Cambridge City Council meeting - Dec 9, 2013 - AGENDA
Vice Mayor Simmons ABSENT
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 13-51, regarding a report on the permitting process for solar panels.
2. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, regarding a response to Council Order No. O-7 of Apr 8, 2013, relative to a proposed Home Rule Petition which would provide an exception to the residency preference requirement for Cambridge police officer and fire fighter appointments for those individuals who were Cambridge residents at the time of graduation from high school or its equivalent.
Dec 9, 2013
To the Honorable, the City Council:I am resubmitting for the City Council's consideration in response to Council Order No. O-7 of Apr 8, 2013, a proposed Home Rule Petition which would provide an exception to the residency preference requirement for Cambridge police officer and fire fighter appointments for those individuals who were Cambridge residents at the time of graduation from high school or its equivalent. The original Council Order called for an exception for police officer appointments only; however upon conferring with Police Commissioner Robert Haas and Fire Chief Gerald Reardon, I propose that the Home Rule Petition include both police officer and fire fighter appointments.
As currently written, Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 31, Section 58 ("Section 58") makes it difficult for individuals who were residents of Cambridge at the time of graduation from high school or receiving the equivalent of a high school diploma, but left Cambridge to pursue higher education, vocational education or training, military service, or other life experience or employment, within ten years from the date of obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent, to be appointed to the Cambridge Police and Fire Departments unless they have lived in Cambridge for one full year prior to the date of the examination for appointment to the Cambridge Police Department or Cambridge Fire Department . This restrictive form of residency preference may prevent many qualified individuals with extensive knowledge of the City of Cambridge from being considered for appointment to the Cambridge Police and Fire Departments.
The City Council has determined that a modification to the residency preference requirement in Section 58 for Cambridge high school graduates will make it easier for individuals with strong Cambridge roots who have left the City to pursue higher education, vocational education or training, military service, or other life experience or employment to pursue their dreams of becoming members of the Cambridge Police and Fire Departments. The attached proposed Home Rule Petition if submitted to and approved by the Legislature will help to achieve that objective. It is my intent to work with all members of our State Legislative Delegation to assist us in gaining passage of this petition.
Very truly yours, Richard C. Rossi, City Manager
City Manager Order #2A
AN ACT RELATIVE TO THE ONE-YEAR CAMBRIDGE RESIDENCY PREFERENCE FOR PERSONS BEING CONSIDERED FOR ORIGINAL APPOINTMENT TO THE CAMBRIDGE POLICE FORCE AND FIRE FORCE
Notwithstanding any other general or special law to the contrary, the following special act shall govern in the City of Cambridge.
SECTION 1. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 58 of Chapter 31 and any other general or special law relative to civil service to the contrary, the administrator, as defined in Section 1 of Chapter 31, when certifying names to the appointing authority, as defined in Section 1 of Chapter 31, of the City of Cambridge for the City of Cambridge’s police force and fire force, upon written request of the appointing authority shall place the names of individuals who were residents of the City of Cambridge at the time of obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent, but who thereafter left the City of Cambridge to pursue higher education, vocational education or training, military service, or other life experience or employment, within ten years from the date of obtaining a high school diploma or its equivalent as of the date of the examination, on the eligible list for original appointment to the police force or fire force of the City of Cambridge, in the same manner as if the individual had been a resident of the City of Cambridge for a period of one year immediately prior to the date of examination.
SECTION 2. If any provision of this Act or the application of such provision to any person or circumstance shall be held invalid, the validity of the remainder of this Act and the applicability of such provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected thereby.
SECTION 3. The provisions of this Act shall be effective immediately upon passage.
3. Transmitting communication from Richard C. Rossi, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation supporting the proposed Ames Street Land Disposition.
Disposition Order Adopted 8-0-1 [Simmons ABSENT]
Date: Dec 3, 2013
Subject: Ames Street Land Disposition
Recommendation: The Planning Board supports the proposed disposition.To the Honorable, the City Council,
The Planning Board recommends that the land disposition proceed in accordance with the terms outlined in the City Manager's Nov 18, 2013 report, the attached Request for Proposals and the winning proposal submitted by Boston Properties Limited Partnership.
The Board finds that the report adequately and correctly summarizes all of the considerations with regard to the land disposition. The proposal has many significant benefits to the City, including the addition of new housing to Kendall Square and the activation of the streetscape with ground-floor retail and small open spaces on Ames Street. The financial arrangements will also benefit the City, as the report indicates that the price offered for the Property is within the range of the City’s independent appraisals, that the buyer will also assume responsibility for public roadway improvements associated with the project, and that the project will generate ongoing tax revenue for the City. The report also indicates some potential drawbacks of the proposed project, such as shadow impacts, which will be assessed by the Planning Board as part of its project review requirements.
Taking into account all considerations with regard to this disposition, the Planning Board finds that it is an appropriate action to be taken by the City.
Respectfully submitted for the Planning Board,
Hugh Russell, Chair
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.
