Cambridge City Council meeting - October 4, 2010 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the votes necessary to seek the Massachusetts Department of Revenue approval for the tax rate for FY2011:
A. Authorize the use of Free Cash of $11,400,000 to reduce the FY11 tax rate; [Approved 8-1, Kelley NO]
B. Authorize $2,000,000 in overlay surplus/revenues to be used for reducing the FY11 tax levy; [Approved 9-0]
C. Authorize $8,300,000 from the Debt Stabilization Fund to be used as a revenue source to the General Fund Budget; [Approved 9-0]
D. Authorize $1,198,615 from the School Debt Stabilization Fund to be used as a revenue source to the General Fund Budget; [Approved 9-0]
E. Classify property into five classes; [Approved 9-0]
F. Adopt the minimum residential factor of 56.3344%; [Approved 9-0]
G. Approve the maximum residential exemption factor of 30% for owner-occupied homes; [Approved 9-0]
H. Vote to double the normal value of the statutory exemptions; [Approved 9-0]
I. Vote the FY11 exemption of $280.00 allowed under MGL Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 17D; [Approved 9-0]
J. Vote the FY11 asset limits of $55,775 allowed under MGL Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 17E; [Approved 9-0]
K. Vote the FY11 income and asset limits allowed under MGL Chapter 59, Section 5, Clause 41D as follows: Income limits of $23,061 for single and $34,592 for married; and asset limits of $46,122 for single and $63,418 for married; [Approved 9-0]
L. 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 ($51,000) and for married ($77,000); [Approved 9-0]
M. Vote to lower the interest rate by 4% to 14% for overdue water and sewer bills in FY11; [Approved 9-0] and
N. Vote to accept MGL Chapter 200A, Section 9A, which allows for an alternative procedure for disposing of abandoned funds held in custody by the City as provided for in the recently enacted municipal relief legislation. [Approved 9-0]
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-132, regarding a report on recent developments and sale of the North Point project.
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 10-100, regarding a report on the safety of the intersection of Irving and Scott Streets.
ON THE TABLE
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a copy of the referral of Order Number 15 of Dec 21, 2009, regarding increasing the amount of public information about elections while the election is in progress, to the 2010-2011 City Council. [Communications and Reports from City Officers #1 of Jan 11, 2010 Placed on Table.]
2. 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. May 10, 2010 Councillor Kelley made a motion to take from the table motion failed 2-7-0 remains on Table. Sept 13, 2010 Councillor Kelley made a motion to take from the table motion failed 4-4-1 remains on Table. Sept 27, 2010 Councillor Kelley made a motion to take from the table motion failed 3-5-1 remains on Table.]
3. 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.]
4. 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.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5. Reconsideration filed by Councillor Toomey on the affirmative vote taken on Sept 13, 2010 to refer to the Ordinance Committee and to pass to a second reading a proposed amendment to the Municipal code that would increase the residential parking sticker fee. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Item Number Thirty-Six of Aug 2, 2010. On Sept 13, 2010 motion of Vice Mayor Davis to refer to Ordinance Committee and Passage to a second reading on roll call 7-1-1. Sept 27, 2010 no action taken on reconsideration. Affirmative vote taken Sept 13, 2010 to refer to Ordinance Committee and to pass to a second reading on proposed amendment to the Municipal Code that would increase the residential parking sticker fee effective as of Sept 13, 2010.] The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Oct 11, 2010.
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. Revocation of a sign permit for Adidas for the premises numbered 1270 Massachusetts Avenue, issued May 10, 2004. Inspectional Services inspected the property on Sept 27, 2010 and the sign is down.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Sophie (Langer) Reagan. Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey
2. Happy 100th Birthday wishes to Ms. Mattie Hayes. Councillor Simmons
3. Resolution on the death of Anita Louise Cignetti. Councillor Toomey
4. Congratulations to Cynthia Barnhart on her appointment as Acting Dean of MIT's School of Engineering. Councillor Cheung
5. Urge residents to be cognizant of the annual Party Under the Harvest Moon dinner to benefit Food for Free on Oct 15, 2010. Councillor Cheung
6. Congratulations to the twelve Cambridge residents who will run in the 10th annual Boston Athletic Association Half Marathon to benefit the Jimmy fund. Councillor Cheung
7. Congratulations to Annette Gordon-Reed on being selected as a MacArthur Fellow. Councillor Cheung
8. Congratulations to Nergis Mavalvala on being selected as a MacArthur Fellow. Councillor Cheung
9. Congratulations to Matthew Carter on being selected as a MacArthur Fellow. Councillor Cheung
10. Congratulations to Rob and Angela Green on the birth of their son Joseph Robert Green. Mayor Maher
11. Resolution on the death of Narcisse (Correia) Caldeira. Councillor Toomey
12. Resolution on the death of Jose Chaves. Councillor Toomey
13. Resolution on the death of Herbert E. Brown. Mayor Maher
14. Congratulations to the Community Dispute Settlement Center on their annual fundraising gala and to John G. Wofford and Peace First for being honored at this event. Mayor Maher
15. Best wishes to the organizers and participants of The Boston Local Food Festival. Councillor Cheung
16. Congratulations to Benjamin Wiegand on being honored at an awards ceremony for gifted children held by The Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth. Councillor Cheung
17. Congratulations to Martha Nichols on launching Talking Writing, a monthly online literary magazine. Councillor Cheung
18. Congratulations to the Cambridgeside Galleria Mall on their 20th anniversary. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher
19. Resolution on the death of Senior Airman James Arthur Hansen. Councillor Decker
20. Resolution on the death of Sergeant John Franklin Burner III. Councillor Decker
21. Resolution on the death of Specialist Marc C. Whisenant. Councillor Decker
22. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Gebrah P. Noonan. Councillor Decker
23. Resolution on the death of Specialist John Carrillo Jr. Councillor Decker
24. Congratulations on the 10th Anniversary of Swissnex. Vice Mayor Davis
25. Congratulating everyone who worked so hard to make the Maud Morgan Visual Arts Center a reality. Councillor Decker
26. Resolution on the death of Joseph A. DaSilva. Councillor Toomey
27. Resolution on the death of Mary F. (McShea) Flynn. Mayor Maher
28. Congratulations to Travis McCready on being named Executive Director of the Kendall Square Association. Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves
29. Resolution on the death of Mary Inez Souza. Councillor Toomey
30. Resolution on the death of John M. Roque. Councillor Toomey
31. Resolution on the death of Alice Schofield. Councillor Toomey
32. Resolution on the death of Evelina V. Cardoso. Councillor Toomey
ORDERS
1. That the City Council meeting of Nov 15, 2010 shall be a roundtable meeting with the School Committee. Mayor Maher
2. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to devise a plan to ensure the safe crossing of pedestrians in the Martin Luther King Jr. School area. Councillor Cheung
3. That the City Manager is requested to direct City staff to work with the Cambridgeport School community on playground safety issues and developing a list of potential park improvements and maintenance measures, to create a safe and welcoming playground at the Cambridgeport School for all who use it. Councillor Seidel
4. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of Sennott Park, including how space is scheduled to be used by organized groups and landscaping costs and upkeep. Councillor Seidel
5. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to devise a plan to ensure the safe crossing of pedestrians in the Green Street and Hancock Street area. Councillor Cheung
6. That the City Manager confer with the appropriate department heads to assess the possibility of Cambridge participating in the Bixi bike-sharing program and make every effort to reach out to Boston to participate and report back to the City Council as soon as possible. Councillor Cheung Amended
7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department on how the transition of the Grand Junction Rail Road to Commuter Rail traffic could impede the implementation of the Grand Junction Rail Trail and report back to the City Council. Councillor Toomey
8. That the City Manager is requested to report back on the language in the noise ordinance as it relates specifically to the noise of car radios and what steps the police can take and what steps residents can take to combat and end this disturbance. Councillor Decker
9. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Public Health Department and ask for a report back on the feasibility of Cambridge following suit with banning smoking in public parks, beaches and other public places. Councillor Decker
10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Health and request from them a report back on the new food allergy guidelines and what impact it will have on the food industry in Cambridge. Councillor Decker
11. That the City Manager is requested to provide recommendations from a discussion with the Police Commissioner and his leadership team to the City Council on what tools and programs they believe would give them greater capacity to continue and expland community building. Councillor Decker
12. That the City Manager is requested, along with the Police Commissioner, to report back to the City Council the process for discussing the report "Missed Opportunities Shared Responsibility" throughout the communiyt and to further report back to the City Council what steps will be taken to ensure community groups and other stakeholder groups will be given ample opportunity to discuss the report. Councillor Decker
13. Welcoming the delegates and supporters of the National Network of US-El Salvador Sister Cities and congratulating the network on 25 years of work to connect and strengthen movements for social justice in the U.S. and El Salvador. Councillor Decker
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Sam Seidel, Co-Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a hearing held on Sept 23, 2010 to continue to consider a proposed amendment to Chapter 10.17 of the Municipal Code entitled Vehicle Trip Reduction Ordinance to increase the residential permit parking fee from $8 to $20 effective in 2011 and $25 effective in 2013, and to clarify that the fee revenue can be expended on "other actions addressing climate change."
2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the University Relations Committee, for a public meeting held on July 26, 2010 to receive and discuss information from MIT relative to City Council Order Number Five of Apr 5, 2010 requesting that Harvard and MIT cease further layoffs and any cuts in hours, salary and benefits.
3. 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 meeting held on Sept 15, 2010 to discuss the subject of entrepreneur development and ways in which the city can be more responsive to said community.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Oct 4
3:00pm Special City Council Meeting to discuss Cambridge Review Committee Report. This meeting to be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm The City Council will conduct a public hearing to discuss the property tax rate classification. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 5
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 12
6:00pm School Committee Roundtable Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 14
5:30pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the digital divide. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 19
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 25
5:30pm Roundtable Meeting for discussion in preparation of City Council goal setting process. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 1
5:00pm Special Presentation of the Cambridge Healthy Workplace Awards (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 15
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Nov 16
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 6
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Dec 7
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 13
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Dec 14
6:00pm School Committee Budget Retreat (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Dec 21
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Jan 4
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Jan 11
6:00pm School Committee Roundtable Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Jan 18
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 31
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Feb 1
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Feb 8
6:00pm School Committee Budget Retreat (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 14
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Feb 15
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 28
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Oct 4, 2010
MAYOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council meeting of Nov 15, 2010 shall be a roundtable meeting with the School Committee.
O-2 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that students attending Martin Luther King Jr. School are having a hard time crossing the intersection of Magee Street and Putnam Avenue; and
WHEREAS: Parents have complained that motorists drive too fast down Magee Street, putting children in danger; and
WHEREAS: Drivers are not slowing down even though it's obvious that many children and parents are crossing Magee Street without using the crosswalk; and
WHEREAS: Extra measures should be taken to ensure that the safety of the children in regards to traffic management; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to devise a plan to ensure the safe crossing of pedestrians in the beforementioned area; 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-3 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: There has been recent incidents at the Cambridgeport School playground involving dangerous situations, one of which resulted in children needing to seek medical attention; and
WHEREAS: The Department of Public Works, the Cambridge Police Department, Cambridgeport School custodial staff, and Cambridgeport teacher and parent volunteers have worked diligently to try and maintain a safe and welcoming area for students, families and neighborhood children in which to play; and
WHEREAS: Hundreds of children, including Cambridgeport students and children from the neighborhood, use this playground every day since it is one of the few open spaces in the area; and
WHEREAS: Even given these efforts, improvements to the playground are still needed to ensure the safety of all who use this important school and neighborhood space; therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct City staff to work with the Cambridgeport School community on playground safety issues and developing a list of potential park improvements and maintenance measures, to create a safe and welcoming playground at the Cambridgeport School for all who use it; 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 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: Sennott Park is in high demand for use by neighbors, organizations and institutions; therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of Sennott Park, including how space is scheduled to be used by organized groups and landscaping costs and upkeep.
