Cambridge City Council meeting - November 25, 2013 - AGENDA
Vice Mayor Simmons was ABSENT
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of the following person as a Constable With Power for a term of three years effective the first day of January, 2014: Philip Sciandra
2. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Children's Trust Fund grant for the Center for Families program in the amount of $62,000 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($60,355) and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($1,645) and will be used by the Center for Families to support family programs targeting parents of children up to six years, which include a variety of family support and parent education programs and resources.
3. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Community Health Network Area (CHNA) 17 Marijuana grant in the amount of $25,000 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($8,902), and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($16,098) and will be used to support the Cambridge Prevention Coalition's work to decrease marijuana use among Cambridge Rindge and Latin students.
4. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Friends of the Community Learning Center (CLC) grant funded by the Cambridge Community Foundation under their Immigrant Initiative in the amount of $30,000 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($24,294) and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($5,706) which will be used in collaboration with the Cambridge Housing Authority, Fresh Pond Apartments, Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House, and CCTV to reach Cambridge residents and employees of Cambridge businesses who wish to learn English but are not currently able to attend regularly scheduled classes at the CLC.
5. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a grant from the MetroNorth Regional Employment Board for $151,000 to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($111,000) and to the Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($40,000) which will be used to reimburse the City for salary costs associated with enrolling income-eligible youth in the Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program and to support program costs for work sites taking large numbers of youth and developing worksites for youth participants as well as to support wages for youth enrolled in a school year component, combining work and employment readiness workshops.
6. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission for a term of three years, effective Nov 20, 2013: Harry Reyes Nieva, Sabrina Selk
Nov 25, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointment of the following persons as members of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission for a term of three years, effective Nov 20, 2013:
Harry Reyes Nieva
Mr. Reyes Nieva, a 4+ year resident of Cambridge, is pre-Doctoral Research Fellow at Harvard Medical School (HMS) and Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH), where he currently serves a Research Manager in the BWH Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care. During his tenure at BWH, Mr. Reyes Nieva has contributed to projects addressing the special needs of chronically ill patients with low levels of literacy, and ethnic health care disparities, through targeted outreach with community and academic health centers. He is a member of the BWH LGBT Resource Group and a former Vice Chair of the BWH Chapter of the Association of Multicultural Members of Partners (AMMP), a taskforce dedicated to the advancement, retention, recruitment and development of multi-cultural professionals into leadership roles at all levels of Partners HealthCare. Prior to his work with HMS and BWH, he was a manager in the Strategic Information division of the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) at Harvard, which aimed to rapidly expand antiretroviral therapy (ART) treatment and care programs for people living with HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa. Mr. Reyes Nieva's wide-ranging experiences and involvement with diverse populations will be a welcome addition to and resource for the CHRC.Sabrina Selk
Ms. Selk, a 7 year resident of Cambridge, holds both Master's and Doctorate degrees from the Harvard School of Public Health and works at Dana Farber. Ms. Selk has worked on a range of public health research studies, including recent work related to child abuse, PTSD and reproductive outcomes. Earlier work involved community-based needs assessments in Boston-Lowell-Worcester, with regard to unmet needs for health resources. In addition to her public health research, Ms. Selk has performed volunteer work with an AIDS hospice and is a volunteer with the Cambridge Friends School, where she is on the Steering Committee for Families of Color. We believe Ms. Selk is a great fit for the Human Rights Commission.Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
7. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Commission for three year terms to expire Nov 1, 2016: Heli Meltsner (Full Member), John Sanzone (Alternate Member)
Nov 25, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:I am hereby transmitting notification of the appointment of the following persons as members of the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Commission for three year terms to expire Nov 1, 2016:
Heli Meltsner (Full Member)
Ms. Meltsner has been an alternate member of the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Commission since 2002. She is an architectural historian with a degree in historic preservation and is the only member of the Commission with that professional qualification.John Sanzone (Alternate Member)
Mr. Sanzone is a real estate agent and has a strong personal interest in historic preservation. He attends most Cambridge Historical Commission meetings where he offers thoughtful comments on matters before the board and will be a welcomed member of the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Commission.Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
8. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of an Emergency Management Performance Grant from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency for $49,030 to the Grant Fund Fire Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used to replace tables and chairs in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) located at 250 Fresh Pond Parkway and 489 Broadway (the future backup 911 Communication Center) with new tables and chairs and will fund a network switch and two laptop computers.
9. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of a Homeland Security Grant from the City of Boston for $28,886.10 to the Grant Fund Fire Salary and Wages account received as a reimbursement for 4th of July overtime and overtime related to structural collapse training performed in conjunction with the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI).
10. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to requesting the appropriation of a Port Security Grant (FY 2013) from the Department of Homeland Security for $258,800 to the Public Investment Fund Fire Extraordinary Expenditures account which will replace a 14 year old inflatable rescue boat and diving equipment, purchase specialized diving equipment for contaminated water which meets the requirements of a FEMA Type 1 Dive Team, and purchase a scanning sonar unit to aid in locating a drowning victim on the bottom of a body of water.
11. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $86,263 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Fire Extraordinary Expenditures account which is the required matching funds for the Port Security Grant (see previous Agenda Item Number 10).
12. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $300,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Fire Extraordinary Expenditures account for replacement equipment related to the fire at the Fire Department's repair shop at 100 Smith Place.
13. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to draft ordinance language on rules and regulations for usage of e-cigarettes.
Referred to Dec 4 Ordinance Committee hearing
ON THE TABLE
1. 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.]
2. 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.]
3. 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.]
4. 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.]
5. 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.]
6. 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.]
7. That the City Manager is requested to work together with the appropriate city officials including the City Solicitor and report back to the City Council regarding modification of the ordinance (10.12.030) that links the awarding of a one yearlong Visitor Parking Permit per household to the purchase of a $25 Cambridge Resident Parking Permit. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Decker on Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013. Order Number Eight of Jan 28, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom on Feb 11, 2013.]
8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation to determine the feasibility of implementing a pay-by-phone parking meter program in Cambridge, and report back to the City Council with recommendations as soon as possible. [Order Number Two of Mar 18, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Mar 18, 2013.]
