6. A communication transmitted from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the reappointments and new appointments of the following persons as a members of the Cambridge Health Alliance Board of Trustees effective July 1, 2016: Reappointments: Carol VanDeusen Lukas (1 year term), Josh Posner (1 year term), Maren Batalden (1 year term), Kathleen McGilvray (3 year term), Catherine Wirth (3 year term); New Appointments: William (Bill) Lahey (1 year term), Mary Jane Kornacki (3 year term), Claire Laporte (3 year term).

June 6, 2016
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointments of the following persons as members of the Cambridge Health Alliance Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2016:

Reappointments:
Carol Van Deusen Lukas, Chair - 1 year term
Carol Van Deusen Lukas is an investigator and member of the executive team at the Center for Organization, Leadership and Management Research in the Health Services Research and Development Service (HSR&D) of the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). At HSR&D she has led studies in facility integration, health systems integration, and has developed and implemented strategies to sustain and spread innovative clinical practices from the national to local level. Dr. VanDeusen Lukas is a faculty member in the Health Services Department at the Boston University School of Public Health. She has served as an assistant commissioner at both the Massachusetts Department of Medical Security and the Massachusetts Department of Public Welfare.

Josh Posner, Vice Chair - 1 year term
Joshua Posner has developed affordable housing over 25 years in a wide variety of settings in New England and other parts of the United States. Mr. Posner founded Rising Tide Development LLC in 2001 to focus on the creation of new small-scale, mixed-income residential communities in Massachusetts. Mr. Posner has been engaged in a variety of community activities, including serving a Board President and Director of The Guidance Center, the largest mental health and family support social service organization in Cambridge and Somerville, Board President and Overseer of Shady Hill School in Cambridge.

Maren Batalden, MD, Medical Staff member - 1 year term
Dr. Maren Batalden is Associate Chief Quality Officer at Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA), Director of Medical Management for the CHA Accountable Care Organization and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School (HMS). She came to CHA in 1994 where she has maintained an active clinical practice as a hospital-based general internist. Once a high school English teacher, she continues to be an innovative educator who teaches and mentors young physicians and has received numerous teaching awards from learners at both CHA and in the medical school. As Associate Director of Graduate Medical Education for Quality and Safety, Ms. Batalden is committed to creating a clinical learning environment at CHA that produces both good care for patients and good learning for trainees. Her current focus lies in improving the capacity of patients, health professionals, and the health delivery system to produce better health outcomes at lower cost.

Kathleen McGilvray, Somerville representative - 3 year term
Kathleen McGilvray is a Somerville resident who currently serves as the Director of Investment for the Massachusetts Housing Investment Corporation (MHIC), a non-profit specializing in the financing of affordable housing and community development throughout the Commonwealth. MHIC has financed numerous community health centers throughout New England, as well as the expansion of Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, MA, using New Markets Tax Credit Financing. Ms. McGilvray possesses a Master in Public Policy from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government and graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and American Studies. Ms. McGilvray is a member of the Somerville Community Corporation Real Estate Development Advisory Committee and is currently Co-Chair of the Housing and Community Development Committee of New England Women in Real Estate (NEWiRE).

Catherine Wirth, Somerville representative - 3 year term
Ms. Wirth currently serves as the Agriculture Program Director for The Trustees of Reservations. Prior to this position, Ms. Wirth served as a Project Manager for Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures. In this position, she managed a multi-faceted early childhood obesity prevention program which targets multiple childhood environments including home, preschool, and community. She serves as the primary liaison for community and funding partners, keeping them apprised of program progress, collecting and acting upon feedback and leading regular partner meetings throughout the year. She is also very involved in the program’s grant funded research.

New Appointments:
William (Bill) Lahey, Cambridge seat - 1 year term
Mr. Lahey is a partner at Anderson & Kreiger in Cambridge where he focuses on environmental, energy, and municipal law. He served as chairman of the founding board of Smith Leadership Academy Charter School in Dorchester. Bill received his JD from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1982 and BS from the University of Wisconsin in 1978. He served as an Access to Justice Fellow from 2015-2016, working with the National Alliance for Mental Illness in Massachusetts, an advocacy organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with mental illness, focusing on a number of matters including bail reform and assisting on legislation to expand services and insurance for mental illness.

Mary Jane Kornacki, Cambridge seat - 3 year term
Ms. Kornacki is one of the founding partners of Amicus, a healthcare consulting company. Her special interests include leadership team dynamics and the professional satisfaction of women physicians in medical organizations. Her understanding of the principles of adult learning and behavior are reflected in the models and tools that are fundamental to Amicus’ consulting work. She has collaborated on numerous publications on physician cultures, physician morale, medical group dynamics, governance in physician organizations and service improvement in health care. Ms. Kornacki holds a master of science in degree in public health from the University of Massachusetts where she specialized in health education and health behavior.

Claire Laporte, Cambridge, 3 year term
Ms. Laporte is an experienced trial lawyer who has received recognition in both Chambers USA and Massachusetts SuperLawyers for her intellectual property practice. She represents clients in complex patent litigation and technology-related matters in a broad range of technical specialties including biotechnology, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, computer vision, and other software. Ms. Laporte received her Juris Doctorate from Harvard Law School, and her Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of International and Public Affairs. She currently serves on the CHA Foundation and was formerly a member of CHA’s Patient Family Advisory Council (PFAC).

Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager

14. A communication transmitted from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 16-9, regarding the organization of a Volpe Task Force.

June 6, 2016
To the Honorable, the City Council:

Please find attached a response to Awaiting Report Item Number 16-9, regarding the organization of a Volpe Task Force to be made up of representatives from abutting neighborhood groups and Kendall Square residents and businesses, received from Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager for Community Development.

Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager

---

To: Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
From: Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager for Community Development
Date: June 1, 2016
Re: Council Order #O-2 dated Feb 1, 2016 re: Organizing a Volpe Task Force with representatives from abutting neighborhood groups and Kendall Square businesses

In 2014, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced a plan to redevelop the Volpe site using an “exchange transaction” (info at www.gsa.gov/volpecenter). Through a competitive bidding process, GSA will select a development partner, or “exchange partner,” to construct a new building for the Volpe Center, which will both serve Volpe’s research needs and improve its connection to the surrounding community. In exchange, Volpe will transfer ownership of the remainder of the parcel to the selected developer, who will work directly with the City to develop a mixed use project on the remainder of the site according to the City’s zoning and review processes for large projects. GSA is aiming to release a request for proposals from developers this spring.

The Kendall Square (“K2”) Planning Study, conducted in 2012-2013, recommended changes to the zoning for the Volpe block. Following on the work of the K2 recommendations, the Cambridge Planning Board, working with the Community Development Department, developed a rezoning petition to respond both to the concepts within the K2 study as well as the key elements of the requirements of the General Services Administration for the development of the Volpe parcel. The City Council determined that the appropriate time to adopt rezoning for the parcel would be after the GSA has selected a developer for the exchange parcel but that it would be useful to develop a planning framework and principles to provide guidance to potential developers about the City’s priorities and expectations for the site. The Council has referred this matter to its Ordinance Committee.

The various elements that would be addressed in a framework and principles for the Volpe block include the amount of and type of housing, including affordable housing, size and character of public open spaces, urban design principles, key connections through the site, retail, and ground floor activation. These topics have come up as priorities at a number public meetings.

We propose that a small working group may be used in this situation in a two-step process. In Phase 1, the working group would work with staff and a consultant to support the Ordinance Committee’s development of a Volpe framework and would involve assembling the broad program parameters for the project including key ideas such as urban form, public realm, and goals for the character of the area.

This portion of the working group’s work would support the work of the Ordinance Committee by bringing issues and recommendations to the committee for discussion. We envision that this would occur over the course of 3-5 meetings during the summer, aiming for completion by end of fall.

Phase 2 of the working group’s work would inform the rezoning of the Volpe parcel. This would commence once the GSA has selected a developer, and would involve more focused discussions with the developer at the table. This phase would delve into more detail based on the developer’s anticipated program and would inform zoning discussions that would be underway at the Planning Board and City Council. We would expect this portion of the working group’s work to include both City staff and consultants paid for by the selected developer.

Our recommendation is that the City Manager appoint a working group to work with staff that is composed of a mix of residents from the surrounding neighborhoods – East Cambridge, the Port/Area 4, and Wellington-Harrington – along with representatives of the Kendall Square business community. We would expect Phase 2 to begin once the GSA has selected a developer and they are prepared to begin discussions on the project, with their work culminating in the formal zoning ordinance development at the Planning Board and City Council.

26. A communication transmitted from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Maria Taesil Hudson Carpenter as Director of Libraries, effective Aug 23, 2016.

June 6, 2016
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am pleased to announce that I have appointed Maria Taesil Hudson Carpenter as Director of Libraries, effective Aug 23, 2016. Ms. Carpenter has served as Director of Libraries for the City of Santa Monica since 2014.

Maria began her library career 17 years ago at the Cambridge Public Library as a Senior Substitute in Circulation Services and as a Reference Librarian II. Over the course of her career, she worked in numerous library positions at Northeastern University in Boston and prior to moving to Santa Monica she served as the Director of Libraries for the City of Somerville and was active in the Minuteman Library Network.

In her director’s role in Santa Monica, Maria oversaw a $12.7M budget, capital improvement and technology projects, five branches, and 200 full-time and part-time staff. Additionally, she worked closely with the Library Board, Friends of the Santa Monica Public Library, and the Library Foundation of Santa Monica. Her interests and experience are wide ranging: fostering early literacy and computer literacy; working with dual language learners, low-income populations and teens; and ensuring new immigrants receive the assistance needed for navigating the system. Maria has the knowledge, abilities, and energy to be a great leader for the Cambridge Public Library.

Maria received a Bachelor of Arts from Ohio Wesleyan University, a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Pittsburgh and is a PhD Candidate (expected 2016) at Simmons College.

Please join me in congratulating Maria Taesil Hudson Carpenter on her appointment as Director of Libraries.

Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     June 6, 2016  Amended
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Community discussions about the scarcity of parking spaces in and around Central Square have been growing louder and more frequent as the City continues to develop in Central Square and its surrounding neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS: While the City has been making admirable efforts to enhance the city’s walkability, to improve the city’s bike lanes, and to promote the utilization of public transportation, there remains a great need to provide adequate parking for residents and commuters in Central Square and its surrounding areas; and
WHEREAS: While some have proposed mandating underground parking for new housing developments, and others have proposed finding incentives for new residents to abandon their vehicles, one idea that has not yet been adequately explored is the notion of expanding existing garage space to accommodate more vehicles; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is also requested to confer with the appropriate City personnel to determine the cost and feasibility of adding additional parking levels to the Green Street Garage, to determine how many additional feet the garage could be expanded to as of right and how many extra parking spaces that would yield, and to report back to the City Council in a timely manner; said report to include what experts are saying about the impact and need for automated large scale parking in urban areas; and be it further
ORDERED: That this matter be referred to the Transportation and Public Utilities Committee.