O-5 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that the intersection of Green Street and Hancock is particularly dangerous; and
WHEREAS: Many cars traveling down Green Street speed through this intersection without taking into account pedestrians or other cars; and
WHEREAS: The situation is similar to the one that had existed on Kinnaird Street. In both cases, cars have a straight shot from Pleasant Street and Western Avenue in which they can travel unimpeded, and many hit excessive speeds, despite the narrowness of the streets; and
WHEREAS: The Green and Hancock corner has the further complication of the steep hill from Hancock feeding into an intersection where cars from Green, which are hard to see, sail through; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to devise a plan to ensure the safe crossing of pedestrians in the before mentioned area; 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-6 Oct 4, 2010 Amended
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Bicycles are a critical part of a cleaner, greener future in American transportation;
WHEREAS: Motor vehicle emissions represent 31 percent of total carbon dioxide, 81 percent of carbon monoxide, and 49 percent of nitrogen oxides released in the U.S; and
WHEREAS: A Mass Bike survey found that Boston-area residents want to have the opportunity to bike instead of driving, with 40 percent of those surveyed saying they would commute by bike if safe facilities were available; and
WHEREAS: The beauty of the bike sharing program is that you can pick up your bike at one station, pedal to another part of the city, and drop it off at another station. If you need a bike later in the day, you insert the same credit card (or your yearly or monthly membership card) in a different kiosk (it remembers your number), and you pull out another bike; and
WHEREAS: The bike-sharing program will revolutionize the way in which Cambridge residents travel; and
WHEREAS: The Bixi bike-sharing program was slated to begin in Boston this summer, but funding delays pushed back the start of the program. This July, the federal government awarded Boston $3 million to institute a bike sharing program. This will be added to $2 million in previously pledged funds. Boston is currently putting the contact out to bid; and
WHEREAS: The Bixi bike-sharing program was slated to begin in Boston this summer, but funding delays pushed back the start of the program. This July, the Federal Transit Administration awarded the Boston region $3 million to institute a bike sharing program. This will be added to $2.5 million in previously pledged funds in the City of Boston. MAPC is currently putting the contact out to bid on behalf of Boston, Cambridge and the other 99 MAPC communities; and
WHEREAS: The City of Boston has also looked into private sponsorship of bike racks. They have already secured $50,000 in private sponsorship funding. New Balance and a few neighborhood hospitals have expressed interest in "adopting" bikes; and
WHEREAS: The City of Boston has also looked into private sponsorship of the bike share program. They have already secured $1.2 million in private sponsorship funding, typically at $50,000 per station. New Balance and a few neighborhood hospitals have expressed interest in sponsoring stations; and
WHEREAS: At the moment, Boston plans to roll out 3,000 bikes with additional stations to follows after the initial start up; and
WHEREAS: At the moment, Boston plans to roll with a minimum of 610 bikes with additional stations to follow after the initial start up. Long term expansion calls for 400 stations and 5,000 bicycles in Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Brookline and other neighborhing communities; and
WHEREAS: If Cambridge wants to participate in this program in a timely manner that allows for access to federal funding, we need to apply within the next few weeks; now therefore be it
WHEREAS: If Cambridge wants to participate in this program in a timely manner that allows for access to federal funding, matching funds must be secured within one year. However to participate at launch in the spring of 2011, matching funds must be in place in the next month or two for the stations to be installed at that time; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager confer with the appropriate department heads to assess the possibility of Cambridge participating in this program and make every effort to reach out to Boston to participate and report back to the City Council as soon as possible.
O-7 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The Grand Junction Rail Road corridor offers a unique opportunity to connect Cambridge through a multi use path; and
WHEREAS: Open Space opportunities in Eastern Cambridge are very rare and the Grand Junction Rail Trail concept offers a unique opportunity to provide and connect residents to open space; and
WHEREAS: A multi use path on the Grand Junction Rail Trail would connect existing parks and public facilities throughout this corridor and act as an urban necklace connecting the neighborhoods and open space for residents of Cambridgeport, Area 4, Harrington/Wellington and East Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Many public amenities are located in close proximity to the Grand Junction Rail Trail, these include Simoni Skating Rink, Gold Star Mother's Park, Donnelly Field, Gold Star Pool, Frisoli Youth Center, Ahern Field, Green/Rose Park, Pacific Street Park, Fort Washington Park, Lindstrom Field; and
WHEREAS: The King Open School, Kennedy/Longfellow, Fletcher/Maynard Academy and the Morse Schools are also located along the Rail Trail; and
WHEREAS: The path would also provide safe access to the Charles River and Magazine Beach and DCR Pool; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has examined the possibilities of constructing a multi use path along side the operational rail system in the Grand Junction Rail with Trail Feasibility Study; and
WHEREAS: The study notes the low volume of traffic and considerably low speeds that make the project feasible; and
WHEREAS: The Massachusetts Department of Transportation has recently acquired the Grand Junction and has plans to extend commuter rail service through this corridor; and
WHEREAS: The benefits of a Grand Junction Rail Trail to a Cambridge resident are significant; and
WHEREAS: A commuter rail extension through the Grand Junction will not serve the Cambridge Community; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department on how the transition of the Grand Junction Rail Road to Commuter Rail traffic could impede the implementation of the Grand Junction Rail Trail and report back to the City Council.
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitable copy of this resolution to Governor Patrick, Lieutenant Governor Murray, Transportation Secretary Mullen, MBTA general manager Richard Davey, and the Cambridge State Delegation on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-8 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: The decibel level of the bass of some car radios is at such a level that it causes an enormous disturbance and distress when said cars are in motion, stopped at traffic lights, and idling; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on the language in the noise ordinance as it relates specifically to the noise of car radios and what steps the police can take and what steps residents can take to combat and end this disturbance.
O-9 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of this City Council that there has been an effort in New York to ban smoking in public parks and beaches and other public places; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Public Health Department and ask for a report back on the feasibility of Cambridge following suit; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-10 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of this City Council that new guidelines for food allergies have been adopted by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Department of Public Health Bureau of Environmental Health food Protection Program; now therefore be it;
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Health and request from them a report back on the new food allergy guidelines and what impact it will have on the food industry 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.
O-11 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Police Commissioner and his leadership team to discuss the effects of fiscal cuts on their ability to continue community-building programs and activities; and be it it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide recommendations from a discussion with the Police Commissioner and his leadership team to the City Council on what tools and programs they believe would give them greater capacity to continue and expland community building.
O-12 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested, along with the Police Commissioner, to report back to the City Council the process for discussing the report "Missed Opportunities Shared Responsibility" throughout the communiyt and to further report back to the City Council what steps will be taken to ensure community groups and other stakeholder groups will be given ample opportunity to discuss the report.
O-13 Oct 4, 2010
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: In 1987, the Cambridge City Council declared a formal Sister City relationship between the City of Cambridge and San Jose las Flores in El Salvador that has resulted in 23 years of interaction, inspriation, learning and support during which Cambridge residents exchanged delegations with our Salvadoran counterparts, shared educational materials and community-building resources, raised funds, made films and did public education on US intervention in El Salvador and to promote the rights and well-being of our Sister community; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge/El Salvador Sister City Project is part of a National Network, US-El Salvador Sister Cities, that connects cities and towns across the United States which have developed similar partnerships to organized rural communities in El Salvador with a commitment to foster dignity, justice, and human rights; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge will host the 2010 National Gathering of US-El Salvador Sister Cities (USESSC) from October 8 to 11 at which delegates will share past accomplishments and strategies for future solidarity, reflect on efforts for social and economic justice and human rights in sister communities and throughout El Salvador, and discuss current concerns with local Salvadoran and human rights organizers; and
WHEREAS: The US-El Salvador Sister Cities 2010 National Gathering is honored to collaborate in the weekend events with the New England General Consulate of El Salvador, represented by Consul General Jose Aleman and Vice Consul Ena Ursula Pena, as well as local groups including Centro Presente, to create stronger ties between Salvadorans living in the US and the Sister City and solidarity movements; and
WHEREAS: The program Saturday morning (open to the public) will offer an understanding of the popular movements for justice and the first year of the new progressive government which is being challenged by a systematic campaign of violence through remarks from German Gonzalez of the Association for the Development of El Salvador (CRIPDES), the US/ESSC partner organization in El Salvador; and
WHEREAS: On Saturday evening, October 9th, "A Night of Celebration and Solidarity" will feature a special presentation by Celia Medrano, Salvadoran Consul General in Washington, D.C. and Former Director of the Non-Governmental Human Rights Commission of El Salvador; the event will include speakers, Amigos School students, Centro Presente youth, and live music and dancing; and
WHEREAS: The gathering is being co-sponsored by the Arlington and Watertown Sister City Committees, the Cambridge Peace Commission, Centro Presente, Boston CISPES and the Office of City Councillor Marjorie Decker; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record welcoming the delegates and supporters of the National Network of US-El Salvador Sister Cities and congratulating the network on 25 years of work to connect and strengthen movements for social justice in the U.S. and El Salvador by sharing experiences, support, and accompaniment, based on human values of justice and solidarity; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record encouraging all residents to attend the public events of the National Gathering on Saturday morning at the Democracy Center and Saturday evening at the Citywide Senior Center to continue deepening the bonds of solidarity between the peoples of El Salvador and the United States that have been forged locally by the Cambridge-El Salvador Sister City Committee.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Thurs, Sept 23, 2010 beginning at 5:36pm in the Sullivan Chamber. The purpose of the hearing was to continue to consider a proposed amendment to Chapter 10.17 of the Municipal Code entitled Vehicle Trip Reduction Ordinance to increase the residential permit parking fee from $8 to $20 effective in 2011 and $25 effective in 2013, and to clarify that the fee revenue can be expended on "other actions addressing climate change."
