Cambridge City Council meeting - June 11, 2012 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-33, regarding a report on a plan for implementing separate trash or recycling curbside pickup for small businesses along existing curbside pickup routes. [Please be advised that I am not recommending the implementation of such a program given the cost impacts to the City.]
Referred to Environment Committee - Toomey
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-66, regarding a report on monitoring designated disability parking spaces.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-37, regarding a report on installing traffic calming on Norfolk Street between Broadway and Hampshire Street.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-50, regarding a report on possibility banning the use of imidacloprid insecticide.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Agenda for Children grant in the amount of $5,000.00 received from the Cambridge Agassiz Harvard Fund to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support the Agenda for Children Middle School Network.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the supplemental appropriation of the Temporary Emergency Shelter grant received from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in the amount of $57,270.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($4,333.33) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($52,936.67) and will be subcontracted to the Cambridge YWCA to use the funds to operate its family shelter and pay a staff person to provide housing search and stabilization services to families at the shelter.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Friends of the Community Learning Center (CLC) grant funded by the Cambridge Community Foundation in the amount of $13,000 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($12,159) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($841) and will be used for various programs at the Community Learning Center.
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Friends of the Community Learning Center Bridge to College Program grant in the amount of $30,617.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($25,201.00), to the Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($4,166.00), and to the Department of Human Service Programs Travel and Training account ($1,250.00) to provides classes and counseling in the Community Learning Center's Bridge to College program, which assists residents in making the transition to post secondary education.
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Friends of the Community Learning Center (CLC) grant funded by Friends of the Community Learning Center in the amount of $10,000.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account which will support ESOL classes at the Community Learning Center by funding teacher salaries.
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Models to Successfully Transition Adult Learners to Community College (MSTALCC) Grant in the amount of $65,000.00 funded by the Commonwealth Corporation through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($28,913.00), Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($35,809.00), and the Travel and Training account ($278.00) to support basic education students at Somerville Community Adult Learning Center (SCALE) and the Community Learning Center (CLC) with an interest in the sectors of healthcare and business to prepare for and enter programs in their fields in community college.
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the City Run Road Race grant received from registration fees and corporate donations in the amount of $29,520.00 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will primarily benefit the Friends of Cambridge Athletics, the DHSP's Special Olympics Program, the Andrea Harvey Memorial Fund and to cover limited race expenses.
12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Shannon Grant received from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council through the Executive Office of Public Safety for $11,900.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($9,216.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($2,684.00) and will be used to support the City Peace Program which is a violence prevention program through the Youth Centers that engages teens in working with their peers to address issues within the community.
13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance Program grant funded from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act for $165,068.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($3,928.00) and to the Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($161,140.00) which will be used to contract with Heading Home to implement the Welcome Home Program to support permanent housing for homeless families and individuals in Cambridge.
Kelley voted NO
14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an order authorizing the City Manager to transfer appropriations of available balances prior to the close of books for FY11-12.
15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for $67,546 to the Grant Fund Community Development Salaries and Wages account which will be used to cover a portion of the salaries of existing housing planners and support staff related to the administration of the HOME Program.
Kelley voted NO
16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the HOME Program for $634,230 to the Public Investment Fund Community Development Extraordinary Expenditures account to provide funds to create new affordable housing ($511,296) and to provide funding to local Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs), non-profits, ($122,934) for program delivery costs for affordable housing projects (required under HOME regulations).
Kelley voted NO
17. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-53, regarding a report on turning water fountains and community garden water on at the earliest possible date of the year and off at the latest possible date.
18. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-26, regarding a report on resurfacing the courts at the Jimmy Johnson Street Hockey rink and provide lighting for the playing area.
19. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Hazmat Grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety and Security in the amount of $187,500 to the Grant Fund Fire Department Extraordinary Equipment account to purchase testing and monitoring equipment and Hazmat suites, which will support the Fire Department's Hazardous Materials Response Teams.
20. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Grant Program Income of $377,881.54 to the Public Investment Fund Community Development Extraordinary Expenditures account and is available to support the development of affordable housing activities.
Kelley voted NO
21. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Prince Hall Foundation, Inc. for $2,000 to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations (Arts Council) Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used to provide maintenance and general upkeep of the Prince Hall Monument.
22. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from NSTAR for $102,758 to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to cover the cost of engineering oversight work associated with the placement of an NSTAR cooling pipe system in the City between the NSTAR substation at Terminal Road and the NSTAR Substation at Putnam Avenue.
23. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an appropriation of a $2,000 donation from the Alexander W. Kemp Foundation received for the Alexander W. Kemp playground at the Cambridge Common to the Grant Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance which will be used for maintenance and upkeep of the playground. to the Grant Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance.
24. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an appropriation of a $4,500 in donations to the Public Investment Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to support public plantings, primarily in Central Square.
25. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-25, regarding a report on developing a process which would require developers seeking zoning relief to build a model of the area impacted by the proposed development.
To the Honorable, the City Council:
In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-25, regarding a report on developing a process which would require developers seeking zoning relief to build a model of the area impacted by the proposed development, Assistant City Manager for Community Development Brian Murphy reports the following:
The current practice for most large developers is to create a virtual computer model of the area affected by a proposed project or rezoning petition. A virtual mode
In some cases, physical models of the project and surrounding context are also provided, most often in addition to the computer model.
Physical models are expensive to build and depending on the size and scale can be difficult to transport. For small petition and resident/neighborhood petitions, we believe that creating a physical model could pose a burden. One approach to consider, that would not place an unnecessary burden on resident or neighborhood petitions, is to require either a physical model or computer model for rezoning petitions which are submitted by a property owner and result in the addition of a threshold minimum amount of GFA (e.g. 50,000 s.f.) on lots under that ownership. Given that the procedure for submitting and considering zoning petitions is controlled by state statute 40A (see link below), the most workable course of action would be for the City Council and the Planning Board to establish submission guidelines that describe the desired visual support materials.
40A language dealing with zoning amendments: http://www.malegislature.gov/Laws/GeneralLaws/PartI/TitleVII/Chapter40A/Section5
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
26. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $45,000 from General Fund Employee Benefits (salary adjustment) Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Community Development Other Ordinary Maintenance account to cover the estimated costs associated with the City's presence at the BIO2012 Conference which will be held at the Boston Convention Center June 18th through June 21st.
27. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-40, regarding a report on improper leases and rental of owned affordable housing units.
Reconsideration filed by Councillor Toomey
28. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the purchase of 53.6 acres of watershed land in Lincoln, MA, for $1,152,247 from Community Preservation Act Open Space Reserve Fund, for the purposes of drinking water supply protection and land conservation.
Charter Right - Toomey
CHARTER RIGHT
1. That the City Manager is requested to report back on the legal process the city must follow for the sale, reuse, or lease of the space of the Foundry building at 101 Rogers Street, as well as a list of organizations that have toured the property to date while under city ownership. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Cheung on Order Number Nineteen of June 4, 2012.]
Adopted as Amended
AMENDED ORDER
June 4, 2012June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The Foundry Building at 101 Rogers Street was acquired by the City of Cambridge as part of a community benefits and mitigation offered by Alexandria Real Estate during a re-zoning process; and
WHEREAS: The agreement states that the Foundry Building, of approximately 52,000 square feet, be deeded to the City, with preference for municipal and community uses, with a minimum of 10,000 square feet for community use; and
WHEREAS: Ownership of 101 Rogers was transferred to the City of Cambridge at the beginning of 2012; and
WHEREAS: Along with community space, municipal use of the building is a primary focus; and
WHEREAS: An official procedure bound by laws governing use of municipal property must be followed as tenants are sought for the space; and
WHEREAS: It is important to the public that a well-defined process will be established to determine future use of the building; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with possible municipal uses of 101 Rogers Street, considering, but not limited to, the needs for School Administration, High School Extension Program, senior groups; more daycare options, community space for veterans, space for machine shop, space for community classes and artists, low cost office space for nonprofits, space for neighborhood groups, space for a community kitchen, space for dance group, high school extension space, School Department space, IT Department, space for the arts, tech education/reeducation, space for seniors and public market/grocery mart; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on the legal process the City must follow for the sale, reuse, or lease of the space, as well as a list of organizations that have toured the property to date while under City ownership.
Note: Motion to delete 1st "Ordered" failed 4-5 (Cheung, Kelley, Reeves, vanBeuzekom in favor) prior to amendment being approved.
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-09, regarding a report on the use of coal and on Cambridge becoming coal-free. [City Manager Agenda Number One of Mar 5, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Mar 5, 2012.]
3. Urge greater cooperation from the Cambridge Housing Authority to better serve the people of Cambridge. [Order Number Two of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Apr 9, 2012.]
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and other relevant departments in order to present to the City Council a map of Cambridge that shows, by location and by date, all of the areas where construction is and will be taking place over the coming decade. [Order Number Four of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Apr 9, 2012.]
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item No. 12-28, regarding temporary ramps and obstructions in construction zones. [City Manager Agenda Number Eight of Apr 23, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 23, 2012.]
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-35, which requests a report on whether there were any public safety officers that falsified their emergency medical training re-certification while employed by the City of Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Two of May 21, 2012. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on June 4, 2012.]
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Bill August, President, Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association transmitting comments of Cambridge Neighborhood Association Board of Directors regarding Forest City Rezoning Proposal.
2. A communication was received from Peter Valentine, 37 Brookline Street regarding tenants installing or removing air conditioners in windows.
3. A communication was received from Reverend Danny DeGug, Founder of the Sunshine of the Americas Foundation regarding adopting the Amendment of Honesty.
4. A communication was received from John J. Long, Somerville City Clerk transmitting a copy of a resolution adopted on May 24, 2012 opposing the plan of Global Oil to transport ethanol to its facility in Chelsea by train or by any other means of land transportation, and further opposes the issuance of a Chapter 91 License to Global Oil for this purpose.
5. A communication was received from Young Kim, 17 Norris Street transmitting comments relating to Policy Orders #9 and 11.
