Cambridge City Council meeting - July 28, 2014 - AGENDA

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a Constable Without Power for a term of three years, effective the first day of January, 2014:  David F. Meyer

2. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Cambridge Health Alliance Board of Trustees:
Reappointments:

Moacir Barbosa, Cambridge seat (3-year term)
Steven Manos, Cambridge seat (3-year term)
Gerald McCue, Somerville seat (3-year term)

New Appointment:
Katharine S. Kosinski, MD, Cambridge seat (1-year term)

Dr. Kosinski is a very familiar face to the Board of Trustees having served the Chief of Pathology at Cambridge Health Alliance for over twenty (20) years. During her twenty years at Cambridge Health Alliance, Dr. Kosinski mentored young pathologists, including the current Chief of Pathology, as well as focused on increasing diversity within her department. Since retiring as Chief in 2012, Dr. Kosinski has found new activities to keep her busy including serving as an English as a Second Language (ESOL) tutor and teaching assistant at the Community Learning Center in Cambridge.

Dr. Kosinski received her Medical Doctorate from Tufts University School of Medicine and completed her residency in pathology at Massachusetts General Hospital.

3. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-26, regarding improving safety at the intersection of Cambridge Street and Cardinal Medeiros Avenue.
Charter Right - Toomey

4. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the acceptance of Section 34 of Chapter 176 of the Acts of 2011 establishing a local option that will allow the stipend paid to Retirement Board Members to be increased to $4,500 per year.

5. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to a proposed ordinance which will enable the Cambridge Police Department to conduct State and Federal Fingerprint Based Criminal History checks for individuals applying for certain enumerated licenses.
Referred to Ordinance Committee - McGovern

6. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-59, regarding a report on measures to improve public safety in Central Square.

7. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-66, regarding a report on ways to combat bicycle thefts and on implementing bicycle recovery programs.

8. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-70, regarding a report on allowing residents to register their bicycles to the National Bike Registry Program through the CPD website and the feasibility of using this program when recovering stolen bicycles.

9. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $133,437.51 funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), to the Grant Fund Police Salary and Wages account ($97,423.51) and to the Grant Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance Account ($36,014) which is a reimbursement of expenditures related to the 2013 Marathon Bombing during the week of Apr 15, 2013 through Apr 24, 2013 and will be used to offset overtime costs and to purchase a Morphotrak system used for identifying latent finger prints.

10. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $180,000 from the Employee Benefits Salary and Wages account (Insurance) to the General Fund Police Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($80,000) and to the General Fund Police Travel and Training (Judgments & Damages) account ($100,000) to cover medical services for personnel injured on the job.

11. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Public Safety Answering Point Emergency Communications Center Support (PSAP Support) Grant funded from the State 911 Department for $301,330 to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Salaries and Wages account ($203,500) and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($97,830) which will support certain Emergency Communications dispatch personnel, overtime and annual maintenance costs of software and other equipment.

12. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Public Safety Answering Position (PSAP) Grant funded from the State 911 Department for $61,587 to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Salary and Wages account ($23,840.75), Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($13,346.25) and to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Travel and Training account ($24,400) which will support the cost of attending training courses, fees for conferences and software maintenance expenditures, and reimburse overtime costs for dispatcher's attending the trainings.

13. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $10,000 from the Reserve Other Ordinary Maintenance account to the General Fund Public Celebrations Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used to pay for the City's cost of hosting the World Cup Semi-Final and Final matches held on July 12 & 13, 2014.

14. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $141,330 in license renewal fees from Comcast to the Public Investment Fund Cable Television Extraordinary Expenditures account to support the local Public, Educational and Government cable television stations.

15. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to zoning text prepared by the Community Development Department in regard to a request made by the Ordinance Committee at its June 9 public hearing on the Chun, et al. Zoning Petition, which proposes amending the zoning in the Cambridge Highlands neighborhood.
Referred to Ordinance Committee & Planning Board

16. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-53, regarding a report on limited equity cooperative housing.

17. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-64, regarding a report on the possibility of installing traffic calming measures on Inman Street between Hampshire Street and Broadway.

18. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-44, regarding the proposed Grand Junction Community Path.

19. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-71, regarding a report on the feasibility of streamlining the permitting process for one-day permits for food trucks visiting Cambridge for special events.

To: Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
From: Brian P. Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development;
     Andrea S. Jackson, Chairperson of License Commission; Susan E. Clippinger, Director of Traffic, Parking & Transportation
Date: July 18, 2014
RE: Council Order #15 dated June 30, 2014 regarding feasibility of streamlining permitting process for one-day permits for food trucks visiting Cambridge for special events.

The Community Development Department, Fire Department, Inspectional Services Department, License Commission, Department of Public Works and Traffic, Parking & Transportation Department recognize the need for a coordinated and quick permitting process for special events and activities that take place on private property or in the public way. Special events enliven the community and provide a richer experience for residents, commuters, and visitors in our city.

Cambridge residents, businesses or organizations that wish to host a special event and engage a food vendor (food truck, cart, or stand) can accomplish this while meeting current regulations and maintaining safety for the public. If the special event needs coordination between multiple departments, the City recommends an application through the Department of Public Works Special Event Committee, which can guide the applicant through the necessary information needed to ensure a safe activity while limiting disruptions and negative impacts to the surrounding neighborhood.

If it is a small event that involves a food vendor for a limited period of time, the necessary information and permits can be acquired from a few departments. Applicants are encouraged to contact the following departments well in advance to schedule inspections at mutually convenient times:

The process described in this response is different from the process referenced in the Council Order, which is for mobile vendors that want to operate in Cambridge on a regular basis with an annual peddler’s license. The one-day permits issued for special events do not have to comply with the zoning use table; do not have to be a Cambridge business; are not required to complete a Valet, Food Truck or Jitney review form; do not require a CORI check on employees; are not restricted by the proximity to a common victualer license holder; and do not require a public hearing before the License Commission.

The City continues to review these regulations and the application process in order to make it easier for vendors to operate as part of special events in Cambridge while maintaining public safety.

20. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Adult Basic Education (ABE) grant received from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) in the amount of $635,116 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($608,248), to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($25,368) and to the Travel and Training account ($1,500) and will fund ESOL, literacy, and high school equivalency preparation classes (teaching, advising, and assessment), as well as volunteer coordination, technology coordination, distance learning for ESOL students, student leadership activities, childcare through the Center for Families for a family literacy class, and out-stationing at Career Source to identify and refer potential adult education students. It also includes administrative costs for data entry, reception, clerical work, and fiscal tracking.

21. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Men's Health League grant from the Cambridge Public Health Department in the amount of $500 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used to support the Self-Care Component of the Boys II Men Project, including yoga instruction and cooking classes.

22. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $30,000 for the Cabot grant funded by the Cabot Family Charitable Trust to the Department of Human Services Salary and Wages account which will support staff salaries for Baby University, specifically a Saturday Group Facilitator and a Family Support Worker.

23. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $50,000 from the Cambridge Community Foundation to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($37,745) and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($12,255) and will support the ongoing programming for families who have participated in the Baby University program.

24. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) Bridge to College Program grant in the amount of $13,700 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($12,800) and to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($900) which will support the Bridge-to-College Program in providing educational support services to adult CHA residents and assisting them in making the transition to post-secondary education.

25. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Children's Trust Fund grant for the Center for Families program in the amount of $62,000 to the Department of Human Services Salary and Wages account ($60,354) and to the Department of Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($1,646) which will support a portion of salary and benefit costs of three staff and group leaders who organize and lead parenting classes and workshops in different areas of the city as well as contracts with consultants and supplies.

26. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Temporary Emergency Shelter grant received from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in the amount of $286,800.53 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be subcontracted to the Cambridge YWCA to operate its family shelter from July 1, 2014 through Feb 28, 2015, including the provision of case management for ten homeless families at a time as referred by the DHCD.

27. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) from the Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in the amount of $225,341 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($16,900) and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($208,441) and will be used for shelter operating costs, providing essential services to homeless persons outside of the shelter setting, rapid re-housing, homelessness prevention case management, and rental assistance services.

28. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in the amount of $112,800 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($4,776) and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($108,024) and will be used to support homelessness prevention programs based at the Multi-Service Center.

29. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Cambridge Food Pantry grant received from the Cambridge Health Alliance for $15,000 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used to support the Cambridge Food Pantry Network.

30. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Friends of the Community Learning Center (CLC) grant funded by Friends of the Community Learning Center through individual donations and from a family foundation in the amount of $22,000 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account and will support English for Speakers of Other Languages classes at the Community Learning Center.

31. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Cambridge Community Center grant in the amount of $220 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used by the Cambridge Community Center and the Gately Youth Center to engaged in a nutritious snack collaboration project that will explore the barriers to implementing the Out of School Time Food Policy developed by a committee of Cambridge Youth Center staff and community organizations.

32. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance grant funded by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in the amount of $88,979 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($86,979) and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($2,000) and will be used for costs related to the Carey Men's Transitional Program operated by the Multi-Service Center.

33. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-56, regarding a report on the Cambridge Street Underpass.

34. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-65, regarding a report on barriers around outdoor dining.

35. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-52, regarding a report on New Street improvements.

36. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-58, regarding a report on NStar Gas Leaks.

37. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, request support from the City Council of my intention to submit an application for funding under the Commonwealth's Infrastructure Investment Incentive Program (referred to as the "I-Cubed" program).

38. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to an update on the Cambridge Conversations: Preliminary Summary of Process and Input.

39. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to actions I am taking in light of the July 16, 2014 ruling by the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in the case of Merit Construction Alliance v. City of Quincy as it relates to the Responsible Employer Ordinance.

July 28, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council:

This is to advise you of actions I am taking in light of the July 16, 2014 ruling by the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in the case of Merit Construction Alliance v. City of Quincy. A copy of the Court's decision is attached. In the Merit Construction case, the Court struck down a provision in a City of Quincy "Responsible Employer Ordinance" that required Quincy contractors to establish and maintain an apprentice training program that complied with state law requirements in order to work on certain Quincy contracts. The Court ruled that Quincy's Responsible Employer Ordinance apprentice training program requirement was inconsistent with the federal Employee Retirement Income Security Act, 20 U.S.C. §1001-1461 (known as "ERISA"), and that therefore the requirement was pre-empted by the federal statute and could not be enforced. Attorneys' fees were awarded against the City of Quincy for unsuccessfully defending its ordinance.

Cambridge City Code Chapter 2.66, entitled "Cambridge Employment Plan," contains an apprentice training program requirement (at §2.66.080(A)(3)) similar to the one struck down in the Merit Construction case. The City Solicitor has advised me that given the substantial similarity between the Quincy and Cambridge apprentice training ordinances, the Merit Construction ruling makes clear that Cambridge would be acting in violation of federal law if it were to continue to enforce §2.66.080(A)(3).

Therefore, I have instructed the Purchasing Agent to immediately cease to require City contractors to comply with the apprentice training requirements in §2.66.080(A)(3), and to not include compliance with the apprentice training program requirements in §2.66.080(A)(3) as a bid requirement going forward. I also recommend that the City Council repeal the apprentice training program requirements in §2.66.080(A)(3).

Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager

40. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the FY14 Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) in the amount of $41,106 to the Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used to enhance computer and MIS capabilities and implement the Mobile Office in cruisers along with handheld units for walking officers.

41. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to proposed amendment to Chapter 6.04 of the Cambridge Municipal Code (the "Animal Control Regulations").
Referred to Ordinance Committee

July 28, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council:

Attached hereto for your consideration is a proposed amendment to Chapter 6.04 of the Cambridge Municipal Code (the "Animal Control Regulations"). The changes in this proposed amendment have been recommended by the Director of the Animal Commission, Mark McCabe ("Director") in consultation with the Law Department, and include changes related to the following issues:

The Director and his staff have found that many dog owners do not remove dog waste left by their dogs in public areas, which not only constitutes a nuisance to individuals who may frequent parks and utilize public ways, but also constitutes a health hazard. Also, the volume of waste left near the City of Cambridge watershed poses additional concerns. The current schedule of fines contained in the Animal Control Regulations, which provides for fines of $10 for the first offense, $25 for the second offense, and $50 for a third and subsequent offense in any calendar year, has not been sufficient to deter dog owners from failing to pick up after their dog. Accordingly, a flat fine of $100 is proposed for all such violations.

Other fees and fines that are less in Cambridge than in other communities include the fees for yearly licensing of dogs and the fine for failing to license a dog. The fine in Cambridge for failing to license a dog is $25, which has been determined by the Director to be insufficient to offset the expenses incurred in enforcing this requirement, as there is an increasing number of individuals with unlicensed dogs in the City, and additionally, this fine is less than the fine for this offense under the state law governing unlicensed dogs, G.L. c. 140, §§ 137A and 141. The Director recommends that this fine be increased to $50 per violation. He also recommends increases in license fees from $8 to $10 for spayed or neutered dogs, and from $25 to $30 for unspayed or intact dogs (but with no license fee for service animals), which will help offset some of the expenses needed to administer the license program.

The Director has found that the graduated fines provided for off leash violations in the Animal Control Regulations have been an administrative burden to enforce, and that the initial $10 fine for having a dog off leash has been insufficient to deter individuals from releasing their dogs off leash in non-designated areas. Accordingly, a fine of $25 for each such offense is recommended, which would assist the Animal Control Commission in enforcing the leash requirement.

If the City is required to kennel a "dog at large," or an unleashed dog, the Director has found that the requirement in the Animal Control Regulations to keep an unleashed dog in a kennel for ten (10) days is unnecessary, and recommends that the seven (7) day period provided by state law, G.L. c. 140, § 151, be required instead, and that the owner of the dog be required to reimburse the City for any costs of care while the dog is in the kennel.

The Director also proposes that the Park Ranger(s) at the Fresh Pond Reservoir be given authority to enforce all aspects of the Animal Control Regulations, as the Fresh Pond Reservoir is the largest and most used shared space for people and dogs in the City.

Finally, some of the terminology contained in Chapter 6.04 is outdated, so various updates are recommended.

A red-lined version of the Ordinance with the proposed changes to be ordained, along with a written description of such changes, is attached hereto for your consideration.

Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager

ON THE TABLE
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Arts Council to determine the types of spaces that are most needed within the local arts community with the view of using the Foundry to fill those needs and to allocate appropriate funds to make appropriate upgrades for the purpose of creating a community arts center. (Order Amended by Substitution.) Order Number Ten of Jan 27, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Mayor Maher on Jan 27, 2014.

2. An application was received from Ting-hsu Chen requesting permission to widen the existing curb cut at the premises numbered 14 Soden Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. Applications and Petitions Number Six of Feb 24, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Simmons on Feb 24, 2014.

3. That the City Council go on the record in opposition to any type of casino project in the Greater Boston area whether constructed and managed by Mohegan Sun or Wynn Resorts. Charter Right exercised by Councillor Simmons on Order Number Five of June 16, 2014. Placed on the Table on the motion of Councillor Cheung on June 30, 2014.

4. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on June 4, 2014 to discuss creating a new Chapter in the Cambridge Municipal Ordinance entitled "Prohibiting the Use of Wild and Exotic Animals in Traveling Shows and Circuses". Committee Report Number One of June 30, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Benzan on June 30, 2014.

5. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on June 18, 2014 to discuss revisions to the Cambridge Municipal Code Section 9.04.050 (A) Defacing public property of Chapter 9.04 entitled "Offenses Against Property". Committee Report Number Five of June 30, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Benzan on June 30, 2014.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on Nov 22, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code by adding a new Chapter 8.68 entitled "Concussion Prevention and Management in Youth Activities at City Facilities." The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Dec 23, 2013.

7. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on Dec 19, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.67 entitled relating to Plastic Bag Reduction. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 24, 2014.

8. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on June 24, 2014 to discuss a proposed amendment to the Municipal Code entitled "Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance." The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after July 14, 2014.
Ordained 9-0, Ordinance #1360

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Frederick Kantor requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 69 Clarendon Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Response has been received from the neighborhood association.

2. An application was received from Couture Nail Spa requesting permission for a blade sign at the premises numbered 99 Mount Auburn Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development, Historical Commission and abutters.

3. An application was received from Alden & Harlow requesting permission for nine tables and thirty-six chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 40 Brattle Street.

4. An application was received from Mina Custom Print requesting permission for a sandwich board sign and display of merchandise in front of the premises numbered 766A Cambridge Street.

5. An application was received from Boomerangs requesting permission for a sandwich board sign and display of merchandise in front of the premises numbered 563 Massachusetts Avenue.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Thomas L. Albert, Vice President, Government Relations, Feld Entertainment, Inc. regarding the proposed Ordinance Prohibiting the Use of Wild and Exotic Animals in Traveling Shows and Circuses.

2. A communication was received from Torgun Austin urging the City Council to pass Councillor Carlone's procedural change to the zoning ordinance.

3. A communication was received from Peggy Fox-Warren, 46 Fresh Pond Place, transmitting support for the proposed zoning change introduced by Dennis Carlone.

4. A communication was received from Seth Zeren transmitting his opposition to the City Council the special permit granting authority (SPGA) for large projects.

5. A communication was received from Gayle Morgan and Paul Guglietti, 197 Lexington Avenue and Sophia Culpepper, 199 Lexington Avenue, urging the City Council to support the proposal from Councillor Carlone to amend the zoning ordinance to allow City Council Project Review.

6. A communication was received from Sally Eaton Arnold, 6B Russell Street, transmitting opposition transferring special permit granting authority from the Planning Board to the City Council.

7. A communication was received from Elizabeth Stern, 20 Cambridge Terrace, endorsing Councillor Carlone's Petition.

8. A communication was received from Richard Fiorentino transmitting support of the Carlone Petition.

9. A communication was received from Quinton Zondervan, 235 Cardinal Medeiros Avenue, transmitting support of petition regarding Special Permit Project Review.

10. A communication was received from Claudia Majetich, 329 Concord Avenue, transmitting support for Council Carlone's Petition.

11. A communication was received from John Boesen, 25 Suffolk Street, transmitting support on the Carlone Petition on Large Project Special Permits.

12. A communication was received from David Levitt, 14 Notre Dame Avenue, transmitting support for the Carlone Petition.

13. A communication was received from Kathy and John Roberts, 321 Huron Avenue, urging the City Council to vote for Dennis Carlone's Petition.

14. A communication was received from Gerald Bergman in support of forwarding the Carlone et al. Petition to the Ordinance Committee for discussion.

15. A communication was received from Tom Burke, 11 Buena Vista Park, regarding Special Permit Authority.

16. A communication was received from O. Robert Simha, 6 Blanchard Road, transmitting support for the Carlone Petition.

17. A communication was received from Lee Farris, 269 Norfolk Street, transmitting support of the Carlone Petition on Large Project Special Permits.

18. A communication was received from Lawrence Bluestone, 18 Centre Street, urging the City Council to vote no on the petition making the City Council the Special Permit Granting Authority.

19. A communication was received from Randa Ghattas, 88 School Street, urging the City Council not to support the Carlone Petition for City Council Project Review.

20. A communication was received from Jan Devereux, 255 Lakeview Avenue, transmitting support of Policy Orders #10 and #6 of June 30, 2014 and the Carlone Petition on Special Permits.

