Cambridge City Council meeting - June 2, 2008 - AGENDA

CITY MANAGER AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-72, regarding the enforcement of idling vehicles.

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-71, regarding a report on why the youth Hip Hop Concert for Justice was cancelled.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-70, regarding a report on the inspection program for multifamily buildings.

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-75, regarding a report on the status of the trash and dumpster issues involving One First Street condominium project.

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an additional appropriation of a $15,000 donation from Whole Foods to the Grant Fund License Commission Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support the Hybrid Cab program.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $10,000 Grant received from the Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA) to the Grant Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will provide training to DPW Managers and Supervisors on safety and injury prevention.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for $102,346 to the Grant Fund Community Development Salaries and Wages account and will be used to cover the cost of an existing housing planner and a portion of support staff salaries related to the administration of the HOME Program.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the HOME Program for $934,992 to the Public Investment Fund Community Development Extraordinary Expenditures account to provide funds to create new affordable housing and to provide funding to local Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs), non-profits, for program delivery costs for affordable housing projects (required under HOME regulations).  Approved 8-1 with Kelley voting NO.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order authorizing the City Manager to transfer appropriations for available balances prior to the close of the books for FY07-08.

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $40,000 from the General Fund Employee Benefits (Insurance) Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Public Works Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account to cover current and anticipated medical services and/or prescription reimbursement costs for personnel injured in performance of their duties.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $27,077 in rebate revenues received from NSTAR for three HVAC projects to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account and will be used for additional energy efficiency projects/studies in City Buildings and properties.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Cambridge Housing Authority for $61,428.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Department Salary and Wages account to support the Cambridge Employment Program.

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $40,895 from Boarding and Razing revenues to the General Fund Inspectional Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account to cover the cost of demolition of the property located at 360 Broadway.

June 2, 2008
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am requesting the appropriation of $40,895 from Boarding and Razing revenues to the General Fund Inspectional Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account to cover the cost of demolition of the property located at 360 Broadway, which was badly damaged as result of a fire and order demolished by the Inspectional Services Department.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $63,600 from the General Fund Employee Benefits (Salary Adjustment) Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Fire Other Ordinary Maintenance account to cover the cost to outfit 7 new firefighters with personal protective equipment and uniforms as well as to perform related medical evaluations.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-78, regarding a report on the status of removing the West Cambridge painted rotary.
[Note: The upshot is "The City has decided to remove the painted rotary entirely. The removal of the art work will begin this spring (2008) with pressure washing by the Public Works Department to remove as much paint as possible. Any remaining paint will be covered with asphalt sealer. Removal of the yellow thermoplastic circle by the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department will take place in June or July by grinding the pavement."]

16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-48, regarding a report on public education campaigns and traffic enforcement campaigns to increase bicycling safety.  Referred to Traffic & Transportation Committee - Kelley

17. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a recommendation from the License Commission to approve the request from M&L Transit Systems, Inc. to amend the route of their existing jitney license.

18. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a transfer within the Massachusetts Family Network grant (MFN) received from the Department of Education in the amount of $18,876 from the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Salary and Wages account to the Human Service Programs Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will allow DHSP to contract with other partner agencies and consultants who provide a variety of family support and parent education resources to families in the Cambridge community as well as to purchase educational materials for the program.

CHARTER RIGHT
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-63, regarding a report on whether the Cambridge Health Alliance is maintaining women’s health services at the East Cambridge Neighborhood Health Clinic. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Item Number Four of May 19, 2008.]  No Action Taken - Place on file under Rule 19.

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

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

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from the Cambridge Public Library, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Temple Street promoting Cambridge Reads and the author visit on Oct 16, 2008.

2. An application was received from Middle East, requesting permission for eighteen tables and thirty-six chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 472-478 Massachusetts Avenue.

3. An application was received from Richard Monagle, requesting two new curb cuts and closing existing curb cut at the premises numbered 5-7 Remington Street. Curb cut number one has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works. Curb cut number two was denied by Traffic, Parking and Transportation. Disapproval was received from the neighborhood association inviting further discussion.  Councillor Seidel reported that an agreement had been reached between the Mid-Cambridge Neighborhood Association (MCNA) and the developer of the proposed hotel project.

