Cambridge City Council meeting - October 3, 2011 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a recommendation that the City Council accept the donation of an ambulance as an Emergency Operations Mobile Command Center in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44, Section 52 1/2.
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-121, regarding a report on installing additional "one way" signs on Fulkerson Street and a speed bump to reduce speeding.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-63, regarding the impact of the Batelle Study recommendation on Cambridge and Awaiting Report Item Number 11-110, regarding a report on the impact the proposed alternative route would have on Cambridge Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials traffic.
October 3, 2011
To the Honorable, the City Council: In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-63, regarding the impact of the Batelle Study recommendation on Cambridge and Awaiting Report Item Number 11-110, regarding a report on the impact the proposed alternative route would have on Cambridge Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials traffic, please be advised of the following:
Boston is seeking MassDOT and FHWA permission to ban Hazardous Materials through trucks (the majority are gasoline, diesel and home heating oil carriers) from downtown Boston. They are proposing Rt 128 as the alternate route. Although the alternative route is a positive, most trucks would use the City of Cambridge as their alternate route rather than Rt 128. A copy of the City's response in opposition to the Boston through truck ban is attached.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
September 22, 2011
Thomas F. Broderick, P.E.
Acting Chief Engineer
MassDOT
10 Park Plaza, Suite 4160
Boston, MA 02116
ATTN: BOSTON HAZMAT ROUTERe: Boston Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials Routing.
Dear Mr. Broderick,
The city of Cambridge has a long history of working to protect residents in Cambridge from the adverse noise impacts of through trucks. These impacts are most adversely felt at night when residents are trying to sleep.
The City's location is particularly challenging, situated between exit 18 on the Masspike (I -90) where HAZMAT is restricted east of that location and the fuel farms and depots in Chelsea and Revere; the City currently experiences a lot of through trucks and every street in the City has residents living along it.
In 1998 the City did a cordon count around the City including truck counts and recording the hazardous placards. At that time approximately 14,000 trucks passed through the City or about 2,450/week. This is more than twice the 1200 shipments per week that Batelle estimates are traveling through downtown Boston. This volume is likely to have grown. Of the hazardous materials carriers 90% were gasoline, fuel oil and diesel. Of the 25 locations with the highest number of hazardous carriers - 59% were gasoline predominately in trailer trucks and 32% were fuel oil/diesel predominately in single unit trucks. These are exactly the kinds of through trucks that Boston is trying to restrict. We believe that almost every truck that Boston restricts will end up going through the City of Cambridge unless the Cambridge route is also restricted.
The difficulty with Boston's proposed restriction is that it is addressing a regional issue with only a local solution. Cambridge also experiences a high volume of cut through trucks which we have always advocated should be using 1-93/1-95 rather than cutting through the City. However, unless Boston's through truck restriction also restricts through trucks on the alternate routes through Cambridge that were studied, we cannot support Boston's restriction.
We support their recommended alternative route of I-93/I95. However, we do not believe the trucks will divert that far out of their way. The Batelle study showed that the Cambridge route did not meet the criteria for an acceptable alternate route. The Cambridge routes have more nighttime residents along them than any other route and are no safer than the route through Boston. The alternate route designation has no control over the route the trucks will choose and cannot prevent them from shifting their through route into Cambridge. Boston's requested truck restriction does not offer a through truck restriction in Cambridge which is required if trucks are truly going to be diverted to I-93/I-95.
Through trucks volumes, especially the gasoline and fuel/diesel carriers are currently using both a routing through downtown Boston and a. routing through Cambridge. A restriction in Boston may improve public safety there but it will dramatically degrade public safety in the City of Cambridge.
Cambridge had the courage to provide a signed truck route through the City. We have tried to be reasonable and also protect residents from the adverse noise impact of nighttime trucks. If the Boston restriction is approved, the safety and quality of life for Cambridge residents would be sacrificed.
The Batelle study shows that alternative routes 2 and 5 through Cambridge do not meet the criteria for an acceptable and safe alternate route. The acceptable alternative route is I-93/I-95. However, nothing is offered that would restrict those trucks from using Cambridge as alternate route instead. The City of Cambridge is strongly opposed to Boston's currently proposed restriction because a through truck restriction in downtown Boston would not divert tnlcks to the proposed alternate route (I-93/1-95) but would instead divert them through the City of Cambridge.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council for $5,000 to the Grant Fund Historical Salaries and Wages account which will be used for part-time archives assistants who provide support for on-going maintenance of the Commission's public archive as well as assisting members of the public with research requests.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of an Emergency Management Performance Grant from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency for $45,000 to the Grant Fund Fire Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($40,789) and to the Grant Fund Fire Salary and Wages account ($4,211). This grant will provide funds for the purchase of radios, computers, audio visual equipment and training to support the activities of the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Coordination within the Fire Department.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency for $3,178.49 to the Grant Fund Fire Other Ordinary Maintenance account to provide funds for office supplies and equipment in support of the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Coordination within the Fire Department.
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Port Security Grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Public Safety through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency for $400,000 to the Public Investment Fund Fire Extraordinary Expenditures account to purchase a replacement fire/rescue boat.
ON THE TABLE
1. That the City Manager is requested to restore funding for School Department clerical positions until a proper and negotiated process can be achieved with the Cambridge School Department and Unions representing the employees, and to report back to the City Council on the progress. [Order Number Fourteen of Apr 26, 2010 Placed on Table. Councillor Kelley made motions to take from table on May 10, 2010 failed 2-7-0, Sept 13, 2010 failed 4-4-1, Sept 27, 2010 failed 3-5-1, Dec 13, 2010 failed 3-6-0. Remains on Table.]
