Cambridge City Council meeting -- September 25, 2006 -- AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the votes necessary to seek the Massachusetts Department of Revenue approval for the tax rate for FY2007:
All items adopted unanimously 9-0.
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the nomination of Warren McManus for reappointment as a member of the Cambridge Housing Authority for a term of five years to expire September 30, 2011.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-132, regarding a report on the status of Municipal Code Chapter 2.123 entitled: "Cambridge Commission on Immigration Rights and Citizenship."
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a Constable Without Power for a term of three years, effective the first day of January, 2006: Anthony Garcia
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 02-127, regarding a report on power outages in the Centre Street area during the week of July 18, 2006.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-122, regarding a report on the feasibility of using green construction techniques and materials and additional energy saving methods during the renovation of the Edward J. Sullivan Courthouse.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a License Commission recommendation to deny the Jitney License Application of Nautical Tours, Inc.
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the matter the CMAC/Dance Complex issue.
CHARTER RIGHT
1. An application was received from Muireann Glenmullen, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 8 Hilliard Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, and Public Works that the owner will be responsible for the construction associated with the installation of curb cut. Disapproval has been received from neighborhood association. [Councillor Kelley on September 11, 2006.]
TABLED
2. That the City Council recommend that the members of the Cambridge Retirement Board of Trustees divest of Dow bonds and refrain from future purchases of Dow Bonds. [by Councillor Davis on September 11, 2006.] ADOPTED AS AMENDED
3. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the appropriate City departments to conduct an audit of what Dow products the City of Cambridge currently purchases and assist in the December 3, 2006 Cambridge Day of Remembrance for Victims of Industrial Disasters and Pollution. [by Councillor Davis on September 11, 2006.] ADOPTED AS AMENDED
4. Proclaim December 3, 2006 as "Cambridge Day of Remembrance for Victims of Industrial Disasters and Pollution." [Councillor Davis on September 11, 2006.] ADOPTED AS AMENDED
5. That the City Manager is requested confer with the appropriate City Departments to immediately release CMAC’s funds. [Councillor Murphy on September 11, 2006.] TABLED ON MOTION OF COUNCILLOR SIMMONS [after unbearably long speeches by all councillors and personal innuendo by Ms. Decker suggesting that Councillors Sullivan and Murphy were corrupted because their kids' pediatrician is married to the director of the Dance Complex. This was a new low for the councillor from hell.]
ON THE TABLE
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-06 of February 27, 2006, regarding a report on the legality of the banners in front of the Dunkin' Donuts at 2480 Massachusetts Avenue and at other location in the City. [Placed on Table on the motion of Councillor Kelley on February 27, 2006.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
7. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Co-Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on November 18, 2004 for the purpose of considering proposed amendments to Chapter 2.74 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, the Police Review and Advisory Board Ordinance. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after February 14, 2005. [Four sections of the proposed amendment were passed to be ordained as amended. Ordinance #1284. The remaining proposed amendments to chapter 2.74 remain on unfinished business.]
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. Approval of constable bond surety received from Francis Conole.
2. An application was received from Eastside Bar & Grill, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign at the premises numbered 561 Cambridge Street.
3. An application was received from 241 Optical, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 1208 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and abutters.
4. An application was received from Harvard Sq Pancakes d/b/a I HOP Restaurant, requesting permission for three awnings and one sign at the premises numbered 16 Eliot Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department, Historical Commission and abutters.
5. An application was received from Hugh Warren, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 30-38 Reservoir Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, and Public Works. Curb cut will be installed by owner in conjunction with other site improvements and existing curb cut will be modified into a stairwell. Approval has been received from neighborhood association.
6. An application was received from Del-Foresh Associates/Millennium Realty, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign at the premises numbered 614 Massachusetts Avenue.
7. An application was received from The Globe Corner Bookstore, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 90 Mount Auburn Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department, Historical Commission. Forms sent to abutters no response received.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding Cambridge and Harvard Police out of control.
2. A communication was received from the family of John A. Barros, acknowledges with deep appreciation the kind expression of sympathy.
3. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding illegal electrical firearms.
4. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding marriage and the law.
5. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding Harvard traffic and noise abuse.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Josephine Laura (DiRusso) Mitchell. Councillor Sullivan, Vice Mayor Toomey
2. Resolution on the death of Alice E. (Ghirardini) Kendall. Councillor Sullivan
3. Resolution on the death of Helen Catherine (Kelly) Trahon. Councillor Sullivan
4. Retirement of Charles W. Gendron from the Public Works Department. Mayor Reeves
5. Happy 90th Birthday wishes to Irma Benjamin. Councillor Simmons
6. Congratulations to the Food for Free program on the occasion of its 25th anniversary. Mayor Reeves
7. Congratulations to Marina Pevzner on her appointment as Director of the Central Square Business Association. Mayor Reeves
8. Congratulations to the Tutoring Plus program on the occasion of its 42nd anniversary. Vice Mayor Toomey
9. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Michael Deason. Councillor Decker
10. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Joshua Hanson. Councillor Decker
11. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Colin Wolfe. Councillor Decker
12. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Matthew Vosbein. Councillor Decker
13. Resolution on the death of Corporal Christopher Warndorf. Councillor Decker
14. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Donald Champlin. Councillor Decker
15. Resolution on the death of Specialist Matthew Schneider. Councillor Decker
16. Resolution on the death of Corporal Shannon Squires. Councillor Decker
17. Resolution on the death of Sergeant David Almazan. Councillor Decker
18. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Cliff Golla. Councillor Decker
19. Resolution on the death of Specialist Kenneth Cross. Councillor Decker
20. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Daniel Dolan. Councillor Decker
21. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Jeffrey Hansen. Councillor Decker
22. Resolution on the death of Specialist Seth Hildreth. Councillor Decker
23. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Moses Jazmin. Councillor Decker
24. Resolution on the death of Specialist Joshua Jones. Councillor Decker
25. Resolution on the death of Specialist Qixing Lee. Councillor Decker
26. Resolution on the death of Specialist Shaun Novak. Councillor Decker
27. Resolution on the death of Specialist Tristan Smith. Councillor Decker
28. Resolution on the death of Corporal David Weimortz. Councillor Decker
29. Resolution on the death of Specialist Edgardo Zayas. Councillor Decker
30. Resolution on the death of Corporal Jordan Pierson. Councillor Decker
31. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jeremy King. Councillor Decker
32. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Gordon Solomon. Councillor Decker
33. Resolution on the death of Private First Class William Thorne. Councillor Decker
34. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Dwayne Williams. Councillor Decker
35. Resolution on the death of Specialist Thomas Barbieri. Councillor Decker
36. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal James Hirlston. Councillor Decker
37. Resolution on the death of Chief Petty Officer Paul Darga. Councillor Decker
38. Resolution on the death of Hospitalman Chadwick T. Kenyon. Councillor Decker
39. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Marquees Quick. Councillor Decker
40. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Jeffrey Loa. Councillor Decker
41. Resolution on the death of Sergeant David Gordon. Councillor Decker
42. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Vincent Frassetto. Councillor Decker
43. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Jeremy Shank. Councillor Decker
44. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Germaine Debro. Councillor Decker
45. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Hannah Gunterman. Councillor Decker
46. Resolution on the death of Corporal Jared Shoemaker. Councillor Decker
47. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Eric Valdepenas. Councillor Decker
48. Resolution on the death of Petty Officer 2nd Class Christopher Walsh. Councillor Decker
49. Resolution on the death of Private Edwin Andino II. Councillor Decker
50. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Shane Harris. Councillor Decker
51. Resolution on the death of Sergeant 1st Class Richard Henkes II. Councillor Decker
52. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Phillip Johnson. Councillor Decker
53. Resolution on the death of Private Nicholas Madaras. Councillor Decker
54. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jason Merrill. Councillor Decker
55. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Eugene Alex. Councillor Decker
56. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Justin Dreese. Councillor Decker
57. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Ralph Porras. Councillor Decker
58. Resolution on the death of Private Ryan Miller. Councillor Decker
59. Resolution on the death of Manuel Oliveira. Vice Mayor Toomey
60. Resolution on the death of Daniel J. Hayes. Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Galluccio
61. Resolution on the death of James W. Holway. Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Sullivan
62. Thanks to Jason Weeks for his diligent work for The Cambridgeport Artist Open Studios project on September 9-10, 2006. Councillor Davis
63. Proclaim October as National Arts and Humanities Month in Cambridge. Mayor Reeves
64. Congratulations to the Reverends Richard and Jestina Richardon on the occasion of being honored by the Children's Services of Roxbury on September 30, 2006. Councillor Simmons
65. Resolution on the death of M. Esther Osborne. Mayor Reeves
66. Resolution on the death of Arthur J. Galvin. Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Sullivan
67. Resolution on the death of Francis Greene. Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio
68. Resolution on the death of Marguerite E. "Peggy" (Dingee) Carman. Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Sullivan
69. Resolution on the death of Brian J. Driscoll. Councillor Sullivan
70. Resolution on the death of Lucille C. (Lewis) Harris. Councillor Sullivan
71. Resolution on the death of Elizabeth C. "Betty" (Doherty) Nelson. Councillor Sullivan
72. Congratulations to Jason Pugatch, Graham & Parks Class of 1988 and CRLS Class of 1992 on the occasion of his first book being published. Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis
73. Resolution on the death of Edward King, former Governor of Massachusetts. Councillor Sullivan
74. Resolution on the death of Patricia Kennedy Lawford. Councillor Sullivan
75. Resolution on the death of Margaret L. Michalski. Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio
76. Resolution on the death of Richard J. "Puff" Ferguson. Councillor Sullivan
77. Congratulations to Richard and Jean Farina as they celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary. Mayor Reeves
78. Congratulations to Cambridge native Noam Weinstein on the release of his second album. Councillor Davis
79. Thanks to Harvard University for their efforts around Cambridge Residents Football Day at Harvard Stadium. Councillor Galluccio
80. Retirement of Paul Pascucci from the Cambridge Hospital. Mayor Reeves
81. Retirement of Catherine Diggins from the Cambridge Hospital. Mayor Reeves
82. Retirement of Noreen Hogan from the Cambridge Hospital. Mayor Reeves
83. Resolution on the death of Stella (Garbarczuk) Hwidziewicz. Vice Mayor Toomey
84. Resolution on the death of Ruth A. (Monahan) McCarthy. Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio
85. Proclaim October 2006 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Cambridge and urge residents to be cognizant of and participate in the Break the Silence Rally and vigil on October 3, 2006 on the steps of City Hall. Mayor Reeves
86. Congratulations to Deval Patrick on winning the Democratic nomination for Massachusetts Governor. Councillor Decker
87. Congratulations to Timothy Murray on winning the Democratic nomination for Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor. Councillor Decker, Councillor Galluccio
88. Congratulations to State Representative Alice Wolf on her recent victory in the primary election for State Representative. Councillor Decker
89. Congratulations to State Representative Timothy J. Toomey, Jr. on his recent victory in the primary election for State Representative. Councillor Decker