9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-29, regarding a report on the feasibility of not allowing residents of new buildings to obtain on-street resident parking stickers. [City Manager Agenda Number Two of Apr 1, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Apr 1, 2013.]
10. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-22, regarding a report on safety issues at the intersection of Cedar Street and Mass Avenue. [City Manager Agenda Number Five of Sept 30, 2013 Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Sept 30, 2013.]
11. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Public Safety Committee, for a public meeting held on Sept 4, 2013 to discuss the future of public safety efforts and investments in the City of Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on Committee Report Number Two of Oct 21, 2013. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Nov 4, 2012.]
12. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Craig Kelley, Chair of the Public Safety Committee, for a public meeting held on Oct 1, 2013 to discuss safety associated with tour bus parking, traveling and touring through Cambridge. [Charter Right exercised by Councillor Kelley on Committee Report Number One of Nov 4, 2013. Placed on Table on motion of Councillor Kelley on Nov 18, 2012.]
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
13. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor David P. Maher, Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a public hearing held on Nov 7, 2013 on the petition received from Boston Properties to amend the Zoning Ordinances and Zoning Map in the Ames Street area. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Dec 2, 2013. Planning Board hearing held Nov 12, 2013. Petition expires Feb 5, 2014.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Carol O'Hare regarding the Ames Street District.
2. A communication was received from Hathaway Partners, LLC transmitting written protest to the Christopher H. Lutz, et al. Zoning Petition.
3. A communication was received from Mark Gottlieb, 11 Montgomery Street transmitting information to raise the minimum tobacco sales age to 21 which will dramatically reduce tobacco use in Cambridge.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Thanks to Jack Graham, Superintendent of the Cambridge Auxiliary Police, for his many years of dedicated service to the community. Vice Mayor Simmons
2. Resolution on the death of Mary L. (Crusco) McCaffrey. Councillor Maher
3. Congratulations to GrabCAD on its recent success and best wishes for continued prosperity in future endeavors. Councillor Cheung
4. Happy Birthday wishes to Ethel Rose Ampey. Vice Mayor Simmons
5. Best wishes to Chez Henri Owner/Chef Paul O'Connell on his future endeavors. Mayor Davis
6. Congratulations to Lieutenant Jeremy Walsh of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
7. Congratulations to Firefighter Todd Koen of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
8. Congratulations to Firefighter Matthew McDonald of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
9. Congratulations to Lieutenant Christopher Haynes of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
10. Congratulations to Firefighter David Croak of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
11. Congratulations to Firefighter Darryn DeGrace of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
12. Congratulations to Lieutenant Michael Francis of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
13. Congratulations to Firefighter Peter Melo of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
14. Congratulations to Firefighter Howard Smith of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
15. Congratulations to Firefighter Richard Feliciano of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
16. Congratulations to Firefighter David Puopolo of the Cambridge Fire Department on being recognized at the Massachusetts Department of Fire Service's "Firefighter of the Year" Awards Ceremony. Mayor Davis
17. Welcome DondeEsta to Cambridge and best wishes for continued success in Kendall Square. Councillor Cheung
18. Congratulations to the participants of the Boys II Men pilot program and encourage residents to join in the viewing of the Boys II Men documentary on Dec 3 at the Arrea 4 Youth Center at 7:00pm. Councillor Toomey
19. Resolution on the death of Helen McGlynn. Councillor Toomey
20. Resolution on the death of Dorothy F. (Campagna) Uglietto. Councillor Toomey
21. Congratulations to IBM and the University of Massachusetts Boston on the establishment of the joint Collaborative Innovation Center. Mayor Davis
22. Resolution on the death of Christina (Vitale) Nardella. Councillor Toomey
23. Resolution on the death of Marcia A. (Mahoney) Maloney. Councillor Maher
24. Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary wishes to a special couple. Councillor Maher
25. Resolution on the death of Dan A. Postell. Councillor Reeves
26. Best wishes to Laura Pipkins and her family on their recent loss. Mayor Davis
27. Thanks to Chancellor Keith Motley for his visit to Cambridge. Mayor Davis
ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to complete an analysis on the City's practice of self-insuring to determine whether it continues to be the most fiscally responsible risk management option and, if necessary, use the findings to guide the risk management options selected in the FY16 budget. Councillor Cheung
2. That the City Manager is requested to work with the National Flood Insurance Program to ensure Cambridge homeowners and businesses are getting the most competitive flood insurance rates. Councillor vanBeuzekom
3. That the City Council go on record urging Kevin Sheehan, representative of Boston Properties, to meet with representatives of Unite Here Local 26 to address concerns over the size, scope and precedent of mixed-use development by Boston Properties at the site adjacent to the Boston Garden. Councillor Cheung and Vice Mayor Simmons
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development to ensure that the City of Cambridge is aware of transportation and pedestrian improvements being discussed or planned along the Webster Avenue corridor so that any future changes in this area within Cambridge will complement a regional plan. Councillor Toomey
5. Postponement of Dec 2, 2013 Roundtable Meeting and scheduling of regular City Council meeting on Dec 2, 2013. Mayor Davis
6. That the City Manager is requested to provide the City Council with a report on how the City of Cambridge might incorporate the use of the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission's Recycling Participation App in its endeavors to improve recycling rates within the City. Councillor vanBeuzekom
7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness to develop a report detailing the City of Cambridge's progress in reaching the goals outlined in the ten year plan to end homelessness; which initiatives could be improved upon going forward, including increasing transitional housing stock; and how the City Council could best support these improvements. Councillor Cheung
8. That the City Council go on record in support of the April 3, 2012 petition of Barrington, Illinois and the Illinois TRAC Coalition seeking new regulations to retrofit existing DOT-111 tank cars used to transport Groups I and II Packing Materials. Mayor Davis
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee, for a public meeting held on Oct 16, 2013 to discuss ending homelessness in Cambridge with the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness.
COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Mayor Henrietta Davis regarding the Rail Tank Car Issue Summary and Action Request.
