CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-111, regarding a report on monitoring the efforts of Harvard and MIT with regard to wind data collection.

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-124, regarding the zoning limitations for reuse of the Middlesex County Sullivan Courthouse at 48 Thorndike Street.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-123, regarding a report on the fee structure used for energy audits by the Cambridge Energy Alliance.

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-135, regarding state budget cuts announced by Governor Patrick on Oct 15, 2008, to address a $1.4 billion estimated FY09 state budget shortfall.

Nov 3, 2008
To the Honorable, the City Council:

In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-135, regarding state budget cuts announced by Governor Patrick on Oct 15, 2008, to address a $1.4 billion estimated FY09 state budget shortfall, please be advised the following:

City and School officials have been in contact with state officials and program administrators to determine the specific reductions in their programs as they relate to the City of Cambridge. The following is a summary based on current information received. In some cases, state administrators are still formulating specific reductions, thus, the following is a summary of the major reductions based on the 9C cuts implemented to date:

Department of Human Services

We are experiencing large direct cuts to only two Department of Human Service Grant Programs right now, but many cuts to programs with which we partner.

Center for Families: The Center for Families is funded by City tax dollars and by two state grants. The Massachusetts Family Network grant, which is the largest of the funding sources, is being cut by 20%, from $139,761 to $111,810 or $27,951. This grant supports bilingual parent-outreach workers who disseminate information about resources and programming to families and for childcare workers who provide childcare during parenting classes and workshops. In addition, this grant covers the purchases of office supplies, books, toys, other instructional materials and food.

It is possible that the cut will be increased to 30%. The Department of Early Education and Care notified us of the 20% cut but, because of push back from other types of programs that they fund, they are considering whether to take a larger cut from these programs. We should know the actual cut within the next two weeks. At the 20% level, we will be able to absorb the cuts without laying off full time staff. We will be reducing some of our parenting playgroups and workshops, reducing the hours of part time staff, canceling two of the four citywide events we run, and taking a proportionate cut from the contracts we do through the Center for Families with the Margaret Fuller House and the East End House. If we experience the additional 10% cut, we would be looking at a reduction of staff. The parenting workshops and playgroups are among the efforts we highlighted as work we do similar to Harlem Children’s Zone, so we hope not to take the larger cut as we can absorb the current cuts without seriously compromising services.

North Cambridge Crime Task Force: We received state funding through Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) for the North Cambridge Crime Task Force. The $38,000 in funding covers the 25 hour employee. We are receiving a roughly 25% cut to that funding, leaving us with just $28,956. We have a small lag in our salary spending on this grant so we have enough to keep the staff person on at the 25 hours through the end of the fiscal year, but we will not be able to keep the position funded at that level thereafter.

Community Learning Center: The Housing Authority funds computer classes that Community Learning Center staff run at both Jefferson Park and 119 Windsor Street. The 9C cuts include a reduction in some of the funding that the Cambridge Housing Authority uses to fund our staff who teach these computer classes. They will have enough funding to continue the classes through December and are fairly optimistic that they will be able to reallocate funding to cover classes for the second half of the year. Several small grants that would have allowed the Community Learning Center to expand services have been cut but will not result in any reduction in current services.

Agenda for Children Literacy: The funding for the Pathways Program that provides case management services and educational services to families who are working toward adult and child literacy has been delayed and may be pulled. We had not yet heard about the refunding of the grant. This is the other program that was highlighted in our work related to the Harlem Children’s Zone. The grant funds a full time staff person and services.

Public Safety

The Community Policing Grant is being reduced from $403,750 to $307,657. The Community Policing Grant enables police departments to develop comprehensive community policing strategies tailored to address the particular needs of their communities and address crime, fear of crime, and issues that detract from overall quality of life. Funds have been used to cover mini-grants to community groups, neighborhood coordinator computer and networking equipment, police overtime and training. The Police Department is working to revise the amount allocated to each of these categories in order to stay within the revised grant amount.

An earmark contained in the state Budget that provided $1,150,000 to Boston, Cambridge and Everett Fire Departments for Hazardous Material Response Teams has been eliminated. The City would have received approximately $500,000 in HAZMAT equipment.

Schools

The FY09 estimate for Special Education Circuit Breaker reimbursement is $2.7 million. It appears that the total reduction of the circuit breaker program of $13.5 would not allow for additional reimbursement to 75% of eligible costs instead of 72% but the $2.7M estimated for FY09 should be received since it was based on the lower percentage.

The School Department is working with the Department of Education to clarify specific reductions to its grants.

Other Programs

The following is a summary of the status of other grant funding to the City and reductions to funding not directly received by the City but by other agencies that collaborate with the City.

There are no current 9C cuts to our housing search services for the multi-service center. There was supposed to be a complete refunding and revision to the program announced this fall and we applied for funding under the new program. There has been no announcement yet as to whether the new program will go forward. Our funding under the old program and through an earmark that stayed will keep us funded for services through June.

The $13 million in funding contained in the FY2009 Budget for Shannon grants remains intact. Shannon grants are critical resources which help municipalities and human service agencies to combat youth and gang violence. Due to the impending 9C cuts, the Oct 10th grant award date was postponed, and the EOPSS has yet to announce the new grant award date.

Urban Parks and Recreation – Eliminates earmark spending that may affect the City’s ability to supplement our spending on parks and open space going forward. (We have used these funds in the past on projects such as the Tobin School playground.)

Housing Services and Counseling – a cut of $260,963 statewide will impact Just a Start’s (JAS) Landlord/Tenant Mediation Program, which has been cut $70,500, which is about 50% of JAS’s state funding for this program.

Workforce Training Programs received a cut of $9 million statewide which will impact Just a Start’s (JAS) Biomedical Careers Training Program which is being cut by the full $140,000 they receive from the state. JAS is looking to make budget cuts, while still maintaining the program operation.

The Youthbuild Program is scheduled to take a cut of $826,700 statewide, which will impact JAS’s local program, which is being cut by about $75,000, or 30% of their state funding. A recent grant from the Wal-Mart Foundation will help JAS make up those cuts.

The City Council, at their round table on Mon Oct 27, 2008, was briefed on the $55 million reduction to the Cambridge Health Alliance by the State, which if implemented, will have a significant impact on current operations.

Conclusion

By combining spending reductions in Executive Branch Agencies with voluntary cuts by the Legislature and Judicial Branch and a package of legislation that will result in additional cost-saving to the Commonwealth, the Governor did not have to seek expanded 9C powers and made no cuts in local aid to municipalities. The City receives approximately $40 million in local aid (State Aid).

Hopefully, the reductions made now will allow the State to manage the projected shortfall for the remainder of the fiscal year. However, if the projected shortfall grows beyond the estimated amounts we should expect to receive reductions in local aid and additional grant fund reductions during the current fiscal year. It would not be unexpected to see reductions in our FY10 State Aid amounts, as well as continued reductions or elimination of some of our state grant programs.

While the state grant reductions are painful, the City cannot replace lost grant funds with City funds during difficult economic times. This strategy has served us well and has allowed us to maintain City services without overly burdening the residential and commercial taxpayers during difficult times. I expect to maintain this strategy as we develop the FY10 City Budget over the next several months. As I have said before to the City Council, we must remember that failure to make difficult decisions today will lead to even more difficult decisions in the future.

However, I am confident that by being cognizant of our financial limitations and working together, we can continue to provide services that our residents have come to expect, while at the same time meeting the needs of our infrastructure.

Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Civic Education Grant for $144,887.00 funded by the Massachusetts Department of Education to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($127,254.00), to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($17,246.00), and to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Travel and Training account ($387.00) in support of the Community Learning Center’s Adult Civic Education Program.

6. 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 $60,316 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($58,336), to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($1,500), and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Travel and Training account ($480) which will allow the Community Learning Center (CLC) to provide computer classes for Cambridge Housing Authority residents at Jefferson Park and at 119 Windsor Street.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $62,000 for the Center for Families Program Grant funded from the Massachusetts Department of Education through the Children’s Trust fund to the Department of Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($48,352) and to the Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($13,648) and will be used by the Center for Families to support family programs targeting parents of children up to six years, which include a variety of family support and parent education programs and resources.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Massachusetts Formula Grant for $84,945 funded by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($33,474), to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($49,711), and to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Travel and Training account ($1,760) and will be used to provide substance abuse prevention services for Cambridge seniors, transportation for Cambridge seniors to medical appointments and weekly food shopping trips.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) Pilot Classroom Quality Grant for $80,500 received from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salaries and Wages account ($7,922) and to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($72,578) to support services aimed at offering parent workshops, activities for children in the classroom, and professional development through workshops and complementary on-site coaching.

