Cambridge City Council meeting - November 19, 2012 - AGENDA
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Council Order Number 10, dated 5/23/2011, regarding Biogen return to Cambridge.
Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board
Nov 19, 2012
To the Honorable, the City Council:In response to Council Order Number 10, dated 5/23/2011, regarding Biogen return to Cambridge, Assistant City Manager for Community Development Brian Murphy reports the following:
As you know, the City Council requested that we actively identify any possible barriers that would hinder Biogen Idec Inc. from relocating its headquarters back to Cambridge, and that the City take the necessary action to alleviate the potential barriers that may currently exist for the relocation.
Discussions with representatives from Biogen have indicated that the remaining outstanding barrier is the zoning requirement that a cafeteria be located on the ground floor of the building and open to the public at least 20 hours per week. Biogen would like to remove this requirement to allow more flexibility for programming within the building. We believe that the City's underlying desire for active ground floor uses would be met by other activities, such as a community lab and restaurant use.
Based on the directive in the May 23, 2011 Council Order, we are therefore recommending that the city council adopt the attached zoning petition.
Very truly yours, Robert W. Healy, City Manager
Zoning Petition
To see if the City Council will vote to amend Section 13.59.33 so that it reads as set forth below.
13.59.33 Building and Site Design Requirements for Active Uses and Open Spaces.
(1) Each Active Use shall have at least one entrance from the sidewalk separate from the principal entrance of the building.
(2) Where the length of a commercial building’s primary façade exceeds 135 feet, loading, service, and garage ramp areas shall occur behind no more than one third (1/3) of ground level façade length facing a park. Along the remaining two-thirds (2/3) of ground level façade length, transparent glazing shall make up at least 40% of ground-level façade area, and areas of opaque wall may extend no more than 25 feet horizontally. Notwithstanding these design requirements, it is preferred that parking entries and service facilities not be located within that portion of a building facing Rogers Street Park.
(3) In order to provide open and inviting public access between buildings and sidewalks, a Final Development Plan shall contain attractive exterior through-block connector space in the block bounded by Binney Street, Second Street, Rogers Street and Third Street (where that area is encompassed by the Development Parcel) and shall provide for the expansion and enhancement of the existing through-block connector in the block bounded by Binney Street, Second Street, Linskey Way and Third Street (where that area is encompassed by the Development Parcel). Exterior connector space shall be open to the public at all times.
(4) Outdoor courtyards, delineated gathering space, or sitting areas are encouraged throughout the Development Parcel in any approved Final Development Plan.
REMOVE [(5) In order to promote pedestrian activity on adjacent public streets from tenants and employees within commercial buildings, any cafeteria serving such commercial space may be located only on the ground floor level of a building, and must be open to the public at least 20 hours per week.]
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-103, regarding a report on CDBG funding.
Referred to Finance Committee - Decker
3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-102, regarding a report on how sequestration affects municipal finances.
Referred to Finance Committee - Decker
4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) under the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Program for $39,487 to the Grant Fund Police Department Extraordinary Expenditures account which will be used to support the department's mobile computing infrastructure through the of purchase laptop computers/mobile computing for police vehicles.
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a transfer within the FY11 Smart Policing Innovation Grant, in the amount of $47,000 from the Grant Fund Police Extraordinary Expenditures account to the Grant Fund Police Other Ordinary Maintenance Account ($37,902) and to the Grant Fund Police Travel and Training Account ($9,098) to ensure the completion of the analysis in predictive policing requirement is met as part of the grant.
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $50,000 from Free Cash to the Public investment Fund Executive Department Extraordinary Expenditures account to replace three (3) photocopiers in the Executive office, the Historical Department and the City Clerk's Office.
CHARTER RIGHT
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant staff to have all trees slated for removal in the Cambridge Common renovation project, to include Flagstaff Park, clearly and quickly marked as being slated for removal so that the park using public will have a clearer idea of the extent the planned renovation will have on the Cambridge Common's trees. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on Order Number One of Nov 5, 2012.]
Order adopted 9-0 as amended
AMENDED ORDER Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: Trees are a valuable, much appreciated and diminishing resource throughout Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: During various public space renovation projects, existing trees might need to be removed or significantly trimmed; and
WHEREAS: Many trees on public spaces may not require a state-mandated shade tree removal hearing prior to removal; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Common renovation project plans to remove over twenty significantly sized trees; and
WHEREAS: There has been no tree hearing for these trees nor is there any clear indication on the Cambridge Common or readily available online to help people determine which trees will be removed; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant staff to have all trees slated for removal in the Cambridge Common renovation project, to include Flagstaff Park, clearly and quickly marked as being slated for removal so that the park using public will have a clearer idea of the extent the planned renovation will have on the Cambridge Common's trees; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant city staff to develop a policy of marking trees slated for removal and an overall illustration when the project is completed during public projects as early as possible during the public process associated with those projects so that people can better understand how the projects would impact Cambridge's tree cover.
ON THE TABLE
2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-09, regarding a report on the use of coal and on Cambridge becoming coal-free. [City Manager Agenda Number One of Mar 5, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Mar 5, 2012.]
3. Urge greater cooperation from the Cambridge Housing Authority to better serve the people of Cambridge. [Order Number Two of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Vice Mayor Simmons on Apr 9, 2012.]
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department and other relevant departments in order to present to the City Council a map of Cambridge that shows, by location and by date, all of the areas where construction is and will be taking place over the coming decade. [Order Number Four of Apr 9, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on Apr 9, 2012.]
5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item No. 12-28, regarding temporary ramps and obstructions in construction zones. [City Manager Agenda Number Eight of Apr 23, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 23, 2012.]
6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-35, which requests a report on whether there were any public safety officers that falsified their emergency medical training re-certification while employed by the City of Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Toomey on City Manager Agenda Number Two of May 21, 2012. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Toomey on June 4, 2012.]
7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 12-63 regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Vassar Street. [City Manager Number Twenty-three of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on July 30, 2012.]
8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City staff and report back to the City Council on whether a tagging program could be implemented to notify owners of bicycles that have been removed from sign posts by the Department of Public Works and contact information for retrieval of said bicycle. [Order Number Fourteen of July 30, 2012 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on July 30, 2012. Councillor Toomey recorded in the negative on Tabling.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
9. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public meeting held on Oct 3, 2012 to discuss a zoning petition filed by Susan Yanow, et al to rezone from the existing Business A to Business A-1 the areas bounded by Windsor, Main Streets, Bishop Allen Drive, Columbia, Prospect and Norfolk Streets; rezone from the existing Bus. B and CRDD to a proposed new district Bus. B-3 in the area bounded by Green, Landsdowne, Magazine and Prospect Streets and Mass. Ave. define as a protected neighborhood zone the area zoned Res. C-1 and bounded by Portland, Main and Windsor Streets and a line 120 feet north of and parallel to Main Street; rezone the areas currently identified as Municipal Parking Lots along Bishop Allen Drive to a proposed new Municipal Parking District (MP).
