Cambridge City Council meeting - June 2, 2014 - AGENDA
Councillor Simmons was ABSENT
RECONSIDERATION
1. Order #11 of May 19, 2014: That the City Council go on record urging Comcast to eliminate obstacles that currently prevent low-income families from enrolling in the Internet Essentials Program. Councillor Cheung and Councillor Mazen [Order Adopted as Amended (voice vote), Reconsideration Filed by Councillor Cheung]
Motion to reconsider prevailed 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT), Matter formally revoted and referred to Arts & Celebrations 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
2. Order #13 of May 19, 2014: That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Law Department, the Election Commission, and the Massachusetts Office of Campaign and Political Finance to determine the feasibility of publically funded elections for Cambridge, taking into account models for implementation from other municipalities as well as the exploration of new publically funded models. Councillor Mazen and Councillor Carlone [Order Adopted as Amended, Reconsideration Filed by Councillor Mazen; Motion to refer to Gov’t Operations approved on a 5-3-1 Roll Call vote with Benzan, Cheung, Simmons, Toomey, and Maher voting YES; Carlone, Mazen, McGovern voting NO; Kelley ABSENT]
Motion to reconsider prevailed 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT), Matter formally revoted, adopted, and referred to Gov't Operations 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $15,107.88 from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security to the Grant Fund Police Salary and Wages account which is a reimbursement for overtime costs associated with the Marathon Bombing on Apr 15, 2013 that were not reimbursed by the FEMA.
2. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to a $31,839.36 transfer between Grant Fund Police Department statutory accounts in the Smart Policing Initiative grant, which includes $31,408.97 from the Extraordinary Equipment account and $430.39 from the Travel & Training account to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($31,839.36); the reallocation will extend a contract to complete the analysis of the predictive policing model on preventing cross jurisdictional violent crime.
3. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $12,058.69 from the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) to the Grant Fund Police Salary & Wages account which is a reimbursement for a UASI Rapid Intel Exercise held on Mar 8th and Mar 9th.
4. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $2,500 from the Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Planning Grant from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency to the Grant Fund Fire Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used to purchase an on-board computer, iPad, printer and modem for the regional Hazardous Material Regional Response vehicle.
5. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to a transfer of $11,870.45 between Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department statutory accounts in the State's 911 Public Safety Answering Point grant, which includes $6,000 from the Other Ordinary Maintenance account and $5,870.45 from the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Travel and Training account to the Salary and Wages account ($11,870.45) to cover personnel costs related to mandatory trainings.
6. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation not to adopt the Lutz, et al. Zoning Petition (Richdale Avenue).
May 20, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council,The Planning Board first heard the Lutz, et al. petition in December, 2013. At the time, there was a proposed residential project under review by the Board at 15-33 Richdale Avenue (Hathaway Bakery), within the area to be rezoned by the petition. Because there were active discussions underway between the project owner and neighbors (many of whom are included among the petitioners), as well as ongoing review by the Cambridge Historical Commission, the Planning Board decided that the best course of action was to defer discussion of the petition so that the interested parties would have time to discuss the issues raised with regard to this project.
The proposed Hathaway Bakery project underwent substantial revision in the intervening time, resulting in a proposal that converts the existing historic bakery structure to residential use with the construction of conforming rooftop additions set back from the existing building’s cornice line. The Historical Commission and Planning Board have both granted approval to the project in its revised form. A negotiated agreement with neighbors was presented to the Board that addresses several areas of concern, and some terms of that agreement are included as conditions of the Special Permit granted by this Board.
Nevertheless, the approved project would not be allowed and could not proceed if the zoning in this area were changed from Residence C-1A to Residence C-1. Therefore, the Board believes that it would not be in the public interest to adopt the proposed zoning change, the primary result of which would be to compromise the resolution that was reached after an intensive and fruitful dialogue with neighbors as well as deliberations before two different public bodies.
Respectfully submitted for the Planning Board,
Hugh Russell, Chair
7. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Steven Winter as a member of the Cambridge Preservation Act Committee for a five-year term to expire May 19, 2019.
June 2, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council:I am hereby appointing Steven Winter as a member of the Cambridge Preservation Act (CPA) Committee for a five-year term to expire May 19, 2019.
As a current member of the Planning Board, Mr. Winter will bring a valued measure of knowledge and experience to the work of the CPA Committee.
Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
8. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Polyxane Cobb as an Election Commissioner for a four year term to expire Mar 31, 2018.
June 2, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council:In accordance with Chapter 239 of the Acts of 1921 as amended, I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointment of the Polyxane Cobb as an Election Commissioner for a four year term to expire Mar 31, 2018.
Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
9. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-30, regarding a report on improving safety at Cambridge and Sciarappa Streets.
Referred back to City Manager - Toomey
10. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to proposed amendments to the Tobacco Ordinance (Chapter 8.28, Restrictions on Youth Access and Sale of Tobacco Products and on Smoking in Workplaces and Public Places). This amended ordinance includes recommendations previously transmitted to the City Council on July 29, 2013 and includes additional amendments that have subsequently been added. [Read Report]
Referred to Ordinance Committee
Cambridge Public Health Department
May 28, 2014City Manager Richard C. Rossi:
The proposed amendments to the Tobacco Ordinance (Chapter 8.28, Restrictions on Youth Access and Sale of Tobacco Products and on Smoking in Workplaces and Public Places) that accompany this letter are the result of extensive review by successive advisory committees that engaged both municipal and public stakeholders. Although Cambridge was an early statewide leader in 2003 when the City Council adopted this ordinance, which established restrictions on public use and purchase of tobacco, the landscape of tobacco regulation has changed in the last several years.
In July 2013 the City Manager submitted several proposed amendments to the ordinance (letter of transmittal in this packet) adding new restrictions on smoking in public places, including parks and open space, hotels and inns, and outdoor seating areas. At the request of City Council, the amendment packet also included a prohibition on tobacco sales in all healthcare institutions, including pharmacies. These proposed changes were referred to Ordinance Committee.
At the further request of City Council in the fall of 2013, an expansion of the domain of the current ordinance to further regulate Nicotine Delivery Products (NDPs) such as electronic cigarettes was added to the list of amendments. This expansion addresses a significant gap in regulation, since such devices were not covered by the tobacco ordinance of 2003. No further action was taken by the Ordinance Committee before the end of the previous City Council term, so these amendments remained in draft form. In March of this year a provision to increase the legal age to purchase tobacco was requested by City Council and added to the list of amendments to the ordinance that are captured in the accompanying draft.
