Cambridge City Council meeting - June 5, 2023

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to amendments to the FY24 Submitted General Fund Budget. (CM23#149)
pulled by Nolan; Orders #3 and #4 and Committee Reports #1, #2, and #3 taken up early (see below); Zondervan asks Manager to increase tax levy by an additional 4% instead of applying Free Cash; Manager explains why this would not be prudent; Order Adopted 9-0, Referred to Finance Committee Reports

June 5, 2023
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby recommending the following amendments to the FY24 Submitted General Fund Budget. These amendments to the Budget reflect changes requested by City Council based on feedback and discussions during the three and a half days of public hearings on the FY24 Operating and Capital Budget.

First, the City will increase funds budgeted to the Affordable Housing Trust (AHT) by $1,600,000 (Community Development Department, Other Ordinary Maintenance). The amended budget increase of the non-Community Preservation Act (CPA) appropriation to the AHT matches the 7.1% overall increase in the FY24 Operating Budget from FY23 (excluding the shift of affordable housing funds from Capital). The total amended FY24 appropriation of non-CPA funding to the AHT will now be $24,645,750 (from $23,045,750 originally submitted as part of the FY24 Budget). The total amended appropriation of all City funding to AHT will now be $41,105,750 (from $39,505,750 originally submitted as part of the FY24 Budget), presuming an 80% allocation of CPA funding to affordable housing.

The Council also indicated an interest in greater overall funding for the AHT through a one-time free cash appropriation and a three-year plan for increasing funding to 10% of the City’s Operating Budget. These are significant policy decisions that will affect other priorities expressed by the Council including universal pre-kindergarten, climate, municipal broadband, and open space. I am recommending that we discuss affordable housing strategy and budget in fall 2023 and work through broader trade-off’s as part of City-Council goal setting starting in January 2024.

Second, I am recommending an increase in the appropriation to the Cambridge Health Alliance of $416,000 (Cambridge Health Alliance, Other Ordinary Maintenance). The additional funding is in recognition of the fiscal challenges currently facing the Cambridge Health Alliance and will allow the organization to maintain at least four positions based in the Cambridge Public Health Department, which would have otherwise been eliminated in FY24. The recommended increase will bring the total FY24 appropriation to the Cambridge Health Alliance to $8,316,000 (from $7,900,000 originally submitted as part of the FY24 Budget). It is anticipated that the Health Services Agreement between the City and the Health Alliance will also be amended in order to account for these changes. These increases will bring the total FY24 Operating Budget to $883,773,885 (from the initially submitted FY24 Operating Budget of $881,757,885).

These increases will be funded through property tax revenue. With these changes the estimated increase in the property tax levy for FY24 is approximately 9.2% (from the original FY24 estimate of 8.8%).

Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager

2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $117,500, to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Extraordinary Expenditures account for acquisition of equipment and upgrades to the City of Cambridge Emergency Operations Center (EOC). (CM23#150)
Order Adopted 9-0

3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $32,500, to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Extraordinary Expenditures account for acquisition of equipment and upgrades to the City of Cambridge Emergency Operations Center (EOC). (CM23#151)
Order Adopted 9-0

4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $100,000, to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Extraordinary Expenditures account for acquisition of replacement radio consolettes to continue to enhance interoperable communications between Metro Boston Homeland Security Region (MBHSR) jurisdictions. (CM23#152)
pulled by Zondervan; Order Adopted 9-0

5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $70,000 from the General Fund Traffic, Parking and Transportation Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Traffic, Parking and Transportation Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account to cover current and anticipated medical services and/or prescription reimbursement costs for the remainder of the fiscal year for Traffic and Parking personnel injured in the performance of their duties. (CM23#153)
Order Adopted 9-0

6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $35,000 from the General Fund Veterans Travel & Training (Benefits) account to the General Fund Veterans Other Ordinary Maintenance account to cover costs related to a re-imagined Memorial Day and Decoration Day. (CM23#154)
Order Adopted 9-0

7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to AR23-29, regarding amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance. (CM23#155) [cover memo] [Summary Chart] [Amendment_redline] [Amendment_clean]
pulled by Zondervan; Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended 8-0-0-1 (Simmons - Present)

June 5, 2023
To the Honorable, the City Council:

Please find attached communication and proposed amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO) from Assistant City Manager for Community Development Iram Farooq. [cover memo] [Summary Chart] [Amendment_redline] [Amendment_clean]

Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager

CHARTER RIGHT
1. That the “Amendments to Protect Family Inclusion and Relationship Diversity” be forwarded to the Ordinance Committee for discussion and recommendation. [Charter Right – Simmons, May 22, 2023] (PO23#97)
Referred to Ordinance Committee 9-0

O-7 May 22, 2023 Charter Right - Simmons
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge recognizes the diverse composition of its citizenry and values its people, including the diverse composition of families and intimate relationships; and
WHEREAS: The City Council recognizes that diverse family and relationship structures, including relationship structures involving more than two adults engaged in a loving and consensual relationship, are becoming increasingly common; and
WHEREAS: In 2021, the City Council enacted amendments to the Domestic Partnerships Ordinance to recognize domestic partnerships between two or more people; and
WHEREAS: People in interpersonal relationships between two or more adult individuals that involve romantic, physical, emotional, and/or familial intimacy face discrimination in many aspects of public life due to prejudicial misunderstandings related to the validity and moral fitness of such relationships; and
WHEREAS: Single parents and people who identify as asexual and/or aromantic also face discrimination in many aspects of public life; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has enacted antidiscrimination provisions throughout its Municipal Code to prohibit discrimination in matters of housing, employment, education, contracts, purchasing, and public accommodations; and
WHEREAS: The City Council acknowledges that many antidiscrimination laws were enacted in a time when diverse family and relationship structures were not properly recognized and now seeks to recognize the diverse family and relationship structures of its residents, including (but not limited to) multi-partner/multi-parent families and relationships, step families, single parents, diverse family structures, multi-generational households, consensually non-monogamous relationships, and consensual sexual and/or intimate relationships, including asexual and aromantic relationships; and
WHEREAS: Further amendments to the Code of Ordinances are required In order to recognize these relationships in the full scope of anti-discrimination law, by prohibiting discrimination on the basis of relationship status; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the attached “Amendments to Protect Family Inclusion and Relationship Diversity” be forwarded to the Ordinance Committee for discussion and recommendation; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Law Department, Human Rights Commission, and all other relevant departments to provide comments on the attached draft amendments at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled hearing of the Ordinance Committee.

