Cambridge City Council meeting - September 12, 2011 - AGENDA

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the re-appointment of Warren R. McManus as a Commissioner for the Cambridge Housing Authority effective Oct 1, 2011 in accordance with Chapter 121B, Section 5.
Confirmed 8-1, Councillor Kelley voted NO

September 12, 2011

To the Honorable, the City Council:

In accordance with Chapter 121B, Section 5, I am submitting the nomination of Warren R. McManus for reappointment as a member of the Cambridge Housing Authority for a term of five years effective October 1, 2011.

Mr. McManus has served as a commissioner since September of 1982 and has made an extraordinary contribution and a demonstrated commitment to the mission of the Cambridge Housing Authority.

Under the statute, City Council confirmation is required.

Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-68, regarding a report on the future of the East Cambridge Post Office.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative that the City Council formally appropriate/allocate the Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds as follows: [presumably Kelley NO on the 8-1 votes, and Kelley and Toomey NO on the 7-2 votes]

1A. 80% of FY2012 CPA Local Fund revenues ($5,400,000) allocated to Affordable Housing and appropriated to the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust; [approved 7-2]

1B. 10% of FY2012 CPA Local Fund revenues ($675,000) allocated to Historic Preservation; [approved 9-0]

1C. 10% of FY2012 CPA Local Fund revenues ($675,000) allocated to Open Space; [approved 8-1]

2A. 80% of FY2011 State Match revenues ($1,480,000) allocated to Affordable Housing and appropriated to the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust; [approved 7-2]

2B. 10% of FY2011 State Match revenues ($185,000) allocated to Historic Preservation; [approved 9-0]

2C. 10% of FY2011 State Match revenues ($185,000) allocated to Open Space; [approved 8-1]

3A. 80% of the Fund Balance ($800,000) allocated to Affordable Housing and appropriated to the Affordable Housing Trust; [approved 7-2]

3B. 10% of the Fund Balance ($100,000) allocated to Historic Preservation; [approved 9-0]

3C. 10% of the Fund Balance ($100,000) allocated to Open Space; [approved 8-1] and

4A. Appropriate ($7,500) from the Fund Balance the cost for the Community Preservation Coalition Membership Dues. [approved 9-0]

http://www2.cambridgema.gov/cityClerk/cmLetter.cfm?item_id=20017

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-49, regarding a report on the current state of the Pacific Street dog park and devise a strategy to make it more accessible and enjoyable for both dog owners and their pets.

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-77, regarding a report on amending the Paine Park fountain schedule through Labor Day.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-95, regarding a report on repaving Antrim Street.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-100, regarding a report on cleaning utility poles, graffiti and debris along Massachusetts Avenue between Harvard and Porter Squares.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-106, regarding a report on styrofoam recycling options.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-108, regarding a report on the City's policy on allowing sidewalk markings for a duathalon event and when the Cambridgeside Galleria will be removing them.

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-59, regarding a report on a plan to keep sidewalk crossings accessible for the fall/winter 2011 at major pedestrian thoroughfares.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-105, regarding a report on why there are so many "no turn on red" signs.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-93, regarding a report on ensuring sufficient information is on the City's website relative to bedbugs.

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-88, regarding a report on the best methods for slowing traffic on Linnaean Street.

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-96, regarding a report on the feasibility of allowing residents to pay for the requisition and installation of bike rakes in residential areas.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-97, regarding a report on the lack of bike lane and the unsafe car traffic on Blanchard Road.

16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-69, regarding a report on working with utility companies to ensure that all pole wire transfers and removal of unsightly older poles are completed in a quick and efficient manner.

17. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-86, regarding a report on applying for the Rooftop Solar Challenge.

18. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-87 and 11-98, regarding a report on traffic calming on Tremont Streets.

19. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-94, regarding a report on fireworks at Corcoran Park on July 4th.
Tabled - Kelley

20. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation from the Friends of the Community Learning Center (CLC) in the amount of $19,989.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($18,614.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($1,375.00) which will be used to support ESOL classes including classes to ESOL students on women's breast health with assistance from Mt. Auburn Hospital.

21. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of various private donations to the Council on Aging in the amount of $7,438.40 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($1,275.00) and to the Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($6,163.40) and will be used to support a variety of services for Cambridge Seniors, including food and entertainment for senior parties, the purchase of fans for low-income seniors, provision of minor home adaptation equipment, support for the food pantry, and transportation for special senior center events and trips.

22. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Massachusetts Housing and Shelter Alliance grant funded by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) in the amount of $88,979.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($84,948.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($4,031.00) which will be used for costs related to the Carey Men's Transitional Program operated by the Multi-Service Center.

23. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the STOP Act grant for $50,000.00 funded by the Substance and Mental Health Services Administration to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($7,070.00), to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($40,930.00), and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Travel and Training account ($2,000.00) and will be used to create and implement phase four of the Reality Check campaign for parents of middle school students, aimed at reducing social access to alcohol for minors.

24. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Public Safety Answering Position (PSAP) Grant funded from the Statewide Emergency Telecommunications Board (SEBT) for $72,551.00 to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Salary and Wages account ($50,000), Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($6,000) and to the Grant Fund Emergency Communications Department Travel and Training account ($16,551) which will support training to dispatch personnel in the Emergency Communications Department by covering the cost of backfills for participants and training conference and course fees, as well as software maintenance costs.

25. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Metropolitan Area Planning Council Regional Bike Parking Program Grant in the amount of $71,532 to the Grant Fund Community Development Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account to purchase approximately 374 bicycle parking racks.

26. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a energy efficiency rebate revenues from NSTAR for $30,000 to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account related to heating system boiler replacements at the Longfellow School.

27. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council for $16,350 to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations (Arts Council) Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used to provide mini-grants to artists, arts organizations and community groups in Cambridge.

28. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a $2,000 donation from Draper Laboratory to the Grant Fund Police Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will support a Police Department program through the Youth and Family Services Unit (YFSU) in partnership with the Cambridge YMCA and the Cambridge/Somerville Boxing Club for a youth boxing program for youth 13-22 who are either currently or have previously been enrolled in the YFSU Diversion program.

29. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a $100 donation from the Somerville Auxiliary Police to the Grant Fund Police Other Ordinary Maintenance account which was given in recognition of their assistance with the Memorial Day Parade in Somerville and will be used to purchase equipment for the Cambridge Auxiliary Police.

30. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a FY11 Pedestrian, Bicycle and Moped Safety Enforcement and Equipment Grant from the Massachusetts Executive office of Public Safety and Security in the amount of $10,000 to the Grant Fund Police Department Salary and Wages account ($9,200) and to the Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($800) which will be used to enhance effective pedestrian, bicycle and/or moped enforcement to reduce incidents of fatalities and injuries.

31. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a $5,000 grant from the Fidelity Charitable Gift Trust through the Hildreth Stewart Fund to the Grant Fund Police Other Ordinary Maintenance account which was made to the Cambridge Police Department to provide funding to support training activities for officers and their interaction with the public.

32. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-103, regarding report on the safety of the elevator at City Hall.

ON THE TABLE
1. That the City Manager is requested to restore funding for School Department clerical positions until a proper and negotiated process can be achieved with the Cambridge School Department and Unions representing the employees, and to report back to the City Council on the progress. [Order Number Fourteen of Apr 26, 2010 Placed on Table. Councillor Kelley made motions to take from table on May 10, 2010 failed 2-7-0, Sept 13, 2010 failed 4-4-1, Sept 27, 2010 failed 3-5-1, Dec 13, 2010 failed 3-6-0. Remains on Table.]

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-32, regarding a report on issues with the development of the former St. John's property site. [Charter Right exercised on City Manager Agenda Item Number Eighteen of May 24, 2010. Placed on Table June 7, 2010.]

3. An application was received from Tony LaVita, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 68 Middlesex Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Applications and Petitions Number Ten of June 7, 2010 Placed on Table.]

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-189, regarding a report on the legitimacy of the tax exempt claim of Education First. [Charter Right exercised on City Manager Agenda Item Number Nineteen of Jan 24, 2011. Placed on Table Jan 31, 2011.]

5. That the City Manager is requested to have the Community Development Department convene a meeting with neighbors in the vicinity of Grove Street and Blanchard Road, the Fresh Pond Master Plan Committee and other relevant parties to review the zoning along the golf course and the Fresh Pond Reservation in that area. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Five of Jan 24, 2011. Placed on Table Jan 31, 2011.]

6. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with a complete and comprehensive list of all concessions made to the City and broader Cambridge community by developers and the universities in exchange for zoning relief, special permits, or Council approval. Charter Right exercised by Councillor Reeves on Order Number Eleven of Apr 25, 2011. [Tabled on Motion of Councillor Cheung on May 2, 2011.]

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
7. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public meeting held on July 18, 2011 for the purpose of considering a proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance to enable the City's regional bike-share program to site bike-share stations on municipal and private property. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Aug 15, 2011. Planning Board hearing held July 26, 2011. Petition expires Oct 16, 2011.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Pat Berry, transmitting thanks for the resolution on the passing of her mother Amorette Berry.

2. A communication was received from Robert K. Kraft, on the behalf of the family of Myra Kraft, transmitting appreciation for your thoughtful outreach during their time of sorrow.

3. A communication was received from James Williamson, regarding bikes on sidewalks, crosswalks and red lights and a skateboarder skating across the lip of the McCreehan Pool.

