Cambridge City Council meeting - Oct 7, 2013 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-18, regarding a report on reviewing and adjusting newsbox placement.
2. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-04, regarding a report on the feasibility of using pylons as a means through which to separate cyclist from motor vehicles and installing side guards on all City-owned trucks.
3. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-02, regarding a report on the potential for a community local composting initiative.
4. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-23, regarding a report on the reasons that the trees on Scott Street were damaged.
Referred to Environment Committee - Kelley
5. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-19, regarding how the City plans to manage tree grates.
6. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Taste of Cambridge grant received from the Cambridge License Advisory Board to the Cambridge Prevention Coalition (CPC) in the amount of $3,000.00 to Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account to be used to assist the CPC with its efforts to reduce underage drinking and address substance abuse within Cambridge.
7. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the California Pizza Kitchen donation in the amount of $233.74 to Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account to be used for transportation costs by the After-school programs.
8. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to a request from Leggat McCall Properties that the City of Cambridge consider the disposition by a long-term lease to Leggat McCall of four-hundred twenty (420) parking spaces and a portion of the ground floor retail space at the City-owned First Street Garage. Order Adopted
Oct 7, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:Attached is a letter dated Sept 26, 2013 from Leggat McCall Properties requesting that the City of Cambridge consider the disposition by a long-term lease to Leggat McCall of four-hundred twenty (420) parking spaces and a portion of the ground floor retail space at the City-owned First Street Garage. Leggatt McCall has requested this in order to satisfy its asserted parking needs in association with its planned redevelopment of the former Edward J. Sullivan Courthouse at 40 Thorndike Street, and to improve and manage first floor retail space at the First Street Garage to contribute to the vitality of the area. Leggat McCall states in its letter that one of its goals in improving the retail space would be to secure a retail grocery store as a tenant there, which Leggat McCall would manage as lessor through a master lease arrangement with the grocery store as lessee.
Potential advantages to the City from such a disposition include: increased parking space revenue from the under-utilized parking garage; increased revenue from new businesses locating in the retail space in the garage building; the provision of valuable retail services to area residents (such as a grocery store); making the First Street area more vibrant; and reducing the City's administrative burden in managing the retail space.
An action by the City Council to declare this property available for disposition would initiate a process, lasting approximately six to eight months, during which the value of the property to be leased would be appraised, a formal proposal would be solicited from the potential master lessee, and public hearings would be held to evaluate the proposal. At the end of this process, the City Council would decide whether or not to dispose of the property at a specified price, along with any other terms and conditions of the master lease. Attached is a memorandum from the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to me stating that the 420 parking spaces in the First Street Garage and the portion of the first floor retail space used by the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department are available for disposition so long as the areas used by the department are relocated to other property sufficient to serve the department's needs. The remainder of the retail space at the garage building is currently vacant and also available for disposition.
Property Disposition Process
There are two critical steps in the property disposition process:
Chapter 30B of the Massachusetts General Laws requires that the City secure appraisals for the property and issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) from parties that may be interested in acquiring the property according to the conditions set forth by the City in the RFP. A winning bidder would be selected, but the eventual disposition of the property would be conditioned upon completion of the additional process set forth below.
Chapter 2.110 of the City of Cambridge Municipal Code (the "Disposition Ordinance"), outlines a process required for the City to dispose of City-owned property, which will result in a "fair analysis of how the greatest public benefit can be obtained from the City property in question." The City Manager is required to convene a community meeting to discuss the matter and submit a detailed report to the City Council, the Planning Board and the City Clerk. The City Council would then refer the matter to separate public hearings by the Planning Board and the City Council, after which the City Council must vote by a two-thirds majority to approve disposition of the property at an agreed-upon price. If the vote were to fail at that time, then the property would remain with the City.
I am requesting now that the City Council declare the 420 parking spaces and the first floor retail space at the First Street Garage available for disposition on terms and conditions satisfactory to the City. This action would authorize me to begin the process of obtaining appraisals and issuing a Request for Proposals.
Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
CHARTER RIGHT
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the proposed zoning petition regarding Medical Marijuana Regulations. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Nine of Sept 30, 2013.]
Referred to Planning Board and Ordinance Committee
2. That the City Manager is requested to review the permitting process and any zoning and building code barriers to greater adoption of solar energy. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Fifteen of Sept 30, 2013.]
Order adopted as amended
Calendar item #2 - Amended Order Oct 7, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has a goal to reduce greenhouse gasses throughout the city; and
WHEREAS: The city has partnered with MIT to create a map with solar potential for every rooftop in Cambridge to encourage the installation of rooftop solar (http://en.mapdwell.com/solarsystem/cambridge); and
WHEREAS: Installation of photovoltaic and solar hot water systems has not exceeded the expected amount; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the permitting process, any zoning and building code barriers to greater adoption of solar energy; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
ON THE TABLE
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-09, regarding a report on the use of coal and on Cambridge becoming coal-free. [City Manager Agenda Number One of Mar 5, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Mar 5, 2012.]
4. Urge greater cooperation from the Cambridge Housing Authority to better serve the people of Cambridge. [Order Number Two of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Apr 9, 2012.]
5. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and other relevant departments in order to present to the City Council a map of Cambridge that shows, by location and by date, all of the areas where construction is and will be taking place over the coming decade. [Order Number Four of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Apr 9, 2012.]
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item No. 12-28, regarding temporary ramps and obstructions in construction zones. [City Manager Agenda Number Eight of Apr 23, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 23, 2012.]
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-35, which requests a report on whether there were any public safety officers that falsified their emergency medical training re-certification while employed by the City of Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Two of May 21, 2012. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on June 4, 2012.]
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-63 regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Vassar Street. [City Manager Number Twenty-three of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on July 30, 2012.]
9. That the City Manager is requested to work together with the appropriate city officials including the City Solicitor and report back to the City Council regarding modification of the ordinance (10.12.030) that links the awarding of a one yearlong Visitor Parking Permit per household to the purchase of a $25 Cambridge Resident Parking Permit. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013. Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on Feb 11, 2013.]
10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to determine the feasibility of implementing a pay-by-phone parking meter program in Cambridge, and report back to the City Council with recommendations as soon as possible. [Order Number Two of Mar 18, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Mar 18, 2013.]
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-29, regarding a report on the feasibility of not allowing residents of new buildings to obtain on-street resident parking stickers. [City Manager Agenda Number Two of Apr 1, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 1, 2013.]
12. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-22, regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Cedar Street and Mass Avenue.
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Rumba Y Timbal requesting permission for a sandwich board sign in front of the premises numbered 136 Bishop Allen Drive, backdoor of 7 Temple Street.
2. An application was received from Clover Fast Food, Inc. requesting permission for six tables and fourteen chairs for restaurant seating in front of the premises numbered 5 Cambridge Center.
3. An application was received from Visionworks requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 1 Brattle Square. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Historical Commission, Community Development and abutters.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Omair Saadat regarding the Connolly Net Zero zoning petition.
2. A communication was received from Anthony Kopa regarding the Connolly Net Zero zoning petition.
3. A communication was received from Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street regarding leadership on adapting to climate change.
4. A petition was received from residents of 2103 Massachusetts Avenue, 2107 Massachusetts Avenue, 2-6 Russell Street and 1 Russell Street regarding traffic calming steps for Russell Street.
5. A communication was received from Daniel Jeffs, 6R Eaton Street in support of the Cherry Street lot being used for parking for teachers.
6. A communication was received from Rhoda Fantasia, Chair, Courthouse Subcommittee, East Cambridge Planning Team requesting the City Council to require phasing of certain elements of the proposed long term lease of Parking Spaces and portion of ground floor at city-owned First Street Garage.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Secretary Shaun Donovan for being honored with the Phillips Brooks House Association's Robert Coles Call of Service Award. Vice Mayor Simmons
2. Congratulations to Ethel Ampey on the birth of her 22nd grandchild. Vice Mayor Simmons.
3. Speedy recovery wishes to Linda Miller. Vice Mayor Simmons
4. Congratulations to Leaf on its recent successes and being recognized by the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
5. Congratulations to BiddingForGood on its recent successes and being recognized by the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
6. Resolution on the death of Cornelius T. Reddick Jr. Councillor Reeves
7. Retirement of Joan Kelley from the Retirement Board. Mayor Davis
8. Congratulations to David R. Slavitt on his new book titled Civil Wars: Poems. Councillor Toomey
9. Thanks to Lance Zimmerman for his assistance at a recent committee meeting and for his contributions to the Cambridge community. Councillor Cheung
10. Congratulations to the Cambridge Boat Club, Community Rowing, Riverside Boat Club and Union Boat Club on hosting The Head of the Quinobequin, a youth sculling event, on Oct 13, 2013. Councillor Toomey
11. Happy 90th Birthday wishes to a special Cantabrigian. Councillor Maher
12. Speedy recovery wishes to Cosmo Cremaldi. Vice Mayor Simmons
13. Congratulations to St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church on its 140th anniversary. Vice Mayor Simmons
14. Thanks to all who participated in making the annual Honkfest Festival a success. Councillor vanBeuzekom
15. Congratulations to the Cambridge Senior Center on the occasion of its 18th anniversary. Vice Mayor Simmons
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the Director of the Information Technology Department and with any other relevant City staff and City partners to determine the feasibility of bringing free wireless internet access to Central Square, and to report back to the City Council on what must be done in order to make this a reality within the next year. Vice Mayor Simmons
2. That the City Manager is requested to work collaboratively with state officials who have domain over Route 16/Alewife Brook Parkway to create a long-term solution for safe pedestrian crossings. Councillor vanBeuzekom
3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to form a committee of City officials and Fletcher Maynard teachers and staff to explore the possibility of using the newly acquired City lot at the corner of School and Cherry Streets for parking. Councillor Reeves
Amended
3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to form a committee of City officials, Fletcher Maynard teachers and staff and area stakeholders to look at the short and long-term use and to explore the possibility of using the newly acquired City lot at the corner of School and Cherry Streets for temporary parking.