O-3     June 6, 2016
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The Office of Campaign and Political Finance (OCPF) maintains public filings for all eligible candidates running for elected office in the Commonwealth; and
WHEREAS: The public information available on the OCPF for each candidate is regarding donations, expenditures, and communications with the OCPF; and
WHEREAS: To provide greater transparency and ease of use by Cambridge residents, this OCPF information, for candidates for any State District or County Offices and Municipal Offices whose jurisdiction includes the City of Cambridge should be made readily available on the City’s website; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Executive Director of the Cambridge Election Commission to publish at an appropriate and clearly identified central location on the City’s website by Aug 1, 2016 all Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Office of Campaign and Political Finance information including contributions, expenditures and communications for candidates for any State District or County Offices and Municipal Offices whose jurisdiction includes the City of Cambridge and to report back to the City Council.by June 20, 2016.

O-4     June 6, 2016
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Cambridge has multiple buildings, some of which are available for both official and unofficial use; and
WHEREAS: It is not clear what sort of after-work access to these buildings and their various facilities the public should expect to enjoy; and
WHEREAS: It is not clear whether and under what circumstances or conditions use of interior, nonpublic City spaces by members of the public without City staff present and with no formal task assignment by the City is permitted by the City; now be it therefore
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review City policies on the availability and use of City office and meeting space for non-City appointed functions by non-City officials and to report back to the City Council on the availability of such space for non-City after hours use, on legal exposure or ordinances to formalize, prohibit or otherwise differently regulate such use.

O-5     June 6, 2016
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Cambridge City Council offers wonderful opportunities for interested citizens to intern for various Councillors; and
WHEREAS: It is not clear what sort of access to Council facilities should be available to interns, including the City’s computer system or Council offices; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review and report back to the City Council on the City’s policies and best practices in the use and supervision of City Council interns.

O-9     June 6, 2016
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer with more than 3.5 million skin cancers diagnosed each year in the United States alone; and
WHEREAS: Most skin cancer is caused by the sun’s UVA and UVB ultraviolet rays; and
WHEREAS: The American Cancer Society recommends using sunscreen as a tool to help protect from the sun’s damaging rays; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to assess the cost and feasibility of placing sunscreen dispensers containing broad spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher at Cambridge parks and playgrounds and to report back to the council at the Summer meeting.

O-17     June 6, 2016
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
RESOLVED: That the Council go on the record to state that the second Monday of October henceforth be commemorated as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Cambridge, in recognition of the indigenous people of America’s position as native to these lands, and the suffering they faced following European conquest of their land; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the Council recommends that Indigenous Peoples’ Day be observed by the people, with appropriate exercises in the schools and otherwise, to the end that the culture, history and diversity of Native American Peoples be celebrated and perpetuated; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to the North American Indian Centre of Boston, the Nipmuc Nation, the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Tribal Council, the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay head, The Praying Indian Tribes of Natick and Ponkapoag, and the Massachusetts at Ponkapoag Tribe, being descendants of those people indigenous to this area, on behalf of the entire City Council.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Ordinance Committee, comprised of the entire membership of the City Council, held a public hearing on Wed, May 11, 2016 beginning at 3:08pm in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the hearing was to discuss a zoning petition by the Richard Avenue neighbors to amend Section 20.103.2 North Massachusetts Avenue Sub-district and Section 20.110 Standards Applicable in the North Massachusetts Avenue Sub-district on the north side of Massachusetts Avenue to extend from the centerline of Beech Street on the east to the centerline of Richard Avenue on the west and to amend the City of Cambridge Zoning Map by redrawing the North Massachusetts Avenue Sub-district for the northerly side of Massachusetts Avenue to extend from the centerline of Beech Street on the east to the centerline of Richard Avenue on the west. The proposed change would remove properties in the Business A-2 district north and west of Richard Avenue from the North Massachusetts Avenue sub-district; however, those properties would remain within the Massachusetts Avenue Overlay District.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Carlone and Councillor Cheung, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Councillor Devereux; Councillor Kelley; Vice Mayor McGovern; Jeff Roberts, Land Use and Zoning Project Planner, Community Development Department; and City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were Peter Quinn, Architect; Scott Zink, Developer, 2552 Mass. Avenue; Elizabeth Stern, petitioner, 20 Cambridge Terrace; John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; Michael Brandon, 27 Seven Pines Avenue; Sarah Bell, 19 Muller Avenue; Eleanor McCartney, 19 Muller Avenue; Adam Roberts, 2557 Mass. Avenue; and Olivia Armato, 7 Muller Avenue.

Councillor Carlone convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He stated that the hearing is been audio and video recorded. He stated that there is a history with the project, the neighbors and architect have worked together toward a resolution. He asked the petitioners to come forward.

Elizabeth Stern, petitioner, stated that she owns 7 Richard Avenue which abuts 2551 Mass. Avenue. Ms. Stern read a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT A). She stated that the neighbors, development and architect have reached an agreement and the current petition is that agreement. The developer was told by the Planning Board that he was trying to do too much.

Ms. Stern stated that the change that the petition seeks is to adjust the northern boundary of the North Massachusetts Avenue sub-district to terminate at the centerline of Richard Avenue rather than at the western end of 2551 Massachusetts Avenue site. This change would allow 2551 Massachusetts Avenue to revert to the BA-2 base zoning. She stated that four proposed townhouses will enhance the neighborhood. She stated that what is lost with the Stern petition is the possibility of retail at a site that is nearly impossible to accommodate retail.

Mr. Roberts stated that a set of analysis materials were sent to the Planning Board on this petition (ATTACHMENT B) and the Planning Board made a recommendation (ATTACHMENT C).

The Planning Board and the staff have been reviewing this area for some time and there was a proposal for a project within this area that was seeking relief from the Planning Board from some of the requirements of the North Massachusetts Avenue sub-district. The Planning Board reviewed the zoning and two petitions to change the base zoning in the area. The Planning Board suggestion was for the residents, property owner and the developer of the site to meet to find a mutually agreeable solution and to determine if there is any zoning change or relief required.

The Planning Board had a positive response from the petitioners and developer. The Planning Board believes in this case there is strong rationale for the adjustment of the boundary of the North Massachusetts Avenue sub-district. A change to zoning would eliminate the ground floor retail would not be required, it could be. The change would remove the requirement of ground floor retail, but would not prohibit ground floor retail and the development could still have ground floor uses. The Planning Board urged adoption of the petition and that the particular requirements are not well suited to this particular area.

At this time Councillor Carlone requested the developer team to come forward for their presentation.

Scott Zink, developer, stated that a tremendous amount of time and energy was spent on coming up with a solution for this site. The end result, the four townhouses, are a beautiful design and will be a better outcome for the neighborhood by removing the zoning alteration and is warranted in this scenario. Councillor Carlone noted that in the original petition there was a 30% retail requirement because of parking that dominated the ground floor.

Peter Quinn, architect, gave a PowerPoint presentation (ATTACHMENT D). He stated that the corner had a little retail and on the left side 50% is the garage and a circulation core in the building. The original building had awkward stepping. The building to the left is a commercial office building for psychologist in a residential district where Ms. Stern’s building which is behind is all residential even though in a business district. He stated that the plan had the parking garage had a door on Massachusetts Avenue was unacceptable. He stated that the site behind is a 3 family. Jack's gas is the immediate neighbor across the street. He had a map of the BA-2 district. This property is the last lot. He stated that the site is narrow and is difficult to make the geometry work with cars. He stated that the design is a classic four townhouses which are single families. There is visual and auditory separation which steps up from Massachusetts Avenue. Bays are used on the building. The side and rear view of the building was provided. The windows are a traditional style with the parking in the rear. There is a small mechanical space in front. He stated this complies with the zoning on all levels.

Councillor Carlone stated that the structure is handsome.

Councillor Carlone opened the meeting to public comment at 3:27pm.

Sarah Bell, 19 Muller Avenue, read a statement from Margaret Danehy, 19 Richard Avenue in which she supported the Stern, et al petition that was recommended by the Planning Board (ATTACHMENT E).

Adam Roberts, 2557 Massachusetts Avenue, stated that this is the psychology building next door. He supported his neighbors and developer. The design fits the neighborhood. He stated his building has been used since 1982 for offices for therapists from 9am to 6pm. He spoke about the difficulty for the parking in the area. He stated that one item, # 5, on the MOU matters to him. He stated that the setback facing his building Item # 5 requires trees and landscaping in the MOU. He stated that the tenants in his building have been parking in two spaces off the side of his driveway in the back, a port on my driveway and a portion of the car on the lot to be developed. This is not an overnight parking use as no one lives in the building and has been going on for 30 years. The MOU would preclude this use. The space is 20 feet back from the street, 34 feet long 4.5 feet wide and with reasonable screening cars will not be visible from the street. He does not want the MOU to preclude this continued parking use. He wanted MOU # 5 to be amended to not require trees and plants in the 10 foot zone for its entire length. He submitted his written comment (ATTACHMENT F).

Councillor Carlone stated that the City is not part of the MOU. Due to this informal use can the developer and the neighbor come to an agreement to preclude 4 feet of Mr. Zink property being used for parking.

Mr. Roberts stated that the MOU is an agreement between residents or property owners and is different from the zoning requirements. The proposed zoning change would revert the zoning back to 2012 when the North Massachusetts Avenue modifications were adopted. The zoning district allows residential and commercial use. The accessor parking next door the use would be allowed and the dimensional requirements needs to be looked at either by the BZA or the Planning Board as to whether the redevelopment of the site would be allowed while maintaining the existing use of a commercial accessory parking space located on the lot. Setbacks requirements for parking and shared driveways that transfer across 2 property. There may be a special permit requirement to authorize this. This will not be prohibited by zoning change but needs more review by BZA.

Councillor Carlone commented about Adam Robert’s request to amend # 5 to modify the parking. He suggested to Adam Roberts that his request may require a special permit. Councillor Carlone stated that neighbors support you using a portion of site, but this is up to the decision of Mr. Zink. He request that neighbors and Mr. Zink allow this.

