Cambridge City Council meeting - November 2, 2020

CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a COVID-19 update.
Placed on File 9-0

2. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $100,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Executive Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support the City’s Patio Heater Reimbursement Program.
Order Adopted 9-0

Nov 2, 2020
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby requesting an appropriation of $100,000, from Free Cash to the General Fund Executive Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support the City’s Patio Heater Reimbursement Program.

Through this new program, restaurants will be reimbursed up to $250.00 per portable patio heater for up to a maximum of five patio heaters per business. This reimbursement is subject to restaurants’ compliance with regulations and requirements from the Cambridge Fire Department.

Very truly yours, Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager

3. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-46, regarding a report on traffic measures on Concord Avenue.
Placed on File 9-0

4. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-55, regarding a report on visitor parking in permit Area 14.
Placed on File 9-0

5. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-42, regarding enforcement of illegal parking in front of LBJ Apartments on Erie Street.
Placed on File 9-0

6. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative draft alternative language to the Green Energy Analysis Zoning Petition.
Referred to Petition 9-0

Nov 2, 2020
To the Honorable, the City Council:

Below you will find information requested by the Ordinance Committee relative to draft alternative language to the Green Energy Analysis Zoning Petition, received from Assistant City Manager for Community Development Iram Farooq and City Solicitor Nancy E. Glowa.

Overview
Following the August 26, 2020 hearing on the above-referenced zoning petition, the Ordinance Committee asked CDD to suggest revised language in response to the Planning Board recommendation dated August 19, 2020 and CDD staff comments. Staff from the Division of Zoning and Development and the Division of Environmental and Transportation Planning worked together, in consultation with the Law Department, to draft alternative language that retains the intent of the petition, provides clearer guidance, and is better integrated into current zoning.

As with the current petition, the suggested language would add a component to the “Net Zero Narrative” requiring applicants to submit an assessment of the technical feasibility and cost of installation of “fossil fuel free” energy systems as part of a project subject to Green Building Requirements. The Net Zero Narrative is a public document that is made available to the Planning Board and the public for advisory review when projects require special permits. The revised language is intended to describe the scope of the assessment more clearly, to ensure that developers provide clear and consistent information in a way that relates to other components of the Net Zero Narrative.

Suggested Language
Insert a new Paragraph 22.25.1 (c) (6) in the “Net Zero Narrative” submission requirements to read as follows:

“(6) an assessment of energy systems that do not consume fossil fuels on-site (to include solar photovoltaics and hot water, ground source, water source or air source heat pumps, district energy systems, and/or similar systems) that examines technical feasibility to meet the projected HVAC and domestic hot water demands of the building based on the information provided in 22.25.1(c)(2), and cost of installation taking into account incentives provided in 22.25.1(c)(5), all compared to code-compliant energy systems that consume fossil fuels on-site.”

Because such an assessment requires time to complete before a final application can be submitted, staff recommends that this additional paragraph take effect 90 days after the date of adoption. That way, development proposals that are early in the pre-application review process can begin to incorporate this requirement immediately, but proposals that are in the later stages of review will not be unreasonably affected.

Very truly yours, Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager

7. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a request for approval to increase of the fee for a Resident Parking Permit/Pass, which is currently $25.00, to $40.00, by amending the provisions of Chapter 10, Section 10.17.070 of the Municipal Code.
Failed of Adoption 4-5 (DC,PN,JSW,QZ - YES; AM,MM,DS,TT,SS - NO)

Nov 2, 2020
To the Honorable, the City Council:

Due in large part to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and resultant decrease in parking meter revenues, the Parking Fund revenues for the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department have suffered significantly this year. Accordingly, I am writing to request that you approve the increase of the fee for a Resident Parking Permit/Pass from $25.00 to $40.00, by amending the provisions of Chapter 10, Section 10.17.070 of the Municipal Code. The current fee of $25.00 per Resident Parking Permit/Pass was established effective with 2013 permits. The fee has historically been adjusted from time to time as costs rise, and this type of change is also in keeping with our overall transportation and sustainability goals. The $40.00 fee more accurately reflects current costs. I request that consideration be given so that if approved, the City could implement this change prior to the 2021 renewal season, which effectively starts on Dec 1, 2020 when the City opens the permit application portal.

