Cambridge City Council meeting - September 9, 2024

Cambridge City Council meeting - September 9, 2024 - AGENDA
[Councillor Joan Pickett died Aug 31, 2024; all other members Present]

RECONSIDERATION
1. Requiring a 2/3rds vote for approving changes to be forwarded to the legislature and the voters on a future ballot. (PO24#102) [Filed by Councillor Toner who was not on the prevailing side of that vote, and who intends to move suspension of the rules to allow this motion for Reconsideration]
Rules Suspended 8-0; Reconsideration Prevails 8-0; Tabled 8-0

O-7 Aug 5, 2024 [Adopted 5-2-1-1 (MM,PN,PT,AW,DS - Yes; SS,JSW - No; JP - Absent; BA - Present)]
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR PICKETT
WHEREAS: On June 25, 2024, the Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee met to discuss the recommendations of the Charter Review Committee (CRC); and
WHEREAS: The Committee voted to recommend that the full City Council require a 2/3rds vote of the City Council for approving recommended changes to be forwarded to the legislature and the voters on a future ballot question by a vote of 3 in favor, 1 Present, and 1 Opposed; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council requires a 2/3rds vote for approving changes to be forwarded to the legislature and the voters on a future ballot.

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Surveillance Technology Impact Report (STIR). (CM24#176)
Placed on File 8-0

2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Irene Monroe to the Cambridge Library Board of Trustees. (CM24#177)
Appointments Approved 8-0

CM24#177 Sept 9, 2024

I am writing to recommend the following appointment of one member to the Cambridge Public Library Board of Trustees for a term of three years, effective Oct 8, 2024: Irene Monroe (appointment).

The Cambridge Public Library Board of Trustees are volunteer representatives and are a vital link between the library staff and the community and work to ensure high quality library services, collections, and programs, and to make certain that the Library reflects and is relevant to the community. Library Trustees are advisory positions.

The City Manager’s office posted a request for applications for the Cambridge Public Library Board of Trustees on the City website and via a news release on February 12, 2024 with a closing date of March 18, 2024. There were 29 applicants, 10 of whom were interviewed. The interview panel, made up of Director Maria McCauley and Assistant Director of Branch Services Erin Wells, has recommended the appointment of one candidate to fill the vacancy.

Based on the job description and work of the Board, the search committee looked for candidates that had an interest in and passion for public libraries and understood the importance of the public library as a center of information, culture, recreation, and life-long learning. The committee also looked for those who had an understanding of the Cambridge community, including an awareness of diverse social and economic conditions, needs and interests of all groups. The hiring panel also sought an individual who had strong communication skills, the ability to work in a team, an interest in community engagement of our diverse communities, and the ability to advise the Library in collaboration with the rest of the Trustees.

I am pleased to recommend this individual whose expertise and experience will enable them to be valuable members of the Cambridge Public Library Board of Trustees.

Irene Monroe: Reverend Monroe is a minister, activist and multimedia journalist who lives in Mid-Cambridge. In her many roles, Reverend Monroe is a professional communicator and displayed her communications acumen in the interview process. She is a regular library user and has also collaborated with the library in introducing some of the speakers on the stage at the CPL. Reverend Monroe understands the importance of inclusivity, intersectionality and welcoming everyone to the Library, especially marginalized voices.

Reverend Irene Monroe shared her passion for CPL stating, “I LOVE CPL! I am a friend and a frequent user of CPL. When folks from out-of-town visit, I take them by the library to show off and see how my tax dollars are well spent as a Cambridge resident. I’ve seen the library go through many iterations, from expanding its edifice to librarians of color and including various authors of color and topics like LGBTQIA.” Irene shared that she was a ward of NYC and the library was one of her “constants” and her lifeline.

I appreciate the willingness of this community member to serve on the Cambridge Public Library Board of Trustees and, with your approval, look forward to her appointment.

3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Avanti Tilak to the Open Data Review Board for a term of two-years. (CM24#178)
Appointment Approved 8-0

CM24#178 Sept 9, 2024

I am writing to recommend the appointment of Avanti Tilak to the Open Data Review Board for a term of two years, effective Nov 20, 2023, to fill the seat vacated by Adit Basheer, who had completed his term.

The city’s Open Data Program makes government data easily available in useful formats, and is intended to increase transparency, foster engagement among residents, and create new opportunities for collaboration between the City of Cambridge and the public.

The Open Data Review Board, comprised of at least three residents and four or more city employees, will meet quarterly to help ensure that the program balances its goals of transparency and accessibility with the city’s obligation to protect private, confidential, and sensitive information.

The City Manager’s office posted a request for applications for a newly vacated seat on the Open Data Review Board on the City website and via a news release on June 29, 2024, with a closing date of July 16, 2024. During that time, members of the Board conducted outreach with their networks. The call for applicants was also posted in several of the City’s daily email updates and in postings on the City website. There were 19 applicants, nine of whom were interviewed. The interview panel, made up of City staff members, has recommended the appointment of one of those applicants. The next anticipated vacancy for this commission will come in 2026.

I am please to recommend Avanti Tilak for the vacant resident seat on the Open Data Review Board (ODRB). Avanti Tilak is a Senior Data Scientist at HealthFirst, where she leverages her expertise in data science to address disparities in healthcare. She has a robust background in machine learning, data mining, and the application of open data for various analytical models and visualizations. Avanti’s journey from a research background in astrophysics to her current role demonstrates a strong commitment to using data for social impact and community improvement.

I am particularly impressed with Avanti’s extensive outreach experience, an area in which we continually seek to strengthen our capabilities. As a co-organizer for Cambridge Families of Asian Descent and North Cambridge Courageous Conversations, Avanti has demonstrated a strong commitment to community engagement. She has successfully coordinated and facilitated community feedback forums, organized affinity group meetings, and conducted outreach to diverse family groups across Cambridge.

Her ability to engage with different community stakeholders and her dedication to fostering inclusive dialogues will be invaluable to the ODRB.

I believe that Avanti would be an excellent addition to the Open Data Review Board, bringing a unique perspective, valuable skill set, and a wealth of experience in both data science and community outreach. Her combination of technical proficiency, history of community engagement, and passion for open data make her an ideal candidate.