Michael Brandon, 27 Seven Pines Avenue, supported the process and the revised Stern petition with the proviso of that the MOU that is being negotiated be adopted in conjunction with the proposed change. He stated that without a binding understanding that is enforceable the circumstances could change. Retail cannot be feasibly developed on this site. The BA-2 zoning is too generous for this site. The other concern is that Adam Roberts has a pre-exiting use and may not have to undergo design review by the Planning Board. Mr. Roberts that that ISD needs to review this more. He suggested that Mr. Zink incorporate the 2 parking spaces and include the landscape aspects. There is a precedent set by the Masse site. Four townhouses on this site is pushing and it will have negative aspects. He wanted all at the table to agree on the MOU.

Public comment closed 3:48pm.

Councillor Cheung stated that Masse was a separate agreement and not incorporated into zoning. He stated that if residents are engaged collaborative a better outcome is realized. He is ready to go forward. Moving things quickly is imp especially when there is an agreement. This is a massive rezoning for Massachusetts Avenue. This is a reasonable change with the revised petition. This is exactly how this process is supposed to go. Once res have reached an agreement it is up to the City Council to move this forward. He wanted this passed to the City Council. This is becoming the Cambridge way to reach agreement.

Vice Mayor McGovern support the petition and thanked all for their hard work on the agreement reached. This leads to a better result and is less complicated. He spoke about residential areas that abut major thoroughfares all around the City. Massachusetts Avenue is a place where more density can be allowed. He will support this project. There are structures on Massachusetts Avenue that can add more height.

Councillor Devereux spoke about big picture and how is local retail maintained. She spoke about retail in Kendall Square. She can see Massachusetts Avenue changing itself - it could be walk/bike friendly with local retail activation. What will happen when the gas station comes up for sale will there be another iteration of the zoning?

Councillor Carlone stated that gas stations were added on after the original zoning. These became prime site for gas stations. This site is isolate like Jack's across the street. There is a minimum of 40 feet depth and could not occur with the set back. Most of Massachusetts Avenue is zoned for retail. Councillor Devereux stated that the sub-district is rolled back and will it be done the same for Jack's. Councillor Carlone stated this zoning was not planned for successful retail; it was planned for gas stations. The depth is difficult to make retail work.

Councillor Kelley stated that he supports this but is concern with the zoning passed to require retail on Massachusetts Avenue will be done piecemeal. He spoke about retail capacity being built in. Once residential is built it will remain residential. He does not want to see the zoning previously passed rolled back lot by lot.

Councillor Carlone stated that south of Jack's is housing. He stated that he wanted the retail to thrive and be successful. This site and Jack's is inappropriate to retail. Councillor Kelley stated then the zoning should be reviewed for Massachusetts Avenue. Councillor Carlone stated that retail is stronger south of Clarendon Avenue.

Councillor Cheung stated that a Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee discussion may need to be held on this. He moved to forward this to the City Council with a favorable recommendation.

Mr. Roberts was asked if this building is subject to design review. He stated that there is a requirement of a building of this scale for advisory review. Councillor Carlone stated that the MOU structure that the building be designed. Mr. Roberts stated that it is a non-binding review. The design needs to be presented and built to the design.

Councillor Carlone stated that retail is wanted on Massachusetts Avenue where it can be successful. The MOU is the last remaining big issue. He stated that before it comes to the full City Council the remaining issue on parking is included to make it work and that the MOU be discussed.

Councillor Kellen noted that the MOU is outside of the zoning. Councillor Carlone stated that he wanted this concluded before final action. There is no design review on this project that is meaningful.

Councillor Devereux stated that she did not know anything about a long term parking arrangement. Adam Roberts stated that he wanted to work out something with the developer and have some tradeoff of greenspace. Councillor Devereux stated that the MOU is separate from the zoning. Councillor Carlone wanted the MOU to be decided before ordination.

Michael Brandon clarified that MOU is negotiated separately. He stated that the MOU for Masse was before the City Council and was made part of the zoning and that the MOU is appended to the decision on the Masse site.

Councillor Carlone moved that the matter be referred to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The motion carried on a voice vote.

Councillor Carlone thanked all those present for their attendance.

The hearing adjourned at 4:15pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chair
Councillor Leland Cheung, Co-Chair

Committee Report #2
The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee and the Civic Unity Committee held a joint public hearing on Thurs, May 12, 2016, beginning at 5:33pm in the Sullivan Chamber for the purpose of discussing all issues related to non-citizen representation and outreach in Cambridge.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Nadeem Mazen, Chair, Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee; Councillor Marc C. McGovern, Chair, Civic Unity Committee; Councillor Jan Devereux; Councillor Dennis Carlone; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Nancy Schlacter, Executive Director, Human Rights Commission; Brian Corr, Executive Director, Peace Commission; Dan Schwartz; and Deputy City Clerk Paula M. Crane.

Also present were Chris Addis, Janak, Lisa Jacobson, Karin Lin, Rebecca Balder, Rocky Jeanty, Sylvie de Marrais, Derrick Rush, Justine de Marrais, Lauren Shebuiro, Emmanuel “Manny” Lusardi, Thomas McKenzie, Laura Nelson, Jake Therold, Rosalind Michaeller, Lydia Marik, Jean Jeune, Dan Pratt, Lee Farris, Leslie Ditrani, Josiane Julmeus, Mohamad Chakaki, Leigh Hardy, Gerald Bergman, Olga Stroilova, and Risa Mednick.

Councillor Mazen read the Call of the Meeting and stated that this is an important discussion on services for immigrants in the Cambridge community. He welcomed this type of organizing so that it would remind the City of the priorities which is the work of the City government. He said that he could not have called this meeting without the impetus of the organizers in the group. He gave a brief overview of the agenda for the hearing. (ATTACHMENT A)

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that an important factor to the conversation is to understand what the City is already doing. He stated that he looks forward to hear about the programs that are taking place in the City.

Jean Jeune, Haitian Services Coordinator at the Multi-Service Center, stated that that his office has been in place since 1992. He stated that they provide services to anyone who shows up at their door. He stated that Cambridge is a safe place for immigrants. He said that if a person has been in the country for five years, he/she can become a U.S. citizen. He stated that his office provides services and helps immigrant to attain and possess attributes that they need. He stated that this issue has been dormant for some time and noted that immigrants are asking for a chance to move on in the city.

Councillor Mazen asked Ms. Semonoff for her comments. Ms. Semonoff gave an overview of the services that DHSP provides. She stated that certainly she could go through just about every single thing that the Human Services Department does because many of the programs include a large percentage of immigrants. She stated that there is no program that is offered in which there are not a significant number of immigrants. She talked about the programs that are specifically directed to serving immigrants.

Ms. Semonoff stated that the Community Learning Center (CLC) helps adults improve their lives and increase their community participation through free educational programs and services. She noted that services include English language classes, classes in basic reading, writing and math, preparation for High School Equivalency examinations, preparation for college or a training program, and preparation for the U.S. citizenship test. She noted that the CLC offers educational and career counseling, tutoring, and basic computer instruction. Ms. Semonoff stated that the City runs a very large English as a Second Language (ESL) program which serves approximately 600 individuals. She stated that many participants have had a significant amount of education in their home country. She stated that when it is possible for immigrants to go to college, the drawback is that they are not always eligible for in-state tuition if they are not citizens. She said that this is a state-wide issue. Ms. Semonoff explained that undocumented individuals are allowed to take classes at the CLC. She said that the City also provides a series of outreach workers who speak thirteen different languages. She explained that they also hire residents from a number of different linguistic minority communities to really perform three functions: to be the outreach arm of the City into their linguistic community, educate the rest of the community about the needs of the community that they come from, and to help support leadership within different communities.

Ms. Semonoff stated that through Envision Cambridge, the Community Development Department (CDD) has hired additional outreach workers to explain about the planning process to members of different linguistic communities and run focus groups so that all communities are heard. She indicated that the interns that CDD has hired are being supervised and mentored by the current outreach workers.

Ms. Semonoff stated that the Cambridge Employment Program provides employment services and noted that about 50% of the residents who receive services through this program do not use English as a first language. She added that they have increased the employment-related supports for immigrants through the Community Learning Center. Ms. Semonoff explained that the City provides funding support to the CityLinks program for immigrant students in the high school. She explained that these students have worked in the City of Cambridge as well as in non-profits through this program.

Ms. Semonoff stated that Baby University and the Center for Families has been extremely beneficial to the community. She said that Baby U is a 14-week parenting support program which consists of at least 50% of immigrant families. She stated that this number is purposely balanced with non-immigrant families to create new support mechanism through the program.

The Senior Center has a number of particularly focused immigrant groups as well as groups with all of the seniors participating together. She noted that there is a Haitian group, a large Chinese group, a new Latino program that has 21 Latin American countries represented as well as a small Ethiopian group.

Ms. Semonoff explained that the City also runs a fuel assistance program that is federally funded through the State. She explained that in the last several years, a congressional mandate was is place that did not allow undocumented residents to receive assistance. Under Governor Patrick, the state did not follow the federal rule. She explained that Governor Baker did not continue the policy of Governor Patrick which means that in houses that include undocumented immigrants, the rate of fuel assistance would be cut to exclude the undocumented residents. She said that this policy is one that has had impact on Cambridge residents.

The Multi-Service Center, with the aid of outreach workers, has been running housing searches for immigrants whose English has made the process difficult for them. She stated that the Agenda For Children Literacy Initiative’s major focus is supporting parents as their children’s first teachers. She noted that often immigrants feel that it is important to talk to their child in English and the research suggests that if your goal is to have your child be a fluent English speaker, speaking to your child in your native language is beneficial. One of the messages of the Let’s Talk Campaign is that it is valuable and important to talk in your native language. Ms. Semonoff stated that parents have felt relief because of this information.

Ms. Peterson stated that the City is currently seeking individuals to serve on a commission regarding citizen rights and citizenship. She stated that the City is actively recruiting for members of this commission. She noted that the ordinance regarding immigrant rights passed years ago and she is happy that the conversation is moving forward. She explained that there will be 11 volunteer members on the commission and added that they must be residents of Cambridge but added that they would like people to express interest regardless of Cambridge residency. She stated that the goal is to ensure that the commission is representative of the community. She explained that there are a lot of services that are being offered to immigrants yet there are still needs that are not being met. She emphasized that the commission can be the central piece to look at the needs that are still out there and need to be addressed. She stated that the City is in the process of conducting a needs assessment with results due by the end of the summer. She noted that there may be needs that emerge from that assessment which could help identify where the city can move forward.

Councillor Mazen stated that this topic is the anchor point for the meeting. He stated that it is really important that each individual in the community find their passion, ability to problem solve and begin to engage. He introduced Mr. Lusardi.