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-32, regarding a report on issues with the development of the former St. John's property site. [Charter Right exercised on City Manager Agenda Item Number Eighteen of May 24, 2010. Placed on Table June 7, 2010.]
3. An application was received from Tony LaVita, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 68 Middlesex Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [Applications and Petitions Number Ten of June 7, 2010 Placed on Table.]
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-189, regarding a report on the legitimacy of the tax exempt claim of Education First. [Charter Right exercised on City Manager Agenda Item Number Nineteen of Jan 24, 2011. Placed on Table Jan 31, 2011.]
5. That the City Manager is requested to have the Community Development Department convene a meeting with neighbors in the vicinity of Grove Street and Blanchard Road, the Fresh Pond Master Plan Committee and other relevant parties to review the zoning along the golf course and the Fresh Pond Reservation in that area. [Charter Right exercised on Order Number Five of Jan 24, 2011. Placed on Table Jan 31, 2011.]
6. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with a complete and comprehensive list of all concessions made to the City and broader Cambridge community by developers and the universities in exchange for zoning relief, special permits, or Council approval. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Reeves on Order Number Eleven of Apr 25, 2011. Tabled on Motion of Councillor Cheung on May 2, 2011.]
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 11-94, regarding a report on fireworks at Corcoran Park on July 4th. [City Manager Agenda Item Number Nineteen of Sept 12, 2011 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley.]
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Free People, requesting permission for a blade sign at the premises numbered 63 Church Street, Space #1. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development, Historical Commission and abutters.
2. An application was received from Richard Schreiber, requesting permission to relocate and modify a curb cut at the premises numbered 52 Brattle Street on the Story Street side; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from George F. Welch Jr. a/k/a Jack, 164 Auburn Street, Apt. 2, regarding filing an Open Meeting Law Complaint as an Individual.
Referred to City Clerk to confer with the City Solicitor to make recommendations to the City Council for the Oct 17, 2011 meeting
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Jose Mourato. Councillor Toomey
2. Resolution on the death of Ernest Paglia. Councillor Toomey
3. Resolution on the death of Betty (Cameron) Cam Spence. Councillor Toomey
4. Congratulations to Stacey King and Shamsher Bam on their recent wedding. Vice Mayor Davis
5. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Andy Caraballo Morales. Councillor Decker
6. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Estevan Altamirano. Councillor Decker
7. Resolution on the death of Joseph G. Murphy, Esq. Mayor Maher, Vice Mayor Davis
8. Resolution on the death of Shirley A. (Coiley) Travers. Mayor Maher
9. Resolution on the death of Bruce F. Stevens. Mayor Maher
10. Thanks to all who organized and supported the 2011 Urban Ag Fair which took place on Sept 18, 2011. Vice Mayor Davis
11. Congratulations to the Charles River Watershed Association on being the recipient of the 2011 International Riverprize. Councillor Toomey
12. Acknowledge the month of October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Councillor Simmons
13. Best wishes to Reverend Irv Cummings as he retires from his position as Pastor of the Old Cambridge Baptist Church. Councillor Simmons
14. Congratulations to Jeff Walker and Mayeti Gametchu on the birth of their daughter Alice Yosef Gametchu Walker. Councillor Simmons
15. Resolution on the death of Wangari Muta Maathai. Councillor Simmons
16. Congratulations to Dr. Douglas Melton on being named Zander University Professor. Councillor Simmons
17. Congratulations to Dr. Rebecca M. Henderson on being named the John and Natty McArthur University Professor. Councillor Simmons
18. Urge residents to be cognizant that Oct 16th is World Food Day. Councillor Simmons
19. Welcome Reverend Paul Robeson Ford on his installation as Pastor of the Union Baptist Church. Councillor Simmons
20. Congratulations to Dennis and Kerry Collins on the birth of their daughter, Caroline Susanne Collins. Councillor Toomey
21. Congratulations and best wishes to David Percoco and Jennifer Lee on their upcoming wedding. Councillor Toomey
22. Congratulations to Diagnostics For All on their move to Riverside Technology Center at 840 Memorial Drive. Councillor Cheung
23. Congratulations and best wishes to Mary Canning for her success and hard work in opening Follow The Honey at 1332 Massachusetts Avenue. Councillor Cheung
24. Congratulations to Tim Rowe, CEO at Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC), on his recent appearance on CNBC's "Science on the Street" segment. Councillor Cheung
25. Resolution on the death of Robert P. Bunai. Councillor Toomey
26. Resolution on the death of Michael J. Gavin. Councillor Toomey
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Commissioner of Inspectional Services to inspect the property at 131 Harvard Street and take appropriate measures to be sure the property is secured and not being used as a dumping ground and to issue fines accordingly and to report back to the City Council. Councillor Toomey
Adopted as amended
2. That the City Manager is requested to ask all appropriate city departments to work with the Cambridge Community Center to solve problems such as parking, snow clearance and other matters as they relate to a winter farmers market. Vice Mayor Davis and Councillor Cheung
3. That the City Manager is requested to revisit instituting a ban on disposable plastic bags from retailers similar to that in other cities. Councillor Decker
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant departments to ensure that when street signs are removed in the future, no piece of metal that could pose a safety hazard for residents of Cambridge using the sidewalk is left protruding from the sidewalk. Councillor Simmons
Adopted as amended
5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the relevant city departments to repair the sidewalks on and around the Boardman Street area. Councillor Simmons
Adopted as amended
6. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to request that the addition of a Stop sign on Hurley Street at the intersection of Sixth and Hurley Streets be investigated to create a safer crossing for pedestrians on Sixth Street. Councillor Toomey
7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works and report back on the possibility of increasing the number of hazardous waste drop off days per year. Councillor Toomey
8. That the City Manager is requested to form a task force to address challenges of farmers markets: Expansion and deployment of EBT/debit cards at the Cambridgeport and the Winter farmers markets, issue of parking facilities for farm vehicles and a temporary loading zone and explore strategies to increase demand on farmers market. Councillor Cheung and Vice Mayor Davis
9. The Roundtable Meeting scheduled for October 24, 2011 be changed to a regular City Council Meeting. Mayor Maher
10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads, with a view of having them inspect the site and enforce all applicable health and safety regulations including having the owner cleaning up the site and cutting back the trees and weeds that have overgrown the site. Mayor Maher
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Human Services Committee for a public meeting held on July 26, 2011 to receive an update on Baby U, and to discuss programming to increase college success for Cambridge youth.