21. A communication was received from David Chilinski, 221 Hampshire Street, transmitting opposition to the Petition to grant the City Council Special Permit granting authority.

22. A communication was received from Patrick W. Barrett III, 41A Pleasant Street, urging the Council to vote no on the petition to make the City Council the Special Permit Granting Authority.

23. A communication was received from Sam Seidel, 381 Broadway, in opposition to transferring the Special Permit Granting Authority from the Planning Board to the City Council.

24. A communication was received from Mairi Staples, 145 Concord Avenue, transmitting support for the Carlone Petition.

25. A communication was received from Carolyn Fuller, 12 Douglass Street, transmitting opposition to the petition to give special permit granting authority to the City Council.

26. A communication was received from Joseph T. Coyle, MD, 230 Lake View, Avenue transmitting support to the zoning legislation introduced by Dennis Carlone giving the City Council the responsibility to provide oversight on large development projects for the duration of the Master Plan process.

27. A communication was received from Rozann Kraus, Founder, The Dance Complex, transmitting support for the Carlone Petition.

28. A communication was received from Alec Wysoker, 12 Suffolk Street, encouraging the City Council to support the Carlone Petition regarding special permits.

29. A communication was received from Andy Nash, 18 Worcester Street, transmitting support for the Carlone Petition on Large Project Special Permits.

30. A communication was received from Amanda Hurd in opposition to the City Council having the power to grant or amend building permits.

31. A communication was received from Ruth Ryals in opposition to the City Council having the power to grant or amend building permits.

32. A communication was received from Jacquelyn Smith, 7 Ashburton Place, transmitting support of the Carlone petition on Project Review Special Permits for large projects.

33. A communication was received from Gayle Morgan, 197 Lexington Avenue, urging the City Council to support the proposal from Councillor Carlone to amend the zoning ordinance to allow City Council Project Review.

34. A communication was received from Marc S. Weiss in opposition to the City Council assuming Special Permit Granting Authority.

35. A communication was received from Tamar Granovsky, 42 Lopez Avenue, transmitting opposition to Councillor Dennis Carlone's procedural change to the Zoning Ordinance that would give the City Council the authority to grant special permits rather than the Planning Board.

36. A communication was received from Jennifer Craft, 30 Holworthy Place, transmitting support of the Carlone Petition.

37. A communication was received from David Neiman, 32 Essex Street, transmitting support for the Carlone Petition on Large Project Special Permits.

38. A communication was received from Chantal Eide in favor of City Council approval any large new development projects.

39. A communication was received from Sarah E. Kennedy, Director of Government Affairs, on behalf of the membership of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, in opposition to the Carlone petition.

40. A communication was received from Stephen Harrington and Sebastien Roumeau, 28 Essex Street, transmitting support of the Carlone Petition on Large Project Special Permits.

41. A communication was received from Steve Johnson, 17 Peters Street, transmitting deep appreciation to Councillor McGovern and his colleagues for the very kind and extremely flattering resolution.

42. A communication was received from Gerald Bergman, 82 Elm Street, regarding affordable housing.

43. A communication was received from State Representative Marjorie C. Decker regarding the resolution on Restorative Justice and her support to the Senate Ways & Means Committee members.

44. A communication was received from Robert J. LaTremouille regarding selected ongoing environmental outrages from the City of Cambridge.

45. A communication was received from Jan Devereux regarding Planning Board training.

46. A communication was received from Mike Phillips, Whittemore Action Committee, 57 Madison Avenue, transmitting the Whittemore Ave Garden Petition.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Francisco M. Borges.   Councillor Toomey

2. Resolution on the death of Richard T. "Richie" Salvia.   Mayor Maher

3. Resolution on the death of Robert N. Dunn.   Mayor Maher

4. Congratulations and thanks to Central Square Business Association and Sandrine's Bistro on their annual Bastille Day celebration.   Councillor Cheung

5. Thanks to the Central Square Business Association on the 12th Annual Taste of Cambridge.   Councillor Cheung

6. Congratulations to Spray Cake for their success at the Brand-a-Thon event.   Councillor Cheung

7. Congratulations to John Reynders on the occasion of receiving the CIO of the Year Award from the Boston Business Journal.   Councillor Cheung

8. Congratulations and thanks to the Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association for their success in helping restore Magazine Beach Park.   Councillor Cheung

9. Thanks to the Mmmmaven Project for their service to the youth of Cambridge.   Councillor Cheung

10. Congratulations to KeyPals on their twenty years of service in enhancing education throughout Cambridge.   Councillor Cheung

11. Resolution on the death of Seth Teller.   Councillor Toomey

12. Retirement of Carol Correia from the School Department.   Mayor Maher

13. Retirement of Donna DiTucci from the School Department.   Mayor Maher

14. Retirement of Marie Grimm from the School Department.   Mayor Maher

15. Retirement of Jeanne Murphy from the School Department.   Mayor Maher

16. Retirement of Denise Talarico from the School Department.   Mayor Maher

17. Condolences to Timothy Adams and Susan Green Adams on the loss of their son, Timothy Green Adams.   Councillor Simmons

18. Congratulations to Richard Murray on his appointment as Chief Executive Officer of Jounce Therapeutics.   Councillor Cheung

19. Congratulations to Ripley Burns on being selected to tour with Circus Smirkus and best wishes for continued success.   Councillor Cheung

20. Speedy recovery wishes to Bernard Goldberg.   Councillor Simmons

21. Resolution on the death of Davonte Rolando Neal.   Mayor Maher

22. Resolution on the death of Mary Agnes "Lovey" Mackey.   Mayor Maher

23. Thanks and best wishes to Kara Coredini, Executive Director of Mass Equality, as she leaves her position at the end of 2014.   Councillor Toomey

24. Resolution on the death of Robert A. "Bob" Havern, III.   Councillor Toomey

25. Resolution on the death of Carl E. Clarke.   Councillor Toomey

26. Resolution on the death of Tracy Galvin.   Councillor Toomey

27. Thanks to the Central Square Business Association for its efforts in organizing the viewing of the World Cup in Cambridge.   Councillor McGovern and Vice Mayor Benzan

28. Thanks to Forest City for its efforts in organizing and realizing the viewing of the World Cup in Cambridge.   Councillor McGovern and Vice Mayor Benzan

29. Resolution on the death of Gerard "Jerry" McCabe.   Councillor Toomey

30. Resolution on the death of Stella Mary (Leccese) Perroni.   Mayor Maher

31. Resolution on the death of Elvira (Bonaiuto) Signorino.   Councillor Toomey

32. Congratulations to the Cambridge Historical Society on winning first place in the New England Museum Association award competition for its most recent book "Saving Cambridge: Historic Preservation in America's Innovation City."   Councillor Cheung

33. Congratulation to Christopher Bavitz on receiving CCTV's Leading Role Award.   Councillor Toomey

34. Thanks to Scouts Cambridge for the work they do to for the Cambridge community.   Councillor Cheung

35. Condolences to the family of Mary C. Fanning.   Councillor Simmons

36. Resolution on the death of Kensley David.   Vice Mayor Benzan

37. Congratulations to Sandra Corneau for going above and beyond in her role as Executive Director of the John F. Kennedy Apartments.   Vice Mayor Benzan

38. Condolences to the family of Reverend Edward L. (Tweed) Green.   Councillor Simmons

39. Commend President Obama, Vice President Biden, the House of Representatives and the Senate for the steps they have taken to the enactment of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.   Vice Mayor Benzan

40. Congratulations to the MIT Lincoln Laboratory on their six new technologies that won R&D 100 Awards.   Councillor Cheung

41. Thanks to Pensole/LEAS for opening its doors to Cambridge youth and congratulations to the students who completed the PENSOLE/Leaders Emerge After Direction (LEAD) program.   Vice Mayor Benzan

42. Happy 40th Birthday wishes to Daniel Weinstock.   Vice Mayor Benzan

43. Congratulations to Ahsani Graves-Cribbs for being selected to attend USA Football's National Team Development Games.   Vice Mayor Benzan

44. Thanks to all of the organizers and participants of the Cambridge Jazz Festival.   Vice Mayor Benzan

45. Happy Birthday wishes to Paula Jean Smith and her husband James Lawrence Smith.   Vice Mayor Benzan

46. Resolution on the death of Peik Larsen.   Mayor Maher

47. Congratulations to Dosha Beard on being named Assistant to the Executive Secretary to the School Committee.   Councillor Simmons

48. Congratulations to Judy Martin on being named Executive Secretary to the School Committee.   Councillor Simmons

49. Happy Birthday wishes to Tom Milton.   Councillor Simmons

50. Retirement of Patricia A. Berry from the School Department.   Mayor Maher

51. Congratulations to Luzmar Centeno de Valerio on being honored for her significant contributions to the Latino community during Boston's Annual Dominican Festival & Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

52. Congratulations to Josephine Santana on being honored for her significant contributions to the Latino community during Boston's Annual Dominican Festival & Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

53. Congratulations to Victoria Rodriguez de Shams on being honored for her significant contributions to the Latino community during Boston's Annual Dominican Festival & Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

54. Congratulations to Jocelyn Marinez on being honored for her significant contributions to the Latino community during Boston's Annual Dominican Festival & Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

55. Congratulations to Geisa Matos Machuca on being honored for her significant contributions to the Latino community during Boston's Annual Dominican Festival & Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

56. Congratulations to Milagros Cruz on being honored for her significant contributions to the Latino community during Boston's Annual Dominican Festival & Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

57. Congratulations to Annia Lembert on being honored for her significant contributions to the Latino community during Boston's Annual Dominican Festival & Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

58. City Council support of Dominican Festival & Cultural Week and congratulations to the event coordinators, Julia Guerrero and Luis M. Matos.   Vice Mayor Benzan

59. Thanks to Jochy Santos for serving as the International Grand Marshal for the Dominican Festival and Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

60. Thanks to David Suazo for serving as the Grand Marshal for the Dominican Festival and Cultural Week.   Vice Mayor Benzan

61. Resolution on the death of Paul A. Hanley.   Mayor Maher

62. Congratulations to the Cambridgeside Galleria on the 5th Annual Run & Ride at Cambridgeside Duathlon event.   Councillor Toomey

63. Congratulations to Paddy's on their 80th Anniversary.   Mayor Maher

64. Resolution on the death of Helen (McKay) Groom.   Councillor Toomey

65. Resolution on the death of Charles F. Fraumeni.   Councillor Toomey

ORDERS
1. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request from Helen Brown Bryant for a dedication at the corner of Marvin Place and Columbia Street in honor of her mother parents, John and Bertine Brown.   Councillor Simmons
Amended

2. That the City Manager is requested to resume negotiations with Mr. Fawcett regarding the Whittemore Avenue Community Garden and to explore the possibility of securing this space by eminent domain.   Councillor Carlone

3. That the City Manager is requested to devise and implement a system that will require the City to publicize and convene a community meeting within 72 hours of any catastrophic event - including but not limited to murders, shootings, or other similar episodes - that could impact public safety or the perception of public safety.   Councillor Simmons

4. That the City Council go on record affirming its support for the preservation of the Silver Maple Forest.   Councillor Carlone

Amended Order
4. That the City Manager is requested to work with staff to convene a meeting with Town Administrators from Cambridge, Arlington, Belmont, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to discuss all possible options for the preservation of the Silver Maple Forest, including funding commitments from other communities.   Councillor Carlone
Adopted 8-0-1; Councillor Carlone voted PRESENT

5. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Police Commissioner and report back to the City Council and the community on the specific number of additional police officers that will be assigned to patrol Area IV neighborhoods, whether this increased police presence will be in place through the winter months, and what other additional measures will be undertaken by the Police Department in Area IV.   Councillor Simmons

6. City Council support of H.135, An Act Providing Housing and Support Services to Unaccompanied Homeless Youth.   Councillor McGovern and Councillor Cheung

7. That the City Council go on record urging Lance Bennett and John Stebbins, on behalf of Pro-Con Projects, Ltd., to meet with Brian Doherty, General Agent of the Building & Construction Trades Council of the Metropolitan District, or with other designated representatives of this organization, at City Hall at a mutually agreeable time to address the issues that have been raised regarding hiring of local skilled construction workers for their Marriot Hotel project on Monsignor O'Brien Highway.   Councillor Simmons

8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments regarding the loss of on-street parking spaces as well as the loss of a handicap parking space in Municipal Lot #8 as a result of the reconstruction/reconfiguration of Western Avenue.   Councillor Toomey

9. That the City Manager is requested to appoint a committee to pursue the possibility of establishing a sister city relationship with Tuskegee, Alabama.   Councillor Simmons

10. That the City Manager consult with the appropriate City personnel to determine the feasibility of launching a homeless donation meter program similar to Denver, CO's Donation Meter Program in the City of Cambridge, and to report back to the City Council about this in a timely manner.   Councillor Simmons

11. That the City Manager consult with the Police Department and other appropriate personnel to determine the feasibility of implementing a Neighborhood Captain Program that would allow residents to sign up to hand deliver information from the City to their immediate neighbors, and to report back to the City Council on whether such a program could be implemented by December 2014.   Councillor Simmons and Vice Mayor Benzan

12. That the City Manager is requested to work with community experts, local universities and the Cambridge Water Department to produce a research study determining the possible harmful effects of continuing to fluoridate the city’s water supply.   Councillor Mazen
Amended; Councillor Toomey voted NO

13. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Department of Public Works to determine how to resolve the issue of water pooling and run-off at the corner of Pine Street and Harvard Street.   Councillor Simmons

14. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the City Solicitor to determine if there are other options for requiring apprenticeship programs and to report back to the City Council with a legal opinion on how to proceed in ensuring these programs remain part of the Cambridge Employment Plan.   Councillor McGovern and Councillor Simmons

15. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the appropriate departments and personnel to determine the feasibility of preparing a climate change checklist and evacuation plan, in multiple languages, for all residents in times of natural disaster, other emergency event.   Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor McGovern

16. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate city departments, including the Arts Council about the feasibility of hosting a salsa festival between September 15 and October 15 that captures the essence of Hispanic culture.   Vice Mayor Benzan

17. That the City Manager is requested to form an advisory committee comprised of residents, business leaders and planning professionals to advise the City Manager and staff on ways to improve the Planning Board process while also determining ways to make the special permit process more understandable and transparent to the public and look for opportunities to provide greater public involvement and engagement.   Mayor Maher, Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor McGovern and Councillor Simmons

18. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Housing Authority and the residents of the Jackson Place Apartments to remodel and upgrade the existing playground and recreational facilities and/or move the park entirely.   Councillor Mazen

19. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and reach out to the principals at Vecna to work with them and assist the company with its plan to create new retail and open space opportunities which could significantly add to the vitality of this growing area of Cambridgepark Drive.   Mayor Maher

20. That the City of Cambridge joins with our fellow citizens, municipalities and elected officials across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in calling for a boycott of Market Basket stores in the spirit of unity with current and former employees of Market Basket   Mayor Maher

21. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Information Technology Department to coordinate with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the opening of the Commonwealth's open data portal, creating a federated cities page where the cities of Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville (along with other Commonwealth municipalities) can be shared in aggregate and to instruct the Information Technology Department to coordinate with the Commonwealth upon the release of a federated cities page, holding and publicizing a design competition that highlights the projects possible given the newly available data.   Councillor Mazen, Councillor Cheung and Councillor Carlone

22. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to draft a section to Chapter 2.112 City Contracts that will require contractors hired by the city to implement and adhere to policies consistent with the city's policies regarding gender identity and sexual orientation and to identify circumstances in which a waiver may be granted, as well as the procedures for granting a waiver.   Councillor Cheung

23. That the City Manager is requested to confer with all appropriate departments and explore the feasibility of creating a Cambridge City Youth Council that will represent the youth population of the city and serve as an advisory board to the City Council.   Councillor Cheung
Withdrawn - Cheung

24. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Community Development Department on the feasibility of producing a Cambridge Sustainability Plan with stated priority goals to complement Cambridge's Master Plan.   Councillor Cheung
Withdrawn - Cheung

25. That the City Manager is requested to extend the Cambridge Dance Party for an extra hour next year.   Councillor Cheung

26. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Human Services on the feasibility of either seeking space at the City Senior Center or another municipal building and creating a fitness center with affordable rates for senior citizens.   Councillor Cheung

27. That the City Manager is requested to work with all relevant staff to ensure that the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Recreation is encouraged to consult with the Cambridge Conservation Commission and any other relevant entities regarding the concern over risks associated with extreme precipitation events.   Councillor Carlone

28. That the City Council hereby calls on the President to honor our obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty by seeking to eliminate all nuclear weapons and meanwhile honor the existence of the seven existing Nuclear-Weapons Free Zones around the world and seek their extension wherever possible.   Councillor Simmons

29. That the City Manager is requested to invite a representative from the Cambridge Public Health Department to attend the National League of Cities in November 2014.   Councillor Cheung

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Chair of the Transportation and Public Utilities Committee for a public hearing held on June 11, 2014 to explore the way forward for a shared use with a rail and trail path along the Grand Junction Corridor.

2. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan, Co-Chair of the Economic Development and University Relations Committee and Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen, Chair of the Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee for a joint public meeting held on July 1, 2014 to discuss the ongoing out of school/STEAM working group research.

3. A communication was received from Paula M. Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on July 2, 2014 to discuss the Timothy R. Flaherty, et al. zoning petition requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge to expand the Medical Marijuana Overlay District, MMD-1 to encompass 61 Mooney Street.
Passed to 2nd Reading

4. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Health and Environment Committee for a public meeting held on July 8, 2014 to discuss the Cambridge Protection Action Committee's proposed Action Plan.

5. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Health and Environment Committee for a public meeting held on June 25, 2014 to discuss the results of the 2014 Cambridge Community Health Assessment.

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a communication from Councillor Leland Cheung transmitting information on The Rush to Build Walkable Urban Grocery Stores.

2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a communication from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey Jr. regarding his appeal of a public records denial with the Division of Capital and Asset Management and Maintenance regarding the sale price of the Sullivan Courthouse.

3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a communication from Chris Burns, Deputy Executive Director, Cambridge Retirement Board, transmitting the Cambridge Retirement System ballot count for one of the elected positions on the Cambridge Retirement Board.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, July 28
5:30pm   Special City Council Meeting  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Wed, July 30
4:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the Dennis Carlone, et al. zoning petition requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge to designate the City Council as the exclusive special permit granting authority for Project Review Special Permits. This hearing to be televised.  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Thurs, Aug 14
5:30pm   Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee  (TBD)

Wed, Aug 20
5:30pm   The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss how to best launch Small Business Town Hall Meeting.  (831 Massachusetts Avenue, Basement Conference Room)

Thurs, Aug 21
3:00pm   The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebration Committee and Economic Development and University Relations Committee will conduct a joint public meeting to discuss the progress of each STEAM subgroup and set action-oriented goals to be met before the end of the year.  (Main Library, 449 Broadway, Community Room)

Wed, Sept 3
5:30pm   Ordinance Committee  (TBD)

Mon, Sept 8
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Mon, Sept 15
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Mon, Sept 22
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Mon, Sept 29
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Mon, Oct 6
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Mon, Oct 20
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Mon, Oct 27
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)

Mon, Nov 3
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 10
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 17
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 24
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 1
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 8
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 15
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 22
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 29
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     July 28, 2014  Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request from Helen Brown Bryant for a dedication at the corner of Marvin Place and Columbia Street in honor of her mother parents, John and Bertine Brown; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for their review and approval.

