Cambridge City Council meeting - Sept 30, 2013 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the votes necessary to seek approval from the Mass Dept. of Revenue of the tax rate for FY2014: [Full Report] All items adopted unanimously 9-0
A. Authorize the use of Free Cash of $9,000,000 to reduce the FY14 tax rate;
B. Authorize $2,000,000 in overlay surplus/reserves to be used for reducing the FY14 tax rate;
C. Authorize $586,670 from the School Debt Stabilization Fund to be used as a revenue source to the General Fund Budget;
D. Authorize $1,000,000 from the City Debt Stabilization Fund to be used as a revenue source to the General Fund Budget;
E. Appropriate $12,000,000 from Free Cash to the City Debt Stabilization Fund;
F. Classify property into five classes;
G. Adopt the minimum residential factor of 56.4071%;
H. Approve the maximum residential exemption factor of 30% for owner-occupied homes;
I. Vote to double the normal value of the statutory exemptions;
J. Vote the FY14 exemption of $298.00 allowed under MGL Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 17D;
K. Vote the FY14 asset limits of $59,151 allowed under MGL Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 17E;
L. Vote the FY14 income and asset limits allowed under MGL Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 41D as follows: Income limits of $24,458 for single and $36,687 for married; and asset limits of $48,914 for single and $67,257 for married;
M. Vote the income limit for deferral of real estate taxes by elderly persons as determined by the Commissioner of Revenue for the purposes of MGL Chapter 62, Section 6, subsection (k) for a single person ($53,000) and for married ($80,000).
2. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to a notification from the State Department of Revenue that as of July 1, 2013, the City of Cambridge certified free cash balance is $142,176,089.
3. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Kids' Council effective Oct 1, 2013 for a 1-year term:
John Lindamood - Specific Area Representative
Rio Nelson - Youth Representative
Zachary Spitz - Youth Representative
Sept 30, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointment of the following persons as members of the Kids' Council effective Oct 1, 2013 for a 1-year term:
John Lindamood - Specific Area Representative
John Lindamood lives in Cambridge and has over 20 years' direct service and nonprofit management experience in youth services, early and adult education, and community development. John began working for the Work Force program (CHA) in 1995 as a teacher and counselor. He eventually became the Director of the program. He worked for many years as the Deputy Director of Resident Services for the Cambridge Housing Authority, and in June he took on the position of Director of Resident Services. John's experience and strong desire to help the children and youth of Cambridge will certainly help the Kids' Council as we continue to address the issue of family engagement.Rio Nelson - Youth Representative
Rio Nelson is beginning his second year as a member of the Youth Involvement Sub-committee (YIS). Last year was Rio's first year at Cambridge Rindge and Latin and wanted to get involved in the community. As soon as he joined the YIS, he quickly became an active and enthusiastic member of the group. He was the first person to volunteer to present the work of the YIS to the Kids' Council, and he did an amazing job representing the group of young people. Rio is very excited to be part of the Kids' Council.Zachary Spitz - Youth Representative
Zachary Spitz is beginning his third year as a member of the Youth Involvement Sub-committee (YIS). He has been an active participant at many Kids' Council, and his input has been insightful and helpful to the group. He is committed to helping foster a stronger relationship between the YIS and the Kids' Council. Zach is a leader and has taken an active role in the YIS, and he has a solid understanding of the roles of both the YIS and Kids' Council.Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
4. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-20, regarding a report on safety at the intersection of Cardinal Medeiros Avenue, Cambridge Street and Warren Street.
5. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-22, regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Cedar Street and Mass Avenue.
Tabled - Kelley
6. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-08, regarding a report on improving pedestrian safety at the intersection of Mass Avenue and Upland Road including the number of tickets issued for "blocking the box".
Referred to Transportation, Traffic & Parking - Kelley
7. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-25, regarding a report on evaluating the use of green colored pavement within bike lanes along major roadways and intersections.
8. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-06, regarding a report on the feasibility of ensuring all City-sponsored committee meeting minutes are available online.
9. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the proposed zoning petition regarding Medical Marijuana Regulations. [Full Report]
Charter Right - Toomey
CHARTER RIGHT
1. That the City Manager is requested to provide a formal report that addresses classroom overheating concerns and general input of parents and teachers, and propose a short-term plan to the City Council. Charter Right exercised by Mayor Davis on Order Number Nine of Sept 16, 2013.
Adopted as amended
O-9
Sept 16, 2013Sept 30, 2013
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: It is requested that a formal report be conducted to address overheated classrooms in the City of Cambridge that address the following questions:
- What is the communication framework to keep parents and teachers informed and updated?;
- What is a reasonable temperature for a classroom?;
- How many classrooms throughout the City of Cambridge can be categorized as "overheated?"
- What schools have been identified as home to the aforementioned overheated classrooms?; and
- What are the safety and electrical hazards and challenges preventing the city from bringing in portable air conditioning units?; and
WHEREAS: Unpredictable ad/hoc transitions to offsite temporary classrooms (i.e. Youth Centers) are fraught with their own challenges and disruptions to both students and teachers; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide a formal report that addresses these questions as well as the concerns and general input of parents and teachers, and propose a short-term plan to the City Council; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council and School Committee with an update next week regarding this request.
ON THE TABLE
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-09, regarding a report on the use of coal and on Cambridge becoming coal-free. City Manager Agenda Number One of Mar 5, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Mar 5, 2012.
3. Urge greater cooperation from the Cambridge Housing Authority to better serve the people of Cambridge. [Order Number Two of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Apr 9, 2012.]
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and other relevant departments in order to present to the City Council a map of Cambridge that shows, by location and by date, all of the areas where construction is and will be taking place over the coming decade. [Order Number Four of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Apr 9, 2012.]
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item No. 12-28, regarding temporary ramps and obstructions in construction zones. [City Manager Agenda Number Eight of Apr 23, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 23, 2012.]
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-35, which requests a report on whether there were any public safety officers that falsified their emergency medical training re-certification while employed by the City of Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Two of May 21, 2012. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on June 4, 2012.]
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-63 regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Vassar Street. [City Manager Number Twenty-three of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on July 30, 2012.]
8. That the City Manager is requested to work together with the appropriate city officials including the City Solicitor and report back to the City Council regarding modification of the ordinance (10.12.030) that links the awarding of a one yearlong Visitor Parking Permit per household to the purchase of a $25 Cambridge Resident Parking Permit. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013. Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on Feb 11, 2013.]
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to determine the feasibility of implementing a pay-by-phone parking meter program in Cambridge, and report back to the City Council with recommendations as soon as possible. [Order Number Two of Mar 18, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Mar 18, 2013.]
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-29, regarding a report on the feasibility of not allowing residents of new buildings to obtain on-street resident parking stickers. [City Manager Agenda Number Two of Apr 1, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 1, 2013.]
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston requesting permission for twenty-six temporary banners on electrical poles along JFK Street from Memorial Drive to Mount Auburn Street and fifteen temporary banners on electrical poles along Massachusetts Avenue from the Inn at Harvard (1201 Massachusetts Avenue) to General MacArthur Square across from Church Street encouraging visitation to the John Singer Sargent Watercolors exhibition at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Temporary banners will be hung Oct 11 through Dec 31. Approval has been received from the Electrical Department.
2. An application was received from Dahn Holistic Fitness requesting permission for a sandwich board sign in front of the premises numbered 1773 Massachusetts Avenue.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Department of Public Utilities transmitting notice of a public hearing on Oct 10, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at One South Station, 5th Floor, Boston regarding an investigation by the Department of Public Utilities, pursuant to Chapter 209, Section 51 of the Acts of 2012, An Act Relative to Competitively Priced Electricity in the Commonwealth, to establish a cost-based rate design for NSTAR Electric Company and NSTAR Gas Company.
2. A communication was received from State Senator William N. Brownsberger transmitting thanks for providing a copy of the resolution urging the members of the Joint Committee on Public Service to act favorable on S1225, An Act relative to public investment in fossil fuels.
3. A communication was received from Nancy Gold, 938 Massachusetts Avenue transmitting support for the Net Zero Petition.
4. A communication was received from State Senator William N. Brownsberger transmitting thanks for sending two City Council resolutions on double poles and on the Crime Gun Tracing Act.
5. A communication was received from Gerald Bergman, 82 Elm Street requesting the City Council to vote no on using free cash to lower the tax rate.