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Puritan and Company requesting permission for three flower boxes in front of the premises numbered 1166 Cambridge Street.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Joseph E. Connarton, Executive Director, PERAC regarding Appropriation for Fiscal Year 2014.
2. A communication was received from the Department of Public Utilities, transmitting a Notice of Filing and Public Hearing on a petition filed by NSTAR Electric Company for approval of a three-year energy efficiency plan, covering calendar years 2012 through 2015. The hearing will take place on Wed, Dec 5, 2012, 2:00 pm at One South Station-5th Floor, Boston, MA.
3. A communication was received from the Department of Public Utilities, transmitting a Notice of Filing and Public Hearing on a petition filed by NSTAR Gas Company for approval of a three-year energy efficiency plan, covering calendar years 2012 through 2015. The hearing will take place on Wed, Dec 5, 2012, 2:00 pm at One South Station-5th Floor, Boston, MA.
4. A communication was received from Xizo-Li Meng transmitting gratitude for the kind resolution on his appointment as Dean of the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.
5. A communication was received from Will Sutton, Legislative Aide to Representative Toomey transmitting notification that detainees held at the Middlesex jail in East Cambridge will be moved to the Billerica House of Corrections.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Middlesex County Clerk of Courts Michael A. Sullivan on being re-elected for another term in office. Vice Mayor Simmons
2. Congratulations to Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian on being re-elected for another term in office. Vice Mayor Simmons
3. Congratulations to Elizabeth Warren on being elected to the United States Senate. Vice Mayor Simmons
4. Congratulations to President Barack Obama on being re-elected for a second term in office. Vice Mayor Simmons
5. Resolution on the death of Hermance "Emma" (Melanson) Collins. Councillor Maher
6. Retirement of Paul Cassidy from the Department of Public Works. Mayor Davis
7. Happy Birthday wishes to Rosalie Riggins. Vice Mayor Simmons
8. Resolution on the death of Melvin L. Caton. Councillor Toomey
9. Resolution on the death of Kaethe Peters. Councillor Maher
10. Happy 80th Birthday wishes to Ethel Rose Ampey. Vice Mayor Simmons
11. Congratulations to Edith Pedro on receiving the 2012 Cheverus Award medal. Councillor Toomey
12. Congratulations to the 1369 Coffee House on its 20th anniversary. Councillor Toomey
13. Resolution on the death of Mary (DeNunzio) Gravelese. Councillor Toomey
14. Condolences to Superintendent Jeff Young on the death of his mother. Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher
15. Resolution on the death of William M. Hogan, Jr. Councillor Maher
16. Congratulations to Giro Studio on their 50 years in business in the City of Cambridge. Councillor Toomey
17. Retirement of Cathleen Stephens from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Councillor Kelley, Councillor Decker, Councillor Toomey
18. Happy 40th Anniversary wishes to the Filarmonica Santo Antonio Band. Councillor Toomey
19. Congratulations to Dr. John Silvanus Wilson Jr. on being named Morehouse College President. Councillor Reeves
20. Congratulations to Ellen Mass on being named "2012 Volunteer of the Year" by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Councillor vanBeuzekom
21. Speedy recovery wishes to Boston Mayor Tom Menino. Councillor Reeves
22. Congratulations to Kinvey on their breakthrough innovation in mobile applications. Councillor Cheung
23. Congratulations to Scratch Wireless for being recognized as a Mass High Tech Company to Follow in the Boston Business Journal. Councillor Cheung
24. Congratulations to City Councillor Marjorie Decker on being elected to serve in the 25th Middlesex District as Representative in Massachusetts General Court. Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey and Councillor vanBeuzekom.
25. Thanks to City staff for their work on Election Day. Mayor Davis
26. Congratulations to State Senator Sal N. DiDomenico on being re-elected to service in the Middlesex and Suffolk District. Mayor Davis
27. Congratulations to State Senator Anthony W. Petruccelli on being re-elected to serve int he First Suffolk and Middlesex District. Mayor Davis
28. Congratulations to State Senator Patricia Jehlen on being re-elected to serve inthe Second Middlesex District. Mayor Davis
29. Congratulations to Representative Marty Walz on being re-elected to serve in the Eighth Suffolk District. Mayor Davis
30. Congratulations to Representative Timothy J. Toomey, Jr. on being re-elected to serve in the Twenty Sixth Middlesex District. Mayor Davis, Councillor Cheung, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons and Councillor vanBeuzekom.
31. Congratulations to Representative Jonathan Hecht on being re-elected to serve in the Twenty Ninth Middlesex District. Mayor Davis
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to investigate creating a pilot program for installing mini exercise stations on major walking routes throughout the city, perhaps at bus stops, subway stations and public parks. Mayor Davis
2. That the City Manager is requested to look into the installation of public drinking fountains at additional locations in the city - possibly working with the Cambridge Arts Council on interesting designs. Mayor Davis
3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to develop a process to promote universal design and visitability in all Cambridge public buildings and to devise a program to encourage private developers to incorporate this design concept, particularly in new residential building. Mayor Davis
4. That the Cambridge City Council go on record urging the members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee to pass MA Senate Bill 2314, "An Act Relative to Plastic Bag Reduction." Councillor vanBeuzekom
5. That the City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate city officials to explore the possibility of completing and submitting the Bicycle Friendly Community application by Feb 26, 2013 so that the City of Cambridge may be included in the next review cycle and join together with other communities in participating in the Bicycle Friendly Community program. Councillor vanBeuzekom
Referred to Transportation, Traffic & Parking Committee - Kelley
6. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Historical Commission to provide a report to the City Council explaining the possible advantages of the "preservation easement" process. Councillor vanBeuzekom
7. That the City Council meeting scheduled for Dec 31, 2012 be and hereby is cancelled. Mayor Davis
8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with appropriate staff and report back to the Council on how the potential for permanent bathroom facilities is being incorporated into the renovation work for the Cambridge Common and, if such facilities are not being considered for the renovation work, how the City plans to address ongoing public hygiene needs in this area. Councillor Kelley and Councillor vanBeuzekom
9. Special Permit process pursuant to MGL 40A as it relates to the impact of re-filing a zoning petition on pending special permits or special permits that have been granted. Councillor Kelley
10. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Law Department to prepare language for an amendment to the Municipal Code to ban the use of polystyrene-based disposable food containers and to provide a waiver provision similar to the by-law of the Town of Brookline. Councillor Cheung and Mayor Davis
11. That the Cambridge City Council go on record urging the members of the Massachusetts Committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling to pass MA House Bill 4165, "An Act Relative to Speed Limits." Councillor vanBeuzekom
Charter Right - Decker
12. That the City Manager hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City personnel to determine what policies exist to protect individuals awaiting the opening of the North Cambridge Senior Center during extreme weather conditions, and whether new polices should be implemented to prevent seniors from being forced to wait outside during inclement weather Vice Mayor Simmons
13. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Law Department to report back to the City Council with the language for an ordinance that would regulate the procedures that organizations should follow in the event of a concussion. Councillor Cheung
14. That the City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate departments to generate ideas and a plan of action to reinforce and secure restaurant bins in a way that separates food waste for composting. Councillor Cheung
15. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate departments on the feasibility of implementing a year-long position that would act as a caseworker to bridge the digital divide and to be funded in cooperation with local and local universities. Councillor Cheung
Charter Right - Decker
16. That the City Manager confer with the Election Commission to make information publicly available on wait times throughout Election Day and the number of booths at each precinct. Councillor Cheung and Councillor vanBeuzekom
17. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Information Technology Department to look into the feasibility of updating the archived Cambridge City Council meetings to a standard/platform capable of playback on a mobile device. Councillor Cheung
18. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Mayor, School Committee Members and the Cambridge Public School Administration to look into the feasibility of relocating the school administration into one of the buildings to be refurbished as part of that capital project. Councillor Cheung
Charter Right - Decker
19. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works to look into extending the public toilet pilot program at the Cambridge Common until a permanent solution is installed. Councillor Cheung
20. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate city officials to explore the possibility of communicating appropriate storm preparedness through the website and text messages sent by the city. Councillor vanBeuzekom
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Government Operations and Rules Committee, for a public meeting held on Oct 19, 2012 to discuss Community Benefits.
2. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Cable TV Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee for a public meeting held on June 5, 2012 to discuss creating a smarter city using Information and Innovation Technology.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Nov 19
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Nov 20
5:30pm The Public Safety Committee will conduct a public meeting to continue discussions on security cameras. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Nov 26
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting between City Council and School Committee to receive an update on the Innovation Agenda. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Nov 27
5:30pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss completion of an on-street parking census; its rationale, hurdles, costs and benefits. (Sullivan Chamber)
6:00pm The Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the City of Cambridge's comprehensive public metered spaces plan. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Nov 28
2:30pm The Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public meeting on nurturing an exciting environment in the city. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Fri, Dec 7
10:45am The University Relations Committee has scheduled a tour of Harvard University for the City Council and City Staff. Meeting will convene in the Sullivan Chamber and proceed to the tour. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Tues, Dec 11
4:00pm The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss the impacts of mobile internet technology on On-Demand Transportation Infrastructure. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Dec 12
4:00pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to receive an update on the long-term vision for Kendall Square. (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Dec 13
4:00pm The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee will conduct a public meeting to discuss dogs at Paine Park on St. Mary Road. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 31
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Thurs, Jan 10
2:00pm Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 14
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 28
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 11
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 25
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 4
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 11
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 18
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 1
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 8
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 22
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 29
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 6
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 13
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 20
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Nov 19, 2012
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: "Cambridge in Motion" is an initiative of the Cambridge Public Health Department; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge is America's most walkable city and has won awards for its public health initiatives; and
WHEREAS: A goal of the Public Health Department and School Department is to encourage exercise for Cambridge residents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate creating a pilot program for installing mini exercise stations on major walking routes throughout the city, perhaps at bus stops, subway stations and public parks; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-2 Nov 19, 2012
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Drinking water supports a healthy lifestyle and physical activity such as walking and jogging; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to look into the installation of public drinking fountains at additional locations in the city-possibly working with the Cambridge Arts Council on interesting designs; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-3 Nov 19, 2012
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Universal design is the philosophy of designing our built environment to be usable by the widest possible variety of people, including those with and without disabilities; and
WHEREAS: Members of the Silver Ribbon Commission, in their exploration of aging in Cambridge and in particular housing options for seniors, recommended promoting the concept of universal design; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to develop a process to promote universal design and visitability in all Cambridge public buildings; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to devise a program to encourage private developers to incorporate this design concept, particularly in new residential building; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-4 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: MA Senate Bill 2314 -- "An Act Relative to Plastic Bag Reduction" is currently under review with the Massachusetts Senate Ways and Means Committee and if passed will require all retailers with over 4,000 square foot retail space to provide compostable bags at checkout; and
WHEREAS: This proposed law will not prohibit retailers from giving bags to customers, but instead will eliminate non-biodegradable plastic bags and require retailers to use only compostable plastic bags; and
WHEREAS: Less than 5% of all plastic shopping bags are recycled; and
WHEREAS: Passing this bill will support the goals of both the state and city by reducing the number of plastic bags that are going into landfills and into the environment; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record urging the members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee to pass MA Senate Bill 2314; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this order to members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee and the Cambridge Legislative Delegation on behalf of the entire Cambridge City Council.
O-5 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has implemented many strategies to encourage bicycling; and
WHEREAS: Bike lanes, bike shares, traffic calming, the bicycle committee, the CitySmart program, and the efforts of the Community Development Department's Environmental and Transportation Planning Division have worked to make bicycling safer and more enjoyable and with the result that a greater number of individuals are choosing to bicycle within the city; and
WHEREAS: The national organization, The League of American Bicyclists represents the interests of the 57 million bicyclists and promotes bicycling for fun, fitness and transportation and works through advocacy and education for a bicycle-friendly America; and
WHEREAS: The League of American Bicyclists offers communities the opportunity to be part of the Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) program -- which provides incentives, hands-on assistance, and award recognition for communities that actively support bicycling; and
WHEREAS: The League awards Bicycle Friendly Communities recognition at five levels (Diamond, Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze) and Honorable Mention; and
WHEREAS: In 2012, top U.S. Cities such as Boulder, CO (Platinum level), Seattle, WA (Gold level) Boston, MA (Silver level), and Los Angeles, CA (Bronze level) joined the ranks of Bicycle Friendly Communities; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the appropriate city officials to explore the possibility of completing and submitting the Bicycle Friendly Community application by Feb 26, 2013 so that the City of Cambridge may be included in the next review cycle and join together with other communities in participating in this program and possibly attaining distinction as a Bicycle Friendly Community; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.
O-6 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Property owners who are concerned about the future preservation of a historic property, have an option for long-term property preservation; and
WHEREAS: This option, is the donation of a "preservation easement" to a qualified non-profit organization such as Historic New England (formerly known as the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities " SPNEA"); and
WHEREAS: A preservation easement, also known as a preservation restriction in some New England states, is a legal agreement used to protect significant building interiors, exteriors and landscape features of a historic property. The property owner (easement donor) and a qualified preservation organization (easement holder) sign a legal document, approved by a local official body in Massachusetts and recorded with local land records. The preservation easement gives the easement holder certain rights and responsibilities associated with perpetual property protection; and
WHEREAS: A preservation easement does not prevent future sales, leases, or estate planning, and the owner remains responsible for maintenance and taxes; and
WHEREAS: A preservation easement donation can often reduce estate taxes. The financial burden of a property's value which has increased over time may be reduced and the property may then be successfully passed onto one's heirs. A preservation easement donation may also result in lower annual property taxes; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Cambridge Historical Commission to provide a report to the City Council explaining the possible advantages of the "preservation easement" process; as well as the possible disadvantages; and be it further
ORDERED: That the merits of this opportunity be communicated to the property owners of Cambridge via the city's website and newsletter.