Finally, after a comprehensive review of tobacco policies not already addressed in the amendments thus far, several provisions have been added in the accompanying draft to prohibit tobacco products that have been used to specifically appeal to younger customers (single-serve cigars, flavored tobacco, blunt wraps), or are intended to circumvent certain tobacco levies (commercial roll-your-own machines). By imposing minimum pricing standards for single cigars (often flavored) this "loss-leader" strategy that has been used by tobacco manufacturers is neutralized within the City of Cambridge. By prohibiting flavored tobacco products (excluding mentholated varieties and allowing such sales in specialty tobacco shops) another well-recognized enticement to younger customers is eliminated without impacting the great majority of adult smokers. Blunt wraps have been identified as primarily used for the consumption of marijuana and further draws young residents into the tobacco market. This tobacco industry strategy targeting teenagers and pre-teens has been recognized nationally, but since the FDA is limited in its regulatory authority over tobacco, there has been no corresponding national regulatory response to this assault on the lifetime health of these young smokers.
In summary, with the assistance and cooperation of the members of the City Council and the Tobacco Advisory Committee, and the support of the Massachusetts Municipal Association and the 6-City Tobacco Control Collaborative (which includes Cambridge), we propose the following amendments to Chapter 8.28:
1) Prohibition on smoking in all parks and municipal open space
2) Prohibition on smoking in all rooms at inns, hotels, motels and bed-and-breakfast establishments
3) Prohibition on smoking in all outdoor seating areas adjacent to restaurants where food is served
4) Regulation of all e-cigarette and other nicotine delivery product (NDP) sales under the same restrictions as combustible tobacco
5) Prohibition on tobacco or NDP sales in all health care institutions (including pharmacies & drug stores, clinics or health centers)
6) Prohibition on sale of tobacco or NDPs to anyone under the age of 21
7) Restrictions on pricing and packaging for cigars (8.28.030, Section H)
8) Prohibition on sale of blunt wraps
9) Prohibition of all Commercial Roll-Your-Own machines
10) Restriction on sale of flavored tobacco (with an exemption for tobacconists)
These proposed amendments reflect an increasing concern over industry strategies that target younger individuals. After years of declining smoking rates, such sophisticated and targeted marketing efforts to expand the market for tobacco has shown troubling signs of success. The other area of significant progress represented by these changes is the protection of non-smokers from second-hand smoke in places that form part of the public enjoyment of our community. While continuing to take a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to policy development, Cambridge has an opportunity to catch-up to other communities across Massachusetts and the country and to continue to serve as a standard-bearer in strong local public health policy.
Best regards,
Sam Lipson
Director of Environmental Health
11. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-20, regarding a report on the possibility of deploying fiber optic internet in the City.
June 2, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council:In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-20, regarding a report on the possibility of deploying fiber optic internet in the City, please be advised of the following:
For the past few months, City Staff has been examining broadband options in the City and has met with numerous companies, including Comcast, Verizon, and SiFi Networks America, to discuss current and potential future deployment of fiber to the home solutions in Cambridge.
Comcast currently provides broadband service to residential and business consumers and continues to invest in its fiber optic infrastructure in the City. Comcast provides service in the City via a fiber/coaxial hybrid system. Verizon provides broadband service to many businesses in the City using its fiber assets; however, the company does not currently have plans to expand FiOS service into Cambridge. Finally, SiFi Networks America is a company that provides fiber to the home solutions using patented technology to deploy fiber optic cables through sewer systems. The City has held an introductory meeting the SiFi America Networks and will be holding future meetings to learn more about their technology solutions.
As part of the charge of the Broadband Task Force that I am appointing, additional research into fiber optic deployment options for the City will be conducted and included in the Task Force's final report.
Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
ON THE TABLE
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Arts Council to determine the types of spaces that are most needed within the local arts community with the view of using the Foundry to fill those needs and to allocate appropriate funds to make appropriate upgrades for the purpose of creating a community arts center. (Order Amended by Substitution.) [Order Number Ten of Jan 27, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Mayor Maher on Jan 27, 2014.]
2. An application was received from Ting-hsu Chen requesting permission to widen the existing curb cut at the premises numbered 14 Soden Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Applications and Petitions Number Six of Feb 24, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Simmons on Feb 24, 2014.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on Nov 22, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code by adding a new Chapter 8.68 entitled "Concussion Prevention and Management in Youth Activities at City Facilities." The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Dec 23, 2013.
4. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on Dec 19, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.67 entitled relating to Plastic Bag Reduction. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 24, 2014.
5. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on Mar 26, 2014 to discuss the re-filed zoning petition by the City Council originally filed by Christopher H. Lutz, et al requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Map of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge by rezoning an area on the northern border of Richdale Avenue from Upland Road to Walden Street from its C1-A designation to residential C-1. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Apr 21, 2014. Planning Board Hearing held Mar 18, 2014. Petition expires June 24, 2014.
6. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $1,150,000 to provide funds for the design, drainage, and installation of new synthetic field surfaces on the soccer fields at Danehy Park. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2014.
Loan Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
7. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $150,000 to provide funds for the purchase and installation of mechanical components to ensure the operational integrity of the elevator at the Robert W. Healy Public Safety Facility. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2014.
Loan Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
8. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $550,000 to provide funds for renovations to the Thomas P. O'Neil, Jr. Fresh Pond Golf Course. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2014.
Loan Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
9. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $2,600,000 to provide funds for planning and municipal building renovations, including a Comprehensive Facilities Improvement Plan, design and construction of improvements at the City Hall Annex and upgrades to the City Hall Third Floor Women's Restroom. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2014.
Loan Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
10. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $750,000 to provide funds for building renovations, including water infiltration system repair at the Haggerty School, replacement of the emergency generator at the Graham & Parks, Tobin and Cambridgeport Schools, and boiler replacement at the Graham & Parks School. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2014.
Loan Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
11. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $9,205,655 to provide funds for various water pollution abatement projects, including construction of sewer separation, stormwater management and combined sewer overflow reduction elimination improvements within the City's Western Avenue and Agassiz areas as well as the Sewer Capital Repairs Program and public toilet installation at Harvard Square. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2014.
Loan Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
12. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $1,000,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of various City streets and sidewalks. The question comes on adoption on or after May 12, 2014.
Loan Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Vartan Keshishian requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 28 Fayerweather Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No neighborhood association for that area.
2. An application was received from Pinocchio's Pizza, 74 Winthrop Street requesting permission for a sandwich board sign on the corner of JFK and Winthrop Streets.
3. A petition was received from Zachary Barneson, et al. to remove Andrew Jackson from the twenty dollar bill and replace him with someone who was more committed to liberty and justice for all.
4. An application was received from City Sports requesting permission for a sandwich board sign and four displays of merchandise in front of the premises numbered 1815 Massachusetts Avenue.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Jane Carbone, Director of Housing, Homeowner's Rehab, Inc. transmitting support of the proposed Energy Disclosure Ordinance.
2. A communication was received from Kristin Ellis-Levy, 148 Spring Street transmitting support for Policy Order #4 of May 19, 2014.