6. A communication was received from Elie Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street transmitting information relating to NSTAR.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to the West Cambridge Youth Center on being designated one of the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awardees by the Cambridge Peace Commission. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
Withdrawn - Simmons
2. Thanks to Reverend Katherine Ragsdale, President and Dean of the Episcopal Divinity School, for speaking at the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awards Ceremony on Sept 23, 2012. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
3. Congratulations to Les Kimbrough on being posthumously designated one of the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awardees by the Cambridge Peace Commission. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
4. Congratulations to Alice Wolf on being designated one of the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awardees by the Cambridge Peace Commission. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
5. Congratulations to Jose Mateo on being designated one of the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awardees by the Cambridge Peace Commission. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
6. Congratulations to Eva Martin Blythe on being designated one of the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awardees by the Cambridge Peace Commission. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
7. Congratulations to Ismail Laher on being designated one of the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awardees by the Cambridge Peace Commission. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
8. Congratulations to Bob Hurlbut on being designated one of the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awardees by the Cambridge Peace Commission. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
9. Congratulations to Margaret Drury on being designated one of the Cambridge Peace and Justice Awardees by the Cambridge Peace Commission. Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker
10. Congratulations to Priscilla Lee on being awarded the Second Annual Bayard Rustin Service Award. Vice Mayor Simmons
11. Resolution on the death of Maureen T. Quinlan. Councillor Maher
12. Retirement of Susan Burgess from Cadbury Commons at Cambridge. Mayor Davis
13. Congratulations and thanks to Florrie Wescoat and Aline Newton for creating a self-guided tour book and map of the urban forest in Cambridge entitled "Knowing the Trees of Cambridge." Councillor vanBeuzekom
14. Resolution on the death of Rita V. (Boyle) Sullivan. Councillor Maher
15. Resolution on the death of Mary V. (McLaughlin) Hassett. Councillor Maher
16. Happy 80th Birthday wishes to Bill and Sheila King. Councillor Decker
17. Sending get well wishes and a speedy recovery to Kathy Trio. Councillor Toomey
18. Congratulating the Cambridge Rindge and Latin Boys Volleyball Team on their North Finals victory. Councillor Toomey
19. Congratulating the winners of this year's Excellence in Business Awards from the Chamber of Commerce. Councillor vanBeuzekom
20. Congratulating Mr. Ward Gay for returning to serve his 40th year as coach of the CRLS boys tennis team. Councillor Decker
21. Resolution on the retirement of Dr. Katharine Kosinski. Mayor Davis
22. Resolution on the retirement of Rosalie Anders. Mayor Davis
23. Resolution on the death of Mary L. (Hooker) McKenna. Councillor Maher, Councillor Toomey
24. Congratulations to Yaxum Mateo Lopez on his kindergarten graduation. Councillor Reeves
25. Condolences to the family of Carole Rose Izquierdo. Councillor Reeves
26. Thanks to Thelonious Monkfish Restaurant for their participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
27. Thanks to Dr. Brian J. Swann for his participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
28. Thanks to Dr. Edward Brown for his participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
29. Thanks to Dr. M. Hanif Butt for his participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
30. Thanks to the Asgard Restaurant for its participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
31. Thanks to the Middle East Restaurant for its participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
32. Thanks to the Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House for its participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
33. Thanks to the Moksa Restaurant for its participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
34. Thanks to the Andala Cafe for its participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
35. Thanks to the Garden at the Cellar for its participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
36. Thanks to the Cambridge Police Auxiliary for its participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
37. Thanks to the Cambridge Police Department for its participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
38. Thanks to Bill Barron for his participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
39. Thanks to Leslie Salmon Jones for her participation in the 19th Annual Hoops 'N' Health event. Councillor Reeves
40. Retirement of Daryl Mark from the Cambridge Public Library. Mayor Davis
41. Congratulations to PCA-Prellwitz Chilinski Associates on their 30th Anniversary. Mayor Davis
42. Thanks to David Green for his years of service at Comcast. Vice Mayor Simmons
43. Congratulations to David Kale on his appointment as Town Administrator for the Town of Belmont. Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher
44. Retirement of Lieutenant Bradford P. Tenney from the Cambridge Fire Department. Mayor Davis
45. Congratulations to Tom and Ray Magliozzi on their long-running radio show Car Talk and wish them well in future endeavors. Councillor Maher
46. Commend Mike Nicoloro and Anthony Tuccinardi for their aid to residents who experienced trees and live electrical lines down in their driveway after a storm. Councillor Decker
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Police Commissioner, the Superintendent of Schools, and other appropriate personnel to organize a youth-focused community forum to discuss issues related to the shooting at Willow Street on June 3, 2012, to allow our young people a chance to openly communicate their concerns, grievances, and ideas directly with City officials and administrators. Vice Mayor Simmons
Amended
2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Police Commissioner and to urge him to reach out to the various stake holders in the community, including building managers, property owners, and local business owners, in an attempt to proactively address the summer violence before it has a chance to begin. Vice Mayor Simmons
3. That the City Council schedule a Roundtable/Working Meeting for Mon, June 25, 2012 at 5:30pm in the Sullivan Chamber to discuss with the City Administration, the School Committee and the Superintendent of Schools the order adopted by the School Committee on May 15, 2012 and transmitted to the City Council on June 4, 2012 requesting clarification on the City's Five Year financial plan and its impact of the school renovation plan. Mayor Davis
4. That a Task Force be formed to review Cambridge's current program to creatively encourage and maximize participation in PILOT agreements with the City, and to evaluate the possibilities of implementing SILOT (Services In Lieu of Payment) and/or GILOT (Grants In Lieu of Payment) programs. Councillor vanBeuzekom and Councillor Cheung
Charter Right - Decker
5. That the City Manager is requested to expand the number of Cambridge parks that contain playing fields so that they have public toilet facilities. Councillor vanBeuzekom
6. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City and Harvard staff to determine who is doing what on the Cambridge Street Overpass, how through passage is being safely managed, how signage has been displayed, what the overall plans for this project are and the timing of the work and its expected completion date. Councillor Kelley
7. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with an explanation of how the City plans to maintain grade separated bikeways and keep them as free from sand, branches and other debris as the adjacent streets. Councillor Kelley
8. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with an explanation of how the locations for the three bike corrals currently in place in Cambridge were determined. Councillor Kelley
Amended
9. That the City Manager is requested to have appropriate City staff confer with relevant neighborhood groups, residents, businesses and property owners along Massachusetts Avenue to determine if alterations to the median strip would be appropriate and if alterations to both on-street parking spaces and the timing of meters would be desirable. Councillor Kelley
10. That the City Council go on record stating that Cambridge will not support inequality, discrimination and prejudice against the LGBQT community from the federal and state governments and private parties and congratulate the Attorney General and Mark C. Fleming on this huge win that ruled Section 3 of DOMA unconstitutional. Councillor Cheung
11. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department on the feasibility of implementing an initiative similar to the Boston Meter Program in Cambridge and report back to the Cambridge City Council. Councillor Cheung
12. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and report back to the Cambridge City Council with language to adopt the local option set forth in "The Valor Act". Councillor Cheung
13. That the City Manager is requested to work together with the Department of Public Works to provide a process that ensures that the public way is maintained when Sidewalk Obstruction Permits are renewed each year. Councillor vanBeuzekom
14. That the City Manager confer with the appropriate departments to discuss the potential of installing security cameras in the Donnelly Field area and report back to the City Council. Councillor Toomey
15. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the License Commission, Police Commissioner, and Galleria Mall Management to rectify the disturbances and report back to the City Council. Councillor Toomey
16. That the City Council go on record urging Robert Purdy and John Lynch to hire union carpenter subcontractors for their building at 100 Pacific Street. Councillor Reeves
17. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and form a task force including, but not limited to the attendees at the Cable TV, Telecommunications & Public Utilities Committee meeting with the goal of broadcasting previously recorded and live streamed educational content from Cambridge's academic institutions over the public access channels by the fall season. Councillor Cheung
18. That the City Council go on record supporting H4084 and the statewide investment in a 21st century Transportation System in Massachusetts. Councillor vanBeuzekom
19. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate personnel to attend the Riverside Association meeting and to be prepared to discuss residents concerns as they relate to the Riverside area. Councillor Reeves
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on May 15, 2012 to discuss the petition of Forest City/MIT to amend the Zoning Ordinances by extending the Cambridgeport Revitalization Development District from Green Street out to Massachusetts Avenue in the area adjacent to Blanche Street and further to provide for the potential development of a residential building on Sidney Street between Massachusetts Avenue and Green Street.
Amended to exclude portions relating to proposed 165-ft residential tower - Approved 6-3 (Cheung, Kelley, vanBeuzekom voted NO)
Passed to 2nd Reading as amended - Approved 6-3 (Cheung, Kelley, vanBeuzekom voted NO)
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on May 23, 2012 to discuss a petition to amend the Zoning Ordinances of the City of Cambridge by adding to Section 5.50 entitled "Special Dimensional Regulations" a section 5.54 entitled "Special Regulations for Municipal Elementary and Middle (K-8) Schools.
Passed to 2nd Reading
3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on May 23, 2012 to discuss an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance on a petition filed by CJUF III Northpoint LLC to amend Article 13.700 - Planned Unit Development in the North Point Residence District.
Passed to 2nd Reading
4. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee, for a public hearing held on June 4, 2012 to consider ideas for the best long-term community use of the Foundry Works Building.
5. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Cable TV Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee for a public meeting held on June 5, 2012 to discuss putting university and college educational content on Cambridge's public access channels.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, June 11
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss an appropriation of $11,917,462 from Free Cash to the General Fund Law Department Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account and to discuss changing the Traffic Regulations in Appendix D, Schedule 13 by striking out the penalty fee of $30.00 and substitute in place the fee of $5.00 as it relates to Section 16.7 entitled "Street Cleaning". (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, June 12
4:00pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss planning and outreach regarding the digital divide. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 25
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting to discuss with the School Committee and the Superintendent of Schools how the City's Five year financial plan will impact the School District's building renovation plan. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, June 26
5:00pm The Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss open space throughout the City. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, June 27
4:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion on the petition of Forest City/MIT to amend the Zoning Ordinance by extending the Cambridgeport Revitalization Development District from Green Street out to Massachusetts Avenue in the area adjacent to Blanche Street and further to provide for the potential development of a residential building on Sidney Street between Massachusetts Avenue and Green Street. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, June 28
4:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion on petitions from the Planning Board to rezone the North Massachusetts Avenue area and to amend the Zoning Map for an area along Massachusetts Avenue in the vicinity of Trolley Square and Linear Park from Business A-2 to Residence C-2B. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, July 30
5:30pm Special City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Sept 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 1
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 5
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 19
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 26
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 June 11, 2012 Amended
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Following the fatal shooting that took place on Willow Street on June 3, 2012, there is a clear need for the City to conduct hearings and public outreach to discuss what measures will be taken to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future; and
WHEREAS: Neighborhood meetings, public safety meetings, and other forums designed to notify the public on the City's response to this tragedy, and to help foster the healing process at a community level, are essential; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the City Council's attention that the Cambridge Police Commissioner is planning on holding a Public Safety Commission meeting to discuss this recent shooting, as well as the Cambridge Police Department's plans for keeping the community safe during the summer months, a period during which the City typically sees an uptick in violence; and
WHEREAS: With the Willow Street shooting victims being high school students, and their friends and classmates likely be emotionally impacted in the aftermath of the shooting, concerns have been raised that the City factor this knowledge in as plans are made for these various community meetings; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Police Commissioner, the Superintendent of Schools, and other appropriate personnel to organize a youth-focused community forum to discuss issues related to the shooting at Willow Street on June 3, 2012, to allow our young people a chance to openly communicate their concerns, grievances, and ideas directly with City officials and administrators; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ensure that through the summer months that there are resources available for the youth of the city to continue conversations with caring and skillful personnel and with the Department of Human Services in the Youth Centers relating to the tragedy on Willow Street; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-2 June 11, 2012
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Following the fatal shooting that took place on Willow Street on June 3, 2012, there is a clear need for the City to conduct hearings and public outreach to discuss what measures will be taken to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the City Council's attention that the Cambridge Police Commissioner is planning on holding a public meeting at some point in the near future to discuss this recent shooting, as well as the Cambridge Police Department's plans for keeping the community safe during the summer months, a period during which the City typically sees an uptick in violence; and
WHEREAS: In addition to inviting the people who reside in the areas that the Cambridge Police feel may be impacted by greater levels of crime and violence this summer, there are various other stake-holders, such as building managers, property owners, and local business owners who could greatly benefit by attending such a meeting and learning about the many ways they could work together, and with the Cambridge Police Department and other City partners, to proactively take steps to reduce the uptick in violence before it has a chance to begin and take hold; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Police Commissioner and to urge him to reach out to the various stake holders in the community, including building managers, property owners, and local business owners, in an attempt to proactively address the summer violence before it has a chance to begin.
O-3 June 11, 2012
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Council schedule a Roundtable/Working Meeting for Mon, June 25, 2012 at 5:30pm in the Sullivan Chamber to discuss with the City Administration, the School Committee and the Superintendent of Schools the order adopted by the School Committee on May 15, 2012 and transmitted to the City Council on June 4, 2012 requesting clarification on the City's Five Year financial plan and its impact of the school renovation plan.
O-4 June 11, 2012 Charter Right - Decker
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: All nonprofit organizations are legally exempt from real estate tax for the property they own and use for exempt purposes; and
WHEREAS: This can set up a situation in which a municipality has a large quantity of land area exempt from tax revenue; and
WHEREAS: A land area equal to 43% of the total land area of the City of Cambridge is tax-exempt; and
WHEREAS: The costs of essential services provided by the municipality, such as police, fire, street maintenance, and snow plowing cannot be collected on these properties; and
WHEREAS: Some municipalities ask nonprofits to pay money or services to help cover the cost of the services that they receive from the municipalities; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge sends out a letter to nonprofit organizations requesting a donation to the city based on 26 cents per square foot of land area; and
WHEREAS: Four nonprofit organizations, Harvard University, MIT, Cambridge Housing Authority and the Broad Institute provide the bulk of the city's Payments In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) payments via agreements with the City; and
WHEREAS: Other municipalities have initiated ambitious campaigns to encourage, enlist and make agreements with all non-profits owning property worth a certain value into the PILOT system; and
WHEREAS: For example, Boston seeks to enlist into their PILOT program all non-profits owning property worth at least $15 million by requesting payments equal to 25 percent of what the organizations' tax bill would be if they had no exemption; and
WHEREAS: Under Boston's new PILOT program, in the first half of 2012 almost $10 million were received, which is more than 90 percent of the total that Boston officials requested; and
WHEREAS: The residents and business people of Cambridge are paying their fair share in property taxes and certain nonprofits may be in a position to contribute more funding for city services; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That a Task Force be formed to review Cambridge's current program to creatively encourage and maximize participation in PILOT agreements with the city, and to evaluate the possibilities of implementing SILOT (Services In Lieu of Payment) and/or GILOT (Grants In Lieu of Payment) programs; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with a report on the strategies and action plans relating to this endeavor.
O-5 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Many Cambridge families spend significant recreational time at our public parks; and
WHEREAS: Many of the city's parks and playing fields have two or more sports associated with them, or have organized leagues using the facilities; and
WHEREAS: Public restrooms are a conventional convenience for the public; and
ORDERED: The City Council recognizes that there is annual cost for cleaning and restocking public toilets, but believes that the community demand for such public toilet facilities is significant; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to expand the number of Cambridge parks that contain playing fields so that they have public toilet facilities and report back to the City Council where and when this request will be implemented.