The proposed amendment to the applicable provisions of the Municipal Code is attached for your consideration. I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Very truly yours, Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager

CHARTER RIGHT
1. That the City Council adopt a municipal ordinance to reduce or limit campaign donations from donors seeking to enter into a contract, seeking approval for a special permit or up-zoning, seeking to acquire real estate from the city, or seeking financial assistance from the city. [CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL OCT 26, 2020] [Text of Order #4 of Oct 26, 2020]
Referred to Ordinance Committee 9-0

2. That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to work with the Solicitor to draft Ordinance language to prohibit the use of tear gas in Cambridge. [CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL OCT 26, 2020] [Text of Order #5 of Oct 26, 2020]
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

ON THE TABLE
3. Green Energy Analysis Zoning Amendment. [TABLED ON MOTION OF COUNCILLOR CARLONE IN COUNCIL OCT 5, 2020]
Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended 9-0

4. An application was received from Charles Doty, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 810 Main Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [TABLED BY COUNCILLOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL OCT 26, 2020]
Order Adopted 8-0-0-1 (Simmons - PRESENT)

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
5. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 18-108, regarding a report on offering early voting in City Council and School Committee Elections. [PENDING RESPONSE FROM LEGISLATURE]

6. The City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City of Cambridge Law Department to review the above changes to the language of the Domestic Partnerships Ordinance and report back to the Council. [PASSED TO A SECOND READING IN COUNCIL JULY 27, 2020. TO BE ORDAINED ON OR AFTER SEPT 14, 2020]

7. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a response to Policy Order O-13 of Oct 5, 2020, regarding a draft Truck Safety Ordinance. [PASSED TO A SECOND READING IN COUNCIL OCT 19, 2020. TO BE ORDAINED ON OR AFTER NOV 9, 2020]

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Jesse Aguilar, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 87 Cambridge Park Drive; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association.
Charter Right - Nolan

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Micheal K. Owu, MIT Volpe PUD-7 Special Permit Pre-Application Conference with the City Council.
Placed on File 9-0

Oct 29, 2020
VIA ELECTRONIC MAIL
City Clerk Anthony Wilson
Cambridge City Hall
795 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor
Cambridge, MA 02139
Email: awilson@cambridgema.gov
Re: MIT Volpe PUD-7 Special Permit Pre-Application Conference with the City Council

Dear Mr. Wilson,
We are preparing to submit a PUD-7 Special Permit application under the Planned Unit Development 7 (PUD-7) District zoning ordinance to allow for the redevelopment of the MIT Volpe site into a vibrant mixed-use community.

The PUD-7 zoning was ordained by the City Council in October 2017. The zoning and associated commitment letter contained a number of significant benefits, including:

• Approximately 1,400 units of housing, including approximately 280 affordable units and 20 middle income units

• 950 new beds for graduate students

• $25.5 million for design and construction of an on-site community center and endowment to support operations and ensure ongoing affordability

• Over 2 acres of permanently guaranteed public open space

• Active ground floors with retail including independent and small retail

• Job Connector (which opened in 2019 at 792 Main Street in The Port neighborhood), including $1.5 million operation fund

• Approximately $36 million to the Affordable Housing Trust for commercial linkage payment (based on the current rate of $20.10 per square foot)

• $8.5 million for transit improvements to reduce vehicular traffic

• $8.5 million to community fund to be distributed to Cambridge non-profits

• Conveyance of rights and contribution of $8.5 million for design and construction of the Grand Junction path

• $1 million for innovation arts and program to recognize innovation and entrepreneurship in Kendall Square

• Approximately $23 million annually in taxes when built-out on a currently tax-exempt site

We are submitting the enclosed materials in accordance with Section 13.91.5 of the PUD-7 District zoning ordinance, which requires a Pre-Application Conference with the Planning Board and either the full City Council or the Ordinance Committee prior to the submission of the special permit application. We held our pre-application conference with the Planning Board on Tues, October 27, 2020.

The enclosed materials are a condensed version of a presentation we made at a community-wide Zoom meeting last week. A copy of that presentation, together with a video of the presentation and follow-up question-and-answer period, is available at https://volpe.mit.edu/events/mit-volperedevelopment-project-community-meeting-10-21-20/. The video of our presentation to the Planning Board is available on the City’s Open Meeting Portal.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Michael K. Owu
Managing Director, Real Estate

3. A communication was received from Genevieve and Joseph Coyle, regarding 2% Tax.

5. A communication was received from Lee Farris, regarding resident alliance on preventing evictions.

6. A communication was received from Louise Gluck, 14 Ellsworth Park, thanking the City Council for their resolution.

7. A communication was received from Lee Farris, regarding support for Home Rule Petition for a Real Estate Transfer Fee.

8. A communication was received from Elizabeth Warren, expressing thanks to the City Council for their resolution for her brother Donald Reed.

