CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 04-100, regarding a report on installing way finding signs around the City.

ON THE TABLE
1. Placed on the Table on the motion of Councillor Simmons relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-137 of December 22, 2003, regarding a report on the number of investment managers for the pension fund with the list to reflect the number of women-owned and minority-owned investment managers.

2. Placed on the Table on the motion of Mayor Sullivan on an application received from Bank of America, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 615 Concord Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Community Development Department and abutters.

3. Placed on the Table on the motion of Mayor Sullivan on an application received from Bank of America, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 28 Elliot Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Community Development Department and abutters.

4. Placed on the Table on the motion of Mayor Sullivan on an application received from Bank of America, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 226 Main Street. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Community Development Department and abutters.

5. Placed on the Table on the motion of Mayor Sullivan on an application received from Bank of America, requesting permission for a sign at the premises numbered 1000 Massachusetts Avenue. Approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Community Development Department and abutters.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6. 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 October 27, 2004 for the purpose of considering a proposed amendment to increase the filing fee for a zoning petition in Section 1.53 of the Zoning Ordinance from $75 to $150 to be consistent with the new filing fee approved by the City Council in its amendment to the Municipal Code on June 14, 2004. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after November 22, 2004. Petition expires January 25, 2005. Planning Board hearing held November 9, 2004 - No report received.

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Ramon Raagas, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 13 Harrington Road; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. No response was received from the neighborhood association.

2. An application was received from Harvard Square Watch & Gifts, requesting permission for a sandwich board sign at the premises numbered 1208 Massachusetts Avenue.

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding City Council goals.

2. A communication was received from Dance Theatre of Harlem, transmitting thanks for being their partner in keeping dreams and the magic of dance alive.

3. A communication was received from Sarah Smith, regarding Special District 15 Rezoning Petition.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Josephine M. Boulton.   Mayor Sullivan

2. Resolution on the death of Ralph V. Giove.   Mayor Sullivan

3. Resolution on the death of Dorothy M. Graham.   Mayor Sullivan

4. Congratulations to Local 12 Business Manager Financial Secretary-Treasurer Kevin Cotter on receiving the 2004 Cushing Gavin Labor Award for excellence in the Labor Management Field from the Labor Guild of the Archdioceses of Boston.   Vice Mayor Decker

5. Congratulations to David Wanger of Angoff, Goldman, Manning, Wanger and Hughes on receiving the 2004 Cushing Gavin Labor Award for excellence in the Labor Management Attorney Field from the Labor Guild of the Archdiocese of Boston.   Vice Mayor Decker

6. Congratulations to Vice President John Coughlin of Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Massachusetts on receiving the 2004 Cushing Gavin Labor Award for excellence in the Auxiliary Field from the Labor Guild of the Archdiocese of Boston.   Vice Mayor Decker

7. Congratulations to Director of Labor Relations Patricia Day of Massport on receiving the 2004 Cushing Gavin Labor Award for excellence in the Management Field from the Labor Guild of the Archdioceses of Boston.   Vice Mayor Decker

8. Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Ulysses Gore on their 50th Wedding Anniversary.   Councillor Simmons

9. Resolution on the death of Specialist Don Clary.   Vice Mayor Decker

10. Resolution on the death of Specialist Brian Baker.   Vice Mayor Decker

11. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Clinton Wisdom.   Vice Mayor Decker

12. Resolution on the death of Specialist Quoc Tran.   Vice Mayor Decker

13. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant David Ries.   Vice Mayor Decker

14. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Branden Ramey.   Vice Mayor Decker

15. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Shane O’Donnell.   Vice Mayor Decker

16. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Jeffrey Lam.   Vice Mayor Decker

17. Resolution on the death of Corporal Nathaniel Hammond.   Vice Mayor Decker

18. Resolution on the death of Specialist Bryan Freeman.   Vice Mayor Decker

19. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Charles Webb.   Vice Mayor Decker

20. Resolution on the death of Specialist Cody Wentz.   Vice Mayor Decker

21. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Jared Hubbard.   Vice Mayor Decker