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee for a public meeting held on Sept 21, 2011 to discuss the challenges, concerns and opportunities facing the development of farmers markets.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Oct 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 4
3:00pm The University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting to hear from MIT about its development plans as they affect students, staff and researchers, and how they are housed. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 6
5:30pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the Austin, Texas "Parking Benefit District Pilot Program" and any other city parking issues. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 11
7:30am The Community Health Committee will conduct a public meeting: revisiting after ten years - where do you go when home is not safe. Malkin Penthouse (Kennedy School of Government)
Wed, Oct 12
5:30pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the city's plan to deal with natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 13
5:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing to amend the Zoning Ordinance in Section 20.200 Central Square Overlay District by deleting Section 20.304.5.3 b., which currently requires all establishments where liquor is served to have their principal public entrance on Massachusetts Avenue or Main Street. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion on a zoning petition from Laura Runkel, et al, to amend the Zoning Map by rezoning an area bordered on the north by the commuter rail tracks, on the south by Bellis Circle and on the east side by Sherman Street from its C1-A designation to Residential C. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 24
5:30pm Roundtable Meeting. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 25
4:00pm Ordinance Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Oct 26
4:00pm Ordinance Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 31
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Nov 2
4:00pm Ordinance Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 14
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 21
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 28
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 5
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 12
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 19
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Oct 3, 2011 Amended
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Commissioner of Inspectional Services to inspect the property at 131 Harvard Street and take appropriate measures to be sure the property is secured and not being used as a dumping ground and to issue fines accordingly and to report back to the City Council.
O-2 Oct 3, 2011
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Community Center is actively working to establish a winter farmers market at 5 Callender Street this year; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ask all appropriate city departments to work with the Cambridge Community Center to solve problems such as parking, snow clearance and other matters.
O-3 Oct 3, 2011
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of this City Council that Washington D.C., San Francisco and thirteen other California municipalities have had great success in curbing the use of disposable plastic bags from retailers; and
WHEREAS: Plastic bags contribute to litter and landfill loads and find their way into our waterways, parks, beaches, and streets. Many animals ingest plastic bags, mistaking them for food, and therefore die. Also, plastic bags are non-biodegradable. The decomposition of plastic bags takes about 1000 years; and
WHEREAS: In 2007 San Francisco became the first city in the U.S. to ban single-use plastic bags in chain grocery stores and pharmacies. Dozens of other cities have followed suit and rising concern about the paltry recyclability of plastic bags has put emphasized the benefit of such bans and the idea of reusable totes. It is estimated that close to 100 million fewer plastic bags were handed out over the last year in San Francisco; and
WHEREAS: In Washington D.C. officials instituted a charge for the use of plastic and paper bags. The ordinance, called the Anacostia River Cleanup, requires retailers to charge an extra five cents for use of plastic or paper bags used towards building sewer grates to prevent trash from entering the river. The program cut bag litter in the river by 60 percent; and
WHEREAS: The Council has requested that the City Manager look into the elimination of plastic bags from retail institutions in the community; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to revisit instituting a ban similar to that of the cities mentioned above; 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-4 Oct 3, 2011 Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: When street signs are removed, a piece of metal is occasionally left on the sidewalk where the previous signs once stood, creating unnecessary hazard; and
WHEREAS: Recently, a resident of Cambridge sustained a serious injury after tripping on one of these metal stumps located on Massachusetts Avenue above the Memorial Drive Underpass heading in the direction of Boston and similar protrusion exists at the junction of Massachusetts Avenue and Hollis Street; and
WHEREAS: Accidents of this sort can easily be eliminated; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the relevant departments to ascertain what street signs have been removed recently in Cambridge and if any metal stumps were left protruding from the sidewalk where the former signs once stood; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant departments to ensure that when street signs are removed in the future, no piece of metal that could pose a safety hazard for residents of Cambridge using the sidewalk is left protruding from the sidewalk and report back to the City Council on this matter; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on how street signs have been removed without the proper oversite to ensure that such tripping hazards do not remain when the signs are gone.
O-5 Oct 3, 2011 Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the sidewalks on and around the Boardman Street area are in need of some repairs; and
WHEREAS: Uneven sidewalks are a hazard for all but especially for seniors who rely on walking aides; and
WHEREAS: Recently the city has undertaken some long overdue repairs on sidewalks across the city, replacing cracked bricks and making the sidewalks flat and even; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the relevant city departments to repair the sidewalks on and around the Boardman Street area and report back to the City Council; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Mayor be and hereby is requested to schedule a roundtable to discuss streets and sidewalks repairs.
O-6 Oct 3, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to request that the addition of a Stop sign on Hurley Street at the intersection of Sixth and Hurley Streets be investigated to create a safer crossing for pedestrians on Sixth Street.
O-7 Oct 3, 2011
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The hazardous waste drop off days in the City of Cambridge are very successful in helping residents properly dispose of materials they may have in their homes that are not suitable for regular trash pick up; and
WHEREAS: Hazardous waste drop off days are very busy since they happen only twice per year; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works and report back on the possibility of increasing the number of drop off days per year; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record thanking the Department of Public Works staff for a wonderful job on the hazardous waste drop off.