Present at the hearing were Councillor Sam Seidel, Co-Chair of the Committee; Councillor Marjorie Decker [left before meeting began]; Councillor Craig Kelley; City Clerk D. Margaret Drury; City Manager Robert W. Healy; Susan Clippinger, Director of the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department; Susan Glazer, Acting Assistant City Manager for Community Development; and Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Environmental and Transportation Planning, Community Development Department.
Councillor Seidel convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He invited City Manager Healy to describe the background and reasoning for the proposed amendment. Mr. Healy explained that the 1992 Vehicle Trip Reduction Ordinance had its roots in the federal Clean Air Act amendments of 1990 which called for the attainment of compliance with the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for Ozone. The Vehicle Trip Reduction (VTR) Ordinance provided for the City to undertake a range of activities to improve air quality to reduce motor vehicle use and encourage alternative transportation. One component of the VTR Ordinance increased the $5 residential parking permit fee from $5 to $8 and dedicated the revenue to VTR clean air activities.
Mr. Healy said that in 2009, the City Council declared a climate emergency. Thereafter, a citizen-led Climate Emergency Action Committee sent recommendations for climate control actions to the City Council. Given the relationship between ambient air quality and climate control, various Council discussions on the possibility of increasing the resident parking fee, which started at $4 in the 1970's and has remained at the same $8 level for almost 20 years, he saw the possibility of a modest increase in this fee ($20 fee represents an increase of $1 per month) as a potential source for additional climate control activities. He noted that the revenue from this fee must be expended within the parameters of the special act that created the Traffic and Parking Department, and that no revenue can be raised until the VTR Ordinance is amended.
Mr. Healy reported that the current revenue from the residential parking permits is approximately $380,000. The increase would add an additional $420,000, for a total of $800,000. His conservative estimate of the annual cost to administer and enforce the residential permit program is $1.59 million. The fee does not cover the cost of the program currently, and an increase to $800,000 would cover approximately half the cost of program.
In response to a question from Councillor Seidel about what programs Mr. Healy would consider using the revenue for, Mr. Healy listed the following:
* Installation of 150 new bicycle parking racks ($50,000);
* Starting to take a comprehensive look at the adaptations needed for this city to adjust to the new technologies in transportation and energy efficiency that will be standard operation procedure in 50 years;
* Outreach and public education on clean air, alternative transportation and energy efficiency ($100,000);
* Preparation for the change to LED street lighting, which is coming closer to being a reality and which he would start as a pilot program;
* Photovoltaics.
Councillor Seidel asked where the proposal for a $20 fee came from. Mr. Healy said that there is no magic in that number. In previous City Council discussions much larger fees have been mentioned. This amount would pay more of the costs of the parking permit program and provide revenue for the costs of some of the proposed programs.
Councillor Seidel asked whether there would be any legal issues with the use of these funds for such programs. Mr. Healy said that a municipality cannot use a fee as a tax by another name. The enabling legislation requires that the funds be used for expenses related to traffic and parking. There are many more bike riders today; they are part of the traffic that Cambridge must manage. LED streetlights would also be eligible for expenditures under this act. There must be some nexus to traffic and transportation - the funds could not be used to renovate a baseball field or purchase a fire truck - but there are many items that would qualify. The policy of use of these funds for programs with a nexus to traffic and parking has been with us since the 1970's and has been upheld by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. In addition, given the cost of the residential parking permit program, use of the entire amount on just that cost would allow use of money from the General Fund for the other programs.
Councillor Seidel asked whether the fee increase could still take effect in January 2011, as provided in the proposal, or whether it was now too late to aim for 2011. Mr. Healy said that if the amendment could be ordained at the October 18th meeting, the new fee could take effect for 2011; any later than that would be too disruptive to the publications and other preparations the Department of Traffic Parking and Transportation must make for the 2011 re-permitting process.
Councillor Seidel then moved to public comment.
Gerald Bergman, 82 Elm Street, said that he tried all last week to get information from the Traffic Department about the cost. Yesterday Ms. Clippinger did not have this information. Now, overnight, we have the number of $1.5 million, the most expensive permit program in the world. He believes tripling the cost of the permit is too much. He is disappointed that there is no differential of an increased fee for additional cars. He has talked with officials from municipalities that do charge a higher fee for additional cars, for example, Arlington, Virginia. They told him that they believe that the additional fee does act as a disincentive for keeping additional vehicles.
Christopher Summerfield, 153 Lexington Avenue, stated that he supports the intentions and twenty dollars is not too much, but he objects to changes in the language. The VTR Ordinance is perfectly clear and would encompass all the programs that the City Manager laid out. He urged the City Council to raise the fees and not to change the language in the VTR Ordinance relative to the purposes for which the fees can be used.
Charlie Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street, urged that the proposed amendment be referred to the full City Council and that the City Council not change the language of the purposes as it is currently set out in the ordinance.
Rozann Kraus, Cambridge, asked how Mr. Healy got information regarding the cost of the program if Ms. Clippinger did not know a day earlier. She has no problem with raising the fee. If we compare what inflation has done to other costs in twenty years, the inflation factor alone would probably amount to more. Ms. Kraus said that it is not enough to just put many more people on bikes without education. Public information and outreach is essential.
Minka vanBeuzekom, 20 Essex Street, Central Square, noted that only Councillors Sam Seidel and Craig Kelley were there to listen to this information and public testimony. She said that she appreciated Mr. Healy's clear explanation. She noted that he said that cost was for administering and enforcing the resident parking permit program. She expects enforcement is a large part of the cost.
