Cambridge City Council meeting – September 29, 2003 – AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a vote required by the City Council to reject General Laws, Chapter 59, Section 2D as amended by 2003 Massachusetts Acts Chapter 46, Sections 41 and 42, which pertains to new construction.
ORDERED: That the City Council vote to reject General Laws, Chapter 59, Section 2D, as amended by 2003 Massachusetts Acts Chapter 46, Sections 41 and 42, which pertains to new construction. This amended law requires cities and towns to assess new construction after January 1 for real estate taxation based on the issuance of an occupancy permit.
2. 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 FY2004:
A. Authorize the further use of Free Cash of $6,175,000 to offset the 2004 tax rate as follows: Operating Budget $1,950,000 (as adopted in the FY2004 Budget); Public Investment $2,225,000 (as adopted in the FY2004 Budget); and Tax Support Reduction $2,000,000;
B. Classify property into five classes;
C. Adopt a minimum residential factor of 56.3907%;
D. Approve the maximum residential exemption factor of 20% for owner occupied homes;
E. Double the normal value of the statutory exemptions for FY2004;
F. Increase the FY2004 exemption allowed under MGL Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 17D from $219.78 to $227.65; and
G. Increase the income limit for deferral of real estate taxes by elderly persons from $20,000 to $40,000;
H. Accept the provisions of MGL, Chapter 184, Section 51 pertaining to changes in Clause 41C to elderly property tax relief by:
1. Reducing the age of eligibility from 70 to 65;
2. Increasing income limits for singles from $13,000 to $20,000 and for married couple from $15,000 to $30,000;
3. Increasing asset limits for singles from $28,000 to $40,000 and for married couples from $30,000 to $55,000;
4. Increasing the number of housing units to be exempt from the whole asset class; and
5. Change the amount of elderly exemption from $500 to $1,000.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer in the General Fund of $75,000 from the Finance Department (Assessing Division) Salary and Wage account to Other Ordinary Maintenance account. Funds will be available from salary outage in the Assessing Department and will be used for costs associated with preparing for the FY 2005 triennial revaluation required by the DOR.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-105, regarding a report on funding for uniforms for all crossing guards in Cambridge.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report 03-103, which requested that the Police Department arrange a meeting with the LBJ Tenants Council.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-101, regarding a report on roadway damage on Holworthy Place caused by work done on Holworthy Street.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-99, regarding report on the City's policy of assessing $100 fines for the sounding of house burglar alarms.
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-68, regarding requests for additional information on fundraising tactics currently being practiced by those parties working on behalf of the Police Department.
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-95, regarding a report on programs for seniors in which they are taken to the supermarket and whether there is a program that services Roosevelt Towers.
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-94, regarding a report on the Cambridge Housing Authority's rental increases and other fees.
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-102, regarding a report on how the Cambridge Housing Authority's emergency switches in resident units function.
12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-104, regarding a report on safety improvements in the Blanchard Road neighborhood.
13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-93, regarding a plan to advertise assistance for prescription drug programs to Cambridge seniors and uninsured/underinsured.
14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-92, regarding a report on updates to the Riverside basketball and tennis courts.
ON THE TABLE
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a Landmark Designation Study Report for Shady Hill Square. 1-11 Shady Hill Square, 36 Holden Street.
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the Landmark Designation Study Report for designating as a protected landmark the Tulip Tree at 1436 and 1446 Cambridge Street.
3. Request the City Manager to direct the Community Development Department to make maximum use of CPA funds to develop affordable housing that is permanently affordable, such as limited equity cooperatives and condos.
4. Requesting the City Manager to appoint someone to speak with Neighbors for a Better Community to explore possible collaboration.
5. Requesting the City Manager to direct the City Solicitor to draft a home rule petition to enable the City Manager to approve curb cuts.
6. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher and Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on July 30, 2003 for the purpose of considering a petition re-filed by the Planning Board to amend the zoning in the Riverside area and a petition re-filed by Robert S. Carlson et al., to amend the zoning in the same area.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Calender Item No. 1, dated 11/4/02, regarding the implementation of land use and zoning recommendations of the Cambridgeport Neighborhood Study.
8. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a Certification from the Election Commission of the signatures on an initiative petition entitled "Ordinance Regulating Residential Rents and Evictions." Two objections to the certification have been filed.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
9. Petition from Harvard University requesting a sub-surface easement located between 1720 and 1737 Cambridge Street for the purpose of constructing an underground pedestrian and service tunnel beneath Cambridge Street.
10. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher and Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on July 30, 2003 for the purpose of considering a petition filed by the Planning Board to amend the Zoning Ordinances in the City of Cambridge to rezone land owned by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, generally acting as the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) from their current, varied zoning designations to the zoning designation Open Space. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after September 29, 2003. Petition expires October 28, 2003.
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Council Order No. 24, dated 9/8/03, regarding draft language to amend the Police Review & Advisory Board Ordinance. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after September 29, 2003.
APPLICATION AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Kendall Square, LLC, requesting five curb cuts at the premises numbered 364 Third Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation with conditions, Historical and Public Works pending Traffic and Parking conditions. Two neighborhood association letters were sent. One neighborhood association approved and the other association responded that it needs more information to make a decision.
2. An application was received from Travel Cuts, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign at the premises numbered 56 JFK Street.
3. An application was received from Polcari's, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 300 Technology Square. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Community Development Department and abutter.
4. An application was received from Sugar & Spice, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 1933 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Community Development Department and abutters.
5. An application was received from The Harvard Square Business Association, requesting permission for two temporary banners at JFK and Mount Auburn Streets and across Massachusetts Avenue in front of City Hall announcing Oktoberfest.
6. An application was received from Barbara Broussard, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 148 Third Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Historical and Public Works. Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department denied application. Two neighborhood association letters were sent. Received approval from both neighborhood associations.
7. An application was received from Cambridge Family YMCA, requesting permission for a temporary banner across Massachusetts Avenue in front of City Hall announcing Bread & Puppet Theater performances.
8. An application was received from Citizens Bank, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 1290 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Community Development Department and abutter.
9. An application was received from Charlie's Kitchen, requesting permission for a bench at the premises numbered 10 Eliot Street.
10. Approval of constable bond surety received from Daniel Evans.
11. An application was received from Harvard Square Shiatsu, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign across from the premises numbered 12 Arrow Street at Guffey Park (intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Arrow Street).
12. An application was received from Henry J. Steiner, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 28 Madison Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. Three neighborhood association letters were sent. Received approval from two neighborhood associations.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Department of Telecommunications and Energy, regarding notice of a public hearing on September 30, 2003 at 11:00am relative to reducing the number of double utility poles within the Commonwealth, pursuant to Chapter 46 of the Acts of 2003, Section 110.