6. A communication was received from Carolyn Shipley transmitting an article from The Boston Globe regarding the UN climate panel endorses ceiling on global emissions.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Retirement of Elida Rodriguez from the Department of Public Works. Mayor Davis
2. Congratulations to Carrie Murphy and David Chancogne on the birth of their children Lila Violet Murphy Chancogne and Quentin Olivier Murphy Chancogne. Councillor Cheung
3. Retirement of Pamela Beckett from the Human Services Department. Mayor Davis
4. Congratulations to Placester on the occasion of being recognized by the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
5. Congratulations to Pastors Larry and Virginia Ward of Abundant Life Church on a very successful Back To School event. Vice Mayor Simmons
6. Congratulations and thanks to Vanessa Shannon for the message she provided as keynote speaker at the Abundant Life Church's Back to School event. Vice Mayor Simmons
7. Resolution on the death of Brendan J. Synnott. Councillor Maher
8. Congratulating Art Bardige for his role in creating and successfully launching the Sidewalk Math: We Count. Vice Mayor Simmons
9. Congratulating Fletcher Maynard Academy Principal Robin Harris for her role in helping to successfully launch the Sidewalk Math: We Count. Vice Mayor Simmons
10. Congratulating Lesley University's Yihsing Liu for her role in helping to successfully launch the Sidewalk Math: We Count. Vice Mayor Simmons
11. Congratulating Lesley University's Martha McKenna for her role in helping to successfully launch the Sidewalk Math: We Count. Vice Mayor Simmons
12. Congratulating the City of Boston which was ranked the most energy efficient US city by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Mayor Davis
13. Congratulating Garfield and Pearl Morrison on their 50th wedding anniversary. Councillor Reeves
14. Congratulations to Sara Seager for being honored as one of the 24 recipients of the 2013 John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Fellowship. Councillor vanBeuzekom
15. Congratulating Fortified Bicycle Alliance for being recognized by the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
16. Happy Birthday wishes to former State Representative Mel King. Vice Mayor Simmons
17. Resolution on the death of Edward F. Bocca. Councillor Toomey
18. Resolution on the death of Frank J. Souza, Sr. Councillor Toomey
19. Congratulations to UNITE HERE Local 26 on the addition of food service workers from Lesley University and Simmons College into the union and reaffirming its support for the workers boycotting LeMeridien Hotel. Councillor Cheung
20. Congratulations to Harlan Weber and Kristen Merrill on their upcoming marriage. Councillor Cheung
21. Congratulations to Vanessa Kafka and Doug Hills on their recent marriage. Councillor Cheung
22. Speedy recovery wishes to Mary Battle. Vice Mayor Simmons
23. Happy Birthday wishes to Gina Dottin. Vice Mayor Simmons
24. Happy Birthday wishes to President of the Massachusetts AFL-CIO Steven A. Tolman. Vice Mayor Simmons
25. Condolences to Mary Cottreel on the death of her brother John C. Britt, Sr. Vice Mayor Simmons
26. Happy Birthday wishes to Red T. Mitchell. Vice Mayor Simmons
27. Happy Birthday wishes to Polly Allen. Vice Mayor Simmons
28. Happy Birthday wishes to Anthony Petruccelli. Vice Mayor Simmons
29. Congratulations to Richard Stallman on the occasion of GNU's 30th anniversary celebratory hackathon at MIT. Councillor Cheung
30. Resolution on the death of Jane C. Reed. Councillor Maher
31. Thanks to Lorenz Finison for his work in shining a spotlight upon Katherine "Kittie" Knox. Vice Mayor Simmons
32. Welcome to Nan Towle Millet to Cambridge for the dedication of the Katherine "Kittie" Knox Monument at the Mount Auburn Cemetery upon the African American Heritage Trail. Vice Mayor Simmons
33. Congratulations to the Mount Auburn Cemetery and the Friends of Mount Auburn Cemetery for their work in bringing forth the new Kittie Kox Monument and for the successful dedication ceremony. Vice Mayor Simmons
34. Happy 87th Birthday wishes to Walter Montgomery. Vice Mayor Simmons
35. Happy 98th Birthday wishes to Margaret Driscoll. Mayor Davis
36. Resolution on the death of Janet A. (Bongiorno) Young. Councillor Maher
37. Congratulations to the Hotel Marlowe and Bambara restaurant on their 10th anniversary. Mayor Davis
38. Congratulations to Paul F. Walker on being named a 2013 Right Livelihood Award Laureate. Mayor Davis
39. Congratulations and thanks to the Cambridge Boat Club for its many years of hosting and partnership with the CRLS crew team. Mayor Davis
40. Condolences to the people of Kenya following the violence at the Westgate shopping mall in Nairobi. Mayor Davis
41. Congratulations to Dina Katabil for being honored as one of 24 recipients of the 2013 John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation Fellowship. Councillor vanBeuzekom
42. Congratulations to PushPage for being recognized by the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
43. Resolution on the death of Dorothy F. (Connelly) Larsen. Councillor Maher
44. Thanks to Cambridge native and Host of TV Diner Billy Costa and Co-host Jennie Johnston for their many years of entertainment and providing the New England area with their insight on where to dine. Councillor Toomey
45. Best wishes to Paul Schlaver. Mayor Davis
46. Happy 21st Birthday wishes to Jake Nehiley. Vice Mayor Simmons
47. Welcome Ipsen to Kendall Square. Councillor Toomey
ORDERS
1. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request for an appropriate site in Donnelly Field in honor of Steve Christo. Councillor Toomey
2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments as to the feasibility of installing a speed bump or other mechanism to reduce vehicle speeds on Aberdeen Avenue. Councillor Cheung
3. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to complete a traffic count on Roberts Road to assess truck traffic. Councillor Cheung
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Fire Department and provide a report to the City Council noting whether City of Cambridge firefighters are presented with unfamiliar hazards that require new firefighting strategies and procedures. Councillor vanBeuzekom
5. That the City Manager is requested to communicate with the MBTA and the Community Development Department regarding the MBTA #1 bus stops being changed without notifying the public. Councillor Reeves
Withdrawn with unanimous consent
6. That the City Manager hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City Departments on what measures can be taken to calm traffic along Sherman Street. Vice Mayor Simmons
7. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Superintendent of Schools and the Assistant City Manager for Human Services with the view in mind of appointing a task force to recommend an approach to four year old education in Cambridge Mayor Davis
8. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to review the selection process for the Inclusionary Unit program including home ownership and rental programs with a view toward making the process favorable towards former and current Cambridge residents. Vice Mayor Simmons
Adopted as amended
9. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to establish an owner's handbook to be given to all residents living in Inclusionary Units, and for the Community Development Department to establish formal, annual check-in meetings with all Inclusionary Unit residents. Vice Mayor Simmons
10. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to report back to the City Council on the style, quality, and long-term care of all Inclusionary Units. Vice Mayor Simmons
11. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to determine the feasibility of making more handicap accessible parking spaces available in the Central Square area. Vice Mayor Simmons
12. City Council support of the Active Streets Bill (Senate Bill 68/House Bill 3091). Mayor Davis
13. That the City Manager is requested to evaluate new technology methods of communicating street sweeping to residents, with the specific request that an "opt-in" text alert be sent to residents who own parking passes (and resident guest parking passes) by linking geo-coded phone numbers with locations that are to be swept. Councillor vanBeuzekom
14. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Department of Public Works to devote a greater number of resources towards the challenge of improving the cleanliness of Central Square. Councillor vanBeuzekom
Amended
15. That the City Manager is requested to review the permitting process and any zoning and building code barriers to greater adoption of solar energy. Councillor vanBeuzekom
Charter Right - Decker
16. That the Chair of the Ordinance Committee schedule another meeting on the Connolly petition where there will be public comment and that said meeting be televised. Mayor Davis
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on Aug 21, 2013 to discuss the proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance on the petition filed by Connolly, et al. to ensure all new construction or changes in use requiring Project Special Permits are built to avoid emission or greenhouse gases in daily operation thereby mitigating the risk of extremely dangerous climate changes.
Amended by Councillor vanBeuzekom (to correct spelling of Genzyme)
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Sept 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm The City Council will conduct a public hearing to discuss the property tax rate classification. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 1
2:30pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue to examine the finances of various proposals for the future of the Foundry Building. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss safety associated with tour bus parking, traveling and touring through Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
7:00pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to develop an open data ordinance for the City of Cambridge. (Microsoft New England Research and Development Center, Thomas Paul Room, One Memorial Drive)
Mon, Oct 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 8
2:30pm The Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss ways in which the City of Cambridge can program public spaces for the enjoyment of the public, including information gleaned by a city delegation which visited New York City to explore summer programming and a discussion of how best to fund public programming in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 10
3:00pm Roundtable/Working Meeting for the City Council to discuss the Mike Connolly, et al. net zero zoning petition. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Oct 16
4:00pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss ending homelessness in Cambridge with the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 17
5:00pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the Western Avenue Reconstruction project and its impact to Western Avenue between Green Street and Memorial Drive. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 21
5:00pm Special Presentation to the 2013 Cambridge Food Heroes. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 28
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting between the City Council and the School Committee to discuss the coordination and administration of after school programs and activities. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 25
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 2
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting with the Affordable Housing Trust. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 6
10:00am CITY COUNCIL INAUGURAL MEETING (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 13
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 31
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Sept 30, 2013
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request for an appropriate site in Donnelly Field in honor of Steve Christo; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for their review and approval.
O-2 Sept 30, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: In recent years, many residents have expressed concern about pedestrian and driver safety on Aberdeen Avenue due to pervasive speeding problems; and
WHEREAS: In an attempt to avoid waiting for traffic lights, many cars speed down Aberdeen Avenue from Huron Avenue to Mount Auburn Street, endangering pedestrians and other drivers; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments as to the feasibility of installing a speed bump or other mechanism to reduce vehicle speeds on Aberdeen Avenue and report back to the City Council.