3. A communication was received from Phillip Sego, Legislative Advocate, Sierra Club regarding plastic bag pollution.
4. A communication was received from Michael S. Nuesse, Attorney at Law at the request of the Neighborhood Association of East Cambridge regarding the Sullivan Courthouse.
5. A communication was received from Robert J. La Tremouille regarding environment destruction ongoing in Cambridge, photos of the outrages at the Cambridge Common.
6. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, 1 Dudley Court transmitting thanks to the City Council for the resolution on the designation Clerk Emeritus.
7. A communication was received from Reade Everett, 15 Rice Street regarding public financing of elections.
8. A communication was received from Bonnie Faith-Smith, 290A Washington Street regarding public financing of elections.
9. A communication was received from Fred Hewett, 127 Appleton Street regarding public financing of elections.
10. A communication was received from Fatima Baker, 1236 Chestnut Place, Cambridge, MD regarding public financing of elections.
11. A communication was received from Steve Wineman, 26 McTernan Street regarding public financing of elections.
12. A communication was received from Rika Henderson, 301Huron Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
13. A communication was received from Nadia Mykolayevych, 3 Crawford Street regarding public financing of elections.
14. A communication was received from Joseph T. Coyle, MD, 230 Lakeview Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
15. A communication was received from Norman Daoust, 157 Raymond Street regarding public financing of elections.
16. A communication was received from Genevieve Coyle, 230 Lakeview Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
17. A communication was received from Dan Paradis, 9 Field Street regarding public financing of elections.
18. A communication was received from Daniel R. Miller, 550 Memorial Drive regarding public financing of elections.
19. A communication was received from Nicolai Cauchy, 387 Huron Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
20. A communication was received from Jan Devereux, 255 Lakeview Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
21. A communication was received from Brendan Jarboe, 139 Erie Street regarding public financing of elections.
22. A communication was received from Joyce Levin, 2353 Massachusetts Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
23. A communication was received from John R. Kennedy, 25 Aveon Street regarding public financing of elections.
24. A communication was received from Don Lipsitt, 83 Cambridge Parkway regarding public financing of elections.
25. A communication was received from Helene Bank, 174 Putnam Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
26. A communication was received from Vivian Kavanaugh, 6 Cambridge Woods Lane, Cambridge, NY regarding public financing of elections.
27. A communication was received from Ethan Bagley, 33 Sterline Street , Somerville regarding public financing of elections.
28. A communication was received from Rob Chalfen, 67 Putnam Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
29. A communication was received from Elena Byrne, 5 Marcella Street regarding public financing of elections.
30. A communication was received from Elizabeth Marran, 44 Alpine Street regarding public financing of elections.
31. A communication was received from Arthur Strang, 60 Fresh Pond Parkway regarding public financing of elections.
32. A communication was received from Steve Harris, 4 Malcolm Road regarding public financing of elections.
33. A communication was received from Gideon Weissman, 26 Chalk Street regarding public financing of elections.
34. A communication was received from Catherine Melina, Pleasant Street regarding public financing of elections.
35. A communication was received from Sandra Foster, 20 Ware Street regarding public financing of elections.
36. A communication was received from Lee Farris, 269 Norfolk Street regarding public financing of elections.
37. A communication was received from Elizabeth Lerret, 15 Locust Street regarding public financing of elections.
38. A communication was received from Kathy Watkins, 80 Fawcett Street regarding public financing of elections.
39. A communication was received from Jeb Mays, 183 Harvey Street regarding public financing of elections.
40. A communication was received from Alison Field-Juma, 363 Concord Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
41. A communication was received from Paul Steven Stone, 219 Harvard Street regarding public financing of elections.
42. A communication was received from Madeleine Fletcher, 155 Grove Street regarding public financing of elections.
43. A communication was received from Julie Croston, 63 Chilton Street regarding public financing of elections.
44. A communication was received from John Racine, 20 Oakland Street regarding public financing of elections.
45. A communication was received from Elysse Magnotto, 1105 Massachusetts Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
46. A communication was received from Liz Phipps Soeiro, 1 Hastings Square regarding public financing of elections.
47. A communication was received from Katharine Kosinski, 135 Chestnut Street regarding public financing of elections.
48. A communication was received from Gillian McMullen, 15 Salem Street regarding public financing of elections.
49. A communication was received from Daniel Wong regarding public financing of elections.
50. A communication was received from Alka Agrawal, 2353 Massachusetts Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
51. A communication was received from Jana Odette, 176 Larch Road regarding public financing of elections.
52. A communication was received from Jacqueline Wolfrum, 18 Harrison Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
53. A communication was received from John MacDougall, 175 Richdale Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
54. A communication was received from Jeffrey Mitchell, 7 Corporal Burns Road regarding public financing of elections.
55. A communication was received from Joseph Teller, 266 Western Avenue regarding public financing of elections.
56. A communication was received from Katharine Davis, 140 Larch Road regarding public financing of elections.
57. A communication was received from Christopher Zurn, 6 Rindgefield Street regarding public financing of elections.
58. A communication was received from Kathleen Thomas, 1 Harwell Drive regarding public financing of elections.
59. A communication was received from H. Fleishon, 100 Landsdowne Street regarding public financing of elections.
60. A communication was received from James Probst, PO Box 464, Cambridge, WI regarding public financing of elections.
61. A communication was received from Alice Crane Kovler, 150 Erie Street regarding public financing of elections.
62. A communication was received from Michael Arnott, 175 Harvey Street regarding public financing of elections.
63. A communication was received from Elizabeth Tanefis, Assistant Director Policy and Practice, Health Resources in Action transmitted information on tobacco products marketing.
64. A communication was received from Paul Stone, 219 Harvard Street in opposition to Policy Order #6 regarding redesign of New Street.
65. A communication was received from Richard Krushnic, 20 Oak Street regarding the parking lot on Bishop Allen drive being used for affordable housing and the relocations of the parking spaces.
66. A communication was received from Mark Paskowsky, Director of Evaluation, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Massachusetts Tobacco Control Program transmitting a Community Fact Sheet on smoking in Cambridge.
67. A communication was received from Mark Gottlieb, 11 Montgomery Street regarding the recommendations in the Tobacco Ordinance.
68. A communication was received from Peter Sturges, 98 Lexington Avenue commending the City Council for considering adoption of the public finance system.
69. A communication was received from Joseph Michalakes, 1563 Massachusetts Avenue in support of Policy Order #1 related to the federal immigration policy.
70. A communication was received from Amelia Michael, 18 Gibson Street regarding her support for no smoking near parks and playgrounds.
71. A communication was received from Lee Farris, 26 Norfolk Street regarding Policy Order #6 on New Street.
72. A communication was received from Andrea Wilder, 12 Arlington Street relative to New Street.
73. A communication was received from Laura Rotolo, 294 Boston Avenue, Medford, Staff Counsel/Community Advocate, ACLU urging clarification of Cambridge Police Department role in cooperating with federal immigration authorities.
