Cambridge City Council meeting - June 3, 2024

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $250,000 from the General Fund Employee Benefits Salaries and Wages Account to the General Fund Employee Benefits Travel and Training Account. Funds will be used to cover the costs of anticipated payments of workers compensation medical bills for personnel injured in the course of their job, through the end of FY24. (CM24#110)
Order Adopted 9-0

2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $5,000 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account. These funds were awarded to the Summer Food Program by Project Bread and will be used to enhance promotion, outreach, and support activities, and to pay for program related supplies. (CM24#111)
Order Adopted 9-0

3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $325 received from a preschool family fundraiser to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account. The funds will be used to purchase enrichment supplies for the classroom. (CM24#112)
Order Adopted 9-0

4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $15,000 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account. Funds are to be used to support the Cambridge Food Pantry Network. The funds are being used, along with the $156,000 allocated by the city, to contract with the Cambridge Economic Opportunity Committee (CEOC) to purchase nutritional foods that are distributed to eligible Cambridge residents through the Food Pantry Network. (CM24#113)
Order Adopted 9-0

5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Adam Westbrook and Diego Macias as members and Daniel Anderson and Joy Jackson as associate members of the Planning Board for a term of five-years. (CM24#114)
pulled by Nolan (on representativeness of appointees); comments by Yi-An Huang, Iram Farooq; Nolan wants balance on approach to development; Siddiqui wants to know rubric used to select appointees, wants Boston Society of Architects to be involved; Azeem notes charter change, importance of ideology, wants Planning Board to be aligned with City Council; Sobrinho-Wheeler wants data on number of applicants over time and if stipends have affected this, wants to have City Council confirmation process or opportunity to interview applicants prior to appointment; Toner OK with prior process but would prefer to be consulted on applicants prior to appointment; Wilson concerned about diversity of candidates, also wants to be consulted prior to appointments, wants to know how many of the applicants were “persons of color”, when next appointments will occur (three in Aug, Nov 2026); responses by Swathi Joseph re: vetting by Diversity & Inclusion Office; Simmons also wants to know how many of the applicants were “persons of color”; Wilson wants this information in writing; Yi-An Huang describes and defends process, expresses concerns about possible effect of City Council inquisition on willingness of residents to apply; Farooq says 5 of 11 interviewed were “persons of color”; Simmons questions what “persons of color” entails, wants further discussion of Council role in appointments; Appointments Approved 9-0

CMA 2024 #114 June 3, 2024

I am writing to recommend the following appointments of members to the Planning Board for a term of five years, effective June 1, 2024:

Members

• Adam Westbrook (advancement)

• Diego Macias (advancement)

Associate Members

• Daniel Anderson (appointment)

• Joy Jackson (appointment)

The Planning Board was established under Chapter 2.68 of the Cambridge Municipal Code and provisions of M.G.L., c. 41 § 70 through 72. The Planning Board has an important role in decisions that help shape urban development and in discussions of city planning policies. Under the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance, certain uses and types of development may require a special permit from the Planning Board, a quasi-judicial body that conducts public hearings on all applications before it and issues decisions. The Board also reviews proposed amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance and makes recommendations to the City Council.

The vacancy was posted in the city portal and listed on the Boards or Commissions webpage on Feb 12, 2024, with a closing date of Mar 18, 2024. Outreach was done through traditional and nontraditional methods, using digital, analog, and direct outreach, to publicize the information with the goal of reaching a diverse audience.

• The vacancy was posted in the city Boards and Commissions portal and listed on the ‘I Want to Apply for a Board or Commission’ webpage.

• A news story about Planning Board vacancies was featured on the CDD homepage and the City homepage.

• A press release was issued for use by non-City media.

• Information about the vacancy was publicized through the City’s social media and in the City’s daily updates newsletter.

• Community Engagement Team outreach workers shared the vacancy information with their communities (Arabic speaking, Amharic speaking, American-born Black, Bangla speaking, Haitian Creole, and Spanish speaking communities).

32 complete applications were received and reviewed in detail. 11 interviews were conducted. The committee to review applications and shortlist candidates, as well as the interview committee were diverse and included representatives from multiple departments. The Office of Equity and Inclusion completed a review of both the applicants and interview candidates to determine sufficient diversity at various levels.

The next anticipated vacancy for the Planning Board will come in 2026.

The two associate members I am recommending for appointment to the Planning Board bring a wide range of skills and experience to their role.

