RECONSIDERATIONS
1. Councillor Galluccio notified the City Clerk of his intention to move reconsideration of the vote taken on October 16, 2006 adopting an order requesting the City Manager to take timely action and to ensure that the removal of the tree stump due to Harvard University failing to install a protective tree surround for a 110 year old white ash tree on Grant Street on the corner of Banks Street be accomplished, if possible, by the process of excavation rather than pulverization, for the purpose of preserving the tree's root system for examination by the City Arborist and for possible sculptural use.  Reconsideration failed 1-7-1

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Cambridge Housing Authority Computer grant received from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in the amount of $53,988.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($52,624.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($1,364.00) in support of the computer classes for the Cambridge Housing Authority residents provided by the Community Learning Center (CLC).

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $2,600,000 in free cash to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Department Extraordinary Expenditures account to complete open space and park improvements, primarily for the renovation and soil remediation for the 238 Broadway/ Harvard Street Park.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-166, regarding a report on the impact of the Walden Street bridge construction to traffic calming already established on Upland Road.  Charter Right - Decker

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-145, regarding a report on the Police Department’s efforts regarding security during the visit of former Iranian President Mohammed Khatami to the Kennedy School of Government.

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-140, regarding a report on improving enforcement and methods of holding contractors responsible for idling engine violations at construction sites.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a private donation to the Office of Work Force Development in the amount of $1,000.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account to be used to support efforts to place teens in summer and school year jobs, with particular focus on teens with barriers to employment.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Metro North Regional Employment Board in the amount of $44,400.00 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($31,982.00) and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($12,418.00) and provided summer employment opportunities for low-income youth.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-115, regarding a report on the possibility of providing City and School employees who work at multiple locations with parking passes that allow them to park on residential streets.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-165, regarding a report on the feasibility of making Yerxa Road a one-way during certain school hours.

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-138, regarding a report on whether the MBTA Route 69 bus service is regularly late and/or skipped.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-137, regarding a report on issues concerning 22-24 Prescott Street.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of John Clifford, Educational Liaison to the Mayor as a member of the Cambridge Kids' Council.

CHARTER RIGHT
1. That when the City Manager's final recommended appropriation for the City Budget reflects any change from his original submission in amounts or in distribution of the same amount in response to votes taken at Finance Committee Budget Hearings, said changes shall be separately voted by roll call vote by the City Council prior to adoption of the budget including said changes. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Thirty-two of October 16, 2006.]  Placed on file under Rule 19

ON THE TABLE
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-06 of February 27, 2006, regarding a report on the legality of the banners in front of the Dunkin' Donuts at 2480 Massachusetts Avenue and at other location in the City. [Placed on Table on the motion of Councillor Kelley on February 27, 2006.]

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 November 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 February 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.]

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Chris Shachoy, requesting an adjustment of existing curb cut on left side of property towards center of lot at the premises numbered 180 Raymond Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, and Public Works. Developer/owner is responsible for the installation of the driveways and curb cuts. Approval has been received from neighborhood association.

2. An application was received from Vincent J. Panico, requesting expansion of opening of driveway from ten feet to thirteen feet at the premises numbered 2343 Massachusetts Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, and Public Works. Approval has been received from neighborhood association.

3. An application was received from Lynn Lazar, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 4 Gorham Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, and Public Works. No response has been received from neighborhood associations.

4. An application was received from Z Harvard Square LLC, requesting permission for two signs at the premises numbered 14 JFK Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department, Historical Commission and abutters.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from John H. Pastore, President, Ristorante Marino, Inc., transmitting written protest to the rezoning petition concerning property located at 2465-2475 Massachusetts Avenue.

2. A communication was received from Department of Telecommunications & Energy, transmitting notification of a hearing to be held on November 15, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. at One South station, Boston, MA on the Nautical Tours, Inc. application for sightseeing service over certain routes within the City of Cambridge.

3. A communication was received from Governor Mitt Romney, returning unsigned House Bill No. 4460 which would allow six members of the Cambridge retirement system to buy back years of creditable service for time during which they were private sector employees.

4. A communication was received from the Elaine Cipolla McKenna, transmitting thanks for the resolution on the passing of her husband John.

5. A communication was received from Kathy Podgers, regarding an access scavenger hunt.

6. A communication was received from Kathy Podgers, regarding the city's response to her complaint about non compliant sidewalk and curb ramp repairs.

7. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding customer service at the City Clerk's Office, City Council retreat, funding for non-profits and other matters.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Rodney Gove Dennis.   Councillor Sullivan

2. Resolution on the death of Josephine (Alleyne) Cecil.   Councillor Sullivan

3. Congratulations to the Mystic View Task Force, Mayor Joseph Curtatone, Douglas Foy, IKEA, Congressman Capuano and Federal Realty on coming to an agreement on the Assembly Square site.   Vice Mayor Toomey

4. Congratulations to the Red Cross on the occasion of its ribbon cutting ceremony at the new Red Cross Headquarters in Kendall Square on November 9, 2006.   Mayor Reeves, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Murphy, Vice Mayor Toomey

5. Retirement of Renee Nagle from the Cambridge Hospital.   Mayor Reeves

6. Retirement of Virginia M. Micciche from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

7. Retirement of Angela S. Mullin from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

8. Retirement of Noreen O'Connell from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

9. Retirement of Ellen M. O'Neill from the School Department.   Councillor Davis, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Murphy

10. Retirement of Doris Partan from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

11. Retirement of Linda E. Rings from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

12. Retirement of Nelson H. Smith from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

13. Retirement of Joseph A. Sousa from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

14. Retirement of Kathleen M. Travers from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

15. Retirement of Jean Williams from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

16. Retirement of Patricia A. Hanscome from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

17. Retirement of Marybeth G. Haynes from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

18. Retirement of Janice M. Mahoney from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

19. Retirement of Stephen Mahoney from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

20. Retirement of William Mangan from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

21. Retirement of Phyllis A. Fortuna from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

22. Retirement of Elizabeth A. Grady from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

23. Retirement of Danielle C. Gray.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

24. Retirement of Laura Groff from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

25. Retirement of Mary J. Briggs from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

26. Retirement of Roy Carter from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

27. Retirement of Elizabeth Clarke from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

28. Retirement of Joyce DeMoss from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

29. Retirement of Theresa M. DiLando from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

30. Retirement of Mary P. DiSchino from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

31. Retirement of Lorraine Fahey from the School Department.   Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

32. Resolution on the death of Sister Catherine Foley.   Councillor Sullivan

33. Resolution on the death of Neil X. Cronin.   Councillor Sullivan

34. Congratulations to the Boston Latino International Film Festival on their Fifth Annual Film Festival.   Mayor Reeves

35. Congratulations to Judge Joyce London Alexander and Mayor Johnny Lawrence Ford on their nuptials.   Mayor Reeves

36. Retirement of John F. Geary from the Cambridge Housing Authority.   Mayor Reeves

37. Resolution on the death of Michelina LoRusso.   Vice Mayor Toomey

38. Resolution on the death of the Honorable Norman Brisson.   Councillor Sullivan

39. Resolution on the death of Charlotte C. Cleveland.   Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis

40. Resolution on the death of Andrea Marie Gaziano.   Councillor Sullivan

41. Resolution on the death of Hermes C. Grillo.   Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Davis

42. Resolution on the death of Philip P. McGovern, Jr., M.D.   Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves, Vice Mayor Toomey

43. Resolution on the death of Roland P. Ostler.   Councillor Galluccio

44. Resolution on the death of Katherine M. O'Brien.   Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio

45. Resolution on the death of Ellen F. (Diffley) Riley.   Councillor Sullivan

46. Speedy recovery wishes to City of Cambridge Police Officer Brandon Woolkalis.   Vice Mayor Toomey

47. Congratulations to Edward F. Davis III on the occasion of being appointed the Police Commissioner for the City of Boston.   Councillor Sullivan

