Cambridge City Council meeting - October 19, 2009 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to
Awaiting Report Item Number 09-102, regarding a report on the possibility of
initiating curbside pickup of food waste.
Oct 19, 2009
To the Honorable, the City Council:
In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-102, regarding a report on the possibility of initiating curbside pickup of food waste, Public Works Commissioner Lisa Peterson reports the following:
In order for Cambridge to initiate curbside pickup of food waste, new infrastructure with significant processing capacity for organic material first must be expanded in the region. Food waste currently diverted for composting from Cambridge businesses, institutions and the King Open School is composted at area farms too small to handle additional, significant volumes. In addition to about 2000 tons of yard waste per year, DPW estimates that at least 3000 tons of food scraps could be diverted from the municipal waste stream annually.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-113, regarding a report on the City's ability to begin curbside pickup of plastic bags with recycling.
Oct 19, 2009
To the Honorable, the City Council:
In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-113, regarding a report on the City's ability to begin curbside pickup of plastic bags with recycling, Public Works Commissioner Lisa Peterson reports the following:
This fall, Cambridge DPW will rebid the curbside recycling contract and begin negotiations for recyclables processing and explore various collection methods. Our current processor will not accept plastic bags as they cause mechanical problems in the sorting equipment.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-111, regarding a report on more regular cleaning of litter in the gutters and tree wells around the Galleria Mall.
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-112, regarding a report on the schedule for general upkeep of the playground at the Cambridge Common.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-65, regarding a report on clarifying the policy of posting "no parking" signs.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-121, regarding a report on status on DCR's work with the wetlands buffer zone along the Charles River.
Oct 19, 2009
To the Honorable, the City Council:
In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-121, regarding a report on status on DCR's work with the wetlands buffer zone along the Charles River, Conservation Commission Director Jennifer Wright reports the following:
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has many active construction projects along the Charles River. These projects include: sidewalk repair adjacent to Mount Auburn Hospital, brick repair work at the Anderson Memorial Bridge, capstone repairs at the Western Avenue Bridge, upgrades to Magazine Beach, rehabilitation of the Boston University Bridge, Memorial Drive Parkway Improvements between the Boston University Boathouse and the Longfellow Bridge, rehabilitation of the Longfellow Bridge, rehabilitation of the Craigie Dam Bridge, and completion of Central Artery - Tunnel mitigation projects at Northpoint Park. All of the projects listed have been granted Orders of Conditions by the Cambridge Conservation Commission (ConCom). In addition, all of the above referenced projects, under the jurisdiction of the ConCom, are currently valid and in compliance.
The only project to be issued an enforcement order by the ConCom was the Boston University Bridge project. The enforcement order was issued for procedural non-compliance; the DCR had not provided the ConCom with the necessary submittals outlined in the Order of Conditions. Upon verbal notification of the problem by the ConCom, the DCR immediately and voluntarily stopped work and subsequently completed the submittals within 2 weeks as requested.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $120,000 from the General Fund Employee Benefits (Insurance) Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Public Works Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account to cover current and anticipated settlements, medical services and/or prescription reimbursement costs for personnel injured in performance of their duties.
8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Massachusetts Department of Industrial Accidents Grant for $2,375.40 to the Public Works Grant Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will allow training to 60 DPW employees on CPR, choking and first aid.
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $132,047.09 from Public Works Public Investment Extraordinary Expenditures account (Danehy Skate Park/Dog Park Project) to the Public Works Public Investment Extraordinary Expenditures account (Gately Youth Center HVAC Project) which will cover the cost for the design and installation of a dedicated HVAC system at the Gately Youth Center gymnasium, with an expected completion date of June 2010.
10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-110, regarding a report on the status of street crimes in No. Cambridge and under what circumstances an electronic alert should be issued.
11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 09-120, regarding a report on the Police Department's policy on making available to the public, information about crimes and suspects and other information not prohibited from public release.
12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following person as a Constable for a term of three years, effective the first day of January 2009: Albert Darling
ON THE TABLE
1. Opposition to the closing of the Oliver Farnum Senior Health Center. [Placed
on Table on motion of Councillor Maher on Order Number Fourteen of Nov 3, 2008.]
2. That the Cambridge City Council go on record as favoring a ballot initiative during the next local municipal election that shall allow Cambridge voters to have their voices heard on ridding the world of nuclear weapons. [Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Decker on a Roll Call Vote of 6-3-0 on Order Number Two of Sept 21, 2009.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
3. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting
a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Co-Chair of the Ordinance
Committee, for a meeting held on Nov 18, 2004 for the purpose of considering
proposed amendments to Chapter 2.74 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, the Police
Review and Advisory Board Ordinance. The question comes on passing to be
ordained on or after Feb 14, 2005. [Four sections of the proposed amendment were
passed to be ordained as amended. Ordinance #1284. The remaining proposed
amendments to chapter 2.74 remain on Unfinished Business.]