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Nov 25
5:00pm Special Presentation - First Annual Cambridge Volunteer Appreciation Day (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 2
5:30pm Roundtable/Working Meeting with the Affordable Housing Trust. No public comment. No votes will be taken. Meeting will not be televised. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Dec 4
4:00pm The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.28 relating to smoking in public parks. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
6:30pm The City Council will conduct a public hearing on a proposal by the City of Cambridge to sell a 20-foot wide strip of public land along the eastern edge of Ames Street between Main Street and Broadway in Kendall Square. The land would be sold to a private owner with the condition that it would be combined with adjacent land to enable the construction of a residential building with ground floor retail. The public hearing is being held pursuant to the requirements of Section 2.110.010 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, regarding Disposition of City Property. (Sullivan Chamber)
Wed, Dec 11
10:45am The University Relations Committee will conduct a public meeting to tour Longy School. The meeting will convene in the Sullivan Chamber and proceed to the Longy School of Music, 27 Garden Street. (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Dec 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 6
10:00am CITY COUNCIL INAUGURAL MEETING (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 13
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Jan 27
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Feb 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 17
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Mar 31
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 7
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, Apr 28
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Nov 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is self-insured for any damage to its buildings from fire, theft, and natural disasters; and
WHEREAS: Health insurance is provided to employees and retirees through managed health care plans; and
WHEREAS: The City is self-insured in all other areas of risk including auto liability and workers' and unemployment compensation; and
WHEREAS: It has been several years since the City of Cambridge last evaluated its policy of self-insuring to analyze if this practice is of financial benefit to the City; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to complete an analysis on the City's practice of self-insuring to determine whether it continues to be the most fiscally responsible risk management option and, if necessary, use the findings to guide the risk management options selected in the FY16 budget.
O-2 Nov 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The National Flood Insurance Program has a voluntary rating system for communities that actively manage their floodplain and promote resilience in buildings in the face of an increased likelihood of natural disasters; and
WHEREAS: Communities which agree to best practices in flood plain management, disaster-resistant building codes and the promotion of the natural and beneficial functions of floodplains will have lower flood insurance for business and property owners; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the National Flood Insurance Program to ensure Cambridge homeowners and businesses are getting the most competitive flood insurance rates and report back to the City Council on the matter.
O-3 Nov 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS: It has come to the City Council's attention that there is ongoing concern over the size, scope, and precedent of a mixed-use development by Boston Properties that is adjacent to the Boston Garden, which is slated to include a 306 room hotel, and which has caused density concerns and severe traffic congestion concerns among not only Boston residents, but among neighboring communities that are uneasy about what this project might mean for future Boston Properties developments in those other communities; and
WHEREAS: It has come to the City Council's attention that representatives of Unite Here Local 26, some of whose workforce will be directly impacted by the Boston development, have sought to meet with Boston Properties to discuss their concerns and to hopefully reach a compromise that all parties find agreeable. After two meetings in the summer of 2013, Unite Here Local 26 representatives report that Boston Properties has been unresponsive to their requests for further meetings or for resolutions from the initial meetings; and
WHEREAS: Boston Properties, which has developed properties in Cambridge in the past and will likely do so again in the future, would prove itself to be a good and conscientious entity by working to address and resolve the kinds of complaints that have been raised in this instance, and doing so would certainly portend good experiences in its future, local endeavors; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council formally go on record urging Kevin Sheehan, representative of Boston Properties, to meet with representatives of Unite Here Local 26 to address the concerns that have been raised; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of this resolution to Kevin Sheehan of Boston Properties and to Lisa Clauson of Unite Here Local 26 on behalf of the entire City Council.
O-4 Nov 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
WHEREAS: The City of Somerville is currently holding community meetings to discuss the redevelopment of Union Square which is anticipating a Green Line Station; and
WHEREAS: At a recent community meeting bicycle improvements along the Webster Avenue corridor were discussed; and
WHEREAS: Webster Avenue will become a pedestrian link between Cambridge Street, the Green Line Station, and Union Square; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Assistant City Manager of Community Development to ensure that the City of Cambridge is aware of transportation and pedestrian improvements being discussed or planned along this corridor so that any future changes in this area within Cambridge will complement a regional plan.
O-5 Nov 25, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: A Roundtable Meeting has been scheduled for Dec 2, 2013; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Roundtable Meeting scheduled for Dec 2, 2013 with the Affordable Housing Trust be postponed; and be it further
ORDERED: That the meeting of Dec 2, 2013 be and hereby is a regular City Council meeting.
O-6 Nov 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge supports recycling and has several programs in place that support and encourage Cambridge resident's participation in recycling; and
WHEREAS: Within Massachusetts, the City of Haverhill was one of the first municipalities to develop a Recycling Participation App that allows their Department of Environmental Protection funded Recycling Enforcement Coordinator the mechanism to track recycling participation with an iPad (in conjunction with driving the collection routes); and
WHEREAS: This Recycling Participation App dovetails well with the frequently awarded funding provided by the Department of Environmental Protection's Recycling Enforcement Coordinator Grants. These grants assist municipalities' ability to collect baseline recycling data before publicizing/enforcing mandatory recycling and then tracking changes recycling participation; and
WHEREAS: The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission has also developed a Recycling Participation App that allows municipalities to collect curbside recycling data which corresponds with their municipal GIS parcel data; and
WHEREAS: Recycling coordinators who are monitoring the success of recycling programs with this Recycling Participation App can customize it for the specific data points they are collecting data for; and
WHEREAS: Additionally, the towns of Andover, Amesbury, and Merrimac are either using or considering using this Recycling Participation App; and
WHEREAS: The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission is making this Recycling Participation App available for a user fee of $1,500 per municipality; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide the City Council with a report on how the City of Cambridge might incorporate the use of the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission's Recycling Participation App in its endeavors to improve recycling rates within the City.
O-7 Nov 25, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness to develop a report detailing the City of Cambridge's progress in reaching the goals outlined in the ten year plan to end homelessness; which initiatives could be improved upon going forward, including increasing transitional housing stock; and how the City Council could best support these improvements.
