Act funds. Councillor Kelley and Councillor Sullivan
8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant Department heads to investigate the costs and benefits of installing a computerized traffic control system. Councillor Kelley and Councillor Sullivan
9. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works to confer with the City Arborist to investigate the tree problem on Amory Street. Councillor Simmons
10. That the City Manager direct the Commissioner of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to address safety and visibility concerns along Cardinal Medeiros Avenue near the intersections of Michael Way, James Way and Cornelius Way. Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Sullivan
11. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Chairman of the License Commission and the Commissioner of the Inspectional Services Department with the view in mind of determining the origin of excessive noise emanating from 1105 Massachusetts Avenue. Councillor Sullivan
12. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate Department heads regarding sidewalk repairs at 177 River Street. Councillor Sullivan
13. That the City council go on record requesting the School Committee to
direct the Superintendent of Schools to fulfill his legal responsibility to
serve on the Kids' Council per City Ordinance and further that a substitute does
not fulfill this obligation. Councillor Decker
CHARTER RIGHT - REEVES
14. That the City Manager is requested to arrange for the Public Facilities, Arts and Celebration Committee meeting on May 18, 2006 to be televised. Councillor Simmons
15. That the City Manager is requested to investigate whether the City's energy supply contract with Trans Canada can be amended so that the City can buy 1% of its energy supply from another source that would be eligible for MTC matching funds and might be less expensive. Councillor Davis
16. That the City Manager is requested to determine how Boston was able to have 8.6% renewable energy in their portfolio and do the same for Cambridge. Councillor Kelley
17. That the City Manager is to conduct a feasibility study for wind power in Cambridge at an appropriate site, such as the water treatment plant and/or to analyze the option of investing in wind power from another site either through contract promise of future annual purchase or use some other investment mechanism. Councillor Davis
18. That the City Manager is requested to review the possibility of drafting language to prepare to strengthen the State Building Code to make buildings more energy efficient. Councillor Kelley
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee, for a meeting held on May 2, 2006 to discuss wind turbines and energy conservation.
2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Marjorie C. Decker and Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Co-Chairs of the Human Services Committee, for a meeting held on April 4, 2006 for the purpose of discussing the visions and goals of the City of Cambridge for youth programs.
3. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on April 26, 2006 for the purpose of considering a petition to rezone the Concord/Alewife area, which was re-filed by the City Council.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, May 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 17
8:30am The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussions with emphasis on a senior panel and resource fair geared to issues of concern to the senior population and its relation to neighborhoods. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:15pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on and amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to change the language "useable open space" to "private open space." (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition from Eileen Woodford et al. (Tobin-Danehy Zoning Petition) requesting amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to rezone an area currently zoned Res. C-1A, Res. B, and Industry A-1 to Residence C in the area bounded by Bay State Road, Fern, Field, New Streets and Concord Avenue. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FAR, traffic and transfer of development rights relative to the Concord Alewife rezoning petition. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, May 18
10:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss FY07 City Budget. (IF NECESSARY) (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 22
4:00pm 2006 Scholarship Award Ceremony (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, May 30
5:30pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the issue of the anti idling regulation and a follow up to the traffic enforcement management plan. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, May 31
8:30am The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion as they relate to neighborhoods, specifically to receive information about Transit Realty and the Bennett Street project, to receive information about demographics available from Election Commission, Inspectional Services and School Department and information about space available for community meetings. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition from MSNP Cambridge Acquisition, LLC requesting to amend the text of the Zoning Ordinance in Article 20.80 - Memorial Drive Overlay District by inserting "Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of computing lot area per dwelling unit, the provisions of Article 5.14 shall not apply" at the end of paragraph c. of Section 20.810. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss environmental and infrastructure issues relative to the Concord Alewife rezoning petition. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 5
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, June 6
5:30pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss pedestrian issues relating to sidewalks specifically material used for sidewalks, tree roots, and sidewalk maintenance and repair and the report on provisions for parking for motorcycles, motor scooters and mopeds. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 12
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, June 14
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a working meeting on Concord Alewife rezoning petition. No public comment. (Ackermann Room)
Mon, June 19
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 26
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Aug 7
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 11
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 25
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
WHEREAS: Speeding is a major problem as traffic heads down the hill on Fayerweather Street towards Huron Avenue; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the City Council with any plans for traffic calming on lower Fayerweather Street and in the area of the Fayerweather Street School including speed bumps.
O-2 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: There is a major concern for public safety at the corner of Mass Avenue, Putnam Avenue and Mount Auburn Street, particularly the corner in front of 1050 Mass Avenue; and
WHEREAS: Many large trucks cut the corner short, ripping up the bollard and doing damage to the building; and
WHEREAS: Many of our students cross at this point on their way to the High School; and
WHEREAS: Many of our students cross at this point on their way to the High School; and
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works, the Assistant City Manager for the Community Development and the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department relative to correcting the hazardous condition at the corner of Mass Avenue, Putnam Avenue and Mount Auburn Street, and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council.