9. A communication was received from Suzanne Blier, regarding support Policy Orders.

10. A communication was received from Susan Ringler, regarding Campaign Finance Reform.

11. A communication was received from Susan Labanibar, regarding support for campaign finance reform.

12. A communication was received from Steve Harris, regarding campagn finance reform.

13. A communication was received from Sally Orme, regarding campaign finance reform.

14. A communication was received from Richard Krushnic, regarding limit contributions.

15. A communication was received from Rebecca S. Lester, regarding campaign finance reform.

16. A communication was received from Paula Yetman, regarding Cambridge Brands curb cut.

17. A communication was received from Nicolai Cauchy, regarding campaign finance reform.

18. A communication was received from Nella LaRosa-Waters, regarding campaign Finance.

19. A communication was received from Mike Nakagawa, regarding campaign finance reform.

20. A communication was received from Mike Nakagawa,, regarding cycling safety ordinance Cambridge Street.

21. A communication was received from Mary Jane Kornacki, regarding money out of politics.

22. A communication was received from Marilee Meyer, regarding support moving finance reform to Ordinance Committee.

23. A communication was received from Madeleine Aster, regarding prohibiting campaign donations from people doing business with the City.

24. A communication was received from Lenny Solomon Band, regarding campaign finance reform.

25. A communication was received from Kavash Gandhi, regarding POR #246, #247 and #252.

26. A communication was received from Kathy Watkins, regarding parking permit fee increase.

27. A communication was received from Kathleen and Marion Reine, regarding Carlone proposed Ordinance.

28. A communication was received from Joseph and Genevieve Coyle, regarding campaign finance reform.

29. A communication was received from Jeanne Koopman, regarding Carlone's draft Ordinance.

31. A communication was received from Henry H. Wortis, regarding limiting political contributions.

32. A communication was received from Guillemette Simmers, regarding campaign finance reform.

33. A communication was received from Grace Da Cunha, regarding campaign finance reform.

34. A communication was received from George Scialabba, regarding Carlone’s campaign finance reform ordinance.

35. A communication was received from Debby Shapiro, regarding campaign finance.

36. A communication was received from Charles Hinds, regarding Council Resolution #3.

37. A communication was received from Carolyn Shipley, regarding campaign Finance reform.

39. A communication was received from Beth Kon, regarding campaign finance reform.

40. A communication was received from Bernice Buresh, regarding campaign finance reform.

41. A communication was received from Ann Fleck Henderson, regarding campaign finance reform.

43. A communication was received from Abra Berkowitz, regarding support for all Policy Order's on tonight's agenda.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Associate Justice Kimberly Budd. Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui
Resolution Adopted as Amended 9-0

3. Resolution on the death of Richard McKinnon. Councillor Toomey, Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern
Resolution Adopted as Amended 9-0

R-3 Nov 2, 2020
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN

WHEREAS: The City Council was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Richard McKinnon on October 28, 2020 at the age of 73; and

WHEREAS: Richard McKinnon was a lifelong resident of Cambridge, graduating from Cambridge Rindge and Latin School before attending Harvard University; and

WHEREAS: Beginning in 1975 and lasting until 1983, Richard McKinnon served for two terms as Chief of Staff to the entire City Council, before going on to serve for two additional terms as Chief of Staff to Mayor Alfred E. Vellucci; and

WHEREAS: Following his public service, Richard McKinnon would enter the development world, having a hand in bringing forth a number of significant projects over the last two decades, including a 2,000,000 square feet mixed-use development at CambridgeSide, the Hotel Marlowe, a 236 room Kempton Hotel, North Point Center, a 1,250,000 mixed-use project, the United State headquarters of EF Corporation, the 227-apartment Residences at Alewife, and many other notable projects; and

WHEREAS: Richard McKinnon took pride in the developments he helped bring to fruition, seeing his work in the development world as an extension of his prior work in serving the City Council and the Mayor’s Office, looking to bring renewed life and vibrancy to all corners of the City, looking to provide new housing opportunities for people from all walks of life, and working to increase the opportunities to create a sense of community; and

WHEREAS: No matter what his role was, Richard McKinnon was forever working to bring people together to find a middle ground, to help those in need, and to help make the world around him a better place; and

WHEREAS: Richard McKinnon leaves behind his sister, Margaret McKinnon of Pensacola, his children, Luke McKinnon and his partner Leah Milby of Cambridge and Jessica Lynch of Centerville, his grandchildren, Ella Lynch, Luke Richard McKinnon, Boston McKinnon, Declan Lynch, Shyah McKinnon and Lola Fisher, his many lifelong friends – especially Mai Le and Adriana Benjamin – and his community, and he shall forever be missed by the city upon which he left an indelible imprint; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council formally go on record in expressing its deepest condolences to the family of Richard McKinnon for their loss; 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 family of Richard McKinnon on behalf of the entire City Council.