4. A communication was received from Toni LaRosa, Property Manager, Cambridge YMCA supporting the 80-10-10 distribution of CPA funds.

5. A communication was received from Judy Johnson, 55 Antrim Street, regarding tree work in the city.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Angela "Angie" (Novello) Cardello.   Mayor Maher

2. Resolution on the death of Mary D. (Hayes) Bates.   Mayor Maher

3. Retirement of Sharon Fernandes from the School Department.   Mayor Maher

4. Retirement of Paula Adkins Baptist from the School Department.   Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey

5. Retirement of Carmen Daisy Fajardo from the Cambridge Housing Authority.   Mayor Maher

6. Retirement of Maria Simpreux from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Maher

7. Retirement of Kathleen Reist from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Maher

8. Retirement of Lauren Sullivan from the Inspectional Services Department.   Mayor Maher

9. Resolution on the death of John R. Stevenson.   Mayor Maher

10. Resolution on the death of Evelyn J. (Grossi) Rinaldo.   Mayor Maher

11. Resolution on the death of Zelma Olivia (Bradshaw) Evelyn.   Councillor Reeves, Councillor Decker

12. Resolution on the death of Helen C. (Spindler) Sullivan.   Mayor Maher

13. Resolution on the death of William Wong.   Councillor Toomey

14. Resolution on the death of Therese (Norcott) Trenholm.   Mayor Maher

15. Congratulations to Youth Underground and the Young Theater Company on their workshop performances of Money Matters.   Vice Mayor Davis

16. Resolution on the death of Hilda A. Clara.   Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher

17. Resolution on the death of Mary R. Rice.   Mayor Maher

18. Resolution on the death of George "Dol" Vailliant.   Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey

19. Congratulations to State Representative Martin Walsh on being nominated as one of the nation's top 50 emerging leaders in the labor movement.   Councillor Toomey

20. Resolution on the death of David P. McGurl.   Councillor Toomey

21. Resolution on the death of Adriana (Cabral) Lopes.   Councillor Toomey

22. Resolution on the death of Ruth Seely Johnson.   Mayor Maher

23. Resolution on the death of Dr. Richard F. Curran.   Councillor Toomey

24. Resolution on the death of Maurice J. "Moe" Harvey.   Councillor Toomey

25. Retirement of Martha Hamilton from the Cambridge Public Library.   Mayor Maher

26. Resolution on the death of Barbara A. (Kebarian) Benevento.   Mayor Maher

27. Speedy recovery wishes to Dee Dee Edmonson.   Councillor Simmons

28. City Council support of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month and urge the Cambridge Department of Public Health to undertake initiatives to spread awareness about this disease.   Councillor Simmons

29. Best wishes for a memorable National Grandparents Day on Sept 11, 2011.   Councillor Simmons

30. Urge residents to be cognizant that September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.   Councillor Simmons

31. Happy 92nd Birthday wishes to Abney Bourne.   Councillor Simmons

32. Congratulations to Charles Banks and Regina Thomas on their engagement.   Councillor Simmons

33. Welcome Redbones Rib Shack to the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Cheung

34. Welcome Abigail's to the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Simmons

35. Resolution on the death of John P. Riley.   Mayor Maher

36. Resolution on the death of Reverend Francis J. Nicholson.   Councillor Toomey

37. Resolution on the death of John F. Green Sr.   Councillor Toomey

38. Congratulations to Dr. Susan Windham-Bannister, Mr. Douglas Banks and the Science Club for Girls on the Celebration and Catalyst Award Ceremony on Nov 9, 2011.   Vice Mayor Davis

39. Welcome the expansion of Pfizer Inc. to Kendall Square.   Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher, Councillor Decker

40. Resolution on the death of Dorothy Chapman.   Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey

41. Congratulations to Chef/Owner William Kovel on the grand opening of Catalyst Restaurant in Kendall Square.   Councillor Toomey

42. Thanks to the Cambridge Fire Department for their work at the fire at 54 Montgomery Street.   Councillor Simmons

43. Happy 7th Anniversary wishes to Dana Lent and David Crowd.   Councillor Simmons

44. Sympathy to the victims of the fire at 54 Montgomery Street.   Councillor Simmons

45. Welcome Bob Slate Stationer to its new location at 30 Brattle Street.   Vice Mayor Davis

46. Congratulations to Whole Foods Market on its 10th anniversary at its River Street site.   Vice Mayor Davis

47. Resolution on the death of Marie O. Richard-Doh.   Mayor Maher

48. Retirement of Naty Morrissey from the Multiservice Center.   Councillor Decker

49. Congratulations to the Women's Center on their 40-year anniversary.   Councillor Decker

50. Congratulations to Peter Hecht, CEO of Ironwood, on the occasion of the New Drug Application (NDA) to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).   Councillor Decker

51. Congratulations to Jennifer and Ned Miles and their team as they support Cambridge's Hydrocephalus Association Walk on Sept 25, 2011.   Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher

52. Congratulations and support to CYCLE Kids for their success and recognition by Fitness Magazine.   Councillor Decker

53. Congratulations to the Boston Women's Health Book Collective on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the publication of Our Bodies, Ourselves.   Vice Mayor Davis

54. Acknowledge the 10th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks.   Councillor Simmons

55. Congratulations to Victoria Anna Marie Spada and Michael Anthony Miele on their wedding.   Councillor Toomey

56. Congratulations to parents Jeff and Allison Lane and Sal and Marie DiDomenico on the birth of their daughter and granddaughter, Olivia Marie Lane.   Councillor Toomey

57. Acknowledge Prince Hall Americanism Day on Sept 13, 2011.   Councillor Simmons

58. Congratulations to Erica Jaquith, Jenny Vernick and Molly Katz-Christy on their adaptation of James and the Giant Peach on Sept 1, 2011.   Councillor Toomey

59. Resolution on the death of Theresa G. (McGovern) Avakian.   Councillor Toomey

60. Resolution on the death of Elmer J. Marsh.   Councillor Reeves

61. Congratulations to Arjun Agarwala and Ashley Vincent for receiving a scholarship from the Cambridge Savings Charitable Foundation.   Mayor Maher

62. Retirement of Sarah Spinale from the Cambridge Municipal Employees Federal Credit Union.   Mayor Maher

63. Congratulations to Vanessa Fisher and Pierre Sully on the birth of their daughter Peyton Marie Sully.   Mayor Maher

64. Congratulations to Alyssa Lee for being named Executive Director of the New School of Music.   Mayor Maher

65. Congratulations to MIT for being names one of the best places to work for people over the age of fifty by the American Association of Retired Persons.   Mayor Maher

66. Congratulations to the organizers of the 4th annual Hydrocephalus Walk at Fresh Pond on Sept 25, 2011.   Mayor Maher

67. Best wishes to Victoria Harris in her future endeavors.   Councillor Seidel

68. Congratulations to the Inman Square Business Association on the success of Inman Funch!, a series of fun lunch events.   Councillor Seidel

69. Congratulating AFR Furniture Rental Inc. for receiving the Small Business of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

70. Congratulating PakCom Incorporated for receiving the Small Business of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

71. Congratulating Cambridge Family and Children's Service for receiving the Nonprofit of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

72. Congratulating MassPay for receiving the New Member of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

73. Congratulating Cambridge Child Care Resource Center, Inc. for receiving the Nonprofit of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

74. Congratulating Skillman Video Group for receiving the New Member of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

75. Congratulating W.T. Kenney Co., Inc. for receiving the Small Business of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

76. Congratulating NSK, Inc. for receiving the New Member of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

77. Congratulating Microsoft for receiving the Corporate Citizen of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

78. Congratulating Rachel Solem for receiving the Business Person of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

79. Congratulating Pfizer Cambridge for being recognized as a Leading Edge honoree.   Councillor Decker

80. Congratulating the Hildebrand Family for receiving the Nonprofit of the Year Award.   Councillor Decker

81. Congratulating Daniel Lewin and the team at Akamai Technologies for their timeless work and strength to continue on as such a successful leader in technology.   Councillor Decker

82. Congratulating The Entrepreneur Walk of Fame for their outstanding work and commitment to improving the city.   Councillor Cheung

83. Congratulating the Loong Kong Tien Yee Association of New England on their 85th Anniversary.   Councillor Cheung

84. Resolution on the death of Thomas Cremens.   Mayor Maher

85. Urge residents to be cognizant of the Report-Back from delegation from Cambridge to El Salvador on September 20, 2011.   Councillor Decker

86. Thanks to City departments and the Special Events Committee who help to make the Feast of Saint Cosmas and Damien a great success.   Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher

87. Resolution on the death of William T. Boyle.   Mayor Maher

88. Congratulations to The Honorable Kenneth Guscott on his receipt of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Boston Branch NAACP.   Councillor Reeves

89. Congratulations to Betty Robinson on her receipt of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Boston Branch NAACP.   Councillor Reeves

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to report back on the feasibility of giving residents the option to "go paperless" with their City bills including water, real estate, excise and any other notice or communication the City regularly sends residents.   Councillor Cheung

2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development and the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation and report back on the impact of the proposed alternative route on Cambridge Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials (NRHM) traffic.   Councillor Toomey
Amended