O-3 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to reach out to all interested parties, abutters and the Riverside Neighborhood Association on the subject of making Howard Street one-way.
O-4 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
MAYOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works look into making minor repairs to Clement Morgan Park (the tot lot and basketball court).
O-5 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with appropriate staff to determine what sort of financial support Cambridge can provide to Homeowners Rehab, Inc. to subsidize the creation and fitting out of retail and community space at HRI's Trolley Square development; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide whatever financial assistance is legal and necessary to ensure that the community and retail spaces at HRI's Trolley Square development best fit the needs of the surrounding North Cambridge community and that appropriate uses are not limited by lack of funding for either rental costs or fitting out expenses; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the Council on this issue.
O-6 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with appropriate staff members to determine the construction schedule for Alden Park at the Junction of Sacramento and Oxford streets with the goal of encouraging a construction start immediately after school ends so that the Park will be available to Baldwin students sooner during the School Year 06/07; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the Council on this issue.
O-7 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with appropriate staff to determine the limitations on use of Community Preservation Act funds; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the Council on this issue in a timely enough manner so that the Council can further review this issue before deciding how to allocate CPA funds.
O-8 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: Idling vehicles produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, diesel particulates, and other pollutants; and
WHEREAS: Vehicles stopped at traffic lights unnecessarily emit pollutants while idling; and
WHEREAS: Computer controlled traffic signals decrease idling, improve traffic flow, and can help maintain a steady and safe vehicular speed, timed exactly for a speed that is deemed appropriate for a said street; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge's major thoroughfares such as Massachusetts Avenue, Broadway, Cambridge Street, Garden Street, Huron Avenue, Hampshire Street, Main Street, Western Avenue, Prospect Street and other streets have "F" rated intersections and have dense residential development which bears the burden of vehicular pollution; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant department heads to investigate the costs and benefits of installing a computerized traffic control system; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this issue.
O-9 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works to confer with the City Arborist to investigate the tree problem on Amory Street.
O-10 May 15, 2006
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: There are safety and visibility concerns along Cardinal Medeiros Avenue
near the intersections of Michael Way, James Way and Cornelius Way; now
therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Director
of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to meet with the nearby
residents to address the concerns.
O-11 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: Excessive noise in emanating from the ventilation system from a
restaurant to be determined at 1105 Massachusetts Avenue; and
WHEREAS: This noise has been ongoing for three weeks; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
Chairman of the License Commission and the Commissioner of the Inspectional
Services Department with the view in mind of determining the origin of the
excessive noise; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the
City Council.
O-12 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: Sidewalk repairs have been causing neighbors at 177 River Street to be
kept awake until 2:00am by NSTAR trucks; and
WHEREAS: Construction has continued on Saturdays and will continue through the
weekend of May 14, 2006; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
appropriate Department heads as to when this project will be completed; and be
it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the
City Council.
O-13 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City council go on record requesting the School Committee to
direct the Superintendent of Schools to fulfill his legal responsibility to
serve on the Kids' Council per City Ordinance and further that a substitute does
not fulfill this obligation.
CHARTER RIGHT – REEVES
O-14 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to arrange for the
Public Facilities, Arts and Celebration Committee meeting on May 18, 2006 to be
televised.
O-15 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate whether
the City's energy supply contract with Trans Canada can be amended so that the
City can buy 1% of its energy supply from another source that would be eligible
for MTC matching funds and might be less expensive.
O-16 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to determine how
Boston was able to have 8.6% renewable energy in their portfolio and do the same
for Cambridge.
O-17 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is to conduct a feasibility study
for wind power in Cambridge at an appropriate site, such as the water treatment
plant and/or to analyze the option of investing in wind power from another site
either through contract promise of future annual purchase or use some other
investment mechanism.
O-18 May 15, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the
possibility of drafting language to prepare to strengthen the State Building
Code to make buildings more energy efficient.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee held a public meeting on Tuesday, May 2, 2006, at five o’clock and twenty-six minutes p.m. in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss wind turbines and energy conservation.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Committee, Councillor Craig Kelley, Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Susanne Rasmussen, Director, Environmental & Transportation Planning, Community Development Dept. (CDD), John Bolduc, Environmental Planner, CDD, Rosalie Anders, Environmental & Transportation Planner, CDD, George Fernandes, City Electrician, Paul Schlaver, Cambridge Consumer Council and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.
Presentations were made by: Martha Broad, Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC), Larry Chretian, Director, Mass Energy, Martin Akins and Donald Sheenan, IBEW Local 103.
Councillor Davis convened the meeting and stated the purpose. The committee has taken on the goal of reaching the commitment of 20% of renewable energy. This meeting will be about wind turbines and renewable energy. She requested Susanne Rasmussen to give an overview.