O-2     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is a complex urban environment, with a diverse mix of homes, businesses, public spaces, neighborhoods, and people; and
WHEREAS: The City is extremely proud of the efforts that are made to conserve open space and to provide residents with places to build community; and
WHEREAS: The City is also very proud of its Community Garden program, which often has a long waitlist due to the popularity of the program; and
WHEREAS: The Whittemore Avenue Community Garden was once the largest garden in the program, with 65 plots located at the corner of Whittemore Avenue and Magoun Street in North Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The City invested time and resources in an attempt to negotiate the preservation of the garden following a City Council policy order dated February 11, 2011, but the City Council learned later that year that negotiations had been unsuccessful; and
WHEREAS: The City Council has recently been presented with a Petition to Conserve and Restore the Whittemore Avenue Community Garden with signatures from over 500 Cambridge residents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to attempt to resume negotiations to purchase and preserve the Whittemore Avenue Community Garden site; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to explore the possibility of securing this site by eminent domain, if negotiations prove unsuccessful, either directly on behalf of the City, or by consulting with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority, provided that the owner receives fair compensation based on an independent appraisal in accordance with all applicable laws; 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-3     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to devise and implement a system that will require the City to publicize and convene a community meeting within 72 hours of any catastrophic event - including but not limited to murders, shootings, or other similar episodes - that could impact public safety or the perception of public safety; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner.

O-4     July 28, 2014  Amended
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: The Silver Maple Forest is the site of a controversial development project along Acorn Park Drive in Cambridge; the forest is located at the intersection of Cambridge, Belmont, and Arlington; and
WHEREAS: The 15.6-acre Silver Maple Forest is a small-river floodplain forest and is an integral part of the Alewife Reservation ecosystem, home to deer, coyote, mink, river otter, red fox, fishers, and some 90 species of birds, including hawks, wild turkey, blue heron, swans, cat birds, hummingbirds, and goldfinches; and
WHEREAS: Local advocates and noted hydrologists continue to assert that the current proposal does not adequately meet the needs for storm water management in the 25, 50, 75, and 100 year storm scenarios, all of which are expected to increase in severity as a result of climate change; and
WHEREAS: According to a report prepared by the hydrology firm Horsley and Witten, the proposal to clear the Silver Maple Forest would result in significant loss of vegetation and associated evapotranspiration; these losses would elevate the current water table, inundating the proposed underground storm water storage basin and compromising the integrity of surrounding infrastructure and the safety and property of nearby residents; and
WHEREAS: Development of the Silver Maple Forest would directly impact the capacity of the surrounding area to withstand the effects of climate change; and
WHEREAS: Development of the Silver Maple Forest would also add additional traffic to an area where traffic congestion has become a major issue for many Cambridge residents; and
WHEREAS: Representatives from the Trust for Public Lands, a national organization with a respected track record of brokering deals in similar situations, have been making attempts to contact the developer, Mr. J. Brian O'Neill of the O'Neill Properties Group of King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, in an effort to secure an option to purchase the Silver Maple Forest; and
WHEREAS: On Saturday, June 28, 2014, more than 150 local residents gathered at the Alewife T satiation and paraded up Acorn Park Drive to the Silver Maple Forest in an effort to raise awareness and promote the preservation of this important community resource; the event featured participation from members of the City Council, the Belmont Board of Selectman, the Massachusetts State Senate, the Massachusetts Sierra Club, Green Cambridge, Friends of Alewife Reservation, the Mystic River Watershed Association, the Cambridge Residents Alliance, the Fresh Pond Residents Alliance, TROMP, Lesley University Division of Science and Mathematics, the Green Sanctuary Team, the Coalition to Preserve the Belmont Uplands, Belmont Citizens Forum, Belmont Land Trust, Sustainable Belmont, Sustainable Arlington, Occupy Arlington, and many other local organizations; and
WHEREAS: Over the past fifteen years, the City Council has adopted no less than twelve policy order resolutions in support of the Silver Maple Forest, now therefore be it
WHEREAS: That the City Council go on record to affirm that the City of Cambridge is ready, willing, and able to contribute funds for the preservation of the Silver Maple Forest, as part of a broader effort that might include additional funding from grants, institutions, corporations, philanthropists, other municipalities such as Arlington and Belmont, the Commonwealth, and any other possible sources of revenue; and
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to transmit a message to Mr. J. Brian O'Neill of the O'Neill Properties Group of King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, sending him our warmest regards and informing him that the City is eager to do its part to help reach a resolution to this matter that will be to his benefit and to the benefit of all concerned; and
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with staff to convene an open a meeting with officials Town Administrators from Cambridge, Arlington, Belmont, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, along with representatives of other interested parties, to discuss all possible options for the preservation of the Silver Maple Forest, including funding commitments from other communities; and
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to take any and all legal steps necessary to prevent the City from providing any water or sewer connections to the proposed Silver Maple Forest development site; and
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-5     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Following the tragic July 3rd shooting that took place on Windsor Street, residents of the Area IV neighborhood met with the Police Commissioner and representatives of the City to discuss measures that will be taken to reduce the chance of continued violence in this part of the community; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Police Commissioner and report back to the City Council and the community on the specific number of additional police officers that will be assigned to patrol Area IV neighborhoods, whether this increased police presence will be in place through the winter months, and what other additional measures will be undertaken by the Police Department in Area IV; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to post information about the specific measures the Police Department is taking in regards to Area IV on the City's website, in order to ensure that residents can readily review the steps being taken by the City to keep them safe going forward.

O-6     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Massachusetts has approximately 6,000 unaccompanied homeless youth living in the state; and
WHEREAS: Homeless youth are at a higher risk for physical abuse, exploitation, health disabilities, and substance abuse, as well as suffer greater barriers to education; and
WHEREAS: Homeless youth fare poorly at adult homeless shelters where they are routinely subject to violence and victimization; and
WHEREAS: The term unaccompanied homeless youth lacks a common definition throughout federal sources of support and between federal and state sources of support causing discrepancies in homeless youth data and gaps in support coverage; and
WHEREAS: H.135 will allow for contracts to be made with organizations and agencies to provide housing and support services to address the needs of unaccompanied homeless youth that may include provision of basic needs; housing options including emergency shelter and short term housing; "Transition to Independent Living" Programs; counseling; access to medical, dental, and mental healthcare; education and employment services; case management; advocacy and referral services; life skills training; and
WHEREAS: H.135 will also provide a single definition for unaccompanied homeless youth as those 24 years of age and younger who are not in the physical custody or care of a parent or legal guardian and who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence for use in Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS: This Act will ensure services are provided to homeless youth in all urban, suburban and rural area of the state; and
WHEREAS: This Act provides for data collection and outcome measures to help understand the scope of the population as well as the needs of the population; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record in support of H.135, An Act Providing Housing and Support Services to Unaccompanied Homeless Youth; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the elected Cambridge delegation in the House and Senate as well as Senate President Therese Murray; and to the members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-7     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: In early 2014, the City Council became aware of the fact that Pro-Con Projects, Ltd., which is constructing a Marriot Hotel on the site of the old Genoa Packing Company along the Monsignor O'Brien Highway, had been unresponsive to representatives of the local building trade unions who wished to discuss the possibility of Pro-Con's hiring local skilled construction workers for this project; and
WHEREAS: This led the City Council to initiate a meeting with representatives of Pro-Con and representatives of the local skilled building trades, to ensure that Pro-Con was conducting its business in accordance to the best business practices expected of all companies operating in Cambridge, and to ensure that Pro-Con was employing as many local skilled laborers and members of the building trades on this project as possible; and
WHEREAS: In the ensuing months, representatives of the local skilled building trades have sought a follow-up meeting with Pro-Con, as have members of the City Council, yet all overtures from the City Council to Pro-Con have been met with silence, which suggests that this New Hampshire-based company has little interest in conducting itself as a friendly business entity while in our community; and
WHEREAS: It is hoped that Pro-Con would seek to assure the people of Cambridge that it is not simply coming into our community to make some money while disregarding the impact of its operations upon the people who are hosting it, and it is hoped that this company would seek to employ as many local laborers and tradesmen as possible to boost the local economy and help more Cantabrigians provide for their families; and
WHEREAS: Pro-Con's casual disregard for returning communications from individual city councilors is troublesome, as this suggests that Pro-Con is more concerned with its profits than with its impact upon the very people this City Council represents; and
WHEREAS: While Pro-Con has taken some cursory steps to encourage the hiring of local workers for this project, and while its representatives have vouched for the safety measures implemented on this job site, the City Council cannot have any degree of confidence in Pro-Con until its principals are more forthcoming and are willing to open the lines of communication; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record urging Lance Bennett and John Stebbins, on behalf of Pro-Con Projects, Ltd., to meet with Brian Doherty, General Agent of the Building & Construction Trades Council of the Metropolitan District, or with other designated representatives of this organization, at City Hall at a mutually agreeable time to address the issues that have been raised above; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to Lance Bennett of Pro-Con Projects, Ltd, John Stebbins of XXS, LLC, and Brian Doherty of the Building & Construction Trades Council of the Metropolitan District, on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-8     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments regarding the loss of on-street parking spaces as well as the loss of a handicap parking space in Municipal Lot #8 as a result of the reconstruction/reconfiguration of Western Avenue; 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-9     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to appoint a committee to pursue the possibility of establishing a sister city relationship with Tuskegee, Alabama.

O-10     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Over the course of the past fifteen years, as the national economy has faltered and the gap between the wealthy and the less fortunate has continued to expand, many social service programs in municipalities across the country have seen their funding sharply decrease, leaving our most vulnerable residents with ever fewer options for assistance, and Cambridge is sadly no exception to this trend; and
WHEREAS: Communities like Denver, CO have seen their homeless population increase, even as the funds to assist the homeless have plummeted, yet Denver has experimented with an innovative idea by placing dozens of "donation meters for the homeless" throughout their city; and
WHEREAS: These donation meters resemble parking meters in appearance and operation, and can accept change and, in some cases, credit cards, and the money all goes directly toward local social service providers rather than to the city for the rental of a parking space; and
WHEREAS: These donation meters have been projected to raise upwards of $100,000 per year, as well as raise public awareness about homelessness and the need to more aggressively tackle this issue; and
WHEREAS: The donation meters have the benefit of taking money that might otherwise go to individual panhandlers and be channeled into programs that can do more than just provide a single meal or a single cup of coffee, the decals on the meters can inform residents of just where their money will be going, and these meters will likely increase the chances of passersby donating some money; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the appropriate City personnel to determine the feasibility of launching a homeless donation meter program similar to Denver, CO's Donation Meter Program in the City of Cambridge, and to report back to the City Council about this in a timely manner.

O-11     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
WHEREAS: It must be recognized that, while the vast majority of Cambridge residents do own computers, smart phones, and answering machines, there are still appreciable numbers of residents who do not have these important communication tools, and it has traditionally been difficult to ensure that the City's communications reach these individuals in a timely fashion, if at all; and
WHEREAS: Communities such as Dunstable, MA have had success in establishing Neighborhood Captain programs, which allow residents to volunteer to provide a valuable service in distributing information to their neighbors that the community also broadcasts via text message, email, and automated phone calls; and
WHEREAS: By identifying a number of individuals in each neighborhood who are willing to serve as official informational conduits that hand deliver important news to their neighbors on a city's behalf, these communities are not only ensuring that valuable information is being distributed, they are also increasing the community ties and personal relationships in each neighborhood, and they are providing a role for individuals who wish to contribute something of value to their community; and
WHEREAS: Establishing such a program in Cambridge would allow the City to deliver information about weather related events, public meetings, and other, similar events to a number of households that might otherwise miss hearing these announcements, and this would further the City's goal of being as inclusive and engaging of the community as possible; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Police Department and other appropriate personnel to determine the feasibility of implementing a Neighborhood Captain Program that would allow residents to sign up to hand deliver information from the City to their immediate neighbors, and to report back to the City Council on whether such a program could be implemented by December 2014.

O-12     July 28, 2014  Amended
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
WHEREAS: Water fluoridation is the practice of adding industrial-grade fluoride chemicals to the public water supply for the purpose of preventing tooth decay; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Water Department has fluoridated its public water supply at a level of 1.0 ppm for more than 20 years; and
WHEREAS: Most developed countries besides the United States, including 97% of western Europe do not fluoridate their drinking water; and
WHEREAS: Comprehensive data from the World Health Organization reveals that there is no discernible difference in tooth decay between the minority of western nations that fluoridate water, and the majority that do not; and
WHEREAS: Fluoride is classified by the FDA as a drug, not a nutrient, with many side effects and known neurotoxicity and therefore it is not appropriate to add to a city's water supply; and
WHEREAS: Fluoride's main benefit comes from topical contact with teeth and not from ingestion, and many large scale meta-studies have shown no statistically significant difference in the cavity rates of individuals in fluoridated or non-fluoridated areas; and
WHEREAS: Fluoridation is causing millions of children to develop dental fluorosis, a discoloration of the teeth that is caused by excessive fluoride intake; and
WHEREAS: More than 33 studies have reported an association between fluoride drinking water concentration and reduced IQ; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with community experts, local universities and the Cambridge Water Department to produce a research study determining the possible harmful effects of continuing to fluoridate the city's water supply; 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-13     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that a number of residents living in the area around Harvard Street and Pine Street have expressed concerns about the tendency for rain water and water from melting snow to pool where the two streets meet, leading to icing conditions in the winter months and creating hazardous road conditions year-round; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Department of Public Works to determine how to resolve the issue of water pooling and run-off at the corner of Pine Street and Harvard Street.

O-14     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit upheld a February 2013 lower court ruling, invalidating apprentice mandates; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has an apprentice training provision in the Cambridge Employment Plan requiring all bidders or sub-bidders to participate or maintain a state approved apprentice program as a condition of bidding on city jobs; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has long supported the need for high quality apprenticeship programs; and
WHEREAS: The City Council strongly believes that such apprenticeship programs are important to working men and women; and
WHEREAS: The City Council wishes to continue to support such programs; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City Solicitor to determine if there are other options for requiring such programs and to report back to the City Council with a legal opinion on how to proceed in ensuring these programs remain part of the Cambridge Employment Plan.

O-15     July 28, 2014
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: A recent report in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that the incidence of natural disasters worldwide has steadily increased since the 1970s. Alarmingly, there were three times as many natural disasters between 2000 to 2009 than between 1980 and 1989; and
WHEREAS: Although Cambridge is a leader in green initiatives that aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare the City for the effects of climate change,  natural disasters such as tornadoes, floods, and blizzards can occur suddenly and unexpectedly.  In addition, other emergency events such as infectious disease outbreaks, release of hazardous materials and foreign or domestic terrorism may also occur without warning; and
WHEREAS: The strength of a resilient community is best measured by the emergency preparedness of its residents. All Cambridge residents should be in the best position to respond quickly and efficiently to any type of disaster or emergency event; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge should develop a comprehensive emergency and evacuation plan that will provide residents with greater knowledge of resources available to them in case of an emergency event, including safe evacuation routes, basic response strategies, and a checklist of essential items for emergency preparedness; and
ORDERED: Disseminating a comprehensive climate change checklist and evacuation plan to all Cambridge residents will help ensure that residents are in the best position to respond to an emergency event with the greatest level of preparedness; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the appropriate departments and personnel to determine the feasibility of preparing a climate change checklist and evacuation plan, in multiple languages, for all residents in times of natural disaster, other emergency event, and report back to the City Council.

O-16     July 28, 2014
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
WHEREAS: Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of Hispanic Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America; and
WHEREAS: The richness of Hispanic culture is the product of many cultures, including:  Indigenous, European, African, Chinese, Indian, Filipino and Japanese. This extraordinary diversity of cultures and traditions shines through our music- a noble art that Martin Luther called one of the greatest treasures in the world; and
WHEREAS: Hosting a salsa festival in the Cultural District of Central Square would be a lively way of celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month and engaging all Cambridge residents in a cherished custom at the heart of Hispanic culture; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge community will benefit greatly from the arrangement of a cultural exhibit at City Hall that captures the history and contributions of the Hispanic community in the City of Cambridge; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate city departments, including the Arts Council about the feasibility of hosting a salsa festival between September 15 and October 15 that captures the essence of Hispanic culture; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate city departments and commissions to determine the feasibility of organizing a cultural exhibit that celebrates the life and accomplishments of the Hispanic community in the City of Cambridge and report back to the City Council in a timely fashion.

O-17     July 28, 2014
MAYOR MAHER
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Cambridge has had a significant increase in the pace of development, particularly for large projects requiring a special permit; and
WHEREAS: Understanding the Planning Board process can be challenging for a resident unfamiliar with the special permit process; and
WHEREAS: There has been considerable public concern about public participation in the Planning Board process around special permits; and
WHEREAS: Some neighborhood groups learn about proposed developments late in the process which can limit the opportunity to make changes to proposals; and
WHEREAS: The City Manager has been working with concerned residents, city staff and Planning Board members to explore ways to improve the Planning Board process and make it more transparent; and
WHEREAS: The City Council and City Manager want to ensure the Planning Board process is fair and open and that all people coming before the Planning Board are treated fairly and their concerns are heard; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to form an advisory committee comprised of residents, business leaders and planning professionals to advise the City Manager and staff on ways to improve the Planning Board process; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to confer with the Planning Board and Community Development Department with the view in mind of determining ways to make the special permit process more understandable and transparent to the public; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to confer with the Planning Board to review their rules along with Chapter 40A with the City's Law Department and look for opportunities to provide greater opportunities for the public to be more involved and engaged and to require neighborhood engagement prior to projects coming before the Planning Board; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager report back to the City Council with an update on these requested improvements this fall.

O-18     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
WHEREAS: The Jackson Place Apartments are comprised of affordable, multi-bedroom units, housing many families with young children; and
WHEREAS: Play is a critical aspect of a child's social, cognitive, and physical development; and
WHEREAS: Studies have shown that a lack of free, spontaneous play can significantly hinder growth; and
WHEREAS: The Jackson Place Apartments presently have no adequate playground or recreational facilities as part of their housing development in order to accommodate parents with young children; and
WHEREAS: While recreational facilities exist at Jefferson Park or as part of Fresh Pond Apartments, they both require children to pass through potentially dangerous intersections along Rindge Avenue; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Cambridge Housing Authority and the residents of the Jackson Place Apartments to remodel and upgrade the existing playground and recreational facilities and/or move the park entirely; 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-19     July 28, 2014
MAYOR MAHER
WHEREAS: The building at 35 Cambridgepark Drive was recently acquired by Vecna; and
WHEREAS: Vecna already has a growing presence in Cambridge and plans to expand their campus on Cambridgepark Drive; and
WHEREAS: As part of this expansion, there is a possibility that Vecna will create retail frontage at the corner of Cambridgepark Drive across from the Archstone Apartment complex  and adjacent to the Alewife MBTA Station and, with proper planning, could create a new public square; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to confer with the Community Development Department and reach out to the principals at Vecna to work with them and assist the company with its plan to create new retail and open space opportunities which could significantly add to the vitality of this growing area of Cambridge.