90. Congratulations to City Councillor Michael A. Sullivan on his recent victory in the election for Clerk of Courts. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Decker
91. Congratulations to Kathy Podgers on completion of her training for the Community Access Monitor Program. Councillor Kelley
92. Congratulations to Petra Kim and Intaek Chai on the occasion of their marriage on August 12, 2006. Councillor Kelley
93. Resolution on the death of Julia A. (Vitkauskas) Ponte. Councillor Sullivan
94. Resolution on the death of Arlene S. Brown. Councillor Sullivan
95. Proclaim the week of September 25-30, 2006 as Dollar Wise Week in the City of Cambridge. Mayor Reeves
96. Congratulations to Will and Karen deGroot on the birth of their daughter, Audrey Catherine deGroot. Councillor Sullivan
97. Congratulations to William Galvin on his State Primary victory for the office of Secretary of the Commonwealth. Councillor Galluccio
98. Congratulations to Deb Goldberg on her strong candidacy for Lieutenant Governor. Councillor Galluccio
99. Congratulations to Andrea Siebert on her strong candidacy for Lieutenant Governor. Councillor Galluccio
100. Congratulations to Tim Cahill on his State Primary victory for the office of State Treasurer. Councillor Galluccio
101. Congratulations to Everett Alderman Steven Smith on his State Primary victory for the office of State Representative for Everett. Councillor Galluccio
102. Congratulations to Frank Nuzzo, President of the Everett Board of Aldermen, on his excellent showing and close finish for State Representative. Councillor Galluccio
103. Congratulations to U.S. Congressman Steven Lynch on his State Primary victory in his bid for re-election as a Representative the U.S. Congress. Councillor Galluccio
104. Congratulations to Mark Falzone on his State Primary victory for the office of State Representative for Saugus. Councillor Galluccio
105. Congratulations to Sean Grant on his strong run in the Democratic Party Primary for State Representative for Saugus. Councillor Galluccio
106. Congratulations to the Cambridge Public Schools on their improvement in overall performance on the MCAS exam. Councillor Kelley
107. Congratulations to the Parents Forum on the occasion of their 15th anniversary. Councillor Kelley
108. City Council support to Cambridge Green Streets Initiative's Walk/Ride Day on Friday, September 29, 2006. Councillor Kelley
109. Congratulations to the designers and the architect of Building H, a Northeastern dormitory tower, on the occasion of winning the Parker Medalist Award. Councillor Davis
110. Congratulations to the recipients of the Second Annual Fresh Pond Stewardship Award. Vice Mayor Toomey, Mayor Reeves
111. Congratulations to the all involved in the Commencement Ceremony for the Cambridge Drug Court on October 3, 2006. Vice Mayor Toomey
112. Congratulations to the New Dance Complex on the occasion of its 15th birthday. Councillor Davis
113. Congratulations to Lauren Sandler on the occasion of her new book "Righteous" being published. Councillor Davis
114. Congratulations to the honorees of the St. Paul A.M.E. Church Christian Life Center event on November 8, 2006. Mayor Reeves
115. Welcome Crucell N.V. and Royal DSM N.V. to Cambridge. Councillor Sullivan
116. Urge all Cambridge residents to participate in and support the "Outfest" celebration of National Coming Out Day on Wednesday, October 11, 2006 on City Hall steps from 6:00pm to 7:30pm. Councillor Simmons
117. Urge all residents to be cognizant of the 28th Annual Oktoberfest in Harvard Square on Sunday, October 8, 2006. Councillor Simmons
118. Resolution on the death of William Clarke Cate Sr. Councillor Sullivan
119. Resolution on the death of Helen P. McGurrin. Councillor Sullivan
120. Resolution on the death of Dominic Francis Testa. Councillor Sullivan
121. Resolution on the death of Joseph F. Crowley. Councillor Sullivan
122. Resolution on the death of Charles J. Malatesta. Councillor Sullivan
123. Resolution on the death of Francis "Frank" Gallagher. Councillor Sullivan
124. Resolution on the death of Monica T. (Wade) Madden. Councillor Sullivan, Vice Mayor Toomey
125. Thanks to all involved from the CambridgeSide Galleria for being such an integral part of the Homeland Security training that took place on Sunday, September 17, 2006. Councillor Sullivan
126. Congratulations to the citizens and City of Everett on the Grand Re-Opening of the Everett Recreation Center on Thursday, October 3, 2006. Councillor Galluccio
127. Congratulations to David Ortiz of the Boston Red Sox on his 52 home runs. Councillor Sullivan
ORDERS
1. Dedication in honor of Michael Halloran. Vice Mayor Toomey
2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Police Commissioner and the Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority relative to the recent break-ins at the Burns Apartments. Councillor Sullivan
3. City Council support of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program. Councillor Davis
4. Support for study by Arlington, Belmont and Cambridge of the combined impacts of flooding and traffic by proposed developments in the Alewife Reservation area. Councillor Davis
5. Dedication of site in the vicinity of Grove Street and Huron Avenue as Pat and Mary Pizzuto Square. Councillor Galluccio and Councillor Sullivan
6. That the MBTA clean and refurbish the plaque dedicating the Harvard Square MBTA Red Line entrance at Brattle Street to Joe DeGuglielmo. Councillor Galluccio and Councillor Sullivan
7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works on the matter of repairing the sidewalk next to 234 Hampshire Street in front of the health spa. Vice Mayor Toomey and Councillor Sullivan
8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works on the matter of repairing the sidewalk at 1221 Cambridge Street. Vice Mayor Toomey and Councillor Sullivan
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of the Public Works Department to ensure that all sidewalk ramps for disability access throughout the City are kept clear of debris. Councillor Decker
10. That the City Council go on record requesting that the owner and management of 700 Huron Avenue reconsider parking cost increases to subsidized residents of 700 Huron Avenue. Councillor Galluccio
11. That the City Manager is requested to confer with Anthony Braga, a professor at the Kennedy School of Government, to discuss his work with the Boston Gun Project/Operation Ceasefire and whether or not this project would be feasible for the City of Cambridge. Councillor Decker
12. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Massachusetts Highway Department to discuss the possibility of postponing the closure of the Walden Street bridge until further studies are done and more neighborhood association involvement takes place. Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis and Councillor Kelley
13. City Council support of H4645 which protects a tax incentive for research and development corporations that are critical to the Commonwealth's economic future. Councillor Decker
CHARTER RIGHT - TOOMEY
14. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development and relevant non-profits and associated Trusts to determine what ability, if any, providers of affordable housing units, to include developments with inclusionary zoning units, have to deny units to individuals who have been assigned those units through the affordable housing lottery. Councillor Kelley
15. That the City Council and the School Committee develop a joint working committee to develop and promote a unified set of policies and programs covering both School and City issues to promote literacy among Cambridge Public School students. Councillor Kelley
REFERRED TO THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE'S AD-HOC COMMITTEE
COMPRISED OF THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
16. That the City Council go on record encouraging the various Departments, non-profits and Trusts associated with providing and maintaining affordable housing in Cambridge to, as far as is legally possible, develop housing policies, to build housing spaces and to provide financial assistance in a fashion that supports artists and city employees and that specifically provides housing to individuals who do not own cars. Councillor Kelley
17. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development and Homeowners Rehab, Inc. (HRI) to determine how HRI provides contract oversight and management for its home improvement projects and the City's liability in helping fund unsatisfactory rehabilitation projects. Councillor Kelley
18. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant Departments to determine which stop lights, if any, may be safely converted to a blinking red/yellow combination during late evening and early morning hours when there is very little traffic. Councillor Kelley
19. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant Departments in order to promulgate a policy that will result in road and sidewalk hazards being promptly and consistently marked by either City employees or private citizens. Councillor Kelley
20. That the City Manager is requested to take the necessary steps to have a plaque made and installed dedicating the Field House at Russell Field, on the field side, as the "Falcon Field House" dedicated to the young athletes of Cambridge and a plaque installed inside the building remembering the CRLS teams of the 1980's who played athletics. Councillor Galluccio
21. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Historical Commission to receive information on each neighborhood conservation district, the powers of the neighborhood association, the general guidelines of the neighborhood conservation districts, and if appeals are recorded into the City record. Councillor Decker
22. Urge Cambridge residents to participate in the national "Change a Light Day" on Wednesday, October 4, 2006. Councillor Davis
23. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate personnel to investigate the possibility of using "rubber sidewalks" especially near tree holes. Councillor Davis
24. That this City Council go on record asking that Harvard University re-hire Saintely Paul and that he receive full back pay and coverage of all medical bills. Councillor Decker, Vice Mayor Toomey, Mayor Reeves and Councillor Sullivan
25. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of the Election Commission and the Commissioners to discuss the feasibility of placing additional on-sight polling locations at elderly apartment complexes, specifically the Manning complex. Councillor Murphy AMENDED
26. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of the Election Commission with the view of sending voters notification of their designated polling location prior to the November election. Councillor Murphy AMENDED
27. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of the Election Commission to discuss the feasibility of engaging in additional forms of voter outreach and registration inclusive, but not limited to, providing voter registration upon renewal of a library card. Councillor Murphy AMENDED
28. Dedication of a site in the vicinity of the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Linnaean Street to be named as "Robert Rivera Square". Councillor Davis
29. That the City Manager confer with the Commissioner of the Department of Public Works regarding the shortage of trash receptacles on Western Avenue and River Street. Councillor Sullivan
30. Dedication of a suitable location in honor of former Middlesex County District Attorney, Attorney General and Cambridge resident Scott Harshbarger. Councillor Sullivan
31. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department on appropriate ways to calm the traffic in the area of Windsor and Lincoln Streets. Vice Mayor Toomey and Councillor Sullivan
32. City Council opposition to any efforts to attach enforcement-only immigration reform legislation to the Department of Homeland Security spending bills and press for immigration reform. Councillor Davis and Councillor Sullivan
33. That the City Manager is requested to coordinate with the Mount Auburn Cemetery to commemorate the 175th Anniversary of Mount Auburn Cemetery by hanging banners on light poles along Mount Auburn Street and to report back to the City Council on this matter. (Petition Attached) Councillor Davis and Councillor Sullivan
34. That the September 25, 2006 report from Cambridge City Manager Robert W. Healy on the feasibility of using green construction techniques for the renovation of the Edward J. Sullivan Courthouse be forwarded to the members of the Cambridge delegation to the Great and General Court and urge Cambridge representatives to advocate for green construction techniques. Councillor Davis
35. Curb cut policy be changed to include that the abutter notice be sent to persons who live next door, to property owners of record and to neighborhood associations and that notice to neighborhood associations include an option for the neighborhood associations to follow in the event the association would not meet within the required time period and the abutter forms be revised to reflect this change. Councillor Davis
36. Curb cut policy include notification process to applicant when a curb cut application is rejected; appeal process when a curb cut is denied by the City Council and a reasonable standard for denial of a curb cut. Councillor Kelley
37. City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the following: are there standard angles for curb cuts; what is the appropriate installation of curb cuts –city installation versus private contractors; is there oversight review of specifications for curb cuts and is there history of curb cut records. Councillor Kelley
38. City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development to report back to the City Council a structure for an overall marketing campaign for Harvard Square with specific attention to the arts and street performers. Councillor Decker
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee, for a meeting held on July 27, 2006 to discuss jitneys, to receive an update from the License Commission about complaints regarding the LMA jitney and to discuss Awaiting Reports Numbered 06-38 and 06-100 regarding unauthorized bus lines using neighborhood street.