48. Resolution on the death of Mary T. (Bucci) Mandarini.   Councillor Sullivan

49. Congratulations to Maria Jobbin Leeds, Nancy Ryan, Pamela Ogletree and Representative Alice Wolf, award recipients of the award ceremony on Thursday, October 26th.   Councillor Simmons

50. Support and congratulations to the Central Square Business Association on their new initiative to support commerce in the Central Square Business District.   Councillor Simmons

51. Thanks to Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs Louis DePasquale, Chief Assessor and Director of the Assessing Department Robert Reardon and Renalda Chambers and Donna Pritchard for their assistance to seniors at the Senior Town Meeting.   Councillor Simmons

52. Thanks to Emmett Schmarsow, Executive Office of Elder Affairs, for being the Keynote Speaker at the Senior Town Meeting held on October 21, 2006.   Councillor Simmons

53. Thanks to the staff of the Council on Aging and the Senior Center for their hard work in creating an outstanding Senior Town Meeting.   Councillor Simmons

54. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Shane Austin.   Councillor Decker

55. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Stephen Bicknell.   Councillor Decker

56. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Edward Garvin.   Councillor Decker

57. Resolution on the death of Specialist Timothy Fulkerson.   Councillor Decker

58. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Jeremy Monroe.   Councillor Decker

59. Resolution on the death of Specialist George Obourn Jr.   Councillor Decker

60. Resolution on the death of Corporal Benjamin Rosales.   Councillor Decker

61. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Kenny Stanton Jr.   Councillor Decker

62. Resolution on the death of Corporal Luis Tejeda.   Councillor Decker

63. Resolution on the death of Specialist Kristofer Walker.   Councillor Decker

64. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Brandon Asbury.   Councillor Decker

65. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Jon Bowman.   Councillor Decker

66. Resolution on the death of Airman 1st Class Leebernard Chavis.   Councillor Decker

67. Resolution on the death of Specialist Justin Jarrett.   Councillor Decker

68. Resolution on the death of Corporal Carl Johnson II.   Councillor Decker

69. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Stephen Johnson.   Councillor Decker

70. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Derek Jones.   Councillor Decker

71. Resolution on the death of Specialist Jose Perez.   Councillor Decker

72. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Norman Taylor III.   Councillor Decker

73. Resolution on the death of Corporal David Unger.   Councillor Decker

74. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Phillip Williams.   Councillor Decker

75. Resolution on the death of Specialist Raymond Armijo.   Councillor Decker

76. Resolution on the death of Corporal Nicholas Arvanitis.   Councillor Decker

77. Resolution on the death of Corporal Russell Culbertson III.   Councillor Decker

78. Resolution on the death of Private 1st Class Thomas Hewett.   Councillor Decker

79. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Julian Arechaga.   Councillor Decker

80. Resolution on the death of 2nd Lieutenant Joshua Booth.   Councillor Decker

81. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Nathan Frigo.   Councillor Decker

82. Resolution on the death of 2nd Lieutenant Christopher Loudon.   Councillor Decker

83. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Joseph Perry.   Councillor Decker

84. Resolution on the death of Specialist Daniel Winegart.   Councillor Decker

85. Resolution on the death of Specialist Timothy Burke.   Councillor Decker

86. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Ryan Haupt.   Councillor Decker

87. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Gene Hawkins.   Councillor Decker

88. Resolution on the death of Corporal Bradford Payne.   Councillor Decker

89. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Justin Walsh.   Councillor Decker

90. Resolution on the death of 1st Lieutenant Joshua Deese.   Councillor Decker

91. Resolution on the death of Specialist Joseph Dumas Jr.   Councillor Decker

92. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant James Ellis.   Councillor Decker

93. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Shelby Feniello.   Councillor Decker

94. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Daniel Isshak.   Councillor Decker

95. Resolution on the death of Specialist Timothy Lauer.   Councillor Decker

96. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jonathan Lootens.   Councillor Decker

97. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jonathan Simpson.   Councillor Decker

98. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Nicholas Sowinski.   Councillor Decker

99. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Joshua Hines.   Councillor Decker

100. Resolution on the death of Captain Shane Adcock.   Councillor Decker

101. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Jonathan Rojas.   Councillor Decker

102. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Keith Moore.   Councillor Decker

103. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Christopher Moudry.   Councillor Decker

104. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Garth Sizemore.   Councillor Decker

105. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Dean Bright.   Councillor Decker

106. Resolution on the death of Captain Mark Paine.   Councillor Decker

107. Resolution on the death of Captain Justin Peterson.   Councillor Decker

108. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Lester Baroncini Jr.   Councillor Decker

109. Resolution on the death of Captain Robert Secher.   Councillor Decker

110. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Joseph Kane.   Councillor Decker

111. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Lawrence Parrish.   Councillor Decker

112. Resolution on the death of 2nd Lieutenant Johnny Craver.   Councillor Decker

113. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal John Hale.   Councillor Decker

114. Resolution on the death of Specialist John Wood.   Councillor Decker

115. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Brock Babb.   Councillor Decker

116. Resolution on the death of Sergeant 1st Class Daniel Brozovich.   Councillor Decker

117. Resolution on the death of 1st Sergeant Charles King.   Councillor Decker

118. Resolution on the death of Mary Jeanette Murray.   Councillor Sullivan

119. Resolution on the death of Julia M. (Carvalho) Toomey.   Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio

120. Resolution on the death of Louise T. (Bell) Grant.   Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Galluccio

121. Resolution on the death of Michael J. Hourihan.   Vice Mayor Toomey

122. Congratulations to the Cambridge Literacy Program on its 10th Annual Fun Day.   Councillor Sullivan

123. Congratulations to the Cambridge Community Foundation on its 90th anniversary.   Councillor Sullivan

124. Congratulations to Schering-Plough Research Institute on the grand opening of their new home located at 320 Bent Street.   Councillor Sullivan

125. Congratulations to the Massachusetts Association of Italian American Police Officers Inc. on their 38th Annual Awards Reception.   Councillor Sullivan

126. Congratulations to Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. on his appointment as the Alphonse Fletcher Jr. University Professor.   Mayor Reeves

127. Congratulations to CitySprouts for their Harvest Festival which took place on October 14, 2006 at the Morse School.   Councillor Davis

128. Suitable resolution on the death of Elizabeth R. O'Brien.   Councillor Sullivan

129. Happy 90th Birthday wishes to Al Wilson.   Councillor Sullivan

130. Congratulations to Erin Fermoyle on the opening of her Hot Off the Press cafe and bakery in Central Square.   Vice Mayor Toomey

131. Thanks to the Department of Public Works and the King and Amigos Schools for their participation in the creation of the two new CitySprouts gardens.   Councillor Davis

132. Congratulations to the Rindge School of Technical Arts Automotive Department and MIT for their collaboration in four alternative-designed, multi-fuel vehicles and the transformation of diesel-powered automobile engines to run on vegetable oil.   Councillor Davis

133. Congratulations to the Kids' Council Youth Involvement Subcommittee on their leadership and efforts to improve life in Cambridge by increasing youth civic engagement.   Mayor Reeves

134. Commend the Center for Family Connection for the brilliant work they do creating family connections.   Mayor Reeves

135. Resolution on the death of Bertha E. (Goodwin) Benoit.   Councillor Sullivan

136. Congratulations to Ja-Lene Scott-Dottin on her selection to represent the King Elementary School and the State of Massachusetts at the 2007 Junior National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C.   Mayor Reeves, Councillor Sullivan

