CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) for $20,000 to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations (Arts Council) Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support the Public Art Youth Council program (PAYC).

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-99, regarding a report on possible changes to the Yerxa Road underpass that might reduce or eliminate user conflicts.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-106, regarding a report on the number of other properties that could be affected by the Kaya Ka zoning petition.

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board Recommendation on the Kaya Ka Porter Square Rezoning Petition to amend the North Massachusetts Overlay District Zoning Map, and Zoning Ordinance in Section 20.100.

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-102, regarding a report on improvements to the lot at the corner of Plymouth and Hampshire Streets.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-49, regarding the feasibility of issuing mini-grants to seniors and other low-income residents who might need flood insurance and Awaiting Report Item Number 08-97, regarding assessing options to assist homeowners in the new flood plan.
["After discussions with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue it does not appear that public funds can be expended to benefit a select class of homeowners added to the flood plain district. The use of public funds to establish a mini-grant for seniors and other low-income residents does not fall within the legislative authority granted to local jurisdictions of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and would be more appropriately handled on the state or federal level of government if deemed necessary."
"The assessed value of properties affected by the changes to the new flood insurance maps will be reviewed in order to determine if there is an impact on the market value of the property. Any adverse impact will be factored into the assessed valuation as of January 1st of the year they take effect. The Board of Assessors will continually monitor the situation to insure full and fair assessments throughout the City of Cambridge."]

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-90, regarding the status of MBTA Lechmere station plans.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-69, regarding a report on testing and repairs to the Longfellow Bridge.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-89, regarding a report on any updates to the NorthPoint development.

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a recommendation from the License Commission on a Jitney Permit application changing the name of the operator of a current Jitney License from M&L Shuttle to Paul Revere Transportation. The operating route and number of shuttles will remain unchanged.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-98, regarding a report on the impact of the conversion to digital TV and the process for re-contracting for cable services.  Referred to Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee - Davis

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Cambridge Prevention Coalition Massachusetts Department of Public Health Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS) grant received from the U.S. Department of Public Health and Human Services for $80,000.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Salary and Wages account ($57,636.00), the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($20,614.00), and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Travel and Training account ($1,750.00) for the purpose of working collaboratively within the City to reduce underage drinking.

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance grant funded by the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance in the amount of $88,979.00 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salary and Wages account ($84,630.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($4,349.00) and will be used for costs related to the Carey Men’s Transitional Program operated by the Multi-Service Center.

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Cambridge Prevention Coalition Massachusetts Department of Public Health Bureau of Substance Abuse Services (BSAS) grant received from the U.S. Department of Public Health and Human Services for $125,000.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Salary and Wages account ($113,168.00), the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($9,082.00), and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department Travel and Training account ($2,750.00) in support of working to reduce opioid overdoses.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Cambridge Food Pantry grant received from the Cambridge Health Alliance for $15,000.00 to the Grant Fund of Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account to provide nutritional foods that will be distributed to eligible Cambridge residents through the Food Pantry Network.

16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of Lead-Safe Grant (Round 12) Program Income of $3,063.12 to the Grant Fund Community Development Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will increase funds available to control lead hazards in eligible housing in Cambridge.

CHARTER RIGHT
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the re-appointment of the following persons as Board of Trustee members of the Cambridge Health Alliance effective July 1, 2008: Ronald Weintraub, MD (1-year term); Mary Cassesso (3-year term); Ruth Faris (3-year term); Isaac Machado (3-year term); Deborah Klein Walker (3-year term). [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on City Manager Agenda Item Number Two of July 28, 2008.]  Place on File under Rule 19

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to proposed changes to the Cambridge Employment Plan Ordinance as prepared by the City Solicitor in response to the attached letters. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Reeves on City Manager Agenda Item Number Twenty-four of July 28, 2008.]  Place on File under Rule 19

3. That the City Manager is requested to review the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance with City staff and develop a draft zoning change that would prohibit the interior of individual garages or other spaces that have limited maneuverability from being counted towards required aisle space for parking facilities. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Seventeen of July 28, 2008.]  Adopted

ON THE TABLE
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to environmental and legal matters associated with the Yerxa Road Underpass project. [Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on City Manager Item Number Twenty-five of July 28, 2008.]

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Co-Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Nov 18, 2004 for the purpose of considering proposed amendments to Chapter 2.74 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, the Police Review and Advisory Board Ordinance. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 14, 2005. [Four sections of the proposed amendment were passed to be ordained as amended. Ordinance #1284. The remaining proposed amendments to Chapter 2.74 remain on Unfinished Business.]

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Numbers 06-87, 07-83 and 07-138, regarding the status of putting the City’s self-evaluation on the website. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on City Manager Agenda Item Number Sixteen of Dec 10, 2007. Dec 17, 2007 - Referred to 2008-2009 City Council as Unfinished Business on motion of Councillor Kelley.]

7. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on July 17, 2008 for the purpose of discussion of the Kaya-Ka proposed zoning amendment to the North Massachusetts Avenue Overlay District in Porter Square. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Aug 11, 2008. Petition expires Sept 8, 2008.  Ordained as amended 8-1 [Kelley voted NO] - Ordinance #1316

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an additional appropriation request and Loan Order regarding the CRLS renovation project. The question comes on adoption on or after Aug 11, 2008.

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Zinnia, requesting permission for two signs at the premises numbered 1300 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department, Historical Commission and abutters.

2. An application was received from Kathy Jenkins, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 11 Bellevue Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works. No neighborhood association for that area.

3. An application was received from the Child Care Resource Center, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue in front of City Hall.

4. An application was received from Richard Hedberg, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 50 Rogers Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. Approval was received from the neighborhood association.

5. An application was received from LaRouche P.A.C., requesting permission for a table for distributing materials and two sandwich board signs in Harvard Square on Massachusetts Avenue across from the MBTA stop.

6. An application was received from Zaid Mongell, requesting permission for four bike racks in front of the premises numbered 36 Highland Avenue.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received by Paula Lovejoy et al., regarding giving the Joan Lorentz Park the most protective park designation possible.

2. A communication was received from Nancy Cole and Catherine Brady, supporting the zoning changes to build a hotel and park on the current Kaya Restaurant property.

3. A communication was received from Robert J. La Tremouille, regarding Monteiro v. Cambridge.

4. A communication was received from Garfield E. Morrison, Jr., transmitting thanks for the proclamation given in honor of his mother, Iona Morrison.

5. A communication was received from June McCormick and family, transmitting thanks for remembering Specialist David Phillip McCormick with a City Council resolution.

6. A communication was received from Representative William N. Brownsberger, transmitting thanks for the resolution requesting the Massachusetts State Legislature override the Governor’s vetoes of spending to assist the Cambridge Hazardous Materials Response Team, the Housing Authority’s Computer Center, and the Central Square Theater. The House and Senate successfully overrode all of these vetoes.

7. A communication was received from the Department of Public Utilities, transmitting notice of NSTAR Gas Company’s 2007 Energy Efficiency Annual Report and a public hearing to receive comments on the Company’s report will take place on Sept 9, 2008 at 2:30pm at the Department’s office One South Station-2nd Floor, Boston.

8. A communication was received from Laurie Rothstein, Director of Development, Summerbridge Cambridge, transmitting support for the Alexandria Real Estate Equities’ zoning proposal for the Binney Street area in East Cambridge.

9. A communication was received from John Durant, Director, MIT Museum, Executive Director Cambridge Science Festival, transmitting support for the Alexandria Real Estate Equities’ zoning proposal for the Binney Street area in East Cambridge.

10. A communication was received from Michael Brandon, regarding planning study for North Massachusetts Avenue.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Retirement of Alfred Margulies from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Simmons

2. Retirement of Audrey Boyle from the School Department.   Mayor Simmons

3. Retirement of Julia Bibbins from the Human Services Department.   Mayor Simmons

4. Congratulations to Robert Caggiano, Louis Hunt and Curtis Hamilton of The New England Diamond Dawgs Baseball Team on competing in the AAU National Baseball Championship.   Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Toomey

5. Resolution on the death of Daniel F. Murphy.   Councillor Maher, Councillor Toomey

6. Resolution on the death of Sheila (Flynn) Murphy.   Councillor Maher

7. Happy 90th Birthday wishes to Barbara Hebert.   Mayor Simmons

8. Resolution on the death of Elizabeth Lund.   Councillor Toomey

9. Resolution on the death of former City Councillor Mary Ellen (Guant) Preusser.   Councillor Maher

10. Resolution on the death of Dolores R. (Matarazzo) Reilly.   Councillor Maher

11. Resolution on the death of Anastasia Manolas.   Councillor Davis

12. Resolution on the death of retired City Clerk Paul E. Healy.   Councillor Maher

13. Congratulations to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on its 50th anniversary.   Mayor Simmons

14. Proclaim the week of Sept 24-29, 2008 as Dollar Wi$e Week for Kids and Families in the City of Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons

15. Appreciation to Peter Flynn for his many years of work and congratulations to the Magner’s Irish Film Festival as it celebrates its 10th anniversary Nov 13-16, 2008 at the Brattle Theatre and Harvard Film Archive.   Mayor Simmons

16. Congratulations to Sherry Sanchez and Troy May on their recent marriage.   Mayor Simmons

17. Congratulations to the new members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences who will be inducted at the Academy’s 228th Annual Induction Ceremony on Sat, Oct 11, 2008 at the Sanders Theater.   Mayor Simmons

18. Congratulations and welcome to Ardeene Goodridge as she takes on the position of Area 4 Coordinator.   Councillor Decker

19. Retirement of Rachelle DiDonato from the Cambridge Health Alliance.   Mayor Simmons

20. Retirement of Alan S. Beggelman from the Fire Department.   Mayor Simmons

21. Retirement of Mary Leno from the Women’s Commission.   Mayor Simmons

22. Retirement of Eileen DeLouchrey from the Public Works Department.   Mayor Simmons

23. Proclaim Oct 24, 2008 as UNITED NATIONS DAY in the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Reeves

24. Congratulations to Marc McGovern and Mary Anne Ryan on their recent nuptials on Aug 23, 2008.   Councillor Decker

25. Congratulations to Jeff Walker and Mayeti Gametchu on the birth of their daughter, Abeba Grace Walker, on Aug 21, 2008.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker

26. Congratulations to Santiago Cook Brown and Christopher Brown on their recent marriage.   Mayor Simmons

27. Resolution on the death of Kenneth Damien May.   Councillor Toomey

28. Resolution on the death of Margaret Edna (Creamer) Pero.   Councillor Toomey

29. Congratulations and thanks to the Ethiopian community in Cambridge for their contributions to the city as they celebrate the beginning of the New Year of 2001.   Mayor Simmons