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Numbers 06-87, 07-83 and 07-138, regarding the status of putting the City's self-evaluation on the website. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on City Manager Agenda Item Number Sixteen of Dec 10, 2007. Dec 17, 2007 - Referred to 2008-2009 City Council as Unfinished Business on motion of Councillor Kelley.]
5. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Sam Seidel and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on June 25, 2009 for the purpose of considering the Historical Committee's recommendation with regard to the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Boundary Report and Revised Recommendations. Committee Report Number One of Sept 21, 2009 was Accepted and Placed on File, Proposed Ordinance Passed to Second Reading and Order remains on Unfinished Business.
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Merek Franklin, requesting permission to
move the existing curb cut four feet at the premises numbered 25 Lakeview
Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic,
Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No response has been
received from the neighborhood association.
2. An application was received from Kristin Paton, requesting permission for an awning at the premises numbered 360 Huron Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and abutters.
3. Three applications have been received from Teen Challenge, requesting permission for a table and chair in front of Starbucks at 1662 Massachusetts Avenue, Fresh Mart at 222 Broadway and Broadway Marketplace at 468 Broadway. Permission has been received from the three businesses.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Peter Valentine, transmitting a copy of A
Short Chronicle of Novel Epidemics.
2. A communication was received from John D. Thompson, transmitting thanks for the expression of sympathy on the loss of his wife Marie Thompson.
3. A communication was received from the Department of Public Utilities, Transportation Oversight Division, transmitting notice of a hearing on Nov 5, 2009 at 9:30 a.m. at One South Station, Boston, on the appeal of Sun Shine Transportation, Inc. for a jitney license for the operation of a hotel shuttle service between Logan International Airport and the City of Cambridge.
4. A communication was received from Lydia Gralla, regarding the St. James Church/Oaktree condo development.
5. A communication was received from Kathy Podgers, transmitting information on how stress makes allergies worse and last longer.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Recognize November as National Adoption Month. Mayor Simmons
2. Congratulations to Phyllis Beckford on her graduation and best wishes for a happy birthday. Mayor Simmons
3. Thanks to Cambridge establishments who have undergone training with "Cut It Out Cambridge," an initiative which will train stylists at Cambridge establishments to provide education and support to the clients and community they serve on domestic violence issues. Mayor Simmons
4. Thanks to Cambridge Community Schools for their service to the Cambridge community for 40 years. Mayor Simmons
5. Resolution on the death of Francis P. "Frank" Frisoli. Councillor Toomey
6. Congratulations to John Clifford on the occasion of being inducted into the Hudson High School Athletic Hall of Fame on Nov 27, 2009. Councillor Maher
7. Resolution on the death of Olive M. Horgan. Councillor Maher
8. Resolution on the death of Robert W. "Boo" Bates. Councillor Maher
9. Congratulations to the members of the Cambridgeport History Project for organizing the first Celebration of Cambridgeport History. Councillor Davis
10. Retirement of Sandy Francis, Jr. from the Cambridge Fire Department. Mayor Simmons
11. Retirement of Stanley C. Fabianski from the Cambridge Fire Department. Mayor Simmons
12. Resolution on the death of Carol Ann (Killackey) Provost. Councillor Toomey
13. Resolution on the death of Specialist Ross E. Vogel III. Councillor Decker
14. Resolution on the death of Major Tad T. Hervas. Councillor Decker
15. Resolution on the death of Specialist Paul E. Andersen. Councillor Decker
16. Congratulations to the Riverside Boat Club on its 140th anniversary. Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis
17. Resolution on the death of Lorraine F. (Demerjian) Bell. Councillor Toomey
18. Resolution on the death of Hope M. (Berkeley) Ryan. Councillor Maher
19. Congratulations to Linda F. Nathan on her new book entitled "The Hardest Questions Aren't on the Test; Lessons from an Innovative Urban School." Councillor Decker
20. Congratulations to Whole Foods Market on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the opening of its Prospect Street store. Councillor Davis
21. Congratulations to the Community Dispute Settlement Center on the occasion of their 30th Anniversary Spirit of Mediation Gala on Oct 28, 2009. Councillor Davis
22. Congratulations to the Union of Concerned Scientists for its 40 years of success and achievement and to Dr. Kurt Gottfried for his leadership over the years. Mayor Simmons
23. Congratulations to Geoffrey Canada on receiving the 2009 Robert Coles "Call of Service" Award on Oct 23, 2009. Mayor Simmons
24. Congratulations to Carsten Miller on his completion of the 9th annual Boston Athletic Association Half Marathon. Vice Mayor Seidel
25. Congratulations to Denise Jillson and the Harvard Square Business Association for the fabulous Oktoberfest and Honk Festival Bands which has brought such great energy to Harvard Square. Councillor Reeves
26. Congratulations to Professor Estelle Disch on her retirement. Mayor Simmons
27. Resolution on the death of Mario J. Aliquo. Councillor Maher
28. Congratulations and thanks to Henri Herre and John Doucet for creating the documentary entitled "willing & able." Mayor Simmons
29. Happy 75th Birthday to Rita Arditti. Mayor Simmons
30. Resolution on the death of Jean DePasquale. Councillor Toomey, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher
31. Resolution on the death of Maria Julieta (Moniz) Carreiro. Councillor Toomey
32. Appreciation to all churches, mosques and other faith-based organizations that have worked to make the climate convocation possible. Mayor Simmons