Manny Lusardi read from a prepared statement. (ATTACHMENT B). He stated that he is a proud first generation American. He stated that the new Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship is the first step in building bridges between the community as a whole and the many different immigrant communities of Cambridge. He stated that government must go beyond providing services and find other ways to sincerely engage the immigrant community. He stated that the commission must work to encourage immigrants within the City to communicate their fears and needs regardless of importance and to work together to solve the issues affecting the immigrant community. He stated that coming to a new country thousands of miles away from home with no family must have been difficult for his father as well as the millions of Syrian refugees escaping civil war and people leaving Central America to pursue a better life for their families. He asked for the attendees to imagine what it must have been like for this father as a 12-year old boy, coming to America all alone. He stated that no immigration attorney was waiting for him to help with obtaining his American citizenship. There was no one waiting to teach him English or to help him get admitted to a public school. He stated that he had no identification, no school and no medical records or any official documents listing his name, birthplace or birthdate.

He stated that his hope for the commission is a well-staffed commission with people eagerly available to assist and help poor immigrants obtain American citizenship on a pro bono basis.

Sylvia de Marrais read from a prepared statement. (ATTACHMENT C). She stated that she has been working as an organizer for the Immigrant Advocacy Group since the beginning of the current year. She said that months ago, her group presented a policy order to Councillor Mazen for submission onto the City Council agenda proposing that an immigrant representative be created in Cambridge for the substantially-sized community (over 28% of our residents, or about 30,000 people are foreign-born in this city, and about 3 in 5 are not citizens). (ATTACHMENT D). She explained that leading up to their meeting with the City Council, they prepared arguments for this small step toward greater public representation of immigrants’ voices in the city, and they were hopeful that this non-voting representative would be an avenue to greater integration of immigrants’ issues into the municipal agenda. She stated that they were fortunate to have Councillors Simmons and Mazen sign on as sponsors to this Policy Order.

Ms. de Marrais said that her group did not expect the suggestion from City Council members during their meeting on March 21st that the idea of an immigrant representative in Cambridge be augmented. She stated that a suggestion was made to create a budget item for an initiative meant to empower immigrants in our city, to aide in their representation and more full integration into City life, and for an initiative that would be able to do more for our foreign-born communities than one volunteer representative of unknown term length would be able to do. She noted that this was an exciting premise, and one that her group was grateful to be afforded.

Ms. de Marrais commented that the invigoration of this commission is an amazing step forward in the City because we need to make sure we are able to serve all of our residents. She noted that her group sees a need for a permanent City body to be directly accountable to our large foreign-born community; to be a place where immigrants can walk in and be referred to existing local organizations and programs like the Community Learning Center, the Community Engagement Team, the Multi-Service Center on Green Street, CLSACC legal aid services, Margaret Fuller House, Food For Free, and much more. She said that this office would also be able to help immigrants connect with community organizations to help engage them civically, translation services to better-understand employment or naturalization documents, and even help with the naturalization process.

Ms. de Marrais spoke about a report from 2012 that was conducted by the Cambridge Women’s Commission along with partners in the community at the Community Learning Center and elsewhere which is called the Immigrant Women’s Roundtable Report. She stated that to her knowledge, this is the first report of its kind in the city where solely immigrant women were addressed in an effort to sufficiently represent them in data on women in Cambridge. She noted that the report was conducted in response to community members who were concerned that there was a lack of accurate information concerning immigrant women in particular in our city, and concern over a possible gap in services that may “still exist.” She said that she feels that the findings show a need for increased attention paid to our immigrant community: 32% did not understand their rights as immigrants in Cambridge, with another 20% having “OK” knowledge. More than 20% do not understand spoken English well and are not comfortable asking questions, with almost 50% having taken English classes in Cambridge.

Ms. de Marrais explained that in Boston, the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Advancement holds bimonthly workshops where immigrants are welcome to come and receive free legal services, which can be crucial in many ways that native-born U.S. citizens may not be able to understand at first-glance. She said that a municipal structure specifically made to deal with immigrant affairs, working in conjunction with the board of commissioners that is yet-to-be-formed but is indeed in the process of being created, would be tasked with serving the immigrant community of Cambridge as well as being city experts on issues affecting them and their communities, families, etc. She added that it would be pivotal to have a person in Cambridge who is able to explain how the DACA policy would affect immigrants as this type of national policy affects entire families.

Councillor Mazen thanked Ms. de Marrais for her advocacy and vision. He stated that the advocacy group had a specific goal and ended with a stronger outcome than the anticipated goal.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that he likes the idea of an actual office or place where people can be directed. He stated that there is no shortage of services and in an effort to support various groups, it is sometimes difficult to navigate and find those services. He stated that a key contact person would be beneficial. He added that this is an exciting possibility and said that anything that can be done to make it easier for people is a good thing.

Councillor Carlone stated that all of our forefathers were immigrants. He said that he feels the urgency to be active in this area. He stated that a compelling case has been made. He stated that if we are not addressing all the needs and encouraging people to grow there is a problem. He said that the City Council will support a positive direction. He stated that in the first stage, an ongoing office under the direction of Ms. Schlacter is the most powerful way to deal with this issue.

Councillor Devereux stated that this is a good outcome to try to consolidate. She asked for clarification as to difference between an office and a commission. Ms. Peterson responded that there are 42 commissions and boards. She explained that they operate independently so this commission would be reporting through Nancy Schlacter and the Human Rights Commission. She noted that the staff members report to the City Manager. She noted that this is the structure in terms of the way the Ordinance has been written. She said that the City does need to see how it evolves in terms of the needs and what makes sense. She stated that the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement in the City of Boston is impressive with 8 employees and added that Boston is a much larger city. Councillor Devereux stated that that she was envisioning a physical place. Ms. Peterson responded that there is the need for centralizing of information and referral.

Councillor Mazen introduced An Le, Policy and Communications Advisor, Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement (MOIA), City of Boston, who read from a prepared statement. (ATTACHMENT E). Mr. Le stated that it is the mission of the MOIA to strengthen the ability of diverse cultural and linguistic communities to play an active role in the economic, civic, social and cultural life in the City of Boston.

He stated that the MOIA works with City departments and diverse community partners to improve access to city government, its services, and community resources for foreign-born; act as a catalyst for change and facilitate collaboration and understanding among immigrant communities and other stakeholders; identify and address key issues facing immigrant and refugee communities; and recognize and promote the significant contributions of foreign-born Bostonians, individually and collectively. He stated that they have a staff of 8 full-time employees, 3 of whom are mostly funded externally to work on specific time-limited projects. He gave an overview of work conducted by MOIA in FY 2016, some of which include serving nearly 700 individual constituents who contact their office, hosting of Immigrant Clinics to provide free legal advice, Citywide Citizenship Day, hosting the We are Boston Anniversary Gala which celebrates Boston’s heritage and diversity, Immigrant Information Corners at 24 Boston Public Libraries, DACA/DAPA Outreach and Education Initiative, creation of the Task Force on Foreign-Trained Professionals, and creation of an MOIA Advisory Board. He stated that beyond the work itself, they have found that the office’s presence sends the message that the City of Boston is welcoming to all who live, work and play in Boston, including the 27% of residents who are foreign-born. He noted that this perspective is consistent with the City’s immigrant heritage and continues to help Boston be healthy, thriving and innovative. He stated that the MOIA is ready to support the City of Cambridge in its efforts to do the same. Mr. Le stated that the MOIA is trying to not just be the point of contact for foreign-born residents, but in addition, they want to help all City departments build the capacity to serve the needs of the foreign-born and be welcoming to them.

Councillor Mazen stated that being able to work in conference with Mr. Le is the best thing a fledgling group can have. Vice Mayor McGovern asked Mr. Le about the process in terms of getting the department established. Mr. Le stated that it is his understanding that there was a generous donor who donated the funds to get it started. He said that Mayor Menino had the idea because he saw all who live in Boston as Bostonians.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that it if Boston was in any other part of the country, cities such as Cambridge, Somerville, Chelsea and Everett would all be part of Boston. He said that he is pleased to collaborate with Boston on this issue. He noted that cities and towns are struggling with the same issues and partnerships with surrounding communities is crucial. He thanked Mr. Le for his willingness to support the City of Cambridge in its efforts.

Councillor Mazen stated that citizenship is a barrier to voting. He stated that the basic democratic premise is that as many people as possible who are stakeholders should be represented in the community. He spoke about a day to commemorate, thank and celebrate non-citizens in the community and the desire to have a formative event that brings together service providers, information, a plan for the year ahead and other task-oriented aspects together with a celebration.

Councillor Toomey thanked Councillor Mazen for reinvigorating this issue. He stated that this is a fantastic moment and long overdue. He noted that this will be another step in the process of Cambridge welcoming all people.

Councillor Mazen stated that Policy Order #25 of Aug 10, 2015 speaks to opening up voting to the full set of stakeholders. He stated that this Policy Order was referred to the Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee for further discussion. He stated that forwarding a Home Rule Petition to the state is within our rights and power. He asked what the qualifications or restrictions would be on such non-citizens. Vice Mayor McGovern stated that voting in local elections could cause a problem in terms of people obtaining citizenship. He said that the City Council would need clarification because we do not want to do something that will hurt people in the end.

Councillor Mazen stated that if you commit voter fraud, it is almost impossible to go through the citizen process. Leslie Ditrani stated that it would not be a bar for citizenship but her concern is that the question that they have to answer. She stated that if you mark yes on the questions regarding if you have ever voted, your process will become different. She stated that she thinks of the students who don’t have legal representation trying to explain that they voted because it was allowed in Cambridge. She said that there may be a better way to serve the community. Vice Mayor McGovern asked if there are other communities around the country that allow non-citizens to vote in municipal elections. Mr. Lusardi answered in the affirmative. Ms. Ditrani stated that she would be happy to research this issue. She explained that for people who can afford a lawyer, this will not be a problem. Vice Mayor McGovern stated that it is important to ensure that we are not hurting people down the road. Ms. Ditrani stated that obtaining information as to how many people this has affected would be beneficial. Vice Mayor McGovern stated that he would be reluctant to support such a Home Rule Petition until he gets this question answered. He stated that it is important to conduct due diligence.

Councillor Toomey stated that it would require a Home Rule Petition and he stated that it is important to ask the City Solicitor and the House Counsel to look at the language of the Home Rule Petition before it is submitted in order to increase the chances for passage.

Councillor Mazen made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to understand how municipalities that allow non-citizen voting are able to maintain or support, not hinder, the naturalization process; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement for the City of Boston to connect the City with the appropriate USCIS outreach or community relations community representative.

The motion carried.

Leslie Ditrani stated that passage of the Home Rule Petition will not impact the naturalization process.