2. A communication was received from Lydia Vickers, regarding acquisition of space at 125 Harvard Street.
3. A communication was received from Renae Scott Grey, David Evans and Maria Darlington, Leadership Council Area 4 Coalition, regarding acquisition of space at 125 Harvard Street.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Extending best wishes to Karin Phillips on the closing of her antique shop and wish her the best in her future endeavors. Councillor Reeves
2. Resolution on the death of Ellen C. Rielly. Councillor Galluccio
3. Resolution on the death of Robert W. Sossong. Councillor Galluccio
4. Congratulating Katherine F. Abbott on her appointment as head of the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Vice Mayor Davis
5. Resolution on the death of Juanita Watson. Councillor Simmons
6. Sending the sincere hope of the City Council for a full recovery to Kathy and John Devaney. Mayor Sullivan
7. Sending the sincere hope of the City Council for a full recovery to Jimmy Rita. Mayor Sullivan
8. Resolution on the death of Clara E. Pierce. Mayor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Toomey
9. Extending best wishes to Father Paul McPartland as he leaves Saint Peter's Parish and wish him well in the next chapter of his life. Mayor Sullivan
10. Congratulating James Keenan, S.J. on the occasion of receiving the Gasson Professorship/Chair for 2003-2005 at Boston College and thank him for his continued commitment to education. Mayor Sullivan
11. Welcoming Father Michael Ford to the City of Cambridge as he joins the Clergy at Saint Peter Parish. Mayor Sullivan
12. Resolution on the death of Patricia M. Gauthier. Mayor Sullivan
13. Expressing heartiest congratulations and best wishes to Charles and Cynthia Franks on the occasion of their Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary and wish them continued health and happiness in the future. Councillor Decker
14. Resolution on the death of Frances M. Andrew. Councillor Toomey
15. Resolution on the death of James Dennis Leary. Mayor Sullivan
16. Resolution on the death of Kathleen R. (McHugh) Boutin. Councillor Galluccio
17. Congratulating Noelle Serpa Akin on her twenty-five years of service to the Saint Anthony's Parish Community. Councillor Toomey
18. Resolution on the death of Marion Benoit. Councillor Galluccio
19. Congratulating the Franciscan Hospital for Children on the occasion of the completion of the renovation of its Outpatient Area and wish them continued medical success. Mayor Sullivan
20. Congratulating the Youville Hospital Golf Committee on the occasion of its 10th Annual Charity Golf Invitational on September 29, 2003 at the Salem Country Club and hope the outing is a tremendous success. Mayor Sullivan
21. Thank Middlesex Sheriff James V. DiPaola and his staff for once again holding its Middlesex Youth Public Safety Academy. Mayor Sullivan
22. Resolution on the death of Adolph H. Balordi. Councillor Toomey
23. Resolution on the death of Eileen M. O'Connor. Councillor Galluccio, Mayor Sullivan
24. Resolution on the death of Florence M. Loder. Mayor Sullivan, Councillor Toomey
25. Congratulating Tom Birmingham, Esq., as he joins the Law Firm of Palmer & Dodge LLP and wish him great success. Mayor Sullivan
26. Congratulating Timothy Haroutunian on the occasion of his becoming an Eagle Scout and proclaim Sunday, November 23, 2003 as Timothy Haroutunian Day in Cambridge. Mayor Sullivan
27. Extending wishes for a speedy recovery to Malik Hill. Mayor Sullivan
28. Congratulating Sam Bass Warner and Diane Kleiner on their marriage and extend best wishes for many years to come and thank Sam for his active involvement in the Cambridge community. Vice Mayor Davis
29. Congratulating Ellen Zucker and Ellen Klegg on the birth of Jacob Richard Zucker. Councillor Decker
30. Extending Happy Birthday wishes to Marvin Gilmore. Councillor Decker
31. Extending Happy Birthday wishes to Michael Kenney. Councillor Decker
32. City Council go on record thanking Senate President Robert Travaglini, Staff Person Jim Gandolfe, State Representative Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., and Mayor Michael A. Sullivan for their efforts to gain City control of the Simeoni Skating Rink. Councillor Galluccio
33. Thanking all City employees who participated in a wonderful celebration of Danehy Park Family Day, especially Maryellen Carvello. Councillor Galluccio
34. Extending wishes for the Best of Luck to Robert Cogan and Pozzi Escot on their Visions Concert to be held at the New England Conservatory on October 29, 2003 and the world premiere of their music. Councillor Murphy
35. Congratulating Reverend Ward on his ordination to the Christian ministry. Councillor Reeves
36. Congratulating T.T. and the Bears on the occasion of its 30th Anniversary. Councillor Reeves
37. Congratulating the Schlesinger Library and the Radcliffe Institute on its upcoming Conference on African-American Women Leadership. Councillor Reeves
38. Honor Judy Norris’ service to our community and the Cambridge Women's Center by declaring Saturday, October 4, 2003, Judy Norris Health Day. Councillor Decker
ORDERS
1. Dedicate an appropriate location in the vicinity of Prince Street in honor of Clifford Bonvie, Sr. Councillor Decker
2. Requesting the City Manager to investigate the possible purchase of the print shop property located at 125 Harvard St., Aristocrat, Inc. of Cambridge. Councillor Simmons and Councillor Decker
3. Requesting the City Manager to provide the City Council with more specific information on any trends or preventive measures regarding the increase in robberies and "semi-sprees" of robbery referenced in the Cambridge Police Department Second Quarter 2003 Crime Report. Councillor Reeves
4. Requesting the City Manager to report back to the City Council with a status report on the number of condemned trees in Cambridge, where hearings were held and approval made for removal, yet the trees have not been removed. Vice Mayor Davis
5. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Department of Public Works about installing benches at bus stops and at a midway point along the odd-numbered side of Massachusetts Avenue from 2050 Massachusetts Avenue to Porter Square. Councillor Simmons
6. Dedicate the corner of Third and Hurley Streets as "Anthony Bruno Square". Councillor Toomey
7. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works on the condition of the open space around the King Open School, to post signs enforcing fines for cleaning up dog refuse and to explore the feasibility of providing plastic bags in the area for dog walkers to use. Mayor Sullivan
8. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works on the condition of sidewalks along Blanchard Road from Concord Avenue to Grove Street, and to confer with the the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to continue meeting with the residents in this area to address traffic issues, speed limit enforcement and potential design changes in the roadway. Mayor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Maher and Councillor Toomey
9. Requesting the City Manager to instruct the Commissioner of Public Works to clean Cambridge Street, twice daily, by the use of sweeping and the use of the street sweeper, during the construction that is underway on Cambridge Street. Councillor Toomey
10. Requesting the City Manager to mount an aggressive litter clean-up campaign. Councillor Toomey
11. Requesting the Mayor to convey to the School Committee the City Council's request to investigate the possibility of bus transportation for young children traveling from Area Four to the King Open School. Councillor Simmons
12. Requesting the City Manager to report on whether there are parks/open spaces where dogs may be walked off-leash located in all four quadrants of the City, and if not, what is the feasibility of so providing. Councillor Simmons
13. Requesting the Council to go on record calling for free and democratic elections in Northern Ireland. Mayor Sullivan
14. Requesting the City Manager to provide a status report on the proposed park at 238 Broadway and to report back to the City Council by October 20, 2003. Councillor Toomey
15. Requesting the City Manager to create the position of energy manager to oversee and improve upon energy use in all city facilities. Vice Mayor Davis and Councillor Decker
16. Requesting the City Manager to report back to the City Council on efforts to coordinate with Harvard University for the development of a shuttle service from the new Harvard/Pleasant Street housing area to Harvard Square, similar to service provided by the EZRide Shuttle. Vice Mayor Davis
17. Requesting the City Manager to report back to the City Council with a plan for moving toward utilization of hand-held computers for the Parking Division of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department. Vice Mayor Davis