O-3 Sept 30, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: In an effort to reduce the adverse effects of truck noise and vibrations on residents, the City of Cambridge has encouraged all trucks to use the system of Posted Truck Routes for the majority of every street; and
WHEREAS: Furthermore, the City has received permission to ban trucks on a number of streets to all commercially plated trucks over 2.5 tons gross vehicle weight 24-hours a day; and
WHEREAS: Despite the posting of signage indicating that trucks are prohibited during night time hours, residents of Roberts Road in Cambridge have reported that they continue to suffer from pervasive truck use of their road throughout the day and that the number of trucks using the road seems to be increasing; and
WHEREAS: Completing a traffic count on Roberts Road by utilizing a mechanism that is able to sense double shocks from truck traffic will allow the City to present an informed case to the Commonwealth as to why trucks should be banned during the day on Roberts Road; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to complete a traffic count on Roberts Road to assess truck traffic and report back to the City Council.
O-4 Sept 30, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Various news agencies are reporting that fire fighters are facing new challenges in structural fire fighting with buildings that have solar power systems; and
WHEREAS: Renewable power sources such as solar power systems save on the use of conventional fuels such as petroleum and other fossil fuels and reduce energy costs for building owners; and
WHEREAS: These new energy systems are here to stay; and
WHEREAS: Solar power systems may present unfamiliar hazards that require new firefighting strategies and procedures; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Fire Department and provide a report to the City Council noting whether City of Cambridge firefighters are responding to this concern; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide in the report information explaining what best practices, procedures and training is provided to Cambridge fire fighters for handling fire incidents in buildings equipped with solar power systems.
O-5 Sept 30, 2013
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: The MBTA #1 bus route has changed bus stops without properly notifying the public. In addition, the recording that comes over the bus is not accurate. This has made riding the #1 bus extremely nerve-wracking for Cambridge passengers; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to communicate with the MBTA, and Community Development Department and report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-6 Sept 30, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: It has come to the City Council's attention that residents on Sherman Street, particularly near the Walden Street intersection, have grown increasingly concerned about vehicles speeding down their street, creating a potentially dangerous environment for pedestrians and other motorists; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City Departments and then report back to the City Council and to Sherman Street residents on what measures can be taken to calm traffic along this stretch of road.
O-7 Sept 30, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Superintendent of Schools and the Assistant City Manager for Human Services with the view in mind of appointing a task force to recommend an approach to four year old education in Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter with an expected date of a first report.
O-8 Sept 30, 2013 amended
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to review the selection process for the Inclusionary Unit program including home ownership and rental programs with a view toward making the process favorable towards former and current Cambridge residents.
O-9 Sept 30, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Inclusionary Zoning is an important program in the City that allows residents to rent or own an affordable unit that they might otherwise not have access to. However, many of the people who take advantage of this program may not have prior experience with owning a unit or with living in a large apartment complex; and
WHEREAS: It would be beneficial for people who take advantage of the Inclusionary Unit program to be given a handbook or a manual that lays out all rules and expectations once they secure their unit. It would also be beneficial for the City to conduct an annual check-in with each of these individuals, to ensure that no issues or concerns are going unaddressed; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to establish an owner's handbook to be given to all residents living in Inclusionary Units, and for the Community Development Department to establish formal, annual check-in meetings with all Inclusionary Unit residents.
O-10 Sept 30, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Inclusionary Zoning is an important program in the City that allows residents to rent or own an affordable unit that they might otherwise not have access to; and
WHEREAS: There has been some concern raised over the years about whether the quality and care of the inclusionary units in various buildings is identical to non-inclusionary units in the same buildings, and whether the City has an adequate system in place to ensure that this is the case; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to report back to the City Council on the style, quality, and long-term care of all Inclusionary Units.
O-11 Sept 30, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to determine the feasibility of making more handicap accessible parking spaces available in the Central Square area.
O-12 Sept 30, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Liveable Streets, the Massachusetts Public Health Association (MPHA) and the Smart Growth Alliance are working together to encourage passage of an Active Streets bill in the state legislature; and
WHEREAS: The proposed Active Streets Bill, filed by Representative Jason Lewis and Senator Harriette Chandler, would help support cities and towns to invest in "complete streets" infrastructure that supports walking, biking and transit for their communities; and
WHEREAS: "Complete streets" are streets designed to allow for more trips to be taken via active transportation such as walking and cycling, supporting residents to lead more active, healthier lifestyles and promote economic development; and
WHEREAS: Communities certified under the program would be eligible to compete for funding from a pool of $10 million in dedicated state funding; and
WHEREAS: The Active Streets Certification Program would help the state reach the goal set by MassDOT to triple the number of walking, cycling and public transportation trips while simultaneously decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing physical activity; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record supporting the Active Streets Bill (Senate Bill 68/House Bill 3091); and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to Senate President Therese Murray, Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo and the Cambridge Legislative Delegation on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-13 Sept 30, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge looks for ways to innovate with new technologies and increased efficiencies while providing services for the public good; and
WHEREAS: Presently there are clearly communicated dates, times and locations for street sweeping throughout the city; and
WHEREAS: The process for sweeping streets involves both resident cooperation and a team of sweepers, police officers and vehicle-tow operators; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to evaluate new technology methods of communicating street sweeping to residents, with the specific request that an "opt-in" text alert be sent to residents who own parking passes (and resident guest parking passes) by linking geo-coded phone numbers with locations that are to be swept; 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-14 Sept 30, 2013 amended
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Multiple policy orders in recent years have requested that the cleanliness of Central Square be significantly improved; and
WHEREAS: Despite action by the Department of Public Works and Central Square business owners, challenges associated with maintaining cleanliness in this active, well-used public space continue; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Department of Public Works to devote a greater number of resources towards the challenge of improving the cleanliness of Central Square; with the specific goal of reducing litter, odors, graffiti, improving sidewalk conditions and plantings; and be it further
ORDERED: That the city immediately power wash and/or steam clean sidewalks, grates surrounding trees, public benches, and trash receptacles to remove gum, cigarette butts, and other litter that has wedged between grates, under plastic trashcan liners or adhered itself to these objects; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Acting Commissioner of the Department of Public Works on establishing a partnership with businesses to clean the sidewalk in front of their businesses; 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 Sept 30, 2013 Charter Right - Decker
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has a goal to reduce greenhouse gasses throughout the city; and
WHEREAS: The city has partnered with MIT to create a map with solar potential for every rooftop in Cambridge to encourage the installation of rooftop solar (http://en.mapdwell.com/solarsystem/cambridge); and
WHEREAS: Installation of photovoltaic and solar hot water systems has not exceeded the expected amount; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the permitting process, any zoning and building code barriers to greater adoption of solar energy; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to evaluate whether an independent, dedicated solar power ombudsman could work with the city officials, businesses and residents to increase adoption of this renewable source of energy; 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-16 Sept 30, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the subject matter of the Connolly, et al petition remain in the Ordinance Committee in order to continue public dialogue and that Her Honor the Mayor convene a roundtable as a working session for the City Council to have an opportunity for their questions to be answered; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Chair of the Ordinance Committee schedule another meeting on the Connolly petition where there will be public comment and that said meeting be televised.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
MEETING PURPOSE - To discuss the proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance on the petition filed by Connolly, et al. to ensure all new construction or changes in use requiring Project Special Permits are built to avoid emission or greenhouse gases in daily operation thereby mitigating the risk of extremely dangerous climate changes.
MEETING DETAILS
• Date and Time: Aug 21, 2013 at 4:05pm.
• Location: Sullivan Chamber
ATTENDEES
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair; Councillor Leland Cheung; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); Lisa Hemmerlee, Economic Development Director, CDD; Iram Farooq, Zoning and Land Use Planner, CDD; John Bolduc, Environmental Project Planner, Environment Division of CDD; Jeff Roberts, Land Use and Zoning Planner, CDD; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.
OTHER ATTENDEES
Mike Connolly, 20 Harding Street; Susan Labandibar; Mike Green; John Pitkin, 18 Fayette Street; Quinton Zondervan; Aaron King; Dennis Carlone; Senator Will Brownsberger; Joe Power, 10 Holworthy Street; Eric Grunebaum, 98 Montgomery Street; Kristen von Hoffmann, 205 Walden Street; Edward Woll, 79 Dana Street; George Mokray, 218 Franklin Street; Donald Sheehan, 256 Freeport Street, I.B.E.W. 103; Amy Tighe; Kelly Thompson Clark, Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue; Brock Adler; Allegra Fonda-Bonardi; Robert Winters, 366 Broadway; Patty Nolan, School Committee member, 184 Huron Avenue; Susan Redlich, 19 Sacramento Street; Brian Doherty, Boston/Cambridge Building Trades; Gerald Bergman, 82 Elm Street; Saul Tannenbaum; Don and Marcia Hnatowich, 65 Naples Road, Brookline; Adi Nochov, 39 Tennyson Street, Somerville; Charlie Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street; Shawn Nehiley, 195 Old Colony Ave., South Boston; Charlie Wright, 39B Park Avenue; Nadeem Mazen, 73A Magazine Street; Bill Kane;
Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street; Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street; George Metzger, 90 Antrim Street; Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street; Kate G., Area 4; Alex Place, Milton; Jeanne Semiran, 1 Richdale Avenue; Charles Teague, 23 Edmunds Street; Jesse Kanson-Benanav, 26 Willow Street; and Joseph Maguire, 700 Tech Square.
MINUTES
Councillor Maher opened the meeting and stated the purpose. He stated that there would be a half an hour presentation by the petitioners. The committee would then hear from Community Development who will be presenting to the City Council who may have questions at that time and then there would be public comment. He introduced Mike Connolly, the petitioner, who would introduce his team of presenters.