137. Resolution on the death of Manuel M. Ricardo.   Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Sullivan

138. Resolution on the death of Francis X. Kelley.   Councillor Sullivan, Vice Mayor Toomey

139. Resolution on the death of Patrick F. Plunkett.   Councillor Sullivan

140. Resolution on the death of Lucy Watson.   Councillor Sullivan, Mayor Reeves

141. Speedy recovery wishes to Jane Warner.   Councillor Sullivan

142. Speedy recovery wishes to Mary Nicoloro.   Vice Mayor Toomey

143. Resolution on the death of Mr. Moreira.   Vice Mayor Toomey

144. Congratulations to State Education Commissioner David P. Driscoll on his impending retirement.   Councillor Sullivan

145. Congratulations to Chynere Scott-Dottin on her selection to represent the King Elementary School and the State of Massachusetts at the 2007 Junior National Young Leaders Conference in Washington, D.C.   Mayor Reeves, Councillor Sullivan

146. Condolences to Jill Herold on the death of her father.   Councillor Sullivan, Councillor Davis, Mayor Reeves

ORDERS
1. Dedication of the corner of Montgomery Street and Rindge Avenue as Shallow Square.   Councillor Galluccio

2. That the City Manager is requested to appoint a member of the City Council and a member of the School Committee to the Youth Sports Commission.   Councillor Galluccio

3. Report from the Assistant City Manager for Human Services regarding concerns raised at the Senior Town Meeting on October 21, 2006.   Councillor Simmons

4. That the City Manager is requested to investigate whether or not Verizon offers cable services to other cities.   Councillor Simmons and Councillor Davis

5. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to look into the matter of speeding vehicles on Franklin Street and, if necessary, arrange/institute the proper mitigation remedies.   Councillor Simmons

6. That the City Manager is requested to clarify to the City Council and the general public the regulations and laws pertaining to bicycles riding on sidewalks in the city, including in what areas and on what streets bicyclists are prohibited from riding on the sidewalk and what are the penalties and what enforcement takes place.   Councillor Galluccio

7. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with a summary of all steps that have been taken to make the intersection of Route 16 and Rindge Avenue safer for pedestrians.   Councillor Galluccio

8. That the City Council refer the matter of NSTAR's role in the Walden Street Bridge project to the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee for a hearing.   Councillor Davis

9. That the City Manager is requested to make recommendations to the City Council about how the City will participate as a co-sponsor of the Cambridge Science Festival, including appropriate in-kind and other contributions.   Councillor Davis

10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with appropriate City staff to determine how the renovations at the Alden Park playground resulted in the installation of equipment that may pose overly high dangers to children using the newly renovated playground and to ensure that any equipment removed from the Alden Park playground or placed off limits be replaced by new equipment or promptly brought into a useable condition.   Councillor Kelley, Councillor Sullivan and Councillor Simmons

11. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate Department heads, the Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority, the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust and any other relevant body to develop a list of all affordable housing developments in Cambridge, excluding inclusionary zoning affordable units, along with a list of the management companies for those developments.   Councillor Kelley

12. That the City Manager is requested to investigate and report on the construction details and timeline for the BU Bridge repairs.   Councillor Davis

13. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of the City's program to install "Call if not working" tags on traffic signals.   Councillor Kelley

14. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of setting up the City Committee on leaf blowers.   Councillor Kelley

15. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of tree removal in Linear Park necessitated by the Trolley Square HRI development.   Councillor Kelley

16. That the City Manager is requested to create a Citizen's Advisory Board to assist the City in choosing a new Police Commissioner.   Councillor Decker
Charter Right - Decker

17. That the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Committee schedule a meeting to review city plans to address pedestrian issues related to the new Lechmere Station.   Councillor Davis

18. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation, the Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Massachusetts State Police to collectively look at the excessive speeding, poor signage and poorly timed lights in the area of Mount Auburn Street and Fresh Pond Parkway during school hours.   Councillor Sullivan

19. Dedication of a suitable location in honor of Philip P. McGovern, Jr., M.D.   Councillor Sullivan

20. That the City Manager is requested to investigate and address parking, drop off and pick up issues for parents at the Peabody School.   Councillor Davis

21. Request that the Cambridge legislative delegation to the Great and General Court file a bill to require the Cambridge District Court to remain in Cambridge and relocate to the former Third District Court building on Third Street.   Councillor Sullivan and Vice Mayor Toomey

22. That the attached proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to require public review for smaller scaled residential and commercial development in B, BA-1 and B-2 districts and reduce heights and increase side yard requirements in these districts under certain circumstances be referred to the Planning Board and Ordinance Committee for hearing and report.   Councillor Galluccio

23. Urge the MBTA to keep the "Lechmere" in Lechmere Station to signify the name's historic connection to the Revolutionary War and an early Cambridge settler and Loyalist, Richard Lechmere.   Councillor Davis and Vice Mayor Toomey

24. City Council support of the development of buildings that follow sustainable and energy efficiency standards and that the City Manager report back to the City Council on how the new library construction will help meet the City's CO2 reduction goals, and what green standards will be used for its construction.   Councillor Kelley -- AMENDED

25. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on whether there is any Zoning Ordinance or Pole and Conduit Regulation to require a permit be issued on new construction that would help the City achieve its wireless objective.   Councillor Davis and Councillor Sullivan

26. That the City Manager is requested to recommend to the City Council the resources necessary to get through the testing phase for wireless access for the City as soon as possible.   Councillor Davis

27. That the City Manager is requested to coordinate with the Harvard Square Business Association to make Palmer Street and the wider area of Harvard Square wireless.   Councillor Davis

28. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of appointing members of the Lesley University Development Committee.   Councillor Kelley

29. That the City Manager direct the Police Commissioner to comply with the City ordinance requiring a minimum of thirty foot patrol officers be assigned to neighborhoods where needed.   Councillor Kelley and Councillor Simmons

30. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the City Solicitor with a view in mind of amending the Municipal Ordinance as it relates to Noise so that second time offenders will be ordered to stop work for the day as well as to define "large scale" projects.   Vice Mayor Toomey -- AMENDED

31. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Commissioner of Public Works to work with the Central Square Business Association to provide an informational sign on the lawn of City Hall regarding their "Holiday Central" event on December 12, 2006.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sullivan

32. Dedication of a suitable location in the vicinity of Holmes and Holworthy Street as DiPace/Feroleto Family Square.   Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Sullivan

33. That the City Manager is requested to meet with the appropriate officials at the Department of Conservation and Recreation on the dangerous intersections of state roads in Cambridge.   Councillor Davis

34. Requesting that the Cambridge Delegation to the State Legislature arrange for a public hearing to be held in Cambridge by the appropriate legislative committee on the subject of the dangerous intersections of state roads in Cambridge that need immediate attention, especially the intersection of Route 16 and Rindge Avenue.   Councillor Sullivan

35. Public Safety Committee schedule a follow-up meeting to be held to discuss guns and gun traffic.   Councillor Davis

36. City Manager be and is hereby requested to report back to the City Council on the current structure of the staffing level in the Police Department including the special units.   Councillor Sullivan

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on October 4, 2006 for the purpose of considering a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to rezone the remaining Business C-1 property on north Massachusetts Avenue to Business A-1.  Passed to 2nd Reading

2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on October 4, 2006 for the purpose of considering a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to amend the zoning map at the end of Loomis Street by substituting the zoning designation Residence B for the current Industry B-2/Alewife Overlay District 1 designation for a portion of the lot at 61R Smith Place.  Passed to 2nd Reading

3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Michael A. Sullivan and Vice Mayor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Co-Chairs of the Public Safety Committee, for a meeting held on October 3, 2006 to discuss the issue of Community Policing and the items that were referred to the committee on this subject.

4. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee, for a meeting held on October 12, 2006 to discuss the state of our neighborhoods; our common knowledge is our advantage.

5. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Chair of the Housing Committee, for a meeting held on September 27, 2006 for the purpose of discussing follow-up of the roundtable meeting of the City Council and the Affordable Housing Trust, including a strategy for coordinating long term housing goals.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Oct 30
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 6
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 13
5:00pm   Roundtable Meeting to set City Council goals. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised.  (Central Square Library)

Mon, Nov 20
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 27
5:30pm   Roundtable Meeting to discuss the License Commission's cap policy. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Nov 28
5:00pm   The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the appointment and the responsibilities of the joint committee of the School Committee and the City Council to discuss laptop computers for high school students.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 4
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 11
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 18
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 8, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 22, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 29, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 5, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 12, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 26, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 5, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 12, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 19, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 26, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Apr 9, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Apr 23, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Apr 30, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record dedicating the corner of Montgomery Street and Rindge Avenue as Shallow Square; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directly 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     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to appoint a member of the City Council and a member of the School Committee to the Youth Sports Commission.

O-3     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The Senior Town Meeting held at the Citywide Senior Center on October 21, 2006 was an informative, successful and well-attended event; and
WHEREAS: The senior citizens who attended the meeting raised several issues of general concern to seniors, including:
  * SCM transportation from the Porter Square neighborhood to the Market Basket;
  * Failure of MBTA buses to pull all the way up to the curb at bus stops;
  * WIFI access for seniors;
  * Computer maintenance and the allotment of time on computers at the Senior Center;
  * Cleanliness of Harvard and Central Square; and
  * Miscellaneous other matters.
now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager for Human Services to report in writing on these issues to the seniors and to the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee at the report-back meeting that the committee will be holding.

O-4     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the City Council that the town of Belmont now offers cable television service from Comcast and Verizon; and
WHEREAS: The public believes that competition drives prices down; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate whether or not Verizon offers cable services to other cities; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to pursue this option if the opportunity exists.

O-5     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Several citizens of Cambridge who reside on Franklin Street are concerned with the rate of speed at which vehicles travel on Franklin Street; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to look into this matter and, if necessary, arrange/institute the proper mitigation remedies.

O-6     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to clarify to the City Council and the general public the regulations and laws pertaining to bicycles riding on sidewalks in the city, including in what areas and on what streets bicyclists are prohibited from riding on the sidewalk and what are the penalties and what enforcement takes place.

O-7     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with a summary of all steps that have been taken to make the intersection of Route 16 and Rindge Avenue safer for pedestrians.

O-8     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Council refer the matter of NSTAR's role in the Walden Street Bridge project to the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee for a hearing.

O-9     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to make recommendations to the City Council about how the City will participate as a co-sponsor of the Cambridge Science Festival, including appropriate in-kind and other contributions.

O-10     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The Alden Park playground on Sacramento Street has been newly renovated; and
WHEREAS: Children at the Alden Park playground have been injured using the recently installed equipment; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with appropriate City staff to determine how the renovations at the Alden Park playground resulted in the installation of equipment that may pose overly high dangers to children using the newly renovated playground; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ensure that any equipment removed from the Alden Park playground or placed off limits be replaced by new equipment or promptly brought into a useable condition consistent with park users' needs and relevant safety concerns; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-11     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Cambridge's affordable housing programs provide great benefits to the City of Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge's affordable housing programs are run through a variety of non-profits funded in large part by the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust Fund; and
WHEREAS: The quality of affordable housing units and program management is important to ensuring that Cambridge's affordable housing programs provide the best possible housing opportunities for their inhabitants; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate Department heads, the Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority, the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust and any other relevant body to develop a list of all affordable housing developments in Cambridge, excluding inclusionary zoning affordable units, along with a list of the management companies for those developments; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide those lists to the City Council.

O-12     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate and report on the construction details and timeline for the BU Bridge repairs.

O-13     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of the City's program to install "Call if not working" tags on traffic signals.

O-14     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of setting up the City Committee on leaf blowers.

O-15     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Trees are an important part of our natural and urban environment; and
WHEREAS: Trees in parks play an important role in making those parks pleasant and in improving air quality; and
WHEREAS: HRI's Trolley Square development may have been designed so that some emergency access to the site is not possible without going through Linear Park; and
WHEREAS: Such emergency access may require the removal of public shade trees; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of tree removal in Linear Park necessitated by the Trolley Square HRI development.

O-16     October 30, 2006 -- Charter Right - Decker
COUNCILLOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to create a Citizen's Advisory Board to assist the City in choosing a new Police Commissioner; 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-17     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Committee schedule a meeting to review city plans to address pedestrian issues related to the new Lechmere Station.

O-18     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: The residents of Mount Auburn Street and Fresh Pond Parkway have been concerned for their children and themselves when crossing at the intersection of those streets for some time now; and
WHEREAS: There are increased concerns for the residents of Mount Auburn Street and Fresh Pond Parkway due to excessive speeding and poor signage of traffic signs; and
WHEREAS: The City has been studying a potential redesign of the intersection; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation, the Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Massachusetts State Police to collectively look at the excessive speeding during school hours, poor signage and poorly timed lights; 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-19     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record dedicating a suitable location in honor of Philip P. McGovern, Jr., M.D.; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council confer with the family regarding a suitable Dedication Ceremony and sign with the Department of Public Works.

O-20     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: There is no parking available to drop off and pick up children at the Peabody School; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate and address parking, drop off and pick up issues for parents at the Peabody School.

O-21     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council is pleased to hear that resolution is planned for asbestos abatement and other conditions at the Edward Sullivan Courthouse in Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: Current plans call for the Cambridge District Court to be moved to Boston during construction; and
WHEREAS: Said move would create great hardship for Cambridge citizens, residents and personnel; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record requesting that the Cambridge legislative delegation to the Great and General Court file a bill to require the Cambridge District Court to remain in Cambridge and relocate to the former Third District Court building on Third Street during construction; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the members of the Cambridge legislative delegation to the Great and General Court.

O-22     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the attached proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to require public review for smaller scaled residential and commercial development in B, BA-1 and B-2 districts and reduce heights and increase side yard requirements in these districts under certain circumstances be referred to the Planning Board and Ordinance Committee for hearing and report.

O-23     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record urging the T to keep the "Lechmere" in Lechmere Station to signify the name's historic connection to the Revolutionary War and an early Cambridge settler and Loyalist, Richard Lechmere; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to notify the MBTA management and other interested entities of this matter.

O-24     October 30, 2006  Amended
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Cambridge has specific CO2 emission reduction goals of 20% by 2010 in order to help ensure a sustainable future; and
WHEREAS: A significant percentage of this reduction must be obtained by ensuring new construction meets the highest standards of energy efficiency; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record supporting the development of buildings that follow sustainable and energy efficiency standards; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on how the new library construction will help meet the City's CO2 reduction goals, and what green standards will be used for its construction.

O-25     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on whether there is any Zoning Ordinance or Pole and Conduit Regulation to require a permit be issued on new construction that would help the City achieve its wireless objective.

O-26     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to recommend to the City Council the resources necessary to get through the testing phase for wireless access for the City as soon as possible; 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-27     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to coordinate with the Harvard Square Business Association to make Palmer Street and the wider area of Harvard Square wireless; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to transmit to the City Council the timeline for Palmer Street by December 15, 2006.

O-28     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of appointing members of the Lesley University Development Committee.

