Cambridge City Council meeting – November 17, 2003 – AGENDA

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA 
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-118, regarding the status of repairs being made to the elevators at Miller's River.

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-124, regarding working with 808 Memorial Drive on improvements to the area.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-112, regarding a report on Parking Control Officers using hand-held computers.

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-122, regarding a report on the green light and pedestrian walk light timing for the traffic light at Walden Street and Massachusetts Avenue.

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-115, regarding a report on safety issues on and around Rufo Road.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-120, regarding speed enforcement and changing the speed limit to 25 mph on Montgomery, Jackson, Harvey, Dudley and Clifton Streets, as well as Awaiting Report Item Number 03-121, regarding speed enforcement, reinstalling a stop sign at the corner of Fairfield and Pemberton Streets, and changing the speed limit to 25 mph on Fairfield Street.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-116, regarding a report on the ownership of streets, sidewalks and parking areas in the area encompassed by Charles, Binney, Fulkerson, and Third Streets.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-127, regarding a report on assisting jobseekers.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to pending litigation.

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-114, regarding the status of land at the corner of Lopez Avenue and Charles Street.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-107, regarding a report on the number of condemned trees in Cambridge where hearings were held and approval granted.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the Massachusetts Department of Education to the Community Learning Center for the Mass. Family Literacy Consortium for $60,000 to the Grant Fund Human Services Salaries and Wages account for ($7,226) and Other Ordinary Maintenance account for ($52,774) to provide funds for the Coordinated Family Literacy and Family Support Pilot Project, called Pathways to Family Success.

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a donation from the University of Massachusetts for the Community Learning Center to the Grant Fund Human Services Salaries and Wages account for $1,500 to provide funds cover a portion of part time teachers salaries for instruction and curriculum development in ESOL classes at the Community Learning Center.

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Shelter Plus Care grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development authorized under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act to the Grant Fund Human Services Other Ordinary Maintenance account for $129,492 to subsidize the cost of permanent housing for persons with disabilities who would otherwise be homeless.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-100, regarding a report on street cleaning St. Saveur Court.

16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-132, regarding increasing enforcement of double and triple parked cars in Inman Square, with attention on the intersection of Cambridge and Norfolk Streets.

17. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-128, regarding a report on why laundromats are closing and what can be done to retain or attract them.

18. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-130, regarding a report on any areas that have had signs posted changing residential parking to two-hour maximum parking.

ON THE TABLE 
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a Landmark Designation Study Report for Shady Hill Square. 1-11 Shady Hill Square, 36 Holden Street.

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the Landmark Designation Study Report for designating as a protected landmark the Tulip Tree at 1436 and 1446 Cambridge Street.

3. Request the City Manager to direct the Community Development Department to make maximum use of CPA funds to develop affordable housing that is permanently affordable, such as limited equity cooperatives and condos.

4. Requesting the City Manager to appoint someone to speak with Neighbors for a Better Community to explore possible collaboration.

5. Requesting the City Manager to direct the City Solicitor to draft a home rule petition to enable the City Manager to approve curb cuts.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Calender Item No. 1, dated 11/4/02, regarding the implementation of land use and zoning recommendations of the Cambridgeport Neighborhood Study.

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 03-102, regarding a report on how the Cambridge Housing Authority's emergency switches in resident units function.

8. Requesting the City Council go on record reaffirming its strong commitment to affordable housing, opposing the return of rent control to Cambridge, and take no action on the initiative petition for home rule legislation to re-establish rent control, the issue to be decided by the citizens of Cambridge in the November 4, 2003 election.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS 
9. Petition from Harvard University requesting a sub-surface easement located between 1720 and 1737 Cambridge Street for the purpose of constructing an underground pedestrian and service tunnel beneath Cambridge Street.

10. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a Certification from the Election Commission of the signatures on an initiative petition entitled "Ordinance Regulating Residential Rents and Evictions." Two objections to the certification have been filed. ITEM MOVED FROM THE TABLE BY COUNCILLOR MAHER. MEETING ADJOURNED BEFORE ITEM WAS ACTED UPON.

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS 
1. An application was received from Robert Donaghy, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 25 Griswold Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. One neighborhood association letter was sent. Received approval from neighborhood association.

2. An application was received from Joseph Matarese, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 24 Rindgefield Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical and Public Works. One neighborhood association letter was sent. Received approval from neighborhood association.

3. An application was received from G Street Associates d/b/a Grafton Street Pub & Grille, One Bow Street (1230 Massachusetts Avenue), Cambridge, transmitting an All Alcoholic and Entertainment License Application for Increase in Hours to 2:00 A.M. (A copy of Addendum D to the Alcoholic Beverages rules and regulations written Policy on Liquor and Entertainment Licenses in Harvard Square, Central Square and Massachusetts Avenue between said squares is attached.)