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-126, regarding a report on creating a safer intersection at Porter and Bedford Streets.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $50,000 in streetscape enhancement funds from Harvard University to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account which were received in association with the Harvard Law School Northwest Corner Project and will be used for streetscape enhancements along Massachusetts Avenue between Wendell and Waterhouse Streets and will include trees and planters and street furniture such as seating, banners or signage to improve the pedestrian character and retail environment of this section of Massachusetts Avenue.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-118, regarding a report on public drinking in the MBTA plaza at Porter Square.

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a $67,680 grant from the Federal Highway Administration and the Massachusetts Planning Organization (MPO), through the Massachusetts Executive Office of Transportation (EOT) to the Grant Fund Community Development Other Ordinary Maintenance account and will be used to continue the City's efforts to promote transportation options and encourage bicycling, walking and public transit, thereby improving the quality of life in Cambridge.

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-103, regarding the status of street and utility work in the vicinity of Putnam and Western Avenues.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-132, regarding a report on the benches at Pacific Street park and the status of the park at Fort Washington.

16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-129, regarding a report on assessing and collecting boat excise tax.

17. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-136, regarding a report on the reduction of state matching funds received by cities and towns which have adopted the Community Preservation Act (CPA).

Nov 3, 2008
To the Honorable, the City Council:

In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 08-135, regarding a report on the reduction of state matching funds received by cities and towns which have adopted the Community Preservation Act (CPA), please be informed of the following:

In September 2008, the City Council adopted the FY09 CPA recommendations totaling $10,907,500, which included $3,900,000 in estimated state matching funds, $6,000,000 in local funds and $1,000,000 from the CPA fund balance. The $3.9 million amount reflected a 65% state match. In previous years, the City had been receiving a 100% state match. This translated into a $2.1 million reduction from what the City would have normally expected to receive. The reduction was distributed based on the approved allocations of 80%-Housing, 10%-Historical Preservation and 10%-Open Space.

The reduction in the percentage state match was anticipated, based on decreasing collections of fees at the Registry of Deeds, which are used to fund the CPA state match program and the increased number of communities participating in the program, which now total 127. It is further anticipated that the percentage match will be reduced to 35% for FY10.

For these reasons, the City has conservatively projected revenues and has been able to accumulate a CPA fund balance. The CPA fund balance at the end of FY08 was $2.7 million, of which $1.0 million is being used in FY09 to mitigate the impact of the reduced state match amount. It is anticipated that the City will use a portion of the CPA fund balance in future years as well, to partially mitigate the continued percentage reduction in state matching funds.

It is hoped that fee collections at the Registry of Deeds will increase in the future based on a stronger economic climate and/or a change in the legislation which provides for fees yielding revenues to support a 75% state match reimbursement. This legislation is being supported by the Community Preservation Coalition. Barring these changes to increase the state match percentage, the City will continue to use a portion of its CPA fund balance to help mitigate the impact of receiving a smaller state match percentage.

It should be noted that the City has received $38 in state matching funds since FY03 and has clearly benefited more than any other community which adopted the CPA.

Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. 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.]

2. 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.]

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to an additional appropriation request and Loan Order regarding the CRLS renovation project. The question comes on adoption on or after Aug 11, 2008.

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Harvard Law Coop, requesting permission or a sign at the premises numbered 1678 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and abutters.

2. An application was received from Jean Spera, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 12 Sciarappa Street said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, Public Works. Approval has been received from the neighborhood association.

3. A zoning petition has bee received from Lesley University, to amend the Zoning Map and Article 20.000 of the Zoning Ordinance by adding "Section 20.200 Lesley Porter Overlay District."
Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board for hearing and report

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Judy A. Maybin, transmitting thanks to the City of Cambridge for its caring and thoughtfulness to soldiers from across our nation.

2. A communication was received from Andy Griswold, Business Manager, Saint Paul Parish, transmitting gratitude to Charles Sullivan, Executive Director, Cambridge Historical Commission and staff for their assistance and support of the church exterior renovation work completed in the spring of 2008.

3. A communication was received from Sarah Galbraith, transmitting thanks to the City Council for the resolution of sympathy.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Marie G. (Barboza) Casey.   Councillor Maher

2. Resolution on the death of Henry W. "Hank" Cyr.   Councillor Maher

3. Resolution on the death of Francis G. Harrigan.   Councillor Maher

4. Condolences to the family of Wilma Mumma.   Councillor Maher

5. Thanks to the US Army Natick Research Design and Engineering Center (NSRDEC) for its important work and support of innovative renewable energy projects.   Councillor Davis

6. Retirement of Rita Matos from the Cambridge Health Alliance.   Mayor Simmons

7. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Cody J. Eggleston.   Councillor Decker
8. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Heath K. Pickard.   Councillor Decker
9. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Stacy A. "Annie" Dryden.   Councillor Decker
10. Resolution on the death of Specialist Justin A. Saint.   Councillor Decker
11. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Reuben M. Fernandez III.   Councillor Decker
12. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Christopher A. McCraw.   Councillor Decker
13. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Michael K. Clark.   Councillor Decker
14. Resolution on the death of Specialist Geoffrey G. Johnson.   Councillor Decker
15. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Brian P. Hause.   Councillor Decker
16. Resolution on the death of Specialist Deon L. Taylor.   Councillor Decker

17. Thanks to the partners of the Cambridge Housing Assistance Fund for their efforts to end homelessness and wish them best of luck for their upcoming HomeSweetHome event on Nov 14, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency.   Councillor Davis

18. Best wishes to CitySprouts on their upcoming Flavors of Fall event on Nov 17, 2008 at the Regattabar.   Councillor Davis

19. Speedy recovery wishes to John Moot.   Councillor Davis

20. Congratulations to Susan Agger and Elizabeth Wylde as recipients of the 2008 Fresh Pond Stewardship Award.   Councillor Davis

21. Congratulations to Ihsan Gurdal, owner of Formaggio Kitchen, for being honored with the medal of the French Order of the Merite Agricole.   Vice Mayor Murphy

22. Declare Nov 9, 2008 as Hydrocephalus Awareness Day in the City of Cambridge.   Vice Mayor Murphy

23. That the City Council go on record endorsing the Spring 2009 "Tree of Peace" dedication ceremony.   Councillor Decker

24. Congratulations to Eva A. Millona on her appointment as Executive Director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition.   Councillor Toomey

25. Urge all residents to honor the men and women who have defended our country as well as those actively serving by celebrating Veterans' Day on Tues, Nov 11, 2008.   Councillor Kelley

26. Congratulations to Melissa Solar Arnold and Philip Baum on their recent marriage.   Councillor Davis

27. Resolution on the death of Geneva (LeBlanc) Arseneault.   Councillor Maher

28. Urge all residents to honor the memory of Sergeant Clifton Merriman by attending the program which will honor him on November 13, 2008 at noon at the Central Square Post Office.   Mayor Simmons

29. Resolution on the death of Irene (McKim) Bouck.   Councillor Toomey

30. Resolution on the death of Joseph A. "Buddy" Camara.   Councillor Toomey

31. Congratulations to the Cambridge Pop Warner E Team on the occasion of winning the Baby Bowl.   Councillor Toomey

32. Happy 50th Birthday wishes to Louis Joseph Bacci Jr.   Councillor Toomey

33. Congratulations to Toney Pereira on the Grand Opening Celebration of the Finagle-A-Bagel Bakery and Cafe at One First Street.   Councillor Toomey

34. Congratulations to Jackie Ready and Kelly Bishop on their nuptials.   Mayor Simmons

35. Resolution on the death of Anthony A. Corey.   Councillor Toomey

36. Declare Sunday, November 16, 2008 as William Dafoe Day in the City of Cambridge.   Vice Mayor Murphy

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to review the policy of filling tree holes with concrete with a view toward replacement of trees that have been removed or filling holes in a more environmentally friendly manner and that the Health and Environment Committee of the City Council hold a public meeting to review DPW policy on street well plantings and schedule for completion of the current list.   Mayor Simmons and Councillor Maher  Amended

2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Environmental Health with the intention to promulgate a local public health regulation to regulate non-recombinant BSL 3 laboratories and prohibit non-recombinant BSL 4 laboratories within the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Toomey

3. Dedication of the corner of James Way and Cardinal Medeiros Way in honor of Dennis Arruda.   Councillor Toomey

4. That the City Manager and the Mayor work together to bring NSTAR representatives before the City Council for a special hearing during a City Council meeting.   Councillor Maher

5. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on any City policies or regulations that may impact the feasibility of bike share programs in Cambridge.   Councillor Kelley

6. That the City Manager is requested to update the City Council on the status of the report requested on the fatal pedestrian accident in Central Square.   Councillor Kelley

7. That the City Manager is requested to update the City Council on the issues surrounding the radio antenna at 346-348 Concord Avenue.   Councillor Kelley

8. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on the status of street work, and the barricades left in the street, on Columbus Avenue.   Councillor Kelley

9. That the City Manager is requested to ensure that appropriate City staff look into the issue of the lights in the St. John's parking lot that are shining on adjacent property.   Councillor Kelley

10. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City staff to have the stretch of road on Massachusetts Avenue just south of Putnam Avenue currently marked "No Parking" changed to "Parking for Harvard University Police Vehicles Only".   Councillor Kelley

11. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council as to the fiscal lessons from the budgets in the wake of the last recessions and implications for the next few budgets for Cambridge.   Vice Mayor Murphy

12. That the City Manager is requested to investigate the prospect of adding more benches at Fresh Pond Reservation.   Councillor Davis

13. That the City Manager is requested to work in collaboration with M.I.T. to take steps to add the land bordering Brookline Street to the current park land.   Councillor Davis

14. Opposition to the closing of the Oliver Farnum Senior Health Center.   Councillor Decker  Tabled - Maher

15. That the City Manager is requested to communicate to the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Cambridge legislative delegation the need to mitigate construction at the BU Bridge.   Councillor Davis

16. That the City Manager is requested to contact Comcast with a view in mind of requesting a graph outlining the basic Comcast issued and channel changes related to the digital conversion.   Councillor Davis

17. The Cambridge City Council would like the federal government to take a role in the implementation of digital conversion, specifically with the installation, programming, quality and compatibility of the converter boxes and the City Clerk is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation as well as to the Mass. Municipal Association.   Councillor Davis

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Sept 17, 2008 for the purpose of continuing to consider a proposal from Alexandria Real Estate Equities to amend the PUD-3A, PUD-4C and PUD-4B districts in East Cambridge.

2. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David Maher and Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Government Operations and Rules Committee, for a meeting held on Oct 15, 2008 to sponsor a "World Cafe" a citizen participation event to enable a facilitated conversation about priorities that the City Council should consider in setting its goals.

3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee, for a meeting held on Oct 21, 2008 to discuss the conversion to digital TV and other issues related to cable.

4. 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 Aug 14, 2008 to receive information about the Purple Hats Club at Roosevelt Towers and to determine whether this program could be replicated at the Senior Centers and at other multi-family residences where seniors live in Cambridge.

5. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair of the Housing Committee, for a meeting held on Oct 8, 2008 for the purpose of receiving an update from the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) on recent developments and issues, and receiving from the Community Development housing staff a comparison of the CHA resident preference policy and the resident preference policy used in other city-funded affordable housing programs.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Nov 3
1:00pm   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to received an update on the Transitional Jobs program.  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Nov 5
2:00pm   The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a working meeting to receive background information and to discuss Northpoint at the end of the meeting a tour of the site will be conducted.  (344 Broadway 4th Fl Conference)

Thurs, Nov 6
8:45am   Facilitated Goal and Training Retreat to determine the City Council goals for FY 2010. No public comment.  (344 Broadway, 2nd Fl Conference)

Mon, Nov 17
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Wed, Nov 19
4:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a petition from the City Council to amend the Zoning Ordinance Sections: 20.88 and 20.810, Memorial Drive Overlay District. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:00pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on a revised petition submitted by Alexandria Real Estate Equities proposing amendments in the PUD-3A, PUD-4C and PUD 4B Districts to the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge in eastern Cambridge. This hearing to be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Nov 24
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 1
5:30pm   Special City Council Meeting on biohazardous materials and laboratory safety in Cambridge. Public comment is welcomed. Meeting will be televised.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Tues, Dec 9
5:00pm   The Government Operations and Rules Committee will conduct a public hearing to consider the proposal to rename Plympton Street in honor of David J. Halberstam.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 15
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

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

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

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

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

Mon, Feb 2
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

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

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     Nov 3, 2008  Amended
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR MAHER
WHEREAS: The presence of trees lowers street and sidewalk temperatures in summer months; and
WHEREAS: Shade trees can reduce air conditioning costs for local homes and buildings and help cleanse the air of diesel and dust particles; and
WHEREAS: Trees absorb carbon dioxide which helps ease the negative effects of greenhouse gasses; and
WHEREAS: Tree roots help hold storm water and tree leaves and roots filter particles from storm water, improving water quality in the soil; and
WHEREAS: Tree-lined streets encourage motorists to drive slower to create an aesthetic that increases the value of property in a tree-lined neighborhood; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the policy of filling tree holes with concrete with a view toward replacement of trees that have been removed or filling holes in a more environmentally friendly manner; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Health and Environment Committee of the City Council hold a public meeting to review DPW policy on street well plantings and schedule for completion of the current list.

O-2     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Director of Environmental Health with the intention to promulgate a local public health regulation to regulate non-recombinant BSL 3 laboratories and prohibit non-recombinant BSL 4 laboratories within the City of Cambridge.

O-3     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate the corner of James Way and Cardinal Medeiros Way in honor of Dennis Arruda; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-4     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR MAHER
WHEREAS: Cambridge residents throughout the city continue to experience a rash of utility outages; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager and the Mayor work together to bring NSTAR representatives before the City Council for a special hearing during a City Council meeting, preferably in November.

O-5     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Bike share programs have the potential to increase bike use in Cambridge and decrease auto use; and
WHEREAS: Any bike share program in Cambridge must also work in Boston to be successful; and
WHEREAS: Bike share programs often depend on advertising and placement of bike racks on visible and accessible public space to be successful; and
WHEREAS: Issues about advertising on public land and obstruction of public ways may impact how successful bike sharing could be in Cambridge; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on any City policies or regulations that may impact the feasibility of bike share programs in Cambridge.

O-6     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to update the City Council on the status of the report requested on the fatal pedestrian accident in Central Square.

O-7     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: A radio antenna installed at 346-348 Concord Avenue has been interfering with local phone conversations, has rotated over neighboring properties and is making neighbors worried about both health effects from radio waves and the potential of the antenna falling on adjacent properties; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to update the City Council on the issues surrounding the radio antenna at 346-348 Concord Avenue.

O-8     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Ongoing construction on Harrison and Columbus Avenues seems to have stalled with depressions remaining in the street; and
WHEREAS: Neighbors are concerned that the construction project will not be completed this season; and
WHEREAS: The neighbors would like the work finished and the barriers in the street removed as soon as possible; 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 street work, and the barricades left in the street, on Columbus Avenue.

O-9     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Lights from the parking lot at St. John's Church on Massachusetts Avenue in North Cambridge are shining on adjacent property; and
WHEREAS: This situation seems to be in violation of section 7.20 of the Cambridge Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS: Neighbors' attempts to address this issue with St. John's staff appear to have been unsuccessful; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to ensure that appropriate City staff resolve this issue as expeditiously as possible.

O-10     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Harvard University Police vehicles continue to park in the "No Parking" area in the southbound lane of Massachusetts Avenue just south of Putnam Avenue; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge Police staff and Parking Control staff have been unwilling or unable to prevent Harvard University Police vehicles from parking in this "No Parking" area despite formal requests to put a stop to this illegal parking; and
WHEREAS: Such illegal parking puts all law enforcement agencies in a bad light; and
WHEREAS: The illegal parking shows an embarrassing inability of the City to enforce its laws; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City staff to have the stretch of road on Massachusetts Avenue just south of Putnam Avenue currently marked "No Parking" changed to "Parking for Harvard University Police Vehicles Only" to reflect the situation's reality.

O-11     Nov 3, 2008
VICE MAYOR MURPHY
WHEREAS: Massachusetts, like the rest of the country, is facing a significant recession; and
WHEREAS: Adjustments to the state budget in the amount of $1.4 billion in the form of budget reductions and transfers from state reserves have already been made; and
WHEREAS: Many experts, including the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation, estimate that additional budget reductions amounting to $750 million or more will be required for this fiscal year; and
WHEREAS: It is likely that additional state budget reductions will be required for fiscal years 2010 and 2011; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge and Massachusetts have faced challenging budgets in the wake of other recessions such as in 1990 and 2002; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council as to the fiscal lessons from the budgets in the wake of the last recessions and implications for the next few budgets for Cambridge.

O-12     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Fresh Pond Reservation has been upgraded and beautified and is a popular destination for joggers, dog walkers, pedestrians and bicyclists; and
WHEREAS: There are others who would like to sit and enjoy the natural surroundings while reading, resting or eating lunch but there are a limited number of benches in the park; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate the prospect of adding more benches at Fresh Pond Reservation.

O-13     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Pacific Street Park was created in collaboration with M.I.T. with a long-term goal that the park would extend from Sidney Street clear through to Brookline Street; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work in collaboration with M.I.T. to take steps to add the land bordering Brookline Street to the current park land.