4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $15,603.12 to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Other Ordinary Maintenance Account. Funds will be used for quality assurance (call review) for the emergency medical protocol used by staff to provide pre- and post-dispatch instructions for medical emergencies. (CM24#179)
Order Adopted 8-0

5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $300,027.61 received from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, State 911 Department, to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Salary and Wages account ($195,084.41), the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($3,130) and the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Travel and Training account ($101,813.20). This formula-based reimbursement grant will support training of Emergency Communications Center personnel, classroom fees, and training materials. (CM24#180)
Order Adopted 8-0

6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $574,531, received from the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security, State 911 Department, to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Salary and Wages account ($481,080), and the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($93,451). This formula-based reimbursement grant will support the costs of Emergency Communications Center personnel salaries, overtime, and annual maintenance costs of dispatch-related software. (CM24#181)
Order Adopted 8-0

7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a report detailing the Board of Zoning Appeal’s proposed modifications to the Zoning Ordinance, specifically concerning the implementation of dormer guidelines. (CM24#182) [text of report]
Petition Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board 8-0

8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments and reappointments of the following persons to the Family Policy Council; Appointments: Interim Superintendent David Murphy. Reappointments: Tina Alu, Michael Johnston, Michelle Lower, Geeta Pradhan, Bridget Rodriguez, Elizabeth Stapleton (formerly Elizabeth Hill), Tagesech Wabeto. (CM24#183)
Appointments Approved 8-0

CM24#183 Sept 9, 2024

I am writing to inform you that I am appointing Interim Superintendent David Murphy and reappointing the following persons below as members of the Coordinating Council for Children Youth and Families (also known as “Family Policy Council”) effective Sept 15, 2024:

• Tina Alu (reappointment)

• Michael Johnston (reappointment)

• Michelle Lower (reappointment)

• Geeta Pradhan (reappointment)

• Bridget Rodriguez (reappointment)

• Elizabeth Stapleton (Formerly Elizabeth Hill) (reappointment)

• Tagesech Wabeto (reappointment)

The Family Policy Council was established under Chapter 2.85 of the Cambridge Municipal Code. The Council is dedicated to developing policy and program recommendations aimed at ensuring all children, youth, and their families have access to what they need to be successful, engaged residents who are prepared for life in our community and the world.

The next anticipated vacancy for this council will come in 2025. Currently, the Family Policy Council is recruiting for two new members. The City Manager’s office posted a request for applications on August 21, 2024, with a closing date of Sept 30, 2024.

I am appointing David Murphy because according to the ordinance, the Superintendent of Schools is a member of the Family Policy Council.

The Family Policy Council also recommends the reappointment of seven current members. They have made valuable contributions and would appreciate the opportunity to continue serving.

1. Tina Alu (1-year term)
Specific Area Representative since 2008

2. Michael Johnston (1-year term)
Specific Area Representative since 2017

3. Michelle Lower (3-year term)
Business Representative since 2015

4. Geeta Pradhan (3-year term)
Philanthropic Representative since 2015

5. Bridget Rodriguez (3-year term)
University Representative since 2015

6. Elizabeth Stapleton (Formerly Elizabeth Hill) (3-year term)
Community-at-Large Representative since 2015

7. Tagesech Wabeto (3-year term)
Community-at-Large Representative since 2017

I appreciate the willingness of these community members to serve and look forward to their contributions as members of the Family Policy Council.

9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-41, regarding the City’s Gold Star Pool summer schedule and the possibility of extending public swimming pool availability. (CM24#184) [text of report]
pulled by Wilson; comments by Wilson, Adam Corbeil (Dir. of Recreation), Simmons; Placed on File 8-0

10. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $11,500 received through a donation from the T. Baker Fund, Inc. for the City of Cambridge STEAM Initiative, to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($11,500). These funds were donated by the T. Baker Fund, Inc. and will be used to support the Cambridge STEAM Initiative’s Makerspace efforts. (CM24#185)
Order Adopted 8-0

11. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $10,000 received from the Cambridge Community Foundation, for the College Success Initiative (CSI), to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Department salaries and wages account. These funds will be used to support part of the salary costs associated with a college success coach who will provide individualized college coaching for students attending UMass Boston and for graduates of the Community Learning Center’s Bridge to College program who attend Bunker Hill Community College. (CM24#186)
Order Adopted 8-0

12. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $18,711 from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($18,711). These additional funds will be used for HEAP client benefits. (CM24#187)
Order Adopted 8-0

13. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $6,505, received from donations to The Cambridge Program for Individuals with Special Needs, to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account. Funds were generously donated in memory of Paul Ryder, who served as the City’s Director of Recreation from 1982-2016. The Cambridge Program will use the funds to purchase supplies and equipment to better support participant and program needs. (CM24#188)
Order Adopted 8-0

14. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the reappointments of David Lyons and Elysse Magnotto-Cleary and the appointments of Khyati Saraf and Lorie Graham as Members of the Conservation Commission for a term of three-years. As well as the appointment of Jim Gerstle and Sean Bedingfield as Associate Members of the Conservation Commission for a term of one year. (CM24#189)
Appointments Approved 8-0

CM24#189 Sept 9, 2024

I am writing to inform you that I am appointing the following persons as Members of the Conservation Commission for a term of three years:

Reappointments
David Lyons
Elysse Magnotto-Cleary

Appointments
Khyati Saraf
Lorie Graham

I am also appointing the following persons as Associate Members of the Conservation Commission for a term of one year, effective immediately.

Associate Members
Jim Gerstle
Sean Bedingfield

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission administers the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (310 CMR 10.0), reviewing, permitting, and inspecting projects in or adjacent to Cambridge’s wetlands, floodplains, and water bodies. The Commission also plays an important role in implementing the Massachusetts Stormwater Management Policy and Standards. The seven members of the Conservation Commission are appointed by the City Manager to three-year terms and are served by one permanent staff person, the Commission Director.

New in 2023 year is the inclusion of 2 Associate Members. The State Department of Environmental Protection had recommended that Conservation Commissions consider adding Associate Members to expand the voices reviewing projects and to help build a pipeline of future members. The Associate Members are not voting members of the Commission and will participate in all aspects of project review.

Selection Process

The Commission vacancy was advertised on June 10, 2024. Six applications were received; including two current members requesting reappointments. All six eligible applicants were interviewed and are being recommended for appointments.

Reappointments

David Lyons: exceeds all the qualifications for a Commission member including familiarity of the Wetlands Protection Act, City resident and willingness to volunteer. Mr. Lyons is General Counsel at the Massachusetts Department of Public Utility (DPU) Office. A valued member of the Conservation Commission and current Chair with expertise in legal interpretations and measures to avoid, minimize, and mitigate damage to the environment.

Elysse Magnotto-Cleary: exceeds all the qualifications for a Commission member including familiarity of the Wetlands Protection Act, City resident and willingness to volunteer. Elysse is a Senior Communication Strategist. A valued member of the Conservation Commission and current Vice-Chair with a passion for environmental protection and a dedication to a transparent public process.

Appointments

Khyati Saraf: meets the qualifications for a Commission member; City resident and willingness to volunteer. A licensed landscape architect with strong skills in managing stormwater into landscape design and project management.

Lorie Graham: meets the qualifications for a Commission member; City resident and willingness to volunteer. A law professor at Suffolk Law School and multi-decade Cambridge resident with a desire to serve the community.

Appointments of Associate Members

Jim Gerstle: meets the qualifications for a Commission member; City resident and willingness to volunteer. A retired Chemical Engineer with time and desire to serve his new community. During the interview, Jim promoted the goal of effective communication.

Sean Bedingfield: meets the qualifications for a Commission member; City resident and willingness to volunteer. An active environmentalist. During the interview, Sean promoted the goal of participating in municipal government.

I appreciate the willingness of these community members to serve as members of the Conservation Commission, and, with your approval, look forward to their appointments.

15. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $15,101.85, to the Grant Fund Public Works Other Ordinary Maintenance account. These funds will supplement the 2023 RDP grant award of $110,500 appropriated in March 2024. (CM24#190)
Order Adopted 8-0

16. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $416,991, received from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to the Grant Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to support the purchase of an all-electric rubbish packer. (CM24#191)
Order Adopted 8-0

17. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $200,000 from the General Fund Public Works Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Public Works Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account to cover current and projected FY25 costs related to Public Works personnel injured in the course of their job. (CM24#192)
Order Adopted 8-0

18. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $276,800, received from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs through the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program to the Grant Fund Public Works Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account. This grant will focus on increasing urban trees, create a map of high and low tree mortality areas across the Mystic River Watershed, and establish a regional urban forests working group of municipal tree wardens to develop strategies to maximize the likelihood of urban trees growing to maturity and identify priority areas where environmental justice communities live, travel and go to cool off during hot summers. (CM24#193)
Order Adopted 8-0

19. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-08, regarding recommendations for the refinement and improvement of the housing permitting process. (CM24#194) [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, City Manager Yi-An Huang; Iram Farooq (CDD); Kathy Watkins (DPW); Jacob Lazzara (ISD); Deputy City Manager Owen O’Riordan; Vice-Mayor McGovern; Councillors Sobrinho-Wheeler, Azeem; Brooke McKenna (TPT); Councillors Wilson, Toner; Placed on File 8-0

20. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $350,000, from the General Fund Employee Benefits Salaries and Wages Account to the General Fund Employee Benefits Travel and Training Account. Funds will be used to cover the costs of anticipated payments of workers compensation medical bills for personnel injured in the course of their job, through the end of FY25. (CM24#195)
Order Adopted 8-0

21. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-26, regarding clarification on the Wage Theft Ordinance. (CM24#196) [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by Mayor Simmons - frustrated by legal response, reads letter from Tony Pini (union); comments by Yi-An Huang; Owen O’Riordan; Referred to Ordinance Committee 8-0

22. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to extending the prior authorization for the City Manager or their designee to grant street obstruction approvals, along with any other necessary approvals for temporary obstructions until June 30, 2025. (CM24#197) [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by City Solicitor Megan Bayer (explains how authority of Council on street obstructions for outdoor patios delegated to City Manager, desire to make this permanent), Owen O’Riordan; Order Adopted 8-0

CM24#197 Sept 9, 2024

To the Honorable, the City Council:

As you may know, throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic, the City Council authorized the City Manager to grant street obstruction approvals, which are required for restaurants to operate outdoor dining on the sidewalk or street. Authorizing the City Manager to grant these approvals has provided flexibility and expediency for restaurants seeking to add, expand or continue outdoor dining on the public way. This was consistent with state action, first through an order issued by the Governor and then through temporary legislation, that allowed restaurants to expand outdoor dining through an expedited process. Also, as you know, this was similar to the Council’s long-standing order to authorize the City Manager to grant street obstruction approvals in the summer months when the Council is not in session.

Recently, on April 30, 2024, Governor Healy signed into law “An Act Making Appropriations for the Fiscal Year 2024 to Provide for Supplementing Certain Existing Appropriations and for Certain Other Activities and Projects”, which included amendments to the process for outdoor dining and removed the requirement that the state Alcohol Beverages Control Commission approve amendments to licenses to provide for outdoor alcoholic beverage table service.

In light of the changes to state law to facilities and expedite outdoor dining approvals I am hereby requesting that the City Council extend its prior authorization for the City Manager or their designee to grant street obstruction approvals, along with any other necessary approvals for temporary obstructions until June 30, 2025.

If granted, this extension until June 30, 2025 will continue to provide the City some additional flexibility to assist restaurants with outdoor dining and to do so in an expedited manner consistent with the ways the state has expedited the process. Staff will also use this time to evaluate whether to propose any amendments to Chapter 12.08 of the Cambridge Municipal Code concerning delegation of the Council’s authority to grant street obstruction approvals.

I look forward to discussing this matter with you and answering any questions you may have.

Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager

Agenda Item No. 21 Sept 9, 2024

ORDERED: That from this date until June 30, 2025, due to the restaurant community’s continued need to expand outdoor dining services and consistent with the change in state law that waives the requirement that the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission approve amendments to licenses to provide for outdoor alcoholic beverage table service, and consistent with the City’s Outdoor Dining Policy, until June 30, 2025, all applications for temporary street obstructions for outdoor dining services will hereby be referred to the City Manager or their designee with authorization to act.

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to prioritize the repair of the water bubbler at Anderson Tennis Courts on Pemberton Street. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner (PO24#112)
Order Adopted 8-0

2. That the City Council go on record acknowledging September as Suicide Prevention Month. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern (PO24#113)
Order Adopted 8-0

3. Declare September as National Recovery Month. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern (PO24#114)
Order Adopted 8-0

4. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to provide a comprehensive report outlining the City’s knowledge of the garbage chute issues at 1 Leighton Street. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner (PO24#115)
pulled by Simmons; Order Adopted 8-0

5. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to enact policy that will extend the priority period for Social Equity and Equity Empowerment cannabis business applicants for a period of six months to one year, or until guidance has been received from the Cannabis Control Commission. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson (PO24#116)
pulled by Simmons to add Councillor Wilson as sponsor; Councillor Azeem asks if there is any sense of expiration of this extension; Councillor Siddiqui adds that in addition to extension there are zoning issues to be considered, notes (legal) risks to extending this exemption; Councillor Wilson notes challenges to operators; Councillor Azeem asks for comments from City Solicitor; Megan Bayer notes that preference period in place now for going on 5 years, minor changes/delay in guidance fron Cannabis Control Commission, need to balance against interests of medicinal cannabis retailers, exemption period expires Sept 23 (last enacted under “emergency” provisions); Azeem asks of non-equity applicants have gone through process, discomfort with open-ended nature of this process and how exceptional this is [kudos to Azeem for making total sense here]; Toner shares Azeem concerns, but in favor of an extension; Nolan concurs with desire for extension and legal concerns; Bayer notes that preference period is in ordinance and any extension would require an amendment to the ordinance; Simmons, Siddiqui comments; Order Adopted as Amended 7-0-0-1 (Azeem Present)

6. That the City Manager direct the Community Development Department (CDD) and the Law Department to draft zoning language based on the proposal discussed at the Housing Committee to eliminate exclusionary zoning and allow up to six stories of multifamily housing in all residential districts. Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui (PO24#117)
pulled by Toner; Azeem suspension of rules to also take up Committee Report #5, states that median 1BR rent now $3300, 3BR rent now ($5300) [this is very questionable and likely applicable only for new rentals in “luxury” apartments]; Azeem believes that houses destroyed by fire cannot be rebuilt [questionable], believes that this will yield 900 units of affordable housing and that his proposed changes will yield only what he sees as positive outcomes; Charter Right - Toner

7. That the City Manager directs CDD to hold public meetings to inform the Cambridge community about the proposed changes before any public hearings of the Ordinance Committee and the Planning Board on this topic. Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui (PO24#118)
pulled by Toner; Charter Right - Azeem

8. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to provide a status update on the implementation of the PACE program and provide resources and information for property owners; and provide any recommendations for expanding PACE adoption. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner (PO24#119)
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan; Order Adopted 8-0

9. That the City Manager is requested to provide an update on progress towards providing a recommendation for changes to the existing ordinance and a report on the impact of the Short-Term Rentals in Cambridge, including how enforcement happens and how many units are registered and available. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui (PO24#120)
pulled by Nolan; Nolan expresses concern about loss of apartment rentals due to conversion to Short-Term rentals; Order Adopted 8-0

10. That the City Manager be hereby and is requested to work with relevant staff to provide an update on the status of the Vail Court property and associate litigation in Said S. Abuzahra, Trustee of Equity Realty Trust, et al. v. City of Cambridge, in Executive Session if necessary, at a future meeting. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson (PO24#121)
Order Adopted 8-0

11. That this City Council go on record calling for MIT’s dissociation from the fossil fuel industry in the Climate Project. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui (PO24#122)
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler to add Siddiqui; Order Adopted 7-0-0-1 (Toner Present)

12. That the City Manager is requested to provide a status Update on Automated Parking Enforcement. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern (PO24#123)
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan re: possible legal issues, potential for safety benefits; Order Adopted 8-0

CHARTER RIGHT
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Surveillance Technology Impact Report (STIR). [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler, Aug 5, 2024] (CM24#149)
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler proposing to Table this; comments by Police Commissioner Christine Elow re: use of surveillance cameras in Central Square; McGovern notes surveillance concerns but that this is for a very specific Central Square purpose, worth a pilot program, not about “criminalizing homelessness”, people now taking advantaged of unhoused individuals and we often know who are committing crimes, but need for building a case; Megan Bayer notes that meeting held with ACLU, intent by CPD to put policies in place; Azeem notes that everyone now has a camera on them, irony that we can’t now have one when we actually need it, victims are often bystanders; Siddiqui wants a timeline for a policy to be established; Elow suggests policy to be developed before cameras activated; Nolan comments on need for policy and examples where cameras would have been helpful, many home cameras already in place and not subject to ordinance; Simmons comments in favor of these cameras; Sobrinho-Wheeler not in favor w/o policy in place; JSW Motion to Table Fails 3-5 (SS,JSW,AW-Yes; BA,MM,PN,PT,DS-No); Order Adopted 7-1 (JSW-No)

2. An application was received from Ryan Boucher, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 55 Harvey 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. Response from the Residents of Westley Avenue has been included. [Charter Right – Nolan, Aug 5, 2024] (AP24#26)
pulled by Nolan, noting flaws in curb cut process, importance of neighborhood input; comments by Wilson; Order Adopted 5-0-0-3 (MM,SS,AW-Present)

ON THE TABLE
3. That the City Manager is requested to explore the feasibility of delaying the Mass Avenue reconstruction project to minimize its impact upon the busy season for restaurants and other affected businesses, and, should this not be found feasible, a method of providing financial assistance to the impacted businesses to cover the costs of removing their outdoor dining structures, designed to mitigate some of the financial impacts upon them, should be established. [Charter Right – Simmons, June 3, 2024; Tabled as Amended June 10, 2024] (PO24#70)

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
4. An Ordinance 2023 #8B has been received from City Clerk, relative to Amend Chapter 14.04 – Fair Housing. [Passed to 2nd Reading Oct 2, 2023; Amended Nov 6, 2023; to remain on Unfinished Business pending legislative approval of Special Act needed prior to ordination] (ORD23-8B)

5. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to Tenants Rights 8.71.040.2 Notice by the City, City may publicize and provide information at events/programs about the requirements of Chapter 8.71 more frequently. [Passed to 2nd Reading, Aug 5, 2024; Eligible To Be Ordained (no expiration date)] (ORD24#3)
pulled by McGovern; comments by Nolan re: info to be mailed to tenants; Ordained 8-0

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from DND Homes LLC., requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 490 Putnam Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Approval response has been received from the neighborhood association. (AP24#30)
Order Adopted 8-0

2. An application was received from John Felix, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 316 Pearl Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Approval response has been received from the neighborhood association. (AP24#31)
Order Adopted 8-0

3. An application was received from FAST SIGNS OF WOBURN representing Bom Dough, requesting permission for a projecting sign at the premises numbered 1 Canal Park. approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and proof of abutters mailing has been provided. (AP24#32)
Order Adopted 8-0

4. An application was received from Pamela Jagiello representing STUDS, requesting permission for an awning at the premises numbered 1 Brattle Square Unit 2C. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and proof of abutters mailing has been provided. (AP24#33)
Order Adopted 8-0

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Alex Hines, regarding I oppose private development on public land. (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda).

2. A communication was received from Andrew King, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda).

3. A communication was received from Annamay Bourdon, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (5).

5. A communication was received from Chris Duncan, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (1).

6. A communication was received from Dan Phillips, regarding In support of two housing items.

8. A communication was received from Danielle, regarding In support of affordable housing at 84 and 96 Bishop Allen Drive (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda).

9. A communication was received from David Fichter, regarding and Debra Wise Future Development at Starlight Square must remain in public/city control, not a private developer partnership.

10. A communication was received from Donna Palermino, regarding Opposing private redevelopment of the city lot that was formerly home to Starlight.

11. A communication was received from Ellen Mei, regarding I support public development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda).

12. A communication was received from Federico Muchnik, regarding Winn Development’s memo dated Aug 3, 2024.

14. A communication was received from Helen Walker, regarding Please Support of PO#6 (PO24#101) and PO #7 (PO24#102).

15. A communication was received from Jacquelyn Smith, regarding Bishop Allen Drive Parcels 84 and 96.

16. A communication was received from Jana Odette, regarding Winn Development & Walden Square Road (10).

17. A communication was received from Janet Moses, regarding, Omo Moses and Maisha Moses Starlight Lot.

18. A communication was received from Jonathan Slate, regarding REQUEST FOR VOTE AGAINST PLANNED CURB CUT REQUEST ON WESTLEY AVENUE BY DEVELOPERS OF 55 HARVEY STREET.

19. A communication was received from Julie Bernstein, regarding Testimony on CM24#149.

20. A communication was received from Kathy Watkins, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (9).

21. A communication was received from Leigh Manley, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (7).

22. A communication was received from Linda Moussouris, regarding Alerting the Committee on University Relations & Economic Devt. to statewide PILOT efforts, questions as to what Harvard & MIT might do about PILOT.

23. A communication was received from Manik Dhar, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (2).

24. A communication was received from Margery Davies, regarding PLEASE VOTE FOR PO24#108 and PO24#109.

25. A communication was received from Marilee Meyer, regarding CHARTER REVIEW- please support a strong manager and 2/3 vote.