4. Congratulations to Fred Fantini. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey
Resolution Adopted 9-0

R-4 Nov 2, 2020
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY

WHEREAS: On Nov 7, 2020, the Massachusetts Association of School Committees will be holding its 75th Anniversary event; and

WHEREAS: In the weeks leading up to this event, it has been announced that Cambridge School Committee Member Fred Fantini has been recommended for a lifetime appointment to this organization; and

WHEREAS: As a member of the School Committee for 37 years, Fred Fantini is the longest serving elected School Committee member in the history of Cambridge, and he has built a tremendous legacy of hard work, leadership on multiple fronts, being a champion of school choice, and championing the notion that the teachers and administrators in our schools should reflect the great diversity of the children being taught in our classrooms; and

WHEREAS: Fred Fantini has also been an active participant in many Massachusetts Association of School Committees programs and events as a conference speaker, session organizer, and facilitator on topics ranging from equity and desegregation, school restructuring and budget and finance, he has served as a mentor to countless new members, and he continues to show a passion for his work and a depth of knowledge in his field that is virtually without parallel; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council formally go on record in congratulating Fred Fantini for being recommended for a lifetime membership to the Massachusetts Association of School Committees; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Fred Fantini on behalf of the entire City Council.

5. That this City Council goes on record urging all residents to honor the men and women who have defended our country, as well as those who are serving today by commemorating Veterans’ Day on Wed, Nov 11, 2020. Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toomey
Resolution Adopted 9-0

ORDERS
1. Policy Order Seeking Suitable Dedication for Eurie Stamps, Sr. Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Toomey
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

2. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to commence the public process with the Port neighborhood and surrounding communities to determine the future use of the 35 Cherry Street parcel for affordable housing, and in conjunction with the community, determine the type of housing that would meet the most pressing needs in the area. Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui
Charter Right - Zondervan

3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Public Information Office, the Housing Liaison, the Multiservice Center, the School Department, and other relevant City departments to create a comprehensive digital, postal, and traditional media outreach campaign educating residents on the Cambridge eviction moratorium, tenants’ rights, and resources available to at-risk tenants. Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

4. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request for a suitable dedication in the vicinity of CCTV’s office located at 438 Massachusetts Avenue in honor of retiring CCTV Executive Director Susan Fleischmann. Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

5. That the City Manager is hereby requested to direct the appropriate City staff to light up City Hall teal on Thurs, Nov 5, 2020, to raise awareness and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s Disease. Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons
Order Adopted 9-0

6. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the relevant departments about the feasibility of posting all applications for building permits online as soon as available. Councillor Nolan, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

7. That a Joint Roundtable for members of the City Council and School Committee be held on Tues, Nov 10, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm for the purpose of discussing the impact of COVID-19 on Cambridge Public Schools. Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

8. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department about analyzing eviction data from 2018 through 2021 and come back with a plan on how to use this data to inform our next action steps. Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
Order Adopted 9-0

9. The Cambridge City Council direct the City Manager to work with the City Solicitor’s Office to draft a Home Rule Petition that would cap campaign contributions to any City Council candidate to $200 per person, per year, per candidate and limit candidate loans to $3,000 per election cycle. Councillor McGovern, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons
Referred to Ordinance Committee 8-1 (Carlone - NO)

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Councillor Simmons, transmitting a memorandum regarding Cambridge Brands Curb Cut.
Placed on File 9-0

October 28, 2020
Mr. Anthony Wilson
Clerk of Cambridge
Cambridge City Hall
Re: Memo Re Cambridge Brands Curb Cut

Dear Mr. Wilson:
I am submitting this letter for inclusion on the November 2, 2020 City Council meeting agenda. I exercised my Charter Right on the curb cut request by Cambridge Brands during the October 19, 2020 City Council meeting, and during the October 26 City Council meeting, I referenced an email exchange between myself, Paula Yetman from Cambridge Brands, and Charles Doty from Cambridge Brands that took place following the October 19th meeting. I am submitting that email exchange as part of this communication so that my colleagues can better understand what I was referencing last week.

For further clarification: during the October 19th City Council meeting, I brought forward some legitimate concerns about the level of outreach conducted by Cambridge Brands to its neighbors, as well as the overall level of civic engagement by this company during those times when they are not seeking something from the City. The reason I exercised my charter right, and the reason I have sought additional time before we vote on this matter, is because I wished to learn more about the company’s community outreach, and I have been reaching out to numerous people that live near the Cambridge Brands building. Following the October 19th Council meeting, I sent an email to Paula Yetman, the Plant Manager, as well as to Cambridge Brands attorney Charles Doty, underlining my concerns and seeking to open a dialogue with them ahead of the next Council meeting.