O-20     July 28, 2014
MAYOR MAHER
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge stands with the hundreds of Market Basket employees who have walked out of their jobs in protest of the firing of CEO Arthur T. Demoulas; and
WHEREAS: Market Basket has not only had a history of providing high-quality, reliable and inexpensive options for many residents of Massachusetts, but has also employed thousands of individuals in hundreds of cities and towns throughout New England; and
WHEREAS: The Board of Directors of Market Basket has demonstrated with their recent actions that they value profits more than they value the people that they employ; and
WHEREAS: The management practices of Market Basket should be based on fairness and a sense of family for all employees, and not simply about the bottom line; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has a history of supporting workers rights, fair working practices and institutions that value employees above their own financial interests; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City of Cambridge joins with our fellow citizens and municipalities in condemning the short-sighted and harmful actions of the Board of Directors of Market Basket; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City of Cambridge joins with our fellow citizens, municipalities and elected officials across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in calling for a boycott of Market Basket stores in the spirit of unity with current and former employees of Market Basket; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City of Cambridge fully supports those workers who are willing to risk their jobs and ultimately their livelihoods to protest the actions of the Board of Directors of Market Basket; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City of Cambridge requests that the Board of Directors of Market Basket reconsider their negative and harmful actions and immediately restore a sense of compassion toward its workforce, a sense of value towards its customers and a sense of respect toward the Commonwealth's citizens who have supported Market Basket for generations ; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and is hereby requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to the Board of Directors of Market Basket and to the Cambridge Federal and State Delegations on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-21     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has implemented an open data portal, allowing the sharing of data from the city's various departments in a single online resource; and
WHEREAS: The information made available through the open data portal has been utilized by the public to design open source and for-profit apps in a spirit of transparency and innovation; and
WHEREAS: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has been working on their own open data portal and is planning on making it available to the public within the year; and
WHEREAS: The Cities of Cambridge, Somerville, and Boston; along with other Commonwealth municipalities could work together to create a federated cities page through which they would share their municipal data in aggregate; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Information Technology Department to coordinate with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the opening of the Commonwealth's open data portal, creating a federated cities page where the cities of Boston, Cambridge, and Somerville (along with other Commonwealth municipalities) can be shared in aggregate; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Information Technology Department to coordinate with the Commonwealth upon the release of a federated cities page, holding and publicizing a design competition that highlights the projects possible given the newly available data; 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-22     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to draft a section to Chapter 2.112 City Contracts that will require contractors hired by the city to implement and adhere to policies consistent with the city's policies regarding gender identity and sexual orientation and to identify circumstances in which a waiver may be granted, as well as the procedures for granting a waiver.

O-23     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: One of the expressed goals of the Cambridge City Council is to "foster community" and "support opportunities for citizens to participate"; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has a long and rich tradition of civic participation across all races, genders, and age groups; and
WHEREAS: 11.4% of Cambridge's population is under 18 and many of the city's programs, policies, and issues - such as education, municipal planning, health, and public safety - directly impact the lives of young Cantabrigians; and
WHEREAS: The ideas and voices of Cambridge's youth should be heard by the city government and factored into city policies; and
WHEREAS: Youth councils, or groups of engaged young citizens that advise municipal and state policymaking, have been successfully adapted and utilized in cities and states such as Boston, MA, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Hampton, VA, San Francisco, CA, Maine, and Iowa; and
WHEREAS: According to the National League of Cities, youth councils are an "effective way to get more youth involved in solving local problems and more actively engaged in the community"; and
WHEREAS: Studies by the National Conference of State Legislatures and USAID find youth councils provide effective and creative solutions to local youth-related issues and promote civic participation, social awareness, self-confidence and social and work-related skills among young people; and
WHEREAS: The Mayor's Youth Council in Boston has seen great success in recent years, including the establishment of the "Mayor's Youthline," a phone hotline dedicated to answering municipal government-related questions for teenagers, the creation of an annual youth summit, and the formation of a youth participatory budgeting project that allowed students to propose community development projects that would receive municipal funding; and now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with all appropriate departments and explore the feasibility of creating a Cambridge City Youth Council that will represent the youth population of the city and serve as an advisory board to the City Council; 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-24     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: One of the stated goals of Cambridge City Council is to "Promote a Healthy Community and Environment to advance Cambridge as a leader in public health and environmental sustainability"; and
WHEREAS: The concept of sustainability is one in which the City of Cambridge embraces and strives to implement and does so through various programs and policies but lacks a unified vision; and
WHEREAS: According to the United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development, sustainability means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Sustainability is not an end goal, but a journey that local governments can take to improve the social equity, environmental, and economic conditions in their jurisdictions"; and
WHEREAS: A common framework to guide local government efforts is a sustainability plan, which ties together a community's goals, strategies, implementation plans, and metrics for improving sustainability under a single framework; and
WHEREAS: A sustainability plan provides solutions in the areas of built environment, energy, food, nature, transportation, waste, and water, and will offer specific actions to deliver results necessary for our city to become the greenest, healthiest, and most livable city in the nation; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Community Development Department on the feasibility of producing a Cambridge Sustainability Plan with stated priority goals to complement Cambridge's Master Plan; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-25     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: This year the City of Cambridge witnessed another successful City Dance Party that attracted over 12,000 guests; and
WHEREAS: Since 1996, the City Dance Party attracts both young and old and has grown into the identity of the Cambridge community; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to extend the Cambridge Dance Party for an extra hour next year.

O-26     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has committed itself to becoming an age-friendly city and providing seniors with a good-quality of life and doing its part to meeting their basic needs; and
WHEREAS: According to the "Aging in the Cambridge Community" study by the Community Development Department in 2010, the city found that there were more than 10,000 seniors living in the City with 16% population increase from the 2000 Census and with an estimation that if the City of Cambridge follows national trends than elders "could account for close to 20% of Cambridge's population by 2030"; and
WHEREAS: As the population of elderly citizens is projected to increase, both nationally and locally, it has become imperative for municipalities to undertake policies to improve the quality of life of senior citizens especially in the areas of physical and mental fitness; and
WHEREAS: A common grievance from the city's elderly population has been access to affordable and convenient fitness facilities; and
WHEREAS: In a paper by the Institute for Public Administration at the University of Delaware, offering physical health promotion activities such as cardio and strength training have long term health benefits such as warding off heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease, and improving mental health; and
WHEREAS: Although the City of Cambridge boasts a number of fitness facilities, many senior citizens do not have the financial means to afford costly annual memberships, most fitness center's do not offer elderly discount rates, and Original Medicare does not cover fitness programs or gym memberships; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Human Services on the feasibility of either seeking space at the City Senior Center or another municipal building and creating a fitness center with affordable rates for senior citizens; 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-27     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
WHEREAS: The Silver Maple Forest currently absorbs storm water and prevents it from running into the man-made channel known as Little River, which connects Alewife Brook in Cambridge to Little River in Belmont; and
WHEREAS: The developer of the Silver Maple Forest recently announced plans to have the state's Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) hold a Conservation Restriction over the portion of the forest that lies in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The Conservation Restriction would permit the developer to attach Cambridge's portion of the forest to the proposed development and to count the Cambridge land as open space under the Belmont Zoning By-Laws; and
WHEREAS: Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 92, Section 79 allows the DCR Commissioner to consult with local boards prior to the approval of a Conservation Restriction; and
WHEREAS: The Silver Maple Forest development proposal was approved based on out-of-date rainfall predictions; the most recent regional study of extreme precipitation performed by the Northeast Regional Climate Center predicts 8.6 inches of rain in a 24-hour period during a 100-year storm event; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record encouraging the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Recreation to hold the Conservation Restriction only on the condition that the developer can show, in plans submitted to the Belmont Conservation Commission in an open hearing, that the storm water systems of the development can indeed handle 8.6 inches of rain in a 24 hour, 100-year storm; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with all relevant staff to ensure that the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Recreation is encouraged to consult with the Cambridge Conservation Commission and any other relevant entities regarding the concern over risks associated with extreme precipitation events; and
ORDERED: The City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation and Recreation on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-28     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The citizens of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were subjected to the horrors of nuclear bombs detonated in their cities on August 6, 1945 and August 9, 1945, respectively, which killed up to 250,000 and left many thousands more severely wounded; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has been a member of Mayors for Peace since 2002, four years after the formation of Mayors for Peace in 1998, and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge hosted the metropolitan wide Hiroshima and Nagasaki Day observance in 2013, which is being held in the City of Boston this year on August 6, and
WHEREAS: The U.S. Conference of Mayors has repeatedly, and unanimously, called on the President to seek negotiations to eliminate nuclear weapons, in part because cities are the targets of nuclear bombs, and on Congress to reject any program to build new nuclear weapons; and
WHEREAS: The U.S. Conference of Mayors unanimously supported the program of the Mayors for Peace, calling on the President to immediately remove all nuclear weapons from high-alert status and to announce a no-first-use policy regarding nuclear weapons; and
WHEREAS: The United States, along with the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China, is bound by the 1970 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty to negotiate the elimination of nuclear weapons, as well as to oppose the spread of such weapons; and
WHEREAS: The U.S. government is instead planning to "modernize" its nuclear weapons arsenal by spending up to $1 trillion, money that could be used instead to fund badly-needed programs for jobs, schools, and housing in Boston and other cities; and
WHEREAS: The U.S. Conference of Mayors has repeatedly, and unanimously, called on the President to seek negotiations to eliminate nuclear weapons, in part because cities are the targets of nuclear bombs, and on Congress to reject any program to build new nuclear weapons; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council hereby proclaims August 6, 2014 to be Hiroshima Day and August 9, 2014 to be Nagasaki Day to honor the thousands of innocent victims of the nuclear detonations on those days; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council hereby encourages those of its residents who are able to join in the Metropolitan Area Boston observance of Hiroshima and Nagasaki to convene at 3 pm at Boston City Hall Plaza at 4:00 pm on August 6, 2014; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council hereby calls on the President to honor our obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty by seeking to eliminate all nuclear weapons and meanwhile honor the existence of the seven existing Nuclear-Weapons Free Zones around the world and seek their extension wherever possible; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council hereby calls on the President and Congress to cancel costly new nuclear and other weapons systems which do not make us safer, and to allocate the savings for programs the people of Cambridge and other cities urgently need, as was supported by Cambridge voters 4-1 in a referendum in 2012; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Cambridge Delegation to the State Legislature, to the Massachusetts Delegation, and to President Obama, on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-29     July 28, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to invite a representative from the Cambridge Public Health Department to attend the National League of Cities in November 2014.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
Meeting Purpose - The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to explore the way forward for a shared use with a rail and trail path along the Grand Junction Corridor.

Meeting Details
Date and Time: Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at 3:06pm
Location: Sullivan Chamber

Attendees
Councillor Carlone, Chair; Vice Mayor Benzan; Councillor Cheung; Councillor Kelley; Councillor McGovern; Councillor Mazen; Councillor Simmons; Richard Rossi, City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Jeff Rosenblum, Transportation Planner, CDD; Susanne Rasmussen, Director, Transportation and Environmental Division, CDD; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Sue Clippinger, Director, Traffic, Parking and Transportation; Mike Connolly; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.

Other attendees
Sarah Gallup, Co-Director, Community Relations, MIT; Ken Williams, Senior Real Estate Officer MITIMCO; Katie Blizzard, MIT; John Attanucci, Lecturer on Public Transportation Management, MIT; Tom Evans, Executive, Director, CRA; Barry Zevin, CRA Board Member, 67 Hampshire Street; Ned Codd, Assistant Secretary for GreenDOT; Scott Hamwey, Office of Transportation Planning, MassDOT; Vincent Poirier, MassDOT; John Sanzone and Rachel Burckardt, Friends of the Grand Junction Path; Margaret McMahon, 14 Highland Avenue; Josiah Bonsey; Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street; Rozann Kraus, 91 Chilton Street; Torgun Austin, 28 Bristol Street; Laura Schmitz, 32 Calvin Street, Somerville; Matt Carty; Nancy Ryan, 4 Ashburton Place; Melisse Shokiro, Saville Street; Joseph Poirier, Highland Avenue; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; Madeleine Fletcher, 155 Grove Street; Walter McDonald, 172 Magazine Street; Steve Miller, 92 Henry Street; Elena Saporta, 102 Ellery Street; John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; One Hwang; Debby Galef; James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place; Phil McKenna; Steven Bercu, 132 Fayerweather Street; Pete Stidman, Boston Cyclists Union; Wig Zamore, 13 Highland Avenue, Somerville; and Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street.

Minutes
Councillor Carlone opened the meeting and stated the purpose. He stated that key people are involved in this meeting and that this subject was discussed in the l970's. He announced that the meeting is being recorded with both audio and visual devices. Carlone thanked the City staff, the CRA, MassDOT and the public for their attendance at this meeting. He added that it is important to provide multi-module transit for truly sustainability urban living. There is an opportunity for bikeways and for open space, linking the City to the river and North to Somerville. The notion of an urban ring excited him because of the need and the connection to Boston's job-generating medical district.

Carlone stated that there is a letter from Fred Salvucci that will be made part of the record. As usual at a Committee meeting, public comment will be 3 minutes. The activists will be asked what they feel is the next steps. He stated that an overview presentation will be given by Jeff Rosenblum from Community Development Department. Mr. Murphy gave a brief introduction of what the presentation would provide.

Presentation: Mr. Rosenblum gave a detailed presentation entitled The Grand Junction Path Project Overview (ATTACHMENT A). The presentation posed the questions of what is the Grand Junction (GJ) Path, what is important and what are the next steps in the process. The existing path is 40 feet wide and must retain the rail systems. There is 12 feet of open space. Providing mass transit rails immediately next to trails has been done; it is not uncommon elsewhere. He gave examples of "rail with trails" in British Columbia, Seattle, Washington and Burlington, VT. Mr. Rosenblum gave an overview of the history of the GJ path timeline from 2000 - 2014. For planning purposes, the GJ Path has been broken into sections. Section One is the Charles River Crossing, Section Two is from the River to 250 feet west of Pacific Street/Fort Washington Park, Section Three is Pacific Street North to Main Street (this is also the MIT Feasibility Study Section), Section Four is Main Street to Binney, the CRA section and Section Five is north of Binney Street to the Somerville line.

The MIT section has a narrow point and the university is doing a Feasibility Study of this section. There is a draft of the CRA Open Space plan from Main to Broadway. The construction will being in the fall of 2014.

The Importance of the Grand Junction: Mr. Rosenblum spoke about how this fits into the region. In Cambridge there has been a reduction in motor vehicles and there are more bicyclists. A lot of advocacy groups have expressed support for the GJ Path. One quarter of residents live within one-half of a mile of this path. Integrated activities provide health benefits. He spoke about the demographics. The GJ Path will improve access to parks, schools and access to the campus for MIT students. He stated that seventy percent of MIT students live on or near the MIT campus.

Mr. Rosenblum spoke about the next steps for planning for the GJ Path to connect to the Charles River, and to the Somerville community path. He stated that Councillor Cheung has suggested a east-west pathway. The Charles River Path Concept shows how to connect the path to the Charles River. On the BU railroad bridge there is a single rail. Planning has been around how to maintain the single rail. He spoke about the options for modifying the BU rail bridge over the Charles River.

Connection to the Boston Bike Path: This could also connect to Allston. One complex issue is when the path comes north to the Somerville how will it connect to the Green Line Extension project? He spoke about the east-west concept from Danehy Park to the GJ. To date, no one has done any research on this.

MBTA Vision Plan: Mr. Rosenblum also spoke about the 2024 MBTA Vision. The plan is to use Diesel Multiple Units (DMU), which are narrower and a more urban style train heavily used in Europe. He stated that the minimum width with two rails on the GJ is 30 feet. Unresolved issues of property ownership and the requirements for one or two way rail need further discussion.

Council Questions: Councillor Mazen asked what are the pinch points. Mr. Rosenblum stated that the Feasibility Study of 2006 fits with one rail; what are the implications of it fitting with MIT campus. No analysis to date has been done for two-way rail - what is needed and what are the pinch points. He stated the BU rail bridge over the Charles right of way cannot change. The rail is too close.

Councillor McGovern questioned where are we now and where do we go from here? Where are the CRA and MIT in their processes and what is the timeline. Mr. Rosenblum stated that the issues will come out in the presentations.

MIT PRESENTATION - SARAH GALLUP, KEN WILLIAMS AND KELLEY BROWN
Ms. Gallup stated that MIT has been involved in these discussions since 2000. MIT will provide input and feedback because MIT has land in the GJ. MIT agreed to do an analysis of MIT property in the corridor. A feasibility study has been launched. $500,000 has been appropriated for the CRA.

Kelley Brown reported that progress is being made on the study. He stated that in April a consultant firm was hired. The focus is on the land that MIT owns. The railroad sold the railroad right of way land to MIT but the MBTA has the right of way. This is a perpetuity right. MIT uses the land in question for service and trash removal and access to buildings. The conditions of the corridor have been documented. Can shared use be considered is the question. MIT is reaching out to other organizations such as the Cambridge Bike committee, local and regional advocates. Evaluation criteria are being developed and design alternatives are being studied. At the July advisory meeting the alternatives will be shown. The draft report is planned for August and the final report in October.

Ken Williams, Associate Director of Real Estate, MIT stated that MIT is in the information gathering phase. This study has the opportunity to improve this path.

Councillor Simmons questioned the MIT representatives about the discussion being held on the MIT interest, what is the timeline - the City is forging ahead and MIT is lagging behind. She asked when will MIT reach out to the neighborhood? When will you be in tandem with the City? Ms. Gallup stated that the hope is that the work will be completed in August and have a report to the City in September or October. This area is used by MIT for transportation of chemicals and all these movements are being looked at very carefully. Councillor Simmons commented that this is public open space that does not enhance open space. She wants to have active open space so that the community can use this area. There is a great deal of interest in this making an active, pleasant area.

Councillor Carlone stated that the City Council knew that this report would not be public until the fall, but asked MIT to attend and give a status report. Efforts are being made to solve the bigger issues.

PRESENTATION UPDATE ON CRA LAND
Tom Evans, Executive Director, CRA has worked with Community Development Department and the Public Works Department on the small portion of the CRA controlled path. CRA is focusing resources on this section. This is outside of the railroad operations. There are two parcels of land owned by CRA between Main Street and Binney Street. These parcels are remnant land of the Urban Renewal Plan. The northern parcel will be part of the East Cambridge open space design. It is a 741 feet long parcel - this is the first phase. An engineering team has been hired to present the design plan by late July. This first segment of the trail will be constructed in the fall with street scape being preserved with trees. There will be a 12 foot pathway with a buffer. The CRA contribution has been the design work and to get it built as soon as possible. Councillor Carlone asked what is the buffer and is it one track. Mr. Evans stated that it is one track from Draper to Tech Square. The right of way is narrow and MassDOT owns this land. This is wholly in CRA property. A new fence will be installed. A second track has not been explored. A two foot buffer on both sides is proposed.