Mr. Lusardi stated that it will not hurt the chances of naturalization but it will complicate it. Ms. Ditrani said it will delay the process but more of a concern is if someone answers the question “yes” I voted, and then cannot explain that they were allowed to vote in the City of Cambridge. Vice Mayor McGovern stated that it is imperative to find out how other communities that allow non-citizens to vote work with the Department of Immigration to help support people through that process. The answer may be that they do not. Councillor Devereux suggested that if we do allow non-citizens to vote, it could be possible that the Election Commission provide a form stating that this person is legally registered to vote in Cambridge. She added that this form may alleviate some of the confusion. Mr. Lusardi stated that New Bedford has an ID program and it is managed through the Election Commission.

At this time Councillor Mazen asked Mr. Dan Schwartz to speak on Policy Order #13 of Apr 7, 2014 which was referred to the Civic Unity Committee for further discussion. (ATTACHMENT F). Mr. Schwartz stated that Boston does this once yearly with service providers which gives non-citizens the opportunity to work with legal advisers and a day to honor them as they come in. He stated that City Council Members are present. Councillor Mazen noted that this is a reasonable celebration to hold.

Councillor Devereux asked if this event takes place on the weekend. She stated that this is a celebratory day and could occur on the weekend so it would not interfere with work schedules. Mr. Schwartz responded that it is an all-day event. Vice Mayor McGovern stated that there are many people that work on the weekends as well. He stated that he likes the idea of this event being service-oriented and informational. He stated that Boston does something similar for the homeless population.

Councillor Carlone stated that holding the event on a Monday would make the most sense since staff is working a longer day. He stated that it seems obvious to him that this event should be held on a Monday.

Councillor Devereux stated that since the City of Cambridge is about to form the commission, it may be wise to let the commission decide if Immigrants Day is a high priority. She noted that it seems like a big chunk of work for a newly formed commission. Ms. Schlacter stated that they do not anticipate a meeting of the commission until September. Councillor Mazen stated that it should be up to the discretion of the commission.

Councillor Mazen made the following motion:
ORDERED: That Policy Order #13 of Apr 7, 2014 be referred to the City Council with a favorable recommendation; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager work with the Cambridge Commission for Immigrant Rights and Citizenship to help prioritize this event as one that takes place in 2017.

The motion carried.

Ms. Peterson stated that once the City Manager appoints the commission the appointments will go before the full City Council. She suggested that at that time a policy order can be submitted stating that the commission report back to the City Council on a work plan or result of needs assessment. She stated that the above motion may put too much pressure on people. She thinks that we should give the individual members time to think about a timeframe.

Councillor Mazen stated that he thinks a similar look at where Cambridge is compared to Boston and the quantifying of goals may be helpful to this committee. He stated that it would be great to know how far we have to go. Ms. Peterson stated that the list given by Mr. Le would be valuable to use when thinking about possible benchmarks.

Councillor Mazen opened the meeting to Public Comment at 7:16pm.

Gerry Bergman, 82 Elm Street, stated that he recalls major campaigns to extend voting rights to noncitizens. He stated that it is important to stand strongly behind the principle of extending voting rights to residents. He stated that this Bill was drafted for strategic purposes. He stated that he does not think that one criteria should be that the individual is moving forward in the naturalization process. He stated that he does not know what percentage of people will venture into the naturalization process. He stated the need to think about the broader principle. He stated that when he chaired the Community Action Agency they did endless needs assessment. He stated that it was not entirely successful in measuring the needs. He stated that in Cambridge, even though we are caring people, there are unmet needs. He stated that we need to connect the dots. He stated that there is an issue of shortage of services. He stated that the MBTA extorted money out of the city. He stated that it would be nice to recognize the fact that there are unfunded needs.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that of the $25 million for the Green Line Extension project, the City would only pay half and the developers at North Point would pay the other half. He stated that we have to go to the state to get a Home Rule Petition and must reach out to the state delegation on how best to make that happen. He stated that we can write down dreams or try to figure out how to make it feasible and allow it to pass.

Councillor Mazen stated that in terms of the bins of money and the larger allocations, there is a lot of outreach, economic development and housing work that will be difficult. He noted the need to earmark sections of the budget for things that have been difficult to achieve so far.

Josie Anjonis, 20 Pleasant Street, stated that she received an e-mail from her church. She stated that she is also a child of an immigrant. She stated that the needs are great when trying to service immigrants in the community. She stated that her husband just migrated here from the Dominican Republic. She stated that her husband has a Bachelor’s Degree but is now doing odd jobs and trying to re-educate himself. She said that she would like a centralized place for people to be able to access information. She stated that the amount of time to acclimate to the community was extremely difficult for her husband. She would like the committee to talk to the immigrants and get their point of view.

Mr. Lusardi stated that he and Ms. de Marrais have been reaching out. He asked Ms. Peterson if a foreign-born or immigrant will be made part of the commission. Ms. Peterson answered in the affirmative. Ms. Peterson reiterated that the City is not looking for immigration status of applicants, just residency in Cambridge.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that we need outreach. He stated that although it is an 11-member commission, many times people do not apply to City commissions. He urged the attendees to share information about…..

Councillor Mazen thanked all those present for their participation.

The hearing adjourned at 7:32pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Nadeem Mazen, Chair, Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee

For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Marc C. McGovern, Chair, Civic Unity Committee

Committee Report #3
The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee held a public hearing on Fri, May 20, 2016 beginning at 10:36am in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the hearing was to review and consider an extension to the current City Manager’s contract, to review and approve a response to the May 4, 2016 Open Meeting Law complaint of John Hawkinson and to continue development and approval of the new City Manager search process.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Maher, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Cheung; Councillor Mazen; Vice Mayor McGovern; Councillor Toomey; Councillor Devereux; Mayor Simmons; Richard Rossi, City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Nancy Glowa, City Solicitor; Sandra Albano, Executive Assistant to the City Council; and City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; Hasson Rashid, 820 Massachusetts Avenue; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; Michael Brandon, 27 Seven Pines Avenue; and Peter Valentine, 37 Brookline Street.

Councillor Maher convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He stated that the meeting is being audio and video recorded. An agenda was distributed (ATTACHMENT A).

Councillor Maher stated that the first item of business is the extension of the City Manager's contract to coincide with the search process. City Manager Rossi has agreed that he will extend his current contract from June 30, 2016 to Sept 30, 2016 if approved by City Council.

Councillor Maher stated that if the committee follows the schedule there will be a decision by late September. This allows for continuity and will take pressure off of the City Manager search.

City Manager Rossi stated that his intention was to retire on June 30, 2016. He stated that he would be pleased to do this if this is beneficial to the City he is willing to stay until Sept 30, 2016. He added that after Sept 30, 2016 he would not be looking for another extension.

Councillor Mazen welcomed the extension and wanted the extension longer so that the new City Manager overlaps with Mr. Rossi for a period of time. Mr. Rossi stated that he would work with the new City Manager to figure out what this may be. Mr. Rossi stated that he would like to adhere to the schedule. He would meet with the new City Manager in the fall and work with the new person intermittently. He stated that he would never leave the City high and dry in this situation. Councillor Mazen noted the importance of having an overlap period to give access to Mr. Rossi.

Councillor Devereux asked if the new City Manager is expected to appoint on Sept 23, 2016 what is a reasonable time to expect the new City Manager to start. They may not be able to start until November or December in the event that they may have to give notice. Councillor Maher responded that the City Council has to wait and see who the candidate is. He stated that if the candidate is employed they would need to give proper notice. He stated that Mr. Rossi is open to transition time after September. Mr. Rossi stated that if there is a gap as of Sept 30, 2016 until Dec 1, 2016 the prudent thing to do would be to appoint an Acting City Manager, which is in the City Charter. He stated that he would intermittently make himself available to assist the new City Manager.

Councillor Cheung stated that Mr. Rossi is reasonable and will work with the City. He further stated that Mr. Rossi has gone on vacation and the City has not fallen apart. There is a good leadership team in place. He stated that there are options after Sept 30, 2016.

Councillor Maher now moved to the second item on the agenda which was approval of the response to the Open Meeting Law complaint filed by John Hawkinson on May 4, 2016.

City Solicitor Glowa stated that the complaint and draft response is attached. She stated that there was no violation of the Open Meeting Law and have drafted the response for the City Council.

Vice Mayor McGovern asked how much time is spent on these complaints by the Law Department. There have been 8-10 complaints filed; one was found to be valid. What does this take away from the City?

City Solicitor Glowa stated that responding to the Open Meeting Law Complaints and the Public Records Requests it makes it difficult to get the work of the City Solicitors Office done.

Councillor Mazen stated that both sides are frustrated with the current state of affairs. He explained that a win-win situation is not that crazy to imagine. He stated that City operates very quickly for a municipality on a variety of issues. Cambridge gets a lot done. The public sometimes see conspiracies or they just want to ask a question. The City Council is juggling to get information before the public and when not done well there is defensiveness by the public. He stated that if we look at how notices can be posted better, have move comprehensive agendas and be an open records and data repository for people who want to improve the data of the City. He stated that if done wrong we can reach an outcome where the journalist community and activist see us in a certain way or we can confront these things head on. It is hard to do better for open records and this should be discussed and this would alleviate this pressures. There are rights and good points on both sides and this conversation should be entertained.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that he is frustrated that the other side of the story is never told.

There were 8 Open Meeting Complaints filed and found not to be valid by the Attorney General. It makes us look bad, take city time and resources and it is not constructive. The City can always strive to be better. He commented that the Law Department is asked to do many things and it sometimes takes a while to get a response and this is happening because staff is spending time responding these types of issues. City Solicitor Glowa stated that this is a legal process and is available to citizens. She stated that in this instance it is the job of the Law Department to represent the boards and commissions and the departments of the City. The facts are reviewed, and the legal analysis is prepared. She concluded that in this case there was no Open Meeting Law violation.

Councillor Toomey commented that some committee are not posting their agendas before the meetings. He wanted to know if this was a fact. He requested a list of committees who have not posted their agendas in accordance with the provisions of the Open Meeting Law so that we can find out why.

Councillor Mazen spoke about agendas being posted and when he attends the meeting the agenda has been changed. He stated that if the concern of the applicant is so grave that it becomes a complaint filed under the Open Meeting Law he could see the intention behind this particular committee meeting. He suggested tightened this because of this complaint. He suggested the complaint being withdrawn or that standard be set or re-emphasize the existing standard. He added that this does not need to be elevated to this level. He stated that he could do better.