O-7 Nov 19, 2012
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Council meeting scheduled for Dec 31, 2012 be and hereby is cancelled.
O-8 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: Public toilets in parks and near playgrounds have been an important factor in improving public hygiene and enjoyment of public areas for sports teams, families, homeless individuals and others; and
WHEREAS: The public toilet placed in the Cambridge Common is planned to be removed at the end of November; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Common is slated to undergo a multimillion dollar renovation in the near future; and
ORDERED: Providing year-round toilet accommodations on the Cambridge Common would present ongoing maintenance and oversight challenges while at the same time would provide important and heavily used bathroom facilities there; now be it therefore
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with appropriate staff and report back to the Council on how the potential for permanent bathroom facilities is being incorporated into the renovation work for the Cambridge Common and, if such facilities are not being considered for the renovation work, how the City plans to address ongoing public hygiene needs in this area.
O-9 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The first advertisement for the Bishop Petition's Ordinance Committee hearing was Aug 18, 2011; and
WHEREAS: The first advertisement for the Planning Board's hearing on the Bishop Petition was Aug 25 , 2011; and
WHEREAS: The plans for Special Permit #258 (Cambridge Lumber redevelopment) fail to conform with the Bishop Petition in, at least, height; and
WHEREAS: MGL 40A, Section Six states: "a zoning ordinance or by-law shall not apply to structures or uses lawfully in existence or lawfully begun, or to a building or special permit issued before the first publication of notice of the public hearing on such ordinance or by-law;" and
WHEREAS: Per MGL 40A Section Six, the Planning Board did not have the legal authority to approve Special Permit #258 on Sept 6, 2011; and
WHEREAS: The City Council re-filed the Bishop Petition on Nov 21, 2011; and
WHEREAS: This re-filing, because it resulted in a new first publication of notice of a new public hearing for this newly re-filed zoning petition, did not cover the already applied for, and granted, Cambridge Lumber redevelopment Special Permit; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Law Department to have the Law Department send the Planning Board and Community Development Department Staff instructions stating that for a Special Permit to be approved, said Special Permit must, per State law, comply with all parts of a pending zoning amendment and that if the Special Permit application does not fully apply the Planning Board may either
(1) Vote the application down or
(2) Get a waiver from the applicant to hold the decision in abeyance until after the resolution of the pending zoning amendment; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City Staff and report back to the City Council with a legal opinion on what zoning advice City Councillors should give the public when considering to re-file a pending zoning petition and what impact the re-filing might have on either pending Permits or Permits that have been granted but which were applied for after the first advertising of the zoning petition in question; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Law Department to have the Law Department send the Building Commission instructions stating that state law requires that unless building construction has been commenced within 6 months of issuance of a permit, all zoning, including new amendments, must be complied with; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Law Department and report back to the City Council on any possible mischaracterizations of state zoning law in this Council Order.
O-10 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: The Town of Brookline passed the attached by-law to prohibit the use of polystyrene-based disposable food containers; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That this language be sent to the Recycling Committee for their input; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the Law Department to prepare language for an amendment to the Municipal Code to ban the use of polystyrene-based disposable food containers and to provide a waiver provision similar to the by-law of the Town of Brookline; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter by the last meeting in December.
O-11 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: MA House Bill 4165 - "An Act Relative to Speed Limits" is currently under review with the Massachusetts Committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling and if passed this legislation will reduce the speed limit within thickly settled areas and business districts from the current level of 30 miles per hour to 25 miles per hour; and
WHEREAS: Several streets within the City of Cambridge are already benefiting from the 25 mile per hour speeds (i.e. portions of Brattle St., Appleton St., Kinnaird St., and Walden St. have a posted speed limit of 25 miles per hour); and
WHEREAS: Residents over the years have consistently requested lowered speed limits on several residential streets but getting approval via the Massachusetts Highway Department has generally been viewed as onerous; and
WHEREAS: Passing this bill will support the goals of both the state and city by increasing the safety of bicyclists, children, elderly pedestrians, neighborhoods and their adjacent business districts; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record urging the members of the Massachusetts Committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling to pass MA House Bill 4165; and be it further
ORDERED: The City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this order to members of the Massachusetts Committee on House Steering, Policy and Scheduling and the Cambridge Legislative Delegation on behalf of the entire Cambridge City Council.
O-12 Nov 19, 2012
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: On Nov 13, 2012, a line over 20 senior citizens was lined up outside the North Cambridge Senior Center at 806 Massachusetts Avenue shortly before the center opened for the morning. The conditions outside were cold and rainy, and there was no shelter for these individuals as they waited for the doors to open; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City personnel to determine what policies exist to protect individuals awaiting the opening of the North Cambridge Senior Center during extreme weather conditions, and whether new polices should be implemented to prevent seniors from being forced to wait
outside during inclement weather; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back on these measures to the City Council.
O-13 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Brain injury training is an essential skill for all trainers and coaches of sports teams; and
WHEREAS: The Boston City Council recently passed an ordinance that regulates the procedures organizations should follow in the event of a concussion, essentially extending the state rules in place for high school athletes to all organizations using municipal fields; and
WHEREAS: The ordinance requires any independent athletic organization seeking a permit to use city-owned facilities to certify that they have provided concussion diagnosis, prevention, and management training to its coaches, athletes, referees, athletic trainers, and volunteers; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge's athletes, trainers and coaches would undoubtedly benefit from this mandatory concussion training; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Law Department to report back to the City Council with the language for an ordinance that would similarly protect Cambridge kids.
O-14 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Unsecured restaurant trash bins can provide an ideal location for rats seeking food and shelter; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Council that while some restaurants and food stores separate food waste into secure bins or locations for composting, residents have expressed concerns that the restaurants that don't may be inadvertently providing attractive targets for rats; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the appropriate departments to generate ideas and a plan of action to reinforce and secure restaurant bins in a way that separates food waste for composting and report back to the Cambridge City Council.
O-15 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The digital divide refers to those who have easy access to information technology and those with limited or no access at all; and
WHEREAS: In a city like Cambridge that prides itself on being a hub of technology and higher education, it is essential that the Cambridge City Council take the necessary steps to bridge the digital divide; and
WHEREAS: It has been suggested that the city could harness the resources that distinguish Cambridge as a leader in innovation and technology and form a partnership with local universities and tech companies to fund a position for a year that would act as a caseworker to bridge the digital divide and ensure that every single student has internet access at home; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate departments on the feasibility of implementing a year-long position funded in cooperation with local and local universities and report back to the Cambridge City Council.