COMMUNICATIONS 
1. A communication was received from Daniel N. Turcotte, Esquire, transmitting information of a recent policy statement issued by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles pertaining to Class1, Class 2 and Class 3 dealers.

2. A communication was received from William R. Stokes and family, transmitting gratitude for the resolution passed by the City Council for the City Council's expression of sympathy on behalf of their mother, Anne J. Stokes.

3. A communication was received from Valerie Epps, transmitting deep appreciation to the City Council for the resolution in memory of her late husband, Archie C. Epps.

4. A communication was received from Robert J. La Tremouille, regarding the Election Commission.

5. A communication was received from Richard Clarey, regarding the disposition of Saint John and Our Lady of Pity properties.

6. A communication was received from Lawrence H. Summers, transmitting thanks for the City Council resolution in recognition of Harvard's support and partnership at the Cambridge Summer Academy.

RESOLUTIONS 
1. Resolution on the death of George Bragalone.    Mayor Sullivan, Councillor Toomey

2. Congratulating Joe Curtatone, newly elected Mayor of Somerville.    Mayor Sullivan, Councillor Toomey

3. Congratulating Dave Ragucci on his re-election as Mayor of Everett.    Mayor Sullivan

4. Resolution on the death of Catherine E. (Martell) Cooney.    Mayor Sullivan, Councillor Toomey

5. Resolution on the death of Jose Sousa.    Councillor Toomey

6. Congratulating David Letterman and Regina Lasko on the occasion of the birth of their son Harry Joseph.   Mayor Sullivan

7. Resolution on the death of Ruth Batson.    Councillor Reeves

8. Congratulating Patrick Doherty on taking the Oath of Allegiance, being sworn in as a United States citizen and participating in his first election here in Cambridge.    Mayor Sullivan

9. Extend a most gracious welcome to the Honorable Jenny Shipley, retired Prime Minister of New Zealand and hope her stay in Cambridge is a memorable one.   Mayor Sullivan

10. Congratulating Shelter, Inc. on the occasion of the opening of the McKay House at the Open House to be held on December 2, 2003 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and thank them for their continued commitment to persons with disabilities.   Mayor Sullivan

11. Extending a very Happy Birthday wish to Karen Russell.   Mayor Sullivan

12. Resolution on the death of Bess Slate.   Mayor Sullivan

13. Welcome Dr. John Hope Franklin to Cambridge where he will give a speech entitled "The Scholar as Activist: The Appointment of Robert Bork and Clarence Thomas to the Supreme Court", on Thursday, November 13, 2003 at the Harvard Law School.   Councillor Reeves

14. Resolution on the death of Patrick J. Stephens.   Councillor Maher, Councillor Galluccio, Mayor Sullivan

15. Extend a very Happy 90th Birthday wish to Genoveffa Camarra.   Mayor Sullivan

16. Congratulating Jane Tuohy, Partner, Cambridge Hill Partners, Inc., on receiving the 2003 ATHENA Award.   Mayor Sullivan

17. Resolution on the death of Reverend Edmund J. Cheney.   Mayor Sullivan

18. Thank the members of the Cambridge Police Department and the citizen involvement in apprehending the suspect who was committing the robberies at ATM machines in East Cambridge.   Councillor Toomey

19. Resolution on the death of Joao Gomes.   Councillor Toomey

20. Resolution on the death of D. Frances "Mickey" Frassa.   Councillor Galluccio, Mayor Sullivan

21. Resolution on the death of Donald M. Sullivan.   Mayor Sullivan

22. Resolution on the death of Armando J. DeFilippis.   Mayor Sullivan

23. Resolution on the death of Kyran E. Kennedy.   Mayor Sullivan

24. Extend Happy 100th Birthday wishes to Ruben Landau.   Mayor Sullivan

25. Urging Cantabrigians to be cognizant of the Salvation Army's Skatefest 2004 that will take place on Sunday, February 8, 2004, and wish this annual event great success.   Mayor Sullivan

26. Expressing appreciation to Jean Maggio for her twenty-two years of dedicated service to the citizens and to the City of Cambridge and wish her much happiness in her retirement.   Mayor Sullivan

27. Extend many thanks to Cambridge's energetic and friendly poll workers for their work during the 2003 City Council and School Committee election.   Councillor Reeves