4. That the City Council go on record strongly urging the Cambridge Housing Authority to reopen the public decision about the smoking ban that is scheduled to go into effect on Aug 1, 2014, in order to allow for a more robust discussion and greater collaboration with all of those will be directly impacted by this policy change. Vice Mayor Simmons
5. That the City Council go on record requesting that Charles Winitzer, President of Eastern Bus Company, immediately negotiate, in good faith, a just contract with the United Steelworkers Union drivers so as to avert any disruption in service to our Cambridge students. Vice Mayor Simmons
6. That the Mayor is requested to form a new standing committee of the City Council -- a Non-profit Relations Committee. Councillor vanBeuzekom
Referred to Gov't Operations & Rules Committee - Maher
7. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the feasibility of new zoning language for stormwater separation. Councillor vanBeuzekom
8. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council the Assessing Department's findings regarding the feasibility of granting small commercial properties a modest exemption on their real estate property taxes. Councillor vanBeuzekom
9. That the City Manager is requested to provide the City Council with a report on how the city planning team supports and encourages safe bicycle lane travel citywide Councillor vanBeuzekom
10. That the City Manager, the Police Commissioner and their designees shall not activate or cause to be activated any security cameras, surveillance cameras, or any other video or audio recording, watching or listening devices or implement any policy relating to such cameras unless in either case there shall be held a prior affirmative vote of the majority of the City Council specifically authorizing the contemplated activation or implementation. Councillor Decker
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee, for a public meeting held on Mar 28, 2013 to explore how long-term collaborative efforts between the cities of Cambridge and Boston can heighten the region's ability to retain talented students and to consider the impact on neighborhoods and long-term development.
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee, Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee and Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee for a joint public meeting held on Aug 5, 2013 to discuss the future of the Foundry Building.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Oct 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 10
3:00pm Roundtable/Working Meeting for the City Council to discuss the Mike Connolly, et al. net zero zoning petition. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 15
2:30pm The University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting for the following (1) to review the activities of the committee to date in the 2012-2013 City Council term, including information gleaned from the committee sponsored tours of Harvard, MIT and Lesley; (2) to plan tours for Cambridge College and Longy School of Music, (3) to discuss Education First; and (4) to hear a panel presentation regarding the Cambridge based efforts to establish and Office of College Success. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Oct 16
4:00pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss ending homelessness in Cambridge with the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 17
2:00pm The Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss ways in which the City of Cambridge can program public spaces for the enjoyment of the public, including information gleaned by a city delegation which visited New York City to explore summer programming and a discussion of how best to fund public programming in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the Western Avenue Reconstruction project and its impact to Western Avenue between Green Street and Memorial Drive. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 21
5:00pm Special Presentation to the 2013 Cambridge Food Heroes. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 28
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting between the City Council and the School Committee to discuss the coordination and administration of after school programs and activities. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 25
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 2
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting with the Affordable Housing Trust. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 6
10:00am CITY COUNCIL INAUGURAL MEETING (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 13
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 31
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Oct 7, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has long been renowned as an international hub of innovation and cutting edge technology, thanks in large part to the presence of MIT and many of the world's leading and most respected technology companies that are located in and near Central Square and Kendall Square; and
WHEREAS: In keeping with the City's reputation as a technologically advanced community, the City has made great strides in recent years in implementing several locations that offer our residents with free wireless internet access. These free "wifi" hotspots can be found on the City's website at http://www.cambridgema.gov/itd/cpi.aspx; and
WHEREAS: Earlier this year, Harvard Square, through a combination of public and private partnerships, became the latest area to successfully launch free, robust public wifi access; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge City Hall is located directly in the heart of Central Square, the heart of MIT is located just beyond Central Square, and City administrators have made public statements in the past about hoping to eventually establish free internet wireless access throughout the entire City. It would therefore seem fitting that the City should work to establish free public wifi access in the Central Square area in the immediate future; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the Director of the Information Technology Department and with any other relevant City staff and City partners to determine the feasibility of bringing free wireless internet access to Central Square, and to report back to the City Council on what must be done in order to make this a reality within the next year.
O-2 Oct 7, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: In North Cambridge and the Cambridge Highlands, three major traffic corridors -- Route 2, Route 3 and the Route 16 (the Alewife Brook Parkway) merge into one roadway; and
WHEREAS: The location where these three routes merge into one road is commonly known as the Alewife Brook Parkway that is heavily traveled by pedestrians, bicyclists and motorized vehicles; and
WHEREAS: On either side of this roadway are the Alewife Brook Parkway Shopping Center, the Fresh Pond Mall, neighborhoods, playing fields, parks, ponds, the redline MBTA terminus and many high-density housing developments; and
WHEREAS: On Sept 23 at 7:40pm, a pedestrian was struck and killed in a collision with a car on Alewife Brook Parkway; and
WHEREAS: This is the second incident in three months involving pedestrians walking along Alewife Brook Parkway being struck by cars; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work collaboratively with state officials who have domain over this roadway, to create a long-term solution for safe pedestrian crossings along Route 16, the Alewife Brook Parkway; 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 7, 2013
COUNCILLOR REEVES
WHEREAS: The teachers and staff at the Fletcher Maynard Academy have difficulty parking their cars where many of them are not Cambridge residents, but much needed and loved by the students and parents of the Fletcher Maynard Academy; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to form a committee of City officials and Fletcher Maynard teachers and staff to explore the possibility of using the newly acquired City lot at the corner of School and Cherry Streets.
O-3 AMENDED October 7, 2013
COUNCILLOR REEVES
WHEREAS: The teachers and staff at the Fletcher Maynard Academy have difficulty parking their cars where many of them are not Cambridge residents, but much needed and loved by the students and parents of the Fletcher Maynard Academy; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to form a committee of City officials, Fletcher Maynard teachers and staff and area stakeholders to look at the short and long-term use and to explore the possibility of using the newly acquired City lot at the corner of School and Cherry Streets for temporary parking; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to convene a series of community discussions to determine what the community feels would be the best possible use or uses of the newly acquired lot at the corner of School and Cherry Streets.