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee, for a meeting held on July 27, 2006 to discuss the City's curb cut policy and whether any changes should be made, discussion to include abutter notification, timing of related buildings permits, criteria for requiring related traffic studies, effect of change of building use on existing curb cuts and any other issues pertaining to curb cut policies and practices.
3. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee, for a meeting held on April 25, 2006 for the purpose of receiving an update on Harvard Square's economic and cultural development.
4. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair of the Health and Environment Committee, for a meeting held on April 25, 2006 for the purpose of receiving a presentation on the 2006 Cambridge Public Health Assessment.
5. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on July 26, 2006 to consider amendments proposed filed by the City council to amend Section 5.28.27 Criteria for Approval of Special Permit when non-residential buildings are converted to residential use.
COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Marilyn Y. Bradshaw, Executive Secretary to the School Committee, transmitting a copy of an order from the School Committee regarding four orders adopted by the City Council, be referred to Tabled item #06-112 for a response from an ad-hoc committee comprised of the Committee Chair and Vice Chair.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Sept 25
5:15pm Special Presentation recognizing NSTAR and the Cambridge Boy Scouts for their spring compact fluorescent light bulb fundraising promotion. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm The City Council will conduct a public hearing to discuss the property tax rate classification. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Sept 27
2:00pm The Housing Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss follow up of the roundtable meeting of the City Council and the Affordable Housing Trust, including a strategy for coordination of long-term housing goals. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 3
11:00am The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the issue of Community Policing and the items that were referred to the committee on this subject. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Oct 4
5:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the petition of the City Council to amend the Zoning Map from Business C-1 to Business A-2 in the area bounded Massachusetts Avenue, Washburn Avenue and Gold Star Road. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the petition of the City Council to amend the Zoning Map in a portion of the northwest quadrangle of the Alewife area from Industry B-2 and Alewife Quadrangle Northwest Overlay District to Residence B. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Sat, Oct 21
10:00am-2:00pm Senior Fall Fair. The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee and the Human Services Department are planning to hold a Senior Fall Fair. More details will be forthcoming as they are finalized closer to the date of this event. (Sullivan Chamber & Senior Center)
Mon, Oct 23
4:30pm Roundtable Meeting - Presentation and discussion on the results of the 2006 Citizen Satisfaction Survey. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm Public forum for community prioritization of City Council goals sponsored by the Government Operations and Rules Committee (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)
Wed, Oct 25
2:00pm The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion of the cap policy in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 6
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 13
5:00pm Roundtable Meeting to set City Council goals. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Central Square Library)
Mon, Nov 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 11
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 September 25, 2006
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record dedicating a suitable location, after consultation with the family, in honor of Michael Halloran; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be and hereby is requested to arrange a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for a sign.
O-2 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Police Commissioner and the Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority relative to the recent break-ins at the Burns Apartments.
O-3 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program works and will help Massachusetts children and farmers and has proven to immediately increase children's fruit and vegetable consumption, improve their health, and transform the school environment by providing healthy food choices; and
WHEREAS: Massachusetts farmers will benefit because schools will be able to purchase fresh, locally grown produce; and
WHEREAS: Over the last two decades, obesity rates have doubled in children and tripled in adolescents, and poor eating habits of children contribute to the increased likelihood of their developing diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol; and
WHEREAS: This program will help children reach the goal of 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day; and
WHEREAS: Through the simple addition of fresh fruit and vegetable snacks during the school day, this program is helping to transform schools into models of healthy behavior and improved learning environments; and
WHEREAS: The USDA Fruit and Vegetable Program is currently successfully operating in fourteen states (Utah, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Texas, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, North Carolina, Washington, Mississippi, and Pennsylvania) and three Indian Tribal reservations; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record urging our Senators to support funding to expand this program to all fifty states; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Senator Kennedy and Senator Kerry on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-4 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: In August, 2006 Andrew Gottlieb, Chief of the Office of the Commonwealth Development met with State Representatives Alice Wolf and Anne Paulsen for an exploratory discussion of the potential for environmental impacts on Alewife Reservation areas resulting from development of the fifteen acre "Belmont Uplands" site which straddles the Cambridge-Belmont line; and
WHEREAS: At that meeting Mr. Gottlieb showed interest in doing a more detailed study of the combined impacts of flooding and traffic by proposed developments in the area; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Gottlieb informed those present that it would be helpful to have evidence of support for such a study by the towns of Arlington, Belmont and the City of Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: A follow-up meeting on this matter has been scheduled with Mr. Gottlieb at the Office of Commonwealth Development on September 19, 2006; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record expressing its support for a detailed study on the combined impacts of flooding and traffic by proposed developments in the Alewife Reservation areas; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to prepare a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Andrew Gottlieb on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-5 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record dedicating a site in the vicinity of the corner of Grove Street and Huron Avenue as Pat and Mary Pizzuto Square; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be and hereby is requested to arrange a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for a sign.
O-6 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the MBTA clean and refurbish the plaque dedicating the Harvard Square MBTA Red Line entrance at Brattle Street to Joe DeGuglielmo.
O-7 September 25, 2006
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: There have been a few instances where people have fallen and injured themselves in front of the new health spa in Inman Square; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works on the matter of repairing the sidewalk next to 234 Hampshire Street in front of the health spa.
O-8 September 25, 2006
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works on the matter of repairing the sidewalk at 1221 Cambridge Street.
O-9 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of the Public Works Department to ensure that all sidewalk ramps for disability access throughout the City are kept clear of debris; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-10 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record requesting that the owner and management of 700 Huron Avenue reconsider parking cost increases to subsidized residents of 700 Huron Avenue; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact the owner and management for a response to the City Council's concerns and request.
O-11 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with Anthony Braga, a professor at the Kennedy School of Government, to discuss his work with the Boston Gun Project/Operation Ceasefire and whether or not this project would be feasible for the City of Cambridge.
O-12 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Highway Department has scheduled work to begin soon on the Walden Street bridge; and
WHEREAS: This work will require closure of the bridge and therefore the street as well; and
WHEREAS: There has been only one community meeting prior to the notification of the closure of the bridge; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Highway Department seems unclear as to the ramifications of the closure of the bridge and of the construction process; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Massachusetts Highway Department to ensure that the City and the neighborhood association has more involvement in this project; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Massachusetts Highway Department to discuss the possibility of postponing the closure of the bridge until further studies are done on the closure of the bridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-13 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: House Bill 4645 is an invaluable piece of legislation that protects an important tax incentive for research and development
corporations - particularly in the life sciences - that are critical to the Commonwealth’s economic future; and
WHEREAS: H4645 addresses a problematic interpretation by the Department of Revenue (DOR) of prior legislative action; and
WHEREAS: In 2003, the legislature clarified the definition of research and development corporations to ensure that all research-related purchases by development-stage companies engaged in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and other research in Massachusetts were exempt from the state’s use tax; and
WHEREAS: Previously, the statute had included language that stated that companies were required to have both R & D purchases as well as R & D receipts in order to qualify for this exemption; and
WHEREAS: Since the 2003 legislative action, DOR has begun auditing selected life sciences companies for the years before the 2003 clarification and has in many cases imposed large use tax assessments on their pre-2003 research and development expenditures simply because they did not have any receipts or
revenue - going against the intent of the 2003 legislation and undercutting the state’s efforts to encourage job creation in this critical sector; and
WHEREAS: H4645 would provide clear guidance to the DOR on the legislature’s intent by setting January 1, 1998 as the effective date for the 2003 law change; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record supporting H4645 and urge the Massachusetts Legislature to pass this legislation into 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 Massachusetts Legislature on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-14 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City manager for Community Development and relevant non-profits and associated Trusts to determine what ability, if any, providers of affordable housing units, to include developments with inclusionary zoning units, have to deny units to individuals who have been assigned those units through the affordable housing lottery; 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-15 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Reading skills provide a critical part of the foundation for children's academic success; and
WHEREAS: Those children who experience early difficulties in learning to read are unlikely to catch up to their peers; and
WHEREAS: Children of low income families are at particular risk for reading difficulties; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council and the School Committee develop a joint working committee to develop and promote a unified set of policies and programs covering both School and City issues to promote literacy among Cambridge Public School students.
O-16 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Cambridge benefits from having a variety of affordable housing specifically available for artists and City workers who otherwise would not be able to afford living in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Affordable housing experts and City ordinance reflect the belief that affordable housing units result in fewer vehicles per unit than market rate housing; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record encouraging the various Departments, non-profits and Trusts associated with providing and maintaining affordable housing in Cambridge to, as far as is legally possible, develop housing policies, to build housing spaces and to provide financial assistance in a fashion that supports artists and city employees and that specifically provides housing to individuals who do not own cars.
O-17 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development and Homeowners Rehab, Inc. (HRI) to determine how HRI provides contract oversight and management for its home improvement projects; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the relevant Departments to determine the extent of the City's liability in helping fund and promote unsatisfactory rehabilitation projects; 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-18 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Traffic during very late evening and very early morning hours can be very light on some streets; and
WHEREAS: Cars stopped at red lights at these streets during these lightly traveled hours can jar the neighborhood with loud car stereo music as they wait for the light to turn; and
WHEREAS: Allowing cars to move more quickly through some intersections during late evening and early morning hours may reduce noise in the neighborhood without compromising public safety; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant Departments to determine which stop lights, if any, may be safely converted to a blinking red/yellow combination during late evening and early morning hours when there is very little traffic; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-19 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Potholes, cracks, bumps and other obstructions in City streets and sidewalks present serious hazards to cyclists and pedestrians; and
WHEREAS: These hazards may go unreported for months and, once reported, may go further months without being repaired; and
WHEREAS: Until they are repaired these hazards continue to pose serious danger to pedestrians and cyclists; and
WHEREAS: Prominently marked hazards may make it easier for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate the hazards until they are repaired; and
WHEREAS: City staff may not be able to mark road and sidewalk hazards as promptly as they could be marked with resident assistance; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant Departments in order to promulgate a policy that will result in road and sidewalk hazards being promptly and consistently marked by either City employees or private citizens; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-20 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to take the necessary steps to have a plaque made and installed dedicating the Field House at Russell Field, on the field side, as the "Falcon Field House" dedicated to the "young athletes of Cambridge" and "a gift from the residents of Cambridge"; and be it further
ORDERED: That a plaque also be installed and inscribed inside the building remembering the CRLS teams of the 1980's who played without a home football field and the young people of the 1970's and 1980's who grew up without a Pop-Warner Football and Cheerleading Program with the words "Appreciate and put this precious building and field to good use."