74. A communication was received from Hasson J. Rashid, 820 Massachusetts Avenue regarding the FY15 City Budget not containing any funding to address ending poverty.
75. A communication was received from Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street in opposition to the FY15 City budget containing funding to cut down mature trees at the Common.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Happy 80th Birthday wishes to Barbara Cooney. Mayor Maher
2. Congratulations to Paul Kroner on his latest art show "Paul Kroner: Seen + Felt." Councillor Toomey
3. Retirement of Van Spanos from Just A Start. Councillor Toomey
4. Retirement of Margaret Anne "Peggy" Walsh from the School Department. Councillor Toomey
5. Congratulations to George McCarthy on being named the new president of the Lincoln Institute. Councillor Cheung
6. Congratulations to Divest Harvard on their new leadership team and thanks for the important work they undertake to battle climate change. Councillor Cheung
7. Thanks to the Kendall Square Association on their recent 6th Annual Kendall Square CleanUp. Councillor Cheung
8. Resolution on the death of Elizabeth A. "Betty" (Murphy) White. Councillor Toomey
9. Resolution on the death of Teresa (da Costa) Victoria. Councillor Toomey
10. Congratulations to Thomas Parr on his appointment as Chief Scientific Officer of Spero Therapeutics. Councillor Cheung
11. Congratulating Morris J. Birnbaum on his new role as vice president and chief scientific officer of Pfizer. Councillor Cheung
12. Congratulating Chris Bowden on his new role as Chief Medical Officer of Agios Pharnaceuticals. Councillor Cheung
13. Resolution on the death of Nancy Ellen Burke. Councillor Toomey
14. Congratulating Terri and Josie Vendetti on their 6th Annual Social. Councillor Toomey
15. Urging members of the Cambridge community to participate in the Charlene Holmes memorial walk on June 3rd, 2014. Councillor Cheung
16. Congratulating Coorain Devin on having his pilot for his CCTV series "Coloring Coorain" episode screened at the Mobius. Councillor Cheung
17. Congratulating Nicholas Gayeski, Sian Kleindienst, and Stephen Samouhos on launching KSG Buildings, a Cambridge-based startup, which has found immediate success and is now working with MIT on cutting energy consumption. Councillor Cheung
18. Congratulating Fine Line Marking for over 25 years of service in the City of Cambridge. Vice Mayor Benzan
19. Resolution on the death of Margaret "Peggy" M. (Shannon) Driscoll. Mayor Maher
20. Resolution on the death of Lorna M. (Martin) Rutkauskas. Mayor Maher
21. Resolution on the death of Edward Lewis Diehl. Mayor Maher
22. Happy Birthday wishes to Mary Poillucci. Councillor Simmons
23. Resolution on the death of Marjorie B. (Swartz) Salmon. Mayor Maher
24. Happy 89th Birthday wishes to Mrs. Lillian Maher. Mayor Maher
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager work with the Police Commissioner to ensure that only in cases where immigration agents have a criminal warrant, or Cambridge officials have a legitimate law enforcement purpose not related to immigration, will Cambridge Police comply with federal ICE detainer requests to hold persons solely for immigration purposes. Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor Cheung
2. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the appropriate City Personnel and with the Central Square Business Association in order to establish a Central Square Action Team that will be charged with recommending and helping implement strategies that will help Central Square to capitalize on and enhance its designation as a Cultural District in the months and years to come. Councillor Simmons
3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works, School Department; Human Services Department; Community Development Department; and any other relevant departments on the establishment of a Clean Cambridge Green Cambridge campaign that encompasses neighborhood clean-up volunteer days; anti-litter programs for school-aged students; and a publicity plan. Councillor McGovern
4. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with an update on the City's composting pilot program. Councillor Toomey
5. That the City Manager confer with all relevant City Staff and Departments to explore the potential for creating a program to enable bilingual high school students to learn language interpretation skills and to practice those skills at community meetings and events throughout the city. Councillor Carlone, Councillor Mazen, Councillor McGovern and Councillor Cheung
6. That the City Manager confer with the Community Development Department, the Public Works Department, the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and any other relevant City Departments to discuss ways in which the City can improve the design of New Street for both pedestrians and vehicles, and report back to the City Council with recommendations. Councillor McGovern, Councillor Carlone and Mayor Maher
Amended
7. That the U.S. Conference of Mayors support designating the decade of 2015-2025 as an era of community focus in building an Early Learning Nation so, in turn, the children of Generation Alpha emerge equipped and prepared to resolve issues, assume leadership positions, while generating innovative and long-term solutions for previously intractable and seemingly unsolvable challenges. Mayor Maher
8. That the City Manager confer with the Community Development Department to work with local banking institutions to ensure financing opportunities are available for residents wishing to purchase shares in limited equity cooperative housing within Cambridge and also research and explore options for expanding the limited equity cooperative housing stock with Cambridge. Councillor Mazen
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to determine the feasibility of installing a large screen at a central location, like Lafayette Square, in order to project a number of soccer matches involving the United States and countries that are representative of the Cambridge resident population and determine the feasibility of granting special permits to food trucks and other food vendors during the duration of these games. Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor McGovern
10. That the City Manager confer with the Cambridge Community Development Department and the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department on the feasibility of creating designated parking stalls for food truck vendors in areas that allow them to sell their food but not harm established brick and mortar restaurants, and proactively finding spots on private roadways willing to host food trucks, and to compile a comprehensive list that offers clarity and certainty on available and suitable locations. Councillor Cheung
Referred to Economic Development & University Relations Committee
11. That the City Manager confer with the appropriate City departments to have the parking lot located on Bishop Allen Drive and Columbia Street cleaned and report back to the City Council. Vice Mayor Benzan
12. That the City Manager confer with the Community Development Department and assist Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services (CASLS) with locating new office space if it helps address their financial difficulties. Councillor Cheung
13. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to determine the feasibility of developing units of up to 100% affordable, middle-income, senior, and family housing units at the corner of Bishop Allen Drive and Norfolk Street and a plaza in Central Square with affordable food and retail space. Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor McGovern
Amended and Approved (6 in favor, Kelley voted NO, Simmons Absent, one other councillor not recorded)
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Marc C. McGovern, Chair of the Finance Committee, for public hearings held on May 8, 2014, May 15, 2014 and May 21, 2014 relative to the General Fund Budget for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 and recommending adoption of the budget in the amount of $488,932,550.
Budget Adopted 7-1-1 (Kelley voted NO, Simmons ABSENT)
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Marc C. McGovern, Chair of the Finance Committee, for a public hearing held on May 15, 2014 relative to the Water Fund Budget for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 and recommending adoption of the budget in the amount of $13,964,275.