4. An application was received from Sara Nelson, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 17 Rockwell Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works and one neighborhood association.

5. Approval of constable bond surety received from James M. Desrosiers.

6. An application was received from Singabella Cafe, requesting permission for three tables and thirteen chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 2401 Massachusetts Avenue.

7. An application was received from Starbucks Coffee Company, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign, three tables and six chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 31 Church Street.

8. An application was received from Maria Farias/Kendall Square Corporation, requesting permission for two sandwich board signs in front of premises One Broadway and Main Street near Kendall MBTA.  This is for the new Kendall Square Farmer's Market.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from the family of Thadeusz Straube, transmitting appreciation to the City Council for the kind resolution of sympathy.

2. A communication was received from Betsy Grant, transmitting thanks for the resolution expressing the City Council’s appreciation for the artistry of her late husband, Vernon Grant.

3. A communication was received from Kathy Podgers, regarding paper money.


4. A communication was received from Joan Pickett on behalf of MCNA Coordinating Committee, regarding the curb cut on Remington Street.

5. A communication was received from Mark Mulligan, regarding the site design at 280-290 River Street.


RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to St. Anthony’s Parish as they celebrate the Feast of St. Anthony on June 15, 2008.   Councillor Toomey

2. Best wishes to Senator Edward Kennedy.   Councillor Decker

3. Congratulations to Youville House as they celebrate their 10th anniversary on June 19, 2008.   Councillor Toomey

4. Congratulations to Representative Rachel Kaprielian on being named Registrar of Motor Vehicles.   Councillor Toomey, Councillor Maher, Councillor Davis

5. Thanks to Bob Stevens and Steve Vesce for their hard work in making the Memorial Day observances such a success.   Councillor Maher

6. Congratulations to Lieutenant Paul F. Mahoney Jr., Ladder Company 3, Group 4, on being named a recipient of a Firehouse Magazine Heroism Award for a rescue on Putnam Avenue in December of 2007.   Councillor Maher

7. Happy 50th Birthday wishes to Cynthia "Toy" Ramsaran Greaves.   Councillor Davis

8. Resolution on the death of Sergeant John Daggett.   Councillor Decker
9. Resolution on the death of Private Branden Haunert.   Councillor Decker
10. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Victor Cota.   Councillor Decker

11. Resolution on the death of Anna May (Anderson) Phillips.   Councillor Toomey

12. Resolution on the death of Violet (Bondoc) Sasu.   Councillor Toomey

13. Congratulations to Marvin Gilmore on being named Newmarket "Person of the Year" for 2008.   Mayor Simmons

14. Happy 90th Birthday wishes to Amorette Berry.   Mayor Simmons

15. Thanks to the Cambridge Public School Family Liaisons for their hard work on behalf of the children and families of Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons

16. Retirement of Dorrill Mason from the Cambridge Health Alliance.   Mayor Simmons

17. Retirement of Ann Munighan from the Cambridge Health Alliance.   Mayor Simmons

18. Congratulations to all the participants of the "Global Community Project: The Climate Change Year".   Councillor Seidel

19. Congratulations to Victor Duran, Hector Garcia, Ryan McCusker and Miguel Tavares on their newest business venture, MOC LOVE.   Councillor Toomey


20. Congratulations to Matthew Robert Wolfe and Dawn Kelly Wolfe on the birth of their daughter, Iris Caroline Wolfe.   Councillor Toomey

21. Resolution on the death of John Stevenson Jr.   Councillor Maher

22. Resolution on the death of Peter F. Killion.   Councillor Maher

23. Resolution on the death of Kenneth F. Lyons.   Councillor Maher

24. Resolution on the death of Iona Blackman Morrison.   Councillor Maher

25. Best wishes to Alan Stone, Vice President for Community Affairs at Harvard University, on his future endeavors.   Vice Mayor Murphy

26. Speedy recovery wishes to Santiago Cook.   Mayor Simmons

27. Congratulations to Santiago Cook and Chris Brown on their upcoming nuptials.   Mayor Simmons


ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the DCR regarding the extension of the days of operation for the Veterans Memorial Pool at Magazine Beach and the McCrehan Memorial Pool until Aug 24.   Councillor Davis

2. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council and the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee on how local construction lighting could be limited to the minimum necessary for safety.   Councillor Davis

3. That the City Manager is requested to investigate the purchase of the empty lot at the corner of Brookline and Watson Streets for the purpose of creating a pocket park, affordable housing, or a community garden.   Councillor Davis  Amended, and referred to Health & Environment Committee

4. That the Mayor is requested to call a special meeting, part of which may be in Executive Session, for the purpose of discussing Monteiro v. City of Cambridge.   Councillor Kelley and Councillor Seidel

5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant staff members and report back to the City Council on the number and location of pre-school facilities in Cambridge and the number of home day care facilities, to include the potential number of children served by these facilities and their relative ages.   Councillor Kelley and Councillor Seidel

6. That the City Council’s Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee be and hereby is requested to hold a committee hearing to discuss the traffic and parking issues involving 270-290 River Street.   Councillor Kelley and Councillor Seidel

7. That the City Manager is requested to examine whether Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act or Rivers Protection Act empowers abutting or downstream communities to speak on and/or affect the outcome of a permitting process when development in the originating community will have a demonstrable impact on water, wetland or other resources covered by the Wetlands Protection Act or the Rivers Protection Act.   Councillor Seidel and Councillor Davis

8. That the City Manager is requested to determine the extent of any problems with safety and littering at Pacific Park which may be hampering the use of the park and the newly constructed dog park.   Councillor Kelley

9. Dedication of a suitable location in the vicinity of Huron Avenue and Park Avenue in honor of the Leary Family.   Councillor Maher

10. Reaffirming the City Council Order of Apr 23, 2007 to dedicate a suitable location in honor of George W. Spartichino.   Councillor Maher, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel and Councillor Toomey

11. Reaffirming the City Council Order of Oct 16, 2006 to dedicate a suitable location in the vicinity of 55 Park Avenue in honor of Patrick Stephens.   Councillor Maher, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel and Councillor Toomey

12. That the City Manager is requested to determine why street trees have not been planted along Tremont Street between Cambridge and Hampshire Streets, although residents have requested trees for over four years.   Councillor Seidel

13. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Cambridge Housing Authority to be sure that elevators at Miller’s River Apartments, and all senior housing, are fully functional.   Councillor Toomey

14. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Cambridge Housing Authority to ensure that American flags in suitable condition are being flown at all senior housing buildings in time for the July 4th holiday.   Councillor Toomey

15. Dedication of a suitable location in the vicinity of Sydney Street and Allston Street in honor of the Gittens family.   Mayor Simmons

16. That the City Council declare May 27, 2008 as the "Second Annual Rachel Carson Day" in the City of Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons

17. That the City Council go on record urging Governor Deval Patrick and the Cambridge Legislative Delegation to support the Global Warming Solutions Act and its target of a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below 1990 levels by 2020, and an 80% reduction below 1990 levels by 2050.   Councillor Davis  amended

18. That the City Manager is requested to report back on the City’s plans for repairs, changes, or modernization efforts that may enhance the quality and safety of Clement Morgan Park.   Mayor Simmons

19. That the City Council meeting of June 30, 2008 be cancelled.   Vice Mayor Murphy  Charter Right - Maher

20. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments on whether there are plans to update Columbia Park and whether rodent-proof trash barrels can be installed at Columbia Park.   Councillor Decker and Councillor Toomey

21. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments on what kind of outreach is being done to comfort neighbors in the vicinity sites of violent crimes, how are neighborhood schools and youth centers responding to the violence, and whether the City is looking into any new options of outreach to neighborhoods impacted by repetitive acts of violence.   Councillor Decker


22. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works on the condition of the sidewalk at 36 Gray Street.   Councillor Reeves

23. That the City Council hereby approves payment of claims against the City of Cambridge in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the report of June 2, 2008 Claims Committee in the total sum of $1,234.80.   Councillor Toomey


COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Chair of the Claims Committee, for a meeting held on May 21, 2008 to consider claims filed against the City.