O-21 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: Neighborhood conservation districts are an invaluable asset to the City of Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Each of the City's neighborhood-based conservation districts has a commission composed of resident property owners with demonstrable knowledge and concern for the improvement, conservation and enhancement of the district; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Historical Commission to receive information on each neighborhood conservation district, the powers of the neighborhood association, the general guidelines of the neighborhood conservation districts, and if appeals are recorded into the City record; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on his findings.
O-22 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: There is a national call to action from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) entitled, "Change a Light, Change the World" (CAL); and
WHEREAS: This campaign is a way to encourage every individual to help change the world, one light, one energy-saving step at a time, switching from, "energy burning," incandescent light bulbs to, "energy saving," compact fluorescent light bulbs; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge Schools are participating in an educational, energy efficiency campaign of their own, where Cambridge students are learning about compact fluorescent light bulbs and energy efficiency while participating in a distribution campaign; and
WHEREAS: Wednesday, October 4th is national "Change a Light Day"; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council urge Cambridge residents to change their light bulbs from incandescent to compact fluorescent; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Cable TV Office to place this information on the City’s cable TV stations and the City’s website.
O-23 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate personnel to investigate the possibility of using "rubber sidewalks" especially near tree holes; 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 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
MAYOR REEVES
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is committed to the rights of all workers to have dignity in their lives, safe conditions at work, and a living wage; and
WHEREAS: Harvard University has recently fired one of its workers, Saintely Paul, claiming that he had fallen asleep on the job, when it fact Saintely had fainted; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Paul had also fainted the previous week in his home due to his illness; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Paul has been a dedicated worker to Harvard University for over six years and had no prior disciplinary problems before the incident; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Paul has also provided a note from his physician stating that he was undergoing a syncope workup due to his fainting episodes; and
WHEREAS: Mr. Paul continues to undergo tests at the hospital to try to figure out the cause of his loss of consciousness but must do so at his own expense due to losing his medical coverage when he was fired; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record asking that Harvard University rehire Saintely Paul and that he receive full back pay and coverage of all medical bills incurred during this time period; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to SEIU 615, Saintely Paul, Harvard University Interim President Derek Bok, and to William Murphy, Director of Labor and Employee Relations at Harvard University on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-25 September 25, 2006 AMENDED
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of the Election Commission and the Commissioners to discuss the feasibility of placing additional on-sight polling locations at elderly apartment complexes, specifically the
Manning complex.
O-26 September 25, 2006 AMENDED
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of the Election Commission with the view of sending voters notification of their designated polling location prior to the November
election to their individual addresses rather than to the
building.
O-27 September 25, 2006 AMENDED
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of the Election Commission to discuss the feasibility of engaging in additional forms of voter outreach and registration inclusive, but not limited to, providing voter registration upon renewal of a library
card; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Mayor be and hereby is requested to schedule a round table meeting with the Election Commission to discuss election issues.
O-28 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate a site in the vicinity of the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Linnaean Street to be named as "Robert Rivera Square"; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.
O-29 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: There has been an increase in foot traffic on Western Avenue and River
Street over the past several years resulting in an increase in litter since
there is a paucity of public litter receptacles on these major thoroughfares;
now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
Commissioner of the Department of Public Works to investigate the situation; 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-30 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record dedicating a suitable location in
honor of former Middlesex County District Attorney, Attorney General and
Cambridge resident Scott Harshbarger; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the
family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the
Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.
O-31 September 25, 2006
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: Residents on Windsor and Lincoln Streets have concerns about a recent
increase in traffic due to the use of Lincoln Street as a "cut
through"; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department on appropriate ways to calm the
traffic in this neighborhood.
O-32 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: Recently the House passed several measures which parallel the
provisions in the Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration
Control Act which passed in December of 2005; and
WHEREAS: The Senate, which had passed a comprehensive immigration reform bill in
may, has indicated a willingness to consider enforcement-only legislation; now
therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record opposing any efforts to attach
enforcement-only immigration reform legislation to the Department of Homeland
Security spending bills; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council urge our senators to press for comprehensive
immigration reform rather than piecemeal enforcement-only measures; and be it
further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably
engrossed copy of this resolution to Senator Kennedy and Senator Kerry on behalf
of the entire City Council.
O-33 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to coordinate with the
Mount Auburn Cemetery to commemorate the 175th Anniversary of Mount Auburn
Cemetery by hanging banners on light poles along Mount Auburn Street and to
report back to the City Council on this matter; and be it further
ORDERED: That the petitioner be and hereby is requested to file a bond with the
City Clerk's Office in the amount of $84,000.00.
O-34 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
RESOLVED: That the September 25, 2006 report from Cambridge City Manager Robert
W. Healy on the feasibility of using green construction techniques for the
renovation of the Edward J. Sullivan Courthouse be forwarded to the members of
the Cambridge delegation to the Great and General Court; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record urging the Cambridge
representatives to the State Legislature to advocate for the use of green
construction techniques by the Division of Capital Asset Management (DCAM) and
for the identification of sufficient funding to support a truly green building.
O-35 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the curb cut policy be changed to include that the abutter notice
be sent to persons who live next door, to property owners of record and to
neighborhood associations and that notice to neighborhood associations include
an option for the neighborhood associations to follow in the event the
association would not meet within the required time period; and be it further
ORDERED: That the abutter forms be revised to reflect this change.
O-36 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the curb cut policy include the following information:
* notification process to applicant when a curb cut
application is rejected;
* appeal process when a curb cut is denied by the City
Council; and
* a reasonable standard for denial of a curb cut.
O-37 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City
Council on the following:
* are there standard angles for curb cuts;
* what is the appropriate installation of curb cuts - city
installation versus private contractors;
* is there oversight review of specifications for curb cuts;
and
is there history of curb cut records.
O-38 September 25, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
Assistant City Manager for Community Development to report back to the City
Council a structure for an overall marketing campaign for Harvard Square with
specific attention to the arts and street performers.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Transportation, Traffic and Parking. Committee held a public meeting on Thursday, July 27, 2006 at five o’clock and thirty-one minutes P.M. in the Ackermann Room.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss jitneys, to receive an update from the License Commission about complaints regarding the LMA jitney and to discuss Awaiting Reports Numbered 06-38 and 06-100 regarding unauthorized bus lines using neighborhood streets.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Committee, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Vice Mayor Timothy J. Toomey, Richard Scali, License Commissioner and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk. Also present were Richard Daley, Jr., Paul Revere Transportation, David Eppstein and Sam Jerome, MASCO and Lawrence Adkins, Riverside Neighborhood Association.
Councillor Kelley opened the meeting and explained the purpose. Councillor Kelley stated that he was hoping to get more information regarding jitney regulations. He wanted to know how many jitneys there are in the city. He questioned Mr. Scali about what is being done about the complaint by Ms. Headley of the LMA.
Mr. Scali gave an update about the LMA. The License Commission voted to eliminate Putnam Avenue from the LMA route. The committee heard from the MASCO representatives.
Mr. Eppstein stated that he is a service provide for MASCO. MASCO is attempting to provide the right service. No portion of Putnam Avenue will be used by LMA. Four routes will be combined. About twenty-five people who use the LMA to travel to the medical area will be affected per day. They would need to access busses from Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor Kelley commented that the M2 Express would not go down Putnam Avenue. Mr. Scali responded that a new route would be submitted to the License Commission and would be transmitted to the City Council. Mr. Jerome informed the committee that the Coolidge Corner route would be left intact. Councillor Kelley asked if there is any altering of a jitney license what is the process. Mr. Scali responded that the License Commission conducts a hearing. Recommendations are forwarded to the City Manager to be transmitted to the City Council. MASCO agreed to this change. It is his intention to forward the recommendations to the City Manager for either the August 7th or the September 11th City Council meeting.
Councillor Kelley questioned who pays a fee. Mr. Eppstein stated that if you are not affiliated with Harvard University a fee is collected, but buses are open to anyone. The fee is $2.30 starting October l, 2006. Councillor Davis asked about the status of the general public using the LMA and paying the $2.30 fee. Mr. Eppstein stated that tickets in the form of a debit card, known as the Crimson Cash Card, could be obtained from the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department. The tickets are also available at the medical area and at Holyoke Center. The Crimson Cash Card is available to the general public. Value can be added to the card via computer to ride the LMA. Ms. Davis asked how anyone would know about this service. Information about the Crimson Cash Card would be publicized. The Community Development Department made the suggestion to have brochures and information about the debit card available at the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department.
Councillor Kelley asked if there are other jitney licenses that can offer this service. Mr. Scali explained that a jitney license is a license granted for a fee on a fixed route for the carriage of passengers. There are eight or nine jitney licenses in the city. The License Commission has authority for jitney licenses. Councillor Davis stated that she was glad with the service offered by MASCO. She wanted this service opened to the general public. Mr. Jerome stated that about 2,000 general public trips were handled by the LMA shuttle. Jitneys are fixed route with both fees and stops.
Councillor Kelley asked what is the difference between a jitney license versus bus route. Mr. Scali responded a jitney is a fixed route for the carriage of passengers for a fee. A shuttle is not a fixed route and maybe free. He cited the example of the Galleria shuttle. Also Peter Pan is not a jitney. The Hyatt Shuttle is also not a jitney, but a shuttle. The difference is if the bus does not stop and pick up passengers it is not a jitney and not under the authority of the License Commission.
Councillor Kelley asked how could the city increase the rider ship on the LMA. Mr. Eppstein stated that the riders on the LMA are interested in the route, but for the most part they are getting what they would expect to carry but one can purchase tickets at on the ground floor at the Event and Information center. A discussion ensued about the schedule times of the LMA runs. The M2 runs every 10 minutes from 7-9:40am, the same again from 4-6:30pm and every half hour in between. There are seven buses making a constant route. Does the M2 loop around the #47 bus asked Councillor Davis. Mr. Eppstein responded in the affirmative. The M2 and #47 timing is almost identical. The route from Harvard Square to LMA takes one hour. There is a back up that is caused by the tunnel stated Mr. Daley.
Mr. Adkins requested information about the express route. Mr. Eppstein stated that the M2 was three different routes. One route travels down Massachusetts Avenue. The quicker, by about 8 minutes, express route was the Putnam Avenue route that has been eliminated. The third is the Coolidge Corner route. This route will continue. The M2 route will be increased in frequency which may shave a minute or two on that route. The routes are going from three to two.