Councillor McGovern stated that with various owners doing their own studies for their needs how is this being tied into what MIT is doing. Mr. Rossi stated that this is something that CDD has been working on since 2000. Today this is becoming a reality. CDD has provided negotiations with CRA and MIT. He applauded Susanne Rasmussen and the CDD staff for their work. This is a great opportunity and has great value, but it is incredibly complex and costly. Overtime money will be parceled out in phases. The decision from the state as to what the use of this corridor will be is important. The City sees the need and value of the project as well as the cost implications. The City is doing everything it can to position itself in the right way for this project. Councillor McGovern stated that the MIT plan has two rails, the CRA plan has one rail. Mr. Rossi stated that the Department of Transportation use issue of this corridor is the issue. Councillor McGovern asked what is the CRA plan for looking at the second section, the pork chop section. Mr. Evans stated that the CRA is waiting to see the plan from CDD. CRA is actively participating in the planning process.

PRESENTATION GREEN DOT AND TRANSPORTATION PLANNING MASSDOT
Ned Codd, Mass. GreenDOT Office stated that he has worked on many project regarding this corridor. He lives in Cambridge two blocks from the corridor. It is an important transportation corridor and this is why it was purchased by CXS five years ago. There are 4-5 train movements daily at this corridor. It also serves the Chelsea Fruit Mart as a freight train. It is a potential passenger/transportation connection. State global emissions act requires that the state has to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote public health through walking, biking, and for pedestrians. MassDOT has tripled the amount of travel between 2010-2030 for walking, biking etc. These are ways to meet the target through the transportation system. Opportunities are needed to be found to increase the public transportation. This could be beneficial to Cambridge and neighboring city/towns and region. Kendall Square and MIT are in the middle of the corridor with the end having tremendous development opportunity for growth. This corridor has potential being a crossing route. MassDOT wants to keep open transit opportunities in this area. A shared use path where it can fit can be a powerful connection enhancer. Double track rail opportunity must be kept open. There may be sections where a path can be built with the second rail and other places it may not fit. What are the physical and right of way constraints?

Councillor Carlone questioned whether studies being done at the state level. Mr. Codd responded that the state is not actively studying this corridor. DMU have been looked into. DMU service along the Fairmont corridor in Boston has been studied.

Vice Mayor Benzan spoke of funding by the state. He added that we do not want to build great expectations about this GJ Path. Urban train and the bike path should be looked at. Is the state going to fund this? Has this decision been made? Mr. Codd responded in the negative. The bike path project is funded and developed through the MPO process. He suggested talking with Boston MPO and MassDOT district 6. Funding for transit improvements will be included more clearly in the 5 year improvement plan. The urban transit DMU would not happen in the near term. This is a long-term idea. MassDOT does not want to close their opportunity on the transit importance of this corridor. There is more flexible funding for sustainable transportation facilities.

Vice Mayor Benzan spoke about a planned stop in Allston that had funding recently removed. Why do we think that the bike path with the urban transit corridor will happen? The political appetite at the state is not there; it will fall to the city. Pressure needs to be put on the state legislature for funding. He is very concerned. He likes the bike path and urban train plan.

Scott Hamwey, Office of Transportation Planning at MassDOT stated that MassDOT has worked to move forward with the Allston project occurring in 2017. He added that Kendall Square is the envy of other communities. GJ is a rare opportunity to do something with transit. Mr. Codd welcomed the opportunity to work with Cambridge, MIT and the CRA on the efforts undertaken to understand the physical constraints of a double path and shared use path. Councillor Carlone stated that the CRA will start construction on only a single track.

Councillor Mazen stated it is possible to plan a single DMU line and the pedestrian/ bike path is what he is hearing. Can this outcome be preserved? The choke point does not have to be settled to have a bike path. Mr. Codd stated it would make sense to move forward for the shared use path. Councillor Mazen asked what does the timeline look like and how does the choke points fit in the timeline. Ms. Gallup stated that questions will be answered in the report from MIT in October. Councillor Mazen asked what the City can do to prepare in anticipation of the shared use path. Mr. Murphy stated that MIT will report in October. MassDOT agreement is needed as to what can be done here. The other segments provide opportunities and challenges. This is a back and forth discussion with MassDOT and the EPA.

Mr. Rosenblum stated the issues are connections to the path along the Charles, MIT Feasibility Study, CRA and the ownership of property issues. Councillor Carlone commented that after MIT completes it study and then reconvenes this will affect the outcome. Councillor Mazen stated that October is great. Then we are working in tandem with the MIT report and the other section. Mr. Rosenblum stated the picture will be clearer.

Mr. Rossi stated that Cambridge is anxious because this is a great opportunity but this will take a long time because MassDOT is not ready to give us the decision so that the City can go forward. Hopefully we can work on pieces as they are available and then the City is in a better position for moving forward.

Councillor Carlone stated that a monthly update should be requested. The issuing of the MIT report in early Fall will be key in moving forward. He wanted all the available information.

Vice Mayor Benzan stated that the next steps for us as a city will be to have a meeting with surrounding towns that would be affected by shared use or bike path. This will help with state legislature and MassDOT. He would like a meeting with the surrounding towns. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts transportation system is horrible. What can Cambridge do to get MassDOT and state to finalize the decision if this is going to be a shared path or a bike path? Mr. Codd stated that the terms shared use and bike path are used interchangeable. This needs to be designed for use. A twelve foot buffer on both sides is needed. He spoke about the state funding issue. MassDOT planning for this corridor is not clear at this time, but it is looked at as a transit mode. It is exciting to offer Kendall Square another transit connection. We need to look at having a double track with the clearances that is needed. He encourage Cambridge to think ahead to the MPO projects and seek federal funding.

JOHN ATTANUCCI, LECTURER ON PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT AT MIT
He submitted a statement from Fred Salvucci (ATTACHMENT B). He feels that the shared use and bike path can be accommodated. He pointed out the section 1 and 5 could move the project along from the state prospective. The Green Line and the Somerville path is happening and if the parties could work together to get it all approved will take time. This is a major expansion of public transit for the city at a minimal investment. Most of the right of way is under control. The design part should go forward now.

JOHN SANZONE AND RACHEL BURCKARDT, FRIENDS OF THE GRAND JUNCTION
Mr. Sanzone stated that he went to the community with a cohesive vision. The GJ is important as a transportation link, open space such as Linear Park is significant and the human impact to access.

Ms. Burckardt stated that she worked on this path 13 years ago. All of the parties are here. The vision needs to keep the optimism. She spoke about keeping the vision alive. She works on transportation studies because she is an engineer. She has done transit analysis on this path using the DMU at 15 minute intervals no additional tracks are needed than what is out there. This is a real possibility.

Councillor McGovern stated his support for this.

Councillor Cheung supported this project. The City is waiting to hear back from the state as to what can be built. Is there anything we can do to help get the decision we want. Mr. Codd wants to keep the opportunity for double tracks transit in this corridor. He is interested in working with the CRA and MIT to get double tracks into the area and overcome the constraints. Councillor Cheung stated that the double tracks would make this more difficult. If the city did a preliminary design concept would this help move the decision. Mr. Codd stated that the corridor needs to be looked at with a single and double track. A shared use path for this corridor is great.

At 5:07pm Councillor Carlone opened the meeting to public comment..

Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street, thanked the CRA for starting somewhere. Before the DMU plan goes forward he would like to see if this makes sense. Temporary separated tracks make sense.

Matt Carty stated that two tracks are good. If this path existed today a Hubway bike station could be used to connect to other modes of transportation. This will provide the increase in the goal. If DMU vehicles are not a priority make it a shared use path.

Joseph Poirier, Highland Avenue, asked the feasibility of building the stretch from the river to Massachusetts Avenue is; this is the widest path and then do shared path. Can this be done now?

Robert Winters, 366 Broadway, stated that he wants to see this happen. He wants to see bike and pedestrian path happen and not waste a good opportunity to make connections. He would be happy if one or both happen. He did not want to waste the resource. Narrow is better than nothing. Pinch points that are close are still connection - this is still a good outcome. He urged moving ahead. Access to housing for MIT students is provided by this.

Madeline Fatcher, 155 Grove Street, stated that MIT is a serious issue. She suggested a detour around the toxic area.

Steve Miller, 92 Henry Street, summarized the MassDOT position - transit is a priority. They do not want to jeopardize this corridor for transit. There is no money for this; this will be prolonged. The tension is between short and long term. This is an opportunity to do something now. The state has massive projects on both sides of this. He suggested extending these projects. The design money for the Somerville connection should be done now. The CRA deserves credit for moving forward on something that can be done now.

One Hwang, Richdale Avenue, stated that biking and walking provide a sensory experience of people traveling through the city. It is through biking and walking you get to experience the City. She urged support for the GJ path.

James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place, asked about the global transit plan spoken by MIT what was meant by this. The bike path has been referred to as a shared path. What sense will the shared path be? There is no public voice for public transit users and could be better represented in this discussion. What happens if we do not address the problem of public transportation?

Steven Bercu,132 Fayerweather Street, supported this project and would like to see it move forward. There is a good opportunity for bicyclist s to have a healthy path. There is an opportunity to have housing.

Peter Stidman, Boston Cyclists Union, supported the GJ path. He stated that if it takes 15 years to achieve the greenhouse gas goals this may have to be reevaluated.

Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, stated that the one-two track issue needs to be resolve. It should be built for one track and the second track could be done in the future. Land could be taken from Galileo Way. How do we find out where the choke points in the corridor are? He suggested studying a 50th scale plan of the corridor. He stated that Harvard should be pushing to get the two tracks. The other end of the line is in Somerville. The Green Line will add another track and there will not be enough room for the path. Between NorthPoint and the maintenance area there is 80 feet and it would be used for the additional track. AMTRAK also run trains along this corridor.

Wig Zamore , 13 Highlands Avenue, Somerville, spoke about a unified bike and transit plan. He stated that the focus should be on a long-term bike and transit plan. He spoke about the important of the connection to have a bike and pedestrian path. He wished the issue of light rail in a heavy rail area could be solved. Diesel is a class I carcinogen. Black carbon is connected to lung cancer and a climate aerosol. He urged doing planning and advocacy now.

In conclusion Councillor Carlone stated that the next steps were fully discussed. In the fall MIT's update and report will be received. The CRA is working on its portion of the path. The City is working forward.

A communication was received from Robert LaTremouille to be included into the record (ATTACHMENT C).

Councillor Carlone thanked all for their attendance.

Adjournment
On motion of Councillor Carlone the meeting adjourned at 5:48pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Dennis Carlone, Chair

Committee Report #2
The Economic Development & University Committee and the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, arts and Celebration Committee conducted a joint public meeting on July 1, 2014 beginning at 3:10pm in the Cambridge Public Library Community Room, Level 2. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the ongoing out of school/STEAM working group research.

Present at the meeting were Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan, Co- Chair of the Economic Development & University Committee; Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen, Co- Chair of the Economic Development & University Committee; Councillor Marc C. McGovern; and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone.

Also present were:
Jake Crutchfield, Teacher; Sung Kim, Cambridge Science Festival; Salma Yehia, Boston University Student; Beverley Sobers, Director, Office of Workforce Development/DSHP; Christine Crowley, Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory; Mark Jaquith, East Cambridge Planning Team; Barbara Kibler, Margaret Fuller House; Sarah Hoffman, Mmmmaven; Katie Friedman, Tutoring Plus of Cambridge; Art Bardige, Sustainablearning; Dennis Carlone, Architect/Urban Designer/City Councillor/Teacher; Faith Dukes, Education Coordinator at MIT Museum; Denise Mytko, Education and Community Development at Draper Labs; Sharlene Yang, STEM Education Consultant; John Papadonis, Professor of Science Education at Cambridge College; Jason Weeks, Executive Director of Cambridge Arts Council; Stephen H. Gardener, STEM Consultant; Ellen Semonoff, Human Services; Sue Walsh, Human Services; Marshall Milner, Science Trainer for UMass Boston; Victoria Harris, Friends of CRLS; Marc McGovern, City Councillor; Mercedes Soto, Division Head CYP DHSP; Sarah Kennedy, Director of Government Affairs for Cambridge Chamber of Commerce; Gal Levin, Cambridge resident; Amelia Barros, Mayor's Office; Michelle Lower, CPS Parent/Alexandria Real Estate; Gil Noam, Professor at Harvard University; Khari Milner, Co-Director of Cambridge Agenda for Children/Director of CPS; and James Gardner, Cambridge resident.

Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor Mazen opened the meeting and stated the purpose.

Subgroup report back

1. Councillor Mazen asked that one person from each subcommittee report back to the group and say what was discussed

2. "Messaging and Outreach" - Mark Jaquith stated that the group had finalized their meeting schedule and will be trying to get together a mission statement from other members. Before they create a mission statement, they'd like to collect a good list of programs that are available now (that are already in place) and see what else might be planned in the future.

3. "Learner" - Katie Friedman said her subgroup hasn't solidified a summer schedule but they want to make sure there's a youth voice in the STEAM movement. They've started building a list of youth opportunities so they can have those resources to disseminate to the youth. "What do you want to see from STEAM in Cambridge?" is one of the questions they'll be asking High School students in the next few weeks. She stated that teachers and organizers need different ways of incentivizing and helping youth get excited about STEAM. She said that people need to remember that kids are the target audience and they need a reason to be there and help them feel like it's their place. Art Bardige said that he wants to see the learner as the central focus of what they are trying to accomplish.

4. "Internships"- Beverley Sobers and Sarah Block reminded the public that their group focused more on internships and not apprenticeships. Their team discovered that there were a lot of disconnected organizations and that there needs to be an inventory of the different programs as well as the partners that they work with. The team also spoke about students lacking the necessary resources to be connected and how there should be a mentorship program to give support to students. Marshall Milner suggested asking corporations to both commit to giving students jobs during the summer and fund community college courses to guarantee that young people will be placed in a job. He stated that this is the definition of apprenticeship in Germany and other countries in Europe. At Cambridge College, corporations are concerned that a lot of their employees are short termers and they would like to see a steadier workforce trained in laboratory techniques. The concern has already been made known here in town, so moving towards an apprenticeship program is vital according to Marshall.

5. "Goals and Outcomes"- Ben Clark explained the disbandment of the subgroup by mentioning that the group needs to have a better vision of what STEAM will look like and what are the missions/goals of the city before it can regroup. They want to solicit info from other groups to see how exactly they can do their work.

6. Vice Mayor Benzan reminded attendees to keep in mind the wide spectrum of learners that will be targeted.

7. Councilor McGovern asked if there were teachers in the room and if the working group had been touching base with the Cambridge Public School system to which various teachers raised their hand and CPS Director Khari Milner provided a brief summary of the partnership.

8. Vice Mayor Benzan stated that one of the missions of the working group is to reach out to universities, teachers, counselors, students, and anybody who would help bring forth a STEAM city with a strong economy but also a strong work force. To team members he recommended keeping in mind how their subgroup will inform the city, and to not forget that important work. Creating more access, as had been discussed last week, was also something to keep in mind.

9. John Pappadonis, a science professor at Cambridge College, reported that research has shown that learners make decision as to whether they're interested in STEAM fields at a very young age. By the time children are in 7th grade, these decisions are set in stone. Whether they enjoy math or science, it has been set in stone. He mentioned that he's interested in getting children involved in STEAM at an early age so that once in high school, teens have a strong chance or pursuing STEAM fields.

10. "Learners" group added that they're interested in forming a STEAM youth council and be the leaders in how to shape and create more exciting STEAM education.

11. Vice Mayor Benzan responded that part of the task is discovering how to build a culture of STEAM learning at a very young age. He praised the initiative to do sidewalk math as a creative way to spark interest in the minds of young learners and invite them to pursue math learning. The other piece to the equation for STEAM success is to develop methods to ensure the Arts is not lost in the other science components of STEAM.

12. Executive Director of the Cambridge Arts Council, Jason Weeks, explained that the council represents art, collaboration and funding. Something he hopes to bring to the group is a number of projects that the arts council is aware of and better practices that they'd like to see done in the city.

13. Art Bardige asked if there were any known best practices for joining up the arts and sciences, in educational programming.

14. Jason Weeks replied that there are existing programs that work towards this goal. Catalyst Conversations partners local scientists and other scientists in nearby companies with local artists. He stated that the arts council is currently in the process of determining when it is best to introduce learners of all ages to that conversation.

15. Harvard Professor Gil Noam noted that the MA Framework for Science is a document that includes a design process and an integration of math, science and art. In regards to employability and job opportunity, the professor added that the connection between STEAM and life skills is critical. STEAM is a wonderful way for people to learn skills for life like team work, perseverance, creativity, problem solving, and critical thinking. STEAM should be framed in a way that these skills are marketed as profitable and connected to the arts.

16. James Gardner provided the example of how he's involved in an organization that connects lacrosse with life skills.

17. Assistant City Manager Ellen Semonoff asked, "how do teachers and organizers prevent learners from losing interest?"

18. Khari Milner responded that part of his work is to look at a cross section of Cambridge in order to support young people and families in Cambridge. They look into how to make STEAM-based learning more engaging. The idea for OST came from the desire to create more access to STEAM type of experiences to people in Cambridge, especially for kids who wouldn't find that experience otherwise. Part of ensuring learners stay interested is helping them understand the value of their learning, helping them get more ownership over their lives and making them feel like they can be a part of the economic and scientific growth happening in Cambridge. His organization aspires to make STEAM something that is desired, something students are excited to join. However, there are other questions that need to be answered. What are the next steps for students who get hooked and want to learn more about STEAM? How do folks at Tutoring Plus and similar programs know where to go next?

19. Councillor Mazen stated that for implementation, the group should consider finding local educational partners, conducting "bench level tests" that take into account the needs expressed in this meeting, and improving these test-case programs early and often. As this progress is shared with the group, it will make coordination and improvement in the OST ecosystem much more concrete. Councillor Mazen also reminded working group members to keep the appointment of a citywide STEAM coordinator in mind and to begin considering what questions that person should address.

20. Sarah Kennedy remarked on the important of inviting potential corporate partners to the conversation.

21. Councillor McGovern added that the group must also think about teachers and parents, and whether or not they are encouraging learners to pursue interests in the fields of math and science. He suggested that teams consider how to reach out to teachers and parents to include them in the conversation.

Break out into subgroups

Identify individuals who should be invited to the group

Establish a at least three goals you'd like to accomplish in the month of July and set the agenda for your next two meetings around the achievement of those objectives

Discuss how you would like to see the City of Cambridge use the subgroup's findings

Questions, Concerns, Clarifications

Closing Remarks

Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor Mazen thanked all those present for their attendance.

The meeting was adjourned at 4:46pm.

For the Committees,
Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan, Co- Chair
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Co-Chair

Economic Development & University Relations
Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen, Co-Chair
Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration

Committee Report #3
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on July 2, 2014 beginning at 5:41pm in the Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway.

The purpose of the hearing was to discuss on the Timothy R. Flaherty, et al. zoning petition requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge to expand the Medical Marijuana Overlay District, MMD-1 to encompass 61 Mooney Street (Attachment A).

