Cambridge City Council meeting - Sept 8, 2014 - AGENDA
Councillor Cheung was ABSENT
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Nadia Davila as a member of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission for a term of three years, effective Aug 27, 2014.
Nadia Davila
Nadia Davila is a life-long Cambridge resident who graduated from Cambridge Rindge and Latin School. She received her B.A. from Fordham University in Cultural Anthropology and a certificate in Non-Profit Management and Leadership from Boston University's School of Management. Her work background includes a variety of teaching experiences in New York and Boston, through the Peace First organization, where she taught experiential social emotional learning and civic engagement curricula in K-8 classrooms, managed Community Service Learning projects, created and facilitated workshops for staff volunteers and community members, and coached, mentored and trained AmeriCorps members and interns. More recently she worked with One9Teen After Dark, in Cambridge, where she oversaw implementation and delivery of pilot teen programs in collaboration with Boys & Girls of Club Middlesex County, Community Art Center and Tutoring Plus. As a Project Investigator for Underground Railway Theatre, Ms. Davila researched social justice topics for investigative theater productions, coordinating her investigative interviews into scripts, and trained high school participants in leading community dialogues. Ms. Davila currently works as a Youth Engagement Coordinator for Cambridge's Kids' Council, where she supervises Youth Council members, collaborates on City policy and programming recommendations, and facilitates civic engagement and leadership development for Cambridge youth. Ms. Davila brings a wealth of experience working with Cambridge youth and will bring the perspective of that work to the work of the Human Rights Commission.
2. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a supplemental allocation from the Office of the Attorney General, Local Consumer Aid Fund for $7,000 to the Grant Fund License Commission (Consumer's Council) Salaries and Wages account ($5,000), to the Grant Fund License Commission Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($1,250) and to the Grant Fund License Commission Travel and Training account ($750) from the Attorney General's Office in recognition of the Cambridge Consumer Council's ability to provide mediation services for the Waltham and Somerville consumer offices.
3. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $50,000 from the General Fund Employee Benefits Salary and Wages account (Insurance) to the General Fund Electrical Travel and Training account (Judgments and Damages) to cover medical services and/or prescription reimbursement costs for electrical personnel injured in performance of their duties.
4. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a $27,000 donation from the Helen and William Mazer Foundation to the Grant Fund Community Development Department Extraordinary Expenditures account which will be used to purchase a bicycle counter.
5. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council for $20,000 to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations (Arts Council) Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used to provide mini-grants to artists, arts organizations and community groups in Cambridge.
6. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-72, regarding a report on evaluating parking around the Sullivan Courthouse.
Sept 8, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council:In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-72, regarding a report on evaluating parking around the Sullivan Courthouse, Traffic, Parking & Transportation Director Susan Clippinger reports the following:
The Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department, Traffic Engineering Division has completed a survey of the existing parking regulations near the Sullivan Courthouse at 40 Thorndike Street. We have also reviewed our files relating to the history of these parking regulations around the area and from this information we can make some recommendations that should increase resident parking now that the courthouse has closed and is being developed as a mixed use site.
Over the past five years we have increased the number of resident permit parking around this area. We have converted at least 31 parking spaces from unrestricted parking to 24-hour resident permit parking and recently have added eleven 6pm-8am resident parking spaces on Thorndike Street. These 42 additional resident permit parking spaces have increased the number of available parking spaces on the surrounding streets.
From our completed evaluation of the parking around the Sullivan Courthouse, we will implement some parking improvements that will benefit the residents in the area while maintaining enough parking for the remaining courthouse at 121 Third Street and other state/county offices located in the area. These parking charges are:
Second Street, east side of the street between Spring Street and Thorndike Street. Remove the seven time limit metered parking spaces and replace with 24-hour resident permit parking.
Thorndike Street, south side of the street between Third Street and Second Street. Remove the four handicap parking spaces and large loading zone and replace with time limit metered parking spaces from 8am-6pm and make this whole block resident permit parking from 6pm-8am.
These improvements will add an additional seven 24-hour resident permit parking spaces and another fourteen 6pm-8am resident permit parking spaces to the area. We will continue to evaluate the parking regulations around this area as the 40 Thorndike Street development plan evolves.
Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi City Manager
7. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-86, regarding a report on coordinating with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the opening of the Commonwealth's open data portal.
Sept 8, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council:In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-86, regarding a report on coordinating with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the opening of the Commonwealth's open data portal, please be advised of the following:
On Thurs, Aug 21, 2014, the Chief Information Officer and the Director of Communications and Community Relations met with Mariko Davidson, a Commonwealth of Massachusetts Innovation Fellow, to discuss the creation of a Federated Open Data Portal. The proposed one year pilot program would initially involve the City of Cambridge, City of Somerville, the City of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Ms. Davidson is currently in discussions with the City of Boston and the City of Somerville.
There are a number of outstanding issues that Ms. Davidson is working to resolve before the launch of the pilot program: obtaining sign-on from Boston and Somerville, creating a basic governance model for the pilot program, identifying the pilot program's goals, and identifying datasets that will be included in the pilot. The City will collaborate with Ms. Davidson as the Commonwealth develops their plan for launch.
The Commonwealth is working with the company Socrata to create the pilot portal. Currently, Cambridge, Somerville and Boston use the Socrata's open data platform. It is estimated that the pilot program will begin in November 2014.
Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi City Manager
8. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-32, regarding the feasibility of establishing an information hotline that residents can call to learn about and be connected to the social service providers in their neighborhoods
9. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of 21 Proof Training donations in the amount of $3,150 received from the Town of Weymouth for conducting 21 Proof server trainings at alcohol-serving establishments in Weymouth to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used to support the contract for the 21 Proof trainer.
10. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Angelo's Pizza donation for the Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program in the amount of $125 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account and were used to purchase gift cards for the MSYEP Best of the Best event.
11. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Let's Move donation from the Cambridge Public Health Department in the amount of $500 to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account and were used for a parent event focused on healthy eating and movement and spotlighting the lessons their children have learned.
12. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) grant for the Morse Preschool and the Peabody Preschool in the amount of $30,090 received from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care to the Grant Fund Human Services Salaries and Wages account ($3,237) and to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($26,853) and will be used to improve the quality of education for preschool children through professional development, curriculum enrichment, and parent involvement.
13. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-80, regarding a report on fluoride in the City's water supply.
14. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-75, regarding a report on possible options for preserving the Silver Maple Forest.
Sept 8, 2014
To the Honorable, the City Council:In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-75, regarding a report on possible options for preserving the Silver Maple Forest, please be advised of the following:
I have met with the Town Manager from Arlington, Adam Chapdelaine and the Town Administrator of Belmont, David Kale regarding the Silver Maple Forest. The position of each Town is summarized in the attached document, as well as supporting information from the DPW and Conservation Commission. Additionally, I have spoken with a representative of the property owner; a summary of that conversation is also included in the attached. Staff will be available to discuss these issues.
It is my view that although there may be a desire by some leaders in these communities to preserve the land for open space, there is not a clear indication that this will actually happen. The Cambridge City Council has in the past supported resolutions for preservation. I would be cautious about participating in any adverse actions concerning this property as potential legal costs could be extremely high and this would not be an advisable cause of action. As we state in the attached document, no Cambridge City utilities are servicing the development, and although the developer has plans for these from Belmont, that decision may have not been the most prudent from a fiscal point of view.
What I have determined is that the sale of this land, if it were ever available for sale, would be a very complicated and long drawn out process. The portion of the land in Cambridge is protected from development and if the City were to purchase the land located in Belmont, it would be extremely complicated and very expensive undertaking and in conflict with other important open space project needs that I see as greater priorities for future consideration by the City Council. Our list of current priorities include: land acquisition for a new Department of Public Works facility and the costs to redevelop the existing Hampshire Street site for a new purpose - possibly open space and housing; the total reconstruction of Glacken Field, Sennott Park and Linear Park; the continuation of our program to reconstruct school playgrounds and tot lots; and additional funds for streets, sidewalks and trees. In addition, we may consider land acquisition for a future City Cemetery.
As we consider our future expenditures for these projects, we must also be prepared to develop a strong reserve for the future needs of our City buildings. All decisions of this nature need to be within our financial plan to keep a realistic tax rate position for Cambridge residents and businesses. We will also be looking at increases in our spending for energy conservation projects and for commitments we may have in building a Net Zero Community.
Given a choice, I as well as other City leaders, would prefer the land to remain as open space, however the situations which have unfolded may not allow for that and I would not recommend intervention by the City of Cambridge at this time. If things were to change, the City would always be able to reconsider its position. If that became a reality, I would strongly recommend a broader discussion of open space needs throughout our community.
Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
15. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the Planning Board recommendation on the Carlone, et al. Zoning Petition. [Please note that this recommendation was submitted to the Ordinance Committee at its meeting of August 25, 2014 on this matter.]
Referred to the Petition
CHARTER RIGHT
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 14-26, regarding improving safety at the intersection of Cambridge Street and Cardinal Medeiros Avenue. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Three of July 28, 2014.]
Report Accepted, Placed on File
ON THE TABLE
2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Arts Council to determine the types of spaces that are most needed within the local arts community with the view of using the Foundry to fill those needs and to allocate appropriate funds to make appropriate upgrades for the purpose of creating a community arts center. (Order Amended by Substitution.) [Order Number Ten of Jan 27, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Mayor Maher on Jan 27, 2014.]
3. An application was received from Ting-hsu Chen requesting permission to widen the existing curb cut at the premises numbered 14 Soden Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Applications and Petitions Number Six of Feb 24, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Simmons on Feb 24, 2014.]
4. That the City Council go on the record in opposition to any type of casino project in the Greater Boston area whether constructed and managed by Mohegan Sun or Wynn Resorts. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Simmons on Order Number Five of June 16, 2014. Placed on the Table on the motion of Councillor Cheung on June 30, 2014.]
5. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on June 4, 2014 to discuss creating a new Chapter in the Cambridge Municipal Ordinance entitled "Prohibiting the Use of Wild and Exotic Animals in Traveling Shows and Circuses". [Committee Report Number One of June 30, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Benzan on June 30, 2014.]
6. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on June 18, 2014 to discuss revisions to the Cambridge Municipal Code Section 9.04.050 (A) Defacing public property of Chapter 9.04 entitled "Offenses Against Property". [Committee Report Number Five of June 30, 2014 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Benzan on June 30, 2014.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
7. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on Nov 22, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code by adding a new Chapter 8.68 entitled "Concussion Prevention and Management in Youth Activities at City Facilities." The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Dec 23, 2013.
8. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on Dec 19, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.67 entitled relating to Plastic Bag Reduction. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 24, 2014.
9. A communication was received from Paula M. Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee for a public hearing held on July 2, 2014 to discuss the Timothy R. Flaherty, et al. zoning petition requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge to expand the Medical Marijuana Overlay District, MMD-1 to encompass 61 Mooney Street. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Aug 11, 2014. Planning Board Hearing held June 17, 2014. Petition expires Sept 30, 2014.
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Mike's Pastry requesting permission for a blade sign at the premises numbered 11 Dunster Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development and Historical. Sign is pre-existing.
2. An application was received from Agenda for Children Literacy Initiative requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at City Hall announcing Family Literacy Fun Day at City Hall on Saturday, Nov 1st from 10:30 am-2:30 pm.
3. A constable bond was received from Mary K. DeCourcey for approval of the surety.
4. An application was received from The Abbey Restaurant requesting permission for three tables and six chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 1755 Massachusetts Avenue.
5. An application was received from The Field requesting permission for a sandwich board sign in front of the premises numbered 20 Prospect Street.
6. An application was received from Danger! Awesome requesting permission for a sandwich board sign in front of the premises numbered 645 Massachusetts Avenue.
Mazen ABSTAIN
7. An application was received from Danger! Awesome requesting permission for a sandwich board sign in front of the premises numbered 10 Prospect Street.
Mazen ABSTAIN
8. A zoning petition has been received from CJUF III Northpoint LLC to amend certain provision of the City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance that govern the Planned Unit Development in the North Point Residence District to allow limited amounts of off-street retail parking.
Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board
9. An application was received from Barakat, Inc. requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue at Pearl and Norfolk Streets announcing Barakat's 7th Annual Walk for Literacy on Saturday, Sept 27th.
10. An application was received from Philip Crutchfield requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 24 Mead Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Response has been received from the neighborhood association.
11. An application was received from Gillian Diercks and David Wing requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 58 Banks Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No neighborhood association for that area.
12. An application was received from Gautam and Victoria Khanna requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 242 Lakeview Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Response has been received from the neighborhood association.
13. An application was received from Salt and Olive requesting permission for a blade sign at the premises numbered 1160 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development and Historical. Sign is pre-existing.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Cindy Marsh and Hugh MacNeil transmitting support for PO #2 and #4 of July 28, 2014.
2. A communication was received from John M. Braithwaite regarding the East Cambridge Parking Garage and the redevelopment of the old courthouse on Thorndike Street.
3. A communication was received from Heather Hoffman regarding Council rules.
4. A communication was received from Rayna Jhaveri transmitting support for the Carlone Petition.
5. A communication was received from Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street, regarding Council rules.
6. A communication was received from Nancy Hausman, 201 Lexington Avenue, transmitting strong support of the Carlone Petition.
7. A communication was received from Gerald Bergman, 82 Elm Street, regarding the ongoing debate about the Carlone Petition.
8. A communication was received from Marilee Meyer, 10 Dana Street, in opposition to fluoride in the water.
9. A communication was received from Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street, regarding the Carlone petition.
10. A communication was received from Cathy Hoffman, 67 Pleasant Street, in support of the Carlone petition being passed to a second reading.
11. A communication was received from Carolyn A. Fuller, 12 Douglass Street, in support of Policy Order #10 to increase inclusionary housing.
12. A communication was received from Esther Hanig, 136 Pine Street, in support of Policy Order #10 to increase affordable housing.
13. A communication was received from Jesse Kanson-Benanav in support of Policy Order #10 to increase Inclusionary housing.
14. A communication was received from Jan Devereaux, 255 Lakeview Avenue, in support of the Carlone petition and Policy Orders #9, 10 and 12.
15. A communication was received from Nancy Ryan, 4 Ashburton Place, urging passage to a second reading of the Carlone petition.
16. A communication was received from Paul S. Stone, 219 Harvard Street, urging the enactment of the Carlone petition.
17. A communication was received from James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place, transmitting a copy of an article in the "New York Times" regarding a stand against the Mandatory Pledge of Allegiance.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Luc Schuster and Meredith Jones on their recent marriage. Councillor McGovern
2. Resolution on the death of James J. (Joe) Rodley. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher and Councillor Simmons
3. Resolution on the death of Brian P. Cashman. Mayor Maher
4. Resolution on the death of Peter A. Vellucci. Councillor Toomey
5. Resolution on the death of Mayor Emeritus Walter J. Sullivan. Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey and Councillor Simmons
6. Resolution on the death of John J. Gallagher Jr. Mayor Maher
7. Resolution on the death of Dr. James Roland Braithwaite. Councillor Simmons
8. Resolution on the death of Jurina Vellucci. Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey and Councillor Simmons
9. Resolution on the death of Alyson Marie Hopkins. Mayor Maher
10. Resolution on the death of John J. Doherty. Mayor Maher
11. Happy 60th anniversary to the Hong Kong Restaurant. Councillor Toomey
12. Retirement of Sergeant Richard Mederos from the Harvard Police Department. Councillor Toomey
13. Congratulations to Cambridge Police Sergeant Thomas J. Flynn on his recent promotion. Mayor Maher
14. Congratulations to Dr. Kaigham (Ken) J. Gabriel on being selected as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory. Mayor Maher
15. Resolution on the death of Colin Emery Whelan. Mayor Maher
16. Resolution on the death of Yolanda (Ciccarelli) Jennings. Councillor Toomey
17. Resolution on the death of Lorraine (Hebert) Gaspa. Councillor Toomey
18. Retirement of Paula Jones from the Department of Public Works. Mayor Maher
19. Retirement of Daniel Souza from the Department of Public Works. Mayor Maher
20. Retirement of Maryann Cataldo from the School Department. Mayor Maher
21. Retirement of Loretta Kehaylas from the School Department. Mayor Maher
22. Retirement of Antonette Nonni from the School Department. Mayor Maher
23. Retirement of Suzanne Quinn from the School Department. Mayor Maher
24. Resolution on the death of Daniel Pelrine. Councillor McGovern
25. Resolution on the death of Kate Thomas. Councillor Simmons
26. Resolution on the death of Catherine (Mazzullo) Lamantea. Mayor Maher
27. Resolution on the death of Catherine "Kay" (Lombardi) Quinn. Councillor Toomey
28. Resolution on the death of Richard Randolph Lovell. Councillor Simmons
29. Retirement of Bertha Chandler from the Cambridge Public Library. Mayor Maher
30. Condolences to the family of Esther Layne. Councillor Simmons
31. Resolution on the death of Paul F. Langley. Mayor Maher
32. Happy Birthday wishes to Mattie Hayes. Councillor Toomey
33. Happy 5th Wedding Anniversay wishes to City Councillor E. Denise Simmons and Mattie Hayes. Councillor Toomey
34. Happy Birthday wishes to Saundra Graham. Councillor McGovern and Vice Mayor Benzan
35. Congratulations to the Cambridge Hitmen co-ed baseball team on their 4th place finish at the 2014 Disney Turn Back the Clock Weekend Tournament. Vice Mayor Benzan
36. Resolution on the death of Hasani Najji Fisher. Vice Mayor Benzan
37. Congratulations to Janneke House on accepting a new position with the Office of United States Senator Kristen Gillibrand. Councillor Carlone
38. Congratulations to Lisa Hemmerle on the birth of her son Parker Riley Hemmerle. Mayor Maher
39. Resolution on the death of H. Ward Gay. Mayor Maher
40. Congratulations to Nicola Williams and Carnival International for hosting a successful and enjoyable Cambridge Carnival. Councillor Simmons
41. Resolution on the death of Helen G. (Coughlin) Murphy. Mayor Maher
42. Resolution on the death of Robert Nelson Wilson. Mayor Maher
43. That the City Council join the American public in pouring out their hearts in grief and sympathy for the family and friends of those who perished or suffered injuries in the attacks of September 11, 2001. Vice Mayor Benzan
44. Condolences to the family of Jason Quimby. Councillor Simmons
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Cambridge Police Department regarding what steps should be taken to increase enforcement against illegal parking in the MBTA bus stop at the corner of Cambridge Street and Sciarappa Street, in particular, and to enhance enforcement against this practice citywide and to reach out to local business leaders in East Cambridge to see how the City can work collaboratively to discourage people from parking illegally along Cambridge Street. Councillor Simmons
2. That the City Manager is requested to issue a report to the City Council that details how many City jobs have been outsourced to outside vendors since 2010, how the decision is made to consider outsourcing a job that was originally an internal hire, how the outside vendors are chosen, what the benefits to the City are of outsourcing these jobs to outside vendors, and whether individuals working in these positions have the same job benefits and protections as those who work directly for the City have. Councillor Simmons and Councillor McGovern
3. That the City Manager is requested to issue a report to the City Council that outlines what the City's hiring process is, whether Cambridge residents are given preference when applying for jobs, whether internal candidates are given preference over external candidates, and what the City's procedure is for encouraging employee advancement and professional development for current employees. Councillor Simmons and Councillor McGovern
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with Community Development Department and report back to the City Council with a summary of previous recommendations for the Volpe Center site included in planning studies such as but not limited to, ECAPS, Neighborhood Planning Studies, K2, and efforts by the East Cambridge Planning Team and that the report summarize zoning and zoning overlays, and outline the development potential and limitation of this area. Councillor Toomey
Amended
5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to discuss evaluating the intersection of Cardinal Medeiros and Bristol Streets for safety improvement. Councillor Toomey
6. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request from Marc McGovern and Dennis Benzan for a street corner dedication in honor of Peik Larsen. Councillor McGovern and Vice Mayor Benzan
7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Recreation Director regarding a request for a park in Cambridge to be dedicated to the Rousseau and Lusardi Families as part of "The Sandy Ground Project" to recognize the loss of the victims and teachers in Newtown, Connecticut. Councillor Cheung
8. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the status and the progress of the Task Force on Early Education Services. Councillor Cheung
9. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and any other appropriate City or State Departments to create a pedestrian stairway leading from the sidewalk on Alewife Brook Parkway to the Fresh Pond Mall parking lot. Councillor McGovern
Amended
10. The City Manager report back to the City Council with an update on work underway to recommend changes to the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance, next steps to be taken by staff and the City Council toward the goal of amending the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance to increase the ratio of required affordable units, and implications of such an increase so that the City Council can be prepared to take up changes to this important Ordinance. Councillor McGovern, Mayor Maher and Vice Mayor Benzan
Amended
11. City Council support of the Protection of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act (PAMTA)/Prevention of Antibiotic Resistance Act (PARA). Councillor Mazen
12. The City Manager is requested to work with the City Clerk and the IT Department to create a searchable, sortable public online resource which clearly displays all policy orders that have come before the City Council, including also: each City Council member's voting record, information on the City Manager's progress on each order, any departmental notes related to any given order, and an estimated timeline related to any given order. Councillor Mazen
Referred to Gov't Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee
13. That the per diem rate allowed in the Travel Policy be increased to $100 per day. Councillor Toomey
14. That Paula M. Crane be appointed to the position of Deputy City Clerk. Councillor Toomey
15. That the City Council hereby approves payment of claims against the City of Cambridge in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the report of September 8, 2014 Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee in the total sum of $928.00. Councillor Toomey
16. That the City Manager is requested to retain the services of area experts or a consultant and report back with a set of sample pro forma examples showing how formulas for development projects work, both under the current inclusionary ordinance and under various inclusionary updates or percentage increases. Councillor Mazen
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on June 10, 2014 to discuss the Planning Board petition to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Article 12.000 Planned Unit Development procedures.
