CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a recommendation from the Historical Commission to forward to the Ordinance Commission an amended order for the proposed landmark designation of the Shell Spectacular Sign at 187 Magazine Street.
Referred to Ordinance Committee

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 Finagle-a-Bagel, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered One First Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and abutters.

2. An application was received from The Field Restaurant, requesting permission for twelve tables and twenty-four chairs for restaurant seating in front of premises numbered 20 Prospect Street.
Referred to City Manager with Power

RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Ann Roosevelt and Janice Snow on receiving the 2009 Fresh Pond Stewardship Award.   Councillor Davis

2. Congratulations to Reverend Jeffrey L. Brown on his retirement as Senior Pastor of the Union Baptist Church.   Mayor Simmons

3. Congratulations to Andrea-Renata Joy Taylor and Kevin Paul Dunkley on their wedding.   Mayor Simmons

4. Resolution on the death of James "Dick" Hayes.   Councillor Toomey

5. Congratulations to Patricia Drake on being named the Massachusetts Coalition for Adult Education Outstanding Teacher of the Year.   Vice Mayor Seidel

6. Appreciation to Dream On Futon and owner Liz Tortora and to the Inman Square Business Association for hosting its 2nd annual "Ghoulish Gathering" on Oct 24, 2009.   Vice Mayor Seidel

7. Resolution on the death of Phillip M. McAvenia.   Councillor Toomey

8. Congratulations to the Cambridge Pop Warner Football and Cheerleading Team for a successful season.   Councillor Ward

9. Resolution on the death of Anthony M. D'amore.   Councillor Maher

10. Resolution on the death of Robert H. Clark.   Councillor Toomey

11. That the City Council go on record honoring all veterans on Veterans' Day on Wednesday, November 11, 2009.   Councillor Kelley

12. Welcoming an important Jazz Musician to Cambridge.   Councillor Reeves

ORDERS
1. That the Mayor’s Office is requested to sponsor a holiday show to exhibit artwork and crafts by Cambridge employees.   Councillor Davis and Mayor Simmons

2. That the City Manager is requested to review the issue of bike racks with relevant City staff and property owners in the Fresh Pond area and Broadway Market area and to report back to the City Council on the possibility of having either the City or relevant property owners provide additional bike parking at these locations.   Councillor Kelley

3. That the City Manager is requested to review this issue with relevant City staff and to report back to the City Council how many out of town officers are picked for construction details in Cambridge, how they are picked for construction details in Cambridge, how those officers are trained and supported to provide the same security as Cambridge police officers working construction details, how they are supervised while working these details and how any complaints against them are handled.   Councillor Kelley

4. That the City Manager is requested to review the safety measures in place at this crossing and the jurisdiction of responsibility on upgrading the safety precautions at this crossing.   Councillor Maher

5. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Police Commissioner to provide the City Council with enforcement statistics for cyclists infractions including patterns in higher pedestrian areas like Central Square.   Councillor Kelley

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee, for a meeting held on Oct 13, 2009 to discuss pedestrian safety, dangerous intersections and any possible lessons learned that could prevent future collisions.

2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Marjorie Decker, Chair of the Civic Unity Committee, for a meeting held on Oct 6, 2009 for the purpose of initiating a community conversation on strengthening the community for a safer neighborhood.
Tabled - Davis

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Marilyn Y. Bradshaw, Executive Secretary of the School Committee, transmitting notification of an order adopted by School Committee requesting the City Manager to direct the Assistant City Manager for Human Services to work with the Superintendent of Schools to develop an action plan by Dec 14, 2009 for the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Middle School Youth Report.

HEARING SCHEDULE
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)

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     Nov 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: There are many city employees who have hidden artistic talents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Mayor’s Office be and hereby is requested to sponsor a holiday show to exhibit artwork and crafts by Cambridge employees.

O-2     Nov 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Bicycling is an important aspect of Cambridge’s transportation programs; and
WHEREAS: Being able to lock a bike to a bike rack at a destination makes it more convenient to bike; and
WHEREAS: Bike racks are not readily available at most stores in the Fresh Pond Mall in the newly built Trader Joe’s mall or outside Broadway Market; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review this issue with relevant City staff and property owners and to report back to the City Council on the possibility of having either the City or relevant property owners provide additional bike parking at these locations.