28. Wishing a speedy recovery to Benjamin Hartshorn.   Mayor Sullivan, Councillor Toomey

29. Resolution on the death of Frank F. Marazzo, Sr.   Councillor Maher

30. Resolution on the death of Helen B. Powers.   Councillor Maher

31. Resolution on the death of Francis B. Lyons.   Councillor Maher

32. Resolution on the death of Maria Rosa (Soares) Chaves.   Councillor Toomey

33. Resolution on the death of Loretta Liberacki.   Councillor Toomey

34. Resolution on the death of Lena (Renna) Coggan.   Councillor Toomey

35. Congratulating Roland Farinato on receiving the "Man of the Year Award" from the SS. Cosmos and Damian Society.   Councillor Maher, Councillor Toomey

36. Extending Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary wishes to Peg and Tom Sweeney.   Councillor Maher

37. Urging Cantabrigians to be cognizant of a Thanksgiving celebration in honor of the Honorable Lawrence F. Feloney, the Founder of CASPAR, Inc., which will be held on Sunday, November 30, 2003 at 5:30 P.M. at Jimmy Tingle's Off Broadway Theatre in Somerville.   Mayor Sullivan

ORDERS 
1. Cancel the City Council meeting of December 29, 2003 to allow employees to enjoy the holiday.   Councillor Toomey

2. Requesting the City Manager to update the City Council on why there is no curb cut in front of the Truman Apartments and take the necessary steps to provide a curb cut at this address.   Councillor Toomey

3. Dedicate a suitable location honoring Cambridge Fire Department Lieutenant Barry M. Bennett.   Mayor Sullivan

4. Thank City Manager Robert W. Healy and Public Works Commissioner Lisa Peterson for the prompt production of a "Rodent Control in Cambridge" brochure and request that its availability be publicized.   Councillor Reeves

5. Requesting the City Manager to enlist the assistance of the License Commission in collecting information and providing a hearing on the feasibility and advisability of extending current 2 A.M. liquor licenses from Thursday, Friday and Saturday to seven-day 2 A.M. licenses as is true in several surrounding towns.   Councillor Reeves

6. Dedicate a suitable location in honor of Constance Yee.   Councillor Reeves

7. Requesting the City Manager to report to the City Council on the number of investment managers for the pension fund in Cambridge, with the list to reflect the number of women-owned and minority-owned investment managers.   Councillor Simmons

8. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the appropriate departments to insure that an additional traffic crossing guard is placed at the corner of Madison Street and Concord Avenue as soon as possible to protect the 241 children attending St. Peter's School.   Councillor Maher

9. Cancel the City Council meeting of December 22, 2003 to allow employees to enjoy the holiday.   Councillor Maher
Withdrawn by unanimous consent.

10. Requesting the City Manager to confer with the Cambridge Housing Authority about the possibility of installing a handicapped-accessible door at 30 Churchill Avenue.   Councillor Maher

11. Requesting the City Manager to direct the Cambridge Police Department to increase enforcement of speeding on Upland Road, to coordinate with city staff to host a neighborhood meeting with residents on Upland Road to discuss traffic concerns and to report back to the City Council on traffic calming efforts for Upland Road.   Mayor Sullivan

12. Dedicate an appropriate site as David Kaufman Square.   Mayor Sullivan

13. Requesting the City Manager to instruct the Police Commissioner to review deployment of foot patrols for July and August when there is the the most need.   Vice Mayor Davis

14. Requesting the City Manager to instruct the Police Commissioner to provide to the City Council information on the number of "Park and Walk" patrols that have been done by the department for the period March through October 2003.   Vice Mayor Davis

15. Support the School Committee's recent motion calling on the State Legislature to support a moratorium on new charter schools.   Councillor Maher, Mayor Sullivan

16. Requesting the City Manager to direct the appropriate departments to develop a public service announcement to run on cable television, to explain how traffic lights work and the proper pedestrian response to these lights.   Vice Mayor Davis

COMMITTEE REPORTS 
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Henrietta Davis, Chair of the Public Safety Committee, for a meeting held on October 14, 2003 to discuss foot patrol officers assigned to Area Four and Riverside, street crime in Cambridgeport and the actions taken to abate violent crime in the City.

2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee, for a meeting held on October 15, 2003 to finalize the Buy Cambridge Initiative (BCI) held on October 22, 2003.

3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair of the Cable TV Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee, for a meeting held on October 22, 2003 to continue discussing coordination of resources between the Municipal Cable, CCTV and the School Department cable.

COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS 
1. A communication was received from Mayor Michael A. Sullivan, transmitting the appointment of the Inaugural Committee for the City Council Inauguration 2004.