Budget Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Marc C. McGovern, Chair of the Finance Committee, for a public hearing held on May 15, 2014 relative to the Public Investment Fund for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 and recommending adoption of the budget in the amount of $16,548,370.
Budget Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)
COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Mayor David P. Maher transmitting a copy of a letter from Hanne Rush, Assistant Attorney General, Division of Open Government, The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Office of the Attorney General regarding the resolution of an Open Meeting Law Complaint filed by John Hawkinson on Mar 3, 2014.
The Commonwealth Of Massachusetts
Office of the Attorney GeneralMay 27, 2014
OML 2014-56Nancy Glowa, Esq.
City Solicitor
City of Cambridge
Office of the City Solicitor
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139RE: Open Meeting Law Complaint
Dear Attorney Glowa:
This office received a complaint from John Hawkinson dated Mar 3, 2014, alleging that the Cambridge City Council (the "Council") violated the Open Meeting Law, G.L c. 30A, §§ 18-25. The complaint was originally filed with the Council on or about Jan 30, 2014, and City Clerk Donna Lopez responded on behalf of the Council by letter dated Feb 11, 2014. In his complaint, Mr. Hawkinson alleges that a Special Ad-Hoc Committee created by Mayor David Maher did not comply with the Open Meeting Law's notice posting requirements.
We reviewed the Jan 30, 2014 complaint; the Council's Feb 11, 2014 response; the Mar 3, 2014 complaint filed with our office requesting further review; and your Mar 11, 2014 letter to our office. Following our review, we find that the Council did not violate the Open Meeting Law.
FACTS
We find the facts as follows. On Jan 6, 2014, the Council elected City Councilor David Maher to serve as Mayor for a two-year term. Pursuant to Rule 26 of the Council's Provisional Rules, which the Council approves for each mayor's term, the mayor appoints councilors to 17 named standing committees. Following his election, Mayor Maher created the Special Ad Hoc Committee (the Committee), which was comprised of three city councilors,[1] the City Clerk, a former City Clerk, and the Executive Assistant to the Council. The mission of the Committee is to review the Council's standing committee structure under the Council's Provisional Rules and report back to the Mayor.[1 - Three councilors is Jess than a quorum of the full Council, which consists of nine members.]
The Committee met on Jan 21, 2014 and Jan 27, 2014.[2] Following these meetings, the Committee reported back to Mayor Maher with its recommendations to revise Provisional Rule 26, in part, to reduce the number of standing committees from 17 to 11 and to require a quorum for all meetings. Based on the Committee's recommendations, Mayor Maher drafted a memorandum to the Council, which he asked the City Clerk to distribute to the Council for discussion at its upcoming meeting on Feb 3, 2014. In the memorandum, he outlined the Committee's recommendations, including a proposal that the Council adopt revisions to Provisional Rule 26, as outlined in an attachment.
[2 - The Committee posted notice of these two meetings on a bulletin board at City Hall, but did not post them to the City website, which is the City's official notice posting method for public bodies. See G.L. c. 30A, § 20(c); 940 CMR 29.03(2)(b)(a).]
DISCUSSION
The threshold question is whether the Committee is a public body subject to the Open Meeting Law. "Public body" is defined, in relevant part, as "a multiple-member board, commission, committee or subcommittee within the executive or legislative branch or within any county, district, city, region or town, however created, elected, appointed or otherwise constituted, established to serve a public purpose." G.L. c. 30A, § 18. A "subcommittee" includes "any multiple-member body created to advise or make recommendations to a public body." Id. Where, however, an individual public official creates an informal committee to advise that person on a decision that he or she has the sole authority to make, that committee is not subject to the Open Meeting Law. Connelly v. School Committee of Hanover, 409 Mass. 232, 235 (1991).[3][3 - We have previously concluded that the 2009 revisions to the Open Meeting Law did not call into question the ongoing validity of Connelly. See OML 2013-56; OML 2011-4.]
Here, Mayor Maher created the Committee of his own volition, and it reported its recommendations to him directly. Neither the Committee nor the Mayor was tasked by the Council with bringing any recommendations before the Council. While Mayor Maher ultimately decided to forward the Committee's recommendations to the Council, he was not required to so. Because the Committee was created by a public official to advise him on a decision that he retained the sole authority to make, we find that this Committee fell within the Connelly exception to the definition of "public body," and was therefore not subject to the Open Meeting Law. See Connelly, 409 Mass. at 235; OML 2012-65. As such, the Committee was not required to post notice of its two meetings under the Open Meeting Law. We commend the Committee for taking steps to make the public aware of its meetings nonetheless.
CONCLUSION
For the reasons stated above, we find that the Council did not violate the Open Meeting Law.We now consider the complaint addressed by this determination to be resolved. This determination does not address any other complaints which may be pending with our office or the Council. Please feel free to contact our office at (617) 963-2540 if you have any questions regarding this letter.