2. An application was received from Andrew Plumb, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 96 Henry Street Unit 1; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Charter Right – Zondervan, May 22, 2023] (AP23#31)
Order Adopted 8-1 (QZ - No)

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $50,000,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of the Mass Avenue between Waterhouse Street and Alewife Parkway. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 1, 2023; Referred to Finance Committee] (CM23#106) [text of order (May 1, 2023)]
Order Adopted 9-0

4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appropriation and authorization to borrow $35,350,000 to provide funds for the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan. Funds will support upgrades to the 689 Mass Avenue Interior; upgrades at the Moses Youth Center; Interior fit-out of Rindge Pre-K building; electric vehicle charging station infrastructure at several municipal buildings; and additional work at Inman and East Cambridge Fire Houses; First Street Garage upgrades to stairs and elevator; and other City building upgrades. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 1, 2023; Referred to Finance Committee] (CM23#107) [text of order (May 1, 2023)]
Order Adopted 9-0

5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appropriation and authorization to borrow $2,500,000 to provide funds for the construction of the Peabody School Playground and Corcoran (Raymond Street) park. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 1, 2023; Referred to Finance Committee] (CM23#108) [text of order (May 1, 2023)]
Order Adopted 9-0

6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appropriation and authorization to borrow $1,800,000 to provide funds for financing school building upgrades. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 1, 2023; Referred to Finance Committee] (CM23#109) [text of order (May 1, 2023)]
Order Adopted 9-0

7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $51,500,000 to provide funds for the construction of sewer separation, storm water management and combined sewer overflow reduction elimination improvements within the Port and River Street areas as well as the Sewer Capital Repairs Program and climate change preparedness efforts. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 1, 2023; Referred to Finance Committee] (CM23#110) [text of order (May 1, 2023)]
Order Adopted 9-0

8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $26,000,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of various City streets, sidewalks and bike facilities. $15,000,000 of this loan order is attributable to the improvement project related to sewer infrastructure upgrades on River Street, which include full depth roadway reconstruction, new sidewalks, new street trees and various other street improvements. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 1, 2023; Referred to Finance Committee] (CM23#111) [text of order (May 1, 2023)]
Order Adopted 9-0

9. An Ordinance has been received from Craig Kelley et al, relative to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge regarding EV and car share Zoning change. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 15, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after June 5, 2023; Expires Aug 1, 2023] (ORD23#2) [text of report (May 15, 2023)]
No Action Taken

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Michael Monestime of the Central Square Business Improvement District requesting permission for thirty (30) temporary pole banners along Massachusetts Avenue, Hancock Street, Inman Street, Pleasant Street, Prospect Street Essex Street, Pearl Street, Norfolk Street, Brookline Street, Douglas Street and Sidney Street announcing In Central I Can from June 1, 2023 through Dec 30, 2023. (AP23#33)
Order Adopted 9-0

2. An application was received from John Connolly of Harvard Art Museum requesting permission for twenty-three (23) temporary pole banner along Quincy Street, Broadway to Harvard, Cambridge Street, Hovey to Felton, Massachusetts Avenue, Trowbridge to Remington Street, Massachusetts Avenue and Hotel Veritas to Plympton announcing Open to Everyone from July 2023 through November 2023. (AP23#34)
Order Adopted 9-0

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication from Richard Krushnic regarding Residents Alliance comments on the budget.

2. A communication from Young Kim regarding Economic Development University Relations Committee Report to City Council 5-15-23.

3. A communication from Tatiana Netterfield regarding Please build the separated bike lanes on Mass Ave!

5. A communication from Joan Pickett regarding CDD must improve bicycle count approach.

6. A communication from Aaron Kaplowitz regarding May 22 City Council Meeting Public Comment.

8. A communication from Joan Pickett regarding CM#6 CSO Progress report is insufficient.

11. A communication from Ausra Kubilius regarding bike lanes--EVALUATION BEFORE MORE INSTALLATION PLEASE.

13. A communication from Madeline Eiermann regarding Bike lanes for a vocal majority.

15. A communication from Alexander Grob regarding Support for Cycling Safety Projects and Bond Approval for Mass Ave Reconstruction.

16. A communication from Camden Bauchner regarding Please Do a Full Evaluation Before Installing More Bike Lanes.

17. A communication from Clelia Goldings regarding Bike lane assessment--before continued implementation!!

18. A communication from Ei Bli regarding Bike lanes- ASSESSMENT BEFORE CONTINUING!!!

19. A communication from Scott Brightly regarding Cycling Safety Ordinance Progress.

20. A communication from Beth Gamse and Judy Singer regarding CIty Council Meeting May 22 2023 Agenda Item #6.

21. A communication from Vickey Bestor regarding Until the CSO gives you the data don’t give them money!

22. A communication from Cathy Korsgren regarding Bike Lane in Harvard Square CSO.

23. A communication from Andrew Chapman regarding Cycling Safety Ordinance – project financing - Massachusetts Avenue.

24. A communication from Faraz Alizadeh regarding Support separated bike lanes on Mass Ave.

25. A communication from Christine Leonard regarding In support of separated bike lanes on Mass Ave.

26. A communication from Peter T Farago regarding Reconsider allocation for Mass Ave and other bike lanes.

27. A communication from Anna Ferrigno regarding Concerns about adding more bike lanes.

28. A communication from Alan Price regarding Letter to Cambridge City Council re: PO#6.

29. A communication from Stephen Boor regarding Please Approve the Bond for Mass Ave Reconstruction.

30. A communication from Sam Bernstein regarding Support for bike lanes and infrastructure.

31. A communication from Young Kim regarding Reject CM#6 3rd annual CSO Progress Report and Request Audit of CSO implementation.

32. A communication from Joe Rose regarding Support for PO23#91 New Green Park At Third And Binney Streets.

36. A communication from Bryn Weiler regarding In Support of Cycling Infrastructure Mass Ave Reconstruction Funding.

38. A communication from Reiley O’Connor regarding $50,000,000 bike lane accountability - reject.

42. A communication from John Hanratty regarding $2000++ per household for CSO - Irresponsible to approve CSO funding without further study.

43. A communication from Audrey Cunningham regarding Proposed spending of $50 million (Agenda Item #6).

45. A communication from Karen Davis regarding City Council Meeting May 22, 2023 Agenda Item #6.

49. A communication from Annette LaMond regarding Please Evaluate Impacts of Existing Separated Bike Lanes.

50. A communication from Elena Glassman regarding Expressing my support for approving the bond for Mass Ave reconstruction.

51. A communication from Pio regarding Please support continuing efforts to make streets safer for cyclists.

52. A communication from Pio Please stand up to neutering of release-of-names order.

54. A communication from Carol Lee Rawn regarding Comments re. May 22 Agenda Item No. 6.

55. A communication from Ann Stewart regarding CM23#147 (Alewife Rezoning Petition).

57. A communication from John Chun regarding Max Height for CM23#147 Alewife Overlay District Quadrangle (AOD-Q) Zoning Petition and Design Guidelines.