O-4 Oct 7, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Last month, amid much controversy, the Cambridge Housing Authority's Board of Commissioners voted 3-1 in favor of banning all smoking on CHA property, including within tenants' individual units; and
WHEREAS: The City Council recognizes that smoking tobacco products is an unhealthy and unwise practice, and that regular cigarette smokers place themselves at increased risk of developing a multitude of severe, potentially lethal health problems. Such information has been in the realm of public knowledge for many decades; and
WHEREAS: The City Council understands, appreciates, and affirms the very real dangers associated with cigarette smoking, yet it also understands that it is still legal for adults over age 18 to purchase and smoke cigarettes, and to engage in this behavior in their own homes if they so choose. This is true even in those homes in which young children or elderly individuals may also reside, and may be exposed to second-hand smoke; and
WHEREAS: While society may be making strides towards limiting the areas where it is permissible to smoke cigarettes, and while the Cambridge Housing Authority's smoking ban may have been born from good intentions, it nevertheless seems punitive to enforce one set of rules for those who have the means to live in private housing, and another set of rules for those who do not; and
WHEREAS: A number of people have raised concerns to the City Council that, despite the smoking ban's stated intent of promoting public health and wellness, there could be unintended consequences that have yet not been adequately addressed. Furthermore, a number of individuals have suggested that, even granting the recently concluded 60-day period of public comment, a more robust public conversation on a policy change of this magnitude was and is merited; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record strongly urging the Cambridge Housing Authority to reopen the public decision about the smoking ban that is scheduled to go into effect on Aug 1, 2014, in order to allow for a more robust discussion and greater collaboration with all of those will be directly impacted by this policy change; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to Greg Russ, Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority, and to the entire Cambridge Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-5 Oct 7, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: In October 2012, the City Council passed a resolution urging Eastern Bus Company, which is contracted to provide busing services to schoolchildren in Cambridge and in a number of neighboring communities, to rehire any drivers that may have been terminated due to their involvement in forming a union, and that the company refrain from any form of retaliation against those workers who had sought to organize; and
WHEREAS: This Council Order was brought about as a result of representatives of the company's bus drivers reporting to the City Council that Eastern Bus Company had refused to collectively negotiate with its bus drivers, despite the fact that the National Labor Relations Board had certified the United Steelworkers Union as the sole collective bargaining agent for these employees in Belmont, Cambridge, Somerville, Waltham, and Wellesley; and
WHEREAS: In October 2013, representatives of the Eastern Bus Company bus drivers report that the company has not been negotiating a new contract in good faith, placing the parties on a collision course that could result in disruption of transportation for the students and parents of Cambridge and other communities served by Eastern Bus. These employees also state that the company continues to retaliate against those workers who are known union leaders by reducing their hours, the amount of money they are paid, or by other means. These union employees report that their union is an overwhelming majority immigrant workforce that is merely striving to attain fundamental benefits like adequate company contributions into family health insurance, life insurance, and retirement, and that their campaign is focused upon safety for children and justice for drivers; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge community places a tremendous amount of trust and faith in the people who drive our children to and from school each day, and it is only right that these bus drivers are able to work in an environment that is respectful and professional, and that they are able to support their families via this work. There is a growing national campaign seeking fairness and justice for low paid workers, and we in Cambridge embrace this vital effort. This is in line with the City's longstanding tradition of promoting fair labor practices at all companies doing business in and with the City, and it adheres to the ideals that the City itself strives to meet as an employer; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record requesting that Charles Winitzer, President of Eastern Bus Company, immediately negotiate, in good faith, a just contract with the United Steelworkers Union drivers so as to avert any disruption in service to our students; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to Charles Winitzer, President of Eastern Bus Company; Representative of USW; Joseph Curtatone, Mayor of Somerville; Hans Larsen, Executive Director of the Wellesley Board of Selectmen; Jeannette A. McCarthy, Mayor of Waltham; and David J. Kale, Administrator for Town of Belmont, on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-6 Oct 7, 2013 Referred to Gov't Operations & Rules Committee - Maher
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council presently has 17 standing committees; and
WHEREAS: These committees of the City Council are charged with meeting regularly to review matters referred to it by the City Council or to take up other matters within their domain; and
WHEREAS: This summer and fall, more than 40 executive representatives of the Cambridge Nonprofit Community gathered for a facilitated conversation about the state of the nonprofit sector and to discuss articulating a common voice for change and to ask the City Council what is considered a fair and reasonable Community Benefits Process; and
WHEREAS: For example, the University Relations Committee was formed to consider all issues regarding the relationship between the City and the educational institutions located in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: The formation of a parallel Nonprofit Relations Committee will similarly consider all issues regarding the relationship between the City and nonprofit institutions located in Cambridge; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Mayor be and hereby is requested to form a new standing committee of the City Council -- a Non-profit Relations Committee.
O-7 Oct 7, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: On Apr 29, 2013, Councillor Kelley introduced the Craig Kelley Zoning Petition for Stormwater Separation; and
WHEREAS: This proposed amendment Section 5.55: Special Provisions for Rainwater Separation in Residential Buildings was placed on file due to expiration of time limit on Sept 17, 2013; and
WHEREAS: This petition was not recommended by the Planning Board - the Planning Board did suggest modest zoning flexibility to facilitate the removal of central storm drains where property owners wish to do so; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Community Development Department to incorporate the Planning Board and Community Development Department's suggestions for a new zoning petition. A petition that allows property owners a few feet of height relief by special permit, rather than a variance, in order to facilitate the alteration of a concave roof that collects rainwater into a pitched roof that allows water to run off onto the property; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the feasibility of new zoning language for stormwater separation.
O-8 Oct 7, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is dedicated to both promoting business endeavors within Cambridge and strengthening small local businesses specifically; and
WHEREAS: A Massachusetts state law [G.L. c. 59, § 5I] which was adopted in 2000 allows the Cambridge City Council to grant a modest real estate exemption to commercial properties that are occupied by businesses that have an average annual employment of no more than 10 people, an assessed valuation of less than $1,000,000, and other criterion; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge's Assessor's Office has completed a preliminary evaluation of the impact of this business exemption; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council the Assessing Department's findings regarding the feasibility of granting small commercial properties a modest exemption on their real estate property taxes.
O-9 Oct 7, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge supports bicycling of all ages and experience levels; and
WHEREAS: Bicyclists have an equal right to travel on all of the city's roadways as do motorized vehicles - still, many bicyclists prefer to use the city streets which have markings for designated bike lanes or cycle tracks; and
WHEREAS: Bike lanes are frequently blocked by idling cars, delivery vehicles, and parked cars -- especially during rush hours; and
WHEREAS: Blocked bike lanes lead to unsafe conditions and is a concern for both cyclists and motorized vehicle drivers; and
WHEREAS: Safe, unencumbered bike lanes encourage a greater number of individuals to switch to bicycling as their main form of transportation; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the City Council with a report on how the city planning team supports and encourages safe bicycle lane travel citywide. Specifically detailing how design, enforcement and education relate to city planning. Please elaborate on the following questions in order to prepare for a Transportation, Traffic, and Parking Committee meeting on this topic.
How will the City of Cambridge incorporate best design practices/strategies for bicyclists' safe travel on existing and future bike lanes?
What programs of enforcement are in place in the City of Cambridge? For example, how many citations over a 2-year period have been issued for motorized vehicle drivers who inappropriately block bicycle lanes?
Will the City of Cambridge place an informational pamphlet within motor vehicle excise tax bills that communicates - the importance of keeping bike lanes free of motorized vehicles and the concept of sharing roadways with bicyclists?
Will the City of Cambridge in conjunction with Cambridge Public Schools promote a program of safe bicycling routes for school-age students?
O-10 Oct 7, 2013
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: Three years ago, on Feb 2, 2009, the City Council adopted a unanimous order (O-18) requesting the City Manager to ensure that eight surveillance cameras funded by the Department of Homeland Security ("DHS") were not installed in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Six such cameras have been installed in Cambridge, but remain un-activated; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Police Department has promulgated a draft policy contemplating the activation of the DHS cameras and the installation and activation of other surveillance cameras throughout Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Councillor Kelley has held six public meetings allowing members of the community to comment on the draft policy; and
WHEREAS: The City Manager and the Mayor held a presentation on the draft policy on Sept 26, 2013, which was attended by more than 50 community members, who largely testified in opposition to the installation and activation of surveillance cameras in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: In statements made at the Sept 26, 2013 presentation, the City Manager and the Police Commissioner were forthright in their desire to conduct any policy implementation according to the principles of transparency and democracy, and, in so doing, to respond and adhere to the wishes and concerns of the people of Cambridge and their City Council; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager, the Police Commissioner and their designees shall not (1) activate or cause to be activated any security cameras, surveillance cameras, or any other video or audio recording, watching or listening devices (any "Cameras"); or (2) implement any policy relating to such Cameras; unless in either case there shall be held a prior affirmative vote of the majority of the City Council specifically authorizing the contemplated activation or implementation; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council regarding this request.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee held a joint public meeting on Thurs, Mar 28, 2013 at 5:16pm in the Cahners Theatre, Museum of Science, 1 Science Park.
The purpose of the meeting was to explore how long-term collaborative efforts between the cities of Cambridge and Boston can heighten the region's ability to retain talented students and to consider the impact on neighborhoods and long-term development.
Present at the meeting from Cambridge were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Commissioner of Public Works; Rebecca Rutenberg; Chris Basler, Economic Development Division of Community Development Department (CDD); Pardis Saffari, Associate Planner, Economic Development Division (CDD); Iram Farooq, Zoning and Land Use Project Planner, CDD; Manisha Tibrewal, Principal Budget Analyst, Budget Department; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Present at the meeting from Boston were Tito Jackson, Boston City Councilor for District 7; Frank Pryor, Chief of Staff; Bennett Wilson, Deputy Chief of Staff; Robert Woodson, Director of Constituent Services; Michael Nichols, Committee Liaison; Ayanna Pressley, Boston City Councilor At-Large; Chloe Ryan, Manager, ONEin3; and Nicole Fichera, Manager, BRA Innovation District.