O-6 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The construction work at the Cambridge Street Overpass has made use of this pedestrian and cyclist passage confusing and awkward; and
WHEREAS: This overpass is a major route for pedestrians and cyclists going to and from Harvard Square, the Main Library, CRLS, City Hall and other points in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: It is not clear who owns the overpass, what work is being done, how the traffic flow should be managed during the work or how long the construction project will take; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City and Harvard staff to determine who is doing what on the overpass, how through passage is being safely managed, how signage has been displayed, what the overall plans for this project are and what the timing of the work and its expected completion date are; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the Council on this matter prior to the June 26, 2012 Environment Committee meeting on Open Space.
O-7 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The City has installed a number of grade separated bicycle facilities throughout Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The City plans to install more of these facilities in the future; and
WHEREAS: These grade separated facilities do not get cleaned as regular on-street bike areas do, resulting in a buildup of sand and other debris in the raised bikeway that presents an unnecessary hazard to cyclists; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with an explanation of how the City plans to maintain grade separated bikeways and keep them as free from sand, branches and other debris as the adjacent streets.
O-8 June 11, 2012 Amended
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The City has recently installed bike corrals in three places; and
WHEREAS: Only one of these corrals, in Inman Square, has arguably been put in a location that encourages cyclists to utilize them for short term trips to local markets and restaurants, as had been discussed with City staff; and
WHEREAS: Somerville puts similar bike corrals in high volume areas such as Davis Square, in front of Diesel, rather than in relatively out-of-the-way places as Cambridge has done; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with an explanation for how the locations of the bike corrals were chosen.
O-9 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The median strip in front of Pemberton Market was recently removed to allow access to and from the Southbound lane of Massachusetts Avenue; and
WHEREAS: The City Council has, in the past, requested a review of available on-street parking for Massachusetts Avenue, to include the non-metered spaces in front of Saint John's Church, with the view of creating more on-street parking options between Beech Street and the Arlington line; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to have appropriate City staff confer with relevant neighborhood groups, residents, businesses and property owners along Massachusetts Avenue to determine if any other alterations to the median strip would be appropriate and if alterations to both on-street parking spaces and the timing of meters would be desirable; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-10 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Cambridge has long been an unparalleled supporter of LGBTQ rights, justice and equality; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that marriage equality won a huge victory as the First Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional; and
WHEREAS: Section 3 of DOMA states that only a marriage between a man and a woman will be recognized for purposes of federal law; and
WHEREAS: As the Attorney General and co-counsel to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Litigator Mark C. Fleming successfully led efforts to challenge the constitutionality of the federal Defense of Marriage Act before the Third Circuit Court of Appeals; and
WHEREAS: Massachusetts has always been a leading advocate for repealing DOMA. In 2009, the Massachusetts Attorney General and GLAD filed challenges to DOMA, which prohibits federal recognition of marriages of same-sex couples; and
WHEREAS: DOMA imposes enormous costs in time, money, and morale for employers. With over 16,000 same-sex couples legally married in Massachusetts, (a number that increases every day), this victory is undoubtedly a step in the right direction for the county; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record stating that Cambridge will not support inequality, discrimination and prejudice against the LGBQT community from the federal and state governments and private parties and congratulate the Attorney General and Mark C. Fleming on this huge win for fairness and equality; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of the order to the Massachusetts Attorney General and Mark C. Fleming on behalf of the entire Cambridge City Council.
O-11 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City Council is always looking for innovative new ideas to improve the services it provides to its residents; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that the City of Boston has had success with a parking meter payment program implemented last year that allows the use of pre-paid parking meter cards at 7,000 single space parking meters across the city; and
WHEREAS: The cards are purchased online or in person at the Office of the Parking Clerk at City Hall or the City Tow Lot and are available in the following amounts: $5, $25, $50, $75, or $100; and
WHEREAS: As it appears many of the meters in Cambridge already have slots to read such cards, introducing an initiative like the Boston Meter Program would be a straightforward way to spare residents from the hassle of always carrying quarters; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department on the feasibility of implementing an initiative similar to the Boston Meter Program in Cambridge and report back to the Cambridge City Council.
O-12 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Cambridge has a strong tradition of supporting veterans and military families and providing access to employment, education and services; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that Governor Deval L. Patrick has signed "The Valor Act", a bill that will expand benefits and services to Massachusetts veterans and their families; and
WHEREAS: The new law requires public colleges to award academic credit for a student's prior military training, and ensures that veterans who are charged with criminal complaints have knowledge and access to treatment programs, if eligible; and
WHEREAS: It also calls for funds to be available to help veterans with business ventures and employment. The measure also seeks to ease the costs of housing, utilities and medical services for families of service members killed in action; and
WHEREAS: Adopting the local option created in "The Valor Act" which allows for a property tax exemption for veterans who volunteer in their community, with a maximum credit rate equal to the minimum wage and a total exemption not exceeding $750, would surely benefit the veteran community and the community at large; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and report back to the Cambridge City Council with language to adopt the local option set forth in "The Valor Act".
O-13 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge provides a business-use Sidewalk Obstruction Permit for the use of tables and chairs on a sidewalk in the public way; and
WHEREAS: The outdoor café dining that occurs as a result of this permit is of great enjoyment of the public in the warmer seasons; and
WHEREAS: The original issuance of this permit is based on careful review of a scale drawing which incorporates where the "obstruction" will be located on the sidewalk in relation to the business premises, hydrants, and curbs; and
WHEREAS: The location of sidewalk obstruction must meet American Disabilities Act requirements; and
WHEREAS: A renewal of this permit states that "pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular traffic must be protected at all times. And "pedestrian ramps, hydrants, and curbs must remain unobstructed at all times"; and
WHEREAS: Over time, the landscape of the street shifts with the addition of parking pay stations, benches, bike racks and/or businesses inch further into the public way taking more than the space required to maintain a suitable walkway for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers; and
WHEREAS: The City Manager responded to a 2010 Council Order with an explanation of the initial review process; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work together with the Department of Public Works to provide a process that einsures that the public way is maintained when Sidewalk Obstruction Permits are renewed each year; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on this request.
O-14 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: In response to the recent violence in the vicinity of Donnelly Field residents have expressed a desire for the installation of security cameras; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager confer with the appropriate departments to discuss the potential of installing security cameras in the Donnelly Field area and report back to the City Council.
O-15 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that there has been a number of evening disturbances at Canal Park due to lines forming in anticipation of product releases at the Galleria Mall; and
WHEREAS: Customers have been setting up tents in order to spend the night in the canal park area in anticipation of the mall opening; and
WHEREAS: There have also been noise complaints as a result of speakers being installed in the park that are operated by the Galleria Mall; and
WHEREAS: There is some confusion regarding ownership of the park and if speakers should be permitted; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the License Commission, Police Commissioner, and Galleria Mall Management to rectify the disturbances and report back to the City Council.
O-16 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR REEVES
WHEREAS: Robert Purdy and John Lynch are constructing a building at 100 Pacific Street in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: There are many responsible and competent union carpenters available at Local 40 to work at this construction site; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record urging Robert Purdy and John Lynch to hire union carpenter subcontractors; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to prepare a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to John Purdy and John Lynch on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-17 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and form a task force including, but not limited to the attendees at the Cable TV, Telecommunications & Public Utilities Committee meeting with the goal of broadcasting previously recorded and live streamed educational content from Cambridge's academic institutions over the public access channels by the fall season.
O-18 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge supports a highly functional transit system within the City of Cambridge and throughout the state; and
WHEREAS: A competitive economy, a healthy public, a healthy environment, and our quality of life in the Commonwealth depend upon a functioning and financially stable transportation system; and
WHEREAS: The Patrick-Murray Administration Bill (H4084) presenting moving through legislation requests a one-year $1.5 billion Transportation bond bill that maintains transportation-related infrastructure investments through Fiscal Year 2013; and
WHEREAS: Boston Mayor Thomas Menino, Somerville Mayor Joseph Curtatone, Chelsea City Manager Jay Ash, Salem Mayor Kimberley Driscoll and many other municipal officials from across the state joined together in a call to action for the statewide investment for building the 21st century Transportation System that Massachusetts needs; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record supporting H4084 and the statewide investment in a 21st century Transportation System in Massachusetts.
O-19 June 11, 2012
COUNCILLOR REEVES
WHEREAS: At the City Council meeting of June 11, 2012, Riverside issues were raised that are cause for concern for residents of the Riverside area; and
WHEREAS: The issues of concern are:
1. Western Avenue Improvement Project;
2. An art project;
3. Issues relating to the height and size of the King School; and
4. The bike lane in Riverside; and
WHEREAS: Area residents feel that they were not involved in the process for any of the above projects; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate personnel to attend the Riverside Association meeting and to be prepared to discuss with the residents the above issues.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Tues, May 15, 2012 beginning at 4:09pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the hearing was to discuss the petition of Forest City/MIT to amend the Zoning Ordinances by extending the Cambridgeport Revitalization Development District from Green Street out to Massachusetts Avenue in the area adjacent to Blanche Street and further to provide for the potential development of a residential building on Sidney Street between Massachusetts Avenue and Green Street.
Present at the hearing were Councillor David Maher, Chair of the Committee; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Leland Cheung; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Roger Boothe, Director of Urban Design, Community Development Department (CDD); Jeffrey Roberts, Project Planner, CDD; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present were Frank Wuest, President, Forest City Boston; Peter Calkins, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Forest City Boston; Kathryn Lachelt Brown, Vice President, Legal Affairs, Forest City Boston; Mike Stevens, Executive Vice President - Retail Leasing, Forest City Commercial Group; John T. Kiely, Jr., Property Manager, University Park at MIT; David Manfredi, Principal, Jacob Kain, Maria Schroeder and Mark Sardegna, Elkus Manfredi Architects; Jessie Baerkahn, City Retail, Consultant; Jackie Dee and Jonathan King, 40 Essex Street; Olivia Fiske, 131 Magazine Street #2; Doris Redd, 26 Lopez Street; Ruggero Ferrari, 81 Pine Street; Bill August, 19 Lawrence Street; Colleen Clark, 21 William Street; James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place; Bill Cunningham, 6 Newtowne Court; Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street; Paul Rufo, 3 Center Plaza, Boston; Matthew Curtis, 4 Brattle Street; Kathy Watkins, 129 Franklin Street, #315; Lee Farris, 269 Norfolk Street; Richard Sutton, 116 Cherry Street; Torgun Austin, 28 Bristol Street; Julian Case, 109 Windsor Street; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; Richard Goldberg, 170 Harvard Street; and Nancy Ryan, 4 Ashburton Place.
Councillor Maher convened the hearing and explained the purpose. The hearing tonight is the first time this petition is being heard before the Ordinance Committee. He outlined the format of the meeting. The Assistant City Manager for Community Development will give an overview. Next a presentation will be given by the petitioner on the petition. After the petitioners presentation public comment will be heard. The public will be allowed 3 minutes for their comments.
Assistant City Manager for Community Development, Brian Murphy, gave a context and an overview of the proposal. Last year Forest City filed a zoning petition that only looked at the life sciences. The petitioner was asked to rethink the life science building and to pay attention to the streetscape and to look at the possibility of building housing. The petitioner came back with a revamped petition for the life sciences with a slender tower for housing on Massachusetts Avenue. How do we take a piece of open space and insure that open space works for an urban environment and provide housing and relate it to the Jill Brown-Rhone Park. The petition was requested to review shadow settings. With the challenges of Kendall Square how do we look at how to grow the economy in sites that work and include housing? He stressed the importance for open space to work better. This is all included in the proposal today. He asked Mr. Boothe to provide the context of the proposal.
Mr. Boothe went back to thirty years of evolution of the area. In an effort to try to link Kendall and Central Squares have we done everything we can or can we do better. Do we want a tower in this area? It is in a fortuitous space. It will not be up against the neighbors; it relates to the park, but not dominate it and will maintain a small landscape court with a café that will complement Jill Brown-Rhone Park. The slenderness of the tower is beneficial. The design still needs to be done. It can be an interesting building. Mr. Murphy spoke about the importance to look at the context. This is not a precedent for the entire Central Square area. This is a unique spot along the avenue. He suggested that Forest City walk through the petition
Mr. Peter Calkins, Forest City, stated that the original proposal was for a life science building with retail on the ground level. When asked to think about the residential component, Forest City was intrigued. There will be 675 housing units at University Park. This is more than the 400 committed units. Several different options were considered for the residential piece. The site behind the fire station was the best site to develop housing. He looks forward to extending the retail piece along Massachusetts Avenue. There will be an expanded retail presence and improved green space at the front of the building. There is a loss of 10,000 square feet of open space, but there is a gain of 130 more residential units with better green space at the front of lot on Massachusetts Avenue. MIT owns the land at University Park. He acknowledged the role of MIT in the petition. There are three basic components to the zoning proposal and minor adjustments. The petition expands University Park by 50,000 square feet of land. Because of the shared parking and common space it works best with a single entity. The petition provides for additional height along Massachusetts Avenue. The life science site will be 115 square feet high and the residential site 155 square feet high. The petition also expands the floor area. Language is eliminated for trading space for space. There is an increase of 108,000 floor area on the space than the current zoning allows. Forest City is working with Elkus Manfredi Architects on the on building design. He asked Mr. Manfredi to present the Massachusetts Avenue mixed use plan.