58. A communication from Linda Moussouris regarding Asking City Council to Demand Full Reporting on the CSO as City Manager Submits 3rd Annual CSO Progress Report 5/1/22-4/30/23.

59. A communication from Theresa Cloutier regarding Support for separated bike lanes on Mass Ave.

60. A communication from Young Kim regarding My Oral Comment at City Council Meeting 5/22/2023.

62. A communication from Sam Greenblatt regarding Separated Mass Ave Bike Lanes.

63. A communication from Marilee B Meyer regarding PLEASE REJECT THE HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND LANDMARKS PETITION.

64. A communication from Helen Snively regarding Please don’t destroy the tree canopy at Linear Park.

65. A communication from Marie Elena Saccoccio regarding Submission in Opposition to Amendment to Chapter 2.78 entitled Historical Buildings and Landmarks.

66. A communication from Sarah and Arif regarding Expressing Support for PO23#96.

67. A communication from Young Kim regarding Fwd Someone commented on Traffic congestion at Alewife Brook Pkwy Mass Ave at 8:30am (#12524562).

69. A communication from Young Kim regarding FY24 Budget - Request for audit of CSO Implementation.

3. Thanks to Louis A. Elisa For speaking at Memorial Day Observance. Councillor Simmons

4. Thanks to Dr. Jill Kasper for her service at the Cambridge Alliance and best wishes in her future endeavors. Vice Mayor Mallon

7. Congratulations to Erinn Pearson for 21 Years of Simply Erinn’s. Councillor Simmons

8. Resolution in Honor of the Day of Portugal. Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to establish a new phone number and email address for Inclusionary Tenants to utilize for complaints and emergency issues as they arise, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed in a timely and effective manner. Councillor Simmons (PO23#99)
pulled by Simmons; Order Adopted 9-0

2. Recognizing June 19, 2023 as Juneteenth in the City of Cambridge, and in urging all Cambridge residents to reflect upon the meaning of this important day. Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (PO23#100)
pulled by Simmons; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

3. That City Manager is requested to adjust the Health Alliance Budget to ensure that all services provided to the City of Cambridge by the Health Alliance for Public Health Department needs and staff are fully funded, and to adjust the Capital Budget to ensure all necessary repairs are made to the Windsor Street Clinic. Councillor Zondervan (PO23#101)
pulled early by Nolan; Order Adopted 9-0

4. That the City Manager is requested to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget in FY24 by 7.1% to equal the increase of the overall city budget, increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget by $20 million through a free cash appropriation, outside of the FY24 budget, and engage in creating a 3-year plan to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget to 10% of the overall City budget. Councillor Simmons (PO23#102)
pulled early by Nolan; Order Divided (see below Orders #13-15)

5. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to provide further study on the proposed changes by the Franklin Petition, as well as a careful review of the language to remove any potential conflicts and ambiguities and is requested to direct the Law Department to provide guidance on any legal issues and questions raised by CDD and the Planning Board by the Franklin Petition. Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Vice Mayor Mallon (PO23#103)
Order Adopted 9-0

6. That the City Manager is requested to work with appropriate City staff, leadership of other impacted communities, state and congressional delegations and other appropriate officials to advocate and lobby for solutions to aircraft noise. Councillor Toner, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan (PO23#104)
pulled by Toner; Order Adopted 9-0

7. That the City Manager is requested to convene a working group, including representatives from the LGBTQ+ community, city officials, and other relevant stakeholders, tasked with establishing plans for a citywide celebration to mark the 20th anniversary of the legalization of same-sex marriage in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Councillor Simmons (PO23#105)
Order Adopted 9-0

8. That City Manager is requested to ensure adequate funding to fully repair the irrigation system in Danehy Park immediately. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner (PO23#106)
pulled by Nolan; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

9. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to refresh and repaint the crosswalk and benches if necessary, in the colors of the Trans Flag, the Pride Flag, the Bi Flag, and the People of Color Pride Flag, and light City Hall up in rainbow colors in recognition of Pride Month for the month of June. Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Zondervan (PO23#107)
Order Adopted 9-0

10. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Fire Department, the Police Department, Emergency Communications Department, Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department, the Department of Public Works and the Harvard Square Business Association to determine if permanent automatic bollards could be feasible in the area of Winthrop Street. Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan (PO23#108)
pulled by Mallon; Order Adopted 9-0

11. That the Transportation and Public Utilities and Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committees work with the City Manager and appropriate City departments and staff, to hold a joint hearing to receive input from City staff and the community to review the effectiveness and develop recommendations on methods to collect data and establish measurable benchmarks and standards as it relates to the Cycling Safety Ordinance. Councillor Toner, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan (PO23#109)
pulled by Toner; Charter Right - Azeem

12. That the City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate departments to provide a legal opinion on whether the city could, without violating state law, use traffic cameras, regulated under the Surveillance Ordinance, to inform motorists of potential traffic violations or dangerous actions, without issuing any citations or formal warnings. Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone (PO23#110)
Order Adopted 9-0

13. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget in FY24 by 7.1% to equal the increase of the overall city budget. Councillor Nolan (PO23#111)
Order Adopted 9-0

14. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget by $20 million through a free cash appropriation, outside of the FY24 budget. Councillor Nolan (PO23#112)
Order Adopted 5-4 (BA,MM,DS,QZ,SS - Yes; DC,AM,PN,PT - No)

15. That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to engage in creating a 3-year plan to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget to 10% of the overall City budget. Vice Mayor Mallon (PO23#113)
Order Adopted 6-3 (BA,AM,MM,DS,QZ,SS - Yes; DC,PN,PT - No)

Late Order:
That the City Manager is requested to work with the Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority to extend the deadline for submitting applications to fill the Resident Board Member vacancy on the CHA Board of Commissioners, to invite the Alliance of Cambridge Tenants (ACT) to submit a list of names, and to work with the appropriate departments to provide a legal opinion regarding the applicability of MGL Chapter 121, Section 5 in this situation. Councillor Zondervan
Withdrawn - Zondervan

3. The Finance Committee conducted a public hearing on Tues, May 16, 2023 and reconvened on May 18, 2023, to discuss the City and School budgets covering the fiscal period July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Present: Carlone, Nolan, Mallon (late), McGovern, Siddiqui
Remote Present: Azeem, Simmons, Toner, Zondervan

A. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the FY2024 submitted budget and appropriation orders. (CM23#105)

June 5, 2023
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby transmitting the FY2024 submitted budget and appropriation orders. The Submitted Budget and back up materials are available to the City Council for the meeting scheduled for Monday, May 1, 2023.