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

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

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

Tues, June 10
1:00pm   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue the committee’s discussion of services in Cambridge for children and their families during early childhood.  (Sullivan Chamber)
4:30pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance to boundaries of the Massachusetts Avenue Overlay District and to allow by special permit, lots within the overlay district that are zoned BC and have a contiguous portion of the lot in the adjacent residential district, underground parking and increased allowable FAR of 1.60 for hotels, to be calculated using the entire lot area. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Wed, June 18
4:00pm   The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss long-term open space protection for Joan Lorentz Park.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, June 19
5:00pm   The Housing Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss issues relative to housing for larger families in Cambridge.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Tues, June 24
2:00pm   The Public Facilities, Art and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public meeting to receive an update on present and future plans for the arts in Harvard Square and to discuss how Harvard Square Arts organizations can be further enhanced.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, June 25
5:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition submitted by Alexandria Real Estate Equities proposing amendments in the PUD-3A, PUD-4C and PUD-4B Districts to the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge in eastern Cambridge. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Tues, July 1
1:00pm   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue the committee’s discussion of services in Cambridge for children and their families during early childhood.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is able to extend some pool schedules through Aug 24; and
WHEREAS: There is heavy use of the Cambridge DCR pools when they are open and the pools are much appreciated by Cambridge adults and children during the hot July and August days; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the DCR regarding the extension of the days of operation for the Veterans Memorial Pool at Magazine Beach and the McCrehan Memorial Pool until Aug 24.

O-2     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The presence of construction lights at night are a local option; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council and the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee on how local construction lighting could be limited to the minimum necessary for safety.

O-3     June 2, 2008  Amended, and referred to Health & Environment Committee
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate the purchase of the empty lot at the corner of Brookline and Watson Streets for the purpose of creating a pocket park, affordable housing, or a community garden; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the entire City Council on this matter.

O-4     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the Mayor be and hereby is requested to call a special meeting, part of which may be in Executive Session, for the purpose of discussing Monteiro v. City of Cambridge.

O-5     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: Cambridge prides itself on being a city that welcomes all types of residents, to include families with young children; and
WHEREAS: Families with young children often need reasonable access to day care facilities; and
WHEREAS: Finding acceptable and accessible day care facilities are important components of making Cambridge an attractive place for families with young children to live; and
WHEREAS: The high price of real estate in Cambridge may be making it difficult for non-profit pre-school and home day care operations to expand or even exist in Cambridge; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant staff members and report back to the City Council on the number and location of pre-school facilities in Cambridge and the number of home day care facilities, to include the potential number of children served by these facilities and their relative ages.

O-6     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: The construction at 270-290 River Street has resulted in issues such as a huge pothole/trench in front of the development that creates large vibrations when large trucks and buses go by, an apparent curb cut in the middle of the development despite there being no vehicular entrance at that exact spot so cars and cabs apparently pull up onto the sidewalk there and stand, and a lack of shade trees along sidewalk that exposes yards of unit owners to busy traffic on River Street; and
WHEREAS: The driveway into the development is very close to a busy intersection on a street where traffic is fast, making it difficult and dangerous to turn into and out of the development; and
WHEREAS: Vehicular entrance to the development is extremely narrow due to the apparent construction of Building 290 larger than the approved plans; and
WHEREAS: The curb cut at the entrance to the development is off-set from driveway, which necessitates cars pulling up onto the sidewalk to turn into the development; and
WHEREAS: Residents are concerned that emergency vehicles may not be able to fit into this complex; and
WHEREAS: 290 River was apparently built larger than it was supposed to be, and may violate aisle width and maneuvering space requirements; and
WHEREAS: 282 River is proposed to be extremely close to 280 River Street, which might violate aisle width requirements, maneuvering space requirements and the intent of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in providing usable parking spaces; and
WHEREAS: Residents feel that the internal drives at the site are extremely tight and get progressively narrower towards the 280/282 end of the site and that the narrow entrance and sharp left turn once inside the development creates a dangerous situation in which two cars trying to make the turn at the same time and from different directions could easily collide; and
WHEREAS: The internal entrances function as the unit owners’ primary entrances, meaning that the site needs to accommodate both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, but residents worry that it may be too tight to do so safely; and
WHEREAS: No bicycle parking spaces appear to have been provided on the site; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council’s Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee be and hereby is requested to hold a committee hearing to discuss the traffic and parking issues involving 270-290 River Street.