O-16 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Election Commission and report back to the City Council on an analysis by precinct of wait times and strategies for what would be necessary to reduce wait times to less than 10 minutes, including but not limited to an estimation of the number of booths necessary to achieve this; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Election Commission to make information publicly available on wait times throughout the day and the number of booths at each precinct and report back to the Cambridge City Council.
O-17 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Information Technology Department to look into the feasibility of updating the archived Cambridge City Council meetings to a standard/platform capable of playback on a mobile device and report back to the Cambridge City Council.
O-18 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that the Cambridge Public Schools Administration Offices are situated in rented space; and
WHEREAS: Cambridge is currently investing a significant amount of capital in refurbishing several middle schools; and
WHEREAS: As middle schools will remain an important focus of effort towards reducing the achievement gap, it has been suggested that it would make sense to situation the administration as close to that work as possible; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Mayor, School Committee Members and the Cambridge Public School Administration to look into the feasibility of relocating the school administration into one of the buildings to be refurbished as part of that capital project.
O-19 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: Access to public toilets is a necessity for the large volume of residents, tourists, and homeless who frequent the unique and robust squares of Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the attention of the Cambridge City Council that the portable pilot program in the Cambridge Common has been a positive first step in the right direction for the public health of those who use the Cambridge Common area; and
WHEREAS: Those who support and have benefited from this portable toilet are requesting that the pilot program be extended while the City develops a permanent solution that appropriately fits in with the aesthetic of the park; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Department of Public Works to look into extending the public toilet pilot program until a permanent solution is installed and report back to the Cambridge City Council.
O-20 Nov 19, 2012
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: During the recent Sandy Storm the high volume of water and debris at times obstructed the flow of water through some curbside storm drains and into catch basins; and
WHEREAS: Many residents assisted the city by clearing debris from curbside storm drains, many residents inadvertently parked their vehicles next to curbside storm drains and therefore obstructed access to these drains; and
WHEREAS: A small reminder requesting residents park their cars in locations in which their vehicles will not block curbside storm drains will assist everyone during extreme weather; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Alert System, and the home pages of the main Cambridge City Departments and Cambridge Department of Public Works websites are all excellent locations and avenues for communicating to the public procedures to follow during extreme weather; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate city officials to explore the possibility of communicating appropriate storm preparedness through the website and text messages sent by the city.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Government Operations and Rules Committee held a public meeting on Fri, Oct 19, 2012 beginning at 10:06am in the Ackermann Room.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss Community Benefits.
Present at the meeting were Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the committee; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Vice Mayor E. Denise Simmons; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves and Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development (CDD); Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Louis DePasquale, Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; and Interim City Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present were Terry Smith, Director of Government Affairs, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue; Heather Hoffman and Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street; and Leo Sepkowitz, 30 Boylston Street, Boston.
Councillor Maher announced that the meeting is being recorded with audio and visual devices.
Councillor Maher convened the meeting and stated the purpose. An agenda was prepared (ATTACHMENT A). Councillor Maher began the meeting with a general discussion of community benefits to include what is meant by community benefits, the background and payments made to community benefits by developers. He felt it would be helpful to define the terms "community benefits" and "linkage". The Government Operations and Rules Committee and the City Manager were asked to develop new criterion on how community benefits should be handled when payments are received by the City when a developer is proposing to up-zone property through zoning. A community benefit is the money paid or benefit provided by a developer for up-zoning property. Previously community benefit money was allocated. Currently money is being held by the City and will be expended when a policy is established. Some developers have committed to payments. He felt that money should not be used for infrastructure changes but should be applied to community benefits. Responding to the question of how many developers have made community benefit payments, Mr. Healy stated that relating to EF and Novartis there was an agreement of an amount of money to be paid for up-zoning. This money has not been allocated or encumbered. The EF project has a total value of $914,000 and is due 90 days after the building permit is issued. The remainder will be received when the certificate of occupancy is issued. Novartis has $1 million committed with $750,000 received by the City, leaving a balance of $250,000 due to the City when the certificate of occupancy is issued. The $750,000 is in an account waiting for direction from the City Council. Boston Properties has a development at 75 Ames Street. There is a $2.5 million penalty to Boston Properties if the housing is not built. Other examples of community benefits are Alexandria and Lesley. A community benefit is determined upon the approval of the zoning petition. Councillor Maher asked what mechanism is in place to ensure that payments are paid. Mr. Healy responded that the mechanisms in place are the agreements, the issuance of the building permit and the issuance of the certificate of occupancy. This is then tracked by the Finance Department.
Councillor vanBeuzekom asked when the City received the funding does the City Council get notice. Mr. Healy stated that the City Council has to appropriate the funds which go into capital fund and has a budget code. Mr. DePasquale added that not every capital project is a detailed item.
Councillor Maher commented that every City Councillor has a different idea of what is a community benefit. Only Novartis and Boston Properties have paid money to the fund. Councillor Kelley stated that this is messy and complicated. It would work better to have the City say this is how a program can be managed. He stated that he is uncomfortable with looking for community benefits for special permits. Councillor Maher stated that the City has not spelled out what the needs are. A proposal was brought back and the City Council did not approve it. He hopes that guidance can be given, but the City Council should not monitor this program. Councillor vanBeuzekom added that the City Council can make sure that CDD has guidance. Mr. Healy stated that the City tracks the money, but does not make the deals.
Vice Mayor Simmons agreed that there is not a universal understanding of what is a community benefit. Councillor Maher stated that today community benefits are a payment made to the City in exchange for consideration of up-zoning. There were four instances where individual negotiations were made. The City Council felt it was messy and not transparent. There have been two projects since then, EF and Novartis. Vice Mayor Simmons stated that going forward it will be what community benefits will be. The City Council will assign this to CDD and then have a formula based on a percentage. A community benefits panel will be discharged with dispersing the funds. She felt that it might be a good model that a panel be established. Councillor Maher suggested a panel similar to the Affordable Housing Trust. Mr. Healy informed the committee that a special home rule petition would be required for this model, a 501(c)(3). A special act created the Affordable Housing Trust.
Mr. Healy stated that $750,000 received from Novartis is sitting in an account waiting for direction from the City Council. Councillor Maher stated that the City Council cannot be involved in deciding who gets the money; we are attempting to establish a process.
Councillor Reeves asked why Novartis paid $1 million to community benefits while Pfizer paid nothing. The reason was Pfizer built as of right while Novartis sought a special permit. All aspects of special permits or large projects need to be reviewed and then turn the process back to CDD.