30. Congratulations to Josh Hassol on the occasion of being named President and CEO of the Cambridge Energy Alliance.   Councillor Davis

31. Retirement of Margaret "Peg" Dwyer from the Emergency Communications Department.   Mayor Simmons

32. Congratulations to Karen and Jean Preval on the birth of their son, Andrew Jefferson Preval.   Councillor Davis, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Decker

33. Appreciation to the Saints Cosmas and Damian Society for their work in organizing the Feast of Saints Festival each year.   Mayor Simmons

34. Resolution on the death of Specialist Ronald A. Schmidt.   Councillor Decker
35. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Daniel A. C. McGuire.   Councillor Decker
36. Resolution on the death of Specialist Michael L. Gonzalez.   Councillor Decker
37. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Travis M. Stottlemyer.   Councillor Decker
38. Resolution on the death of Corporal Adam T. McKiski.   Councillor Decker
39. Resolution on the death of Private Timothy J. Hutton.   Councillor Decker
40. Resolution on the death of Specialist Kevin R. Dickson.   Councillor Decker
41. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Michael H. Ferschke Jr.   Councillor Decker
42. Resolution on the death of Specialist Jonathan D. Menke.   Councillor Decker
43. Resolution on the death of Specialist Carlo E. Alfonso.   Councillor Decker
44. Resolution on the death of Private Janelle F. King.   Councillor Decker
45. Resolution on the death of Corporal James M. Hale.   Councillor Decker
46. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jose E. Ulloa.   Councillor Decker
47. Resolution on the death of Specialist Andre D. Mitchell.   Councillor Decker
48. Resolution on the death of Sergeant David K. Cooper.   Councillor Decker
49. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Kenneth B. Gibson.   Councillor Decker
50. Resolution on the death of Corporal Stewart S. Trejo.   Councillor Decker
51. Resolution on the death of Specialist Jorge L. Feliz Nieve.   Councillor Decker
52. Resolution on the death of Specialist Steven J. Fitzmorris.   Councillor Decker
53. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Gary M. Henry.   Councillor Decker
54. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Jennifer L. Cole.   Councillor Decker
55. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Brian K. Miller.   Councillor Decker
56. Resolution on the death of Sergeant First Class George Stanciel.   Councillor Decker
57. Resolution on the death of Master Sergeant Danny E. Maybin.   Councillor Decker
58. Congratulation to Michael Bandar and Oana Paraschiv on their recent marriage.   Councillor Decker

59. Congratulations to Kristen and Ed White on the birth of their daughter, Maeve White.   Councillor Maher

60. Congratulations to Joe and Carmella Carey on their 50th Wedding Anniversary.   Councillor Maher

61. Congratulations to St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church as they celebrate their 100 years of ministry at the Anniversary Banquet at Anthony’s in Malden on Oct 10, 2008.   Councillor Reeves

62. Congratulations to Reverend L. Francis Fox on the occasion of his tenth anniversary as Rector of St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church.   Councillor Reeves

63. Best wishes to Denise McGuire as she retires from her position of Executive Director of Cambridge Family and Children’s Services.   Councillor Maher

64. Congratulations to Bill Morse whose new work will be featured at the First Friday Open Studios on Fri, Sept 5, 2008 at 450 Harrison Avenue, Studio 227, Boston, from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.   Councillor Decker

65. Resolution on the death of Steven Collismo.   Councillor Toomey

72. Happy Birthday wishes to Mattie Hayes.   Mayor Simmons

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate departments to ensure that a pest management plan is devised by construction companies and approved by the Department of Public Works, Inspectional Services and the Cambridge Health Alliance before building permits are issued.   Councillor Decker

2. That the City Manager is requested to provide the City Council with a report on the status of Verizon FIOS and whether it will be offered in Cambridge.   Councillor Maher

3. That the City Manager is requested to commission a parking study for Central Square to assure that there is sufficient capacity for the increasing activities in the Square and to suggest ways to meet that need.   Councillor Davis

4. Dedication of a suitable location in the vicinity of Cambridge Street and Lambert Street in honor of Caroline Randall.   Councillor Toomey

5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the MBTA and report back to the City Council on plans to ensure that the responsibility of the developers of Northpoint for a safe crossing will be upheld by the MBTA and that the plans will coincide with the vision of future development.   Councillor Toomey

6. That the City Manager is requested to begin exploring the possibility of renegotiating the special permit for Northpoint to include a new Court House facility.   Councillor Toomey

7. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the position the City of Cambridge can take on altering the Northpoint special permit now that the land swap is no longer necessary.   Councillor Toomey

8. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on any progress being made in addressing rodent complaints and whether or not the overall number of complaints has increased or decreased.   Councillor Toomey

9. That the City Manager is requested to report to the City Council on what is being done about the spike in violence, particularly gun violence, in Area IV.   Councillor Davis

10. That the City Manager is requested to continue monitoring the efforts of Harvard and MIT in regard to wind data collection and report back to the City Council on this matter.   Councillor Davis

11. That the City Council go on record suspending the Rule 23B prohibition on televising roundtable meetings with respect to the Sept 15, 2008 roundtable. [Two-thirds vote required for adoption.]   Councillor Kelley and Councillor Seidel
Failed of Adoption 3-5-1 [Kelley, Seidel Simmons voted YES; Davis, Maher, Reeves, Toomey, Murphy voted NO; Decker ABSENT]

12. That the City Manager is requested to update the City Council, in Executive Session if necessary, on the status of the Monteiro lawsuit.   Councillor Kelley and Councillor Seidel

13. That the City Manager is requested to consult with appropriate City staff and report back to the City Council on the status of any past or present agreements concerning or limitations to the ability of the owners of the apartment complex at 205 and 225 Walden Street to charge for the use of the complex’s off-street parking.   Councillor Kelley

14. That the City Council initiate the "One Dollar for the Arts" art program that will allow residents of Cambridge to voluntarily contribute one dollar for youth arts programs in the city.   Mayor Simmons

15. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Police Commissioner regarding increasing patrols in the areas of Cambridge where gun fire has been reported.   Councillor Toomey

16. That the City Manager is requested to provide the City Council with an update from the Committee on Homelessness and more specifically about how the committee work relates to Central Square.   Councillor Davis

17. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Chief Public Health Officer to look into the possibility of instituting programs similar to New York City and San Francisco which involve posting calorie counts and nutritional information on menus and menu boards in Cambridge.   Councillor Davis

18. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Electrical Department and Commissioner of Public Works to determine if lighting can be improved on the corner of York Street and Berkshire Street.   Councillor Toomey

19. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the possibility of extending the hours of park lighting at Donnelly Field.   Councillor Toomey  Amended

20. That the City Manager is requested to confer with Just-A-Start to discuss the trimming of trees and shrubbery at the former St. Patrick’s Church on Berkshire Street in order to create a more open atmosphere on the front steps.   Councillor Toomey

21. That the City Council’s Committee on Traffic, Transportation and Parking hold a meeting with relevant City staff and the general public to review the City’s road and sidewalk hazard notification system and repair efforts with the intent of making the City’s information about potholes more available to the general public and helping City staff review the manner in which it prioritizes both short and long-term repair work.   Councillor Kelley

22. That the City Manager is requested to examine options to make the parking lot and abutting sidewalk located along Linnaean Street at the corner of Massachusetts Avenue a safer place for non-vehicular traffic.   Councillor Seidel  Amended

23. Dedication of a suitable site in the area of Kendall Square in honor of Cambridge’s past and present urban planners.   Councillor Maher

24. Dedication in honor of Connor EpsteinKraus at the corner of Chilton Street and Huron Avenue.   Councillor Davis and Councillor Kelley

25. That the City Council requests the Historical Commission to initiate a Landmark Study of the Masonic Temple at 1950 Massachusetts Avenue.   Councillor Maher

26. Dedication of a corner in the vicinity of Walden Street and Copley Street in honor of Audrey and France Ince.   Councillor Reeves

27. Dedication of a corner in the vicinity of Fayerweather Street and Walden Street in honor of Zelma and Frank Evelyn.   Councillor Reeves

28. That the City Council go on record amending Order No. 11 of June 2, 2008 by changing the location to be dedicated in honor of Patrick J. Stephen from a corner on Park Avenue to the bench at Neville Manor Park.   Councillor Maher

29. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and report back to the City Council on the installation of a pedestrian crossing island at Mount Auburn and Willard Streets and public process that brought about this change.   Councillor Toomey

30. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to look at the crossing at the corner of Huron and Concord Avenues for the possibility of installing a dedicated walk signal for the safety and security of a large number of school-aged children.   Councillor Maher

31. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee to arrange a tour of the North Point site for the City Council.   Councillor Maher, Councillor Seidel and Councillor Reeves

32. That the City Manager is requested to contact the DCR to discuss the possibility that the City of Cambridge use DCR land for community gardens.   Councillor Davis and Councillor Seidel

33. That the City Manager is requested to outline plans to add plots for community gardens with a goal of adding eighty more plots for the next growing season.   Councillor Davis and Councillor Seidel

34. That the City Manager is requested to recommend to the City Council a method to develop a Food Policy Advisory Council.   Councillor Davis and Councillor Seidel

35. That the City Manager is requested to recommend a program to promote container gardening.   Councillor Davis and Councillor Seidel

36. That the proposed amendments to the Cambridge Employment Plan contained in ATTACHMENT B of the Civic Unity Committee Report is referred to the Ordinance Committee for consideration and hearing.   Councillor Decker

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Human Services Committee, for a meeting held on July 1, 2008 for the purpose of continuing to discuss services in Cambridge for children and their families during early childhood.

2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Human Services Committee, for a meeting held on July 28, 2008 for the purpose of continuing the committee’s discussion of services in Cambridge for children and their families during early childhood and to plan the agenda for a conference/training with the Harlem Children’s Zone in September, 2008.

3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Health and Environment Committee, for a meeting held on July 29, 2008 to discuss community gardens and the formation of a Food Policy Advisory Committee.

4. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Aug 14, 2008 for the purpose of continuing the consideration of a petition by Alexandria Real Estate Equities to amend the Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance relative to the PUD-3A, PUD-4C and PUD-4B districts in eastern Cambridge.

5. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Marjorie Decker, Chair of the Civic Unity Committee, for a meeting held on Aug 27, 2008 to discuss the proposed changes to the Cambridge residency requirement in the Cambridge Employment Plan, Chapter 2.66 of the Municipal Code.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Sept 8
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Sept 10
1:30pm   The Veterans Committee will conduct a follow up hearing to a previous hearing held with the Cambridge Health Alliance on coordination of services to veterans.  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss red light camera enforcement.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Sept 15
5:30pm   Roundtable Meeting to discuss matters relevant to School Committee and City Council communication strategies. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Sept 17
4:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion of a petition by Alexandria Real Estate Equities to amend the PUD-3A, PUD-4C and PUD-4B Districts of the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge in eastern Cambridge.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Sept 18
4:30pm   The Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to receive an update on the Windsor Street Health Clinic and on the status of neighborhood health clinics in Cambridge.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Mon, Oct 6
5:00pm   Special Presentation to welcome Cambridge Community Chorus with new Music Director Jamie Kirsch  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm   The City Council will conduct a public hearing to discuss the property tax rate classification.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Oct 20
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Oct 22
6:00pm   GLBT Town Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Oct 27
5:30pm   Roundtable Meeting regarding ongoing strategic planning activities at the Cambridge Health Alliance  (Sullivan Chamber)

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   Roundtable Meeting with NSTAR  (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     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate departments to ensure that a pest management plan is devised by construction companies and approved by the Department of Public Works, Inspectional Services and the Cambridge Health Alliance before building permits are issued.

O-2     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER
WHEREAS: The cost for cable television in Cambridge has risen way beyond inflation; and
WHEREAS: Verizon FIOS provides an alternative to Comcast Cable TV in many communities; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the City Council with a report on the status of Verizon FIOS and whether it will be offered in Cambridge.

O-3     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: With the addition of the Central Square Theater and an increase in the number of businesses, Central Square will be attracting more people and cars; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to commission a parking study for Central Square to assure that there is sufficient capacity for the increasing activities in the Square and to suggest ways to meet that need.

O-4     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate a suitable location in the vicinity of Cambridge Street and Lambert Street in honor of Caroline Randall; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be and hereby is directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-5     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The developers of Northpoint were being held responsible for establishing a safe crossing for pedestrians; and
WHEREAS: The State will be moving Lechmere Station presumably before the development issues will be solved at Northpoint; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the MBTA and report back to the City Council on plans to ensure that the responsibility of the developers for a safe crossing will be upheld by the MBTA and that the plans will coincide with the vision of future development.

O-6     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has historically been the location of the Middlesex County Court House until their recent move to Woburn; and
WHEREAS: The Court House played an important role in the vitality of businesses in East Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The recent announcement of the State to take over responsibility of a new Lechmere Station has taken a burden off the future developer; now therefore be it
|ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to begin exploring the possibility of renegotiating the special permit for Northpoint to include a new Court House facility.

O-7     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The State of Massachusetts has agreed to move Lechmere Station in order to advance plans for the Green Line extension; and
WHEREAS: The original plans for a land swap between the owners of Northpoint and the MBTA were an integral part of the permitting process; and
WHEREAS: The special permit for the Northpoint Development must ensure public benefits are delivered to East Cambridge residents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the position the City of Cambridge can take on altering the Northpoint special permit now that the land swap is no longer necessary.

O-8     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on any progress being made in addressing rodent complaints and whether or not the overall number of complaints has increased or decreased.

O-9     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council on what is being done about the spike in violence, particularly gun violence, in Area IV.

O-10     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Harvard University is exploring the potential for wind energy on its Boston campus and is erecting a 50 meter met tower this week on which to mount wind measurement devices; and
WHEREAS: In July 2007 the Community Development Department sent letters to Thomas Vautin at Harvard, and Peter Cooper at MIT requesting that they share any wind energy data they collect; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to continue monitoring the efforts of both universities in regard to wind data collection and report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-11     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: By City Council Rule 23.B, City Council roundtables are not televised; and
WHEREAS: The Council roundtable on Sept 15, 2008 is with the School Committee; and
WHEREAS: Many parents have tremendous logistical difficulties in making meetings that run from 5:50pm to 7:30pm; and
WHEREAS: Many parents are interested in what their elected officials are thinking about their public schools and would like to have the opportunity to watch this roundtable from the convenience of their homes; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record suspending the Rule 23B prohibition on televising roundtable meetings with respect to the Sept 15, 2008 roundtable; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council roundtable on Sept 15, 2008 be both televised and webcast.

O-12     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to update the City Council, in Executive Session if necessary, on the status of the Monteiro lawsuit.

O-13     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: There have been concerns raised over increased on-street parking pressure from residents of the apartment complex at 205 and 225 Walden Street; and
WHEREAS: These concerns are partially based on the possibility that the management of this complex is now charging for on-site parking in violation of an alleged mitigation agreement at the time of construction to provide sufficient, free off-street parking for the apartments to ensure that they would not use and overburden the surrounding local streets; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with appropriate City staff and report back to the City Council on the status of any past or present agreements concerning or limitations to the ability of the owners of the apartment complex at 205 and 225 Walden Street to charge for the use of the complex’s off-street parking.

O-14     Sept 8, 2008
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: It has been shown that children who are exposed to the arts at a young age tend to develop into more well-rounded, more intellectually curious individuals; and
WHEREAS: Studies suggest that children who excel in art programs are more likely to excel in other academic area, and that they apt to develop more diverse cognitive skills and creative ways of approaching problems; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has long supported arts programs for all, and particularly for our youth. Cambridge has always championed the notion that it is vital to fund the arts, which enrich the community in immeasurable ways; and
WHEREAS: Proper funding is critical to sustaining the City’s arts programs, and it is essential that the community continue to invest in and be aware of this area of our children’s education and development; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council initiate the "One Dollar for the Arts" art program that will allow residents of Cambridge to voluntarily contribute one dollar for youth arts programs in the city. The dollar may be collected through the excise tax bill, parking permit fee, or commercial or property tax bills.

O-15     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Police Commissioner regarding increasing patrols in the areas of Cambridge where gun fire has been reported.

O-16     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the City Council with an update from the Committee on Homelessness and more specifically about how the committee work relates to Central Square.

O-17     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: New York City has an ordinance requiring chain restaurants to post calorie counts on menus and menu boards; and
WHEREAS: San Francisco has a menu-labeling ordinance that requires chain restaurants with twenty or more establishments in the city to post nutritional information on menus and menu boards; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Chief Public Health Officer to look into the possibility of instituting similar programs in Cambridge.

O-18     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Electrical Department and Commissioner of Public Works to determine if lighting can be improved on the corner of York Street and Berkshire Street.

O-19     Sept 8, 2008  Amended
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the possibility of extending the hours of park lighting at Donnelly Field; and be it further
ORDERED: That the area be lit thoughtfully with respect to energy efficiency and consideration for neighbors.

O-20     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with Just-A-Start to discuss the trimming of trees and shrubbery at the former St. Patrick’s Church on Berkshire Street in order to create a more open atmosphere on the front steps.

O-21     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Potholes and street hazards in Cambridge make using city streets uncomfortable and, at times, dangerous for cyclists and motorists; and
WHEREAS: Some road hazards, such as the trench at 270 River Street, have such heavy traffic, especially truck traffic, that nearby residents are woken at night and foundations are shaken by vehicles hitting the hazards; and
WHEREAS: Sidewalk hazards present similar problems for pedestrians; and
WHEREAS: The City has a pothole reporting system; and
WHEREAS: Some people have raised concerns that potholes, road hazards and sidewalk hazards about which they have notified the City have not been fixed; and
WHEREAS: The general public does not know which hazards the City has been informed of when trying to receive compensation for accidents due to potholes or other road or sidewalk hazards; and
WHEREAS: It is not clear to the general public how the City manages and responds to information gathered about potholes, road hazards and sidewalk hazards; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council’s Committee on Traffic, Transportation and Parking hold a meeting with relevant City staff and the general public to review the City’s road and sidewalk hazard notification system and repair efforts with the intent of making the City’s information about potholes more available to the general public and helping City staff review the manner in which it prioritizes both short and long-term repair work.

O-22     Sept 8, 2008  Amended
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to examine options to make the parking lot and abutting sidewalk located along Linnaean Street at the corner of Massachusetts Avenue a safer place for non-vehicular traffic; 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-23     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: Cambridge has had the benefit of the expertise of many talented urban planners over the years; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record dedicating a suitable site in the area of Kendall Square in honor of Cambridge’s past and present urban planners.

O-24     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: On Oct 20, 1998, Connor Bagel EpsteinKraus was struck by a car at the corner of Chilton Street and Huron Avenue; and
WHEREAS: A result of this devastating accident was a change in traffic law; and
WHEREAS: Connor made a remarkable recovery and is able to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the accident; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate the corner of Chilton Street and Huron Avenue to be named "Connor’s Corner;" and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be and hereby is directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-25     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council be and hereby requests the Historical Commission to initiate a Landmark Study of the Masonic Temple at 1950 Massachusetts Avenue.

O-26     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate the corner of Walden Street and Copley Street in honor of Audrey and France Ince.

O-27     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate a corner in the vicinity of Fayerweather Street and Walden Street in honor of Zelma and Frank Evelyn.

O-28     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record amending Order No. 11 of June 2, 2008 by changing the location to be dedicated in honor of Patrick J. Stephen from a corner on Park Avenue to the bench at Neville Manor Park.

O-29     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: A pedestrian crossing island has been installed in the middle of the road on Mount Auburn Street at the intersection of Willard Street; and
WHEREAS: There is some neighborhood concern about the safety of the placement of this island; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments including the Fire Department and report back to the City Council on the goal of this structure and public process that brought about this change.

O-30     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to look at the crossing at the corner of Huron and Concord Avenues for the possibility of installing a dedicated walk signal for the safety and security of a large number of school-aged children.

O-31    Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee to arrange a tour of the North Point site for the City Council.

O-32     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact the DCR to discuss the possibility that the City of Cambridge use DCR land for community gardens.

O-33     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to outline plans to add plots for community gardens with a goal of adding eighty more plots for the next growing season.

O-34     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to recommend to the City Council a method to develop a Food Policy Advisory Council.

O-35     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to recommend a program to promote container gardening.