• Daniel Anderson (appointment, associate) is an architect and partner of Anderson Porter Design with many years of experience in design and construction as well as teaching experience in local institutions. He is particularly interested in planning and development to improve the city and welfare of its residents. His background in planning and urban design as well as familiarity with civic review processes makes him a valuable addition to the Planning Board

• Joy Jackson (appointment, associate) leads advocacy campaigns related to affordable housing and climate policy at Evergreen Action, a national climate non-profit organization. She is a Cambridge renter. Her experience with civic engagement includes policy work related to urban planning, affordable housing, and Covid-19 economic recovery at the Washington, DC Mayor’s Office. Her interdisciplinary background as well as quantitative and qualitative policy analysis skills will make her an asset to the Planning Board.

I am also taking this opportunity to advance these current members from associate to full member status.

• Adam Westbrook is the director at Center for Community Engagement, Suffolk University and has wide range of experience with civic engagement. With strong organizational and advocacy skills, he has been serving as an associate member of the Planning Board since June 26, 2023.

• Diego Macias is a design technologist at the architecture and engineering firm, SMMA, and manages data and computational process for various architectural projects. With his background in data management and visualization, he has been serving as an associate member of the Planning Board since June 26, 2023.

I appreciate the willingness of these community members to serve on the Planning Board and, with your approval, look forward to their appointments.

6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Planning Board Report regarding the Ronayne, et al., Zoning Petition. (CM24#115) [text of report]
Referred to Petition 9-0

Date: May 29, 2024
Subject: Ronayne, et al., Zoning Petition
Recommendation: The Planning Board makes comments with no recommendation.

To the Honorable, the City Council,
On May 21, 2024, the Planning Board (the “Board”) held a public hearing to discuss a Zoning Petition by Joseph S. Ronayne, et. al., (the “Petitioners”) to amend Articles 4.000, 5.000, and 8.000 of the Zoning Ordinance with the intent to “allow multifamily residential uses across the city and eliminate footnotes that further restrict residential development within fully residential districts and to bring Res A and B uses in line with existing Res C uses” (the “Petition”).

The Board received written materials before the hearing from Community Development Department (COD) staff, heard a presentation from Joseph Ronayne representing the Petitioners, heard public comment, and asked clarifying questions of the Petitioners and COD staff. After discussion among Board members, the Board voted unanimously to send the following comments to the City Council with no positive or negative recommendation.

All Board members favored removing exclusionary restrictions in zoning and allowing multifamily housing citywide. Board members expressed pride in the Cambridge community for its shared value of housing equity. It was noted that this issue has been under discussion for some time, and the Petition proposes a moderate approach that would achieve the underlying goal quickly. Some Board members found this straightforward approach appealing, at least as a symbolic gesture. Board members also appreciated that the Petition addresses accessory apartments and elderly-oriented congregate housing in addition to multifamily housing.

However, Board members expressed concern that the Petition might not be going far enough in some areas, and raised some issues for further study. The following issues were identified:

• The Petition does not address setbacks and open space, which can impact the feasibility of housing even if density is increased. Some Board members were concerned that those constraints might not result in that much additional housing. Board members generally expressed a desire to study setback and open space requirements, to ensure that they create meaningful opportunities for multifamily housing while also addressing the importance of open space and tree canopy. Board members were also interested in more study of the likely physical outcomes of the proposed changes.

• Some Board members suggested that further increases in height or density may be considered. It was noted that housing in some neighborhoods of the city tends to have existing densities somewhat higher than 1.00 FAR. Some Board members also commented that additional height might be necessary to make it possible to build substantial amounts of new multifamily housing.

• Several Board members raised the issue of affordability, noting that an important part of the City’s housing policy has been to create new housing that includes affordable units.

Although many people are optimistic that more housing will help mitigate housing costs more broadly, some Board members were not convinced that this approach would result in affordable housing given the already high costs of market-rate housing. Moreover, some of the areas most affected by the Petition are among the more expensive in Cambridge, and further increases land values could impact opportunities to build affordable housing under the Affordable Housing Overlay. Board members expressed an interest in further study of how this proposed change would impact the ability to address affordable housing. Some Board members also suggested that other, non-zoning actions at the state or local levels may be required along with zoning to address housing affordability.

Ultimately, Board members chose not to transmit a positive or negative recommendation, citing the following process concerns:

• The issues raised above likely cannot be resolved in the context of the current Petition. If the Petition were amended to address issues such as setbacks, open space, density, height, and affordability, those amendments would likely be beyond the scope of the advertised Petition, which would need to be refiled and advertised for further hearings before adoption could be considered.

• Separately from this Petition, the City Council’s Housing Committee has been engaged in discussions around this topic. Board members agreed that it would be preferable to coalesce around one cohesive plan led by policymakers rather than engaging in separate, parallel processes. The Board encourages the Housing Committee to act expeditiously after considering the relevant issues, and to consider policies and ordinances in addition to zoning. Board members would appreciate an opportunity to learn more about the Housing Committee’s work as it continues.

The Planning Board voted 6-0 in favor of transmitting the above report.