33. Resolution on the death of Richard G. "Dick" Hughes. Councillor Toomey
ORDERS
1. Dedication in the vicinity of Harvard Street in honor of Edith Elder.
Mayor Simmons
Kelley voted NO
2. Dedication of an appropriate site in honor of John Phillip Sousa.
Councillor Toomey
Kelley voted NO
3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development, the Planning Board and the Commissioner of Inspectional Services to provide the City Council with all documents relating to the development at 303 Third Street. Councillor Toomey
4. Receptacles to prevent rodent problems within the city. Councillor Reeves
5. The City Manager is requested to direct the Cambridge Arts Council to schedule Riverfest 2010 on a different Saturday than Boston Gay Pride. Mayor Simmons
6. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Police Commissioner to increase nighttime patrols in the Willow Street area due to a number of reported tire slashings. Councillor Toomey and Councillor Maher
7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to review the intersection of Pearl and Chestnut Streets for consideration of installing an all-way stop. Councillor Davis
8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works to explore the possibility of requiring multiple trash pick-ups in buildings with over six units. Councillor Decker
9. That the City Manager is requested to seek professional exterminators to more aggressively pinpoint and address the rodent problem in the City of Cambridge and to report back to the City Council. Councillor Toomey
10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the City Solicitor to report back to the City Council with a legal opinion on whether or not listing public notices on the City website could fulfill the obligation of the City to publish legal notices. Councillor Toomey
11. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on both the status of wireless service at Newtowne Court and also with a plan to ensure reliable wireless service in Cambridge. Vice Mayor Seidel
12. That the City Manager is requested to develop a plan to reduce interior
lighting use at the Main Library to only those hours when library patrons or
staff benefit from the lights being on. Vice Mayor Seidel
Charter Right - Reeves
13. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the feasibility of working with local organizations to implement a program in Cambridge similar to the "NYC Cool Roofs" program which consists of painting rooftops with reflective white or light-colored paint which reduces roof and indoor temperatures. Vice Mayor Seidel
14. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council if
any residents are in danger of losing their housing due to the fiscal status of
affordable housing providers in Cambridge. Vice Mayor Seidel
Charter Right - Kelley
15. That the City Manager is requested to submit to the City Council a
request for an appropriation sufficient to enable the City Council to undertake
academic or legal counsel to review the Plan E Charter. Councillor
Reeves
Charter Right - Decker
16. Dedication of a suitable location in the vicinity of the pocket garden at
Fresh Pond Reservoir in honor of Charles Ansbacher, a resident of Cambridge and
founder of the Boston Landmark Orchestra. Mayor Simmons
Kelley voted NO
17. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate
departments about putting a temporary freeze, until further notice, on licenses
for shuttle services in the City of Cambridge. Councillor Decker
Charter Right - Davis
18. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to look into the upgrading of the Haggerty School playground. Councillor Maher, Councillor Toomey and Mayor Simmons
19. Dedication of a suitable location in the vicinity of Glenwood Avenue in
honor of John "Jack" and Kathleen Campbell. Councillor
Maher
Kelley voted NO
20. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments and respond to the City Council as to why the Wednesday, October 21, 2009 flu clinic at the Citywide Senior Center was cancelled. Councillor Decker
21. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Commissioner of Public Works to meet with Fulkerson Street residents who have experienced damage to their homes from heavy truck traffic on Fulkerson Street between Cambridge and Spring Streets. Councillor Toomey
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting
a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Economic Development,
Training and Employment Committee, for a hearing held on July 23, 2009 for the
purpose of discussing the issue of requiring taxicabs to accept credit card
payment of the taxi fare.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Oct 19
5:15pm Special Presentation for the new program being launched by
the Women's Commission "Cut it Out Cambridge," to train hair salon
staff in recognizing domestic violence and acting as a resource for their
patrons. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Oct 20
5:30pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will
conduct a public meeting to discuss TROMP (Travel Responsibility Outreach and
Mentoring Project) a 4-phase program designed to alter the culture of traffic in
Cambridge. (Ackermann Room)
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 22
12:00pm The Civic Unity Committee will hold the first of a series of
public meetings, each featuring a parenting specialist speaker. Featured
speaker: Dr. Lisa Dobberteen, pediatrician co-author of the book Love &
Limits In and Out of Child Care: What Your Child Care Provider and Your
Pediatrician Want You to Know. Followed by Q & A. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Oct 26
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Oct 29
12:00pm The Civic Unity Committee will hold the second of a series
of public meetings, each featuring a parenting specialist speaker. Featured
speaker: Dr. Diane Levin, author of So Sexy So Soon, the New Sexualized
Childhood and What Parents Can Do to Protect Their Kids. Followed by Q & A.