3. That the City Manager is requested to work with the relevant departments to ascertain what can be done to increase the duration of the Walk mode at the traffic lights at the intersection of Churchill Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue, and other busy intersections in the vicinity of senior apartment buildings in Cambridge, and report back to the Council.   Councillor Simmons
Amended

4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to ascertain what, if anything, can be done to ensure that local businesses shovel their sidewalks in front of their establishment after every snowstorm this winter.   Councillor Simmons

5. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to ascertain what can be done to make the sounds alerting pedestrians that it is safe to cross the street more audible for seniors, so as to minimize the risks of accidents involving seniors at the location of Churchill Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue.   Councillor Simmons
Amended; referred to Public Safety - Simmons

6. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Police Department to increase the number of foot patrols around the Lyndon Baines Johnson, Burns, and other senior apartment buildings in the city.   Councillor Simmons

7. That the City Manager is requested to work with the relevant City Departments to explore the feasibility of issuing temporary City of Cambridge employee identification cards to youth employed in the Mayor's Summer Youth Program to ensure that they have adequate identification to use to open a bank account, and for other financial transactions.   Councillor Simmons

8. That the City Manager is requested to work with the relevant departments to explore the possibility of placing a city-owned shelter at the bus stop at the corner of Brookline Street and Erie Street, and other bus stops next to senior apartment buildings, which do not currently have shelter.   Councillor Simmons

9. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to ensure that the sidewalks next to the Burns senior building and other senior apartment buildings in the city are flat and safe for navigation by seniors.   Councillor Simmons

10. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to identify expedient and cost-effective ways to inform Cambridge residents, especially Cambridge seniors, of the city's shift to single stream recycling.   Councillor Simmons

11. That the City Council go on record expressing solidarity with the victims of Somalia's famine, while urging residents of Cambridge to donate what they can towards the relief effort in Somalia.   Councillor Simmons

12. That the City Council go on record extending its condolences to the family of Mr. James Craig Anderson, while calling on Hinds County Prosecutor, Robert Shuler Smith, to punish all those immediately or remotely associated with Mr. Anderson's tragic death to the fullest extent of the law.   Councillor Simmons

13. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation with the intention of reducing First Street meters at Best Buy to thirty minutes in order to encourage parking for small businesses along First Street.   Councillor Toomey

14. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to determine if an all-way stop sign would be appropriate at the intersection of Bristol Street and Webster Avenue.   Councillor Toomey

15. That the City Manager is requested to work with the relevant City departments to install a traffic sign alerting motorists to a "Senior Crossing" in the vicinity of the intersection of Gore Street and Lambert Street to enhance the safety of seniors from the Miller's River Apartment complex.   Councillor Simmons

16. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to install a "No Turn on Red" sign at the corner of Gore Street and Lambert Street in order to make this intersection safer for pedestrians and report back to the City Council on this matter.   Councillor Simmons

17. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to install a speed bump on Lambert Street to reduce the speed at which cars travel on the street and to make the street safer for residents and pedestrians.   Councillor Simmons

18. That the City Manager is requested to work with the relevant City departments to investigate reports that semi-trailer trucks routinely use Lambert Street to get to McGrath Highway and report back to the City Council on what measures should be put in place to limit the use of Lambert Street by semi-trailer trucks.   Councillor Simmons

19. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to remove the broken branch in front of the Truman apartment building at 25 Eighth Street before it causes physical injury or property damage and to arrange for the City Arborist to inspect another ailing tree in front of the Truman apartment building.   Councillor Simmons

20. That the City Council vote to file a Zoning Petition amending Section 20.300 Central Square Overlay District of the Zoning Ordinance by deleting Section 20.304.5.3 b.   Councillor Reeves
Amended, approved 8-1 (Davis voted NO); referred to Planning Board, Ordinance Committee - Reeves

21. That the City Manager is requested to work with the relevant City departments to inform the City Council about transportation services available to Cambridge seniors that are free and those that must be paid for as well as identify what transportation services are available for recreational purposes.   Councillor Simmons

22. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to explore the feasibility of using city funds to subsidize the cost of installing or removing air conditioners from Cambridge Housing Authority-owned apartments, especially those occupied by seniors.   Councillor Simmons

23. That the School Committee is requested to direct the Superintendent to confer with the City Manager and relevant members of the City and School Department staffs to determine what changes need to be made to playgrounds and playing fields associated with Cambridge Public Schools in order to best support the Innovation Agenda.   Councillor Kelley

24. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council at its Sept 19th meeting on the status of any cases for which the recently concluded Monteiro case might be relevant. To the extent that public discussion on some aspects of these cases may be detrimental to the City's legal position, the City Council may go into Executive Session, but Executive Session would be as limited as possible.   Councillor Kelley

25. That the City Manager is requested to contact the Department of Conservation and Recreation to determine what plans for the McCrehan pool are and to report back to the City Council on this matter.   Councillor Kelley

26. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of the Cambridge Public Library to reconsider the protocol of having wireless internet access on only the first floor of the public library.   Councillor Decker

27. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to devise a plan to ensure that tow truck drivers model safe and courteous driving in the city and report back to the Council.   Councillor Cheung

28. That the City Manager is requested to look into the feasibility of installing additional "one way" signs on Fulkerson Street and a speed bump to reduce speeding.   Councillor Cheung

29. That the City Manager is requested to increase enforcement against bikers that endanger pedestrians and report back to the City Council with a plan of action on these two orders.   Councillor Cheung

30. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads and the School Committee to see that the request for a new playground for the Amigos School be placed high on the list for playground renovations.   Councillor Cheung

31. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council about improvements made to the Astro Turf soccer field at Danehy park this summer as well as a schedule for its completion.   Councillor Cheung
Withdrawn with unanimous consent - Cheung

32. That the City Manager is requested to look into the feasibility of reinstalling a trash receptacle in the alley adjacent to 9 Howard Street and Hoyt Field.   Councillor Cheung

33. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads and the School Committee to look into the budgetary impact of implementing the Intel 1:1 eLearning program and report back to the Council on this matter in advance of the next budgetary cycle.   Councillor Cheung
Referred to Mayor to schedule a Roundtable Meeting on the "Digital Divide"

34. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate departments to determine the best method to slow traffic on Norfolk Street.   Councillor Cheung

35. That the City Manager is requested to look into the repairs being made to JFK Street and report back to the City Council with a timeline for completion.   Councillor Cheung

36. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to implement stricter laws and increase police presence on Broadway to decrease the number of abnormally noisy trucks and unmuffled motorcycles during the night hours.   Councillor Cheung

37. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the racial makeup of the City's workforce by level and department.   Councillor Cheung

38. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate department heads, including the Community Development Department, to look into the status of the May 2, 2011 Policy Order #2 and report back to the City Council.   Councillor Cheung
Amended

39. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate department heads to look into finding better parking options and lock mechanisms for Vespa owners.   Councillor Cheung

40. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the progress and feasibility of integrating and providing a service similar to SeeClickFix in Cambridge.   Councillor Cheung

41. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to find a way to implement and support Walk/Ride Days in Cambridge as other communities have done and report back to the Council on this matter.   Councillor Cheung
Withdrawn with unanimous consent - Cheung

42. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to look into the feasibility of developing a regular cleaning schedule for the outside of the waste receptacles in Harvard Square.   Councillor Cheung

43. That the City Council go on record supporting a concrete timetable for beginning the Green Line Extension and request that the Patrick Administration get the project underway before acquisitions are completed, and deliver concrete and tangible assets.   Councillor Toomey

44. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Commissioner of Public Works to ask the Recycling Advisory Committee to consider how to encourage businesses to use recyclable packaging instead of non-recyclable styrofoam.   Councillor Cheung and Vice Mayor Davis

45. City Council support of pending legislation to amend M.G.L. Ch. 164 section 34 to provide an effective local enforcement mechanism for timely removal of double utility poles.   Vice Mayor Davis

46. That the City Council go on record asking Fawcett Oil to continue its good faith efforts to sell the Whittemore Community Gardens.   Councillor Decker

47. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and Electrical Department and report back on the status of the Police Call Boxes to be installed at Lopez Park and the status of call boxes at the new Northpoint Park.   Councillor Toomey

48. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development and report back to the City Council on the public process that will take place to help determine the design of new park in East Cambridge as it relates to the Biogen Idec build out mitigation agreement and whether a committee should be assembled as part of the process.   Councillor Toomey

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair of the Ordinance Committee for a public meeting held on July 13, 2011 to consider a petition for a zoning amendment filed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to create a new Section 13.80 entitled PUD-5 District and amend the Zoning Map accordingly. The petition would rezone a 26-acre parcel in the Kendall Square area.
Referred to petition