Respectfully submitted for the Planning Board,
Tom Sieniewicz, Vice Chair.

7. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $240,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Law Department Extraordinary Expenditures account to cover unanticipated costs for expert appraisal services related to current litigation involving energy and utility valuations. (CM24#116)
Order Adopted 9-0

8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a request - if necessary – to move to Executive Session to discuss strategy with respect to litigation known as Dalkia Energy Services v. Cambridge, Kendall Green Energy Holdings LLC v. Cambridge, and Southern Energy Kendall v. Cambridge, (Appellate Tax Board Dockets F325664, F325663, F325665, F328941, and all related Appellate Tax Board Docket Numbers for these cases), which are appeals before the Appellate Tax Board. (CM24#117)
pulled by Nolan; relates to prior Mgr #7; Solicitor Megan Bayer explains; Executive Session not needed; Placed on File 9-0

ORDERS
1. That the City Council renew its observance of Loving Day on June 12, 2024, and encourages all Cambridge residents to embrace the diversity of families and recognize the importance of this day. Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons (PO24#67)
Order Adopted 9-0

2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and other appropriate City personnel to implement more robust ticketing and parking enforcement measures near the intersection of Norman Street and Belmont Street. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner (PO24#68)
Order Adopted 9-0

3. That the City Manager is requested to clarify why the Wage Theft Enforcement Committee has not yet been appointed and to swiftly appoint the committee as called for in the Wage Theft Ordinance. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner (PO24#69)
Order Adopted 9-0

4. That the City Manager is requested to explore the feasibility of delaying the Mass Avenue reconstruction project to minimize its impact upon the busy season for restaurants and other affected businesses, and, should this not be found feasible, a method of providing financial assistance to the impacted businesses to cover the costs of removing their outdoor dining structures, designed to mitigate some of the financial impacts upon them, should be established. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Wilson (PO24#70)
pulled by Nolan; Wilson add as sponsor 9-0; Charter Right - Simmons

5. That the City Manager is requested to provide a list of current zoning initiatives along with CDD’s recommendations for a timeline for completing each of the zoning initiatives in order for the Council to confirm zoning priorities. Councillor Pickett, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern (PO24#71)
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Toner; Order Adopted 9-0

6. That the City Manager is requested to work with CDD to provide a written outreach plan for engaging the community related to the processes underway in Central Square. Councillor Pickett, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons (PO24#72)
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Nolan, Simmons; Order Adopted 9-0

7. That the City Manager is hereby requested to provide the draft Request for Information for the 84 & 96 Bishop Allen Drive to the City Council for review and comment. Councillor Pickett, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons (PO24#73)
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett; Order Adopted 9-0

8. City Council support of H.1713/S.947, An Act to Ensure Legal Parentage Equality, to ensure all parents and children are afforded the same protections under the law. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson (PO24#74)
Order Adopted 9-0

9. That the City Manager is requested to provide to the City Council a detailed justification for the increased fees for Youth Centers for the 2024-2025 school year. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan (PO24#75)
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Toner, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, Simmons, Azeem, Ellen Semonoff, Yi-An Huang; add Wilson, Nolan as sponsors 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

CHARTER RIGHT
1. City Council support of the Act Establishing Protections and Accountability for TNC and DNC Workers (S.627/H1158), which would allow TNCs to sustain worker benefits and protections that maintain a level playing field across transportation industries. Councillor Toner, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson [Charter Right – Toner, May 20, 2024] (PO24#65)
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

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

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the appropriation and authorization to borrow $11,500,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of various City streets and sidewalks. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#74)
Comments by Nolan; Loan Order Adopted 9-0

3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of appropriation and authorization to borrow $4,350,000 to provide funds for the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan. Funds will support significant building improvements and deferred maintenance projects. Proposed projects include but are not limited to upgrades of Public Works facilities, municipal offices, youth centers, branch libraries and fire stations, renovations to 105 Windsor Street and upgrades of HVAC and electrical systems. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#75)
Loan Order Adopted 9-0

4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $3,000,000 to provide funds for the design and construction of open spaces at the Peabody School Playground, Corcoran (Raymond Street) Park, Rafferty Park, Wilder-Lee Park, and 359 Broadway. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#76)
Comments by Nolan, Pickett; Loan Order Adopted 9-0

5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $2,560,000 to provide funds for financing school building upgrades. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#77)
Comments by Pickett, Simmons; Loan Order Adopted 9-0

6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of and authorization to borrow $6,550,000 to provide funds for the Ozone Generator Replacement; Water Treatment Plant equipment and systems upgrades and water works construction projects in coordination with DPW street restoration projects, which include Massachusetts Ave 4, Chestnut, Dana, Sciarappa and Winter Streets. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#78)
Loan Order Adopted 9-0

7. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $8,500,000 to provide funds for the sewer Capital Repairs Program and projects related to climate change preparedness efforts. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024] (CM24#79)
Loan Order Adopted 9-0

8. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization of $15,000,000 to provide additional funds for the construction of improvements at the Fire Station Headquarters Building located at 491 Broadway. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 20, 2024; Eligible for Adoption June 3, 2024]
Appropriation Adopted 9-0

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

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application from Edward Batten representing Eastern Bank, requesting permission for two (2) projecting signs and one (1) awning at the premises numbered 415 Main Street. approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and proof of mailing from abutter’s has been provided. (AP24#19)
Order Adopted 9-0

2. An application from Gina Fobelle, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 17 Miller Avenue; 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. (AP24#20)
Order Adopted 9-0

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication from Abra Berkowitz, regarding Chicago and NYC’s waning diversity and increased property values post-up-zoning.

2. A communication from Amy Clarkson, regarding New Zoning Petition_5-6 story buildings in Cambridge.

3. A communication from Anand Sundaram, regarding I strong object to moving forward with your current plan at the PLANNING BOARD Meeting on citywide up-zoning (2).

4. A communication from Andy Nash, regarding Ordinance committee.

5. A communication from Anne Hawley, regarding letter regard.

6. A communication from Anne Sundaram, regarding I strong object to moving forward with your current plan at the PLANNING BOARD Meeting on citywide up-zoning.

7. A communication from Aram Harrow, regarding zoning.

8. A communication from Ariana Olson, regarding Support PO24#62.

9. A communication from Barbara Anthony, regarding Upzoning across the Nation and Canada.

10. A communication from Brad Bellows, regarding Focus unzoning on major corridors.

11. A communication from Catherine Hoffman, regarding Affordable Housing Trust.

12. A communication from Catherine Hoffman, regarding multi-family concerns.

13. A communication from Catherine Zusy, regarding No to allowing 6-story buildings citywide!

14. A communication from Chris Potter, regarding Statement for gradual zoning changes but against abrupt ones.

15. A communication from Christina King, regarding Yes to Zoning Reform.

16. A communication from cyalee, regarding Vote YES on PO24#49 and PO24#50 Without Amendment and Support Policy Order PO24#51.

17. A communication from Deborah Zucker, regarding Please STOP the proposal to up-zone all of the residential areas of Cambridge!

18. A communication from Elizabeth and John Gilmore, regarding Proposed City-wide Zoning Change.

19. A communication from Esther Hanig, regarding Opposition to the zoning petition regarding the Affordable Housing Trust.

20. A communication from Ethan Frank, regarding Adjusted Parking Fees - AR24-15.

21. A communication from Ethan Frederick, regarding Public Comment on Exclusionary Zoning.

22. A communication from Francesca Gordini, regarding No to the up-zoning.

23. A communication from Jana Odette, regarding (largely) unedited interview with Charles Sullivan, Cambridge Historical Commission.

24. A communication from Janet Littell, regarding another citizen housing preference for Cambridge.

25. A communication from Jennifer Goulart, regarding Action on bike paths needed now.

26. A communication from Jennifer Miles, regarding Upcoming Council Meeting – Removal of Housing Height Restrictions & BZA.

27. A communication from Joey Proton, regarding City of Cambridge Emergency Vehicles, Ambulance, Fire and Police Emergency blocked by new bike lanes Causing Life Threatening and Legal Issues.

28. A communication from John Trever, regarding New Zoning Petition.

29. A communication from Judi and Carlos Neu, regarding ZONING (1).

30. A communication from Kaleb Abebe, regarding PO24#66 - Support for a Porchfest like event in Cambridge.

31. A communication from Mark Steffen, regarding Do not raise residential parking fees.

32. A communication from Mary Tittmann, regarding End Exclusionary Zoning.

33. A communication from Michael Chunko, regarding In support of Council member Azeem’s proposed change to the zoning code.

34. A communication from Milan Singh, regarding Public comment in support of Councillor Azeem’s proposal to legalize six-story buildings.

35. A communication from Patricia Armstrong, regarding Longtime Cambridge residents oppose massive upzoning.

36. A communication from Rachel Plummer, regarding Support for Ending Exclusionary Zoning.

37. A communication from Amy Waltz, regarding Ronayne & CDD Zoning - Prioritize additional living units in Existing Buildings - Avoid Major climate & environmental impacts!

38. A communication from Sharon Bushnell, regarding Dangerous Fayerweather Street Brattle turns.

39. A communication from Shefali Oza, regarding In favor of zoning changes.

40. A communication from Stephen Fitzsimmons and Orawan Saejao Fitzsimmons, regarding Please support the Cambridge Housing Committee Proposal.