John Pitkin, 18 Fayette Street, thanked the City Manager for his explanation of the costs and rationale. The VTR Ordinance is intimately related to the Clean Air Act, and he believes that it is important to make that connection and to make drivers aware of the relationship of automobiles to clean air. He urged quick adoption by the City Council.
Councillor Seidel said that given the small turn out at this hearing he suggests moving the petition to the full City Council without recommendation. He believes that the proposal is a good idea. Councillor Kelley said that he is completely ambivalent about whether to include the language to amend the purposes as currently stated in the ordinance to include "and other actions addressing climate change." The proposal is okay with him with or without that language.
Councillor Kelley moved that the proposed amendment be referred to the City Council. The motion passed without objection.
Councillor Seidel thanked those present for their attendance and participation. The hearing was adjourned at 6:29pm.
For the Ordinance Committee,
Councillor Sam Seidel, Co-Chair
Committee Report #2
The University Relations Committee held a public hearing on July 26, 2010 at four o'clock and ten minutes in the Sullivan Chamber. The purpose of the hearing was to receive and discuss information from MIT relative to City Council Order Number Five of Apr 5, 2010 requesting that Harvard and MIT cease further layoffs and any cuts in hours, salary and benefits.
Present at the hearing were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Marjorie C. Decker; Councillor Craig Kelley; Mayor David P. Maher; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Sam Seidel; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury.
Councillor Cheung convened the hearing, distributed an agenda (Attachment A), explained the purpose and made introductory remarks. He said that he understands that cutting staff is never easy and that he is sure that MIT made every effort to devise an alternative course of action. He noted that MIT has a long history of treating its employees fairly. However, MIT received over 100 million dollars of federal stimulus funding to be used to create more jobs. He added that, unfortunately, to many in the community it appears that MIT chose to invest only in broadening their academic staff, at the expense of service employees. He reminded those present that we are still in the midst of a recession, and for those MIT workers let go, now is the worst time to be laid off. The job market is almost nonexistent. When workers are laid off at MIT, all Cambridge residents are affected. This hearing is an opportunity to help MIT understand the social costs to the Cambridge community of its decisions.
Councillor Cheung said that there has been a great deal of misinformation circulating in the press and in the blogosphere. Both sides have been unfairly demonized. He said that he envisioned this meeting as a way for all to speak frankly, but free from drama and finger pointing, and urged all present to be respectful and courteous even though this may be a very difficult conversation. Councillor Cheung then invited other members of the City Council to comment.
Councillor Decker thanked Councillor Cheung for having this hearing. She noted that that until this hearing was scheduled the City Council received no response to the City Council Order she submitted on Apr 5. 2010 that requested that Harvard and MIT cease further layoffs and cuts in hours and benefits (Attachment B). She finds the layoffs outrageous and will have no meetings with MIT staff until she receives an explanation of the layoffs.
Councillor Kelley said that he does not know enough about the particulars to comment on MIT's actions, but it appears that communication has not been effective.
Councillor Cheung then invited MIT representatives to make a presentation. Sarah Gallop, Co-Director of the MIT Office of Government and Community Relations, introduced Paul Parravano, also Co-Director of Government and Community Relations, and told the committee that they have been joined at the hearing, at the request of MIT President Susan Hockfield by Alison Alden, Vice President for Human Relations, to participate in the discussion about layoffs. Ms. Gallop said that Vice president Alden is the person who is most knowledgeable about the reductions in the workforce at MIT.
Vice President Alden submitted written testimony (Attachment C) and provided an oral summary of that testimony for the committee. She stated that the global financial crisis reduced MIT's endowment by approximately 17% during Fiscal Year 2009 (7/1/08-6/30/09). The financial crisis also hit the families of MIT students, to whom MIT makes the unconditional commitment of financial support central to its need-blind admission policy. MIT calculated a need to reduce its operating budget by as much as 15% over the next 2-3 years. Every MIT unit (departments, labs, centers and administrative units) made their own decisions. In addition MIT initiated a university-wide planning task force that brought together faculty, staff and students to consider options and opportunities to reduce costs and increase revenue while enhancing mission achievement.
Vice President Alden said that layoffs were a last resort. Of the $125 million that MIT cut out of its budget in FY 10 and 11, 85 to 90% of the dollar reduction resulted from actions other than layoffs. Layoffs affected all levels of the MIT staff. IN FY 2009 there were 91 layoffs; in FY 2010 there were 83 layoffs. MIT was able to help 35 of these people find work. Total layoffs amounted to 2% of MIT staff.
Councillor Cheung then invited public comment.
Wayne M. Langley, Director, Higher Education, SEIU Local 615, submitted written testimony (Attachment D) and summarized that testimony in his remarks. Mr. Langley said that at MIT nonunion staff has suffered the brunt of the layoffs. There are no other jobs for them. The legislature expects good jobs to be preserved in return for the special tax treatment that nonprofit institutions receive. Both Harvard and MIT are nonprofit private employers receiving significant tax breaks from Cambridge and the Commonwealth. MIT has reduced its workforce by anywhere from 135 to 200 jobs. Harvard has removed at least 1,000 workers through a combination of buy-outs and layoffs, while Harvard's president has just received a 6% wage increase.
Mr. Langley said that while it is clear that their endowments have lost money, the Harvard and MIT endowments taken together represent 70 times the annual budget of the City of Cambridge. Their lack of transparency makes it impossible to evaluate the significance of the savings they have achieved through staff reductions. The SEIU Local 615, which represents 5,000 members working in higher education, pledges to work alongside the City Council and any elected officials who wish to bring both transparency and accountability to this situation.
Kevin Feeney, a graduate student, MIT, and a member of the Student Worker Alliance, stated that he came here to learn more. MIT makes these decisions very quietly. Across the country corporations are using the recession to lay off employees as a matter of choice. When MIT wants funding, it gets the money. Part of MIT's mission is to serve the public good and MIT can do more if it makes the effort.
Jennifer Doe, Lead Organizer of Jobs for Justice, said that all over the state they have seen increased corporatization of universities. This hurts students and workers. They believe that MIT can do better.
Alan Viens, Technician/Facilities, MIT, stated that with regard to the task force described by Vice President Alden, he believes no union members were involved. Workers in information services and library employees lost the biggest proportion of jobs. He noticed that a lot of older employees lost their jobs. He would like to know the age distribution of laid off employees. He asked why, if MIT has no money, so much construction is taking place. Staffing these new buildings will require a large number of new employees.
Councillor Cheung invited MIT to respond. Ms. Gallop responded to the question about the building projects. She said that they are supported mostly by private donors, and the funds are specifically designated and not available for redistribution.
With regard to the issue about older employees, Vice President Alden said that MIT looked at the demographics very carefully to ensure that there was not any over-representation of older employees in the layoffs.