Councillor Maher turned the discussion to linkage. He asked Assistant City Manager for Community Development, Mr. Murphy to give an overview on linkage. Mr. Murphy stated that linkage is incentive zoning that was adopted by the City Council in 1998 to mitigate the impact of new commercial development on housing affordability in the city. The purpose of the Ordinance is to promote the public health, safety and welfare by encouraging the expansion and upgrading of the City's housing stock while accommodating the expansion of housing and commercial opportunities in the City and to provide for a full range of housing choices throughout the city and to increase the production of needed affordable housing units. The Ordinance requires contributions for certain non-residential developments where an increase in density or intensity in use is approved via certain Special Permits. The required contributions are made to the Affordable Housing Trust. . A study was done that showed that development of commercial property impacts housing. Large scale development pay a linkage fee designated for affordable housing. The linkage fee is based on the size and the zoning district where the property is located. The goal is to mitigate new construction for housing. Contributions are made to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Not all non-residential projects are required to make incentive zoning contributions. Only developments larger than 30,000 square feet which receive certain special permits included in the Section 11.202.1 are required to make contributions. Projects that might otherwise be required to make a contribution may be exempt from the Incentive Ordinance for reasons such as Incentive Zoning Ordinance not applicable in the zoning district, special permit project not listed in 11.202.1, as of right development, or project exempted from Incentive Zoning Ordinance through Zoning Ordinance change. Pfizer paid no linkage payment because it built as of right. Mr. Healy stated that the legal background of the ordinance is based on a Nexus Study. There have been two Nexus Studies done by the City. Mr. Murphy stated that the linkage rate is based on the CPI and was most recently increased to $4.44 per square foot over 2,500 square foot for projects 30,000 square feet or over pursuant to Section 11.203.1(a) of the Zoning Ordinances. There is a meeting on Oct 25, 2012 with Barry Bluestone who did the Nexus Study. Mayor Davis stated that the logic in the Nexus Study was that increased housing was needed for additional workers in Cambridge.
Councillor Maher asked if this is a good time for the City to look at adjusting the linkage fee, probably expanding and introducing the concept that funds be provided to non-profits in the City. He stated that the funding would go to the Affordable Housing Trust and to the addition of a community benefits fund. Mayor Davis stated that she is comfortable with the community benefits emanating from square footage asked for by the City Council. This could be clear that going in that there is a fee for up-zoning. If more zoning is requested then it must be stated that there will be more community benefits. Councillor VanBeuzekom suggested tacking community benefits onto the formula that exists. Councillor Maher stated that this is an option.
Councillor Reeves stated that he would like the community benefits money to be given to a Human Service panel for disbursement of the funds. He stated that he favors a Human Service Panel. He spoke about day care and its importance to youth aged 0-3 as well as the needs of college aged students. Councillor Reeves stated that he would like the census reviewed to show where children are living in the city and who is being served. Mayor Davis agreed and stated that she would like to know where the children are who are being served. Vice Mayor Simmons stated that she wanted the neighborhoods to be looked at and disbursement made on a needs basis. Mayor Davis spoke about the difficulty of defining the neighborhood boundary lines. She suggested language such as 1/2 mile from the project.
Councillor Maher stated that he wanted direction from the City Council and then the framework can be developed.
Mayor Davis asked from whom is the money being collected and how is it being dispersed. She stated that she likes the Human Service panel for the community benefits funds similar to the Affordable Housing Trust. She stated that development has an impact in the overall carbon footprint. She also wanted consideration for the viability of environmental aspect; energy efficient and loan fund for energy.
Vice Mayor Simmons commented on the idea that money collected from developers goes to a panel for disbursement. If this is the model, she wanted more City Council discussion on the disbursement of the funds for community benefits.
Councillor Kelley added that the City Council needs an evaluation of community needs and then establish guidelines for where this money should be spent. The City Council needs to know what funding is expected. Councillor Toomey commented that the adjacent neighborhoods to large scale development are bearing the brunt of the development specifically in areas such as traffic and housing and these neighborhoods should receive a greater portion of community benefits.
Councillor Maher stated that increasing linkage needs to be done carefully in order to not negatively impact businesses. He felt that linkage is too low and must be reviewed and expand the coverage area. Mr. Healy added that the revenue stream is not huge. He also spoke about the possible cuts in federal grants. Mr. Healy raised the issue of the asset of 101 Rogers Street and the need to study the issue further.
At this time Councillor Maher opened the meeting for public comment.
Mark Jaquith, 213 Hurley Street, stated that he did not hear mitigation discussed and it is important in the community benefits discussion.
Heather Hoffman, 213 Hurley Street, stated that private developers are being enriched. Mitigation is important. The tax base and jobs are benefits but there are burdens such as pollution, etc.
Terry Smith, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, 859 Massachusetts Avenue, spoke about pricing Cambridge out of the game. Drainage, water, traffic, transportation issues can be monitored in the special permit process. He mentioned the concerns of the chamber members - the City could be down zoned to agriculture and then require up zoning. If the City Council were to establish an additional payment for additional Community Benefits it may be good to set the date to fix the zoning. Energy efficiency and retail development was not considered in the 2000 Nexus Study. There is a lot of money to do energy efficiency work.
Councillor Maher outlined the next steps. Mr. Healy and Mr. Murphy will review steps to expand linkage and come back to the committee with a draft framework for community benefits and linkage. Councillor Toomey requested linkage fee information from other communities. There are two aspects to consider. To move quickly to define community benefits and move slower with linkage and also look at the possibility of a Human Service panel.
Councillor Maher thanked all present for their attendance.
On motion of Councillor Toomey the meeting adjourned at 11:33am.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Committee Report #2
The Cable TV, Telecommunications and Public Utilities Committee conducted a public meeting on June 5, 2012 beginning at 2:35pm Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss creating a smarter city using Information and Innovation Technology.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Marjorie C. Decker; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Richard C. Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Louis DePasquale, Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs; Jack Albert, Deputy Superintendant, Administration Section; Daniel Wagner, Lieutenant, Crime Analysis Unit; Steven Maywalt, Technical Services Unit; Daniel Riviello, Communications Director, Cambridge Police Department; Mary Hart, Director, Information Technology Department; Martha Flynn, Assistant Commissioner, Inspectional Services Department; Lisa Peterson, Commissioner, Department of Public Works; Rebecca Fuentes, Assistant Commissioner/Administration, Department of Public Works; Michele Kincaid, Fiscal Director; Paul Parravano, Co-Director of Government and Community Relations, MIT; Matt Nelson, Chief of Staff to Mayor Davis; John Clifford; Ini Tomeu, Public Information Officer; and Paula Crane, Administrative Assistant, City Clerk's Office.
Councillor Cheung convened the meeting and explained the purpose.
Councillor Decker congratulated the organizers of the World Café and stated that she looked forward to the upcoming follow-up meeting with the Finance Committee regarding the World Café.
Councillor Decker commented that the Cambridge Police Department has done a fine job in utilizing technology to keep the City of Cambridge a safe community.