O-3     Nov 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Police details in Cambridge are, among other things, a method of increasing compensation for Cambridge police officers; and
WHEREAS: One stated benefit to having Cambridge police officers work construction details is the added security they bring to an area; and
WHEREAS: Many Cambridge details are performed by police officers from other towns such as Everett; and
WHEREAS: These out-of-town police officers cannot be expected to understand local security issues or know the local population to the same extent that Cambridge police officers do; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review this issue with relevant City staff and to report back to the City Council how many out-of-town officers are picked for construction details in Cambridge, how they are picked for construction details in Cambridge, how those officers are trained and supported to provide the same security as Cambridge police officers working construction details, how they are supervised while working these details and how any complaints against them are handled.

O-4     Nov 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR MAHER
WHEREAS: There was a near collision between a car and train at the railroad crossing by MIT on Massachusetts Avenue on Friday, October 30th; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the safety measures in place at this crossing and the jurisdiction of responsibility on upgrading the safety precautions at this crossing.

O-5     Nov 2, 2009
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Police Commissioner to provide the City Council with enforcement statistics for cyclists infractions including patterns in higher pedestrian areas like Central Square.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee held a public meeting on Tues, Oct 13, 2009 at five o’clock and thirty-four minutes p.m. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss pedestrian safety, dangerous intersections and any possible lessons learned that could prevent future collisions.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Committee; Sue Clippinger, Director, Traffic, Parking and Transportation; Cara Seiderman, Transportation Planner, Environmental and Transportation Planning Division, Community Development Department; and Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were Arvilla Sarazen, representing the seniors from city-wide senior center; Astrid Dodds, Member, Walk Boston and former member of the Pedestrian Committee; Patrick Lane, Student; Kelly Pena, Student; Tony Sterle, Student; Sam Linden, Student; and Bhupesh Patel, 3 Bowdoin Street.

Councillor Kelley convened the meeting and explained the purpose. This meeting is due to the three vehicular fatalities that occurred in the city in the last eighteen months or so. The idea is to see if there is anything obvious that is being missed and to rectify the situation. Councillor Kelley asked Ms. Clippinger if there were any lessons to be learned relating to the three fatalities.

Ms. Clippinger stated that total crash information for the city has been reviewed. Her department works with the Police Department and collects all accident reports for bikes and cars, though the reports may, or may not, have useful data. A presentation was made to the Bicycle Committee on the work on the crash information. The top causes of bike crashes happen at intersections and are dooring and vehicular turns, both right and left, when motorists fail to yield the right of way to cyclists. Bike crashes have increased slightly in the last few years while the use of bikes has increased one hundred percent, though there is no data on bicycle miles traveled. Pedestrian work is in the early stages to compile trends on pedestrian crashes. Pedestrian crashes have stayed constant and occur at intersections. Review of both bike and pedestrian crashes indicated that there are no specific locations that are dangerous. She reviewed the design and operation work. A signal policy guideline was developed and appears on the city’s website. Traffic calming work is geared to improve visibility and slow speeds, it’s not clear that it improves yielding. There have been 1,000 crosswalks added in the city in the last five years. She spoke about the improved pedestrian environment and how the City reviews any street paving operation for possible traffic calming amenities. The three pedestrian fatalities have nothing in common. No grave city errors contributed to the crashes.

Ms. Seiderman stated that the plurality, if not the majority, of bike and pedestrian crashes are caused at intersections with vehicles turning across the path of pedestrians and bicyclists, as well as not stopping at crosswalks. Motorists are not yielding. These crashes are not unique to Cambridge. Outreach is done in an attempt to alter motorists’ behavior to make motorists aware to watch and yield for pedestrians. The Community Development Department prepares posters and flyers on safety issues.

Ms. Dodds asked if there was data collected on fatalities versus injuries of pedestrians and bicyclists, as number of injuries would also be important. Ms. Clippinger stated that the Police Department reports bike and pedestrian crashes if called to the scene of the incident, but not all injuries are reported. There are more bike and pedestrian crashes reported in Cambridge than Boston, though it may not reflect a comparison of actual collisions. Cambridge does have fatality and injury information. Ms. Dodds asked if doctors are required to report injuries, as it could be viewed as a public health issue. There is 5-6 years of data in the system; the most serious accidents are being reported stated Ms. Seiderman, and getting more information on injuries probably would not change what is being learned. The Police Department reports contain information not legally required to report.