41. A communication from Tamar Zimmerman, regarding Concern for Thoughtful Development in our City.

42. A communication from Vickey Bestor, regarding Housing Policy.

43. A communication from Weldon Pries, regarding New Zoning Petition--please support the following points.

44. A communication from Yash Deshpande, regarding Support for the multi-family zoning effort.

45. A communication from Young Kim, regarding Options for use of the BB&N Field.

46. A communication from Dan Totten, regarding Bishop Allen lots redevelopment.

47. A communication from Margaret Ann Brady, regarding Keep the value of public land PUBLIC!

48. A communication from Marilee Meyer, regarding Historical Commission Preservation Awards tonight EC court house 6-8.

49. A communication from Nella LaRosa-Waters, regarding Central Square Zoning.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Claire Edouard on her retirement from the Cambridge Housing Authority. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Toner; Adopted as Amended 9-0

2. Condolences on the death of Richard P. Farina Sr. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

3. Condolences on the death of Reverend Ronald A. Gomes. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

4. Condolences on the death of Reverend Dr. Florence Nottage-King. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

6. Congratulations to Catherine Scrive on her retirement from the Cambridge Housing Authority. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

7. Congratulations to Dr. James Barrett on receiving the Gold Standard School Safety Award from the Massachusetts Partnerships for Youth. Councillor Toner

8. Congratulations to Marita Barrett on her retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

9. Congratulations to Police Officer David Gamble on his retirement. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

10. Condolences on the death of David Albert. Councillor Toner

R-10 June 3, 2024
COUNCILLOR TONER

WHEREAS: The City Council was deeply saddened at learning of the death of David Gerard Albert on May 17, 2024; and

WHEREAS: David was the beloved son of Claire and the late Jules Albert; and

WHEREAS: David was the devoted husband of 36 years to the love of his life Kathleen McCarthy; and

WHEREAS: David’s passing will leave a void in the lives of all his surviving family, his children Haley and her husband Daniel, Devin and his soon-to-be wife Lauren and Delaney and her wife Allison; his siblings James, Jack, Brian, Kenny, Keith, Michelle and Denise and their spouses, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; and

WHEREAS: Growing up in North Cambridge and graduating from Cambridge Rindge & Latin High School, David and his family were deeply ingrained in the fabric of the community; and

WHEREAS: Proudly serving as a Cambridge Police Officer for 32 years, the last 6 of those as a detective in the Criminal Investigations Department, David was highly respected by those who served alongside him; David officially retired in 2022; and

WHEREAS: David, a role model and true gentleman, will be sorely missed by all he touched and loved; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy for the family of David Gerard Albert at this time of such personal loss; 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 Albert family on behalf of the entire City Council.

12. Resolution on the death of John W. Roberts. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Nolan;

13. Recognizing Innovators For Purpose, and the exemplary service of Mr. and Mrs. Dawson to the youth of Cambridge. Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Wilson; Adopted 9-0

14. In recognition of Dr. Lisa Dobberteen, recipient of the 2024 Brian Murphy Award for Leadership and Public Service. Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by McGovern to add Nolan, Wilson, Siddiqui as sponsors; comments by McGovern, Nolan, Wilson, Siddiqui; Adopted as Amended 9-0

R-14 June 3, 2024 Amended
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR WILSON
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI

WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that Dr. Lisa Dobberteen, Medical Director for School Health & Public Health Services at the Cambridge Public Health Department, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Brian Murphy Award for Leadership and Public Service; and

WHEREAS: The Brian Murphy Award for Leadership in the Workplace and Public Service is a distinguished recognition given to leaders who display extraordinary qualities in the workplace and dedication to community service; and

WHEREAS: Dr. Dobberteen joined Cambridge Public Health Department as its Medical Director for School Health in 1994 and has served as the Medical Director for Public Health Programs since 2014; and

WHEREAS: Dr. Dobberteen has provided leadership and countless contributions to the public health and wellbeing of the Cambridge community and has guided Cambridge Public Health Department in delivering high-quality services with a focus on serving our city’s most vulnerable residents; and

WHEREAS: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Dobberteen was called upon to make the clinical decisions that would guide city policies and protocols, determine CPHD clinical strategy, and serve as the expert that so many in the community relied upon for information and reassurance at City Council and School Committee meetings; and

WHEREAS: Over the course of the pandemic, Dr. Dobberteen was invaluable, providing calm, steady, and thoughtful leadership to her colleagues, city management, elected officials, and the community; and

WHEREAS: Dr. Dobberteen has been unflappable in the face of emergencies and challenging circumstances and has had an outsized impact on the health of our community; and

WHEREAS: Dr. Dobberteen will be retiring from Cambridge Public Health Department at the end of June after thirty years of exemplary public service as a clinical leader and steward of public health of the residents of Cambridge; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record congratulating Dr. Lisa Dobberteen for being awarded the 2024 Brian Murphy Award for Leadership and Public Service and thank her for her years of service to the Cambridge community; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Dr. Lisa Dobberteen on behalf of the entire City Council.