Petition Placed on File due to Expiration of Time Limit
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Chair of the Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee for a public hearing held on Aug 14, 2014 to review expenditures/allotments in reference to the City Council Travel and City Council Resolutions with possible amendments, the position of Deputy City Clerk and any other items that may properly come before the Committee.
Report Accepted and Placed on File, two orders adopted 8-0-1 (orders #13 and #14);
Rule 38 - Travel Policy - Placed on Unfinished Business for one week
3. A communication was received from Marybeth Cosgrove, Operations Manager, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Chair of the Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee, for a meeting held on Aug 14, 2014 to consider claims filed against the City.
Amended Report Adopted; Placed on File; Order Adopted (Order #15)
4. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan, Co-Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on July 30, 2014 to discuss a zoning petition filed by Dennis Carlone, et al. requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge to designate the City Council as the exclusive special permit granting authority for Project Review Special Permits.
Referred to Petition
5. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan, Co-Chair of the Economic Development and University Relations Committee and Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee for a joint public meeting held on Aug 21, 2014 to discuss the progress of each STEAM subgroup and set action-oriented goals to be met before the end of the year.
Placed on File
6. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan and Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Co-Chairs of the Economic Development and University Relations Committee for a public meeting held on Aug 26, 2014 to follow up on the May 19, 2014 City Council Policy Order #6 (Attachment A) sponsored by Councillors Simmons and Cheung looking to hold preliminary discussions on how best to plan a Small Business Town Hall Meeting.
Placed on File
7. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan, Co-Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public meeting held on Aug 27, 2014 to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge to designate the City Council as the exclusive special permit granting authority for Project Review Special Permits.
Carlone Motion to Amend Failed 3-5-1;
Motion to Pass to 2nd Reading Failed 3-5-1 (Carlone, Mazen, Simmons - YES; Benzan, Kelley, Maher, McGovern, Toomey - NO; Cheung - ABSENT)
COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a communication from Mayor David P. Maher announcing the formation of a Special Mayor's Commission to explore the issues surrounding poverty and its effects on our community and Councillor McGovern will chair this Commission.
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting copies of two Acts of 2014 signed by the Governor, An Act Authorizing the Department of Conservation and Recreation to Lease Certain Parkland in the City of Cambridge; and An Act Authorizing the Commissioner of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance to Convey a certain parcel of land in the City of Cambridge.
3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a communication from Councillor Craig A. Kelley regarding public testimony at City Council committee meetings and hearings.
Referred to Gov't Operations, Rules, and Claims
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Sept 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Sept 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Sept 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Sept 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
6:30pm The City Council will conduct a public hearing to discuss the property tax rate classification. (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Oct 6
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Oct 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Mon, Oct 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway)
Tues, Oct 28
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss a proposed amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.28 entitled Restrictions on Youth Access and Sale of Tobacco Products and Smoking in Workplaces and Public Places. (TBD)
Mon, Nov 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Nov 12
3:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussions on creating a new Chapter in the Cambridge Municipal Ordinance Prohibiting the Use of Wild and Exotic Animals in Traveling Shows and Circuses. (TBD)
Mon, Nov 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 1
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 5
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 12
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 26
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: A number of residents utilizing the MBTA bus stop at the corner of Cambridge Street and Sciarappa Street have recently expressed great concerns about vehicles illegally parking in this bus stop to patronize the businesses in the area, and these residents state that this is happening much too frequently; and
WHEREAS: While motorists may feel they are causing little harm by parking in MBTA bus stops for just a few moments while they run into the local businesses, they are, in fact, forcing MBTA buses to double park and disrupt traffic, placing passengers attempting to enter and exit from the bus into harm's way, and causing the MBTA drivers to not see individuals who are standing at the bus stop, waiting to be picked up; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Cambridge Police Department and then report back to the City Council on what steps should be taken to increase enforcement against illegal parking in the MBTA bus stop at the corner of Cambridge Street and Sciarappa Street, in particular, and to enhance enforcement against this practice citywide; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to reach out to local business leaders in East Cambridge to see how the City and the business community can work collaboratively to discourage people from parking illegally along Cambridge Street, while still encouraging customers to patronize the businesses and restaurants in this area.
O-2 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: It has come to the City Council's attention that a number of positions, including various janitorial jobs and similar roles, have been outsourced to outside vendors, rather than being directly hired and directly employed by the City; and
WHEREAS: It is currently unclear to the City Council how and why the decision was made to outsource these positions, how many positions have been impacted, and whether individuals in these positions make comparable wages to what they would have earned when the positions were hired directly by the City; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to issue a report to the City Council that details how many City jobs have been outsourced to outside vendors since 2010, how the decision is made to consider outsourcing a job that was originally an internal hire, how the outside vendors are chosen, what the benefits to the City are of outsourcing these jobs to outside vendors, and whether individuals working in these positions have the same job benefits and protections as those who work directly for the City have.
O-3 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: According to the Community Development Department, more than 2,800 people, in positions ranging from custodians to top administrators, were employed by the City of Cambridge as of 2013; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has a long tradition of encouraging employers operating within this community to treat their employees fairly and respectfully, and to invest in their employees in ways that will allow them to flourish and reach their fullest potential, and the City of Cambridge should demand no less from itself as an employer; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to issue a report to the City Council that outlines what the City's hiring process is, whether Cambridge residents are given preference when applying for jobs, whether internal candidates are given preference over external candidates, and what the City's procedure is for encouraging employee advancement and professional development for current employees; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report on what kind of professional development and career advancement programs are offered to existing City employees, how employees are made aware of and encouraged to take advantage of these programs, and how much discretion department heads and supervisors have in determining which employees will have the opportunity to take advantage of these programs and be considered for career advancement.
O-4 Sept 8, 2014 Amended
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the United States Department of Transportation (US DOT) has issued a Request for Interest (FRI) for the development of the approximately 20 acre Volpe Center; and
WHEREAS: The redevelopment of the Volpe Center has been a topic for many decades and has been examined in a range of planning studies including the Eastern Cambridge Planning Study and most recently K2; and
WHEREAS: The Volpe Center was also explored independently by the East Cambridge Planning Team which commissioned a study by an independent firm; and
WHEREAS: The Kendall Square Residence Association has provided feedback on the Volpe site during the K2 process; and
WHEREAS: These studies have, over the years, produced a number of recommendations, zoning changes, and visions for the redevelopment and integration of these 20 acres in Kendall Square; and
WHEREAS: A reference document compiling information from various planning studies, zoning guidelines, site history, and open space planning processes, will be helpful in anticipation of future development of this federally owned parcel; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with Community Development Department and report back to the City Council with a summary of previous recommendations for this site included in planning studies such as but not limited to, ECAPS, Neighborhood Planning Studies, K2, and efforts by the East Cambridge Planning Team and that the report summarize zoning and zoning overlays, and outline the development potential and limitation of this area to include an explanation of how GSA coordinated projects, with no change of federal ownership, can be subject to State and local laws.
O-5 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: A recent car accident at the intersection of Bristol Street and Cardinal Medeiros Avenue has prompted safety concerns from neighbors; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to discuss evaluating the intersection of Cardinal Medeiros and Bristol Streets for safety improvement and report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-6 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request from Marc McGovern and Dennis Benzan for a street corner dedication in honor of Peik Larsen; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for its review and approval.
O-7 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: A request has been received from Emmanuel Lusardi, 15 Lambert Street, Cambridge, requesting that a park be named after the Rousseau and Lusardi families; and
WHEREAS: Anthony Lusardi III lost his fiance Lauren Rousseau, a teacher, in the Sandy Hook School shooting; and
WHEREAS: A group called "The Sandy Ground Project" was created to name playgrounds after the victims with a goal to build or rename playgrounds throughout the East Coast in memory of each of the victims of the Newtown, Connecticut shooting; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Recreation Director regarding a request for a park in Cambridge to be dedicated to the Rousseau and Lusardi Families as part of "The Sandy Ground Project" to recognize the loss of the victims and teachers in Newtown, Connecticut.
O-8 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the status and the progress of the Task Force on Early Education Services.
O-9 Sept 8, 2014 Amended
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: The Fresh Pond Residents Alliance and other community members have expressed concern regarding safety for pedestrians trying to reach the Alewife train station; and
WHEREAS: Many residents from Rindge Towers, Jefferson Park, and Rindge Avenue often cross the railroad tracks as a shortcut to reaching Fresh Pond Mall; and
WHEREAS: Pedestrian traffic has created a desire trail through the Massachusetts Department of Transportation-owned plot of land that separates Alewife Brook Parkway from the Fresh Pond Mall parking lot in the northwest corner of the lot, just south of Terminal Road; and
WHEREAS: The resulting dirt path is steep, often slippery, and crowded by growth, creating unnecessary hazard for pedestrians; and
WHEREAS: This City Council has an interest in pedestrian safety and increasing the walkability of this city; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation, the Department of Conservation and Recreation and any other appropriate City or State Departments to create a pedestrian stairway leading from the sidewalk on Alewife Brook Parkway to the Fresh Pond Mall parking lot ; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-10 Sept 8, 2014 Amended
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
MAYOR MAHER
VICE MAYOR BENZAN
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is dedicated to creating affordable housing to ensure that lower income residents have access to affordable housing and to preserve the diversity of the community; and
WHEREAS: Since its adoption in 1998, more than 500 new affordable units have been completed under the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance, helping thousands of residents remain in Cambridge as escalating housing costs have made it difficult for many lower income residents to remain the city over the last decade; and
WHEREAS: The Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance requires that 15% of units in a development be affordable, which with the addition of units allowed through the Ordinance's compensatory density bonus resulting in approximately 11.5% of total units in a development being affordable; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council has discussed and remains interested in exploring an increase in the Inclusionary Zoning requirements so that a greater number of affordable units could be created to assist low and moderate income households; and
WHEREAS: The Community Development Department has been considering how the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance might be updated to better provide affordable housing that meets the current needs of the city; and
WHEREAS: The Housing Committee action steps include inclusionary zoning, expiring use, the Nexus Study and eligibility of Community Development Department programs and a report back in September; now therefore be it
ORDERED: The City Manager is hereby requested to report back to the City Council with an update on work underway to recommend changes to the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance, next steps to be taken by staff and the City Council toward the goal of amending the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance to increase the ratio of required affordable units, and implications of such an increase so that the City Council can be prepared to take up changes to this important Ordinance.
O-11 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
WHEREAS: Eighty percent of the antibiotics sold in the United States are used in livestock production, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that most of those antibiotics are used irresponsibly; and
WHEREAS: Low doses of antibiotics are routinely fed to livestock for growth promotion and disease prevention to compensate for crowded, unsanitary conditions, in a practice known as "nontherapeutic use"; and
WHEREAS: "Nontherapeutic use" creates ideal conditions for the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria; and
WHEREAS: Antibiotic resistant bacteria on livestock operations are known to spread to retail meat, farmers and farmworkers, and human ecosystems; and
WHEREAS: Antibiotic resistance in pathogens due to nontherapeutic use of antibiotics in livestock production has been a public health concern since the 1960s; and
WHEREAS: Antibiotic resistant bacteria have been the cause of several foodborne illness outbreaks, including a 2011 outbreak of antibiotic resistant Salmonella in ground turkey that sickened 136 people, hospitalized 37, and killed one - and lead to the third largest meat recall in the USDA's records, in addition to a 2013 outbreak of antibiotic resistant Salmonella in chicken that sickened 416 people and hospitalized 162; and
WHEREAS: Americans, including residents of Cambridge, eat upwards of two hundred pounds of red meat and poultry per capita per year on average, such that there is a clear and present health risk in our community from antibiotic resistant bacteria;
WHEREAS: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that at least two million Americans suffer from antibiotic resistant bacterial infections each year and twenty-three thousand Americans die from those infections; and
WHEREAS: The medical and social costs of antibiotic-resistance infections in just one hospital for one year have been estimated to be between $13 million and $18 million; and
WHEREAS: The federal government has limited nontherapeutic uses of two classes of antibiotics, but otherwise largely relies on voluntary guidance to reduce overuse of antibiotics in livestock production, despite regular acknowledgements that nontherapeutic use and the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria pose a significant public health threat; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on the record in support of a statewide and national ban on nontherapeutic uses of antibiotics in livestock production; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council go on the record in support of the Protection of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act (PAMTA)/Prevention of Antibiotic Resistance Act (PARA); and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Cambridge Legislative Delegation on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-12 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
WHEREAS: Once a policy order is passed by the Council, there exists no public resource for citizens to stay informed on the implementation processes surrounding orders; and
WHEREAS: An online resource would benefit both the Office of the City Manager and the residents of Cambridge, improving accountability, transparency, and communication between all stakeholders, policy makers, and administrators; now therefore be it
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the City Clerk and the IT Department to create a searchable, sortable public online resource which clearly displays all policy orders that have come before the City Council, including also: each City Council member's voting record, information on the City Manager's progress on each order, any departmental notes related to any given order, and an estimated timeline related to any given order; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with a timeline for implementation of this project, including, for example, milestones such as: when an interim solution for low-tech quarterly reporting to the public on policy order status will be implemented, when internal solutions such as CRS, Remedy, and Office of the Clerk database tools will be consolidated and overhauled, and when a final solution that includes a new publicly accessible website will be available.
O-13 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the per diem rate allowed in the Travel Policy be increased to $100 per day.
O-14 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That Paula M. Crane be appointed to the position of Deputy City Clerk.
O-15 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council hereby approves payment of claims against the City of Cambridge in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the report of September 8, 2014 Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee in the total sum of $928.00.
O-16 Sept 8, 2014
COUNCILLOR MAZEN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to retain the services of area experts or a consultant and report back with a set of sample pro forma examples showing how formulas for development projects work, both under the current inclusionary ordinance and under various inclusionary updates or percentage increases.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition by the Planning Board to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Article 12.000 Planned Unit Development procedures. The three parts of the proposed zoning amendment would clarify the procedures for amending a PUD special permit and create an option for some amendments to require one public hearing (under current zoning, an amendment may be granted with no required public hearing or two required public hearings). It would modify the time within which a permitee must begin construction on a PUD project from one year to two years. And it would clarify that all owners of land within a PUD are subject to the requirements set forth in the special permit, even if ownership of land is separated after the PUD is granted, but that the special permit may assign specific rights and obligations to different components within a Development Parcel.
Date and Time: Tues, June 10, 2014 at 5:31pm.
Location: Sullivan Chamber
Attendees
Vice Mayor Benzan, Co-Chair; Councillor Carlone, Co-Chair; Councillor Cheung; Councillor Kelley; Councillor McGovern; Jeff Roberts, Land Use and Zoning Project Planner, Community Development Department; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.
Other Attendees
Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street; Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street; John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; Lee Farris, 269 Norfolk Street; Jim Rafferty; and Sarah Kennedy, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce.
Minutes
Councillor Carlone opened the meeting and stated the purpose at 5:10pm. He stated that the meeting was being recorded with audio and visual devices. He outlined the format of the meeting. He stated that the committee will hear from Mr. Roberts who will give a presentation (ATTACHMENT A).