O-8 Nov 25, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: Rail freight operations impact thousands of villages, towns, cities and counties across all regions of the United States of America; and
WHEREAS: Safe rail operations are of critical interest to local units of government based on (1) the need to prevent catastrophic accidents like the one that occurred in Lac-Megantic, Canada in July 2013; and (2) the responsibility local governments have to provide emergency response units to manage the impact of rail accidents and derailments in communities across the country; and (3) significant costs associated with clean-up, environmental remediation, medical expenses, other personal injury damages or wrongful death claims for community residents that have the potential to surpass the rail industry's ability to pay for them; and
WHEREAS: Ethanol and crude oil are a large and exponentially growing segment of hazardous materials being shipped across the nation via freight rail, which will continue to be a preferred transport mode of choice for this hazmat; and
WHEREAS: Since 1991, it has been known to industry and federal regulators that there are safety-related defects in the DOT-111 tank car that serves as the primary tank car used in the shipping of these hazardous flammable materials via freight rail; and
WHEREAS: The federal Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) regulates the safe transport of hazardous materials by railroads in the United States; and
WHEREAS: The business decisions of railroad companies and hazardous material shippers impact the safety, environment, and emergency response system in the communities in which the freight railroads traverse, but state and local governments have no ability to regulate railroad operations; and
WHEREAS: Industry has failed to act in the last two decades to correct the known defects in DOT-111 tank cars, and waited until 2011 to seek government approval to upgrade safety standards for newly manufactured DOT-111 tank cars; and
WHEREAS: A tank car expert from the National Transportation Safety Board testified in 2012 that a retrofit of existing tank cars is necessary because co-mingling existing unsafe DOT-111 tank cars with newly manufactured ones "does nothing to improve the safety in an accident"; and
WHEREAS: The petition for rulemaking submitted to PHMSA on April 3, 2012 by Barrington, Illinois and the Illinois TRAC Coalition reflects the point of view of local governments, which is supported by recommendations of the National Transportation Safety Board, that changes are needed in federal regulations and/or law to better protect public safety relative to DOT-111 tank car safety and train consist dissemination; and
WHEREAS: The April 3, 2012 petition provides a compelling rationale for making long overdue changes in safe rail operations vis-a-vis retrofitting existing DOT-111 tank cars; and
WHEREAS: The April 3, 2012 petition demonstrates that the cost of a DOT-111 tank car fleet retrofit for existing cars would be of nominal expense over the remaining average thirty-year lifespan for the existing fleet; and
WHEREAS: PHMSA issued on September 6, 2013 (78 Federal Register 54849-54861) an Advance Notice of Rulemaking seeking by November 5, 2013 the input from local and state governments on the issue of retrofitting the DOT-111 tank car; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record in support of the April 3, 2012 petition of Barrington, Illinois and the Illinois TRAC Coalition seeking new regulations to retrofit existing DOT-111 tank cars used to transport Groups I and II Packing Materials; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the Pipelines and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration in Docket No. PHMSA-2012-0082 (HM-251) urging expeditious action on the joint Barrington and Illinois TRAC Coalition April 3, 2012 Petition No. P-1587 on behalf of the entire City Council.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee
MEETING PURPOSE
To discuss ending homelessness in Cambridge with the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness.
MEETING DETAILS
Date and Time: Oct 16, 2013 at 4:15pm
Location: Sullivan Chamber
ATTENDEES
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services; Marianne Colangelo, HMIS Project Manager, Department of Human Services Programs (DHSP); Janice Alger, Assistant Director of Administrative Operations, DHSP; Stephanie Ackert, Director, Multi-Service Center; Steve Williams, Superintendent of Police; Eric Helberg, Police Community Relations; Claude Jacob, Chief Public Health Officer, Cambridge Public Health Department; John Nardone, Public Works Department; Chris Cotter, Housing Director, Community Development Department; Cliff Cook, Project Planner, Community Development Department; Rebecca Rutenberg; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.
OTHER ATTENDEES
Mark McGovern, Program Director, Health Care for the Homeless; Bill Mergendahl, CEO, Professional Ambulance; Ayala Livny, Program Manager, Youth on Fire; Ruth Aaron, CASPAR, Inc.; Nicole Massich, Sarah Rosenkrantz, Harvard Street Homeless Shelter; Mary Shannon Thomas, Eliot Community Human Services (MSC/Bread & Jams/Heading Home); Larry Gottlieb, Director, Eliot Community Human Services; Patricia Cahill, AIDS Action Committee; Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street; M. Anderson, 411 Franklin Street; Marge Amster, Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association; Mark Jaquith, Square Meals; Elie Yarden, Association of Cambridge Neighborhoods, Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association; and Cathie Zusy, Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association.
MINUTES
Councillor Cheung convened the meeting and read the purpose. He announced that the meeting was being recorded by audio and visual devices. During the last meeting of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning Committee on the progress of the non-zoning recommendations made by the C2 Committee, many members of the public commented about homelessness in Central Square. These recommendations promote a strategy of dilution. More good things can be done in Cambridge with more eyes on the street similar to Harvard Square. People still have questions about what could be done in the interim in Central Square to try to help the homeless and to help people feel safer in Central Square. He wanted an update from the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness on what the committee was doing on the issue of homelessness.
Ms. Semonoff stated Mr. Jacobs would give an update on the Senior Policy Group and that she would give a brief report on the work that has been done following the creation of a ten year plan around homelessness. Information would be shared as to where we are and about the continuum of services. Superintendent of Police Steve Williams would discuss the work that the police are doing in Central Square and elsewhere.
Councillor Cheung stated that it is important to recognize that, as a community, we have made a decision to help the most disparate and impoverished among us. The reason that the homeless choose to be here is because they feel safer in Cambridge and they can access more services in Cambridge than elsewhere. He felt there should be a reassessment in our own services to fully address the challenges that the City faces. In Harvard Square there is Youth on Fire that helps LGBT youth that are homeless. He hoped that going forward that a coordinated comprehensive action strategy can be developed by the City to support homeless individuals in their efforts to find stable housing. He stated the previous governor cut funding for homeless shelters and now there are more homeless people on the streets. Homeless shelters provide a stable environment to help people put their lives together and get them off the streets. Going forward, how do we advocate for and find funding for shelters and basic resources to help individuals rejoin working society.