O-29     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: Cambridge has recently experienced outbreaks of gun, knife and other violence in several neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS: Residents and merchants who attended the October 3, 2006 meeting of the City Council's Public Safety Committee testified that regular patrolling of our streets by uniformed police officers on foot is needed to forge direct ties between police officers and citizens, build public trust in and cooperation with the Cambridge Police Department, improve communication between our police force and the community it serves, and prevent and reduce the number of shooting incidents, robberies, and other crimes; and
WHEREAS: Many other citizens share this view and have testified before this body and contacted individual councillors to ask that regular foot patrols be instituted in their neighborhoods as a key component of the City's community policing program; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Police Department (CPD) has reported that assigning uniformed police details to direct traffic and ensure public safety at construction sites also serves to deter crime and promote quick response to random emergencies; and
WHEREAS: The long-standing City policy of employing regular police foot patrols was incorporated into law and is still mandated by Section 2.52.030 of the Cambridge City Code, which specifies that at least thirty foot patrol officers shall be assigned to police our neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS: The Commissioner of Police has testified that staffing and budget limitations prevent the CPD from regularly assigning uniformed officers to foot patrols; and
WHEREAS: The City Manager has not recommended an increase in SPD funding to allow for more foot patrols; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council does hereby reaffirm its commitment to reducing street crime and protecting the citizenry and neighborhood businesses by supporting the institution of regular foot patrols by uniformed police officers as dictated by City ordinance; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Commissioner of Police to comply with the City ordinance requiring a minimum of thirty foot patrol officers be assigned to neighborhoods where needed; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Commissioner of Police to achieve compliance with this City ordinance without delay and, if deemed necessary, developing and recommending to the City Council a reallocation of funds or a supplemental appropriation to the CPD's budget; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter prior to the start of next year's budget cycle.

O-30     October 30, 2006  Amended
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: Cambridge residents feel they are at the mercy of large construction projects, when it comes to contractors obeying work ordinances; and
WHEREAS: At times there is a leniency towards such large construction projects when it comes to enforcing start times and restrictions on late night activity; and
WHEREAS: Issuing warnings and citations has proven to be ineffective in the past to discourage builders from violating these City ordinances; and
WHEREAS: A harsher penalty for large scale developers is needed to be sure they they abide by the ordinances set by the City; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report on the current penalties; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City Solicitor with a view in mind of amending the Municipal Ordinance as it relates to Noise so that second time offenders will be ordered to stop work for the day as well as to define "large scale" projects.

O-31     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Commissioner of Public Works to work with the Central Square Business Association to provide an informational sign on the lawn of City Hall regarding their "Holiday Central" event on December 12, 2006.

O-32     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate a suitable location in the vicinity of Holmes and Holworthy Street as DiPace/Feroleto Family Square; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council confer with the family regarding a Dedication Ceremony and the Department of Public Works for a sign.

O-33     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to meet with the appropriate officials at the Department of Conservation and Recreation on the dangerous intersections of state roads in Cambridge.

O-34     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Council go on record requesting that the Cambridge Delegation to the State Legislature arrange for a public hearing to be held in Cambridge by the appropriate legislative committee on the subject of the dangerous intersections of state roads in Cambridge that need immediate attention, especially the intersection of Route 16 and Rindge Avenue.

O-35     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the Public Safety Committee schedule a follow-up meeting to be held to discuss guns and gun traffic.

O-36     October 30, 2006
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to report back to the City Council on the current structure of the staffing level in the Police Department including the special units.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, October 4, 2006 beginning at five o’clock P. M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The hearing was held for the purpose of considering a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to rezone the remaining Business C-1 property on north Massachusetts Avenue to Business A-1.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Brian Murphy and Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chairs of the Committee, Councillor Craig Kelley, Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Lester Barber, Director of Zoning and Land Use, Community Development Department and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury.

Councillor Sullivan convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He invited Mr. Barber to explain the petition. Mr. Barber said that the petition affects a lot of approximately 11,000 square feet; the only remaining land zoned Business C-1 along north Massachusetts Avenue, where all of the remaining lots have been down-zoned. Mr. Barber distributed a summary comparison of the current zoning and the proposed zoning (Attachment A). Councillor Sullivan then invited public comment.

Chris McElroy, 4 Morrison Court, stated that her house is directly behind the lot. There is a lot of construction going on in the area. She has had a lot of flooding in her neighborhood. DPW staff told here that it was possible that the flooding could be related to the construction in that the more ground that is covered with impervious surfaces; the fewer places water has to go. She said that she is also concerned about having a balance of commercial and housing. For the time being, there has been enough new construction of condominiums in the neighborhood.

Charles Teague, 18 Edmunds Street, said that 95 units are coming on line in the area, all with one parking space per unit. A lot of parking need will be added. He urged the City Council to listen to the people who live nearby. He urged support of the petition.

Michael Brandon, 27 Seven Pines Avenue, spoke in support of the petition. He identified himself as the clerk of the North Cambridge Stabilization Committee and stated that the committee supports the proposed amendment. He read a letter from neighbors and submitted a copy for the record (Attachment B). Mr. Brandon stated that the Merino site is under agreement for sale to someone who apparently intends to keep it as a restaurant.

Councillor Sullivan stated that he is still concerned that the need to protect ground floor retail is not being addressed. All of the new development is housing and Cambridge proposed petition.

Councillor Kelley moved that the petition be referred with a favorable recommendation to the City Council. The motion passed on a voice vote without objection.

Councillors Murphy and Sullivan thanked all those present for their participation. The meeting was adjourned at five o’clock and twenty minutes p.m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chair

QUESTION COMES ON ACCEPTING REPORT AND PASSING TO A SECOND READING. on October 30, 2006

Committee Report #2
The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Wednesday, October 4, 2006 at five o’clock and thirty-five minutes P. M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The hearing was held for the purpose of considering a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to amend the zoning map at the end of Loomis Street by substituting the zoning designation Residence B for the current Industry B-2/Alewife Overlay District 1 designation for a portion of the lot at 61R Smith Place.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Michael A. Sullivan and Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Committee, Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves, Councillor Craig Kelley, Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Lester Barber, Director of Zoning and Land Use, Community Development Department, and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury.

Councillor Sullivan convened the hearing and explained the purpose. He invited Mr. Barber to describe the proposal. The proposal affects a single very large lot at the end of Loomis Street. He submitted a comparison of the current and proposed zoning (Attachment A). The proposed petition would change the allowed uses from housing, office and light industrial to single and two-family dwellings and townhouses.

Councillor Murphy then invited public comment.

Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, spoke in opposition to the proposal. He stated that this proposal constitutes spot zoning. It is especially egregious in light of the recent zoning changes to that area that were made after a lengthy process. If there is value in the proposed map change, then the change should extend the entire length of the district.

Councillor Sullivan announced that Councillor Galluccio had been unable to attend the meeting and has requested that his support for the petition be noted.

Councillor Simmons moved that the petition be referred the petition back to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation.

Councillors Murphy and Councillor Sullivan thanked all those present for their participation. The hearing was adjourned at five o’clock and forty minutes p.m. on a motion of Mayor Reeves.

For the Committee,
Councillor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chair

QUESTION COMES ON ACCEPTING REPORT AND PASSING TO A SECOND READING. on October 30, 2006

Committee Report #3
The Public Safety Committee held a public meeting on Tuesday, October 3, 2006, at eleven o’clock and ten minutes A.M. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the issue of Community Policing and the items that were referred to the committee on this subject.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chair of the Committee, and Vice Mayor Timothy J. Toomey, Co-Chair of the Committee, Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Councillor Craig Kelley, Councillor Denise Simmons, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Mayor Kenneth Reeves, Ronnie Watson, Police Commissioner, Dave Degou, Superintendent of Police, Lester Sullivan, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Michael Walsh, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Kathleen Murphy, Police Sergeant, Community Relations, Christina Giacobbe, Police Department and Chris Vetter, Police Department and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk. Also present were Daniel Spirer, 1780 Massachusetts Avenue, Lois Jones, 9 Putnam Gardens #79, Gloria Letipzig, CHA, 675 Massachusetts Avenue, Karen A. Jenner, CHA, 675 Massachusetts Avenue, John Serwecinski, 175-4 Harvey Street, Lawrence Adkins, 45 Hayes Street, Elie Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street, and Kathy Podgers, 148 Pearl Street.