Ms. Rasmussen outlined the City’s goal of reaching a 20% reduction of greenhouse gases by 2010. Renewable energy certificates (REC’s) are purchased by the city from Canada. A committee will be formed that will present strategies and options to reach the 20% goal by 2010. The committee now heard from Martha Broad, MTC.
Ms. Broad stated that MTC is the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative. She spoke of the renewable energy trust. The trust is funded by ratepayers. The goal is to reinvest money for renewable energy. A document was distributed introducing wind energy (ATTACHMENT A). MTC has three programs of interest to Cambridge.
The committee next heard from Larry Chretian from Massachusetts Energy.
Mr. Chretian spoke about purchasing REC’s to meet the 20% goal. The REC’s must be purchased as well as energy needed to power municipal needs. Mass Energy buys REC’s from wind turbines. Good prices can be secured from energy suppliers. He compared wind turbines to owning versus renting a home. Owning a wind turbine could earn revenue. A production tax credit would make owning wind turbines cost effective. He cautioned about the wind turbines working well. Wind is free, but turbines cost a lot of money and have expenses such as insurance, construction costs, development fees, maintenance and debt service. Cambridge could enter an agreement for shared ownership of wind turbines or be a co-owner of a fraction of a wind turbine or buy output or not have any cost with risk. He suggested owning one turbine and buying REC’s from other turbine owners.
Councillor Sullivan commented that REC’s are a feel good aspect. Mr. Chretian responded that you cannot claim to be green unless you purchase REC’s. Councillor Sullivan stated that he supported owning a turbine, but it is not the best economic environment. Mr. Chretian stated that is is good to own a turbine. The committee now heard from Mr. Akins, IBEW Local 103.
Mr. Akins stated that his union has 6,000 members. Wind turbines are a new technology coming to New England. Solar energy is also new power. Mr. Chretian buys REC’s from him. As a MTC trust member he decides where the funding is allocated. MTC uses the funding and puts solar power in schools. MTC will handle the REC’s. The IBEW wind turbine was installed in Boston at a cost of $540,000. The pay back will be seven years. The construction industry is changing with solar power, he said. Due to the cost of energy rising pay back is down to five years. Local 103 would assist Cambridge with wind turbines. The IBEW installed the Town of Hull wind turbine also. Councillors Davis and Sullivan supported the IBEW wind turbines.
Mr. Malcolm Brown, Vice Chair of Hull Power Company stated that there is one wind turbine in Boston at Independence Wharf. On May 3, 2006 a second wind turbine should be installed. Councillor Davis asked where is the electricity generated by Hull Light going. Mr. Brown stated that Hull owns its own micro grid. His house is green. He buys REC’s from Mr. Chretian. The cost can be deducted. Ms. Broad informed the committee that Mass Energy is the only supplier for tax-exempt electricity. Mr. Brown stated that REC’s are sold to Newton.
At six o’clock and fifteen minutes p.m. Councillor Davis opened the meeting to public comment.
Fred Schlicher, Cambridge Green Decade, stated that a petition was submitted with 400 signatures urging Cambridge to fulfill its commitment to reduce greenhouse gases by 20% by 2010. The Cambridge Green Decade has met with neighborhood associations and they have embraced this and have endorsed the petition. He urged that the commitment needs to start now to increase clean energy in incremental amounts. The benefits are extensive: health, air quality, global warming and jobs. Renewable energy is good for the environment. He encouraged Cambridge to do more and do it incrementally.
Michelle Sprengnether, Cambridge Green Decade, stated that she wanted to see residents and businesses at 20% for cleaner energy by 2010. She is at 100%. First Parish will bump up at 4% each year. She is glad a consultant would be hired. The information that the city learns will help churches on renewable energy. She wanted non-profits to explore renewable energy.
Lara Holl, Director of Mass Interfaith Power and Light is a non-profit initiative working with faith congregations. There are seven churches involved in the initiative. All have had energy audits and energy efficiency work. Churches have signed the petition referred to by Mr. Schlicher. The clean energy resolution that was adopted by the City Council in June 2005 was admirable, but faith without action is dead. She urged Cambridge to move forward to achieve the goal of 20% by 2010.
Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, stated he was suspicious of sales pitches. All issues must have a positive and negative side. He stated that GE is for wind turbines and they will receive revenue. The negative issues are size, aesthetics concern for urban landscape, noise and birds. He asked how are wind turbines decommissioned, what is the subsidy level and who will build wind turbines. He urged that both sides of the issue be reviewed.
Glen Berkowitz, 57E Concord Street, Loft #8, Boston stated birds and noise was not a problem with the Hull wind turbine. Wind level determines where wind turbines happen. Cambridge is one of the windiest cities. He urged Cambridge to pursue sites for wind turbines in the city.
Councilor Davis stated that 4% of the City energy comes from Canada. This is 1% over RPS. This 1% might be eligible for the MTC match grant. Would Cambridge be eligible for $20,000 match for low-income housing. Ms. Broad stated that if Trans Canada participated with MTC and becomes a quality energy supplier matching grants would be available to Cambridge.