Present at the hearing were Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Councillor Craig Kelley; Mayor David P. Maher; Councillor Marc C. McGovern; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Jeff Roberts, Project Planner, Community Development Department; Marybeth Cosgrove, Operations Manager; and Paula M. Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office.

Also present were John Greene, CEO of the Greeneway Wellness Foundation; Tim Flaherty, Esq.; John Holland; Susan Agger; Lizzie Feigenbaum; Nancy Jordalen; Eric Olich; Buddy Mabardy; Jamie Mabardy; John Chun; Kathryn Erat; Patricia Amoroso; John Hawkinson; Mark Jacquith; Becca Rutenberg; Robert Winters; and Sara Feijo.

Vice Mayor Benzan read the call of the meeting. He stated that in 2012, there was a ballot initiative to approve the sale and use of medical marijuana for medical purposes in Massachusetts and over 70% of voters in Cambridge approved it. He stated the subsequent to the approval, Cambridge began looking at its zoning and how a medical marijuana dispensary could fit into the zoning. He stated that last year the state issued regulations setting forth the process for granting licenses to medical marijuana dispensaries operators. He stated that present at this evening's meeting is the petitioner Greeneway Wellness Foundation who has been approved as an operator. He stated that given that there was a great deal of concern over the initial selection process, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) conducted a second review of applicants and denied the petitioners here today a license to operate. He stated that the petitioner is appealing the decision and he asked that John Greene, Greeneway Wellness Foundation to give the committee and update on the appeal during its presentation.

Vice Mayor Benzan stated that notwithstanding the denial of the petitioners application with the DPH, the City Council must vote on where a medical marijuana dispensary may be located, more particularly on whether the district that was established by the City Council last year should be expanded to include Mooney Street, the current proposed location for a medical marijuana dispensary which falls outside the area originally established to accommodate a medical marijuana dispensary. He stated that there were five factors considered in establishing the area in which a medical marijuana dispensary would be located: Areas where commercial uses were allowed, areas with access to regional transportation systems, whether police would be able to effectively get to the site if called, whether there was consistency with urban design of the area and whether the area was set apart from school and childcare centers. Vice Mayor Benzan then invited the petitioners to give their presentation.

Tim Flaherty, Esq., attorney representing Greeneway Wellness Foundation, introduced himself and John Greene, CEO and Principal of Greeneway Wellness Foundation. He gave a brief overview of his Power Point presentation (Attachment B). Mr. Flaherty noted that he is a resident of Cambridge as well as a signatory on the citizens petition to expand the MMD-1 Overlay district. He stated that Greeneway Wellness Foundation received a communication from the DPH indicating that its license would not be granted due to a question regarding the financial viability of the Greeneway Wellness Foundation. He stated that there is a conflict of law with respect to Medical Marijuana Dispensaries in Massachusetts. He stated that the federal government does not view this in the same way that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and other states in the country which have passed this legislation. He stated that simply put, the federal government has not eliminated a criminal penalty for the sale of marijuana. He stated that the Massachusetts statute is a well-crafted piece of legislation which is highly regulated and strictly drafted. He stated that the federal government has taken no action on it. He stated that due to the ambiguity between federal and state law, banks are reluctant to hold money for the purpose of financing these operations. Because of that, Mr. Greene and investors posted the money and rather than risk shutdown of business operations, they decided to remove it from a federally insured depository. He stated that this should not have created an impression that the financial vitality and sustainability is any different than it was in the first phase. He noted that there have been extensive media reports regarding the initial evaluation process and whether or not any of the applicants made misrepresentations about support or operations. None of those concerns present themselves with the Greeneway Wellness Foundation. He stated that the Greeneway Wellness Foundation scored amongst the highest of the applicants in Massachusetts. He noted that they did appear before the Planning Board and made to that board a presentation about the site identified for a Medical Marijuana Dispensary. He stated that after the demarcations of the zones, there could be difficulty in finding a site to meet all of the criteria. He noted that dozens of sites have been examined. Mr. Flaherty stated that 61 Mooney Street is a former pharmaceutical company located at the end of Mooney Street which can be accessed by Smith Street. He stated that the Mooney Street site is located in an industrial zone and that transportation to and from the site can be accessed by bus routes and the Alewife T Station. He stated that in addition, Mr. Greene has contacted transportation providers. With respect to emergency response, he noted that there have been no issues by the Cambridge Police Department. Mr. Flaherty noted that the site itself is .02 outside of the existing MMD-1 zone. He stated that there is a loading dock behind the building which is protected and abutted by train tracks and a fence. That would allow for the delivery of product for the patients. There are 35 non-employee parking spaces. He stated that the expectation is that there would be 30 trips per day initially which would not have a negative impact on the area. Mr. Flaherty stated that Mr. Greene has spoken to residents in the area and has substantial community support. He is passionate about what he is trying to do. He stated that it is unfortunate that the DPH has made its decision on a snapshot in time without looking globally at what type of community participant the Greeneway Wellness Foundation can be in Cambridge. He stated his hope that the Ordinance Committee would agree with the recommendation of the Planning Board.

Mr. Greene stated that he has met with some City Councillor to explain his business model. He stated that he has been attempting to find a suitable building to site the Greeneway Wellness Foundation which would blend seamlessly into the surroundings. He stated that he is a nutritional consultant and herbalist by trade. He stated that he is focused on the non-euphoric components of this plan. He stated that there are a lot of mixed conceptions of the plant itself. Most people think of long lines of people waiting to get "high." This is not the case. He stated that there are no side effects associated with the consumption of high cannabinoids. He stated that the marijuana plan can be used responsibly. He stated that his business model could potentially be a model for Massachusetts. He stated that he watched his father suffering from liver, lung and stomach cancer. He stated that his father went through chemotherapy and during that time, he asked his father to consider a liquid cannabis. His father did not want to take this without a doctor's recommendation. It was then that he realized that there is a major need for education. He stated that his model and this medication is needed. He has worked for the last 19 months educating patients, the public and officials. He is the only dispensary or permit holder in Massachusetts who has committed to growing 94 high cannabinoid profile strains. He stated that there is a paradigm shift and he believes that he can run the business and become a great neighbor.

Councillor Carlone stated that he had the privilege of attending Greeneway's presentation to the Planning Board by Mr. Greene. He stated that he attended the meeting and was initially negative but noted that his opinion changed during the presentation. He noted that one of the members of the Planning Board recounted a friend who has been greatly helped by similar methods. Councillor Carlone stated that his brother has schizophrenia and he too has been told that medical marijuana would change his life. He stated his opinion that the unanimous decision by the Planning Board was absolutely correct.

Councillor McGovern stated that he has had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Greene. He stated that he has gone to the Mooney Street site with a neighborhood resident. He offered his name on a letter of support. He stated that the ballot question to make this legal passed in Cambridge with just over 70%. He stated that this is something that the community supports. He stated that he has spoken with Mr. Greene about the difficulty in finding a suitable location. He stated that this location fits the criteria and he supports this petition. Councillor McGovern noted that Mr. Greene's efforts to talk to the community and take the initiative to personally knock on doors shows him Mr. Greene's commitment to the city. He stated that he understands some may have hesitation but again, this is a very different kind of place. He stated that this is a medical office whose programs are necessary. As a city, we need to support it fully. Mr. Greene has done everything to alleviate concerns. He stated that he has no question in Mr. Greene's ability to run a professional, medical business. He stated that he looks forward to having him be a dedicated member of the community.

Mayor Maher stated that he has met with Mr. Greene and admires his passion. He noted that his conflict is with the fairly lengthy process to outline and delineate places where facilities can be located. He stated that the City is now being asked to change the guidelines shortly after it was passed by the City Council. Mayor Maher stated that if the City was guaranteed that Mr. Greene was going to be the proprietor, he might feel more reassured. He stated that residents in this area have been looking to the City Council to help them with issues of overdevelopment in their neighborhood and the City Council has not taken action. He stated that he is hearing from citizens that this is being fast tracked. He questioned if the City should be cautious and wait for the appeal process to run its course. He stated that he would like for the City Council to take action on the Cambridge Highlands zoning petition and get its priorities straight. He noted that he is interesting in hearing from the residents in this area. Mayor Maher stated that he voted for the Medical Marijuana District but noted the importance of making a zoning decision that everyone can live with. He stated his desire to wait for the appeal process before acting on this petition.

Councillor Kelley stated Mayor Maher's comments are accurate. He stated that he does not see this as being a great extension of what was originally passed. He noted that zoning changes all the time and that this is a logical expansion on what was on the table before. He stated that this is a wise change and noted his support. Additionally, he stated that his memory of the West Cambridge zoning petition is different than that of Mayor Maher.

Councillor Carlone asked Brian Murphy if this use requires a special permit. Jeff Roberts answered in the affirmative. Councillor Carlone asked if this special permit is sponsor-oriented or if it would become an ongoing permit at this building location. Mr. Roberts stated that because of the way the zoning is written, the special permit would be tied to the applicant which is done by tying the special permit application to the state approval of the RMD. He stated that a different operator would not be able to use that special permit. Brian Murphy stated that the state made it clear that as a municipality the City is allowed to have a regulation that is consistent with the state. He stated that the special permit is not transferrable. A new petitioner would have to go through the process. Councillor Carlone stated that the City could be more selective of the kind of applicant that it wants through the special permitting process. Councillor Carlone stated that he agrees with Mayor Maher and that the neighborhood view is very important. He stated that he is looking forward to their comments.

Councillor McGovern stated that if the City Council were being asked to rezone a site that would put a dispensary across from a school, it would be a different discussion. He stated that this location meets state criteria and is in a location that it out of the way. He stated that holding this petition up does not make sense. He stated that he does not know of any particulars regarding delays in other zoning petitions. He stated that as it relates to Cambridge Highlands petition, it is not dragging of feet, it is trying to reach consensus. He stated that every City Councillor spoke in support of that resident petition. He stated that these are different issues. He stated that he would be happy to move on the resident petition in that area as soon as possible. He stated that it comes down to the fact that we all want many things but when it comes into our neighborhood, we don't want it.

Mayor Maher stated that the districts were developed over time and given much consideration by the Planning Board and the Community Development Department who then presented their recommendations to the City Council. He asked why this area was not originally in the district and what was the reason for the change of heart. Jeff Robert stated that there were five criteria to look at to determine the appropriate medical marijuana district. He stated that the Planning Board's recommendation stated that the biggest issue for the Mooney Street site is public transportation. He stated that there was discussion with the petitioner regarding the transportation concern and noted that this is something that could be included as a condition in the special permit issuance.

Vice Mayor Benzan asked how the distinction is made between the operation of a medical marijuana dispensary and a CVS/Walgreen's or methadone clinic. Mr. Greene stated that his business is on par with a CVS in that you would take a prescription written by a doctor and get the prescription filled. The difference with a medical marijuana dispensary would be that a doctor would write a recommendation for the medical marijuana. The recommendation would include why the recommendation was made as well as confirmation of a 12-18 month history of a pre-existing debilitating condition and history. The doctor would also need to be certified to recommend medical marijuana. At the dispensary, a medical nurse or director would sit with the patient and talk about the various forms of ingestion such as transdermal patch or pill. This visit would be a 45-minute sit down after which the patient would be allowed to purchase medicine and take it home.

Vice Mayor Benzan stated that one of the fears and reservations of neighbors is that patients may hang outside of the facility or sell their medication to someone else. He asked Mr. Greene about security. Mr. Green stated that the only people visiting the dispensary will be patients or caregivers of patients if they cannot get to the dispensary. He stated that the only people allowed into the door of the dispensary are patients or caregivers. He stated that it is against the law for patients to walk out of their facility and use their medication. He noted that security will ensure that no one will be standing outside the facility. He stated that there will be cameras outside on every part of the building. He stated that when speaking of a patient selling the cannabis, many people feel that there is some sort of risk of diversion. Mr. Greene stated that medical marijuana is sold at a much higher rate than what one could purchase on the street. He stated that the potency of medical marijuana is under strict and stringent guidelines. It will cost between 25-30% above retail cost on the street. Mr. Flaherty stated that the statute creates a five-year prison felony for resale of medical marijuana and that the risk is very high.

As it relates to employment, Vice Mayor Benzan asked Mr. Greene if he is committed to hiring City of Cambridge residents provided they are able to pass background checks. Mr. Greene stated that it is his commitment to hire as many people as possible who live in Cambridge. He stated that there are very well-qualified applicants in the city. He stated that he is looking forward to providing residents the opportunity to work at the Greeneway Wellness Foundation.

Vice Mayor Benzan then stated that the Ordinance Committee received letters of support from Ann Tennis and Betty Kanode. (Attachments C and D).

Vice Mayor Benzan opened public comment at 6:35pm.

John Holland, 26 Normandy Terrace, Cambridge, stated his opposition to the petition to expand the MMD-1 zone. He stated that he and his family live 100 yards away from the proposed facility. He stated that the possession, distribution and manufacturing of marijuana, although permissible under the provisions of the Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Program and related statutes and rules, are in fact a violation of federal law. He stated that the proliferation of marijuana use and availability has negative implications for the welfare of the community. He stated that expanding the zone and availability of marijuana will harm the general welfare of the Cambridge Highlands neighborhood because of the significant potential to increase marijuana use among our youth and increase illegal drug trafficking. He stated that this dispensary will have additional potential negative secondary effects on the neighborhood which include criminal activity, loitering, increased traffic, noise, litter, and a loss of trade for other businesses located nearby and a decrease in property values. He stated that it is the ethical duty of the members of the City Council to ensure the safety of the community. He stated that this dispensary will constitute a public nuisance contrary to the community values which support the neighborhood as a safe place to work, live and raise a family. (Attachment E).

Susan Agger, 1 Loomis Street, Cambridge, spoke in support of the zoning petition. She stated that she attended a Q & A session in the neighborhood and Mr. Greene addressed many of her concerns. She stated that the location of the building is a viable location and she thinks that Mr. Greene demonstrates an awareness of the neighborhood and the interest in being a good neighbor. (Attachment F)

Lizzie Feigenbaum, 82 Normandy Avenue, Cambridge, stated that she is a Registered Nurse. She stated her belief that anyone opposed to the Greeneway Wellness Foundation would do well to research both the medical benefits of marijuana and dispensary safety. She stated that there is mounting research from other countries which prove the benefits of medical marijuana for a number of chronic and wasting diseases. She stated that the crime statistics from states that have already implemented medical marijuana dispensaries show that there is not an increase in crime. She stated that she is delighted by Greeneway's interest in working with the community to restore the nearby parkland. She stated that she has spoken with neighbors who support the dispensary but will not do so publicly because they will be seen as promoting drug use. She asked her neighbors who oppose the dispensary to reconsider their position so that they can be a neighborhood in Cambridge that helps to stop the unnecessary suffering of patients and loved ones because of fear and lack of knowledge. (Attachment G)

Nancy Jordalen, 73 Blanchard Road, Cambridge, stated that she is opposed to the zoning change, not medical marijuana. She agrees with Mayor Maher that the neighborhood is going through a process of another zoning change that has been bounced between the City Council and the Planning Board. She stated that zoning changes have long-reaching consequences and are permanent. She stated that there is more work and more information that needs to be disseminated to the neighbors. She stated that the reason this is important is because it is a zoning change to the neighborhood. She stated that many neighbors do not have knowledge of how this zoning change came about. She stated that she attended the backyard gathering and that there were less than a dozen people present. She stated that this neighborhood consists of over 300 residents. She asked the City Council to suspend the process until the appeal process is completed or the petitioner re-applies in 2015. She stated that she would like the petitioner to clarify what the appeal process involves.

Eric Olich, 74 Normandy Avenue, stated that he is in support of this petition. He appreciates the transparency and efforts that Mr. Greene has made to become part of the community. He asked for the City Council's support of this petition.

John Chun, 48 Loomis Street, spoke in opposition of the petition. He stated that the proposed Mooney Street site is only 500 yards away from Fayerweather Street School and Evergreen Day School, 300 yards away from Rafferty Park, 150 yards away from Blair Pond and 100 yards away from Normandy Terrace which is at the edge of the Cambridge Highlands neighborhood. He stated that on the way to Mooney Street, one passes Burger King, Wo Dao Kung Fu, Gymnastic Academy, and Olympia Fencing Center, all places where kids of all ages gather. He stated that he is not proposed to dispensaries but the proposed location is too close to schools, parks, and places where families and kids hang out. He suggested Acorn Park Drive as a better location. He expressed his desire for suspending the decision tonight. He stated that he has not seen any letters and has not met with Mr. Greene. He stated that more neighbors need to be informed. (Attachment H)

Kathryn Erat, 32 Normandy Avenue, stated that she lives in complex with close to 200 people. She stated that her concern is that you have two overlay districts that are open to this. She asked why petitioners are located outside of these districts. She stated that if we make a special corner for this dispensary outside of the 2 districts, we are setting a precedent. She feels that the petitioner should be encouraged to reevaluate the two districts that are available to him. She stated that there is almost no place that you can go in Cambridge that would satisfy the state requirements.

In response to the inquiry regarding the two potential districts, Mr. Greene stated that they have gone through dozens of locations. He stated that among the obstacles to those sites were the 500 foot requirement of where children congregate and the landlord's disapproval of the use.

In answer to Mayor Maher's questions regarding the districts, Jeff Roberts stated that every site in every district does not meet the 500 foot requirement. The districts that were chosen were districts within which there were significant numbers of sites that were outside of those 500 radius. From the beginning there was acknowledgment that no matter what district, there are some sites within 500 feet of children and some that are not. That is why the districts were chosen as the first level of the zoning allowance. Within that, the Planning Board would look at the distance from children. It was decided that this would be best looked at during the special permit process. He stated that the Planning Board could also have flexibility on the 500 foot standard if there was some other reason why a site that is closer than 500 feet from such a facility would be suitably buffered. Also, child-oriented facilities might appear and disappear at particular locations over time.

Patricia Amoroso, 40 Loomis Street, stated her opposition of the petition. She stated that she has been an oncology nurse for 33 years. She is certified in oncology nursing. She is a survivor of cancer and has had several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. She understands dealing with chronic illnesses. She stated that she is a resident and neighbor of the proposed occupants and she feels that this is almost no man's land. She stated that she lives in the neighborhood and did not realize that there is a satellite police station in the area. She realizes that there will be security but the criminals are not looking at this. She thinks that the area is dark. She noted that it is the location that is disturbing her.

George Podoff, 55 Hampshire Street, stated that he is surprised that no one other than the Greeneway Wellness Foundation has worked on this issue. He stated that he is in support of this petition. He stated that as it relates to crime, studies have shown that crime goes down. He stated that not only does medical marijuana help the pain of a disease, it could have potentially been able to stop his cancer and its proliferation. He stated that he can see many people benefitting from this service. He stated his support for the petition. (Attachment I)

Cheryl Green, 55 Blanchard Road, stated her opposition to the petition. She stated that she did not believe there would be consideration of this location for a dispensary. She stated that she lives in this neighborhood and her children play at Rafferty Park which is very remote. She stated that she can easily see that other people can use the remote location for other activities.

Public comment closed at 7:08pm.