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Mayor David E. Maher, transmitting a communication regarding a request for City Council executive session minutes.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Sept 12
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Sept 13
5:30pm   The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss a report on the safety issues related to the MIT Nuclear Reactor Laboratory.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Sept 14
5:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition from Matthew Bagedonow, et al., to amend Residence District C-1 by adding to the end of Section 5.24 Yards a new paragraph (4) to read as follows: "Section 5.24.4. For Residence District C-1, in no case shall side yards be less than 7' 6". This shall apply to any plane or projection from the plane of the building." This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:45pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition from Laura Runkel, et al, to amend the Zoning Map by rezoning an area bordered on the north by the commuter rail tracks, on the south by Bellis Circle and on the east side by Sherman Street from its C1-A designation to Residential C. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition by Chestnut Hill Realty to amend the Zoning Ordinance by creating a new section that would allow for the creation by Special Permit of rental apartment units in the basement levels of existing multifamily residential buildings in Residence C Districts which meet the Special Permit criteria. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Sept 15
5:30pm   The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss bike parking and enforcement, bike sharing and bike facilities.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Sept 19
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Sept 20
6:00pm   School Committee Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Sept 21
10:00am   The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss challenges, concerns and opportunities facing the development of Farmers Markets.  (Sullivan Chamber)
4:30pm   The Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss building energy efficient schools.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Sept 22
4:00pm   Ordinance Committee  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Sept 26
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm   The City Council will conduct a public hearing to discuss the property tax rate classification.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Sept 27
2:00pm   The University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting to choose goals to recommend to the City Council for FY 13.  (Sullivan Chamber)
4:00pm   Ordinance Committee  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Wed, Oct 5
4:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion on a zoning petition from MIT to amend the Zoning Ordinances of the City of Cambridge to create a new section 13.80 to the Zoning Ordinances entitled PUD-5 District and amend the Zoning Map to create a new PUD-5 District in the Kendall Square area; petition rezones a 26-acre parcel in the Kendall Square area.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Oct 6
5:30pm   The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the Austin, Texas "Parking Benefit District Pilot Program" and any other city parking issues.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Oct 11
7:30am   The Community Health Committee will conduct a public meeting: revisiting after ten years - where do you go when home is not safe. Malkin Penthouse  (Kennedy School of Government)

Wed, Oct 12
5:30pm   The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the city's plan to deal with natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

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

Mon, Oct 31
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 7
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 14
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 21
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 28
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Mon, Dec 12
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 19
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has long been heralded for its commitment to implementing green initiatives across the community to reduce waste and ensure a better quality of life for all residents; and
WHEREAS: Increasingly, more and more companies around the city have gone paperless as other avenues of communication such as email and websites have become the predominate source of communication; and
WHEREAS: The arguments for eliminating paper are strong in today's electronic world. Cutting down on paper eliminates the cost of buying paper and postage; and
WHEREAS: In an eco-conscious community such as Cambridge, giving residents the option to go paperless is a necessary step in furthering the city's commitment to green initiatives; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to look into the feasibility of giving residents the option to go paperless with their city bills including water, real estate, excise, and any other notice the city regularly sends residents and report back to the Council on this matter.

O-2     Sept 12, 2011  Amended
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the City of Boston is pursuing a ban on Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials ("NRHM") transportation through downtown Boston unless the material originates in or has a final destination within the city; and
WHEREAS: Boston is citing the dense population and use of the new greenway as support for the proposed ban on NRHM; and
WHEREAS: The state ban on NRHM such as gasoline, natural gas, and propane already prevents travel through the I-93 tunnels. Trucks traveling from Everett to Quincy will travel through Somerville and Cambridge to circumnavigate Boston in the shortest alternative route; and
WHEREAS: These materials already travel through Somerville and Cambridge to reach destinations west of the City via I-90. The travel ban on Boston surface roads that is being proposed has potential to substantially increase NRHM traffic through Cambridge and Somerville streets, specifically McGrath/O'Brien Highway, Land Boulevard, Binney Street, Main Street, Sydney Street, Massachusetts Avenue, Pleasant Street, Western Avenue, and River Street; and
WHEREAS: These streets are significantly populated with residents and businesses and cut through both of Cambridge's largest business districts, Kendall Square and Central Square; and
WHEREAS: The Kendall Square portion of the route, specifically Binney Street, will experience a significant build out in the coming months and years, which will increase residential, commercial and biotech populations and increase day and nighttime activity. Additionally as part of this build out, there will be approximately 2.5 acres of active parkland that will be added to the East Cambridge and Kendall Square landscape along this route near the corner of Binney and Third Street, and First Street and Land Boulevard; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development and the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation and report back on the impact of this proposed alternative route on Cambridge NRHM traffic; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager confer with appropriate staff and structure a ban similar to what the City of Boston has proposed; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record opposing any changes to NRHM routes that would increase NRHM traffic through the city; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on the actions taken to protect Cambridge.

O-3     Sept 12, 2011  Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Seniors in the Corporal Burns apartment buildings have complained that the traffic lights at the intersection of Churchill Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue switch from the walk mode before they can fully cross this busy intersection; and
WHEREAS: This poses a significant hazard for seniors crossing the street; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the relevant departments to ascertain what can be done to increase the duration of the Walk mode at the traffic lights at the intersection of Churchill Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue, and other busy intersections in the vicinity of senior apartment buildings in Cambridge, and report back to the Council; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation and report back on how the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department sets and adjusts the timing of pedestrian walk lights at intersections with a high volume of seniors using the crosswalks.

O-4     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: During the annual Senior Town Hall meeting, seniors expressed concerns about prompt snow removal this winter; and
WHEREAS: While the Department of Public Works does a good job clearing the streets and sidewalks of Cambridge in the winter, the pace of snow removal remains a significant problem for Cambridge seniors; and
WHEREAS: While it is undoubtedly the City's responsibility to clear the streets and sidewalks after a snowstorm, businesses in Cambridge could do more to assist their customers and improve access to their businesses by shoveling the sidewalks in front of their business establishment after every snowstorm; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to ascertain what, if anything, can be done to ensure that local businesses shovel their sidewalks in front of their establishment after every snowstorm this winter.

O-5     Sept 12, 2011  Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Seniors who live in the Corporal Burns apartment buildings have complained that the sounds alerting pedestrians that it is safe to cross the street at the intersection of Churchill Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue are not loud enough; and
WHEREAS: This creates significant danger for seniors, especially those who rely on hearing aids, as they cross the street; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to ascertain what can be done to make the sounds alerting pedestrians that it is safe to cross the street more audible for seniors, so as to minimize the risks of accidents involving seniors in this location; and be it further
ORDERED: That this matter be referred to the Public Safety Committee.

O-6     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Cambridge seniors have consistently expressed the need for more police foot patrols around senior buildings; and
WHEREAS: Greater police visibility is not only a deterrent to crime, it fosters better relations between the police and the community served by the police; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Cambridge Police Department to increase the number of foot patrols around the Lyndon Baines Johnson, Burns, and other senior apartment buildings in the city; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Cambridge Police to explore the possibility of using the Auxiliary Police for foot patrols in the vicinity of senior apartment buildings and report back to the Council.

O-7     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program employs over 500 Cambridge youth every summer; and
WHEREAS: Some of the youth employed through the Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program are rising seniors who may or may not have been issued school identification cards; and
WHEREAS: Lack of identification is an impediment to cashing cheques or opening a bank account for some youth in the Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the relevant City Departments to explore the feasibility of issuing temporary City of Cambridge employee identification cards to youth employed in the Mayor's Summer Youth Program to ensure that they have adequate identification to use to open a bank account, and for other financial transactions.

O-8     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The need for a shelter at the MBTA bus stop at the corner of Brookline Street and Erie Street remains of great importance to seniors residing in the Lyndon Baines Johnson senior apartment building and other bus riders in the immediate vicinity; and
WHEREAS: Cemusa has stated that it will not put a bus shelter at this location unless a healthy tree which, according to Cemusa, will potentially obstruct the view of its advertisements, is cut down; and
WHEREAS: In a recent correspondence, the outgoing General Manager of the MBTA, Richard Davey, attributed the lack of shelter at the corner of Brookline Street and Erie Street to low bus ridership in this location; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the relevant departments to explore the possibility of placing a city-owned shelter at the bus stop at the corner of Brookline Street and Erie Street, and other bus stops next to senior apartment buildings, which do not currently have shelter.

O-9     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The safety and well-being of Cambridge seniors is of paramount importance to the City Council; and
ORDERED: Bumps on the sidewalks next to the Burns senior apartment building located at 50 Churchill Avenue pose a safety hazard for seniors, especially those who rely on walking aids; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to ensure that the sidewalks next to the Burns senior building and other senior apartment buildings in the city are flat and safe for navigation by seniors.

O-10     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Cambridge's shift to single stream recycling is an important milestone in our city's efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, yet many seniors are not aware of this shift; and
WHEREAS: For single stream recycling to take hold in Cambridge and for it to play a significant role in the City's recycling efforts, Cambridge residents including seniors have to be aware about it; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to identify expedient and cost-effective ways to inform Cambridge residents, especially Cambridge seniors, of the city's shift to single stream recycling.

O-11     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Images of emaciated children with flies hovering around their wasted bodies, which were once thought to be a thing of the past on the continent of Africa, are back on television screens as famine ravages through Somalia; and
WHEREAS: Somalia's famine is caused by a severe drought. It is exacerbated by political instability characterized by decades of civil war, during which huge swathes of the country changed hands between many actors including a weak and ineffective central government, numerous warlords, and the notorious Shabab militia; and
WHEREAS: The drought in Somalia can also be attributed to climate change which, scientists have warned, will have a major impact on food security for many, especially in sub-Saharan Africa; and
WHEREAS: The United States Government, the African Union and European Union are leading an international effort to provide relief to the victims of the famine; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge is home to a large Somali population that is doing everything it can to support family members back at home; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has a long history of assisting communities in need; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record expressing solidarity with the victims of Somalia's famine, while urging residents of Cambridge to donate what they can towards the relief effort in Somalia; be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution be the United States Agency for International Development, which is leading relief efforts in Somalia, on behalf of the City Council.

