Cambridge City Council meeting - May 20, 2024

Cambridge City Council meeting - May 20, 2024 - AGENDA
[Councillor Azeem was Absent]

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on the Safety Net Family Shelter. (CM24#105)
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by JSW, Maura Pensak, Nolan, Yi-An Huang, Simmons; Placed on File 8-0-1 (BA Absent)

2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-15, regarding recommendations for adjusting parking permit fees to better align with associated costs. (CM24#106)
pulled by Toner; comments by Brooke “we have the authority” McKenna (TPT), McGovern, Nolan (who wants fees increased immediately), Stephanie McAuliffe (TPT), Simmons, Pickett (do we get to vote on such an increase?), JSW, Wilson (do all public housing tenants get the cheap rate?), Toner; Referred to Transportation and Public Utilities Committee on voice vote

To: Yi-An Huang, City Manager
From: Brooke McKenna, Transportation Commissioner, Traffic, Parking, + Transportation Department
Date: May 16, 2024
Subject: Awaiting Report No. 24-15: Recommendations for adjusting parking permit fees to better align with associated costs.

In response to Awaiting Report No. 24-15 of 3/18/24 requesting recommendations for adjusting parking permit fees to better align with associated costs while incorporating a tiered structure that takes into account low-income users and larger vehicles, with the report submitted in time that any recommended fee adjustments may be made for next year’s cycle of resident permit applications, we report the following:

Based on an analysis of the costs associated with the administration of the Resident Permit Parking Program, we recommend that the fee for a Resident Parking Permit be increased from $25 to $75. In addition to raising the standard cost for a Resident Parking Permit, we will implement a system for income-eligible Resident Parking Permits where the cost will remain at $25. Both standard and income-eligible Resident Parking Permit costs will continue to include a Visitor Parking Permit. The cost for a Visitor Parking Permit without a Resident Parking Permit will remain at $25.

As previously outlined in Acting City Solicitor Megan Bayer’s Response to Awaiting Report No. 24-4 of 1/22/24 Re: Report on recommendations and legal opinions for adjusting transportation related fees and other considered changes based on the conversations in committee on December 6, 2023:

Applying the Emerson College test to the City’s residential parking permit fees, the courts would likely find the current fees charged for the residential parking permits valid. The fees are charged in exchange for a particular governmental service, residential parking registration and stickers, for the use of City property (its public ways) for parking, which only benefits the party paying for the service and is not shared by others. The fee is paid by choice; residents have the option of not utilizing the service if they so desire. Finally, the fee currently charged is not collected to generally raise revenue but to compensate the City for providing the service and managing the expenses related to it.

The recommended fee increase presented above is in keeping with our current fee structure and reflects an updated accounting of the costs of administering the Resident Parking Permit Program.

The issue of raising fees for Resident Parking Permits based on the size of the vehicle is more complex and would need significant further exploration from both a legal and a practical perspective. As Acting City Solicitor Megan Bayer previously reported in her above-mentioned opinion:

If the fee amount is changed in a manner unproportional to the use of the City’s public ways for residential parking and the cost of operating the residential parking program because some vehicles are charged more based on type, the fee may be subject to challenge as an impermissible tax. Additionally, the fee may be subject to challenge if the purpose of the fee change is to meet the City’s climate goals because then the purpose of the fee would be to benefit all members of society and not just the party paying the fee.

Given these concerns, we do not recommend pursuing changes based on vehicle size at this point.

No changes to the price of the Resident Parking Permit will occur until we are able to implement the income-eligible Resident Permit Program. We will need to make significant adjustments to our Parking Management Information System (PMIS). The contract for this system is in the process of being re-bid, and a new contract will be in place this fall. Once the new contract is in place, we will be able to work with the vendor to develop a timeline for the implementation of the income-eligible program. This will not occur in time for the next Resident Parking Permit renewal season. We will report back to the Council in the late Fall on our timeline for implementation.