15. Congratulations to Charles M. Sullivan on receiving the Paul & Niki Tsongas Award for 2024 by Preservation Massachusetts. Councillor Nolan, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Nolan; Order Adopted 9-0

R-15 June 3, 2024
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN

WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that Charles “Charlie” M. Sullivan has been awarded the Paul & Niki Tsongas Award for 2024 by Preservation Massachusetts; and

WHEREAS: The Paul & Niki Tsongas Award is Preservation Massachusetts’ highest honor, honoring people and projects that have displayed the highest level of commitment to historic preservation in the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS: Charles Sullivan graduated from Dartmouth College with a B.A. in geography in 1965 and received a master’s degree in city planning from the Harvard Graduate School of Design in 1970, and he has served as Executive Director of the Cambridge Historical Commission since 1974; and

WHEREAS: As the Executive Director of the Cambridge Historical Commission, Charles has overseen a department that works to promote the educational, cultural, economic, and general welfare of the public through the preservation and protection of significant buildings and places, and also administers preservation grants to supports historic preservation projects across the city by affordable housing agencies, income-eligible homeowners, and nonprofit organizations with significant properties; and by working with residents, community groups, developers, institutions, and government agencies, Charles has helped create a role for historic preservation in all Cambridge’s planning and zoning activities; and

WHEREAS: Charles has spent a lifetime working towards historic preservation while balancing needs for sustainability and affordable housing in Cambridge and was recently awarded the 2024 Brian Murphy Award for Leadership in the Workplace and Public Service by the City of Cambridge; and

WHEREAS: Charles will be honored with the Paul and Niki Tsongas award by Preservation Massachusetts at a ceremony at the Massachusetts State House Great Hall on June 28, 2024; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record congratulating Charles Sullivan and thanking him for his service to the City of Cambridge; and further be it

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Charles M. Sullivan on behalf of the entire City Council.

16. Condolences on the death of Frederick W. “Fred” Donahue. Councillor Toner

17. That the City Council formally go on record in congratulating Joseph Nardella on his retirement from the Cambridge Public Schools. Mayor Simmons

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. The Finance Committee conducted a public hearing on May 7, 2024, regarding the City budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. [text of report ]
Nolan notes ignorance of some people re: when Budget comes to a vote, anticipation of more difficult financial decisions in future; Pickett notes that Budget vote will be better advertised in future, concerns about coming tax rates and need to curtail spending, desire to take closer look at capital spending; Wilson has procedural questions and possibility of delaying vote (due to uninformed public comment by one individual); Yi-An Huang expresses concerns about re-opening these matters so late in process; Taha Jennings notes that state law requires budget votes within 45 days of budget submission; Comments by Nolan, Pickett on Public Investment budget; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
General Fund Budget of $939,336,875 Adopted 9-0
Water Fund Budget of $16,247,475 Adopted 9-0
Public Investment Budget of $38,432,720 Adopted 9-0
Present: Nolan, Pickett, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, Simmons, Azeem, McGovern, Siddiqui
Remote Present: Toner

GENERAL GOVERNMENT	FY2024 adopted	FY2025 proposed	1 yr % change
City Clerk	$1,818,560	$2,162,335	18.9%
City Council	$2,649,690	$2,817,000	6.3%
Election Commission	$2,408,620	$2,447,755	1.6%
Employee Benefits	$28,241,740	$27,111,425	-4.0%
Equity and Inclusion		$2,270,380	new
Executive (*)	$8,467,495	$6,845,075	-19.2%
Finance	$24,714,165	$26,479,690	7.1%
Human Resources (Personnel)	$4,160,630	$5,513,370	32.5%
Law	$4,152,645	$4,356,320	4.9%
Mayor	$973,255	$1,306,905	34.3%
Public Celebrations	$1,621,360	$1,793,575	10.6%
Reserve	$40,000	$40,000	0.0%
TOTAL	$79,248,160	$83,143,830	4.9%

PUBLIC SAFETY	FY24 adopted	FY25 proposed	1 yr % change
Animal Commission	$673,010	$706,165	4.9%
Community Safety	$3,036,620	$3,090,825	1.8%
Emergency Communications	$10,346,540	$10,930,090	5.6%
Fire	$70,461,720	$74,755,005	6.1%
Inspectional Services	$5,228,140	$5,544,615	6.1%
License Commission	$1,706,185	$2,009,740	17.8%
Police	$78,367,440	$80,945,830	3.3%
Police Review & Advisory Board	$9,900	$9,900	0.0%
Traffic, Parking & Transportation	$16,998,910	$18,077,040	6.3%
TOTAL	$186,828,465	$196,069,210	4.9%