Councillor Carlone assumed the Chair at 7:09pm.

Councillor McGovern asked Mr. Greene about the profile of the patients. Mr. Greene stated that the majority of the patients are between the ages of 39-53. To speak to some concerns, he stated that there is some question if this type of business would bring in other activities. He stated that these businesses have been shown to reduce use by youth by regulating the substance. He stated that statistics in Colorado show that youth use and availability went down 2.8% while it was rising in the nation. Youth availability went down by 5% on school grounds. He stated that power is being taken away from the black market and putting it into the hands of the parents, the states, the schools.

Councillor McGovern stated that this will be a heavily regulated process. He stated that he lives in Central Square with more public housing and programs than any other part of the city. It cannot just be one or two neighborhoods to carry the burden of all the social services that the city wants to provide.

Councillor Carlone stated that a number of nearby residents have raised issues regarding Rafferty Park and Blair Pond which is within 500 feet of the proposed dispensary. Councillor Carlone stated that there is no question that the City Council's concerns are based on neighborhood issues. Mr. Greene stated that the process moving forward is to be open regardless of the speed bump with the state and ensuring that they are putting energy and money on this process and have the ability to serve the patients of the Cambridge area.

Councillor McGovern asked Mr. Murphy that if this area is re-zoned, is this part of a special permit specifically for Greeneway? Mr. Murphy stated that this would be to zone the area for the use of medical marijuana. If a company had a license to sell medical marijuana to the public and obtain a location in the Medical Marijuana District, that company would then go through process for special permit. If this zoning is passed, it is to permit any medical marijuana use in the district. Follow-up would be for the individual applicant to get a special permit.

Councillor McGovern stated that one of the community members asked about the appeal process. Mr. Flaherty stated DPH has promulgated regulations to deal with this. There is a review section that enables an applicant who receives an unfavorable ruling to have a briefing and they are hoping that this will be resolved. Other remedies include making an appeal to the Superior Court. Councillor McGovern asked for an expected timeline. Mr. Flaherty stated that it is difficult to give timeline. Councillor McGovern stated the option that the Ordinance Committee could move the petition to the full City Council with a recommendation and still reject the zoning when it comes before the City Council in the event that they do not know who the petitioner will be if it is not the Greeneway Wellness Foundation. Mr. Greene stated that the regulations allow five medical marijuana dispensaries in a single county. There will be no other applicant to apply for Middlesex County.

Councillor Carlone asked if there is any way to limit medical marijuana to only high-cannabinoid, low-THC strains. Mr. Murphy stated that his initial reaction is that it may be challenging but he stated that he would check with the DPH. Mr. Roberts stated that this is not a specific question that they have asked the DPH. The city has the ability to provide regulation enforcement in addition to enforcement at the state level. He stated that from a CDD standpoint, it would be difficult to get too far into regulating the production process. The understanding is that the production would not be taking place at the facility in Cambridge. He stated that it may be difficult for the City to regulate something that is being produced outside of the city. Mr. Murphy stated that he will follow-up with the DPH and state regarding this issue.

Councillor Carlone stated that the law states what the City can do and this use is asking for expansion of a district that the Planning Board accepted. He stated that there are a number of neighbors who are concerned about children in their neighborhood and distances to Blair Pond. He stated that extra time could be taken to meet with neighbors and make a further case. He stated that this matter could remain in committee to get more information. He stated that he is favor of this proposal except for the neighborhood concern.

Mayor Maher asked if, as part of a special permit, Mr. Greene could voluntarily agree to the non-euphoric piece. Mr. Murphy stated that the State would probably not have a problem with this but he would be happy to investigate this question further.

Mr. Greene stated that he is focusing on non-euphoric strains. He stated that it would be difficult to comply with 100% non-euphoric request. He stated that it is almost impossible, even with the best intentions.

Mr. Flaherty stated that Mr. Greene's application expires the second week of September. He asked that this matter be referred to the City Council and noted that the City Council has the ability to vote as it so chooses to the petition. He stated that even if this petition is passed by the City Council, there is still the special permit that the applicant must receive.

Councillor McGovern stated that if this matter is referred to the City Council and Mr. Greene does not get approval in the appeals process, he will not vote to change the zoning. He stated that while there is no process with 100% agreement, there are a lot of people who have gone on record in support of this petition.

Councillor Kelley reiterated that when and if we pass the zoning, the zoning stands. He stated that it is important to remember that the City Council cannot bind the hands of Mr. Greene after the zoning granted. He stated that the special permit process is not a huge hurdle. He stated that while this is an uncomfortable situation for the people who live in this area, it is important to find a location that makes this service possible. He stated that this is in the spirit with what the people of Cambridge and Massachusetts have voted. He stated his support for the proposal.

Mayor Maher asked the Community Development Department to look into putting a sunset provision on the zoning ordinance which would state that current zoning is in effect for 12 months and if action is taken, it would revert back to the original zoning.

Councillor McGovern made the motion to forward the petition to the City Council with a favorable recommendation.

Mayor Maher requested a roll call vote on referring the petition to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. This resulted in a vote of three members in the affirmative, one member in the negative and five members as absent. (Per Roberts Rules, a roll call vote cannot be ordered in a Committee of the Whole. Therefore, the motion carried on an affirmative vote of three members.)

Councillor Carlone thanked all those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned 7:46pm.

For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan, Co-Chair
Councillor Dennis Carlone, Co-Chair

Committee Report #4
The Health and Environment Committee held a public meeting on July 8, 2014 beginning at 4:10pm. at the Cambridge Senior Center Ballroom, 806 Massachusetts Avenue.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the Cambridge Protection Action Committee's proposed Action Plan.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Dennis Carlone; Councillor Marc McGovern; Councillor Craig Kelley; Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Environmental and Transportation Planning; John Bolduc, Environmental Project Planner; Bronwyn Cooke, Sustainability Planner, Community Development Department; Ellen Katz, Fiscal Director, Department of Public Works; John Andreo; and Paula M. Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office.

Also present were Elie Yarden; Susy Jones, Sustainability Coordinator, MIT, DOCR; Devon Grodkiewicz; George Mokray; Paula Phipps; and Joanne Bissetta, Green Communities, Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources.

Councillor Cheung convened the meeting and stated that Cambridge has been long-time leader in terms of the environment and sustainability. He stated that he is pleased to know that Cambridge will continue to do so. He invited Susanne Rasmussen to introduce the presentation.

Susanne Rasmussen stated the presentation today outlines the set of goals and objectives that are being forwarded by the Climate Protection Action Committee (CPAC) to the Health and Environment Committee with the hope that the full City Council will adopt these as the official set of goals and objectives for climate change work for the long term in the City of Cambridge. (Attachment A). She stated that these goals and objectives are the framework that will point the city in the right direction. She stated that this has been a long time in the making and noted that there are a lot of challenges in setting specific goals and objectives for this type of work. She stated that Mr. Bolduc initially led the process and that Bronwyn Cooke recently took over this important work.

Councillor Cheung informed the committee that an e-mail communication was received from Roy Russell regarding suggestions to address climate action which will be made part of the record. (Attachment B).

Brownyn Cooke gave an overview of the presentation. She stated that the CPAC goals provide the long-term framework for climate protection and the objectives provide mid-term targets. She stated that the CPAC committee was formed in 2002 as an advisory board appointed to assist the City in identifying and prioritizing implementation of climate protection policies, strategies and measures. She then detailed the specific goals:

Goal A - Minimize GHG emissions from all measurable sources. She stated that Objective 1 is to reduce municipal greenhouse gas emissions by a specific amount below 2008 levels by 2020. Objective 2 would track and report quantifiable sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the community and establish targets for community GHG emissions reduction.

Goal B - Drives Energy Efficiency. She stated that Objective 4 would continually reduce the energy use intensity (EUI) for commercial and residential buildings below current levels and establish targets and benchmarks as information about building energy use becomes available. She stated that the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance is a good first step in meeting this goal.

Councillor Cheung asked if it is possible to get this information from NSTAR. John Bolduc stated that NSTAR is going to aggregate usage for owners in a manner that keeps tenant usage private. Councillor Cheung asked why the City cannot obtain this information directly from NSTAR. Mr. Bolduc stated NSTAR will not provide building specific data except to owners. The other aspect is that it is not just about the city getting data, it is about building owners being aware of the usage is in their building so that they become more engaged in the energy performance of their building.

Councillor Kelley asked if the City is looking at the possibility of an interactive grid for energy management in the future. Ms. Rasmussen answered in the affirmative and stated that it is an emerging area but the City is starting to look at various projects that might benefit City operations in the future. This is also being discussed in connection with the district energy study for the Kendall Square Ecodistrict. Mr. Bolduc that the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has issued orders for utilities to develop smart grid plans. Councillor Kelley asked if the municipality could adopt smart grids on its own. Mr. Bolduc stated that this falls under the purview of the DPU. Councillor Kelley asked if the City has the appropriate system in place to run a smart grid. Mr. Bolduc stated that a lot of city buildings have interval meters and at times the City requests that information from NSTAR which helps with certain aspects of energy management.

Goal C - Depends on Walking, Bicycling, Transit for Mobility. Ms. Cooke stated that Objective 5 would reduce ownership of conventional vehicles 10% below 2010 levels by 2020. Objective 6 would reduce vehicle miles traveled by vehicles registered in Cambridge 5% below 2010 levels by 2020.

Goal D - Runs ON Renewable and Non-Fossil Fuel Energy Sources. Ms. Cooke stated that Objective 7 would increase the portion of municipal electricity use that is supplied by renewable energy on City property to 5% by 2020. Ms. Cooke stated that Objective 8 would increase the portion of community-wide electricity use that is supplied by renewable sources to 20% by 2020.

Goal E - Minimized the Impacts of Material Consumption & Waste. Ms. Cooke stated that Objective 9 is to reduce residential waste collected by the City trash service 30% from 2008 levels by 2020 and 80% by 2050.

Goal F - Minimizes Urban Heat Island Effect. Ms. Cooke stated that Objective 10 would increase the overall amount of vegetative cover and reduce use of materials that absorb heat. She stated that this objective would be quantified by 2015.

Goal G - Anticipated & Prepares for the Impacts of Climate Change. Ms. Cooke stated that Objective 11 is to would complete a vulnerability assessment of the impacts of climate change in Cambridge in 2014. She stated that Objective 12 is to complete a climate change adaptation plan in 2015.

Goal H - Is Internationally Recognized for Climate Change Education. Ms. Cooke stated that Objective 13 is to identify best practices in climate change education and implement climate change curriculum in Cambridge Public Schools.

Goal I - Has the Capacity to Effectively Mitigate Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Prepare for Climate Change. Ms. Cooke stated an objective for this goal has to be developed.

As it relates to the City's pilot composting program, Councillor Cheung asked if there is a system in place for people to bring their composting somewhere if they are not part of this pilot program. Ms. Rasmussen answered in the affirmative and stated that the locations of the Department of Public Works yard and Whole Foods on Prospect Street accept composting material.

Paula Phipps inquired about plans in place in the event of a heat emergency. She stated that this information is not highly publicized and circulated throughout the City. Ms. Rasmussen stated that the city does, in fact, have plans in place for heat emergencies. She noted that there are cooling centers and information is disseminated throughout the city. She stated that emergency management-type plans do exist.

Councillor McGovern noted that surrounding cities had recently experienced an event similar to a tornado. He stated that the City does have evacuation plans but noted the need for better communication and education to the public in the event that a serious weather event were to hit Cambridge. He stated that although we have to be concerned about long-term issues, we have to do better job of getting the information out to residents.

Councillor Kelley stated that there is a type of reflective pavement that is being used by other communities. He questioned if the City is researching the piloting of programs such as this reflective pavement or white roofs. Ms. Rasmussen stated that the City recently proposed a new regulation that would require white or green roofs for new construction. She stated that the City has not piloted such programs because is a known fact that both white and green roofs work to lower energy consumption. She stated that the question is how such a requirement could be phased in so that it becomes more widespread.

As it relates to reflective pavement, Councillor Kelley asked how the City is monitoring what is done elsewhere and how this can be incorporated in Cambridge. Ms. Cooke stated that this type of work is done by CPAC. She noted that they will be looking at technologies and where the biggest opportunities are. Councillor Kelley asked if there is a specific person in the City that works specifically in this research area. Ms. Rasmussen stated that there are ten people in her department that work on actions that address sustainability but they are finding great added value from the work of CPAC.

Councillor Chueng stated that he has inquired about permeable paving in the past and was told that it posed issues in the wintertime due to the need for snowplowing. Ms. Rasmussen stated that the type of permeable paving described by Councillor Cheung, also known as "grasscrete," works well in low-traffic situations where people leave the area in the morning and come back in the evening. Councillor Carlone stated that when he visited England he observed that they used different colored asphalt to increase reflectivity which impacts on heat island effects in urban communities. He stated that when he inquired about it for use in Cambridge, he was told that there was not a demand for it in general and it is therefore difficult to obtain. He stated that this could be both beneficial and attractive. He noted that the problem with a white roof is the glare factor.

Paula Phipps stated that in her research she has found that one must be careful when placing white roofs on buildings due to the effect that it can have to the taller buildings surrounding it. She stated the possibility for incentives for depaving.

George Mokray stated that the U.S. Conference of Mayors have adopted a Climate Protection Agreement. He stated that to his knowledge, there is no one who is putting all the information together. He stated that this is needed so that the information can be shared. He suggested that it might behoove the City Council to make a proposal the U.S. Conference of Mayors to see if something can come of that.

Elie Yarden stated that in relation to Goal G and the impact of climate change, he wonders how deep this can go and whether it does not involve planning in general and beginning the assessment of sustainable growth under conditions of climate change. He stated pedestrianization in major cities throughout the world is remarkable when compared to Cambridge. He stated that he wonders about how deeply people are prepared to go into the issue of ecological thinking in terms of cost. He stated that the issue of reduction of waste comes first as well as other issues such as the people who live here. He stated that there is an intimate connection between preparing for climate change and eradicating institutionalized poverty. He encouraged people to look at a known catastrophic event in order to learn more information. Ms. Rasmussen stated that Hurricane Sandy is one event that is currently being studied.

Paula Phipps stated that there were some major lessons learned from New Orleans. Noting the 2011 report from the school district in New Orleans, 40% of kids suffered PTSD and the system was not prepared to help these kids. She stated that libraries and schools are important places for kids to have after a disaster.

Councillor Cheung stated that he is struck by how much new technology is coming out of Cambridge that could help reduce emissions and cut back on dependence of fossil fuels. He stated that Cambridge has successful partnerships but questioned if an ordinance or Home Rule Petition could help to circumvent the anti-aid amendment which prevents the City from doing projects directly with private entities without a competitive bidding process. He questioned if there could be pilot programs for people with a certain degree of credibility and a new idea to implement a project within the city. Ms. Rasmussen stated that the City has worked with entities and gave the example of Zip car. She stated that when the idea was initially developed, the City was asked for free parking spaces and it was not possible to grant this request. She stated that an RFP process was initiated which allowed for discounts for parking starting at zero in year one and gradually increasing to full market value over a four year period.

Mr. Yarden stated that the kind of investment and technology which would minimize the use of energy is large. If the political will is there, there could all kinds of significant change. He stated that the issue of measuring energy consumption is terrific but questioned how much the City is prepared to invest in technologies that will result in enormous savings over the years. That is the question that must be answered.

Councillor McGovern stated that Cambridge has thousands of people who work or travel through Cambridge who do not reside in the City. He stated that the majority of traffic is through traffic. He asked if there is a sense of how many cars are coming into the City daily and if there is anything being done regionally to address this issue. Ms. Rasmussen stated that the Massachusetts Department of Transportation has created the GreenDOT program which is focused on internal operations as well as responding to the state's climate plan. The state is focused on the larger picture with a range of strategies, tolling, transit, etc. She noted that there is a transportation funding problem in Massachusetts that could get worse. Ms. Rasmussen state that the City is also very active in trying to influence transit expansion. She stated that the business community is now also focused on being active in making sure that transit grows commensurate with the needs of the City. As it relates to through traffic in the City, she stated that the state has a sophisticated model to track these numbers and the same model can tell through traffic. The bigger issue is what to do about it. She stated that on Cambridge-bound trips there has been a lot of progress made. She stated that dense mixed use development decreases driving because trips are shorter due to the variety of destinations, such as homes, jobs, and retail within walking or biking distance. She stated that in order to significantly grow the reliance on walking, biking and transit, the City needs to set aside a greater portion of the street infrastructure for sustainable modes. She noted that when you can favor sustainable modes, it grows the likelihood that people will use those modes. She stated that if there is new non-residential development, the City requires that programs are put in place to manage how people get to work through incentives and disincentives.

Ms. Rasmussen then stated that an MIT student has created database that logs information based on employee surveys. She stated that each survey shows the person's home zip code and their commute. She stated that information from this database is helpful in terms of planning.

Councillor McGovern made a motion to refer the Climate Protection Action Committee's Goals and Objectives to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. On a voice vote, the motion passed.

Councillor Cheung thanked the CPAC for their hard work and dedication as well as those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at 5:30pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair

Committee Report #5
The Health and Environment Committee held a public meeting on June 25, 2014 at 3:27pm at 344 Broadway, 2nd Floor Conference Room.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the results of the 2014 Cambridge Community Health Assessment.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Marc C. McGovern; Claude Jacob, Chief Public Health Officer; Stacey King, Director of Community Health & Wellness; Sam Lipson, Director of Environmental Health; Anna Wielgosz, Epidemiologist, Cambridge Public Health Department; Jack Albert, Deputy Superintendent; Paul Ames, Deputy Superintendent; Matt Nelson, Community and Strategic Partnerships Coordinator, Cambridge Police Department; and Paula M. Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office.

Also present was Lisa S. Wolff, Sc.D., Health Resources in Action.

Councillor Cheung introduced Claude Jacob for opening remarks.

Claude Jacob stated that he is looking forward to sharing the presentation by Lisa Wolff, Sc.D from Health Resources in Action (HRiA). HRiA has served as the main project consultants assisting health departments locally and nationally with this process (Attachment A). He acknowledged Cambridge Public Health Department staff for their work and noted that this project has been over a year in the making. He introduced Sam Lipson, Ann Wielgosz and Stacey King who represent half of the steering committee who has been working on this health assessment. Mr. Jacob stated that this project is a national process and serves as one illustration of the important work in communities that helps to prevention of the spread of disease, promote healthier lifestyles and protect the health and well-being of those who live, learn, work and play here in the city. He stated that Boston, Worcester and the State Department of Public Health are also going through the similar community process. Mr. Jacob stated that the presentation is a health assessment but it also shows the gaps and needs of the community. This information gives the City a strategic advantage because in the future only health departments that have received the national designation as an accredited health department will be eligible to receive certain funding.

Dr. Wolff stated that it is an exciting time in public health. She stated that the Cambridge Public Health Department led the effort for the Community Health Assessment. She noted that this was a collaborative process with multiple agencies. She stated that the purpose of a Community Health Assessment is to provide a portrait of the health-related needs and strengths of a community, examining issues of the community overall and providing a foundation for a data-driven planning process. She recognized that they approached the process through a broad lens of health.