3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a report submitted by the Planning Board regarding the Family Definition Zoning Petition. [text of report] (CM24#107)
pulled by McGovern; Referred to May 22 Ordinance Committee meeting 8-0-1 (BA Absent)

4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a report submitted by the Planning Board regarding the Khalida Griffin-Sheperd, et al. Zoning Petition. [text of report] (CM24#108)
Referred to Petition 8-0-1 (BA Absent)

5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization of $15,000,000 to provide additional funds for the construction of improvements at the Fire Station Headquarters Building located at 491 Broadway. (CM24#109)
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Owen O’Riordan, Fire Chief Cahill, Siddiqui, Nolan, Wilson, Simmons, Toner; Order Adopted 7-0-1-1 (BA Absent; SS Present)

CM24#109 May 20, 2024
To the Honorable, the City Council:

Please find attached an order requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow $15,000,000 to provide additional funds for the construction of improvements at the Fire Station Headquarters Building located at 491 Broadway. In FY19 this project was initially planned as an “alteration” and was funded with a $25 million dollar appropriation. However, as the project proceeded it became clear that a larger scope was required as part of comprehensive rehabilitation of this historic building. In FY22, an additional $37 million was appropriated to fund the larger, more comprehensive project scope, which included a new data center for emergency communications, a net zero emissions building with energy producing solar panels and geothermal wells, and a sub-station to accommodate the energy requirements for an all-electric building.

As the work has progressed, challenges related to the complexity of this project, including the placement of the substation as well as 17 geothermal wells on an extremely tight urban site, the need to phase the work given site constraints and the cost of temporary facilities have contributed to additional cost increases.

With the approval of this recommendation, the renovated Fire Headquarters building will be a net zero emissions building with updated training and living quarters, that will also provide for the safety of firefighters with a decontamination system to clear bunker gear and equipment of hazardous materials from a fire; and a new emergency communication data center, which will serve the City’s fire operations for decades to come.

Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager

Agenda Item No. 5 May 20, 2024
ORDERED: That $15,000,000 is appropriated, in addition to any amounts previously appropriated, for the purpose of financing the construction of the Fire Station Headquarters building improvements; and to meet this appropriation the Treasurer, with the approval of the City Manager, is authorized to borrow $15,000,000 under Chapter 44 of the General Laws or any other enabling authority.

ORDERS
1. City Council support of the Act Establishing Protections and Accountability for TNC and DNC Workers (S.627/H1158), which would allow TNCs to sustain worker benefits and protections that maintain a level playing field across transportation industries. Councillor Toner, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson (PO24#65)
pulled by Toner; Charter Right - Toner (and Wilson to be added as sponsor)

2. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and the Cambridge Arts Council to consider whether Cambridge could facilitate a porchfest event. Councillor Nolan, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem (PO24#66)
pulled by Nolan, comments by Nolan, Wilson, Simmons; Order Adopted on Voice Vote

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. An Ordinance 2023 #8B has been received from City Clerk, relative to Amend Chapter 14.04 – Fair Housing. [Passed to 2nd Reading Oct 2, 2023; Amended Nov 6, 2023; to remain on Unfinished Business pending legislative approval of Special Act needed prior to ordination] (ORD23-8B)

2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the appropriation and authorization to borrow $11,500,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of various City streets and sidewalks. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#74)

3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of appropriation and authorization to borrow $4,350,000 to provide funds for the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan. Funds will support significant building improvements and deferred maintenance projects. Proposed projects include but are not limited to upgrades of Public Works facilities, municipal offices, youth centers, branch libraries and fire stations, renovations to 105 Windsor Street and upgrades of HVAC and electrical systems. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#75)

4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $3,000,000 to provide funds for the design and construction of open spaces at the Peabody School Playground, Corcoran (Raymond Street) Park, Rafferty Park, Wilder-Lee Park, and 359 Broadway. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#76)

5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $2,560,000 to provide funds for financing school building upgrades. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#77)

6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of and authorization to borrow $6,550,000 to provide funds for the Ozone Generator Replacement; Water Treatment Plant equipment and systems upgrades and water works construction projects in coordination with DPW street restoration projects, which include Massachusetts Ave 4, Chestnut, Dana, Sciarappa and Winter Streets. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#78)

7. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $8,500,000 to provide funds for the sewer Capital Repairs Program and projects related to climate change preparedness efforts. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#79)

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication from Aaron Bekemeyer regarding Support for Multi-Family Zoning.

6. A communication from Alex Semendinger regarding Support for Ending Single-Family Zoning.

7. A communication from Alexa Jakob regarding In support of ending single-family zoning.

9. A communication from Amand Sundaram regarding I strongly object to the new citywide up-zoning petition.

10. A communication from Amanda Lee Hallmark Condominium regarding Limiting and reconsidering PO#1 (PO24#63).

11. A communication from Amy Butcher regarding PO#1 (PO24#63) to Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee.

12. A communication from Amy Shen regarding Support for ending single family only zoning.

13. A communication from Amy Waltz regarding PO#1 Poses major environmental & community concerns! Please Vote No & Reconsider this rezoning impact!