Mike Connelly, 20 Harding Street, stated that he is an Attorney and the Secretary of the Association of Cambridge Neighborhoods and a Board Member of Green Cambridge, who gave an opening statement on the presentation (ATTACHMENT A). He stated that the reason here today is that we have to stop adding the concentration of green house gasses into the atmosphere. In 2002 the City Council adopted the Climate Protection Plan which called for a significant reduction in green house gas emissions. A decade later the numbers are going in the wrong direction. There has been a significant increase in green house gas emissions. The City has pursued a policy for Smart Growth, transit oriented development and greater density policies. Density is vital to the City's plans. Smart growth has become synonymous with sustainability. As we go through the reports and we hear from the experts what was found is that there is a tension between these two policies. As the building stock is added to and the City is redeveloped there is also an addition to the carbon footprint. With the proposal for net zero we are proposing a resolution to the tension. Net Zero is the standard that allows us to continue with the policy for growth without walking away from the need to cut emissions. Getting to net zero is easier than it sounds thanks to renewable energy alternatives and green sources of power which are available over the grid at reasonable prices. He introduced the speakers and the topics of their presentations as follows:
Susan Labandibar, Chief Emission Officer of Tech Networks, President of the Board of the Sustainable Business Network, will give an update on the latest climate emergency and what that means to the City of Cambridge
John Pitkin, Vice President of Green Cambridge. Mr. Pitkin led the implementation of the large project review process. He will make the case for net zero buildings and will discuss why the Zoning Code is the appropriate mechanism for managing the City's carbon footprint.
Quinton Zondervan, President of Green Cambridge and Chair of the Cambridge Climate Protection Action Committee. He is also a MIT Alum and a biotech entrepreneur. Mr. Zondervan will show how net zero works and getting to net zero is easier than it seem by using renewable energy over the grid.
Aaron King, a CRLS graduate with a degree in mechanical engineering from John Hopkins University who currently works as an energy marketing analyst while pursuing a degree at Northeastern in energy systems. Mr. King will show how renewable energy is working in Cambridge now. He will discuss the Genzyme Center in Kendall Square where 100% of energy has come from renewable sources. Renewables pay for themselves and add value onsite to a project.
Dennis Carlone, an architect and an urban designer, will show how net zero is enforceable and is consistent with other policies already in place. He will discuss how energy reporting is becoming the new standard.
State Senator Will Brownsberger is a leader in a clean energy economy. He will discuss the importance of implementing a new zero standards now when there is a lot of construction. He will talk about the value of not adding to the building and development stock without adding the most efficient buildings possible because buildings will be around for 50-100 years. At this time he introduced Ms. Labandibar.
CLIMATE EMERGENCY UPDATE - SUSAN LABANDIBAR
Ms. Labandibar, 40 employees IT company owner stated that she advocates for climate change issues. She gave an update on how the climate science has evolved. Since Cambridge declared a climate change emergency in 2009 the science as well as what the scientist characterize what needs to be done has changed. She and Mr. Zondervan are members of the Climate Action Liaison Coalition which is a coalition of small business that have decided to be leaders and represent small businesses in climate change. The businesses have hired someone to mediate the risks and opportunities of climate change as well as to advocate for policies to address the climate change issue. She introduced Mike Green as her Climate Change Action Liaison Coalition Program Coordinator. She cited the graph in the presentation as a concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere milestones that have occurred along the way. Since 2009 CO2 emissions have risen every year. In August of 2011 Hurricane Sandy hit and at the time it
was now sure whether extreme weather was related to climate change. Subsequently the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) consisting of 1000 scientist who work on climate science concluded that the increase moisture in the atmosphere combining with warmer ocean temperatures cause more rain, snow and precipitation and caused the rain and snow to be released in more significant weather events. She calculated Cambridge's chance of experiencing a storm like Hurricane Sandy. Cambridge has a 1-6 chance of experiencing a storm such as Hurricane Sandy in the next 100 years. Cambridge has a 1-6 chance of experiencing a storm half as big as Hurricane Sandy in the next 20 years. That storm would cause over 105,000 homes in Cambridge to be flooded. What do we need to do to address climate change? The climate scientists today have realized that reducing emissions is not enough because the earth's climate does not work that way. There can only be emitted a certain amount of CO2 into the
atmosphere. If we emit more than 570 gig tons of CO2 into atmosphere the average global temperature will increase by more than 2 degrees. It is important to maintain our global temperature as it is today. She spoke about the carbon budget being 570 gig tons. There is data that suggests that the carbon budget is lower and around 360 gig tons. Currently there are 33 gig tons of carbon is emitted each year. We will reach our carbon budget soon and then we will be unable to emit anymore carbon. It is not a case of reducing carbon. We need to go away from fossil fuels and we can only do this by innovating. Innovating to zero is the only option. She stated that Cambridge has an opportunity to show leadership by adopting the net zero ordinance.
ZONING APPROPRIATE MECHANISM - JOHN PITKIN
John Pitkin spoke about why zoning is an appropriate tool to stop climate change. A climate scientist, Kevin Anderson, spoke at Manchester, NH. to the Manchester City Council about rhetoric to reality. We need to turn to radical carbon reduction. Zoning is about preserving and increasing the amenities of the City. Heat waves and floods are damaging to the City and will occur if radical reductions of emissions are not made. He stated that 83% of emissions are from buildings residential and commercial building. The climate status report shows that carbon rising is because of new construction. Cambridge is in the middle of a building boom. The Connolly petition is a three prong strategy to reduce emissions, generate renewables and purchase energy from renewables off the grid this is the overall structure of the Connolly petition. This will be written into the Zoning Code in sections 19.10, 19.21, 19.25 and 22.21 is the new sustainability section of the Code. There is an expanded
narrative in 19.24 and 22.26. There is a requirement to purchase renewables in section 22.25 a new section and 22.26.4 requires reporting energy usage after construction which modeled after the PTDM ordinance. Net Zero will generate new green projects. It is important to do this now - desperate times call for desperate means. He stated that 104 may become the new 90 degrees. We need to slow the climate change now as citizens of our planet.
HOW NET ZERO WORKS - QUINTON ZONDERVAN
Quinton Zondervan, 235 Cardinal Medeiros, stated that we are not doing enough; we need to do more. Net zero is interrupted as a building producing all the energy it consumes. That is not what this petition is. It does not make sense to require all buildings in Cambridge to produce their own energy. The petition calls for reduce, generate and purchase. Renewable energy can be purchased from the grid. He compared the new MLK School. The MLK building has been designed to use less energy than a traditional building. It will use 50% less energy. The school will have solar panels and will generate 13% of the anticipated energy use in the building. To make building totally net zero the city would have to purchase the remaining energy from renewable energy. It is important for new construction that the focus is on reduce, renew and generate. Net zero improves self reliance of the City and provides jobs. By implementing net zero it will generate renewable energy on site.
HOW RENEWABLE ENERGY IS WORKING NOW - AARON KING
Aaron King, 40 Essex Street, cited the Genzyme Center which was built ten years ago and meets LEED Platinum standards. It has amazing green features. Mirrors and prisms are used to create natural lighting and it has a green roof. He stated that the building is constantly tracking its energy and water use, the green house gas emissions and energy is purchased from constellation energy for which there is a contract for renewable energy. He spoke about the pricing for the worst case scenario. He stated that residential renewable energy can be purchased for 5% - 10% more than from NSTAR. The biolab at 300 Massachusetts Avenue may go up to 70% of renewable energy. There are short contracts with non-renewable energy. We are dependent on the natural gas and he spoke about the volatility of the price. Massachusetts does not have stable electricity prices and does not have local sources of energy; it is shipped in and it is volatile. If 18,000 square feet of solar panel were put on 300
Massachusetts Avenue it would cost $600,000 with a 5 year pay back and have a profit over 25 years of $750,000. Renewable energy credits represent the benefits of renewable energy.
ENERGY REPORTING NEW STANDARD - DENNIS CARLONE
Dennis Carlone, 16 Martin Street, an architect and urban designer, stated his business is development. This proposal offers an incentive for innovative construction. LEED is an ongoing process to become more refined. He worked as a consultant for CDD for 30 years. He spoke about enforcement concerns. Inspectional Services Department has concerns about whether a specification element could be enforced. Inspection of energy reports are being done now. Penalties were discussed and far exceed $300 a day. Examples of net zero buildings were shown. The building at 620 Memorial Drive is 40% glass and is net zero building. It is 5 stories high. The proposal does not require a developer to change their approach; it is however encouraged. The largest net zero building is in China. A graph of construction in square feet by decade was displayed. He spoke about ensuring that buildings do not add to the carbon footprint. Cambridge is in a position to apply the existing technology, but this is not
enough to get us out of the hole. Positive change is made when the economy is great. Net zero can build great buildings.
IMPORTANT OF IMPLEMENTING NET ZERO - SENATOR WILL BROWNSBERGER
Senator William Brownsberger stated that the state is trying to address the rise of the seawater. He emphasized one idea. The State has passed 80% green house gas reduction by 2050. The turnover in building stock is slow. The Cambridge of 2050 will have the buildings that we are looking at now. New buildings also will be around for a long time and emission reduction needs to come from new buildings. He commended the petition.
At this time Councillor Maher invited Community Development Department staff to come forward for their presentation. He asked that the City Council be filled in as to where the Planning Board is with this petition and what the timetable will be on this petition.