O-14     Nov 3, 2008  Tabled - Maher
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Health Alliance (CHA) will close the, Cambridge Senior Center based, Oliver Farnum Senior Health Center on Dec 24th of this year; and
WHEREAS: Over the last two years this City Council has ask the CHA if this center would be closed as part of the CHA budget cuts and did not receive a satisfactory response; and
WHEREAS: Although it is understood that the CHA is facing serious financial difficulties, there is a need to question Earnest and Young’s finding that closing this center will indeed provide the financial respite that the CHA budget needs; and
WHEREAS: This closing will force seniors, and others who currently receive services at the Senior Health Center, to use other CHA sites that are not as convenient or familiar; and
WHEREAS: Although the CHA says that it will offer shuttle services to the hospital, the Council has seen this type of shuttle offer before when other CHA services have been cut and found that the shuttle services are not consistent nor sustainable; and
WHEREAS: The limited access to health services due to the closing of the Senior Health Center may cause those currently served by the Health Center to postpone preventative heath care measures resulting in the development of acute heath problems, the treatment of which may increase the long term costs to the CHA; and
WHEREAS: It is clear that choices must be made to help the CHA stay fiscally solvent. However, short term cost saving measures should not be made to the detriment of community heath and potential cost increases in the long run; and
WHEREAS: The CHA previously made cuts to women’s services without community input and this City Council is concerned that the CHA’s current budget cutting choices are happening without the input and consent of some of the City’s most vulnerable residents; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council questions the sincerity and ethicalness of the Nov 6th CHA "Strategic Input Meeting," where the CHA is asking for community input after decisions have already been made; and be it further
RESOLVED: That this City Council requests that the Alliance send notices of community input meetings to all patients at all of their community clinics; and be it further
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record opposing the closing of the Oliver Farnum Senior Health Center; and be it further
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record, once again, asking the CHA what additional clinics and services will be cut; 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 Cambridge Health Alliance, the Cambridge Legislative Delegation, Governor Deval Patrick, and Congressman Michael Capuano, on behalf of the entire City Council.

O-15     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The current situation at the BU Bridge is endangering the lives of bicycle commuters; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to communicate to the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Cambridge legislative delegation the need to mitigate construction immediately as follows:
  * Provide a makeshift lane for bicycles on the construction side of the bridge during daylight hours since bridge construction occurs at night; and/or provide bike lanes on both sides of the bridge now because although providing two lanes of traffic will inconvenience motorists, the current situation is endangering the lives of bicycle commuters; and
  * Provide signaling, personnel or other mechanisms to calm motorized traffic.

O-16     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact Comcast with a view in mind of requesting a graph outlining the basic Comcast issued and channel changes related to the digital conversion.

O-17     Nov 3, 2008
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The federal government mandated the conversion from analog to digital TV effective February 17, 2009; and
WHEREAS: Many problems in implementing the plan have revolved around the converter boxes; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council would like the federal government to take a role in the implementation of digital conversion, specifically with the installation, programming, quality and compatibility of the converter boxes; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation as well as to the Massachusetts Municipal Association.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Ordinance Committee held a public meeting on Sept 17, 2008 beginning at four o’clock and ten minutes P. M. in Sullivan Chamber. The meeting was held for the purpose of continuing to consider a proposal from Alexandria Real Estate Equities to amend the PUD-3A, PUD-4C, and PUD-4B zoning districts in East Cambridge.

Present at the meeting were Vice Mayor Brian Murphy and Councillor David Maher, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Sam Seidel; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. Also present were Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Susan Glazer, Deputy Director of the Community Development Department (CDD); and Jeffrey Roberts, Neighborhood Planner, CDD.

Vice Mayor Murphy convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He invited the petitioners to provide a brief update.

Attorney James Rafferty, Adams and Rafferty, Bishop Allen Drive, on behalf of Alexandria Real Estate Equities, announced that, based on feedback from the Ordinance Committee public meetings, Alexandria Equities re-filed the zoning petition today. They intend to offer a series of amendments based on what they have heard in the meetings. There is one change in the language of the re-filed petition. The new petition includes the corner area that Archstone has owned and that would square off the contemplated public park and bring the area of the park to 2.2 acres.

Mr. Joseph Maguire, Vice President for Alexandria, said that the areas for which they will propose amendments include height, setbacks, street life, parking and noise management. Mr. Maguire said that with regard to height, Alexandria will propose reducing the height at 241 Binney Street from ninety-five feet to seventy-five feet. They will propose a twenty-five foot setback at the Rogers Street Park on the north side. For street life, they will propose more specific language to direct street life to key intersections where retail is most likely to thrive. There will be increased parkland that will make the larger park more than 2 acres. The triangle (1/3 acre owned by Alexandria) is also committed as parkland. Regarding noise management, they will propose language to adopt best practices for rooftop mechanicals and include an inspection program. No noise should be perceptible from one hundred feet away from the building. They also would commit to constructing LEEDS certifiable buildings at the silver level.

Councillor Maher said that there are a number of people who are here to learn about the details and while those details are not yet available, he wants everyone to know that the Ordinance Committee is committed to taking the necessary time to hear and evaluate the proposals to be able to come back with the specific language for the ordinance.

Councillor Maher also noted that they have requested that the Mayor schedule a roundtable on the biohazard issues associated with level 3 labs and whether there need to be changes to the City’s RDNA Ordinance. The Mayor will arrange for the roundtable and will seek to have the meeting televised.

Councillor Davis said that she has an additional issue of the context of the development and the walkability of the area.

Councillor Maher said that the Co-chairs have asked the petitioners to be available for the next two weeks for individual meetings with members of the City Council.

Councillor Davis said that she believes that they need a little city planning. She hopes for a process to look at how this project fits into the context of the area. This is a city planning responsibility.

Councillor Seidel said that there are things that can happen in East Cambridge that are positives for the City. How we go about this is critical. He asked whether a commitment to build "LEEDS CERTIFIABLE" buildings means actual certification. Mr. Maguire responded in the affirmative. Councillor Seidel also expressed interest in the biosafety issues in level 3 labs.

Councillor Maher said that the reason that the petitioners have re-filed the petition is to keep the conversation alive and continuing. He then invited public comment.

Jay Wasserman, 34 Second Street, said that he looks forward to the conversation. He wants to be sure that the park really is something that the community will use. He emphasized the importance of looking long term. This petition would allow 1.5 square feet of additional density. At this point Attorney Rafferty interjected that the additional density that would be allowed would be 650,000 square feet.

Frances Antupit, 75 Cambridge Parkway, read a letter in opposition to the petition and submitted it for the record (Attachment A).

Betty Lou Saccoccio, 55 Otis Street, stated that meeting times are inconvenient for neighborhood people. She asked the Co-chairs to please consider a more convenient time. She is very concerned about how this petition would impact her elderly and frail mother’s quality of life and the quality of life of all of the people of East Cambridge.

Marie Saccoccio, 55 Otis Street, stated that she is an attorney and a fourth generation East Cambridge resident with a science background. Her special interest is the level of labs. Novartis opened an 83 foot tall level 3 lab on Sidney Street. Were the City Council members informed? She would expect not. In Galveston as a result of the recent hurricane, a level 4 lab is flooded. This use issue is a zoning issue. This is a light industrial use zone which by definition cannot include a nuisance. She would be willing to litigate the issue.

Nancy Stein, 75 Cambridge Parkway, said that she would like to see all of the City Council and Planning Board come down to East Cambridge and walk around the area.

Steve Kaiser, 191 Hamilton Street, said that Alexandria has changed somewhat during this process. They looked like a steamroller at the beginning and then throughout the process they have become more human. They have made some good suggestions about noise. We have to deal with the architectural deadness of Kendall Square. The word "sustainability" means absolutely nothing. The downside is that there has been no discussion of traffic and parking. They need the CDD side of transportation included in these discussions. He is concerned about the transfer of the roadway work to Mass Highway Department from the DCR. He hopes for a good Binney Street design. He said that lab use can be a zoning issue.

Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street, said that the East Cambridge Planning Team is in the process of putting together a team to work on the project.

Branka Whisnant, 61 Otis Street, said that the Alexandria proposal has changed not at all, except the park, which will add to the forlorn feeling of the neighborhood at 10:00 p.m.

Michael Hagerty, 143 Otis Street, said that there are a bunch of important and significant issues around density, traffic and noise. This needs to be approached as a planning issue. The path of least resistance has been for the City to look at the general parameters of a project and rubber-stamp it without significant oversight. This issue cannot be approached this way. Sustainability is an achievable goal but it is not the path of least resistance, and if the planning is not done correctly we are going to get a concrete urban canyon.

Stash Horowitz, 12 Florence Street, submitted two newspaper articles, one a repeat of an article submitted by Elie Yarden at the last meeting, and another on Massachusetts high-tech startups (Attachment B). He urged the City Council to stick with the ECAPS Zoning. There will not be a large demand for new biotech space in this economy.

Councillor Reeves said that Vertex made a deal to leave Cambridge and go to the Boston waterfront. Vertex bought a building next to Genzyme. Vertex would have stayed if they had been able to find a building with additional square footage. He was also told by a highly placed person in Biogen Idec that a move was contemplated because of the high cost of space in Cambridge. He would like CDD to bring more of this information to the City Council. The City Manager is very knowledgeable.