Mr. Roberts stated that this PUD petition has been discussed with the Planning Board for some time. The Planning Board had its meeting on May 6, 2014. The date for final action is Aug 4, 2014 under 40A. A PUD is a planned unit development and covers a large area permitted as one integrated project with a mix of uses, buildings, open space and infrastructure. The reason for the PUD's is it allows for a more comprehensive site planning, more streamline process and for public benefits. The way zoning works under current zoning PUD districts are overlay districts. The overlay zoning creates a higher limit on density and height for development, but in exchange public benefit and open space are required and there is a more detailed process. North Point is the largest PUD. In order to be permitted two public hearings are required by the Planning Board. As a project moves forward it can last a long period of time. Individual components are required to come back to the Planning Board for review. There is a phasing process. There are provisions to make amendment to PUD. Over the last 35 years there have been 30 PUD special permits issued by Planning Board. A PUD designation lasts forever. Changes can be standards, economic conditions or transfer of ownership. Some PUD's have been amended up to 20 times. The Planning Board has identified ways to improve the process. There are three main changes to Article 12.000. The first change is to clarify the amendment process. To allow Planning Board to have a category for an amendment with only one public hearing required. The second change is extending the time the special permit is valid. PUD time is one year and it will be made consistent to be the same as other special permits for a period of two years. The last change was for the change of ownership; to clarify rules when ownership is divided.
Mr. Roberts spoke about the difference between a minor and major amendment. The purpose of clarifying the text is to continue some flexibility and provide guidance. A minor amendment would not change the dimensional character of the PUD. The Planning Board suggested adding text to both the major and minor amendment. Architectural changes to the character of buildings could be considered a major amendment. The Planning Board exercised judgment with written Planning Board determinations for minor amendments. If the Planning Board feels that the PUD concept is changed the proponent could be required to come back with a new proposal and two public hearing are required.
On the separation of ownership when there are projects where ownership is separate - all property owners are required to comply with the special permit requirements. In the special permit there can be a designation of right of certain sites. The special permit can outline a specific owner requirement. The Planning Board recommendation submitted amendment to the architectural character.
Councillor Carlone asked if there were any questions about the presentation.
Councillor Kelley commented that if we are looking at how the Planning Board does its business he would like to do things differently. Such as public comment integrated into a proposal by the proponent. Special permits makes things discretionary. He would like power to stay with the City Council. He wanted to look at the Planning Board hearing and decision process. It is not a good idea move forward on this proposed change before the master plan process.
Councillor McGovern stated that we need to hold off on changes to be made until we have a master plan. Is there any urgency to this petition? There is a fair amount of concern and anxiety in the community with the way the Planning Board has moved forward on some things. He would be concerned moving forward would reduce public input when citizens clearly want more public comment. Does this have to be done now or can this be held off? Mr. Roberts stated that the petition expires on Aug 4, 2014. The City Council could refile the current petition with changes. There is no specific issue warranting expediency. The Planning Board hears PUD proposals each year. This petition would provide benefits going forward. Councillor McGovern stated that he is sympathetic with the voluntary Planning Board who are being criticized. He does not think this is the right time to do this.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated that he is concerned about residents having a greater opportunity to have a say in design review. Do the proposed changes help residents have more input into the design review? Mr. Roberts stated that the PUD process requires two public hearing at Planning Board. The initial hearing is to look at the macro level of the petition. The second public hearing looks at the details of the petition and the Planning Board incorporates all the requirements, include site, roads, landscape design in the development plan. The amendment is to limit the public hearing to one, it does not require going all the way back to the beginning. There is still opportunity for public comment. The time line is still the same 90 days to reach a decision. Vice Mayor Benzan asked for an example of PUD if the proposed change were in place and where residents are given input into the design. Mr. Roberts stated that if a amendment were minor it would require written determination by Planning Board; a major amendment would require a public hearing. Vice Mayor Benzan stated that he would like to see the community given a greater influence in the process of the amendment. Mr. Roberts stated that with any amendment to a new proposal, minor or major there is opportunity for new restrictions to be added to the proposal. Vice Mayor Benzan stated that he wanted to see how wide the door is for the community. He felt it is premature to make a decision on this petition until the master plan is resolved. He asked how the petition evolved.
Councillor Carlone stated that the rational of the changes came out of what appeared to be redundant meetings where little or nothing was changed and a second hearing was required. It did not come from developers; it came from staff to streamline the process where it made sense. The period of one to two years issue makes a lot of sense especially if the economy changes. Most projects can request an extension and have indeed done so.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated he would like to hear from developers and residents about these changes. There are questions about the decisions that are made by the Planning Board. He wants to ensure that these changes benefit the public good, but he does not feel comfortable about this.
Councillor Carlone stated he is a proponent of design review and design review documents should be in discussed at the Planning Board and published on the city's website. He had concerns with some of wording in the petition. All four attending City Councillors would like to see a pause in this because of the master plan.
Councillor McGovern moved that this matter remain in committee.
Councillor Carlone stated that without more specificity the discretion of the Planning Board is an issue; it is related to producing more specific architectural/urban design standards and undertaking a stronger design review process.
Councillor Carlone opened Public comment at 6:14pm.
Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street, had concern about the discretion given to the Planning Board. Light pollution is being handled by the Planning Board chair as a design review issue.
Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street, stated that the devil is in the details. She spoke about the master plan process, New Street proposal and this petition. Most people do not pay attention in the summer and this makes a mockery of the public process. She is fed up coming to public hearings that will affect the environment. The scheduling is nuts. Creative ambiguity sounds good, but there are disputes and loopholes when developers decide later that they want to get something done. She does not oppose the three classifications of changes, but this needs to be vetted. The words "may" and "shall" have different meanings. She spoke about unintended consequences. There has been no input into this text from developers. There is no mention of signage or net zero and there are significant omissions. She submitted her comment for the record (ATTACHMENT B).
Lee Farris, 269 Norfolk Street, stated that there is a concern of residents to not give Planning Board more discretion at this time. The proposal's intent is good; however she is concerned about the vagueness of the language and the Planning Board submitting this petition. She has concerns about major amendment and new proposals. There is a danger for developers to use these changes and come before the Planning Board numerous times for the same development. Councillor Carlone stated that the total amount will still be fixed by the PUD. FAR may have to be taken from one building to add to another building. Ms. Farris spoke about a precedent set and the Planning Board keeps doing the same thing. She would like City Council and staff to clarify if there is any fail safe for differing opinions on minor, major amendments or new proposals.
Councillor Carlone summarized that the committee wanted more time since that the master plan conversations start this evening. Refiling the petition was also questioned by the City Council.
Councillor Kelley stated that if we are going to look at how the Planning Board does business we need to look at this more closely. If we look at changing the PUD, other aspects should also be looked at. He stated that commenting on design review does not mean that there is greater input on design review.
Vice Mayor Benzan suggested a Roundtable with the Planning Board; it would be a good conversation to have with the Planning Board. He asked how many PUD's were granted without a public hearing. Mr. Roberts stated that about a half ranging between major and minor amendments and the Planning Board erred on the side of having a public hearing on a major amendment. Minor amendments are specified in the special permit decision what is considered a minor amendment. Vice Mayor Benzan how many active PUD's does the city have?
Councillor McGovern and Vice Mayor Benzan moved to keep the matter in committee. The motion carried on a voice vote of four members.
An e-mail was received from Jan Devereux, 255 Lakeview Avenue, in opposition to the petition which would further restrict public participation in the process by reducing the number of public hearings required for PUDs (ATTACHMENT C).
Adjournment
On motion of Councillor McGovern the hearing adjourned at 6:34pm.
For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan, Co-Chair
Councillor Dennis Carlone, Co-Chair
Committee Report #2
The Government Operations Rules and Claims Committee will conduct a public meeting to review expenditures/allotments in reference to the City Council Travel and City Council Resolutions with possible amendments, the position of Deputy City Clerk and any other items that may properly come before the Committee.
MEETING DETAILS
Date and Time: Thurs, Aug 14, 2014 at 5:36pm.
Location: Anastos Room.
ATTENDEES
Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Chair of the Committee; Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen; Councillor Marc C. McGovern; Councillor Craig Kelley; Marybeth Cosgrove, Operations Manager, City Clerk's Office; Sandra Albano, Executive Assistant to the City Council; Richard Rossi, City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Lee Gianetti, Community Relations Director; and City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
OTHER ATTENDEES
John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; and Hasson Rashid, 820 Massachusetts Avenue.
MINUTES
Councillor Toomey convened the meeting at 5:36pm and explained the purpose.
TRAVEL POLICY
Councillor Toomey requested Ms. Albano to outline the travel policy. Ms. Albano stated that each City Councillor is allotted $4500 to attend conferences. The registration fee for the two NLC conferences does not come out of the $4500. The current per diem rate is $60 per day. She stated that to the best of her recollection the Travel Policy was last amended in 2007. If the per diem rate is chosen no receipts are required. If receipts are submitted they must be detailed to receive reimbursement.
Councillor Toomey stated that the $4500 amount is sufficient. An individual City Councillor can request the City Council to approve an additional amount for travel. Each City Councillor has $4500 travel per year. He stated that he would favor raising the per diem rate to $100 per day for food and travel expense.
Councillor Mazen questioned the cost per diem and lodging for the conferences. Ms. Albano stated that the $4500 covers both conferences. She tries to get the best price for the air fare, but stated that costs are escalating.
Councillor McGovern asked if travel expenses for attendance to conferences in which a particular City Councillor may have an interest in are they covered. Ms. Albano stated that it is covered by $4500. Councillor McGovern suggested that City Councillors report on the conferences in which they attend.
Councillor Kelley stated that he has attended a conference in DC and one on sustainability in NH. The question is about per diem. He needed to provide receipts because the per diem does not cover conferences other than NLC.
Councillor Mazen stated that the $4500 expenditure is not a lot when talking about 8 City Councillors plus a staff member attending conferences. He stated that the amount should be increased because of inflation. He suggested going to $5000. He made a motion to increase the allotment to $5,000. No action was taken on the motion. Councillor Kelley stated that he thought this was a bad idea.
Councillor McGovern stated that if $4500 covers two NLC conferences he has no problem leaving the amount at $4500. He asked if the City Council should think about receiving a report about the conferences that they attend. City Manager Rossi stated that people attend conferences because it is related to policy. Councillor McGovern stated that the perception is that the City Council are attending meeting for their benefit.
Councillor Toomey moved to leave the amount at $4500 and if more is needed the request needs City Council approval. Ms. Albano stated that travel outside the United States needs prior approval by the City Council.
Councillor Mazen questioned whether the reporting on conference attendance should be made mandatory. It is useful for the public to know what the money is being spent on. Councillor Toomey stated that each City Councillor could report on conference attendance if they chose to.
Councillor Toomey opened the meeting to public comment.
John Hawkinson suggested looking at a detail report at the maximum money spent over the last five years. He favored reports on conference attendance being on the agenda on Communication and Reports from City Officials.
The question now came on the motion submitted by Councillor Toomey as follows:
ORDERED: That the per diem rate allowed in the Travel Policy be increased to $100 per day.
The motion carried on a voice vote.
A draft Travel Policy is attached as ATTACHMENT A.
RESOLUTIONS
Ms. Albano spoke about the cost to mail out resolutions. It is difficult to get addresses to mail the resolutions to families. Cambridge funeral directors give addresses for the families, but this is not the same for out of the city funeral directors. This issue is getting out of hand.
Councillor Toomey suggested putting a cap on the amount of resolutions that could be mailed out for each City Councillor.
Councillor McGovern stated that he does hear from people who appreciate receiving a resolution from their City. He suggested having a set number per City Councillor.
Councillor Mazen spoke about being fair and whether this is political or a city congratulatory resolution.
Councillor Kelley stated that he does not like this. The lower the number of resolutions the happier he is or he favored having a set amount allotted to each City Councillor.
Councillor Toomey suggested doing research from January up to the present and divide by 9 to establish a set amount. Ms. Albano stated that this is easier said than done. Councillor Toomey commented that it cannot be said that only death resolutions be mailed out.
City Manager Rossi and Deputy City Manager Peterson stated that they favored an e-mail congratulatory resolution when sent to the staff.
Councillor McGovern brought up the new dedication process which puts some limits on dedication. He felt putting limitations on resolutions would reduce the number. He stated that he did not agree with mailing out resolutions for startup companies in Boston or the Best of Boston Awards or resolutions similar to this.
Councillor Mazen suggested that the City Council could have letterhead and write their own letter.
Ms. Albano stated that if she has a question regarding a resolution she goes to the sponsor of the resolution for guidance.
Councillor Toomey made a motion to keep the matter in committee and Councillor Kelley added that research be done in the meantime about how many resolutions are sent out.
The motion - Carried on a voice vote and the matter remained in committee.
Councillor Toomey opened the meeting to public comment.
Robert Winters stated that he liked the idea of putting fixed limits, but that it should be an informal rule and cap the resolutions mailed informally.
Councillor Mazen commented that he has tried Mr. Winters’ suggestion but his colleagues keep doing what has been done.
DEPUTY CITY CLERK
Councillor Toomey asked City Manager Rossi to give an overview on the position of Deputy City Clerk. Mr. Rossi stated that the Deputy City Clerk position when created by Ordinance allowed the City Council to appoint. Prior to this the position of Assistant City Clerk was appointed by the City Manager.
Councillor Toomey stated the he thought it was time to fill the position of Deputy City Clerk.
He stated that Ms. Crane has been filling the position and has been in the office for 25 years and has attended City Council meetings and Committee meetings. He support Ms. Crane to be put into this position. He applauded the work done by Ms. Crane and Ms. Cosgrove. Together with the City Clerk this is a good management team.
Councillor McGovern stated that he was impressed with the way the office stepped up in the absence of the City Clerk. He stated his support for Ms. Crane for the position of Deputy City Clerk; she has earned it.
Councillor Mazen spoke about the high volume of work of the City Clerk's Office and that it is handled with facility.
Councillor Kelley questioned why do we do this on this case and why is it different from other positions.
City Manager Rossi stated that the Plan E Charter states that the City Manager appoints all positions except City Manager, City Clerk and City Auditor which are appointed by the City Council. If the City Council wishes he will interview and sign the papers as the appointing authority. He stated that this position works closely with the City Council and if the City Council conducted the process it is an odd position. He stated that he will appoint Ms. Crane as the City Manager if the City Council recommends her as their choice.
Councillor McGovern stated that in the structure of government the system should be consistent.
Councillor Kelley stated that all nine City Councillors are excited that Ms. Crane would move into the position. He further stated that under the Plan E Charter the City Council does not hire Ms. Albano. Mr. Rossi stated that this is similar. The City Council recommends and the City Manager is the appointing authority that signs the paperwork. Mr. Rossi stated this is also the way the aides are appointed.
Councillor Mazen stated that there should be a process and what is the process in the event that there is no candidate. Mr. Rossi stated that this should be discussed for the future. This is a fairness issue when someone has been doing the work. Councillor Mazen supported going forward with Ms. Crane being appointed to the position of Deputy City Clerk.
Councillor Toomey stated that the City Council has for succession worked with people in the City Clerk's Office. The City Council is seeing the capable work of these individuals and if they are not qualified would not be appointed.
Councillor Kelley asked when could the City Council interact with the City Manager on issues such as this. Mr. Rossi stated that there could be more of a process in the future.
At this time Councillor Toomey made the following motion:
ORDERED: That Paula M. Crane be appointed to the position of Deputy City Clerk.
The motion - Carried on a voice vote.
Councillor Toomey opened the meeting to public comment.
Robert Winters stated that Ms. Crane is an excellent choice.
Councillor Mazen questioned discussing publicly funded election. City Manager Rossi stated that he would suggest a date to discuss this issue.
Councillor Toomey thanked all present for their attendance.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 6:27pm on motion of Councillor Toomey.
For the Committee,
Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Chair
Committee Report #3
The Government Operations Rules and Claims Committee held a meeting on Aug 14, 2014 beginning at 5:10pm in the Sophie Anastos Room.
The purpose of the meeting was to consider claims filed against the City.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Chair of the Committee; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen; Councillor Marc C. McGovern; Vali Buland, First Assistant City Solicitor; Sandra Albano, Executive Assistant to the City Council; Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk; and Marybeth Cosgrove, Operations Manager, City Clerk's Office.
Councillor Toomey convened the meeting and explained the purpose. Thereupon the committee moved to the consideration of the following claims:
David Metzdorf, 8 Shady Lane Drive, Burlington, MA 01803
Vehicle struck a pothole on Concord Avenue, Cambridge, MA
Approved
Claire Murphy, 28 High Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Vehicle struck a pothole on Park Avenue, Cambridge, MA
Approved
William J. Sarchioni, 44 Webster Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02141
Vehicle struck a sewer cover on Cardinal Medeiros Avenue,Cambridge, MA
Referred to the next meeting.
Councillor Toomey thanked all present for their attendance.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:33pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Chair,
Committee Report #3
Sept 8, 2014
ORDERED: That the City Council hereby approves payment of claims against the City of Cambridge in accordance with the recommendations set forth in the report of Sept 8, 2014 Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee in the total sum of $928.
Committee Report #4
To discuss a zoning petition filed by Dennis Carlone, et al. requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge to designate the City Council as the exclusive special permit granting authority for Project Review Special Permits.
MEETING DETAILS
Date and Time: July 30, 2014 at 4:08pm.
Location: Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway.
ATTENDEES
Vice Mayor Benzan, Co-Chair; Councillor Carlone, Co-Chair; Councillor Cheung; Councillor Kelley; Councillor Mazen; Councillor McGovern; Councillor Simmons; Mayor Maher; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development (CDD); Iram Farooq, Acting Deputy Director of CDD; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Jeff Roberts, Land Use and Zoning Project Planner, CDD; Nancy Glowa, City Solicitor; Vali Buland, Assistant City Solicitor; Mike Connolly; Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.