Councillor Kelley asked if Harvard Square was the terminus. Mr. Eppstein stated that the route ends at Johnson Gate on Massachusetts Avenue by MBTA stop and begins at Quincy Street. The majority of riders get on at Quincy Street. He requested to begin the change on September 1, 2006 in an effort to provide notification to the twenty-five people who would be most affected. Mr. Scali commented that this request to eliminate Putnam Avenue and beginning the change on September 1st must be put in writing and sent to the License Commission for a recommendation. Mr. Jerome suggested an effective date of August 26, 2006. Mr. Adkins stated that in the past there has been no access to LMA for residents. There are residents who would use this route if they had knowledge of access and timing. Mr. Scali urged Mr. Eppstein to contact the Chamber of Commerce to see if this could be worked out based on Mr. Eppstein informing the committee that MASCO cannot handle any cash transactions. Councillor Kelley suggested that this information should be provided on the LMA bus. Mr. Adkins suggested selling the tickets at the NSTAR building. Mr. Eppstein stated that the Harvard University and the medical centers sell the tickets but that the system could not run on direct cash payments for rides as the buses are not equipped for cash. Mr. Jerome stated that the Harvest Co-Op would investigate the possibility of selling the tickets. Mr. Adkins reiterated that residents do not know that they can get on the LMA bus. He suggested that Cambridge residents should ride for free. Councillor Kelley asked if there was a market analysis done for ticket services, as 4,000 riders seemed a small number to expend the efforts of such a study. Mr. Eppstein stated that this has not been done. Harvard University has paid for this service. The rider ship consists of 82% of riders employed by Harvard or students; the remainder employees of other institutions that use the cash card and 5% buy tickets. Mr. Jerome stated that Harvard University subsidizes the cost. Mr. Eppstein stated that the City of Cambridge could purchase a block of tickets and then sell the tickets to riders. Ms. Davis commented that it was like a TMA, and that the City could join just as it has joined the Charles River TMA from North Station.
Councillor Kelley inquired as to the capacity. Mr. Jerome responded in the school year 3,300 and in summer 2,900 per day. Mr. Eppstein stated that the AM and PM peak hours are close to capacity and that sometimes people cannot get on full buses.
Mr. Eppstein stated that MASCO bills Harvard University for the service of the LMA. Harvard receives revenue from tickets and the cash cards. Harvard requested the service. If after four years Harvard does not want this service, but the medical area wanted the service, MASCO would run the service for the medical area. Future Harvard development transtrportation issues will be decided on by Harvard, who may go through MASCO or not as it wishes. MASCO is a non-profit that does a lot of other things besides manage the M2 route. Paid parking with an associated shuttle, such as airport parking, does not constitute a jitney. All sorts of other groups and organizations can provide Harvard’s transportation needs.
Mr. Scali stated that the License Commission has authority for jitneys. The Police Department handles other bus route complaints. Mr. Adkins asked who is the enforcement component of busses traveling down Putnam Avenue, such as charter busses. Councillor Davis responded Lieutenant Albert is the enforcement component. Mr. Scali informed the committee that Lieutenant Albert has been doing truck enforcement on Putnam Avenue and that enforcement is only possible on restricted roads.
Councillor Kelley thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting was adjourned at six o’clock and thirty-five minutes p. m. on motion of Councillor Davis.
For the Committee,
Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Transportation, Traffic and Parking. Committee held a public meeting on Tuesday, August 15, 2006 at five o’clock and thirty-five minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the City’s curb cut policy and whether any changes should be made, discussion to include abutter notification, timing of related buildings permits, criteria for requiring related traffic studies, effect of change of building use on existing curb cuts and any other issues pertaining to curb cut policies and practices.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Committee, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Deputy City Manager Richard Rossi, Deputy City Solicitor Nancy Glowa, Assistant to the City Manager Nancy Schlacter, Public Works Commissioner Lisa Peterson, Director, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Sue Clippinger, Commissioner of Inspectional Services, Ranjit Singanayagam, Director of Zoning and Land Use Les Barber, Preservation Planner, Historical Commission, Sarah Burks and Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez. Also present were Lawrence Adkins, 45 Hayes Street, Lois Jones, 9 Putnam Gardens #79, Kathy Podgers, 148 Pearl Street, Jay Wasserman, 34 Second Street and Barbara Broussard, 148 Third Street.
Councillor Kelley opened the meeting and stated the purpose. He stated the meeting would be informal. Public comment would be for a period of five minutes per person. He stated that he wanted a curb cut definition and that he may want the City Council to consider changes to the curb cut policy. He requested the Deputy City Manager Rossi to make a presentation and answer questions.
Deputy City Manager Rossi stated that the curb cut process begins at Inspectional Services where the application is filed and is checked for completeness and zoning compliance. Abutter forms are required. Abutters include front, back and two sides of the site for the curb cut. Across the street can be sort of diagonal. The curb cut application is sent to other city departments to be checked for various issues. The other city departments are Public Works, Historical and Traffic, Parking and Transportation. The Public Works Department forwards the application to the City Clerk for transmittal to the City Council. In the beginning of the process ISD sends a copy of the application to the City Clerk’s Office to begin the neighborhood approval process.
Councillor Davis inquired if the abutters are the abutters to the property. Commissioner Singanayagam responded in the affirmative.
Mr. Rossi stated that the City’s policy and procedures for curb cuts and the City’s procedure with respect to driveway cuts, openings and off-street parking spaces or facilities and the City’s Policy on application for driveway cuts, openings and off-street parking spaces or facilities was established in l996 (ATTACHMENT A). The Law Department was involved with the process. The City Council reviewed the policy and approved the procedure. He requested the Deputy City Solicitor to explain the issue of approval/disapproval of curb cuts.
Ms. Glowa stated that the abutter form should be changed because "approval" is a misnomer on the form. The City Council is the only entity with the authority to approve curb cuts. Notification is a courtesy. The abutter approval was unclear stated Councillor Davis. Ms. Glowa stated that the form would be changed to clarify the fact that only the City Council has the power to approve or deny curb cuts. Councillor Davis asked by what criteria can the City Council deny a curb cut. Ms. Glowa responded that the established law provides that a property owner has the right of access to the abutting public way. If a property owner is denied access it could be deemed a taking by the court. The intention in the law regarding access to public ways did not mean curb cuts to provide off-street parking stated Councillor Davis, referring to a situation on Garfield Street. It is not an issue of access; it is an issue to have a driveway. Access means the ability to bring equipment to the property commented Ms. Glowa, a driveway and vehicular access. Councillor Kelley wanted a better definition of what constitutes "reasonable access" and "public interest". Councillor Davis wanted access to be reasonable access. In the attachment dated February 1, 1996 the right of access is outlined. Councillor Kelley wanted to review specific cases and how the law applied to each case. Councillor Davis stated that the issue is about parking, not access.
Councillor Kelley asked what is a curb cut. Ms. Glowa responded that curbs are cut to make an opening to the public way from private property. In response to a question by Councillor Kelley on non-conformity Ms. Glowa stated that the zoning act was enacted to bring property into conformance. Bringing property into conformance does not require approval of the City Council; it requires departmental approval only. So making a smaller curb cut that what currently exists simply brings it into greater conformity and the City Council has no jurisdiction, just City agencies.
At six o’clock Councillor Kelley opened the meeting to public comment.
Kathy Podgers wondered what constituted "reconstruction" and if perhaps there was a question of permitting here. She asked if curb cut records could be checked, especially for records of the previous owners of property. She asked why the approval of the Disabilities Commission is not sought. She has heard complaints about multi curb cuts on property. She questioned whether the curb cuts have to come into compliance with the Building Code for ADA compliance. She noted that "wavy" curb cuts and double driveways can have a disparate impact on elders and folks with disabilities. She wondered if anyone in the city checked to see if curb cuts were built in compliance.
Jay Wasserman stated that he has been through the curb cut process. Curb cuts usually go to the City Council and he wondered why his had not. His application was disapproved by the Inspectional Services Commissioner.
Lawrence Adkins spoke about access, wondering if that meant vehicles being next to a house or parking next to a house. Abutters can lose on street parking and have exhaust kicked into their houses. He spoke about the involvement in the process of abutters, residents and neighborhood associations. A correction to the applications form should be made to inform the applicant that requiring abutter approval is a courtesy as now abutters think a ‘no’ is going to stop a curb cut. Sometimes, he said, the neighborhood association cannot respond within the twenty-one day period.
Barbara Broussard commented that some East Cambridge houses abut the curb and there is no frontage, which means that they will never have the right to a curb cut. No frontage could be a zoning violation and would not be approved, stated Ms. Glowa. A variance would be required.
Councillor Davis noted that the question is if a house is already right next to the public way, how much more access to the public way does it need? She told of a situation where a curb cut was approved, but the car doors do not have enough room to open so they park halfway on the street. Is there a requirement to allow for car doors to open? Ms. Glowa stated that it is tough to answer such questions in the abstract. Criteria are zoning, size and width. If criteria are not met a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA) is required. Mr. Barber stated that zoning regulations have lots of parking and driveway restrictions, such as set backs for driveways and parking spaces and where requirements are not met, variances would be required. Councillor Davis stated that abutting property should have protection that the driveway not be too close to the abutting property.
Councillor Kelley asked if there is no front yard set back is a BZA needed. Mr. Barber stated that a parking space is required to be set back ten or fifteen feet. Sometimes the set back is modified.
Councillor Kelley suggested modification to the neighborhood association notification, as 21 days may not be enough. Councillor Davis suggested that information be sent to the neighborhood association to explain what to do in the event that the association would not meet within the twenty-one day notice period. Mr. Rossi commented on the legal requirement to notify versus courtesy. He noted that the Council had looked at this before and suggested language indicating that the curb cut has to be on the neighborhood association agenda, but there is no legal requirement and perhaps neighborhood groups should have subcommittees. Councillor Davis wanted the process to include in the paper work the option that the neighborhood association has in the event that the association will not meet in the required twenty-one day period. Ms. Lopez noted that such information was currently in the packet. Mr. Rossi informed the committee that the City Council has to inform the staff of the language change. At this time Councillor Davis submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the curb cut policy be changed to include that the abutter notice be sent to persons who live next door, to property owners of record and to neighborhood associations and that notice to neighborhood associations include an option for the neighborhood associations to follow in the event the association would not meet within the required time period; and be it further
ORDERED: That the abutter forms be revised to reflect this change.
The motion – Carried.
Councillor Kelley questioned if there could be a regulation preventing vehicle exhaust from going into someone’s house. Councillor Davis stated that an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance could be drafted to protect abutters from the exhaust of abutting lots.
Councillor Kelley questioned the appeal process if a curb cut were denied. Ms. Glowa stated that the appeal process is based on what department denied the curb cut. This is outlined in the procedures. At this time Councillor Kelley submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the curb cut policy include the following information:
1. notification process to applicant when a curb cut application is rejected;
2. appeal process when a curb cut is denied by the City Council; and
3. a reasonable standard for denial of a curb cut.