Councillor Cheung asked for an overview as to what technology the city has implemented and re-designed to benefit the Cambridge community as a whole.
Mr. Healy stated that the city is moving forward in this regard and that much of the implementation takes a bit of time. He noted that one item that will move forward sooner rather than later is the security audit. He stated that the security audit will cost between $20,000.00-$30,000.00. He noted that the Department of Public Works continues to improve their capacity to have employees in the field equipped with appropriate equipment to input work orders for a more rapid response. He noted that headway is being made.
Ms. Hart stated that as it relates to Technology Planning (Attachment A), there are large projects in the works for 2013 such as permitting and payment on-line for the Inspectional Services Department, Department of Public Works payments on-line, website development for city departments and easier use of GIS Maps.
Ms. Hart then moved to the subject of information technology planning and next steps in that process. She stated that IT will be contracting with an independent strategic planning consultant in preparation for the 2014 budget. This process will be underway by the end of the year. She noted that as a result of the World Café, there were recommendations for outreach to the public to receive input. She commented that the Information Technology Department will continue to find ways to receive public input. She stated that posting of all plans and progress and current initiatives will be on the City Website.
Mr. Healy commented on the new Community Development website. He stated that navigating this has been a problem in the past. He stated that the goal is to make it easier for anyone to access information as simply as possible. Ms. Hart stated that a great amount of effort is involved in creating a website. She stated that individual City departments determine the navigation aspects with the vendor. She noted that while technology is the easy part, building content is more intensive and the organization of content is difficult work. She stated that the Human Services Department website will be rolling out this summer.
Ms. Hart stated that the CommonGround website is being re-designed. She then gave an overview of the Session Summary of the World Cafe. She noted that overall, the city is moving in the right direction. What was clear from this session is the need in the City for access to broadband and WIFI. She stated that WIFI is a non-feasible solution and commented that because Broadband is a utility, there are challenges. These options are on the table but it is a huge task to consider. She stated that she does not know of another city that has put in place their own broadband system. She stated that access and transparency in data is the goal. She noted that when there is a public request for information regarding GIS, that information has always been given. She stated that the goal is to improve technology in education, public safety, transportation and library services. She commented that the World Café proved to be a great service regarding information technology.
Regarding the World Café, Councillor Cheung commented that he thought the presentation was fantastic but that he did notice the same people in the audience that he regularly sees. He questioned if there is a plan to achieve more outreach in order to gain more feedback. He noted that he would be interested to see a broader cross-section of opinions. Ms. Hart replied that targeted outreach to neighborhood and business groups is being considered. Ms. Hart stated that the independent consultant will work with data that has been received. Mr. Rossi stated that focus groups will also provide helpful information and he believes this will attract all levels of users. Councillor Cheung questioned what the Information Technology Department was hoping to learn from the consultant. Ms. Hart replied that the consultant would come in and provide methodology, structure of data and ultimately a structured plan with recommendations for funding going into the 2014 budget. Ms. Hart stated that the innovation piece is being built with the E-Gov Committee and that every stakeholder on the E-Gov Committee had input in the budget.
Regarding the recent shooting on Willow Street, Mr. Healy stated information that can be released is established by limited protocols. He noted that information is dispersed differently when it is deemed to be a homicide. In the instance of a homicide, information is under control of the District Attorney. Mr. Healy stated that he will not send out information unless it is accurate. He noted that sometimes it takes longer for accurate information to be dispersed. He stated that the major goal of the Police Department is solvability.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that the shooting was an interesting example of the capability and advancement of technology. Mr. Rossi stated that there is a system by which key people get informed of information in a timely fashion and that notification falls under the responsibilities of the City Manager. He noted that much of the information is not always accurate and/or appropriate to be dispersed. Mr. Healy stated that medical attention and care to the victims is always the main priority of the first responders, it is not to notify the City Manager of the incident. He stated that no names were going to be released until the next of kin was notified. He stated that he cannot control behavior but that the safety of the neighborhood is paramount. He noted that an appropriate community alert was issued.
Councillor Cheung asked the Police Department to present information regarding their information technology. Dan Riviello spoke of the MYPD application. He stated that the Police Department will continue to promote this application and that he has been in communication with the vendor who will be launching version 2 of the application. He noted that some tips have been received because of this application. Social media is being used. He noted that in the short-term, crime mapping is a priority. He stated that the Police Department is working with a vendor in that area. This mapping allows the Police Department valuable information about crimes in different areas and that anonymous tips can be sent via e-mail. He noted that this application will be rolled out in the next few weeks or months. Stephen Maywalt gave an update on the Bridgestat application. He stated his hope that within the planning process there will be ways to enhance Bridgestat. Regarding work in conjunction with MIT, he noted that Cambridge was the recipient of a federal government grant. Cambridge was one of the 16 sites that were chosen nationally. He stated that Cambridge has a number of goals in the smart policing initiative to provide seed money which will in turn provide innovative approaches to crime prevention and safety. MIT and the City of Cambridge are trying to develop analytics regarding the monitoring of crime. This is an opportunity to do something innovative in policing.
Councillor Cheung noted he believes there are three issues that should be a priority as it relates to technology and innovation: 1. open data which would bring about the idea of trying to make data sets available to the public in as real time as possible, 2. security audit and how to create platforms within the city, specifically commissions, neighborhood groups with the idea of a standard system so that everyone is working on the same standards and having the ability to have some technological base to stand on; and 3. on-line activity and real-time data. These are areas where the use of technology would make life easier within the city. He questioned why the strategic planning process needs to take so long. He suggested the notion of transponders on street sweepers which would enable residents to view in real time if their street has been swept and hence alleviating parking issues. Ms. Hart stated that there are competing needs throughout the city. She noted that prioritization is an issue. She stated that IT is dealing with many demands from schools, city councilors, and the public. Ms. Hart stated that IT has tried to hit some of the quick issues that need to be addressed. Councillor Cheung stated that he is hopeful that the ideas which are easy to implement will be implemented. Ms. Hart noted that every department is independent in terms of how they handle their social media. She stated that the consultant will help with the process of prioritizing goals. Councillor Chueng stated that he would like regular updates of things in progress.
Councillor vanBeuzekom questioned if green initiatives would be included in the upcoming fiscal budget. Mr. Healy stated that this will be in the budget as of July 1, 2012.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she would like the City to have a green Information Technology Department. Ms. Hart stated that IT participates with the green sense committee. She noted that energy consumption and space are always kept in mind. She noted that the Information Technology Department does not use vendors that are developing equipment with too much energy use. She noted that the monitors are energy saving and that IT does not purchase anything that is not screened or audited for low consumption of energy.