26. A communication was received from Marilyn Frankenstein, regarding please get a better deal on Harvard’s PILOT.

27. A communication was received from Maritza Soto, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (8).

28. A communication was received from Matthew Schreiner, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (6).

29. A communication was received from Max, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (3).

30. A communication was received from Nancy Pendergast, regarding Policy Orders.

31. A communication was received from Rika Welsh, regarding Email from 4 constituents who oppose private development on public land without allowing public input (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda).

32. A communication was received from Sheli Wortis, regarding PILOT from Harvard U.

33. A communication was received from Shelley Rieman, regarding Future of Starlight Square space.

34. A communication was received from Stephen Cellucci, regarding I oppose private development on public land (CM #27 on 8/5 agenda) (4).

35. A communication was received from Steven Sands, regarding Winn Development & Walden Square Road.

36. A communication was received from Suzanne Bas, regarding Davis CM224#87 public land use.

37. A communication was received from Vickey Bestor, regarding Harvard PILOT contributions for Housing.

39. A communication was received from Mr. Hasson J. Rashid, regarding Election Official Factsheet.

40. A communication was received from Nina Herrera, regarding Air pollution’s deadly toll in Massachusetts.

41. A communication was received from Helen Walker, regarding In Memorium Joan Pickett.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Karen Roust on her retirement. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

2. Condolences on the death of James M. “Jim” Albert. Councillor Toner
pulled by Toner (his eldest cousin), noting that Jim’s brother David died only a month ago, many family Albert members on Cambridge Police and Cambridge Fire

3. Retirement of Dennis John Paul Kaveney from the First Church Shelter. Vice Mayor McGovern

5. Condolences to the family of Valerie Corr Hanserd. Mayor Simmons

R-5 Sept 9, 2024
MAYOR SIMMONS

WHEREAS: The City Council was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Valerie Corr Hanserd, a distinguished civic leader and global communications executive, and sister of Cambridge Peace Commissioner Brian Corr, on August 24, 2024 at the age of 53; and

WHEREAS: Valerie Corr Hanserd, born and raised in Detroit, made Chicago her home after graduating from the University of Chicago, where she became deeply involved in the city’s civic and professional life; and

WHEREAS: Valerie’s impressive career spanned pivotal roles in healthcare communications, public affairs, and corporate leadership, including her significant contributions to Barack Obama’s 2004 U.S. Senate campaign, her 17-year tenure at BP America as a director of communications, and her role as Vice President of Communications for Global Operations and Supply Chain at Medtronic; and

WHEREAS: Valerie’s commitment to civic engagement was exemplified through her involvement with numerous organizations, including Leadership Greater Chicago, the YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago, the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Chicago United, the Chicago Architecture Biennial, and NSAA; and

WHEREAS: Even after her ALS diagnosis in 2022, Valerie continued to be an active and inspiring presence in her community, offering her support and expertise to the causes she cared deeply about; and

WHEREAS: Valerie is remembered by colleagues and loved ones for her kindness, dedication, unwavering spirit, and ability to make a difference every day by investing her time and talent in the success of others; and

WHEREAS: Valerie leaves behind a loving family, including her husband, Prof. Robert Hanserd, her daughter, Beverly, her mother, Beverly Corr, her sisters, Carol Corr and Camille Chism, and her brother, Brian Corr, and her memory shall be forever cherished by those fortunate enough to have known her; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record extending its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Valerie Corr Hanserd for their tremendous loss; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Brian Corr and the family of Valerie Corr Hanserd on behalf of the entire City Council.

6. Condolences to the family of City Councillor Joan Pickett. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson
Adopted as Amended 8-0

R-6 Sept 9, 2024 Amended
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR WILSON

WHEREAS: It is with profound sorrow that the City Council learned of the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, City Councillor Joan Pickett, on August 31, 2024 at the age of 69; and

WHEREAS: City Councillor Joan Pickett was a dedicated public servant and a resident of Mid-Cambridge for the past 26 years, bringing a strong background in planning, municipal finance, and community leadership to the City Council during her tenure; and

WHEREAS: Prior to joining the City Council, Joan Pickett’s distinguished career included significant contributions in commercial lending, municipal bond finance, and strategic planning at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, where she worked closely with both academic and community physicians and staff; and

WHEREAS: Joan Pickett’s commitment to community service was demonstrated through her leadership roles in organizations such as the Mid-Cambridge Neighborhood Association, Cambridge Streets for All, the Charles River Conservancy, and Caring Canines Pet Therapy, where she worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Cambridge residents and beyond; and

WHEREAS: Joan Pickett’s dedication to ensuring that the City’s policies reflect the broad sentiment of the community, her desire to ensure that all community voices were given ample consideration in creating City policies, and her focus on maintaining the City’s strong financial position were hallmarks of her service on the City Council; and

WHEREAS: Joan Pickett earned the respect, admiration, and affection of her colleagues and people throughout the Cambridge community for her warmth, her thoughtfulness, her desire to serve, and her willingness to engage with every person she came across with a sense of true decency; and

WHEREAS: The Cambridge community will greatly miss Joan Pickett’s thoughtful approach to governance, her commitment to transparency and accountability, and her unwavering dedication to making Cambridge a safe, vibrant, and inclusive city for all, and her Council colleagues shall surely miss her warmth, knowledge, and amiability; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record expressing its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community of City Councillor Joan Pickett for their tremendous loss; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Adane Dessie, husband of City Councillor Joan Pickett, on behalf of the entire City Council.

7. Congratulations to the Honorable Laurence Pierce on his retirement from the Court. Councillor Toner

R-7 Sept 9, 2024
COUNCILLOR TONER

WHEREAS: The City Council has learned that The Honorable Laurence Pierce is retiring from the court in September 2024; and

WHEREAS: Born and raised in Cambridge, Laurence Pierce graduated Cum Laude from Harvard College in 1976 earning a B.A., and went on to earn a J.D. at Antioch School of Law in 1981; and

WHEREAS: Laurence Pierce and his wife raised their three sons in Cambridge, and were actively involved in the community, with roles including President of Cambridge Youth Hockey, President of the North Cambridge Baseball League, member of the Cambridge Planning Board, Director for the Cambridge Center for Adult Education; Commissioner and Vice-Chair of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission, and Director of Friends of Cambridge Athletics; and

WHEREAS: Laurence Pierce began his career as a Judicial Law Clerk with the Court of Appeals in the District of Columbia from 1981-1982, and then served as an Assistant District Attorney in the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office from 1983-1988; and

WHEREAS: Before transitioning to the private sector, Laurence Pierce served as Special Counsel to the Supreme Judicial Court’s Committee on Professional Responsibility for Clerk of Courts from 1998-1999; and

WHEREAS: Laurence Pierce was an Associate & Partner with Choate Hall & Steward from 1998-2008, focusing on commercial litigation, government enforcement & compliance, probate litigation, and education law, and also chaired Choate’s Pro Bono Committee, establishing a partnership with Family Services of Greater Boston; and

WHEREAS: In 2008, Laurence Pierce was appointed by Governor Patrick to Associate Justice of the Cambridge District Court, where he served as a Regional Administrative Judge and an Associate Justice of the Appellate Division of the Northern District; and

WHEREAS: The Honorable Laurence Pierce was elevated to the Superior Court in 2014; serving an additional 7 years as the Criminal Regional Administrative Justice of Middlesex Superior Court; and

WHEREAS: At the mandatory retirement age of 79, the Honorable Laurence Pierce retired but has continued his service as a recall judge for the past 2 years, and will officially retire later this month after a distinguished career of service and dedication; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record extending its heartfelt gratitude to the Honorable Laurence Pierce for his unwavering commitment to the people he has served throughout his career and wishes him good health as he embarks on his much-deserved retirement; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Honorable Laurence Pierce on behalf of the entire City Council.