O-7     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to examine whether Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act or Rivers Protection Act empowers abutting or downstream communities to speak on and/or affect the outcome of a permitting process when development in the originating community will have a demonstrable impact on water, wetland or other resources covered by the Wetlands Protection Act or the Rivers Protection Act; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with his findings.

O-8     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The City has recently constructed an enclosed dog park at Pacific Field; and
WHEREAS: This dog park is a valuable community resource, especially with the recent closure of Fort Washington; and
WHEREAS: The use of this dog park has been somewhat hampered as various people have expressed concerns about homeless people camping in the park and about debris left in the park making them feel unsafe; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City departments and non-profit social service providers to determine the extent of the problems in Pacific Field, to include the dog park, and to report back to the City Council on the status of these problems and the City’s plans, if any, to ensure that Pacific Field and its dog park become and remain places people can visit with a reasonable expectation that they will feel safe and that the park will not be littered with objectionable debris.

O-9     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate a suitable location in the vicinity of Huron Avenue and Park Avenue in honor of the Leary Family; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-10     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER, MAYOR SIMMONS, VICE MAYOR MURPHY, COUNCILLOR DAVIS, COUNCILLOR DECKER,
COUNCILLOR KELLEY, COUNCILLOR REEVES, COUNCILLOR SEIDEL, COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record reaffirming the City Council Order of Apr 23, 2007 to dedicate a suitable location in honor of George W. Spartichino; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-11     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER, MAYOR SIMMONS, VICE MAYOR MURPHY, COUNCILLOR DAVIS, COUNCILLOR DECKER
COUNCILLOR KELLEY, COUNCILLOR REEVES, COUNCILLOR SEIDEL, COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record reaffirming the City Council Order of Oct 16, 2006 to dedicate a suitable location in the vicinity of 55 Park Avenue in honor of Patrick Stephens; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-12     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to determine why street trees have not been planted along Tremont Street between Cambridge and Hampshire Streets, although residents have requested trees for over four years; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with his findings.

O-13     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Cambridge Housing Authority to be sure that elevators at Miller’s River Apartments, and all senior housing, are fully functional.

O-14     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Cambridge Housing Authority to ensure that American flags in suitable condition are being flown at all senior housing buildings in time for the July 4th holiday.

O-15     June 2, 2008
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The Gittens family of Cambridge have been important members of the Cambridge community for many years; and
WHEREAS: The legacy of the Gittens family is entrenched in the memories of many Cantabrigians; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate a suitable location in the vicinity of Sydney Street and Allston Street in honor of the Gittens family; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the Mayor be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-16     June 2, 2008
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: May 27, 2007 was the 100th birthday of the renowned biologist and nature writer Rachel Carson; and
WHEREAS: In her numerous writings, including Silent Spring, Rachel Carson stressed the web of life and connected our attitudes to nature, and often our actions, to harmful practices toward the environment; and
WHEREAS: In the midst of adversity and strong opposition from industry and corporate interests Rachel Carson called attention to our responsibility towards the environment, and as a biologist she insisted on the importance of educating the public about the dangers of contamination by toxic substances; and
WHEREAS: Rachel Carson’s work has influenced public policy about the environment all over the world and since her publications, research has increasingly shown the links of contamination of water, air, and soil to disease and illness; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has committed itself to energy conservation, realizing that climate change and global warming constitute a serious threat to the wellbeing and the future of our planet, and in so doing has taken seriously Rachel Carson’s warnings about our responsibilities; and
WHEREAS: An open letter from the "Know Your Milk" campaign is available to view and sign on to if you email ellie.goldberg@gmail.com; and
WHEREAS: Last year, the Cambridge City Council declared May 27th "Rachel Carson Day" in the City of Cambridge; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council declare May 27, 2008 as the "Second Annual Rachel Carson Day" in the City of Cambridge.

O-17     June 2, 2008  amended
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record urging Governor Deval Patrick and the Cambridge Legislative Delegation to support the Global Warming Solutions Act and its target of a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below 1990 levels by 2020, and an 80% reduction below 1990 levels by 2050; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to transmit a copy of this order to Governor Patrick and the Cambridge Legislative Delegation to the Great and General Court of Massachusetts.