Councillor Davis submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact Trans Canada to encourage contact with MTC for matching grant funds and urge Trans Canada to sign and become certified as a Clean Choice supplier and apply the match to an additional percentage of renewable energy as soon as possible.
The motion - carried.
The cost of 1% is $17,000 she stated. Ms. Broad stated that an additional $20,000 maybe available in rebates for small renewable projects.
Sue Butler, 14 Clinton Street, stated that she is concerned with climate change. She submitted additional names for the petition. There is support for this initiative.
Sam Seidel, 48 Maple Avenue, spoke in favor of the petition. The energy portfolio must be changed. He urged that renewable energy be included. New York City requires green certificate on large buildings. Cambridge can do this also. Energy, he said, would look different 100 years from now. Urged the work to begin now. He commended the work on this issue.
Councillor Davis commented that NSTAR has not put the option on their bill for consumers to be able to purchase REC’s. MTC has been trying to get NSTAR to institute this option.
Jonathan Edwards supported Cambridge. Smart Power has worked with various cities. Clean energy purchase is doable. Smart Power will offer assistance to Cambridge. There are 6,700 megawatt hours is needed by 2010. Energy demands are not going down, he said.
Bill August, 19 Lawrence Street, offered his support. He spoke about the surcharge program by NSTAR, Mass. Electric and MTC to pay for conservation measures.
Karen Carmean, 1657 Cambridge Street, urged the City Council to start now to change the lighting. She urged all to go to alternative energy. Solar panels cannot be installed on roofs, but TV antennas are allowed. Historical beautification is not enough reason to deny solar panels. Review where is the best place to put a wind turbine – put it where it makes the most sense, she said. She suggested turning off air conditioners during peak hours.
Councilor Kelley stated that government functions best when people push. Cambridge will be reviewed as a good place to live because of the efficient use of energy.
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to determine how Boston was able to have 8.6% renewable energy in their portfolio and do the same for Cambridge.
The motion – carried.
Mr. August asked if the city built a wind turbine what does the technology interconnect costs and what happens to the power in the grid through NSTAR. Mr. Chretian stated 40 communities have municipal utility company. State rules to tie into the grid. IBEW goes through the building and then goes into the grid. An interconnection agreement with NSTAR for 3-4 turbines is straight forward. Power put on the grid is on sale to another party.
Decia Goodwin, 175 Chestnut Street, stated that the best use of wind power is to use it on site.
Betsy Boyle, told of all day MIT conference on May 3, 2006 from 9:00-4:30pm.
Dave Prum, 100 Thorndike Street, stated his opposition to Senator Kennedy’s opposition to Cape wind turbines. Democrats need to be part of the solution. With more turbines spread around the countryside there will be a balance of energy.
In conclusion Councillor Davis thanked all attendees. Cambridge needs to get to the 2010 level as soon as possible. She submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is to conduct a feasibility study for wind power in Cambridge at an appropriate site, such as the water treatment plant and/or to analyze the option of investing in wind power from another site either through contract promise of future annual purchase or use some other investment mechanism.
The motion – carried.
Councilor Kelley submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the possibility of drafting language to prepare to strengthen the State Building Code to make buildings more energy efficient.
The motion – carried.
The meeting adjourned at seven o’clock and nineteen minutes p.m.
For the Committee,
Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Human Services Committee held a public meeting on April 4, 2006, beginning at three o’clock and twenty-five minutes P.M. in the second floor kitchen/conference room at the Senior Center, 860 Massachusetts Avenue. The meeting was held for the purpose of discussing the visions and goals of the City of Cambridge for youth programs.
Present at the hearing were Councillor Marjorie C. Decker and Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Co-Chairs of the Committee, Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Councillor Craig Kelley, Councillor Brian Murphy, Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Councillor Michael A. Sullivan and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Present from the School Committee were Luc Schuster, Richard Harding, Jr., Joseph Grassi and Nancy Walser. Also present were City Manager Robert W. Healy, Deputy City Manager Richard Rossi, Assistant City Manager for Human Services Ellen Semonoff, Deputy Director of the Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) Jacqueline Neel and Michelle Farnum, Director of Youth Service, DHSP, Moacir Barbosa, Assistant Director of Training and Capacity Building for the Medich Foundation and Khari Milner, Program Manager of the Fletcher Maynard Academy Extended Day Program.
Councillor Galluccio convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He invited public comment from any members of the public who could not stay until the public comment period at the end of the meeting.
Kathy Podgers, Pearl Street, noted the special problem of providing after school care for children when they reach the age of 13-14. Cambridge needs programs for kids within their own neighborhoods. She has been an advocate for using the former Graham and Parks School for the community. She also discussed the issue of tension between teens from different neighborhoods.