O-12     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Even by the standards of what we have come to expect from the state of Mississippi, the murder of James Craig Anderson last June, will be remembered as one of the most brutal hate crimes in a state where such crimes used to be commonplace; and
WHEREAS: According to law enforcement officials James Craig-Anderson, an auto plant worker, was severely beaten before being run over with a truck by a group of teens bent on hurting an African American; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Anderson's story evokes memories of James Byrd Jr., who was murdered in Jasper, Texas, in 1998, tied to a truck and dragged along an asphalt pavement. It brings back memories of Marcelo Lucero beaten and stabbed to death by several teens shouting anti-Latino epithets in Long Island, NY; and recalls the suffering of Matthew Shepard who was tortured and murdered in Laramie, WY, in 1998; and
WHEREAS: Law enforcement officials have confirmed that two car loads of teens attacked James Craig Anderson in a motel parking lot, yet only two teens have been charged with his murder, leading many to question why the others were not charged; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record extending its condolences to the family of Mr. James Craig Anderson, while calling on Hinds County prosecutors, Robert Shuler Smith, to punish all those immediately or remotely associated with Mr. Anderson's tragic death to the fullest extent of the law; 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 family of James Craig Anderson and to Hinds County Prosecutor, Robert Shuler Smith, on behalf of the City Council.

O-13     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the new parking meters installed on First Street in front of Best Buy are designated as two-hour meters; and
WHEREAS: The purpose of those meters was to encourage faster turnover and provide customer parking for businesses along First Street; and
WHEREAS: Many Galleria Mall patrons are monopolizing the meters rather than using the parking garage; and
WHEREAS: During public outreach with the local businesses, thirty-minute meters best suited the needs of First Street businesses; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation with the intention of reducing First Street meters at Best Buy to thirty minutes in order to encourage parking for small businesses along First Street.

O-14     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The intersection of Bristol Street and Webster Avenue has poor visibility for vehicles entering Webster Avenue and is a safety concern for residents; 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 determine if an all-way stop sign would be appropriate at this intersection.

O-15     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the relevant City departments to install a traffic sign alerting motorists to a "Senior Crossing" in the vicinity of the intersection of Gore Street and Lambert Street to enhance the safety of seniors from the Miller's River Apartment complex.

O-16     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to install a "No Turn on Red" sign at the corner of Gore Street and Lambert Street in order to make this intersection safer for pedestrians and report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-17     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Residents of Lambert Street have complained about the speed with which some cars drive down this relatively short street; and
WHEREAS: Excessive speed poses a significant safety issue for the families rho reside on Lambert Street, especially for children who sometimes play on the street; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to install a speed bump on Lambert Street to reduce the speed at which cars travel on the street and to make the street safer for residents and pedestrians.

O-18     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Semi-trailer trucks have been spotted driving down Lambert Street causing a lot of noise, creating excessive traffic and a potential danger for families living on Lambert Street; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the relevant City departments to investigate reports that semi-trailer trucks routinely use Lambert Street to get to McGrath Highway and report back to the City Council on what measures should be put in place to limit the use of Lambert Street by semi-trailer trucks.

O-19     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Trees not only provide shade, they trap carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and keep our city looking beautiful; and
WHEREAS: Unhealthy trees can easily be brought down by strong winds, posing a significant danger to life and property; and
WHEREAS: On the sidewalk in front of the Truman apartment building at 25 Eighth Street, there is a visibly afflicted and obviously unhealthy tree; and
WHEREAS: On the same sidewalk in front of the Truman apartment building, a large broken branch is hanging precariously from a healthy tree; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to remove the broken branch before it causes physical injury or property damage and to arrange for the City Arborist to inspect the ailing tree; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the steps that should be taken to restore this tree to full health.

O-20     Sept 12, 2011  Amended
COUNCILLOR REEVES
WHEREAS: Central Square is widely regarded as a thriving entertainment and cultural district; and
WHEREAS: Many successful restaurants and nightclubs contribute to its vibrancy; and
WHEREAS: Opportunities to further enhance the vibrancy of Central Square are limited by a provision in the zoning language for the Central Square Overlay which requires that the principal public entrance be on Massachusetts Avenue; and
WHEREAS: That restriction has the effect of rendering what is a square into a linear strip and preventing active ground floor uses along such principal locations as Prospect Street; and
WHEREAS: In all other areas of the City such uses are permitted in the other Business B Zoning Districts; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council vote to file a Zoning Petition amending Section 20.300 Central Square Overlay District of the Zoning Ordinance by deleting Section 20.304.5.3 b. which reads as follows:

b. Bar or establishment where alcoholic beverages are consumed and where dancing and entertainment is provided, dance hall or similar places of entertainment; Section 4.35 g shall be permitted only if the principal public entrance or entrances are directly from Massachusetts Avenue or Main Street.

and be it further
ORDERED: That the petition be referred to the Planning Board and Ordinance Committee for a hearing and report.

O-21     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The lack of means of transportation is an impediment to a great quality of life for many Cambridge seniors who lack access to transportation for recreational purposes; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the relevant City departments to inform the City Council about transportation services available to Cambridge seniors that are free and those that must be paid for as well as identify what transportation services are available for recreational purposes.

O-22     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Given the current economic conditions, the sum of $240 is a rather exorbitant amount to charge seniors and other tenants, as the Cambridge Housing Authority currently does, for installing or removing air conditioners in their apartments; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to explore the feasibility of using city funds to subsidize the cost of installing or removing air conditioners from Cambridge Housing Authority-owned apartments, especially those occupied by seniors.

O-23     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Public School Innovation Agenda is scheduled to start in September of 2012; and
WHEREAS: The Innovation Agenda will re-distribute pre-K through 8th grade students throughout the district, with some schools having many more 6-8 graders and others having more K-5 students than they currently have and one, the new Amigos School on Upton Street, going from having no K-8 students currently to being a full K-8 school; and
WHEREAS: Some school playground options, for both adjacent play areas and nearby fields and other facilities used by schools on a regular basis, may not easily meet the educational and recreational needs of their respective new student populations; and
WHEREAS: School playground and playing field development and maintenance is an issue that blends Cambridge Public School responsibilities and needs with those of other City departments, such as Community Development and Public Works; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the School Committee is requested to direct the Superintendent to confer with the City Manager and relevant members of the City and School Department staffs to determine what changes need to be made to playgrounds and playing fields associated with Cambridge Public Schools in order to best support the Innovation Agenda; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ensure that funding and staffing is made available to ensure that any appropriate changes are finished before the start of school in September 2012; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-24     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council at its Sept 19th meeting on the status of any cases for which the recently concluded Monteiro case might be relevant. To the extent that public discussion on some aspects of these cases may be detrimental to the City's legal position, the City Council may go into Executive Session, but Executive Session would be as limited as possible.

O-25     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The City Council was recently informed of the Department of Conservation and Recreation's possible plans to fill in the deep end of the McCrehan pool in the wake of a drowning at another DCR pool in a completely different part of the state; and
WHEREAS: Efforts to confirm the Department of Conservation and Recreation's plan for this pool have not succeeded in clarifying the future of the pool's deep end; and
WHEREAS: For many of the people who use this pool, the deepest part of the pool provides a unique summertime recreational activity in terms of jumping in the water and swimming underwater in a way that is not possible in a shallower pool; and
WHEREAS: Safety issues at any Department of Conservation and Recreation pools are best addressed by properly training and supervising staff and by ensuring that water clarity is appropriately maintained; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact the Department of Conservation and Recreation to determine what plans for the McCrehan pool are and to report back to the City Council on this matter; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record as being opposed to any reduction in the depth of the McCrehan pool at this time.

O-26     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that wireless internet access is not available beyond the first floor of the public library; and
WHEREAS: Personal computers are also not allowed in the private cubicle at the public library; and
WHEREAS: It would be most sensible to expand wireless internet access to the other floors of the library. The first floor tends to be the loudest and busiest, making it difficult for visitors to focus on their work; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the rationale behind these protocols; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of the library to reconsider said protocols; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-27     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Residents have raised concerns about City-contracted tow trucks that speed and drive aggressively in the city; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to devise a plan to ensure that tow truck drivers model safe and courteous driving in the city and report back to the Council.

O-28     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that bikers and drivers are not abiding by the one way flow of traffic and are speeding on Fulkerson Street; and
WHEREAS: Residents have expressed safety concerns when vehicles and bikes do not heed the "one way" sign and speed towards them in the wrong direction and would like to see more "one way" signs installed and traffic calming measures; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to look into the feasibility of installing additional "one way" signs on Fulkerson Street and a speed bump to reduce speeding.

O-29     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that bicyclists are not abiding bike regulations; and
WHEREAS: Pedestrians have raised safety concerns about bicyclists disregarding red lights, riding on sidewalks and riding through crosswalks when pedestrians have the right of way; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has long been a hub of innovation, new ideas and most importantly action and has a strong history thanks in large part to TROMP educating residents about biking regulations to promote eco-friendly forms of transportation; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to confer with the appropriate department heads on the feasibility of providing bike regulations to a wider audience including through media outlets such as Twitter, Facebook, public service announcements and newspaper ads; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to increase enforcement against bikers that endanger pedestrians and report back to the City Council with a plan of action on these two orders.