ORDAINED 6-2-1 (Kelley NO, vanBeuzekom NO; Simmons ABSENT), vanBeuzekom filed Reconsideration (later withdrawn); Ordinance #1358
14. 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 20, 2013 to discuss a petition by the City Manager to amend the Zoning Ordinances of the City of Cambridge to define and list Registered Marijuana Dispensary, delete Section 11.700 and create a new Section 20.700 entitled Medical Marijuana Overlay Districts. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Dec 16, 2013. Planning Board hearing held Oct 22, 2013. Petition expires Feb 18, 2014.
COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Dan Yetten, 10 Marsh Avenue, Salem, NH regarding public toilets on the Cambridge Common.
2. A communication was received from Stephen Donovan of Newton, MA regarding public toilets on the Cambridge Common.
3. A communication was received from Charles Teague, 23 Edmunds Street transmitting his reply to Cambridge City Council response on Open Meeting Law Complaint dated Nov 5, 2013.
RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Marie M. Manuel. Councillor Maher
2. Congratulating Dr. Rachael Bedard for being chosen as a finalist for the Schwartz Center's Compassionate Caregiver Award. Councillor Cheung
3. Congratulating Jose Goncalves for being named the 2013 Major League Soccer Defender of the Year. Councillor Cheung
4. Resolution on the death of Mary Eileen (Livingston) Bacci. Councillor Toomey
5. Retirement of Gerald (Jerry) Steinberg, M.D. from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Mayor Davis
6. Congratulations to Scott Henderson and Elizabeth Francis on their engagement. Councillor Cheung
7. Congratulations to the Deborah Mason School of Dance on its 39th anniversary. Councillor Decker
8. Resolution on the death of Esther Amy Merriman Browning. Vice Mayor Simmons
9. Resolution on the death of Helen Mattos. Councillor Toomey
10. Resolution on the death of Billy Bartlett. Vice Mayor Simmons
11. Condolences to Laura Nichols on the death of her mother, Mary (Monteiro) Nichols. Vice Mayor Simmons
12. Resolution on the death of Nelson Mandela. Vice Mayor Simmons
13. Resolution on the death of Helen M. (Scalley) Fabianski. Councillor Maher
14. Resolution on the death of Rita F. (Barker) Brennan. Councillor Maher
15. Resolution on the death of Ann M. (Sorrenti) McGee. Councillor Toomey
16. Congratulations to the Cambridge Community Chorus on their concert "In Celebration of William Thomas (1950-2013), founding Music Director of the Cambridge Community Chorus. Councillor Reeves
17. Happy 79th Birthday wishes to an exemplary Cantabrigian. Councillor Reeves
18. Best wishes to the Kuumba Singers of Harvard College on their 43rd annual Dr. S. Allen Counter Christmas Concert. Councillor Reeves
19. Congratulations to the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at the Cambridge Rindge and Latin School on its production of "Ragtime." Mayor Davis
ORDERS
1. That the City Council meetings scheduled for Dec 23, 2013 and Dec 30, 2013 be and hereby are cancelled. Mayor Davis
2. That the City Manager is requested to investigate the possibility of promoting the shredding of leaves for a variety of gardening uses in community gardens, park spaces, and for homeowners to use as mulch or to enrich soil. Mayor Davis
3. That the Government Operations & Rules Committee, in consultation with the City Manager, consider appropriate ways to commemorate the life of Nelson Mandela. Mayor Davis
4. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City staff to determine the feasibility of renaming a street in honor of the late Nelson Mandela. Vice Mayor Simmons
5. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to report back to the City Council on the liability issue for volunteer coaches. Councillor Toomey
6. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to report back to the City Council on the definition of and "youth athletic program" to encompass city run programs and further to grant authority in 8.68.030 to the Chief Public Health Officer the ability to require in-person training, if deemed necessary. Councillor Cheung
7. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to develop language prior to ordination of the Concussion Ordinance that would require notification to the school if an athlete has been injured. Mayor Davis
8. That the Community Development Department come back to the City Council with the concept of either limiting townhouse development in the neighborhood or create language for an overlay district for the larger lots at the end Loomis Street and the abutting street, Normandy Avenue. Councillor Maher
9. That the City Manager is requested to review the Western Avenue Reconstruction Project to ensure that the contractor is meeting the obligation of the City regarding employment of minorities and women working on this project. Councillor vanBeuzekom
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the University Relations Committee for a public meeting held on Mar 20, 2013 to discuss the sale of 2 Mt. Auburn Street, the discontinuance of the Longy School of Music Preparatory and Continuing Studies program effective Aug 31, 2013 and plans to tour MIT.
2. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the University Relations Committee, for a public meeting held on Apr 26, 2012 to discuss planning an agenda for the committee for the 2012-2013 term.
3. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the University Relations Committee, for a public meeting held on May 24, 2012 to review plans for visits to academic institutions by the Committee.
4. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the University Relations Committee, for a public meeting held on July 16, 2012 to tour the Innovation Center in the Seaport District of South Boston.
5. 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 22, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code by adding a new Chapter 8.68 entitled "Concussion Prevention and Management in Youth Activities at City Facilities."