Councillor Galluccio welcomed all those present. He said that the message is that the co-chairs of the committee want to get a sense of how we as a community can get vested in this visioning to get programming that best serves the consumer. He believes they should ask for information from all possible sources in the community. He said that while Cambridge is not doing as well as it could, Cambridge absolutely believes in youth centers. The real message that he wants to send is that we are all working together on this issue.
Councillor Decker stated that this will be the first of a series of programs. The timing is perfect for looking at this issue. Starting last year, there has been a great deal of discussion about the youth centers. Now with Ms. Farnum newly appointed and saying she wants to look at changes, the time is right. She said that she looks forward to an overview of where we are, where we want to go, what are the tools that we need to get there. Councillor Decker also said that she worries about Cambridgeport, which does not have its own youth center. She thanked the School Committee members for their presence and invited other elected officials to make introductory comments.
Mayor Reeves said that last August DHSP held a facilitated meeting and he would like to know if there is any information from that meeting.
School Committee Member Richard Harding said that he is interested in looking at something special for the at-risk youth.
Ellen Semonoff then introduced herself and Michelle Farnum. In response to Mayor Reeves’ question, she that the consultant at the end of the last summer was Wendy Wheeler, from the Innovations Center for Youth Engagement. The Innovations Center was hired for two pieces of work:
1. To work with the City Council and the Department of Human Service Programs to establish a shared vision of youth.
2. To work with the Department of Human Service Program staff on best practices.
After the meeting last summer there was a hiatus, as management staff and the consultant started their work with the staff.
Ms. Semonoff then commented on the current programming. She said that there are strengths and there is also more work to be done on the preteen side. There is access to a citywide network of enrolled after school and summer programs that include academic support, recreation and enrichment activities, field trips and community service. On the teen side, there is much further to go. Ms. Semonoff then introduced Michelle Farnum.
Councillor Decker asked Ms. Farnum to describe the current program priorities and what is happening now, and in particular, how we incorporate current research about youth into a our programming.
Ms. Farnum said that in the preteen programming there are a number of things that we are really proud of. There are five licensed after school programs. Three centers are at capacity and three are close to capacity, in terms of enrollment numbers. Two centers utilize the Harvard After School Initiative: Kits with tools for staff to use to work with kids to make homework time productive.
Ms. Semonoff said that because of the City Council request through the University Relations Committee, this Harvard program, which before was a Boston program, is now serving Cambridge as well. Ms. Farnum also described hands on science programming, a writing program, sports leagues and a "Knowledge Bowl" competition.
Councillor Decker asked who is steering what resources we offer. Ms. Semonoff described the involvement of the National Institute of Out of School Time.
Councillor Galluccio said he would be interested in a self-evaluation of the program.
Ms. Semonoff distributed a description of the training being provided by the National Institute of Out-of-School Time (NIOST) via the Agenda for Children (Attachment A). The training team, facilitated by Ellen Gannett of NIOST, includes Mo Barbosa, Gil Noam, Najma Nazy’at and Steven Gross. Ms. Semonoff also distributed a copy of the APT Rating instrument, which is used by the Department of Education. The Fletcher Maynard Extended Day Program, which is funded by a Twenty First Century grant, is required to use this evaluation and DHSP is using it for its other programs as well (Attachment B).
Ms. Farnum summed up: we do a lot very well for the preteen programs
Ms. Semonoff added that the program is a really good program for the 4th, 5th and 6th grades. She said that work is needed on the design of the programs for the 7th and 8th grades. The other issue of concern is the lack of diversity in the programs.
Mr. Harding asked about the capacity in the licensed programming. Ms. Farnum said that the West Cambridge Center is licensed for 28 kids. Area 4 is licensed for 70. Mr. Harding said as DHSP grows the programs, he hopes they can have more capacity.
Councillor Galluccio emphasized the need for goals. He said that he would like to know what a youth center with a report card grade consisting of all A’s would have for staff, programming, building and facilities.
Ms. Semonoff distributed a copy of a survey instrument of customer satisfaction and evaluation that DHSP is using for every family that uses DHSP centers for preteen and younger children (Attachment C).
Ms. Farnum moved to the teen program. She said that while there are pockets of good things and good programming, what is missing from the current programs are underlying goals and structures based on current research. It was clear to her when she came that more effort was needed for teen programming. There is national research that talks about best practices, but there is not enough connection between the research and the current programming. She said that the programs that are good programming are the youth leadership development internships. In these programs youth work in the youth center and are monitored by the directors. Each week there is a seminar. Cambridge youth centers also have a number of youth-led initiatives in which the youth are part of choosing the programs and distributing the content. There is a youth council of 10 to 12 kids. Ms. Farnum also described the SHYNE Program and passed out descriptions (Attachment D).
Councillor Galluccio said that he would like to see a program-by-program evaluation.