David Manfredi provided a presentation of the Mixed Use for Massachusetts Avenue (ATTACHMENT A). He spoke about the 275 footprint on Massachusetts Avenue for life science. The residential (tower site) site has a small floor plate and is 8,000 feet above grade. It protrudes onto Massachusetts Avenue. The base of the building will be used for 3500 square feet of retail. A restaurant could occupy this space to provide an active space. The life science building will have retail. The diagram provided shows the retail district configuration on Massachusetts Avenue from Central Square to Sidney Street. An inventory of retail tenants has been evaluated. Two things learned the retail space as 50-60 feet depth and scale of the storefronts. Scale of retail is fine grain and adds to the diversity of the streetscape. He walked through existing photographs in the document provided. The proposal would bring new retail adjacent to the fire station and bring the retail edge to Lansdowne Street. The proposal would create a space where a single tenant could use. The adjustment from the old petition is the office lab building is pushed back 40 feet with the second story and above pushed back 100 feet.
The photo of the Norfolk Street view showed the residential building. It has a small foot print of 8,000 feet and is 85 feet wide. This is a short thin building that represents ten units. He commented on photos of views west on Mass. Avenue and the Novartis and Necco buildings - new proposal for life science building. The base is 4 stories tall with the top 3 stories pushed back. The proposal is trying to respect the adjacent existing buildings. This will make building feel like to 2 different buildings. Buildings on Mass. Avenue have a rhythm of popping up and down. This proposal is to try to mimic that rhythm. The presentation contained exhibits of context diagram of building heights in the vicinity. The life science building is 115 feet high without the mechanicals which are added. Mr. Manfredi discussed the Shadow Studies. There is shadow cast by the residential building onto the park from 11-2pm in the winter. There is no shadow impact from March through October during the key hours.
Mr. Calkins spoke about open space and residential building. University Park made a commitment for open space and this proposal goes beyond the commitment. This proposal has over 100,000 square feet of open space. All buildings have an open space component. The retail aspect was discussed next.
Mr. Calkins stated that concerns were expressed that if a lot of retail was created in University Park it would be detrimental. There were limits on retail. With the loss of Stop & Shop University Park responded to the request by city for a supermarket. Good retail begets good retail. Two sided retail is beneficial. Forest City has national experience in retail and wants to combine this with local retail. He introduced Jessie Baerkahn, City Retail.
Mr. Baerkah spoke on retail piece. Great to get national perspective with the city values for Central Square. Retail is important in this project. He spoke about the process. First piece is the underwriting. This is a transitional zone between the two squares. Retail on both sides of street is important, as well as outside dining and green space. Identifying the need for retail is important. An anchor apparel store is being sought. It is important to mesh the two buildings with ground floor retail. There are challenges such as creating an active streetscape, green spaces. retail diversity, connecting the transitional area and local operators. Forest City is flexible
Councillor Maher asked Mr. Calkins if presentation was made available to public. Mr. Calkins responded in negative. Councillor Maher requested that copies to give to the City Clerk for distribution to public.
Councillor Cheung suggested moving poster boards to the hallway. He stated that the city pushed back for more retail that fits into Cambridge and building more housing and additional green space. He is happy that has been included in this proposal. Height is still a concern, but housing is important. Height is a trade off. He would like more floors of housing
Mayor Davis expressed her concern about the shadow study. As day wears on the shadows get longer. At 2pm will shadow continue for the remainder of the day? If the building is shortened it would lessen the shadow. Mr. Manfredi stated that the shadow studies beyond 2pm are cast beyond the east side of the park. He would provide additional shadow studies. Mayor Davis asked if there were any calculations done if building height changed and would it lessen impact on park. Mr. Manfredi stated there is a value decision and impact of shadow. Mayor Davis asked would you have to go to 60 feet to cast less shadow impact. Mayor Davis wanted a range of heights and shadow impact to be provided. Mayor Davis stated that buildings this height adjacent to the building in Central Square is odd. Mr. Manfredi commented that the set back lessens the impact. Mayor Davis likes the courtyard like area in Central Square. What is the rental level anticipated for Central Square housing proposed? Mr. Calkins commented that there is a broad range of prices in University Park. He will comply with the affordable units. There will be one-bedroom units with 2 bedroom units on the corners. One bedroom, 700 square foot unit, rental may be $2,100 per month. There will not be a lot of amenities in this building because there are amenities in the area.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that her response is that public green space is precious. It will take a lot to convince her to have a building in this area. She stated that the apartments on Green Street needed to be completed.
Councillor Reeves commented that it is hard for the public to make informed comments on the proposal when it has not been seen. MIT hires a national development firm; they do not development themselves. There is a local Forest City arm. He suggested all to review the Watermark building and asked if a building of this scale would work in Central Square. There is no design here. We are in talented, gifted hands. The building on Mass. Avenue from the firehouse must compliment this area and the view. Blanche Street is being sacrificed to loading zones; Green Street near the market is dead. He asked if Blanche Street is only for trucks. The height of buildings on both sides of the street is also important. Awareness has been increased about this proposal. The Red Ribbon, K2C2 and where this proposal fits into this area are important.
At 5:18pm Councillor Maher opened the meeting to public comment.
John King, 40 Essex Street, serves on Essex Street steering committee, distributed a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT B). Lafayette Square and the park is not open space. The tower will be a scare ugly tall building that will cast shadows in the winter. It is out of scale with the area. It should not be allowed to be taller than the Novartis or Necco building. The park is going to be given away. This proposal will lower the quality of life in Cambridge. The Goody Clancy report noted the importance of the open space in this area. The buildings are not being required to provide any amenities. This petition will insult the citizens who have participated in the Forest City proposals. One victory was the open green space proposed in front of the tower. Forest City proposal should not be amended it should be rejected. This proposal is without merit.
Olivia Fisk, 131 Magazine Street #2, stated that she lives in Cambridgeport. She opposes this project and the tall building. However she was surprised at the attention given to set back, the planting and the design of the building. The small park, she has never seen families or anyone using this park. She is not totally opposed.
Bill August, President, Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association, spoke about the preciousness of open space. The Jill Brown-Rhone Park is proclaimed as the jewel of Central Square. This park is enjoyed when there is light in the park. The shadow analysis stopped at 2pm. The key usage of the park is 11-2pm. Open space is a treasure and it will be lost.
Doris Redd, 26 Lopez Street, spoke about the sewerage smell in this area caused from all the construction.
Collen Clark, 21 William Street, stated as a neighbor she is trying to understand the proposal. She understands the need for intelligent development.
James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place, spoke about diminution of the public park. She stated that the park on Sidney Street no one goes to. This area is not a success. He spoke about scale and character of the buildings and that this proposal is not consistent with the character of the area. He submitted 2 documents showing contributions made by Forest City (ATTACHMENTS C and D). He stated that the park at Lafayette will be in shadow and the current park is nice.
Bill Cunningham, 6 Newtowne Court, spoke about housing developments. When more housing is built it does not alleviate the housing need. Spoke about construction work being done late at night and the dust that is created in the day. Residents, he said, will keep an eye on the impact of this development. The City Council represents people who live here now, not who will live here in the future. He is tired of hearing about vibrancy.
Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street, submitted a memo (ATTACHMENT E). She felt it was premature or offensive for Forest City/MITIMCo to submit a zoning petition before the completion of the Goody Clancy report. She stated it would be helpful if map type plans were submitted so you can see where the impact is. At the Planning Board there is a plan on file for the life science building but these are labeled with tax property numbers rather than street numbers. The number of stories for the buildings should be identified versus the height of the building. Where are plans for the public and graphics so valuable time is not wasted? She spoke about shadows. Mr. Manfredi stated that the sun is not seen on Dec 21; this is when people want to see the sun. The roof top garden in Kendall Square was diminished by 40-50%. This could have been kept. She stated that this process should start again.
Attorney Paul Rufo, 3 Center Plaza Boston, stated that the represents the owners of Miracle of Science. He spoke about the impact on the Miracle of Science property and on the community. He also spoke about the height of both the residential and the life science buildings and their impact on his clients building. Mr. Rufo commented on the traffic pattern and the character of the community. The City Council should consider parking No additional parking has been added to this site. The developers should be asked to address this issue.
Kathy Watkins, 129 Franklin Street, stated that in the last 5 years there have been 3 major construction projects in this area. The noise is loud. She requested that the people who live in this area should be considered. She requested the City Council to reject the Forest City proposal. There are 2 big apartment buildings in this area. Increased density in the park would create a bottleneck. Residents enjoy this park. Green space was guaranteed to the residents. She spoke of flooding on Green Street and the owners of University Park never explained to the resident what happened here. Residents do not want to live in a "destination". She submitted a written communication (ATTACHMENT F).
Richard Goldberg, Co-chair Area 4 Coalition, distributed a prepared letter from Andrea Nash and Peter Berry, 18 Worcester Street (ATTACHMENT G). This communication supported the Area 4 Coalition opposition to any up zoning until the study has been completed by the Central Square Advisory Committee. The plan of Forest City to build a tall building would dwarf the fire house and cast deleterious shadows on the park. There is also opposition to a life science building proposed for Massachusetts Avenue. Traffic, parking, infrastructure issues will affect residents and must be taken into account before zoning is granted. The communication urged slowing down the process.
Tory Austin, 98 Bristol Street, opposed the tall building. It is imposing and hard to disguise with retail and green space.
Julian Case, 109 Windsor Street, safety was not addressed. A death occurred at Vassar and Albany Streets. Additional studies are needed specifically car studies, vehicle traffic and light timing. Residents make Cambridge special. No one on MIT campus is aware of these plans and if they are they are against these plans. Adding luxury buildings does not make Cambridge special. Retail is being replaced one for one. Type of space and rental fee for the apartments in the area is well known. Mixed income is needed in the housing proposals. He opposes the height. More retail and mixed income should be provided.
Robert Winters, 366 Broadway, stated that he is not opposed to demolition of one story buildings. His vision is not of 10 story towers. Central Square building should be the exception. Kendall Sq. is not Central Square. He stated that housing in Kendall Square should be comparable. He is opposed to the 165 foot buildings; it is out of scale. His concern is that any petitioner needs only to offer a community benefits check to the city. If housing was increased it would be more affordable; this is not true.
Lee Ferris, 269 Norfolk Street, requested that the City Council not grant any up zoning in Kendall or Central Squares. She is concerned about affordable housing. Suggested limited equity housing be built. She requested that the presentation be put on the website. She further requested Forest City to make presentation at night to residents and to the Central Square Advisory Committee.
Nancy Ryan, 4 Ashburton Place, spoke about parking. Attractive aspect of Red Ribbon Report was day care, farmers market, etc. Shaw's Supermarket is the most expensive and is not used by low income residents. She spoke about the park at Novartis. A resident was told that she was not welcome to use the park at Novartis. She was opposed to any up zoning until the entire picture is in place.
Paul Ruth, McTernan Street, commented on when you see images presented by developers they are not value neutralizing. He asked if the new building shows the cooling towers. He suggested showing buildings in the winter. Views presented are selected.
Nancy Seymour 170 Harvard Street, spoke about sewerage and construction. Construction in the area affected the foundation of her house. Novartis is building a wall and it is reprehensive.
Councillor vanBeuzekom closed public comment 6:21pm.
Councillor Maher commented that the Planning Board held a hearing on this proposal on May 1st and another meeting is scheduled for June 19th. The Ordinance Committee will meet again on this proposal after June 19th and prior to June 30th. Possibly on June 27 and the public can speak again on this petition. Zoning by itself is a crude tool. Real planning and intricate work is done by the Planning Board.
Councillor Maher thanked all those present for their attendance. The hearing adjourned at 6:25pm on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Wed, May 23, 2012 beginning at 4:15pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the hearing was to discuss a petition to amend the Zoning Ordinances of the City of Cambridge by adding to Section 5.50 entitled "Special Dimensional Regulations" a section 5.54 entitled "Special Regulations for Municipal Elementary and Middle (K-8) Schools.
Present at the hearing were Councillor David Maher, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Leland Cheung; Councillor Craig Kelley; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Marjorie C. Decker; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); Jeff Roberts, Neighborhood Planning, CDD; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present were James Maloney, Chief Operating Officer, School Department; Michael Black, Project Manager, City of Cambridge.
Councillor Maher convened the hearing and explained the purpose. Councillor Maher stated that Mr. Maloney will explain the need for the petition.