Dan Riviello noted that green technology was used in the data center of the Robert W. Healy Public Safety Facility as well as throughout the facility. He noted that servers and desktops are greener. The Police Department is utilizing power-saving surge protectors whenever possible and green sense technology is being used. He noted that the Robert W. Healy Public Safety Building has been LEED certified and much of that certification lies within the HVAC infrastructure.
Councillor vanBeuzekom commented that as it relates to the City's organizations chart, the Information Technology Department reports to the Finance Department. Mr. Rossi confirmed that this is the case and that this has always worked well. He noted that although IT falls under the Finance Department, the Information Technology Department works independently.
Councillor Cheung publicly acknowledged that he has been banging on this drum since he first arrived on the City Council and thanked all parties for indulging him.
Councillor Cheung thanked all attendees for their participation.
The meeting adjourned at 4:31pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
AWAITING REPORT LIST
12-02. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the repair of all street lights that are not working in Cambridge.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 01/23/12 (O-1)
12-08. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on instituting a ban on plastic bags.
Councillor Decker, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 01/23/12 (O-10)
12-20. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what steps the City will take to help the general public keep track of awaiting maintenance issues on things like park equipment, graffiti, sidewalks, etc.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Decker, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 02/13/12 (O-4)
12-29. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the no left turn on the Cambridge Common and to remove the bicycle prohibition on certain streets, such as Whittemore Avenue. Referred back for additional information on 3/5/2012.Councillor Kelley 02/13/12 (O-17)
12-40. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improper leases and rental of owned affordable housing units. Reconsideration filed by Councillor Toomey on 6/11/2012. Report referred back to City Manager for more information on motion of Councillor Toomey on 6/18/12.
Councillor Reeves, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 03/19/12 (O-3)
12-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of finding additional office space for the City Council.
Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Reeves & Councillor vanBeuzekom 04/23/12 (O-5)
12-54. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how to establish an Community Choice Aggregation Network which will engage in electricity procurement for the entire City of Cambridge.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 04/23/12 (O-9)
12-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on current status of the Inlet Bridge and what steps the City can take to ensure that agreements with the Commonwealth are upheld.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 05/21/12 (O-1)
12-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on an explanation as the when the main library will be open on Sundays.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 05/21/12 (O-2)
12-67. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on implementing a ban on trucks transporting hazardous materials through the City.
Councillor Cheung 05/21/12 (O-5)
12-71. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of converting the vacant lots at the corner of Watson and Brookline Streets and at 35 Cherry Street to community gardens or open space.
Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 06/04/12 (O-10)
12-74. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of expanding the barbeque pilot program in parks throughout Cambridge.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-13)
12-75. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of providing a map of long term parking spots for rent on the city website.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 06/04/12 (O-16)
12-78. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on expanding the number of Cambridge parks/playing fields with public toilets. Referred back to the City Manager on 6/18/12 on motion of Councillor Kelley.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-5)
12-81. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on meeting with No. Mass Avenue neighbors, businesses and neighborhood groups about whether additional alterations to the median strip would be appropriate.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-9)
12-85. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on installing security cameras in the Donnelly Field area.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-14)
12-87. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the potential uses of the Foundry Building.
Councillor Toomey 06/04/12 (O-19)
12-88. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the City plans to maintain grade separated bikeways and keep them free from sand, branches and other debris.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 06/11/12 (O-7)
12-89. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of implementing speed-control measures at the corner of Tremont Street and Gardner Road.
Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-2)
12-90. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on Executive Session to discuss lawsuits.
Councillor Reeves and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-5)
12-91. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the installation of lower and decorative lighting along Cardinal Medeiros Avenue.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-6)
12-97. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the incident at the Cambridge Gateway Inn on July 5, 2012.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves & Councillor Toomey 07/30/12 (O-12)
12-99. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on statistical information regarding enforcement citations for loud motorcycle mufflers, car radios and the City's plan to address these issues.
Councillor Kelley and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-16)
12-102. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #3
RE: report on how sequestration would effect municipal finances and the finances of human services organizations that partner with the City.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-30)
12-103. Report from the City Manager: See Mgr #2
RE: report with a short summary on how CDBG grants have been used over the past few years in the City, with a list of completed projects, jobs created and the overall impact on the community.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-31)
12-104. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on data requested on the Andrews Petition during an Ordinance Committee hearing last term that has not yet been received.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 07/30/12 (O-34)
12-105. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on answering questions regarding the Foundry Building in order to move the community process forward.
Councillor Cheung & Councillor Toomey 07/30/12 (O-35)
12-106. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on facilitating affordable housing opportunities for middle class families.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-13)
12-107. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the number of Cambridge residents that are working as part of organized labor on development projects along with the percentage of minority and women members and what sort of communication takes place with the Rindge School of Technical Arts and local Unions.
Councillor Toomey and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-14)
12-108. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on applying and participating in the Cities of Services program.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-19)
12-109. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on what strategies other cities have used to dissuade land-banking.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-21)
12-110. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the status of 2 Mt. Auburn Street.
Vice Mayor Simmons and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-23)
12-111. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on improving pedestrian safety on Western Avenue at Kinnaird and Pleasant Streets.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-24)
12-112. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on specific data that compares the actual energy efficiency for the City Hall Annex.
Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 09/10/12 (O-25)
12-115. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on making accommodations for voters when elevators are not working or there are other barriers at polling locations on election days. Referred back for additional information by Councillor Decker on 10/22/2012. Further report provided and referred back by Councillor Decker on 11/5/2012.
Councillor Decker, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/24/12 (O-6)
12-116. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on maintaining the present Central Square Farmer's Market permit rate despite an increase in the vehicle parking rates.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 09/24/12 (O-8)
12-120. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the possibility of creating a municipal exterminator and/or contracting exterminators to help eradicate rodent problems in the City.
Councillor Toomey, Mayor Davis, Councillor Decker, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor vanBeuzekom 10/01/12 (O-3)
12-122. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how city construction projects are scoped, contracted out and managed so that hazards in project fill, park equipment or other areas are not likely to be created as the equipment gets used or as soil gets compacted or as erosion or frost heaves or other environmental factors alter park topography.
Councillor Kelley, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toomey & Councillor vanBeuzekom 10/22/12 (O-2)
12-123. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on suggestions to control the rodent population.
Councillor vanBeuzekom, Councillor Cheung, Mayor Davis, Councillor Kelley, Councillor Maher, Councillor Reeves, Vice Mayor Simmons & Councillor Toomey 10/22/12 (O-3)
12-124. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of finding additional secure locations for the disposal of prescription drugs.
Councillor Cheung and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-4)
12-125. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on feasibility of installing recycling bins adjacent to trash bins.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-5)
12-126. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of ensuring all city sponsored committee hearings (such as the E-gov committee) are available online.
Councillor Cheung, Councillor vanBeuzekom and Full Membership 11/05/12 (O-6)
12-127. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on pedestrian safety improvements at the intersection of Upton and Magazine Streets.
Councillor Toomey 11/05/12 (O-7)