Sincerely,
Hanne Rush
Assistant Attorney General
Division of Open Government
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, June 2
5:30pm City Council Meeting - Budget Adoption (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, June 4
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss creating a new Chapter in the Cambridge Municipal Ordinance Prohibiting the Use of Wild and Exotic Animals in Traveling Shows and Circuses. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, June 10
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition by the Planning Board to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Article 12.000 Planned Unit Development procedures. The three parts of the proposed zoning amendment would clarify the procedures for amending a PUD special permit and create an option for some amendments to require one public hearing (under current zoning, an amendment may be granted with no required public hearing or two required public hearings). It would modify the time within which a permitee must begin construction on a PUD project from one year to two years. And it would clarify that all owners of land within a PUD are subject to the requirements set forth in the special permit, even if ownership of land is separated after the PUD is granted, but that the special permit may assign specific rights and obligations to different components within a Development Parcel. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, June 11
3:00pm The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to explore the way forward for a shared use with a rail and trail path along the Grand Junction Corridor. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, June 12
5:30pm The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the creation of better public spaces in Central Square, how best to attract/support new and existing small businesses and to determine the feasibility of creating a plaza that can have housing on the second level and commercial space on the ground floor in the parking lot behind HMart. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, June 18
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss revisions to the Cambridge Municipal Code Section 9.04.050(A) Defacing public property of Chapter 9.04 entitled "Offenses Against Property." (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, June 19
6:00pm The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to address the traffic, transportation and access to transit issues in the Fresh Pond/Concord Avenue/Alewife area with a view toward understanding the impact of recent development trends in the area. (Tobin School Auditorium, 197 Vassal Lane)
Mon, June 23
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting for the purpose of receiving an update on the City's Climate Mitigation and Preparedness Planning. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, June 25
5:30pm Housing Committee (Ackermann Room)
Mon, June 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, July 2
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the Timothy R. Flaherty, et al. zoning petition requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge to expand the Medical Marijuana Overlay District, MMD-1 to encompass 61 Mooney Street. This hearing to be televised. (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, July 28
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Sept 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Sept 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Sept 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Sept 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
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)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 June 2, 2014
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge, like the United States itself, has been enriched and built by generations of immigrants; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has a proud history as a Sanctuary City, as declared on Apr 8, 1985, when large numbers of refugees fleeing the war in El Salvador arrived in Cambridge and were threatened with deportation; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge reaffirmed its status as a Sanctuary City on May 8, 2006, and formally adopted the language "undocumented" when referring to those who do not have federally recognized resident status and "immigrant" to refer to those who have migrated to the US from another country; and
WHEREAS: The federal Secure Communities program is currently being used to identify undocumented immigrants in the custody of local agencies; and
WHEREAS: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is part of the United States Department of Homeland Security; ICE issues "detainer requests" pursuant to Title 8 U.SC. Section 1226, and Title 8 U.S.C. Section 1357(d), which asks local authorities to hold individuals who have been ordered released from custody for up to 48 hours (after they have been ordered released), so that they can be taken into federal custody; and
WHEREAS: There is no legal authority upon which the federal government may compel an expenditure of City resources to comply with an ICE detainer request; and
WHEREAS: The Transparency and Responsibility Using State Tools (TRUST) Act, versions of which are pending before state and federal legislatures, aims to keep immigrants who pose no risk to society safe in their communities and with their families while also promoting trust between the immigrant community and local law enforcement; and
WHEREAS: According to the Massachusetts TRUST Act Coalition, which includes State Senator Jamie Eldridge and former State Representative Carl Sciortino, ICE issued more than 5,000 detainers in Massachusetts from 2008 through 2011, and more than 75% of these detainers were placed on individuals who had no criminal conviction or history; several were issued on children under the age of eighteen; and
WHEREAS: In April, 2014, a federal judge ruled that it is a violation of constitutional rights to hold an individual for immigration authorities without probable cause; and
WHEREAS: As a result of this ruling, cities and counties nationwide are beginning to revise their policies regarding voluntary cooperation with ICE detainer requests; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Police Commissioner to ensure that only in cases where immigration agents have a criminal warrant, or Cambridge officials have a legitimate law enforcement purpose not related to immigration, will Cambridge Police comply with federal ICE detainer requests to hold persons solely for immigration purposes; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the council on this matter; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council does hereby go on record in joining the national TRUST Act movement to no longer hold immigrants in detention for the sole purpose of deportation; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council does hereby go on record in supporting the Massachusetts TRUST Act bill currently before the state legislature; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Cambridge state legislative and Congressional legislative delegations.
O-2 June 2, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: In January 2013, Central Square was one of four locations in Massachusetts to be named a State Designated Cultural District. This designation was due its diverse mixture of small, independently-owned shops, creative start-ups, arts and entertainment venues, ethnic restaurants, and being the site of annual events like Dance Party and the Cambridge Science Festival; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge and the Central Square Business Association actively sought this designation, as it was hoped that it would help Central Square attract artists and cultural enterprises, encourage business and job growth, expand tourism, and foster local cultural development; and
WHEREAS: Central Square is one of just fourteen Cultural District locations in the Commonwealth. These designations come up for review every five years, and if the City does not take certain actions to ensure that Central Square capitalizes on and enhances its reputation as a Cultural District, it may lose that designation in 2018; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the appropriate City Personnel and with the Central Square Business Association in order to establish a Central Square Action Team that will be charged with recommending and helping implement strategies that will help Central Square to capitalize on and enhance its designation as a Cultural District in the months and years to come; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on a timeline for the launch of this action team.
O-3 June 2, 2014
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has great interest in community participation in its efforts to keep city streets clean and free of litter; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has many volunteer opportunities to participate in the beautification of the city; and
WHEREAS: Many municipalities have similar campaigns including Boston, MA; Salem, MA; New Bedford, MA; and Worcester, MA, among others in Massachusetts and across the nation; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works, School Department; Human Services Department; Community Development Department; and any other relevant departments on the establishment of a Clean Cambridge Green Cambridge campaign that encompasses neighborhood clean-up volunteer days; anti-litter programs for school-aged students; and a publicity plan; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-4 June 2, 2014
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with an update on the City's composting pilot program.
O-5 June 2, 2014
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is working to respond to calls from residents who are seeking a more meaningful role in community planning and development decisions; and
WHEREAS: To build community, it is important to provide people of diverse backgrounds and cultures with opportunities to fully participate in civic life and offer input on civic affairs; and
WHEREAS: For families and individuals who do not speak English as their first language, there are many barriers to accessing services, obtaining information, and leveraging resources that are needed to engage with our city's institutions and programs; and
WHEREAS: Public housing advocates have noted that language is a major obstacle for engagement with many Cambridge Housing Authority tenants; and
WHEREAS: The Liaison Interpreter Program of Somerville (LIPS) has been commended as a model for providing opportunities for bilingual high school students to learn language interpretation skills, to practice those skills at community meetings, and to develop professional skills; and
WHEREAS: The LIPS program provides bilingual students with a pathway to future certification in medical or legal interpreting careers, where professional interpreters can earn a good living, and the training program and community practice is an important source of immediate income as well; and
WHEREAS: The LIPS program provides a natural bridge between skill-building for career advancement and knowledge-building and leadership development for effective community engagement; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with all relevant City Staff and Departments to explore the potential for creating a program to enable bilingual high school students to learn language interpretation skills and to practice those skills at community meetings and events throughout the city; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-6 June 2, 2014 Amended
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
MAYOR MAHER
WHEREAS: New Street in West Cambridge is going through a transformation from a pass-through street to a busy residential street; and
WHEREAS: The increase in both pedestrian and vehicular traffic has outpaced the design of the sidewalks and street; and
WHEREAS: New Street is likely to see more residential development in the years to come; therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department, the Public Works Department, the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and any other relevant City Departments to discuss ways in which the City can improve the design of New Street for both pedestrians and vehicles, and report back to the City Council with recommendations at the July 28, 2014 Special City Council Meeting.