22. Resolution on the death of Jeremiah Baro.   Vice Mayor Decker

23. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Sean Langley.   Vice Mayor Decker

24. Resolution on the death of Private Justin Yoemans.   Vice Mayor Decker

25. Recognition and pride in the children of the Haggerty School for their efforts to reach out to the children of Beslan, Russia.   Vice Mayor Decker

26. Congratulations to Rosi and Brian Amador on celebrating their 20th Anniversary as Boston-based Latin music ambassadors.   Vice Mayor Decker

27. Congratulations to Max Hall on receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Charles River Museum of Industry.   Vice Mayor Decker

28. Congratulations to Marty Walz on her election to the State Massachusetts House of Representatives.   Councillor Davis

29. Resolution on the death of William A. Perry.   Councillor Toomey

ORDERS
1. The City Manager is requested to confer with the City Electrician to provide a report on the maintenance of street lights and upon adoption of the order that it be referred to the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee.   Councillor Davis

2. The City Manager is requested to provide a status report on the goal of the Planning Board of having and using microphones for all of their meetings and that the report include a plan for overflow seating with video and audio access to the Planning Board meeting room.   Councillor Davis

3. The City Manager is requested to contact the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation with the view in mind of providing metered parking on Memorial Drive between Massachusetts Avenue and Kendall Square to ensure access to the recreational facilities along the Charles River and report back to the City Council.   Councillor Davis

4. The City Council wishes the Cambridge Election Commission to adopt a policy that requires a hand mark or machine mark on votes onto full-ballot-text paper ballots.   Councillor Murphy
CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR MURPHY

5. The City Manager is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works and the Assistant City Manager of Human Services to report on the City's policies and protocols for handling property of the homeless, including at the Cambridge Commons.   Vice Mayor Decker

6. City Manager is requested to assist to arrange a meeting with elementary school administration to discuss ways to increase collaboration and cooperation between the City programs and the school programs.   Mayor Sullivan

11. The City Manager is requested to look into decreasing the property tax rate, if the City is unable to lower the tax rate, explain why it was not lowered to offset the assessment value and report back to the City Council with plans for additional revenue received from increased tax collections.   Vice Mayor Decker
 CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR DAVIS

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Human Services Committee, for a meeting held on October 27, 2004 to discuss out of school time permits and Summer School.

2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Brian Murphy, Chair of the Finance Committee, for a meeting held on November 3, 2004 to discuss assessing models and the City's revaluation.

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Councillor Henrietta Davis, transmitting a copy of the response to Council Order No. 20, dated October 4, 2004 investigating the availability of space to insure the Cambridge taxicabs can stop at or have access to Porter Square.

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Nov 15
8:30am   The Government Operations and Rules Committee will conduct a facilitated working meeting for the City Council to set FY 06 priorities. No public comment.  (Water Dept, 250 Fresh Pond Pkwy)
5:00pm   Special Presentation - Haggerty School Children  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Nov 16
10:00am   The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussion on a funding mechanism for an annual expenditure relative to public celebrations.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Thurs, Nov 18
5:30pm   The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Police Review and Advisory Board ("PRAB") Ordinance.  (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm   The Public Facilities, Art and Celebrations Committee Task Force will conduct a public meeting to discuss possible dog run sites in the Cambridgeport and Riverside areas.  (Morse School Cafeteria)

Mon, Nov 22
2:00pm   Government Operations and Rules Committee  (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Tues, Nov 23
9:00am   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss health of children, obesity and environmentally healthy buildings.  (Sullivan Chamber)
10:00am   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss School Master Space calendar and receive an update on a discussion with School Principals on the issue of space, and to receive an update on Summer Programs.  (Sullivan Chamber)

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

Tues, Dec 7
4:00pm   The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss Awaiting Report Item Number 04-90 regarding a new traffic plan proposed for the Dunkin Donuts on North Massachusetts Avenue.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Fri, Dec 10
9:00am   The Health and Environment Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue the discussion of obesity in Cambridge.  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Dec 13
1:00pm   Public Safety Committee  (Ackermann Room)
5:30pm   Roundtable City Council Meeting. Joint public meeting with the School Committee for a discussion of school related issues. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised.  (344 Broadway, 2nd Fl Conference)

Wed, Dec 15
2:00pm   The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss follow up on snow clearance issues and any other matters that might come before the committee.  (Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave.)