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

Tues, Nov 18 
8:30am   The Human Services Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss out of school time (OST) programs in Cambridge, with particular emphasis on whether there are sufficient OST programs to meet the needs of Cambridge families and if so, do parents know about them.  (Ackermann Room) MEETING CANCELLED

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

Mon, Dec 1 
12:30pm   The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss coordination between the cable entities and an informational cable survey.  (Ackermann Room)

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

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

Mon, Dec 22 
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber) [to be cancelled - see Order #9]

Mon, Dec 29 
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber) [to be cancelled - see Order #1]

Mon, Jan 5, 2004 
10:00am   INAUGURAL MEETING  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 12, 2004 
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 26, 2004 
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS 
O-1     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Council meeting of December 29, 2003 be cancelled to allow employees to enjoy the holiday.

O-2     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The Truman Apartments have many senior residents; and
WHEREAS: In cases of emergency, ambulances are called and have difficulty getting the stretchers over the sidewalk; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to update the City Council on why there is no curb cut in front of the Truman Apartments and take the necessary steps to provide a curb cut at this address.

O-3     November 17, 2003
MAYOR SULLIVAN
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record dedicating a suitable location honoring Cambridge Fire Department Lieutenant Barry M. Bennett; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the Mayor’s Office be directed to confer with the Bennett family and Cambridge Fire Department officials regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-4     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR REEVES
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record thanking City Manager Robert W. Healy and Department of Public Works Commissioner Lisa Peterson for the prompt production of a "Rodent Control in Cambridge" brochure; and be it further
ORDERED: That the availability of the Rodent Control Brochure be publicized.

O-5     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to enlist the assistance of the License Commission in collecting information and providing a hearing on the feasibility and advisability of extending current 2 A.M. liquor licenses from Thursday, Friday and Saturday to seven-day 2 A.M. licenses as is true in several surrounding towns.

O-6     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR REEVES
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate a suitable location, after consultation with the family and friends, in honor of the late Constance Yee; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Assistant to the City Council be directed to confer with the family and friends of the late Constance Yee regarding a suitable dedication ceremony and communicate with the Department of Public Works to arrange for the sign.

O-7     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report to the City Council on the number of investment managers for the pension fund in Cambridge, with the list to reflect the number of women-owned and minority-owned investment managers.

O-8     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments to insure that an additional traffic crossing guard is placed at the corner of Madison Street and Concord Avenue as soon as possible to protect the 241 children attending St. Peter's School.

O-9     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Council meeting of December 22, 2003 to allow employees to enjoy the holiday.

O-10     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Housing Authority about the possibility of installing a handicapped-accessible door at 30 Churchill Avenue.

O-11     November 17, 2003
MAYOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Cambridge Police Department to increase enforcement of speeding on Upland Road; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to coordinate with city staff to host a neighborhood meeting with residents on Upland Road to discuss traffic concerns; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on traffic calming efforts for Upland Road.

O-12     November 17, 2003
MAYOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Council dedicate an appropriate site as David Kaufman Square; and be it further
ORDERED: That the Chief of Staff to the Mayor 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-13     November 17, 2003
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the deployment of foot patrols in July and August when there is the most need.

O-14     November 17, 2003
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Police Commissioner to provide to the City Council information on the number of "Park and Walk" patrols that have been done by the department for the period March through October 2003.

O-15     November 17, 2003
COUNCILLOR MAHER
MAYOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: The Cambridge School Committee, the newly appointed Superintendent of Schools and the entire School Department are engaged in extensive re-directed efforts to close the achievement gap and create excellent public schools; and
WHEREAS: The loss of funds to new charter schools in Cambridge, particularly in view of current state and local budget limitations, would be devastating to this effort; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record supporting the School Committee's recent motion calling on the State Legislature to support a moratorium on new charter schools; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a copy of this resolution to the Cambridge legislative delegation.

O-16     November 17, 2003
VICE MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate departments to develop a public service announcement to run on cable television, to explain how traffic lights work and the proper pedestrian response to these lights.

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS 
Committee Report #1 
The Public Safety Committee conducted a public meeting on Tuesday, October 14, 2003 beginning at five o’clock and fifteen minutes p.m. in the Sullivan Chamber.

The purpose the meeting was to discuss foot patrol officers assigned to Area Four and Riverside, street crime in Cambridgeport and the actions taken to abate violent crime in the City.

Present at the meeting were: Vice Mayor Davis, Chair of the Committee, Mayor Sullivan, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Reeves, Robert W. Healy, City Manager, Ronnie Watson, Police Commissioner, David Degou, Superintendent of Police, Michael Giacoppo, Superintendent of Police, Chris Beamud, Legal Advisor, Rich Sevieri, Crime Analyst and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.

Vice Mayor Davis opened the meeting and stated the purpose. She opened the meeting to public comment.