Ms. Farooq stated that the Planning Board had their hearing last night, but another meeting will be scheduled. There were no recommendations from the Planning Board at this time. The City as a whole believes in the goals of the petition. The Planning Board was in receipt of a communication from the Community Development Staff dated Aug 16, 2013 regarding the Connolly petition (ATTACHMENT B). The Community Development Department has worked closely with Climate Protection Action Committee and has worked for decades to improve building energy management programs, energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy. She highlighted accomplishments within the last few years. In 2009 the Stretch Code was adopted which increased energy efficiency requirements for new buildings by 20%. The LEED requirements were adopted for all buildings over 25,000 square feet and if over 50,000 square feet they must be LEED Silver. This requirement was made stronger for 300 Massachusetts Avenue which must meet LEED Gold requirements. The City has also had a requirement that all municipal buildings meet LEED criteria. The Energy Alliance does the same type of energy efficiency and renewables for the residential and commercial small buildings. Cambridge collaborated with MIT on the solar tool which helps people understand and visualize the capability for photovoltaic on roof tops. This is targeted to the 17,000 rooftops in the City. Cambridge was designated a green community in 2010 by the Commonwealth. As part of this there is a commitment to reduce municipal energy by 20% below the 2008 baseline. This is being done through municipal buildings upgrade. Cambridge Rindge and Latin was designated LEED Gold. The City is transitioning to LED street lights. There are initiatives coming soon. Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard University and the City signed the energy compact agreement for a sustainable future. This enables the City, institutions and businesses to form a collaborative to research new technology to get us to reach the energy goal. There has been a strong focus on building energy efficiency. Since signing the compact businesses have showed great interest. Several of Cambridge's top employers have signed onto the agreement. The City, MIT and the Kendall Square Association are working to transform Kendall Square into an eco district. Energy use building disclosure ordinance is being worked on. Boston has adopted an ordinance. She spoke about the International Codes Council conference which builds greater efficiency into the Building Code. The City is conducting climate change vulnerability assessment which will serve as the technical foundation for a preparedness plan. The City has tried to take a leadership role to achieve net zero at the Martin Luther King School as a demonstration project. The goal of the City was to achieve 60% of the way to net zero in building and site design, but it is closer to 45%. This has been a huge learning experience about both the positive aspects as well as a challenge to achieve some of the goals laid out. One of the difficulties in adopting policy is that we need to do this with the input of those who will be impacted and those responsible for implementing it. She urged collaboration to analyze all complexities and come up with solutions that are ambitious and workable. She stated that Mr. Roberts would discuss the specifics of the proposal.
Jeff Roberts, Land Use and Zoning Planner, CDD, stated that when zoning proposals are submitted an analysis is done which is a review of the proposed zoning text. He stated that zoning worked with the environmental division on the sustainability and zoning issues. The purpose of this is to highlight issues that the City should consider when discussing and reviewing the petition. For this petition it has three separate requirements - project review special permit for development projects which are 50,000 square feet or more. For projects that trigger this threshold and have to go to the Planning Board for a special permit the Planning Board would have to make a finding that the project meets a green house gas mitigation standard which is described in the text. The second part is after the occupancy of the building it would be required to report its energy consumption and to compensate for any non-renewable energy that is consumed through the purchase of renewable energy credits. The third parts is that the Planning Board making its findings and approval would also review and approve a green house gas mitigation plan to mitigate the climate impact of the project. The mitigation would be achieved through four different mechanisms. They are:
1. Increasing the energy efficiency of the building or reduce the energy consumption of the building;
2. To have onsite renewable energy systems;
3. To purchase renewable energy from outside sources; and
4. To purchase RECs.
These requirements are not replacing any current requirements in the zoning ordinance. This would be in addition to the current green building emissions in the zoning ordinance which are based on the LEED design set of standards. The analyses stated by looking at the net zero concepts. In the petition it is be described as combination of minimizing the onsite energy consumption as well as being able to purchase renewable energy or a compensatory system from outside. The term net zero typically means net zero energy and for a building you are combining a minimization of the energy consumed by the building if onsite renewable system is usually in the form of solar photovoltaic to generate electricity. The consumption and onsite would balance out and not require energy consumption from the grid. Net zero does not have a widely accepted benchmark or a certification standard. It is used as a performance goal and it is something that projects aim for and is based on self reporting. Buildings that are characterized as net zero that are 50,000 square feet were reviewed. However buildings that are net zero generally fall into a smaller range, less than 5,000 square feet. There were only a few buildings that would be subject to the requirement so a thorough analysis could not be done to come up with a full characterization. A few generalizations based on the types of buildings could be made based on the examples of buildings available. Buildings on large sites to accommodate photovoltaic require a large amount of area. The larger the area the more energy that could be generated by sunlight. The buildings tend to be lower scale and lower height. The use and ownership of these types of buildings showed that they are owner-occupied or owned by institutions or public sector agency rather than commercial buildings with multiple tenants. The uses tend to have lower energy demands. Uses included schools, recreational centers, housing and some office buildings. They tend not to be the more energy demanding uses like life science labs in Cambridge. The other requirement was also reviewed that energy that is not compensated on site would be purchased or compensated through the REC system. He gave background on what RECs are. This is a concept used in different ways in different jurisdictions around the country. In Massachusetts RECs are part of an energy requirement. Retail electricity providers are required to abide by. In Massachusetts it is called the renewable energy portfolio standard (RPS). Utility companies are required to purchase a minimum percentage of their electricity from renewable energy sources. This is a state regulation and the renewable energy sources are defined. RECS are renewable energy certificates and they are defined in the zoning ordinance as renewable energy credits. In Massachusetts RECs certifies that a certain amount of renewable electricity has been produced. They are a mechanism that utility companies verify that they are meeting the state requirement. The RECs are used in a more voluntary way in other areas. Massachusetts RECs cost more than RECs in voluntary programs. In terms of purchasing renewable energy from grid can be a very complicated procedure. Large commercial developers do not have programs that allow them to directly buy renewable energy that same way a small homeowner would be able to use NSTAR's program to pay a premium to buy renewable energy. The zoning structure was looked at as a requirement and applied over time after a building has been approved and built. He used an analogy: zoning is like a high jump where a bar is set in place and if the bar is cleared it passes. Before a project begins the developer knows what the standard is and can verify if the standard is met. This petition tells the developer to do the best it can with the project and then after it is done it will be measured to see if the project met the standards. This is difficult for the Planning Board to make an approval finding to be able to verify whether a project is meeting the standard. The developer and only prove if the standard has been met after the project is completed. Enforcement issues were raised. Zoning is enforced by reviewing the project and seeing if the project meets the zoning and if it does meet zoning a certificate of occupancy is issued. If there is a zoning violation after the certificate of occupancy is issued enforcement can be done through fines. It is less effective than telling a project that it does not conform and cannot proceed. Potential effects of the zoning proposal might be looking at projects that are subject to the project review special permit this has been in place since 2001 and since that time there have been 5.7 million square feet of development. This is one-half of the new development in that timeframe in Cambridge. There are intended and unintentional consequences. The intended consequence would be that projects would meet this standard and would be more energy efficient. This may lead to higher construction costs and would be compensated by purchasing RECs. The ongoing requirement to purchase RECs would pass the cost onto tenants and increase price of housing and commercial space. There is also the consideration of whether small property owners would choose to not meet the requirement and may create smaller projects being built which would be under the project review special permit threshold. This would also take project out of the traffic impact and urban design portion of project review. If there is less development or smaller development in Cambridge as a result of this proposal these developments may start to appear in other communities that do not have a set of similar requirements.
Councillor Maher suggested that the committee move to public comment at this time.
Mayor Davis stated that public comment and City Council discussion needs to be heard tonight before 7pm. The City is attempting to build a net zero building. Seeing net zero buildings on display at the Department of Energy she suggested that the next school be built as a net zero building. The City is attempting a net zero school. It is a school building on a very tight site with four stories. What we have learned is that the most successful net zero buildings now are no more than two stories high. They depend on a huge amount of energy efficiency. Only two floors can be accommodated with generation then you have to look for generation elsewhere. As the project is proceeding the City is looking for additional generation elsewhere. With the current technology and in a City where all the best is being attempted Cambridge is not successful in 2013. She thinks that this will change and that this is a worthy goal. She does not want this petition to kill net zero in the City. The City is going to get there; the time is not now. It is important to frame the discussion so that it is not for or against net zero discussion. Net zero only helps with new buildings but it is an important tool in our tool box. It is important not to go against this concept in this petition. First the City is the model and then the City works to collaborate with businesses to get them on board. Cambridge has tremendous success in collaborating with developers. She wants citizens, businesses, developers and City government to be part of this process. She wanted to talk about the timing of net zero. The issues are complex, but let's put a process together. She wanted comments to be framed as in favor of the concept, discuss timing and get it done in a collaborative fashion.
Councillor Reeves agreed with Mayor Davis' comments. It is a question of how and when. He asked about the comment that Boston had adopted zoning that is similar. Ms. Farooq responded that Boston has adopted a building energy disclosures ordinance. The City will be submitted to the City Council in the fall a similar ordinance which provides that buildings disclose how much energy they are using. Councillor Reeves stated that new buildings will be with us a long time, but buildings built in 1960 are being pulled off line and being reconstructed due to inefficiencies. This assumption is not accurate. Mr. Zondervan stated that building will be here a long time, even fifty (50) years a building emits a lot of green house gases. The City cannot afford the extra emissions. We need to get to net zero now. Mr. King stated that if a building is built and lasts 50 years and is taken down and rebuilt it is extremely inefficient. The energy consumption for the construction is almost as much as the energy used throughout the life of the building.