FY24 Submitted Budget (cambridgema.gov)

Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager

Zondervan motion to reduce the Police budget and defund Shotspotter:
That the Police Department Budget be reduced to $73,000,000 and that funding for Shotspotter be discontinued in FY24.
Fails 2-7 (QZ,SS-Yes) - [Not surprising that Zondervan voted this way, but now Mayor Siddiqui has officially gone on record in favor of “Defund the Police”]

General Fund Budget of $834,684,910 Adopted as Amended 8-1 (QZ - No)
Water Fund Budget of $15,502,965 Adopted 9-0
Public Investment Budget of $18,056,905 Adopted 9-0
All Loan Orders Adopted 9-0
Reconsideration Fails 0-9 on all Budget-related items

COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF23#98)
Placed on File 9-0

2. A communication was received from Mayor Siddiqui, transmitting information from the School Committee. (COF23#99)
Placed on File 9-0

Wed, June 7
5:30pm The Public Safety Committee will hold a public meeting to discuss the Police Review and Advisory Board, including CMA 2023 #27.

Tues, June 13
3:00pm The Human Services and Veterans Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss Overdose Prevention Sites, previously referred to as Safe Consumption Sites.

Wed, June 21
3:00pm The Ordinance Committee will reconvene to continue the discussion on potential changes to Chapter 2.78 Historical Buildings and Landmarks, Proposed Ordinance #2022-11, as amended in Committee on Apr 26, 2023. This is a continuance of the meeting held on Apr 26, 2023, and there will not be public comment.

Tues, June 27
12:30pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on the City Council Petition to Amend Article 4.30 and Article 11.800 of the Zoning Ordinances.
5:30pm The Charter Review Committee (Zoom only)

Wed, June 28
3:00pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing the Ian Ferguson et al. Zoning Petition regarding Pitched Roofs, APP 2023 #22.

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 June 5, 2023
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: A pressing need has been identified for a more robust policy or directive concerning fire safety in high-rise buildings, as evidenced by recent incidents at 10 Museum Way; and
WHEREAS: Over the course of the past week, tenants in that building reported that there were four separate alerts to tenants made over the building’s PA system informing them that there was a fire in the building – the most recent of these alerts was followed by instructions to tenants to evacuate the building; and
WHEREAS: Certain residents, particularly those living on the higher floors, face significant barriers to quickly evacuating due to their reliance upon a single elevator, with wait times that can be quite long, and the stairs will not be a viable option for those with illness or mobility impairments; and
WHEREAS: These incidents have also pointed to the need for a specialized phone number that Inclusionary Zoning tenants in high rise buildings, in particular, can call to report issues during these and similar incidents, allowing them to voice their concerns and suggestions, and aiding in the improvement of overall safety measures in these buildings; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to take swift action and report back on the March 6, 2023 policy order concerning elevator safety and protocols, and that he direct his staff to establish a protocol to ensure that all high-rise buildings in Cambridge have adequate and reliable evacuation methods in place for all residents, regardless of their floor or mobility status; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to establish a new phone number and email address for Inclusionary Tenants to utilize for complaints and emergency issues as they arise, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed in a timely and effective manner; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter no later than the June 26, 2023 City Council meeting.

O-2 June 5, 2023 Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
WHEREAS: On the 19th of June, people throughout the country shall be celebrating Juneteenth, which commemorates June 19, 1865, the day in which slavery was formally abolished in the State of Texas, and which has come to be regarded as the final, formal date of emancipation of all remaining enslaved people throughout the United States of America at the end of the Civil War; and
WHEREAS: On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed into law legislation declaring Juneteenth to be a federal holiday, and we celebrate this holiday each year in acknowledgment of the ending of one of the most shameful chapters in this country’s history, and in the continual hope that the United States shall forever strive to become a more perfect union, and shall forever work to move closer to its founding ideals of being a nation where all citizens are considered equal; and
WHEREAS: In the 158 years since the end of the Civil War, the United States has unquestionably made great strides, and has also suffered numerous, at times heartbreaking setbacks, in the long march towards true civic equality for all its citizens; and
WHEREAS: Juneteenth remains an important date for us to pause each year to reflect upon the progress we have made, and to contemplate the work that remains as we seek to create a more just country for the generations yet to come; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record recognizing June 19, 2023 as Juneteenth in the City of Cambridge, and in urging all Cambridge residents to reflect upon the meaning of this important day.

O-4 June 5, 2023
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget in FY24 by 7.1% to equal the increase of the overall city budget, increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget by $20 million through a free cash appropriation, outside of the FY24 budget, and engage in creating a 3-year plan to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget to 10% of the overall City budget.

Order Divided (See Orders #13-15 below):
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget in FY24 by 7.1% to equal the increase of the overall city budget.
Order Adopted 9-0

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget by $20 million through a free cash appropriation, outside of the FY24 budget.
Order Adopted 5-4 (BA,MM,DS,QZ,SS - Yes; DC,AM,PN,PT - No)

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to engage in creating a 3-year plan to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget to 10% of the overall City budget.
Order Adopted 6-3 (BA,AM,MM,DS,QZ,SS - Yes; DC,PN,PT - No)

O-5 June 5, 2023
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
VICE MAYOR MALLON
WHEREAS: The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing and discussion relative to the Charles Jessup Franklin et al., Zoning Petition, regarding allowing new construction that is similar in size and shape as existing buildings for the purpose of promoting housing and first floor retail, on May 24, 2023; and
WHEREAS: The Committee, by a unanimous vote of members present, voted to support a motion made by Vice Mayor Mallon to request further study and information relative to the Petition from various City departments; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to provide further study on the proposed changes by the Franklin Petition, as well as a careful review of the language to remove any potential conflicts and ambiguities; and be it further
ORDERED: That this review include how other city efforts, including climate planning, affordable housing, and inclusionary zoning might be impacted by the Franklin petition, with suggestions for how the goals of the petition and city efforts may be mutually reinforced; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Law Department to provide guidance on any legal issues and questions raised by CDD and the Planning Board by the Franklin Petition; and be it further
ORDERED: That this information be available for the next scheduled Ordinance Committee meeting on this topic.