Dr. Wolff noted that the process utilized a community-based, participatory and collaborative approach with many partners. They reviewed existing data on social, economic and health issues. The survey was conducted with 1,627 respondents who live or work in Cambridge. She stated that that it was a goal to include a cross-section of people completing the survey. She noted that knowing numbers do not tell the whole story so focus groups and interviews were conducted. There were eight focus groups with a range of populations such as American-born Black adults, immigrant women, families, low-income residents, seniors and youth. She noted that City Councillors, health care providers, Police Department employees, and leaders from faith-based and disabilities communities were interviewed as well.

Dr. Wolff stated that with data collection there are limitations such as differences due to data source, secondary data not always being current, lag time and not always being representative of all points of view.

Dr. Wolff stated that there was a range of issues discussed in the report some of which were health, poverty, healthcare, race, and drugs. She stated that there was extensive discussion around social, economic and demographic issues in Cambridge. She noted that in Cambridge, diversity was viewed as a major strength in the interviews and focus groups. She stated that over 33% of Cambridge residents identify as a race or ethnicity other than white and that 33% of Cambridge residents speak a language other than English at home.

Dr. Wolff stated that the issue of affordability was brought up by many residents. She stated that focus group and interview participants described Cambridge as a city of both affluence and poverty. She stated that middle income families are feeling squeezed. Ms. Wolf stated that 21% of Cambridge households earn under $25,000 while 35% earn $100,000 or more.

Dr. Wolff stated that the top social/economic concerns that affect health in Cambridge are the lack of affordable housing, homelessness, alcohol/drug abuse, poverty and lack of affordable child care. She stated that the top social/economic concerns that affect health in Cambridge. She stated that the top three issues were the same among respondents regardless of race or ethnicity, yet other issues were different. She stated that nearly 30% of African American respondents said discrimination and lack of employment opportunities affected health in Cambridge while nearly 20% of Hispanic respondents said hunger and lack of affordable and health food choices affected health in Cambridge.

Councillor Cheung asked how affordable housing affects health. Dr. Wolff responded that part of the problem is the allocation of one's income. She stated that if a person is putting 40%-50% of their income toward rent then they will feel squeezed. Sam Lipson stated that there may be hidden factors wherein many people do not complain about code violations in their housing because of fear of losing their housing. He stated that in an indirect way, this is preserving affordable housing over health. Councillor Cheung asked if this is an issue for residents that live in Cambridge Housing Authority buildings. Mr. Lipson stated that in general, people do not have same confidence in reporting violations if they live in public housing. He stated that public housing residents may be concerned about being seen as complaining. Mr. Lipson noted that the Cambridge Housing Authority is viewed as being very responsive and does not hold back on making resources available to residents.

Dr. Wolff stated that some concerns of the immigrant populations are employment, neighborhood safety, language barriers to accessing information on services and the importance of having a support system. Ms. Wolff stated that the focus groups showed a number of the same issues of concern.

Councillor Cheung questioned if any residents of domestic violence shelters were interviewed. Dr. Wolff responded that there were participants from the city's human service programs in the various focus groups but she was unsure if any of those participants were victims of domestic violence.

Dr. Wolff stated that the City of Cambridge was viewed as having numerous strengths, including an array of community and social service organizations, effective local government, quality and quantity of local health care services and community cohesion and activism. She noted that residents are engaged in their community and there is a high level of civic activism. She stated that words that were regularly used were vibrant, progressive, active, and engaged when describing the Cambridge community. She stated that optimism was a word that was heard again and again.

Dr. Wolff stated that respondents were asked what the top health concerns were for them, their family or within their close social circle. She stated that cost of medical, dental or mental health care, age-related concerns, being overweight/obese, mental health and cancer were the top health concerns. Other issues were dental or oral health, diabetes and drug and alcohol use. She stated the top five issues were the same across all survey respondents, regardless of ethnicity.

Dr. Wolff stated that people view Cambridge as an active community that embraces healthy lifestyles and who talked about initiatives around health eating. She stated that there is a decrease in youth obesity yet noted that there is a difference by subgroup of students. She noted that when looking at Black and Hispanic youth, 20% are considered obese. Councillor McGovern asked what these numbers were a few years back. Dr. Wolff responded that the downward trend was consistent but there is still a gap year-to- year.

Dr. Wolff stated that many respondents spoke about chronic conditions. She stated that when looking at data as they relate to heart disease and cancer, the rate in Cambridge is generally lower than what is seen throughout Massachusetts overall. She noted that diabetes and asthma is shown to be lower in Cambridge as well. Dr. Wolff noted that the lack of quality housing can have a significant impact on health and other triggers for asthma and other health issues.

Councillor Cheung asked if the respondents included Section 8 certificate holders. Dr. Wolff answered that some respondents were public housing residents and some respondents were Section 8 certificate holders. Sam Lipson stated that there is a big difference in state-owned and federally-owned properties. Claude Jacob added that public housing in Cambridge is considered to be very good compared to other communities.

Councillor McGovern stated that he feels that the poverty level is an important part of this conversation. He stated that he recently attended two birthday parties in one day. The first party consisted of mostly white, middle class attendees. Water, carrots, fruit, etc. were being served as refreshments. Later in the day, he attended the party of a student who grew up in Cambridge Public Housing and the refreshments were soda and potato chips. He stated that this is what the family has access to and it all ties together. dr. Wolff stated that lack of power, income, and the ability to have choices, was heard loud and clear with low-income residents through this feedback gathered during the health assessment.

Claude Jacob stated the importance of the message and welcomed suggestions on how to tell the story. He stated that the Cambridge Public Health Department wants to hear about factors that impact health. He stated that talking about the different factors that impact on the overall quality of life that include income, education and housing gives us a better picture of the overall "health" of the community. Councillor McGovern stated that this is the struggle.

Dr. Wolff then spoke about other issues that came about as a result of the focus groups and interviews. She stated that substance abuse rates are generally lower in Cambridge than Massachusetts. She stated that 6 in 10 Cambridge high school students used alcohol and 4 in 10 students used marijuana. Councillor Cheung stated that these numbers seemed high to him. Councillor McGovern stated that it also has to do with how the question is posed. Dr. Wolff noted that the numbers on heavy use is much lower. She noted that this is self-reported data from the youth. She stated that when looking at substance use among middle school students, these questions speak to "ever use" and "few sips." She stated that there is a decrease among cigarette use over two year period.

Dr. Wolff stated that mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, mental health disorders among the homeless and the stigma and cultural concerns around seeking care is an important concern among assessment participants. She stated that 11.6% of adults reported a mental health issue or emotional problem.

As it relates to homelessness, Councillor McGovern stated that he spoke with homeless individuals and learned many things from people who were directly affected. He noted that this is an important group of people when talking about gaps. Councillor Cheung asked Councillor McGovern what the homeless persons thin about the services in Cambridge. Councillor McGovern stated that he was told that a lack of services during the day is a concern for the homeless. He stated that the homeless feel as if they don't have places to go or things to do during the daytime hours. He stated that CASPAR is the only wet shelter in the area and noted that this is draw to homeless people outside of the City of Cambridge. Claude Jacob stated that Bay Cove is the organization that has been merged with CASPAR. He noted that Bay Cove has a homeless outreach team. He stated that the Cambridge Police Department has had a program for the homeless for the past 5-6 years and they have seen improvement. For example, he stated that eleven homeless individuals are now housed from an original pool of individuals identified some time ago. Addressing issues related to housing has been identified as one of seven priority areas in the city's five-year health improvement plan.

Dr. Wolff stated that 16.3% youth reported that they have bullied or threatened in, or on the way, to school. Councillor Cheung inquired if there was any way to track cyber bullying. Deputy Superintendent Ames stated that there needs to be more effort to record such incidents. Councillor McGovern then asked how bullying was defined. Dr. Wolff stated that the question was posed as if a respondent had ever been bullied, threatened and pushed in school or on the way to school. Councillor McGovern stated that there is a legal definition of bullying as well as a clinical definition of bullying. He stated that more often than not, what parents call bullying is something else. He stated that bullying takes place over time and there is a power differential. He noted that if we are not clear, those numbers may be higher because they are using bullying for a broader set of instances.

Dr. Wolff stated that the youth survey from the Cambridge Public Schools indicate that 16% of youth have witnessed violence in their neighborhood.

Regarding oral health, Dr. Wolff stated that seniors and immigrants, especially, reported challenges to obtaining dental care. She noted that it was difficult for respondents to find a dentist who will take new patients or accept Medicaid or Medicare, long wait times for appointments and out-of-pocket costs were issues.

Councillor Cheung asked if there is a list of local dentists that accept Medicare and Medicaid. He stated that there is a list for pediatric dentists and suggested the same information be made available to adult residents. Stacey King stated that it would be a great resource for residents to expand on information that is currently available. Claude Jacob stated that he would work on this recommendation.

Dr. Wolff stated that maternal and child health issues were not discussed very much in focus groups and interviews. She noted that 87% of mothers in Cambridge reported adequate prenatal care.

Dr. Wolff stated that sexual health issues were not prominently discussed. She noted that a few of the participants mentioned concerns about teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Dr. Wolff noted that Cambridge is six times lower rate in terms of teen pregnancy compared to the rest of Massachusetts.

Dr. Wolff stated that Cambridge residents were positive about the health care service they receive in the City. She stated that over half of the respondents were very satisfied with availability of health care providers that took their insurance. She stated that 22% of survey respondents had difficulty getting health care in the past two years. Mr. Jacob stated that 98% of residents have health insurance in Massachusetts. He stated that the issue is not about having insurance coverage, it is about being underinsured.

Dr. Wolff stated then noted some of the health care challenges in the past two years. She stated that survey responses by race/ethnicity among those who said they had difficulty getting care included: 30% of Asian survey respondents said that the provider did not understand their culture, 23% of African American respondents said discrimination by provider was an issue and 26% of Hispanic residents said they were afraid to go to the doctor. Councillor Cheung asked why one-fourth of Hispanic respondents were afraid to go to the doctor. Dr. Wolff stated that although they were not able to follow-up on this issue, there could be a variety of reasons.

Dr. Wolf stated that the overarching themes were assisting all Cambridge residents, workers and visitors to live healthy and fulfilling lives, strengthening the focus on health living and disease prevention, enhancing efforts to address substance abuse and mental health issues, promoting and maintaining access to quality healthcare and engaging all sectors of the Cambridge community in efforts to promote a healthy community environment.

Councillor Cheung stated that he is pleased that Cambridge is willing to put resources behind health equity. He stated that while the decision is morally right to provide baseline healthcare, the question is how to make it on par with what others in their community offer.

Claude Jacob stated that when talking about health, it is not merely the absence of disease. He noted that there must be a balance of mental, physical and social wellbeing. He noted the importance of the connectivity amongst agencies. He stated that this is just a start and that there is also a complementary plan being developed that addresses the operations of the Health Department that supports the priorities that have been identified by community partners.

Stacey King stated that there are still populations that need to be heard from such as the homeless and the LGBT community. Claude Jacob stated that stakeholders from representing the homeless service providers and the leadership from the LGBT community did participate in this citywide process. Councillor Cheung asked if this group has a different set of health priorities. Dr. Wolff stated that concerns, particularly among the youth of the LGBT community, included mental health and substance abuse. Claude Jacob stated that action as a result of this assessment is important and helps to focus the department's efforts over the next few years.

Councillor McGovern thanked Claude Jacob and his team. He stated that as the objectives and plans move forward, it is helpful to the City Council to receive policy recommendations. He stated that he would like to see a clear policy with budgetary recommendations moving forward.

Councillor McGovern stated that the lack of safe shelters for homeless teens is a very important issue. He stated that because there is so little offered to them, it leads the teens to pick up charges for minor offenses which set them on a different course. Mr. Jacob stated that they will focus on this issue and noted that City Council will see a more defined plan.

Sam Lipson stated that the Community Health Improvement Plan was a roadmap with community partners. He stated regulations, ordinances and policies may not have been captured by community partners but that this is still a mandate of the health department. Councillor Cheung stated that communication to the City Council is a good practice.

Councillor Cheung asked if work is being done to be in touch with domestic violence shelters to connect them to health services. Stacey King stated that that there is a group that Transition House convenes and this group will likely be the one that looks at the work plan related to violence prevention. This group is more of an ad hoc group and is likely to be a guiding group. Councillor Cheung stated that he looks forward to follow-up information regarding this issue.

Councillor Cheung questioned the ways in which Cambridge compares to other cities around the country that don't have 99% of individuals with health care coverage. He asked if there are any organizations that are comparing the results. Mr. Jacob stated that the local health department is asking that question. He noted that the accreditation process is a five-year cycle and that this a new initiative for local, state and tribal health departments. The challenge is that there is such variation among the health departments which is the reason that standards and measures have been established. Stacey King stated that County Health Rankings sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Population Health Institute is a new initiative that will help cities / counties to do this work. She noted that Middlesex County ranked 7th nationwide for the health of children and that this is one example of a metric that can be used.

Councillor Cheung asked what the timeline is for completing the accreditation process. Mr. Jacob stated that this process will be completed in the upcoming fiscal year (FY15).

Councillor Cheung made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to invite a representative from the Cambridge Public Health Department to attend the National League of Cities in November 2014.

The motion passed.

Councillor Cheung thanked the attendees for their presence and participation.

The meeting adjourned at 5:05pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair

AWAITING REPORT LIST
14-19. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on producing an updated report of the Concord-Alewife Plan.
Councillor Cheung 03/24/14 (O-4)

14-26. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #3
RE: report on pedestrian and vehicle safety improvements at the intersection of Cambridge Street and Cardinal Medeiros Avenue.
Councillor Toomey 04/07/14 (O-12)

14-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a master list of all residential building managers citywide.
Councillor Simmons 04/28/14 (O-4)

14-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what options exist for dedicated office space for members of the City Council.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Carlone 04/28/14 (O-5)

14-32. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing an information hotline that residents can call to learn about and be connected to the social service providers in their neighborhoods.
Councillor Simmons 04/28/14 (O-10)

14-36. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of offering resident an online option to complete the City's annual census.
Councillor Cheung 04/28/14 (O-27)

14-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on allocating an additional $140,000 annually to Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services.
Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Benzan & Councillor Carlone 05/05/14 (O-7)

14-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving traffic congestion at the intersection of Upland Road and Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor McGovern 05/19/14 (O-1)

14-43. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of relocating the Department of Public Works.
Councillor Toomey 05/19/14 (O-15)

14-44. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #18
RE: report on appropriating funds to hire a consultant to address problem-solving and planning issues that need to be resolved before the design process of the Grand Junction Path can begin and include money in the FY2016 budget for design funds.
Councillor Cheung 05/19/14 (O-17)

14-45. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to modify the Plastic Bag Reduction Ordinance with changes to the following: fees for bags, elimination of paper bags from the ordinance, elimination of the thickness of the plastic bag in the ordinance, increasing the timeframe for implementation of the ordinance and inclusion of compostable bags in the ordinance.
Councillor Cheung 05/19/14 (O-20)

14-48. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the establishment of a Central Square Action Team that will be charged with recommending and helping implement strategies that will help Central Square capitalize on and enhance its designation as a Cultural District.
Councillor Simmons 06/02/14 (O-2)

14-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the potential for creating a program to enable bilingual high school students to learn language interpretation skills and to practice those skills at community meetings and events throughout the City.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Mazen, Councillor McGovern & Councillor Cheung 06/02/14 (O-5)

14-52. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #35
RE: report back by at the Special City Council meeting on July 28 with recommendations for improving the design of New Street for both pedestrians and vehicles.
Councillor McGovern, Councillor Carlone & Mayor Maher 06/02/14 (O-6)

14-53. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #16
RE: report on working with local banks to ensure financing opportunities are available for residents wishing to purchase shares in limited equity cooperative housing and research and explore options for expanding the limited equity cooperative housing stock within Cambridge.
Councillor Mazen 06/02/14 (O-8)

14-56. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #33
RE: report on the status of the Cambridge Street underpass as it relates to bike safety, including surface repairs, striping of bike and travel lanes and lighting.
Councillor Kelley 06/09/14 (O-2)

14-57. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on drafting an ordinance that would limit the sale of single-serving PET bottles of 1 liter or less and develop a task force to provide clear guidelines for this ordinance.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mazen & Vice Mayor Benzan 06/09/14 (O-3)

14-58. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #36
RE: report on publicizing HEET's map of natural gas leaks on the city's website and that DPW notify NStar of leaks detected by HEET and schedule repairs of leak as soon as possible.
Councillor Mazen 06/09/14 (O-5)

14-59. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #6
RE: report on measures to improve public safety in Central Square.
Vice Mayor Benzan 06/09/14 (O-6)

14-60. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on implementing a truck ban on Concord Avenue and the possibility of traffic calming to reduce speeds of all vehicles on Concord Avenue.
Councillor Kelley 06/09/14 (O-4)

14-62. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to improve the safety of the intersection of Springfield, Cambridge, Hampshire, Inman, Antrim and Beacon Streets in Inman Square.
Councillor McGovern & Councillor Toomey 06/16/14 (O-3)

14-63. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on rodent control operations and the possibility of providing rodent-proof trash barrels to residents.
Councillor Toomey 06/30/14 (O-1)

14-64. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #17
RE: report on the possibility of installing traffic calming measures on Inman Street between Hampshire and Broadway.
Councillor Toomey 06/30/14 (O-3)

14-65. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #34
RE: report on whether the physical barriers that surround outdoor restaurant seating areas can be replaced with something less intrusive.
Councillor Kelley 06/30/14 (O-4)

14-66. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #7
RE: report on ways to combat bicycle thefts and on implementing bicycle recovery programs.
Councillor Kelley 06/30/14 (O-5)

14-67. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on contacting the owners of Fresh Pond Shopping Mall encouraging them to make safety improvements to the parking lot area and the feasibility of creating a safe pedestrian way from Fresh Pond Mall to Alewife Brook Parkway.
Councillor McGovern & Councillor Carlone 06/30/14 (O-10)

14-68. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on designing and implementing a system of public bulletin boards on major streets and intersections throughout the City.
Councillor Mazen 06/30/14 (O-11)

14-69. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on forming a pilot street team of engaged youth and residents as an experimental model for more consistent departmental outreach, community engagement, youth engagement and civic engagement.
Councillor Mazen 06/30/14 (O-13)

14-70. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #8
RE: report on the feasibility of allowing residents to register their bicycles to the National Bike Registry Program through the Police Department website and the feasibility of using this Program when recovering stolen bicycles.
Councillor Cheung 06/30/14 (O-14)

14-71. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #19
RE: report on the feasibility of devising a more simplified and streamlined food truck permitting process.
Councillor Cheung 06/30/14 (O-15)

14-72. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report that the License Commission will not take further action on the proposed rideshare regulations and that the City Solicitor report on the City Council's legal authority over livery and taxi regulations.
Councillor Cheung & Councillor Mazen 06/30/14 (O-17)

14-72. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on evaluating the parking around the Sullivan Courthouse to determine if changes can be made to accommodate more residential parking.
Councillor Toomey 06/30/14 (O-18)