OTHER ATTENDEES
Elizabeth Stern, 20 Cambridge Terrace; Michael Hawley, 101 Third Street; Young Kim, 17 Norris Street; Patrick Barrett, 234 Broadway; Nancy Ryan, 4 Ashburton Place; Sarah Kennedy, 859 Massachusetts Avenue; Rhoda Fantasia, 4 Canal Park; Susan Yanow, 221 Norfolk Street; Elie Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street; Margaret McMahon, 14 Highland Avenue; Marie Elena Saccoccio and Betty Lee Saccoccio, 55 Otis Street; Claudia Majetich, 329 Concord Avenue; Kathy Watkins, 80 Fawcett Street; Jan Devereux, 255 Lakeview Avenue; Maty Babil, 120 Reed Street; Stephen Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street; Mike Cantalupa, Boston Properties; Sarah Gallup, Co-Director, Government and Community Relations, MIT; Peter Johnson, 25 Lakeview Avenue; Sheli Wortis, 106 Berkshire Street; Charles Teague, 23 Edmonds Street; John Howard, 8 Cogswell Avenue; Tom Stohlman, 19 Channing Street; Richard Krushnic, 20 Oak Street; O. R. Simha, 6 Blanchard Road; Bill Kane, BioMed Realty Trust, 101 Main Street; J. Yesselman, 160 Vassal Lane; Alan Fein, 30 Arlington Street; Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street; Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street; Cathy Hoffman, 67 Pleasant Street; Alice Heller, 22 Corporal Burns Road; Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street; Susan Ringler, 604 Green Street; John Ratlipp, 218 Thorndike Street; Annie Dunbar, 3 Foch Street; Devon Grodkiewicz, 88 Hammond Street; Peggy Barnes Lenart, 115 Fayerweather Street; Ilan Levy, 140 Spring Street; Lee Farris, 269 Norfolk Street; Genevieve Coyh, 230 Lakeview Avenue; Lang Keyes, 98 Chilton Street; James Rafferty, 675 Massachusetts Avenue; Cerli Behr, 257 Charles Street; Mark Boyes-Watson, 100 Pacific Street; John Hawkinson, 2 Clinton Street; James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place; George Metzger, 10 Bishop Allen Drive; Margaret Weyerhaeuser, 261 Lakeview Avenue; Phyllis Bretholtz, 65 Antrim Street; Vince Dixon, 60 Lake Street Winchester; Jonathan King; and Robert Winters, 366 Broadway.
MINUTES
Vice Mayor Benzan convened the meeting and stated the purpose. He announced that the meeting is being recorded with audio and visual device. He stated that e-mails received will be made part of the record.
At the request of Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor Carlone recused himself as he is the petitioner.
Councillor Carlone presented the petition. He read a prepared statement regarding the petition (ATTACHMENT A-1 AND ATTACHMENT A-2).
At the end of his statement he stated that the City Council has 9 goals which he read.
Vice Mayor Benzan opened public comment at 4:34pm.
Elizabeth Stern, 20 Cambridge Terrace, stated her support of the petition.
Michael Hawley, 101 Third Street, stated he support of the petition. He stated that he is saddened that on the Sullivan Court House that it will be the subject of litigation. The court house building is a wonderful building because it is so bad. All rules were broken when it the Sullivan Court House was built. This building prompted the need for and is the reason for the master plan. The Planning Board feels that they want to control the height and they are not sure they can and look to the City Council. Until there is a master plan the Planning Board cannot make these decisions on big projects. The law suit is another symptom of dysfunction. The building was a founding gift to city for a civic center. A variance cannot be followed by a special permit. He stated that it is not a non-conforming building.
Kim Young, 17 Norris Street submitted a statement (ATTACHMENT B). He stated his opposition to the petition. He stated that development does not stop with the special permit. The problem is not with the Zoning Ordinance, but with the implementation, The development process procedures need to be strengthened. He suggested a new position to oversee the special permits who would report directly to the City Manager.
Patrick Barrett, 234 Broadway, stated his opposition to the Carlone petition and hoped that the petition is rejected. The zoning process is broken. If we keep bring zoning petition such as this forward then we will have the zoning ordinances that we have today. It is within the discretion of the Planning Board to reject special permits. The City Manager has done an excellent job responding to residents and offering new appointments. He acknowledged the good work of the Planning Board. There are good reasons to keep the special permit process separate from the City Council.
Nancy Ryan, 4 Ashburton Place, spoke about her personal experience with traffic gridlock getting to the Summer Shack. A Planning Board member stated that he is not an engineer and cannot evaluate what flooding could occur if a large new development project is approved in a flood plain. She stated that the City Council should have a role in this process until a Master Plan is in place. There is no more important role for the City Council than the overall growth and well-being of the city and its residents. She stated that she has meet with the City Councillors who are against the petition because of politicization of development. The Zoning Ordinance needs to be overhauled. She believes that this will occur during the Master Plan process. She submitted her statement (ATTACHMENT C).
Sarah Kennedy, Director of Government Affairs, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, submitted a letter on behalf of the Chamber membership (ATTACHMENT D). She spoke of the professionalism of the members of the Planning Board. The Planning Board's review process is extensive and includes review of zoning, design guidelines, urban planning studies, noise and sign. She urged the Ordinance Committee to consider the negative impact of the Carlone petition on the future of the City. She requested that the Ordinance Committee refer the petition back to the full City Council with a recommendation not to adopt the petition. .
Rhoda Fantasia, 4 Canal Park, stated her support for the Carlone petition. She stated that it seems to her that we are in a position of great change and we have the opportunity to facilitate this change through working with the Planning Board, the City Council, Community Development Department and the City Manager to get some of the large projects right. There are some very interesting and yet undiscovered pieces of information that the Planning Board needs to hear which came about due to significant amount of neighborhood and residents research. The City Council can help the Planning Board take a hard look at what the large projects entail.
Susan Yanow, 221 Norfolk Street, stated that the planning process is broken; not the Planning Board. When asked to consider a plan and there is no expert testifying then the problem is bigger. The opposition to the petition are the developers. There is a clear need for the overhaul of the Zoning Ordinances. She stated that the City Council are responsible to the residents of the City and to be stewards of the future of the City.
Eli Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street, apologized for that the previous statement he made about the expertise of the Planning Board. Things have to be different because of climate change. The record of the Planning Board deliberations are a matter of public records. He stated that no careful discussion on the issues by the Planning Board is to be found in the transcripts. He questioned the capabilities of the City Council. The Community Development Department is loaded with expertise but it does not address the situation that the City is currently in. He questioned why a special permit is needed when a million dollar donation is given to city. He stated that he is favor of development. The issue is the question of growth. The CDD is lacking an economic forecaster, but it does have people who have been trained how to manipulate public process for a designated outcome. The abilities of Community Development Department were directed to exclude dissenting opinions then the information is not adequate. All studies are flawed.
Marie Elena Saccoccio, 55 Otis Street, stated her support for a master plan and the City Council having oversight on special permits. The Planning Board's vision for their role is rigid and narrow. They do not factor in discretion. The Planning Board has a formulaic approach to the special permit process.
She stated that if someone's vision is formulaic, the what good does it do that people have an opportunity to give input. The Planning Board views each special permit in a vacuum as if it does not relate to anything else in the City. She stated that the Planning Board does not get the big picture.
Betty Lee Saccoccio, 55 Otis Street, stated that she attended the Planning Board meeting last night which lasted to midnight. This is unfair to residents and the reason why a master plan and the Carlone petition is needed.
Claudia Majetich, 329 Concord Avenue, stated her support for the Carlone petition. The petition provides a thoughtful pathway for all voices to be heard before large scale developments are given final approval.. She stated that there is one problem with the master plan process and asked what will be permitted in the two year process of developing a master plan? During this time period nothing in the current processes will be altered. Something needs to be put in place to bridge the gap between today and the two years time. The petition bridges this gap. The Carlone petition is time limited during the master plan process and only applies to large development projects. The City Council is supposed to be political and work toward the concerns of those who elected them. The present situation favors developers. This petition offers citizens access to the planning decisions through their elected officials. She submitted her statement (ATTACHMENT E).
Kathy Watkins, 80 Fawcett Street, stated she is happy in her current home on Fawcett Street. There was flooding on Fawcett Street and the Planning Board needs to be aware that their actions affect other people's lives. She stated that the Planning Board has a responsibility to ensure that people are living in a safe place. She requested the City Council to think about the petition.
Jan Devereux, 255 Lakeview Avenue, supported the petition. She stated that the petition is a stop gap measure while collectively we repair and improve a planning and special permitting process that is widely recognized as broken. It is another layer of review for large developments that have impacts that the Planning Board feels is beyond their scope. She stated that in Alewife projects are being reviewed and approved piecemeal. The Planning Board does not have the discretion to consider the impact of traffic, flooding and the environment. These impacts are what planning is designed to address. There have been 429 units built on Fawcett Street and it is expected that Phase II of the AdodeZ project will come before the Planning Board soon and there is no new traffic plan for the traffic for all these new units. Developers are running the show. Residents feel that the deck is stacked against them. She submitted her statement (ATTACHMENT F).
Steve Kaiser. 191 Hamilton Street, stated that he was not a signatory on the petition. He saw an early draft and had mixed opinions. He went to the Planning Board hearing on May 20th and it was the worst hearing, both as a person testifying and listening to the abuse. The transcript of the meeting was worse. He is now a full supporter of the Carlone petition. He asked if work could be done better by the City Council and whether the Planning Board could work better. He stated an objective would be to ensure a structure that is consistently good. He urged the City Council to keep an eye on the Boston Redevelopment Authority and to avoid that fate. The Planning Board has no public comment period; it is only taken at public hearings. This should be stricken from the Planning Board's procedures. Those affirming are allowed to affirm their position. The Planning Board procedures are not the board's doing. There is no Traffic Engineer in the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and this department needs to work with CDD. He will give a written history of the Planning Board at a later date. One advantage of the Carlone petition is it would allow the Planning Board to do planning.
Sarah Gallup, Co-Director, Government and Community Relations, MIT, provided a written statement (ATTACHMENT G) with the MIT projects that have gone through the large project special permit review process. The projects included 70 Pacific Street and 610 Main Street. Regarding 70 Pacific Street and the concerns expressed by the Cambridgeport community, the City Council and City Staff changes suggested such as building design regarding parking spaces, retail and open space, building height and material, roof top mechanicals and pedestrian connections were included in the special permit and the project was improved. This was the same 610 Main Street.
Peter Johnson, 255 Lakeview Avenue, stated that he was swept up by the neighborhood enthusiasm. He has attended a Planning Board meeting that was contentious in which the Chair of the Planning Board stated that their hands were tied. He stated that the Planning Board is not a planning board.
Sheli Wortis, 106 Berkshire Street, stated her support for the Carlone petition until there is a master plan. Accountability and oversight is needed to protect the residents. What she has seen is overdevelopment which increases in traffic, pollution, demographic changes and less green space for children. The City is less diverse wherein the majority of residents are professional people.. The developments are adding to the problem. Oversight and protection from overdevelopment is needed. She urged support of Carlone petition.
Charles Teague, 23 Edmond Street, stated that it does not matter whether this passes or not. The Carlone is a compromise. There will be more meetings and community meetings for the master plan. His inventory of ugly is that there is a series of disconnects - the redline is at capacity which the City does not acknowledge, traffic backup, Affordable Housing data requested by citizens petition has not been received, 3D models for up zoning petition are not provided. How can development continue with these disconnects? The Planning Board is a problem. He urged changing the members of the Planning Board and change their rules and procedures; fix what is broken.
John Howard, 8 Cogswell Avenue, stated that every time the residents ask about the impact of several things happening at the same time, the answer is no. He stated his support of the Carlone petition because it signals that something needs to be done now and a way to get through the next two years. He spoke about the projects in his area. He stated that the Planning Board does not consider the impact of the projects on the neighborhood.
Tom Stohlman, 19 Channing Street, stated his question is who should approve certain special permits? The Planning Board is appointed by the City Manager who is hired by the City Council who is elected by the citizens. The Planning Board is three times removed from the voters. He stated that the question is does the City Council want the voters far removed or part of the process. He stated that citizens are too far removed from the process and feel that they are not being heard. He further stated that it take knowledge that there is a problem to do anything about it.
Richard Krushnic, 20 Oak Street, stated that the percentage of children and families has declined by half over the last 60 years because of economics and the marketplace. This has occurred because the City was attractive for certain kinds of economic development. As long as the market remains strong for high tech development and life sciences the development pressures that have caused the transformation in the population will continue. He stated that urgent action is needed now. He stated that 22 million square feet will be built out in Kendall Square by 2033; 10 million is in construction now. He asked the City Council to do something now and to give residents respect.
Bill Kane, BioMed Realty Trust, stated his opposition to the Carlone petition. He stated that the Planning Board has made decisions based on the criteria set forth in the zoning bylaws with other influence. He read a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT H).
J. Yesselman, 160 Vassal Lane, supported the Carlone petition because this process is broken and the status quo does not have the ability to address the problems. Traffic is a problem in Cambridge. He stated that Standish Street, the Tobin School and his home were flooded yesterday. If it had rained 1 additional hour Cambridge would have had a big problem. The petition raises the issues, visibility and discussion in the City.
Alan Fein, 30 Arlington Street, President of Kendall Square Association, read a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT I). He stated that the opposition to the Carlone petition on behalf of the KSA. He stated that as a resident of the City he did not elect the City Council to do this job and that the City Council does not have the expertise to make decisions on special permits. This topic will overwhelm the City Council.
Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street, stated that the City Council over time shifted their zoning powers to the Planning Board. The Carlone petition is a proposal to return in modest amounts some of the powers to the elected officials. She stated that all zoning is inherently political. She has seen over thirty years neighborhoods come before the City Council objecting to development that have proceeded nonetheless. She asked do you want to return the accountability and responsibility to the City Council for a period of time. The City is almost built out. This would take guts by the City Council to take this on to support the Carlone petition.
Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street, stated that this is an experiment worth trying. The process is contentious, but is inclusive. The process does not always work; the Planning Board operates with a rigid mindset. He stated that he would rather see decisions handled by people that the citizens elect. It will make for a better City Council and a better Planning Board.
Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street, suggested slowing down large scale buildings and development projects during the master plan process to listen and repair the development process. The legacy of the previous administration was seen in the meltdown of CRA. The Planning Board has a narrow vision and is not doing planning. Conditions for special permits cited in the law are minimum conditions, they are not maximum conditions. The Planning Board has viewed them as maximum conditions. MIT is not analogous to develop the court house and other projects. MIT is a captive resident. The Planning Board approves narrow vision and one time deals. She spoke about the legal opinions on the court house. The Planning Board felt that it was improper to question City Solicitor. She submitted a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT J).
John Ratlipp, 218 Thorndike Street, stated that it was important for the City Council to set framework and policy for the City moving forward. He stated that he feels the Carlone petition is trying to make this a reality with a comprehensive planning process. The petition spans the time between the master plan and the review of the Planning Board procedures. This is temporary and a time-limited focus on the larger projects. The Planning Board is not taken out of the process. The City Council is given the right to hire any experts necessary. He hopes that the City Council supports this petition.
Annie Dunbar, 3 Foch Street, stated her support for the Carlone petition. It is good to step back and look at the big picture. She favored elected official oversight.
Ilan Levy, 148 Spring Street, stated that the City Council is aware that there is a problem with the process. He wanted the City Council to take the weight off of the shoulders of activists. He urged the City Council to take a step in the right direction; it is an experiment. Input of people makes the projects better. This petition is only temporary. He would like the City Council to listen to the people and it is time to change the process and use this petition as a jumping board for a future master plan.
Lee Farris, 269 Norfolk Street, stated her support for the master plan process. The planning process needs improvement. The Carlone petition is a temporary fix for large project special permit review. The Planning Board does not use a big picture perspective. She stated that not all developers are going through the process that MIT and MITMCO have gone through. Many times developers seek special permits and they have not sent notices to the abutters. She supported the Carlone petition.
Genevieve Coyh, 230 Lakeview Avenue, supported the Carlone petition and the master plan.
Lang Keyes, 98 Chilton Street, stated that he is a city planner. He has spent a lot of time reviewing the Carlone petition. He enthusiastically supports the petition. He explained his decision. There are 4 crises he sees from 10 Planning Board hearing transcripts. They are Alewife, Planning Board, the city government and citizen trust. He ask why developments are not looked at in a planning concepts.
James Rafferty, 40 Larch Road, stated he has a Law Office at 675 Massachusetts Avenue, stated that the Planning Board becomes a community gathering place to protect their neighborhood. His concerns are the negative voices about the process are critical to the success of the City. HOe stated that Roger Booth gave an amazing retrospect of planning in the City. The Planning Board is applying the law, Chapter 40A. The members are volunteers who work hard. This proposal is poor policy and changes the role of the City Council. The City Council is the first point of contact when there is a special permit. You must apply the law. There are all types of limitations on communications that the granting authority may have. There are no ex-parte communications with Planning Board members. He stated that this is a quasi-judicial function. Conditions in Article 19 project review specify that there are 6 design guidelines to be followed as proposed by the City Council in the ordinance.
James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place, commented that the Planning Board is appointed by the City Manager. He stated that there is a lack of qualified candidates to submit their name as volunteers for the board.
George Metzger, Architect and President of the Central Square Business Association, submitted a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT K). He stated that in Cambridge the specific characteristics of each area of the City are reflected in the Zoning Ordinance. He stated that the role of the City Council is to find a common vision for the City and to establish rules and procedures that will encourage developments that achieve the vision. He stated that the overburdened City Council should not be interjected into this process.
Vince Dixon, 60 Lake Street, Winchester, stated his support for the Carlone petition. Times are changing. Cambridge is becoming more like Manhattan with the price tag with it. The appointment process across the commonwealth is flawed.
Jonathan King, stated that new construction means more people and more traffic. The Redline will be overwhelmed and streets are being choked off making it more difficult to do business. The Planning Board defends the "blinder" mentality. Their view is narrow. Under Plan E the authority of zoning is the responsibility of the City Council. The high tech companies are not looking to stay in Cambridge for 30 years. He stated that the City Council is derelict in their duty by leaving the special permit process with the Planning Board.
Robert Winters, 366 Broadway, stated his opposition to the petition. He highlighted how the process of as of right was downzoned by special permit criteria. The City Council wrote the criteria which may be out of date. The special permit criteria can be changed. It is a good idea for the special permits to be handled by Planning Board.
On motion of Vice Mayor Benzan public comment closed at 7:14pm.
Vice Mayor Benzan invited City staff to the tabled to discuss the petition.
At this time Mayor Maher moved to refer the petition to the City Council without recommendation and to continue the debate before the City Council. No action was taken on this motion.
Councillor Mazen stated that it was appropriate to hear City staff and for the City Council to have debate.
Councillor Simmons agreed with the motion made by Mayor Maher, but would support whatever the majority of the committee wanted to do.
Councillor Kelley stated that this is an awful idea. There are a lot of people that are concerned and he suspects that his opinion will not change the outcome. There is an undercurrent of anger. He does not believe that the Carlone petition is the answer.
Councillor Simmons stated that she would attend another Ordinance Committee meeting is it is just fact-finding.
Councillor McGovern stated his hesitation about continuing this meeting because he would like the opportunity to think this matter over with all of the public comment that was heard.