O-36     Sept 8, 2008
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the proposed amendments to the Cambridge Employment Plan contained in ATTACHMENT B of this report [Committee Report from Civic Unity Committee] is referred to the Ordinance Committee for consideration and hearing.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Human Services Committee conducted a public meeting on July 1, 2008 at on o’clock and ten minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The meeting was held for the purpose of continuing to discuss services in Cambridge for children and their families during early childhood.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Sam Seidel; Councillor Craig Kelley; and D. Margaret Drury, Cambridge City Clerk. Also present were Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Robert Haas, Cambridge Police Commissioner; Claude-Alix Jacob, Cambridge Chief Public Health Officer; and Carolyn L. Turk, Assistant Superintendent, Cambridge Public Schools; Mina Reddy, Director, Community Learning Center, Department of Human Services (DHSP); Sheli Wortis, Coordinator for Outreach Resource Development, Early Childhood Connector, Cambridge Public Schools, CPC; Lynn Hall, Project Leader, Early Childhood, Cambridge Public Schools, CPC; Ellen Wolpert, Coordinator, Cambridge Community Partnership for Children; Michelle Godfrey, Center for Families; Susan Richards, Agenda for Children; Carol Nolan, Director of Childhood Services, CAAS Head Start; Joyce Colman, Cambridge Guidance Center; Lauren Leiken, Agenda for Children Literacy Coordinator; Lei-Anne Ellis, Childcare and Family Support, DHSP; Meg Gray, Childcare Resource Center; Jasmine Palmer, Pathways to Family Success; Mary Rita Weschler, Cambridge Citizen/ECED and MH Specialist; Ellen Grant Valade, Home-Based Early Childhood Ed Program, CPSD (retired); Mary Wong, Director, Kid’s Council; Daryl Mark, Cambridge Public Library.

Councillor Reeves convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He invited Ms. Semonoff to begin the discussion. Ms. Semonoff outlined the topics to be covered, and began by distributing a relevant section of the final report of the Governor’s Readiness Project Subcommittee on Early Education and Care (Attachment A). The report is important to the Human Service Committee because it is in synch with the vision and because the key action items are all the things Cambridge is already working on.

Ms. Semonoff noted that there was a request at the last meeting for more information about the family childcare system. She invited Lei Ann Ellis to start the discussion. Ms. Ellis distributed three sheets of information on family childcare in Cambridge (Attachment B). There are 31 full-time center-based programs serving 234 infants, 359 toddlers and 835 preschoolers. There are 30 licensed family day care providers serving 176 children ranging in age from one month to 12 years old.

In response to a question from Councillor Reeves, Ms. Ellis said that Cambridge does not have current number for families who are unable to find care. Ms. Ellis said that according to Cambridge Child Care Resource Center (CCRC), in addition to Cambridge 30 licensed family child care providers, there is another category of family day care "Family, Friend or Neighbor Care," which is informal unregulated childcare. Many of these providers have low English skills; work in isolation in their homes, with a wide variety of ages in the children that they care for, without support. Ms Ellis said that this is a population that we need to pay attention to with regard to the achievement gap. Ms. Ellis described a proposal for funding for education and support for these providers. They did not get the $250,000 to support 40 providers but, they have applied for additional grants, tailored down to smaller grants, with services to be part of target population.

Councillor Reeves noted that these figures include children who do not live in Cambridge, for example children whose parents work in Cambridge, etc. Would it be possible to get the numbers of just children who live in Cambridge?

Ms. Wortis said that the number of nonresidents is not really a huge number of children. Ms. Ellis said that, in addition, there are also Cambridge children in other towns and cities.

Ms. Hall said that there are centers in Cambridge that have a lot of non Cambridge children. The numbers are not nearly as great as the number of Cambridge children but not necessarily insignificant. Ms. Semonoff said that she would guess that family child care services are mostly Cambridge residents, and that the same is true for informal day care.

Councillor Reeves asked about the providers who are fluent in English. Ms. Ellis said that with providers who are not fluent in English they also often find a low level of literacy in their own language.

Councillor Seidel asked whether it is an assumption that all childcare is part of literacy development. Ms. Ellis said yes, if we want to address the achievement gap and have children ready to learn when they get to school. Ellen Wolpert, Coordinator, Cambridge Partnerships (CCP) for Children, said that literacy development is a priority of the CCP for children.

Councillor Seidel asked whether this is what the parent is assuming. Lynne Hall, Project Leader, Early Childhood Cambridge Public Schools/CCP, said that it depends on the knowledge base of the parent. She sees a lot of inappropriate literacy development - "Skill and drill."

Councillor Seidel asked if we required a certain amount of certification to be in the business, would that be good or bad? Ms. Semonoff said that Cambridge sets standards, and the State is moving toward standards but is grandfathering current workers. They do not want to wipe out the jobs of people who are very good with children. In union negotiations we will keep our staff but we want them to go to school.

Carol Nolan, Director of Children’s Services, Cambridge and Somerville Head Start, said that they have a lot of children who are coming to Head Start illiterate in two languages.

Sheli Wortis, Coordinator for Outreach, Resources Development and Early Childhood Connections (Cambridge CPC), said that five years ago the qualifications of family childcare providers were significantly less than those of center based staff. Ms. Semonoff emphasized the importance of reaching parents and convincing them of the importance of literacy.

Councillor Reeves asked whose responsibility is it to educate the providers. Mina Reddy, Director of the Community Learning Center (CLC) said that is what the CLC does; with EOA funding they provide education for childcare providers.

Councillor Seidel noted Dr. Jack P. Shonkoff’s work on the architecture of the brain. He would like to have him come to Cambridge to give us this information. Ms. Nolan described the Mind in the Making project which was just launched and is based on the Jack Shonkoff approach.

Councillor Kelley agreed that he would like to hear Dr. Shonkoff but noted that the committee needs a plan to effect their priorities. How can the committee get the people that they are really targeting to be there to hear the information about early brain development?

Councillor Seidel said that in four or five power point slides you can get a very clear picture.

Ms. Wolpert said that the state sets the standards for professional development but we take those and train people to implement them in their classrooms. This translation is really required.

Susan Richards, Agenda for Children, said it that sounds like the folks that we are trying to reach are the family day care and informal childcare providers. She believes we need to be very clear in respecting what their strengths are and what gifts they are bringing to the children in their care. She emphasized the need for a better sense of the date of what those gifts are.

Councillor Reeves said that he could envision a partnership of Radcliffe Institute, Harvard, M.I.T. and the City, which could guarantee quality early childhood care to every Cambridge resident and to all of the children of employees of MIT and Harvard.

Claude Alix Jacob, Cambridge Commissioner of Public Health, said that we need to be clear about the social and cultural content. He agrees with Ms. Richards about an asset-based approach, with regard to the assets of the childcare providers and their networks and neighborhoods.

Councillor Reeves noted the nexus of culture, class and language, and information and the academy. It is a big task to get caregivers who are not literate in their own language to be able to advance the literacy of the children in their care.

Ellen Grant Valade said that Cambridge needs a broad approach, not a one-size-fits-all plan.

Councillor Reeves added that we do want to have all kids start kindergarten without deficits.

Lauren Leiken, Literacy Coordinator for the Agenda for Children, described the Cambridge Connectors Database, the Cambridge Public Schools/ELLD (Early Learning and Literacy) database for early learning and literacy. The goal is a comprehensive database of what services Cambridge kids have received and which services we want them to get. They have 1,000 out of a total of 4,000 children in the database already. There are three phases to the project:
1. Database connection between families and resources
2. Second part: Connecting the agencies to each other
3. Connecting activities to outcomes.

She distributed a copy of the database homepage (Attachment C).

Councillor Reeves expressed concern about the family that is so overwhelmed that they cannot begin to worry about literacy.

Ms. Nolan added that there is a need to be respectful of all of the providers who do not want to be discovered. There is an underground economy often made up of very frightened people even if they are here legally.

Councillor Reeves said that perhaps the best thing Cambridge has done here is the outreach in people’s own languages. Ms. Ellis said Cambridge has a very good 0-3 system but it is not always knit together.

Councillor Reeves said he wants to be sure no one falls through the cracks. He then requested that Mr. Clifford present plans for the conference/training with the Harbor Children’s Zone and Mr. Clifford described the plan. The date of the next meeting was set for July 29, 2008 at one o’clock P.M.

Councillor Reeves thanked all those present for their participation, and the meeting adjourned at two o’clock and fifty-five minutes-PM.

For the Committee,
Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair

Committee Report #2
The Human Services Committee conducted a public meeting on July 28, 2008 beginning at one o’clock and fifteen minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The meeting was held for the purpose of continuing the committee’s discussion of services in Cambridge for Children and their families during early childhood and to plan the agenda for a conference/training with the Harlem Children’s Zone in September, 2008.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Craig Kelley; Vice Mayor Brian Murphy; Councillor David P. Maher; Councillor Sam Seidel; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Claude-Alix Jacob, Cambridge Chief Public Health Officer; Daryl Mark, Cambridge Public Library; Sheli Wortis, Coordinator for Outreach Resource Development, Early Childhood Connector, Cambridge Public Schools, CPC; Lynn Hall, Project Leader, Early Childhood, Cambridge Public Schools, CPC; Mary Wong, Director, Kid’s Council; John Clifford; Susan Richards, Agenda for Children; Joyce Colman, Cambridge Guidance Center; Michelle Godfrey, Center for Families; Lei-Anne Ellis, Department of Human Services Programs (DHSP); Meg Gray, Cambridge Childcare Resource Center; Mina Reddy, Cambridge Learning Center, DHSP; Margulien Saintus, 391 Cardinal Medeiros Avenue #6; Joseph Sallazzo, Cambridge, MA.

Councillor Reeves said that he would like to use this meeting as an opportunity to look at what the Cambridge visitors want to gain from the upcoming conference/training visit to the Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ). He said that one issue that he would like to explore is the notion of how to get both parents involved in meeting their children’s developmental needs. He said that he has recently been reading some material by Geoffrey Canada about fathers, and he noted that Mr. Canada is very careful to involve men in all of his programs. Councillor Reeves said that he is very interested in the topic of shoring up the family. Mr. Clifford stated that Dr. Ronald Mincy, professor at Columbia University, has spoken extensively on the problems faced by incarcerated black men who owe overwhelming amounts of child support. Councillor Reeves said that it would be good if the Cambridge delegation could have the opportunity to talk with Dr. Mincey.

Councillor Reeves then invited Ms. Semonoff to discuss the work that she and her staff have been doing to develop recommendations on topics and issues for discussion with the HCZ staff. Ms. Semonoff distributed a document entitled "Potential Topics for Discussion with the Harlem Children’s Zone" (Attachment A). Noting that the document lists "Evaluation" as the first topic, Councillor Reeves said that the evaluation of outcomes is apparently not a strength of HCZ, although they are focusing more on evaluation than they have in the past. Ms. Semonoff said that DHS staff believes that this is still a valuable topic for discussion; evaluation in social science programs is always challenging and the exchange of ideas could benefit both Cambridge and HCZ. With regard to the question under the category of evaluation about whether HCZ has an integrated logic model, Councillor Reeves asked whether Cambridge has an integrated logic model and Ms. Leiken replied in the affirmative.