18. Dedicate the corner of Fresh Pond Parkway and Larch Road as "Annabel Verches Square". Councillor Murphy
19. Requesting the City Manager to confer with MIT and Forest City with the view in mind of the designation of the Kennedy Loft site as permanent open space. Councillor Simmons
20. Requesting the City Manager to confer with Comcast and report back to the City Council on the reason why the RTPI Channel has gone from the basic tier to a higher tier, tripling the cost. Councillor Toomey
21. Requesting the City Manager to report to the City Council on the status of the land at the corner of Lopez Avenue and Charles Street which was deeded to the City of Cambridge. Councillor Toomey
22. Requesting the City Manager to report to the City Council on the status of the safety issues for pedestrians in and around Rufo Road especially in light of the demolition of the Mancini Safe Company building. Councillor Toomey
23. Requesting the City Manager to provide the City Council with an updated master list for renovation of the parks and tot lots, along with an updated report card on the conditions of all the parks and tot lots owned by the City of Cambridge. Councillor Toomey
24. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to arrange for the trees to be trimmed in Gold Star Park. Councillor Toomey
25. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to investigate and report back to the City Council on the ownership of streets, sidewalks and parking areas in the area encompassed by Charles Street, Binney Street, Fulkerson and Third Streets, specifically what is city-owned and what is privately-owned. Councillor Toomey
26. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Executive Director of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority to report to the City Council on the status of the land at the corner of Binney Street and the Binney Street extension and any other options for additional open space in eastern Cambridge. Councillor Toomey and Mayor Sullivan
27. Requesting the City Manager to draft a home rule petition which would require any educational institution which develops any type of housing to adhere to the City's inclusionary zoning ordinance and refer the draft home rule petition to the Ordinance and Housing Committees for a hearing and report. Councillor Galluccio
28. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works with a plan for sidewalk improvement along the Concord Avenue side of Fresh Pond and along Blanchard Road. Councillor Galluccio
29. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development regarding the status of restoration of bus shelters at the completion of the Cambridge Street Improvement Plan. Councillor Galluccio
30. Requesting the City Manager to forward a date for the rat eradication meeting proposed for Area Four and Mid-Cambridge. Councillor Reeves
31. Requesting the City Manager to provide a timely response on the request from the City Council and the neighborhood, regarding walking police patrols, particularly as requested by the Riverside residents. Councillor Reeves
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee, for a meeting held on September 10, 2003 to continue discussing the "Buy Cambridge Initiative" (BCI) and any other matter that comes before the committee.
2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the University Relations Committee, for a meeting held on June 18, 2003 to discuss future actions to improve university/city relationships in the following areas which the committee has been considering over the past several months: education, the environment, affordable housing, financial health, and planning and land use.
3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee, for a meeting held on September 17, 2003 to continue discussing the "Buy Cambridge Initiative" (BCI) and any other matters that come before the committee.
4. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher and Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on September 18, 2003 to discuss the Riverside rezoning proposal, the Planning Board petition and the Carlson petition.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Sept 29
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, Oct 1
9:30am Special Meeting of the City Council to continue a recessed public hearing to discuss the property tax rate classification. (IF NECESSARY) (Sullivan Chamber)
12:00pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss coordination of resources between the municipal cable, CCTV and the School Department cable (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 2
2:00pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue planning the presentation on the Cambridge knowledge-based economy and its implications for the Cambridge community, to feature Professor Juan Enriquez. (Conference Room of the City Council Office)
Wed, Oct 8
10:00am The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussing the "Buy Cambridge Initiative" and any matter that comes before the committee. (Ackermann Room)
Mon, Oct 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Oct 22
4:30pm The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee and the City Administration will be presenting the Buy Cambridge Initiative at the Sala de Puerto Rico Room at the Stratton Student Center. (84 Massachusetts Avenue, MIT)
Mon, Oct 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Nov 6
4:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition from John Roback, et al., to amend the Zoning Ordinances by deleting the designation C-2A and substituting in place thereof the designation C-1 in the area bounded by Green, Pearl, Franklin and Brookline Streets. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 1
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate an appropriate location in the area of Prince Street in honor of Clifford Bonvie, Sr.; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council confer with the family and the Department of Public Works to arrange for a suitable sign and dedication ceremony.
O-2 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate the possible purchase of the print shop property located at 125 Harvard St., Aristocrat, Inc. of Cambridge.
O-3 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR REEVES
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Police Department Second Quarter 2003 Crime Report states that there were 79 reported robberies in all of 2002 and 112 in the first two quarters of 2003. This is a 42 percent increase. The report refers to "semi-sprees" which are undefined by the report; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the City Council with more specific information on any trends or preventive measures that attend this situation.
O-4 September 29, 2003
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with a status report on the number of condemned trees in Cambridge, where hearings were held and approval made for removal, yet the trees have not been removed.
O-5 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works about installing benches at bus stops and at a midway point along the odd-numbered side of Massachusetts Avenue from 2050 Massachusetts Avenue to Porter Square.
O-6 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate the corner of Third and Hurley Streets as "Anthony Bruno Square"; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council confer with the family to arrange a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.
O-7 September 29, 2003
MAYOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works on the condition of the open space around the King Open School, to post signs enforcing fines for cleaning up dog refuse and to explore the feasibility of providing plastic bags in the area for dog walkers to use.
O-8 September 29, 2003
MAYOR SULLIVAN
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR MAHER
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works on the condition of sidewalks along Blanchard Road from Concord Avenue to Grove Street as well as the sidewalks on Grove Street and perform any necessary repairs in a timely manner; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to continue meeting with the residents in this area to address traffic issues, speed limit enforcement and potential design changes in the roadway.
O-9 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Commissioner of Public Works to clean Cambridge Street, twice daily, by the use of sweeping and the use of the street sweeper, during the construction that is underway on Cambridge Street.
O-10 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to mount an aggressive litter clean-up campaign.