Also present at the meeting were Joseph L. Wilson, 125 Sixth Street, Cambridge; Marilyn Wellons, 651 Green Street, Cambridge; Barry Bluestone, 101 Trowbridge Street, Cambridge; Jack C. Gray, 14 Maple Avenue, Cambridge; Gary Dmytryk, 2440 Mass. Avenue, Cambridge; Jonte Craighead, 3 Ames Street, Cambridge; John A. Hawkinson, P.O. Box 397103, Cambridge; Joel Payne, 107 Chilton Street, Cambridge; Stephen H. Elliott, 700 Huron Avenue, Cambridge; Robert Bird, 153 Fifth Street; Mark Kampert, 76 Fifth Street, Cambridge; Sean Laurence, 150 Gore Street Cambridge; Carrie Stalder, 118 Elm Street, Cambridge; Walt Frisk, 7 Story Street, Cambridge; Gustavo Quiroga, 163 Allston Street, Cambridge; Lv Randolph, 929 Mass. Avenue, Cambridge; Sam Seidel, 381 Broadway, Cambridge; Carole Bellew, 257 Charles Street, Cambridge; Samuel Gebru, 812 Memorial Drive, Cambridge; Margaret Levin, 35 Buena Vista Place, Cambridge; Robert LaTremouille, 875 Mass. Avenue, Cambridge; Alan Hu, 6 Edgerly Place, Boston; Eric Ferrara, 53 Alewife Lane, Weymouth; Meghan E. Reilly, 190D Sydney Street, Dorchester; Denise L. Perrault, 684Haverhill Street, Lowell; Stas Gayshan, 201 Summer Street, Boston; Patty Katsgios, 451 Mass. Avenue, Boston; Andrew Messinger, 174 Walnut Street, Boston; Meichelle A. Ferguson, 35 Bailey Street, Boston; Stephen Smith, 138 Tremont Street, Boston; Will Poff-Webster, 7 Dresden Street, Boston; Dennis Keohane, 34 Oak Knoll Road, Boston; Macy Bench, 45 W. Broadway, South Boston; Chad O'Connor, Northeastern; Evan Spetrini, 1 City Hall Square, Boston; Tara Desisto, 100 Morrissey Boulevard, Boston; Cecilla Vernes, 125 Chindick Road, Brighton; Amanda Chisholm, 7 Greenough Avenue, Boston; Maria Schroeder, 113 Savin Street, Malden; Dave Devoe, 6 Rockwell Street, Boston; Alex Lessin, 15 Belmont Square, Boston; Oti Achamfour, 10 Wrentham Road, Worcester; Michelle Wu, 160 W. Freddie Street, Boston; Judy Kim; Emily Dahlgard, 265 Franklin Street, Boston; Chris Rowland, 45 Whitford Circle, Marshfield; Joshua Hurwitz, 15 Lee Street, Jamaica Plain; Ramzy Haider, 111 Kilsytn Road, Boston; Danielle Deplin, Fidelity; Sofia Lazo, 3 Highland Street, Boston; Sheldon Fischer, 89 South Street, Boston; Dennis P. Jackson, 198 Tremont Street, Boston; Straw C. John, 94 Scamp Street, Boston; Jordan McMillan, 49 Symphony Street, Boston; Cleritza Abreu, 3 E. Alden Avenue, Boston; Adrian Velazques; Nathan Rothstein; Bryan Jamele; Richard Varga; Johan Boissard; Raphael Odrgenhein; Reginald Swift; Peter C. Andrews; Srett Butters, 69 Harrist Street, Brighton; Craig Ramsdell, 800 Boylston Street, Boston; Jason Turgeon, 33 Beth Glen Street, Boston; Nick Corrado, 129 Monadneck Road, Boston; Tiffany Trobasco; Max Fittin; J. Doe; Malia Cozan; Elizabeth Costello, 26 Coniston Road, Boston; Jason Hanna, 337 Summer Street, Boston; Leander Robinson, 325 Durbin Street, Boston; Evelyn Barahona, 6 Margaret Street, Boston; Jamaal Pettwory, 47 Curtin Road, Boston; and Alassa Marchant, 259 Nort Street, Boston.
The meeting convened and the purpose was stated. The meeting was titled "World Class Cities Partnership Talent Retention Meeting." An agenda was distributed (ATTACHMENT A). Opening statements were made by Councilor Jackson and Councillor Cheung.
Boston City Councilor Tito Jackson stated that this hearing is before the City of Boston's Committee on Global Opportunities and Innovation & Technology. This is a regional issue and Cambridge and Boston are interconnected. Boston has 150,000 students and 54 percent leave after they graduate. This area is a hub, but hubs are also a place where people leave. He wants the Greater Boston area to be a destination. He acknowledged the World Class Cities Partnership for the great work done in preparing their Talent Magnets report.
Cambridge City Councillor Leland Cheung stated that this is a meeting on improving talent retention rates in the Greater Boston area. He welcomed all attendees to the second meeting of this type, the first of which was held in conjunction with Boston City Councilor Mike Ross in December 2010. The cities of Cambridge and Boston often attract some of the greatest talent across the globe, but it is essential that we take the necessary steps to ensure that these innovators chose to stay in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He is passionate about this issue because in June 2012, he became a graduate. This is not a town/gown issue. It is important that the City and surrounding community view students as assets rather than temporary residents - assets in growing our economy, enriching our community, and educating our young. In order to keep students in the area we need to provide the tools that they need to live healthy and comfortable lives, such as access to internships while in school, an expanded range and breadth of jobs, affordable housing and convenient transportation. This is an issue that impacts neighborhoods, cities, the region, the state, and the nation. This is a broader discussion that needs comprehensive solutions.
The assembly now heard from Michael Lake, World Class Cities Partnerships who stated that the issue before us is talent retention. Young talent is increasingly important in maintaining the knowledge-based economy of our region, and if it is not retained then we have weakened our future economic potential. He stated that State Street is the second largest bank and was looking for 300 technologists. There was not a deep enough pool of local talent, so the company was built in China. Boston was ranked 10th as a globally competitive city and Kendall Square is the most innovative area in the world. There are 76 colleges in the Boston area, but if we cannot retain the talent we have then we simply have long term tourists. We lose one out of every two students in the region in the seven years after graduation. Northeastern University has integrated students into the area by connecting them with internships during their college years that allow them to build connections with the community. The cost of the living is not the reason that people are leaving; people are leaving for more expensive locations. He stated that there are three phases of retention: recent graduates, young professionals and families. Lifestyles retain people in the five to seven years after graduation. Affordability is the issue when families are started. Once families have children, then schools are the issue. There were 5 findings that increase retention rates: early student integration, university/city partnerships, creating and promoting the brand, embracing immigration and emigration and the quality of life/lifestyle. He referenced current public policy challenges including university class limits, rental market rules, a lack of on-campus housing during the summer, and immigration.
Councillor Jackson asked what the most critical piece is to keeping students. Mr. Lake stated that it is integrating students into the surrounding community through internships and ensuring that they have the opportunity to get a job after they graduate. The high number of graduates in the area creates 400 resumes for every available job.
The assembly now heard from Greg Bialecki, Secretary of Housing and Economic Development who stated that what he believed to be his most useful contribution is to explain where we are in the innovation economy. When Governor Patrick ran for office eight years ago his slogan was "together we can." The next ten years will be a challenge and an opportunity. Massachusetts has recovered from the recession. Boston and Cambridge are the center for innovation talent. However, although we are the dominant innovation economy on the East Coast, our perception of unquestioned dominance is over. It will be a challenge to maintain our standing as the East Coast's leading center of innovation. While Kendall Square is the envy of the world, there is no room to stand still. If Cambridge and Boston were to work together on innovation, it would help to brand the area for young talent. He spoke about the potential for collaboration on transportation, transportation financing and immigration reform.
Councillor Cheung spoke about the Kendall Square rezoning which helps MIT to expand and ensures that the region remains a place where startups can build the innovative products of tomorrow. He asked how the need for increased housing can be addressed. What role could the gateway cities play? Mr. Bialecki stated that the Governor has a goal for 10,000 more units of housing. Cambridge and Boston have done well with housing; they have been models. We need to think regionally. We need to think about the marketplace and what the most important choices for retention of students are.
The third speaker to address the assembly was Colette Phillips, President and CEO of Colette Phillips Communications, Inc. who stated that Boston and Cambridge do not have an issue attracting students, but they do struggle to retain them. The barriers are the affordability of housing. She suggested tax incentive for recent graduates. Boston and Cambridge are often not the most welcoming cities for recent graduates, although this is the nature of Northeast and Massachusetts. When you add race, class and language, the issues grow."Get Konnected" helps connect students in the outside world. Councillor Cheung stated that a Get Konnected event will be done in Cambridge for the innovation community.