The motion – Carried.
Councillor Kelley submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the following:
1. are there standard angles for curb cuts;
2. what is the appropriate installation of curb cuts –city installation versus private contractors;
3. is there oversight review of specifications for curb cuts; and
4. is there history of curb cut records.
The motion – Carried.
A discussion ensued about standards. Mr. Rossi stated that the 1996 decision was to be objective and that the established standards be met. Ms. Glowa stated that the City Council policy on curb cuts includes criteria for City Council review. The City Council retains authority on the approval process of city departments. The City Council has the authority to approve curb cuts.
Councillor Davis commented about curb cuts that were regrettably approved by the City Council. Mr. Rossi stated that each city department presented to the City Council criteria and why it was required for curb cuts. Debate occurred to make the process objective then this process was promulgated. The City Council process is a good one.
Councillor Kelley commented on a curb cut at Dunkin Donuts in North Cambridge. Ms. Glowa stated that the City Council has the authority to lay out or alter public ways. Councillor Kelley stated that the issue is to clarify alterations to a public way by the City Council. First there is no curb cut, then curb cut is installed and the traffic is routed. This should be included in the policy. Councillor Davis informed the committee that Dunkin Donuts gave up their right to cross the curb in a variety of places by lessening the width, but she understood that they had the right to route traffic across their property as they thought best as with Shell Station on Memorial Drive. In these circumstances, the property owner would determine where they wanted to put the curb cut. She asked whether the City Council approval would be required again for a curb cut after its former use had been abandoned. When are uses no long needed or grandfathered? Ms. Glowa stated that use is not tied to the property owner. The history of the property would need to be researched. Councillor Kelley asked if property owners wanted to reconfigure how travel goes in and out of property does the curb cut process apply. Mr. Barber stated that if a curb cut is moved or shifted the City Council has to approve. Ms. Glowa stated that the property owner does not need to file a curb cut application if they are lessening the curb cut. A property owner may relinquish their right to the curb cut to bring the property into conformance stated Ms. Glowa. Councillor Kelley stated access was denied to the property because of an obstruction. Now this site is a busy driveway. He contends that the petitioner should have applied to the City Council for a curb cut. Each case has to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis commented Ms. Glowa.
Councillor Kelley spoke of the Hess site. A curb cut was granted before the building permit was issued. The building was completed and then was granted a variance. Councillor Davis stated that this was an optional cut; not a regular curb cut. Councillor Kelley questioned access to property where there was no access before, such as where a tree had been growing in the case of the Dunkin’ Donuts property. Ms. Glowa stated that she did not know if a tree growing stopped the right of entry at that point. Councillor Kelley asked when could a building permit be granted before a curb cut approval. Ms. Glowa responded that there is not always a request for a curb cut with building permits. The trigger is the need for a curb cut for parking. Sometimes curb cuts are not necessary. Councillor Kelley asked if the City Council had to approve curb cuts prior to the issuance of a building permit. Ms. Glowa responded that it depends on a variety of circumstances.
Councillor Kelley asked if sidewalks needed to be in conformity with street trees. Mr. Rossi responded street trees are not required; they are encouraged.
Councillor Kelley asked if curb cuts are allowed where parking spaces are being removed from the other side of the street. Ms. Clippinger stated that parking spaces are never, ever taken away from the other side of the street because of a curb cut. Ms. Clippinger qualified the ‘never, ever’ to be figurative.
Councillor Kelley thanked all attendees.
The meeting adjourned at seven o’clock and twenty-seven minutes p. m.
For the Committee,
Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair
Committee Report #3
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee held a public meeting on Tuesday, April 25, 2006, beginning at nine o’clock and thirty-one minutes A.M. in the third floor conference room at Cambridge Savings, 1374 Massachusetts Avenue in Harvard Square. The meeting was held for the purpose of receiving an update on Harvard Square’s economic and cultural development.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair of the Committee, Councillor Brian Murphy, Councillor Michael A. Sullivan and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Present from the City of Cambridge administrative staff were Estella Johnson, Director of Economic Development for the Community Development Department (CDD), Sarah Rahman, Associate Planner, CDD, Jason Weeks, Executive Director of the Arts Council, and Elizabeth Lint, Executive Officer for the License Commission. Present from the community were Katherine Rafferty, Director of Government and Community Relations, Mt. Auburn Hospital, Jeremy Thompson, American Repertory Theatre (A.R.T.), Jim Ricciuti, Director of Development, Passim Folk and Cultural Center, Suzanna Krmzian, Cambridge Savings Bank, 1374 Massachusetts Avenue, Betsy Siggins, Executive Director, Passim Folk and Cultural Center, John DiGiovanni, President of the Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA), 50 Church Street, Denise Jillson, Executive Director, Harvard Square Business Association, Brian Lenox, Cambridge Trust Company, Terrence Smith, Director of Government Affairs, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor Decker opened the meeting and thanked all those present for their attendance. She stated that her goal for the meeting was to get an overview of what is happening now in Harvard Square with regard to economic and cultural development, what is planned and what is not happening but in an ideal world should be happening. Councillor Decker expressed her pleasure at the representation of the arts organizations at the meeting and noted the importance of supporting the arts as one of the best ways to insure that businesses will thrive.
Councillor Decker then invited Ms. Johnson to report on recent highlights of economic development in Harvard Square. Ms. Johnson distributed a summary of Harvard Square Initiatives (Attachment A) and described the contents of the document. She discussed the public meetings that have taken place and noted that the next meeting is scheduled for May 10, 2006. She said that the City Manager has also scheduled a meeting of department heads to discuss department resources and assistance. The public meetings have been very well attended. She would like to get more student input on what they would like to see in the square. She discussed feedback from surveys of the public. People want more grocery stores. However, she stated, grocery stores want large spaces and dedicated parking, both of which are a challenge for Harvard Square. CDD is continuing to look for smaller grocery stores that might be interested. Residents also want more beautification projects, and the Department of Public Works (DPW) has planned more block-by-block beautification projects. The City has a $6.8 million dollar infrastructure investment. Signage improvements are also planned. Ms. Johnson informed the committee that the Economic Development Division has created a new focus on retail. CDD had a monthly workshop for small retailers last year. The workshop was very well received and more are planned. Ms. Johnson also noted that the City has been trying to interest the MBTA in a major cleanup of the Pit. They would like to see a complete re-design of the Pit area to make it available to a broader range of users. She announced that at the May 10th meeting Jason Weeks and representatives from Harvard will talk about arts in Harvard Square.
Councillor Decker thanked Ms. Johnson for her presentation. She invited John DiGiovanni, President of the Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA), to speak. Mr. DiGiovanni thanked the City Council and the City for their work on improvements to Harvard Square. He said that this is an interesting time for retail. The Harvard Square Association is going to look at how it can help retailers. He noted with approval some recent License Commission actions with regard to the liquor license cap policy. He said that the cap policy is 20 years old and changes to the policy would be helpful to the Harvard Square businesses. He urged the committee to support the License Commission’s engaging in a full and thorough review and discussion of this issue in coordination with Harvard Square business owners. Mr. DiGiovanni said that in the past License Commission has been very effective in dealing with unruly abusers of the cap privilege.
Mr. DiGiovanni expressed enthusiasm for the plans for improvements to Palmer Street. He said that the Harvard Square Business Association is working with the Arts Council to program more nice work on Palmer Street. He noted that there is still a lot of work to be done in Harvard Square.
Councillor Murphy asked whether the Harvard Square Business Association can work with the DPW with the view of encouraging businesses to adopt areas for care and maintenance of some plantings. Mr. DiGiovanni answered to the affirmative. Mr. DiGiovanni also praised Harvard’s work on Church Street in taking down the chain link fence by the parking lot.
Denise Jillson said that she has been the executive director of the HSBA for two weeks. She has been surprised at how village-like Harvard Square is. Ms. Jillson said that with local business owners and HSBA members, of which there are 90 in all. HSBA is concerned with trying to keep local businesses in a challenging economic climate. She also said that she has met with Harvard students about what they would like to see in the Square and their suggestions included the following:
* Pumpkin Fest on the Common
* Winter Festivals
* Ice Skating on the Common
* Places for undergrads to go in the Square
When she asked students where undergrads go on Saturday night, their answer was "not Harvard Square."
Ms. Rafferty said that Staples is one of the few chain stores that has become a part of the local community. Staples has done well and has been a really good neighbor. They improved their appearance and made the business association part of the process of planning the improvements.
Councillor Decker said that there are chains that succeed but in general chains do not do well in Harvard Square. Chains like Staples that supply everyday needs and services like photocopying have a better chance of success. Mr. DiGiovanni said in the end, let the consumer decide.
Councillor Decker said it has been great to see the universities step up with financial contributions to improve Harvard Square. She said that as an undergraduate student she spent a lot of time there, then no time, and now as a student again, she is spending more time there and seeing Harvard Square through the eyes of her peers. For students it is an introduction to Cambridge.
Councillor Decker thanked Cambridge Savings Bank and its president for getting involved in local events, for example, helping high school students take a trip to the United Nations. She wants to make sure that the City supports local banks and local businesses.
Councillor Decker then raised the issue of cultural life and asked who are the stewards for the cultural life in Cambridge, to assure survival of places like Club Passim and the Brattle Theatre.
Mr. DiGiovanni said that when people are asked what they like about Harvard Square the public space and cultural performances are always mentioned. He encouraged Café Passim to take the route of the Café Algiers and apply for a beer and wine license, which has helped Café Algiers a good deal. He also suggested that the new reconstructed Palmer Street should be the front door to Club Passim.
Betsy Siggins, Club Passim, said that questions for them are how they look to the outside world. Since 1997, Club Passim has been a nonprofit. People do not know that yet. The challenge is to engage Cambridge on what Passim offers in terms of broader educational and enrichment opportunities. They are wrestling with how to improve their image.
Jeremy Thompson, A.R.T., agreed with Ms. Siggins. He has been a part of Harvard Square for 25 years and has done a lot to nurture its international reputation but not as much to nurture its local connections. He agreed that it is important to find more ways to connect with the local business community more actively.
Councillor Murphy agreed and complimented A.R.T. on some new activities, for example, the breakfast performance of Romeo and Juliet, which got new people acquainted with A.R.T..
Councillor Decker thanked A.R.T for being at the hearing and for their foresight in adopting some different ways of thinking about community. She asked Ms. Johnson and Mr. Weeks to think about some kind of marketing learning tour for the local government and community.
Ms. Jillson said that HSBA members have been talking about bringing more events into the square. They have discussed having a series of events throughout the summer, starting in June.
Councillor Decker cited Octoberfest as an opportunity for cultural events, not just retail. She added that there is also a need for the City to help raise awareness of the importance of cultural events as anchors that provide the reason to go to the Square and then stop in at cute boutiques in Cambridge, not just stay in Lexington.