O-8 Oct 3, 2011
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to form a task force to address the following challenges:
• Expansion and deployment of EBT/debit cards at the Cambridgeport and the Winter farmers markets;
• Issue of parking facilities for farm vehicles and a temporary loading zone;
• Explore strategies to increase demand on farmers market.
O-9 Oct 3, 2011
MAYOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the Roundtable Meeting scheduled for Oct 24, 2011 be changed to a Regular City Council Meeting.
O-10 Oct 3, 2011
MAYOR MAHER
WHEREAS: The Tokyo Restaurant located on the Fresh Pond Parkway and the corner of Lake View Avenue is abandoned and has become an eye sore to nearby residents; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate department heads, with a view of having them inspect the site and enforce all applicable health and safety regulations including having the owner cleaning up the site and cutting back the trees and weeds that have overgrown the site.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Human Services Committee conducted a public meeting on July 26, 2011 beginning at 3:37pm in the Sullivan Chamber. The purpose of the meeting was to receive an update on Baby U, and to discuss programming to increase college success for Cambridge youth.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Leland Cheung; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Dr. Carolyn Turk, Deputy Superintendent, Cambridge Public Schools; Damon Smith, Interim Principal, CRLS; Mina Reddy, Director, Community Learning Center; Lieutenant Leonard DePietro, Family Services Unit, Cambridge Police Department; Mary Wong, Director, Kids' Council; Susie Flug, DHSP and Agenda for Children; Sue Walsh, Director, Office of Workforce Development, DHSP; Anne Baldwin Beckmann, Just-A-Start Corporation; John Clifford; Victoria Harris; Steven Swanger, Director of Resident Services, Cambridge Housing Authority; Michael Delia, Director, East End House; and D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk.
Councillor Reeves welcomed those present and requested that Ms. Semonoff begin with an update on Baby U. She stated that they have completed the third pilot program, which took place in the Riverside Area. Pilot 1 was held in winter of 2010 in North Cambridge with 27, followed by the Area 4 pilot program graduated 25 families. With the completion of the Riverside pilot, this program has served 75 Cambridge families.
During the summer and fall, they will be working with the Institute of Public Health on an evaluation of the program. They have also been working with alumni of Baby University, with funding received from a $30,000 grant. For the summer the careworkers have arranged a number of opportunities, for example, going with families to the summer lunch program to introduce the parents to the program so that they can go themselves. There was also a trip to the Children's Museum last week. She invited Mr. Swanger to provide a few more details about their work with the alumni. Mr. Swanger, a member of the BabyU steering committee said that they were not anticipating this work with the alumni over the summer, but the message from the families was clear. At a recent picnic at the park, there were over fifty families in attendance. Ms. Semonoff noted that BabyU also received a grant from the Cambridge Community Foundation, which helped pay for the summer programming.
Councillor Reeves asked about fathers' participation in the program. Ms. Semonoff said that Albert Pless has joined the Steering Committee and the program now has a father facilitator. It has become clear that when they do outreach, men need to be a part of the outreach. They also need to figure out how to have a larger core of fathers. They have learned that the home visits need to be scheduled at times that are more convenient for fathers because up to now they have happened during the day and many fathers have not been at home.
Councillor Reeves noted that Dr. Ron Mincy, the professor of sociology at Columbia University who has done a great deal of study and research on the absence of fathers and its effect on children especially African American boys, met with the Human Services Committee on their initial exploratory trip to the Harlem Childrens' Zone. Ms. Semonoff said that Dr. Mincy was one of the people participating with Cambridge in applying for a fatherhood grant. The Cambridge Health Department is taking the lead on this application. Dr. Mincy has been very involved in the City's work to go after this grant.
Councillor Reeves asked Ms. Semonoff whether the work with the alumni of Baby U is evolving into a program similar to the HCZ "Three year old journey." Ms. Semonoff said that there is more focus on how to deepen the connections made with families and how to help them connect with each other. Many families have many needs beyond the program. For example, a mother was in a fight with her partner and called the program staff for advice. The level of trust that has developed is very significant. The challenge is that DHSP is not staffed to provide an in-depth level of services so they need to make sure that they are connecting our families with other service agencies that will serve them with the same level of commitment to do whatever it takes.
Councillor Reeves then moved to the topic of the development of a program similar to the HCZ's Office of College Success. Ms. Semonoff introduced the working team that has developed a draft proposal (Exhibit A) which includes a draft budget (Attachment B). Ms. Reddy and Mr. Swanger outlined the proposal. Ms. Reddy said that many Cambridge learners, both youth and adults, make it to college but do not necessarily graduate within 10 years and can end up with substantial loans and no degree. The working hypothesis is that Cambridge has a variety of programs that provide ongoing support to students in their college aspirations, but they are not coordinated and do not have all of the resources and information they need.
The proposal is to establish a central office with dedicated staff to better coordinate the various efforts in Cambridge to support college access and success for the priority populations. Activities would support pre-college readiness and support for college students to graduate from college. Pre- college support would include identifying and formalizing a network of services within and outside the public schools to provide support for students before they attend college, beginning at the middles school level, identifying, creating and providing resources to schools and programs, providing training to direct service staff, developing and implementing workshops for parents, caregivers and prospective students. College support activities would include the following: compiling and analyzing data on college entrance and college progress of Cambridge students, establishing partnerships with higher education institutions that enroll significant numbers of Cambridge students, recruiting, training and supervising Cambridge students who have successfully completed at least 2-3 years of college to serve as mentors to students transitioning into or in their early years in Cambridge, and presenting a series of summer workshops for Cambridge students matriculating into college.