O-6 June 5, 2023
COUNCILLOR TONER
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
WHEREAS: Since the change in flight patterns at Logan Airport in 2017 residents from North and West Cambridge, as well as the surrounding communities of Medford, Somerville, and Arlington, have reported heightened and relentless noise from aircraft following the implementation of these new flight patterns; and
WHEREAS: Starting in the summer of 2022, runway 33L started seeing many more flights than before, with a significant reduction of flights for the corresponding runway 27; and
WHEREAS: Mayor Siddiqui sent a letter to the Congressional delegation on February 8, 2023, reiterating concerns and requesting assistance from the FAA; and
WHEREAS: City staff has requested an explanation on the increased use of 33L and follow-up on prior studies and are awaiting response from the FAA; and
WHEREAS: The level and constant repetition of aircraft noise is having a negative impact on the health and sleep of many residents and interfering with the quiet enjoyment of their homes; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the appropriate City departments and staff, as well as the leadership of other impacted communities, our state and congressional delegations, and any other officials deemed appropriate to:

1. Lobby State and Federal Officials to:

a) Pass the FAA Reauthorization 2023 bill that protects residents living close to airports and those under NextGen flight paths from excessive aviation noise and pollution.

b) Lobby Congress to mandate FAA make substantive changes to air traffic control procedures to decrease the noise burden caused by the implementation of RNAV.

c) Advocate for the selection of the New FAA Administrator to ensure the individual confirmed supports the protection of those negatively impacted by aviation noise.

d) Develop new alternative strategies to reduce the noise burden on Cambridge and all 33L community residents.

2. Request that the Director of Massport provide the following information:

a) An explanation for why 33L is being overused in general and disproportionality used relative to other options

b) To provide a current noise policy and runway selection criteria;

and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the City Solicitor to review the likelihood of success of any legal action to require Massport and FAA to change the current flight patterns to reduce the level of airplane noise over impacted neighborhoods.

O-7 June 5, 2023
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts was the first U.S. state to legalize same-sex marriage, a landmark ruling that took effect on May 17, 2004; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge City Hall holds a unique place in this history as the first municipality in the nation to issue same-sex marriage licenses, doing so just after the stroke of midnight on May 17, 2004; and
WHEREAS: The 20th anniversary of this historic occasion will occur in May 2024, providing an opportunity for the City of Cambridge to commemorate and celebrate this milestone in the progress of equal rights; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to convene a working group, including representatives from the LGBTQ+ community, city officials, and other relevant stakeholders, tasked with establishing plans for a citywide celebration to mark the 20th anniversary of the legalization of same-sex marriage in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, with special recognition of Cambridge City Hall’s unique role in this history; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the working group’s progress, including a proposed plan and timeline for the celebration, by no later than Dec 1, 2023.

O-8 June 5, 2023 Amended
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS: Failure to timely repair Danehy Park’s irrigation system last summer (July 2022) caused about 14 trees to be cut down this May (2023), with more severely damaged and in danger of dying; and
WHEREAS: The pump system near the Sherman St. entrance has not been completely repaired; and
WHEREAS: The controller for the repaired pump system has now failed so that irrigation must be manually operated during the daytime which wastes staff time and also wastes water due to the inefficiency of daytime operation; and
WHEREAS: There is a major leak in one of the underground irrigation mains near the Miyawaki Forest which prevents irrigation of some areas; and
WHEREAS: The irrigation main was cut during construction work on New St preventing irrigation of that line of trees with one being removed and another likely terminally damaged by last year’s drought; and
WHEREAS: Several sprinkler heads have failed which prevents irrigation of some areas; and
WHEREAS: There is a major leak in an underground irrigation main under a concrete area in the new Louis D. Pasquale Universal Design Playground which prevents any irrigation at all for that facility; and
WHEREAS: Irrigation systems have engineering complexities and underground failures are extremely difficult and time-consuming to diagnose by non-specialists without special equipment; and
WHEREAS: More irreversible damage will be done to the tree canopy if the irrigation systems in Danehy Park and throughout our city are not properly maintained and in top working condition heading into to summer dry season; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That City Manager be and hereby is requested to ensure adequate funding to fully repair the irrigation system in Danehy Park immediately and prior to the anticipated summer heat and drought; and be it further
ORDERED: That City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on this matter to the City Council by June 26, 2023.

O-9 June 5, 2023
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
WHEREAS: June is Pride Month, a month in which we celebrate the LGBTQ+ community’s diversity and raise awareness about issues the LGBTQ+ community faces; and
WHEREAS: Every June, the LGBTQ+ community comes together to celebrate the freedom to be their authentic selves; and
WHEREAS: Pride Month is also a time to celebrate the long history of LGBTQ+ activists who have fought to dismantle prejudice and advocate for equal rights; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is an ally to the LGBTQ+ community and supports LGBTQ+ staff, residents, and families in Cambridge and beyond; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record recognizing June 2023 as Pride Month in the City of Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to refresh and repaint the crosswalk and benches if necessary, in the colors of the Trans Flag, the Pride Flag, the Bi Flag, and the People of Color Pride Flag, and light City Hall up in rainbow colors in recognition of Pride Month for the month of June.

O-10 June 5, 2023
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
WHEREAS: Winthrop Street in Harvard Square has been closed for pedestrian traffic only from 11:00am to 2:00am daily since 2006; and
WHEREAS: The Winthrop Park Trust has been enlivening the space with programming and outdoor dining for that period of time; and
WHEREAS: Each year, moveable planters are set out at the ends of the street that are closed at 11am, and then reopened at 2am for deliveries and other vehicular access; and
WHEREAS: These planters, while attractive, are easy to move and are often moved during the daily vehicular prohibition by delivery and construction vehicles, as well as Uber Eats, GrubHub and other food delivery drivers; and
WHEREAS: This causes the pedestrian street to have vehicles traversing it during the prohibition time, and causing an unsafe environment for pedestrians, and threatening the liveliness of the pedestrian walkway; and
WHEREAS: Increased enforcement does not seem to be alleviating this unsafe condition; and
WHEREAS: A more permanent solution could be implemented, such as permanent automatic bollards with remote control access for public safety vehicles, which are used across the country to provide this type of pedestrianization access while still accounting for public safety issues such as fire; and
WHEREAS: There are likely other opportunities for this type of permanent solution, such as Palmer Street in Harvard Square, as well as others that this location could serve as a pilot to determine future uses; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Fire Department, the Police Department, Emergency Communications Department, Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department, the Department of Public Works and the Harvard Square Business Association to determine if permanent automatic bollards could be feasible in this location; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council by the June 26th regular City Council meeting.