Mr. Rossi commented that if you look back to where the City was three years ago compared to now the City willingness and ability to provide more open data and provide more public information is far greater today than it was three years ago. He stated that the City has made strides to place more information on the open meeting portal. It has been suggested that the City look at its practices and how people are required to pay to get information. He stated that it is being looked at what the Governor is proposing to make Freedom of Information Requests less burdensome for the public. There needs to be a level of trust on both sides. If people want to continue to play "gotcha" this will never be achieved. If the dialogue is open and continuing about how we can continue to improve communication it will change. Both sides need to thing about this and make it better in the future. There will be a need in the future for a position for the repository for all this information; this person will need to organize, to keep track of the information and to send out the information. Actions need to be thought about as to how people are being approached and what is being sought. Is information being sought or is information being requested as a journalist, are you speaking as an activist or a journalist - this information needs to be know when employees are speaking to the public. He added that this is all achievable if in the right context.

Councillor Maher opened public comment at 10:56am.

Hasson Rashid, 820 Massachusetts Avenue stated that this hearing is to consider extending the contract of the current City Manager until an interim new City Manager is appointed or installed. The discussion about a new City Manager should consider that there are qualified black Americans and other qualified minorities who can serve effectively as City Manager in the City. He stated that they should be given equal footing and be included in the discussions for the deliberations for a new City Manager in the future.

Michael Brandon, 27 Seven Pines Avenue, spoke about OML alleged violation. He is not sure there is a violation, but what was contained in the complaint is not unreasonable. It is good for the public to have as detailed agenda as soon as possible. If the City wants to rid the adversarial aspect he would like the City Council to set up a hearing to discuss issues regarding open government. There continues to be a perception that the City Council and boards and commission do not always follow the rules. He spoke about the License Commission cancelling a meeting at the last minute due to computer glitch because the notice was not posting on-line pursuant to the Open Meeting Law. He stated that he was frustrated that Mayor Simmons appointed a committee to change the City Council Rules. He applauded these hearings be televised. He spoke on public records and public meetings being open. Law Department charges for all public record requests. There is a state regulation that public bodies and cities are encouraged to waive fees. Some of the details that were not on the agenda in advance could have been. Councillor Mazen moved to allow Mr. Brandon an additional minute and the motion carried on a voice vote. Mr. Brandon asked about the status of and who is on the RFP Review Committee and if that is proceeding. He stated that he did not know if the Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee has actually decided to asked Mr. Rossi to extend his contract and it does not make sense to do this because the mechanism is there for the City Manager to retire and to let the Deputy City Manager continue. He stated that this is outlined in the Charter.

Mayor Simmons announced that she would absent herself for a short period of time because she has office hours on Friday.

Peter Valentine, 37 Brookline Street, stated that he is interested in the fact and accomplishments of a new City Manager.

Jack Bowson spoke on the City Manager process. He stated that the original timeline envisioned twenty citizen forums or workshops in June. It is now May 20th and there is no search firm yet. He urged the committee to consider pushing timeline back or extending the dates for the forums. He did not want the City to be shackled by the Sept 30, 2016 deadline.

On a motion of Vice Mayor McGovern public comment was closed at 11:09am on a voice vote of four members.

Councillor Maher made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Council approve an extension to the City Manager's existing Employment Agreement of February 2013 for an additional three (3) months, from July 1, 2016 to Sept 30, 2016, on such amended terms as shall be mutually agreed to by the City Manager and the City Council, with all terms not amended to continue in full force and effect; such extension shall be reduced to writing as the First Amendment to the Employment Agreement between the City of Cambridge and Richard C. Rossi, and executed by both parties.

Councillor Maher noted that this agreement is just a change in the date and no other aspects of the City Manager's agreement.

City Solicitor Glowa stated that there is one other provision in the contract that she wanted to bring to the attention of both parties. It is the notice provision in the event that notice back and forth between either from the City Manager to the City Council or from the City Council to the City Manager if they wish to terminate the contract prior to its termination date. The notice provision in the existing contract is four months. This will be a three month extension so it is recommended to either reduce the length of the notice provision or striking it out entirely at the pleasure of both parties.

Councillor Toomey moved that this section be stricken entirely.

The question now came on the motion by Councillor Toomey - and on a voice vote of five members - the motion carried.

The question now came on the extension of the City Manager's contract until Sept 30, 2016. The vote of the Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee resulted as follows after the roll was called:
YEAS: Councillors Cheung, Maher and Mazen, Vice Mayor McGovern and Councillor Toomey - 5
and the motion to extend the City Manager's contract to Sept 30, 2016 - Carried.

Councillor Maher stated that this matter will be referred to the full City Council so that the full City Council will vote on this.

Councillor Maher now moved to the response to the Open Meeting Law Complaint violation filed on May 4, 2016.

On a motion by Vice Mayor McGovern to approve the response - the response was approved on a voice vote of five members.

Councillor Maher stated that it is his intention within the next two weeks to be able to meet with the search firm selected and to have an outline of focus group meetings and dates. He encouraged the City Councillors that if they had specific groups or ideas if they would forward these to him. A proposal will be put before the committee and will be revised as the process moves forward.

Councillor Devereux requested Councillor Maher to respond to the question by Mr. Brandon as to who is on the RFP Review Committee.

Councillor Maher stated that the RFP Review Committee is made up of three City employees. They are appointed by the City Manager. Mr. Rossi stated that this is a process that has always been managed by the Purchasing Agent. In this case because of the particular nature of the firms that were being selected it was opted to add City Councillors to the committee. Normally this is not anything that the City Council is involved in but in this case it makes good sense that they have the ability to weigh in and give their selection. He stated that the three City employees are Deputy City Manager Lisa Peterson, Assistant City Manager for Community Development Department Iram Farooq and the Affirmative Action Officer Duane Brown who will work with the four City Council members and the Purchasing Agent. Councillor Maher stated that the four City Councillors appointed by the City Manager are Councillors Carlone, Devereux, Kelley, and Vice Mayor McGovern.

Councillor Maher thanked all present for their attendance.

The hearing was adjourned at 11:15am on a motion Councillor Toomey.

For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair

Committee Report #4
The Transportation & Public Utilities Committee held a public hearing on Tues, May 24, 2016 at 3:06pm in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the hearing was to discuss the Green Line Extension Project (GLX) which appeared on the City Manager’s Agenda # 8 of May 9, 2016.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Toomey, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Carlone; Councillor Cheung; Councillor Mazen; Councillor Devereux; Richard Rossi, City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Louis DePasquale, Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs; Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager for Community Development Department (CDD); Susanne Rasmussen, Director, Environmental and Transportation Planning, CDD; Bill Deignan, Transportation Planner, CDD; Tegin Bennett, Transportation Planner, CDD; Nancy Glowa, City Solicitor; Joseph Barr, Director, Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department; Robert Reardon, Chief Assessor; and City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street; Saul Tannenbaum, 16 Cottage Street; and John Sanzone.

Councillor Toomey convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He announced that the hearing is being privately recorded.

Councillor Toomey stated that GLX has been the topic of discussion for many years. The State Secretary of Transportation has been discussing bringing this project to fruition. He thanked the City staff for working on this issue. There has been a significant increase in cost from $2 billion to $3 billion. The state has asked affected communities to provide additional resources. Mr. Rossi has put forth a proposal with the developer of NorthPoint for $25 million. This committee has been asked to explore this possibility. He wanted Mr. Rossi to explain the conversations with Secretary Pollack and the history. He wanted NorthPoint to be part of the conversation and asked what the benefits to Cambridge with the GLX are. This has been a long standing conversation. The City has worked with the state on this. This will change the state projects in the future with local communities contributing financial aid.

City Manager Rossi stated that this project is different and when a situation like this arises in his position he was conflicted. Communities contributing to a large transportation project is different. Last fall it was heard that this project was in trouble. He met with Secretary Pollack in several meetings together with representatives from other communities. The MBTA Board took a position that the local communities would have to contribute. The project has a cost of $2.5 - $3 billion. There was a $300 million funding gap. He stated that $152 million was transferred to the project if the GLX goes forward. He discussed this with the mayors of Somerville and Medford. Somerville and Cambridge only agreed to say to the state that communities would put forth as CEO's that we are willing to have a conversion with the City Council and agreed to make a contribution. This was only to agree to a conversation - this is the commitment made to date. He went to the developers to see if the developer would join with Cambridge. They have agreed to discuss a 50% contribution from the developer and city equaling $25,000 million. He does not have this in writing. He added that absent the contribution from communities to fund this gap this project will not go forward - the Secretary was very clear about this. Somerville is working toward contributing $50 million. Even with this there will still leave a $70 million gap. He stated that there is an equity issue for the taxpayers of the communities. He stated the funding for this may be bonded, free cash, and cherry sheet or T assessment.

Mr. DePasquale explained that a 30 year bond versus a 20 year bond doubles. This would be $8 million for 30 years. Cambridge could look at a 20 year bond. He stated this is not something to bond. The biggest issue is how to guarantee the $25 million. He is leaning towards free cash.

Mr. Rossi stated that this may not be done all at once. At $2.3 billion dollars the plan has been scaled back. The Lechmere Station is like what is seen at Yaw key station. This does not seem to be negotiable. He stated that the city has been clear with the state regarding the importance of the CPX but there is an issue with making the money contingent on work relating to the CPX.

The state has been clear that is not possible. We have suggested to the state that the Community Path be built in such a way that it can be completed in the future. Cambridge and Somerville are comfortable with this. The developers are taking on more financial responsibilities with maintenance. The developers are extending First Street and making Monsignor O'Brien Highway safer. Lechmere is such an intricate part of NorthPoint. There could be 9,000 jobs in NorthPoint, 2500+ units of housing 85,000 sq. feet of retail.

Councillor Toomey stated that NorthPoint will be the beneficiary of the Lechmere Station. What is the tax money that Cambridge will receive?

Mr. Reardon responded $22-28 million taxes for city. It is a 15 year project. He stated that without the GLX development will be slowed. Mr. Rossi stated that this development would generate building permit fee revenue.

Councillor Toomey stated that when Lechmere Station is relocation the old station parcel will be available. Mr. Rossi stated that the developer gets the rights to develop the old Lechmere Station. The way it will finish the corner in East Cambridge will provide an opportunity for the community to have a more useable land.

Ms. Farooq stated that Lechmere Station is part of the NorthPoint permit for housing and retail and a farmer’s market format. There is also 11,000 square feet of open space included and will lead to an improved entryway of Cambridge and provide completing First Street.

Councillor Carlone spoke about the financial aspect. This is a natural financial increment financing tying it to NorthPoint. Mr. DePasquale responded that it was more about the uncertainty; it is about what is the best route.

Ms. Rasmussen stated that First Street Extension is important to move traffic from Third Street to First Street as part of the ECAPs. Regarding the reconstruction of O'Brien Highway the developer will construction a cycle track. The GLX project extends transit access to the west which we have not had previously. This will create transit accessibility. There is a Hubway at Lechmere. In Lechmere there is a connection with EZ Ride and the Orange Line. This is a dramatic change.