15. A communication from Andrew Huang regarding I support ending single family zoning.

16. A communication from Andrew Natenshon regarding I support ending single family zoning.

17. A communication from Andy Brody regarding It’s time to end the ban on apartments.

19. A communication from Ann Robbart regarding No! On May 13 Rezoning Policy Order!

20. A communication from Anne Benson regarding NO to the new zoning petition to the Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee.

23. A communication from Annette LaMond regarding Up-Zoning Petition: More Study Is Needed.

24. A communication from Arturo Campos regarding Support for Ending Single-Family Only Zoning in Cambridge.

25. A communication from Aryan Wadhwani regarding In support of ending single-family zoning.

26. A communication from Ashwin Pasupathy regarding Cambridge Resident in favor of MFH.

28. A communication from Ausra Kubilius regarding please allow robust community input on latest zoning petition.

29. A communication from Austin R. Hurst-Manny regarding Support for Ending Single Family Zoning.

30. A communication from Banti Gheneti regarding Recommendations on multifamily housing zoning changes PO#1.

31. A communication from Barbara Anthony regarding Zoning change policy scheduled for this Monday night.

32. A communication from Beth Gamse and Judy Singer regarding Please refer the citywide upcoming petition to the Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee.

36. A communication from Bruno Carvalho regarding ending single family only zoning.

39. A communication from Carolyn Shipley regarding Full Depth Pavement Rehabilitation - Cambridgeport.

40. A communication from Carolyn Magid regarding public comment for tonight’s Council.

41. A communication from Catalina Arboleda regarding against new city-wide upzoning proposal.

42. A communication from Catherine Hoffman regarding Sister City event and delegation introductions - May 19th.

44. A communication from Cathy Higgins regarding strong support for ending exclusionary zoning.

46. A communication from Charles Norris regarding Proposed City-wide Zoning Changes.

47. A communication from Charles Teague regarding Budget more money for trees, especially planting in parks!

49. A communication from Christina Tree regarding Zoning In on the 2024 Cambridge City Council Up-Zoning Proposal.

51. A communication from Correna Cohen regarding Support ending single family zoning.

53. A communication from Dan Phillips regarding In support of multi-family housing citywide.

55. A communication from Dana Jay Bein regarding Continue the Process of Ending Single Family Only Zoning.

56. A communication from Daniel Blinderman regarding In Support of Ending Exclusionary Zoning.

59. A communication from David Halperin regarding Support multifamily housing citywide.

60. A communication from David Hattis regarding In Support of Multifamily Housing in Cambridge.

62. A communication from Derek Gagnon regarding Support for Ending Single Family Zoning in Cambridge.

63. A communication from Diana Meservey and Thomas Dinwoodie regarding Limit up zoning and send zoning petition for long term review.

64. A communication from Diane C. Norris regarding Letter for Upzoning Proposal, City Council Meeting May 13.

65. A communication from Don Michaelis regarding Support for multifamily housing (PO#1, 5/13 council meeting).

66. A communication from Dylan Gottlieb regarding Constituent in favor of ENDING exclusionary zoning.

67. A communication from Elizabeth Chang-Davidson regarding Allow more housing, remove zoning restrictions.

70. A communication from Erica Yuen regarding End Single Family Only Housing in Cambridge.

73. A communication from Evgeniya Savchenko regarding Single family only zoning.

75. A communication from Fritz Mueller regarding Urgent - Strong Opposition to Neighborhood Rezoning in Cambridge.

78. A communication from Greg Babunovic regarding Supporting dense & multifamily housing.

80. A communication from Hannah Shumway regarding Ending single family-only zoning.

82. A communication from John Leo, regarding Support for ending single-family only zoning.

83. A communication from Hector regarding In Support of Ending Single Family Housing.

84. A communication from Helen Walker regarding Need to Revise “Multifamily Housing Citywide”.

85. A communication from Ira Nichols-Barrer regarding support for multifamily housing (5/13 meeting, PO#1)

86. A communication from Kristen Kelleher, regarding Shepard Street Meeting Tonight.

87. A communication from Iuliu Balibanu regarding Please end single-family zoning in Cambridge.

90. A communication from Jacob Anderson regarding Support for ending single family zoning.

91. A communication from Jacqui Fahey Sandell and Mason Sandell regarding Please vote against Donovan petition in favor of planned AHO study and development.