Councillor Maher opened public comment at 5:30pm.
Joe Power, Business Representative for Carpenters Local 40, 10 Holworthy Street, stated that in other circumstance the Carpenters might support net zero. In light of all the antidevelopment issues in Cambridge he stated concern that this petition could be hijacked by a person or organization against development. He stated that carpenters are returning to work after five years of recession. He stated that Local 40 was opposed to net zero petition at this time.
Eric Grunebaum, 98 Montgomery Street, stated that there will be building in Cambridge regardless of the net zero petition. He favors the petition. He stated that he is starting a renewable energy company and he sees great opportunities for renewable energy. There is built in flexibility in the petition to allow for offsite generation. We need to stop piloting, studying and start doing.
Edward Wall, 79 Dana Street, stated that he is an engineer and a land use litigator. He is speaking on behalf of the Massachusetts Chapter of Energy Committee of Mass. Sierra Club who supports the initiative to start the dialogue on net zero building. He submitted an article of the Sierra Club building in Florida which is the first ever net zero energy office (ATTACHMENT C). He stated that comments have been made whether this is a practical petition to implement and adopt. The net zero concept is understood and modified to take into account the availability of renewable energy credits and other opportunities to meet energy requirements offsite. He spoke about how to measure what is done. A developer will give a set of benchmarks; this is the design criteria that the applicant or the developer uses. If the benchmarks are used as the measure then the benchmarks are developed and the design will be conservative to meet the requirement. He stated that we are closer to implement this than thought. To start out every application for a new building or a renovation of a building to have as part of the plan a renewable energy option, whether geothermal or solar this should be included. Renewable energy installation fixes the cost of energy whether electricity or heat for the lifetime of the building without suffering the volatility price of natural gas or oil. Massachusetts is on the end of the pipeline for gas, oil or any other type of energy; it is not made here. Any renewable energy facility has money that stays here to support jobs, technology and development. Natural gas prices have doubled in the last two years. Natural gas is not a Massachusetts solution.
George Mokray, 218 Franklin Street, stated that most buildings in US last for about 50 years. Reducing energy usage is not enough was stated in 2008 at the Building and Energy conference by Governor Patrick. He supports the petition, but had questions. He felt that individual buildings are not what should be thought about. This should be looked at as districts and systems and think about the whole structure. How does the City become a zero emissions City is how this should be addressed. He spoke about the building envelope and HVAC. Another net zero building was built in Vienna which is 21 stories. Look at military bases because the military has been on net zero for a lot time and there may be standards for new buildings and bases. He stated that we should be thinking about the biggest bang for the buck which is 3-4 story buildings which are housing tenants.
Donald Sheehan, representing the IBEOW, stated his opposition to the petition. There is more discussion needed on this petition. Big business, MIT, Harvard, NSTAR and the REC companies are needed in the room for the discussion. His concern is how this will be accomplished. Everyone is in support of conserving energy and to have this move forward. AFLCIO has money invested in cities and towns and are doing the right things to the best of their ability and he is concerned as to how will they be met if this is forced upon them. How will this react to continue to build affordable housing? The building trades works to build Silver and Gold LEED buildings. He stated that Genzyme is not building a building in Framingham as it built in Cambridge. There are different sets of rules across cities in Massachusetts.
Kelly Thompson-Clark, President and CEO of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue, supported affirmative effective policies to improve the energy efficiencies of buildings in Cambridge and to address the global challenge of climate change. She stated that the Connolly petition does not meet this criterion. She expressed opposition to the petition; not the concept of net zero. This petition would establish a complex unclear amendment to the Zoning Ordinance and an untested process as part of Chapter 19 project review. Cambridge businesses and institutions are at the cutting edge of sustainability and full partners to address climate change. Cambridge is the home of many exemplary projects that demonstrate efficient use of land, energy, building materials and other resources. Developers and tenants work to use the latest proven technologies to build better buildings and meet the market demand. Review of new projects is comprehensive and extensive and results in making good projects better due to the diligence of the Planning Board. The Community Development memo to the Planning Board dated Aug 16, 2013 leaves out the technical difficulties in meeting the requirement in the Connolly petition and the complexities of the proposed action as part of Chapter 19 project review and the difficult of enforcement, if adopted, once a building is completed and occupied. The Chamber has sponsored programs Adoption of Connolly will negatively affect the Cambridge economy and will impact entrepreneurs, innovation economy, small and medium sized businesses, and the development of housing for all income levels, including affordable housing. The Chamber and its members are committed to a comprehensive discussion of methods and policies to improve buildings in Cambridge, reduce green house gas emissions, and build a more sustainable Cambridge. This should be the focus.
Brock Adler, environmental educator and former resident of Cambridge stated that he supported the petition. He spoke about why the petition should be put into place now. The implementation of the petition is being addressed by its flexibility. It is flexible and can be done now. Buildings covered by zoning change will last 50 - 100 years - so what is being stated is that the energy inefficiencies that are built in today are going to last 50 years. The goal is to raise the efficiency of these buildings so that the efficiencies will last 50 - 100 years. This is a moral issue and a moral leadership issue of the City. He urged adoption of the petition.
Alegra Fonda-Bonardi, 3 Fayette Park, MIT student working on masters degree in urban planning, suggested to give the City maximum lead time to learn this issue. A key component to doing something successful is having enough time to learn and to adapt. She urged Cambridge to be a learning city and urged passage of the petition.
Robert Winters, 366 Broadway, spoke in opposition of petition. All are in favor of the goals of maximum energy efficiency. The trend in recent years in the Zoning Ordinance has been in PUD districts to a gradual trend to LEED standards from certified to silver to gold. This is a good trend and should be made Citywide. LEED standards are more flexible because they do not preclude tall buildings and do not make it difficult to provide the kind of housing most of us want to see developed in Central Square in the coming years. Net zero standard on a per building basis does not make sense; it would be better to be addressed by district or Citywide. The negative effect would contradict many good goals such as smart growth that have been underway in CDD and approved by the City Council over the past 15-20 years. Most building because of their height could not meet the standard for onsite generation. So you can either buy your energy from particular sources or you can purchase RECs. His biggest concern is this issue of buying energy. He asked if zoning legislation should be passed that makes it impossible to meet the ultimate standard and then mandates forever that property owners and their tenants must then pay a premium or be mandated to pay for these RECs. He knows of no requirement that authorizes the City Council to require payment into the future.
Patty Nolan, 184 Huron Avenue, stated that she was proud of the City for the sustainability issues. The City has done a lot of successful things to address issues. This discussion is a reality check. The current path will not get us to our goal. This petition is only one piece of the answer, but it is bold. She wanted the City to push forward for change. The goal of 20% reduction from 1990 levels was in the original 2002 Climate Protection Action Plan and it was not met. She asked how an 80% reduction will be met. Cambridge needs to be a leader and this goal is shared by all. She stated opponents stated that the language in the petition is not right then it is incumbent on the people to suggest language changes or propose amendments. The petitioners are open to suggested changes. Others have stated that development will go elsewhere or that the proposal is antidevelopment. She commented to not sell Cambridge short. There are amazing opportunities here and developers want to be here. There are many benefits to doing net zero. She stated that developers can meet this challenge. She suggested putting this to the test. The long term fully loaded cost show that net zero is economical rational. The cost of doing nothing could be an economical meltdown of the planet. She read an excerpt from the opening address given at Overland College by Dr. Martin Luther King in 1965. It is a myth that time will solve the problem because time is neutral and can be used either constructively or destructively. We need to help time and realize that it is always the right time to do right. She stated that this applies to the climate crisis. Today there is a moral imperative to act on the climate crisis. This petition is a small step, but an important step. Change always comes from pushing the envelope.
Susan Redlich, 19 Sacramento Street, stated that she supported the proposal. She spoke of her time in Bolivar last year and Peru last month where farmers have been growing good food for their families for centuries are now saying that they cannot grow food to feed their family because of the disruptions of the rains and the sun. Climate change is happening and the effects are being felt. She wants them in the room to discuss this issue. She would like the City to work through this process and help people in Cambridge who want to be environmentally conscious but do not have the means. She stated that there is a social equity aspect to coming up with ordinances. She spoke about the social justice aspect of this process. She has confidence in the City to work this out.
Brian Doherty, General Agent of the Cambridge Building and Construction Union, stated that there are several members from the other trades represented at this meeting. He stated that the labor unions are committed to green buildings and sustainability, but cannot support this petition at this time. The labor unions have been proactively been on the cutting edge of training and on the job resources to find ways to create sustainable green jobs and build these in sustainable way. Our labor unions are committed to protecting the environment and our families and to build a strong Cambridge. We believe this can be done by building smart green building structures, roads and bridges and keeping in mind the effects it has on working families and providing strong resources to help Cambridge families. The past five years have been a difficult time due to the lack of work in Cambridge. Some members have had an inability to keep their homes, provide food, nutrition, health care and education for their families. Development is a good way to put Cambridge residents back to work. The unions will continue to work for a solution. He understands the challenges. He looks forward to continuing the conversation and to work collaboratively and collectively with the City Council and all involved in this issue to find solutions that will work for the City,
Gerry Bergman, 82 Elm Street, stated that all believe in dealing with the emissions, but do not share the same sense of urgency. He stated that the City Council does not share a sense of emergency when it comes to dealing with the power of developers, the money involved, and the unions who are afraid of losing jobs, the business community who is opposed to the petition. He spoke about the opportunity on the MIT petition on the net zero building which passed but the vote was later changed. Area 4 residents have asked for eight years to take money from free cash and send it back to the homeowners and small business and not to MIT. Use the money for grants for homeowners to retrofit their homes to lower emissions. There was no support for this proposal. The petition needs to be reworked but has potential. He stated that he wanted protection for affordable housing in the petition. He stated let's get the sense of emergency.