(344 Broadway, 2nd Fl Conference)
Mon, Nov 2
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Nov 5
12:00pm The Civic Unity Committee will hold the third of a series of
public meetings, each featuring a parenting specialist speaker. Featured
speaker: Dr. Nancy Carlsson-Paige, professor of early childhood education at
Lesley University will be discussing her most recent book, Taking Back
Childhood: A Proven Roadmap for Raising Confident, Creative, compassionate Kids,
and the impact of violence, especially in the media, the children's lives and
social development. Followed by Q & A. (344 Broadway, 2nd Fl
Conference)
Tues, Nov 10
3:00pm The Public Facilities, Art and Celebrations Committee will
conduct a public meeting to discuss the possibility of holding a folk festival
in the city in 2010. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Nov 17
2:30pm The Civic Unity Committee will conduct a public meeting to
discuss the use of cell phones while driving and security cameras at the Alewife
T station. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Nov 18
4:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the
Final Landmark Designation Study Report for the Shell Spectacular Sign at 187
Magazine Street at the corner of Memorial Drive. (Sullivan Chamber)
5:15pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a
zoning petition filed by Richard D. Fanning et al., to amend Section 5.25.3 -
Exemption for Existing Parking Facilities by inserting the phrase "except
if located in an Industry A-1 District" to the end of the paragraph, and
delete in Section 20.40 - Eastern Cambridge Housing Overlay District the text in
Section 20.44.3 referencing height limits for the area of the Overlay District
between the railroad right-of-way and Medeiros Avenue, also known as the Kendall
Cinema site, and delete from the Zoning Map that portion of the Overlay District
encompassing the same area. This hearing to be televised. (Sullivan
Chamber)
Mon, Nov 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Dec 1
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Dec 10
12:00pm The Civic Unity Committee will hold the fourth of a series
of public meetings, each featuring a parenting specialist speaker. Featured
speaker: Dr. Richard Weissbourd author of The Parents We Mean to Be: How
Well-Intentioned Adults Undermine Children's Moral and Emotional Development.
Followed by Q & A. (344 Broadway, 2nd Fl Conference)
Mon, Dec 14
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Dec 15
6:00pm School Committee Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 21
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 28
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Oct 19, 2009 Kelley
voted NO
MAYOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Council designate a proper site in the vicinity of
Harvard Street, specifically between Columbia Street and Windsor Street, in
honor of Edith Elder, teacher, volunteer at the Fletcher Maynard Academy and
longtime resident of Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer
with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with
the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.
O-2 Oct 19, 2009 Kelley
voted NO
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate an appropriate site in honor of John
Phillip Sousa; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council is directed to confer
with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with
the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.
O-3 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
Assistant City Manager of Community Development, the Planning Board and the
Commissioner of Inspectional Services to provide the City Council with all
documents relating to the development at 303 Third Street.
O-4 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to consult with the
Department of Public Works, Inspectional Services, and other appropriate city
agencies about the emerging rodent problem in Mid-Cambridge. In areas where
there have not been a rodent problem in nearly two decades. Inspectional
Services and the Department of Public Works have been alerted about the problem
areas. Much of the problem has been related to cutting off access to (food
sources). Residents would be aided in by the city if there was simplified access
to purchasing better rodent proof receptacles. Stores like Home Depot and Sears,
have only receptacles with removable lids in stock. Can the city, through the
DPW or ISD, not help facilitate better speedy access to receptacles the
"food source"? Can the city support resident efforts at recycling
rodent food source control?