Mr. Jacobs gave an overview of the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness. He stated that he is the Chief Health Officer and that he oversees the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness. This group has been in place since 2007 and includes an array of City departments that address the issue of homelessness in the City. Along with the Department of Human Services and the Police Department, this group convenes quarterly. The group also includes members from the Law Department, the Emergency Communication Center, License Commission, Public Works Department, Multi-Service Center, CASPAR, Heading Home, Professional Ambulance, the Central Square Business Association and the Harvard Square Business Association. On May 17, 2005, there was a report drafted entitled "Ten-Year Plan to End Homelessness in Cambridge." This report helped to outline the best way to allocate resources to enhance the coordination of services across the community. He spoke about the focus on chronic and disruptive behavior and the strategies for delivering outreach for case management services. A subset of individuals has been the focus. The group tries to distinguish the people who touch the health services or health care system more rigorously. The service providers examined the characteristics of the population that is being served and reviewed the strategies used by the Police Department and identified other partners. The continuum of care developed by DHSP will be discussed. He spoke about the significant role housing plays in serving the homeless. He stated that the Health Department works collaboratively with other departments and partners. This group supports the service providers across the City. This is about addressing this social dilemma in Cambridge.
Ms. Semonoff stated that HUD provides a significant amount of funding for social services and housing and requires that communities around the country develop a ten-year plan to end homelessness using a continuum of care. Eight years ago, Cambridge developed a ten -year plan to end homelessness. An Executive Summary was distributed (ATTACHMENT A). It was interesting to revisit this plan and the recommendations. There has been some progress made in eight years. Homelessness is a regional problem. It makes a big difference to those who are housed from the work that is happening, but the number of people in shelters has not really changed in eight years because as people are placed in homes, other people become homeless. An annual census of the homeless is done each January. In 2005, there were 501 homeless persons identified. In 2013, the annual census identified that there are 502 homeless. Inclement weather affects these numbers. On one level, it appears that there has been little progress; however, at the same time, there are many individuals who have access to services that they did not have access to previously. Between 2005 - 2013, HUD prioritized more funding for housing that has resulted in more people being placed in permanent housing that would otherwise be in shelters or transitional housing. Unfortunately, one of the challenges identified in 2005 and more challenging today is where people can be housed. It is extremely difficult to find housing for the homeless or the very low-income population in Cambridge. The gap between market rent and what is possible for this population to sustain is huge, and the gap continues to grow larger. Cambridge has been able to enhance many of its services including those provided by CASPAR in the First Step Program and Eliot mental health services. Business owners are able to call CASPAR to access the First Step van. Cambridge has more data than other communities. Professional Ambulance has been a partner as part of the Senior Policy Group, allowing for the analysis of data about individuals who are high users of ambulance services and emergency departments. The need ultimately for more supportive services that are attached to housing is the main barrier to end homelessness. Not all homeless people will accept housing, but if there were more housing and supportive services, more could be done. As a policy matter, the City Council is looking at more affordable housing for slightly higher income rather than lower income. One of the recommendations in the ten year plan is to have a set aside for very low-income individuals. It is a hard sell to have housing for lower income people in Cambridge.
Ms. Semonoff introduced a paper outlining the supportive services that exist through Cambridge's continuum of care (ATTACHMENT B). The Department of Human Services Programs is the manager of the continuum of care for all service providers who provide housing or other services to the homeless. Prevention services are provided by multiple service providers including the Multi-Service Center, and there are supportive services provided to the homeless to prevent evictions and provide other case management services. The list includes emergency shelters and transitional housing providers. Transitional housing is not intended to be permanent, and individuals are ultimately expected to move into other permanent housing opportunities. The YMCA is one of the City's most integral housing providers. In 2005, the YMCA was in jeopardy of losing beds because of glitches in HUD funding, but the beds were ultimately saved. The support housing is run by providers and most are single units. Permanent support housing is run by a number of providers in Cambridge and is mostly individual units as well. Occupants of these units are supposed to obtain employment and not use alcohol or any substances. Ms. Semonoff stated that Superintendent Williams will explain the incredibly important role that the police play in this endeavor.
Superintendent Williams spoke about the role that police play in supporting our homeless population while maintaining the safety of the surrounding community. Shortly after the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness was formed, the Police Department determined that the way they dealt with the homeless by simply moving them from place to place and warehousing them was not benefiting anyone. The Senior Policy Group on Homelessness collaborated with the Police Department to develop a new way to work with the service providers via a comprehensive and coordinated approach. An officer was assigned to Central Square voluntarily who was doing good work with the homeless and getting to know this population. The Police Department started a homeless outreach program and assigned officers to specific areas to get to know the homeless population. Officers were assigned to identify the homeless population and learn who and where the homeless population are and get to know them and the situations they are in and help get them the services they need. Officer Helberg was assigned to Central Square and began the process of connecting homeless individuals with the services they needed to get them off the street. He emphasized the importance of realizing that you are not talking about a group of 512 homeless; you are talking about 512 individuals with different needs and issues ranging from physical, substance abuse, physiological or a combination of conditions. At the start of their efforts, the Police Department broke down groups within the homeless population and identified a subset of 27 individuals that did not want services and who were individuals with behavioral issues. The decision was made to work more closely with this subset, but over a two month period, three individuals died leaving the subset at 24. This is an eye opener of the challenges for those who work with the homeless. Eleven individuals of the 24 were housed due to the coordinated efforts between the providers and the police. It is not easy to find homes for these individuals. The homeless outreach program in the Police Department was expanded. There are now two officers and they work closely with local service providers and community partners including CASPAR, Youth on Fire, the Central Square Business Association and the Harvard Square Business Association. They have helped to identify resources for housing for this population to assist them moving forward. The resources can come from hotels and local supermarkets. The purpose is to assist moving forward. The Department has developed a case management system to follow and track individuals to find out where they are in the continuum of care and make sure that we do everything we can to ensure that services are available to them. Officer Helberg is respectful but firm when he talks to this population. He asks if the individuals need help and works with the service providers to get the needed help. The police have increased presence in Harvard and Central Squares. Through these efforts, the Department has discovered that there are three subsets of homeless. There are local homeless that have been in Cambridge for a long time and have specific services that they utilize. There are youth coming to City that are respectful of the fabric of the City and they utilize service providers such as Youth on Fire. They are homeless for one reason or another but do not bring attention to themselves. There is another group of youth that is referred to as "the travelers." The travelers have no relationship with the City and have less respect for Cambridge and what is considered acceptable. There is a task force that is working on the areas where this group has been most problematic. The travelers are told that this is Cambridge and if you need services we will get them for you, but if you are here to make trouble it will not be tolerated. Outreach has been made to the Harvard Square shelter. It is understood that these individuals are in need. Headway has been made, but we need to try harder.