Mr. DiGiovanni suggested coordination with the Office for Tourism. Councillor Decker agreed. She said that she would like to se the Arts Council and the Economic Development Division take lead on coordinating this.
Mr. Ricciuti, Passim, thanked the City and the Harvard Square Business Association for the support for Passim’s anniversary celebration.
Councillor Decker then moved the conversation to the issue of the licensing of alcohol and the way the cap system works now. She expressed concern about the profit that individuals make from selling a license issued by the City. Mr. DiGiovanni said the high cost of licenses also means that there is a reluctance to address failure of the owner to comply with the rules by pulling a license.
Councillor Decker said that if we want Harvard Square to flourish, we need to look at what the barriers are. She urged leaders to communicate their concerns and recommendations on this issue to the City Council.
Mr. DiGiovanni said that in 1986 there were good reasons for adopting the cap, but there have been a lot of changes since then. The City must look at what has changed and what would be appropriate changes in the cap policy. He believes that there should be a more flexible cap. The License Commission should be empowered to use their discretion. The Café Algiers is an excellent example. Councillor Decker submitted the following order:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the License Commission to review the cap policy and report back to the City Council; said report to provide history and make recommendations for a more flexible policy.[1]
Ms. Johnson said that she lives at Everett House, a Harvard undergraduate residence. Students want more nighttime entertainment in the square and a great deal of support for activities that students can walk to. Ms. Johnson also stated that a representative of the License Commission was at the last meeting and did talk about more outdoor dining.
Ms. Johnson noted that CDD’s marketing for retailers course is for all retailers, including restaurants and can help owners develop a plan for how to get more business. Ms. Johnson explained that the course grew out of a survey conducted by the Economic Development Division last summer. They sent the retail survey citywide and heard back that retailers would like more help with marketing. The course includes e-commerce. They also heard from retailers about their interest in a marketing and branding effort for the Square.
Jason Weeks, Executive Director of the Arts Council, which administers the Street Performers Program, noted the importance of street performers to Harvard Square. He said that he is happy to work more closely with other City departments on outdoor dining. He hopes to work with the License Commission on such issues as outdoor speakers, so that the increase in outdoor dining does not inadvertently marginalize street performers in the process. He stated that he had heard some concerns from performers.
Jeremy Thompson, A.R.T., agreed with the importance of street performers. He said that Amanda Palmer got her start as a street performer (the Living Statue) and has risen to national acclaim and now is coming back to A.R.T. John DiGiovanni said that these are the aspects of Harvard Square that will never be duplicated in a suburban mall.
Councillor Decker said that is our story, Tracy Chapman, and the Living Statue, the art and excitement of Harvard Square. Mr. Weeks said that the Palmer Street redevelopment encompasses this theme of the creation of street theater and includes public art by artist Jody Pinto. It will be a magnificent project. Ms. Johnson said that she believes that the collaborative is working.
Councillor Decker submitted the following:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development to report back to the City Council a structure for an overall marketing campaign for Harvard Square with specific attention to the arts and street performers.
Councillor Decker then returned to the topic of ensuring rational policies for liquor licenses. She said that she still remembers what happened to the Internet café on Church Street. They wanted a beer and wine license and did not get one. Their application was stopped by a couple of people, and as a result the café did not survive and Harvard Square lost a valuable amenity.
Terry Smith, Chamber of Commerce, expressed support for changes to the cap policy and urged looking beyond just the license issues. There is a good deal of regulation that can stop popular projects. The first step is identifying all of the issues that would impact new businesses and looking at where regulations overlap and whether the regulations result in unintended impacts.
Mr. Thompson said that A.R.T. would like to be a key part of the conversation about developing a market plan for Harvard Square with arts as a component. Mr. Weeks described a grant program of the Artists and Cultural Association geared toward programs that nurture younger audiences. This is a positive trend that it is important to continue.
Elizabeth Lent said that in a hearing that night the License Commission would be addressing the "banked seats" policy, which allows a restaurant owner who buys a license from another business to "bank" any seats in excess of the new restaurant’s seating capacity. She said that the License Commission has become much more flexible, and gave the example of the recent change in the cap policy in Harvard Square to eliminate the requirement that the applicant for an exemption from the cap came to the City Council first.
Councillor Decker moved the orders submitted earlier, and they passed on a voice vote without objection.
Councillor Decker thanked all those present for their attendance. The meeting was adjourned at eleven o’clock A. M.
For the Committee,
Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair
[1] Councillor Decker submitted this order at the May 1, 2006 City Council meeting and the City Council adopted the order at the time (Attachment B).
Committee Report #4
The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on April 25, 2006, beginning at three o’clock and forty-seven minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The meeting was held for the purpose of receiving a presentation on the 2006 Cambridge Public Health Assessment and juvenile diabetes in Cambridge. It was agreed that the issue of juvenile diabetes would be held for a separate discussion.
Present at the hearing were Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair of the Committee, Councillor Michael A. Sullivan and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Harold Cox, Chief Public Health Officer, Cambridge Public Health Department (PHD), Sam Lipson, Environmental Health Unit, PHD, Marsha Lazar, Director of Community Health Programs, PHD, Gretchen Sherwood, Citywide Violence Prevention Committee, Joyce Lefevre, Children’s Dental Coordinator, PHD, Suzy Feinberg, Communications Specialist, PHD, Stacey King, Health Living Cambridge, PHD, Susan Breen, School Health, PHD, Lise Fried, Epidemiology, PHD/Cambridge Health Alliance, Dr. Karen Hacker, Medical Director, PHD, Jackie Neel, Deputy Director, Cambridge Department of Human Services Programs (DHSP), Lauren Leikir, Agenda for Children.
Councillor Decker convened the hearing and explained the purpose. She invited Mr. Cox to begin the presentation.
Mr. Cox explained that the focus of the 2006 Cambridge Public Health Assessment is on the presentation of data on the City’s six health priorities: HIV/AIDS, healthy weight, substance abuse, healthy housing, domestic violence prevention and health disparities. The data presented in the report provides a snapshot of the health status in Cambridge. Mr. Cox summarized the material in his presentation in an accompanying slide presentation, and copies of the slides are attached to this report (Attachment A). This report does not repeat that information, but rather summarizes the discussion issues in each area.
Mr. Cox began with the data relative to the issue of healthy weight. He noted that the data for healthy eating habits among Cambridge youths utilized the measures of five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day, two hours or less of television per day, and moderately or vigorously active during the week.
Councillor Decker asked how confident the PHD is that the youth who responded to the survey are telling the truth. Dr. Hacker said that self-reporting is usually considered to be fairly accurate. Councillor Decker urged paying attention to how the question is asked, for instance, "how many shows" as compared to "how many hours" of television.
Dr. Hacker said that the surveys are designed with developmental issues in mind. While they cannot know absolutely if the numbers are true, they can know if there are improvements. They are using the best methodology available.
Ms. Breen highlighted efforts in the Cambridge Public Schools around healthy weight. A health and fitness report is sent out to parents every year. The follow-up work is educating families and working with food services to provide healthy foods such as low fat milk, whole wheat bread. There are also education panels for families. They have established additional physical education curricula and fitness trainers after school to work with overweight kids at the high school. Last year they did a needs assessment with regard to afterschools and the 5-2-1 goals. The assessment included youth centers and afterschools.
Mr. Cox then moved to participation in healthy habits among adults, and described PHD programs and activities in this area. He said that close to 300 adults participated in the Fitness Buddies program and the PHD is now working on replicating the program in five sites around the city. They are also doing public service ads on buses.
Thereafter Mr. Cox moved to the area of healthy housing and described the measures. One is water, which is good in Cambridge, and another is asthma. He noted that two years after institution of the asthma registry (case management registry), the rate of emergency room visits for asthma has decreased from 21% to 4%.
Councillor Decker asked whether this is the same population. Dr. Hacker said that she believes it is the same population of consistently enrolled patients. She said that she would check on this.
Another measure is accidental poisoning. Mr. Cox noted that there is a big difference between Cambridge statistics and Massachusetts statistics. Ms. Lazar that they believe the difference is probably related to the increase in heroin use.
Councillor Decker asked about lead poisoning rates in Cambridge compared with the state. Mr. Lipson said that the screening numbers are lower in Cambridge, which is often related to the higher use of private doctors. Cambridge has an 82% screening rate, while Boston is about 88%. Cambridge has a very small number of kids poisoned by lead. He said that ten to twenty years ago the numbers were much higher.
Mr. Cox then moved to the area of HID/AIDS. Councillor Decker asked about mandated reporting (name reporting) versus unique identifier reporting. Mr. Cox said that the Center for Disease Control pushed hard for name reporting. New York and California gave in. It is very difficult for Cambridge not to do name reporting. Name reporting helps tracking. Unique identifiers encourage people to come in for testing.
Councillor Sullivan asked if there is a capacity testing that gives results right away. Mr. Cox said that Cambridge does have the capacity for rapid testing. He is not sure how many of these rapid tests Cambridge is doing. He said that it is good idea to be able to give people being tested information right up front.
Councillor Sullivan asked if there is data that shows the impact of the needle exchange program, data from before the needle exchange program started. Ms. Feinberg said that the reporting had been changed, so that information is not readily available. Cambridge is still one of only four needle exchange communities.
Councillor Decker asked about youth and HIV/AIDS. Dr. Hacker said that the percentage across the state has remained very low – less than 1%, despite the increase in testing. Most cases are diagnosed in 19-25 years old. With regard to prevention, money for delivery of HIV information has been decreased. The Cambridge Rindge and Latin School health center disperses condoms. DPH did an extensive report last year about HIV in Cambridge. Councillor Decker said that she would like more information about HIV and sexually transmitted disease education for youth in Cambridge at schools and youth centers.
Mr. Cox said that the HIV story is black males. There has been an alarming increase in black males testing positive, and the infection is occurring primarily through male-to-male sexual activity. Dr. Hacker added that the vast majority of needle exchange checks are white.
Councillor Decker asked what Cambridge is doing to respond to the increase of HIV/AIDS in black males. Mr. Cox said that Cambridge has lost funds for some programs because of cuts in state funding, but Cambridge is still providing a range of HIV/AIDS services. Mr. Cox said that one of his big concerns is on the federal level, the Ryan White Care Act funds. The bill has not been re-authorized this year. This is a real issue for Cambridge. The Youth on Fire program is supported by these funds. In response to a question from Councillor Decker, Mr. Cox said that the Men of Color Task Force’s concerns include HIV/AIDS, but that is not a primary focus for them.
Councillor Decker asked whether HIV/AIDS needs to be more of a focus. He said that Cambridge needs to join forces with Boston in this area, because the HIV/AIDS population in Cambridge is small.