Mr. Harding asked how staff chooses which youth center in which to offer a particular program. He said that he believes we need to look at this as we move forward. There has to be a way to articulate why programs go to a particular center. He has been at youth centers when there were no kids there. Ms. Farnum said that teens travel around the City so it does not always make sense to offer the same thing at all of the centers. But this is a big problem.
Councillor Decker said that she is concerned about the parity of the programming at the different centers.
Mayor Reeves asked whether there has ever been a policy decision on whether the same programming should be offered at all of the centers.
Ms. Semonoff said that DHSP staff is not happy with what is happening now in the teen programming. They are far from where they want to be. In addition to the programming itself, there is also the issue of making sure that all kids feel invited to the innovative programming. It is not okay to end up doing really exciting program and have a whole cadre of youth who come to the gym and never get engaged in the other programs.
Mayor Reeves said that he is very interested in youth leadership development programming. Teen Empowerment in Boston is a magnificent program. They develop the teens to find their own interest and then speak in their own voices. Our smorgasbord of offerings does not seem to be mission-bound. The staff needs to be trained in some method that will emphasize youth development.
Ms. Farnum agreed. Youth development programming is truly life-changing for the kids who are involved. Further, it is the heart of youth programming. She said that in defense of the current programming, the staff has been working up to now on the goal of trying to serve hundreds of kids, which can be accomplished with sports leagues. Youth leadership development is very intensive programming, for smaller groups. She believes Cambridge can do both, and can offer intensive services for some, along with enrichment services for many.
Councillor Galluccio stated that he believes that the staff makes the biggest difference. The West Cambridge Youth Center especially, a few years ago, is a good example; there was a small group and they bonded.
Councillor Decker said that she wants to know what is it that our kids want to get out of the youth center experience. She wants to know that the staff has training and she wants to know what the plan is from here on.
Ms. Farnum noted the Youth Cultural Competence Assessment survey (Attachment E). When they started work on with the Innovation Center Consultants, they found that the staff needed staff development training. They are working to realize the staffing structure necessary to have staff dedicated to the teen program. The second step is work with the Innovation Center for benchmarks and then immersing staff in best practices. She emphasized goals, benchmarks and evaluations.
Ms. Semonoff said that they are changing the expectations of their staff. However, they currently serve 500 kids in the youth centers. They cannot just shut the doors.
Councillor Galluccio asked how the City Council can help the Department of Human Services staff to get more information from the schools.
Mayor Reeves asked about the Peabody School Enriched After-school. He also noted that the Kids’ Council is a good program for the teens that are involved.
Ms. Semonoff agreed and said that she could see a structure that looks to the Youth Kids’ Council being drawn from youth council programs all over the City, to be the "queen of councils."
Mayor Reeves stated that there could be a kids’ council connected to the Mayor’s Office, as happens in several municipalities. Ms. Semonoff said that could be a great idea. She said that on the enriched after-school issue, she has been pleased to hear that there is a lot of interest in after-school collaboration. This could be a deep collaboration. There are many things that teachers can deliver, but not exclusively. A partnership could serve incredibly well in two ways. One can be seen in the possibilities that would come from the Peabody School and the Gately Youth Center together with community schools. There are more resources and the opportunity for a better engagement of kids.
Ms. Semonoff said, in answer to Mayor Reeve’s question, that there is not a firewall between the schools and the City but there are a number of institutional barriers. As schools are increasingly involved in MCAS-type activities, there is less in-school time for enrichment. After-school programs can provide some of that enrichment programming. However, there are big space-related issues. Each principal is under enormous pressure to move her or his kids forward, and DHSP after-school can be seen as a distraction. We have to be sure that our presence is seen as something that can assist the principals in achieving their goals. Finally, DHSP has a tangible public relations problem with parents who do not know about the programs. For example, one parent thought the Gately Shelter was run by DYS.
Mr. Rossi said that there have been a couple of council orders about establishing an advisory board for each youth center. The right groups could be a real asset. Board members could report back to the community. Also, we all say we want these centers to be more than basketball centers, but it is important not to ignore the kids that have come to play basketball.
Mr. Harding agreed with Mr. Rossi. One of the kids that he has in mind is Louis Ford, a former CRLS basketball star who needed a place to play basketball.
Councillor Decker emphasized that is no one saying no basketball.
Councillor Kelley expressed his admiration for the staff being so willing to take an honest look at programming. He said that he believes that the City Council needs to set goals, and tell the staff what the City Council wants so that they do not go off spinning their wheels. Is the goal to serve lots of kids or to provide small but intensive leadership growth opportunities?
Mayor Reeves said that the key here is politics. Some of the elected officials have been sitting here a long time waiting. DHSP youth programming is a maelstrom. There is a political dimension and he is very worried about this program.
Councillor Galluccio asked about the timeline for the visioning process. He said that they need to ask the kids and parents what would get the kids there. He asked how DHSP proposes to get this information.