O-5 Oct 19, 2009
MAYOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: The GLBT Commission would like a large well-attended celebration for
Gay Pride in 2010. The City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the
Cambridge Arts Council to schedule Riverfest 2010 on a different Saturday than
Boston Gay Pride. For more than 15 years the City of Cambridge has hosted the
Pride Brunch at Cambridge City Hall in the morning on the second Saturday of
June, the same day that Boston hosts the Pride Parade in the afternoon. It is
important the city officials, city employees, and residents be encouraged to
attend and have access to both the Pride events and Riverfest by holding them on
different dates.
O-6 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
Police Commissioner to increase nighttime patrols in the Willow Street area due
to a number of reported tire slashings.
O-7 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to review the intersection of
Pearl and Chestnut Streets for consideration of installing an all-way stop.
O-8 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
Department of Public Works to explore the possibility of requiring multiple
trash pick-ups in buildings with over six units; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the
City Council with the rationale for not implementing rodent control programs
similar to those in new York, City, including requiring metal collectors in
larger buildings.
O-9 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: Rodents remain a major concern for Cambridge residents; and
WHEREAS: Current efforts do not seem to be keeping pace with an increasing
rodent population; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to seek professional
exterminators to more aggressively pinpoint and address the rodent problem in
the City of Cambridge and to report back to the City Council.
O-10 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The requirement to list legal notices in local newspapers cost the city
an estimated $125,000 per year; and
WHEREAS: Newspaper circulation and the industry in general has faltered as a
result of increased use of the internet for news and information; and
WHEREAS: Public access to the internet is significantly improving; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge website could be used as an alternative for
listing notices in the newspaper; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
City Solicitor to report back to the City Council with a legal opinion on
whether or not listing public notices on the City website could fulfill the
obligation of the City to publish legal notices.
O-11 Oct 19, 2009
VICE MAYOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: The City has worked to bridge the "Digital Divide" during the
last several years; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has recognized that wireless service and internet access is
critical for residents to conduct much of their professional and personal
business as well as engage in the civic life of the City; and
WHEREAS: The City's Pilot Digital Divide Program was launched at Newtowne Court
in 2007; and
WHEREAS: Residents of Newtowne Court are currently, however, experiencing
inconsistent wireless access; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the
City Council on both the status of wireless service at Newtowne Court and also
with a plan to ensure reliable wireless service in Cambridge.
O-12 Oct 19, 2009 Charter
Right - Reeves
VICE MAYOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: The City will soon be celebrating the opening of the new Main Library;
and
WHEREAS: Major construction is now completed on this facility; and
WHEREAS: The City Council has previously discussed a plan for city outdoor
lighting in and on buildings, along streets, and in parks and other public
spaces that would adhere to "Dark Sky" principles as well as be energy
efficient; and
WHEREAS: The interior lights of the new Main Library have been on throughout the
day and night, during periods of the day when there is sun and at night when the
library would not be operational; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to develop a plan to
reduce interior lighting use at the Main Library to only those hours when
library patrons or staff benefit from the lights being on.
O-13 Oct 19, 2009
VICE MAYOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: The City Council recently held a special meeting to better understand
the climate change emergency; and
WHEREAS: At this meeting the City Council learned from a panel of scientists
that climate change is happening at a faster rate than the most severe
predictions of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, resulting in
devastating impacts to the environment, health, and socio-economic well-being of
communities; and
WHEREAS: The City has recognized the urgent need to address this crisis by,
among other measures, establishing Climate Protection goals for the year 2010;
and
WHEREAS: Successfully addressing the climate change emergency will require a
number of measures, both large and small, short-term and long-range in nature;
and
WHEREAS: Cambridge has been a role model for other cities in its efforts to
tackle environmental issues yet at the same time has also learned from programs
in other cities; and
WHEREAS: Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York City has recently launched the
"NYC Cool Roofs" program, a project which will paint rooftops with
reflective white or light colored paint, a measure which has been proven to
reduce roof temperatures by as much as 60 degrees and indoor temperatures by
10-20 degrees; and
WHEREAS: These reductions in temperatures will significantly reduce both energy
use and greenhouse gas emissions; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the
City Council on the feasibility of working with local organizations to implement
a program in Cambridge similar to the "NYC Cool Roofs" program.
O-14 Oct 19, 2009 Charter
Right - Kelley
VICE MAYOR SEIDEL
WHEREAS: Many residents in Cambridge rely on affordable housing providers for
their housing; and
WHEREAS: CASCAP is one such provider of affordable housing; and
WHEREAS: Any changes to the fiscal health of these organizations would have
negative impacts on many families and individuals in Cambridge; now therefore be
it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the
City Council if any residents are in danger of losing their housing due to the
fiscal status of affordable housing providers in Cambridge.