O-30     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that the Amigos School lacks a playground on the school grounds; and
WHEREAS: The Building and Grounds Sub-committee for the Amigos School has raised several key points about why a playground should be installed:

1.) The Amigos School has approximately 300 students that range in age from 4-13, who deserve a welcoming outdoor space.

2.) The Amigos School only allots 20 minutes for recess and if students were to use Dana Park, their recess would be eliminated after restroom breaks and the walk back and forth.

3.) If Dana Park were to be utilized, it would disrupt the young toddlers who frequent the park.

Recess is the only time of the day that some children have the ability to exercise. Designing a park befitting 4-13 year olds will allow students ample time to properly engage in physical activity; and
WHEREAS: The Amigos School has received national attention for its student achievement and unique cultural immersion in both Spanish and English; and
WHEREAS: The addition of a playground would further enhance the Amigos School, which has recently moved to a new Upton Street location; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads and the School Committee to see that the request for a new playground for the Amigos School be placed high on the list for playground renovations.

O-31     Sept 12, 2011  Withdrawn
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that improvements to the Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School varsity Astro Turf soccer field at Danehy remain unfinished; and
WHEREAS: CRLS soccer teams have already started practice and must use non-turf fields. Coordinating the use of the non-turf fields has been an inconvenience for CRLS varsity soccer coaches and parents have raised questions about when the Astro Turf field will be completed and usable; and
WHEREAS: The project started before school ended in late Jane, still remains unfinished and shows no recent signs of progress; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to look into the improvements made to the park and determine if it is on schedule to be completed; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council about improvements made to the Astro Turf soccer field at Danehy park this summer as well as a schedule for its completion.

O-32     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the public alley adjacent to 9 Howard Street and Hoyt Field had its trash receptacle removed by the city a year ago; and
WHEREAS: As a result the alley is consistently filled with trash attracts flies and detracts from the quality of life for residents of Howard Street; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to look into the feasibility of reinstalling a trash receptacle in the alley adjacent to 9 Howard Street and Hoyt Field.

O-33     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Today's K-12 classrooms utilize more virtual initiatives than any other generation to enhance the learning experience; and
WHEREAS: Learning has changed since many institutions have jumped on the technological bandwagon and in order to adapt and compete globally; and
WHEREAS: The Intel 1:1 eLearning program provides Intel-powered classmate PC's that run on Windows XP, training for teachers under the Intel Teach program, two teacher laptops for use in classes with an interactive whiteboard, broadband internet access, curriculum based digital content from and a repository for reviewing content offline; and
WHEREAS: A post-implementation review revealed that the selected students showed a 30% improvement in their academic performance when measured against their previous performance; and
WHEREAS: The Intel 1:1 eLearning program began in Nigeria in 2006 and has quickly spread to over a thousand schools. It currently benefits twenty-thousand students today; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge would surely benefit from the Intel 1:1 eLearning program to strengthen education and invest in the next generation of learners; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads and the School Committee to look into the budgetary impact of implementing the Intel 1:1 eLearning program and report back to the Council on this matter in advance of the next budgetary cycle.

O-34     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that motorists are speeding on Norfolk Street, putting pedestrians, bicyclists and residents who park on the side of the road in danger; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate departments to determine the best method to slow traffic at this location.

O-35     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: JFK Street began undergoing repairs earlier this year and yet to be completed; and
WHEREAS: Residents have raised concerns about the unfinished construction being a public safety concern and impacting the flow of traffic; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to look into the repairs being made to JFK Street and report back to the City Council with a timeline for completion.

O-36     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that Broadway has become a noise pollution corridor; and
WHEREAS: Residents have raised concerns about trucks and unmuffled motorcycles, which create a high level of disturbance during the nighttime hours and decrease the quality of sleep; and
ORDERED: Cambridge should do what it can to provide residents an environment free from excessive sound and vibration; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to implement stricter laws and increase police presence on Broadway to decrease the number of abnormally noisy trucks and unmuffled motorcycles during the night hours.

O-37     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: In an ethnically diverse city such as Cambridge, it is vital to support and provide employment opportunities for people of every race and color to succeed and monitor employment statistics of city employees at all levels; and
ORDERED: This information was promised to be delivered during the most recent round of budget hearings; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the racial makeup of the City's workforce by level and department.

O-38     Sept 12, 2011  Amended
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that there is a lack of progress or updates on revitalizing the Pacific Street dog Park, policy order O-2, which was approved by City Council members on May 2, 2011; and
WHEREAS: Many residents feel frustrated as they haven't been able to fully enjoy the Pacific Street dog park during the summer months due to its state of deterioration and have chosen to break the law and let their dogs exercise unleashed in the adjacent Pacific Street open space; and
WHEREAS: Residents have made it known that the Pacific Street dog park has fallen into further disrepair this summer, including drainage problems, insects infesting the trees, foliage overgrowth that residents have taken upon themselves to trim and the installation of large signs that residents feel makes the park an unwelcoming place; and
WHEREAS: Due to the issues mentioned above, the rejuvenation of the Pacific Street dog park should be an elevated priority and the city should provide an update on any work that has been done to improve conditions at the park as well as outline proposed future improvements; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate department heads, including the Community Development Department, to look into the status of the May 2, 2011 Policy Order #2 and report back to the City Council.

O-39     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that residents who drive Vespas are seeking alternate parking options for their vehicles; and
WHEREAS: Under current Cambridge parking regulations, Vespa owners are prohibited to park on the sidewalk, yet owners have expressed concerns about leaving their vehicle on the street as there is no lock mechanism for a Vespa; and
WHEREAS: A Vespa is less than three feet in height and is difficult for drivers to see when backing their car into a parking space, thus increasing the odds of collision and hit-and-run accidents; and
WHEREAS: Residents of the city of Cambridge are leaders on many environmental matters and Vespas are much more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly than automobiles; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate department heads to look into finding better parking options and lock mechanisms for Vespa owners.

O-40     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Chelsea entered into a contract with SeeClickFix recently, a place-based reporting platform that allows residents to document neighborhood concerns and needs, like potholes, graffiti, trash and overgrown vegetation; and
WHEREAS: During budget hearings, financial resources were allocated for new technology; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge City Council members unanimously approved implementing a service like SeeClickFix on Aug 1, 2011; and
WHEREAS: SeeClickFix is a great use of technology to help us connect with and better address the needs of residents and monitor non-emergency community issues. It empowers citizens, community groups, media organizations and government to work together; and
WHEREAS: Through mobile web, iPhone, Android and Blackberry apps, the SeeClickFix platform is the most widely distributed citizen reporting tool in the country; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the progress and feasibility of integrating and providing a service similar to SeeClickFix in Cambridge.

O-41     Sept 12, 2011  Withdrawn
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Green Streets received federal funding from MassDOT to implement Walk/Ride Days each month this fall in Boston and other communities throughout the region; and
WHEREAS: Walk/Ride Days encourage residents to walk, bike, use public transit, skate, etc., to get where they need to go and are rewarded with raffles, discounts and other incentives for going green; and
WHEREAS: Expanded and enhanced Walk/Ride Days would surely benefit Cambridge and meet our environmental, health and community development goals and positively impact schools, workplaces and retail establishments throughout the city; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to find a way to implement and support Walk/Ride Days in Cambridge as other communities have done and report back to the Council on this matter.

O-42     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that the outside of the waste receptacles in Harvard Square occasionally become covered in garbage residue; and
WHEREAS: There are approximately 20 trash units in the Harvard Square area. Residents feel that these units should be cleaned regularly each month to keep Cambridge sanitary and encourage residents to use the receptacles; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads to look into the feasibility of developing a regular cleaning schedule for the outside of the waste receptacles in Harvard Square.

O-43     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has once again delayed the timetable of the of the Green Line Extension Project; and
WHEREAS: This project has a tremendous impact on current and future Lechmere Square plans, as well as regional transportation and clean air benefits; and
WHEREAS: The Green Line Project is a legal obligation of the Commonwealth under the SIP and the deadlines will not be met; and
WHEREAS: A factor in the delay is that all parcels of land associated with the project are not under control of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; and
WHEREAS: The Green Line Extension project is supported by the Patrick Administration and steps should be taken to ensure this project begins as soon as possible; now there for be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record supporting a concrete timetable for beginning the Green Line Extension and request that the administration get the project underway before acquisitions are completed, and deliver concrete and tangible assets during The Patrick Administration in order to ensure that this project moves forward; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Governor Patrick, Secretary of Transportation Richard Davey, and Acting MBTA General Manager Jonathan Davis on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-44     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Commissioner of Public Works to ask the Recycling Advisory Committee to consider how to encourage businesses to use recyclable packaging instead of non-recyclable styrofoam.

O-45     Sept 12, 2011
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record supporting pending legislation to amend M.G.L. Ch. 164 section 34 to provide an effective local enforcement mechanism for timely removal of double utility poles; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to the Cambridge Legislative Delegation on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-46     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: This City Council has learned that Fawcett Oil has withdrawn from negotiations with the City regarding Whittemore Community Gardens in hopes of using it as a bargaining chip in future zoning negotiations; and
WHEREAS: The City has invested time, effort and resources in this process; and
WHEREAS: This kind of action only serves in creating distrust in future conversations and negotiations; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record asking Fawcett Oil to continue its good faith efforts to sell the Whittemore Community Gardens; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Fawcell Oil on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-47     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and Electrical Department and report back on the status of the Police Call Boxes to be installed at Lopez Park and the status of call boxes at the new Northpoint Park.