O-11 June 5, 2023 Charter Right - Azeem
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
WHEREAS: In 2015 Cambridge’s Bicycle Plan laid out a vision for a bikeable city which was updated in 2020, and the City Council adopted Vision Zero in 2016, and the Cycling Safety Ordinance (CSO) was passed in 2019 and amended in 2020 to add timelines and the city has now installed or is close to completing 14.54 miles of separated and partial build bike lanes across the city; and
WHEREAS: All city programs and projects including the CSO should be reviewed periodically to ensure that the goals are met, and adjustments may be made if appropriate, now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Transportation and Public Utilities and Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committees work with the City Manager and appropriate city departments and staff, to hold a joint hearing to receive input from city staff and the community to review the effectiveness and develop recommendations on methods to collect data and establish measurable benchmarks and standards including and not limited to:

• Cycling activity and automobile traffic pre and post-installation, through the use of Eco Totems or other methods installed across the city

• Safety data and the number of pedestrian, cyclist, and automobile accidents and injuries

• The impact of new road infrastructure on the community including businesses, seniors and residents with disabilities

And consider including SMART goals in the ordinance for future reporting, to ensure updates on such data annually.

O-12 June 5, 2023
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: The City Council has on numerous occasions advocated for the piloting of automated traffic enforcement in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: State legislative approval or enabling legislation is required to permit enforcement (issuing of citations) based on camera footage; and
WHEREAS: Traffic cameras are in use in various locations in Cambridge, regulated under the Surveillance Ordinance, for non-enforcement purposes; and
WHEREAS: Notifying a vehicle owner (e.g. via a letter to the registered address of the vehicle), that an operator of the vehicle violated a traffic rule and/or that the operator’s actions in traffic potentially imperiled the safety of others, without issuing a citation, could lead to behavior modification that improves the safety of our streets in line with our Vision Zero goals and may be permissible without explicit state approval; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the appropriate departments to provide a legal opinion on whether the city could, without violating state law, use traffic cameras, regulated under the Surveillance Ordinance, to inform motorists of potential traffic violations or dangerous actions, without issuing any citations or formal warnings, and if so, which traffic violations/dangerous actions could be considered for such treatment; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on this matter to the City Council no later than September 11, 2023.

O-13 June 5, 2023
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget in FY24 by 7.1% to equal the increase of the overall city budget. (PO23#111)
Order Adopted 9-0

O-14 June 5, 2023
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget by $20 million through a free cash appropriation, outside of the FY24 budget. (PO23#112)
Order Adopted 5-4 (BA,MM,DS,QZ,SS - Yes; DC,AM,PN,PT - No)

O-15 June 5, 2023
VICE MAYOR MALLON
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to engage in creating a 3-year plan to increase the Affordable Housing Trust budget to 10% of the overall City budget. (PO23#113)
Order Adopted 6-3 (BA,AM,MM,DS,QZ,SS - Yes; DC,PN,PT - No)

Late Order June 5, 2023 Withdrawn
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
WHEREAS: The City first advertised a vacancy for the Resident Board Member of the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) Board of Commissioners on May 17, 2023 with an application deadline of June 5, 2023; and WHEREAS: The application window for City board and commission vacancies is typically much longer, for example the vacancy on the Central Square Advisory Committee was first posted on May 24, 2023 with applications due on June 26, 2023; and
WHEREAS: Chapter 121B, Section 5 of Massachusetts General Laws states:

A tenant, where applicable, shall be appointed by the town from a list of names submitted by a duly recognized tenants’ organization in the town. A tenants’ organization may submit a list to the board of selectmen that shall contain not less than 2 and not more than 5 names and the board shall make the appointment from among the names so submitted; provided, however, that if there is no such tenants’ organization, the housing authority shall immediately post notices throughout the common areas of the authority and provide each household with notice of the opportunity to be appointed to the housing authority board and, if any person wishes to be considered for such appointment, that person shall submit their name within thirty days thereafter to the town clerk;

and
WHEREAS: Past practice in Cambridge has been to invite the Alliance of Cambridge Tenants (ACT) to participate in the selection process by submitting a list of names; and
WHEREAS: ACT is currently undergoing their 2023 Board Election which will be finalized on June 12, 2023, at which time they will be duly recognized as Cambridge’s at-large tenant association representing all of the public housing tenants and Section 8 voucher holders in the city; and
WHEREAS: It is unclear the extent to which Chapter 121B, Section 5 is applicable in this situation, but several tenants running for election to the new ACT Board have pointed out that given past practice it would be most appropriate to extend the submission deadline for a few weeks and invite the ACT Board to submit a list of names as soon as it is once again duly recognized as a tenant organization on June 12, 2023; and
WHEREAS: Tenants are reporting that CHA did not sufficiently post notices in the common areas of each of their properties or provide each household with notice of the vacancy, meaning that most tenants weren’t even aware of tho opportunity; and
WHEREAS: It is important that the tenants are given a fair and equitable opportunity to participate in the process related to this appointment and that requires extending the deadline past June 5, 2023; now therefore be it ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority to extend the deadline for submitting applications to fill the Resident Board Member vacancy on the CHA Board of Commissioners, and to invite ACT to submit a list of names; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the appropriate departments to provide a legal opinion regarding the applicability of MGL Chapter 121, Section 5 in this situation; and be it further ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the Council on this matter as soon as possible.

AWAITING REPORT LIST
19-66. Report on whether it is possible to reduce or eliminate Building Permit Fees for 100% affordable housing development projects, through an exemption or other means and investigate what types of real estate tax abatements are possible for 100% affordable housing moving forward.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern (O-3) from 6/3/2019

19-147. Report on installing hearing loop technology inside the Sullivan Chamber as part of the upcoming renovations to City Hall, and in other critical City meeting venues wherever possible and other accessibility improvements.
Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 10/28/2019

20-6. Report on the acquisition and implementation of interpretation services for City Council meetings and other public City meetings.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern (O-8) from 1/27/2020

20-27. Report on the advantages and disadvantages of continuing with Civil Service, and the process by which Cambridge could exit Civil Service.
Councillor Nolan (O-5) from 6/22/2020

20-60. Report on analyzing eviction data from 2018 through 2021 and come back with a plan on how to use this data to inform our next action steps.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-8) from 11/2/2020

20-72. Report on the condition of 105 Windsor Street and cost estimates of any repairs needed and provide recommendations on how to develop any other underused properties based on an inclusive public process centered in the Port neighborhood.
Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #1) from 12/14/2020

21-9. Report on providing an overview of various programs and services that are designed to assist the City’s chronically unhoused population and those in danger of becoming unhoused, along with the metrics by which the City determines the effectiveness of these programs.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-1) from 2/22/2021

21-10. Report on whether or not the City can require written notice be sent to all abutters, both property owners as well as tenants, regarding the scheduling of a hearing regarding the extension of a building permit request to the Planning Board.
(O-5) from 2/22/2021