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

Mon, Jan 10, 2005
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 24, 2005
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 31, 2005
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 7, 2005
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 14, 2005
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 28, 2005
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     November 15, 2004
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City Electrician to provide a report on the maintenance of street lights; and be it further
ORDERED: That upon adoption of the order, the City Manager report on street lights be referred to the Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee.

O-2     November 15, 2004
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide a status report on the goal of the Planning Board of having and using microphones for all of their meetings; and
ORDERED: That said report also include a plan for overflow seating with video and audio access to the Planning Board meeting room.

O-3     November 15, 2004
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation with the view in mind of providing metered parking on Memorial Drive between Massachusetts Avenue and Kendall Square to ensure access to the recreational facilities along the Charles River; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council.

O-4     November 15, 2004
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
WHEREAS: Trustworthy elections are basic to democracy; and
WHEREAS: Trustworthy elections require that each vote is anonymous, secure, verified by the voter and counted as intended by the voter; and
WHEREAS: Paperless voting machines make it impossible for us to verify that our votes are correctly recorded; and
WHEREAS: Paperless voting machines make it impossible to prove that each vote is correctly counted; and
WHEREAS: A receipt printer on a paperless voting machine would not solve these problems because the votes printed on the receipt can be different from the votes stored in the machine, and because votes on the receipts would rarely be counted; and
WHEREAS: Accurate re-counting requires that the votes on the original paper ballots be examined and counted, and that the results from a previous count are not known to the people doing the re-counting; and
WHEREAS: Failure to conduct trustworthy elections opens the door to undetectable errors and fraud and destroys voter confidence; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council wishes to have the Cambridge Election Commission adopt a policy that requires a hand mark or machine mark on our citizens' votes onto full-ballot-text paper ballots, to check our votes before we cast them, to know that the votes on our paper ballot are what get counted, and to have access to proof that every ballot is accounted for and that every vote is correctly understood and counted.
CHARTER RIGHT – COUNCILLOR MURPHY

O-5     November 15, 2004
VICE MAYOR DECKER
ORDERED: The City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Commissioner of Public Works and the Assistant City Manager of Human Services to report on the City's policies and protocols for handling property of the homeless, including property of the homeless at the Cambridge Commons.

O-6     November 15, 2004
MAYOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to assist to arrange a meeting with elementary school administration to discuss ways to increase collaboration and cooperation between the City programs and the school programs.

O-11     November 15, 2004
VICE MAYOR DECKER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to look into decreasing the property tax rate; and be it further
ORDERED: That if the City is unable to lower the tax rate, explain why; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide an explanation to the City Council on why the tax rate was not lowered to offset the assessment value; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with its plans for additional revenue received from increased tax collections. CHARTER RIGHT – COUNCILLOR DAVIS

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Human Services Committee conducted a public meeting on October 27, 2004 beginning at nine o’clock and ten minutes a. m. in the Anastos Room.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss out of school time permits and Summer School.

Present at the meeting were Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Committee, Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services, Eileen Keegan, Director of Community Schools, Department of Human Services Programs (DHSP), Roz Shoy, Community Schools Programs Director, DHSP, Judy Bibbins, Community Schools, DHSP, Jackie Neel, Child Care Division, DHSP, Susan Richards, Agenda for Children, DHSP, Elaine DeRosa, Director CEOC, Tina Alu, CEOC, Robert Goodwin, Youth Program Manager, DHSP, Carolyn Turk, Deputy Superintendent of Schools, Robert McGowen, Physical Education Department, School Department, Nancy Walser, School Committee Member and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.