Councillor Simmons moved that the matter be held in committee and that another Ordinance Committee meeting be held before the end of August on the petition; said meeting format to begin with City Staff, questions from the City Council to petitioner and City staff and public comment.
The motion carried on a voice vote of five members.
An e-mail was received from Jacquelyn Smith, 7 Ashburton Place, supporting the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT L).
An e-mail was received from Jay Kiely, Forest City Commercial Group, in opposition to the petition designating the City Council as the exclusive special permit granting authority for Project Review Special Permits (ATTACHMENT M).
ADJOURNMENT
For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan, Co-Chair
Committee Report #5
The Economic Development and University Committee and the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebration Committee conducted a joint public meeting on Aug 21, 2014 beginning at 3:07pm in the Cambridge Public Library Community Room, Level 2.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the progress of each STEAM subgroup and set action-oriented goals to be met before the end of the year.
Present at the meeting were Vice Mayor Dennis A. Benzan, Co-Chair of the Economic Development & University Committee; Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen, Chair of the Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee; and Councillor Dennis J. Carlone, member of both committees.
Also present were:
Khari Milner, Cambridge EL/OST STEAM Network/Agenda for Children; Jake Crutchfield, Teacher; Joan Abrams, CRLS Biotech Program; Kathleen Fitzgerald, CRLS Teacher; Stephen H. Gardiner, STEM Connections; Paul Parravano, MIT; Gal Levin; Omo Moses, The Young People's Project; Ellen McLaughlin, Executive Director for Tutoring Plus; Sue Walsh, Assistant Director for Adult and Family Services; Meelynn Wong, Associate Director for Metro North STEM Network; Jacey Buel, Education Director for the Possible Project; Katherine Montero, CEO of Global Deeds; Barbara Dorritie, CRLS Science Teacher; Erin Euler, CIC Intern Program; Jon Galli, Assistant Director for Community Learning Center; Kristen Bonstein, The ArtScience Prize; Andrea Sachdeva, The ArtScience Prize; Amelia Barros, Mayor's Office; Jennifer Fries, Cambridge School Volunteers; Sung Kim, Cambridge Science Festival; Beverley Sobers, Director, Office of Workforce Development/DSHP; Roxie Coicou, Reverend at African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church; Sue Cusack, Lesley University; Emily Dexter, CPS Parent and Advocate; Paula Phipps, Child Development Consultant; Victoria Harris, Friends of CRLS; Sarah Hoffman, Mmmmaven; Jessica A. Artiles, Student at MIT, Technology & Policy Program; Art Bardige, Sustainablearning.
Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor Mazen opened the meeting and stated the purpose.
Opening Remarks (10 minutes)
Councillor Mazen explained agenda and detailed how the meeting would proceed. Vice Mayor Benzan thanked the public and stated he was really impressed with all of the work each subgroup was doing. To put things in perspective, he mentioned that about four weeks ago the Cambridge community suffered the loss of a young man on Windsor Street. Not only did Kensley David leave behind a 4-year-old child but also a grieving family and a grieving youth. "When I approach youth the first thing they talk about is the need to create jobs for young men and women in the community. This work is very important, more than ever before because this generation is feeling left out." The Vice Mayor stated that the way to make youth feel part of the community is to include them in its economic growth. He encouraged subgroup members to continue the great work they were doing and thanked them once more for all of their efforts thus far. Councillor Mazen explained that even in the worst-case scenario, the work of the subgroups would provide great context to the city. He expressed that it is the mandate of the STEAM working group to create a STEAM coordinator position so that the community can hold itself accountable of hosting STEAM programs and moving forward as a city. Councillor Mazen shared that there is huge willingness in the city to accomplish the group's STEAM goals and that there are a lot of resources that will aid in the attainment of these objectives. Before opening the meeting to public discussion, the Vice Mayor recognized the commitment of the city to ensure the success of the STEAM group. He mentioned that what is different about this group is the collaborative effort of its diverse membership-a body comprised of administrators, school officials, teachers, nonprofits, corporations, and students.
Councillor Mazen opened the meeting to public discussion.
Better Practices
Jake Crutchfield, 13 Jay Street, reported the team's findings. He stated that the group initially struggled to determine their purpose but they now have created four goals:
1- To create a definition of better practices both from organizations and programs.
2- To create a survey to send out to everybody involved in STEAM/STEM to give them an opportunity to share a little about themselves and offer their advice.
3- To determine how to best to have the Agenda for Children host an event about sharing better practices in the community.
4- To research other cities and learning what better practices they implement in their STEAM/STEM initiatives.
As for a timetable, they expect to finish and clean up their research of other cities' STEM/STEAM programming by the end of September. They will send out survey to the group by mid-September (Attachment A). They will read over survey results in mid-October. Near the end of October, the group will adjust their definitions of better practices based on survey results. By the end of September, they will find potential people to speak during the Agenda for Children's Symposium. Finally, Jake shared that he found researching other cities very important because Cambridge has a lot of dedicated people but there are other cities who are doing better than us and who have a lot to teach us. He recommended links with more information about STEAM and other cities. (More information on submitted document)
Andrea Sachdeva from the ArtScience Prize asked the Better Practices subgroup if their definition set out their criteria for assessing programs, to which Stephen Gardiner, another Better Practices member, answered that it has not set the criteria and that they refer to themselves as the better practices group because they are conscious that they all aspire to do better and not assume that they have the answer to everything.
Internships and Apprenticeships
Sue Walsh, Assistant Director for Adult and Family Services, reported on the progress on the subgroup. She states that there are a lot of interesting opportunities out there but they are not connected. One of the major challenges is connecting people to these programs, according to the group. She explained that her group generated a number of fundamental questions about students, teachers and about their needs, namely: What are students looking for in an internship? What do students need in an internship? What is the best way to teach students? What are better practices teachers can share? The group determined that there has to be an intermediary to teach students what they need to do on-site. Another problem area the group focused on was the quality of corporate internships. "It is very important for schools to know what is a quality internship. Furthermore, we need to be clear about what we define as a quality internship, what the expected advantage is for the student and what is the benefit for the corporation," she explained. Sue continued to say that her team also discussed coordination and funding. On the subject of coordination she asked, "How can we make sure that whatever we are doing supports what is happening at the school?" Sue expressed that her team decided to answer these questions by breaking into smaller teams: one is dedicated to determining how to prepare students and what needs must be met earlier so that they can take advantage of STEAM opportunities; another is termed the "Host Group" and it will analyze how corporate internships are structured and supervised; the third is the coordination and fund group created to assess the money required to fund certain internships, coordinate web portals and fund other STEAM opportunities; and the fourth is the "Miscellaneous Group" tasked with examining how can Cambridge learn from other countries and truly incorporate the A in STEAM. Their timeline is to continue research in August, meet with schools in September, draft recommendation in October, and revise their findings in November. They hope to have final recommendations before the end of the year. Sue stated her team will make it a goal to speak with representatives of the school department in order to ensure the school administration and the district are working in tandem.
Barbara Dorritie, a Cambridge Rindge & Latin School science teacher, shared that she teaches an engineering internship-based class and one of her biggest struggles is setting up a streamline process where students can be placed in labs in a timely manner. Barbara also urged subgroups to make a greater effort to involve teachers in conversations, and not just administrators, as they are the individuals working one-on-one with students and advocating for their class' needs. She reiterated that it is important to speak with STEAM teachers so that educators can voice their needs and concerns.
Councillor Mazen revealed that one of his most formative experiences was when he was accepted into an eight-week NASA program that completely challenged the way he thought about engineering. He asked MIT representatives if it were feasible to place students in an MIT training site, to which Paul Parravano, Co-Director for MIT's Office of Government and Community Relations, answered that strictures have made this placement difficult but that it is not impossible.
Vice Mayor Benzan addressed the working group and challenged members to suggest specific problem areas the STEAM coordinator should look into. Barbara Dorritie opined that the coordinator should work to connect students with labs and researchers because she considers that a full-time job. Kathleen Fitzgerald, a Cambridge Rindge & Latin School teacher, proposed that the coordinator should undertake all the legal aspects of connecting students with internships since it is often too much for teachers to do. Jennifer Fries from Cambridge School Volunteers stated that her organization can help the coordinator and teachers navigate the legal process behind internships. Kathleen Fitzgerald added that the city needs to be very thoughtful and clear about their expectations for the coordinator because STEAM is a large topic and one person cannot do it all. Councillor Mazen clarified that the STEAM coordinator will be more of a consultant who will work with the city. Joan Abrams from the Cambridge Rindge & Latin School Biotech program highlighted that even the use of the word "coordinator" is too definitive, there needs to be a structure for the task before the name of the position is established.
Stephen Gardiner suggested a slight variation in the coordinator process, "We should pick a target about things that we can actually do and get that done and build around that. It is very important for technology sector to know that there are outcomes and findings and what we are getting things done." Jessica Ortega, an MIT representative, proposed the hiring of a person to research the coordination position, have inside knowledge on all the subgroups' needs and concerns, and inform the City Manager on how to define the role. Councillor Mazen reminded the working group that there is no knowledge of money being put aside for all of the group's STEAM initiatives and that the City Manager should be brought back to the conversation.
Learners
Art Bardige from Sustainablearning presented the "Cambridge Challenge" on behalf of his subgroup (Attachment B). The idea is to have a big, exciting problem that will spark the interest of students with prizes that will incentivize them to get involved. "You say to kids, ‘Picture your future. Tell the city government how to think about this problem and how to start planning for it.'" Art illustrated. Once students develop a proposal and form a group, the Cambridge Challenge will connect them with a mentor and explain the prices associated with each level. He explained that an initiative such as this one will begin to unify youth and motivate students to participate in STEAM activities.
Andrea Sachdeva stated that a large percentage of the students that come through the doors of ArtScience Prize do not sign up for competitions. She mentioned that these students need to be supported and encouraged to participate in such activities. A huge barrier to entry is a program's accessibility so it is vital that competitions make students feel welcome. Ellen McLaughlin, the Executive Director for Tutoring Plus, agreed with Andrea and reiterated that this feeling can be accomplished if the initiative is thoughtful and well planned.
Vice Mayor Benzan commended the "Learners" group for being creative and proposing a fantastic idea. He shared that when he envisions a "STEAM Center" in Cambridge, he thinks of a place where these kind of activities take place-a place where students can discuss how to improve traffic flow, how to address climate change, how can we become a more resilient community and how can we be smarter about development. The Vice Mayor stated that Cambridge needs to begin encouraging and supporting its youth to tackle these problems and give them the resources they need to answer tough questions. He echoed the concerns of the "Learners" subgroup and reminded the working group to think of how best to spark the interest of our young students.
Ellen McLaughlin from Tutoring Plus remarked that the engineering process is such that one always has a problem to solve. The thoughtfulness of the critical thinking of what are the potential problems is a good place to start.
Reverend Roxie Coicou of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church raised questions about the nature of the problem at the center of the "Cambridge Challenge" and Art answered that it would be a central problem that will be changed each year. Councillor Mazen explained that what made similar challenges at MIT so interesting is that every single student knew it was happening. Almost the entire student body was involved in either directly helping or contributing to solving the problem.
Omo Moses from The Young People's Project asked the working group how did they foresee young people being engaged. Ellen McLaughlin responded that her team had discussed actively engaging the out of school community and going into the different programs that work with FMA students. She insisted this would have to be a grassroots endeavor, not a simple announcement. Art Bardige proposed that teachers make the "Cambridge Challenge" their STEAM project of the year. He stated that if the idea grows to be a citywide project, the organizers should really sell it, develop models and present the idea to students. He suggested sending out groups who will sit with students and incorporate their ideas.
Paul Parravano praised Omo for raising the questions and added that it is important to give kids the tools and the opportunities. He mentioned engaging teachers in a way that does not add to their stress. Kathleen Fitzgerald added that motivating students is also about encouraging school administration and departments to do this type of work because that is the best way to reach all the students. The Vice Mayor resolved that part of this is creating a culture of learning within Cambridge. He stated that a significant number of our children are not recognizing how connected math, science and engineering are to what is happening in Kendall Square. Building culture is a good way to engage those who are not traditionally engaged.
Messaging and Outreach
Sarah Hoffman from Mmmmaven presented on behalf of the group. She expressed that the team was initially having difficulty in solidifying a mission statement. They have, however, finally started compiling a list of programs and organizations they would like to reach. It is important to them to have a lot of community input. A question that they are working on is how to cultivate energy in the group. She mentioned the WOW project as an example. Her organization surveyed those who attended to learn how to get the momentum going and create a buzz for future events. They would like to join events like the STEAM Day at the MFA and attend different community pride days in order to continue their outreach efforts.
Stephen Gardiner suggested the team research how other cities are messaging and learn from their marketing strategies. Sung Kim from the Cambridge Science Festival reminded the working group that the festival is a community resource and the idea is for it to be a great moment for nonprofits, local businesses and other organizations to come together get involved in hands-on science experiments. She explained that for the Curiosity Challenge, the target audience is elementary-aged students and that they try to get to the crux of celebrating their curiosity by sparking new questions in them and encouraging them to share their questions with others. She articulated that the Cambridge Science Festival would like to be a resource to the community and help the working group reach out to the community.
Omo Moses urged working group members to share upcoming STEAM events with the group in order to begin discussing how to engage stakeholders, as it is vital to understand what they're expecting to get.
Ellen McLaughin agreed and further explained that the team should also think about how to create a cycle of communication and streamlining. She proposed forming a focus group on a challenge, another on how to engage the community, another on out of school time, and the last on communication. The STEAM coordinator should focus on the immediate high school level and how to connect them with the corporate level.
Cambridge Public School parent and child advocate, Emily Dexter, voiced that there are a couple of different goals and together they may be in conflict, particularly to engage students, to reach out to students, and to use STEAM to push schools; however, there has been no mention of a strategic plan around literacy and numeracy at earlier grades. STEAM opportunities are not possible if children are not reading at grade level. She concluded, "We should use the excitement around STEAM to also raise awareness about the importance of literacy and language."
Jennifer Fries made an announcement about NetPals' expansion endeavor for the fall term.
Khari Milner from the Cambridge EL/OST STEAM Network and the Agenda for Children spoke on messaging. He put forth that the messaging piece should answer the question "Why STEAM?" He justified his statement saying that this can help us understand why somebody will be less likely to participate in the "Cambridge Challenge" versus any other. He briefly encouraged asking more people in the Art fields to join the conversation and then challenged he working group to ponder on the questions: "Why a STEAM center?" "Why is this important?" "What will happen to our city if we do not achieve our STEAM goals?" "How will the landscape change if people continue disconnected from the economic growth taking place in Cambridge?" He stated that this is also how the working group can create urgency; this is the time for the community to make a change and innovate in the city in a way that is more inclusive. Khari clarified that his goal with the Agenda for Children and the EL/OST STEAM network is to hear the action steps and think how can the community catalyze or support different initiatives and share the responsibility of seeing them through. He concluded by saying that the community needs to coordinate what are its assets and make sure that everybody is pulling in the same direction.
Strategies for the Future
Councillor Mazen encouraged the working groups to strategize about how exactly will they achieve their established milestones, and how will they establish mutual accountability.
STEAM Coordinator Position
Councillor Mazen asked the working group to think about how to pitch this idea in a way that incorporates the goals of the City Manager and his staff. He also asked the team if they felt a STEAM coordinator research position was needed. Ellen McLaughlin asked Khari Milner if there was a way he could synthesize his findings and the working group's research and streamline that process. Khari replied that all the work his organization and the working group have done can be put together to create a mission statement. Andrea Sachdeva stated she has done a lot of program evaluation and strategic planning; something she has learned is that the group must clearly define its goals, assign roles and delegate tasks in order to be effective.
Stephen Gardiner declared that the group must be practical about the STEAM coordinator position and acknowledge that this position calls for "24/7 leadership. " He expressed that for this the group needs money and something tangible that reports on the group's achievements. Art Bardige put forth that each group should draft a calendar and create timelines for a report must be finalized by the end of the year if the group wants the position to be in the budget for next year. He explained that the group needs to determine a job description and develop a calendar leading up to that goal.
Councillor Carlone advised that the deadline should be early October.
Jacey Buel, Education Director for the Possible Project, stated that the working group is lacking a sense of urgency. He mentioned that since the group is no starting from scratch, things should be moving along faster. While members are sitting at meetings, there are teenagers our there throwing beers at wastebaskets. He urged the working group to go out there and try out their ideas. He mentioned that the coordinator needs authority and that the city has these systems in place; if the city waits too long to engage students the college dropout rates will increase.
Sue Walsh added that this is a long race and that there is a long vision. She stated, "We can talk all we want but we have to make sure what we are doing is aligned with what the superintendent wants to do and what the City Manager wants to do." She said that the working group should garner the wonderful energy in the room yet be clear about expectations.
Stephen Gardiner requested Khari begin drafting a job description that the rest of the team can revise and edit. The rest of the working group committed to working on this description.
The Vice Mayor began to close the meeting by thanking the legislative aides, Pamela M. Rosario Perez and Dan Schwartz, for managing the group and the administering the listserves. He remarked on the protesting taking place in Ferguson, Missouri and noted that Ferguson is a city that lacks the opportunities that Cambridge boasts. He reminded the working group that the team's objective is to make sure that every youth that goes through our school system can get a job in Cambridge. He stated that what happened in Ferguson can happen in Cambridge, in Boston, or any other part of our state. He concluded with, "We have a lot of youth in our neighborhoods who are doing things they shouldn't be doing; we have the task of improving that situation. What we are saying at this moment is that we are empowering ourselves to do this. When we go to the City Manager and present him our recommendations, we are showing him that we feel we can make a big impact. We have a lot of work to do but we can get this done and really be in a unique place."
Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor Mazen thanked all those present for their attendance.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:46pm.
For the Committees,
Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan, Co-Chair
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Co-Chair
Economic Development & University Relations
Councillor Nadeem A. Mazen, Chair
Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration
Committee Report #6
The Economic Development & University Relations Committee conducted a public meeting on Aug 26, 2014, beginning at 6:01pm at 831 Massachusetts Avenue, Basement Conference Room.
The purpose of the meeting was to follow up on the May 19, 2014 City Council Policy Order #6 (Attachment A) sponsored by Councillors Simmons and Cheung looking to hold preliminary discussions on how best to plan a Small Business Town Hall Meeting.
Present at the meeting were Vice-Mayor Dennis Benzan; Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Councillor Dennis J. Carlone; Councillor Nadeem Mazen; Chris Basler, Project Planner, Economic Development Department; Iram Farooq, Acting Deputy Director, Community Development Department; Neal Alpert; and Paula M. Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office.