O-15 Oct 19, 2009 Charter
Right - Decker
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the Mayor and Cambridge City Council shall seek independent
academic or legal counsel to review the Plan E Charter for the purpose of a
clear and definitive explanation of the role and power of the City Council and
the role and power of the City Manager before mid-December; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to submit to the City
Council a request for an appropriation to the City Council Office Budget
sufficient to enable the City Council to undertake this consultation on this
timetable.
O-16 Oct 19, 2009 Kelley
voted NO
MAYOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Council designate a suitable location in the vicinity of
the pocket garden at Fresh Pond Reservoir in honor of Charles Ansbacher, a
resident of Cambridge and founder of the Boston Landmark Orchestra; and be it
further
ORDERED: That the Executive Secretary to the City Council be directed to confer
with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with
the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.
O-17 Oct 19, 2009 Charter
Right - Davis
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
appropriate departments about putting a temporary freeze, until further notice,
on licenses for shuttle services in the City of Cambridge; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the
City Council on this matter.
O-18 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR MAHER
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The Haggerty School playground is in disrepair, creating safety
problems for the students and children who play there; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
appropriate City departments to look into the upgrading of the Haggerty School
playground.
O-19 Oct 19, 2009 Kelley
voted NO
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate a suitable location in the vicinity of
Glenwood Avenue in honor of John "Jack" and Kathleen Campbell; and be
it further
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer
with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with
the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.
O-20 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: The flu clinic scheduled for Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at the
Citywide Senior Center has been cancelled and there is no word yet on when it
will be rescheduled; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the
appropriate departments and respond to the City Council as to why the Wednesday,
October 21, 2009 flu clinic at the Citywide Senior Center was cancelled.
O-21 Oct 19, 2009
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the
Commissioner of Public Works to meet with Fulkerson Street residents who have
experienced damage to their homes from heavy truck traffic on Fulkerson Street
between Cambridge and Spring Streets.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee held a public
hearing on July 23, 2009, beginning at five o'clock and eight minutes P.M. in
the Sullivan Chamber. The hearing was held for the purpose of discussing the
issue of requiring taxicabs to accept credit card payment of the taxi fare.
Present at the hearing were Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Committee; Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; City Clerk D. Margaret Drury; and Elizabeth Lint, Executive Officer of the License Commission.
Councillor Reeves convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He stated that this hearing will focus on the proposed credit card requirement and the process for the License Commission consideration of the proposed change.
Councillor Reeves invited public comment.
Michael Gervais, 60 Mt. Vernon Street, Somerville, stated opposition to the proposed mandatory requirement that all taxicabs accept credit cards. Credit cards are a great option for some drivers, but no one should be forced to accept credit cards. He said that the process up to this point has not been fair. The minutes do not reflect all of the discussion at the Taxicab Advisory Subcommittee. He cited the problems of regulation, particularly for the many independent owners, and the cost. The company providing the machines that are proposed only guarantee refused credit card bills up to $20.00.
James Carbone, 78 Standish Street, taxicab owner, said that he attends all of the Taxi Subcommittee meetings. The credit card discussion involved two bank representatives who did not have answers for the questions. They had not been properly prepared. As an individual owner, he believes that all of the discussion should appear in the minutes of the License Commission proceedings. There was one more meeting when a representative for the company that makes the machines was present. The total time of discussion with the two bank representatives was approximately 1½ hours. There were many issues that were never discussed. The system might work for taxi companies like Ambassador-Brattle, but not for him as a small business owner. Ambassador-Brattle already accepts cards. The City lets them set a $20.00 minimum for credit card payments. This is not going to guarantee him more money.
Jean Larrame, 126 Jerome Street, Medford, stated that his opinions have been stated by the previous speakers. Requiring use of these credit card machines could put him out of business.
Pierre W., owner and driver of a cab , stated that he feels that the entire taxi industry is being taken advantage of. He does not see why we need to fix a system that is not broken. In every other business, whether to accept credit cards is up to the business owner. He believes the taxi drivers are not being treated like they are part of the community. This is a very difficult time for taxicab drivers. So many cabs are empty that they have to park illegally and try to evade the parking control officers. With this new system, on every dollar they make they will have to pay five percent. They cannot afford that extra cost, especially now.
At this time Councillor Reeves noted that there appeared to be several taxicab drivers and/or owners in attendance who had not spoken. He invited everyone in favor of a regulation requiring all taxicabs to be equipped to accept credit cards to stand up. Five persons stood. He then invited all those opposed to stand. Thirty persons stood.