Councillor Simmons opened the meeting and stated the purpose. On October 14 and 15, 2004 an asthma forum was held so Councillor Simmons stated that she wanted to discuss the health of the school buildings. This committee needed to work with the School Committee because after school programs are held in the school buildings. She requested Ms. Keegan to give an overview of the Community Schools Summer Camp Survey.

Ms. Keegan distributed a summary of the survey results (Attachment A). Ten camps were held in the city; two camps were eight week camps the remainder were seven week camps. There were 810 children enrolled in the camps this summer. There were 93 Arts in the Park Programs held. There were 209 surveys completed representing 274 children. The survey contained 14 questions (Attachment B). She highlighted some results of the survey. There was a 100 percent response from parents that the activities were appropriate. Parents responded 96 percent that they were well informed about the programs. Ms. Semonoff applauded her staff on informing parents about programming. Information was provided on an answering machine that included a cell phone number. This mechanism was extremely helpful and would continue to be followed this fall. The response to the question of the camp being a safe environment was 100 percent. The curriculum received 98 percent good to excellent rating. One percent, on three children, rated the curriculum fair. The survey asked parents how could the City bridge the gap for after camp. The results were as follows:

1. Families planned to take a vacation;
2. Families were home with child;
3. Families selected another camp;
4. Families did not make plans;
5. Families used other means;
6. Families home care with other siblings; and
7. Families used baby-sitting.

Question number eight was carefully worded. Surveys were done in special needs camps. The Human Services Department would beef up its efforts on collecting results from these surveys. Mr. Goodwin stated that there are two components to the special needs program housed in the Morse School, Camp Rainbow and Camp Smile. The Park Program contains thirty high school students who staff the tot-lots and administrative lunch at four sites. There are three sports camps in the City. A baseball camp serves 3-7 year olds; scholarships are available. Ms. Keegan spoke about the Lloyd Grant, which is a collaboration of four programs, and a non-competitive camp, which includes children with all types of ability levels.

Councillor Simmons stated that this survey shows that the City is doing a good job with the summer programs, but there are still children without programs. She was asked if schools could be used for indoor exercise facilities, but the schools are tapped out so the programs were moved outside. The School Committee, Community Schools and Human Services needed to have a dialogue around academic partnership. The Jump Start Program did not have child care and this was a problem for parents. Is there a program that is comparable and is there a mechanism to provide childcare was the issue. Mr. Turk stated Jump Start would happen again in the same time frame, but the location would be rethought. Councillor Simmons thanked the Human Services Department for the survey information.

Ms. DeRosa stated the facility at the 808 Memorial Drive site had to be closed because the rent became too high. The pre-school and nine school programs were moved and relocated in August. The after school program is a full time program, located at Roosevelt Towers. Ms. Alu stated that the program is a collaborative with the Frisoli Youth Center held at the Roosevelt site. This site is not as isolated as 808 Memorial Drive. A van is used to provide transportation to Roosevelt Towers. Ms. DeRosa stated that some open slots exist in this program and could accommodate some children for a few weeks. There are state supported program slots available. Ms. Shoy asked if CEO could share slots. Ms. DeRosa responded that at the end of August there are 2-3 vacant slots.

Ms. Bibbins informed the committee that the After Work Program has few enrollees because the cost is so prohibitive.

In response to a question Deputy Superintendent Turk stated that school ends June 20th without snow days. Councillor Simmons asked when would summer programs start. Five or six camps will begin June 27th through August 12th and the remainder will open July 5, 2004 and run through August 19th. School opens September 6th. The challenge is to figure out how to run a camp for two weeks. Councillor Simmons stated that she would like a list from the City, CEOC, YMCA After Works and Community Schools of their programs and the time frame of each program. She asked if there is some way that Human Services Programs could be given priority for space in school buildings. Deputy Superintendent Turk stated that there is a way to talk through what is going on in the schools and to have activities happen in the schools. There is a major shift in the schools wanting to use their own buildings. The priority rule for school buildings is

- Schools use their own buildings;
- City use school buildings; and
- Outside agency use school.