21-14. Report on presenting options to the Council to ensure that the staff at Albany Street are properly compensated for their work, and that guests are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (Calendar Item #3) from 3/8/2021

21-29. Report on updating the Parental Leave Policy for employees.
Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 4/26/2021

21-30. Report on increasing the affordable homeownership stock over the next 10 years by financing the construction of affordable homeownership units through a bond issue of no less than $500 million.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #1) from 5/3/2021

21-36. Report on developing a holistic plan for managing the traffic and congestion in the Alewife area.
Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-2) from 5/17/2021

21-43. Report on referring the Cambridge HEART proposal for funding consideration and to engage in a public community process to discuss this proposal and its implementation.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan (Calendar Item #1) from 6/7/2021

21-46. Report on the feasibility of purchasing properties for sale in the Alewife area to address City goals.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone (O1) from 6/14/2021

21-50. Report on providing an update on the cost of each license and permit required by businesses, which business license and permit fees are set under state law, which are set by ordinances, and which are determined administratively, as well as which licenses and permits the City has the discretion to waive entirely.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-9) from 6/14/2021

21-60. Report on reviewing the residential parking permit program to determine whether the criteria for this program can be modified to limit the issuance of residential permits to vehicles that are primarily utilized for personal, non-commercial use.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 9/13/2021

21-67. Report on working with the staff at the Cambridge Historical Commission, the DCR Commissioner, and members of Cambridge’s state delegation to approve, fund and execute the design and installation of a suitable historic marker by April 2022 to recognize the vision of Frederick Law Olmsted and others in transforming the Cambridge riverfront landscape.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Zondervan (O-6) from 9/27/2021

21-74. Report on supporting the Uplift the Solar Energy Industry in Massachusetts coalition.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-12) from 10/18/2021

21-94. Report on proposing possible zoning language that would achieve the goals of incentivizing all construction to be fossil fuel free through a possible special permit process.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-1) from 12/13/2021

21-98. Report on Reaffirming Commitment to the Goal of 100% Renewable by 2035.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan (O-5) from 12/13/2021

22-2. Report on meeting with the impacted residents and businesses on northern Massachusetts Avenue to discuss their ideas and suggestions for addressing their concerns.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey (Calendar Item #2) from 1/10/2022

22-7. Report on providing a legal analysis of what uses are currently permitted on the golf course land, information on the history, residency and other demographic information on membership data of golf course users, and any environmental constraints.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem (Calendar Item #1) from 1/31/2022

22-8. Report on determining the feasibility of establishing additional compensation for the City’s essential employees in accordance with the considered State legislation framework.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Toner (O-1) from 2/7/2022

22-13. Report on determining how to better integrate more parent response into their decision-making process as they make changes that can have undue impacts upon the families they serve.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (O-3) from 3/7/2022

22-14. Report on the findings of the “Future of Telework” Committee, and to explain the city’s current policy regarding a remote work policy.
Vice Mayor Mallon (O-5) from 3/7/2022

22-23. Report on providing an analysis of the impact of current curb cut policies, including (but not limited to) an explanation of the administration’s current procedures for notifying and conducting outreach to abutters and neighbors, the criteria for evaluating curb cut applications, and an approximation of the number of residential parking spaces that have been lost to new curb cuts each year over at least the last decade.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Toner (O-8) from 4/11/2022

22-24. Report on determining what repairs to 205 Western Avenue would be needed to inhabit the space to allow the Cambridge Community Center to house their program.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-1) from 4/25/2022

22-29. Report on introducing a pilot program to open two of our youth centers during the evening and weekend hours during the summer.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui (O-1) from 5/9/2022

22-30. Report on adding $1.94 linkage fee to Housing Contribution Rate that is specifically targeted for job training.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern from 5/9/2022

22-33. Report on consulting with the Executive Director of the Council on Aging, Somerville and Cambridge Elder Services, and the Executive Director of Cadbury Common to determine the feasibility of re-establishing some form of the Kate’s Café Monthly LGBTQ+ Community Dinners either at Cadbury Common or at another suitable location.
Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui (O-2) from 5/16/2022

22-35. Report on ensuring that every possible material used in construction projects are as safe and healthy and free of potential toxins as possible, and ensure that all construction and manufacturing vendors commit to disclosing all ingredients and using non-toxic materials.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-6) from 5/16/2022

22-36. Work on Implementing Recommendations from Working IDEAL Report.
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 5/23/2022

22-38. Report on establishing a method of ensuring that anti-bias training is incorporated into the City’s hiring process at all levels.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 5/23/2022

22-40. Report on developing a standardized, transparent, and cohesive community engagement plan for the entire, department-wide municipal government.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 6/6/2022

22-42. Report on directing the appropriate City staff to establish a “community healing initiative” plan to address the issues in our city.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 6/13/2022

22-43. Report on establishing a notification system to all neighborhood residents, regardless of whether they own or rent their homes, within a set area where neighborhood disruptions such as infrastructure work or demolitions are scheduled to occur.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 6/13/2022

22-46. Report on a plan for piloting more street closures for pedestrianization in Harvard Square.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon (O5) from 6/27/2022

22-49. Report on Establishing a Task Force on Cambridge’s African American/Black Residents.
Councillor Simmons (O-7) from 8/1/2022

22-50. Report on establishing Black Men and Boys Commission.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons (O-8) from 8/1/2022

22-55. Report on the status of the long-term water projections and on what measures could be taken to conserve water.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O14) from 8/1/2022

22-57. Report on Policy Order to investigate shared EV or Hybrid free bus service.
Councillor Toner, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan (O-16) from 8/1/2022

22-61. Report on communicating to the Cambridge Health Alliance the City Council’s support for the reopening of the Cambridge Birth Center for deliveries as soon as possible and City Council support for the protection of existing birth centers and the creation of new birth centers in Cambridge.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-9) from 9/12/2022

22-64. Report on t detailing how other comparable municipalities handle their street corner dedication processes and on ways to honor those individuals who may not ultimately have a street corner named after them but who nonetheless deserve to have their names and accomplishments recognized.
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 9/19/2022

22-66. Report on a plan to install “Walls of Honor” at each home baseball and softball field honoring past and current coaches and volunteers.
Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 9/19/2022

22-67. Report on necessary preparations for the next Housing Committee meeting in the discussion on potentially allowing multifamily housing to be built citywide.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Simmons (O-6) from 9/19/2022

22-69. Report on a community process on the future use of 105 Windsor Street.
Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (O-11) from 9/19/2022

22-70. Report on the legislation passed by the Somerville City Council banning limited services pregnancy centers.
Vice Mayor Mallon (Calendar Item #3) from 10/3/2022 Committee Report