8. Condolences on the death of Frederick James “Freddie” Cabral. Councillor Toner

R-8 Sept 9, 2024
COUNCILLOR TONER

WHEREAS: The City Council was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Frederick James Cabral on August 13, 2024; and

WHEREAS: Frederick, known affectionately as Freddie, was the beloved son of Fred and Helen (Dwyer) Cabral; and

WHEREAS: Freddie was the devoted husband of 59 years to the love of his life Mary Hamilton; and

WHEREAS: A proud graduate of Cambridge Rindge Technical School, Freddie was also an esteemed member of the Cambridge Caballeros Drum and Bugle Corps, where he excelled as a tenor drummer; and

WHEREAS: Freddie served with distinction in the United States Air Force, training in Texas and spent three years in Germany during the early 60’s; and

WHEREAS: An accomplished amateur heavyweight boxer, Freddie earned the title of Heavyweight Champion for all U.S. Armed Forces in Europe; and

WHEREAS: Freddie and his wife Mary lovingly raised their children - Frederick, Christine, Jennifer, and Francis - in Cambridge and they were his pride and joy; and

WHEREAS: Freddie was actively engaged in the community, serving as Assistant Pack Leader of Cub Scout Troop 41, running an open gym program at the Harrington School, teaching boxing to neighborhood kids several nights a week, and becoming President and coach of the East Cambridge Little Baseball League; and

WHEREAS: Freddie dedicated 34 years of service to the City of Cambridge Public Works Department, retiring as a Supervisor of Building Maintenance in 2006; and

WHEREAS: Freddie took immense pride in the families each of his children had built, cherishing his sons-in-law Don and Scott and daughter-in-law Michelle, and delighting in his role as a grandfather to Charlene, Stephanie, Danielle, Sami, Meghan, Jake, Farrah and Juliet as well as a great-grandfather to Chloe; and

WHEREAS: Even after his children had grown, Freddie continued to pursue his passion for drumming, joining the Boston Crusaders Alumni Corps and earning the title of Prince of Tenor Drummers from his peers; and

WHEREAS: Freddie’s presence and warmth will be sorely missed by all he touched and loved; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy for the family of Frederick Cabral at this time of such personal loss; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Cabral family on behalf of the entire City Council.

9. Best wishes to Nathan Klima as he begins studies at MIT and thanks for his commitment and service to the residents of Cambridge. Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern

10. Congratulations to Detective Brian O’Connor for being awarded the American Donald D. Drummond International Member of the Year Award. Councillor Toner

11. Congratulations to Donald Copeland on his retirement. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

12. Congratulations to the organizers of the 5th Annual Community Cookout. Councillor Wilson

5. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on Aug 21, 2024 to continue the discussion on allowing multifamily housing in all neighborhoods of the City. [text of report]
Rules Suspended to consider with Orders #5,6; Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0
Remote Present: Azeem, McGovern, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson
Also Present: Toner, Simmons

1. That the Housing Committee recommends that the Full City Council requests that the City Manager direct the Community Development Department (CDD) and the Law Department to draft zoning language based on the proposal discussed at the Housing Committee to eliminate exclusionary zoning and allow up to six stories of multifamily housing in all residential districts, and bring back any analysis (if available) on displacement concerns, and report back to the City Council by Sept 15, 2024.

2. That the Housing Committee recommends that the Full City Council requests that the City Manager directs CDD to hold public meetings to inform the Cambridge community about the proposed changes before any public hearings of the Ordinance Committee and the Planning Board on this topic.

COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF24#118)
Placed on File 8-0

2. A communication was received from Brian Corr, Executive Director, Police Review & Advisory Board, transmitting Police Review and Advisory Board Quarterly Report for 2023 Q4. (COF24#119)
Placed on File 8-0

3. A communication was received from Brian Corr, Executive Director, Police Review & Advisory Board, transmitting Police Review and Advisory Board Quarterly Report for 2024 Q1. (COF24#120)
Placed on File 8-0

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Sept 9
12:00pm The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss truck safety in Cambridge.
5:30pm City Council Meeting

Mon, Oct 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting
6:30pm PROPERTY TAX RATE CLASSIFICATION - The Cambridge City Council will conduct a public hearing related to setting the property tax rate classification. The purpose of said public hearing is to gather testimony, information and public input concerning the property tax rate classification. All persons wishing to be heard shall be afforded the opportunity. Under the laws of the Commonwealth, the City has the option of taxing residential and commercial/industrial property at different tax rates. At this public meeting, the City Council will review tax rates/classifications proposed by the City Manager and the Board of Assessors. The votes taken will result in property tax rates that reflect the city’s property tax levy for Fiscal Year 2025, including the granting of the residential exemption.

Tues, Oct 8
11:00AM The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public hearing to receive an update from city staff on BEUDO implementation and to review and discuss regulations, elements of BEUDO, and possible future updates.

Tues, Oct 22
11:00am The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss the updates on the Zero Waste Master Plan (ZWMP).

O-2 Sept 9, 2024
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness of the often stigmatized and taboo topic of suicide, with the goal of shifting public perception, spreading hope, and providing critical information to those affected by suicide; and
WHEREAS: Suicidal thoughts, like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background, and are often an indicator of more serious, untreated mental health issues; and
WHEREAS: High-risk populations, including young adults aged 18-25, high school students, LGBTQ youth, American Indian/Alaskan Natives, and those in local jails, experience a significantly higher prevalence of serious suicidal thoughts and attempts, with suicide being a leading cause of death in these groups; and
WHEREAS: Suicide rates and the prevalence of serious suicidal thoughts vary significantly across demographic groups, with higher risks observed among American Indian/Alaskan Natives, LGBTQ+ youth, and those in local jails – specifically, data from the CDC, NIMH, and other sources highlight that 41% of LGBTQ+ youth, 22% of high school students, and 13% of young adults aged 18-25 have serious thoughts of suicide – and men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women, with suicide being a leading cause of death among people aged 10-24, the third leading cause among those aged 15-24, and the twelfth leading cause overall in the U.S.; and
WHEREAS: Critical resources such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the Crisis Text Line, and other support services are available to help individuals, families, and communities prevent suicide, anyone experiencing a mental health crisis is urged to call or text 988 immediately, chat at 988lifeline.org, or text NAMI to 741-741 to connect with a trained crisis counselor, and the City Council is committed to ensuring that every constituent knows they are valued and important, and reminds the community that no one is alone in facing mental health challenges; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record acknowledging September as Suicide Prevention Month and in expressing its gratitude to the Cambridge Public Health Department, the Cambridge Health Alliance, and mental health providers throughout Cambridge and beyond for their commitment to supporting individuals experiencing a mental health crisis; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record reminding each and every constituent that they are valued, important, and that their lives matter, and that nobody is truly alone in our community.