Schools will utilize their own buildings differently. Academic enrichment programs would take priority. A good principal would have a handle on what program is being held in their building. There should be more cooperation between the city and the schools stated Councillor Simmons. The Superintendent meets with the principals regularly stated Deputy Superintendent Turk. She would bring this matter to the attention of the principals at the next meeting. A Master Calendar needed to be developed to close the loopholes on programs. Newer principals did not want to make a commitment to give space to the Community Schools Program, commented Ms. Keegan. She praised Mr. Maloney for accommodating the space needs of the Community Schools Programs. However, space is still an issue. A group needed to meet and work on collaboration stated Councillor Simmons. The challenge stated Ms. Semonoff is around gym use. Councillor Simmons wanted the Out of School Time Program to include more exercise, but this is difficult when the building is tapped out.

School Committee Member Walser suggested that Ms. Semonoff should meet with the principals to discuss tension and space issues and bring this information back to the Human Services Committee. At this time Mayor Sullivan submitted the following motion:

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to assist to arrange a meeting with elementary school administration to discuss ways to increase collaboration and cooperation between the City programs and the school programs.

The motion - Carried.

Ms. Walser informed the committee about a proposed new law establishing school nutritional standards. The law requires 120 hours of physical activity each year and 50 hours of wellness/fitness education. She discussed an article on childhood obesity. The School Department has already banned soda and junk food in school. Mr. McGowan commented that Cambridge schools are close to 120 hours physical activity required. The kindergarten may not be on track. Obesity is more than a physical activity issue. Intramural programs are a problem because kids cannot get to the practice. Transportation is an issue stated Ms. Walser. Councillor Simmons submitted the following motion:

ORDERED: That the City Manger be and hereby is requested to provided funding for transportation to transport students to sport practices.

The motion - Carried

Ms. Walser spoke about "Safe Route to School." She suggested having adult volunteers assisting children crossing streets to get to school. Councillor Simmons asked what could the Human Services Committee and the City do to address the initiative around childhood obesity. Ms. DeRosa spoke about children who need to get from schools to after school programs and children with asthma. Walking and cold weather would hamper children with asthma participating in after school programs. Transportation coordination would be great.

Mr. McGowan stated that space is still a problem, especially to find time to practice and for actual games. It is very difficult for custodians to clean buildings because of the heavy use of the buildings. He likes the idea of a Master Calendar. Councillor Simmons commented that the janitorial shifts might need to be discussed with the unions. A cost analysis should be done.

Mr. McGowan stated that the issue with obesity is that there is no medical link to the children who have eating disorders or who are obese in the City. The fitness levels of students’ k-8 are done each year. Progress reports are sent home with resource information. Physical fitness and snack guidelines have been provided in three languages to families. There is a big gap with the medical connection. The health of school buildings is an issue because of the programs that are held in these city buildings. What actions will be taken to improve the quality of school buildings asked Councillor Simmons. Ms. Walser responded that this would be the topic discussed at the joint meeting between the city council and the school committee to be held in December.

Ms. DeRosa distributed a brochure on poverty in America. All issues are exacerbated if people are poor. Obesity is about clinical intervention.

Councillor Simmons thanked all attendees. She scheduled the next meeting for November 23, 2004.

The meeting was adjourned at ten o’clock and thirty minutes a. m.

For the Committee
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair

Committee Report #2
The Finance Committee, comprised of the entire membership of the City Council, conducted a public meeting on Wednesday, November 3, 2004, at nine o’clock and thirty-eight minutes a.m. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss assessing models and the City’s revaluation.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Brian Murphy, Chair of the Committee, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Councillor David P. Maher, Councillor Timothy J. Toomey; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Richard R. Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Louis DePasquale, Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs; Claire Spinner, Director of Financial Systems/Operations; David Kale, Budget Director; James Monagle, City Auditor; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Faith McDonald, Director of Assessors; Kevin McDevitt, Principal Assessor; Robert Reardon, Consultant; and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.