COMMUNITY MAINT/DEVEL.	FY24 adopted	FY25 proposed	1 yr % change
Cable T.V.	$1,813,725	$1,880,965	3.7%
Capital Building Projects	$1,574,415	$1,872,660	18.9%
Community Development (**)	$40,890,300	$11,257,750	-72.5%
Conservation Commission	-	-	-
Debt Service	$89,585,875	$101,890,280	13.7%
Historical Commission	$1,040,215	$1,096,310	5.4%
Housing		$27,834,470	new
Office of Sustainability		$3,143,675	new
Peace Commission	$228,225	$237,210	3.9%
Public Works	$69,094,590	$73,911,430	7.0%
TOTAL	$204,227,345	$223,124,750	9.3%

HUMAN RESOURCE/DEVEL.	FY24 adopted	FY25 proposed	1 yr % change
Commission on Women	$345,945	$493,220	42.6%
Human Rights Commission	$874,840	$878,550	0.4%
Human Services	$59,224,695	$73,251,275	23.7%
Library	$18,950,730	$19,391,415	2.3%
Veterans	$1,067,600	$1,360,950	27.5%
TOTAL	$80,463,810	$95,375,410	18.5%

CITY TOTAL	$550,767,780	$597,713,200	8.5%

EDUCATION	FY24 adopted	FY25 proposed	1 yr % change
Schools Operating (TOTAL)	$245,000,000	$268,250,000	9.5%

INTERGOVERNMENTAL	FY24 adopted	FY25 proposed	1 yr % change
Cambridge Health Alliance	$8,316,000	$8,671,170	4.3%
Cherry Sheet Assessments	$33,586,010	$33,101,520	-1.4%
MWRA	$30,601,130	$31,600,985	3.3%
TOTAL	$72,503,140	$73,373,675	1.2%

GRAND TOTALS	$868,270,920	$939,336,875	8.2%

	FY24 adopted	FY25 proposed	1 yr % change
WATER	$15,502,965	$16,247,475	4.8%
PUBLIC INVESTMENT	$18,056,905	$38,432,720	112.8%
	FY24 adopted	FY25 proposed
Loan Authorizations for Capital Budget	$50,000,000	$11,500,000
	$35,350,000	$4,350,000
	$2,500,000	$3,000,000
	$1,800,000	$2,560,000
	$51,500,000	$6,550,000
	$26,000,000	$8,500,000
Total Loan Authorizations	$167,150,000	$36,460,000

COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF24#77)
Placed on File 9-0

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

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

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

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

Tues, June 18
3:00pm The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss the first annual Green Jobs report, as required by the Green Jobs Ordinance, Article III Ch. 2.66.100.

Wed, June 26
1:00pm The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will hold a public hearing with Harvard, MIT, and Lesley Universities to receive their “Town Gown” reports and to discuss current and potential programs and partnerships with the City.

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 June 3, 2024
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Mildred Jean (Jeter) Loving and Richard Perry Loving, from the state of Virginia, married for love in 1958, but traveled to Washington D.C. to get married because it was illegal for an interracial couple to marry in Virginia; and
WHEREAS: The Lovings returned to Virginia to be near their families, but soon after their return, the police raided their home in the middle of the night and arrested the couple; they avoided going to jail by agreeing to a suspended sentence on the condition that they permanently move out of the state; and
WHEREAS: The couple returned to Washington D.C., devastated by their inability to travel together to visit their home and families in Virginia; and
WHEREAS: The Lovings fought the law that prohibited them to live as a legally married couple in their state by taking their case all the way to the United States Supreme Court; and
WHEREAS: On June 12, 1967, in a landmark civil rights decision, the Supreme Court struck down the Virginia Interracial Marriage Ban Law and similar laws in 15 other states because it violated the 14th amendment, and the Lovings could now return to their home without fear of persecution; and
WHEREAS: The courage of the Lovings is an inspiration to us all and a true example of perseverance and persistence in the face of great struggle; and
WHEREAS: In 2018, the Council unanimously passed a resolution declaring “June 12 to be Loving Day in Cambridge in the years that follow with the goal of making this day an opportunity to recognize, accept, and applaud all kinds of families;” now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council renew its observance of Loving Day on June 12, 2024, and encourages all Cambridge residents to embrace the diversity of families and recognize the importance of this day.