In response to a question to Interim CRLS Principal Damon Smith, Mr. Smith said that he and the CRLS staff are very open to work with programs that will provide assistance to their students to go to and stay in college. Dr. Turk said that the general feeling of the working group was that although the high school is central to the program, high school is too late to begin working with students.
Ms. Flugg said that another aspect of high school involvement is the CRLS community. For example, Friends of CRLS have expressed some interest in working with this program. Councillor Reeves noted that the other untapped resource is other partners in the volunteer universe that now tutor high school students, for example Christ Church. Ms. Flugg said that they expect that mentors will be working with students on school match to end up with a good "fit" between the student and the college. He also suggested making contact with Harvard, which runs a summer course for admissions officers.
Ms. Bardige said that the University of Chicago Urban Education Initiative had developed a set of rigorous and accessible online tools beginning at the middle school level.
Mr. Rossi said that when the HCZ first started their Office for College Success, they thought that they had succeeded when they got the kids into colleges. Over time they found that case management was very important to whether the students successfully transitioned, stayed in school and graduated. He asked whether case management is planned for this program. Ms. Reddy answered in the affirmative. They plan to start with local case management and then perhaps move on to something more.
Dr. Turk said that it is all about the connections. The schools have connections with all ourlocal university starting with 3rd graders. Harvard Medical School is doing work with all 7th and 8th graders. Ms. Semonoff added that Ellen McLaughlin, Director of Tutoring Plus, has been running a program in conjunction with Lesley. Twenty five high school gurls attend Lesley for seven weeks to participate in a women's culture seminar. They have an opportunity to experience the college environment.
Mr. Smith said that CRLS has a lot of services but there are still a lot of students who do not access these services. By the time students get to 9th grade, they have one year to "right the ship" and catch up. Ninth grade students meet with guidance counselors to map out a plan for graduation. Ninth grade is CRLS's lightest year with respect to college planning and preparation. He noted that the school must also prepare students for the world of work.
Mr. Smith said that in the 10th grade all students take the PSAT on a weekday, and they also take it in the 11th grade. He would advise working with the College Board. They supply individualized response to students - customized feedback about what they are able to do well in on the test and what that means with respect to college choices. In the fourth year, students need to become best friends with their guidance counselors. Mr. Smith said that at the end of 9th grade, many students "check out" of this process. In our society students should have strong ideas about what they want to do by the 9th grade. He added that at CRLS there is a lot of help available, both inside and from the community, including the AVED program, Cambridge School Volunteers and the Workforce program.
Councillor Reeves noted that a draft proposed budget is attached to the draft proposal. He said now the question is how to find the funding. Ms. Semonoff noted that the possibility of the City Council allocating community benefits connected with zoning petitions had come up in an earlier conversation.
Councillor Reeves thanked all those present for their attendance and he offered special thanks to the working committee for their hard work on the college success program proposal. He said that he would like to have a check-in meeting on this topic in September or the first part of October. The meeting was adjourned at 5:17pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee conducted a public meeting on Wed, Sept 21, 2011.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the challenges, concerns and opportunities facing the development of farmers markets.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Vice Mayor Davis; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Nancy Schlacter, Assistant to the City Manager; Estella Johnson, Economic Director, Community Development Department (CDD); Elaine Thorne, Associate Planner, CDD; Ranjit Singanayagam, Commissioner, Inspectional Services Department (ISD); Kristen Fernandes, Sanitation Inspector, ISD; Elizabeth Lint, Executive Officer, License Commission; Lisa Peterson, Commissioner, Public Works Department; Sue Clippinger, Director, Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department; Nancy Glowa, Deputy City Solicitor, Law Department; Megan Montgomery; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.
Also present were David Webber, Program Coordinator, Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR), 251 Causeway Street, Boston, MA; Martha Swee, Operations Manager, Massachusetts Farmers Markets (MFM), Waltham, MA; Joan Squeri, Program Manager, Cambridge Farmers Markets; David Gilson, Manager of the Boston Properties Farmers Market at Kendall Square; David Gibbs, Executive Director, Cambridge Community Center (CCC), Calendar Street; and Jose Mendez, Director of Marketing and Outreach, CCC; Judith Dortz; Heather Hoffman and Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street; Rene Becker, owner, Hi-Rise Bread Company; Marie Hills, Owner, Kimball Fruit Farm; David Hildum, 20 Maple Ave., Cambridge; Lee Li Theng, 540 Memorial Drive, Cambridge; Carrie Stalder, 10 King Place #2R, Cambridge; Jason Levin, 18 Bay Street, Cambridge; Louise Renee Dankerlin, 1691 Cambridge Street, Apt. 14, Cambridge; David DeCelis, Designer/Teacher, 226 Windsor Street, Cambridge; Barbara L. August, 19 Lawrence Street, Cambridge; Brynna Leoyan, 19 Norwood Avenue, Somerville; and JJ Gonson, 12 Worcester Street.
Councillor Cheung opened the meeting and stated the purpose. He distributed an agenda that outlined the discussion topics (ATTACHMENT A). He stated that there will be a group of presenters today.