Councillor Murphy opened the meeting and stated the purpose. Mayor Sullivan would not be attending the meeting due to a death in his family. Every three years every property in Cambridge is reevaluated. Values have sky rocketed. The format of the meeting would be that the process would be explained. Then questions from the City Council would be taken and finally questions from the public. The Assessor’s Office will be available to the public to answer any questions.

Mr. Healy stated that assessing properties at one hundred percent full fair value is required by a Supreme Court decision from the 1970’s. This is neither the City Manager’s nor the City Council’s policy. The Department of Revenue reviews the valuations of property in Cambridge before the values are certified. A computer model is used and reviewed. There is a time lag between the city budgeting process and the distribution of tax bills. A tax levy is adopted in the budget and this is reflected in the tax bills. The projected levy in the budget is $225 million. The actual levy in the tax bills is $223 million; a $2 million decrease from what was established in May. Spending must be limited. There is a modest increase in employee salaries. Health and pension costs have also increased.

Councillor Davis questioned the percentage of levy that comes from residential and commercial tax rates. The commercial tax rate has not increased like the residential. The commercial rate is down due to the vacancy rate. Sixty-two percent of the tax rate is paid by the commercial and thirty-eight percent is paid by the residential. What is the comparison with last year asked Councillor Davis. Last year commercial was 64 percent; residential 36 percent responded Mr. Healy. The City Council adopted a 30 percent homeowners residential exemption last year.

Mr. DePasquale informed the committee that the tax fact brochure was mailed to residents as well as put on the Website. More information has been added to the Website for the benefit of the taxpayers. Approval from the state was received on the revaluation on October 22, 2004. Tax bills were mailed November 1, 2004 and are due December 1, 2004. The sales for 2003 were reviewed. There were 24,000 bills sent out. In 2003 and 2004, approximately 500 abatements were requested. Abatements must be filed within 30 days of mailing of the tax bill. The Assessors have three months to act on the abatement. To date 38 abatements have been received. The first half bill must be paid, whether or not an abatement is filed. Abatements are usually credited to the second half bill. This year a refund check would be issued if there is hardship. All properties would be inspected. To be helpful to taxpayers inspections would be done on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays. Councillor Murphy questioned if the first half tax bill must be paid before the abatement. Mr. DePasquale responded this year due to the concern of the City Council the City would try to get as many abatements as possible resolved before December 1, 2004, so it is reflected on the bill for any citizens who have difficulty in paying the first half tax bill. The first half tax bill must be paid by December 1, 2004 or interest will be charged.

Ms. McDonald explained the revaluation process in the reval and interim years. The Department of Revenue visits the Assessors Office in January to determine what resources and models that the City has and reviews the credentials of the employees. When professionals are on hand and have met the regulations the revaluation begins. All the 2003 property sales records were given to the Department of Revenue; the sales were identified and coded. The state determined if the sales were coded properly. Value sales were reviewed for justification. Sales are used to build the model by classifications. Sales are broken down by classification then by district. When the model is set sales are evaluated to be in line with the real estate market. The biggest class of property is condominiums. Mr. Reardon worked with the City to build the models.

Mr. Reardon stated that all sales over $1,000 needed to be coded. The State provides the coding. A model was developed. Unsold property is reviewed. There are anomalies in the system. The model is only as good as sales included. Three family homes are not being sold as three family homes, but as condominiums. These properties needed to be inspected. The model was approved by the state for unsold property. Three handouts were distributed:

1. Property record card (Attachment A);
2. Abatement form (Attachment B);
3. List of single families homes sold in 2003 (Attachment C).

A new camera mass appraisal system, Vision System, is being used.

Mr. DePasquale informed the committee that more interior inspections have been done this year than any previous year.

Ms. McDonald spoke about the abatement process. A personal exemption for a veteran, blind individual, elderly or a widow, could be filed within 90 days. This applies to a person versus property. This provides relief for the person living in the property. Requirements differ for abatements. Taxpayers have 30 days to file for abatement. There is also a one-time hardship exemption. Assessors can provide assistance to taxpayers. The elderly exemption was reduced from 70 to 65 years of age and to a minimum from $1000 to $500. The exemption review process is confidential. Assessors provide assistance to fill out the form. Income tax forms are required for persons who file income tax.