O-11 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Many families in Area Four with young children enrolled in the King Open School are very concerned about safety issues in their children's route to school; and
WHEREAS: Many young children from Area Four have to cross Hampshire Street as they walk to school; and
WHEREAS: Several parents who are otherwise very satisfied with the King Open School have discussed transferring their children because of their concerns about the safety of this crossing and the walk to school; and
WHEREAS: There are other instances in the City where bus transportation is provided for distances shorter than the normal limit because of the safety hazard of a major street that must be crossed by the children; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Mayor be and hereby is requested to convey to the School Committee the City Council's request to investigate the possibility of bus transportation for young children travelling from Area Four to the King Open School.
O-12 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report on whether there are parks/open spaces where dogs may be walked off-leash located in all four quadrants of the City, and if not, what is the feasibility of so providing.
O-13 September 29, 2003
MAYOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: The right to vote is the fundamental linchpin of the democratic process and open, fair, and timely elections are vital to the maintenance of a democratic society; and
WHEREAS: The Northern Ireland Peace Process was designed to promote the principles of democracy by creating the Northern Ireland Assembly as a cross-community political institution whose members are directly elected by the people; and
WHEREAS: Despite setbacks, significant progress has been made in recent years towards a peaceful and permanent resolution to the conflict in Northern Ireland; and
WHEREAS: The cancellation of the May 29, 2003 elections sent a negative message to a society that has aspirations of becoming exclusively democratic and the manifestation of trust in a democratic society is a date certain for an election; and
WHEREAS: British Prime Minister Tony Blair’s decision to suspend the democratic elections in Northern Ireland contradicts the efforts of the United Nations, the United States and other democratic nations to ensure free elections around the world; and
WHEREAS: The indefinite suspension of elections and the suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly leaves the people of Northern Ireland in political limbo, with no democratic venue for expressing their rights and preferences about governing their own country; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA, which has a significant percentage of residents with Irish ancestry, has displayed a longstanding concern and commitment to the peaceful resolution of the Troubles in Northern Ireland; and
WHEREAS: Massachusetts Senator Edward M. Kennedy and the Massachusetts State Senate have recently called upon British Prime Minister Tony Blair to schedule elections; and
WHEREAS: Fifteen members of the United States House of Representatives, including six from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts have called upon British Prime Minister Tony Blair to schedule elections as soon as possible; and
WHEREAS: Irish Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, U.S. Special Envoy to Ireland Richard Haas, Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams and Social Democratic Labor Party Leader Mark Durkan have called for elections this fall, now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record calling for free and democratic elections in Northern Ireland; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to British Prime Minister Tony Blair, British Ambassador to the United States, Sir David Manning, and the British Consul to Boston, General George Ferguson, the National Board of the Ancient Order of Hibernians and the Irish-American Unity Conference on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-14 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide a status report on the proposed park at 238 Broadway and to report back to the City Council by October 20, 2003.
O-15 September 29, 2003
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: A key component of the Cambridge Climate Protection Plan relates to reduced energy consumption; and
WHEREAS: Monies lost to poor energy management have been equated to "dollars on the floor waiting to be picked up"; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to create the position of energy manager to oversee and improve upon energy use in all city facilities; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council by December 1, 2003 regarding this matter.
O-16 September 29, 2003
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on efforts to coordinate with Harvard University for the development of a shuttle service from the new Harvard/Pleasant Street housing area to Harvard Square, similar to service provided by the EZRide Shuttle.
O-17 September 29, 2003
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: A significant amount of traffic fines go uncollected; and
WHEREAS: Neighboring communities, including Somerville, are utilizing hand-held computers for the purpose of issuing tickets, reducing the potential for mistakes when compared to hand-written tickets; and
WHEREAS: Such a system will also eliminate the need for manual entry of violations; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with a plan for moving toward utilization of hand-held computers for the Parking Division of the Traffic, Parking & Transportation Department.
O-18 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
ORDERED: That the City Council be and hereby is requested to dedicate the corner of Fresh Pond Parkway and Larch Road as "Annabel Verches Square"; 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-19 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Under the terms of MIT’s agreement with the City of Cambridge regarding the development of University Park, MIT is required to provide publicly beneficial open space; and
WHEREAS: Pacific Park functions in the main as a much-needed additional sports field for youth athletics; and
WHEREAS: The design guidelines for Auburn Common call for a space that will allow for a wide variety of uses - - passive recreation, exhibitions, concerts, festivals, etc.; and
WHEREAS: Auburn Common in actuality is an attractive passive recreation space mainly for the employees of the surrounding office buildings; and
WHEREAS: Many of the activities described in the guidelines as activities intended to take place in Auburn Common, for example, Small Business Association events, Salvation Army events, musical concerts, University Park employees and neighborhood groups playing volleyball, have actually taken place (at the direction of the management officials of University Park) in the open area between the Kennedy Lofts apartment building and Sidney Street (hereinafter "the Kennedy Lofts site’); now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with MIT and Forest City with the view in mind of the designation of the Kennedy Loft site as permanent open space in order to assure the continued availability to the public of the space, which is now being used at the direction of the University Park to fulfill essential recreation uses originally contemplated to take place at Auburn Common but which cannot be so accommodated due to its location and design; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk send a copy of this order to the President of M.I.T. and the President of Forest City Enterprises, Inc., on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-20 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with Comcast and report back to the City Council on the reason why the RTPI Channel has gone from the basic tier to a higher tier, tripling the cost.
O-21 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council on the status of the land at the corner of Lopez Avenue and Charles Street, which was deeded to the City of Cambridge.
O-22 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council on the status of the safety issues for pedestrians in and around Rufo Road especially in light of the demolition of the Mancini Safe Company building.
O-23 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the City Council with an updated master list for renovation of the parks and tot lots, along with an updated report card on the conditions of all the parks and tot lots owned by the City of Cambridge.
O-24 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works to arrange for the trees to be trimmed in Gold Star Park.
O-25 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to investigate and report back to the City Council on the ownership of streets, sidewalks and parking areas in the area encompassed by Charles Street, Binney Street, Fulkerson and Third Streets, specifically what is city-owned and what is privately-owned.
O-26 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
MAYOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Executive Director of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority to report to the City Council on the status of the land at the corner of Binney Street and the Binney Street extension and any other options for additional open space in eastern Cambridge.
O-27 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to draft a home rule petition which would require any educational institution which develops any type of housing to adhere to the City's inclusionary zoning ordinance and refer the draft home rule petition to the Ordinance and Housing Committees for a hearing and report.
O-28 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works with a plan for sidewalk improvement along the Concord Avenue side of Fresh Pond and along Blanchard Road; said response to be forwarded to the City Council.
O-29 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Community Development regarding the status of restoration of bus shelters at the completion of the Cambridge Street Improvement Plan.
O-30 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to forward a date for the rat eradication meeting proposed for Area Four and Mid-Cambridge.