Interestingly, Mr. Doty shared a little more with me than he intended to when he accidentally copied me on an email that was meant only for Ms. Yetman and their Cambridge Brands colleagues. In that email, he said “Good job! [Councilor Simmons] has surrendered and changed the topic in order to save face. You need to respond with humility and sweetness, telling her that Cambridge Brands looks forward to working with her and continuing to participate as an active member of the Cambridge Community and the Main Street neighborhood.” Within an hour of sending that email, both Ms. Yetman and Mr. Doty realized what had happened and sent me profusely apologetic emails saying that this email should not have been sent, that no disrespect was intended, and so on.

And while I appreciate the apologies - the email that Mr. Doty had sent to me by accident reveals that he viewed this discussion as something of a game. And I want to make it clear: I don’t view these curb cut discussions, or discussions about civic engagement and the role of a responsible corporate neighbor, as being frivolous. I do not view this as a game. Cambridge Brands has been in this community for generations, they are looking for expand, and I think that’s wonderful - but I also want to know how they fit into our community, aside from simply having a physical location here.

Do they feel any ties to the community? Any obligation to recruit locally for employment? Any ties to our student population? I think those are fair questions, and those are the kinds of points I’ve been seeking clarity on.

As I told Ms. Yetman in my initial email, I am not trying to prevent this company from expanding, but I do want to know more about how they view their relationship with the People of Cambridge. How do they plan to stay engaged with their neighborhood even after they receive this curb cut, if that comes to pass? I am still interested in having that conversation, and it’s something I would hope every company operating in this city is continually thinking about. Thank you.

Sincerely,
City Councilor E. Denise Simmons

2. A communication was received from Mayor Siddiqui, Communicating information from the School Committee.
Placed on File 9-0

3. A communication was received from Councillor Simmons, transmitting a memorandum Mass Housing Coalition Pledge.
Placed on File 9-0

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Nov 2
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber - televised)

Tues, Nov 10
10:00am The Health and Environment Committee will meet to continue discussing amending the Tree Protection Ordinance based on the findings of the Urban Forest Master Plan Task Force. (Sullivan Chamber - televised)

Thurs, Nov 12
10:00am The Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public hearing on to discuss the Municipal Broadband Feasibility Study RFP. (Sullivan Chamber - televised)
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the PUD-CDK District Zoning. (Sullivan Chamber - televised)

Tues, Nov 17
2:30pm The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee will conduct a public hearing on decorum of the Council, as well as the rules around and duties of the Council Aides. (Sullivan Chamber - televised)

Thurs, Nov 19
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the KSURP Zoning Ordinance Amendment. (Sullivan Chamber - televised)

Wed, Dec 2
5:00pm The Public Safety Committee will meet to conduct a public hearing on the Cambridge Police Department inventory list. (Sullivan Chamber - televised)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Nov 2, 2020 Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR ZONDERVAN
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request from Councillor Simmons for a street corner dedication in the vicinity of the corner of Brookline Street and Valentine Street in honor of the late Eurie Stamps, Sr.; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward this order to the Dedication Committee for their review and approval.

O-2 Nov 2, 2020 Amended
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: Increasing the availability of affordable housing is a major community need and remains a primary goal of the City Council; and
WHEREAS: The City’s comprehensive plan, Envision Cambridge, reiterates increasing affordable housing as a community goal and includes an action item to prioritize using City and other public property available for disposition to develop affordable housing; and
WHEREAS: As part of a 2013 agreement related to the PUD-5 rezoning, MIT conveyed the parcel at 35 Cherry Street (Assessor’s Lot #75-118) to the City; and
WHEREAS: This agreement stipulated that use of the property shall be determined through a public process conducted by the Community Development Department; and
WHEREAS: There is a variety of different types of housing that would be beneficial to the neighborhood and the city as a whole, ranging from workforce housing, to LGBTQ+ friendly housing, to transitional housing, to family sized housing and homeownership units; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to commence the public process with the Port neighborhood and surrounding communities to determine the future use of the 35 Cherry Street parcel for affordable housing, and in conjunction with the community, determine the type of housing that would meet the most pressing needs in the area; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Council formally go on record in urging that this community process be truly inclusive, and that every effort is made to engage with diverse voices throughout the community in these discussions.