Tim Rowe, 64 Gorham Street, Cambridge Innovations, said that he is hearing some people say about this development that is does not reflect our interests. He and his neighbors are working on this but they are amateurs. The architects work for the developers. They would like the community to have a voice that is equally professional. For example, they want planning that provides a way for the Kendall Square neighborhood to walk to restaurants.

Barry Zevin, 67 Hampshire Street, submitted a letter for the record (Attachment C).

Councillor Reeves said that the City Council has before had the assistance of the neighborhood in planning. He described the Kendall Square Envision session. He could name fifteen people in the City who could sit down and be creative in thinking how not to get another Kendall Square. Councillor Davis agreed, she said that perhaps they could go back to the Goody Clancy ECAPS consultant, Dave Dixon, for a "touch-up."

Councillor Maher said that these are exactly the issues they will be looking at over the next couple of weeks. Councillor Maher and Vice Mayor Murphy thanked all those present for their participation. The meeting was adjourned at five o’clock and fourteen minutes p.m.

For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair
Councillor David Maher, Co-Chair

Committee Report #2
The Government Operations and Rules Committee held a public meeting on Oct 15, 2008 at 6pm at the Citywide Senior Center, 806 Massachusetts Avenue. The purpose of the meeting was to sponsor a "World Café" a citizen participation event to enable a facilitated conversation about priorities that the City Council should consider in setting its goals.

Present at the World Café event were Councillor David Maher and Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chairs of the Committee; Councillor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Sam Seidel; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; Assistant to the City Council Sandra Albano; and City Clerk D. Margaret Drury. School Committee members Alfred Fantini, Marc McGovern, and Nancy Tauber also attended the event. The event was facilitated by Jack Regan, Metis Consulting, Bedford. The following city administrative staff participated in the event as "table hosts": Susan Glazer, Assistant City Manager for Community Development (CDD); Stuart Dash, Director of Community and Neighborhood Planning, CDD; Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Transportation and Environmental Planning, CDD; Roger Boothe, Director of Urban Design Planning, CDD; Iram Farooq, Senior Planner, CDD; John Bolduc, Transportation and Environmental Planner, CDD; Mina Reddy, Director of the Cambridge Learning Center, Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP); Allyson Allen, DHSP; Jeana Kurilik, DHSP; Duane Brown, Director of Affirmative Action; Ellen Katz, Fiscal Director, DPW; Kathy Watkins, DPW; and Rebecca Fuentes, Community Relations Manager, DPW.

A letter from the Co-Chairs of the Government Operation Committee (attached) went to Cambridge’s boards and commissions, neighborhood associations, business associations, youth sports boards, and religious leaders requesting that they send representatives to the World Café event. Approximately 70 persons attended the event. An overall description of the evening’s activities can be found in the attached "Guidelines for Table Hosts." Participants engaged in three half hour discussion, two rounds of the question "What is important to focus on to improve life in Cambridge?" and a final round of discussion of the question "Given what you have heard from others tonight, what should the City Council’s priorities be?" Members of the City Council and School Committee moved among the various tables and listened but did not speak. The last part of the event consisted of short reports from the table hosts about the themes they had heard throughout the conversations. That material was recorded by Mr. Regan for use as part of the City Council facilitated goal setting meeting on Oct 28, 2008.

Councillor Maher and Vice Mayor Murphy thanked all of those present for their participation. The meeting was adjourned at 8:50 P.M.

For the Committee,
Councillor David Maher, Co-Chair
Vice Mayor Brian Murphy, Co-Chair

Committee Report #3
The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee conducted a public meeting on Tues, Oct 21, 2008 at four o’clock and thirty-two minutes p. m. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the conversion to digital TV and other issues related to cable.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Committee; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Nancy Schlacter, Assistant to the City Manager; Laura Nichols, Consumers’ Council; Corey Pilz, License Commission; Susan Pacheco, Director of Client Services, Council on Aging (COA); Liz Seelman, COA; Faith W. Marshall, Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA); Susan Fleishmann, Director, CCTV; Colin Rhinesmith, CCTV; Elaine DeRosa, CEOC; Representative William Brownsberger; Catrice Williams, Department of Telecommunications and Cable (DTC); David Green, Senior Manager of Government and Community Relations, Comcast; Mark Goodman, Comcast; Penny Peters; and Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.

Also present were Arvilla Sarazen, 25 Eighth Street; Judith Nathans, 511 Putnam Avenue; and Robert Wolf, 48 Huron Avenue.

Councillor Davis convened the meeting and explained the purpose. On Feb 17, 2009 if you do not have a digital TV or a cable provider your set will go blank. In Wilmington, NC a pilot test of digital conversion was done and there were 17,000 citizen complaints. The Fire Department was used to help people install their converter boxes and to program them. A communication from Paul Schlaver, former Director of the Consumers’ Council and current member of the FCC Advisory Committee was read into the record (ATTACHMENT A). Councillor Davis went on to say that coupons for cable boxes are still available. Publicity has been improved and expanded. However a problem exists whereby people may not know how to program their boxes.

A slide presentation about digital transition was given by Mr. David Green from Comcast (ATTACHMENT B). Mr. Green stated that he is responsible for eight communities and has shown the presentation many times. The meetings at Burns Apartments and Jefferson Park were not been well attended. There has been a lot of awareness about digital conversion, but the public has been slow to act. The digital transition is another technology change. The government mandated the change from analog to digital. The government is reclaiming the analog signals. The digital conversion will affect people who have analog televisions; usually televisions purchased before 2001. To receive a coupon call 1-888-DTV-2009. Each household may receive two converter coupons which are available on a first come, first served basis. The coupons expire 90 days from the issue date. You must use the coupon or lose it. Many retailers have converter boxes for purchase. However, the converter boxes are not easily installed. There are three ways to receive digital signals:
Purchase a digital to analog converter box ($40-$70);
Purchase a new digital TV ($300-$500); or
Subscribe to a cable or satellite provider.

There are 1600 local stations broadcasting in digital.

Ms. Nathans asked the difference between the $40 and $70 converter boxes. Mr. Green responded the difference is the features.

Councillor Davis asked Ms. Pacheco and Ms. Seelman if the seniors are ready for the conversion. Ms. Pacheco responded that the seniors have called COA with questions. The seniors are confused about digital conversion. The COA informs them that if they have a cable provider they are all set. (Many seniors want particular TV channels and this requires a cable upgrade). Family members have assisted the seniors in connecting the federal converter boxes; the COA cannot assist in connecting the boxes because it cannot send volunteers into homes. This confusion is difficult. Ms. Nathan stated it is deceiving.

Mr. Green stated that there is a separate digital revolution going on. Broadcasters are moving to digital cable service. There are compressed digital channels. MSNBC was removed from analog to digital. If a standard cable package is purchased, a cable TV converter is needed. Comcast had a digital starter package promotion that included a digital box for one year.

Mr. Pilz asked as more stations convert to digital will the digital box be given without a fee? When an analog channel is migrated to digital there will be no fee for one year stated Mr. Green. However, the promotional offer is over and for those people who took advantage of the promotional offer there will be no increase.

Councillor Davis asked how COA will address the issue of the public having a converter box but being unable to connect the box. Ms. Pacheco stated that if the COA is called to install and program the remote she does not know where to refer this senior. The COA will not endorse volunteers who have not been CORI checked to go into the homes of seniors.

Representative Brownsberger commented that the FCC has done education to let the public know that they need the converter box. Ms. Williams stated that some retailers cannot provide information on the boxes. Councillor Davis stated that in-home service is needed by seniors for the converter box. The DTC is working with the Department of Elder Affairs, about help for installation but it all comes back to public safety. The state cannot be responsible. If you have cable service the problem is solved stated Representative Brownsberger. Mr. Green added that the FCC regulates Comcast to be part of the solution. There has been a public service information campaign; but it gets caught in the nuts and bolts of installation stated Councillor Davis. Ms. Schlacter suggested a public service campaign recommending that seniors could have a friend or a teenager install the box and program the remote. Mr. Green would take this suggestion back to Comcast. Ms. Williams stated that responsibility needs to be brought back to the FCC and the NTIA. They mandated the conversion. There is also a Manufacturer’s issue; some boxes do not work. Mr. Pilz stated that the UK mandated the change but appropriated money for the installation process in the homes of consumers.

At this time Councillor Davis made the following motion:
WHEREAS: The federal government mandated the conversion from analog to digital TV effective Feb 17, 2009; and
WHEREAS: Many problems in implementing the plan have revolved around the converter boxes; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge City Council would like the federal government to take a role in the implementation of digital conversion, specifically with the installation, programming, quality and compatibility of the converter boxes; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to the Massachusetts Congressional Delegation as well as to the Mass. Municipal Association.

On a voice vote the motion - Carried.