O-7 June 2, 2014
MAYOR MAHER
WHEREAS: Mayor David P. Maher would like to go on record adding the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts in support of this resolution "IN SUPPORT OF A NATIONAL COMMITMENT TO BUILDING AN EARLY LEARNING NATION BY THE YEAR 2025" that will be introduced and considered at the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Dallas, Texas in June; and
WHEREAS: Over the past 238 years major eras in the history of the United States have been frequently marked and recognized by the transference of scientific research, scientific breakthrough and scientific invention into the mainstream of daily life, leading in turn to new growth, enhanced opportunities and innovative change; and
WHEREAS: Social researchers and sociologists are identifying babies born between 2010 and 2025 as ‘Generation Alpha,' and are claiming this generation will be the most formally educated generation in history, beginning school earlier and studying for longer than those from previous generations; and
WHEREAS: Generation Alpha members will be second only to the Baby Boomer generation in population numbers, consisting of more than 70 million children aged between birth to 15 in the year 2025; and
WHEREAS: The latest neuroscience research into child development clearly shows the profound and lasting benefits of every day and in-the-moment interactions between parent or caregiver and child, and that these parent or caregiver/child interactions require no expensive purchases of toys or equipment to achieve these benefits; and
WHEREAS: Scientific research clearly shows positive parenting and caregiving in early childhood, starting at birth, is a key contributor to lifelong health and productivity; and
WHEREAS: Advances in neuroscience, developmental psychology and prevention science provide compelling evidence that the foundation for health or disease is established in early childhood; and
WHEREAS: These scientific advances show it is possible for children to achieve their potential as a result of parent and child interactions in the critical brain development years of birth to three; and
WHEREAS: High quality early learning in the critical years from birth to three has been proven to reduce placements in special education, reduce grade retention, boost graduation rates, decrease teen pregnancy rates, reduce violent crime, juvenile delinquency and incarceration, and increases the odds of long-term employment; and
WHEREAS: We are committed to providing unparalleled opportunities for the children of Generation Alpha so they do not become part of a ‘lost generation' making this an imperative of moral and national urgency to provide early learning for all children particularly in the critical brain-building years from birth to three; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the U.S. Conference of Mayors support a movement committed to engaging every community and particularly parents and caregivers in daily brain-building moments with their children, while highlighting the ease and developmental importance supported by the latest scientific research of these conversational moments between adult and child; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the U.S. Conference of Mayors support designating the decade of 2015-2025 as an era of community focus in building an Early Learning Nation so, in turn, the children of Generation Alpha emerge equipped and prepared to resolve issues, assume leadership positions, while generating innovative and long-term solutions for previously intractable and seemingly unsolvable challenges; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the U.S. Conference of Mayors on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-8 June 2, 2014
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
WHEREAS: Limited equity housing cooperatives are groupings of individual units, owned collectively and maintained by shareholders, the costs and benefits shared equally; and
WHEREAS: Limited equity cooperative housing provides an affordable alternative to conventional homeownership, especially pertinent today, given Cambridge's rising real estate prices; and
WHEREAS: These cooperatives provide a unique opportunity to both moderate and middle income residents, many of whom are unable to secure public housing due to waitlists or income restrictions, and are unable to afford market rate housing due to an escalating real estate market; and
WHEREAS: The demand for these cooperative units is high and turnover low; and
WHEREAS: Once a vacant unit is found, residents wishing to purchase a share in a limited equity cooperative are often unable secure a mortgage or other financing from local financial institutions; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department to work with local banking institutions to ensure financing opportunities are available for residents wishing to purchase shares in limited equity cooperative housing within Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department to research and explore options for expanding the limited equity cooperative housing stock within Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the council on these matters.
O-9 June 2, 2014
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: One of the greatest festivities of the summer is that of gathering as a community to watch World Cup matches in a spirit of friendly competition only this spectacle can inspire; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge is a world city, and as one, the people who live, work, play, learn and pray here should be able to also gather and celebrate their love for sports here; and
WHEREAS: A large screen public viewing of the World Cup games happening from June 12 to July 13 will bring together people from all walks of life in Cambridge, the most ardent fan and the casual interest, together, men, women and children; and
WHEREAS: A large screen public viewing of the World Cup game will offer opportunities to involve local establishments, different cultural groups and local representation from participating countries that will further nurture the spirit of community; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to determine the feasibility of installing a large screen at a central location, like Lafayette Square, in order to project a number of soccer matches involving the United States and countries that are representative of the Cambridge resident population, like Mexico, Brazil, Portugal, France and Senegal; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to determine the feasibility of granting special permits to food trucks and other food vendors during the duration of these games and report back to the City Council by the regularly scheduled June 9th City Council Meeting.
O-10 June 2, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Food trucks have grown increasingly popular across the country, forcing many cities to retroactively set standards and policy regulations; and
WHEREAS: The mobile food industry has the unique potential to create new employment opportunities, small and local business growth and favorable conditions for culinary entrepreneurs in Cambridge. Food Trucks have the ability to activate areas that offer limited dining options for customers, including late nights; and
WHEREAS: According to the National Restaurant Association, there is an increasing demand, particularly among people 18-44 for freshly prepared, restaurant quality food that can be provided in a quick and cheap manner; and
WHEREAS: One of the biggest challenges that food truck vendors face in Cambridge is locating viable street spots to sell their food; and
WHEREAS: Cities across the country, including Boston and Chicago, have pioneered designated parking stalls for food trucks where the trucks are permitted to sell their food for a set amount of time; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Community Development Department and the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department on the feasibility of creating designated parking stalls for food truck vendors in areas that allow them to sell their food but not harm established brick and mortar restaurants, and proactively finding spots on private roadways willing to host food trucks, and to compile a comprehensive list that offers clarity and certainty on available and suitable locations; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council.
O-11 June 2, 2014
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the Cambridge Brand Inc. parking lot located on the corner of Bishop Allen Drive and Columbia Street, more specifically 28 Columbia Street, has been unkempt; and
WHEREAS: The lot has excessive sand scattered throughout, creating unsightly conditions and affecting air quality during windy conditions; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate city departments to have the parking lot cleaned and report back to the City Council.
O-12 June 2, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and assist Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services (CASLS) with locating new office space if it helps address their financial difficulties.
O-13 June 2, 2014 Amended
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Cambridge is experiencing a historic surge of residential construction, but the prices of the vast majority of these new ownership and rental units are beyond the reach of most average wage-earners; and
WHEREAS: There is an immediate need to significantly increase the development of new housing consistent with neighborhood scale and character for both a range of incomes and family sizes, including our aging population; and
WHEREAS: The city-owned lot on the corner of Bishop Allen Drive and Norfolk Street presents a unique opportunity to build units of up to 100% affordable, middle-income, senior, and family housing units with civic space for the community in the form of a plaza; and
WHEREAS: This particular lot in Central Square is ripe for growth; easily accessible to public transit; located in the heart of Central Square; and has good access to direct sun, making it a great place for outdoor dining and seating; and
WHEREAS: The Central Square Final Report released by the Cambridge Community Development Department in 2013 revealed that the Committee discussed mixed-use development of city-owned lots with a strong residential component of larger units for families and significant components affordable to low, moderate, and middle-income households; they concluded that the value of city-owned lots could be leveraged for a mix of public benefits if they were made available for development; and
WHEREAS: A combination of affordable and middle income family housing and an affordable food and retail plaza in Central Square will create a desirable and important commercial corridor which is an essential component of livable and sustainable communities; and
WHEREAS: Great public places contribute to social, economic, cultural and environmental community health by providing character to neighborhoods through a forum for public activities; and
WHEREAS: Plazas act as a focal point for the civic and social life of a city, a place where impromptu gatherings, people watching and even political discourse all naturally intersect - especially at a time when the faces in our city are rapidly changing, the use of public space, particularly the plaza, is an effective instrument for social cohesion; and
WHEREAS: A combination of affordable housing and retail development project will also create employment and entrepreneurship opportunities; and
WHEREAS: A plaza in Central Square will be an opportunity for our families and seniors to relax and enjoy themselves; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to determine the feasibility of developing units of up to 100% affordable, middle-income, senior, and family housing units and a plaza with affordable food and retail space, the impact to the surrounding neighborhood on the effects of losing parking spaces, including how residents and businesses will be affected, and report back to the City Council; and be it further
ORDERED: That this matter be referred to the Economic Development and University Relations Committee.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE, comprised of the entire membership of the City Council, to which was referred the GENERAL FUND BUDGET for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 in the amount of $488,932,550 held public hearings on this matter on May 8, 2014 and May 15, 2014 commencing at 9:00am and on May 21, 2013 commencing at 6:00pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE has referred the GENERAL FUND BUDGET for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 in the sum $488,932,550 to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation.