The Committee heard from Jon Myers, 15 Chalk Street, who stated that he was concerned with the happenings in the Cambridgeport area. There was an outbreak of robberies in the area. He praised the City Manager for implementing the 1990 Police Commissioner Ordinance. Studies have been made over the years in the Police Department. Community policing has come a long way in the city. He tells his children that in his book every bully is a coward and when you stand up to a coward they shrink away. He urged the Police Department to take a proactive stance. He encouraged the police to take an assertive role and stand up on the side of good. This will encourage a hand and glove relationship.

City Manager Healy stated that crime is down 13% and violent crime is down 2%. There is an issue of where and how to display police officers in the city. The City cannot be patrolled without vehicles. Vehicles, he said provide a rapid response time. The department has 273 budgeted positions who work three shifts a day. The staff level runs from 17 to 25. There are currently thirteen vacancies in the department. The Police Academy graduates will occur on October 28, 2003. The City has a request into Civil Service for a ruling on its regulation as it relates to lateral transfers. He informed the committee that the first person on the re-employment list is from North Adams. Councillor Simmons asked what is a lateral transfer. Mr. Healy responded that it is a transfer of personnel in another police department. The same screening process would be used with lateral transferees. The civil service list contains the names of all laid-off police personnel. The Human Services Department would approve applicants that have been approved by the Police Commissioner.

Councillor Simmons asked how would the thirteen vacancies in the Police Department be filled. Mr. Healy responded that the list is requested and the vacancies would be filled from the civil service list. Lateral transfers from another community have always existed. However, if a list is requested, Cambridge residents will be on the list. Reemployed employees, he said, tend to return to their original employment community. Could lateral transfer and diversity be used as criteria, asked Councillor Simmons? Lateral transfers will give preference to Cambridge applicants who want to stay in Cambridge, stated Mr. Healy. A letter has been sent to the Director of Personnel and Cambridge is awaiting a decision from the Human Resource Director. This decision, however, would not be rendered until the Governor and the Administration of Finance render a decision.

Councillor Toomey asked if applicants would have to be a Cambridge resident. Mr. Healy responded that the City cannot require that the applicant be a Cambridge resident. The requirement is that the applicant be a resident one year prior to the date on the civil service list. If the re-employment list is requested, the City would not get applicants who would stay in Cambridge. Mr. Healy stated that lateral transfers would provide candidates from a closer distance. It is very selective and would provide applicants that would stay in Cambridge. Councillor Toomey commented that Cambridge has good benefits, both in salary and details. Councillor Simmons commented that a lateral transfer assignment is a means to getting an applicant with a Cambridge community connection.

Mayor Sullivan stated that the present one-year budget cycle has been bad, but it might be a couple of bad budget cycle years. The issue is that people want to work and feed their families. With the thirteen vacancies and eight in the academy, Cambridge is down twenty-one police officers in the street. Mr. Healy stated that there may be police department personnel retirements.

In a response to an inquiry by Mayor Sullivan, Commissioner Watson responded that all sectors are being covered. Deployment assignments are based on need. If thirteen officers are hired, this would provide two additional officers per shift.

Vice Mayor Davis questioned Commissioner Watson about the eight graduates at the Academy. Commissioner Watson stated that the eight graduates are on probation for one year. They require training to do their job.

Mr. Healy stated that there are three groups. Two groups are always working. The City cannot have walking patrol officers in all areas of the city at all times. There is one walking-patrol officer per shift in Harvard Square and Central Square. To commit to permanent walking beats is not logistically possible to maintain the needed coverage in the city, he said. Statistical analysis (ATTACHMENT A) has been done and in reality there will not be walking patrol officers in all areas of the city.

Councillor Sullivan asked what is the mean. Mr. Sevieri stated that during July and August in the day the mean is fourteen or thirteen. Mayor Sullivan asked what is the average, as opposed to the mean. Mr. Sevieri responded that they are the same. Mayor Sullivan commented on the unmanned cars at the Police Department. Walk-patrol officers, he stated, develop a relationship with the community, but this is impossible with the number of patrol officers. Commissioner Watson stated that the department is trying to build a relationship with the Riverside/Cambridgeport community.

Mayor Sullivan asked how many positions is the department down? Mr. Healy responded that three positions were funded but are vacant. When the decision is received from the Department of Human Resources the positions will be filled.