Mr. DePasquale outlined the dates and the locations for the taxpayer assistance program. Mr. McDevitt will staff this program.

Councillor Murphy opened the meeting to comments by the City Council.

Councillor Maher thanked the City staff and applauded efforts made to get information to the taxpayers. Councillor Maher commented on the lag time between the purchase of a home and the valuation. Mr. Reardon explained homes are reevaluated as of January 1, 2004. Homes sold in 2003 are put into the model and analyzed. Councillor Maher stated that when a person purchases a house the person should be taxed on the purchase price and then put the property into the model. The values of homes are based on what sales occurred in a neighborhood. This is not rational. Why should tax breaks be given to someone who purchased property versus someone who is living in their home. All sales must be used and analyzed stated Mr. Reardon. A study was done on high-end property. This was included in the model. People are willing to pay more for larger homes. This is what is driving the sales. Councillor Maher stated it is a troubling year for taxpayers. One section of the City has received a 100 percent increase in their tax bills while other sections have received a reduction. Two family homes are selling for $1 million. Some Assessments should have been higher last year stated Mr. Reardon. This is a function of valuation commented Mr. Healy. Total sales and valuation is part of the equation. The City has confidence in the sales modeling. Ms. McDonald stated that by law, property must be reevaluated as of January 1st. The value must be on "in use" not on "potential use." Renovations and new construction may be captured on January 1st in another year. Councillor Maher stated that the commercial property tax shift has spilled over to the residential market. Rents have decreased and there is a vacancy rate. Income potential is not the same. He urged residents to file abatement forms.

Councillor Simmons asked if seniors could acquire information about abatements and exemptions at the Senior Center. Mr. DePasquale stated that he would discuss with Ms. Semonoff that copies of the Tax Facts would be available at the Senior Center and put this information into the Newsletter. Councillor Simmons asked if two families are reviewed to see if they are occupied. Vacant apartments are not reviewed in the market. In response to a question from Councillor Simmons, Mr. Reardon stated that condominiums are assessed by sales activities, neighborhood, building amenities and are then analyzed. What if the property is not inspected asked Councillor Simmons. Data exists on all properties, but the data may not be accurate stated Mr. Reardon. If property is in better condition when inspected than the recorded data this assessment may not be reflected this year added Mr. DePasquale.

Councillor Galluccio asked if the significant tax increase this year is an indicator of the system or of properties. People are buying two and three family houses and converting to condominiums because of the low interest rate stated Mr. Reardon. Councillor Galluccio stated that people want to buy two and three family homes and live in the City. The City is aggressively spending money to stabilize the City with affordable housing. It is the right of residents to file abatements. He asked if the state checks on overvaluation. Mr. Reardon responded that the state does not certify Cambridge if the City is too high. The City is trying to be fair to all. Mr. Healy stated that this has not been an aggressive revaluation process. This was done three years ago and needs to be done every three years.

Councillor Galluccio asked why doesn’t the City tell the taxpayers that the tax bill has increased and list the factors or criterions used in calculating the increase and send this information with the tax bills. This system has never been adversarial before. Mr. Healy responded that the criterion has always been on the property record card. The real estate market is the reason for the increased revaluation. Councillor Galluccio stated that he would like a state tax policy that would tax property when it is sold; not as a speculation. Why would any taxpayer who had an increase allow the City to inspect the property, he asked. Mr. Reardon responded that the Assessors only look at the property and figure out the price the property would sell for; its value would not be increased this year. The City is not trying to be aggressive or overcharge the taxpayers. In the past the City has been viewed as a friend to the taxpayer, commented Councillor Galluccio. He wants the City to explain the huge tax increase to the taxpayers. The taxpayers are entitled to an explanation of factors in the equation. He asked Mr. Healy why isn’t free cash or surplus being used to decrease the tax burden. Mr. Healy outlined the budget adopted in May approved $225 million in tax levy; this amount was reduced to $223 million; a $2 million savings. It is difficult to use free cash as a one time reduction because what revenue would be used in the next year. For every $1 offset, 62 cents goes to the commercial tax rate and 38 cents goes to residential. The commercial values have declined. There has been a total tax burden shift from commercial to residential. Commercial property also needs to be certified by the state. The real estate value of one, two and three family homes have increased. Mr. DePasquale stated that for every $1 million reduction in tax levy residential tax rate would be reduced by 03 cents and commercial tax rate would be reduced 09 cents.