Councillor Reeves said that he has been thinking a great deal about how to get training and services to family day care providers. He would like to discuss this issue with the HCZ. He asked what percentage of children is cared for by informal day care providers. Ms. Leiken said that the percentage is different for children of different ages. Ms. Semonoff said that the gap between the number of children and the number of children in center or licensed family day care is greatest for infants and toddlers. Ms. Ellis said that according to the Department of Early Education and Care, there are a total of 285 licensed daycare slots for infants in Cambridge, enough according to EEC calculations to serve 29% of the population, which would mean there are approximately 975 infants in Cambridge.

Councillor Reeves asked if there are other places in the country that have better childcare services than Cambridge. Ms. Wortis said that some states such as New Jersey are keeping better records. The committee should also look at North Carolina and Kentucky, two states that got an early start on implementing standards and whose evaluations are being conducted by universities. Councillor Reeves said that it is clear that we want to have more information on the daycare for children in their early years.

Ms. Semonoff noted that demographics is listed as one of the potential topics to discuss with HCZ, particularly question 3(e) about how much they break down broad demographic categories. She also said that DHSP and their community partners are very interested in what kind of outreach HCZ does. If they do not do outreach, then how do they reach the whole community? Councillor Reeves agreed that they are interested in learning about creative mechanisms to get people to the programs. He said that in Boston, they take a community organizational approach and hire a lot of community organizers. Ms. Leiken said that Cambridge has used some of the Boston curricula in training Cambridge’s outreach workers.

Councillor Kelley said that Harlem may not be as monolithic as he thinks it is, but Cambridge is so un-monolithic that the challenges of providing service may be different. Ms. Semonoff said that DHSP has focused on the self-identification data on forms and applications as a way to serve linguistic minorities. Ms. Godfrey said that they have identified a number of linguistic minorities for outreach purposes. Self-identification data has also helped them reach out to some long-time Cambridge families who identified themselves as black and were in need of services.

Councillor Reeves asked what is known about the 900 plus infants, for example, who they are. Ms. Wortis said that a 2002-03 survey found that the demographics of children in pre-school mirrored those of children in the public schools. Ms. Ellis said that we do have information from the birth records. The City Clerk’s Office sends copies of the birth records of Cambridge babies to the library, and the library sends the parents a book bag that includes a book for the baby and a lot of information about resources and services for families. There is a coupon that parents can take to the Library to get a library card and another book for their child. Perhaps we could add a questionnaire to the book bag. The City Clerk said that since the records of children born to unmarried parents are not public records, a significant segment of the population would appear to be missing out on important information and services. It was agreed that the City Clerk, DHSP and Library staff would meet for further discussion of this issue.

Councillor Seidel said that he still has basic question of whether we are on the right track. However, he added, even if not, we could still solve some issues that are in front of us, for example reaching out to family daycare providers.

Councillor Reeves said that the group can go to the HCZ conference/training with a good understanding of Cambridge demographics and services provided. He added that he believes that Cambridge could be stronger in the area of parent education. He asked whether Cambridge has something great for parents in that area. Councillor Kelley said that in his case, he went to the North Cambridge Family Center and there was a great group on parenting for dads. But the question was how to get people to show up. Also, in his group the fathers were all white. Ms. Semonoff said that if you look at the content and curricula of the many literacy-related activities, you will find that there is a lot of parenting information. However, these activities have not been explicitly designated as parenting classes. A question that she has for the HCZ folks is what happens between the baby college programs for parents of infants and the four-year old kindergarten readiness programs.

Ms. Coleman said that one size does not fit all. Cambridge has an incredible variety and diversity. There are lots of factors – linguistic, social, educational and many more. There has to be a menu of services. But first, there has to be a relationship with the family that needs the services and that is an art that takes a lot of experience. She would like to know how HCZ gets to parents who are too frightened to accept help.

Councillor Seidel questioned whether we are picturing a 100% fully covered approach or an approach that focuses on the 300 children and their families who are really in trouble. Councillor Reeves said that Cambridge tends to focus on the ones who are most vulnerable. If we target that most troubled population, are the fathers in that picture and discussion? No one but Geoffrey Canada and Ron Mincy are talking about the role of fathers. He personally does not want to just accept the notion of the father-free family. He wants to know what HCZ does to address this issue.

Councillor Seidel asked whether Cambridge’s programs are driven by the funding or whether there is some comprehensive model that drives programming. Ms. Godfrey responded that some is a question of resources, but we also look at what level of services people need. Some people need information about how they can get services and help. Some people need another level of outreach, and that is a question of resources. There are 67 linguistic populations in our public schools. And there are some people that need a lot more than just outreach and coaching in a language they can understand.

Ms. Leiken said that the different services are driven by a shared vision, but there is recognition that there are limitations to how much we can do. She said that she believes that Cambridge could do a better job with fathers. She noted however, that fathers are very different in different homes and cultures. Ms. Semonoff added that the Cambridge programs are not so much driven by the funding as driven by a desire to go after and shape the funding possibilities to advance the vision.

Ms. Wortis emphasized that the existence of services is not enough; the quality of the services must be evaluated.

Councillor Reeves asked if Cambridge has a system that is tracking all kids because that would seen to be a way to make sure that we can find and serve the most vulnerable. Ms. Coleman said that Cambridge did not get the Safe Schools grant that was focused on this issue. Cambridge is ready to take this on, but there is a need for funding.

Ms. Wong said that in theory we all have the same vision, but because of funding, we really do not. She said that we need to be able to catch children at touchable, teachable moments. If funding is not the issue, why can we not make the Safe Schools program happen without the grant? Ms. Wong said that Cambridge needs to have a continuum of services because there are gaps.

Ms. Ellis said that they have worked towards and struggled with having a continuum. Part of that is being intentional. She would like to ask HCZ how they provide different levels of services and determine the dosage.

Mr. Jacob said that he has four questions for the HCZ: What do they do that works? What does it cost? What are the demographics? How do they do with changes? He noted what a complex community Cambridge is. There are layers of diversity within the black population. Then you add in the immigrant structure. It is all about the network. Ms. Semonoff said that the second page of the DHSP questions for HCZ related to how HCZ defines its vision of the "whole family" and how it implements support for the whole family.

Ms. Richards said that she would also like to know more about the workforce and the quality of the services. What is the expectation and how do they know when they are there? She added that separated parents make up a large percent of the families they see. She would like to see creative examples of parenting classes or other ways of teaching the separated parents ways to relate to each other for the benefit of their kids.

Councillor Seidel said that he has questions about finding the balance between the needs of the individual client and the need for a fair and well-functioning system of care. Ms. Richards said that actually the individual case and the system inform each other very well. Ms. Wortis distributed a graphic representation entitled "A Standards-Based ECE System Design" (Attachment B) and said that it represents a good model of individual case and system interaction for overall improvement.

The meeting concluded with a discussion of the logistics of the trip to New York City for the conference/training with the Harlem Children’s Zone.

Councillor Reeves thanked all those present for their participation and stated that there would be another meeting of the committee in September. The meeting was adjourned at 3:47pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair

Committee Report #3
The Health and Environment Committee held a public meeting on Tues, July 29, 2008 at four o’clock and five minutes p.m. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss community gardens and the formation of a Food Policy Advisory Committee.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Sam Seidel; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Public Works Commissioner; Kelly Writer, City Arborist; Jennifer Wright, Director, Conservation Commission; Richard Scali, License Commissioner; Claude-Alix Jacob, Chief Public Health Officer; Marsha Lazar, Director of Community Health; Jose Wendell, Nutrition Coordinator, School Health Program and Trans-fat Task Force Member, Cambridge Health Alliance; Dawn Olcott, Nutritionist, School Health Program and Trans-fat Task Force member; Stacey King and Suzy Feinberg, Public Health Department; Mike Ginieres, Environmental Health Officer, Cambridge Health Alliance; Steve Miller, Executive Director, Healthy Weight Initiative, Harvard University; Penny Peters; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.

Also present were Tim Kiely, 107 Gore Street; Hatch Sterrett, 12 Boardman Street; David Leslie, Food for Free; Kathy Gardner, 32 Chalk Street; Minka VanBeuzekom, 20 Essex Street; Rachel Harland, 160 Harvard Street; Daniel Tom, 320 Columbia Street; Clayton Fountain, 185 Hamilton Street; and Zeyneb Magavi, 515 Putnam Avenue, Cambridge.

Councillor Davis opened the meeting and explained the purpose. Community gardens and the potential to create more community gardens was discussed first. The Food Policy Committee and the ability to take advantage of local food would be discussed last. The committee proceeded with the discussion on community gardens.

Mr. Rossi informed the committee that Jennifer Wright, Conservation Commission Director, manages the community garden program. The community gardens program has grown over the years. The city provides water and there are some handicapped accessible gardens. The Squirrel Brand garden, a previously private garden, was redeveloped by the city to be a public community garden. If there are locations to be developed or land that could be acquired for a community garden the city would be interested.

Ms. Wright informed the committee that the GIS department has created a map of Cambridge community gardens. There are thirteen active gardens with 460 plots. Each garden contains 16 to 65 plots. The program has expanded and raised plots have been added for handicapped accessibility. Neville Manor has six raised garden plots which have been well received. Fresh Pond is the next area to be upgraded with 16 plots and no raised gardens. There are 80 people on the waiting list and it usually takes one year to get a garden plot. Squirrel Brand and Moore Street gardens are sites heavily in demand. The Watson Street garden was upgraded by the Water Department for aesthetics. Ms. Wright is working with Randi Mail on composting at community gardens to be sure that they do not become a habitat for rodents.

Councillor Davis asked how many gardens are there currently. Ms. Wright stated that in 2001 there were 351 gardens. In 2008 there are 460 with 80 people on a waiting list.

Ms. VanBeuzekom showed a power point presentation and stated that there are two community gardens in Area 4 – Moore Street and the Squirrel Brand land. She listed the vegetables, fruits, herbs and flowers that grow in community gardens as well as the beneficial insects. The Squirrel Brand land has had a problem with flooding. At the Moore Street garden the land is compacted and hard to dig. She hopes that the people on the waiting list can move into garden plots.