O-48     Sept 12, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: It has been reported that with the return of Biogen Idec to Cambridge, Alexandria Real Estate Equities will begin to build out of the Kendall Square and East Cambridge area; and
WHEREAS: As part of the previous mitigation agreement with the City of Cambridge, this build out would trigger a payment toward the planning and design of a new park in East Cambridge; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development and report back to the City Council on the public process that will take place to help determine the design and whether a committee should be assembled as part of the process.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on July 13, beginning at 5:08pm in the Sullivan Chamber. The purpose of the hearing was to consider a petition for a zoning amendment filed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to create a new Section 13.80 entitled PUD-5 District and amend the Zoning Map accordingly (Attachment A). The petition would rezone a 26-acre parcel in the Kendall Square area.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Leland Cheung; Vice Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey Jr.; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Susan Glazer, Deputy Director of the Community Development Department (CDD); and Jeffrey Roberts, Neighborhood Planner, CDD.

Councillor Seidel convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He invited the petitioners to present their petition. Appearing on behalf of the petitioner were Steven Marsh, Managing Director, Real Estate, MIT Investment Management Company; Michael Owu, Director, Real Estate, MIT Investment Management Company; David Manfredi, Principal, Elkus Manfredi Architects; Jeremy Grossman, Senior Vice President, CBRE/Grossman Retail Advisors; Dan Biederman, President, Biederman Redevelopment Ventures Corp.; David Gelinski; and Susan Sos. A copy of their computer/slide presentation is attached to this report (Attachment B).

Mr. Marsh began the presentation. He discussed the importance of innovation to our economic future, the global competition we face, Kendall Square as an ideal place for present and future innovation and the goals of the proposed Kendall Square development to create a destination gathering place, establish a vibrant gateway and connective link between MIT, the business district and the community and to provide space for both new innovative academic initiatives and commercial enterprises.

Mr. Owu described the process that his team has used in developing the proposal and obtaining input from stakeholders, neighbors and businesses in the area. They commissioned Prellwitz/Chilinski Associates to initiate an urban design study for the larger Kendall Square neighborhood; they engaged with Goody Clancy the consultant hired by the City to do a planning study of Central and Kendall Squares; they added urban retail leasing experts (CBRE/Grossman) and planners with expertise in development of the public realm.

Mr. Manfredi reviewed the urban planning goals. These goals include creating places that expand the public realm and become a "common ground," making better connections between community and commercial and academic land use, providing space for innovation tenants, contributing to an integrated mix of uses and establishing a prominent gateway to MIT. Mr. Grossman then described the goals and plans for increasing and activating the retail space. He described plans to significantly expand the retail frontage, created a two-sided retail experience for shoppers, increase the total retail to approximately 150,000 square feet (sf) on Main Street between Ames and One Broadway and approximately 260,000 sf total within a five minute walk, including 60,000 sf within the proposed plaza. Mr. Biederman then presented options for enhancing the public space, including careful analysis of the different groups of key users to tailor space options to their needs, for example movable seating, appropriate programming, etc. He also presented pictures of notable urban open spaces, such as Bryant Park in NYC.

Mr. Owu and Mr. Marsh described the technical aspects of the proposed zoning, including the creation of five zones with maximum heights ranging from 250 ft. along Main Street to 150 ft. along Memorial Drive, with a transitional height zone of 200 square ft. maximum heights allowed in between. The proposal calls for a total of 1,100,000 sf of new commercial development, including 120,000 sf of housing development and a reserve of 800,000 sf for future academic development.

Councillor Seidel then invited questions and comments from the members of the Ordinance Committee. Councillor Reeves stated that he would like to hear the CDD staff and the Goody/Clancy consultants talk about the amount of housing that is being proposed. He asked whether it is enough. Mr. Murphy responded that the Good/Clancy consultants are currently in the process of meeting with several stakeholders including MIT. They know the elements that are needed to make the area work and they are now looking at how the various entities fit into the overall picture. They are not yet at a stage to evaluate how a proposal for one part of the overall picture fits into total of all of the elements that must be there in the end. Councillor Reeves stated that Mr. Murphy's response did not assist in any way his ability to discern the adequacy of the proposal now before the City Council.

Vice Mayor Davis said that the Planning Board had a similar response. This proposal is going to take a lot of analysis. It needs to be "unpacked" at many levels. She suggests multiple meetings on different subsections.

Councillor Seidel stated that he fully expects CDD and Goody/Clancy to play a large role in the evaluation of this proposal.

Councillor Reeves said that he does not want to end up in a ghost town or a place that only makes sense to those who work there. He wants a much better idea of what will go into the buildings and 120,000 square feet of housing does not sound like a lot to him. The overarching question is the relationship of the universities to the city. Universities are by their nature insular.

Councillor Cheung said that he is very excited about the potential of Kendall Square and that is why he is so disappointed in what has been presented tonight. This proposal is deeply flawed. The retail is not going to work without more housing. We do not need more commercial space. We have plenty of that. He has not seen MIT President Susan Hockfield following through with this at all. MIT needs more housing for faculty and graduate students.

Vice Mayor Davis expressed her concern about the amount of housing proposed. She would like CDD to analyze the number of jobs created since 1980 and the number of housing units. If there is not enough new housing as compared with the new jobs, people with more money who are working here push people with less money out of current housing. There is also the question of what kind of housing. Cambridge needs families, not just singles who move out of the city when they have a family and outgrow their one-bedroom unit. She suggested that there be a whole meeting dedicated to the question of housing. Vice Mayor Davis added that there is also the issue of MIT not using its own land to take care of its own housekeeping functions to the detriment of its neighbors. There is already an issue of MIT bringing an unpleasant use to the edge of her neighborhood.

Councillor Kelley stated that he came here for a zoning discussion. He is very disappointed with this hearing. The land in question is currently a C-3b district, which is a residential district, with 150 ft height limits. This proposal would allow a height of 250 feet along Main Street, with the potential for 300 ft. buildings on two sites. He added that the fact that the proposal included an exemption from the sign regulations "by mistake" is an indication of holes in the process of preparation. The allowed uses would seem to indicate other holes: nursing homes, bottling plants and drive-in theaters as allowed uses.

Councillor Kelley said that he is particularly concerned with a provision that says that where there is a conflict between the PUD amendment and the Zoning Ordinance, the PUD wins. It is up to MIT to write and propose the zoning that they want, not for the City to bear the brunt of MIT's omissions or mistakes. With regard to housing, Councillor Kelley noted that the land at issue is presently zoned for residence and the petitioners are proposing changing that zoning and leaving only a tiny bit for housing. He is not sure that more housing is necessary or desirable, but he does think there needs to be discussion about such a big change of uses.

Councillor Kelley also listed the following specific questions for which he would like answers:
What can you do on the property under the current zoning?
How much residential square footage is currently there?
What is there now?
How much additional money would this amendment produce?

Councillor Seidel asked how the petitioners arrived at the total number of 1.1 million square feet. Mr. Owu said that they came to that number by looking at the basic massing; that seemed like a reasonable amount of density. Councillor Seidel also asked how the 70 foot width for the plaza was chosen. Mr. Owu said that there was no magic number, after looking at examples of similar spaces, it seemed appropriate for the activities envisioned.

Councillor Reeves asked for a copy of the Chilinsky report. He also stated that he would like the Ordinance Committee to discuss the riverscape plan.

At this time Councillor Seidel invited comments from members of the public.

Charles Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street, stated that he would like some assistance in understanding the different goals for MIT's academic and commercial properties. He also emphasized the importance of more housing and more open space. With regard to the pictures of Bryant Park as models for Kendall Square open space, he noted that Bryant Park consists of 8 acres of open space. Mr. Marquardt stressed the need to consider shadows. The current proposal would put all of Broad Canal, with its recently added activities of kayaking and canoeing, in shadows.

Carol O'Hare, Magazine Street, stated that she will not go into her objections to exempting the proposed PUD from the sign ordinance because she understands that it was a mistake that will be corrected. She said that she does not know how you can rezone an area before you know what you will be doing with it. This is totally backwards. There is no boundary plan; there is nothing showing their proposed zoning plan. She questioned why the petitioners have proposed a 150 ft height limit on Lot F. Ms. O'Hare submitted a letter for the record (Attachment C). She also submitted a copy of a map of the petition area along with a map of the MIT campus for reference (Attachment D)

Robert Simha, 6 Blanchard Road, submitted written material (Attachment E)as well as oral testimony. He was the MIT Director of Planning during the 1960's when MIT, the City of Cambridge and HUD agreed on a plan for the development of an MIT Institutional district south of Main Street for academic, residential and service purposed. The proposed zoning violates agreements made with the City of Cambridge and the Federal Government. Closing out the Urban Renewal District did not invalidate these agreements. Mr. Simha said that there are long range problems for the City of Cambridge associated with the proposal. MIT is certain to need buildings it is calling commercial as academic space in the future, which will remove them from the City's property tax rolls.