O-3 Sept 9, 2024
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Behavioral health is an essential component of overall health and wellness – prevention of substance use disorders is effective, treatment is successful, and recovery is possible for individuals in our community and across the nation; and
WHEREAS: Stigma against substance use disorders hinders recovery by discouraging individuals from seeking treatment and leading them to believe that recovery is unattainable, and education on the nature of addiction is crucial for reducing stigma and fostering a supportive environment for those affected by substance use disorders; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is committed to recognizing and supporting residents with substance use disorders, as well as those in recovery, and City officials, community partners, social service organizations, and residents have collaboratively developed a comprehensive response encompassing prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery; and
WHEREAS: Each year, the loss of community members to substance use disorders is a profound tragedy for the individuals and their loved ones, and support and resources for recovery can be accessed at the Community Behavioral Health Center at CHA Cambridge Hospital or through the MA Substance Use Helpline; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record declaring September as National Recovery Month and in calling upon the people of Cambridge to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities, reflecting this year’s theme, “The Art of Recovery”; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council affirms to every constituent that they are valued, that their lives matter, and that we are a united community where no one should ever feel alone.

O-4 Sept 9, 2024
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS: The high-rise apartment building located at 1 Leighton Street has experienced ongoing issues with its garbage chutes for several years, resulting in significant inconvenience and potential health concerns for those living in the building’s more than 400 units; and
WHEREAS: Tenants across numerous floors have reported various problems with the garbage chutes, including inconsistent operation of chute doors, unclear and inconsistent rules for garbage disposal, ambiguous guidance on the frequency and process of trash room maintenance, and related quality of life issues; and
WHEREAS: Despite numerous attempts by City departments and staff to assess and resolve these issues over a period of years, the problem has persisted through changes in building management and ownership, without clarity as to why a resolution has been so elusive; and
WHEREAS: The ongoing nature of these issues continues to impact the health, safety, and wellbeing of the residents at 1 Leighton Street, necessitating a sustained and coordinated response from the City to ensure a permanent resolution; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to provide a comprehensive report outlining the City’s knowledge of the garbage chute issues at 1 Leighton Street, including the history of the problem, past efforts made by the City to address these issues, and an assessment as to why the resolution has been elusive; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to develop and propose potential next steps for addressing and resolving these issues in collaboration with the building’s current owners and management, and to report back to the City Council on this matter no later than Nov 4, 2024.

O-5 Sept 9, 2024 Amended
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR WILSON
WHEREAS: The current priority period for cannabis business applicants is set to expire in late September 2024, and there is a recognized need to extend this period to ensure the City has adequate time to meet the Cannabis Control Commission’s equity requirements; and
WHEREAS: Since 2019 the City’s Cannabis Business Permitting Ordinance has had a permitting preference period for priority applicants, which for two years applied exclusively to Economic Empowerment Applicants, and for three additional years applied to all Group A Priority Applicants which include Economic Empowerment Applicants, Social Equity Program Applicants, Women or Minority Owned businesses, or Cambridge residents for at least the three previous years prior to application earning less than fifty percent (50%) of Area Median Income (AMI); and
WHEREAS: The Cannabis Control Commission promulgated regulations that address municipal equity requirements in 2023 and the City has not found out yet whether the equity measures in place in the Cannabis Business Permitting Ordinance, including the preference period for Group A priority applicants, and equity measures the City has taken in implementing the Cannabis Business Permitting Ordinance and entering into Host Community Agreements, satisfy those requirements; and
WHEREAS: It is also essential to coordinate the timing of the priority period extension with the pending response from the Cannabis Control Commission regarding compliance with equity applicant prioritization; and
WHEREAS: An extension of the priority period is being proposed for a limited duration of between six months to one year to allow for compliance while preventing the permanent exclusion of medical cannabis businesses, and City staff are expected to provide the City Council with a recommendation on the appropriate duration for the extension, while ensuring that all stakeholders are adequately considered; and
WHEREAS: The City Council acknowledges the need to also establish a framework for discussing additional cannabis-related issues that do not have immediate time constraints, such as allowing on-site repackaging of products within local dispensaries, the 1800-foot minimum distance requirement between cannabis businesses, and the lack of zoning provisions for social consumption establishments, which are now permitted under state law; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Chair of the Economic Development and University Relations Committee be and hereby is requested to schedule a hearing to discuss cannabis policy issues, including the potential allowance for repackaging of products at local dispensaries, the 1800-foot minimum distance requirement between cannabis businesses, and the lack of zoning provisions for social consumption establishments that are now permitted under state law; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to enact policy that will extend the priority period for Group A Priority Applicants as defined in Section 5.50.020 of the Cannabis Business Permitting Ordinance, which includes Social Equity and Equity Empowerment cannabis business applicants, for a period of 6 months to 1 year, or until guidance has been received from the Cannabis Control Commission, and to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner.

O-6 Sept 9, 2024 Charter Right - Toner
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: The Housing Committee met on Aug 21, 2024 and voted favorably to recommend that the Full City Council requests that the City Manager direct the Community Development Department (CDD) and the Law Department to draft zoning language based on the proposal discussed at the Housing Committee to eliminate exclusionary zoning and allow up to six stories of multifamily housing in all residential districts, and bring back any analysis (if available) on displacement concerns, and report back to the City Council by Sept 15, 2024.
ORDERED: That the City Manager direct the Community Development Department (CDD) and the Law Department to draft zoning language based on the proposal discussed at the Housing Committee to eliminate exclusionary zoning and allow up to six stories of multifamily housing in all residential districts and bring back any analysis (if available) on displacement concerns, and report back to the City Council by Sept 15, 2024.

O-8 Sept 9, 2024
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS: As part of the City’s efforts to assist building owners in making crucial energy efficiency upgrades and reduce the use of fossil fuels, the use of PACE was supported by the City’s Climate Protection Action Committee, the Climate Crisis Working Group, and the City Council in a policy order from October 2020; and
WHEREAS: Following that Council request, the City Manager followed up with a recommendation that the City Council authorize the City Manager to implement the PACE program in the City of Cambridge on Aug 7, 2023, which change was approved unanimously; and
WHEREAS: PACE will be an essential financing tool for commercial property owners to take advantage of as they consider ways to reduce their carbon emissions and specifically to comply with the requirements of the BEUDO ordinance; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant departments to provide a status update on the implementation of the PACE program and provide resources and information for property owners; and provide any recommendations for expanding PACE adoption; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council by October 2024.