Saul Tannenbaum, 16 Cottage Street, stated that he is opposed to Connolly petition. He stated that it is the wrong answer to the right question. He stated that 82% of Cambridge's emissions coming from its building stock. This petition will not address this because it only affects new buildings. The existing building stock should be the focus. The new construction is dwarfed by what currently exists. It is easy to buy renewable energy. If this is the easy out then this should be talked about for the entire city, not just for new development. Net zero as a concept is important, but it should be discussed for districts, not for buildings. The fact that the petition gives developers the out to buy renewable energy is a passive acknowledgement that doing net zero on a building by building basis is not the correct way. Buildings differ in form and the way they function. Some are easy to control energy, some are not. Net zero as a community approach, not developer by developer approach, then the strengths and weaknesses of buildings can be weighed against each other.
Elie Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street, stated that he testified at the Planning Board hearing. He stated that want is being demanded for the City Council here in considering the Connolly petition is what would this do to the City Council if this petition is taken seriously. This demands the City Council demonstrate a capacity for a pragmatic and rational politics that will substitute for self interest politics. He supports the petition. Sustainable future is essential to considerations by the City Council as well as social justice issues have to be considered if there is to be an ecological sound solution. Climate emergency was declared in 2010. It is business as usual. He stated that renewable energy is a way to make more money. It is good to have free competitions and markets, but when you get to a globalized market society you are in trouble. There is much to be discussed here to prevent the government being a business government.
Charlie Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street, stated that the petition is not quite right, but it has accelerated the discussion. He thinks a step back is needed, but keep moving forward. It is important to see how it fits into the entire city not just new buildings. A discussion, amongst a lot of people with good ideas, is needed, not a petition to come up with the best legislation.
Shawn Nehiley, Business Agent, Ironworkers # 7, stated that he was opposed to the petition. He stated he understands the concerns about the petition, but the immediate concern for an ironworker is a job. He stated that this petition is antidevelopment and the ironworkers oppose the petition.
Charlie Wright, stated his opposition to the petition. Both sides have good ideas. He suggested that the petition be table now and meet with businesses, institutions, developer, and the City Council to discuss this further to develop a plan. He urged not to rush into something that would stop development.
Nadeem Mazen, 73A Magazine Street, stated that at netzero.org there is a summary of the Connolly petition. He stated that petition is a "no brainer". He stated that developers will not move elsewhere. Cost does not increase with net zero. Energy reduction and onsite generation are flexible to the developers benefit and will further reduce the cost meeting the net zero standard. The same was said about development and the stretch code when it was being proposed. He stated that development will be kept strong and labor jobs will be protected. This is a way to look forward collaboratively to address generational environmental change which should have been addressed in the last generation. It is totally urgent and not a burden on developers nor a threat to labor jobs. He strongly supported the Connolly petition.
Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street, stated that she supported the net zero petition because she is concerned about where her grandchildren will live in the future if we do nothing about the environment. Scientists have told us that we have passed the point to reverse climate change. She found on the City's web site the flooding predictions for Cambridge which showed which area in Cambridge would be flooded. The City recommended that residents purchase flood insurance. Floods will reach streets in Cambridgeport, such as Chestnut Street, River Street, Magazine Street and Putnam Avenue. Three years ago Alewife area was flooded included Acorn Park Drive where two office buildings were closed for two days. The proposition that the City has enough ordinances on record to control for environmental change and damage does not hold water. The Annex, a LEED building, cannot be used by Planning Board meetings in the summer because there is no air conditioning and there is a lack of heat in winter. She questioned whether it was smart to build MLK as a net zero. She asked why the unions are not protesting the City building this net zero building.
Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street, stated that he is in support of the Connolly petition because has heard that we cannot do this for 40 years. The Chamber of Commerce was opposed to the Connolly petition. He stated that the Chamber of Commerce was also opposed to no smoking in restaurants and bars. Now they are an active dining area. The Chamber of Commerce was also opposed to the stretch energy code and developers did not run to Boston and the suburbs. He stated that no one is opposed to development. Everyone knows that development in Cambridge is what is keeping the economy going. How can anyone think this is not the right thing to do?
Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley, stated that she is disappointed with all the negativity on this issue from the business community. She does not think that the Connolly petition is the limit. What is needed is a spur to innovation. The ideas created by the spur will create industries, jobs and spread to other buildings to retrofit them. It is silly that this will not affect what we have currently. The good ideas that will come from this will be used by lots of people in ways that we cannot imagine to improve our world. She thanked the people who started this. She urged us to say yes, how we make this work.
George Metzger, 98 Antrim Street, stated that he is a resident, business owner and architect. He stated that the best green building is to not build at all. He stated that he is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and the Sierra Club and that all struggle with this issue. The moral imperative that we all understand is that there is a crisis and that it is urgent. The Connolly petition is part of the debate to engage on what are the right answers. There are important issues at stake here. Zero net energy is something that has not been accomplished yet. He stated that 82% of emissions come from building and that 50% of project for the last five years fall under the special permits that are captured in the special project review. One percent of new building stock is being built each year. That represents 1/2 of building that would be subjected to the Connolly petition. What about the rest of the buildings, he asked? Something has to be done. All are willing to engage in the conversation.
Kate G. stated that climate change is real. The comments against this petition where framed that this is all about me. She stated that she did not hear that the creators of the petition should be involved in the continued discussions with businesses, developers, City staff and City Council. She asked what is the legacy that the City Council wants when they retire. Do you want to be known as the leaders who took a stand and started the conversation to work with the proponents of this petition who are the people who started to save the world?
At 6:35pm Councillor Reeves excused himself because he had another meeting to attend.
Alex Place stated that he favored the petition. He stated that everyone is in agreement with the general principals. It is an urgent issue. It is time to do the right thing - it is his future. We need action now. There is no development when Cambridge is underwater. This will highlight Cambridge as the first place to address fossil fuels which kill people through respiratory illness. Let's buy clean energy and support the petition. The time is now; we need bold action now.
Jeanne Semiran stated her supported for this petition. Cambridge has the leverage to do something like this. Development will still occur in the City whether or not net zero is implemented. It is our responsibility to move this forward so that others will follow. This can in the long run make a difference.
Charlie Teague, 23 Edmonds Street, stated that in 2009 was a climate emergency and there was an extensive process, but there was no timeline. We are on the clock because the climate is on the clock. In 2009 stretch code was enacted and led lights are being installed. These are small individual steps. The Connolly petition is another step. There will be a lot more steps to follow. This is the right thing to do.
Jesse Kanson-Benanav, 26 Willow Street, spoke on behalf of A Better Cambridge, requested that the City Council to vote no on the Connolly petition. This petition has challenged Cambridge to take a serious look at how we will eliminate the consumption of fossil fuels and promote alternative energy use across the City. A better Cambridge is a net zero Cambridge. Eliminating carbon emissions should be a primary goal in the City. A viable approach for serious energy efficiency relies on a broad multi-pronged strategy. It addresses what is required for new development and how to adapt existing buildings with a focus on multi-modal transportation throughout. A key achievement will be that carbon emissions will be reduced in our City through construction of better and more efficient buildings. He spoke about important community development challenges facing the City. The cost of rent continues to rise in the City. Condominiums are being sold for hugely inflated prices. Promoting the development of more mixed use residential development around transportation hubs is a key strategy in making housing more affordable for all people in Cambridge. There are serious concerns on the Connolly petition narrow focused on new development will hurt the City's ability to create the new affordable middle income housing that is desperately needed to keep Cambridge a diverse and sustainable community. When it comes to housing most researched and practiced based feasibility cost effective net zero housing applies to low density single family homes in moderate climates like California. This is not the type of housing expected or hoped for in Cambridge and there is insufficient evidence to make any conclusions about the feasibility of developing net zero multifamily housing here. This places at risk the viability of certain projects such as the Sullivan Court House. If the Cambridge Housing Authority development on Temple Street were subject to the requirements of the Connolly petition it would not go forward. He challenged the statistics of the sustainability issues of Genzyme and how this would be passed on to renters. He urged the City Council to vote no on the Connolly petition.
Joe Maguire, Alexandria Real Estate Equities, a developer and owner of life science and tech buildings, who stated that this discussion on this petition should continue with all the stakeholders over a period of time to analyze a very complex set of issues. There are parts of the petition that represent bad policy and there are state policies and regulations that prohibit having a smart grid in Cambridge. The focus should be on having a smart grid in Cambridge, and for the buildings to have more co-generation. He explained that 225 Binney Street is off the grid and the building was built to reduce 28% of the energy. He stated that if co-generation and efficiency of design were reviewed the buildings that are being developed today are achieving new goals in terms of their efficiency. He stated that he cannot support the petition in its present form, but does support continued conversations about how we best green this and have all the community participate in this not just a specific subset of the community.