Vice Mayor Davis asked how many people are available for the day or evening shifts. Commissioner Watson stated that there are 216 officers in the department. Vice Mayor Davis asked if patrol officers are taken away for specialized coverage. Traffic issues are handled by the truck enforcement unit, stated Commissioner Watson. Mayor Sullivan stated that the problem is that the responsibility has been shifted and there has been no supplementation made to the number of patrol officers. The job has increased ten-fold, he said. Specialized need makes it difficult to do the day-to-day operation. The department has 216 officers including the specialized officers, stated Commissioner Watson. There are 105,000 calls per year. A mobilized patrol force is so needed today, stated Commissioner Watson. Multiple tasks in a geographical area are required.

Superintendent of Police Giacoppo stated that domestic assault cases have increased over the years. The victim, he said, may need to go to court or to the hospital. Cambridge can take pride to the manner in which the domestic assault cases are responded. Domestic assault cases take more time. There are 65% more cases that are taken to court. Mayor Sullivan asked if assault cases are more dangerous. Police Superintendent Giacoppo stated that two cars are required because a supervisor is sent to respond to the domestic assault.

A discussion ensued about the number of people in the city. Mr. Healy stated that the real daytime population number is 150,000; 42,000 leave the city to go out of the city to work.

Commissioner Watson informed the committee that 4A and 4B patrols are deployed in Area Four and 7A and 7B are deployed to the Riverside/Cambridgeport areas in the mornings and late afternoons. From March 3, 2003 to October 3, 2003, 4A and 4B were deployed 114 times; 7A and 7B deployed 80 times. Vice Mayor Davis inquired about "park and walks." Commissioner Watson responded that uniform patrol cars are used to patrol on foot to meet the demand of the city. Vice Mayor Davis commented that the foot patrols in July and August must be reviewed because this is when there is the most need.

Councillor Reeves asked if there was a reason that there was an increase in street crime. Commissioner Watson responded that robberies are represented by a series of crimes. There is a misconception about the way crime is changed by a neighborhood. Councillor Reeves stated that it is important to be able to impact the climate in Central Square. Central Square, he said, is an excellent area to park and roam. He stated that he wants police presence in Central Square.

The committee heard from Lawrence Atkins. He stated that there was an incident this week on Western Avenue regarding a car going the wrong way. If a patrol officer was in the area, the person driving the car could have been apprehended quickly, he said. The Riverside community is not going to accept the answer "no." A sector of the City should have foot patrols and Riverside could be the model. He asked if he cannot move his car in the neighborhood, then how can a police car move through Riverside? Police cars are a barrier. The police need to have a tie to the community. The neighborhood feels that lives are in danger because they have to wait for a police car.

The committee heard from Charles Linehan, President, Police Officers Association, who stated that the question is how many officers are in the city. Even with the new eight officers the department will be down officers because of retirement. More uniformed officers are needed in the street, he said.

Commissioner Watson stated that there are twelve officers out on long-term illness and it has had an impact on the department. Forced overtime is necessary because of the departmental shortage. When the ruling is made by the Department of Human Resources the background checking policy will be followed.

Vice Mayor Davis asked how long the city has been waiting for a decision from the Human Resources Department. Mr. Healy responded three to four months.

Councillor Reeves questioned the standard set forth in the International Chiefs of Police of one police officer per 1,000. Cambridge has 270 officers, including Harvard University, MIT and Lesley. Why is it that Cambridge is so understaffed, he asked? Commissioner Watson stated that Cambridge has the fifth largest Police Department in Massachusetts. The issue is what do you want the police to do. Councillor Reeves informed the Commissioner that more than one-half of the residents who attend community meetings stated that they want walking patrols. He does not want community policing; it is not clearly defined. If there are walking patrols and a serious crime occurs, the walking patrols may deter crime. Resources should be expended to keep citizens safe. Commissioner Watson stated that officers spend a lot of time in this city doing park and walks.

Vice Mayor Davis asked how much do park and walks occur and where do they occur. The park and walks are done one block in each direction of the police car, stated Commissioner Watson. He would provide information on the number of park and walks done covering the period March through October, 2003.

In conclusion, Vice Mayor Davis stated that there is an increased demand for police protection in the summer when there is less capacity to meet that demand. This issue must be reviewed. The openings in the department must be filled, he said.

Vice Mayor Davis thanked all those present for their attendance.

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

For the Committee,
Vice Mayor Henrietta Davis, Chair

 

Committee Report #2 
The Economic Development, Training and Employment Committee held a public meeting on Wednesday, October 15, 2003 at ten o’clock and ten minutes a. m. in the Ackermann Room.

The purpose of the meeting was to finalize the Buy Cambridge Initiative (BCI) to be held on October 22, 2003 at the Stratton Student Center at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the Sala de Puerto Rico Room. (An original BCI Brochure has been filed with this report).