O-3 June 3, 2024
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS: Concerns regarding wage theft – the denial of wages or employee benefits rightfully owed to an employee, which can include minimum wage violations, misclassification of employees as independent contractors, failing to pay overtime, illegal deductions from pay, and/or not paying for all hours worked – led the City Council to adopt the Wage Theft Ordinance on Oct 17, 2022; and
WHEREAS: The ordinance calls for the appointment of a Wage Theft Enforcement Committee to receive and review complaints about possible wage theft violations, and to make determinations as to how best enforce this ordinance; and
WHEREAS: As of this June 2024, the Wage Theft Enforcement Committee has not been appointed, leaving the City without a mechanism to effectively review complaints and enforce the ordinance; and
WHEREAS: The timely appointment of this committee is essential to uphold the rights of workers and ensure fair labor practices within the city, and the lack of a functioning Wage Theft Enforcement Committee undermines the intent and effectiveness of the Wage Theft Ordinance; and
WHEREAS: It is the responsibility of the City to ensure that all ordinances passed by the City Council are fully implemented and enforced; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to clarify why the Wage Theft Enforcement Committee has not yet been appointed, he is urged to swiftly appoint the committee as called for in the Wage Theft Ordinance, and to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner.

O-4 June 3, 2024 Amended; Charter Right - Simmons
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR PICKETT
COUNCILLOR WILSON
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the next phase of the planned Mass Ave reconstruction project is set to significantly impact ground-floor businesses (particularly those in and just outside of Central Square) with outdoor dining structures, right as these establishments are gearing up for their most lucrative season of the year; and
WHEREAS: These businesses are facing substantial financial burdens due to the requirement to remove their outdoor dining infrastructure to accommodate the reconstruction work, in addition to the expected loss in revenue from reduced dining capacity during their busy season; and
WHEREAS: The economic vitality of our local businesses, especially those providing outdoor dining, is crucial to the vibrancy, attractiveness, and economic health of our community, and it is imperative that the City take pains to protect the viability of our small businesses; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to explore the feasibility of delaying the Mass Avenue reconstruction project to minimize its impact upon the busy season for restaurants and other affected businesses, and, should this not be found feasible, a method of providing financial assistance to the impacted businesses to cover the costs of removing their outdoor dining structures, designed to mitigate some of the financial impacts upon them, should be established; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter within 14 days of this Policy Order being passed.

O-8 June 3, 2024
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR WILSON
WHEREAS: Norms of family inclusivity, as well as technologies like IVF, have expanded the ways that people may become parents over the past several decades; and
WHEREAS: Under current Massachusetts state law, many parents, including foster and LGBTQ+ parents, are not afforded the same legal protections as other parents; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Parentage Act, sponsored by Senators Cyr and Tarr and Representatives Peake and Kane, aims to address this disparity by updating the Commonwealth’s statutes to provide stability to children and their parents, following the lead of other New England states; and
WHEREAS: The Act is supported by numerous organizations including those advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, government stakeholders, healthcare providers (including the Massachusetts Medical Society, which represents over 25,000 physicians, residents, and medical students), social work services organizations, and family legal services organizations; and
WHEREAS: This Act clarifies and ensures children born through in vitro fertilization, and other reproductive technologies, and surrogacy, as well as those in LGBTQ+ families have a clear route to establish their parentage, with an aim of reducing unnecessary litigation, codifying precedents set by the Supreme Judicial Court, and providing standards for courts to resolve competing claims of parentage; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record in strong support of H.1713/S.947, An Act to Ensure Legal Parentage Equality, to ensure all parents and children are afforded the same protections under the law; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Cambridge’s state delegation and State House leadership.

O-9 June 3, 2024 Amended
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR WILSON
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
WHEREAS: The Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) has announced a significant increase in tuition fees for Youth Centers, specifically affecting 4th and 5th graders, with fees rising up to 34 times more for the 2024-2025 school year for some families; and
WHEREAS: For the 2023-2024 school year, the tuition for 4th and 5th graders was $54.55 per month for families of four making over $149,000 per year, while for the 2024-2025 school year, the tuition will increase to $764 per month for the same families; and
WHEREAS: The new fees are equivalent to those of programs for younger children who require more supervision, yet grades 6-8 receive Youth Center programs for free regardless of income, rendering the high fees for 4th and 5th graders unjustifiable; and
WHEREAS: It is the City Council’s understanding that DHSP has not provided a clear explanation for the drastic increase in fees or detailed the intended use of the additional funds; and
WHEREAS: There is a pressing need for a fair and equitable pricing structure to ensure that all children in Cambridge can participate in Youth Center programs; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide to the City Council a detailed justification for the increased fees, including the rationale behind the decision, what outreach has been conducted to explain these changes to the community, and what measures the City can and will take to mitigate the financial burden on families using the youth centers including considering a change to phase the increases over time instead of one year; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

24-24. Report on work done with relevant City departments and the Cambridge Arts Council to consider whether Cambridge could facilitate a Porchfest event.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem (O-2) from 5/20/2024