Councillor Cheung noted that the ten-year plan was done eight years ago. Is it time to look at what has worked and what has not? What would be the key components integral to making visible changes? Should Cambridge look at other strategies employed by other communities? Framingham and Worcester have undergone significant efforts to help the homeless. Revisiting the question; compassion is the right approach, but there is apprehension about public intoxication and loitering in Central Square. He spoke about enforcement, resources and outreach. Are our social services and shelters too concentrated? Does this lead to the detriment of those we are trying to help? How feasible would it be to offer day round support services and what is the cost? How do we ensure that the problem is not being pushed into other areas? What other groups/partners should be at the table? Can we better engage the faith-based community? What should be done about the proximity of liquor stores to shelters? How does Cambridge work with its adjacent communities in a regional context on the issue of homelessness?
Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that prior to this meaning, she has read minutes from a March 2011 Human Services Committee report and was pleased to see many differences. What role does the Central Square Business Association play in this? Is this a good relationship? She has heard that businesses usually do not want to locate here if they do not have a Central Square presence. She stated that it was surprising that the Police Department is the keeper of the case management system. She was intrigued by the distinction made between the travelers in Harvard Square and local homeless and the difference in the interaction with these populations. She asked about recent reports of a spike in the increase in homeless families. Does Cambridge have this problem or are families quickly transitioned to shelters?
Ms. Semonoff stated that the faith-based community, although not sitting around this table, is by all respects the largest provider of services to the homeless. Most meal programs are offered by the faith-based community. The Salvation Army is a faith-based vehicle that alters a person's life. The Police are not doing case management alone; case management is also done by all homeless service providers for the population they are serving. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that her understanding of how case management works best is if one case manager provides the coordination to services. She is surprised to hear that an individual may have multiple case managers. Ms. Semonoff stated that all the homeless or newly housed in Cambridge do have case managers. Each of the service providers has case management duties for their set of individuals. The family homeless shelter system is operated differently than shelters for individuals. The Office of Transitional Assistance is the gatekeeper to the family shelters. Cambridge has a limited number of family shelter beds. The Multi-Service Center helps to keep families together in housing. The problem is that there is doubled up family housing.
Councillor Cheung asked how Cambridge can utilize compassionate policing while ensuring that Central Square remains a safe place. Superintendent Williams identified the root of the problem - usually engineering, specifically lighting and cleanliness in the square. Hotspots were identified where there is a tendency for the homeless to congregate, such as benches that face each other. When the benches were reconfigured differently after sidewalk work, the hotspots were eliminated. Lighting has been improved where needed through coordination with Public Works and Electrical. The trees and shrubs have been pruned back to improve the sightlines in an effort to eliminate nuisance behavior. The most problematic area in Harvard Square has had work done by Public Works to make the area less problematic around the Pit. There is zero tolerance for drinking in public. The police take appropriate action to deter this type of activity. It is about working with partners and police officers identifying the need to take appropriate action.
At this time Councillor Cheung opened the meeting to public comment.
Mark McGovern, Health Care for Homeless, stated that some homeless people are visible, but some aren't. Many formerly homeless individuals that we pass by each day may look homeless, but are now housed. There are two family shelters in churches. There has been a lot of case management done over the years. Cases get managed, but there are not enough housing and substance abuse facilities at the other end. Finding a psychiatrist or therapist is nearly impossible. Case management can only go so far. Individuals in Central Square who are causing angst may be intoxicated, but they could also be injured. There used to be 60 detoxification beds in Cambridge and Somerville and now there are none. Patents are sent to detoxify at the Cambridge Hospital Emergency Room and oftentimes end up in the Intensive Care Unit because the withdrawals get so bad. Previously, individuals were able to go to the emergency room with an interest to detoxify and were given a bed; now they go to the hospital but do not fit the criteria and are discharged with a list of detox centers in Boston. These individuals wait and ultimately get sicker. He spoke about the vicious circle of drinking, falling, and being hospitalized.
Ayala Livny, Youth on Fire, stated that issues surrounding homelessness are so complicated and complex that it is hard to know what to do. This is why the continuum of care is needed. Cambridge has incredible resources and commitment which includes a compassionate policy that engages the Police Department and business associations that care about this population. Youth on Fire began 13 years ago because homeless youth were hanging out in Harvard Square and the business association came to the Public Health Department to figure out a place where they could be safe during the day. Programs such as Youth on Fire, Bread and Jams and the Salvation Army provided services. There are not enough spaces at night. The adult shelters are not safe for youth. Safe places are needed specifically for young adults to get them off the streets. There will always be people who are homeless and our job is to get them off the streets as quickly as possible. The longer they are on the street the harder it is to get them off the streets. Fewer travelers were seen this summer and fewer resources are going to the non-local population. She believes in investing in the continuum of care.
Ruth Aaron, CASPAR, stated that CASPAR operates the shelter on Albany Street. The shelter has 107 beds and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Individuals can stay in shelters during the daytime. She stated that there are some individuals who have lived in the shelters for years. Her staff talks to the individuals, provides clothing and food and provides case management services. She stated that 70-80 individuals per year are provided housing but there is not enough housing.
Bill Mergendahl, Professional Ambulance, stated that over the years the importance of day programs that are not being funded can be seen. This has been tracked over the years and there is a spike in Central Square. He spoke about the lack of detoxification beds and the vicious cycle caused by this. For the first six months in 2013 in Cambridge there were 10,000-11,000 ambulance transports; of this amount, about eight percent are 911 transports. Many of these transports were the same individuals over and over again. CASPAR and First Step Programs have made a dramatic change. So much more needs to be done and there is lack of resources.
Nicole Massich asked how the results are being measured to get the homeless off the street. Ms. Livny stated that all programs have ways to track the homeless and each program measures differently, including measures for health outcomes, service access, and housing. Data is collected if the City receives funds. Ms. Massich asked if there is residential involvement with the homeless. Ms. Aaron stated that most non-profits have on their websites information regarding the need and opportunity for volunteers. The Cambridge/Somerville Resource Guide is available and provides this information. Ms. Livny added that finding housing that accepts Section 8 is very difficult.