Councillor Sullivan opened the meeting and stated the purpose. There were two orders that were referred to the committee (Order #12 of February 6, 2006 and Order #9 of June 9, 2006) (Attachment A and B). The Police Commissioner would make a presentation and then the public and a City Councillor would comment.

Commissioner Watson stated that the orders before the committee were to establish a formal Community Policing Policy and develop a community policing definition. The Police Department has met with the community and produced a mission statement. Community policing is not a policy. It is an on-going tool for the Police Department and the community to address issues of crime in the neighborhoods. Sergeants are assigned to the thirteen neighborhoods and are responsible for holding meetings in the community. Programs are developed to bring assistance to the community. Community policing is working. The Police Department is willing to improve its performance and delivery service.

Councillor Sullivan recorded the following e-mails into the record:
Dana DeLuca, 138 Otis Street – Attachment C;
Carl F. Barron, Central Square Business Association – Attachment D;
Peg Deery, 69 Dudley Street – Attachment E; and
Mollie Sherry, Rice Street – Attachment F.

At eleven o’clock and twenty-three minutes A. M. Councillor Sullivan opened the meeting to public comment.

Daniel Spirer, a jeweler at 1780 Massachusetts Avenue, spoke of a recent robbery. Crime in New York City was reduced because of the increase in foot patrols. As a jeweler he is subject to high crime. He wanted more visible police patrolling on foot-not in cars. The physical presence of uniformed officers deters crime, he said.

Gloria Letipzig, CHA, informed the committee that the CHA works closely with the Police Department; there is a strong collaboration. The CHA holds meeting with the community and the Police Department. Police officers attend community meetings in the housing developments.

Lawrence Adkins, President of the Riverside Neighborhood Association, stated that community policing is not working. He stated that there has been a shooting in Cambridge for the last five weeks. As a resident that travels the city the interaction with police through community policing does not work. He stressed the need for foot patrols. The Riverside Community will be further away from police when the police station is moved. It is bad when residents are afraid to call the police. He challenged the City Council to change the community policing philosophy. It is a person in blue in the community and not in a car that makes the difference. He is thankful for the police deployment in Riverside but felt that assignment could have been better. He wanted to get back to crime prevention in the neighborhoods.

Elie Yarden stated that policing the neighborhoods is the duty of every citizen. Punishing crime is the foundation of our society. There has been effective crime prevention in this country. Police on the beat know the population. Police presence is for public safety. What is the policing model for Cambridge is the question that should be asked before citing the police station.

Kathy Podgers agreed with crime prevention and foot patrols in the community. She commented on drugs and guns. Drugs and guns are brought into the city. There is a lack of commitment and vision. Crime is reported to the police and the police have discretion to write a report she stated. The police have a responsibility to keep the order. The public does not want to put up with disorder. She asked what is the policy if an officer witnesses an assault and battery on a sixty-three year old person. This incident was not reported.

At eleven o’clock and forty minutes A. M. Councillor Sullivan closed public comment.

Councillor Sullivan spoke of the police interaction at schools and community meetings. There is a connection piece missing. How could this be corrected? Police cruisers generally have closed windows either due to air conditioning or heat. He asked Commissioner Watson about walking patrols and relationships. Commissioner Watson stated that relationships will be maintained. However, he spoke about the cost of foot patrols and expanding walking patrols in business areas. Walking patrols occur in Harvard, Central and Inman Square areas. Police response cannot be done with walking patrols alone. When a crime is committed an officer must make out a report. He stated that the City needed to identify if there is a need for walking patrols. Cambridgeport, Riverside and Area 4 currently have walking patrols due to increased crime incidents. This causes realignment of resources. Foot patrols, he said, is not community policing. Effective resources must be used to provide public safety.

Councillor Sullivan discussed the police staffing of 272. The City, he said, does not have a full complement of officers because of retirement and sick leave. He asked how could the City get a full complement to do the job that needed to be done. Commissioner Watson stated Cambridge officers are the best trained in the state. The officers are provided forty hours per year for training. He has requested the City Manager to do lateral hiring of trained officers. The department tries to maintain the level of staffing at 272. Traffic is the main issue in the City. The department made 24,000 traffic stops. An analysis of these traffic stop reveals that the people stopped do not live in Cambridge. He suggested increasing traffic enforcement from five to seven days. He wanted to recruit young people in the City to supplement administrative duties at the police department in an effort to get police officers on the street. Councillor Sullivan suggested that the commissioner should review ages of the officers to have new recruits ready upon retirement of senior officers. Councillor Sullivan questioned if there is funding for the special police units and the daily operation of the department. Commissioner Watson stated that Lowell is the only Academy that has community police training. Potential hires could fail the state physical exam. The current staffing at the police department has been 272, but may need to be changed. The department has a bomb team, which could be on call six days a week to prevent a tragedy from occurring in the City. The police are out actively targeting individuals who use drugs and guns. Foot patrols needs will be reviewed budgetarily.

Councillor Davis discussed the coordination of other agencies like the courts and schools. She asked if there are enough resources. Commissioners Watson informed the Committee that the Police Department is involved in the Community Based Justice Program in the Schools. They meet at the high school every other week and discuss incidents involving school aged children. Children who need social services are identified. On November 8, 2006 a presentation will be made at Suffolk Law School on improving youth relations. Meetings have been held in the Mayor’s Office with the Kids Council, Health Alliance and School Department to review what could be done differently in the City.

Councillor Davis asked why are there shootings; what is missing, what tools and partnership are needed. Commissioner Watson responded that people bringing guns into the City cause shootings. They are known to the police. The same incidents that are happening in Cambridge are happening in other cities. Councillor Davis suggested a meeting be held to discuss guns. In response to a question from Councillor Davis, Commissioner Watson stated that there is a mandatory jail sentence of one year if convicted. The conviction rate is the issue commented Councillor Davis. She wanted to know why laws are not being enforced. Councillor Sullivan commented that the District Attorney wanted to fast track this issue, but the community did not want to prosecute. These crimes need to be prioritized for prosecution.

At this time Councillor Davis made the following motion.
ORDERED: That the Public Safety Committee schedule a follow-up meeting to be held to discuss guns and gun traffic.

The motion – carried.

Councillor Kelley commented on communication between the residents and the police. He wanted to see an interactive relationship between the residents and police. Foot patrols would be great, but the patrols have to talk to residents. What the City has now is not working. Relationship building is one thing, community policing is another stated Commissioner Watson. The entire City must be involved to build relationships. This department would like to improve the relationship between the police and the general public. Councillor Kelley spoke about intimidation of police officers and their uniform. Positive interaction positively needs to be developed.

Commission Watson stated community policing started in 1993. His department continues to develop relationships with the community. A police officer should be a person a child should go to for help. The 24,000 traffic stops is an opportunity to interact with the public in a professional manner. Councillor Kelley responded that police officers are professional. However, there is no dialogue happening with the current model. Everyone is afraid of police officers stated Councillor Sullivan.

At this time Councillor Sullivan submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to report back to the City Council on the current structure of the staffing level in the Police Department including the special units.

The motion – carried.