92. A communication from James Okun regarding End single family zoning in Cambridge.

93. A communication from Jason Carnes regarding In Support of Ending Single Family Only Zoning.

95. A communication from Jeffrey D. Peterson regarding Refer PO#1 (PO24#63) to Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee

96. A communication from Jennifer Payette regarding Refer PO#1 (PO24#63) to Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee.

97. A communication from Jeremy Silverman and Mary Sutherland regarding PO#1 (PO24#63).

98. A communication from Jessica Sheehan regarding in support of PO#1 to end exclusionary zoning.

100. A communication from Jim Recht regarding PO24#63 – Support Overdose Prevention Centers.

101. A communication from John Leo regarding Support for ending single-family only zoning.

102. A communication from John Pena regarding Refer PO#1 to neighborhood/long-term planning committee.

104. A communication from Joseph Moore regarding More study needed on up-zoning.

105. A communication from Joyce Devlin regarding Zoning In on 2024 Cambridge City Council Up-Zoning Proposal.

107. A communication from Julian Hammer regarding Cambridge Single - Family Zoning.

110. A communication from Justin Hufnagal regarding End Single Family Only Zoning.

111. A communication from Justin Saif regarding Strong support for ending racist, classist exclusionary zoning.

113. A communication from Kadir Teoman Uysal regarding up-zoning petition: PO#1 (PO24#63).

114. A communication from Kaleb Abebe regarding PO24#62 - Strong Support for Proposed Zoning Reforms in Cambridge.

115. A communication from Zachary Nado, regarding Support multi-family zoning in Cambridge.

118. A communication from Karen Falb regarding Avoid Tolerance of Put Over, Too Fast Passing of Orders/ Petitions/Ordinances - such as This week’s Zoning Petition.

119. A communication from Kathleen Moore regarding Abolish single family zoning.

121. A communication from Kavish Gandhi regarding Public Comment, Monday May 13.

122. A communication from Kelly Mathesius regarding Please end single family zoning!

123. A communication from Kelsey Harris regarding YES to more housing, ending forced single-family-only.

124. A communication from Kenneth Perry regarding End single family zoning please.

125. A communication from Kevin Meier regarding Support to End Single Family Zoning in Cambridge.

126. A communication from Kevin Moses regarding Support for ending single family exclusive zoning.

128. A communication from Larry Baione regarding Zoning In on 2024 Cambridge City Council Up-Zoning Proposal.

129. A communication from Laura Brannon regarding Vote YES on Ending Exclusionary Zoning.

130. A communication from Lee Farris regarding Amend PO#1 to increase affordable housing.

132. A communication from Young Kim, regarding Mass Avenue Partial Construction 5-YR Capital Appropriation.

133. A communication from Linda Moussouris regarding refer PO#1 (PO24#63) to the NLTP Committee Please see NYTimes.com How 5 N.Y.C. Neighborhoods Are Struggling With Climate Change.

135. A communication from Logan Engstrom regarding Support for: ending single family only zoning.

136. A communication from Young Kim, regarding Capital Appropriation Review 5/14 FinCom (002).

137. A communication from Luisa San Juan regarding zoning petition being discussed on May 13.

139. A communication from Yash Deshpande, regarding END SINGLE FAMILY ZONING NOW.

140. A communication from Mackenzie Webb regarding I support ending exclusionary zoning in Cambridge.

141. A communication from Marie Elena Saccoccio regarding Objection to PO24#62 as violation of Plan E Process.

142. A communication from Marilee Meyer regarding LETTER CAUTIONING AGAINST MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING CITY WIDE.

143. A communication from Willie Boag, regarding I support ending single-family zoning.

144. A communication from Marjory Wunsch regarding Cambridge City Council upzoning proposal.

145. A communication from William Navarre, regarding Public comment – Legalize Apartments all over Cambridge!

146. A communication from Mark Steffen and Sharanya Iyer regarding Please vote to pass PO#1 (PO24#63).

148. A communication from Martin Bakal regarding Increase funding for planting of trees.

149. A communication from Will Borchard, regarding PO#1 - End Single Family Zoning in Cambridge.

150. A communication from Wendy Weiss, regarding A constituent’s position on an Agenda issue for May 13, 2024.

151. A communication from Mary Anne Carlson regarding Please refer PO#1 (PO24#63) to Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee.