Ms. Gallop noted that MIT pays $31 million per year in real estate taxes, which amounts to 12 percent of the City's tax revenue. MIT also pays a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) which in FY09 amounted to $1.7 million. Through its Cambridge First policy, there is another $4 million investment in Cambridge. MIT also pays $5.5 million per year in licenses and fees. All together in FY09 MIT's economic contributions to the City of Cambridge amounted to $78 million.
Councillor Decker said that the taxpayers are paying for MIT's savings. She asked whether the affected workers were given the opportunity to be part of the discussion of how to avoid layoffs. Vice President Alden answered in the affirmative. There was a discussion process. In one union all members (250 employees) volunteered to take one week additional vacation without pay. Others took rolling furloughs.
Councillor Decker stated that she would like to hear from the workers, and she would also like to know who took furloughs. Vice President Alden said that President Hockfield refused to take a pay increase for 2 years.
Councillor Decker asked whether thirty-five workers laid off who were re-employed, were re-employed at a similar salary. Vice President Alden said yes. Approximately sixty percent of them were re-hired by MIT. Councillor Decker said that she would like to know specifics of the thirty-five, do they have the same benefits and pay. Vice President Alden said that no actual benefits were cut. Some hours were reduced with very minor resulting pay decreases for about 20-25 employees, for example forty hours was reduced to thirty seven and a half hours. Administrative employees were more affected than hourly staff.
Councillor Decker asked what the total savings was for the laid off employees. Vice President Alden said between $12.5 million and $13 million. Councillor Decker said that $12. 5 million is a drop in the bucket compared with the MIT budget. Councillor Decker asked whether there were any formal requests to the corporation to release endowment funds. Ms. Gallup said that the endowment funds are largely restricted to support particular projects by law. There were no specific requests to ask the trustees to problem solve to save workers. Councillor Decker said that MIT invests in Cambridge because its good business for MIT. She emphasized that $12.5 million is not savings that will make or break MIT. Saving civilization and saving low paid workers are not compatible.
Councillor Decker said that she will not be talking to MIT about any other issue unless there is an adequate response to her questions and she would like to hear what hope there is for the future. Vice President Alden said they will not see many layoffs from MIT in the future. They are pretty much over. The only way there would be more would be if there were another budget crunch and they are working very hard to avoid that. They made choices based on student participation, for example consolidation of student housing in the summer.
Councillor Kelley mentioned that there are a lot of different opinions with regard to the facts.
Mr. Langley said that when they heard about MIT's losses they were concerned, but they requested and were not given the information that the union needed analyze the impact of the losses. So they did their own study, including their own analysis of the impact of the layoffs on the six schools that employ their members. Some were in real trouble. Harvard lost almost $54 million.
Mr. Langley said that Ms. Gallop's description of the limitation on use of endowment funds does not comport with his understanding of endowment funds. In the Yale endowment one-fourth of the funds are restricted. The older the endowment, the less restrictive it is. MIT's endowment is quite old. Schools are not for profit corporations. They are not expected to act like Wal-Mart or U.S. Steel. Nonprofits cost their host communities dearly in loss of tax revenues.
Councillor Cheung said that MIT is the fourth university he has attended. He sees a disturbing trend at MIT. Other schools have a lot of staff supporting students and operations. At MIT the people who support the student's education are being cut. He is concerned about layoffs in the summer when the students who would stand with the workers are not on campus. He would like to see a workforce reduction prevention fund established at MIT.
Councillor Kelley said that we look at Harvard and MIT as large cash-rich organizations. He suggests there can be another point of view. Everyone brings their own biases.
Councillor Cheung said that he would like to see MIT rehire anyone who was laid off and is still unemployed. They would love to come back.
James Daley, employee of MIT, asked if it was possible to ask anyone who donates to MIT to allocate a certain amount to an employee retention fund.
John Collins, SEIU Member, said that a next door neighbor was laid off by MIT after twelve years of employment. MIT keeps going but SEIU loses jobs every year.
Charles Marquardt, 10 Rogers Street, said that we have seen layoffs at Harvard and MIT and we have also seen them with Cambridge public teachers and now with the Cambridge Health Alliance nurses. Let's hope that we are not going to see that same pain. People just are not talking. We need to put the same effort into our own house as we put into looking at Harvard's and MIT's actions.
Councillor Cheung stated that this issue is deeply concerning to a large part of our community. He urged the universities to take whatever steps they can to respond to people who have given so much of their working lives to these institutions. He also emphasized the adverse affect of the layoffs on the students. He does not feel that MIT is at the point where every other option has been explored such that layoffs are necessary.
Mr. Feeney said that he still does not understand the layoffs. He would like to see more effort put into making the budget more transparent and accessible online so there can be real understanding. He would like to know who the vendors are.
Councillor Cheung stated that he would like to know about the endowment restrictions and the feasibility of establishing the fund for workforce retention mentioned earlier.
Mr. Langley said that he would like to see the investments online. If the endowment is not to be a cushion during hard times, then such a cushion fund should be created. He is not sure that the future looks that good.
Councillor Cheung said that the point of this meeting is that workers and employees need to be first. Layoffs have to be the last option, that is, there are if no layoffs the university will fail. It is crucial to make sure everyone affected is at the table. He urged that there please be no more layoffs and that MIT look hard at how these people can be put back on the payroll at least until the end of this recession.
Councillor Cheung thanked all those present for their participation. The hearing adjourned at five o'clock and forty minutes p.m.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
Committee Report #3
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee held a public meeting on Wed, Sept 15, 2010, beginning at four o'clock and six minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the subject of entrepreneur development and ways in which the city can be more responsive to said community.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Sam Seidel; Deputy City Manager Richard Rossi; Acting Assistant City Manager for Community Development (CDD) Susan Glazer; Economic Director, CDD, Estella Johnson; Associate Planner, CDD, Pardis Saffari; Liz Bedell; and Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present were William Aulet, Managing Director, MIT Entrepreneur Center; Kevin Sheehan, Project Manager, Boston Properties; Paul Bottino, Executive Director, Technology and Entrepreneur Center at Harvard; Enn Kutz, Reporter for XConomy; Tuan Pham, Energy Tech, SVB; Gus Weber, Microsoft; Terrence Smith, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce; Diane Williams, Entrepreneur, Mobile Learning; Monica Velgos, Researcher for startups; Serayu Srinivasan, Venture Capitalist; Joost Bonsen, Lecturer MIT Media Lab; Mike Owu, Director of Real Estate MITIMCo; Pierre Dorsaz, Project Manager, Swissnex, Boston; Ovidiu Bujorean, President and Founder, My Paperless Bills; and Jesse Baer-Kahn, President, Twining Properties/City Retail.