Present at the meeting were Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair of the Committee, Estella Johnson, Economic Development Director, Community Development Department (CDD), Elaine Madden, Project Planner, Economic Division, CDD, Cynthia Griffin, Purchasing Agent, Ini Tomeu, Public Information Officer, James Monagle, City Auditor, Duane Brown, Affirmative Action Officer, Mary Clover, Purchasing Coordinator, School Department and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk. Also present were Laurie Taymorberry, 164 Pleasant Street and Nicola Williams, 8 Brewer Street, Cambridge.

Councillor Simmons opened the meeting and explained the purpose.

Councillor Simmons stated that the Moderator, Nicola Williams, would need introductory information on the Purchasing Agents on the panel. Ms. Johnson submitted to the Moderator information on the keynote speaker.

Councillor Simmons requested a status report on the BCI event.

Mr. Brown stated that Logistics is all set. Parking in the Kresege Lot would be sufficient.

Ms. Johnson distributed an updated program. Councillor Simmons stated that she would like the names of the subcommittee to be added to the program.

Councillor Simmons asked how many businesses have registered to attend the BCI. Ms. Johnson responded that fifty-five businesses are registered. A "Walk-Ins Welcome" sign would be posted on the front door. Community Development is preparing one hundred packets of information for the BCI. Sign up sheets for individual meeting would be included in the packets for the attendees and would be at the exhibitors’ tables, stated Ms. Madden. The Procurement Technology Assistance Center (PTAC) would be doing a group presentation rather than individual meetings. Ms. Madden suggested that the Moderator inform the attendees that the last individual meeting must be completed by 6:50 p.m.

Ms. Madden informed the committee that a State Office of Minority and Women Business Assistance (SOMWBA) certification meeting was held on October 14, 2003. Forty businesses attended this meeting.

Ms. Johnson stated that help would be needed to make the last minute calls to businesses. Each member of the subcommittee would be required to make telephone contact with five businesses.

Ms. Madden asked when the subcommittee could gain access to the Sala de Puerto Rico Room for set up. Mr. Monagle responded at 3:00 p.m. It was decided that the members of the Logistics Committee would be responsible for staff the mobile microphones. The exhibition tables would be assigned by alphabetical order. Mr. Monagle stated that a map would be e-mailed to all exhibitors. Ms. Johnson would have nametags printed for the subcommittee that stated BCI Staff—ask me!

Ms. Tomeu informed the committee that the October 20th edition of the Globe would contain an article about the BCI. A media advisory would also be done.

Councillor Simmons suggested an evaluation form be prepared to assess the BCI event.

Councillor Simmons thanked those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at ten o’clock and forty-five minutes a. m.

For the Committee,
Councillor E. Denise Simmons, Chair

 

Committee Report #3 
The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee held a public meeting on Wednesday, October 22, 2003 at twelve o’clock and forty-five minutes p. m. in the Ackermann Room.

The purpose of the meeting was to continue discussing coordination of resources between the Municipal Cable, CCTV and the School Department cable.

Present at the meeting were Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair of the Committee, Calvin Lindsay, Jr., Director, Municipal Cable, Dhonyale Jones, Municipal Cable, Joan Stern, Coordinator of Library Media Services, School Department, Susan Fleishman, Executive Director, CCTV, Ginny Berkowitz, CCTV and Donna P. Lopez, Deputy City Clerk.

Councillor Decker opened the meeting and explained the purpose.

Councillor Decker stated that a survey is being formulated to see what the general public expects from cable, are needs being met and what else could be done. She would like to strengthen cable through a collaborative effort and to review the allocation of resources. The survey would be sent to department heads and opinion leaders. Suggestions for the survey were submitted to the committee by Municipal Cable (ATTACHMENT A) and CCTV (ATTACHMENT B). Councillor Decker asked if open-ended questions should the format of the survey. Ms. Fleishman suggested starting with an educational part outlining what each entity does.

Ms. Stern informed the committee that a decision is being made by the Superintendent of Schools and this would make the expectation of the School Department collaborative different. The creation of a studio that would be shared and funding for educational access has not yet been received are some of the issues. Ms. Berkowitz stated that the Superintendent of Schools needed to decide if he wants the educational access as part of the School Department. A leadership position and an education access department needed to also be created. Educational access in the School Department has not grown and this is an opportunity, stated Ms. Berkowitz. Councillor Decker stated that she would forward a letter of support by her to the Superintendent of Schools.

Councillor Decker stated that she wanted to get to the root of what the public thinks is the responsibility of each cable entity. Ms. Jones responded that whom the survey should be sent to should be decided first. Councillor Decker stated that at the last meeting is was decided that the survey should be sent to the city family and the city leaders.