Kelley Thompson Clark, President and CEO of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, stated that the Chamber supports the effort to equip all cabs. The Chamber often gets calls requesting information on taxis that do take credit cards. Other cities have offered this service for years.
Councillor Reeves asked why in this instance business regulation should be mandatory. Ms. Thompson Clark said that the Chamber has received calls from people who claimed that they got into taxi cabs that had a credit card machine only to be told at the end of the ride that the machine was broken. There are several communities that have credit card systems that work. Travelers are not carrying cash as much as they used to.
Councillor Reeves said that he has never heard of this before. Washington DC is listed as a city that accepts credit cards, but he has never used one there. He suggested that the Chamber reach out to the drivers and owners.
Robyn Bell, Director of the Cambridge Office of Tourism, stated that she has been on the Taxicab Subcommittee in the past. She said that she gets constant calls from visitors coming here who want taxicabs that accept credit cards. She empathizes strongly with the taxi owners and drivers but sometimes changes are necessary to keep up with modern standards. There needs to be some consistency. She compared the proposed change in regulation to require accepting credit cards with the institution of smoking prohibitions in restaurants. Councillor Reeves expressed his disagreement with this analogy.
Mr. Gervais said that the License Commission needs to take a larger perspective on regulation of the taxicab business. The Chamber of Commerce and the Office of Tourism always agree with Mr. Scali. There are many alternatives that can be improved and should be looked at before mandating acceptance of credit cards.
Mr. Carbone said that the Chamber of Commerce and Office of Tourism idea that Cambridge can be a world class city if cabs accept credit cards is not going to help him as a small business owner. Every individual cab owner should be able to decide whether they will accept credit cards.
Councillor asked Ms. Lint for clarification as to whether all three license Commissioners have an equal share in the decision making. Ms. Lint replied in the affirmative. He then asked how one becomes a member of the Taxi Committee. Ms. Lint said that she does not know. Councillor Reeves then asked that the status of the Taxi School. Ms. Lint said that the Taxi School is in a hiatus right now and the curriculum is being revised. She noted that the Taxi Committee was started as a courtesy, not a requirement. It has become a very contentious mudslinging group.
Councillor Reeves said that when the Taxi School established it was seen as an important step for the industry.
Councillor Toomey said that he too has received complaints from drivers. He is interested in knowing if credit cards could be voluntary not mandatory. Taxicabs drivers are a big part of the image of the City of Cambridge.
Councillor Reeves agree that taxicab drivers are very important to the well being of Cambridge.
Mayor Simmons thanked Councillor Reeves for having this hearing. She emphasized that the City Council wants the city to work with the owners and drivers.
Councillor Reeves thanked those present for their attendance. The hearing was adjourned at six o'clock and seventeen minutes P.M.
For the Committee
Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair
AWAITING REPORT LIST
08-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on changes to the intersection of River Street and Mass Avenue to
allow more pedestrian crossing time before vehicles are allowed to turn.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 04/28/08 (O-15)
08-79. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how local construction lighting could be limited to the minimum
necessary for safety.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 06/02/08 (O-2)
08-101. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on working with Boston to create a policy to keep truck traffic to a
minimum within the City.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-25)
08-105. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of using the parcel on Binney and Fulkerson
Streets for a dedicated dog park.
Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Murphy & Mayor Simmons 07/28/08 (O-40)
08-148. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on appointing a public housing or Section 8 tenant to fill the
existing vacancy on the Cambridge Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 12/08/08 (O-2)
08-152. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of establishing a Walden Street Cattle Pass observation
point.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 12/15/08 (O-1)
08-158. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible funding to deal with hoarding and to preserve housing.
Councillor Davis 12/22/08 (O-8)
09-11. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the removal of the Homeland Security Surveillance cameras and
infrastructure and who is responsible for the removal.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 02/09/09 (O-7)
09-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on survey of surrounding cities and towns on the hours of operation
of their libraries and a survey of patrons as to their needs and desires with
respect to library hours.
Councillor Davis 03/09/09 (O-14)
09-22. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to implement the recommendations made in A Look at Women in
Cambridge Now.
Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 03/23/09 (O-7)
09-23. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of doubling the number of solar panels to be
installed on the high school using stimulus funds.