The next speakers were Chloe Ryan, Manager ONEin3 and Nicole Fichera, Manager, BRA Innovation District.
Chloe Ryan manages the City of Boston's ONEin3 program which serves the one-third of Boston's population that is between the ages of 20 and 34 by connecting them to Boston's resources related to home buying, business development, professional networking, and civic engagement. 20-34 year olds makes up over half of Boston's workforce. Medical, educational and technology companies are attracted to Cambridge and Boston because of the 20-34 year old workforce. Boston's 2020 housing plan is exciting and will increase housing for young adults and families. ONEin3 challenges all attendees to do what they can to keep Boston an exciting and innovative place to work.
Nicole Fichera, Innovation District Manager, BRA, stated that Boston is an elite innovation city and is growing fast. Mayor Menino wants to push for more. Innovation is an economic driver and is the reason why young people stay in Boston. Young businesses have different needs, and as a result, buildings and public spaces are developing differently. Boston and Cambridge cannot compete against each other. She remarks that the attendees are possibly sitting in one of the most innovative spots in the world: the border of Cambridge and Boston. Councillor Cheung asked if there is any collaboration between new residents, and how recently they entered the region. Ms. Ryan stated that 60% come from outside of the Greater Boston area. Councillor Jackson asked what other integration work is being done by ONEin3. Ms. Ryan stated that Northeastern University and Emmanuel College were asked what can be done to welcome new and graduating students.
The meeting now proceeded with the Panel Discussions.
Panel Number One was on Jobs. The panel participants were Christian Schlachte, Boston University student, Matt Lauzon, Gemvara & #RubyRiot, Krista Blair, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Tim Rowe, Cambridge Innovation Center, Charles Glick, Charles Group Consulting, Dan O'Connell, Massachusetts Competitive Partnership and Michael Greeley, Flybridge Capital Partners.
Krista Blair stated that in 2008, the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston published a research report about how local solutions could assist in retaining college graduates in the area. This has not improved much today. An online intern matching program was established. She asked what can Boston and Cambridge do continue collaboration and connect businesses with local students
Michael Greeley spoke regarding his concerns regarding the region's brain drain issues and briefly discussed two initiatives developed to combat this problem. He stated that there is a lack of mentorships to help students.
Charles Glick stated that he is a resident of Cambridge that works in Boston and fully supports future collaboration between the two cities. He runs a lobbying firm that serves nonprofit clients operating for the public good. He runs an internship program that provides government relations training to a number of local students each semester and states that one of his primary goals is assisting them in establishing relationships with government professionals, issue advocates, and other members of the community. He challenges businesses to see their establishment as a training ground for the region's future leaders.
Matt Lauzon, Gemvara and #RubyRiot, challenged all to say they are from Boston, even if they are from Cambridge. It is crazy to fight about the placement of his business in Cambridge and Boston. He stated that it feels that Cambridge and Boston are worlds apart rather than just a length of a bridge. We need to build a brand to keep young people here. He stated that more time needs to be spent connecting students with companies that have 10-100 employees. The universities in Cambridge and Boston have to come together.
Tim Rowe, CIC, suggested that the "chief executives" of both cities should connect. He spoke of the importance of the region's culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, referencing the importance of entrepreneurs doing little things that are different. He urged business leaders to think about their role, and to always ask how they can help students and fledgling leaders. He spoke about the red line connecting Cambridge, Somerville and Boston-- let's make it dense. He spoke about lab start up space that will be opening soon.
Christian Schlachte, a student from BU, spoke about what would encourage him to stay when he graduated. He notes that the prime thing that young adults are looking for immediately following graduation is a great job. He stated that guarantee of employment is an incentive to stay in the region, regardless of other obstacles.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she is a refugee from NJ. She came to Massachusetts, loved the area and stayed. Post-graduate life is about having a good job and living in an exciting place. She spoke about students becoming an integral part of the community. Retaining student is about long term economic stability.
Councillor Reeves stated that he would not vote to be Boston-Cambridge. You cannot be a world class city unless you are able to get a meal late at night, take the T late at night and go to a bar late at night. He challenged Mr. Rossi to have 4am liquor licenses.
Matt Lauzon asked why Councillor Reeves was combative. Councillor Reeves stated that ideas are always welcome around the table in Cambridge. When you are the home of Harvard and MIT and the innovation cluster why would you want to be anywhere else? Matt Lauzon stated that there are not a lot of graduates here and they feel that their voices are not heard.
Panel Number Two was on Industry. The panel consisted of Tarun Rathnam, Google, Beth Nicklas, Mass Life Sciences Center, James Chisholm, New England Tech Project, Scott Bailey, Mass Challenge and Ben Forman, MassINC.
Scott Bailey moved here for Mass Challenge. Boston is recognized as a world class city. This fact should be played up more. He wanted to reach out to other cities. He spoke about Boston as a global hub.
James Chisholm stated that he has worked for both a Cambridge and Boston city councillor. When considering retaining talent, can we turn rhetoric into action? Students are dreaming about coming to Boston. What is good for Boston and Cambridge is good for Massachusetts. He stated that Boston and Cambridge cannot exist as innovation islands - they must work collaboratively if they wish to succeed.
Ben Forman spoke about the importance of startups staying to maturity. A transportation infrastructure must be financed regionally. Family policy child care, health care and childcare leave policies must be strengthened. Other issues that impact the retention rates of recent graduates are the cost of living and housing. He spoke about improving the quality of life - bars and restaurant should be staying open later. Never before have we seen the extremes income inequality that is currently present in Cambridge and Boston.
Beth Nicklas, Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, spoke about life science internship programs. Over 1,000 students have benefited from a program started by the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center and the initiative has also aided companies in Boston and Cambridge. Community college students are well trained and more likely to remain in Cambridge and Boston. Mentoring is critical. Investments have been and should be made in STEM education. RSTA has received funding from this initiative.
Tarun Rathnam works for Google and sits on the IT group in Cambridge. He works, lives, and socializes in Kendall Square. He stated that Kendall Square has morphed. He urged Cambridge to keep doing what it is doing. He suggested doing a better job of marketing what we have. Young hires know what they want to do so offer opportunities; this has staying power. Google employees love working with their peers. All network opportunities to connect people create a feeling of investment in the city and they stay.
Pardis Saffari, Associate Planner, Economic Division, Cambridge Community Development Department, spoke about affordability of spaces for startups, office and lab space and housing. Lab Central will open in Cambridge this year. K2C2 is looking for affordable space in the new development. She spoke about workforce development, especially for young adults not attending college.
Ayanna Pressley, Boston City Councilor, spoke about the inequities present throughout the region that have yet to be addressed by either city. She spoke about culture and diversity.
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD
Alan Woo came to Boston at 16 and never left. He likes the emphasis on regional thinking. He would like to see the universities working together. Urban Ring Project was shelved due to lack of funding which was a wheel with spokes to link all the areas. Universities are running shuttle busses that are closed to the general public. Boston is slow to catch on to students being involved with the City.
Carol Bellew stated that neighborhood groups are important. The East Cambridge Planning Team works with the developers and works out of the box. It is important to have people working together.
Tara Desisto works for Commonwealth Compact who seeks employees of color. She expressed concerns about resumes being scanned and not being viewed by a human being.
Bob Simha, Director of Planning for MIT from 1960-90, spoke about the days when Cambridge worked together with MIT to make Cambridge a viable community. It has taken 50 years to sit around table to talk about the economic eco system. Cambridge has gone through 4 economic cycles. MIT is planning to build a commercial building on academic land and MIT will not be able to produce the manpower it needs.
Michelle Ferguson stated that jobs need to be created. People will stay here if they have jobs and quality schools. There are entrepreneurs who have ideas but no capital through which to develop them.
Sean Johnson stated that his company takes young professional and ushers them into jobs they love. Eighty-five startups were impacted by these students. He urged aligning passion with profession.
Panel Number Three Education and Panel Number Four Lifestyles were discussed together. Panel Three consisted of Brian Spatocco, Graduate Student President, MIT, Katherine Levine Einstein, Boston University, Eric Ferrara, Northeastern Co-Op Student and student speaker and John Lai, Harvard business School MBA Student. Panel Four consisted of Greg Selkoe, Future Boston Alliance and Karmaloop, Joel Edwards/Funsho Owojori, Suffolk University students and Stay Up Boston leaders, Derrick Cheung, Green Street Vault Fashion Truck and Julia Butler, recent Boston University graduate.
Brian Spatocco spoke about talent activation. Early integration is done at MIT and uses its own manpower.
Julia Butler stated that Boston University has a good reputation for community service. Community service gives students ownership of the community and will encourage students to stay.