Mr. Maloney stated last March the School Committee passed the Innovation Agenda (IA) which changed the structure of the K-8 system to a series of K-5 schools with 4-6 upper schools as well as one K-8 which will be the Amigos Spanish immersion program. The approval for this plan was a discussion between the City, School Committee and the Superintendent to begin an elementary building renovation plan. The Martin Luther King, Jr. elementary building on Putnam Avenue was the first school selected for renovation. As the planning began what became clear in the process was that as we move ahead the plans should be made for the future and not just for today. There has been 7.5 % elementary school enrollment growth since 2006. The structure of the upper schools results in greater use of the buildings and the space. Several kindergartens have been added. The IA includes music and art rooms, performing art rooms, administrative space and two gymnasiums. There is a need for larger libraries for larger buildings. We are tight on space and this proposal is an opportunity to move forward with the IA with adequate space. There will also be vocational training rooms. The School Department has a strong collaboration with the Department of Human Services and a number of non-profits. This is the reason we are here looking for passage of the zoning change. Mr. Rossi added that when the City went through the various study committees, groups were broken up to look at the different issues as well as the zoning. All school lots were reviewed and it is a great time to reevaluate the zoning in a way that would help in the future. We found that many of these lots and buildings would be in a non-conforming status if the buildings were demolished and there would be constraints. The City would not be able to make advantageous moves which might benefit the abutting community by creating heights on other parts of the lots and felt that going before the Planning Board for a special permit would be a way that would enable the community to have more meaningful input into the process and that the study revealed that some of these zoning changes are not dramatic and this is a way to look at all these school lots now and for the future.
Councillor Maher asked Mr. Dash to explain the special permit process, how it is reviewed and the input into a special permit application. Mr. Dash stated that as the Community Development Department worked with the School Department, the City and discussions with the architect it made sense to devise the zoning into two portions. One portion was that little would be done to the school building to accomplish the goal. There could be a wall moved, a room created or minor changes made as of right, but any substantial changes where demolition of a school occurred and reconstruction of something in its place would be developed by special permit. The Planning Board would have full review of the site design, where cars and students come from and go to, all this is done under normal large project review as part of this process. Landscaping for the site design would be included and all other elements on the school site.
Councillor Maher stated that it would be helpful for Mr. Roberts to walk through the details of the zoning changes in the petition (ATTACHMENT A).
Mr. Roberts stated that Mr. Dash explained the basic conceptual framework of the proposed zoning. The idea being that all school sites are currently nonconforming under the Zoning Ordinances. If any alteration were to be made relief needs to be sought. In the first set of changes, found on page one of the petition, the first paragraph lays out the applicability to sites that are municipal school sites and will continue to be used as municipal school sites after the alterations are made. There are certain types of changes that can be made without seeking a special permit or variance relief. This would be in situations where the FAR either is not changing or is not increasing beyond what the current limit is in that district. In all except two of the school sites the current building exceeds what is allowed in the district. In the two exceptions they are fairly close. The second part was included to address situations where there may be recreational space located on the top of a roof, such as a roof top playground space. If there are play areas with enclosures where roofs are shaded these spaces can be counted as gross floor area and in this case the proposal would exempt these from the gross floor area. If you are reconstructing, tearing down or building an addition to an existing building the set back requirements in residential zoning districts are determined by a formula and this means that if a building is long and tall along its edge a much greater yard set back is required from the edge of the lots. School buildings tend to be long and have larger facades. It would be difficult for many school buildings to meet the formula requirement so this section proposes establishing a basic minimum of 10 feet where it abuts a public way. It would have to be set back 10 feet from the lot line or it could be set back 15 feet from an abutting house lot property. In 5.54.1(d) it stated that if you have any new structures or additions, the maximum height would be 45 feet. In all the zoning districts the current maximum height limit is 35 feet, but school buildings tend to be larger than 35 feet. Schools tend to have higher stories than residential buildings. Parking that exists on the current site is the minimum parking that would be required. Ordinarily under zoning the minimum parking allowed might be larger than what is currently on the site in order to provide more flexibility for site design. The same applies to existing loading bays that can remain the minimum. This does not mean that the number of parking spaces or loading bays cannot increase. There are situations where the assumption is that the school building is not expanding. Page two of the petition deals with situations where the school was increasing beyond its current size and in this case the Planning Board would have the capability to waive any parking requirements under the limitation below. He cited 5.54.2 for the special permit scenario. The floor area ratio would be restricted and capped at 1.25. Current school site build outs were reviewed and some sites exceed 1.25 and many are between the current zoning allowance and 1.25. He stated that 1.25 gave a cushion of flexibility to allow for modest expansion for some of the site. The height would be limited to 55 feet except that the Planning Board could approve 65 feet if a portion of the building is set back 50 feet from any surrounding lot lines. In 5.54.2(c) the off-street parking reinforces that the minimum parking cannot be further reduced, unless the applicant seeks a special permit, specifically to reduce parking, which is a special permit provided in Section 6.35.1 and has specific criteria for approving that reduction. In 5.54.2(d) factors are set out that Planning Board would consider along with the general factors that the Planning Board always considers when issuing a special permit. In these cases the Planning Board would pay specific focus to how the building height and bulk is arranged with regard to surrounding uses, where access and egress points would be, how parking, loading and trash handling would be screened, the current impact of the building, how the building is positioned and how it effects the existing surrounding context.
Councillor Maher asked for comments from the City Council.
Mayor Davis stated that she assumed that some of this is geared toward not penalizing the site. In this case we are saying that we want to replace the structure so that it can be better and more energy efficient and she would not want the zoning to be the penalty.
Councillor Kelley stated that he had difficulty figuring out the difference between 5.54.1(d) and 5.54.2(b). He realized that 5.54.1 and 5.54.2 refer to different things, but it was not clear from the zoning what referred to what. He asked for an explanation. Mr. Roberts stated that the difference would be in 5.54.1(d) would allow a 45 feet height as of right without requiring a special permit and that 5.54.2(b) would allow an increase in height to 55 feet and a further potential increase to 65 feet with the set back provision, but would require Planning Board approval of a special permit.
Councillor Kelley stated that 5.54.2(b) states there is a 55 feet height and can go up to 65 feet with a Planning Board special permit and that 5.54.1(d) stated it is 45 feet and he thought that 5.54.1 and 5.54.2 dealt with different types of schools or projects, but the language is unclear what the differences is. Mr. Roberts stated that the difference is that everything incorporated under 5.54.2 would be allowed only by special permit from the Planning Board. The 45 feet could be allowed for projects where the building was being altered in some way that did not increase the overall gross floor area of the building, but might be shifting some floor area in a way that an addition would be added and any new addition would be capped at 45 feet. Once outside these bounds keeping the same floor area and same height would require a Planning Board special permit. Councillor Kelley stated that 5.54.2 is as of right and 5.54.2 is anything that exceeds those as of right requirements, but does not exceed what the zoning allows per special permit. Is this independent of the large project review? Mr. Roberts responded in the affirmative. The large project review is inapplicable in the districts where the school sites are located.
Councillor Kelley stated that the city needs to think about parking. There was a big issue with parking for the Fletcher-Maynard. Parking for the teachers is a problem. If the Planning Board is granted leeway to grant special permits to waive parking requirements then we should be up front with the teaching staff in the school buildings that they should not look to the City Council to address their parking concerns. Mr. Rossi stated that he has met with Mr. Maloney, Ms. Clippinger, Mr. Murphy, the architect and Mr. Black in an attempt to be fair and creative with the parking and asking everybody to consider the burden put on the neighborhood if we do not provide adequate parking. He thinks this is the goal. There will be a parking analysis done and he suggests the PTDM for the schools. It will be made clear to the School Department that in the end the city will be as creative and efficient as can be, but not all issues will be resolved. These are extremely difficult sites, but it is getting the maximum amount of attention from the entire time working together. There have been two community meetings which have been predominately abutter issues such as parking and drop off sites for the school busses. He felt that the PTDM will yield a better plan.
Councillor Kelley spoke of an order regarding tickets being issued because cars were left while parents dropped off their children to school. Busses are a problem. He did not want to come back to this issue and say we did not think enough about parking. Mr. Rossi stated that the good news is everything that was suggested or worried about are things that are being worked on and in an attempt to resolve. He does not want to leave it to the Planning Board to solve. His hope is to go to the Planning Board with a well thought out plan. In the case of the Baldwin School, the lot across the street was leased for parking for teachers. In the case of the Haggerty School the City took land by eminent domain to help solve teacher parking. None of the sites except the Tobin and the King Open offer much in the way of providing adequate parking. Councillor Kelley stated that the City Council votes on Zoning and not on guidance when voting on the Zoning. Mr. Rossi noted that he hopes that when he goes before the Planning Board for large project review these issues will be well thought out.
Councillor Kelley asked if in relation to FAR are we looking at all contiguous city property for building or looking at what the building is currently on. The future of the Vassar Lane Campus has a massive amount of property associated with it, but he does not know how much is considered the lot. Mr. Roberts stated that when sites were analyzed only the lots were reviewed that the school is located on. The adjacent lots are public parks. In most cases if there is a large adjacent field next to a school its zoning designation is open space and open space districts only allow a modest amount of development. So even if you looked at an entire city owned site as only one lot there would not be a substantial amount of development allowed because of the low development limit in an open space zoning district. Councillor Kelley stated that the Putnam Avenue site looks like it is all C-1, the school, the parking lot and the adjacent area. He has no idea what kind of lot it is carved into. He still has the question - what is a lot when all this property is contiguous and owned by the City? Mr. Roberts stated that this site is one lot. A playground is a piece of that lot - it is all one contiguous lot. Councillor Kelley asked if this property would be 1.25 maximum. Mr. Roberts stated that the site could be increased to 1.25 FAR under the Planning Board Special permit provision and the current FAR on the lot is 1.0 or 1.1. Councillor Kelley commented that we could have sites that end up bigger.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she wanted to make sure that any new construction or alteration is not penalized. She asked if solar panels count in the height. Shading of windows is it dimensional? Mr. Roberts responded that the City Council adopted changes in Article 22 relating to insulated walls. Solar systems are exempt. There are provisions for shading that do not count.
Councillor Kelley stated that the Vassar Lane site creeps into open space. He asked why not change the map for open space? Mr. Roberts stated that the Tobin School and the playground are all open space zoning. Councillor Kelley stated that the zoning map he is looking at shows that the Vassar Lane building is located in open space. Mr. Robert responded in the affirmative. Councillor Kelley stated that if looking at the school an appropriate map change should be made. Mr. Roberts suggested that the site not be included in open space. Councillor Kelley stated that schools not in open space should be fixed.
Councillor Kelley asked if 5.54.1 trumps any open space restrictions. Mr. Roberts stated that it would - it only applies to municipal K-8 buildings. The Special Dimensional provision could apply to open space. Open space parcel must follow the rules of the open space district. If 2 lots are owned by same owner one lot could be decide for development.
A discussion ensured between Councillor Kelley and Mr. Roberts relating to 5.54.1. Councillor Kelley commented that the whole project can be moved around, but you have more site to play with. Mr. Roberts stated that this needs to be study and come back to the City Council with a clarification. Councillor Kelley asked if it would be your intent to include open space lots under 5.54.1. Councillor Kelley stated that language clarification is needed for Section 5.54.1 as well as what defines a lot. Mr. Rossi stated that for some open space lots you need to go to legislature to use this land. The King Open lot is protected. Councillor Kelley stated that this needs clarification.
Councillor Cheung asked if this zoning amendment only applies to municipally owned K-8 buildings? Mr. Roberts responded in the affirmative. Councillor Cheung asked of our existing structures what would be conforming. Mr. Roberts stated that all but two sites exceed FAR. The set back provision is to allow flexibility to grandfather buildings as they exist without seeking relief or requiring Planning Board relief. Less than half exceed 1.25 FAR and only two buildings are below 35 feet. The Graham Parks school is 61 feet.
Councillor Cheung asked if there is a reason why all buildings do not conform to the Zoning Ordinances build to the future. Mr. Roberts stated that FAR, set-backs and height requirements state that these existing statistics would be conforming as of right. The rebuilt section would have to conform to the new provision. Councillor Cheung asked how many buildings does this affect. Mr. Maloney stated that looking at the IA additional space is needed at the King, King Open and the Tobin Schools. The flexibility is what is needed as we move forward. Councillor Cheung stated that clarity is needed for the zoning aspect. He was concerned that too much is being left to the special permit process. Mr. Rossi stated that the City is working with the abutting landowners and are working on landscaping and set back. Buildings will be a better experience.
Councillor Reeves asked if there was any rendering of what is proposed for the first building. He expressed his concern that the neighborhood has not been engaged for the first school. He hopes we do not get to a design only to find out that the neighborhood is against the design. He wanted the neighborhood involved early in the process. Mr. Black informed the committee that presently the City is still in the feasibility study. There are three options which are still being reviewed and priced. Elements of the school requirements are being put into different fashions. He stated that there are plans to meet with the neighborhood again on June 21, 2012. At this time we will not have any designs only options. In all three options the various components are being integrated. After a cost estimate is done all components will be end up on June 21, 2012 with the suggested option. Then the suggested option will be have more detailed drawings done and there will be more involvement with the neighborhood. Mr. Rossi stated that there will be a rendering at some point which will allow you to see how the building fits in with the landscaping. Mr. Rossi explained public mailings and the internal school process has been used to send out information to the neighborhood. Councillor Reeves commented that this neighborhood association has not met in two years. There is no network in this area.