At this time a PowerPoint Presentation was provided by Joan Squeri (ATTACHMENT B). Ms. Squeri, Program Manager, Cambridge Farmer's Market distributed the Mission of the Cambridge Farmer's Market (ATTACHMENT C). She defined farmer's markets as farmers selling directly to people products that they have produced. There at 255 farmers markets with the state. There are different classes of farmer's markets. Class A markets are only for producers. There are more products as well as more customers in farmer's markets. There is a rebirth of farming. Some farmers markets include crafts. Community support is needed for a good farmers market as well as goods demanded for customers. Ms. Squeri discussed market managers. Many markets are through non-profits. Today we are seeking how the municipality can help farmers markets. Community health can benefit from farmers markets. She distributed a flyer from the Union of Concerned Scientists in support of local farmers (ATTACHMENT D). No two markets have the same staff and overhead; the farmers markets are all different. She emphasized the importance to putting up signs for farmers markets. Judith Dortz commented that she forgets what days are farmers' market days and the signs remind her. Ms. Squeri went on to state that every farmers market vendor in Cambridge leaves their space clean. Rubbish collection is done in other communities at farmers' market sites. She spoke about best practices for farmers markets. Farmers markets create jobs in a recession, is a great place to learn about health initiatives, recipes are exchanged and blood pressure checked. For the last eight years farmers markets are growing and more people are using farmers markets to purchase fresh foods and vegetables. Also in Massachusetts medical doctors are writing prescriptions for fresh vegetables and wants farmers markets to fill the prescriptions. Cooking and canning demonstrations are performed at farmers markets and tours are conducted. Farmers markets offer fresh affordable produce to the public. She complimented Ms. Lint for her help with acquiring a liquor license to enable the farmers market to see wine. Farmers markets operate six months per year.
Farmers markets need music, tents and a central location for complaints on lost items or to obtain information about farmers market. A good manager's tent has information about what is going on in the area. The Central farmers market has SNAP benefits; many farmers markets do not accept EBT/SNAP cards.
Ms. Squeri acknowledged the work of David Gibbs and Jose Mendez to get a winter farmers market (WFM) at the Cambridge Community Center on Calendar Street. She spoke about infrastructure needs for WFM. Cambridge is also looking into food trucks for the WFM. At this time Mr. Gibbs spoke about the WFM.
David Gibbs, Executive Director, CCC informed the committee that a full size gym will be used as a site for the WFM. He asked Jose Mendez to further outline the proposal for the WFM.
Jose Mendez, Director of Marketing and Outreach, CCC, informed the committee that he was worked to develop the WFM; but there are obstacles. He listed the obstacles as the cost related to snow clearing and parking. Resources are pivotal to the success of the WFM. The cost for the snow removal is estimated at $4,000. Marketing, volunteers and operating the EBT program are still obstacles. A meeting about the WFM will be held on Tues, Sept 27 at 6 PM at the CCC. Mr. Gibbs stated that the logistics of getting vendors to the WFM at the Howard/Calendar Street site will be an issue. Customers will be encouraged to walk or use public transportation to the WFM. The EBT is a privately supported program. It is an expense for the WFM, but it is important. The City could make an investment to help with this program. Ms. Squeri expressed her hope that the City could help with grant writing to help to make EBT accessible. There is a cost of $100 per month for an EBT machine. Farmers markets want to capture all EBT and debit card sales. More customers have asked for the use of EBT at farmers markets. When EBT cards are used at a farmers market more buyers come to the farmers market. A grant is needed for the coupon doubling program. She stated that Lexington does private fund raising for the double coupon program. CCC is seeking to use the coupon doubling program.
Vice Mayor Davis stated that there was a farmers market every day in Cambridge. There is no EBT program at the Harvard, Kendall or Morse farmers market. She suggested that the Environment and the Economic Development, Training and Employment work together to plan to increase EBT use.
Richard Rossi offered his services to the CCC on their obstacles. The City can help write grants for the EBT program as well as help to purchase the machine. As the markets expand selling wine creates insurance and licensing issues and may make it more expensive. Mr. Gibbs informed the committee that CCC has a broad insurance policy and is covered for the WFM, but will purchase additional insurance for the WFM.
David Gibbs informed the committee that the WFM will focus on fruit and vegetables, meat and cheese. The mission is to meet basic needs. The WMF will be open Jan 7, 2012 to April from 10 AM to 2 PM. Ms. Thorne asked if there is a zoning issue with the WFM at Calendar Street. Mr. Gibbs responded that he did not know. Ms. Thorne will check on the issue of zoning at the Calendar Street site. Vice Mayor Davis cited the health education possibility. The Public Health Department will work with the CCC. The CCC is interested in nutrition. Health cooking, classes and workshops will be offered stated Mr. Gibbs.
Ms. Squeri acknowledged MDAR and MFM for the professional training they provide.
Councillor Cheung commented that farmers markets are a common good and they help the economy of our city.
David Webber, MDAR, outlined the work of farmers markets at the state level. Resources are on the state web site (ATTACHMENT E) including regulating, promoting, marketing and EBT/SNAP information. He distributed the Policy for Massachusetts Farmers' Markets (ATTACHMENT F). The state holds workshops for farmers markets, has grant opportunities and has a partnership with Transitional Assistance to help SNAP cards used at farmers markets. There is a $10 million federal grant that non profits and local governments are eligible. He is not sure if the funding will be available next year.
Vice Mayor Davis commented that all farmers markets are not official non-profits. Mr. Webber replied that some farmers markets are corporations. Vice Mayor Davis stated that local government could partner with local farmers market.
Martha Swee, Mass. Farmers Market, Waltham, stated that her agency manages farmers market and programs for farmers markets. MFM helps with rules, infrastructure, setting up EBT programs and works with MDAR. MFM helps set up, run, manage, answers questions and solve problems relating to farmers markets. She stated that the Harvard farmers market does take EBT cards. Ms. Thorne added that MFM offers insurance for farmers markets. Ms. Swee informed the committee that MFM owns one EBT card reader and this machine moves to different farmers' market locations.
Vice Mayor Davis stated that "bounty bucks" is a marketing name. Cambridge could use Cambridge bounty bucks but will only work at a farmers market that has a reader machine. Mr. Webber stated that the machine could be either purchased or rented. Ms. Swee stated that sales on EBT machines must be tracked.