154. A communication from Mary Jane Rupert regarding citywide zoning plan on the agenda this evening.

156. A communication from Valerie Zhen Jin Chuang, regarding End single family zoning!

157. A communication from Matt Vernacchia regarding I support zoning for multi-family housing in Cambridge.

158. A communication from Tyler Etzel, regarding Support for ending exclusionary zoning.

159. A communication from Maureen Whitehouse regarding City Resident input for upcoming City Council Meeting.

160. A communication from Ty Wilson, regarding In support of PO#1 - remove bans on multifamily housing development.

162. A communication from Michael Buck regarding Of Utmost Importance. Maintaining quality of life for citizens.

163. A communication from Michael Rosenberg Multi-family regarding Upzoning Petition PO#1 (PO24#63).

164. A communication from Michele Sprengnether regarding promotion of multifamily housing.

165. A communication from Mike Rowland regarding In support of ending single-family zoning.

168. A communication from Mollie K. Sherry regarding refer this zoning petition to the Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee.

172. A communication from Neil Miller regarding Support for PO#1 – end exclusionary zoning.

173. A communication from Tom Rawson, regarding OPPOSE Unaffordable 6-story Housing Citywide.

176. A communication from Tim Russell, regarding Support for PO#1 and multifamily housing citywide.

177. A communication from Tim Koski, regarding End single family zoning in Cambridge!

178. A communication from Tiancheng Jiang, regarding End Single Family Zoning in Cambridge.

179. A communication from Thomas Weisenbeck, regarding Do not support ending single family zoning.

181. A communication from Tessa Green, regarding Please continue to move towards ending single family zoning.

182. A communication from Teresa Cardosi, regarding please end exclusionary zoning.

183. A communication from Nicholas Pabon regarding Writing in Support of Ending Single-Family-Only Zoning.

185. A communication from Tahir Kapoor, regarding End Single Family Zoning across Cambridge.

187. A communication from Susan Smith, regarding Refer PO#1 (PO24#63) to Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee.

189. A communication from Susan M. Carter, regarding Edits & Reminder_ Spring News and Action Items.

190. A communication from Nicolas Schank regarding Support multi-family zoning in Cambridge.

192. A communication from Susan Cory, regarding 5-13 public hearing on allowing multifamily housing in all neighborhoods of the City.

193. A communication from Niels Vanderloo regarding Support for ending single family only zoning.

197. A communication from Steve Fitzsimmons, regarding Please Refer the AHO zoning petition to the NLP Committee.

200. A communication from Sophie Fisher, regarding Support for ending single-family zoning in Cambridge.

201. A communication from Paige Dickson regarding End single family zoning in Cambridge.

202. A communication from Pamela Winters regarding Please do not pass six story housing that will benefit developers.

203. A communication from Patricia Kelley regarding End Single Family Only Zoning.

205. A communication from Patrick Ledwith regarding End exclusionary single-family zoning.

206. A communication from Patrick W. Barrett III regarding PO24#62 (Yes) and PO24#63 (No).

212. A communication from Rachel Sandalow-Ash regarding End exclusionary zoning in Cambridge!

213. A communication from Shelagh Hadley, regarding Limit proposed 6 story housing structures to AHO corridors and squares.

214. A communication from Rebecca Pries regarding Send to Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee.

217. A communication from Ronald Suleski regarding “This is very important to me.”

218. A communication from Rosalie Anders regarding yes to end exclusionary zoning.

219. A communication from Sharon Stichter, regarding new city-wide zoning proposal.

220. A communication from Shannon Canavin, regarding Support for ending exclusionary zoning.

221. A communication from Shakked Noy, regarding Writing in support of ending single-family zoning.

223. A communication from Samantha Nelson, regarding End single family only zoning.

224. A communication from Sam Polzin, regarding Support for citywide upzoning to allow multi-family housing by right.

225. A communication from Sam Mardini, regarding Cambridge Resident Supporting the End of Single-Family Zoning.

227. A communication from Jonathan Slate regarding REQUEST FOR VOTE AGAINST PLANNED CURB CUT REQUEST ON WESTLEY AVENUE BY DEVELOPERS OF 55 HARVEY STREET.