Also present were Sarah Kennedy, Director of Government Affairs, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce; Charles Marquardt; Frank Kramer, Co-Chair, and Jaclyn Sinay, Executive Director, Cambridge Local First.
Councillor Simmons stated that Town Hall meetings are designed to invite people from various constituencies into City Hall to have them speak directly to the City Councillors and administrators, sharing their thoughts on areas in which the City adequately addresses their needs, and on ways that the City might need to improve. She noted that it is a chance for the people to speak and the City leaders to listen. Councillor Simmons stated that past Town Hall meetings have resulted in City Council Orders and a written summary of the meeting being presented to the City Council and formally entered into the record. She stated that the expectation is that this will happen following this upcoming Town Hall meeting. She noted that today's meeting is a chance to determine what that meeting should look like, whom to invite, how to conduct outreach, what the goals of the meeting are and when the optimal date to hold a Town Hall meeting might be.
Councillor Simmons stated that there are many types of businesses in Cambridge and noted the importance of finding ways to effectively reach all members of the business community whether they are micro businesses, small businesses, Mom and Pop Stores or large corporations. She commented that she has had conversations with some Central Square business owners who are concerned about parking issues. She noted that cleanliness, parking, and having Cambridge be an inviting place to visitors and customers are regular topics of concern for business owners.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated that he has given lot of thought to subject. He stated that he lives in Area 4 and frequents local convenience stores, which he thinks of as small businesses. He stated that when he has visited the small store on Norfolk Street he has noticed that the shelves were not stacked with inventory and that the façade does not look like the storefronts in more affluent areas like Huron Ave. He stated that the owner is struggling financially and asked him if he could help recover fees from a bank. Vice Mayor Benzan stated that he thinks about access to capital and how we the City can introduce small businesses to small banks for financing. He commented that there are many businesses in Area 4 that could present themselves better to the community by way of façade and building improvements. He stated that he would like to explore the possibility of accessing capital and how these struggling businesses can evolve to a different place. He noted that many of these businesses do not have websites. This may be the type of program that could help some businesses promote themselves. Vice Mayor Benzan stated that he would like to see more diversity in the restaurants in Central Square. He stated that there are no restaurants there that sell Caribbean food and noted that there is only one Latino restaurant in Area 4. He stated that the question is how to bring Izzy's or the Coast Café to Central Square and questioned what is keeping these kinds of businesses from coming to Central Square.
Councillor Simmons stated that that the goal of a Tall Hall Meeting is to hear from people. She reiterated her desire to get feedback from people who run all levels of businesses. She noted that the large businesses are fairly well represented, while the micro and small businesses are not. She stated that in many small businesses it is difficult for the owner to leave the premises and suggested the possibility of teleconferencing for the proposed Town Hall Meeting, at least for those business owners who would otherwise be unable to attend. She questioned if it would be effective to have a Town Hall Meeting and then go out into teams and talk to small businesses. She noted that while the City Council can make policies that support the business community's needs, it is imperative that this Town Hall Meeting be executed in such a way as to retrieve the largest amount of input from the business community.
Councillor Carlone stated that he is trained as an architect/urban designer. He noted that his view is even broader than sponsoring local retail and activating business. He stated the identity of a neighborhood is very much tied into the local retail. He commented that it is a multi-fold issue which entails having the appropriate infrastructure and the use of special permitting. He stated that if a business is of local benefit, there could be rent reduction brought about through tax abatement. A tax abatement would have to be added to the burden of homeowners and larger business owners to promote businesses that give positive aspects and local ownership. He stated that this could be the difference in keeping a bakery on Cambridge Street as opposed to bringing in a chain like Dunkin Donuts.
Frank Kramer stated that from the point of view of a small business, it is important for the small business owner to know that the City cares, and this is not always communicated effectively to the small business owners. He stated that there are many Mom and Pop businesses in the City. He stated that Chris Basler does a great job in Inman Square and is well-known within that community. The Inman Square community then responds. He stated that this does not happen in every part of the City. He stated that having access is important. He stated that when he first inherited his small business as a twenty year old in 1962, he had no knowledge of all the City supports that were available, or else he would have been taking advantage of them. He commented that a program that was well-documented and publicized would have encouraged him to get involved. Mr. Kramer said that things have improved within the last ten years and the City, as well as the City Council, is very receptive and encouraging to small business owners. He stated that Cambridge Local First wants to represent the small businesses that cannot get out of their shops to City departments, and that the organization would like to help spread the word about the various City programs and supports. As it relates to encouraging small businesses, he stated that many members would love to know that there are small spaces available. He stated that the Local Economy Week that takes place every year encourages small businesses to thrive. He stated that more access will be gained if the programs become more high-profile.
Mr. Kramer stated that the real key to the issue is collaboration and utilization of Cambridge Local First and the Chamber of Commerce to access businesses. He stated that business owners will show up when it is worthwhile and that time and location can make or break a meeting or event. He noted that consolidation of efforts would be great way for more people to participate.
Councillor Mazen stated that cities have seen a huge impact on who comes into a City when funding or a tax incentive is available. He stated that Boston recently had a great opportunity to apply for empty storefronts in downtown Boston. He noted that all the business owner would pay is approximately $2,000 per month. These were pop-up uses and a pipeline for underused spaces for businesses that need to get their training wheels off. He stated that businesses that grow are great but we forget how many five-person businesses there are in Cambridge right now, and many of these could be poised to grow into 500 people companies under the right conditions. He added that Cambridge lacks some of the networking that is available in other cities, and that there should be "speed dating" style events for smaller businesses and larger businesses. He stated that the City needs to network along training and workforce development that has the outcome of an increased level of skills in a very specific way. He stated that there is not a mutual communication between smaller Cambridge businesses and larger businesses.
Sarah Kennedy stated that the Chamber of Commerce has been having conversations about internships and externships to students in Cambridge. She noted that capital seems to be an impediment for micro and small businesses to expand. She stated that this is a subset that needs to be focused on. She stated that we need to expand these relationships so that more can be done. By way of example, she told of a small business that is opening in Harvard Square, and she noted that the owner was quite savvy in reaching out to the Chamber of Commerce for information and assistance, before cautioning that not all small business owners are as savvy as that business owner. She stressed the importance of broadcasting information about the various support programs to business owners, because many would not otherwise know to go to the Chamber of Commerce. She noted that visiting the businesses and bringing the information to them is very important in helping them to succeed.
Councillor Carlone questioned if there are partnering banks that are more open to the idea of working with smaller businesses. Sarah Kennedy stated that the Chamber of Commerce has worked quite a bit with Eastern Bank. Frank Kramer stated Cambridge Savings Bank, East Cambridge Savings Bank and Cambridge Trust are very interested in supporting businesses in the city.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated that a bank fair would be an important piece to reaching small businesses. This would give smaller business owners the incentive to attend and participate, as well as provide an opportunity to interact with financial institutions.
Councillor Mazen stated that as it relates to capital, he is in the process of seeing a Las Vegas mogul courting his business to move from Cambridge to Las Vegas. He stated that Cambridge deserves to be a place where there is a quarter of a million dollars on the table when businesses have proven their financial viability. He noted that we are losing ventures to New York, San Francisco and to the west of Boston. He noted that Boston is traditionally conservative when it comes to providing capital to businesses, but Cambridge does not have to be.
Iram Farooq asked Councillor Mazen how other places are more agile. Councillor Mazen stated that Boston has been conservative but there are two types of things outside of Boston- high risk/high reward and cities that have said, "Let's get big funds together." He stated that Cambridge can do that but the questions would be "how to structure that" and also "do we want to do that?"
Iram Farooq stated that there are already programs that cater to some of the specific areas discussed at this meeting. She stated that part of the discussion is how the City can do better job of getting word out to people about programs that they can tap into. The strategy is boots on the ground and talking to people, but there is still a question of what the City can do to better market the existing programs? There are workshops for small business owners, but in terms of the question of how to reach people, the idea of marrying these workshops to something that people really want, such as having banks/investors, is a fabulous idea to entice more people. Ms. Farooq stated that going to where people are in small satellite groups and holding drop-in sessions - where a person is not committing to a long period of time - tend to work well. Councillor Carlone asked if satellite sessions are successful. Iram Farooq answered in the affirmative. She stated that on-site visits are a benefit because you get to see people that would you would not normally see. She stated that social media and surveys on Survey Monkey could help the City frame something that might be customized to people's needs. Ms. Farooq added that a new business owner has to be proactive as well.
Sarah Kennedy stated that it is important to ask a small business owner what they need and noted that it is also important to communicate to the owners what is already happening and what is available to the businesses in the City.
Councillor Simmons stated that it is always easy to come up with a solution to a problem that we perceive. She stated that her approach, and the basis for the proposed Town Hall Meeting, is "Tell me the problem and we will solve it together." She reiterated that Cambridge does a lot to support small businesses, but people don't know what Cambridge does. She asked how the City could get in front of new businesses. Councillor Simmons asked for suggestions on how to inform business owners of the benefit of contacting the Community Development Department, since those who are not necessarily familiar with the various City departments are not going to know to go there. Instead, they will likely go to City Hall seeking assistance, not knowing which department to ask for.
Chris Basler stated that it would be great to collaborate more with organizations in Cambridge. He stated that there is a lot of information available. He noted that Cambridge Local First is an organization that advocates for businesses. He stated that it would be beneficial for the City to better educate and inform its staffers about the programs that exist to support small businesses. He noted that the Small Business Administration did have a Small Business Week in May that included a networking program that brought in large businesses and allowed the participants to talk to procurement officers. He stated that workshops are offered as well as information as to how buy or sell to the City of Cambridge. An Open House or business Town Hall Meeting would be a great opportunity to push that information out there.
Charles Marquardt stated that businesses aren't noticing what the City offers them, so much as what the City has taken away. He cited the example of trash pick-up. He stated that for years his business trash was picked up by the City. He then received a letter stating that the City would no longer be picking up his business trash. He was told that this was because the City was unable to calculate how much it would cost to pick up the trash. He said that when people see what services the City isn't capable of, it makes them wonder what else they're unable to do. He stated that Chris Basler is great and noted that the programs are wonderful. He stated that making the processes simpler would be helpful to businesses. He stated that Zinneken's took an additional six months to open because of zoning issues and different usage. He stated that zoning needs to be fixed. When asked if he hired any Cambridge residents, Mr. Marquardt stated that he has hired nine employees in last six months with not one response from a Cambridge resident. He stated that small business owners cannot find Cambridge residents to work at entry level jobs. Mr. Marquardt asked where the universities are in the conversation. He stated that they should be the biggest supporters of the local economy. He stated that the City should encourage university students to get out their rooms and shop local. He also stated that parking in the City is generally terrible. He stated that bump outs are being installed all across the City and they take away public parking spaces, hurting local businesses.
Councillor Simmons stated that the bump outs are part of traffic mitigation but noted that this is the perfect example as to why the City needs this type of forum. She stated that a Town Hall Meeting would allow the City Council to make decisions in collaboration and consideration of those impacted. Councillor Carlone noted that bump outs are usually installed where it is illegal to park.
Councillor Simmons stated that she has heard a lot of good ideas. She noted that she especially likes the idea of satellite forums and discussions. She stated that while it is easy to contact membership of the City's business associations, Cambridge Local First and the Chamber of Commerce, it will be more difficult to get in contact with the micro businesses.
Chris Basler stated that CDD works with the business associations. He stated that in the past the Department of Public Works and the Central Square Business Association went door-to-door handing out information about getting updated information and making sure that contact information was up-to-date as well as providing information about the storefront improvement program. He stated that while this went very well, it took a long time to cover just a few blocks. He stated that if the City works with the business associations with designated areas, it would help a lot. Councillor Simmons commented that perhaps a meeting with the business associations asking for their assistance in creating satellite teams would be beneficial. She stated that if businesses are paying a fee for membership to these associations and they feel that they are not receiving much of value for that fee, it is prohibitive. She stated that this must be a hands-on approach.
Frank Kramer stated that the Cambridge Local First has a program called Local Thirst sponsored by Eastern Bank in local restaurants. It is a social event with Cambridge Local First members who collaborate. He stated that the City could also collaborate and attend these events, which would be another reason for people to attend. He noted that the CDD programs are great but there is low attendance. He noted that City departments, when called, answer questions well. He stated that educating City employees about the fact that the city is welcoming of local businesses would be a very good thing.
Councillor Simmons stated that informational packets could be distributed to new business owners who go to the City Clerk's Office to file a Business Certificate. She stated that this is one of the first experiences a new business will have with the City and it would be beneficial to the business owner.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated that there is inequality for a lot of small businesses. He noted the big difference between store fronts in Area 4 versus the Porter Square corridor, Cameron Avenue and the Huron Avenue area. He stated that this difference has to do with inequality. He stated that if you visit a convenience store on Huron Avenue and then go to convenience store on Columbia Street, the way they look on the inside is very different. He would like to address that issue. He stated that it is important to take into consideration that a lot of small businesses are not represented by a business association. He questioned how the City could help businesses to enroll in these associations. He questioned the possibility of waiving membership fees. He stated that it is important to engage businesses in fun ways. He commented that having a small business expo would be great. Vice Mayor Benzan stated that visits to businesses would be the best way to do any outreach. He noted that if CDD needs more resources to conduct this outreach, the City Council needs to know that. He stated that it is key to divide the City into the geographic areas. He asked how to utilize social media. He said that it would be a key component to have a Facebook page or Twitter account that would identify all of the storefronts. He noted that the City has a lot of resources in place but there is more outreach that could be done.
Councillor Carlone stated that he worked on retail businesses as a consultant to Boston for about 5 years. He stated that he worked on disinvested buildings. He stated that buildings that have not had investment need much more beyond restoring the façade of the building. He asked about reimbursement for storefront upgrades. Chris Basler responded that the amount is $125,000 which includes design services. He stated that an increase in those funds might help. He stated that a great case can be made based on district and need. Vice Mayor Benzan stated that it would be good to create zones to revitalize areas. Iram Farooq stated that monies were targeted in these zones for a while. She stated that it is only recently that the program has been opened up.
Councillor Simmons stated that the City is guilty of not getting necessary information out to the business owners, and that it is not a matter of the programs not existing.
Councillor Simmons stated that she is looking at a date down the road to have a Town Hall Meeting so that the Committee can come up with a plan of information-sharing. She stated that she likes the satellite team idea and stated that we could lead up to that after having representatives of the business associations in the room in order to ask for their assistance. If you put together teams that organize work to include as many neighborhoods as feasible, they could then come back to the City Council with an update.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated that the youth of the City could be involved in the project by going into the small business community to gather information. He stated that there are a lot of projects in the youth centers where the youth are paid. Councillor Simmons stated that she likes the idea of incorporating the City's youth but stated that it would be imperative to have the youth in a chaperoned environment, and that we would not want to send the youth to gather the information alone. She would want to make certain that this effort yields good data. Councillor Mazen stated that he submitted an order about street teams, and that this idea seems to tie into his council order. He stated that the City Manager had questions. He stated that early discussions have been similar to what Vice Mayor Benzan has described. These are stipended students with one supervisor mentor. He stated that if we give kids the tools, they can do it. Councillor Carlone asked about the age bracket. Ms. Farooq stated that they are senior high school students and a few college students.
Councillor Carlone asked if the storefront brochure includes a record of how each of the deals has happened. Chris Basler answered in the negative. Councillor Carlone stated that it might be great to have case studies and examples. Chris Basler stated that they do not put price value (before and after) on the brochure.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated that it is important to think about funding. He stated that if someone cannot afford the membership fee to a business organization, what can be done? Frank Kramer stated that the City and Cambridge Local First could work together to get the funding. He stated that a subsidy from the City and a reduced membership fee from Cambridge Local First would make clear the collaboration through an organization that can go to bat for them. Sarah Kennedy stated that she was unable to answer at this time.
Councillor Simmons stated that she is looking towards dates to have a series of events with the culmination of a final event. She stated that another meeting will take place to further discuss this topic.
Vice Mayor Benzan and Councillor Simmons thanked all those present for their attendance.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:29pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Co-Chair
Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan, Co-Chair
Committee Report #7
Ordinance Committee - To continue discussion on a zoning petition filed by Dennis Carlone, et al. requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge to designate the City Council as the exclusive special permit granting authority for Project Review Special Permits.
MEETING DETAILS
Date and Time: Aug 27, 2014 at 5:49pm.
Location: Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, 459 Broadway.
ATTENDEES
Vice Mayor Benzan, Co-Chair; Councillor Carlone, Co-Chair; Councillor Cheung; Councillor Kelley; Councillor Mazen; Councillor McGovern; Mayor Maher; Iram Farooq, Acting Deputy Director of CDD; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Jeff Roberts, Land Use and Zoning Project Planner, CDD; Vali Buland, Assistant City Solicitor; Mike Connolly; Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office; Paul Creedon, Business Production Analyst/Project Manager, City Clerk's Office; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.
OTHER ATTENDEES
Elizabeth Stern, 20 Cambridge Terrace; Vivek Sikri, 64 Allston Street; Jesse Kanson-Benanav, 26 Willow Street; Robin and Gregory Finnegan, 31 Hubbard Avenue; Jan Devereux,, 255 Lakeview Avenue; Dick Clarey, 15 Brookford Street; Carolyn Mieth, 15 Brookford Street; Priscilla McMillan, 12 Hilliard Street; Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street; Walter McDonald, 172 Magazine Street; Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street; Robert Camacho, 24 Corporal Burns Road; Lorgun Austin, 28 Bristol Street; Paul Stone, 219 Harvard Street; Bethany Stevens, 100 Spring Street; Marge Amster, 10 McTernan Street; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; Stephen Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street; Hugh Russell, l Corliss Place; David Chilinsky, 221 Hampshire Street; Merhi Sater, 92 Pearl Street; Michael Hawley, 101 Third Street; J. Shulman, 92 Pearl Street; Sarach Kennedy, Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue; Paula Phipps, 227 Hurley Street; Esther Hanig, 136 Pine Street; Peggy Barnes Lenart, 115 Fayerweather Street; Heather Hoffman; James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place; Acha Schattlett, 198 Lexington Avenue; Lee Farris, 269 Norfolk Street; Susan Markowitz, 20 Oak Street; Jacqueline Piret, 79 Upland Road; Rob Dickey; Charles Teague, 23 Edmunds Street; Jeb Ratty, 218 Thorndike Street; and Sam Seidel.
MINUTES
Vice Mayor Benzan called the meeting to order at 5:49pm. He stated the purpose of the meeting. He stated that the meeting is being audio and visually recorded.