Mr. Rossi stated that the soil at the Squirrel Brand was tested. Hazardous material was detected and the city took off three inches of soil.

Mr. Ginieres spoke of Terra preta soil type. He distributed information on this soil ATTACHMENT A. He explained its effect on plant and food growth. Terra preta, known as "dark soil", contains man-made carbon. When embedded in the soil it retains nutrients. He asked if Cambridge would be interested in a demonstration project using terra pretat in a community garden plot. Biochar, a charcoal produced from biomass that will store carbon and improves agricultural sustainability and environmental impacts, is manufactured in Canada ATTACHMENT B. Mr. Rossi stated that this would be a good program to do with the School Department and City Sprouts.

Ms. Gardner, coordinator of the Watson Street garden, stated that community gardens are a great way to develop community. An added plus is the local produce. She would like to see more community gardens. The area owned by MIT at the corner of Watson and Brookline Streets has potential to be a community garden.

Tim Kiely expressed the point of view of a recent resident. Cambridge is a vibrant community for community gardens, but it is difficult to get into this community. Squirrel Brand has been helpful getting residents involved. A lot of people would like a garden plot. It is an important quality of life issue. He wished that the city would do more.

Councillors Davis and Seidel submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact the DCR to discuss the possibility that the City of Cambridge use DCR land for community gardens.

The motion – Carried.

Councillor Davis stated that the land at Fresh Pond and Mt. Auburn Street is a huge piece of land that could be used as community garden.

David Leslie suggested that people who are in need of food contact Food for Free. Councillor Davis asked if any clients of Food for Free would be interested in community gardening. Mr. Leslie stated that he would work through the city on this matter.

Councillor Davis asked if plots are shared. Ms. Wright responded in the affirmative. Some participation occurs during the school year and then the plot is turned over to the wait list in the summer.

Councillor Davis spoke of the issue of whether plot owners are residents. Ms. Wright stated that residency has been an issue this year, especially in the Fresh Pond area. People do not want to give their name and address. When the Fresh Pond garden upgrade is done and opened in 2009 it will be for Cambridge residents only. Users will have to give their name and address. The city lets the gardeners finish the season if they are not residents of the city.

Daniel Tom, Coordinator of the Squirrel Brand garden, stated that there is interest to get into the garden, but there is confusion about getting on the wait list. The waiting list order is based on when an application is submitted. The Squirrel site has a drainage problem due to sloping. He wondered if the soil is appropriate for gardening. The Squirrel site has shared plots. Mr. Rossi stated that Ms. Wright will contact Mr. Tom and arrange a meeting with Public Works about the Squirrel site.

Councillor Seidel stated that community gardens are great. Is there any community building with the gardens? Mr. Rossi responded that there is a different experience throughout the city. Ms. Wright added that functions have been organized by the gardeners to get together to share ideas. Mr. Tom stated that the Squirrel site has an online forum. Ms. Gardner stated that compliments have been received from neighbors about the beauty of the area. Gardeners shovel the sidewalks. Ms. VanBeuzekom stated that each garden has its unique governance.

Mr. Jacobs asked about the wait list, the distribution of the community gardens, how many gardens were added and the saturation point. Ms. Wright stated that there are 460 total plots. In twenty-five years the number of community garden plots went from 25 to 460 plots. Mr. Jacobs asked how long is the wait list. Ms. Wright responded one year or one growing season. Mr. Rossi stated that if the city could add more plots there still would be a wait list.

Councillor Davis stated that the goal should be to get eighty more plots before next season.

At this time Councillors Davis and Seidel submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to outline plans to add plots for community gardens with a goal of adding eighty more plots for the next growing season.

The motion – Carried.

Hatch Sterrett has a plot at the Squirrel Brand. He spoke of a street garden program where the sidewalks could be a garden. He encouraged planting in the tree wells. He supported the distribution of 80/10/10 for the CPA funds. Mr. Rossi informed the committee that a public hearing would be held on Sept 3, 2008 on the CPA funding distribution. The city wants to hear from the public so that the CPA committee could make recommendations to the City Council. Mr. Hatch spoke of roof gardens. The Conservation Commission needs staff.

Councillor Davis closed the portion of the hearing on community gardens at five o’clock and three minutes p. m.

At five o’clock and four minutes the committee proceeded to the discussion on the Food Policy Advisory Committee.

Jose Wendell gave an overview on the ban of trans-fats. On July 24, 2008 the regulation was promulgated. A state bill to ban trans-fats passed the house and needs to pass the Senate by July 31, 2008 but it does not look promising. Phase I of the Cambridge ban goes into effect July 1, 2009; Phase II on Oct 1, 2009. The implementation phase will include restaurants, city departments and the Cambridge Health Alliance. The city will hold trans-fat free events. Penalties will be given for extreme violations.

At this time a presentation was made by Dawn B. Olcott on Food Policy Advisory Councils ATTACHMENT C. She gave general information about what is a food policy council. There are fifty food policy councils throughout the nation. Councils bring stakeholders (food pantries and gardeners) together with a focus on food, nutrition and agricultural issues. There are two types of food policy councils: governmental and grassroots coalitions. She defined food security as access to affordable, nutritious food for all people at all times. Councils review needs and access to healthy foods and choices. How councils are set up define their roles. She cited the example of Berkeley, California where the council advises the Department of Health and Human Services and develops the food nutrition policy. In Worcester, MA the council was started by the food bank. A state bill to establish a food policy council to enhance the agricultural economy and improve the nutritional health in the Commonwealth, State House Bill #3853, passed Ways and Means on Jan 7, 2008. There is a Massachusetts grassroots effort comprised of thirty organizations working on food issues. The main goal is to address hunger and access to affordable, nutritional food and to use local farmers.

Claude Jacobs, Chief Public Health Officer, stated that this fall the Public Health Department will develop a partnership policy and capture the inventory and activities throughout the city.

Steve Miller supported food policy advisory councils. He suggested considering four categories:

• Food security – review city operations including outside city, increase parent involvement, support roof, container or window sill gardening, plant fruit and nut trees throughout the city.
• Local sourcing – incorporate city procurement.
• Commercial service and restaurants – list nutritional values on menus and
• Public Education – contests and 4H competitions.

Clayton Fountain supported shared gardens. He has built fourteen raised plots. If more of this was done there would be a better food quality of life.

David Leslie informed the committee that 8,000 pounds of food was distributed by Food for Free last year. He would like a place at the table when the food policy committee is developed.

Tim Kiely stated that he was shocked at the number of people dropping off food waste for composting at Public Works during its pilot program. Santa Cruz, California has a community garden for the homeless.

Commissioner Peterson stated that the Public Works Department is interested in being actively involved in the Food Policy Advisory Committee. She cautioned planting fruit trees due to rodents. Landscape partnership has been discussed and could included food producing plants. There should be encouragement for back yard and container gardens.

At this time Councillors Davis and Seidel submitted the following motions:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to recommend to the City Council a method to develop a Food Policy Advisory Council.

The motion – Carried.

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to recommend a program to promote container gardening.

The motion – Carried.

Councillor Seidel expressed his concern for duplication of effort.

Marsha Lazar stated the a report was done by the Public Health Department on fresh fruit and vegetables in the food pantries and this report needs to be provided to the Food Policy Council.

Councillor Davis stated that direction and prioritization needs to be outlined for the Food Policy Advisory Council.

Councillor Davis thanked those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at six o’clock p. m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair

Committee Report #4
The Ordinance Committee held a public meeting on Thurs, Aug 14, 2008, beginning at four o’clock and twenty minutes P. M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The meeting was held for the purpose of continuing the consideration of a petition by Alexandria Real Estate Equities to amend the Zoning Map and Zoning Ordinance relative to the PUD-3A, PUD-4C and PUD-4B districts in eastern Cambridge.

Present at the meeting were Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Lester Barber, Director of Zoning and Land Use Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); Stuart Dash, Director of Community and Neighborhood Planning, CDD; Iram Farooq, Project Planner, CDD; Jeffrey Roberts, Neighborhood Planner, CDD; and Nancy Glowa, Deputy City Solicitor.

Councillor Maher convened the meeting and explained the procedures. He said that he would first invite the petitioners to make a brief presentation, focusing on the concerns and issues that were raised at the first public hearing and at subsequent community meetings. Thereafter he and Vice Mayor Murphy would make brief statements summarizing the concerns and issues that they believe need further attention based on what they have heard at the community meetings and from concerned members of the community. At that time members of the City Council could express their additional concerns and request for further information. Thereafter the committee would move to public comment.

James Rafferty, attorney for Alexandria Real Estate Equities (Alexandria), owner of the property subject to the petition, began the presentation with a brief outline of the petition and a description of the community meetings that Alexandria representatives have attended since the Ordinance Committee public hearing on June 25, 2008, including two meetings sponsored by the East Cambridge Planning Team. He listed the goals that the East Cambridge Planning Study (ECAPS) Committee adopted as the basis for the ECAPS zoning that was adopted in 2000. What Alexandria is trying to achieve is very consistent with these goals. Alexandria wishes to foster a vibrant mixed use area that will improve the quality of life for those who live and work there. Although Alexandria is a developer of life sciences laboratories, they recognize that expansion of housing opportunities in the area is important to the achievement of the goal of their development. Their development will support economic development for small and startup businesses, shift transportation patterns to more walking and bicycle use, and go towards meeting the open space needs of present and future residents.

Thomas Andrews, Principal, Alexandria Real Estate Equities, provided a summary of Alexandria’s commitments with respect to the afore-mentioned goals. Alexandria has reached an agreement with the current owner of the corner lot of the block proposed for development of the park so that the corner lot will be included in the park. They have committed in writing to provide the amount of retail, restaurant and other ground floor amenities to make this a successful urban district. Mr. Andrews emphasized that Alexandria has committed to continuing the public dialogue to make this vision a success.

David Manfredi, architect and urban planning consultant for Alexandria, provided visual descriptions on display boards of the further development of the urban planning aspects of the project. He said that what he was presenting was mostly more visualization of the potential urban activities and connections. He noted that the triangle of open space is important, not just as open area, but also as contributing to desirability of the adjacent corner of Binney and First Street as very good restaurant space, with a potential for outdoor dining. He said that every building is planned with a through-lot lobby. He then described the design plan for Binney and Second Street as the home of the intramodal node, with significant underground parking, zip cars and bicycle storage. Mr. Manfredi said that this part of the plan is central to the development. He then described the potential of Binney and Third Streets with food and beverage opportunities where tenants can see them, and the potential for retail at Sixth and Binney Streets. He ended the presentation with a visual depiction of the wide variety of active recreational uses that the proposed open space, as a true community park, could encompass.