Vice Mayor Simmons stated that this is an impediment to moving forward with the IA. There is a disturbance in the Riverside community. It is the IA and the building. She heard that June 21 is the last meeting and the community does not have any input. The angst exists. The community has to be part of the conversation. Mr. Rossi stated that the city is willing to talk to any group that wants to have input. If you give me a list I will meet them. Vice Mayor Simmons spoke about the library project which had a site manager.
Councillor Kelley stated that whatever is decided it should not be allowed by special permit.
Councillor Reeves expressed his concern with the fact that people in the community are not architect or engineers. When the building footprint is changed it can be perceived the building is bigger or different.
At 5:25pm Councillor Maher opened public comment.
Kai Quinlan, 63 Spring Street, stated that these provisions could affect the school on Spring Street. Abutters do not want a 65 feet high building. What are the actual plans - the community would like to know the intention. She asked if set back would allow parking on residential streets. She wanted to know when and where these issues will be discussed.
Olga Pelensky, 108 Kinnaird Street stated that she wanted more community input in the renovations proposed at the King School. She did not favor giving carte blanche to the School Department to allow them to build what they want. She wanted to see final plans. On Kinnaird Street houses were demolished and green space was promised and has been turned into a de facto parking lot. The current plan is doubling the parking spaces. Exhaust fumes will be problematic. She suggested using a side street for buses.
Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton, stated his opposition to any authority for special permit and waivers by the Planning Board.
On motion of Councillor Reeves public comment closed at 5:35pm.
Councillor Reeves suggested to Mr. Maloney that a table with information for residents be set up at Hoyt Field at the Hoops 'N' Health event.
Councillor Maher stated that another Ordinance Committee meeting would be held on the clarification issues raised and community outreach. He stressed the importance of the community input process being in place prior to building. The school buildings do not meet the educational needs of today.
Councillor Cheung made a motion to refer the petition to the full City Council without recommendation and hold the subject matter in committee. The motion carried on a voice vote.
Councillor Maher thanked all those present for their attendance.
On motion of Councillor Maher the hearing adjourned at 5:40pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Committee Report #3
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Wed, May 23, 2012 beginning at 5:41pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the hearing was to discuss an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance on a petition filed by CJUF III Northpoint LLC to amend Article 13.700 - Planned Unit Development in the North Point Residence District.
Present at the hearing were Councillor David Maher, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Leland Cheung; Councillor Craig Kelley; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Marjorie C. Decker; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development Department (CDD); Roger Boothe, Director of Urban Design, CDD; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Jeff Roberts, Neighborhood Planning, CDD; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present were Thomas N. O'Brien, Founding Partner, Managing Director, HYM Investment Group, One Congress Street, Boston, MA; Stephen Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street; Pauline Joseph, 6 Canal Park; Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street; Charlie Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street; and Ellen Burton, Museum Towers.
Councillor Maher convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He stated that a brief updated would be provided by CDD and then a presentation would be made by petitioner, Mr. O'Brien and then public comment.
Mr. Boothe stated that this project has languished and is now back on line. It is good to reopen the Northpoint project. It is coming back with a new development team. The CDD staff has met with the developer many times to see what needs to be done to bring the project back on line. In February the petition gave a presentation to the Planning Board. The CDD and the Planning Board are excited in the directions being undertaken by the developer. The proposal (ATTACHMENT A) will extend the open space and bring more vitality into the project. A PowerPoint presentation was now made by the petitioner (ATTACHMENT B).
Mr. Thomas O'Brien, Managing Director, Northpoint, outlined the petition and the new plans. The Northpoint is a 45 acre site in East Cambridge, Somerville and Boston. The site has 2 MBTA stations: a green line station, Lechmere, and the orange line. The area is well served by the transportation system and has a good park system on the Charles River. In two weeks a pedestrian bridge will be completed and will provide an opportunity for people to walk across the existing rail and out to the mouth of the Charles River. He stated that the 22 Water Street project will move forward and is a different development team. This is not his project, but is part of the Northpoint PUD. The Archstone site is also not his site. The site is a permitted. This is the existing master plan. The site was approved and permitted for a master plan in 2003. The permit is a twenty-five year permit consisting of 45 acres. The site was permitted for over 5 million square feet. It contains 3 million square feet of residential and 2 million square feet of commercial area. The strong residential factor is strongly embraced. This will be a community, a campus and a place where people will both live and work. There is also nine acres of open space. There has been a signification amount of development completed on the site. Two residential condominium buildings were completed and contain 333 units with 60% of units sold. The park is completed. This is a strong residential community. He is pleased to be part of the neighborhood which has almost 1800 housing units on the site. He outlined the new team. The previous team had a lot of rancor which held up development. The site was acquired two years ago. His group is the HYM Investment group. Canyon Johnson, Urban Funds, and Atlas, a NY based capital company, are the two capital partners. Pan Am is the rail and contributed the land to make the partnership deal. The property was acquired in August 2010. There are four general categories of things that the developer has been involved with. The owners have been engaged in a large community stakeholders meeting. Time has been spent with the East Cambridge Planning Team, the Northpoint Planning Group and the East Cambridge Business Association. A lot of time has been spent with the East Cambridge Stakeholders. The MBTA coordination has been a significant piece of the development has done to get green line back on track. A site wide environmental characterization of the site was conducted and turned out well. This took nine months to complete. Nothing affects the groundwater. There are certain urban soils which will need to be taken care of to develop the site.
He outlined the permitted master plan, the MBTA sites, and the residential, commercial and mixed use areas of the site.
Councillor Reeves asked which building was not in Cambridge. Mr. O'Brien responded that this is a complicated answer because none of the sites are in any one particular area. Site E is in Somerville. He is trying to create more green space throughout the site and create more pedestrian friendly areas at the ground level. First objective in getting the site active again is to start building the residential building. Parcel N will have 40 affordable units with 3 bedroom units. The first floor will be retail. There will be a public stairway built to connect the Gilmore Bridge. This is the first time that an Orange Line will be connected to a Cambridge site. A public park will be built in front. The Gilmore Bridge is a horror today. Parcel N will be built. A residential building cannot be built in the shadow of the Gilmore Bridge. He spoke about parking. The reason that the petition was filed is because at the edges of the site above grade parking is allowed, however the blue section of the presentation parking is allowed and does not count against the FAR. Parking will be encased in the building. Parking will be accessed from under the Gilmore Bridge. He spoke about enhancements to the master plan which is the second reason for the zoning petition. The first enhancement involves the integration of the MBTA station. He felt there should be a plaza into the site. Realigning First Street will accommodate the plaza. This could also be a retail plaza. The second concept of Lechmere Square is to create a retail plaza which would not only encompass on the new MBTA station side, but also encompass Monsignor O'Brien Boulevard. We are trying to create a zone that will be pedestrian centered and retail square. There will be the inclusion of a year round public market. The challenge is what the public market should be and the fact that a public market is being planned for Haymarket Station. Public market is being suggested in the area of the retail space, but discussions are ongoing. Public input has been included for the roadway and how the crossing will work. On the proposed park will be additional retail with a café. There will be multiple pedestrian crossings that exist on the site. The object is to make sure that the site is integrated into East Cambridge. First and Water Street connections will be important. He proposed that Northpoint be connected by various roads-improvements have been made from Museum Way to Water Street. He spoke about the removal of the infamous right lane turn. The lane will be 5 lanes instead of 7 with a median strip with trees. Different paving and lighting materials will be used to announce to automobiles that this is a pedestrian zone. Retail square will have outdoor seating. There will be more open space (5 new parks) are proposed for the back part of the site. This will be 11 acres of open space. Minimize water and electricity and maximize the opportunities concept will be creating something new and different.
He stated that the second request in the petition is geared to height. In order to get to the parks we are requesting to move the FAR around. Massing of the buildings need to be shifted. The petition requests to extend the height to 220 feet on the other side of the park. He is asking that the limit of two buildings be lifted to allow seven buildings in this 220 foot zone. This is up to the Planning Board discretion. He compared the originally permitted with what is being requested now. Taller and more slender buildings would be created. He spoke about community benefits: nine acres of open space, bike lanes and paths, sewer bypass, reconstruction of Monsignor O'Brien Highway and a new road network. Adding to the community benefits is the beginning residential building with 3 bedroom units, cohesive retail space, improved MBTA station, realignment of First Street, enhanced pedestrian crossing, elimination of right turn lane and want to incorporate the public market.
Councillor Reeves asked about the pool. Mr. O'Brien stated it is a pond and storm water. Councillor Reeves asked who will build and manage the public market. Mr. O'Brien stated the developers should build the public market with community input. He spoke about public owned versus privately public markets. He spoke about the need for a strong manager to make the public market successful. Councillor Reeves asked if the public market is it in perpetuity or a public market if it works. Mr. O'Brien responded that the market needs to be a public market that works. There are a number of challenges, one being the proximity to the Haymarket Square public market. Councillor Reeves asked if the large park will have trees and benches. Mr. O'Brien stated the park exists to today; it is hilly and has trees. An effort will be made to flatten the park out. Each park will need a different design and a different character, such as - a dog park, a recreational park, etc. Councillor Reeves expressed his hope that the new park will be a destination where you can push a stroller and sit down. This proposal has a residential, commercial, open space and a destination place. This plan has it all and it is well organized. He does not have size anxiety about the buildings for this area. Councillor Reeves asked who gets the taxes as the building is located in two cities. The City should know this. He liked the energy extended to bring the MBTA green line up to date.
Mr. O'Brien demonstrated that a bridge would cross the inlet and make a direct connection to the green line. He would embrace this and make it work. Mr. Boothe stated that he has been a member of the Charles River Basin Committee for 25 years and has pushed for the little bridge. It is a great idea, but it is also a requirement because when the City dropped its lawsuit for Scheme Z because of the commitment made by the state for this inlet bridge. The state owes this to the City.
Councilor Reeves asked about the elevated Lechmere Station. O'Brien stated that the plans for the Green Line are to have the station elevated. The Green Line will remain elevated as it comes through the site and then will travel on grade throughout the site. MBTA will build the first 3 stations, Lechmere, Brickbottom and the Union Square station, using only state funds. These are slated to be completed in 2017. Head house will be similar to the Charles/MIT station,
Councillor Cheung stated that he is excited and pleased with the plan. He wished all developers took time to incorporate public comment and public input into their design.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that you building a connected space. Mr. O'Brien stated that the buildings will go through design review and he will work with Cambridge and Somerville on the tax issue. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked if the other communities have to agree with the design process. Mr. O'Brien responded in the affirmative. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked about the parking entrance for the residential building being under the Gilmore Bridge. Mr. O'Brien described the vehicular route. Drive in under the Gilmore Bridge. There will be 4,000 parking spaces for the whole parcel. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that the site will have shared parking how will this be spelled out by PTDM. Mr. O'Brien stated that the PTDM is the next step. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked about the height comparison of the Archstone building. This will 7 building that will be 220.
Councillor Maher asked if there has been any discussion about the noise barrier for East Cambridge. Mr. O'Brien stated that the object is to create buildings that will shield the noise. It is an anomaly the 3 bedroom units. Public market done right is exciting.
Councillor Reeves stated that over what period of time you will be building. Mr. O'Brien responded the development has 2-3 commercial tenants. The residential site will be built right away. If MBTA station completes on schedule the retail square will be next. The building out was 25 years. Stated he did not want a station landing type of buildings at NP. Was commercial building political or logical? O'Brien stated logical
Councillor Maher opened public comment at 7:00pm.
Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, submitted a written statement (ATTACHMENT C). He is the Vice President of the Association of Cambridge Neighborhood, and appealed this site twice up to Supreme Court. He praised the presentation and PowerPoint. The graphics are excellent and zoning petition is clear. He has disagreements on transportation matters. He stated that we have a zoning petition before us but what was presented is a plan. Map 13-71 is the most important map in the package and the boundary line which is a sweeping curb. He spoke about the tide line this should be added. There is 13 acres of tidal state owned land. He suggested no special permit be issued for the site until there is a safe crossing.
Pauline Joseph, 6 Canal Park, stated that she is very excited. She asked where the right hand turn lane is located. Mr. O'Brien stated that this was a proposed right lane turn. Ms. Joseph supported a park that might be a dog run. Mr. O'Brien stated a dog run is definitely needed. He would be happy to engage the community for a dog park.
Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street, spoke about the enhancements. He has concerns about the First Street crossing. He stated that Cambridge Street from Inman Square there is no public space. He supported a space similar to Jill Rhone Brown Park. He favored the public market.
Ellen Burton, 8 Museum Way, Museum Towers, expressed her concern for the height and the value of light.
Charlie Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street, praised the presentation. He requested that it be put on line. Height is a great trade off for the open space. There is a lot of work needs to be done to make the traffic and parking move better. He favored connecting Northpoint to East Cambridge.