In response to a question from Ms. Dodds about data on no turn on red in intersections Ms. Clippinger stated that it is too soon to analysis the data. The crash numbers for pedestrians are so small. There are 80-100 crashes for bikes and pedestrians for the last 5-6 years collected from 100 locations. There is not enough data; the city-wide changes can be reviewed. Councillor Kelley asked where the 80-100 crashes are occurring. Ms. Clippinger responded that accidents with pedestrians and cyclists follow motorist/motorist accident trends. Ms. Seiderman stated that the highest amount of the crashes occur in the Mass. Avenue corridor. Ms. Clippinger stated that Central Square has a number of crashes. Turn conflicts are the problem; a turning vehicle is not seeing the bicyclist or, if seen, does not yield to the cyclist or pedestrian. This causes the city to review the area as to how it can do a better job in changing what it perceives as a behavioral problem. The City has no data for Parkways.

Councillor Kelley asked if the data is broken down and was there anything that was obvious. The time of day, year, peak time, driver and cyclist were reviewed. More men were involved in accidents.

Ms. Sarazen stated that bikes do not stop on Mass. Avenue. She added that the traffic light at the Fresh Pond mall to CVS is not long enough to cross the street. Ms. Clippinger commented that that traffic light is DCR jurisdiction. She added that her department will work with a particular location if a light needs additional timing. Ms. Sarazen also commented that cyclists on the sidewalk are both a hazard and are rude, and that they are constantly riding in front of the Senior Center on the sidewalk and could knock anyone over.

Councillor Kelley asked if the timing at Hampshire and Inman could be geared to slow pedestrians, noting that while the relevant manual sets standards not everyone fits into the norm. Ms. Clippinger responded that this could cause more problems; it can cause right on red and other people not following the signal because it is taking too long.

Ms. Dodds stated that seniors should be told not to cross when the light is blinking red; however you should be able to cross safely. Signalized intersections have a solid walk and blinking light. Most pedestrians should be able to cross stated Ms. Clippinger, as long as they have started walking before the light starts blinking. Ms. Dodds commented that it is not good to advise people to cross when the light is blinking.

Ms. Sarazen asked why the lights at Prospect and Harvard Streets are different. Ms. Clippinger stated that timing should not be different. Councillor Kelley and Ms. Clippinger will review the location with Ms. Sarazen. Ms. Clippinger said that she would do walks at any location where problems have been consistent to determine if light timing should be changed.

Bhupesh Patel distributed a letter about neighbors concerns regarding Linnaean and Bowdoin Streets (ATTACHMENT A). There has been a chain reaction of deviate accidents in the neighborhood. Starbuck customers park in the loading zone and abuse the loading zone. He asked if it was possible to post a "No Trucks" sign on Bowdoin Street. Bowdoin and Hurlbut Streets are being used as cut-through streets. Ms. Clippinger commented that if this is part of the neighborhood planning process this could be managed by Community Development with recommendations sent to Traffic, Parking and Transportation.

Councillor Kelley informed Ms. Sarazen that state law requires that a light be on a bike when she complained about a bike on Thorndike and Cambridge Streets with no light. Ms. Sarazen suggested confiscation of bikes if there is no white light on the front of the bike. The more bikes there are the safer the bikers are commented Ms. Clippinger. Ms. Seiderman cited the "Safety in Numbers Report" stating the more the bikes the safer they are. Ms. Dodds commented that she does not understand why motorists do not protest the non-use of visible clothing by bikers. Councillor Kelley stated that the technology of the bike lights is better today and that more cyclists should have proper lights, that that issue needs more enforcement. The vast majority of motorists do not yield for pedestrians and bicyclists. Enforcement discussion cannot occur without input from the police.

At this time Councillor Kelley submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Police Commissioner to provide the City Council with enforcement statistics for cyclists infractions including patterns in higher pedestrian areas like Central Square.

The motion - Carried.

Councillor Kelley commented that most cyclists know when they are breaking the law, but also know that there is nothing that will happen to them. Ms. Clippinger said that some surveys indicate that cyclists know more about the laws pertaining to cycling than they may follow. Ms. Dodds spoke about bike and pedestrian collisions resulting in death or serious injury. This is a reporting issue. There is no requirement to report medical injuries. Councillor Kelley stated that all the data in the world will not reveal any more information.