Councillor Decker asked how the City Council can play a supportive role. Mr. Cox said that the City Council could hold a hearing on HIV, and make it large enough so that we are talking to the whole community. The City Council can also advocate for continued dollars. Mary Ann Hart and Mary Ann Walsh are both lobbyists who could help.
Councillor Sullivan asked about the need to break down outreach approaches to the cultural level, for instance, not all blacks are African Americans.
Mr. Cox agreed that this is very important and it is a concern to him that the different approaches are being limited, primarily because of funding limitations.
Councillor Decker asked about HIV/AIDS transmitted from woman to woman. Dr. Hacker said that the number is very small.
In the area of domestic violence, Mr. Cox informed the committee that the Cambridge Health Alliance is moving towards universal screening. Councillor Decker related an incident this year of a woman who asked about domestic violence when her husband was in the room. This should not still be happening. He agreed and stated that the incident points to the importance of training.
The discussion then moved to the health care disparities between white and nonwhite patients. Mr. Cox said that Cambridge mirrors Massachusetts with a higher rate of black residents dying of heart disease and cancer. He noted work of Senator Diane Wilkinson on the Healthcare Disparities Commission. Some of the disparities are access issues, there is also systemic racism, and there are economic justice issues, for example, where buses idle longer, etc.
Councillor Sullivan asked, so we have the data, what do we do about it? Mr. Cox said that they are continuing to track the data and make efforts to bring in more health care providers of color.
Councillor Sullivan asked if there are numbers regarding racial profiling in hospital admissions. Mr. Cox described interesting studies in which all aspects of the presenting patients were the same except for race. There was consistency in the data of what information the different races get. Dr. Hacker said that there is also disparity in access to the Internet, where many people find out about clinical trials, and have access to information about health care and disease. Councillor Sullivan asked whether reporting profiling numbers would help to change the behavior. Dr. Hacker said that it is difficult to figure out how to do it. She said that in the asthma registry, all the disparities disappear. The same may be true in the new breast cancer initiative.
When the strategies are targeted at closely following all of the clients, the disparities are much less. In the area of substance abuse, Mr. Cox highlighted the data that are in the middle school grades; 19% have had experience with alcohol.
He said that the upward trends in alcohol use are a fading story. In 2002 there was a decrease in funding for alcohol education/prevention.
Mr. Cox summed up the 2006 assessment of health in Cambridge as follows: Do we have a healthy City? Yes. But Cambridge does mirror what happens in this United States.
Councillor Decker thanked all those present for their participation. The meeting was adjourned at five o’clock and seventeen minutes p.m.
For the Committee,
Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair
Committee Report #5
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, July 26, 2006 at four o’clock and ten minutes P. M. in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the hearing was to consider amendments proposed filed by the City Council to amend Section 5.28.27 Criteria for Approval of Special Permit when non-residential buildings are converted to residential use.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Committee, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Councillor Craig Kelley, Lester Barber, Director of Zoning and Land Planning, Community Development Department and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury.
Councillor Murphy opened the meeting and stated the purpose. He invited Mr. Barber to describe the proposed amendment. Mr. Barber explained that the Planning Board proposed these changes in its report on the Zimlicki petition to amend Section 5.28.2 and Section 6.12, which the Planning Board did not recommend and the City Council did not ordain. The Zimlicki petition addressed two concerns of abutters that arose in the planning for conversion of the Blessed Sacrament property to residential condominiums. One was the concern about loss of privacy by way of new balconies and decks on the converted building, and the other was the concern about the effect of overflow parking from the new residential units on the on-street parking availability.
The Planning Board recommended against the specific changes proposed in Zimlicki as being an unwise limitation on the flexibility needed to provide appropriate design and development solutions for the wide variety of proposals and neighborhood contexts that could be subject to review under Section 5.28.2. However, the Planning Board did recommend additions to the criteria for reviewing proposals that would increase the Planning Board’s focus on abutters’ privacy. The new language in Section 5.28.27(1) would provide that in reviewing a proposed development plan, the Board shall consider the potential negative impacts of the new activity on abutters and the location, orientation and use of structures and yards on adjacent properties.
Section 5.28.27 already directs the Planning Board to consider the impact of increased number of dwelling units on on-street parking. The new language would provide that in reaching a determination the Board may require an analysis of on-street parking utilization on streets in the vicinity of the proposed development to consider available capacity relative to the demand that would be generated by the new project, with the scope and methodology to be determined in consultation with City staff. Depending on the results of the analysis, the Board may require changes to the project.
Councillor Murphy then invited public comment.
Stephen Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, noted the importance of making laws as good as possible, in light of the Big Dig fiasco. He also stated that he has a great deal of respect for the work of City staff, and does not intend by his comments to imply otherwise. He said that what can go wrong with zoning falls into three categories: typos, loopholes and mush. The third is the problem with Section 5.28, for example, 5.28.27, and the proposed amendment to 5.28.27 just adds to the problem by adding another "consider." The entirety of Section 5.28 should be revised to make it more specific and give it some backbone.
No additional public comment was offered, and Councillor Sullivan moved that the public comment portion of the hearing be closed. The motion passed on a voice vote without objection.
Councillor Davis then moved that the proposed amendment be forwarded to the full City Council. The motion passed on a voice vote without objection.
Councillors Murphy and Sullivan thanked all those present for their attendance.
The meeting was adjourned at 4:17pm on motion of Councillor Kelley.
For the Committee,
Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chair
AWAITING REPORT
03-63. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on progress of open space acquisition in East Cambridge.
Remains on per Councillor Sullivan
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 06/02/03 (O-14)
03-82. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on preparing a proposed ordinance creating a Department of Public Safety. Remains on per Councillor Sullivan
Mayor Sullivan and Full Membership 08/04/03 (O-4)
03-111. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on efforts to coordinate with Harvard for the development of a shuttle service from the new Harvard/Pleasant Street housing area to Harvard Square. Remains on per Councillor Sullivan
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 10/20/03 (O-16)
05-146. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on NSTARS's investment and infrastructure and its relation to the blackouts and power outages in Cambridge. Remains on per Councillors Kelley & Sullivan
Councillor Davis, Councillor Simmons and Full Membership 06/20/05 (O-5)
05-147. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the impact that energy conservation measures could have in preventing blackouts and power outages. Remains on per Councillor Kelley
Councillor Davis, Councillor Simmons and Full Membership 06/20/05 (O-6)
05-170. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on an update on negotiations to implement a nighttime truck ban. Remains on per Councillors Kelley & Sullivan
Councillor Murphy and Full Membership 08/01/05 (O-58)
05-207. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on options for sidewalks that are more practical than brick and more attractive than plain concrete.
Remains on per Councillors Kelley & Sullivan
Vice Mayor Decker and Full Membership 11/14/05 (O-6)
06-14. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a database that details how many residential parking stickers are associated with residential units broken down by number of bedrooms, affordability class, location and proximity to a Mass Transit nexus.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 01/30/06 (O-3)
06-67. Report from the City Manager:
RE: draft changes to ordinance to allow residents using designated car-share automobiles to take advantage of all parking privileges available to residents who own their own cars.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 05/08/06 (O-17)
06-71. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on financial support to Homeowners Rehab, Inc to subsidize the creation and fitting out of retail and community space at Trolly Square.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Sullivan and Full Membership 05/15/06 (O-5)
06-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the appropriate limits of the CPD's involvement in CHA buildings.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Sullivan and Full Membership 05/22/06 (O-6)
06-87. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on putting the City's self-evaluation under the ADA on the website.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Simmons and Full Membership 06/05/06 (O-10)
06-106. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of reappointing the special committee to address the needs and condition of Cambridge Housing Authority state funded housing units.
Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Murphy, Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Toomey 06/12/06 (O-6)
06-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a one-year long visioning plan for the City's youth centers.
Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Murphy, Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Toomey 06/12/06 (O-7)
06-108. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of recommendations of the special committee on property tax.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker & Vice Mayor Toomey 06/12/06 (O-11)
06-110. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on formal plan for implementing safe cycling habits in Cambridge.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sullivan & Vice Mayor Toomey 06/19/06 (O-10)
06-112. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on filing an Amicus brief in support of the employees and clients of the Middlesex Superior Courthouse.
Councillor Sullivan 06/19/06 (O-14)
06-115. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of providing City and School employees who work at multiple locations with parking passes that allow them to park on residential streets.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Murphy & Councillor Simmons 06/26/06 (O-7)
06-118. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the formation of a committee to study the impact to Cambridge of the proposal to develop Allston by Harvard.
Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-1)
06-120. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on on the Cambridge Housing Authority's ability to give discounted cable rates to seniors.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sullivan & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-13)
06-121. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the policy on public toilets at parks and sporting events.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sullivan & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-21)
06-122. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of using green construction techniques and materials and additional energy saving methods during the renovation of the Edward J. Sullivan Courthouse.
Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-23)
06-123. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving safety conditions for pedestrians and vehicles particularly those coming from under the bridge toward New Street.
Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-24)
06-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic calming and enforcement of truck ordinance at the Fresh Pond Mall.
Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-25)
06-127. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on power outages in the Centre Street area during the week of July 18, 2006.
Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-28)
06-131. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on monitoring the impact of the new Harvard Shaler Lane parking policy.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sullivan & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-37)
06-132. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of Municipal Code Chapter 2.123 entitled "Cambridge Commission on Immigration Rights and Citizenship."
Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Sullivan 08/07/06 (O-38)
06-134. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the extend of the City's liability for injuries and damage caused by various hazards before it has been warned of them.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sullivan & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-40)
06-136. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing a pilot program which utilizes a public/private partnership to employ residents.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Sullivan & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-54)
06-137. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on issues concerning 22-24 Prescott Street.
Councillor Murphy, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sullivan & Vice Mayor Toomey 08/07/06 (O-62)
06-138. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the #69 bus line service is regularly late and/or skipped.
Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-4)
06-139. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the Bulfinch Co. will allow the sign built by the Cub Scout Pack 302 helping visitors find their way out of the parking lot to the trail behind the Bulfinch buildings to remain in place.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Sullivan and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-7)
06-140. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improvements for enforcement and methods for holding contractors responsible for idling violations of subcontractors.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-17)
06-141. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Inman Square area businesses attracting rodents with their garbage.
Councillor Sullivan and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-22)
06-142. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on revisiting the issue of public restrooms in Central Square.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-24)
06-143. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on reopening the west entrance to the Central Square parking garage.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-25)
06-144. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on condition of city-owned trees on Gray Garden West.
Councillor Sullivan and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-26)
06-145. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what amount was spent on the security of former Iranian President Mohammed Khatami while in Cambridge.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Murphy, Mayor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Sullivan 09/11/06 (O-28)
06-146. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of bulk purchase of heating oil for the benefit of Cambridge residents.
Councillor Simmons and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-29)
06-147. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the proposed acceptance of St. Saveur Court.
Councillor Galluccio and Full Membership 09/11/06 (O-31)