On motion of Councillor Reeves public comment ended at 7:20pm.
Councillor VanBeuzekom asked about the process of hearing from the Planning Board. Councillor Maher stated that the Planning Board will hold their hearing on June 5, 2012. The City Council will then receive a report from the Planning Board.
Councillor Toomey thanked the presenters and for making sure that Northpoint meshes with the East Cambridge neighborhood. The petitioner has met with the community and he urged the continuation of outreach with the community.
A communication was submitted by Barbara Broussard, President, East Cambridge Planning Team, relating to the Northpoint Zoning Petition (ATTACHMENT D).
Councillor Toomey made a motion to refer the petition to the full City Council without recommendation and leave the subject matter in committee in the event another meeting is needed.
Councillor Maher thanked all those present for their attendance.
On motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom the hearing adjourned at 7:27pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Committee Report #4
The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee held a public meeting on Mon, June 4, 2012 at 1:09pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to consider ideas for the best long-term community use of the Foundry Works Building.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor David Maher; Councillor Toomey; Councillor Reeves; Councillor vanBeuzekom; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office; Megan Montgomery; Jason Alves; John Clifford; Penny Peters; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present at the meeting were Tim Rowe, CEO, CI Center; and Brian Dacey, CI Center; Charlie Marquardt and Barbara Broussard, East Cambridge Planning Team; Travis McCready, Kendall Square Association; Will Sutton, office of Representative Timothy Toomey.
Councillor Cheung opened the meeting and stated the purpose. This is the beginning of a long public discussion on how to use the Foundry Building conveyed to the City by Alexandria Real Estate Equities. There will be three topics for discussion. They are the overarching goals for impact on the community, ideas for specific uses of the building, and next steps to engage more residents in the process. If there are any questions for research for the next meeting they also will be captured.
Charlie Marquardt explained pictures of the Foundry from a tour of the building that was arranged by Councillor Cheung in response to a request from the leadership of the East Cambridge Planning Team for members of the community to see the building in order to prepare for the public meeting called by the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee. Mr. Marquardt stated that the building is a beautiful building with great potential--lighting, a lot of space and low ceilings. This is a great opportunity to use odd spaces. The top floor has high ceilings. The entire building has nooks and crannies. He spoke about the architecture - it calls out for the flexible use of the space. This could be a subsidized community space to help with the tax rate.
Tim Rowe gave a PowerPoint Presentation on the past and future of the Foundry Building (ATTACHMENT A) prepared in response to the call of the meeting. Tim outlined the origins of the building. The original building was all open inside, unlike the structure today. In 1910 the building was featured in the NY Times article relating to the working conditions and women. Today the building is 100% vacant and owned by the City of Cambridge. Just by its use it will be a benefit the city.
Councillor Cheung asked the City Manager about the history of the building. Mr. Healy stated that there are two documents relating to the building; a zoning ordinance amendment (Ordinance # 1319) and a letter of commitment dated Feb 9, 2009 and filed by Alexandria Real Estate Equities. The Foundry was transferred to the City for community or municipal use. In January 2012 the final transfer of the property occurred. He stated that any City property is subject to Chapter 30B as well as to Municipal Ordinance relating to the disposition, sale or lease of City-owned land. A concept to get the ball rolling and the lack of available small start-up space this building could be a public/private partnership. There exist differing potential municipal needs. This will be a City Council decision that will require six votes.
Mr. Murphy stated that a minimum of 10,000 square feet of space has to go to education/institutional use. It is useable space.
DISCUSSION PHASE
Councillor Toomey stated that he was disturbed as how this is unfolding. Certain groups are touring a City building; was authorization given to tour the building. The whole community process has been skipped. His vote on the zoning amendment was contingent on the community benefit package. The whole process has been compromised. This should have been started with the community. He was concerned about liability with the tours. This is a public process that needs to be open to all. The High School extension needs a home. There are a lot of different aspects that people need to weigh in on this issue.
Councillor Cheung stated that this is a public meeting, open to all and the first of many public dialogue sessions. Councillor Cheung agreed that this does need a community process. It was because of that need that the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee public meeting they were presently attending was called to kick off that community process. All ideas for what can go into the building will be welcomed. This building is pre-promised to no one. This is a public visioning process to discuss what the potential for the building is or could be, and to get ideas out of individuals' heads and publicly on the table. At the end of this meeting the committee would publicly report a list of ideas for Goals and Uses for the building and then what the next steps are in the process for more members of the community to weigh in.
Travis McCready favored clarity. What is meant by activating the streetscape? He spoke about heavy vehicular traffic on Third Street and his concern about adding too much vehicular traffic. He was in favor of pedestrian traffic rather than vehicular traffic.
Tim Rowe stated that cities need new and old spaces. There may not be a building in Kendall Square that could support a low profit community process. This is an opportunity. Mr. Rowe stated that he has been thinking about this building for long time. Ms. Brossard stated that according to NPR within the 5-6 next year the US will need 87,000 machinists. Artists need space to store supplies and space to use. Mr. Rowe stated that General Assembly in NY has classes that teach people the skills needed for jobs for the 21st Century. There are 100,000 unfilled jobs in MA. This organization is working to fix this. They will open at night at CIC because the site is not used at night. He spoke about the need for community gathering spaces as well as workspaces. The HUB in San Francisco is a co-working organization and works for the benefit of companies. The HUB will open in Cambridge or Boston. All these options work without public funding.
Mr. Rowe stated that the Foundry has outdoor space which is needed for a daycare facility. However he cited that there are fire and code issues with this space. The space could be used for a machine shop. Tech Shop is the largest organization in the country. There is a need for affordable space for startup companies. Massachusetts, he said, is losing companies because there is no start-up space. A community kitchen is another great idea for the space.
Councillor Reeves stated that he is not clear on the social entrepreneur space. He asked Mr. Rowe to explain. Mr. Rowe explained that social entrepreneurs share the space with class space and there is an economic system that supports the businesses. Councillor Reeves stated that Third Sector NE has a similar facility as well as the Philips Brooks House. Mr. Rowe stated that there are a number of different models. This is 21st Century co-working model. Councillor Reeves spoke about day care reality and the need in US and MA. There are not enough day care facilities. The Red Ribbon Commission decided that more day care and early childcare space is drastically needed as well as the need for larger and better spaces for day care facilities. Human Services Department should be looking at the day care issue. He would not want to put toddlers in buildings where there is exhaust. Affordable day care should be addressed.
Ms. Broussard stated that the building could be leased with caveats; such as space for entrepreneurs that could also be used for teaching to help individuals get jobs. The site could be managed for the City. Councillor Cheung asked Mr. Healy if this were feasible. Mr. Healy responded that an invitation to bid could be issued if the entity that is leasing the space can offset the use. This falls under the sale and lease of City-owned property. This needs to be a competitive process. Councillor Reeves stated that the City has vacant space at the First Street garage and VFW. This is not the City's forte. He spoke of models that have been successful, such as the Dance Complex and the Community Learning space models.
Mr. Healy commented that the ideas are noble, but there still exists an Anti-Aide Amendment in the Massachusetts Constitution. Money cannot be given to entities. He suggested going to the legislature to create a model similar to the Affordable Housing Trust.
Councillor Maher stated that he was reluctant to see the City as the landowner of this building. The City does not have a good track record. He thinks that gaining possession of the building, the potential sale of the building and how the money could be used would benefit the community. The building is assessed for $8.5 million. He spoke about a trust fund set up that would allocate grants for non-profits to benefit the community. Ms. Broussard added that some non-profits need space more. Mr. Dacey spoke about the possibility of using spaces in a revolving way. Councillor Reeves agreed with Councillor Maher on where the City needed to end up. He wished to push hard on innovation and to support innovation as long as the City did not run it. He added the need for artist space.
Mr. Rossi urged caution. A small non-profit given a boost to a more modernized space could create a cost-generating dilemma. Councillor Cheung asked Mr. Rossi to explain the situation he was thinking of. Mr. Rossi stated that the City bought the VFW property and allowed the VFW to contribute to the cost of the retrofit. In an old facility where nothing worked properly the operational costs were minimal. However in the new facility the operating costs were too expensive. The problems created by monetarily assisting non-profits can be more complex.
Mr. Rowe spoke about his vision for the building. Staying in the old building and not improving it - it will be affordable and basic. Mr. Rossi stated that a good example was the day care facility. The State has specific guidelines and building permit states that you have to build to today's standards. Mr. Rowe agreed that day care regulation have strict guidelines. The City Council needs to make a decision for the uses in this building. If uses are subsidized and you pick a use that does not work out - the shared use facility has a better chance of succeeding. This building could be a hyper-shared building. This could reduce the cost considerably. This could be low cost space for non-profits. He wanted to push on the sharing space aspect. In shared space there are a high number of people in a small space. Efficiency is low if you are heating and cooling an empty space. Sharing space is economical.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she loved the environmental sharing. Have we touched on the public/private space? Would legal issues be different in a partnership? Mr. Rossi responded that the Inspector General will look in to making sure it is used as a public benefit. Mr. Dacey explained two ventures he was involved in for the federal government that wanted other activities. This was accomplished by a management agreement with non-governmental uses. This was driven by the public sector stating what they wanted to see.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that another example of a Cambridge relationship is with the Office of Tourism for the funding structure. Mr. Rossi stated that this is different. Mr. McCready spoke about a government asset that could be better served by the private sector. Tourism is not a good example because tourism is not something the government is responsible to accomplish. Education is a good example. The governments should not be responsible for the flavor of the month. No one knows what the most efficient steps in the years to come will be the best for sharing spaces. If the private/public partnership is used the management agreement must be flexible enough to be released from.
Councillor Toomey questioned if Cambridge youth will benefit. Mr. Rowe commented that CIC has the highest level of interns. Education is not preparing youth for employment for the 21st Century. Councillor Reeves asked what is a Cantabrigian getting that will require education to provide them so that they can provide for their families. Mr. Rowe stated that low cost space must be maintained for social spaces. Space can be leased by the City to an organization with a stipulation that it maintain a modest price. Councillor Toomey stated that he was adamant that the community be involved. This building was given to the City for mitigation for the community. Mr. Rossi commented that anything the City does must follow the statutes.
During the discussion phase the following list of goals, uses, questions and next steps was created:
Overarching Goals for the Community
Activation of the pedestrian streetscape; address traffic safety concerns.
Benefit and enhance the community through its community organizations.
Keep in mind public/private flexibility.
Mitigate the impacts of development on the community.Brainstorm on Ideas for Potential Uses
More daycare options.
Community space for veterans.
Space for machine shop.
Space for community classes, artists
Low cost office space for nonprofits.
Space for neighborhood groups.
Space for a community kitchen.
Space for dance group.
High school extension space.
School department space.
IT department.
Space for the arts.
Tech education/reeducation.
Space for seniors.
Public market/grocery mart.Questions for Consideration and Potential Next Steps
Councillor Cheung will work with DPW to offer additional public tours of the building.
Evaluate potential legal considerations and structures.
Tour Brewery in Jamaica Plain.
Explore other innovative organizations to learn best practices that can be implemented at the Foundry Building.
Understand the benefits of the physical space available vs. monetary trade-offs.
Inquire of Alexandra the estimated costs to operate the building.
Put together an estimated timeline for the community process.
Consider the feasibility of renting immediately but for only a short-term period.
Find a blueprint of the floor plan of building.
Councillor Cheung thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at 2:55pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
Committee Report #5
The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee conducted a public meeting on June 5, 2012 beginning at 12:35pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss putting university and college educational content on Cambridge's public access channels.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Calvin Lindsay, Director, 22-CityView; Laurie Young, 22-CityView; Susan Fleischmann, CCTV; Ginny Berkowitz, Media Arts Studio; Megan Montgomery; and Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office.
Also present were Phillip Page, Wendell Seale, Jeff Imperato, Cambridge College; Bill Doncaster, Lesley University; and Tom Lucey, Harvard University.
Councillor Cheung convened the meeting and explained the purpose.
Councillor Cheung stated that while at a book release at MIT recently, he realized there were a large number of people from the Cambridge community in attendance who had no affiliation with MIT. He stated that the event was being filmed and it occurred to him that it would be great to make this event more widely available to Cambridge residents. He commented that he believes that educational content on public access should be available and his desire to see this idea come to fruition.
Ms. Fleischmann stated that CCTV is public access television. CCTV is not responsible for the content of the programming. She noted that CCTV does not solicit programming beyond what members produce. She noted that content can be obtained via DVD, video file and downloaded material. She noted that the only issue is that a Cambridge resident would need to sponsor this programming.
Ms. Berkowitz stated that channels 98 and 99 are educational access channels. She stated that primarily on channel 98 student work is showcased. She noted that channel 99 is more news and information about the district such as School Committee meetings. She noted that there are standards and she feels that content from Cambridge's academic institutions would be an exciting element to add to their programming.