O-3 Nov 2, 2020
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
WHEREAS: Massachusetts’ statewide eviction moratorium expired on October 17th, 2020, but Cambridge’s municipal eviction moratorium remains in effect until further notice; and
WHEREAS: Evictions always pose a significant public health risk to our residents through housing destabilization and financial impact, but evictions are an even greater public health concern amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, as evicted residents may ‘double up,’ leading to increased household transmission, or become homeless; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge eviction moratorium prevents constables from forcibly carrying out an eviction order, but residents may not be aware of nor fully understand the rights they have under the moratorium, and may be misled to incorrectly believe they must leave their home; and
WHEREAS: The Multiservice Center, the City Manager’s Housing Liaison Office, and community organizations offer free housing support, financial assistance, case management, referrals, legal services, and more, but tenants similar may not be aware that these resources exist; and
WHEREAS: While some housing professionals were sent an informational letter, and there are plans to send out a postcard on tenant protection to all households, the City must quickly develop a robust virtual outreach strategy using all means of communication, especially social media and CPS communication channels, in order to truly educate and protect tenants’ health and housing stability; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Public Information Office, the Housing Liaison, the Multiservice Center, the School Department, and other relevant City departments to create a comprehensive digital, postal, and traditional media outreach campaign educating residents on the Cambridge eviction moratorium, tenants’ rights, and resources available to at-risk tenants; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter by the November 9th regular meeting.

O-5 Nov 2, 2020
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR CARLONE
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: National Alzheimer’s Disease Month is recognized each November; and
WHEREAS: Over 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease, which is a form of dementia, that impacts memory, thinking, and behavior; and
WHEREAS: Alzheimer’s Disease ranks as the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. and the most common form of dementia in 60-80% of all diagnosed cases; and
WHEREAS: Light the World in Teal is an annual program held each November as part of Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS: People and places around the world “go teal” to raise awareness and show support for the millions of people affected by Alzheimer’s. This year’s Light the World in Teal takes place on Nov 5, 2020; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager is hereby requested to direct the appropriate City staff to light up City Hall teal on Thurs, Nov 5, 2020, to raise awareness and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s Disease.

O-6 Nov 2, 2020
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: The city strives to be open and accessible to all and has made a concerted sustained effort through a number of initiatives to allow residents access to information, including Open Data portal, communication through a variety of media, and
WHEREAS: It is in the interest of the city for all residents to have access to information on building projects and approved building permits are available online through the city’s portal; and
WHEREAS: Applications for building permit information is public information, and accessible in person through the records of the Inspectional Services Department, but not posted for the public to access safely online, despite being submitted in electronic form, and
WHEREAS: It is in the interest of city residents to know about projects; and
WHEREAS: The Council wants to be at the cutting edge of access to public data; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager is requested to consult with the relevant departments about the feasibility of posting all applications for building permits online as soon as available; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager is requested to report back to the Council by the end of the calendar year.

O-8 Nov 2, 2020
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
WHEREAS: The Community Development Department has collected pertinent information from the Massachusetts Court System related to the categorization of eviction data by landlord types, and the number of evictions filed between 2013 and 2017; and
WHEREAS: Data on eviction filings during the COVID-19 pandemic is critical information to gather in order to inform the City Council and City Manager’s Housing Liaison on ways to prevent eviction filings and pinpoint property owners who have filed numerous evictions; and
WHEREAS: Facilitated discussions between property owners and tenants can reduce or eliminate evictions and lead to solutions that are beneficial for both parties; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department about analyzing eviction data from 2018 through 2021 and come back with a plan on how to use this data to inform our next action steps; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter by December 2020.

O-9 Nov 2, 2020
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
VICE MAYOR MALLON
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council has gone on record on numerous occasions in favor of municipal campaign finance reform and
WHEREAS: Under current state law, individuals can contribute up to $1,000 per year to municipal candidates and
WHEREAS: This $1,000 threshold can create an unfair playing field in municipal elections and
WHEREAS: There is a concern that large campaign contributions may lead to unfair access and influence, regardless of who makes those contribution; and
WHEREAS: This policy would not only apply to those having business before the City Council but would limit campaign contribution to anyone contributing to a City Council campaign; and
WHEREAS: To further ensure that there is equal access for all candidates seeking municipal elected office in the City of Cambridge, the amount a candidate can loan their own campaigns should be limited to $3,000 per election cycle; therefore, be it
ORDERED: The Cambridge City Council direct the City Manager to work with the City Solicitor’s Office to draft a Home Rule Petition that would cap campaign contributions to any City Council candidate to $200 per person, per year, per candidate and limit candidate loans to $3,000 per election cycle, and further be it
ORDERED: That the City Solicitor report back to the Ordinance Committee of the City Council regarding this order.