Councillor Sullivan thanked the CHA representatives for attending the meeting. Ms. Letipzig informed the committee that cameras have been installed in the Burns Apartment with tape feature. CHA is meeting with the residents. A link has been made with security because people at CHA do not feel comfortable going to police. A partnership is needed to correct a bad situation in CHA units. A discussion ensued about Section 8 housing. It only takes one bad Section 8 incident to ruin the Section 8 Program. Vice Mayor Toomey wanted a mechanism when a complaint is reported to the Police Department that the Section 8 certificate be revoked. Ms. Letipzig stated that it is not common knowledge when a unit is a Section 8 unit. She would ask for more information on this matter. The landlord must notify the CHA of a Section 8 certificate termination.

Councillor Kelley spoke about police officers offering more empathy. Commissioner Watson retorted that this is done on a regular basis through community relations.

Councillor Sullivan and Vice Mayor Toomey thanked all attendees. The meeting adjourned at twelve o’clock and forty minutes A.M.

For the Committee,
Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chair
Vice Mayor Timothy J. Toomey, Co-Chair

QUESTION COMES ON ACCEPTING REPORT, PLACING OF FILE AND ADOPT TWO ORDERS. on October 30, 2006

Committee Report #4
The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee held a public meeting on Thursday, October 12, 2006, at six o’clock and eighteen minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the state of our neighborhoods; our common knowledge is our advantage.

Present at the meeting were Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Committee, Councillor Craig Kelley, Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development Department (CDD), Susan Glazer, Deputy Director, Community Development Department, Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, Community Development Department, and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk. Also present were Ruth A. Ryals, 115 Upland Road, James A. Cornie, 115 Upland Road, and Fernando G. Rivera, 812 Memorial Drive.

Councillor Simmons convened the meeting and stated the purpose. The reason for the meeting is, that as she and her colleagues travel around the City, residents are unaware of issues that affect themselves and neighborhoods. She raised the issue of how can there be a better means of communication. She would like the NLTP Committee to organize an opportunity that neighborhood groups get-together. Some neighborhood issues are similar, but residents do not know neighborhood issues. How could there be better communication throughout the City to inform residents of what is happening in neighborhoods. She suggested an annual neighborhood meeting and to have the neighborhood association contact list updated. The City should be organized to know who is doing what. She asked how is the neighborhood association contact list is updated.

Ms. Rubenstein stated that some neighborhood groups are formed by the neighborhood. Community Development could do a survey of neighborhood groups in the City. Councillor Simmons suggested that this mailing be done semi-annually similar to the Minority and Women’s Business Directory.

Councillor Simmons stated that newer groups are better with information sharing. She suggested an event with a coordinator to bring neighborhood groups together. There is a need to have the neighborhood list accurate. Neighborhood Association may disband. Especially after the Walden Street Bridge Project is completed.

At six o’clock and thirty minutes P.M. Councillor Simmons opened the meeting to public comment.

Ruth A. Ryals, 115 Upland Road, spoke about the Walden Street Bridge detour. There was a lack of communication about the bridge closing and a failure of traffic calming measures. She expressed her concern with the increased traffic. Upland Road is a residential street that has had the truck ban lifted. It is inappropriate to be used as a cut through route. She wanted a long-range plan for restoring the historical characteristics of the area for Neighborhood Nine and Upland Road worked out. She wanted long term planning and vision.

Ms. Rubenstein informed Ms. Ryals that the Walden Street Bridge Project is a State Highway Project (MHW). The City held a meeting to fill the gap of the MHW. The Public Works Department keeps track of the construction.

Councillor Simmons asked if there is a contact person for this area to get an update on the Walden Street Bridge project. She spoke about the neighborhood concern for the proposal to build housing on the Pemberton Market site. Councillor Kelley responded that communication is important. It does not solve the traffic problem but it does take the sting off. He is overwhelmed with the tasks required of the city staff. Councillor Simmons commented on poor communication about tree committee meetings that were held. The City needs to develop a system of communication including who is performing what function and where. This information could be sent via e-mail.

Councillor Simmons suggested that Ms. Ryals work with CDD and Ms. Rubenstein. She also suggested that Ms. Ryals be the contact person for Neighborhood Nine. She suggested collecting names of residents who would participate in the communication process. Ms. Rubenstein informed Ms. Ryals that traffic calming is the work of CDD and the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department. CDD is the clearinghouse for neighborhood groups. It is a good thing for Ms. Ryals to organize her neighborhood.

Councillor Kelley stated that the traffic issue on Upland Road is the same issue in every neighborhood. Traffic and parking issues are unsolvable. The City is in danger of losing ground retail and family friendly housing. These issues require patience and good faith to solve.

Ms. Ryals spoke about the area of Upland Road and Buena Vista where there are a large number of young professional families with young children. Bicycle safety is also a concern. Residents deserve better than what is happening with the amount of taxes paid, she said.

Fernando G. Rivera, 812 Memorial Drive, came to Cambridge in 1976. The traffic on Memorial Drive is so close that it causes dust. His sister died from Asthma and lived at 808 Memorial Drive. He complained about building maintenance and the lack of funding used to maintain buildings. Councillor Simmons informed Mr. Rivera that the City does not have control over management companies. This issue might be more suitable for the Housing Committee.

Councillor Kelley stated that Cambridge is a city of renters. He asked if CDD had a tenant/landlord contact. Ms. Rubenstein stated that tenant/landlord mediators are at Just-A-Start. Is this a systematic problem where management companies feel that they do not have to be accountable to tenants asked Councillor Simmons? She will look into this issue for Mr. Rivera.

Mr. Rivera also commented on the lack of security at Memorial Drive.

Councillor Simmons requested Ms. Rubenstein to provide questionnaires for the larger meeting.

Councillor Simmons thanked all attendees. The meeting was adjourned at seven o’clock and five minutes P. M.

For the Committee,
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair

QUESTION COMES ON ACCEPTING REPORT AND PLACING ON FILE on October 30, 2006

Committee Report #5
The Housing Committee held a public meeting on September 27, 2006, beginning at two o’clock and nine minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The meeting was held for the purpose of discussing follow-up of the roundtable meeting of the City Council and the Affordable Housing Trust, including a strategy for coordinating long-term housing goals.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Chair of the Committee, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Councillor Craig Kelley, Councillor Brian Murphy and City Clerk Margaret Drury. Also present were Robert W. Healy, City Manager, Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager of Community Development, Christopher Cotter, Housing Director, Community Development (CDD), Cassandra Arnoud, Housing Division, CDD, and Zoë Weinrobe, Housing Division, CDD. The following members of the Affordable Housing Trust were present: Peter Daly, Michael Haran, Barbara Shaw, Susan Schlesinger and Florrie Darwin.

Councillor Galluccio convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He stated that the April 12, 2003 facilitated roundtable discussion between the Council and the Affordable Housing Trust (the Trust) had been informative and helpful. Some very interesting issues about changing demographics and long-term housing goals were discussed. He said that he would like to explore how the City Council and the Trust could be more useful to each other. He noted, however, that a more collaborative relationship would require communication between the entire membership of the City Council and the entire membership of the Trust.

Mr. Healy agreed that the City Council is most effective when working as a body.

Councillor Davis said that she thought that the roundtable was constructive and that there should be follow up in a variety of ways. She suggested that the Trust and the Council have a second meeting and plan on having either one or two meetings per year. The Trust could also respond with more information on some of the topics that were discussed. She asked Ms. Schlesinger for her opinion.

Ms. Schlesinger said that she also found the roundtable helpful and added that the less formal the setting, the better. With regard to the issue of reports, she said that producing reports is a staff function so Ms. Rubenstein and her staff could best respond to that issue.