O-18     June 2, 2008
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: There have been concerns expressed by residents and visitors to Clement Morgan Park in Area IV about the poor quality of the playground, broken and outdated equipment, and the presence of garbage and rodents that pose a danger to children and adults; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on the City’s plans for repairs, changes, or modernization efforts that may enhance the quality and safety of Clement Morgan Park.

O-19     June 2, 2008  Charter Right - Maher
VICE MAYOR MURPHY
ORDERED: That the City Council meeting of June 30, 2008 be cancelled.

O-20     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR DECKER
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments on whether there are plans to update Columbia Park and whether rodent-proof trash barrels can be installed at Columbia Park.

O-21     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: In recent months, there has been a string of shootings in the North Cambridge/Jefferson Park area; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments on what kind of outreach is being done in North Cambridge/Jefferson Park to comfort neighbors in the vicinity, how are neighborhood schools and youth centers responding to the violence, and whether the City is looking into any new options of outreach to neighborhoods impacted by repetitive acts of violence.


O-22     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works on the condition of the sidewalk at 36 Gray Street.

O-23     June 2, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council hereby approves payment of claims against the City of Cambridge in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the report of June 2, 2008 Claims Committee in the total sum of $1,234.80.


TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Claims Committee held a public meeting on Wed, May 21, 2008 at five o’clock and forty minutes p. m. in the Sophie Anastos Room.

The purpose of the meeting/hearing was to consider claims filed against the City.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Chair of the Committee; Arthur J. Goldberg, First Assistant City Solicitor; Amy L. Witts, Assistant City Solicitor; Jason Alves, “Research Assistant” to Councillor Toomey; and Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Councillor Toomey opened the meeting and explained the purpose. Thereupon the committee moved to the consideration of the following claims:

Claimant Nature of Claim Award
Maureen Nichols, 124 Spring Street #2, Cambridge, MA 02141 Vehicle struck a manhole on Albany Street, Cambridge, MA. Approved
Elizabeth Ramkissoon, 137 Cherry Street, Cambridge, MA 02139      Vehicle struck a pothole on Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA.      Approved
Nora B. Leahy, 20 Chalk Street, Cambridge, MA 02139 Vehicle struck a pothole on Chalk Street, Cambridge, MA. Referred to next meeting
Allison M. Stamiris, 43 Loomis Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 Vehicle struck a pothole on Concord Avenue, Cambridge, MA. Approved

Councillor Toomey thanked all those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at six o’clock and fifteen minutes p. m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Chair

Committee Report #1     June 2, 2008
ORDERED: That the City Council hereby approves payment of claims against the City of Cambridge in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the report of June 2, 2008 Claims Committee in the total sum of $1,234.80.


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

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

08-48. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #16
RE: report on public education campaigns and traffic enforcement campaigns to increase bicycling safety.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/24/08 (O-11)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

08-70. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #3
RE: report on the inspection program for multifamily buildings.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Toomey 05/12/08 (O-3)

08-71. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #2
RE: report on why the youth Hip Hop Concert for Justice was cancelled.
Councillor Decker 05/12/08 (O-7)

08-72. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #1
RE: report on who is responsible for enforcement of the idling vehicle ordinance and the number of tickets that have been issued in the past year.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Toomey 05/12/08 (O-2)

08-73. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic calming projects that are being planning or are currently being constructed that have not been developed with public input.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/19/08 (O-2)

08-74. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on methods of collecting, maintaining, and analyzing traffic enforcement and accident data.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 05/19/08 (O-4)

08-75. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #4
RE: report on the status of the trash and dumpster issues involving One First Street Condo project.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/19/08 (O-8)

08-76. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of the Linear Park crossings of Mass Avenue and Cameron Avenue.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/19/08 (O-9)

08-77. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the Affordable Housing Trust and/or the non-profit housing agencies are actively purchasing property in various stage of foreclosure.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 05/19/08 (O-10)

08-78. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #15
RE: report on the status of removal of the West Cambridge painted rotary.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 05/19/08 (O-3)