Ms. Sarazen suggested placing "Stop for Pedestrian" signs in crosswalks in heavily populated areas. Councillor Kelley commented that too many signs become less effective. Signs are put where there is sufficient room or where someone takes responsibility for the sign stated Ms. Clippinger, and temporary ones are not put where they will not be regularly maintained by a neighbor. A sign will not be put on Garfield Street. There are already two there. Pedestrians should use crosswalks to cross the street. Councillor Kelley asked if there were any lessons learned about Garfield Street. Ms. Dodds and Mr. Patel both responded to avoid the crosswalk. Ms. Clippinger stated that it is the worst "Yield to Pedestrian" location, but she was not quite sure why. Perhaps it is the width of the view, with significant setbacks on the eastern side.

Ms. Dodds stated that she got hit by a slow moving car and was on crutches for a week. Controlling speed may be misleading and having money to spend on these programs may be a bad thing. Ms. Dodds asked for an update of the fatality that occurred at Wendell and Oxford Streets. Ms. Clippinger stated that it was an accident. The design of the intersection was not a contributing factor. There is no evaluation that yield behavior is worse. The design for raised devises has been changed by the neighborhood. It is a new specification going forward. Whether this design changes driver behavior is still being evaluated.

Councillor Kelley asked if there is data on reducing speed with traffic calming measures. Ms. Clippinger responded in the affirmative. Ms. Dodds stated that speed on Oxford Street is not the problem. The problem is it is hard to cross the street and that cars do not yield. Councillor Kelley commented that the three fatalities were all slow moving vehicles, speed is not the problem. Ms. Dodds stated that vehicle crashes at Wendell and Oxford Streets decreased. The traffic flow worked well before the raised intersections. Councillor Kelley stated that this is not unique. People are not yielding throughout the city. Police personnel are needed to discuss the enforcement aspect.

Councillor Kelley recapped the commonalities as:
  Cars are not yielding and
  Cyclists are on the sidewalks without lights

Ms. Clippinger stated that the city is looking at the protocol of yielding before and after raised crosswalks. They are using interns to measure yielding data.

Councillor Kelley asked if there are any signals wired in the city that would change a red light to green. Ms. Clippinger stated that there are loops. Councillor Kelley requested a list of the loops in the city. Ms. Clippinger stated that she would provide the list of the loops in the city.

A discussion ensued about bump out turns. Ms. Seiderman stated that this has not been identified as a problem issue. Ms. Clippinger stated that curb extensions were designed to slow vehicles. Neighborhoods requested curb extensions near schools stated Ms. Seiderman. Councilor Kelley expressed concern that cars swing curb extensions wide and oncoming cyclists, especially young children, may not be savvy enough to anticipate oncoming traffic in ‘their’ lane.

Ms. Sarazen stated a problem that cyclists are traveling the wrong way on Fulkerson Street, which is a one-way street. This is an enforcement issue stated Ms. Clippinger. The issues keep going back to enforcement noted Councillor Kelley. He stated that he would like a list of the tickets issued in bike lanes.

Councillor Kelley thanked all attendees for their participation.

The meeting adjourned at seven o’clock and thirty minutes p.m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair

Committee Report #2
The Civic Unity Committee held a public hearing on Oct 6, 2009 at six o’clock and ten minutes P.M. in the Walden Square Community Center. The hearing was held for the purpose of initiating a community conversation on strengthening the community for a safer neighborhood.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Marjorie Decker, Chair of the Committee; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Present from the City administrative staff were Eileen Keegan Bongiorno, Division Head of Community Schools Programs; Michelle Farnum, Division Head of Youth Programs DHSP; Melissa Castillo, Youth Programs, DHSP; Merline Sylvain-Williams, 1 Walden Square Road, outreach worker for the Center for Families, DHSP; Superintendent Steve Williams, Cambridge Police Department (CPD); Sergeant Kathleen Murphy, CPD; Officer Oswaldo Ortiz, CPD; Officer Devon Brooks, CPD; Officer Michael Daniliuk; Shirley Santos, 50 York Street #205, Director of the North Cambridge Crime Task Force. Winn Management Residential was represented by Sarah Benjamin, Property Manager, Walden Square; and Dr. Wayne Montague, Director of Community Relations. The following Walden Square residents were present: Sarah Clement, 6 Walden Square Road, Apt 205; Joan Colwell, 18 Walden Square Road, Apt. 420; Delia Machone, 3 Walden Square Road, Apt 116; Tom Jones, 13 Walden Square # 320; Esther Ellis, 21 Walden Square Road; Paula Gawin, 12 Walden Square Road; and Marlene Belony, 8 Walden Square Road, Apt. 218; and Virgen M Ortiz, 15 Walden Square Road #403. Also present were Chris Rouches, 60 Linnaean Street; Jonathan Strangio, 60 Linnaean Street; Meqdes Mesfin; Brad Cappellini, 110 Greenough; Alexis Dalcol, Harvard; Max Kenyi, Harvard; and Hugh Martin, Harvard.