AWAITING REPORT LIST
16-101. Report on the potential of building below market rental housing on City-owned parking lots along Bishop Allen Drive. On a communication from Councillor McGovern requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons (O-4) from 12/12/2016

16-108. Report on whether people displaced and qualify for Emergency Status who are using Section 8 in other cities or towns can retain their resident preference for the purpose of Inclusionary Housing. On a communication from Councillor Kelley requesting that this matter be forwarded to the 2018-2019 Legislative Session.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey (O-4) from 12/19/2016

18-38. Report on inventory of all City-owned vacant buildings and lots and the City's plans for them, if any.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor Siddiqui (O-2) from 3/26/2018

18-60. Report on a small business parking pilot that would allow temporary on-street employee parking during typical daytime operating hours.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons (Calendar Item #1) from 5/14/2018

18-73. Report on establishing and implementing a dynamic new initiative that will seek to place Port residents (ages 18 and over) on paths to jobs with family-sustaining wages.
Councillor Simmons (O-6) from 6/25/2018

18-119. Report on evaluating the existing capacity of fire stations in the Kendall Square area and whether a new fire station is needed, and if so, determining the feasibility of locating a plot of land for this use.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toomey (O-2) from 11/5/2018

19-3. Report on establishing a Central Square Improvement Fund and allocate no less than 25% of funds generated to the arts.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern (O-6) from 1/7/2019

19-22. Report on the feasibility of allowing small businesses to host live acoustic music performances without a license, and if feasible, present the City Council with a proposal to allow such performances.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern (O-5) from 2/25/2019

19-45. Report on compiling a full accounting of streets, schools, and public buildings that may be named in honor of those who have ties to the American slave trade, and to work towards renaming all of these streets, schools, and buildings.
Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 4/8/2019

19-49. Report on recommending restrictions on signage specific to retail establishments that sell e-cigarettes and other vaping devices.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toomey (O-15) from 4/8/2019

19-58. Report on working with the Recycling Advisory Committee and other stakeholders to draft an ordinance banning single-use plastic items in Cambridge.
Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone (O-6) from 5/13/2019

19-62. Report on drafting a formal Anti-bias /Cultural Competency Strategic Plan for eventual adoption and implementation.
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 5/20/2019

19-66. Report on whether it is possible to reduce or eliminate Building Permit Fees for 100% affordable housing development projects, through an exemption or other means and investigate what types of real estate tax abatements are possible for 100% affordable housing moving forward.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern (O-3) from 6/3/2019

19-74. Report on establishing a working committee to review the monuments, memorials, and markers throughout Cambridge to determine whether any of these commemorate those who were linked to the slave trade or engaged in other similarly shameful acts and to determine which individuals should be newly recognized with a monument, memorial, or marker.
Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Devereux, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-2) from 6/10/2019

19-75. Report on exploring the feasibility of partnering with a local research institution to conduct a study that determines how many ridehail vehicles are on the roads during both on and off-peak times and their impacts on congestion and safety.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Kelley, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-4) from 6/10/2019

19-100. Report on the feasibility of implementing an additional regulatory requirement for listing a registration/license number for Short-Term Rentals.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons (O-19) from 7/30/2019

19-123. Report on the feasibility of closing some portion of Harvard Square to vehicular traffic on a select number of days during the summer of 2020 to have open market-style events.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Vice Mayor Devereux, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan (O-1) from 10/7/2019

19-130. Report on requesting to allocate more funds in the FY21 budget for the small business improvement grants and to confer with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office on whether other cities in Massachusetts have been facing similar issues with ADA compliance and what can be done to protect the small businesses.
Councillor Toomey (O-14) from 10/7/2019

19-134. Report on increasing funding to the City’s HomeBridge program so that access to homeownership may be made available to a wider range of incomes, as the program intends.
Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Toomey (O-20) from 10/7/2019

19-142. Report on determining the feasibility of expediting the Demolition and Rebuilding permitting process in the event of a natural disaster.
Vice Mayor Mallon (O-1) from 10/21/2019

19-144. Report on determining the feasibility of instituting and funding a Fire Cadet Program.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Toomey, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons (O-4) from 10/21/2019

19-145. Report on reviewing all the City’s policies and procedures related to the procurement, installation and disposal of artificial turf.
Vice Mayor Devereux, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Zondervan (O-7) from 10/21/2019

19-146. Report on reviewing the existing internal mechanisms for City staffers in all departments to report grievances, to determine if this system is functioning as it should or whether changes should be considered.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 10/28/2019