Greg Selkoe stated that there is a branding and a structural approach problem. Boston is pitted against Cambridge. The approach in Boston is top down. Entrepreneurs need flexibility. We are a region of "no." This needs to be changed.
Malia Lazu notes that this type of coming together creates energy for both Cambridge and Boston. We have missed talking about the intangibles and how to develop feelings and energy. People want to come together outside their silos.
John Lai, student at Harvard Business School, stated that he has seen his friends leave Cambridge and Boston over the last 8 years. He stated that students care about lifestyles as much as jobs. Students would prefer a mediocre job with a great city. It is difficult to separate the city from the job. There are two communities - people who work in Cambridge/Boston versus people who live in Cambridge/Boston. There is an opportunity to make friends.
Eric Ferrara, John Hancock, is a non-native student from PA. He attended Northeastern University because he wanted to go to a college with a co-op program. He emphasized the importance of integrating students into the surrounding community while they are in school.
Katherine Einstein, Boston University, presented United States Census data that demonstrates that when students leave following graduation, they are primarily relocating to Southern areas with low housing costs and high numbers of available jobs.
Joel Edwards, Suffolk University student, spoke about the importance of extending the MBTA's hours. People want to have a way to get home late at night. Other states do not have this same problem.
Derrick Cheung, Emerson graduate, stated that he runs the Green Street Vault, a clothing store based out of a van. He expressed his difficulties communicating with the City about permits, economic needs, and other issues. He stated that there is a huge communication problem, and asked how this problem can be solved.
Funsho Owojori, Stay Up Boston, spoke about the importance of extending the MBTA's hours later at night. A dialogue needs to be open between the city and its students. Mr. Selkoe stated that more money needs to be spent on public transportation.
Closing remarks were made by Councillor Jackson and Councillor Cheung.
Councillor Jackson stated that this is the beginning for collaboration between Cambridge and Boston. This conversation should not end after the hearing.
Councillor Cheung thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at 8:00pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee
Committee Report #2
Meeting Type - Joint public meeting of the Neighborhood Long Term Planning Committee, the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee and the Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee
Meeting Purpose - To discuss the future of the Foundry Building
Meeting Details
Date and Time: Aug 5, 2013 at 5:15pm
Location: Sullivan Chamber
Attendees
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair, Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee; Councillor Timothy Toomey, Chair, Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Richard Rossi, City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Robert Reardon, Director of Assessing; Louis DePasquale, Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development (CDD); Lisa Hemmerle, Economic Development Director, CDD; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Pardis Saffari, Associate Planner, Economic Development Division, CDD; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Nancy Glowa, City Solicitor; Cynthia Griffin, Purchasing Agent; George Metzger, Consultant, HMFH Architects, Inc.; Alan Penstein, HMFH Architects, Inc.; Rebecca Rutenberg; Jason Alves;
John Clifford; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.
OTHER ATTENDEES
Rozann Kraus, 91 Chilton Street, Dance Complex; Trudi Goodman, 1221 Cambridge Street; D. Margaret Drury, l Dudley Court; Tom Stohlman, 19 Channing Street; Young Kim, 17 Norris Street; Seth Teller; Marzyeh Ghassemi; Pat White, Artist, CAA member; Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street; Nadeem Mazen, 73A Magazine Street; Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street; Gary Dmytryk, 2440 Mass. Avenue; David Bass; Joh Magnahan; Ilan Levy, 148 Spring Street; Michael Devney, 205 Green Street; Kim Kaufman; David Mather; Carol Bellew, 257 Charles Street; Rachel Spiller; and Bob Hurlbut, 5 Sparks Street.
MINUTES
Councillor Cheung convened the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee, Councillor Reeves convened the Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee and Councillor Toomey convened the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee.
Councillor Cheung stated that this meeting is to discuss the future of the Foundry Building. In response to an order adopted by the City Council, the assessor submitted a report on the current status of the building, preliminary estimated costs of bringing the building up to code and a variety of financing scenarios. Councillor Reeves stated that the Foundry Building Reuse Study document was received but there was no discussion or presentation. He awaits the presentation. Councillor Cheung remarked that he believes that having programs about innovation and arts in this building would be going in the right direction. Going forward, the question is how we get there.
Mr. Rossi stated that in the spring, the City Council adopted an order asking the City to look at the Foundry Building and to prepare a list of the current deficiencies in the building and an estimate as to the costs of rehabbing the building to bring it up the code. HMFH was asked to prepare an analysis, without prescribed notions for use, as to the current state of the building and costs to make it usable going forward. Mr. Rossi noted that there are several issues to grapple with going forward, including potential financing, as this is not in the financing plan or the bonding plan for the City. He asked Mr. Metzger for a brief summary of the study.
Mr. Metzger explained that HMFH was asked to determine what it would take to put the building in usable condition without any preconception of the potential use. The Foundry is structurally an interesting building that was built with open bays and heavy tempered framing. In 1980, it was changed to a three floor building. All analysis that was done was merely visual without cutting into the walls. HMFH explored two potential scenarios - a renovation of the building of minimal effort to bring it up to code, or a renovation of a higher level with energy conservation. The difference between the two costs is approximately 1.5 million, with the higher cost for the mechanical systems and higher energy consumption, as the 1980s systems are not energy efficient . A premium cost was not estimated for a historic building. This building is not considered a historic building.
Mr. Rossi asked Mr. Metzger if the building's use is continued without renovation and the City added 10,000 square feet for community use, would it still trigger the accessibility requirement. Mr. Metzger responded in the affirmative. Anything that invites the public in has to be accessible. He remarked that if the building was rented today as is, the City would not get much rent. The market value without significant improvements is limited.
Councillor Reeves stated that the market is telling us that there is so little available in Kendall Square that Central Square is the overflow. So why would rental be low? Mr. Metzger stated that he meant in the current condition the rental income would be small. Councillor Cheung commented that Intrepid Lab had a discount on rent and the space is similar to the top floor of Foundry building.
Councillor Toomey stated that when the building was deeded to City, its value was $16 million. He is surprised to hear about the discrepancy in value. Mr. Rossi stated that Mr. Metzger did the building construction cost. Councillor Toomey stated that he assumed the value of building is rising. Mr. Reardon added that this building is now vacant and when deeded to the City, it was a full service building. Councillor Toomey felt there would be more use for this building now. Mr. Reardon noted that the lower figure includes deductions for renovations so that it meets City specifications. It would be worth $18.5 million, but after renovations, it will only be worth six million.
Councillor Cheung asked Mr. Murphy what the going rate of class B office space is. Mr. Murphy responded it is in the $40/square foot range. Mr. Reardon added that the Foundry building is a class B property, but it is not in the $40 price range. There is 53,000 square feet of space leased out.
Councillor Reeves noted that he has seen this happen before. He mentioned the dance complex buying the Odd Mans Hall. The City gave a gift of $75,000 and then the stores on the first floor paid the rental space for the top floor. There were no renovations made to this space. He would be interested in a use that can happen now at the Foundry building without a significant cost.
Mr. Rossi stated that it would helpful for the City Council to specify the amount they want to spend on the building and their ideal uses so that we can explore creative financing.
Councillor Toomey remarked that residents have expressed that they would like to keep the building and have it be a mixed use space. The City can give high tech companies space to offset costs, provide performance space, art venues, and community space. This is a doable plan, and he does not want this to take as long as it took to make a decision on the library.
Councillor Cheung wanted to look at creative financing. He noted that the City should not simply peg itself to 10,000 square feet of community space, but should use this time to think creatively about a use that would be the best for the community. He noted that this building is between Fletcher Maynard and Kendall Square, and that it would be a great environment for students to go for an art class, see nonprofits in action, run into an entrepreneur in the elevator, and do their homework in a collaborative working space. He wants to fit different communities in this space, and to explore creative financing options to make this building useable. He does not want to sell the building.
Mr. Rossi stated that the City administration is awaiting a policy decision by the City Council as to how to proceed. It is a challenge to have agencies with small finances go into a space that is inefficient. Exploring creative financing options is essential. Councillor Cheung inquired as to whether the City can come up with a model that would allow us to take a loan on the back end. Mr. Rossi stated that nowhere is there a plan for the City to bond the upgrade of this building in the financing plan.
Councillor Toomey asked Mr. Rossi and Mr. Metzger if it would be more cost effective to tear the building down and partner with a private entity to create a state-of-the-art facility. Mr. Metzger stated that the zoning in district is what the building is. The building is currently built to maximum zoning. The value of this property is in its location. Parking would become a requirement if it were torn down and rebuilt. It isn't a question he is able to answer at the moment. A market study would need to be done on this.
Councillor Reeves spoke about the Alexandria zoning. Creative incubator space would enhance arts space. He spoke about a vision and the possibility of subsidizing. He did not hear anyone say they wanted to sell the building.