Vice Mayor Benzan read a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT A) in which he stated that the
The Ordinance Committee held its first public hearing on the Carlone petition on July 30, 2014 and continued the hearing to this date to give city staff time to present and for the City Council to debate. The Planning Board held a public meeting on Aug. 5, 2014 recommending the petition not be adopted (ATTACHMENT B).
This hearing began with City Staff who gave a presentation.
Ms. Farooq began the presentation. She discussed the Project Review Special Permit (PRSP) process and the recommendation by Planning Board. She stated that the PRSP provision was established in 2001 in the Citywide Rezoning as a result of three years of planning work done by Community Development and other city departments with community involvement. Some of the elements of rezoning included creating incentives for residential development across the city. It reduced commercial density by one-third. There was concern about large development projects. This applies to all development over 50,000 square feet. There had been concern about traffic and this particular PRSP also required a traffic impact study which was not previously the case. Urban design objectives are reviewed by the Planning Board when a PRSP is granted. A negative recommendation has been made by the Planning Board on the Carlone petition. The provisions are the same whether the Planning Board or the City Council are reviewing the project. The City Council would have to work with same guidelines and criteria. The City Council has the right to make modification to the provisions so if the City Council is not happy with the decision, the provision itself should be evaluated. This provision has been in place since 2001 and the Planning Board has thirteen years of experience. There are aspects that may be changed. The Planning Board is enthusiastic to work with the City Council and the public to make these changes. It would be helpful to have a different procedure for the Planning Board to make the process more transparent and have better communication. The Planning Board and staff will work to enhance the transparency and to make changes to fine tune the process.
Jeff Roberts stated that Community Development put together some information. One piece is 4-page piece that first part is a memo to Planning Board (ATTACHMENT C). On last page, this is a new thing where they tried to condense and summarize Project Review and Special Permit cases since 2001. There have been 49 PRSP granted, 2 PRSP applications were withdrawn, 5 PRSP were granted, but not built. In terms of the process, he pointed out that in terms of the way the Planning Board practice tends to work, when cases comes before Planning Board there is no motion to approve or deny immediately. The Planning Board reviews the project and hears public comment. If the Planning Board is not satisfied that issues are not met it is sent back to proponent to come back to the Planning Board with changes. The cases are usually decided in more than one meeting. The average time for the SPPR is 10 weeks from hearing to final decision. He stated that 40% are commercial and residential with the remainder 20% institutional. There are public benefits are not included in the PRSP. In total, about 850 or more affordable units, most from inclusionary housing. For larger projects, they are required to make improvements to roadways, sidewalks, lighting, etc. that might be directly impacted by the project. Many are new construction that are replacing low-scale former industrial buildings. Many projects do have some component of historic preservation. In terms of 6,000 plus housing figure, there are virtually no projects that involve elimination of existing housing. Handful of projects have contributed to the city making future studies of what some needs are for the area.
Mr. Roberts stated that (ATTACHMENT D) gave examples of projects in front of the Planning Board. This shows what kind of changes take place as a result of the review. He gave PRSP examples for 33 Cottage Park Avenue and Sidney Street.
33 Cottage Park Avenue-this project went through re-zoning process. When it came to the Planning Board the proposal was for 67 multifamily housing units. Through project review, slightly smaller multi-family housing with addition of two families on the edges. That, along with changes, had a lot to do with what the Planning Board was hearing from neighbors. Project was setback in elevation and an increase of setback from Linear Park.
Sidney Street - this was in Cambridgeport neighborhood. Redevelopment of industrial, then lab then to housing. Project reduced to 96 units after discussion with the Planning Board, instead of 1, 2, and studio, three bedroom were added. Façade was improved.
At this time Vice Mayor Benzan asked what is the pleasure of the City Council.
Councillor Kelley questioned whether the BZA can issue special permits. He stated that Jefferson Park is under the purview of the BZA. Mr. Roberts responded that If a Special Permit is required by both BZA and the Planning Board they can be rolled into one case and the Planning Board can grant the permit and this is not contained in Carlone petition. Councillor Kelley asked what is the legal recourse on a decision made by the City Council if the decision is appealed. First Legal Assistant Vali Buland stated that appeals are handled pursuant to Chapter 40 A, Section 17. She stated that if members were sued in their capacity the City would defend pursuant to Chapter 40A. Councillor Kelley asked what happens in December 2016 when the Carlone petition expires and the master plan. Ms. Farooq stated that the City Council could vote to extend the petition or it reverts back to the Planning Board.
Councillor Carlone stated that in the introduction by the Vice Mayor, he did not mention that this is a temporary power as was just discussed and he wanted to make sure that was understood. He stated that in the Planning Board recommendation on page 2 the intent is for Special Permits to be normally granted when the criteria are met, as set forth in the Zoning Ordinance, unless the granting authority finds particulars of project, not the particulars of the zoning, cause it to be to the detriment of public interest for a specified reason. That is the issue at hand with regard to the Courthouse and Alewife area. There was some discussion on whether this is a way to get all Special Permits on projects to be supervised by the City Council. That is not the intent of the petition.
Councillor McGovern asked about 49 PRSP that were granted. He has heard some say that the 49 approvals represents a rubber stamp. Others say that as long as developers meet the criteria the Planning Board has to approve the applications. He asked for CDD interpretation. Is the Planning Board obligated after changes to then approve because that would explain the numbers. If that is not the case, he wonders why the numbers are what they are. Ms. Farooq stated that there are 2 kinds of zoning relief to seek: special permit and variance. The difference is that a Special Permit is generally granted for something that is anticipated in the zoning ordinance. There is base zoning and you can be allowed extra that is capped but you have to get a Special Permit in order to achieve that and the understanding is that in the process you are going to do certain positive things and meet the criteria. If you meet those, you achieve a Special Permit. You have to go through that procedure just by virtue of being a large project. If you meet criteria, you would be granted the Special Permit. If something is not anticipated in the zoning, they would have to go through variance process. To achieve the variance, they have to demonstrate that there is a hardship. The test is a lot harder when you have to get a variance. Mr. Roberts added to grant a special permit, if the Planning Board finds that the project meets criteria, in the zoning, then the Planning Board is obligation to issue a special permit. The Planning Board practice is if the Planning Board sees issues with the project the practice is to send back to the developer with comments and revise the proposal. This can take 28 weeks. He stated that 240 Sidney Street came back to the Planning Board five times. He stated that the two withdrawn applications are considered denials. Developers may not want to meet the demands of the Planning Board. Councillor McGovern stated that the Planning Board is obligated to grant a special permit if the criteria is meet. The City Council sets the criteria. Guidelines do not have to be met, but the criterial must be met. Ms. Farooq stated that all the criteria must be met; guidelines are weighed. Mr. Dash stated that the Planning Board is expected to use their judgment in that they are meeting broad categories and will make a good project. They are often not numerical criteria. They are looking for them to have judgments on design issues.
Councillor McGovern stated that when he saw 49 to 0, he questioned how that could be right. If the legal advice is that they are obligated to approve these, at the end of the day they must do that. Mr. Roberts stated that approvals are with conditions - continuing design review, more interaction with neighbors. There are caveats on improvement. Councillor McGovern stated that maybe a legal opinion is required on whether the Planning Board is obligated to approve PRSP. He asked if 76% of the projects are sent back at least one time? Mr. Roberts responded in the affirmative. Councillor McGovern stated that his concern is that by the time a plan goes before the Planning Board, there is a feeling that it is a done deal and the community is left to fight for little things around the edges. He stated developers do not have to meet with the community beforehand. He stated that he made phone call to 4 communities. Newton stated that developers first come in with a concept but not actual plan. Developer is then sent back to work with community and then return to the board. They meet again and then come back before they see "finished project." It is frustrating when decisions have been made and one feels that their opinion does not matter. Cambridge should use this procedure. He asked would the Planning Board be open to that? Ms. Farooq stated that this is the sort of thing that the members have been thinking about. The City Manager had training to discuss the procedures and process piece. Currently he is interviewing for new members. For the members interested in getting re-appointed, he is posing question about what ideas they have to improve the process. That is something worth considering. The one challenge is how much time does that take up and how much does it expand the Planning Board agenda. Universities come to pre-conference proposal meetings with the Planning Board. The other model is having a requirement that developers go to neighborhood groups. That could be made a requirement and many developers currently do that, but not all. That is one of the areas that needs focus and could be strengthened
Councillor Toomey commented that new neighborhood groups have been formed. This process has been done for 40 years in the East Cambridge Planning Team. Any smart developer goes to the East Cambridge Planning Team first. There is great activism by the community. He stated that he is encouraged to see other groups get involved. He spoke about formalizing this in the Planning Board process.
Vice Mayor Benzan asked if there is a clear case where the Planning Board has not followed the rules or zoning. Ms. Farooq stated that she is not aware of any. Vice Mayor Benzan asked what recourse the community or developer has against the Planning Board. Ms. Farooq stated that all of the Planning Board decisions are subject to appeal. A developer or neighbors could appeal the decision in Court. If the Planning Board has made decision that is capricious and arbitrary, then it would not be held up in Court. Vice Mayor Benzan asked how often has the Planning Board decisions ended up in court. Mr. Roberts stated that it happens regularly that cases are appealed. There is a strong record of Planning Board decisions being upheld. Councillor Carlone stated that is his recollection as well.
Councillor Mazen spoke about issues that came out of public comment at the last meeting. He stated that his fear is that whatever the outcome of this petition, the actual implementation of the planning process will have some flaws. He asked what the Planning Board sees as clear existing good process and clear existing shortcomings in the system as it stands now and what is the real implementation plan to fix the flaws.
Ms. Farooq stated that the greatest strength in the process now is how diligent the Planning Board follows the zoning and criteria and the result of the appeals is a testament to that. The weaknesses is to figure out a way to strengthen the neighborhood participation that allows for greater public comment and more allow greater involvement earlier in the process. Another is looking more closely at cumulative impacts and trying to make sure that as Planning Board reviews Special Permits, making clear how cumulative impacts are being addressed. That speaks to greater transparency and better communication about the work that the PB does, all elements that they consider as well as staff work with developer. There is discussion about additional technical assistance. For instance, they grapple with issue of retail. They have tried in many instances to create requirements to say that you must build ground floor retail and developers have come back and said that they have built retail but have not been able to tenant it. Dead space does not contribute to area.
Mr. Dash stated that on the website documents are put out before each project that summarizes permits required, what is being discussed and bundle in responses from a number of departments so it is explicit about what is being discussed before the develop the permit required and the criteria required and the comments from the other city department. Ms. Farooq stated that in relation to neighborhood involvement there may be a need to test to see if it enhances public engagement. If it works and enhances public engagement then the Planning Board could go with this. If it does not work, then the Planning Board could try something different such as pre-proposal conference meetings.
Councillor Mazen spoke about the hard work done by the Planning Board. How do we strengthen this and implement the solutions. Problems have been identified can we be sure that there will be new solutions. What is the plan on the books for piping solutions in. Ms. Farooq stated that the next step is to have discussions with the Planning Board about the ideas. Their input is very important. If there are ideas on how to improve the process CDD would love to hear the ideas. Changing the criteria is a much more elaborate process and has to channeled through the City Council. Councillor Mazen listed the existing shortcomings as communication, coordination and visibility after the special permit is granted. We must take into account the widest context and community benefit. He sees this as a contextual question. People have mentioned that we need an interim solution. He is not totally clear on how changes will be implemented if this petition does not pass. A lot of the mistrust that exists because we don't trust that it is going to get there if it goes the other way. His question is about timelines. He stated that the Planning Board may lack a visionary role than just a formula role. He stated that the Planning Board needs guidance in the planning process. Guidelines and criteria can be reformed. He stated that the conversation can be about getting to the end game that we all want. He stated that he is confident that Councillor Carlone's goal is for the same endpoint. He stated that he is hopeful that there will be clear timeline for reform.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated that in April a Policy Order was passed to begin the master plan process. A report was received from the City Manager. Mayor Maher will schedule the roundtable with the Planning Board. The City Council has not had an opportunity to talk with Planning Board. This petition is putting the cart before the horse. All agree that something is broken with the system. He asked about flooding in the Alewife area. He asked about the flooding characteristics of the Alewife area and how the Planning Board takes this into consideration as it decides what type of construction goes up in the Alewife area. He has heard how important Alewife is to prevent major flooding in the City. Commissioner O'Riordan stated that the area is flat and one-third of the city drains toward the Alewife Brook. This area has had consistent flooding and has a high water table. In 1982 FEMA established a flood plain map for this area and regulations were put into place that development had to adhere. The Public Works Department incorporated flood plain provisions for this area for development for the Alewife/Concord Zoning. These provisions were expanded throughout the entire City. Pre-construction site are required to store water between the 2 year and 25 year event. He stated that combined sewer and storm water is being separated and it is an improvement in water quality. A lot of the Alewife area is a combined system. Developers are required to address sanitary discharge from their development so they do not have an adverse impact to the community. Commissioner O'Riordan stated that in 2010 a flood plain was adopted by the City Council and the developers need to adhere to FEMA requirements and Public Works provides a report to Planning Board.
Mayor Maher stated that it was insinuated that development in the Alewife is affecting the flood plain in a negative way. He stated that through City Council action a parking lot was turned back into wetlands and the City's investment into the natural retention of water. The City Council and the Planning Board worked with developers in this area to have some old building along the Little River taken down which should not have been approved and to have some buildings on the interior side built. This protected the long term natural habitat. He asked Commissioner O'Riordan to explain how soil is tested. Commissioner. O'Riordan contaminated soil is ubiquitous across the City and it is dealt with on a constant basis. This is done by state, federal, Inspectional Services Department and overseen by the Health Department. If a contaminant is released because of development there is a requirement that if there is a history of a contaminant at a site a professional is required. If a developer wished to avoid this it is very difficult to dispose contaminated soil. It is heavily regulated.
Councillor Kelley asked Commissioner O'Riordan if the City is simply following FEMA Commissioner O'Riordan stated that the City complies with FEMA regulations and there is a specific City of Cambridge requirement which extends beyond FEMA. Councillor Kelley read the Alewife overlay as the only way place for the Fresh Pond shopping overlay. Commissioner O'Riordan stated that it is the only place it is specific in the zoning ordinance. Councillor Kelley commented that there could be a useful discussion about flooding.
Vice Mayor Benzan asked has the Planning Board approved any project in Alewife area that compromise the floodways or flood plain. Commissioner O'Riordan responded not to his knowledge. Councillor Kelley stated that the FEMA requirement is not enough and whether the rules for compensatory storage needs to be changed. Clearly following FEMA is not enough. It is important to keep flooding from being unmanageable. Vice Mayor Benzan stated that what he is hearing is that city is doing what FEMA requires and more.
Vice Mayor Benzan opened the meeting to the petitioners.
Councillor Carlone read a prepared statement which contained an amendment (ATTACHMENT E). The petition is a compliment to the master plan process. Councillor Carlone offered an amendment to the petition to add a subsection 19.61.1 Active Planning Exemptions (ATTACHMENT F).
Councillor McGovern stated that he does not disagree with Councillor Carlone; he does not think City Council should sit on the sidelines. He stated that his concern is if the petition is not approved there is nothing that the City Council can do. He stated that what can be done immediately is to embrace the master plan, have the roundtable and address the zoning issues. At the summer meeting a Policy Order was adopted to establish an advisory group and issue report in fall on changes to the Planning Board. He stated that other actions that can be taken are requiring the developers to have predesign meetings, hire staff for Planning Board and the special permit criteria can be changed. There are many things that can be done to get at the route frustration which can be done now. There is a disconnect between the City and the public about what is actually done. The petition will not address, communication, pause on zoning and the root causes of the frustration. He stated that retail is thriving at Station Landing at Wellington which reflects the condition in alewife. This is about how do we get where we want to be. This petition is not the best solution to get at the root causes of the problems and frustration.
Councillor Mazen stated he would not vote for the current petition if it was for the long term. It models how things can be done. It is important in the short term. There are gaps in the process. He fears that the issue that can be done will not be done. He does not think that this is too big to take on.
Councillor Kelley stated that there are issues that are important - flooding is one; there is a defined discussion about what is put up does not cause flooding or the zoning can be changed. He stated that 6 or 7 votes are needed to change the zoning and then the discussion is not useful. We need to figure out as a community how can we get to 6 or 7 votes. He stated that there needs to be public lobbying with the City Councillors. The issues are big and require more thoughtful conversation than the petition If we cannot get to 6 or 7 votes then the discussion is not useful. There are useful issues that can be discussed, this is not one. He felt that the issue is the size of the projects.
Councillor Carlone stated that this petition is citywide but focuses on problematic areas of the City. The final intent is to get a broader discussion on the criteria. He stated that it is not fair to allow the Court House project to go forward. This is not taken away from the Planning Board; this is a layer added to the process by the Planning Board. The City Council will review the special permits and look at the area with broader vision. The Court House will be affected by this petition. Alewife and Cambridge Park Drive, when do we make places. He felt that this petition is worth the effort.
Councillor Kelley stated that the Court House is weird because it is something that is there now. People want it to be a park, or not an empty building for 10 years. Councillor Carlone stated that this is what is before us. The wind and the effect of shade are ridiculous because the county did not have to follow the FAR. This is a way to deal with the issues.
Vice Mayor Benzan stated that the problem with the petition and the manner in which it evolved. He stated that there is a mistrust for government, city departments and staff. There is a way to get this accomplished which is to have a discussion. The City Council has not had a discussion with the Planning Board to fix this process. He asked if the focus could be the Alewife area with the master plan. The City Council could request that the focus be on the Alewife area. This is the area under contention. Ms. Farooq responded in the affirmative. The Community Development Department is working on the action items.
Mayor Maher stated that the intent of the master plan order was to have short and long term actions.
Councillor McGovern spoke about three projects, Court House, Alewife and New Street and asked if there are ways to slow these down and not use this petition as putting this in the hands of the City Council. He stated that he contacted four other communities on this issue. In Springfield this minutia is choking the city. He wondered if there was a way to slow this down without moving it into the hands of the City Council for final approval. The City Council sets the goals and vision and the professionals implement.
Mayor Maher stated that New street is a good example. The City Council over the past 12-15 years has downzoned the city. Commercial was reduced by one-third. The City Council has built housing. We need to revisit the commitment for housing. He was skeptical that housing would be built on New Street. Width and sidewalks need to be reviewed on New Street. He asked how do we transform the Concord Avenue/Alewife area. Ten years went by before the housing was built. He believes in the master plan process to see if what was visioned is what we want now. Zoning needs to be reviewed continuously. You cannot mandate retail space. It failed in East Cambridge. People need to live and work in the area to support retail.