O-31 September 29, 2003
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide a timely response on the request from the City Council and the neighborhood, regarding walking police patrols, particularly as requested by the Riverside residents.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee held a public meeting on Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at ten o’clock and ten minutes A. M. in the Ackermann Room.
The purpose of the meeting was to continue discussing the Buy Cambridge Initiative (BCI) and any other matter that comes before the committee.
Present at the meeting was Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Committee, Estella Johnson, Economic Development Director, Community Development Department (CDD), Elaine Madden, Project Planner, Economic Division, CDD, Cynthia Griffin, Purchasing Agent, Joan Dillon, Assistant Purchasing Agent, Ini Tomeu, Public Information Officer, James Monagle City Auditor, Duane Brown Affirmative Action Officer, Mary Clover, Purchasing Coordinator, Cambridge School Department and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk. Also present was Nicola Williams, 8 Brewer Street and Laurie Taymore Berry, 164 Pleasant Street.
Councillor Simmons opened the meeting and stated the purpose.
Councillor Simmons asked for an update from the sub committees.
The Logistics Commission distributed information regarding the room size, parking and equipment (ATTACHMENT A). A map to the parking facility and written directions would be provided. The directions would also be supplied on the web site. Two microphones on a raised podium and a mobile microphone would be provided by M.I.T. The room can accommodate 20 vendors. The tables are six foot long and would be set up theatre style.
Ms. Madden suggested that the food be set up outside the room. Ms. Dillon responded that there is enough space to place the food inside the room. Mr. Monagle asked for an estimated number of attendees. Estimate give was 100 plus city officials.
It was decided by the committee that advance registration was "encouraged," but that walk-ins would be welcome.
Councillor Simmons requested that packets be prepared for all attendees. The packets would be prepared by the Community Development Department. The committee agreed that the packets should contain a note pad and a pen to allow attendees to take notes.
A discussion ensued about how the vendors would be identified. Councillor Simmons requested that the Logistics Committee inquire from MIT if it were possible for easels to be provided by MIT. The vendor names would be placed on the easels behind the display table. Table tents were also suggested.
Councillor Simmons informed the committee that a letter from her as chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee addressed to the CEO’s was being prepared and would be mailed by the City Council Office. A copy of this letter would also be forwarded to the purchasing personnel. Ms. Madden would provide names and addresses for this letter. Councillor Simmons also requested that a letter addressed to business owners be included in the flyer. The business owner letter would be e-mailed by the City Council Office to the Public Information Officer for the flyer, stated Councillor Simmons.
Minor changes were made to the BCI Fact Sheet. Ms. Tomeu would type the text for the flyer and forward the text to the graphics department in CDD. It was agreed that the flyer would be printed on white paper with green ink, as would the note pads. Ms. Johnson stated that the typed text is needed so that the graphics department could proceed with the flyer.
Mr. Monagle asked Councillor Simmons what was her vision of the BCI. Councillor Simmons responded that she views the BCI as a proactive program to connect businesses to do business with each other.
The program was also changed. The committee discussed the keynote speaker.
Councillor Simmons outlined the timeline as follows:
| CEO letters | mailed by Council office | as soon as possible |
| Press kits | mailed by Ms. Tomeu | Sept. 22, 2003 |
| Registration/flyer | mailed by Clerk’s Office | Sept. 28, 2003 |
| Program finalized | by Ms. Johnson | Oct. 15, 2003 |
| Attendee packets | prepared by CDD | Oct. 15, 2003 |
| Confirmation | >needed by Logistics Committee | Oct. 1, 2003 |
Councillor Simmons scheduled the next meeting of the committee for Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at 10:00am.
Councillor Simmons thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at eleven o’clock and forty-five minutes A.M.
For the Committee,
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair
Committee Report #2
The University Relations Committee held a facilitated public meeting on June 18, 2003, beginning at 12:55pm in the Ackermann Room at Cambridge City Hall. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss future actions to improve university/city relationships in the following areas which the committee has been considering over the past several months: education, the environment, affordable housing, financial health, and planning and land use.
Present at the meeting were Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Committee, Vice Mayor Henrietta Davis, Vice Chair, Councillor Brian Murphy, Mayor Michael A. Sullivan, Councillor Timothy J. Toomey and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Robert W. Healy, City Manager, Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager, Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development, Susan Glazer, Deputy Director of the Community Development Department (CDD), and Roberta Miller, trainer and facilitator. The universities were represented by Sarah Gallop, Co-Director of Government and Community Relations, M.I.T., Rachel Jellinek, M.I.T., Mary Power, Senior Director of Community Affairs for Harvard University, Mary Ann Jarvis, Office of Community Affairs, Harvard University. The following Cambridge residents were present: Stash Horowitz, 12 Florence Street, John Pitkin, Fayette Street, John Moot, Coolidge Hill Road.
Councillor Maher convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He noted that the University Relations Committee held meetings attended by the entire membership of the City Council, the senior administrative staff of the city and representatives of the universities in Cambridge, to look at all of the ways in which the city and universities relate. Out of that process came the areas of concern that have been discussed in committee meetings over the past year. Each area has been the subject of at least one entire committee meeting. There have been three meetings on the topic of education. This meeting is an opportunity for the committee to review the work in all of the areas and to decide on the next steps. Councillor Maher then introduced Ms. Miller to begin the discussion.
Ms. Miller reviewed the summary of the outcomes of the previous topic exploration meetings. A copy of the summary is attached to this report. Ms. Miller began with the topic of the environment.
Councillor Murphy noted the successful collaborations in this area, and the importance of not interfering with success. Vice Mayor Davis suggested celebrating and publicizing the successes. The university/city collaborations on environmental issues in Cambridge could be a national model.
Mr. Rossi said that storm water management is an area that needs work; it is an important issue in which university/city collaboration could make an enormous difference. The universities could be very helpful, particularly in the area of mitigation measures around projects. Vice Mayor Davis suggested a storm water meeting between city administration and appropriate university representatives. Ms. Miller said that the City Council might want to have a roundtable discussion on the issue.
Ms. Gallop suggested that the city and the universities hold an annual environmental summit around the time of Earth Day. The summit could celebrate successes and plan the environmental agenda for the next year.
Actions:
Ms. Miller moved the discussion to the topic of housing.
Vice Mayor Davis said that she would like to see the city and the universities produce an economic analysis of the current housing market so that they could learn together about the current housing market.
Ms. Rubenstein recommended that the city continue to explore the potential of collaboration with the universities that combines graduate student housing and affordable housing for Cambridge families. Councillor Murphy agreed and added that city and universities should continue to pay attention to the question of how the universities can find solutions to their housing needs in ways that also assist with the city’s need for more affordable housing. Vice Mayor Davis suggested researching the Northeastern University combination of student and community housing.
Councillor Maher said that it might be most effective for the University Relations Committee to refer its findings and potential action steps to the City Council Housing Committee for further development.