Councillor Simmons asked if affordable housing is taxed at market rate. Affordable housing are assessed as affordable units responded Mr. Reardon. In a response to a question from Councillor Simmons, Mr. Healy stated that cities and towns are dependent on property tax. There is no move in the state legislature for an alternative tax stream. Cambridge has used the hotel/motel tax, however, there are no other options for additional revenue. Property tax reform is not around the corner.

Councillor Toomey questioned if there is enough staff to meet the demand of the inquiries. Ms. McDonald responded in the affirmative. The response thus far has been low. Only thirty-eight abatements have been filed. All the assessors are trained and all are going out to inspect properties. She urged residents to request copies of their property record card to make sure that the data is accurate. Councillor Toomey asked why the City could not mail the property record cards to residents. Mr. DePasquale stated that this information is on the Website. Councillor Toomey requested that the City mail property record cards to residents with the May tax bills. He urged that there be an increase in payment in lieu of taxes program with Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The City Council has to review how it is spending and spend wisely. Cambridge residents will be house rich, but cash poor. The City Council has to take responsibility to act fiscally responsible. Mr. DePasquale informed the committee that the five-year capital projects were reviewed.

At twelve o’clock and five minutes p.m. Councillor Murphy opened the meeting to public comment.

Stash Horowitz, 12 Florence Street, discussed the City budget and the decrease of four percent of the commercial tax rate and the increase of two percent of the residential tax rate. The City has invited too much commercial property and this has resulted in a housing scarcity. Cambridge valuations have doubled and tripled over the years. He commented on zoning petitions that increase affordable housing. He stated that the City budget should be reviewed and reduced. He hoped that the City Council would not increase the residential tax rate again.

Elie Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street, stated he has lived in Cambridge since 1979 and became a property owner ten years ago. He lives in one of the top ten property areas in the country. He wants to make his home a place where his neighbors can also have a home. Using market criteria does not work, he said. He urged the City Council to conduct a study using professional resources. Mr. Healy cited the results from a telephone survey, which listed the quality of life in Cambridge and Cambridge as a place to live as either excellent or good by 89 percent of respondents.

Dennis Weed, 1433 Cambridge Street, stated that Cambridge is a wonderful place to live. He will scrape up the additional tax bill money needed.

Mark Schneider, 276 Pearl Street, stated that the data is not available to the public as indicated by the City. There is no information on the Website. Only select properties have the data listed. He was unable to get information from the Assessors Office and the Assessors Office wanted to charge him a fee. Mr. Reardon commented that the information he requested is for a condominium and there is no data listed for a condominium. Mr. DePasquale informed Mr. Schneider he would assist him. Mr. Schneider complained about incorrect information such as parking spaces and the database not being updated. He asked if there is any mechanism to remove residential exemption or is it granted in perpetuity. Ms. McDonald stated that verification of residential exemption is requested of the owner and that they are residing in the property. Transfer of property is another mechanism, which reviews residential exemptions. Mr. Schneider stated that there is no mechanism to reevaluate the exemptions and if the owner lives in the property. Everything is done to track this information, but it is difficult commented Mr. Reardon. Ms. McDonald informed the committee that 125-140 persons are removed from the residential exemption because addresses do not coincide.

In conclusion Councillor Murphy thanked all attendees. The City’s goal is to make the process fair and equitable. He urged all residents to pay their tax bill by December 1, 2004. Mr. DePasquale informed the committee that there is a 14 percent interest rate for unpaid tax bills mandated by the state.

The meeting was adjourned at twelve o’clock and thirty-eight minutes p. m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Brian Murphy, Chair