Councillor Galluccio asked how the participants could turn the sessions into joint goal-setting discussions. He said that he would like to know the reasons for the choices that the Trust makes. For example, if he had known that tax credits are such a substantial source of the funding for affordable housing, and the need to satisfy the requirements for obtaining tax credits is often on of the main deciding factors as to whether the housing will be rental or ownership units, he would have been more understanding and less critical of the ration of rental to ownership units being produced with city funds.

Mr. Healy emphasized the importance of recognizing and understanding the milieu in which affordable housing development takes place. It is a real estate-bound market and the income requirements for the various subsidies make the issue of the income of those who will live in the housing very big, and affects the Trust’s positions on issues like whether to finance live-work space for artists. The Trust does not want to build workspaces.

Councillor Galluccio said that his point is that he wants to know why, what are the Trusts reasons for these choices.

Ms. Rubenstein said that the Trust and staff believe that there is a city housing policy. She read the following paragraph entitled "City of Cambridge Affordable Housing Policy."

"It is the City’s policy to preserve the diversity of the community by offering a wide range of housing programs to meet the needs of very low, low and moderate-income residents. Wherever possible such rental and homeownership housing is made permanently affordable, built in areas throughout the city, with particular emphasis on production of units of appropriate size for families with children."

Councillor Galluccio said that he is not sure that the Council is comfortable with a message of more and more affordable housing with the type of housing being determined just by what type of housing there are subsidies available for. He would like to know that there is still demand for whatever kinds of affordable housing are being produced with city funds. He would like to see the data on demand from the actual application statistics.

Ms. Schlesinger said that right after the end of rent control in Cambridge there was a sharp increase in demand for small, single-occupant units. However, the Trust still stayed with its focus on the production of family units because of the City’s overarching policy of trying to maintain the diversity of the community by offering a range of housing programs with a particular emphasis on production of units of appropriate size for families with children in the Cambridge schools. Similarly, in the recent Garment District Building redevelopment, the Trust pushed CASCAP to have units for families, even though there were issues with creating family spaces there.

Councillor Galluccio said that there are value and policy judgments involved in defining what maintaining diversity means. Ms. Schlesinger added that there are also issues involved in deciding what Cambridge residency encompasses, as was discussed at the April roundtable.

Councillor Galluccio expressed concern about whether the City affordable housing programs provide sufficiently for transitions from public housing rental units to homeownership. He would like to see a family that starts out as tenants at Jefferson Park be able to move on to one of the newer affordable rental units, for example a rental unit at Trolley Square and finally, to an affordable homeownership unit.

Mr. Daly said that the affordable housing agencies have gotten the message on this issue and are now sending lots of information about such opportunities to CHA tenants. Mr. Cotter added that there have been many applicants for the Trolley Square units from tenants at 402 Rindge Avenue and other affordable housing developments.

Councillor Kelley asked whether the Trust would change its policies if the City Council said that it did not agree with those policies. He said that he senses a shift in the attitudes of residents. People do not want bigger, denser developments. If you look at the use of CPA funds, you will see that none of the funds went to support affordable housing projects in the expensive neighborhoods in Cambridge. He added that it does not make sense to him to talk about affordable housing without representation from the School Committee. The kids who are doing poorly in Cambridge are disproportionately from affordable housing.

Ms. Darwin asked Councillor Kelley what specifically do residents who have talked to him dislike about housing policy. Councillor Kelley responded that they do not like the inclusionary zoning bump up. Ms. Schlesinger noted that the Trust has nothing to do with the bonus units mandated by inclusionary zoning; the inclusionary zoning policy is City Council policy enunciated in the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance adopted by the City Council and applied to private developments, not projects funded with Affordable Housing Trust funds. Ms. Darwin added that the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance is the method by which most affordable housing units have been added in West Cambridge.

Ms. Schlesinger said that from the process point of view, it would be useful to categorize the City Council’s housing issues so that the discussions could take place with the staff and organizations that can effect changes in that area. The Trust has a broad policy overview, while the City Housing Staff can speak to tenant selection and management issues.

Councillor Galluccio raised the issue of the need to bring the police and CHA into a discussion about the management issue of kids and young adults hanging around projects at night. He gave the example of housing on Columbia Street. Mr. Daly agreed that there is a strong need for discussion with police personnel to clarify lines of responsibility and ways to cooperate more effectively. Councillor Galluccio said that the owner and manager is responsible for problem tenants and tenant misbehavior and the police are responsible for problems caused by non-tenants hanging around outside. Police need a better understanding of their enforcement powers with regard to non-tenants on the property.

Ms. Darwin said that she would like to note that the Trust’s broad housing policies have come from the City Council.

Councillor Galluccio asked what the Trust’s response would be if the City Council were to establish a policy that all affordable housing units of more than 10 units should have live-in building management. Mr. Healy said that such an issue would be an operating cost issue, not a broad housing policy. Ms. Schlesinger said that the vast majority of residential buildings, whether private sector or public do not need on-sight management. Such a management expense would not be contemplated in a 10 unit private building; it is not rational to assume live-in management is necessary just because the residents have less money. Twenty-four hour on-site management is appropriate for large developments or special needs housing, but certainly not for the majority of the projects that the Trust provides funding for. The Trust has established the broad policy that affordable housing units should be equal to and not distinguishable from private market units in the city. Mr. Rossi stated that he grew up in a six-unit private apartment building in East Cambridge. Most of the tenants were quiet and caused no problems, but there were two or three families that were constantly causing problems. Subsidized housing is no different.

Councillor Galluccio said that sometimes it seems to the Council that 90% of the reason for project placement and design is cost. Mr. Daly said that in a recent project developed by HRI, there were 12 different sources of funding and seven of those sources had their won architectural design review.

Ms. Schlesinger said that the State has set an artificial cap of $300,000 per unit for affordable housing projects all over the state, the same cap for Fall River, Springfield, Somerville, Boston, Cambridge, etc. So in high cost places like Cambridge, there is a big problem. The City ends up putting in additional funds, because that cap is just not realistic. Ms. Schlesinger added that it is very clear that at a certain cost per unit, the State would just say that it couldn’t justify putting in any funds. Mr. Haran said that if the City Council were to decide that its top priority was putting affordable housing in areas where the cost per unit for land and construction was $600,000, as it is in parts of Cambridge, the City would be looking at building expensive units without State assistance.

Councillor Galluccio noted that the City Council would be meeting to set its goals for the upcoming fiscal year in November. He asked whether there are clarifications of City Council goals that would be helpful to the Trust in doing its work. The following suggestions were made:

• Members of the Trust agreed that they would like very much to know whether the overarching goals of the Trust to maintain the diversity of the city by offering a range of housing for very low, low and moderate-income units with emphasis in production of units for families with children are still the goals of the City Council.
• Mr. Haran and Ms. Schlesinger also said that in neighborhood processes and meetings, when there is some controversy about whether affordable housing should be built, it is very helpful when there is a City Councillor who is willing to come to the meeting and stand up for affordable housing. That kind of positive leadership has an enormous effect on the neighborhood dynamic and the outcome of the project.
• There was also some discussion of the role that the City Council could play with the State Legislative delegation. Ms. Schlesinger noted that the upcoming elections will bring changes, one way or another, to the executive leadership. It will be a time for reevaluation of programs. There are some parts of the state program that work well for Cambridge, and others that are problematic. This would be a very good time for the City Council to discuss legislative and state housing policy issues with the Cambridge delegation to the State House.
• Finally, those present agreed that there should be a follow-up informal roundtable meeting of the City Council and the Affordable Housing Trust in December or January and that there should be at least one and perhaps two such roundtables each year.

Councillor Galluccio thanked all those present for their participation. The meeting was adjourned at 4:10pm.

For the Committee,
Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Chair

QUESTION COMES ON ACCEPTING REPORT AND PLACING ON FILE. on October 30, 2006