Stephen Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, stated that this hearing is a perfect illustration of the problem of trying to do zoning before planning. With regard to the proposal, he said that the allowed heights are too much, the proposal is too dense. He likes the innovation issue but there must be more nuanced innovations that are socially useful and broadly defined. Mr. Kaiser expressed his concerns with regard to the constitutionality of this zoning proposal and noted that any upzoning without full compensation to the City of Cambridge would violate the Massachusetts Constitution, Declaration of Rights, in Articles 6, 7, 11, 18 and 29. He submitted a letter for the record (Attachment F).

Carole Bellew, 257 Charles Street, stated that Steve Marsh represents a development group. Not a nonprofit. This proposal is twice the size of the Alexandria petition and there is not even a proposal for two acres of open space. Why is there no proposal for housing for innovators, as there is in Boston? Noise is also a big issue. The plaza that looks so beautiful in the petitioners' pictures is actually a fire road.

Barbara Broussard, 148 Charles Street, stated that the big need in Kendall Square is housing, at least another 400 units. She asked where the Broad replacement housing is. She also expressed strong concern about shadows over the Broad Canal boardwalk. Ms. Broussard wants to see shadow studies and a traffic study.

Greg Moree, 25 Fairfield Street, stated that he supports this project. People need jobs, they need to get back to work. He added that there should be more housing.

James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place, stated that he believes that it is premature for MIT to be putting this proposal on the table when Goody Clancy was hired to do a visioning and planning process. "Innovation" is the new buzz word but not all innovation is great. He would like to hear in plain English what MIT wants to do.

Decia Goodwin, 175 Chestnut Street, stated that she lost all of her trust because of the sign proposal.

Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street, urged the City Council to take that time that it needs to really analyze the proposal. She expressed her appreciation for Kendall Square. There is a lot that can be built upon. The deadlines in the process for considering zoning petitions under the state statute are too short.

Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street, stated that only one page in the 75 page copy of the presentation really deals with housing. A 300 foot building would shade out all of the open space.

Timothy Rowe, CEO Cambridge Innovation Center, submitted a letter for the record (Attachment G).

There being no additional public testimony, Councillor Seidel stated that the petition would remain in committee for additional consideration. He thanked all those present for their attendance. The hearing was adjourned at 7:50pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair
http://www2.cambridgema.gov/CityOfCambridge_Content/documents/Ord%20com%20MITKendall.pdf

AWAITING REPORT LIST
10-50. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on options for amending the ordinance to allow for permitting of civic organizations to use public space after hours.
Councillor Cheung 03/22/10 (O-18)

10-89. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a delineation of the boundaries of Joan Lorentz Park.
Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/24/10 (O-11)

10-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on railroad crossing safety policies and procedures, including equipment maintenance and repair in the City of Cambridge.
Councillor Seidel 09/13/10 (O-16)

10-177. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meetings with presidents of Cambridge colleges/universities to work out a proposal that they will pay the tuition and fees for students graduating from Cambridge public high schools.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-7)

10-178. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing an RFP for experimental music venues and space in Central Square.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-8)

10-184. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of the Cambridge Farmers Market using space for the winter months in the ground floor of the First Street garage or other suitable space.
Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-2)

10-185. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing a "pilot program" for Clean Tech Start-Ups in the first floor of vacant First Street garage.
Mayor Maher and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-4)

10-186. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible options for providing more support for the homeless youth in Cambridge.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-5)

10-190. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing the 311 system in Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/20/10 (O-2)

11-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possibility of allowing homeowners alternatives to alter flat roof structures to create better rain water runoff collection.
Mayor Maher, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 01/10/11 (O-5)

11-06. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the Responsible Employer Ordinance was complied with in regard to the recent bid on water-proofing project in Lafayette Square.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 01/10/11 (O-9)

11-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what incentives were given to Vertex as part of their relocation deal and evaluate how Cambridge could offer those same incentives to companies it is attempting to lure from out of state to the City.
Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 01/31/11 (O-15)

11-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of retaining the traffic light on Memorial Drive at Magazine Street.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/07/11 (O-3)

11-27. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on recent trip of Public Safety officials to Israel and on the City's policies regarding the provision of professional development of City officials by private entities.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 02/28/11 (O-20)

11-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible projects that could be completed with the help of Code for America.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-1)

11-49. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #4
RE: report on the current state of the Pacific Street dog park and devise a strategy to make it more accessible and enjoyable for both dog owners and their pets.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/02/11 (O-2)

11-53. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to make the Follen Street/Little Concord Avenue intersection safer for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. Referred back by Councillor Cheung on 5/23/2011 for further information.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/16/11 (O-3)

11-58. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of installing a projector presentation screen in the Sullivan Chamber.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/16/11 (O-12)

11-59. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #10
RE: report on a plan to keep the sidewalk crossings accessible for the fall/winter 2011 at major pedestrian thoroughfares.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 05/16/11 (O-15)

11-61. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the percentage of tree canopy coverage.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 05/16/11 (O-22)

11-63. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on determining the impact that the Batelle Study recommendations could have on Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Davis 05/16/11 (O-24)

11-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing paying for city services on-line.
Councillor Cheung 05/16/11 (O-29)

11-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of emulating the San Francisco Yellow Pages ban in Cambridge.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 05/23/11 (O-1)

11-68. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #2
RE: report on future plans for the East Cambridge Post Office.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 05/23/11 (O-6)

11-69. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #16
RE: report on working with utility companies to ensure that all pole wire transfers and removal of unsightly older poles are completed in a quick and efficient manner.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/23/11 (O-9)

11-71. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on total of donations raised during the 2011 resident sticker renewals for environmental initiatives, identify a project that the funds can be used for and publicly display that the funds were possible from resident donations.
Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 06/06/11 (O-2)

11-72. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on determining if the Silver Maple Forest could be purchased for preservation.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 06/06/11 (O-5)

11-73. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on options for disposing of medical waste such as syringes.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 06/06/11 (O-6)

11-76. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on long term strategy that mitigates the actions of the Boston cab companies.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/20/11 (O-2)

11-77. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #5
RE: report on amending the Paine Park fountain's schedule through Labor Day.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/20/11 (O-3)

11-78. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on where the police currently conduct foot patrols or park & walks and how these locations are decided.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 06/20/11 (O-6)

11-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installing benches in front of the Main Library.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/27/11 (O-3)

11-80. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on enforcement of biking on the sidewalks in Central Square.
Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 06/27/11 (O-4)

11-81. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on producing information for residents and taxpayers regarding readily available financial information online for citizens to view and easily understand.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 06/27/11 (O-6)

11-82. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on any possible implications of the merger between the Longy School of Music and Bard College.
Councillor Seidel 06/27/11 (O-9)

11-83. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on technology plan for the city, the use of social media tools, and identifying projects that would benefit using Gov 2.0 Initiative.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-1)

11-84. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a research and development office for technology.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-2)

11-85. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans for participation in the BIO 2012 Convention.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-4)

11-86. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #17
RE: report on applying for the Rooftop Solar Challenge.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-5)

11-87. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #18
RE: report on best methods to slow traffic on Tremont Streets.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-6)

11-88. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #13
RE: report on best methods for slowing traffic on Linnaean Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-7)

11-89. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the need for a bamboo ordinance that either bans the planting of bamboo outright of somehow holds the owner of the bamboo accountable.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-8)

11-90. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility and possibility benefits of participating in the UN Global Compact Cities program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-9)

11-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what information campaign will go along with the bike-share program.
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-13)

11-92. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of creating a system that the general public could search by a unique identifier, that contains all official documents such as building permits, variance applications, License Commission inspections, etc.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-15)

11-93. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #12
RE: report on ensuring sufficient information is on the City's website relative to bedbugs.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-16)

11-94. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #19
RE: report on issues with fireworks at Corcoran Park.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-20)

11-95. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #6
RE: report on repaving Antrim Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-21)

11-96. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #14
RE: report on the feasibility of allowing residents to pay for the requisition and installation of bike racks in residential areas.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-22)

11-97. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #15
RE: report on the lack of bike lane and the unsafe car traffic on Blanchard Road.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-23)

11-98. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #18
RE: report on the feasibility of installing a speed bump on Tremont Street.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-24)

11-99. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on incorporating information regarding safe bicycling in the City with the dissemination of information related to and implementation of the Hubway bike share program.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-25)

11-100. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #7
RE: report on examining all street poles on Mass Ave between Harvard & Porter Squares and clean and remove all outdated flyers, graffiti and other debris.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-26)

11-101. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on examining the relationship between job creation in the City and available housing stock.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-27)

11-102. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of using BLAZE technology for the safety of bicyclists.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 08/01/11 (O-29)

11-103. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #32
RE: report on the safety of the elevator at City Hall.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-30)

11-104. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the progress of Cambridge Office of College Success Initiative Working Group Draft.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-31)

11-105. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #11
RE: report on the rationale behind why there are so many "No Turn on Red" signs in the City.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-32)

11-106. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #8
RE: report on styrofoam recycling options.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-33)

11-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the delay of the Green Line Extension project could impact the development at Northpoint.
Councillor Toomey 08/01/11 (O-34)

11-108. Report from the City Manager:  See Mgr #9
RE: report on the removal of the spray paint markings on the sidewalk from an event held by the Cambridgeside Galleria.
Councillor Toomey 08/01/11 (O-35)