Calvin Lindsay stated that 22-CityView programming is primarily based on City-specific events such as City Council meetings and community events. 22-Cityview produces some original programming coupled with some satellite-sourced programming.
Councillor Cheung questioned the way in which to stream content. He inquired if the city is connected to the universities in a way that would allow streaming of events to Cambridge's public access channels. Ms. Berkowitz stated that currently there is not a direct connection. She noted that it is possible but she would need to figure out. For previously recorded content, the only question is how to get media from one place to the next, either by hard copy, DVD, etc. She stated that there are many options.
Tom Lucey stated that Harvard has worked with the Cambridge Public schools on communications technology. In terms of streaming, he stated that Harvard could provide access via its Internet2 connection to the Cambridge public schools. Mr. Lucey stated that access to Internet2 is open to all institutions but it this information is not known broadly.
Councillor Cheung questioned Mr. Lucey regarding Harvard's feeling on the idea of sharing educational content. Mr. Lucey stated that it is possible to share content with CCTV and the Media Arts Studio. He noted that there will be programming that will be taking place over the summer and into the fall which will create some great content. He commented that it would beneficial to the Cambridge community to share broadcasts when the universities are hosting speakers. He noted that when they are filmed, this content can be shared. He noted that this type of programming should be easily accessible.
Councillor Cheung stated that lectures and panels would be a great starting point. He noted that direct streaming of events to public access television would be fantastic but he can see the challenges. Mr. Lucey noted that Harvard works with CISCO who donated a monitor to the Cambridge Rindge and Latin. He noted that CRLS also has the capacity to conduct video conferences using that technology and he could envision even more use of that technology in respect to this idea.
Phillip Page, Cambridge College, stated that this is an opportunity for Cambridge College to increase its visibility. He noted that Cambridge College does use YouTube videos to aid in marketing the college. He noted that Cambridge College would have to shape particular programming but that the Cambridge College is very interested in participating in the content-sharing. Mr. Page stated that public interest seminars including topics such as personal finance, negotiation skills, and techniques for effective presenting are not currently filmed but going forward it is something they would be very interested in filming to share with a broader Cambridge audience.
Mr. Doncaster stated that one issue regarding the content-sharing is that sometimes visiting speakers request that they are not videotaped. Lesley University would be willing and able to share content but receiving permission by the speaker is a component in the equation.
Councillor Cheung suggested the idea of a disclaimer and questioned if that would be helpful to the speakers. Mr. Doncaster stated that that would probably not be beneficial. He stated that in the case of a speaker not wanting their presentation shared, Lesley was not allowed to edit the presentation or put it on the website. This material was meant solely for the archives where students could access that information. Mr. Doncaster noted that there is a fair amount of Lesley faculty presented publicly as well. He stated that he is not sure how much content that Lesley currently has available without contacting the speaker for permission to share said content.
Ms. Berkowitz stated that the release is the trickiest component. Mr. Doncaster stated that it a question that needs to be asked going forward. She stated that there was a series in which a visiting scholar worked with them to create pieces and that the scholars were comfortable with sharing the content of that series. She stated that a weekly slot dedicated to a series is a good starting point.
Mr. Lucey stated between the four institutions, Harvard, MIT, Lesley and Cambridge College, there should be enough content for the next 4-5 years.
Mr. Page stated Cambridge College does not have many invited presenters. He stated that their involvement would be built specifically for this endeavor and it would be more homegrown as it relates to Cambridge College. He noted that Cambridge College looks forward to contributing to this development.
Mr. Doncaster questioned the amount of time there is to fill among other programming. Ms. Berkowitz stated that she is always looking for more content to program and that to have local content would be very exciting. She stated that she would constitute 15 programs as a season.
Councillor Cheung questioned how many hours of content are there per day/week on the channels. Calvin Lindsay stated that they have the luxury of designing the schedule. He stated that it is easy to fill in programming around staple material. Councillor Chueng stated that he likes the idea of live content. He noted that if space in a room is a concern, streaming the content out to the public would be beneficial.
Responding to a question regarding transmission, Ms. Fleischmann stated that the signals can be transmitted over the internet to one of their stations. She stated that they are connected to the Media Arts Studio. Wendell Seale stated that Cambridge College is not connected to Internet2. He noted that getting a signal streamed from CCTV and vice versa is something to think about.
Councillor Cheung questioned if there were any known impediments beyond the logistical issues. Ms. Berkowitz stated that someone needs to be the liaison between the different entities. A process to connect the infrastructure needs to be created. Ms. Fleischmann stated that resources as far as management are an issue.
Mr. Doncaster stated the only logistical issue on Lesley's side is knowing a schedule. He stated that at Lesley University, he knows before a semester begins what is forthcoming regarding programming but there are times with larger names that there is only a couple of weeks advance notice. He stated that for the fall semester, he usually would know mid-August who will be coming. He noted that some speakers are not G-rated and noted that this is not as much of a concern with CCTV. Councillor Cheung stated that he would love for Cambridge kids to think critically about issues of the day and to understand how leaders are thinking. He noted that the City and educational access channels do have some limitations.
Councillor Cheung asked if there are point people within the colleges that could implement and run point on this kind of endeavor. Mr. Doncaster stated that Lesley University books their own speakers and he has tried to convince all involved to use a standard contract as to whether or not they are okay with video. He noted that this issue tends to be an afterthought and it ends up being a scramble trying to reach people.
Mr. Lucey stated that he believes the point person for this undertaking would be the Office of Community Affairs and he would be happy to work with all involved. He noted that it will helpful in the planning process to think about the type of speakers that will be presented. He commented that there are many different types of programming that can be sought. He noted that it would be helpful to focus on what types of programming is desirable.
Mr. Page stated that specificity would be helpful. He noted that Cambridge College will need to figure out who the point person will be for this project, both in terms of getting the work done, filming and managing of the process.
Councillor Cheung stated that as he thinks about next steps, it would be beneficial to transition this group into a Task Force with a goal of getting the content on the air. He questioned the need for a technical person at the meeting.
Mr. Doncaster stated that it is not a complicated process if the content is in a DVD format. He noted that a secondary concern is the actual quality of the video at the end. He stated that an hour-long lecture is okay but when it is put out on the airway, production quality is not great. He stated that in an ideal situation, the room would be set up similar to the chamber where there are multiple cameras and different angles can be captures.
Councillor Cheung stated that at the Harvard Kennedy School, there is a high standard of video production. Mr. Lucey stated that even among professional schools and colleges, different schools are not as well-equipped as HKS. Councillor Cheung stated that he would like to see the distribution of some live content from HKS to the public.
Councillor Cheung questioned whether it was appropriate to transition this working group into a task force where there could be an outline of goals, hours of content and foresight from the colleges. Regarding live programming, Mr. Doncaster questioned if it could be as easy as CCTV coming on site? Ms. Fleischmann stated that currently the distribution system is not ready. Councillor Cheung asked for a timeline. Ms. Berkowitz stated that a system has been purchased and it is a matter of implementation. She noted that this implementation will take place during the summer and should be ready by the fall.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that it this initiative sounds very exciting and she is looking forward to this partnership between the colleges and universities and the residents of Cambridge.
At this time, Councillor Cheung made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and form a task force including, but not limited to the attendees at the Cable TV, Telecommunications & Public Utilities Committee meeting with the goal of broadcasting previously recorded and live streamed educational content from Cambridge's academic institutions over the public access channels by the fall season.
The motion - Carried.
Councillor Cheung stated that this is a great opportunity to present educational content to residents of Cambridge.
Mr. Doncaster stated that he feels that the fall is a reasonable goal to map out a consistent program.
Mr. Lucey stated that Harvard would have content to share.
Mr. Page stated that because Cambridge College will have to develop this initiative, they may not be involved at the starting point but they certainly like to be considered in the mix.
Ms. Berkowitz commented to Mr. Page that public interest content is something that would be interesting content as well.
Councillor Cheung asked about EDx content and the possibility of that being included in the future. He questioned if EDx is suitable to be re-broadcast. Mr. Lucey stated that he does not see why this would not be available.
Councillor Cheung thanked all attendees for their participation.
The meeting adjourned at 1:32pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
AWAITING REPORT LIST
12-02. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the repair of all street lights that are not working in Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 01/23/12 (O-1)
12-08. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on instituting a ban on plastic bags.
Councillor Decker, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 01/23/12 (O-10)
12-12. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on zoning changes for the Sullivan Courthouse and neighboring parcels.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 01/30/12 (O-7)
12-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what steps the City will take to help the general public keep track of awaiting maintenance issues on things like park equipment, graffiti, sidewalks, etc.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/13/12 (O-4)
12-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the ownership status of the Cambridge Street overpass and on the abilities of universities and other organizations to close off property owned by them but enjoyed by the public.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/13/12 (O-6)
12-25. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #25
RE: report on developing a process which would require developers seeking zoning relief to build a model of the area impacted by the proposed developments.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/13/12 (O-12)
12-26. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #18
RE: report on resurfacing the courts at the Jimmy Johnson Street Hockey Rink and providing lighting for the playing area.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher & Vice Mayor Simmons 02/13/12 (O-13)
12-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the no left turn on the Cambridge Common and to remove the bicycle prohibition on certain streets, such as Whittemore Avenue. Referred back for additional information on 3/5/2012.
Councillor Kelley 02/13/12 (O-17)
12-33. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #1
RE: report on a plan for implementing separate trash or recycling curbside pick up for small businesses along existing curbside pick up routes.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/05/12 (O-1)
12-37. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #3
RE: report on installing traffic calming measures on Norfolk Street between Broadway and Hampshire Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/05/12 (O-7)
12-40. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #27
RE: report on improper leases and rental of owned affordable housing units.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/19/12 (O-3)
12-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what additional measures could be taken to improve the amount of municipal green purchasing by city government, including at the school department.
Mayor Davis, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/19/12 (O-4)
12-42. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on reevaluating pedestrian safety concerns at the intersection of Coolidge Avenue and Mt. Auburn Street and the x-shaped intersection where Mt. Auburn crosses Fresh Pond/Gerry's Landing.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/19/12 (O-6)
12-43. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility and desirability of developing an off-leash dog park in or nearby Area 4.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 03/19/12 (O-9)
12-44. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the proposal by Global Oil LLC will impact Cambridge. Referred back by Councillor Cheung for a report on 5/21/12.
Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/19/12 (O-10)
12-46. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the accident at the corner of Dover Street and Massachusetts Avenue. Referred back by Councillor Kelley for more information at meeting of 4/9/2012.
Councillor Kelley, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/26/12 (O-3)
12-47. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on legal requirements for public notices and meetings of the Planning Board and Board of Zoning Appeals.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 04/02/12 (O-2)
12-50. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #4
RE: report on the legal and logistic possibility of banning the use of imidacloprid insecticide.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 04/23/12 (O-2)
12-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of finding additional office space for the City Council.
Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/23/12 (O-5)
12-53. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #17
RE: report on turning on all water for fountains and gardens at the earliest possible date of the year and shut off at the latest possible date of the year.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 04/23/12 (O-8)
12-54. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to establish an Community Choice Aggregation Network which will engage in electricity procurement for the entire City of Cambridge.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 04/23/12 (O-9)
12-57. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on appropriate regulation of satellite dishes, possibly through an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance.
Mayor Davis and Full Membership 04/30/12 (O-2)
12-58. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on recent ruling that law enforcement can conduct strip searches.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/14/12 (O-7)
12-59. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on implementing a city-wide department answering service.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 05/14/12 (O-4)
12-63. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on safety issues at the intersection of Mass Avenue and Vassar Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/14/12 (O-11)
12-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on current status of the Inlet Bridge and what steps the City can take to ensure that agreements with the Commonwealth are upheld.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 05/21/12 (O-1)
12-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on an explanation as the when the main library will be open on Sundays.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/21/12 (O-2)
12-66. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #2
RE: report on what system is in place for monitoring the ongoing need of each designated disability parking space.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Vice Mayor Simmons 05/21/12 (O-4)
12-67. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on implementing a ban on trucks transporting hazardous materials through the City.
Councillor Cheung 05/21/12 (O-5)
12-68. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether NSTAR is able to ensure to the greatest extent possible the continued and successful flow of the City's electrical power.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-4)
12-69. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on repairing the condition of Avon Street and Shepard Street between Walker and Garden Streets.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-7)
12-70. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on accepting payment at parking meters via credit card.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-9)
12-71. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of converting the vacant lots at the corner of Watson and Brookline Streets and at 35 Cherry Street to community gardens or open space.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 06/04/12 (O-10)
12-72. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how increases in student loans might impact Cambridge students.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-11)
12-73. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether automated external defibrillators can be utilized in police vehicles.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-12)
12-74. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of expanding the barbeque pilot program in parks throughout Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-13)
12-75. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of providing a map of long term parking spots for rent on the city website.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-16)
12-76. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the Willow Street shooting.
Councillor Toomey 06/04/12 (O-18)