228. A communication from Ruth Ryals regarding Re_ REQUEST FOR VOTE AGAINST PLANNED CURB CUT REQUEST ON WESTLEY AVENUE BY DEVELOPERS OF 55 HARVEY STREET.

229. A communication from Ian Rudnick regarding I support 6-story zoning citywide.

231. A communication from Ashwin Pasupathy regarding In support of zoning changes.

RESOLUTIONS
1. That the City Council go on record that Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, 2024 is a day for extending its heartfelt gratitude for the service and sacrifices made by those who gave their all. Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson

3. Condolences on the death of Mary T. (Vieira) Vasconcelos. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

6. Condolences on the death of William J. Flaherty. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

8. Resolution on the death of Dorothy Ann “Dottie” Albergo. Vice Mayor McGovern

COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an updating regarding legislative activity. (COF24#67)
Placed on File 8-0-1 (BA Absent)

Tues, May 21
12:00pm The Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebrations Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss the Central Square Lots Study (CM24#33).
3:00pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing from 3:00pm-5:00pm to discuss Citizen’s Zoning Petition from Khalida Griffin-Sheperd, et al. to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in Section 11.206.1 and Subsections 11.206.1 and 11.206.2 (AP24#10).

Wed, May 22
10:00am The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing from 10:00am-12:00pm to discuss a City Council Zoning Petition to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in Artiles 2.000, 4.000, 5.000, 6.000, 11.000, 13.000, 14.000, 17.000, 20.000, and 22.000 (AP24#12).
3:00pm The Housing Committee will hold a public hearing to continue its May 8, 2024 discussion on allowing multifamily housing in all neighborhoods of the city (PO24#37).

Thurs, May 23
3:00pm The Health and Environment Committee will meet to discuss the ongoing partnership with Neville Manor.

Tues, May 28
12:00pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing from 12:00pm-2:00pm to discuss Citizen’s Zoning Petition from Joseph S. Ronayne et al. to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in Artiles 4, 5, and 8 (AP24#14). The Ordinance Committee will also be discussing amendments to the Tenants’ Rights Ordinance (PO24#54).

Wed, May 29
11:30am The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will hold a public hearing to follow up on its Sept 27, 2023 meeting on our recent Disparity Study focused on the procurement of goods and services. The purpose of the hearing is to receive an update from city staff on any progress made in developing strategies to reduce barriers and promote city efforts to contract with more minority and women-owned businesses identified in the Disparity Study.
3:00pm REVISED CALL OF MEETING. The Public Safety Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss close circuit cameras and other surveillance technologies in addition to the 2024 Annual Surveillance Report (CM24#28).

Tues, June 4
3:00pm The Human Services and Veterans Committee will hold a public hearing from 3:00pm-5:00pm to receive an update from the City’s Opioid Task Force and local providers regarding the opioid crisis in Cambridge and current and future interventions.

Wed, June 5
3:00pm The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee will hold an initial meeting to discuss Charter Review recommendations and develop draft recommendations to the Full City Council for reviewing, deliberating, adopting, and processing possible changes to the Cambridge City Charter for a future vote by Cambridge voters.

Tues, June 11
11:30am The Public Safety Committee will hold a public hearing to receive a report and get updates from PRAB on general issues and the implementation of the Procedural Justice Data Board.

Wed, June 12
2:00pm The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Utilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss municipal broadband.

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 May 20, 2024 Charter Right - Toner
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) including Uber and Lyft, and Delivery Network Companies (DNCs) DoorDash, and Instacart currently misclassify their drivers as independent contractors; and
WHEREAS: TNC and DNC’s drivers are employees of the app-based companies; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Attorney General filed a lawsuit for wage theft and misclassification because the drivers are employees; and
WHEREAS: Social programs such as unemployment, workers’ compensation, and paid family medical leave are funded by all other employers; and
WHEREAS: The report on the financial assessment of TNCs evaluated a period of 10 years; and found during the ten-year span, $105,150,172 was lost in workers’ compensation; $124,973,567 was lost in unemployment insurance; and $36,292,576 was lost in Paid and Family Medical Leave; totaling $266,416,315 owed to the Massachusetts benefit programs from the period of 2013 to 2023; and
WHEREAS: Uber and Lyft earned $1.4 Billion in 2023 alone and contributed nothing to Massachusetts benefit programs; owing the Commonwealth $47 Million; and
WHEREAS: The lack of contribution was due to the misclassification of drivers; and
WHEREAS: Existing well-tested laws exist that can regulate TNCs and DNCs and protect consumers; and
WHEREAS: S.627/H.1158 “An Act Establishing Protections and Accountability for TNC and DNC Workers” combines those laws and prevents price gouging, requires panic buttons for both driver and passenger and provides a pathway to unionization, all while maintaining employee status; and
WHEREAS: S.627/H.1158 also allows local control and flexibility with regard to the impact of TNCs and DNCs; and
WHEREAS: It is a priority of the City of Cambridge to require fair contributions from corporations participating in labor and employment within the Commonwealth; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council expresses its support of the Act Establishing Protections and Accountability for TNC and DNC Workers (S.627/H1158), which would allow TNCs to sustain worker benefits and protections that maintain a level playing field across transportation industries.