Councillor Carlone stated that housing makes sense for retail on Cambridge Street. Retail on First Street did not work as planned. He supported the Cambridge Highlands petition. Housing alone does not work. Urban design comes after planning and then zoning. He stated that the research of what other cities/towns do for the special permits should be done.
Councillor Toomey stated that he has attend many meetings and he does not recall hearing housing was wanted at this site. Housing is not wanted at the Court House. He stated that East Cambridge residents do not want to see 2000 people in one building. This is going to the Planning Board on Sept 30, 2014. HYM proposed taking off four stories of the Court House building.
Councillor Kelley stated that the criteria for special permit has many aspects. He does not see the City Council being better at making a decision than the Planning Board. He stated that the master plan will give the City Council ideas but will not solve everything. He hopes that future discussions are productive; this has not been productive.
Vice Mayor Benzan opened the meeting to public comment at 8:26pm.
Elizabeth Stern stated her support for the City Council having final say over Planning Board for accountability. She expressed her concerns with what is happening at Fresh Pond (ATTACHMENTS G & H).
Vivek Sikri, 64 Allston Street, commented on a special permit issued by the Planning Board that did not list the compromises made by the developer. The developer has sent a letter to the Planning Board stating that they will keep their promises regarding the compromises (ATTACHMENT I).
Jessie Kanson-Benanav stated that there is a problem with Zoning in the City. There is an affordability crises for affordable housing for low, moderate and middle income housing. He stated that Cambridge has become unaffordable for most low, middle and moderate income people and so incentives are required to ensure that there is adequate affordable housing. Higher density development is more green and is important to Cambridge to become a carbon neutral City. He further stated that developers are not properly incentivized to develop the type of higher density, affordable mixed income and mixed use developments. He stated that the Carlone petition does not address the problem; it further politicizes the planning process in Cambridge. He submitted his comments for the record (ATTACHMENT J).
Jan Devereux stated that zoning is the role of the City Council and their goals. She does not see anything else getting this much attention. It is good to hear the dialogue regarding the petition. The residents depend on their elected officials. She thanked Mayor Maher for his comments on New Street.
Dick Cleary, 15 Brookford Street, congratulated Councillor Carlone for a City Councillor addressing a festering problem and focusing the City Council's attention on dealing with the problem. He stated that many years ago Councillor Kelley lead a protest against the Oak Tree Development project which was settled with benefits. He stated that the Planning Board hearings have been acrimonious. He felt that this is bad legal advice given to the Planning Board members. He stated that the Planning Board is not required to issue a special permit. No one has the right to a special permit. He recommended adoption of Carlone petition and that the Planning Board membership should be include a citizens representative.
Carolyn Mieth, 15 Brookford Street, stated that something needs to be done. She spoke about New Street and learned that there was a planning process around Fresh Pond and how much development was in process on Cambridge Park Drive. She stated that the traffic on Alewife Brook Parkway and Route 2 is gridlocked; and that a TMA was needed. She wanted to keep traffic moving in North Cambridge. She enjoyed working with Dennis Carlone on the Planning Board. She is pleased that Councillor Carlone is working on issues in North Cambridge. She thinks it is difficult to transfer the special permit process to the City Council. She thinks a master plan would be best for Cambridge. There was a master plan and when it was to be reviewed in 5 years it was not updated. She does not think that the City Council should adopt the Carlone petition because they have a heavy work load. The City Council will need training for special permits.
Carol O'Hare, 172 Magazine Street, praised the professionalism of the Community Development Department, which is always forthcoming and professional. She stated that the Planning Board is given huge discretion because the projects that are contemplated in the special permit process are generally permitted. When a special permit is challenged in court the challenge is defeated because of the huge discretion that the Planning Board has. She stated that the 49-0 without successful challenges indicates that the Planning Board has not afforded deference to the developer is not accurate. She stated that variance are not contested because of the cost. She stated that developers are according too much weight by the Planning Board.
Walter McDonald, 172 Magazine Street, stated that his problem with the process is that the Planning Board has never agreed with the detriment of the public interest for a specific reason.
Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street, supported the Carlone petition in order to promote useful discussions and to work together and involve the public voice with the City Council. The intent is to engage in productive conversation on the environment. The large fossil fuel buildings in Cambridge contribute to harmful emissions. Through the Carlone petition the public is requesting to be heard by their elected officials and address zoning codes. She stated that residents are asking for time to study the impact to the City versus rubber stamping large development proposals. She submitted her comments for the record (ATTACHMENT K).
Robert Camacho, 24 Corporal Burns Road, urged passage of the Carlone petition. The current course does not work. After the petition passes other things can be done. When the Planning Board is questioned they seem to be scared. The buildings in the Alewife area are huge and they do not contribute to the neighborhood and there are not many affordable housing units. He stated that every time he attends a Planning Board meeting he mentions the issue of traffic. The traffic on Alewife Brook Parkway is horrendous.
Bethany Stevens, 100 Spring Street, stated that everyone who is against the petition state that something else should be done. Development is choking the City. The Carlone petition slows down the process. This is a way to make sure that the Court House is done right. This is an interim solution with a minimal number of projects. She stated that the Planning Board, should they grant the special permit, would then go before the City Council. It does not need to be done at the City Council level, but then elected officials will endorse the decision of the Planning Board. She stated that this would give leverage to make the developers do more. She is asking the City Council to protect the family friendly neighborhoods.
Robert Winters, 366 Broadway, stated that in his experience the Planning Board members are professional and some of the best volunteers in the City. He wanted to publicly acknowledge this fact.
Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, stated that the Planning Board members have no experience in traffic and flooding. There are limitations on the Planning Board. If the Carlone petition is voted down a moratorium will be submitted. A compromise would be a good solution. The three projects in question are different and have been handled by the Planning Board differently. On the Court House the Planning Board held two hearings and have done a better job. The current building is in violation of zoning. He stated that there are flaws in Article 19; it needs numerous improvement. He submitted his comments for the record (ATTACHMENT L).
Hugh Russell, 1 Corliss Place, stated that he is always impressed about how many committed people there are on both sides of the table. The petition does not require the Planning Board to review the special permits. If the City Council takes over the cases it is the City Council that decides on the special permits.
David Chilinsky stated he does not support the petition but praised Councillor Carlone for his effort. He encouraged the City Council to do the things that individuals cannot do. He stated that the state is at the route of the problem with the Court House. The City Council can advocate with the City Manager to properly staff the planning department. Cambridge does not have the infrastructure to handle the traffic. The state, federal and the City need to build the infrastructure. The Planning Board is made up of citizens; he wants the City Council to change the rules.
Paula Phipps, 227 Hurley Street, thanked Councillor Carlone for opening up this process. It has an impact on the way changes can be made. She stated that the current planning process is flawed. The planning can heal itself if the right steps are taken. She added two special permits, Route 2 and Third Street, to be reviewed this year as evacuation routes. She submitted her comments for the record (ATTACHMENT M).
Peggy Barnes Lenart, 115 Fayerweather Street, stated that this is a good forum to address the issues. Flooding, hiring staff to assist the Planning Board have come out of the petition. The development in the Alewife does not create community. Affordable housing has been attached to the large development. She asked is this creating diversity and is this addressing more middles income housing.
Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street, commented that the City Council Rules state that public comment is five minutes. She stated that she wanted Councillor McGovern to have the proposals that he suggested and she asked if the proposal are addressing the issues. She has heard the City Council being impuned. She stated that she does not believe that the City Council will deny these special permits, any more than they turn down the upzoning. She stated that the discussions before the City Council will be different from the Planning Board because the City Council has a different experience in making these decisions. There are good ways to plan for the City and they should be used
James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place, had FEMA and flood plain map (ATTACHMENT N). He spoke about the sewerage backed up and the fact that the CHA will not reimburse the residents. If the projects are larger than is wanted how did this happen. A process that worked decades ago does not work today. The people who are unhappy with the process are those who are mobilizing.
Mecha Schattler, 19 Lexington Avenue, spoke about the traffic impact of the project on Acorn Park. Acorn Park Development exit is to the T station and is causing more traffic congestion. He suggested an underpass or a surface bus.
Charles Teague, 23 Edmonds Street, stated that the petition does not address the issues. He stated that the key issue is trust. He suggested to fix what is broke. The City Council needs to manage the City Manager. The City needs a better legal department; the opinion issued by the Law Department is weird. The Planning Board relies on the City staff. If you get bad advice on zoning you go in the wrong direction.
John Ratliff, 218 Thorndike Street, supported the Carlone petition. He stated that he sees this in support of the master plan and to make this a reality it is incumbent that something be done.
He spoke about the major changes and that the master plan could be speeded up. He hopes that the City Council stands up for the community.
Sam Seidel spoke in opposition to the petition. This petition will not solve the issues; but make them worse. The City Council has broad inherent powers by knocking on doors, but the Planning Board does not have. When the constituents ask the City Council to do something, but the state law prohibits this, it would be appealed. This would add to the frustration. He felt that the Planning Board process needs to the reviewed and public comment is needed. The division of the power between the City Council and the Planning Board is good. How do we accommodate the younger generation who are changing the city, country and world is the challenge.
The following e-mails were received and made part of the record:
Catherine Havasi, requesting the City Council to reconsider the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT O)
Jay Santos, 25 Kelly Road, in opposition to the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT P).
Elizabeth Moriarty, 75 Richdale Avenue, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT Q).
Rowena Conklin in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT R).
Larry Rosenberg, 4 Antrim Street, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT S).
Sally Martin, 103 Henry Street, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT T).
Anthony Vanky, in opposition to the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT U).
Priscilla McMillan in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT V).
Margaret Desjardins, 261 Lakeview Avenue, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT W).
Nancy Hausman, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT X).
Janice St. Clair, 3 Michael Way, in support of an extra layer of oversight on large projects (ATTACHMENT Y).
Stephen Hantman, 6 Newport Road, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT Z).
Tim Stein, 17 Tremont Street, urging the City Council support for the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT AA).
Jeanne Koopman, 24 River Street, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT BB).
Hazel Arnett, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT CC).
Roger and Elizabeth Summons, 101 Third Street, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT DD).
Alison Field-Juma, 363 Concord Avenue, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT EE).
Young Kim, 17 Norris Street, suggesting creating a new Special Permit Coordinator position (ATTACHMENT FF).
Jeffrey D. and Mary Mitchell, 7 Corporal Burns Road, in support of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT GG).
Susan Yanow, 221 Norfolk Street, regarding the residents who are discouraged by the lack of planning, overdevelopment, traffic and the impact on the lives of Cambridge residents (ATTACHMENT HH).
Elizabeth VanRanst, 120 Foster Street, in favor of the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT II).
Torgun Austin, 28 Bristol Street, in support of following a master plan when embarking on massive urban construction on limited land (ATTACHMENT JJ).
Michael Hawley, in opposition to the Carlone petition which prevents productive planning discourse (ATTACHMENT KK).
Esther Hanig, 136 Pine Street, in opposition to the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT LL).
John Boesen, 25 Suffolk Street, in support of the Carlone petition as a temporary measure to protect the City (ATTACHMENT MM).
Sylvia Barnes, 196 Harvey Street, in support of the master plan and the Carlone petition (ATTACHMENT NN).
Jen Craft, 30 Holworthy Place, relating to the feeling of outrage by the continued reinforcement of the status quo (ATTACHMENT OO).
Vice Mayor Benzan asked what is the pleasure of the committee?
Mayor Maher moved to refer the petition to the full City Council without recommendation.
Before a vote was taken on this motion Councillor Kelley moved that the petition be referred to the full City Council with an unfavorable recommendation.
Vice Mayor Benzan requested a roll call vote on the motion of Councillor Kelley to refer the petition to the full City Council with an unfavorable recommendation and the roll call resulted as follows:
YEAS: Councillors Kelley and Toomey and Mayor Maher - 3
NAYS: Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillors Carlone, Mazen and McGovern - 4
ABSENT: Councillors Cheung and Simmons - 2
and the motion - Failed.
Vice Mayor Benzan requested a roll call vote on the motion of Mayor Maher to refer the petition to the full City Council without a recommendation and the roll was called and resulted as follows:
YEAS: Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillors Carlone, Kelley, Mazen, McGovern and Toomey and Mayor Maher - 7
NAYS: None - 0
ABSENT: Councillors Cheung and Simmons - 2
and the motion - Carried.
Vice Mayor Benzan thanked all attendees.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Mayor Maher the meeting adjourned at 9:51pm.
For the Committee
Vice Mayor Dennis Benzan,
Councillor Dennis Carlone
AWAITING REPORT LIST
14-19. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on producing an updated report of the Concord-Alewife Plan.
Councillor Cheung 03/24/14 (O-4)
14-26. Report from the City Manager: See Ch. Rt. #1
RE: report on pedestrian and vehicle safety improvements at the intersection of Cambridge Street and Cardinal Medeiros Avenue. Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on 7/28/2014.
Councillor Toomey 04/07/14 (O-12)
14-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a master list of all residential building managers citywide.
Councillor Simmons 04/28/14 (O-4)
14-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what options exist for dedicated office space for members of the City Council.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Carlone 04/28/14 (O-5)
14-32. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #8
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing an information hotline that residents can call to learn about and be connected to the social service providers in their neighborhoods.
Councillor Simmons 04/28/14 (O-10)
14-36. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of offering resident an online option to complete the City's annual census.
Councillor Cheung 04/28/14 (O-27)
14-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on allocating an additional $140,000 annually to Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services.
Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Benzan & Councillor Carlone 05/05/14 (O-7)
14-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving traffic congestion at the intersection of Upland Road and Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor McGovern 05/19/14 (O-1)
14-43. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of relocating the Department of Public Works.
Councillor Toomey 05/19/14 (O-15)
14-45. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to modify the Plastic Bag Reduction Ordinance with changes to the following: fees for bags, elimination of paper bags from the ordinance, elimination of the thickness of the plastic bag in the ordinance, increasing the timeframe for implementation of the ordinance and inclusion of compostable bags in the ordinance.
Councillor Cheung 05/19/14 (O-20)
14-48. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the establishment of a Central Square Action Team that will be charged with recommending and helping implement strategies that will help Central Square capitalize on and enhance its designation as a Cultural District.
Councillor Simmons 06/02/14 (O-2)
14-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the potential for creating a program to enable bilingual high school students to learn language interpretation skills and to practice those skills at community meetings and events throughout the City.
Councillor Carlone, Councillor Mazen, Councillor McGovern & Councillor Cheung 06/02/14 (O-5)
14-57. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on drafting an ordinance that would limit the sale of single-serving PET bottles of 1 liter or less and develop a task force to provide clear guidelines for this ordinance.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Mazen & Vice Mayor Benzan 06/09/14 (O-3)
14-60. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on implementing a truck ban on Concord Avenue and the possibility of traffic calming to reduce speeds of all vehicles on Concord Avenue.
Councillor Kelley 06/09/14 (O-4)
14-62. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to improve the safety of the intersection of Springfield, Cambridge, Hampshire, Inman, Antrim and Beacon Streets in Inman Square.
Councillor McGovern & Councillor Toomey 06/16/14 (O-3)
14-63. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on rodent control operations and the possibility of providing rodent-proof trash barrels to residents.
Councillor Toomey 06/30/14 (O-1)
14-67. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on contacting the owners of Fresh Pond Shopping Mall encouraging them to make safety improvements to the parking lot area and the feasibility of creating a safe pedestrian way from Fresh Pond Mall to Alewife Brook Parkway.
Councillor McGovern & Councillor Carlone 06/30/14 (O-10)
14-68. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on designing and implementing a system of public bulletin boards on major streets and intersections throughout the City.
Councillor Mazen 06/30/14 (O-11)
14-69. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on forming a pilot street team of engaged youth and residents as an experimental model for more consistent departmental outreach, community engagement, youth engagement and civic engagement.
Councillor Mazen 06/30/14 (O-13)
14-72. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report that the License Commission will not take further action on the proposed rideshare regulations and that the City Solicitor report on the City Council's legal authority over livery and taxi regulations.
Councillor Cheung & Councillor Mazen 06/30/14 (O-17)
14-72. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #6
RE: report on evaluating the parking around the Sullivan Courthouse to determine if changes can be made to accommodate more residential parking.
Councillor Toomey 06/30/14 (O-18)
14-73. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on resuming negotiations to purchase and preserve the Whittemore Avenue Community garden site.
Councillor Carlone 07/28/14 (O-2)
14-74. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on publicizing and convening a community meeting within 72 hours of any catastrophic event that could impact public safety.
Councillor Simmons 07/28/14 (O-3)
14-75. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #14
RE: report on possible options for preserving the Silver Maple Forest.
Councillor Carlone 07/28/14 (O-4)
14-76. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on police patrols in Area IV and post information on website of what measures are being taken with regard to safety in the neighborhood.
Councillor Simmons 07/28/14 (O-5)
14-77. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the loss of parking spaces in Municipal Lot #8.
Councillor Toomey 07/28/14 (O-8)
14-78. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of launching a homeless donation meter program.
Councillor Simmons 07/28/14 (O-10)
14-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing a Neighborhood Captain Program.
Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Benzan 07/28/14 (O-11)
14-80. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #13
RE: report on producing a research study determining the risks and benefits of the effects of continuing to fluoride the city's water supply.
Councillor Mazen 07/28/14 (O-12)
14-81. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to ensure that the apprentice program provision remains part of the Cambridge Employment Plan.
Councillor McGovern & Councillor Simmons 07/28/14 (O-14)
14-82. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of preparing a climate change checklist and evacuation plan for residents.
Vice Mayor Benzan & Councillor McGovern 07/28/14 (O-15)
14-83. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of hosting a salsa festival between Sept. 15 and Oct. 15 and on organizing a cultural exhibit at City Hall that celebrates the Hispanic community.
Vice Mayor Benzan 07/28/14 (O-16)
14-84. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to improve the Planning Board process.
Mayor Maher, Vice Mayor Benzan, Councillor McGovern & Councillor Simmons 07/28/14 (O-17)
14-85. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on playground and/or recreational facilities for Jackson Place Apartments.
Councillor Mazen 07/28/14 (O-18)
14-86. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #7
RE: report on coordinating with the Commonwealth of Mass on the opening of the Commonwealth's open data portal.
Councillor Mazen, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Carlone 07/28/14 (O-21)
14-87. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of either seeking space at the Senior Center or other municipal building to create a fitness center for affordable rates for seniors.
Councillor Cheung 07/28/14 (O-26)