Ms. Berkowitz asked if all arenas needed to be addressed by each entity. Ms. Stern asked what event would require coverage by the three entities. Ms. Jones responded the World’s Fair and the Block Party. Ms. Fleishman informed the committee that these events are not the responsibility of Channel 8. Mr. Lindsay expressed his concern about false expectations due to the survey. The issue comes down to how are decisions made and what events get coverage.

Councillor Decker stated that she would like to hear from the public on what the public would like to view on cable, and find out what is available. Municipal Cable, CCTV and School Department cable needed to be explained in detail. She would like to bring in people to explain the cable possibilities. Cambridge, she said, is supposed to be a technologically savvy city. She is attempting to get support and interest in the issues of what is expected and what are the possibilities. If the educational portion generates excitement then maybe a forum could be held. She stated that she wanted to ensure that the resources are being used efficiently.

Ms. Berkowitz stated that the survey is a way to educate the public about what is available, what are the local channels and what is designated for these channels. She suggested that each entity list what they do. Mr. Lindsay agreed with this suggestion. Ms. Fleishman stated that CCTV has a brochure entitled GUIDE TO LOCAL PROGRAMMING ON CABLE TELEVISION IN CAMBRIDGE (ATTACHMENT C). Ms. Berkowitz suggested that the survey should be comprised of the Guide and a page of questions about what people wanted to view on cable (ATTACHMENT D). She also favored a master calendar. Councillor Decker stated that the survey should contain a comment that resources are limited. A question should also be phrased in the survey to seek departmental interest and participation and ask for a department contact. Ms. Fleishman stated that the survey should contain questions on issue-oriented formats. Councillor Decker responded that she would like to be specific on the issue-oriented matters. What issue-oriented matters, such as environment, political or literacy, would the public like more to view? Councillor Decker questioned Mr. Lindsay that if a program were done on environment would there be studio space available. Mr. Lindsay stated that it depended upon who would cover the program and if it were a studio-based program. Ms. Berkowitz stated that regular weekly programming requires organization for space, studio and content organization. Ms. Stern stated that she wanted students to work with a professor in an environment such as this. There are personnel in cable who wanted to work with the School Department.

Ms. Jones asked if all the schools have live cable. Only one school does not have live cable, stated Ms. Stern. The high school needed more live cable drops.

Councillor Decker asked who covers the Kennedy School of Government. Ms. Jones stated that the Kennedy School does their own programming.

A discussion ensued about sports coverage.

Councillor Decker stated that it is a challenge for CCTV and Municipal Cable to cover sports programming. Possibly students could cover the sporting events. Ms. Stern stated that students are covering sporting events now. Ms. Berkowitz stated that there are school-based and community-based sports. Cambridge has a lot of sports and sports are not easily covered. There at 95 soccer games in Cambridge each week. She suggested a specific time slot around sports or a game in each sport for each gender should be cablecast. Councillor Decker asked who covers sports. Mr. Lindsay responded no one. Municipal Cable does cover the game at Thanksgiving and the Mayor’s Cup. Ms. Berkowitz stated that the School Department should cover school sports; Municipal Cable should cover city sports. Sports coverage is not the mandate of CCTV, however one hour of sports is covered.

Councillor Decker suggested scheduling a future meeting with the Athletic Department to have a discussion about the challenges encountered covering sporting events. The point is to figure out how to get sports on cable stated Ms. Fleishman. Ms. Berkowitz told of a program entitled "Bring Your Own Camera," but there was no interest from the public in the program.

Councillor Decker stated that at the sports meeting the following organizations should be invited:
* Cambridge Youth Soccer;
* Cambridge Little League;
* School Department Athletic Department;
* Pop Warner football and cheerleaders;
* Cambridge Youth Hockey; and
* Representatives of basketball.

This sports meeting would also serve to educate the sporting leagues about the challenges faced by the cable entities to cover the events.

In conclusion Councillor Decker requested Mr. Lindsay and Ms. Stern to review the CCTV Guide, make amendments and provide "sign offs" on the Guide.

Ms. Fleishman suggested to Ms. Stern that information be placed on the School Department bulletin board.

The next meeting was scheduled for Thursday, November 6, 2003 at twelve o’clock and thirty minutes p. m.

Councillor Decker thanked those present for their attendance.

The meeting adjourned at one o’clock and fifty minutes p. m.

For the Committee,
Councillor Marjorie C. Decker, Chair

ATTACHMENT D
* 1.What are the opportunities for collaboration between Municipal Cable (Channel 8), CCTV and the School Department?
* 2.With the limited resources what events should be designated as "must coverage"?
* 3.Should school based or community based sporting events be covered and what entity should cover these sporting events?
* 4.What issue oriented formats, such as environment, politics and literacy should be covered.