Mr. Rossi spoke about the scaled down station. The station will be fully handicapped accessible.

Ms. Rasmussen added that there will 2 elevators at the station.

Councillor Toomey asked about pedestrian access from East Cambridge. Mr. Barr stated that there will be a high quality pedestrian crosswalk created along with the cycle track. It needs to work well for pedestrians. He further stated that there are still some issues with the State that need to be resolved.

Mr. Rossi sated that the federal government review of this was favorable. There is $1 billion of federal money at stake with this project. He did not think a few years ago that this would happen. He commented that this is beneficial to the conditions of the city. He expressed his concern about the traffic and pedestrian safety in this area. He stated that the contribution is a reasonable amount. The State is looking for a larger amount. In the future communities will have to provide contributions. He stated that he would continue to negotiate the $25 million. He expressed caution that no amendments be made or the project will not go forward.

Councillor Toomey stated his support for the Somerville Community Path and the Grand Junction Path. He stated that some want Cambridge to pay for all of this because of Cambridge's strong financial situation. Cambridge is paying its fair share. This is an environmental issue and an equity issue and takes cars off the road. The tax base increases and jobs will be beneficial to Cambridge. The cost benefits outweigh the negative aspect. This is a regional issue and this is worthwhile.

Councillor Carlone stated he support. The MBTA is going to have to restructure to organize this. He would not be opposed if there was a surcharge on something for transportation. He stated that Lechmere Station is a 100 year old station. In 1980 the design was handsome; the current is scaled down. He commented that Yawkey Station is nothing more than a commuter rail station. He spoke to the effect of the winds. The plan should include O'Brien Highway so that it can be continued in the future. Mr. Rossi stated he would discuss this with Secretary Pollack. If the project goes forward there may be an incentive for the development community for other contributions. Councillor Carlone noted that the station is oriented to NorthPoint and not to the community. Councilor Carlone stated that in l980 working in East Cambridge he was told that the Lechmere Station was in the MBTA 20 year plan - he thinks they still want the station to be in the 20 year plan. Mr. Rossi stated that the Mayor of Somerville believes strongly that this is the lifeline for Somerville. Councillor Carlone applauded the City keeping this project alive.

People invested in NorthPoint because of the station. Councillor Toomey noted that people invested in Union Square. FTA has to approve this and it could be another 5-6 years out.

Mr. Rossi spoke about Cambridge's financial commitment - the City supports that this contribution is proportional to the value.

Councillor Cheung supported the City and the importance of getting this done and done right. He stated that the MBTA does not know how to manage its money or projects. This is his biggest concern. Mr. Rossi explained that the City's contribution is tied strictly to GLX. He was impressed with the commitment from the MBTA board. Councillor Cheung stated that he has felt as a hostage with the State on this project. There is still a $75 million gap - this is close to the contributions being made by Cambridge and Somerville. He hopes that the State does not come back and state that Cambridge and Somerville needs to double their commitment. Mr. Rossi stated that he will only commit what the City Council authorizes him to do.

Councillor Toomey stated that it is important to remember that this is a legal obligation that the state has to do this. He is trying to be optimistic - it is a legal obligation under Scheme Z by the State. It is time to make this a reality.

Councillor Devereux asked how strict the bare bones station is because there is a heat element. Is there an option that this can be retrofitted in 20 years? Ms. Rasmussen stated that it can be retrofitted to add an overhang is what she understand. Bill Deignan noted that a shelter and overhang are the biggest possibilities. Mr. Barr spoke about Lechmere being a 4 car station and it was not changed. Councillor Carlone stated that the MBTA will do the least possible. He added that all aspects need to be designed early on. The MBTA is cutting back and it will be minimal.

Councillor Cheung asked about air rights. Mr. Rossi stated it is not feasible. We need faith that the design can be added to. Councillor Carlone stated that recessions occur every 8 years and we are due. Mr. Rossi stated that if the City Council is inclined to move to a positive recommendation - that it can be stipulated that the funding be spent only on GLX and that the City contribution be the last money spent.

Councillor Carlone stated that he would like to see what it would take to make Lechmere a quality station overtime. He wanted see a design over the longtime to make this station become what it can be in the future. Mr. Rossi stated that in a few months consultant will be sent from MBTA to see the design.

At 4:10pm Councillor Toomey opened the meeting to public comment.

Steven Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, stated that Medford has been left out. The CPX proponents are upset with the replacement with an alternative. There needs to be adjustments in the process. They missed the viaduct design. It could be redesigned and at least $20 million could be saved and could pay for a canopy at the station. There will be a lengthy loss of service at Lechmere for 3 years. We need to think about this loss of service. He noted that every project that the State does in the City Cambridge will have to have a contribution. He spoke about the value of the land for the developer. There should be a developer contribution to transit. He stated that NorthPoint is not easy to build on. He stated that we need to find a way to alleviate NorthPoint from legal impediment. He suggested that the MBTA could purchase and sell back to the developer for clear title.

John Sanzone wanted a fully completed Community Path Extension. The CPX is critical to East Cambridge. Cambridge has to take the lead to make this happen because the state is taking a minimalistic approach and this will not increase use of the Green Line. An open air platform should only cost 1/4 of what it is costing. He spoke about a cheaper path plan. He stated there is no transit plan. He stated that the City has to take an advocacy position. He submitted a communication as President and Co-Founder, Friends of the Grand Junction Path, in support of requiring the complete Community Path Extension as part of the GLX (ATTACHMENT A).

Saul Tannenbaum, Cottage Street, stated that as a point of information Mass DOT is allowed to substitute projects. He stated that the City Council should approve the recommendation of the City Manager as it protects the City. This is an insane conversation. The Red Line and Green Line should be extended and more buses purchased and this a failure on the State level. He stated that there is an austerity position from the state.

Public comment closed at 4:25pm.

Councillor Mazen stated that the MBTA has a terrible image problem to deal with now. It is underfunded and lacks of internal planning. He stated that representatives from the MBTA should be at this meeting if the $25 million were a priority. He stated that he wanted consistent engagement with the MBTA. Mr. Rossi announced that there are representatives from the State here today and that they are willing to be engaged as this project moves along. Councillor Mazen stated that the MBTA needs to store buses and now they are on a downsizing path but storage should be downsized first. The CPX should be fully done. A storage facility should not come with the cost of community benefit. Mr. Rossi spoke about the prudent thing for the City is to keep this project alive.

At this time Councillor Toomey made the following motion:

That the matter of the GLX be referred to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation and that the City Manager continue to successfully negotiate with the MBTA and to come back to the City Council with an appropriation.

The motion carried on a voice vote of four members.

The following e-mails were received and made part of the record:

Communication from Paul Tammaro stated that the design of the GLX station does not work for seniors (ATTACHMENT B).

Communication from Lynn Weissman and Alan Moore, Co-Presidents of the Friends of the Community Path, 112 Belmont Street, Somerville, urging that the Cambridge City Council require that the GLX project be built fully with an off-road Community Path Extension from Lowell Street in Somerville to Water Street at NorthPoint in Cambridge as a requirement for approving the $25 million (ATTACHMENT C).

Communication from Christopher Casa, 103 Gore Street, strongly supporting the Community Path Extension as part of the GLX (ATTACHMENT D).

Councillor Toomey thanked all attendees for their participation.

The hearing adjourned at 4:32pm on motion of Councillor Cheung.

For the Committee,
Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Chair

Committee Report #5
The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee and the Civic Unity Committee held a joint public hearing on Thurs, May 26, 2016, beginning at 5:30pm in the Sullivan Chamber for the purpose of discussing Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen, Chair, Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee; Vice Mayor Marc C. McGovern, Chair, Civic Unity Committee; Councillor Dennis J. Carlone; Councillor Jan Devereux; and Councillor Craig Kelley.

Also present were Mahtowin Munro, Zoe Haber, Simon Simpson, Mattingly Wood, Ginevra Zaccagnini, Moonanum James, Raquel Halsey, Rosalba Solis, Mark Camp, Rev. Clyde Grubbs, Katherine Kelly, Shelley Riena, Nancy Ryan, Nancy Adams, Lori Wood, Laura Nelson, Jake Thorold, Arash Ghassemi, Ander Pierce, Margaret Ringler, Susan Ringler, Stephen Greenfield, Malek Abdellas, Martin Bonilla, Owen Eckert, Alijah Fontes Andrade, Hassan Hamer, Ahmed Ayad, Oscar Jimenez, Enrique Gutierrez, Hanna King, Skip Schiel, Susan Jacoby, Amahl Bisharah, Susan Estcovitz, Ali Larew, Ellen Stone, Pat Muldosa, Gerald Bergman, Sonia Gettman, Liza Behrendt, Jean Luc Pierite, Ausha Alam, Isabella Blackman, Clyde Gross, Ben Friedman, Dan Schwartz, Ayesha Lirmi, and Mercedes Jimenez.

Councillor Mazen read the Call of the Meeting and stated that Indigenous Peoples’ Day is an important cause.

Vice Mayor McGovern thanked the audience for turning out to the meeting and participating in City politics. He thanked Councillor Mazen for taking a leading role on the issue. He stated that this is an important issue, and only learned more about the exploitation of Indigenous populations after reading History of the United States by Howard Zinn. He stated that the nation can never undo what it did to the Indigenous population, but it can take steps towards healing. He acknowledged the controversy among the Italian community about Columbus Day and was hopeful that they could continue to honor Italian Americans without celebrating Columbus.

Councillor Carlone stated that his mother’s family was part Cherokee. He stated that this is an obvious movement that should have happened a long time ago.

School Committee member Kathleen Kelly stated that it is important for both the City Council and School Committee to come together and coordinate on this issue.

Councillor Mazen stated that this issue is very important to him and that the American educational system needs to more accurately depict Indigenous history. He stated that politics is a trying process and good organization is important for making positive steps. He stated that Columbus probably was not Italian, did not discover anything, and was a war criminal. He stated that it is important to understand how our holidays are created and adopted.

Ms. Munro thanked the City Council for letting her make an educational presentation on why Indigenous Peoples’ Day should be adopted (ATTACHMENT A). She stated that most of the speakers will be indigenous and also thanked all the non-Indigenous people attending the meeting and supporting their cause. She thanked a variety of groups for their support. She stated that this is a difficult subject to talk about historically and that they cannot “just get over” the exploitation of Native groups. She introduced Ms. Chung’s middle school class.

Ms. Chung stated that she is an 8th grade social studies teacher and when she heard about Indigenous Peoples’ Day she had her students write letters to the City Council. She then introduced her students.