Councillor Davis, Vice Mayor Seidel and Full Membership 03/23/09 (O-8)
09-26. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on potential amendments to the zoning ordinance to bring city
lighting more in line with dark sky principles and address problems of
enforcement of existing regulations.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 03/23/09 (O-16)
09-42. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on planting trees in parking lot #8 and surveying all city parking
lots and library branches with a plan for tree maintenance.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 05/11/09 (O-2)
09-54. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Black MSM issues in Cambridge.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 05/18/09 (O-12)
09-65. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr
#5
RE: report on clarification of the policy on posting "no parking"
signs.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 06/08/09 (O-7)
09-66. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on efforts to prohibit smoking in parks.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Mayor
Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward 06/08/09 (O-8)
09-72. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether city streetlights are configured to prevent
"disability glare."
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 06/15/09 (O-11)
09-76. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on inspecting rooftop mechanicals on commercial buildings to ensure
they are functioning properly and within the noise ordinance.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 06/22/09 (O-5)
09-77. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on painting pedestrian lines on the raised crosswalk on Oxford Street
and on all raised crosswalks near schools, playgrounds or other areas with high
pedestrian use.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice
Mayor Seidel, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward 06/22/09
(O-7)
09-82. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on activity of persons in and around the Larz Anderson Memorial
Bridge.
Vice Mayor Seidel, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher,
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward 06/29/09 (O-6)
09-83. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on providing a weekly summary update of all the coordinated city
efforts to reduce crime across the City.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice
Mayor Seidel, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward 06/29/09 (O-9)
09-88. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of changing after hours metered parking on streets
adjacent and in the vicinity of the Court House and Registry of Deeds.
Councillor Ward, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis,
Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Seidel & Mayor Simmons
07/27/09 (O-1)
09-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether employees at the Harvard University project at 160 Concord
Avenue have health care, workman's comp., a pension funds and do not meet the 10
hours OSHA safety certification.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice
Mayor Seidel, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward 07/27/09
(O-8)
09-93. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on policy surrounding smoking in outdoor seating areas.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley,
Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Ward
07/27/09 (O-10)
09-97. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on proposed plans for the old police headquarters at 5 Western
Avenue.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor Seidel, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker,
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward
07/27/09 (O-16)
09-98. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on assigning one stationary police officers in a prominent location
in Central Square.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley,
Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Seidel, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward
07/27/09 (O-17)
09-102. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr
#1
RE: report on the possibility of initiating curbside pickup of food waste.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher,
Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Ward
09/14/09 (O-4)
09-104. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on methods for protection of homeless shelter residents from scabies
and similar diseases.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 09/14/09 (O-9)
09-106. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on drafting language to curb motorcycle noise in the City.
Councillor Decker, Councillor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice
Mayor Seidel, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor Ward 09/14/09
(O-11)
09-108. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what steps can be taken to implement a 311 system.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 09/14/09 (O-18)
09-109. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on protocols followed by City agencies and large-scale housing
providers with reference to bedbugs and other similar infestations.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/14/09 (O-20)
09-110. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr
#10
RE: report on the status of street crimes in No. Cambridge and under what
circumstances an Electronic Alert should be issued.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/14/09 (O-21)
09-111. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr
#3
RE: report on more regular cleaning of litter in the gutters and tree wells
around the Galleria Mall.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/14/09 (O-22)
09-112. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr
#4
RE: report on the schedule for general upkeep of the playground at the Cambridge
Common.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/14/09 (O-24)
09-113. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr
#2
RE: report on the City's ability to begin curbside pick up of plastic bags with
recycling.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/14/09 (O-25)
09-116. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on legal requirements to do a citywide mailing to place a non-binding
question on the ballot, what the cost would be, and whether the nuclear weapons
question could be placed on the ballot for the special December Senate election.
Vice Mayor Seidel 09/21/09 (O-14)
09-117. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the recent disturbances in the Wellington-Harrington area.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-11)
09-118. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of tree wells and street tree planting efforts.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-12)
09-119. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what sort of formal procedures and handouts the Police Department
has to help people better understand the Police Department's role and
responsibilities in the aftermath of a traumatic event.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-13)
09-120. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr
#11
RE: report on the Police Department's policy on making available to the public,
information about crimes and suspects and other information not prohibited from
public release.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-14)
09-121. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr
#6
RE: report on status of DCR'S work with the wetlands buffer zone along the
Charles River.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-15)
09-122. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the reason six trees were cut down in front of LBJ apartments.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-16)
09-123. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic safety measures at the intersection of Fresh Pond Parkway
and Mt. Auburn Street.
Vice Mayor Seidel and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-20)
09-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on repairing the rubber panels that line the railroad tracks on
Cambridge Street.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-21)
09-125. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on developing an action plan for the Mayor's Blue Ribbon Commission
on Middle Street Youth report.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor Seidel and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-23)