O-9 Sept 9, 2024
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
COUNCILLOR WILSON
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: On Sept 11, 2023, the City Council unanimously passed PO23#115, which asked the City Manager to provide a report on the use of short-term rentals in Cambridge, including numbers of registered units and how that compares to public listings, data on usage, whether the City can have access to data from rental services and state agencies, and whether the city needs additional ordinance language to improve enforcement; and
WHEREAS: The intent of the Short-Term Rentals (STR) Ordinance, which passed in August 2017 and made the operation of short-term rentals legal for Cambridge residents, was to enhance the city by supporting residents wanting to operate STRs without compromising housing availability or affordability; and
WHEREAS: While there are state and municipal requirements for short-term rental operators, there are examples from other places with different rules which might be appropriate for Cambridge, now that the experience of the past seven years can be reviewed; and
WHEREAS: There have been instances reported to the City Council of neighbors who have provided their evidence that some residents are not following the rules, yet determining whether the rules are being followed and enforcing them can be challenging; and
WHEREAS: With the ongoing question of the need to balance resident and visitor interest in short term rentals with the city’s goals of supporting livable neighborhoods, preventing the ordinance from being used to avoid hotel regulations, and encourage long term rentals; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide an update on progress towards providing a recommendation for changes to the existing ordinance and a report on the impact of the Short-Term Rentals in Cambridge, including how enforcement happens and how many units are registered and available; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council by October 2024.

O-11 Sept 9, 2024 Amended
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: MIT has recently announced plans to consolidate climate and energy research, as well as directing more funding to these efforts under the new Climate Project initiative; and
WHEREAS: While this research is incredibly important to understand and find new ways to create renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, MIT has not committed to dissociating from the fossil fuel industry, which contributes to concerns about research bias; and
WHEREAS: Other institutions, including Harvard, Columbia, and the University of California system, have divested their endowments from fossil fuel investments while Princeton and Cambridge Universities have entirely dissociated from fossil fuel companies out of acknowledgement of the harm the industry causes the environment and in the fight for climate justice; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record in support of MIT Divest’s open letter calling for MIT’s dissociation from the fossil fuel industry in the Climate Project; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to MIT President Sally Kornbluth and the lead architect of the Project Professor Richard Lester on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-12 Sept 9, 2024
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: On Nov 20, 2023, the City Council unanimously passed PO23#209, which asked the City Manager to consider a pilot program for automated parking enforcement using MPS SafetyStick technology; and
WHEREAS: Parking violations are not victimless crimes and can affect disability parking access, transit service, loading zones, bicycle safety, and emergency vehicle access, and it is important for Cambridge to continue to improve street safety through enforcement of parking violations; and
WHEREAS: Since the policy order was passed, a number of other cities, in Massachusetts and elsewhere, have begun ticketing using camera-equipped bollards, and the City of Boston has also considered similar technology; and
WHEREAS: Boston and Cambridge have unique legal considerations in terms of Massachusetts municipalities under G.L. c.90, §20A ½ when it comes to parking enforcement and some work has been done to consider ways in which automated enforcement is possible under state law, with two possible pathways outlined in a legal opinion (attached) provided to Boston and shared with Cambridge city administration; and
WHEREAS: This technology would not cost the city any money, and could prove useful for enforcement in our commercial squares where parking violations are typically more prevalent and disruptive to other users of the space and where parking enforcement officers may not be able to keep up with the number of infractions; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide a status update on considerations for the pilot program and report back to the City Council by October 2024.

AWAITING REPORT LIST
24-8. Report on the recommendations for the refinement and improvement of the housing permitting process to the City Council, with a focus on reducing delays, minimizing costs, and enhancing clarity and accessibility for all stakeholders. See Mgr #19
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan (O-1) from 2/26/2024

24-18. Report on zoning language that effectively promotes multi-family housing, including income-restricted affordable housing with the goal of having viable housing for everyone especially lower-income residents.
Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui (Calendar Item #2) from 3/25/2024

24-23. Report back to the Human Services and Veterans Committee on an issued RFP calling for an agency that will lead the City through a community process that will include, but not be limited to, community education, community feedback, location possibilities, potential legal issues and will include feedback from all neighborhoods, including but not limited to; seniors, businesses and places of worship, the Cambridge Police Department, the Cambridge Fire Department, Pro Ambulance, the Cambridge Health Alliance, shelters, nonprofits working with those experiences substance use disorder, and individuals experiencing substance use disorder themselves.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem (O-2) from 5/13/2024

24-24. Report on work done with relevant City departments and the Cambridge Arts Council to consider whether Cambridge could facilitate a porch-fest event.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem (O-2) from 5/20/2024

24-26. Requested to clarify why the Wage Theft Enforcement Committee has not yet been appointed and to swiftly appoint the committee as called for in the Wage Theft Ordinance. See Mgr #21
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-3) from 6/3/2024

24-31. Provide an update to the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan (MFIP) including revised cost estimates to help inform the FY26 and ongoing capital budget priorities in a timely manner.
Councillor Pickett, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner (O-1) from 6/10/2024

24-32. Report back on exploring with the MBTA how to best ensure that the public art, Gift of the Wind, is preserved.
Councillor Pickett, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson (O-1) from 6/17/2024

24-35. Report back to the City Council with an update on the Children Savings Accounts Program with the East Cambridge Savings Bank.
Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan (O-6) from 6/17/2024

24-36. Provide a plan for keeping residents, businesses and public safety officials informed about the status of current and future inter-jurisdictional transportation projects.
Councillor Pickett, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-2) from 6/24/2024

24-37. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to consider a number of city application processes and find ways to reduce paper and printing waste.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-7) from 6/24/2024

24-39. The City Manager is requested to reach out to the Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority to explore the feasibility of utilizing the large screen televisions in the community rooms of CHA buildings to enable seniors living in these buildings to participate in (via public comment) and view City Council meetings as they are held.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Azeem (O-1) from 8/5/2024

24-40. The City Manager is requested to take the necessary actions to ensure the City’s Gold Star Pool remains open through the end of September 2024, and shall be ready to open at the start of June 2025, three weeks earlier than the pool opened this year.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui (O-3) from 8/5/2024

24-41. The City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to work with the City of Somerville to address the parking signage on Seven Pines Avenue. See Mgr #9
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner (O-4) from 8/5/2024

24-42. The City Manager is requested to work with all relevant city and state departments to amend the Do Not Enter sign at the entrance of Whittemore Avenue from Alewife Brook Parkway to include an exception for abutters.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner (O-5) from 8/5/2024

24-43. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant staff and departments to conduct outreach to Cambridge colleges and universities about the pilot University Pass Program and coordinate with the MBTA and report back to the City Council on these outreach efforts.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui (O-11) from 8/5/2024

24-44. The City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department to provide a legal opinion on whether Cambridge can enact a local ordinance or regulation similar to H.3685, which would prohibit associations from unreasonably restricting the use of a solar energy system, or whether the City should submit a Home Rule Petition to ensure access to solar energy for residents.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui (O-13) from 8/5/2024

24-45. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to review climate leading heating and cooling regulations and direct the appropriate departments to develop and implement a policy that aligns with Cambridge’s climate leadership to ensure that City operated buildings have default temperatures that align with health and sustainability best practices, including differing guidelines for workplace occupancy hours and outside of business hours.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem (O-14) from 8/5/2024