Councillor Cheung opened the meeting and explained the purpose. An agenda was distributed. He made comments on the city perspective on the subject. Councillor Cheung stated that when first elected to the City Council he asked his colleagues what was being done to support local entrepreneurs and was told that nothing was done. Everyone wants to work in Cambridge; but that is not true. High start-up costs and the convoluted city ordinances and zoning policies have deterred many from opening their businesses here and pushed others to find a more hospitable climate to expand. Face book, he said, is just one example of a business begun in Cambridge, but lost to the West Coast. A survey of 800 residents, between the ages of 25 and 39, sponsored by MassINC in July 2008 showed one in five expected to leave the state in the next five years. Small companies are the key to the health of our economy and are the ones that create jobs and opportunities, ensuring the power of our economic engine continue to run strong. In order to ensure the continued strength of our economy and community, the city needs to develop a long-term strategy to foster and nurture our city's entrepreneur community. It is time to start thinking about the industry of tomorrow, rather than what works best for today.
I envisioned this meeting as the beginning of a long discussion with our business community. The people most affected by the City Council's decisions were brought to the table to allow them to speak for themselves on what the city needs to do to help their businesses grow and keeping them working in our city.
At this time a slide presentation was given by Mr. Aulet. Mr. Aulet's presentation was entitled "Building a Vibrant Entrepreneurship Ecosystem" and is attached (ATTACHMENT A). He asked what is there to celebrate about entrepreneurs. He responded that it is about skills, spirit and wanting to become an entrepreneur. When one person is successful it spreads. He named this the entrepreneur virus. There are 200-400 companies each year started by MIT. New jobs are created by small businesses. The entrepreneurial ecosystem is made up of seven elements: government, demand, invention, funding, infrastructure, entrepreneurs and culture. All seven elements are necessary and Cambridge has all seven. Demand for products today is flat. There is plenty of funding, innovation and infrastructure. The second most important aspect is supportive government. Entrepreneurs must feel that they can succeed. Entrepreneurs are not celebrated in Cambridge and there is a need to do more and make them feel welcome.
Deputy City Manager Rossi asked how MIT relates the ecosystem. Mr. Aulet responded that the MIT experiment is on the culture element. Small innovated companies are exciting. Israel, he said, is amazing in their entrepreneurial capacity. The entrepreneurial culture in Cambridge should not be taken for granted. Over 40 people wrote their name on a wall when asked if they wanted to start a company; this is a 50% increase. One-third of MIT Alumni have Cambridge start-up companies. Entrepreneurships are important and is driven by the culture and this will be where jobs are created, he stated.
At this time Tim Rowe, Kendall Square Associates, summarized the previous Economic Development, Training and Employment meeting held on June 7, 2010 to discuss the future of Kendall Square. He stated that the challenge for the area was obtaining a lease. A month-to-month approach for space was created which enabled the cost to be affordable. However, Cambridge is in competition with Boston.
Councillor Cheung asked the attendees to state what they see as challenges and/or opportunities for the Kendall Square area.
Kevin T. Sheehan, Project Manager, Boston Properties, stated that the area is a high cost area, specifically labor and real estate costs are high. Reducing start up costs is critically needed.
Jesse Baer-Kahn, owner of a Kendall Square retail store, stated that the challenge is how the city can and the entrepreneurs keep pace with the powerful energy in Kendall Square.
David Barrett, Polaris Venture Partners and DogTech Labs, Waltham, stated that Cambridge needs to build and foster clusters. Cambridge is a great opportunity to build the clusters.
Paul Bottino, Executive Director, Technology and Entrepreneur Center at Harvard, stated that MIT is an institutional bank of entrepreneurs. Incubators are established with zero cost. The challenge is the talent flow. Bridges need to be built with Boston as well as the development of networking and mentoring. Entrepreneur celebration should not have a parochial feel.
Terrence Smith, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, stated that the chamber provides networking opportunities. The infrastructure exists in Cambridge. However the city's regulatory processes are detrimental and push people away from Cambridge. He cited the example of the proposed sign ordinance. Businesses and property owners are frustrated that the cost to renovate is not cost effective.
Pierre Dorsaz, Project Manager, SwissNex, Boston stated that 20 entrepreneurs are brought to the Boston area each year. Switzerland has an entrepreneur culture. He promotes Cambridge as a place to conduct business.
Tuan Pham, Energy Tech, stated that he lives in Cambridge and wants to build a vibrant community.
Mr. Rossi spoke of the appropriate role for Cambridge. Fifteen years ago the questions was how affordable housing could be provided. The inclusionary ordinance which gave a housing incentive was ordained. Cambridge property, he said is valuable. Cambridge property owners are letting commercial property remain vacant. He asked if there is any zoning incentive for property owners to provide less regulation if room is provided for start-up businesses.
Monica Velgos, Researcher for Start-Ups, stated that entrepreneur education should start in middle school. She would like one at the youth centers.
Carrie Stalder, Manager, Central Kitchen and Venture Café, stated that the Museum of Science could help network to introduce entrepreneurship at an earlier age. Connections need to be made beyond Harvard and MIT to the local community.
Diane Williams, Entrepreneur, stated that she started her first business in 1995 and it ended to financial issues. She wanted entrepreneurial skills development in the middle school and for women. She also noted that school-based programs are not enough. The city should foster more after-school entrepreneurship mentor programs and direct internships with businesses.
Patrick Rowe, Senior Real Estate Advisor, MITIMCo, acknowledged Cambridge's success, clusters, connectivity, profession and social aspects. The challenge with Kendall Square is that it does not have the social vibrancy like San Francisco. He commented that no one wants to stay in Kendall Square after working hours. People are more inclined to travel out of their way to get a drink elsewhere because Kendall Square is not suitable for socializing.
Mike Owu, MITIMCo, stated that MIT supports small companies. The challenge is Cambridge is our success is taken for granted. Cambridge needs to continue to be on the cutting edge.
Joost Bonsen, MIT Media Lab Lecturer, stated that companies have emerged from his program. He wants the city to celebrate its robust entrepreneurship history.
Serayu Srinivasan, Venture Capitalist, stated that there is a lot to be proud of in Cambridge. Cambridge is a good model for entrepreneurship.
Gus Weber, Microsoft New England Research and Development Center, stated that not enough is done to celebrate entrepreneurship. Kendall Square's history is unknown. Start up businesses are looking for talent and need help to build their businesses. More informal gathering space is needed for people to meet and network.
Pardis Saffais, Associate Planner, CDD, stated that the challenges are lack of space, cost of business space and the Kendall Square infrastructure.
Susan Glazer, Acting Assistant City Manager for Community Development, stated that there is an additional culture in Cambridge of diversity and commercial industrial district. Cambridge has competitiveness, a support system and small interesting shops. The Cambridge Science Fest is an opportunity for people and entrepreneurs to gather informally.
Estella Johnson, Economic Development Director, CDD, stated that Cambridge has a high cost of living. People come by plane loads to find out what Cambridge does that is unique. Other states want to replicate Cambridge. International companies come to Cambridge to see if they want to locate in Cambridge. The infrastructure and talent is located in Cambridge. Kendall Square needs to be more vibrant. The Community Development Department is looking at the issue of nightlife to bring people together in Kendall Square.