School Committee Member Joseph Grassi requested that the visioning process not be rushed. There are a lot of new residents in Cambridge who do not know anything about the youth centers. The focus group and survey should include parents not using the centers as well as those whose kids attend. He suggested talking to the kids at the Bridge Program and the Extension High School. He said that he is very willing to stay involved and that he believes involvement of the schools is crucial. Mr. Grassi also noted the scheduling issues and the need to make the services seamless.
School Committee Member Nancy Walser said that this is a great meeting. She agrees with what Ms. Semonoff said about the schools and teachers having had to cut out enrichment to focus on improving test scores. She suggested using School Department lists and mailing to every household. She said that the key to more participation is to develop a critical mass. She does not believe that this needs to be over-thought. Lots of parents want some place safe with constructive options. The potential to hook young adolescents to community services is exciting.
Mr. Barbosa said that the City has to ask whether they are trying to offer after school to every Cambridge kid. They need to get information from the kids and decide how many kids do they want to serve.
Mr. Barbosa said that promoting the development of young people is not an intervention. They are somehow expected to take the kids that every other institution kicked out. Race and class are real obstacles to be overcome. This is the same conversation that goes on all over the country. Cambridge is way ahead of most in that there is strong support from the City Manager. However, serving every Cambridge kid who wants or needs services would take more resources than are on the table so far.
He added that choices have to be made. Does Cambridge need a youth center in Cambridgeport or in every neighborhood? If so, think about it; if not, think about getting them to the existing youth centers. Regarding the relationship between the City’s youth program there are two issues:
1) The facilities that have to be used – this issue has to be settled by the elected policy makers. It should not be a negotiation with the local principal or the Superintendent.
2) After-school must become a partnership with the school.
School Committee Member Luc Schuster said that he is interested in exploring this issue. From the School Committee perspective, they want every middle school kid in after-school.
City Manager Robert W. Healy stated that he was very impressed to see so many members of the School Committee at this meeting. He urged them to stay involved in this matter and commended all present for a very good and open discussion, one of the best discussions between the City Council members and School Committee members in a long time.
Mr. Milner expressed support for the idea of local advisory boards. The Fletcher Maynard Extended Day Program looked closely at how to create capacity and has found that having a local program council is one of the important elements. He noted that the question of whom we want to serve and the question of improving public information about the program are different questions. The fundamental need is to define what we stand for in youth development.
Mayor Reeves said that we have been running poor programs for poor people, but he believes we should try to serve everybody. Cambridge is one of the most important cities in the world, given what percentages of the world’s leaders spend time here. He also stated that new teen centers need to be open on Saturday and the Kids’ Council needs be involved.
Ms. Semonoff noted the difference between the vision and the programming. She said that they want to hear about programming from the youth. Work on the vision must involve leaders, elected officials and staff.
Councillor Decker invited public comment.
John Gintell, West Street, suggested simplifying the goals and supported the idea of local advisory councils. He also stressed the importance of marketing.
Andrea Hilton, Cambridge, stated that she lives a block from the Gately Shelter and she had no idea what was going on there.
Ann Conlon, 872 Massachusetts Avenue, said that a lot of teens come to the dances at the West Cambridge VFW and having the dances at the youth center is an enhancement.
Councillor Decker and Councillor Galluccio thanked those present for their attention and participation. Councillor Decker announced that the next step would be for her and Councillor Galluccio to meet with the facilitator to discuss a visioning process.
The meeting was adjourned at five o’clock and forty minutes P.M.
For the Committee,
Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Co-Chair
Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Co-Chair
Committee Report #3
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on April 26, 2006, beginning at five o’clock and thirty minutes P. M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The hearing was held for the purpose of considering a petition to rezone the Concord/Alewife area, which was re-filed by the City Council.
Present at the hearing were Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the committee, Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Councillor E. Denise Simmons, and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development, Susan Glazer, Deputy Director of the Community Development Department (CDD), Stuart Dash, Director of Community and Neighborhood Planning, CDD, Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Environmental and Transportation Planning, CDD, Iram Farooq, Project Planner, CDD, Taha Jennings, Neighborhood Planner, CDD.
Councillor Sullivan convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He stated that he and Councillor Murphy have designed the topics of the upcoming hearings to be responsive to the questions and concerns that have come up in the hearing for the two previous filings of this petition. He laid out the schedule for additional hearings on the petition and invited CDD staff to make a presentation. Ms. Glazer presented a brief overview of the petition.
The proposed zoning would create a two-tier zoning similar to the East Cambridge Planning Study rezoning by establishing base zoning and, through a set of Overlay Districts, allowing higher FAR and height by special permit. Higher densities would be allowed closer to the T station while lower densities would be required near the Highlands. The general concepts are to:
Ms. Glaser then distributed material, which CDD had prepared for this petition to answer the most frequently raised questions that have continued to be asked over the course of the hearings on the two previous filings of this petition (Attachment A). She outlined the information presented in the material, which is divided into the main subject area of changes to height and density, effects on traffic, environmental concerns, infrastructure improvement and how transfer of development rights (TDR) could work.