Gary Dmytryk, 2440 Mass. Avenue, stated that this is an important discussion and needs to continue because people do not understand an important part of this petition. He stated that no changes to the building code are required in this petition and there is no requirement for onsite generation and there are no standards for this. The buildings that will have to be built by this petition are the same buildings being built now. There is encouragement that onsite generation technologies be used, but it is not mandated.
Councillor Toomey closed public comment at 6:50pm.
Councillor Maher made a motion that all e-mails and communications be made part of the record and the motion carried on a voice vote. They are as follows:
Dara Glass. Edmunds Street, in support of the Connolly petition (ATTACHMENT D).
Torgun Austin, 28 Bristol Street, in support of the Connolly net zero petition (ATTACHMENT E).
Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street, in support of the Connolly net zero petition (ATTACHMENT F).
Stuart Moss, 17 Madison Avenue, in support of the Connolly net zero petition (ATTACHMENT G).
Francis Donovan, 42 Irving Street, in support of the Connolly net zero petition (ATTACHMENT H).
Carmen Phillips, 57 Madison Avenue, in support of the Connolly net zero petition (ATTACHMENT I).
Vivek Sikri, 64 Allston Street, in support of the Connolly petition (ATTACHMENT J).
Sue Downing in support of the net zero petition (ATTACHMENT K).
Susan J. Ringler, 604 Green Street, supporting the Connolly petition (ATTACHMENT L).
Karen Carmean, 1657 Cambridge Street, urging passage of the Connolly petition (ATTACHMENT M).
Petition in opposition to the Connolly petition signed by 34 people (ATTACHMENT N).
Jesse Kanson-Benanav, Chairman, A Better Cambridge, transmitting a letter detailing opposition to the Connolly petition (ATTACHMENT O).
Martha Older strongly supporting the net zero petition (ATTACHMENT P).
Gregory P. Vasil, Esquire, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Boston Real Estate Board, urging careful consideration of all the technological limitations and economic implications of the net zero proposal and further urging the committee to reach out to additional stakeholders to solicit information (ATTACHMENT Q).
Councillor Maher suggested that he would consult with the Mayor and schedule a roundtable meeting of the City Council where the City Council can have an opportunity to deal with this subject.
Mayor Davis made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the matter of the Connolly petition be referred to the Mayor to schedule a roundtable to allow the City Council to have an opportunity to speak about this matter.
No action was taken on this motion at this time.
Vice Mayor Simmons spoke on the motion. She stated that she supported the motion for a roundtable, but stated that the only drawback is that unlike a special meeting a roundtable is not televised. She asked the Mayor through the Chair to schedule a special City Council meeting. Roundtables are not televised and there is no opportunity for public comment, even though there was a lot of public comment this evening. This is the type of an issued that the City Council should certainly discuss and more meeting rather than fewer meetings would be beneficial. She would not want to exclude public comment but she appreciated the idea of a roundtable.
Mayor Davis stated that she would amend her motion to read that the follow up to this meeting include a roundtable, but not be limited to a roundtable. She felt that this was going to remain in the Ordinance Committee which means that there would be another meeting of the Ordinance Committee and would include the public. The Chair is suggesting a working session where the City Council could get their questions answered. She stated that a roundtable be included. Vice Mayor Simmons stated that she would support this motion.
Councillor Maher stated that he did not mean that this would be the end of conversation of the Ordinance Committee. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she also wanted the meeting televised and to allow public comment.
Mayor Davis made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the subject matter of the Connolly, et al petition remain in the Ordinance Committee in order to continue public dialogue and that Her Honor the Mayor convene a roundtable as a working session for the City Council to have an opportunity for their questions to be answered; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Chair of the Ordinance Committee schedule another meeting on the Connolly petition where there will be public comment and that said meeting be televised.
The motion carried on a voice vote.
Councillor Maher stated that this would remain in the Ordinance Committee. He would await information from Community Development Department about information on the Planning Board meeting and when the Planning Board report would be received by the City Council and then he would schedule an additional Ordinance Committee meeting around the Planning Board hearing. He stated that there may be more than one additional Ordinance Committee meeting. He stated that there may be an Ordinance Committee meeting after the roundtable and an Ordinance Committee meeting after the report of the Planning Board is received.
Councillor Kelley stated that if we are going to have additional meetings on this all have to understand the terminology. He stated that he does not understand net zero. What is difference between new construction under the stretch code and new construction under the proposed Connolly petition would be for buildings. He asked if it was legal to use the Zoning Code to require people to purchase energy is they cannot provide it on site. This is more complicated. We need education on the terms so that all are using the same terms. If Connolly is passed he wants it to be useful.
Vice Mayor Simmons suggested that if the City Council has questions to put them in writing. She thanked the petitioners for submitting the petition. It is important to her that this conversation is as diverse as the people it will impact. Climate change affects the entire citizenry. She stated that she would urge the City Council to do outreach to the Churches of color, who represent the minority community. She also urged the petitioner to reach out to the community.
Councillor vanBeuzekom thanked the petitioners for a job well done who feel the urgency of climate change. She stated that the petitioners have tried to make these concepts approachable and understandable by using a minute video (netzerocambridge.org) that explains the background of the petition. More data is needed and it was pointed out that some of the stakeholders were not here. She wants access to the data on Genzyme. She stated that the Community Development Department memo includes a table of net zero buildings around the world that are greater than 50,000 square feet. The Connolly petition hits a trigger of 25,000 square feet. She requested that Community Development expand the table to included 25,000 square foot net zero buildings. She stated that in her capacity as Chair of the Environment Committee she would like to go on a field trip to the Genzyme building and the building in Danvers on the table.
Councillor Maher thanked the presenters. He stated that this is the beginning of a good dialogue. He thanked the Community Development staff and all the attendees.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom the hearing adjourned at 7:05pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Subsequent to the end of the meeting Councillor Kelley submitted in writing questions he had on the Connolly petition (ATTACHMENT R).
AWAITING REPORT LIST
13-02. Report from the City Manager:
RE: explore the potential for a community local composting initiative.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-4)
13-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on including a participatory budgeting portion in the 2015 budget.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-5)
13-04. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of utilizing pylons as a means through which to separate cyclists from motor vehicles.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-6)
13-06. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #8
RE: report on the feasibility of ensuring all City-sponsored committee meeting minutes are available online.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-8)
13-08. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #6
RE: report on improving pedestrian safety at the intersection of Mass Ave and Upland Rd and the number of tickets issued for "blocking the box".
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-12)
13-09. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic, licensing and zoning violation concerns of the residents of Bowdoin Street.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-13)
13-11. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on efforts to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of current detours and traffic plans during significant construction projects that are impacting traffic through out the City.
Councillor Toomey 07/29/13 (O-15)
13-13. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing a open door while air conditioning prohibition.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 07/29/13 (O-19)
13-16. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to improve effective communications with members of the community including the use of closed captioning.
Councillor Cheung 09/09/13 (O-1)
13-17. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on revising bicycle signs to more accurately reflect cyclists rights to the road.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-7)
13-18. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on adjusting news box placement to ensure the general pubilc's access to the sidewalk is not unreasonably hindered by them.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-8)
13-19. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the City plans to manage tree grates.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-11)
13-20. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #4
RE: report on traffic accident statistics for the intersection of Cardinal Medeiros Ave, Warren Street and Cambridge Street.
Councillor Toomey 09/09/13 (O-12)
13-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing an emergency City telephone hotline that residents can contact in times of emergency for timely and accurate information.
Vice Mayor Simmons 09/09/13 (O-13)
13-22. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #5
RE: report on safety issues at the intersection of Cedar St. and Mass Ave.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-14)
13-23. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the reasons that the trees on Scott Street were damaged.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-15)
13-24. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the usefulness of an "Open Right" campaign to prevent "dooring" to cyclists.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-18)
13-25. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #7
RE: report on evaluating the use of green colored pavement within bike lanes along major roadways and intersections.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/09/13 (O-24)
13-26. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on reviewing the policy relating to the sale of goods within the public ways.
Councillor Cheung 09/09/13 (O-27)
13-27. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on steps needed to do a Nexus Study and whether there is a way tp expand who and what is covered by linkage, whether there is potential for additional revenue for community benefits from linkage, specifically if linkage was increased and the amount changed for housing could the difference be used for community benefits.
Councillor Maher 09/09/13 (O-33)
13-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on rationale and thought process of the proposed increase of liquor fees prior to the change taking effect.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-20)
13-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of cafe outdoor seating on wooden platforms adjacent to the sidewalk curb in parking spaces and whether alcohol can be served on spaces in the street.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-9)
13-30. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possibility of starting street cleaning at a later time such as 9:00am.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-10)
13-31. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of having busses or other large public vehicles available at large scale cycling events, such as Cambridge's Bow-Tie ride, where drivers and safety professionals could help cyclists better understand the limitations of these vehicles.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-17)
13-32. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on potential locations where posting cycling laws and etiquette would be in the public interest.
Councillor Cheung 09/16/13 (O-1)
13-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on solutions that will remedy the extreme temperatures at the King Open School.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/16/13 (O-6)
13-34. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on appointing a task force to further examine the Connolly Petition.
Councillor Decker 09/16/13 (O-7)