O-2 May 20, 2024
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
WHEREAS: Porchfests are events where various neighborhoods setup porches and bands for afternoons of music and community gathering; and
WHEREAS: The first porchfest started in Ithaca, NY in 2007, and similar events have quickly spread around the country to over 100 communities, promoting local musicians and bands, and over 30 communities in New England alone have organized porchfest events in their neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS: Several neighboring communities have had great events in the past, including: Somerville, which organizes one of the oldest and largest porchfest events in the country, holding events since 2011, with 413 registered musical groups in 2024; Brookline, which hold their successful events in the fall season; Watertown, which is holding their first porchfest on May 18 and has 220 registered musical groups; as well as individual neighborhoods in Boston including Dorchester, Fenway, and Jamaica Plain; and
WHEREAS: Communities have taken different approaches to staggering performances across times and neighborhoods and organizing crowds, and Somerville has publicized efforts to “Keep Porchfest Positive” by emphasizing community, courtesy, and common sense; and
WHEREAS: Many Cambridge residents attend and play in Somerville Porchfest and hosting our own Porchfest may be an opportunity for Cambridge to explore a similar event focused on local musicians and community gathering; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments and the Cambridge Arts Council to consider whether Cambridge could facilitate a porchfest event; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council by August 2024.

AWAITING REPORT LIST
24-8. Report on the recommendations for the refinement and improvement of the housing permitting process to the City Council, with a focus on reducing delays, minimizing costs, and enhancing clarity and accessibility for all stakeholders.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan (O-1) from 2/26/2024

24-15. Report back to the City Council with recommendations for adjusting parking permit fees to better align with associated costs. See Mgr #2
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem (O-9) from 3/18/2024

24-17. Report on whether the City Council could add maximum lot area per dwelling unit, maximum setback requirements, and minimum floor area ratios in some districts or as part of an overlay in the Zoning Ordinance and whether the City Council could require a special permit for a down conversion in developments that would result in a net loss of housing units.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan (Calendar Item #1) from 3/25/2024

24-18. Report on zoning language that effectively promotes multi-family housing, including income-restricted affordable housing with the goal of having viable housing for everyone especially lower-income residents.
Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui (Calendar Item #2) from 3/25/2024

24-19. Report on whether the City could provide incentives for residents who do not have cars.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan (O-4) from 3/25/2024

24-21. Report on a community meeting held with residents of Appleton and surrounding streets in the Huron and Brattle Street neighborhoods to review their findings and discuss options for addressing the neighbors’ concerns, including the possibility of restricting traffic entering from the Brattle onto Appleton Street from the hours of 3-7pm.
Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui (O-3) from 4/8/2024

24-22. Report on the summary of city efforts related to PFAS concerns, an update on educational information that can be shared with the community that outline actions individuals can take to reduce their exposure to PFAS, and provide an overview of the federal and state regulatory environment for PFAS in the wastewater stream.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson (O-3) from 5/6/2024

24-23. Report back to the Human Services and Veterans Committee on an issued RFP calling for an agency that will lead the City through a community process that will include, but not be limited to, community education, community feedback, location possibilities, potential legal issues and will include feedback from all neighborhoods, including but not limited to; seniors, businesses and places of worship, the Cambridge Police Department, the Cambridge Fire Department, Pro Ambulance, the Cambridge Health Alliance, shelters, nonprofits working with those experiences substance use disorder, and individuals experiencing substance use disorder themselves.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem (O-2) from 5/13/2024