Ms. Gallop said that the Town Gown Report might be a useful tool in this area. Councillor Murphy agreed and emphasized that in light of all of the work that goes into the production of the Town Gown Report, the city and the universities should make sure that the information requested and collected is useful.
Ms. Gallop noted the importance of the City Council coming to grips with some underlying policy issues. Does the City Council want more graduate student housing or not? Ms. Power agreed that it would be very helpful to have a "big picture" discussion on these housing issues. Mr. Rossi added that the city would be better served with a more detailed housing policy that was more broadly disseminated to the public. Councillor Murphy said that the details of the universities’ goals and growth policies are essential to such a discussion.
Vice Mayor Davis emphasized the necessity of involving the Planning Board in these discussions. Ms. Rubenstein said that as a result of the City Council roundtable discussion with the Planning Board on town/gown issues, the Planning Board is also trying to improve the Town/Gown report. Councillor Murphy said that ideally the Town/Gown report should be revamped during the first few months of the next Council term.
Vice Mayor Davis said that the City Council could use the Council FY 05 goal review session in the spring of 2004 for an in-depth discussion of housing policy.
Actions:
The committee moved on to a review of the findings and recommendations in the area of public education. Vice Mayor Davis opined that the most important activities listed in the topic exploration report were university involvement in the superintendent search and selection and the universities moving quickly to host an opportunity for university personnel to meet the new superintendent.
Councillor Murphy noted that the two biggest players in the area of education are the Superintendent of Schools and the School Committee. Councillor Maher said that the universities have great resources from which the schools could and should benefit. While individual members of the School Committee and the school administrative staff have relationships with members of the university community, the City Council and senior city administrative staff have stronger working relationships with the university staff best positioned to take the overview and institute structural participation. The City Council can play a supportive and facilitative role. Ms. Miller added that it is essential for the City Council to make a policy statement emphasizing the importance of the universities and schools having a very strong relationship.
Mr. Healy said that he would like to see the universities take on a big project and not have individuals from the School Department nickel and dime the universities for small individual projects.
Actions:
The committee moved on to the area of the fiscal health of the city. Mr. Healy reported that Harvard and M.I.T have both been working closely with city staff to develop and finalize agreements that will go far toward maintaining the city’s fiscal health. He expects signed agreements regarding payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) from both M.I.T. and Harvard. His goal is early fall.
Ms. Power said that a look at the economic impact of Harvard and M.I.T. on the city illustrates the enormous value added by the universities. Ms. Rubenstein requested data from the universities for the CDD economic development report now being prepared. Councillor Simmons said she would like to see comparative information about the costs to small businesses, especially the retail costs. Vice Mayor Davis said she would like to see a report on the economic impact prepared by a outside analyst, rather than by the City or the universities.
Actions:
The committee moved to a discussion of the final area, planning and development. Councillor Maher said that the committee left this topic for the end because university/city relationships in this area involve a great deal of tension and conflict. Vice Mayor Davis said that she sees the tension in the goal of preserving neighborhoods, and perhaps the committee should look at what that goal really means. Councillor Murphy agreed and noted that there must be recognition that "total preservation" is inherently impossible.
Councillor Murphy recommended a book by Richard Florida on what makes a city desirable, and said that there are lessons for both the city and the universities. Councillor Murphy also asked whether it would be useful for the committee to look at some completed planning and development projects in Cambridge as case studies and really spend time trying to sort out and analyze the ingredients that made some work well and some not.
Ms. Power said that she is really interested in finding some mutuality of interest in the way development projects are perceived – connections between neighborhood preservation and university success and university success and neighborhood vitality.
Councillor Davis said that there could be a shared vision of neighborhood preservation in transition areas with benefits for both the university and the neighborhood. She added that all can advocate for a vital city.
Mr. Horowitz suggested that "quality of life" might more clearly express what we want to preserve than "neighborhood preservation."
Ms. Rubenstein said that perhaps with the suggestions that the Planning Board has made for changes in the Town Gown Report presentations, those reports could provide opportunities for such discussions. The Planning Board would like the universities to use a longer planning horizon, put the small and particular into a bigger context, articulate what is important and include the institution’s analysis of the effects of their land use plans on the affected neighborhoods. Mayor Sullivan agreed that the Town/Gown Reports should contain more information.
Actions:
Councillor Maher thanked all those present for their attendance. The meeting was adjourned at 3:10 P.M.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Committee Report #3
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee held a public meeting on Wednesday, September 17, 2003 at ten o’clock A. M. in the Ackermann Room.
The purpose of the meeting was to continue discussing the "Buy Cambridge Initiative" (BCI) and any other matters that come before the committee.
Present at the meeting were Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Committee, Estella Johnson, Economic Development Director, Community Development (CDD), Elaine Madden, Project Planner, Economic Division, CDD, Ini Tomeu, Public Information Officer, Joan Dillon, Assistant Purchasing Agent, Nancy McLeod, Manager, Construction Procurement, Purchasing Department, Duane Brown, Affirmative Action Officer, James Monagle, City Auditor, Susan Mintz, Office of Workforce Development and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk. Also present at the meeting was Caryn S. Saitz, Director of Public Affairs, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce.
Councillor Simmons opened the meeting and stated the purpose.
The committee received an update from the Program subcommittee. Ms. Johnson reported that the keynote speaker would be Mr. Henry Owens. Ms. Tomeu suggested obtaining a biography on Mr. Owens. A letter of acknowledgement to Mr. Owens from Councillor Simmons is being prepared. The ending time for the BCI was changed to 7:00 P.M. because MIT has another function and needs the Sala de Puerto Rico Room by 8:00 P.M. Ms. Johnson also reported that Davida Craig Celestine from SOMWBA would not be a speaker. However, SOMWBA will have a display table with SOMWBA information. The remaining speakers, including the purchasing agents, would have a specific period of time to address the audience in an effort to keep the program on track. Councillor Simmons requested that the Logistic Committee ask MIT if a mobile microphone is available. It was decided that the Program subcommittee would give final approval on the brochure entitled "How To Do Business In and With The City Of Cambridge." Signs prepared by CDD would identify the vendors at the BCI; said signs would be adhered with double-sided tape.
It was decided that the image of City Hall would be eliminated at the bottom of the Registration Flyer behind the block containing the date, time and place of the BCI. The Print Shop would require a PDF file to print the Registration flyer. Other changes to the Registration flyer were: striking U.S. from registering by mail and the addition of the website.
Councillor Simmons stated that the day of the event, October 22, 2003, is in the hands of the Logistics subcommittee. She requested a tabletop podium with a mobile microphone so that the moderator would stand to the side of the center table. She also stated that on October 22, 2003 she would like the staff and committee members to be identified.
Ms. Tomeu stated that she needed to obtain the media labels from Ms. Williams to mail the press kits. She further stated that she would follow up with the Municipal Cable and she would also take photographs at the BCI.