Maryann Colangelo, DHSP, stated that DHSP oversees the continuum of care. She stated that there are two guides, the Cambridge/Somerville Resource Guide and a pdf Resource Directory for persons who are homeless in Cambridge.
Mary Shannon Thomas, outreach clinician at the Multi Service Center, stated that she has tried to contract a psychiatrist for her clients many times and was not successful. She stated that she cannot see individuals who are housed, and if she could see this population her caseload would double. A lot of homeless are physically housed but are emotionally homeless. Some individuals cannot move beyond where they have spent the last 10, 15 or 20 years. Homelessness needs to be dealt with as if it is a homeless issue or are they being routinely housed. She stated the need to stabilize individuals once they are housed.
Larry Gottlieb, Eliot Community Human Services, has contracts with Partner Assistance for Transitional Homelessness (PATH),which is a federal grant that serves the entire Commonwealth. Amherst has a new center run by clinicians that serve 80 people meals. It is a place to be during the day so that they are not on the street and they are engaged. Brockton is recalibrating its ten-year plan. The homeless population cannot afford to live in any community without income subsidization. People on SSI can afford single room occupancy, but there is none in Cambridge. He spoke about frequent users of emergency services. Homeless individuals in New York City are being placed in low threshold housing with support services, reducing the visibility of the homeless population. Cambridge does a terrific job for an expensive place to live.
Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street, noted that the determination of individuals to attain housing often makes the final difference. She praised the DHSP programs. She stated that the City funds some of the day programs such as East End House and the Margaret Fuller House. She felt City can expand services by providing more money to service providers. There are different types of homeless people with different needs. The City has a huge surplus of funds and Cambridge is dedicated to helping people. She would like more of these programs/agencies to be funded by the City. Caseworkers do a great job helping people. At the Harvard Square Shelter an individual can sign up and get a bed for seven days, then he or she has to take a week off from getting a bed before being able to sign up again.
Marge Amster, Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association, stated that there is a concentration of City funded services in Central Square. Why is Central Square a daytime home for the homeless? Could this be dispersed? Families are intimidated coming to and walking through Central Square. Ms. Semonoff stated that there is a concentration of services in Harvard Square and not in Central Square. CASPAR is far from Central Square. People will congregate where there is life on the streets. If there were no social services, the people would probably still be here. Where they would be dispersed is hard to say.
Mark McGovern stated that the Salvation Army has a day care center and a 55 bed shelter for
Men in a recovery phase two program. People are in Central Square because it is a place where people gather. Homeless services are not what attract homeless people to Central Square.
Mark Jaquith, Square Meals, stated that he was at the meeting to observe.
Elie Yarden, Association for Cambridge Neighborhoods, stated that homelessness in Cambridge is systematic. He is aware of the concept of human rights and the inclusion of a right to domicile, although he recognizes that some people prefer not to be housed. He stated that the issue of housing as it relates to social living is his main concern. Central Square does not bother him at all. He was attracted to Central Square because of its social life. This social life includes people who lack domicile. The main question is one of broader social or political concerns or projections. How many people who lack domicile and who are on the streets in Cambridge has had this happen due to evictions? How much of a rise in the homeless population can be expected in the future with the loss of low cost housing? What are projections based on and how are they related to further economic decline? Is there any data on this? Ms. Semonoff stated that there is no data about whether people in Cambridge who are homeless were recently evicted. There are resources to keep people housed if evicted due to loss of income, but not for behavior. Mark McGovern asked if DHSP has data on homeless. Ms. Colangelo stated that data is collected for the Multi-Service Center. This is not designed separately from the HNIS data that is mandated by HUD. The Center has its own data for services. Mr. McGovern asked if the HNIS data asks for the date of the onset of homelessness. Ms. Colangelo stated that HUD does ask for the zip code for the last permanent address. Stephanie Ackert stated that at the Multi Service Center many individuals have been in a long spiral of homelessness. The breakup of a housing situation is mostly due to death, domestic violence, or loss of employment.
Cathie Zusy, Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association, stated that she would like information about how long individuals utilize shelters, transitional housing, and emergency housing. She feels that these services are being utilized more like permanent housing. She spoke about the demon of addiction. Are we encouraging addiction? It is important to explore other models that have been successfully used. She spoke about the strong sense of community within the homeless community; a better sense of community needs to be made outside of the shelter. How much money is being invested in each of the 512 homeless individuals? Can more detox beds be provided in Cambridge? Ms. Aaron responded in the negative. The Bureau of Substance Abuse Services has a policy of not funding detoxification beds; the health care system should be used to provide detoxification services. The reimbursement for detoxification in hospital settings for CHA does not cover the cost for detoxification in a day care facility. Ms. Semonoff stated that resources are used interdepartmentally. It is critical for more of this to happen at the state and national level. Cross funding at the state and federal level would do more.
Carolyn Shipley stated that only a small percentage of homeless people are alcoholics. In the 1990s the veterans' homes were closed. The City is not in the business of providing services to everyone. City should look into housing first or single room occupancy. She wants to see more housing and more money for the agencies. The City should use a portion of its large budget surplus to make this essential change.
Councillor Cheung asked if it would be logical to refresh the ten-year plan and gather more information. Ms. Semonoff said that she would work with her colleagues on a new ten-year plan if there was an opportunity to propose things that will go somewhere. The plan we have is where we need to go. Setting aside for affordable housing and transitional housing is what the need is. She does not think that is a priority.
Maryann Colangelo stated that the planning and development office of DHSP is responsible for the continuum of care. DHSP secures the funding from HUD that is over $3 million. The bulk of funding for homeless services comes from HUD. Due to new legislation, HUD is raising the bar. There are 400 continuums of care around the country and with this new legislation the continuum of care is being codified. There are HUD goals that are mandated to end chronic homeless. The DHSP is working on this. Some information will be new because HUD is requiring new information. HUD is asking about high users and housing first.