Ms. Haber, Mr. Simpson, Ms. Wood, and Ms. Zaccagnini made an educational presentation on Columbus and Indigenous history. They stated that Columbus did terrible things to Indigenous populations and described the history and origin of Columbus Day. They asked the audience what they would do if this were to happen to them. They stated that other communities across the United States celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day and that Cambridge should as well. They stated that people should listen to the Indigenous population and change the name of Columbus Day. They read a letter that they wrote in favor of changing Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Mr. James thanked the students for what they said and learned. He stated that he is a member of the Wampanoag tribe and has lived in Cambridge for many years. He stated that the Cambridge City website stated that the history of Cambridge began with European settlers and did not mention the Indigenous people who lived on the land. He stated that thousands of Indigenous People travelled through the area and had names for places in Cambridge, only to be displaced by the English. He stated that historians say that disease destroyed Indigenous populations, but in large part it was a concerted effort by European settlers. He stated that Indigenous Peoples went to great lengths to preserve their lands, but were pressured to give up their culture and languages. He stated that none of this was done with free will and that the English wrote their existence out of history. He stated that he had ancestors that were massacred and sold into slavery by the British and were not considered human. He stated that Indigenous people are still here in Massachusetts, and many are from this region and all over the world. He stated that most Indigenous people live in urban areas, but there are many stereotypes still present. He stated that some non-native people hold prejudiced and misguided opinions about Indigenous peoples. He stated that Indigenous people are here to stay. He stated that many history books fail to mention Indigenous people after 1890 and that many people assume that they are extinct. He asked Cambridge to listen to Indigenous voices and make Columbus Day into Indigenous Peoples’ Day because it is the right thing to do.

Councillor Mazen said that President Barack Obama took a tour of Indigenous reservations and was shocked by the condition of many reservations, saying that the lack of economic equity and poverty was a major issue in Indigenous communities. Councillor Mazen stated that it is absurd for people think that Indigenous people have things handed to them.

Ms. Halsey stated that she has Indigenous lineage and is a Cambridge resident, as well as a board member for the North American Indian Center and that they provide services to Indigenous People all across the state. She stated that they are not here to denigrate Italian Americans but does say that Columbus is not a man to be celebrated. She stated that Indigenous Peoples’ Day is important to recognize Indigenous Peoples’ contributions to American society and teach a more complete history. She stated students should be exposed to the history of Natives. She stated that she worked on Native issues as an aide to a State Representative and that many people do not understand Native history because it is not talked about truthfully in schools and they are forced to beg for recognition. She urged Cambridge to change the name of Columbus Day to make the city more progressive and accepting. She commented that she should be able to celebrate her Native heritage in school and was put down in school for voicing her opinion. She thanked the Committee for their support and Councillor Mazen’s leadership on this issue.

Councillor Mazen thanked Vice Mayor McGovern and everyone in the audience for their support and stated that no credit is due to the City for being 200 years late.

Ms. Solis stated that thousands of Indigenous immigrants come from Latin America and she represents their view. She read a letter from the Maya people advocating for America to accept history and reject genocide, instead celebrating the beauty of Indigenous culture (ATTACHMENT B). She stated that she is also a public teacher and thanked the students for their support and that she teaches her student about Indigenous culture. She read out of a book that she reads to her students about Tainos experiencing the arrival of Columbus and the Europeans (ATTACHMENT C). The piece detailed the atrocities committed by Columbus against the Taino population. She stated that there was a genocide against Tainos and that is nothing to be proud of.

Mr. Camp stated that he works at 267 Mass Avenue and that he works for an International Indigenous Peoples’ rights group. He stated that a large portion of his staff and board members are Indigenous people from across the world, but they were founded in Cambridge many years ago. He stated that they lobby for the rights of Indigenous Peoples’ and are happy to be here to speak for the establishment of Indigenous Peoples’ day. He stated that a lot of good points have been made and he stated that we have to care about the rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Councillor Mazen stated that they may have to vote earlier than normal on this issue as to maintain a quorum. He read the following motion:
RESOLVED: That the Council go on the record to state that the second Monday of October henceforth be commemorated as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Cambridge, in recognition of the indigenous people of America’s position as native to these lands, and the suffering they faced following European conquest of their land; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the Council recommends that Indigenous Peoples’ Day be observed by the people, with appropriate exercises in the schools and otherwise, to the end that the culture, history and diversity of Native American Peoples be celebrated and perpetuated; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to the North American Indian Centre of Boston, the Nipmuc Nation, the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Tribal Council, the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay head, The Praying Indian Tribes of Natick and Ponkapoag, and the Massachusetts at Ponkapoag Tribe, being descendants of those people indigenous to this area, on behalf of the entire City Council.

The motion – Carried.

Vice Mayor McGovern submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Cambridge Historical Commission and any other relevant Departments to properly recognize, in the written history of Cambridge, as well as the marking of historical sites, the Indigenous people who resided on this land prior to the founding of Cambridge.
RESOLVED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council and School Committee regarding implementation of this order.

The motion carried unanimously.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that Councillor Mazen played a major part in the passing of these motions but this will need five votes of the full City Council to be adopted.

Ms. Kelly stated that she will bring this to the School Committee and would love to have the 8th graders speak at a School Committee meeting. She stated that as someone with Irish descent, she was thankful to the Indigenous people because the Indigenous People provided the Irish food while they were suffering from famine.

Councillor Mazen stated that they are sensitive to the Italian community and that their heritage is still respected. He further stated that Columbus was a particular figure and taking his day away does not negate the contributions of the Italian community and that he hope the City will honor the contributions of the Italian community through another means.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that he is half Italian, and that this is not about taking something away from Italians, it is actually a cleansing. He stated that Columbus is not a good representative and that they should not be represented by a mass murderer.

Reverend Grubbs stated that First Parish is the oldest church in Cambridge. He stated that the militias in the 17th century drilled in front of that Church in preparation of fighting Indigenous People. He noted that his church’s mission is to help the world, and they must be honest about their history. He stated they must own their past to reach reconciliation in the future. He stated that the Indigenous People were violently conquered by militias from the Cambridge area. He commented that the militias were taught that Natives were the devil’s people, and the founders did wrong in the world. He stated that this land was occupied and the Indigenous Peoples’ were enslaved and that many were forced to live in “praying towns.” He stated that they must acknowledge the setup that lead to that history. He stated that he lead that Parish and is part Cherokee, and as a minister he has tried to teach this history and that his students get angry that they were not taught this in school. He stated that they tell him that they were lied to by their teachers. He stated that if we are to have a reconciliation that they need to tell the truth thoroughly about Indigenous Peoples. He stated that the United States is not the only country that was impacted by European conquest and many places in Latin America are taking down statues of Columbus and acknowledging Indigenous Peoples’ Day. He stated that Cambridge should join all these cities. He stated that 90% of Indigenous people were killed 100 years after Columbus and that genocide occurred. He stated that discarding this history is wrong and talking about Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a small step in making America kind again.

Ms. Munro stated that she is a co-leader of the United American Indians of New England. She stated that Indigenous Peoples’ Day is not a new idea and began in the 1970’s. She stated that they approached members of the City Council previously and it has been a 24 year battle to get this day changed. She stated that teachers have taught about Columbus Day for a long time and it is important to teach this generation about history. She stated that racist sports team names and mascots have harmful effects on children. She stated that a high school in Cambridge changed its team name to be less offensive. She stated it is important to recognize Indigenous culture. She stated that Indigenous children in the United States are not treated well and are struggling. She stated that Native American women were sterilized and anti-native policies have caused many issues. She stated that native juveniles are disproportionately imprisoned. She stated that many in Native communities live in deplorable conditions. She stated that she is simply asking for Indigenous People to have one day to celebrate their contributions. She said that it is important for everyone to become allies and value diversity. She stated that Columbus is not worthy of a day. She stated that it is important to acknowledge Indigenous contributions. She noted that it is important that there is finally recognition for Native people. She stated that it changes the conversation from Columbus to the Indigenous People he murdered. He asked the City Council to adopt this day and its importance for equal treatment of all people.

Councillor Mazen thanked Ms. Munro for advocating so strongly and tirelessly for the issue, and opened the floor for public comment.

Manny Lusardi stated that he is Italian and was reluctant to speak tonight. He noted that it is an intimidating agenda and that Columbus is indefensible. He asked whether any children were taught about Italian heritage and that it is living history. He asked how many people knew that Italians were discriminated against as well in the United States. He stated that assimilation is bad because it removes culture, and that while it is okay to remove Columbus Day, he asked what to do with things like Jefferson Street.

Susan Ringler, 82 Kinnaird Street, stated that she is completely in favor of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, but that if Indigenous people had more control over the world that the climate would be in a much better position today. She noted that the people in power are really harming the planet and that the pathways that Indigenous people have shown would be better for the planet.

Jean Luc Pierite works for the Fab Foundation. He stated that the Calkta people gave the Irish food during their famine and that his grandmother told that story to him. He stated that he is part of a tribe from Louisiana and that his tribe was considered savages by the American government and an archeologist dug up many of their graves and gave the artifacts to Harvard. They entered a lawsuit against the University to get back their possessions. He commented that Columbus set a precedent for people taking Native’s possessions, and celebrating a day makes us complicit in their crimes.

Susan Jacoby from Jamaica Plain urged that speakers should speak loudly so everyone can hear.

Councillor Carlone thanked the 8th graders for their presentation and commented on their maturity. He stated the presentation was very educational and invigorating. He noted that four City Councillors did not hear the full presentation when it comes before the full City Council the students should show up to that meeting.

Councillor Devereux thanked everyone who came to this event. She said that she grew up in Florida and that they were taught about the myth of Columbus and she wished that she was taught correct history in school. She stated that the curriculum has to be changed and that changing a day is just the start. She said that many communities are facing the same thing and are re-evaluating street and building names. She noted that she hoped that they will find other ways to celebrate Italian heritage as well.

Councillor Carlone stated that he teaches architecture and includes Indigenous architecture in his curriculum. He commented that Indigenous Peoples created all kinds of important areas that were impressive to the Spanish. He noted that the heritage is powerful on many levels.

Vice Mayor McGovern stated that things may not be at odds with one another and that the motions do not take away Columbus Day from Italians and that we need to include every immigrant group to school curriculums and recognize atrocities of all types. He stated that the city supports Italian heritage month and a discussion about how holidays work. He stated that the mayor supports this change. He noted that it should not be at the expense of somebody else. He stated that he learned a lot today from the speakers today about how to handle atrocities and the importance of a wide variety of people in responding to these situations.

The hearing adjourned at 7:12pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Nadeem Mazen, Chair, Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee

For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Marc C. McGovern, Chair, Civic Unity Committee