Ms. Madden reported on the business contacts. There are eighteen businesses who have confirmed, these include the purchasing agent speakers. She would send out packets in an effort to get more businesses involved in participating in the BCI. She would also provide tips for exhibiting. Mr. Monagle stated that the Logistics subcommittee would like to talk to the businesses personally to confirm their participation and their needs for the BCI.
Ms. Johnson submitted 3,600 labels to the Deputy City Clerk for the mailing of the Registration flyer.
Councillor Simmons scheduled the next meeting for Wednesday, September 24, 2003 at 10:00am.
Councillor Simmons thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at eleven o’clock and five minutes A. M.
For the Committee,
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair
Committee Report #4
The Ordinance Committee held a public meeting on September 18, 2003, beginning at six o’clock and ten minutes p.m. in the Cambridge Senior Center Ballroom, 806 Massachusetts Avenue, to discuss the Riverside rezoning proposal, the Planning Board petition and the Carlson petition.
Present at the hearing were Councillor David P. Maher and Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the committee, Mayor Michael A. Sullivan, Vice Mayor Henrietta Davis, Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Councillor Timothy J Toomey, and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development, Carol Glazer, Deputy Director for the Community Development Department (CDD), Lester Barber, Director of Zoning and Land Use, CDD, Roger Boothe, Director of Urban Design, CDD, Stuart Dash, Director of Community and Neighborhood Planning, CDD, Donald Drisdell, City Solicitor, Nancy Glowa, First Assistant City Solicitor.
Councillor Maher convened the hearing and explained the purpose and procedure. He stated that there would be a brief recap of the presentation Harvard University made at the Ordinance Committee’s working meeting on September 16, 2003, showing design drawings of its proposals for the Mahoney site and Kerry Corner. A short presentation by CDD staff, responding to questions raised by councillors at the September 16 meeting would follow. Thereafter there would be brief presentations by residents on the Mahoney site and the Kerry Corner, followed by public comment from all present who wished to be heard.
The hearing began with a brief recap by Kathy Spiegelman, Chief Planner for Harvard University, of design work by Harvard to show a proposal that includes 415 units of graduate student housing, 20-30 units of affordable housing, approximately ten middle income units of housing, and open space on the Memorial Drive lot between Hingham and Akron Streets.
Then architect David Manfredi reviewed the proposal for Banks Street. He noted that for the triple-deckers which would be thirty-five feet high, he would expect no rooftop mechanicals except elevation topping, about four feet high. The rooftop mechanicals for the Cowperthwaite dorm would be approximately twelve feet tall, 120 square feet, and would occupy about 10% of the rooftop.
Architect Tom Sieniewicz presented a design proposal for 888 Memorial Drive, "the Mahoney Site," and noted that the 85-foot height is proposed for only one of the parcels, the other would remain as open space.
Ms. Spiegelman expressed Harvard’s hope to be able to work with the community for a resolution that would benefit the community and the university. A copy of the design drawings is attached to this report (Attachment A).
Next the Committee heard from the CDD. Mr. Barber described the provisions in the Zoning Ordinance that provide for transitions (Attachment B). There are basically three:
Ms. Rubenstein discussed the pros and cons of different park locations. With regard to the corner of Western Avenue and Memorial Drive, the advantages are the prominence of the location more distinct than Harvard with easier pedestrian access to the river. The disadvantages could include safety and noise issues because of the location at the corner of two busy streets. There is also potential impact of the NSTAR site development. With regard to the other site, there is an opportunity to expand the park by adding in Akron Street. The negative is that it is an interior location, which could feel more like part of the Harvard precinct. Also, a pedestrian connection to the riverfront could be more difficult, and buildings on two sides could have a more closed-in feeling. She said that she will provide written summary to the committee members.
The Committee next heard from residents of Kerry Corner.
Alan Joslin, Kerry Corner Improvement Association, thanked the Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee and Harvard’s architects. He said that the Harvard drawings demonstrate the importance and validity of the current Carlson petition proposal for Kerry Corner. Harvard is proposing too much housing and density. Remote parking for new residents in the dormitory underground parking will lead to new residents seeking on-street parking. Parking should be provided on the site of the housing. The proposed setbacks for the new Cowperthwaite dorm are too small, and the proposal for shared backyards for the dorm and Grant Street houses is unrealistic. The City Council must demand proper open space for all Grant Street houses, not shared space with a new dorm. He urged passing the Carlson petition without amendment and urged multiple meetings with focused discussions on each area, and avoidance of messy last-minute changes (Attachment C).
Berl Hartman, 28 Banks Street, discussed the process and urged separate discussion of each of the separate areas. If the City Council decides to deviate from the Carlson petition, she suggests the following for consideration of any alternative proposals:
See Attachment D. Ms. Hartman also read a letter from Gwen Acton, 20 Mount Auburn Street stating that this rushed process is absurd.
Next the Committee heard a presentation from the Riverside Neighborhood Study Committee.
Phyllis Bauman, 19 Bay Street, expressed her anger at Harvard’s last minute presentation after two years of the Study Committee’s work when Harvard could have brought forward this proposal. An 85-foot building is much too large. There is no issue as to the reasonable return on investment. The Carlson petition would allow 71 units on the site. No justification has been presented for the number of units Harvard wants to put on the site. The Harvard Plan violates several Growth Control policies. A height of 85 feet is inconsistent with the Commonwealth’s plan for riverfronts. Harvard is offering a very small number of affordable units for such an enormous building. Harvard plans on providing some affordable units from current affiliate housing at the same time it claims it must create 415 new units of housing. She also noted problems with the setbacks between the street and the proposed building. She submitted a written summary of her testimony (Attachment E).
Alec Wysocker, 36 Jay Street, said that the neighborhood is in agreement that the buildings proposed by Harvard for the Mahoney site are too big. He noted the significance of the MWRA sewer easement. He asked where Harvard was planning to put its graduate students when it was planning to build a museum on the site. Harvard is not offering enough affordable housing.
Cobb Carlson, 26 Hingham Street, emphasized height problems, shadows and the aesthetics of the river. He noted that the residents support an amendment to the zoning to give the YMCA the rights it seeks to develop its parking lots. He submitted a legal opinion from Attorney Thomas J. Harrington on the zoning (Attachment F). He stated that he was the person who started the movement in Cambridge for the Community Preservation Act. He believes in affordable housing but not necessarily on the river; the affordable housing should be built on Blackstone Street.
Lawrence Adkins, Hayes Street, President of the Riverside Neighborhood Association, noted the hard work of the residents, their knowledge and experience of the neighborhood and urged the City Council to support the Carlson petition. Harvard University has never embraced the neighborhood. The neighborhood is not asking Harvard not to build, they are just asking for building that conforms to the neighborhood. He also noted the parking problems.
Councillor Decker said that she is very concerned about the time. She is quite truly disgusted at Harvard’s last minute proposal.