22-71. Report on convening an advisory group to determine ways in which the City can work to lift up the voices and experiences of the descendants of the Indigenous People who currently reside in our community.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-1) from 10/3/2022

22-73. Report on working with the Law Dept., to automatically provide an initial legal opinion to the City Council and the City Clerk at least three business days in advance of the first Public Hearing on any amendment to the Code of Ordinances formally introduced in the City Council.
Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern (O-7) from 10/3/2022

22-75. Report on receiving input from the Vision Zero, Pedestrian, Bicycle Committee, the Council on Aging, the Transit Advisory Committee, the Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board, Cambridge Police Department, and any other departments, to review and revise the Cambridge Street Code, promulgate the updated guide throughout the city, and develop recommendations for staffing and methods of improving traffic enforcement.
Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (Calendar Item #2) from 10/17/2022

22-80. Report on providing a comprehensive list of current Cambridge policies that impact the cost of local commercial and residential development and those that are known to be in the pipeline, to note whether similar policies exist in the neighboring cities of Boston and Somerville.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (Calendar Item #2) from 11/14/2022

22-83. Report on determining how the City could adopt G.L. c. 40, sec. 60B, created under the Municipal Modernization Act, which allows cities and towns, through their respective legislative bodies, to provide for Workforce Housing Special Tax Assessments Zones (WH–STA) as an incentive to create middle-income housing.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern (O-16) from 11/21/2022

23-3. Report on determining the feasibility of purchasing the property located at 37 Brookline Street, former home of Peter Valentine, with the intent of utilizing this as a community arts space.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (O-4) from 1/23/2023

23-6. Report on determining the best ways to promote bike safety with a particular focus on expanding the distribution of bike lights throughout the City.
Councillor McGovern, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zondervan (O-3) from 2/6/2023

23-10. Report on engaging with community groups and the City’s existing multi-member bodies to design the next iteration of the Cambridge Community Electricity Aggregation program.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-11) from 2/6/2023

23-12. Report on options of how to increase overnight resident street parking in the vicinity of Rogers Street.
Councillor Zondervan (O-13) from 2/6/2023

23-13. Report on evaluating the feasibility of financially supporting free meals for all students for the School Year 2023/24.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern (O-4) from 2/13/2023

23-15. Report on continuation of Riverbend Park closures on Saturdays and Sundays.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor Mallon (Calendar Item #1) from 2/27/2023

23-16. Report on Police Details and the need for having armed vs. unarmed officers and the possibility of having civilian flaggers.
Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Carlone (Calendar Item #2) from 2/27/2023

23-17. Report on the feasibility of automated traffic enforcement as well as using unarmed CPD traffic details for future discussion Automated/Unarmed Traffic Enforcement.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan (Calendar Item #3) from 2/27/2023

23-18. Report on creating a policy that will ensure the City is notified whenever a high-rise building over six floors experiences elevator failures.
Councillor Simmons (O-1) from 3/6/2023

23-19. Report on the feasibility of installing Automated External Defibrillator’s at all public parks and practice fields, and any other public place as appropriate.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-2) from 3/6/2023

23-20. Report on the feasibility of providing municipally-funded housing vouchers similar to programs in Somerville and Boston.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-6) from 3/6/2023

23-21. Report on funding the HEART initiative and negotiate a contract for services with HEART, to include but not limited to HEART responding to certain 911 calls.
(Calendar Item #1) from 3/20/2023

23-22. Report on providing a license agreement, as well as direct financial and regulatory support for the continued and uninterrupted operation of Starlight Square.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 3/20/2023

23-23. Report on providing a legal opinion which clarifies the state law on zoning petition signature requirements to ensure clarity and lawful deliberation in the future.
Councillor Nolan (O-1) from 4/3/2023

23-25. Report on developing a three-year plan to expand and improve After School Care.
Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 4/3/2023

23-26. Report on reviewing the Citizens Zoning Petition received from Michael Monestime et al. regarding Outdoor Use Zoning for the Central Square Cultural District (AP23#12) for form and content.
Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan (O-5) from 4/3/2023

23-27. Report on providing a legal opinion on the earliest possible date that potential changes to the charter could be voted on by the electorate, assuming the Charter Review Committee submits proposed changes to the City Council by the new Dec 31, 2023 deadline.
(O-4) from 4/10/2023

23-28. Report on bringing together a working group to conduct outreach through neighborhood groups including the Fresh Pond Residents Alliance, and any other nearby neighborhood groups and city departments, in order to discuss and review options for use of the BB&N Field.
Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (O4) from 4/24/2023

23-29. Report on working with CDD, Law Department, the Assessor’s Office, and any other relevant departments to produce final draft ordinance language for the BEUDO amendments based on the CDD proposal as amended by the Ordinance Committee at its Apr 26, 2023 hearing. See Mgr #7
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern (O-2) from 5/1/2023

23-30. Report on working with DPW and relevant City departments and the Committee on Public Planting to consider ideas proposed during the Health and Environment Committee meeting on Apr 25, 2023, and to prepare a brief report outlining action items within the City’s UFMP which can be implemented as soon as this year and develop recommendations to update regulations regarding native species planting practices in light of climate change affecting the species that should be planted in the City.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Azeem (O-5) from 5/1/2023

23-31. Report on directing the Community Development Department to promptly draft a zoning petition to be considered for filing by the City Council, based upon the proposed Affordable Housing Overlay amendments now before the Housing Committee.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zondervan (Calendar Item #1) from 5/8/2023

23-32. Report on the feasibility of purchasing available property from Lesley University to address City goals.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-2) from 5/8/2023

23-33. Report on recommending how the City can publish legal notices using online newspapers.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem (O-3) from 5/8/2023

23-34. Report on funding and implementing the grant proposal submitted to DOE GTO to design and implement a community-scale geothermal heating and cooling system in Cambridge.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-2) from 5/15/2023

23-35. Report on the use of several parcels of land along Webster Avenue to accomplish Envision goals, including how to best ensure that the acquisition of these parcels results in additional affordable housing and open space.
Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (O-3) from 5/15/2023

23-36. Report on the goal of lowering the speed limit as much as possible on all state highways that fall within Cambridge’s geographic boundaries.
Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone (O-4) from 5/15/2023

23-37. Report on the policy for releasing the names of officers involved in any use of force incident, up to and including those incidents resulting in injury or death.
Councillor Zondervan (Calendar Item #2) from 5/22/2023

23-38. Report on the legal opinion whether Cambridge could permanently switch to the MWRA water supply.
Councillor Zondervan (O-3) from 5/22/2023

23-39. Report on the legal opinion whether the City could fund affordable housing construction through a bond issue.
Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem (O-8) from 5/22/2023