Vice Mayor Simmons stated that she is not in favor of selling the building. This building is an amenity from the Alexandria zoning. She asked Mr. Rossi about whether the CHA multiservice center partnership model could be used. She inquired if the City is in any rented space at the moment. Mr. Rossi responded that the School Department is only department in rental space. The rental fee is $130,000 annually. Mr. Rossi explained that the CHA brought monthly rental payments that were used to offset the debt service.
Vice Mayor Simmons suggested putting the School Department on top floor of the Foundry building and the community space in the bottom floor on the Foundry building. Councillor Cheung stated that this is an opportunity for the City Council to discuss this issue. He favors putting the school administration in a school building. He wants the Foundry building to be a building that kids go to.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she has three questions going forward: should the City sell the Foundry or manage it ourselves or partner with nonprofits; what is the use of the building; and can renovations be done in phases? The reuse study assumes all renovations will be done at once. Does the roof need to be replaced now or can this renovation be done at a later time. Mr. Metzger responded that it was not approached as phasing. The assumption of a building this size is that you do not want to inconvenience tenants in the building by having to replace the roof. A completed renovated building is more appealable to the market. Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that there were no financial plans to do the schools, but this work is occurring. Mr. Rossi explained that the bonding rating agencies information about the City needs to be disclosed and this will need to be revisited. This involves a lot of decision making on the financial side. Councillor vanBeuzekom remarked that the City owns the Foundry building. It would criminal to do nothing with it. Either sell it or partner with a private entity. Mr. Rossi stated that the current project bonding does not have a new bridge - this figures into the tax rate. Councillor vanBeuzekom commented that there are four ways to fund the Foundry. They are raise taxes, get bonding, pay out of free cash or do some creative process. Mr. Rossi added leasing to a developer who would do the renovations.
Mr. DePasquale informed the committees that although the capital plan can be modified, the tax rate projected for the next three to four years is higher than previously projected due to the school buildings. The real issue is the impact on the taxpayer. If new capital projects are added, there will be increased taxes. There would be ramifications to the City if free cash were used to lower tax bills. Councillor vanBeuzekom would prefer the creative solution or the use of free cash. Mr. Rossi further added that the City does not have the expertise to manage real estate. He noted that there are other needs for free cash that we may not be aware of, including other city buildings that need repair as well as City streets that need repair. The City is not just doing one thing.
Councillor Toomey commented that Alexandria and the Broad buildings will soon be opening. The Broad capital should be used to fund this project. There will be additional taxes paid in the city. Money is coming into the City. Mr. DePasquale stated that new construction helps distribution on the commercial side. This needs to be looked at and planned.
Councillor Reeves stated that there are limitless options here. We could get many options with no decisions. How much in taxes did City receive when the building was fully occupied? Mr. Reardon responded $280,000. Councillor Reeves we are losing money and a decision needs to be made.
Councillor Reeves stated that the City should have a performance space. Boston owns a performance center. There is no arts space in eastern part of City, but the multicultural arts center is there. The City's track record of owning and manage property is not the City's strong point. Councillor Reeves questioned if the City did a long-term land lease, similar to what is done by MIT, and if City still owned the building would it impact the accessibility and systems issues. Mr. Rossi noted that it depends on how the lease is structured, but it is a public space. Councillor Reeves spoke about The Brewery in Jamaica Plain as an interesting space. The person who is running this space is from Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung stated that this meeting is an opportunity to state where we are in general so that the administration knows what the City Council wants. He noted that if the City stipulates a set of conditions on the sale of a building, developers still can find a way to do what they want with it. The only way to make sure that this is for the community is to retain ownership of the building. Can a master lease be done with the uses defined?
Mr. Rossi stated that this building is a historic building by its age. The Historical Commission will want input in the decision making process and will not want the building to be demolished but rather rehabbed.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she likes the long-term land lease model used by MIT. She stated that the City should want the building net zero.
Councillor Toomey stated that he would like to see a rough estimate of the financial differences between renovating the building and tearing it down completely.
At this time, Mr. Reardon discussed his estimates for the Foundry building (ATTACHMENT A). He stated that each option is creative financing. The first three options are if the property is sold and options four through six are estimates if there is a land lease. Councillor Cheung stated that he wanted the backup that went into the numbers in the options supplied by Mr. Reardon.
Councillor Reeves questioned option five as a rental. Mr. Reardon stated that 80 percent of the building would pay for the 100 percent of the operating expense with 10,000 square feet not being charged. Mr. Rossi added that the old police station before renovations was 35,000 square feet.
Councillor Cheung asked about the diminution of the process. He inquired whether there could be a way to solicit bids as to how the uses determined by the City Council could be put into the building and have it still be sustainable and net profitable for the City. Could the process specifically specify the importance of community benefit over money? Mr. Rossi remarked that Councillor Cheung is describing a RFP where price is not the sole issue. The City would seek proposals, ask for a response back, and not just evaluate based on cost. It would be quality compliance for start up space and the arts. If the City had a proposal the diminution would be sent to City Council. Ms. Glowa stated that compliance with Chapter 30B would be needed as well as a recommendation from the City Manager for the diminution of process. It would make good sense and the proposal could always be rejected. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked what the public process is if not 30B. Ms. Glowa stated that Chapter 30B does not have a set period of time. There is a time for the responses and then they are evaluated. Bidders would bid on the qualifications. A lease is a disposition of the property and is subject to state law and city ordinances. Councillor Reeves added that the MIT lease with Forest City was done at a lower economic time. He cautioned about building in an escalator on long-term lease.
Mayor Davis stated that she is interested in City Council coming to a consensus as to what the desired use of the building is. The Mayor's summer youth intern in her office completed research on the necessary financing for arts organizations throughout the Commonwealth, and found they require a substantial amount of money. She spoke about unfinished arts space in Somerville that is a different kind of space. Councillor Toomey stated that this is warehouse space.
Mayor Davis commented that the maximum value of the Foundry to the City is $2.5-$3.5 million. Mr. Reardon explained that if the Foundry building were sold free and clear it is worth $6 million without contingencies for the 10,000 community space. Mr. Murphy added that the letter of commitment in the zoning requires the uses to be education or institution space. Mayor Davis stated that the sale of the building could be a sale to an arts institute.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Councillor Cheung opened public comment at 6:35pm.
Trudi Goodman, 1221 Cambridge Street stated that there are six educational institutions in the nearby vicinity that could use the space immediately. People are interested in developing the space, including various institutions in the area that have run out of space such as the East End House. She suggested another feasibility study that thinks outside the box with reuse material and passive solar MIT should help out with this. People need this. She stated that the figures do not jive. This is a different space. If deemed a historic building would federal government be sued to adapt the space?
Young Kim, 17 Norris Street, stated that this is a great opportunity to have a community arts center in Cambridge. Do not sell the property.
Ilan Levy, 148 Spring Street, stated that a community plan for the arts should be the primary use. Starts ups should be the first eliminated for the use of this space.
Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street, read from Cambridge zoning which talks about what this building should be used for: municipal, educational and community uses. This is the entire building, not the 10,000 square feet. This building was not given to the City to be another office building. This is supposed to be something special. She is baffled why the City does not follow the municipal code relating to diminution. Just do it and use it.
Nadeem Mazen, 73A Magazine Street, supported the Foundry building as an arts and culture space in its entirety. If leased or sold certain arts organizations will be left out because of the costs, as they cannot afford $40.00 per square foot. It would be great to see the breakdown of the math and the renovations costs. This is a great opportunity for the City. It is good to have the City Council prepared with creative solutions for meetings like this. Using free cash is a great idea. How much is in free cash?
Michael Devney, 205 Green Street, stated that his family made trucks at the Foundry building. He would love the building to be used well. He asked about access from Bent Street. This building was designed for large open space; this would be a better use of the space. The foundation was built for the weight. He commented on the five year plan in comparison to the age of the Foundry building, which has existed for 150 years. To put a five year limit seems to be an inappropriately short length. He inquired what type of auditorium space is available in this area that could be rented out.
Kim Kaufman urged the City Council to keep the property and use it for the arts. This is an excellent opportunity to support the arts organizations. She spoke about Debra Mason that lost their space and this could be used for them for kids and adults. The non-profits provide the means for enrichment for children whose parents cannot afford the service. She asked what is it worth to the City to let the Foundry building go from the City.
David Matter, resident of Watertown, fellow at MIT and affiliation with the arts. He spoke about the RFP process. He stated that one aspect is the credibility of the agency. MIT has credibility. He spoke about partnerships between the arts, technology and science is being looked at by MIT. This is a mixed use. Exhibition, workshop, café and conferences could be used as well as for open space. This is a modest space for smaller theater groups. The possibilities would be interesting to pursue with MIT. MIT would have to know about the RFP and think through the financial constraints. A proposal from MIT may have safeguards and fit into a long term lease.