Councillor Decker convened the hearing and explained the purpose. She introduced Superintendent Williams and Sergeant Murphy to begin. Superintendent Williams said that there was concern about violence in North Cambridge in the late spring. Over the summer the Cambridge Police Department, the Cambridge Housing Authority and the Department of Human Service Programs worked collaboratively to increase police and human services profile and presence in the North Cambridge neighborhood. Several programs ran all summer, for example youth night basketball, girls’ soccer and girls’ empowerment programs. Police and DPHS staff both worked closely with the youth and developed relationships with several of them. After these programs began the number of incidents dropped way down. Superintendent Williams said that he sees this summer program as a model program going forward. Superintendent Williams emphasized the need of the Cambridge Police Department to interact with members of the community. Sergeant Murphy agreed. She said that residents can feel free to tell the police about any troubling conditions in the community, for example streetlights that are not working. Police officers will then make sure that the right city departments are notified of the need to rectify problematic conditions. She informed the residents that there are also ways to provide information about criminal activity anonymously. There is an anonymous "text a tip" program and there is a drug hotline where callers do not need to give their names. They also described the community alert system that residents can sign up for.

Councillor Decker informed the residents that there is a new neighborhood group, the Richdale Neighborhood Group and encouraged residents to become involved. She then invited DHSP staff members to describe the many human service programs that residents can take advantage of. Ms. Sylvain-Williams described the services and activities available through the Center for Families for families with children from birth to age 6, including family fun nights, baby time, playgroups and a midwife who will visit families with new babies. Ms. Castillo described the youth centers programs focusing on the Gately and the new Russell centers, as they are the closest to Walden Square. Ms. Keegan Bongiorno described the community schools programs, noting that the closes programs for Walden Square residents would be those at the Peabody School and the Graham and Parks School. The programming is year-round, with full-day camps in the summer and afterschool enrichment programs during the school year. There are also programs for seniors and adults. Ms. Santos described the activities of the North Cambridge Crime Task Force, including Ethiopian outreach, a free soccer week for 6-12 year-olds, workshops for parents on bullying and an upcoming Halloween party.

Ms. Benjamin noted that there is a computer learning center for the residents onsite.

Councillor Decker emphasized the importance of residents coming together and bringing their needs to the attention of city government. When the community came together with their concerns about violence in their neighborhood, the City responded by listening and providing additional resources for the community, and the number of incidents went down. She urged the residents to participate in the neighborhood association. Councillor Decker then thanked all those present for their participation. The hearing adjourned at 7:40 P.M.

For the Committee,
Councillor Marjorie Decker, 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)

09-26. 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)

09-54. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Black MSM issues in Cambridge.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 05/18/09 (O-12)

09-66. 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)

09-76. 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)

09-104. 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)

09-108. 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)

09-116. 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)

09-122. 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 School Youth report.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor Seidel and Full Membership 10/05/09 (O-23)

09-126. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the rationale for not implementing rodent control programs similar to those in New York City, including requiring metal collectors in large buildings.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 10/19/09 (O-8)

09-127. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on seeking professional exterminators to more aggressively pinpoint and address the rodent problems.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 10/19/09 (O-9)

09-128. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on legal opinion on whether or not listing public notices on the City website could fulfill the obligation of the City of public legal notices.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 10/19/09 (O-10)

09-129. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on both the status of wireless service at Newtowne Court and also a plan to ensure reliable wireless service in Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Seidel and Full Membership 10/19/09 (O-11)

09-130. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of working with local organizations to implement a program in Cambridge similar to the "NYC Cool Roofs" program.
Vice Mayor Seidel and Full Membership 10/19/09 (O-13)

09-131. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on progress in forming the Coordinating Council on Aging in Place.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 10/26/09 (O-7)

09-132. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on an update on the Blessed Sacrament Church construction project.
Councillor Decker and Full Membership 10/26/09 (O-10)