Mr. Wolf urged the committee to contact Wilmington, NC. Councillor Davis informed Mr. Wolf that in North Carolina the Fire Department was called to install the boxes. Mr. Wolf informed the committee that the analog channels are in a different location with the converter box and cable.

Ms. Nichols stated that the Consumers’ Council has received three complaints on the converter box coupons and the website. She stated that more outreach is needed. Mr. Pilz asked if Comcast has done outreach to non English speaking households. Mr. Green responded that there is a PSA in Spanish. Councillor Davis stated that the Haitian Creole and Portuguese population require outreach. Ms. DeRosa stated that the East African and Indian population are growing in Cambridge. Councillor Davis asked how the translation issue will be addressed.

Councillor Davis spoke of the Cambridge Housing Authority buildings conversion. Some large buildings have an antenna drop. After Feb 17, 2009 the building has to make the conversion and a box is needed. Mr. Green stated that master antenna power sends the signal throughout the building. Ms. Marshall stated a technician will check the master antenna and make the conversion in the CHA buildings. Buildings that do not have antennas will be addressed. CHA buildings are cable ready. CHA surveyed residents to see if they have a digital TV. CHA will assist residents with coupons and installation. However this assistance is not offered in the family units because there is usually someone in the household who can install the box. Residents will be encouraged not to wait until Feb 17, 2009.

Ms. Peters stated that a graph is needed outlining the basic Comcast issues and channel changes. Councillor Davis stated that she would make a formal request to Comcast for a public service announcement handout outlining the differences. Ms. Sarazen stated that seniors need clarification.

Councillor Davis submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact Comcast with a view in mind of requesting a graph outlining the basic Comcast issued and channel changes related to the digital conversion.

On a voice vote the motion – Carried.

Ms. Fleishmann stated her concern with the Comcast migration and its effect on the CCTV channel. Councillor Davis suggested a PSA on CCTV and the city’s cable station.

Councillor Davis stated that more information is needed on installation of the converter box. To limit the anticipated problem on Feb 17, 2009 the city will issue PSA with information in multi languages and information on the Comcast box and a federal box if you do not have cable.

Ms. Nathans stated that Public Works will pickup TV 20" and above. The DTC will do a consumer advisory to list locations that will take televisions recycle.

Mr. Pilz commented that Comcast explain to people that if they have cable a federal converter box is not needed. The public thinks that if they have cable they need a box too. Mr. Green stated that if a TV is not hooked up to cable a purchase of an analog to digital converter box is needed or it is necessary to add TV to cable service.

Councillor Davis stated that the current contract with Comcast expires on Dec 29, 2010. What percentage of Cambridge residents has digital service? Mr. Green responded that there are 30,000 household customers; 70% have some level of digital service. Of the 30% remaining 50% have satellite, he estimated.

In conclusion CEOC would survey their clients at the food pantry and the senior centers would also be surveyed on readiness for digital conversion.

Councillor Davis thanked all attendees for their participation.

The meeting adjourned at five o’clock and fifty-six minutes p. m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Henrietta Davis, Chair

Committee Report #4
The Civic Unity Committee held a public meeting on Aug 14, 2008 at 10:20am in the Ackermann Room. The purpose of the meeting was to receive information about the Purple Hats Club at Roosevelt Towers and to determine whether this program could be replicated at the Senior Centers and at other multi-family residences where seniors live in Cambridge.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Marjorie Decker, Chair of the Committee; City Clerk D. Margaret Drury; Gregory Russ, Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA); John Lindemore, Resident Services, CHA; Faith Mershell, Director of Elder Opportunities, CHA; Sothea Chiemruom, Tenant Liaison, CHA; Eileen Ginnetty, Director of the Council on Aging, Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP); Stephanie Ackert, Director of Planning and Development, DHSP; Emma Watkins, Director of the Senior Center, DHSP; Lee Pedro, 126 Jackson Place, founder of the Purple Hats Club; Patricia Goodrich, 382 Evereteze Way; and Amy Thomas, 5 Harrington Terrace.

Councillor Decker convened the meeting and explained the purpose. Lee Pedro then described the inception of the Purple Hats Club. Ms. Pedro explained that she works in the Head Start program at Roosevelt Towers, and on her way to and from her job, she would encounter unhappy-looking women just sitting in the hall day after day. She had heard of the Red Hat Club, and thought that the residents might enjoy getting together to socialize and do crafts. She asked whether she could use the community room at Roosevelt Towers, got permission and had an open house to invite anyone interested. Thirty people came.

Now 14 to 20 people come regularly. She anticipates that there will be more in the winter. They have worked with the social workers who use the community room to devise a schedule that does not conflict with their usage. They have come such a long way that there are now two resident members who have keys and they run the program when she cannot be there. All are looking forward to upcoming Tai Chi classes, and they are talking about starting a movie night.

While they love to do the activities, what is most important is the social aspect of the program. Women who would never even speak to each other before have become friends. Ms. Pedro said that they use the time to bring up issues that are of concern for members of the group. All of the members agree that the social, emotional and physical benefits of the program have been enormous. The manager of Roosevelt Towers has been very supportive, as has Greg Russ, Executive Director of the Housing Authority.

Councillor Decker invited Mr. Russ to provide his perspective. Mr. Russ said that the program has clearly been a big benefit to all of the people who participate. The participants have told him that they are happier and more positive because of the program. It has seemed to restore a social aspect that was missing before. He has seen the beautiful handcrafts that they have made; he has some of them on display in his office. Mr. Russ said that he made a small budget available to Ms. Pedro and it has been one of the best investments he has made. He would like very much to have the model replicated in as many CHA developments as possible. However, he emphasized the importance of slow and sustainable growth. This is one of those small things that have very big impacts. He wants to be sure that by trying to grow it too fast, they don’t kill it.

Councillor Decker agreed that it is very clear that you can put in as much money as possible, but ultimately, it is the will of the participants that makes a success.

Mr. Russ said that he has been in discussion with Ms. Pedro about the Truman Apartments senior housing development being the next location. Ms. Pedro has been working with Sothea Chiemeruom, CHA Tenant Liaison, on a budget for materials, food and staff time. He is willing to support such a budget. If they can get the program off the ground at the Truman Apartments, that will teach them a lot about what is needed for replication.

In response to a question from Councillor Decker about what kind of City support would be helpful, Mr. Russ said that he would have a better idea after the program at Truman gets a successful start-up. One thing that he could see being helpful is assistance with transportation for outings.

Ms. Pedro said that she would like to see this program developed in all of the senior housing developments eventually. One of the things that the Roosevelt Towers group has talked about a lot is the importance of being respected at the place where you live. This program has enabled them to feel respected by the CHA and by each other.

Councillor Decker then invited other "Purple Hatters" to speak.

Amy Thomas, 5 Harrington Terrace, said that she was born and raised in Roosevelt Towers and she has known many of the other women in the group for many years. The positive changes that have happened to all of them have been wonderful.

Patricia Goodrich, 5 Everteze Way, said that lately she has seen members of the Purple Hats Club interacting with the Head Start children and parents, which is something that is good for the children and parents as well as the seniors. Before the Purple Hat program started, there were lots of negative people in the hallways. She herself retired a year ago from her position as a cook at Cambridge Hospital, and after a couple of months of retirement she became depressed. The Purple Hats Club has changed all of that. Ms. Goodrich emphasized that there are a lot of seniors with disabilities that make it very difficult for them to get out to the senior centers, even when transportation is available. There are also seniors who will come to a program in their building because they know they can get home quickly if they feel ill or exhausted.

Councillor Decker then invited comments and questions from the DHSP staff present.

Emma Watkins, Director of the Citywide Senior Center, congratulated the members of the club on the success of this program. She asked about the schedule and Ms. Pedro responded that in the summer they meet three days a week. When school resumes, it is more difficult. They have a meeting with scheduled activities on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and on Tuesday and Wednesday there are drop-in meetings. They have coffee and bagels in the morning and lunch once a week, usually something that Ms. Pedro has cooked herself, or pizza a couple of times. They started with a small budget and she cooked all the food for lunch herself and then spent her evenings searching for bargains on craft materials at various stores.

Ms. Watkins said that Ms. Pedro is doing a wonderful job with exceptional dedication. She asked why these women do not come to the senior center. Ms. Pedro said that some have physical disabilities and some are afraid. Many are much more likely to go to an activity right in their own building. She does not believe that even a community room in an adjacent building in the housing development would work for the seniors who want the security of their familiar building. Ms. Pedro added that she talks about the senior center activities a great deal and would like to find a way to be more connected with the senior center, but she knows that this program will not work the same way if it is based in the senior centers. Eileen Ginnetty, Director of the Council on Aging, said that there is no reason to try to make them come to the senior center if they do not want to. She would be very happy to have a Purple Hat Club lunch at the senior center where the members could show the beautiful crafts that they brought to today’s meeting if they would like that, but there is no pressure for them to come to the senior center. It is clear that this program plays an important role for all the people who want activities at their home. DHSP does not want to change a program that is working as well as the Purple Hat Club, rather, she would like to explore ways in which they can support the program.