Councillor Maher said that he and Vice Mayor Murphy would now lay out some of the concerns that they have heard from the public in the community and committee meetings. He and Vice Mayor Murphy are suggesting that Alexandria listen carefully to these issues and the additional public testimony from this meeting and then come back with their responses at the next Ordinance Committee public meeting, which they will schedule for Sept 17, 2008 at four o’clock p.m. Councillor Maher said that he and Vice Mayor Murphy do not expect that all of the issues will be resolved before the expiration date of this petition, and that they do expect that the petition will need to be re-filed.

Councillor Maher then outlined his list of concerns:

1. Heights -- The building at Binney and Sixth Streets is too tall; it is taller than the nearby buildings. In addition, the petition’s proposed outer limits on heights for the places where the outer limits are proposed are also too high.

2. Noise -- Councillor Maher wants to see language in the zoning amendment about enclosing and shielding rooftop mechanicals to limit noise. He also noted Alexandria’s willingness to look at mechanicals on existing buildings in East Cambridge for the possibility of remediation.

3. Open Space -- The open space in the proposed 2.2 acre park must be open space in perpetuity, and Councillor Maher wants language that addresses such protection.

Councillor Maher wants assurance that the 2.2 acre park is not going to be shadowed by the height of nearby buildings.

Vice Mayor Murphy then provided his list of concerns. He noted that his list is not exhaustive, but rather an attempt to hone the discussion.

1. Biosafety -- While this issue is completely distinct from the zoning, the City Council needs to address these concerns and to take a closer look at whether developments over the years since the enactment of the RDNA Ordinance require additional action. The best place for this discussion may be a City Council Roundtable. The Co-Chairs have asked Mayor Simmons to take this issue on and schedule a roundtable so that there can be an in-depth discussion.

2. Ensuring a more vital, viable neighborhood, with ground floor uses that are almost an extension of the public space. -- He would like to see more in terms of language about the level of commitment. The notion of a general street improvement fund is interesting.

3. Traffic Study -- He wants to see the next iteration.

4. Housing -- Vice Mayor Murphy would like this issue to continue to be fleshed out with more specifics. How is this neighborhood going to look? What would the housing designs look like? He noted some housing designs just continues people’s self-imposed isolation.

5. LEED Assurances -- What will be assurances and what will be goals?

6. Buildout -- What does Alexandria see as the likely buildout time in years?

Vice Mayor Murphy ended by saying that he and Councillor Maher will remain available for smaller meetings with the community. Councillor Maher added that they would be reaching out to a representative group of those who worked on the ECAPS.

Councillor Davis expressed particular concern with the urban planning issues. She would like to know more about connectivity and context- how this open space connects to other places and how that connectivity will enliven this area and the areas to which it is connected. She added that she would also like to hear more about how the pedestrian realm is connected to other areas, for example, Kendall Square.

Mayor Simmons thanked all involved for their commitment to dialogue. She noted that there is a lot of fear on the part of the neighborhood. Mayor Simmons also said that she was pleased to hear that Alexandria’s idea of park design is mindful of all the different needs of residents for open space.

Councillor Reeves underscored the notion of making a place that is part of a larger place, unlike the Forest City development or the residence hotel in Kendall Square, neither of which have that kind of connection.

Councillor Toomey noted the concerns of the neighbors about the biohazard issues and the need to address them. He said that perhaps there should be an independent consultant to sit down with the neighbors. He is not sure that the necessary planning has been done with regard to the area, particularly in regard to the heights. He requested that the State Fire Marshall be invited to the roundtable discussion on biosafety.

Councillor Maher then moved to public comment. He noted that there are many union representatives here and expressed his appreciation for their attendance.

Stephen Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, said that he approved of re-filing the petition. He said that he believes that there need to be substantial changes and suggested the preparation of a draft that could get extensive public discussions before the final language is filed as petition for amendments to the ordinance. He noted that the housing incentive of Section 13.54 in the ECAPS rezoning is wiped out in the proposed zoning amendment. He stated that there is still confusion of the plan and the zoning. Some of the modifications to the plan suggested by the developer make sense, but the new ideas must be developed in the spirit of ECAPS. Mr. Kaiser also emphasized the importance of the traffic study. He suggested that necessary mitigation for this up-zoning should include a plan for cars and parking in the City and a plan to deal with the deadness of Kendall Square. There should also be a limit on the gross floor area and better protection for the open space than the current Opens Space Zoning designation provides. Mr. Kaiser also submitted written testimony (Attachment A).

Marie Saccoccio, 55 Otis Street, submitted two reports, one by Keith Rhodes on behalf of the U.S. Government Accountability Office entitled "High Containment Biosafety Laboratories", a governmental report on the proliferation of biohazard level 3 and level 4 labs (Attachment B) and another titled "Proliferation of Laboratories Handling Biological Weapons Agents" (Attachment C). She said that she does not understand why the City believes Sam Lipson can control what the federal government cannot control.

Ms. Saccoccio said that light industrial zoning is a transitional zone between industry and residential zones. It is inherent in its transitional nature that it cannot include nuisances. Brookline prohibits level 3 and 4 biohazard labs. According to the attorney fighting the Boston University level 4 labs, level 3 labs can actually be more dangerous than level 4 labs because the safety requirements for level 4 labs are much more stringent. There should be an environmental impact study. Elder Services staff people should be at the table in this, especially in light of the elder housing located nearby. Ms. Saccoccio also suggested amending the Cambridge Recombinant DNA Ordinance because it does not mention airborne particles. It is out of date.

Branca Wiesnet, 61 Otis Street, stated that she is an architect and that she has lived in East Cambridge since 1974. She stated that she opposes the petition. It is not in the best interest of East Cambridge. Alexandria has proposed a reduction of the parking required to be provided. This is a self-serving idea that would increase traffic and parking problems. Alexandria’s notion of the efforts it will make to recruit tenants points to the artificiality of the proposal. The architectural drawings include no drawing of tall buildings with mechanicals on top.

Betty Saccoccio, 55 Otis Street, stated that she is really appalled at the amount of inaccurate information that has been disseminated. Pathogens will be going through their neighborhood. She is very concerned about the danger to her elderly disabled mother, and the many other frail elderly persons who live in the neighborhood.

Robert Kaufman, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Biotechnology Council (MBC), Cambridge Center, stated that the council has over 100 Cambridge members and expressed MBC’s enthusiastic support for Alexandria’s proposal. It will ensure Cambridge’s position in the biotechnology field. He said that the biotechnology industry’s safety report globally is impeccable, partly because of Cambridge’s early adoptions of the RDNA Ordinance. He said that as the father of a 6 year old son with cystic fibrosis, he is very proud that this important work is being done here. He submitted written testimony (Attachment D).

Lori Sutherland, 132 Pearl Street, Member of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, spoke in support of the proposed amendment and emphasized the importance of the economic development and jobs that biotech development will bring.

Mark Sutherland, 132 Pearl Street, member of the Carpenters Local 40 Union, spoke in support of the proposed zoning amendment. He said that Alexandria has pledged to do this project with one hundred percent union labor.

Joseph Power, Business Representative for the Carpenters Local 40 Union, spoke in support of the proposed amendment. He noted that it would allow a significant contribution to the retention and growth of biotechnology, which is an important industry to Cambridge and an important source of jobs for Cambridge residents.

Terrence Smith, 21 Massachusetts Avenue, Director of Governmental Affairs, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, spoke in support of the proposed rezoning as a way to assure Cambridge’s continued place as a leader in this international industry. Mr. Smith noted that the proposal also addresses the goals and priorities that the City Council has adopted.

Donna Keefe, Cambridge, stated that she is an eighteen year resident of Cambridge. She emphasized the issue of ambient noise, and the importance of including protection against excessive noise. She submitted a copy of a report on ambient noise in East Cambridge to the Cambridge Planning Team (Attachment E). She emphasized that the ambient noise from biotech labs goes on twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Jay Wasserman, 34 Second Street, thanked the City Council for listening to the community and the developers. As a member of the East Cambridge Planning Team, he looks forward to continued dialogue.

Richard Fanning, architect, suggested the following ways to make the proposal more comprehensible to lay people:
-Provide specific information as to the number of parking spaces now and what the increase would be.
-Provide a shadow study
-Provide a detailed traffic study

Elie Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street, said that he has respect for urban growth and corporate development as completely necessary but obviously problematic in our society. He would like to see the city government assist the created monster in doing its best for the urban environment. He submitted three newspaper articles (Attachment F) are entitled "In Slow Times Rezoning Appeals to Developers", one on a proposed biotech complex in Burlington and one on bioterrorism. He stated that he has heard no real commitments to pedestrian walkability. There is nothing to make sure that walkability will be emphasized here. It could happen or not happen under this proposal. He urged the City Council to consider requiring this entity to deposit $100,000,000 as a guarantee of its commitments.

Joseph Grassi, 393 Cambridge Street, member of the School Committee, expressed appreciation to the Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for slowing down the timetable. He urged the City Council to oppose the petition as proposed. He pointed to two processes important the discussion. The ECAPs was a longer process that enabled community participation. The other process was the Green Ribbon Open Space Commission that did a comprehensive survey of the City’s open space needs. He said that this proposal is a positive step with respect to open space. He emphasized the need to restrict the team athletics at the new park to youth sports.

Mr. Grassi then noted his concerns with the proposal: height, density, noise, traffic, but especially the precedent-setting increases to the height and density. He also expressed concern about how these six buildings could fit into the rest of the community. He noted the need to take a comprehensive look at the land use. As currently proposed the amendment would constitute a windfall for the developers.

Carole Bellew, 257 Charles Street, stated that noise is the main issue. She would like to see a noise study. Noise is a cumulative issue. They would like to have an urban planner look at this proposal. She expressed concern about the plans for Sixth Street. Ms Bellew then read a letter from Shannon Larkin (Attachment G) opposing the proposed zoning.

Stash Horowitz, 12 Florence Street, Association of Cambridge Neighborhoods, said that this zoning as written should die and be replaced by another. The proposal just crosses out the best parts of the ECAP’s Zoning.

Nancy Stein, 75 Cambridge Parkway, thanked the Ordinance Committee for delaying any decision. She noted the increase in tanker truck traffic. There should be low rise housing for moderate income people; the zoning should not eliminate the possibility for that kind of housing. She also noted the need to have zoning so carefully written that the buildout will be the same even if someone other than Alexandria does the building. Ms. Stein said that she lived through the semi-conductor boom in Southern California, and at the end, there were acres of empty buildings.