Mr. Rossi stated that he needed to understand the magnitude of the issue. The City will not provide staff for farmers markets, but will help with writing grants and purchasing an EBT machine. The City needs to understand its role of what is being asked. This is not a major cost item. The farmer's market process could be streamlined. Cambridgeport and Central Square are the only farmers markets operated on city property and Central Square accepts EBT cards. There are seven farmers markets in Cambridge. There are common problems to getting EBT cards in the seven markets stated Ms. Squeri. She spoke about the need to have a contact at the City level.
Vice Mayor Davis stated that the Food Policy Council is focused on food policy matters. She stated that she wanted a task force on EBT cards, coupon doubling program, food access and the WFM. The EBT issue needs to be settled now.
Councillor Cheung added that farmers markets need help with writing grants.
Ms. Squeri spoke about the sustainability of farmers markets in Cambridge and the need to solve the issue of the EBT and debit cards.
Mr. Rossi stated that he could not explain the need now. The City supports farmers markets. The City can help, but the focus needs to be narrowed to get the City's help.
Councillor Cheung opened the meeting to public comment at 11:35 AM.
David DeCelis, 226 Windsor Street, stated that his students are doing an urban design project in Central Square. He and his family frequent farmers markets. He stated that if a proposed CSA was located at the farmers market there would be increased traffic at the farmers markets. Ms. Squeri commented that farmers bring CSA shares to the market and there is a supply chain issue. This is an excellent idea. It is an urban planning issue. Farmers grow, wash, prepare and transport the food to market; they want the sales.
David Gibbs stated that the CCC is offering a CSA subscription service on work night other than Saturdays because of the traffic issue.
Mark Jaquith stated that the BioMed Kendall Square farmers market needs help. It will be the first to go out of business. He cited problems as switching managers, frequent location moves and the small amount of vendors.
Elaine Thorne asked how many farmers markets in Cambridge can be sustained. The demand needs to be reviewed. North Cambridge does not have a farmers market. She suggested a Citizens Survey that asks how far would you go to go to a farmers market and how must money would you spend at a farmers market.
Rene Becker, owner of the Hi-Rise Bread Company stated that he was a vendor at three farmers markets. The issue is competition. In other communities there is an issue of saturation. Who decides who will be a vendor at a farmers market? There is a limit to what a neighborhood can sustain. He supported the model that locally grown food should supersede. If there is no demand farmers markets cannot be built.
JJ Gonson stated that the farmers market that she participates has more momentum. There are more vendors. This is what society is turning into. She urged City support. She encouraged vendor growth and competition. She wished that the City could provide additional parking for farm vehicles in an area away from the farmers market.
David Gilson stated that he runs the Boston Property farmers market at Kendall Square. Copley, he said, is their best farmers market. He spoke about the proximity to Kendall Square and the need to support looking at changing their venue. He stated that the 8,000 employees of Boston Property come to the farmers market. Legal Seafood loves the farmers market because it draws a crowd to Kendall Square. The Health Department and the Transportation, Traffic and Parking Department were helpful to this farmers market.
Ms. Dortz commented that there is more to a farmers market than selling. It is a community place, an educational place and a gathering place.
Ms. Squeri commented that people want to be involved in farmers markets. Farmers markets are an economic engine for the city.
At this time Councillor Cheung and Vice Mayor Davis submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to form a task force to address the following challenges:
Expansion and deployment of EBT/debit cards at the Cambridgeport and the Winter farmers markets;
Issue of parking facilities for farm vehicles and a temporary loading zone;
Explore strategies to increase demand on farmers market.
The motion - Carried.
Marie Hill, owner, Kimball Fruit Farm stated do not lose focus of the farmers; they need to make a profit. With the demand on farmers there are not enough farms to go around.
Councillor Cheung thanked all attendees. The meeting adjourned at 12:05pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
AWAITING REPORT LIST
10-50. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on options for amending the ordinance to allow for permitting of civic organizations to use public space after hours.
Councillor Cheung 03/22/10 (O-18)
10-89. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a delineation of the boundaries of Joan Lorentz Park.
Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/24/10 (O-11)
10-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on railroad crossing safety policies and procedures, including equipment maintenance and repair in the City of Cambridge.
Councillor Seidel 09/13/10 (O-16)
10-177. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meetings with presidents of Cambridge colleges/universities to work out a proposal that they will pay the tuition and fees for students graduating from Cambridge public high schools.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-7)
10-178. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing an RFP for experimental music venues and space in Central Square.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 11/22/10 (O-8)
10-184. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of the Cambridge Farmers Market using space for the winter months in the ground floor of the First Street garage or other suitable space.
Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-2)
10-185. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on establishing a "pilot program" for Clean Tech Start-Ups in the first floor of vacant First Street garage.
Mayor Maher and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-4)
10-186. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible options for providing more support for the homeless youth in Cambridge.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 12/13/10 (O-5)
10-190. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing the 311 system in Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 12/20/10 (O-2)
11-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possibility of allowing homeowners alternatives to alter flat roof structures to create better rain water runoff collection.
Mayor Maher, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 01/10/11 (O-5)
11-06. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the Responsible Employer Ordinance was complied with in regard to the recent bid on water-proofing project in Lafayette Square.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 01/10/11 (O-9)
11-15. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what incentives were given to Vertex as part of their relocation deal and evaluate how Cambridge could offer those same incentives to companies it is attempting to lure from out of state to the City.
Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 01/31/11 (O-15)
11-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of retaining the traffic light on Memorial Drive at Magazine Street.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Seidel, Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/07/11 (O-3)
11-27. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on recent trip of Public Safety officials to Israel and on the City's policies regarding the provision of professional development of City officials by private entities. View final order.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 02/28/11 (O-20)
11-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible projects that could be completed with the help of Code for America.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 03/07/11 (O-1)
11-53. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to make the Follen Street/Little Concord Avenue intersection safer for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. Referred back by Councillor Cheung on 5/23/2011 for further information.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/16/11 (O-3)
11-58. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of installing a projector presentation screen in the Sullivan Chamber.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/16/11 (O-12)
11-61. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the percentage of tree canopy coverage.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 05/16/11 (O-22)
11-63. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #3
RE: report on determining the impact that the Batelle Study recommendations could have on Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Davis 05/16/11 (O-24)
11-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing paying for city services on-line.
Councillor Cheung 05/16/11 (O-29)
11-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of emulating the San Francisco Yellow Pages ban in Cambridge.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 05/23/11 (O-1)
11-71. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on total of donations raised during the 2011 resident sticker renewals for environmental initiatives, identify a project that the funds can be used for and publicly display that the funds were possible from resident donations.
Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 06/06/11 (O-2)
11-72. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on determining if the Silver Maple Forest could be purchased for preservation.
Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 06/06/11 (O-5)
11-76. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on long term strategy that mitigates the actions of the Boston cab companies.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/20/11 (O-2)
11-78. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on where the police currently conduct foot patrols or park & walks and how these locations are decided.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 06/20/11 (O-6)
11-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installing benches in front of the Main Library.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/27/11 (O-3)
11-80. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on enforcement of biking on the sidewalks in Central Square.
Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 06/27/11 (O-4)
11-81. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on producing information for residents and taxpayers regarding readily available financial information online for citizens to view and easily understand.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 06/27/11 (O-6)
11-82. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on any possible implications of the merger between the Longy School of Music and Bard College.
Councillor Seidel 06/27/11 (O-9)
11-83. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on technology plan for the city, the use of social media tools, and identifying projects that would benefit using Gov 2.0 Initiative.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-1)
11-84. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on creating a research and development office for technology.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-2)
11-85. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans for participation in the BIO 2012 Convention.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-4)
11-89. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the need for a bamboo ordinance that either bans the planting of bamboo outright of somehow holds the owner of the bamboo accountable.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-8)
11-90. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility and possibility benefits of participating in the UN Global Compact Cities program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-9)
11-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what information campaign will go along with the bike-share program.
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-13)
11-92. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of creating a system that the general public could search by a unique identifier, that contains all official documents such as building permits, variance applications, License Commission inspections, etc.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-15)
11-99. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on incorporating information regarding safe bicycling in the City with the dissemination of information related to and implementation of the Hubway bike share program.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-25)
11-101. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on examining the relationship between job creation in the City and available housing stock.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-27)
11-102. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of using BLAZE technology for the safety of bicyclists.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 08/01/11 (O-29)
11-104. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the progress of Cambridge Office of College Success Initiative Working Group Draft.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 08/01/11 (O-31)
11-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the delay of the Green Line Extension project could impact the development at Northpoint.
Councillor Toomey 08/01/11 (O-34)
11-109. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on options to go paperless with City bills.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-1)
11-110. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #3
RE: report on the impact of the proposed alternative route on Cambridge Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials traffic.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-2)
11-111. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on adjusting the timing of the pedestrian walk lights at intersection with a high volume of seniors using crosswalks.
Councillor Simmons and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-3)
11-112. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of using Auxiliary Police for foot patrols in the vicinity of senior apartment buildings.
Councillor Simmons and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-6)
11-114. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on semi-trailer trucks routinely using Lambert Street to get to McGrath Highway.
Councillor Simmons and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-18)
11-116. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what changes need to be made to playgrounds and playing fields associated with the public schools in order to best support the Innovation Agenda.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-23)
11-118. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans for the McCrehan pool.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-25)
11-119. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on protocol of having wireless internet access on only the first floor of the public library.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-26)
11-120. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a plan to ensure that tow truck drivers model safe and courteous driving in the City.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-27)
11-121. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #2
RE: report on installing additional "one way" signs on Fulkerson Street and a speed bump to reduce speeding.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-28)
11-122. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on increasing enforcement against bikers that endanger pedestrians and provide bike regulations to a wider audience including through media outlets.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-29)
11-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on racial makeup of the City's workforce.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-37)
11-125. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the progress and feasibility of integrating and providing a service similar to SeeClickFix.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/12/11 (O-40)
11-126. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of Police Call Boxes to be installed at Lopez Park and at the new Northpoint Park.
Councillor Toomey 09/12/11 (O-47)
11-127. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the public process that will take place to help determine the design of the new park in East Cambridge as it relates to the Biogen Idec build out mitigation agreement and whether a committee should be assembled as part of the process.
Councillor Toomey 09/12/11 (O-48)
11-128. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on trimming tree branches on Pine and Eaton Streets.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 09/19/11 (O-10)
11-129. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of using Bobcats to clear snow on neighborhoods and retails sidewalks.
Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 09/19/11 (O-5)
11-130. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on locating a dog park in East Cambridge similar to the one on Washington Street in Somerville.
Councillor Toomey 09/19/11 (O-11)
11-131. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on placing utility pole wires underground as part of the Alewife sewer project.
Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 09/19/11 (O-9)
11-132. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the regulations regarding the sale of knives and BB guns in Cambridge.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 09/19/11 (O-1)
11-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of beautifying Lechmere Station.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 09/19/11 (O-4)
11-134. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the progress of the Food and Fitness Policy Council.
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 09/26/11 (O-1)
11-135. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on truck related disturbances at Millbrook Storage.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/26/11 (O-2)
11-136. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on removing the North Cambridge Crime Taskforce trailer.
Mayor Maher and Full Membership 09/26/11 (O-4)
11-137. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installing a bicycle locking mechanisms in the area of 1105 Massachusetts Avenue.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 09/26/11 (O-13)