19-147. Report on installing hearing loop technology inside the Sullivan Chamber as part of the upcoming renovations to City Hall, and in other critical City meeting venues wherever possible and other accessibility improvements.
Councillor Zondervan (O-4) from 10/28/2019

19-151. Report on the feasibility of making Porter Square and Massachusetts Avenue between Roseland Street and Beech Street a quick-build Complete Street with bus priority.
Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Devereux (O-10) from 10/28/2019

20-4. Report on the feasibility of instituting and funding a fare-free pilot bus program.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Siddiqui (O-5) from 1/27/2020

20-6. Report on the acquisition and implementation of interpretation services for City Council meetings and other public City meetings.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern (O-8) from 1/27/2020

20-10. Report on renaming the Agassiz neighborhood.
Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui (O-1) from 2/10/2020

20-12. Report on the feasibility of instituting a program to install rings on parking meters to expand bicycle parking options.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Siddiqui (O-4) from 2/10/2020

20-18. Report on the feasibility of implementing additional dedicated bus lanes, as well as fully separate protected bicycle lanes.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui (O-6) from 2/24/2020

20-23. Report on implementing Simple Recycling' s curbside textile recycling program and report back to the Council on this matter in a timely manner.
Councillor Toomey (O-1) from 5/11/2020

20-27. Report on the advantages and disadvantages of continuing with Civil Service, and the process by which Cambridge could exit Civil Service.
Councillor Nolan (O-5) from 6/22/2020

20-30. Report on establishing a plan designed to provide a thorough, system-wide review of the entire municipal government to identify and remove any vestiges of systemic racism and/or racial bias in any and all City departments, to establish clear, transparent metrics that will help further this critical endeavor.
Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Toomey (O-3) from 6/29/2020

20-31. Report on determining how to best protect and preserve our commercial spaces that support our small business operators and maintain continuity in our commercial districts.
Councillor Toomey, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui (O-5) from 6/29/2020

20-36. Report on generating a report detailing the Sole Assessment Process, the Civil Service HRD process, the reason for choosing the Sole Assessment Process over the Civil Service HRD process, and the projected costs associated with both processes.
Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-5) from 7/27/2020

20-37. Report on considering formally renaming the Central Square Library in honor of Maria Baldwin and Rep. John Lewis, with the building being known as “The Maria Baldwin and Rep. John Lewis Library and Center for African American/Black History and Culture” going forward, or to otherwise find another suitable location for this dedication.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-6) from 7/27/2020

20-42. Report on collaborating with the Cambridge Housing Authority in formulating a plan that will lead to increased enforcement of the parking regulations in front of 150 Erie Street, that will discourage illegal parking in front of the building. See Mgr #5
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 9/14/2020

20-44. Report on working to appoint a Vaccine Task Force to develop a plan that keeps equity at the forefront.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor SobrinhoWheeler (O-6) from 9/14/2020

20-45. Report on examining what traffic calming measures may be implemented for Walden Street, Raymond Street and Richdale Ave.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons (O-11) from 9/14/2020

20-46. Report on the implementation of traffic calming measures on Concord Ave between Huron Ave and Garden Street. See Mgr #3
Councillor Nolan (O-1) from 9/21/2020

20-48. Report on the feasibility of creating an antibody testing program.
Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern (O-3) from 9/21/2020

20-52. Report on determining what impact the Executive Order on Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping may have on the City of Cambridge and its community partners and what options the City may have to work around this order.
Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon (O-1) from 10/19/2020

20-53. Report on how Cambridge might participate in PACE Massachusetts pursuant to the PACE Act including exploring all options for incentivizing participation.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone (O-2) from 10/19/2020

20-54. Report on drafting an ordinance requiring the city to only purchase goods that are made in full compliance with USA environmental and labor standards.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui (O-3) from 10/19/2020

20-55. Report on the possibility of expanding visitor permit access for Permit Area 14. See Mgr #4
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-10) from 9/14/2020

20-56. Report on establishing a plan that will allow for greater outreach to women-and-minority-owned businesses, technical assistance to these businesses in applying for financial relief, and a clear plan to ensure that those small businesses that have not yet received financial assistance be granted every opportunity to access any future City funding should it be made available.
Councillor Simmons (O-2) from 10/26/2020

20-57. Report on contacting the appropriate representatives of the Cambridge Crossing buildings, and with appropriate representatives of the Governor’s Office, to ensure that the "party buses" the sorts of luxury buses filled with flashing, multicolored lights, dance music and interior bars, typically rented out by groups of people to shuttle them around are not in violation of any current statewide Covid-19 protocols.
Councillor Simmons (O-3) from 10/26/2020