Tim Rowe, Cambridge Innovation Center, said that there were a lot of constructive comments at the hearing. He urged the City Council to think clearly about what we have now. There is a barrier between Kendall Square and East Cambridge. People do not walk in that area at night. This could be an improvement for pedestrian and for connectivity. This is a wonderful opportunity, but we should engage some experts. He believes that the ECAPs zoning should stand, but after several years, it is good to look at the plan again and see if some changes need to be made.

Betty Clinton, 87 Third Street, submitted a letter for the record (Attachment H).

Vice Mayor Murphy and Councillor Maher thanked all those present for their participation. On a motion of Councillor Toomey, The meeting was adjourned at six o’clock and forty minutes P.M.

For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor David Maher, Co-Chair

Committee Report #5
The Civic Unity Committee held a public meeting on Wed, Aug 27, 2008 at two o’clock and thirty-two minutes p.m. in the Ackermann Room.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the proposed changes to the Cambridge residency requirement in the Cambridge Employment Plan, Chapter 2.66 of the Municipal Code.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Marjorie Decker, Chair of the Committee; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Donald Drisdell, City Solicitor; Amy Witts, Assistant City Solicitor; Jason Marshall from Senator Anthony Galluccio’s Office; Omar Bandar; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.

Also present were Lori Sutherland, Painters’ District Council 35; Donald Sheehan, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 103; George B. Donahue, Plumbers Union Local 12; Edwin Wright, Bridge and Structural Iron Workers Union Local 7; Tom Kerr, Pipefitters Local Union 537; and Joe Bonfiglio, Laborers’ International Union of North America 151.

Councillor Decker convened the meeting and explained the purpose. This is a follow up meeting to the internal meeting held previously. The city of Cambridge is facing a potential law suit if the Municipal Ordinance is not changed. The City Manager submitted to the City Council suggested amendments to the ordinance at the City Council meeting held on July 28, 2008 which was made the subject of a charter right (ATTACHMENT A). She submitted a draft of modification to the Cambridge Employment Plan (ATTACHMENT B). She would like to go through the changes. She requested City Manager Healy to explain the law suit.

Mr. Healy stated that the residency ordinance in Lowell and Worcester is a violation of the law. Worcester was assessed a cost for the violation. Cambridge has the lowest unemployment rate in the state. Twenty percent (20%) of Cambridge residents list construction jobs as their occupation. The philosophy of employing Cambridge residents was left in the ordinance, but the percentage was stricken. The Court has stricken down local ordinances. The town of Plymouth received an advisory letter from the Attorney General suggesting that the ordinance not be adopted. This is not a negative action against unions. Cambridge is no longer a blue collar city. The City Council and the administration respect the work of unions.

Councillor Decker stated that this is a working meeting to acknowledge recommendations submitted by the unions. An ordinance committee hearing would be held on the proposed ordinance. She proceeded to review the amendments submitted by the unions.

Amendments one and two are acceptable stated Councillor Decker.

Mr. Bonfiglio stated that the language in amendment number three was reviewed statewide. The spirit of the amendment is to achieve a bona fide apprenticeship program.

Ms. Sutherland gave an example using the library project. The vendor is in trouble. Vendor has no apprenticeship program. The project was rebid. Vendor added apprenticeship program. Vendor was suspended then lost their apprenticeship program. Vendor let apprenticeship program lapse when the bid is received.

Councillor Decker stated that the City Council and Senator Galluccio wanted Cambridge youth sent to the apprenticeship program. An incentive is needed on recruitment for union and non union jobs. Cambridge’s population has changed and the city is no longer affordable.

Councillor Decker asked how does the city regulate and make sure that contractors have an apprenticeship program. Mr. Healy stated that the apprenticeship program should be certified by the state.

Mr. Sheehan stated that some large contractors with open shops run their own apprenticeship program and is certified by the state. Open shops market that their apprenticeship program has a 20% graduation rate and an 80% in the trades. Union representatives are trying to get youth into the trades. Mr. Bonfiglio stated that some non- union contractors have apprenticeship programs. This amendment is not against non- union contractors. He feels this is the most important amendment. This could be obtained if education is done before a worker begins a job. Councillor Decker stated that she wanted unions to be more aggressive about an apprenticeship program. Development brings more jobs to Cambridge when it is reasonable and thoughtful. If there is no community benefit it is difficult for the City Council to vote on development. Councillor Decker stated that she wanted language added to review the graduation rates. The state has control stated Mr. Healy. Construction reform is deforming. Construction costs have doubled for the police station and the contract was rebid. When made more restrictive there is a disincentive for a contractor to bid on a project. The original language allows for an apprenticeship program. Who wants to carry an apprenticeship program for work that the sub-contractor will not do for three years, he asked?

Mr. Bonfiglio stated that the goal is not to raise prices. Contractors need benchmarks which is the apprenticeship program. The unions are trying to restore language to achieve this goal. Councillor Decker wanted to see where this language originated. Mr. Bonfiglio would provide her with this information. Councillor Decker stated that she wants concrete benchmarks. This will show if the apprenticeship program is real commented Ms. Sutherland. Mr. Healy stated that he wanted the apprenticeship program to be uniform statewide. State agencies regulate apprenticeship program. Mr. Marshall spoke about upgrading the state regulation for apprenticeship programs. Mr. Healy stated that there is serious competition to get into the apprenticeship program.

Councillor Decker requested that local benchmarks be provided for the ordinance committee hearing, if it is worth exploring. This matter will be referred to the Ordinance Committee. Mr. Healy stated that his recommended changes are not subject to a time issue.

Mr. Sheehan asked if there was any figure on the employment status or the compliance of 25%. Mr. Healy stated that certified payrolls are received. Monitoring on compliance is done by the city. Councillor Decker commented that the city is not achieving the 25%.

Mr. Healy spoke about the residency requirement and how applicants move due to economic reality. The RSTA program has been strengthened.

On amendment number four Mr. Bonfiglio stated that the change is the last sentence. Mr. Healy spoke of the freedom of choice. There are a reduced number of sub-trades who are bidding on construction jobs. He will review this amendment.

On amendment number five Mr. Healy stated that the pension provision will be a deterrent. Companies are ridding themselves of pension plans. This is problematic. Mr. Bonfiglio stated that 5-6 communities have this provision. Councillor Decker wanted information on the other cities which have this provision. Mr. Bonfiglio would get this information also for Councillor Decker.

Councillor Decker thanked all those present for their participation. She stated that this is a good starting place and good conversation for the referral to the City Council and the Ordinance Committee. At this time Councillor Decker submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the proposed amendments to the Cambridge Employment Plan contained in ATTACHMENT B of this report is referred to the Ordinance Committee for consideration and hearing.

The motion – Carried

The meeting adjourned at three o’clock and forty minutes p. m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Marjorie Decker, Chair

AWAITING REPORT
08-25. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report how many children with IEP’s receive out of school assistance either written or not written into their plans.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 03/03/08 (O-5)

08-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what process is being followed to develop programs for the new West Cambridge Community Center.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/17/08 (O-15)

08-49. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #6
RE: report on establishing mini-grants for seniors and other low-income residents who might need to purchase flood insurance.
Councillor Maher and Full Membership 03/24/08 (O-14)

08-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on changes to the intersection of River Street and Mass Avenue to allow more pedestrian crossing time before vehicles are allowed to turn.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-15)

08-66. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the shortage of visitor parking at Neville Center.
Vice Mayor Murphy and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-17)

08-69. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #8
RE: report on testing of the Longfellow Bridge and the results of the environmental review.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher & Councillor Kelley 04/28/08 (O-20)

08-74. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on methods of collecting, maintaining, and analyzing traffic enforcement and accident data.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 05/19/08 (O-4)

08-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how local construction lighting could be limited to the minimum necessary for safety.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 06/02/08 (O-2)

08-80. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the number and location of pre-school facilities, the number of day care facilities, and the number of children served by these facilities.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 06/02/08 (O-5)

08-84. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether Massachusetts Water Protection Act or Rivers Protection Act empowers abutting or downstream communities to speak on or affect the outcome of a development permitting process.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 06/02/08 (O-7)

08-87. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether a residential unit can have a deed restriction placed on it preventing that unit from ever being able to receive a Cambridge parking permit.
Councillor Seidel, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves & Mayor Simmons 06/09/08 (O-11)

08-89. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #9
RE: report on any updates to the NorthPoint development.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 06/23/08 (O-4)

08-90. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #7
RE: report on how actions by the MBTA to move the station will allow the City to open up further negotiation with the future owner of NorthPoint and what plans the MBTA has for the current station location if a land swap is to be avoided.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 06/23/08 (O-5)

08-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans to relocate the Public Works Department.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 06/23/08 (O-6)

08-94. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on all athletic organizations that receive funding or in-kind support to include participation rates broken down by age, gender, socio-economic status and any other relevant categories of information collected.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher & Mayor Simmons 06/23/08 (O-12)

08-95. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on statistics of all formal enforcement actions involving excessive noise from January 2007 to June 2008.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 06/23/08 (O-13)

08-97. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #6
RE: report on any and all assessing options that might be available to assist homeowners who find their property in the new flood plain.
Councillor Maher, Mayor Simmons & Vice Mayor Murphy 06/23/08 (O-21)

08-98. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #11
RE: report on the impact of conversion to digital TV and the process for re-contracting for cable services since the Comcast contract will end in 2010.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-7)

08-99. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #2
RE: report on possible changes to the Yerxa underpass that might reduce or eliminate user conflicts.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-14)

08-100. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible changes to regulations and operating procedures for traffic and motor vehicle use that could increase efficiency and fuel conservation.
Councillor Maher and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-21)

08-101. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on working with Boston to create a polcy to keep truck traffic to a minimum within the City.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-25)

08-102. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #5
RE: report on improvements to the lot at the corner of Plymouth and Hampshire Streets.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-26)

08-103. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on neighborhood concerns including broken traffic lights, poorly situated policy details, snarled traffic and lack of advanced notice at the ongoing project at Putnam and Western Avenues.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-31)

08-104. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on truck traffic on Lexington Avenue.
Councillor Maher & Vice Mayor Murphy 07/28/08 (O-37)

08-105. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of using the parcel on Binney and Fulkerson Streets for a dedicated dog park.
Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Murphy & Mayor Simmons 07/28/08 (O-40)

08-106. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #3
RE: report on the number of other properties that could be affected by the Kaya Ka zoning petition.
Councillor Maher 07/28/08 (O-43)