Councillor Sullivan asked what zoning language could insure that the zoning does not allow big box stores.
Ms. Glazer said that if the City Council wants to set a limit for the size of retail buildings, CDD would recommend 45-55,000 square feet. Most big box stores are significantly larger – 85,000 square foot plus. Councillor Sullivan said that he would like to have more discussion of this issue at future meetings.
Councillor Davis stated that she would like to see more presentations with regard to shopping areas, including visuals to help the City Council understand what the area would look like if it were built out. Mr. Dash said that CDD does have some material that could be helpful and will bring them to the next meeting. The shopping center shipping cost would have a 50 percent limit of commercial development. Councillor Davis said she would also like to see some market analysis. She added that she wants to be sure that there is a full consideration of the shopping center area, because they never really got to that topic in previous hearings. She suggested designating some particular amount time in each hearing for the shopping center.
Councillor Sullivan noted hat a lot of work by neighbors went on before the petition even reached the City Council.
Councillor Sullivan then invited public comment.
Attorney Peter Steffian, stated that he represents the Fresh Pond Shopping Center owners. He said that his clients have done a master plan for the shopping area. It creates its own village, a mixed-use area. The owners have some concerns regarding the limitations on density proposed in the petition. He would be happy to make a presentation of the plan at a subsequent meeting.
Councillor Davis said that the connectivity and pedestrian access for that site is so critical that she cannot began to think about any development until these issues are solved. The way pedestrians stumble up and down the hill from the sidewalk to the shopping center parking area is appalling.
John Moot, 44 Coolidge Hill Road, Association of Cambridge Neighborhoods, said that new zoning should reduce the density not increase it. The traffic in the area is horrible. The City Council should look at shuttle buses, perhaps more floors on the T garage, in general more mass transit in the area. In the area of flooding, he has not seen any plans that deal adequately with the fact that this is a swamp.
Mitch Goldstein, 17 Normandy Terrace, member of the Study Group, noted that the last two speakers reflect the diversity of opinion regarding the appropriate level of development – one said that the petition would allow to much; the other said not enough. Perhaps that means the petition has got it right.
Steve Kaiser distributed a statement and summarized it is his remarks. He stated that four major issues are:
He noted that recently a Somerville Alderman made an announcement an amendment will not support a big box store in Somerville. Mr. Kaiser urged the Cambridge City Council to do the same.
Ann Tennis, 71 Griswold Street, Chair of the Cambridge Highlands Neighborhood Association, spoke in support of the Concord/Alewife proposal on behalf of the neighborhood association. She stated that she served on the Study Committee, and a great deal of work went into developing the proposal.
Drew Leff, GLC Development, stated that his firm is advising the owners of 665 Concord Avenue, bordered by Moulton Street right across from the proposed open space. They would like to develop more biotech space in this area. He applauded the objectives of the plan. The problem for these owners is that the proposed zoning as written will not allow the achievement of the objectives. There has to be economic incentive in terms of a certain density. Their density has been cut in half, from 1.5 to .75. There is no way on their specific site to meet the various requirements for a special permit so, in reality; they are restricted to .75 floor area ratio (FAR).
Elizabeth Commacho, 24 Corporal Burns Road, said that a huge amount of development has been done in this area. She lives near the Cambridge Self Storage site, which is not in the area covered by this petition. But what happens in her area will affect their area and vice versa. In her area, developers are proposing to build 131 condominiums in one block. This is too much development.
Robert LaTrémouille, 30 Griswold Street, said that the development department has been running around telling no one what it is doing. This is a massive and highly inappropriate up-zoning that will be destructive to the entire city.
Robert Simha, 6 Blanchard Road, stated that he is representing neighbors in lower Blanchard Road and the Mystic River Watershed Association. There are two issues. The first is flood control. Regarding the plan for water retention flood control; there are some excellent suggestions. However, there is no consideration of tidal backflow in a level 1 or 2 hurricane. He urged establishment of actual municipal requirements for the flood storage.
He stated that his second point relates to traffic. All of the intersections in the area are already at failure rate. He cannot get out of this driveway before 4:00 and 7:00pm, noted Senator Havern’s plan to address this issue and urged Cambridge’s support. It is essential to address the traffic. Mr. Simha submitted a copy of his letter to the Planning Board for the record.
Will Brownsberger, Selectman for Belmont, said that if the plan is successful, it will increase the traffic. Cambridge needs to put a number on that increase, define the local effects and also put it in a regional framework.
At this time Councillor Sullivan moved that the petition be forwarded to the full City Council and that the committee retain jurisdiction of the subject matter to continue discussions. The motion passed on a voice vote without objection. Councillors Murphy and Sullivan thanked all those present for their attendance.
The meeting was adjourned at six o’clock and thirty-five minutes p.m.
For the Committee,
Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chair