For the Committee,
Councillor Marc C. McGovern, Chair
Committee Report #2
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE, comprised of the entire membership of the City Council, to which was referred the WATER FUND for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 in the amount of $13,964,275 held a public hearing on this matter on May 15, 2014 commencing at 9:00am in the Sullivan Chamber.
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE has referred the WATER FUND for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 to the full City Council for the adoption of the enclosed order in the total amount of $13,964,275.
For the Committee,
Councillor Marc McGovern, Chair
Committee Report #3
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE, comprised of the entire membership of the City Council, to which was referred the PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 in the amount of $16,548,370 held a public hearing on this matter on May 15, 2014 commencing at 9:00am in the Sullivan Chamber.
THE FINANCE COMMITTEE has referred the PUBLIC INVESTMENT FUND for the City of Cambridge for Fiscal Year 2015 to the full City Council for the adoption of the enclosed order in the total amount of $16,548,370.
For the Committee,
Councillor Marc C. McGovern, Chair
AWAITING REPORT LIST
14-05. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of allowing Cambridge residents and visitors to pay parking violations instantly via cell phone application.
Councillor Cheung 02/10/14 (O-2)
14-13. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on putting information on traffic enforcement, accidents and parking tickets online in a format that would allow electronic data analysis by the general public.
Councillor Kelley 03/17/14 (O-9)
14-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways for cyclists to use public bike parking for short, medium and long term bike storage to alleviate the problem of abandoned bikes clogging bike parking facilities as well as appropriate public space in which cyclists can lock their bikes. Referred back for additional information by Councillor Kelley on Apr 7, 2014.
Councillor Kelley 03/17/14 (O-12)
14-18. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on determining the legal and regulatory process necessary to collaborate with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority, companies in the private sector and/or local universities, and/or donors that are willing to partner with the City to achieve the desired development objectives at the Foundry Building.
Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor Mazen, Councillor Carlone & Councillor Toomey 03/17/14 (O-16)
14-19. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on producing an updated report of the Concord-Alewife Plan.
Councillor Cheung 03/24/14 (O-4)
14-20. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #11
RE: report on the searching for and examining any companies that could potentially offer to deploy fiber optic internet in the city.
Councillor Cheung 03/24/14 (O-5)
14-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the implementation of a city-wide job fair exclusively for Cambridge residents.
Vice Mayor Benzan 03/24/14 (O-8)
14-23. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of acquiring web-based financial visualization software for local governments where financial and budget data is modeled and presented in a visual user-friendly and interactive manner.
Councillor Cheung 04/07/14 (O-2)
14-26. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on pedestrian and vehicle safety improvements at the intersection of Cambridge Street and Cardinal Medeiros Avenue.
Councillor Toomey 04/07/14 (O-12)
14-27. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on revising the location of Hubway stations in residential areas.
Councillor Simmons 04/28/14 (O-1)
14-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a master list of all residential building managers citywide.
Councillor Simmons 04/28/14 (O-4)
14-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what options exist for dedicated office space for members of the City Council.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Carlone 04/28/14 (O-5)
14-30. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #9
RE: report on if additional measures can be taken to make the crossing safety at Cambridge and Sciarappa Streets.
Councillor Toomey 04/28/14 (O-6)
14-31. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of installing a bus shelter on Cambridge Street in front of Millers River Senior apartments.
Councillor Toomey 04/28/14 (O-8)
14-32. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing an information hotline that residents can call to learn about and be connected to the social service providers in their neighborhoods.
Councillor Simmons 04/28/14 (O-10)
14-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on potential for continued upgrades and improvements to bus shelters across the City.
Councillor Carlone 04/28/14 (O-13)
14-35. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the condition of the parking lot and fence at the corner of Cherry and School Streets.
Vice Mayor Benzan 04/28/14 (O-19)
14-36. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of offering resident an online option to complete the City's annual census.
Councillor Cheung 04/28/14 (O-27)
14-37. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of painting green all designed bicycle lanes on all major streets.
Councillor Cheung 04/28/14 (O-28)
14-38. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing a Safe Routes to School program.
Councillor McGovern & Councillor Mazen 05/05/14 (O-3)
14-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on allocating an additional $140,000 annually to Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services.
Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Benzan & Councillor Carlone 05/05/14 (O-7)
14-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving traffic congestion at the intersection of Upland Road and Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor McGovern 05/19/14 (O-1)
14-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of push cart vendors and local artists both at Carl Barron Plaza and similar places in Central Square.
Vice Mayor Benzan & Councillor Cheung 05/19/14 (O-2)
14-42. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on relocating the Planning Board hearing on the Sullivan Courthouse redevelopment from the Citywide Senior Center to the East Cambridge neighborhood.
Councillor Carlone 05/19/14 (O-4)
14-43. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of relocating the Department of Public Works.
Councillor Toomey 05/19/14 (O-15)
14-44. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on appropriating funds to hire a consultant to address problem-solving and planning issues that need to be resolved before the design process of the Grand Junction Path can begin and include money in the FY2016 budget for design funds.
Councillor Cheung 05/19/14 (O-17)
14-45. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to modify the Plastic Bag Reduction Ordinance with changes to the following: fees for bags, elimination of paper bags from the ordinance, elimination of the thickness of the plastic bag in the ordinance, increasing the timeframe for implementation of the ordinance and inclusion of compostable bags in the ordinance.
Councillor Cheung 05/19/14 (O-20)
14-46. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on conducting an analysis and assessment of the position of Aide to the City Council.
Councillor Toomey 05/19/14 (O-21)