Carol Bellew, 257 Charles Street, stated that East Cambridge has worked hard on the Foundry building for two years. She stated that a third of Foundry building should go to the non-profit industry. There is no technology space in Kendall Square and these companies are going to Boston. She hopes that this can be moved along. She hoped a web site would be available for the public to record their feelings for Foundry building. The remainder of the building should be used for innovation space.
Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street, remarked that all options need to be discussed. This is a good start. The development and taxes in East Cambridge have been watching all the development coming on line in the future. This represents a lot of money. A neighborhood development corporation should be considered. This is what runs the Brewery. The Multicultural Art Center does not do much for the City.
Desmond Yeung, 280 Harvard Street, an arts administrator, stated that MIT is an excellent resource for arts, technology and science. The Cambridge Arts Council board members should be involved. He attended the open house at Foundry building. There were not a lot of Cambridge artists at the open house.
Rachel Spiller stated that the Cambridge Arts Council is not here. There are a number of larger groups that need space and have not been invited to this meeting. Developing another arts center is not in competition with the Multicultural Arts Center. On the financial side there is a digging in of heels - it is not in the financial bonding plan. She has never seen Cambridge stand still and stay stagnant. She encouraged a more open approach to the financing.
Bob Hurlbut, 5 Sparks Street, stated that the Cambridge Community Foundation has an artist studio on Bent Street and has exposed this to school children. Children can show sparks if they have exposure to the arts. This is a partnership between the School Department, Lesley University and the Cambridge Creativity Commons. Mr. Weeks is part of this process that has been ongoing for three years. Cambridge is wild and creative for the arts.
Public comment closed at 7:15pm.
Councillor Toomey stated that we haven't considered that there is a financial opportunity to tap into the resources of private developers and private citizens. The citizens of Watertown raised over seven million for the Arsenal Arts Center. Mr. Rossi stated that was done with the Watertown Redevelopment Authority. He can discuss this with the CRA.
Councillor Reeves stated that in Massachusetts the taxes cannot be dedicated to a particular source. The court stated that the tax money could not be dedicated from a space to a dedicated cause. He wants something done that is edgy with the arts connected. Our local artists tell us who we are. Cambridge could use an infusion about what makes the heart happy. The creative, art and innovation, is where money should be put and should be put soon. This should not be a protracted discussion. This needs to be decided.
Mayor Davis asked who will operate the arts center. This is a non-profit operation. Mr. Rossi responded that this is not a predetermined decision by the City. The City Council must decide this. It is a little tricky with the anti-aide amendment. Mayor Davis spoke about a housing need for the artists. She questioned if this has a funding stream. Councillor Cheung asked Mr. Metzger if the Foundry building was studied for livability. Mr. Metzger responded that the property is zoned for housing. There is no reason this cannot be considered.
Councillor Reeves stated that Mr. Rossi brings the ability to help a group to come up with a great outcome. He spoke specifically about the library. The City Council is fractured with making a decision in this decade. Make this decision and get it rolling. Mayor Davis would like this done by January.
Councillor Cheung stated that he hears that this is not a preset notion. He is happy to hear that Mr. Rossi is looking to the City Council for direction. We do not want to sell the building and do not want to run the building. He stated that he wanted projections and the math background to understand the figures. He stated that auditorium space is available in the Broad. He asked if Cambridge groups could use the IBM space for performance space.
Mayor Davis stated that the Council should not take selling the building off the table as part of the whole package with stated requirements for the use of the building. There is nothing wrong with this. This is the City's contribution to the cause. Mayor Davis stated that the dance complex, Dante Alighieri and CMAC are all examples of how this could happen. Cambridge is good with partnerships. These are complicated issues. City runs good schools and senior centers.
Councillor Cheung stated that he heard an inclination not to sell. He spoke about the long-term gain to the City. He asked does the City have an online tool to see the Foundry building. What is the City Council's common vision for the building?
Councillor Reeves suggested seeing the Foundry building and the Arsenal Arts Center. He wanted CDD to arrange this. The next meeting should take us forward. Mayor Davis suggested adding Maude Morgan. She wants a work space for artists like Brickbottom.
Councillor Cheung there is an appetite to visit these sites and explore copying different buildings and how the financing took place. Mr. Rossi stated they should see the models and talk to MIT.
Councillor Cheung asked to get examples and financing.
Councillor Reeves commented that the library is a gift we gave ourselves and this is the same.
Mr. Rossi informed the committees that the Dante Alighieri was CRA controlled land and the City did not manage it.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Councillor Cheung and Councillor Reeves the meeting adjourned at 7:40pm.
For the Committees:
Councillor Cheung, Chair
Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee
Councillor Toomey, Chair
Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee
Councillor Reeves, Chair
Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee
AWAITING REPORT LIST
13-02. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #3
RE: explore the potential for a community local composting initiative.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-4)
13-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on including a participatory budgeting portion in the 2015 budget.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-5)
13-04. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #2
RE: report on the feasibility of utilizing pylons as a means through which to separate cyclists from motor vehicles.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-6)
13-09. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic, licensing and zoning violation concerns of the residents of Bowdoin Street.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-13)
13-11. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on efforts to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of current detours and traffic plans during significant construction projects that are impacting traffic through out the City.
Councillor Toomey 07/29/13 (O-15)
13-13. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing a open door while air conditioning prohibition.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 07/29/13 (O-19)
13-16. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to improve effective communications with members of the community including the use of closed captioning.
Councillor Cheung 09/09/13 (O-1)
13-17. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on revising bicycle signs to more accurately reflect cyclists rights to the road.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-7)
13-18. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #1
RE: report on adjusting news box placement to ensure the general public’s access to the sidewalk is not unreasonably hindered by them.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-8)
13-19. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #5
RE: report on how the City plans to manage tree grates.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-11)
13-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing an emergency City telephone hotline that residents can contact in times of emergency for timely and accurate information.
Vice Mayor Simmons 09/09/13 (O-13)
13-23. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #4
RE: report on the reasons that the trees on Scott Street were damaged.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-15)
13-24. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the usefulness of an "Open Right" campaign to prevent "dooring" to cyclists.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-18)
13-26. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on reviewing the policy relating to the sale of goods within the public ways.
Councillor Cheung 09/09/13 (O-27)
13-27. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on steps needed to do a Nexus Study and whether there is a way tp expand who and what is covered by linkage, whether there is potential for additional revenue for community benefits from linkage, specifically if linkage was increased and the amount changed for housing could the difference be used for community benefits.
Councillor Maher 09/09/13 (O-33)
13-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on rationale and thought process of the proposed increase of liquor fees prior to the change taking effect.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-20)
13-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of cafe outdoor seating on wooden platforms adjacent to the sidewalk curb in parking spaces and whether alcohol can be served on spaces in the street.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-9)
13-30. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possibility of starting street cleaning at a later time such as 9:00am.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-10)
13-31. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of having busses or other large public vehicles available at large scale cycling events, such as Cambridge's Bow-Tie ride, where drivers and safety professionals could help cyclists better understand the limitations of these vehicles.
Councillor Kelley 09/09/13 (O-17)
13-32. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on potential locations where posting cycling laws and etiquette would be in the public interest.
Councillor Cheung 09/16/13 (O-1)
13-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on solutions that will remedy the extreme temperatures at the King Open School.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/16/13 (O-6)
13-34. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on appointing a task force to further examine the Connolly Petition.
Councillor Decker 09/16/13 (O-7)
13-35. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of installing a speed bump or other mechanism to reduce vehicle speeds on Aberdeen Avenue.
Councillor Cheung 09/30/13 (O-2)
13-36. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic count on Roberts Road to assess truck traffic.
Councillor Cheung 09/30/13 (O-3)
13-37. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on information explaining what best practices, procedures and training is provided to firefighters for handling fire incidents in buildings equipped with solar power systems.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/30/13 (O-4)
13-38. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what measures can be taken to calm traffic on Sherman Street, particularly near Walden Street.
Vice Mayor Simmons 09/30/13 (O-6)
13-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on appointing a task force to recommend an approach to four year old education in Cambridge.
Mayor Davis 09/30/13 (O-7)
13-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on style, quality and long term care of all Inclusionary Units.
Vice Mayor Simmons 09/30/13 (O-10)
13-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on evaluating new methods of communicating street sweeping to resident with a specific request that an "opt-in" text alert be send to residents who own parking passes by linking geo-coded phone numbers with locations to be swept.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/30/13 (O-13)
13-42. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to improve the cleanliness of Central Square.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/30/13 (O-14)