Councillor Decker asked whether there was a way to consolidate purchasing of supplies to enable the small Purple Hat budget to go further, especially now that they are planning a second site for the program, agreed that they should look into some sort of consolidation. Ms. Watkins said that she would like to arrange for a way for the leader of the very successful Wednesday crafts and discussion program at the Citywide Senior Center to look at sharing crafts ideas and materials with the Purple Hat Club. Perhaps this leader could visit a meeting of the Purple Hat Club. She believes that this would be a good relationship to foster.

Councillor Decker thanked all those present for their participation and enthusiasm. She said that she believes that some important connections between the City and the Purple Hat Club and also with the CHA have been made today, and she is confident that the people at this meeting can continue to build on those connections. If at any time, they believe that another meeting of this committee would be helpful, they should feel free to contact her.

The meeting was adjourned at 11:27am.

For the Committee,
Councillor Marjorie Decker, Chair

Committee Report #5
The Housing Committee held a public meeting on Oct 8, 2008 at three o’clock and five minutes P.M. in the Sullivan Chamber. The meeting was held for the purpose of receiving an update from the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) on recent developments and issues, and receiving from the Community Development housing staff a comparison of the CHA resident preference policy and the resident preference policy used in other city-funded affordable housing programs.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair of the Committee; Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; and City Clerk Margaret Drury. Gregory Russ, Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA); Terry Dumas, Director of Planning and Development, CHA; Michael Johnston, Deputy Director, CHA; and Angelina Bentzan, CHA represented the Cambridge Housing at the meeting. Present from the City Administrative staff were Beth Rubenstein, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Christopher Cotter, Director of Housing, Community Development Department (CDD); Cassandra Arnaud, Housing Planner, CDD; Linda Prosnitz, Housing Planner, CDD.

Councillor Seidel convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He outlined the topics for discussion and invited Gregory Russ, Executive Director of Cambridge Housing Authority to begin the discussion. Mr. Russ began the discussion with the CHA’s capital planning. He said that the CHA has been at work on a proposal to submit to the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) for capital funding starting with the state units which are in the worst condition. They had a round of community meetings. They are ready to see what the state is willing to do. Clearly, the larger economic world will affect their plans. The proposed financing plan would utilize tax credits; however, the values for tax credits are shrinking. They are now at 72 cents on the dollar which is down from 94 cents on the dollar. Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac were large buyers of tax credits and that has changed drastically. The other big factor is that all financing subject to bonding is subject to delay at best given the state of the financial markets. Mr. Russ also expressed concern about state subsidies for operating expenses. The CHA will be proposing a contingency plan if there are cuts to existing operating budgets. He added that at the moment the federal government is operating on a continuing budget until there is a new administration. Public housing in Massachusetts could use a $30 billion dollar infusion of capital. Instead we are likely to be faced with difficult state and federal budgets.

Terry Dumas, Director of Planning and Development, CHA, then discussed the capital planning process. In 2006 the CHA held a series of meetings around the community. They started by commissioning a capital needs assessment, which found a total capital need of $163 million for 2,600 units in 2006 dollars. To that figure, one must add 25 percent soft costs and administrative costs for a total of $228 million. Not all units and buildings need the same amount of renovation. The biggest differences are between the state funded units with rehab needs of over $200,000 per unit for the old family housing like the Jefferson Park state funded units and the federally funded units where the costs are in the area of $65,000 per unit.

Ms. Dumas said that the CHA financing plan of choice would involve both tax credits and bonds. Tax credits are allocated by the DHCD. There are nine percent tax credits which are allocated by DHCD through a competitive process in which DHCD chooses the projects it deems most worthy of support, and there are four percent tax credits. The four percent credits are not part of the competitive rounds; they would be awarded by DHCD along with an allocation of bonding allowance coming from the state bond capacity. Ms. Dumas said that the soft costs associated with tax credits are exorbitant. Developers using tax credit financing really need to do big developments and the CHA projects are small by development standards. Ms. Dumas said that they are looking at a different model in which the CHA becomes a mini-Mass Housing Authority. The CHA has bonding authority. The CHA could get some of the State bond allocation; they could issue bonds to fund the development. They would divide the projects and the funding for the projects into packages. The first package would require $78 million and would include the Willow Street Homes, Lincoln Way, Jackson Gardens, the state-owned units at Jefferson Park, Manning Apartments and the LB Johnson Apartments.

Mr. Russ said that CHA planning and administrative staff will have 12-14 community meetings around the City about their capital plans. The big message for today is that the CHA has a financing plan. They are starting to put together a contingency plan, given the economic uncertainty of federal and state funding. Their goal is to have an overall plan including contingency planning by next spring.

Ms. Dumas said that the level of work will require relocation of residents, either within the development, or moving residents off site. She also noted that to make this funding work, the CHA has to change the ownership structure. The ownership entity would be controlled by the CHA, but this structural change will add an additional insecurity. Mr. Russ said that the goal is to get as close to another 40 years of useful life as possible for all of the units. The CHA is looking to the long term.

Councillor Seidel asked what percent of Cambridge affordable housing these 2600 CHA units represent. Mr. Cotter said the citywide total is 7,000 units, so CHA units are 30-40 percent of all of the subsidized housing in the city, not including Section 8 leased housing units.

Mr. Russ said that the estimate of funds needed to meet the public housing capital needs in Massachusetts is $30 billion. In addition, the Secretary of Administration and Finance may limit the amount of bonding that can be put out to less than the whole allocation under the State Housing Bond Bill. He added that the CHA expects $20 million of bonding capacity from regular state bond bill.

Councillor Davis asked about plans for energy efficiency and Mr. Russ reiterated that the CHA plan is to look at is a variety of energy conservation measures and possibilities. The CHA has taken many energy conservation steps already, for example solar panels on Washington Elms. The next step will be solar hot water. Lower utility costs means more money for services. He added that CHA staff will be meeting with the Cambridge Energy Alliance in the next two weeks. Councillor Davis said that solar hot water has a very fast payback.

Mr. Russ said that the plan that they have been discussing is Plan A, what the CHA would prefer to do. It would involve the least use of project-based vouchers. But they have to look at what if the State cuts operating funds. There are already insufficient funds to run the state units. The CHA is currently using Moving Toward Work funds for operating expenses for the state units but the Moving Toward Work program is slated to expire. Then the CHA would need to look to project based vouchers just to sustain daily operations. The other problem would be loss of federal funding and/or the inability to raise enough money via bonds. The CHA believes that the prudent path is to present this contingency. Under this scenario, the CHA would take 500 vouchers out of the 2,000 total and convert those 500 vouchers to project-based vouchers. Currently there is no mechanism to replace these vouchers. Congressman Barney Frank did propose a bill that would replace such vouchers, but the bill did not pass.

Ms. Dumas said that the CHA has three goals for this capital plan:
- No net loss of any housing
- Permanent affordability
- No permanent displacement

Councillor Seidel then invited public comment on the CHA capital plans.

Attorney Ellen Schacter, Cambridge and Somerville Legal Services, said that this plan raises a number of concerns. Every single voucher that becomes project-based represents a loss of an affordable unit. She asked how many vouchers would become project based. Ms. Dumas said under the CHA’s preferred plan, 200 would be needed. In response to Ms. Schacter’s question, Ms. Dumas agreed that the contingency plan could involve the use of 500 vouchers.

Ms. Schacter asked whether the whole plan could be scaled down, in exchange for not losing as many affordable housing subsidies to the city. Mr. Russ responded that the CHA is thinking about this plan in a phased way. They have tried to group the worst sites into the first group. He said that he does not think they would be "project-based" in one clump, but when you start breaking these projects down, they end up costing more. They have not thought of selling any of the units.

Elaine DeRosa, Executive Director of CEOC, resident of 4 Pleasant Place, asked about the impact of the change of ownership. Ms. Dumas said there would be a lot more paperwork for the residents to fill out for recertification and it would have to happen every year, not every two years, as happens now. If the CHA cannot pay the bills, the tax credit holders would have the right to take over the building, but they would still have to keep the units affordable.

Cheryl Ann Pizza-Zeoli, Cambridge, asked about the potential impact on immigrant households. Mr. Russ said that HUD has a requirement that differentiates between documented and undocumented residents. The state does not. If the development has federal subsidies, at least one member of the family has to be documented, and the rent is prorated so that only documented members are covered. The state subsidies do not have this requirement. As a result the CHA has changed the way the rent rate is calculated. HUD has accepted their rent calculation. The CHA also can use MTW to use project based rules crafted through MTW authority.

Minka VanBeuzekom, 20 Essex Street, asked whether the CHA is asking the City of Cambridge to provide financing. Mr. Russ said that the CHA will be requesting the Affordable Housing Trust for support for the capital funding.