An unidentified male stated that he runs a boot camp for early entrepreneurs. Space and cost are issues of concern. He asked how Cambridge competes on an international level. Ms. Diane Williams commented that only males attended the start-up boot camp.
Ovidiu Bujorean spoke about the challenge of the cost of incubation.
Councillor Seidel stated that he hoped that this group and the conversation continue in the hope that issues such as potholes and stop light malfunctions will make Kendall Square a better area. He spoke about the virtual and tangible aspects and their fit with the actual. Councillor Cheung asked how these discussions become tangible actions. His vision is to take the ideas and address the issues in an effort to translate what the city can do.
A discussion ensured about the "walk of fame." Councillor Cheung spoke of the Plaza in front of the Marriot being used as the location to celebrate entrepreneurs with a ‘walk of fame". Mr. Smith suggested that Kendall Square "walk of fame" could be a fundraiser similar to Hollywood. Mr. Rowe stated that the process must be fair and transparent. Mr. Aulet spoke about the integrity of the selection process. He cautioned not to let this idea be stolen; keep politics out the process. Clear, consistent guidelines are needed. He thought the Marriot area was a great location. Who would pay for the "walk of fame"? It must be unique and capture imagination. Political correctness will lose its uniqueness. Keep it simple. More entrepreneur awards that highlight the accomplishments of past and present Cambridge residents will help bring jobs to the city. Councillor Cheung stated that the creation of jobs and the economic prosperity of the city is the goal of the city.
Ms. Johnson stated that she supported the "walk of fame." However small companies must be celebrated as well.
Tim Rowe listed some of the criteria that were discussed:
Entrepreneurs versus inventors;
Dead versus alive;
Person who worked in Cambridge versus worked outside Cambridge;
Large impact versus small impact;
Person versus company/team; and
Individual versus founder.
Councillor Cheung added that after the criterion is established location and funding should be discussed. Mr. Rowe stated that there is a need to get the ball moving now on the logistics or else another community will steal our idea. Mr. Aulet commented that the location must be global and needs a connection to Cambridge.
Kevin Sheehan stated that the "walk of fame" could be included in Boston Properties plan for the Marriott Plaza.
At this time Councillor Cheung read the following resolutions to be forwarded to the full City Council for their consideration:
A policy resolution to draft plans for an entrepreneurial walk of fame (ATTACHMENT B)
A resolution congratulating the volunteers of the Entrepreneurial Advisory Task Force (ATTACHMENT C)
Councillor Cheung thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at six o'clock and eight minutes p. m.
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)
10-56. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the adoption of a regulation to prohibit licensed hotels from subcontracting housekeeping services.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Maher, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 04/05/10 (O-16)
10-57. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Harvard using the Jesuit properties for affordable housing and whether Harvard will offer other properties in the same neighborhoods for the purpose of developing affordable housing.
Councillor Decker & Councillor Cheung 04/05/10 (O-20)
10-63. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on instituting a program similar to the on-bill financing of business and residential building improvements.
Councillor Cheung 04/26/10 (O-8)
10-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a standard set of resources, facility privileges, tools, and barebones operating budget the unfunded commissions may use in their work of enacting Council policy.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 05/10/10 (O-7)
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)
10-92. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improvements to City parking lot #8.
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 06/07/10 (O-4)
10-100. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #3
RE: report on the safety of pedestrian traffic along both Irving and Scott Streets.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 06/14/10 (O-5)
10-115. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the courts ruling in favor of the plaintiffs at 303 Third Street and the impact on affordable housing units in the building.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 08/02/10 (O-10)
10-118. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on issues related to scooters and any changes to ordinances or regulations on scooter use and parking.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 08/02/10 (O-23)
10-119. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on long-term plans for the building and associated open space located at 116 Norfolk Street.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 08/02/10 (O-24)
10-120. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility and enforceability of implementing the provisions of House Bill 3371 which increases certain motor vehicle fines to improve driving.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 08/02/10 (O-25)
10-121. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on discussions about the future of the Cambridge Health Alliance.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 08/02/10 (O-27)
10-122. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the closing of the Teen Health Center and report quarterly on service changes and other matters related to the future of the Cambridge Health Alliance.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 08/02/10 (O-28)
10-123. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on accident at Lambert & Cambridge Streets and re-examine the intersection for pedestrian safety.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-1)
10-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installing a four-way stop at Fifth & Otis Streets.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-2)
10-125. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on pedestrian safety improvements at Sixth & Hurley Streets.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-3)
10-126. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on continuous problems with odors from catch basins on Cambridge Street from Inman Square to Lechmere.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-4)
10-127. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on nature of the improvements along the Grand Junction.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Simmons 09/13/10 (O-5)
10-128. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on plans for reducing Broadway to one lane near the Marriott Hotel.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-6)
10-129. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the MBTA bus #47 not stopping for people waiting at the bus stops.
Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-7)
10-130. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of installing community gardens at Riverside Press Park.
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-11)
10-132. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #2
RE: report on recent developments and sale of the Northpoint project.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-13)
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)
10-134. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on reducing energy consumption by way of deleting and/or limiting email storage.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 09/13/10 (O-15)
10-135. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of working with the NSTAR/OPower project.
Vice Mayor Davis and Full Membership 09/27/10 (O-1)
10-136. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the planning process for the Concord Avenue redesign.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/27/10 (O-2)
10-137. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on increasing police patrols in the area of Antrim Street and conduct a community meeting.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Simmons and Full Membership 09/27/10 (O-4)
10-138. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of adding historical sub-signs to street signs and the possibility of commemorating the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 with street sub-signs.
Vice Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Mayor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Councillor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 09/27/10 (O-6)
10-139. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of the Healthy Parks & Playgrounds Advisory Committee.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 09/27/10 (O-9)
10-140. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on safety policies and procedures in place to monitor the maintenance of natural gas pipelines in the City.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 09/27/10 (O-10)
10-141. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on why requests by residents to have their mail held by the Post Office were not acknowledged.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 09/27/10 (O-12)
10-142. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on removing the "no parking" signs in front of the old North Cambridge Catholic High School on Norris Street and establishing the parking spaces as residential permit parking.
Mayor Maher & Councillor Decker 09/27/10 (O-13)
10-143. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the allowable uses for the No. Cambridge Catholic High School site and on the number of residential dwelling units that could be developed in this property.
Mayor Maher & Councillor Decker 09/27/10 (O-14)
10-144. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installing a crosswalk and stop signs on Kinnaird Street between Western Avenue and Putnam Avenue.
Councillor Toomey, Mayor Maher, Councillor Cheung & Councillor Seidel 09/27/10 (O-15)
10-145. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on providing additional bicycle parking at CRLS and the Main Library.
Councillor Kelley 09/27/10 (O-18)