Tim Cross, 6 Locust Avenue, Lexington, Acting Associate Dean for the Harvard Divinity School, stated that housing is a critical issue for the divinity school and its ability to attract students and its mission.
Dan Anderson, 16 Grant Street, said that he and his wife purchased and renovated their home in 1991 and have been involved in neighborhood improvement efforts. The current Harvard plan does not adequately represent a shared vision. It would significantly diminish the livability of their home. The plan removes the Leverett lawn, and increases the shadows throughout the neighborhood. The plan for the north side is scaled more appropriately but it is still too dense. He submitted shadow studies (Attachment G).
Martin Annis, 65 Banks Street, pointed out that in the Banks Street, area all of the Harvard property is enclosed by ugly street fences. Mr. Annis submitted a copy of his testimony (Attachment H).
Janet Crystal, 25 Fairmont Street, urged support for the Carlson. She submitted a copy of her testimony (Attachment I).
Robert Freed, 16 Soden Street, stated that tall buildings should stay in Central Square. The Carlson petition should move the Green Street/Franklin Street district boundaries to provide a transition from Central Square. This amendment could also assist the YMCA.
Mark Sutherland, 132 Pearl Street, member of Local 40 Carpenters Union, stated that today at the Necco Building, seven Cambridge union carpenters were laid off. Harvard provides a lot of good union jobs. The carpenters do not always agree with Harvard, but they do not support the Carlson downzoning petition.
Joe Power, business manager, Carpenters Local 40, spoke on behalf of Local 40 Carpenters and said that they support reasonable development and do not support the Carlson petition.
David Borrus, 136 Harvey Street, Local 40 Carpenters Union, spoke in opposition to the Carlson petition. Housing is a very big issue in Cambridge and he believes that the Harvard proposal does alleviate the housing pressure in Cambridge.
The following Local 40 members introduced themselves and expressed concern about the effects of the Carlson petition on the building trades:
Councillor Decker expressed strong support for Local 40 even if on this issue she does not agree with their position. She noted that Local 40 is a strong, progressive union.
Councillor Toomey cautioned Local 40 not to allow themselves to be used. Councillor Reeves expressed the importance of hearing from Local 40 on this issue.
John Pitkin, Fayette Street, stated that more housing is needed in Cambridge. The question is how much is needed in this neighborhood. He said that Cambridge needs to change the system that allows students to get resident permits. He stated that an 85-foot building is too tall for the river; in the winter it will cast a shadow across the river. Also, the park must be on the corner site. The Planning Board has done a disservice to the city by labeling the Carlson petition as punitive; rather it is curative to the harm done by Peabody Terrace and Leverett House.
Elie Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street, spoke in support of the Carlson petition. He asked what is the advantage to the City Council, to the public good, of increasing the transient population, which is already 63% of residents over age 18. If we cannot guarantee housing for our children graduating from high school, why house more transients, he asked.
Steve Kaiser, Hamilton Street, stated that there may well not be enough time for changes in the zoning. He submitted two Boston Globe articles on the new Harvard building in Allston, One Western Avenue. He suggested taking down the Peabody Terrace parking garage and putting the housing it wants to build there.
James Williamson, 17 Perry Street, stated that the Carlson petition is a vibrant community initiative that deserves City Council support. He also urged the City Council to investigate the functioning of the Planning Board.
Bridget Dinsmore, 22 Athens Street, stated that over the years Riverside has been losing its character. The citizens rely on the City Council to protect the quality of its neighborhoods. She urged support of the Carlson petition. She submitted a copy of her testimony (Attachment J).
Peter Campbell, Grant Street, spoke in support of the Carlson petition. He noted that Harvard has actually entertained the idea of moving the Charles River and stressed the importance of introducing a dose of reality.
Nita Sembrowitch, 208 Putnam Avenue, stated that she is employed by Harvard, and is a union member of Clerical and Technical Workers. She stated her support for the Carlson petition. The 85-foot and 65-foot buildings are too tall and she does not like the idea of a park sandwiched between two tall buildings. She is also worried about the steam plant – a historic building that needs protection.
Sarah Smith, Putnam Avenue, spoke in support of the Carlson petition. If there is going to be open space, it must be at the corner of Western Avenue and Memorial Drive. She raised a question about whether the MWRA easement under Peabody Terrace came about before or after the building was built.
Alan Carvahlo, 9 Fairmont Avenue, stated that Harvard waited far too long to make a proposal.
Shelly Kaplan, 9 Fairmont Avenue, stated that it is too late to talk about the Harvard proposal. He said that he is Vice President for the facilities management at Wellesely College. The town of Wellesley has much better protection. He urged support for the Carlson petition.
Craig Kelley, 6 St. Gerard Terrace, told the committee members that they need to listen to the neighbors and pass the Carlson petition substantially as it is or not all.
Mark McGovern, 15 Remington Street, stated his deep care for Cambridge. He added that it is too late to consider Harvard’s proposal and spoke in support for the Carlson petition.
Stash Horowitz, 17 Florence Street, said that other universities have done a lot more in the area of housing for the community, for example, Northeastern University. Cambridge is a very small city that gives a lot to the nonprofits. The Charles River is Cambridge’s treasure. He predicts that if Cambridge limits Harvard’s expansion with the Carlson petition, Harvard will not sue; it will develop across the river.
Jean Savignano, 440 Franklin Street, stated her disapproval of Harvard’s plans. She spoke in support of the Carlson petition.
Fred Fantini, Thomas Graves Landing, member of the Cambridge School Committee, stated that the quality of life of the Riverside Community needs to be improved. How this City Council deals with this issue will reflect its spirit and its soul. He is not saying that the City Council cannot do better than Carlson, but it will take passionate commitment on the part the City Council.
Carol Mugar, Franklin Street, spoke in support of the Carlson petition.
Harvey Bauman, 19 Bay Street, stated that the bells are tolling for this neighborhood, which has been burdened with development. He urged support of the Carlson petition.
Carol Bankerd, 8 Grant Street, said that by history and experience, Kerry Corner is interwoven with Harvard University. At night, students are not good neighbors, they are loud and there is a lot of drinking. Kerry Corner residents have tried to negotiate, but the latest proposal would be hell for the neighbors.
Jonah DeCola, 13 Seventh Street, a union carpenter, stated that he worries often about paying his mortgage. He said that this petition will stifle the growth of our city.
Councillor Decker stated that she hopes that she hopes for nine votes for the Carlson petition.
Councillor Reeves said that right now there is more construction in Cambridge than in Boston. He also said that to get to a conclusion, more Harvard decision-makers must be involved. They need to know the strength of the neighborhood feeling.
Councillor Maher and Councillor Murphy thanked all those present for their participation and patience.
The meeting was adjourned at ten o’clock and twelve minutes p.m.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Co-Chair
Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Additional Attachment: Letter from Joyce Singer (Attachment K)