Attorney Schacter commended the CHA for a creative solution for the federal income requirement of prorating family household income to exclude undocumented family members, but this does not deal with undocumented families. If the CHA were to lose ownership control of the tax credit units, none of the regulations that govern CHA would apply.

Mr. Russ said that any agreements for tax credits would include a statement of rules that would follow the ownership.

Councillor Seidel then moved to the local preference discussion. He requested an overview from Christopher Cotter. Mr. Cotter began by laying out what units are covered by the City of Cambridge policy, which applies to all affordable homeownership units and inclusionary rental units funded by the Community Preservation Act funds and other state funding services, and 70 percent of the homeownership units. Mr. Cotter explained that the CHA policy, which is somewhat different, applies to Section 8 leased units and public housing. The City’s local preference policy covers Cambridge residents. Under the policy, people who work in Cambridge would only be considered after every resident on the waiting list has been served. The CHA policy offers the local preference both to Cambridge residents and nonresidents who work in Cambridge. In addition to residents and nonresidents working in Cambridge there is a third category called "ties to the community." Under the City policy, this local preference is only available if the applicant has been displaced due to the end of rent control, which at this point is very difficult to document. The CHA policy has no local preference based on ties to Cambridge. Mr. Cotter said that the CDD staff would like to look at possible extensions to the "ties to Cambridge" policy.

Councillor Toomey asked about the "ties to the City" policy and specifically, whether a person who moves out to live with family elsewhere and now wants to come back to Cambridge would be eligible for local preference. Mr. Cotter said that is not presently allowed under either the City or the CHA policy.

Councillor Toomey said he would like to see a policy that would allow someone who has lived in the City for 60 years and is forced out by bad luck to have a local preference. He hopes that there is a creative way to address that type of situation.

Councillor Reeves asked what the difference is between the City and CHA local preference policies. Mr. Cotter said that essentially the difference is that the CHA gives local preference to people who work in the City.

Councillor Reeves said that he agrees with Councillor Toomey, although he does believe that it is still possible to see a connection to the loss of rent control for tenants forced out when a rental building that used to be covered by rent control has been converted recently into condominiums, for example long term residents at 55 Magazine Street.

Councillor Reeves added that he also believes people who move away and then come back or elders who move because they need to be closer to family should receive a local preference.

Mr. Cotter said that the CDD housing staff want to address the issue of some expansion of the local preference to include some "ties to Cambridge". They will incorporate some of what they heard today and come back with a draft policy for further discussion. Mr. Cotter said that the local preference policies for the CHA and the City are substantially similar except for the CHA inclusion of non resident applicants who work in Cambridge in their local preference. The housing staff would like to hear from the City Council whether they believe that non resident applicants who work in Cambridge should be given the same local preference as Cambridge residents.

Lorraine LaVoie, 10 Lancaster Street #1, said that she would like to see local preference for residents only continued. People who live and Medford and work Cambridge should live in Medford and push for more affordable housing in Medford.

Ms. Schlacter said that under the CHA policies if you live in subsidized housing in Cambridge, you are no longer considered a Cambridge resident even if you are an adult child of the primary tenant and have a child of your own with you. Mr. Russ disagreed with this characterization. He said that the CHA local preference applicants include two groups. Group A includes applicants who live here or work here or have been in transition services. Group B consists of applicants who live in Cambridge in subsidized housing, such as people in the situation Ms. Schlacter described.

Councillor Seidel asked whether the City policy makes the same distinction. Mr. Cotter said that they do not look at it that way; they want to encourage people to move out of public housing rental units into homeownership.

Councillor Seidel then moved to a discussion of the CHA Workforce Program. Mr. Russ provided a brief explanation of the program, a grant-funded program that serves 135-140 children per year at three sites. They are interested in having a fourth site and would like to broaden the programs to include a small site that serves younger kids in developing literacy skills. Mr. Russ said that they are very open to expanding on either end of their age spectrum older or younger. They would also like to follow kids after high school to provide support services during college and then try to get them to return to Cambridge to teach. The CHA would be willing to give them a free unit as an incentive. Shelter in of its own is a good thing, but if you want the family to progress you must also provide services. They are concerned about being able to keep their funding.

Mayor Simmons described the Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ) approach: "Whatever it takes." The HCZ is committed to providing the families they serve with whatever services are necessary to enable the children to go college, starting at infancy.

There was further discussion of the HCZ, with enthusiastic descriptions of the HCZ programs and their relevance to Cambridge offered by Mayor Simmons, Councillor Reeves and Councillor Seidel.

Lorraine LaVoie, 10 Lancaster Street, suggested tapping the resources of the college and universities to assist.

Councillor Seidel thanked all those present for their participation. The meeting adjourned at five o’clock P.M.

For the Committee
Councillor Sam Seidel, Chair

AWAITING REPORT LIST
08-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what process is being followed to develop programs for the new West Cambridge Community Center.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 03/17/08 (O-15)

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)

08-95. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on statistics of all formal enforcement actions involving excessive noise from January 2007 to June 2008.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 06/23/08 (O-13)

08-100. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible changes to regulations and operating procedures for traffic and motor vehicle use that could increase efficiency and fuel conservation.
Councillor Maher and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-21)

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)

08-103. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #14
RE: report on neighborhood concerns including broken traffic lights, poorly situated policy details, snarled traffic and lack of advanced notice at the ongoing project at Putnam and Western Avenues.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 07/28/08 (O-31)

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)

08-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ensuring that the responsibility of the developers for a safe crossing will be upheld by the MBTA and that plans will coincide with the vision of future development.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/08/08 (O-5)

08-108. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the position the City can take on altering the NorthPoint special permit now that the land swap is no longer necessary.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/08/08 (O-7)

08-109. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the progress of addressing rodent complaints and whether the number of complaints has increased or decreased.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/08/08 (O-8)

08-111. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #1
RE: report on monitoring the efforts of Harvard and MIT in regard to wind data collection.
Councillor Davis and Full Membership 09/08/08 (O-10)

08-112. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on increased on-street parking pressure from residents of the apartment complex at 205 and 225 Walden Street.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/08/08 (O-13)

08-114. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on examining options to make the parking lot and abutting sidewalk located along Linnaean Street at the corner of Mass. Avenue a safer place for non-vehicular traffic.
Councillor Seidel 09/08/08 (O-22)

08-116. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on options for applying for "Clean Energy Choice grants and Energy Efficiency Implementation Projects by Municipalities"
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 09/22/08 (O-2)

08-118. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #12
RE: report on public drinking in the MBTA plaza at Porter Square.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/22/08 (O-5)

08-119. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on possible impacts of the new police detail regulations and on the City's reliance on detail work.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Davis, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 09/22/08 (O-6)

08-121. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether the new Berkeley, California program to give city-backed loans to property owners who install rooftop solar-power systems is applicable to Cambridge.
Councillor Seidel, Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 09/22/08 (O-16)

08-123. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #3
RE: report on the fee structure used for energy audits by the Cambridge Energy Alliance.
Councillor Seidel and Full Membership 09/22/08 (O-18)

08-124. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #2
RE: report on the zoning status of the parcel if the court house building were to be demolished and the site to be under the control of a private developer and the possible use restrictions if the building were to remain, be cleaned, and be renovated but not be under the ownership of the State.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 10/06/08 (O-5)

08-125. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report from the CHA on antennas they have for large buildings that must have converter boxes in order to deliver a digital TV signal after Feb. 19, 2009.
Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/06/08 (O-8)

08-126. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #10
RE: create safer intersection at Porter and Bedford Streets.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 10/06/08 (O-12)

08-127. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on issuance and effects of special variances under the provisions of the Noise Ordinance.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-4)

08-128. Report from the City Manager:
RE: preparedness plan for the short and long-term impact the current economic crisis will have on homelessness in Cambridge.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-5)

08-129. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #16
RE: report on the number of boats registered to residents in Cambridge and that they are correctly assessed and excise tax is being collected.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-6)

08-130. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of the database which tracks "expiring use" buildings and/or units in the City.
Councillor Seidel, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-7)

08-131. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on police details and timetable for completion of the construction work on Inman Street.
Councillor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel & Mayor Simmons 10/20/08 (O-8)

08-132. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #15
RE: report on the status of the park at Fort Washington
Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-12)

08-133. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on whether there has been an increase of arrests of homeless persons or people in need of services in Central Square.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-14)

08-134. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the pros and cons of using permeable materials for sidewalk repairs and reconstruction.
Vice Mayor Murphy, Councillor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Councillor Seidel, Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-15)

08-135. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #4
RE: report on what impacts the state budget cuts will have on the City's budget.
Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-16)

08-136. Report from the City Manager:  Mgr #17
RE: report on the status of matching percentage for Cambridge and the impact the cuts will have on Cambridge's own CPA plans.
Councillor Toomey 10/20/08 (O-17)