Councillor Cheung noted that Cambridge is doing a lot, but we need to do more. He would like to go to the City Council with a specific allocation to accomplish this. Ms. Semonoff suggested that the report of this meeting be referred to Housing Committee or to hold a joint meeting. It would make sense to have a conversation in the Housing Committee. A major piece is if there is capacity to put more funding for the housing piece. In the absence of this the work that is being done will continue with federal funding, but this will not change the ability to house this population.
Councillor Cheung stated that it is a zoning question around how we can provide this type of housing. The data is needed about the where the funding is going and not going.
Councillor Kelley suggested that the School Department should be included because there are homeless children. He wanted to have a more visual presentation.
Councillor Cheung asked the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness to collect this data to build the case for the need for housing and what the priorities are and then it could be referred to Housing Committee. Mr. Jacobs stated that focus has been on the frequent users and he will bring it back to Senior Policy Group.
Councillor Kelley added that he did not know there was a Senior Policy Group on Homelessness.
At this time Councillor Cheung made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness to develop a report detailing the City of Cambridge's progress in reaching the goals outlined in the ten year plan to end homelessness; which initiatives could be improved upon going forward, including increasing transitional housing stock; and how the City Council could best support these improvements.
The motion carried on a voice vote.
Councillor Cheung thanked all the service providers for their attendance.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Councillor Cheung the meeting adjourned at 6:26pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Leland Cheung, Chair
AWAITING REPORT LIST
13-03. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on including a participatory budgeting portion in the 2015 budget.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-5)
13-09. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic, licensing and zoning violation concerns of the residents of Bowdoin Street.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-13)
13-13. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing a open door while air conditioning prohibition.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 07/29/13 (O-19)
13-16. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ways to improve effective communications with members of the community including the use of closed captioning.
Councillor Cheung 09/09/13 (O-1)
13-21. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of establishing an emergency City telephone hotline that residents can contact in times of emergency for timely and accurate information.
Vice Mayor Simmons 09/09/13 (O-13)
13-26. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on reviewing the policy relating to the sale of goods within the public ways.
Councillor Cheung 09/09/13 (O-27)
13-27. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on steps needed to do a Nexus Study and whether there is a way tp expand who and what is covered by linkage, whether there is potential for additional revenue for community benefits from linkage, specifically if linkage was increased and the amount changed for housing could the difference be used for community benefits.
Councillor Maher 09/09/13 (O-33)
13-28. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on rationale and thought process of the proposed increase of liquor fees prior to the change taking effect.
Councillor Cheung 07/29/13 (O-20)
13-33. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on solutions that will remedy the extreme temperatures at the King Open School.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/16/13 (O-6)
13-36. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on traffic count on Roberts Road to assess truck traffic.
Councillor Cheung 09/30/13 (O-3)
13-39. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on appointing a task force to recommend an approach to four year old education in Cambridge.
Mayor Davis 09/30/13 (O-7)
13-41. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on evaluating new methods of communicating street sweeping to resident with a specific request that an "opt-in" text alert be send to residents who own parking passes by linking geo-coded phone numbers with locations to be swept.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/30/13 (O-13)
13-43. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of bringing free wireless internet access to Central Square.
Vice Mayor Simmons 10/07/13 (O-1)
13-45. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on short and long-term use for the newly acquired lot at the corner of School and Cherry Streets.
Councillor Reeves 10/07/13 (O-3)
13-46. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of new zoning language for stormwater separation.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 10/07/13 (O-7)
13-47. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of granting small commercial properties a modest exemption on their real estate property taxes.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 10/07/13 (O-8)
13-48. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how the City planning team supports and encourages safe bicycle lane travel citywide, including best design practices; enforcement; informational pamphlets; and promoting safe bicycling in schools.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 10/07/13 (O-9)
13-49. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report that the City Manager, the Police Commissioner and their designees shall not activate or cause to be activated any security cameras, surveillance cameras, or any other video or audio recording, watching or listening devices or implement any policy relating to such cameras unless in either case there shall be held a prior affirmative vote of the majority of the City Council specifically authorizing the contemplated activation or implementation.
Councillor Decker 10/07/13 (O-10)
13-50. Report from the City Manager:
RE: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide a formal report that addresses the issues of temperature at the King Open School as well as the concerns and general input of parents and teachers, and propose a short-term plan.
Councillor Decker 09/16/13 (O-9)
13-51. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on a review of permitting process, any zoning and building code barriers to greater adoption of solar energy.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 09/30/13 (O-15)
13-52. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on potential solutions for community members that are having difficulty parking in Area IV for work purposes.
Vice Mayor Simmons 10/21/13 (O-1)
13-53. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of the MBTA posting weather-proof signage at eliminated and moved stops in the months following route adjustments.
Councillor Cheung 10/21/13 (O-4)
13-54. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on enacting a moratorium or other mechanism including a possible ordinance change restricting new cell phone towers until there is a clear policy on placement of such towers in residential neighborhoods.
Councillor Maher 10/21/13 (O-8)
13-55. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the causes of and potential remedies to the pooling of water at Reed Street Court.
Vice Mayor Simmons 11/04/13 (O-1)
13-57. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on evaluating the traffic backups at the intersection of Binney and Broadway.
Councillor Toomey 11/04/13 (O-5)
13-58. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of installing railroad crossing traffic barriers at the train track along Mass Avenue and along Broadway and on the quiet zone application to the federal government.
Vice Mayor Simmons 11/04/13 (O-6)
13-59. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on evaluating the traffic patterns and accidents on Third Street and consider reversing the direction of the one way on Spring Street between Second and Third Streets.
Councillor Toomey 11/04/13 (O-7)
13-60. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on recommendations that would make the process easier for seniors to put their trash and recycling curbside before 6:00 pm and on how seniors can have easier access and learn more about this program.
Councillor Decker 11/04/13 (O-9)
13-61. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on the feasibility of installing a crosswalk and a sign warning motorists to slow down at the corner of Norfolk and Suffolk Streets.
Vice Mayor Simmons 11/04/13 (O-3)
13-62. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on how current rules and regulations governing bicycle riding is enforced, establish the requirements for all bicycles to have mounted white lights on the front and establish an effect way of collecting data on injuries resulting from cyclist-pedestrian conflicts.
Vice Mayor Simmons 11/04/13 (O-2)