Passed to 2nd Reading
6. 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 22, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition filed by John Chun, et al requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge in the entire district currently zoned Residence B located in the Cambridge Highlands neighborhood, situated north of Concord Avenue, south of and adjacent to the Blair Pond Reservation, and east of and adjacent to the municipal boundary with the Town of Belmont by deleting the designation Residence B and substituting therefore a designation of Residence A-2.
Referred to Petition
7. 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 Dec 4, 2013 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.28 relating to smoking in public parks.
Referred to Petition
8. A communication was received from Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom, Chair of the Transportation, Traffic and Parking Committee for a public meeting held on Oct 17, 2013 to discuss the Western Avenue Reconstruction project and its impact to Western Avenue between Green Street and Memorial Drive.
HEARING SCHEDULE
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)
Thurs, Dec 19
9:30am The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.68 relating to Plastic Bag Reduction. (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)
Mon, May 5
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 12
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, May 19
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 2
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 9
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 16
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 23
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
Mon, June 30
5:30pm City Council Meeting (Sullivan Chamber)
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Dec 9, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Council meetings scheduled for Dec 23, 2013 and Dec 30, 2013 be and hereby are cancelled.
O-2 Dec 9, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate the possibility of promoting the shredding of leaves for a variety of gardening uses in community gardens, park spaces, and for homeowners to use as mulch or to enrich soil.
O-3 Dec 9, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the Government Operations & Rules Committee, in consultation with the City Manager, consider appropriate ways to commemorate the life of Nelson Mandela.
O-4 Dec 9, 2013
VICE MAYOR SIMMONS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate City staff to determine the feasibility of renaming a street in honor of the late Nelson Mandela.
O-5 Dec 9, 2013
COUNCILLOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to report back to the City Council on the liability issue for volunteer coaches.
O-6 Dec 9, 2013
COUNCILLOR CHEUNG
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to report back to the City Council on the definition of and "youth athletic program" to encompass city run programs and further to grant authority in 8.68.030 to the Chief Public Health Officer the ability to require in-person training, if deemed necessary.
O-7 Dec 9, 2013
MAYOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to develop language prior to ordination of the Concussion Ordinance that would require notification to the school if an athlete has been injured.
O-8 Dec 9, 2013
COUNCILLOR MAHER
ORDERED: That the Community Development Department come back to the City Council with the concept of either limiting townhouse development in the neighborhood or create language for an overlay district for the larger lots at the end Loomis Street and the abutting street, Normandy Avenue.
O-9 Dec 9, 2013
COUNCILLOR VANBEUZEKOM
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the Western Avenue Reconstruction Project to ensure that the contractor is meeting the obligation of the City regarding employment of minorities and women working on this project.
TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The University Relations Committee held a public meeting on Wed, Mar 20, 2013 at 2:07pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the sale of 2 Mt. Auburn Street, the discontinuance of the Longy School of Music Preparatory and Continuing Studies program effective Aug 31, 2013 and plans to tour MIT.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Committee; Councillor Craig Kelley and Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Stuart Dash, Director, Community Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); Chris Cotter, Housing Director, CDD; John Clifford; and Interim Clerk Donna P. Lopez.
Also present were Tom Lucey, Community Relations, Harvard University; John VanSaun, President, 2 Mt. Auburn Tenants Association; Beryl Elise Hoffstein, Vice President, 2 Mt. Auburn Tenants Association; Barbara Biddle, Myra McCoy, Joyce Margaris, Helen Brady, Karolina Vozbutas, Ruth E. Kennedy, Aneta Robinson, Bharat L. Bhatt and Michael Roberts, residents of 2 Mt. Auburn Street; Robert J. La Tremouille, 875 Mass. Avenue; Amy Nadel, 265 Grove Street; Clayton Hoener, 2 Wayburn Road, Boston; John Pierson, 13 Decatur Street; Kalen Ratzlaff, Chief of Staff, Longy; Howard Levy, CFO, Longy; Jim Moylar, Associate Dean, Longy; Robyn Godner and Alexander Morollo, Longy students; Harriet Griesinger and Rob Straus, Longy Board Members; Alexandra Moellmann; Maura Ellsworthy; Pam Hoget; and Paul Parravano, Co-Director of Community Relations, MIT.
Councillor Reeves convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He explained that this committee has meet since last year and has toured Harvard and Lesley and looks forward to touring MIT, Cambridge College and Longy will be added. An agenda was distributed (ATTACHMENT A). He proceeded to the first agenda topic, the sale of 2 Mt. Auburn Street.
2 MOUNT AUBURN STREET
Councillor Reeves stated that Harvard University has indicated that it would like to sell 2 Mt. Auburn Street. He invited the representative from 2 Mt. Auburn Street to come forward. Tom Lucey, representing Harvard University, John VanSaun, President of the 2 Mt. Auburn Street Tenants Association and Beryl Hoffstein, Vice President of the 2 Mt. Auburn Street Tenants Association came forward. Councillor Reeves stated that he was invited to 2 Mt. Auburn Street for a meeting on Feb 14, 2013 and heard from the tenants on this issue. Two Housing Committee meetings have been scheduled to discuss the sale of 2 Mt. Auburn Street. As part of the proposed sale this building is affected by Chapter 40T which outlines the sale process of the building. A meeting was held at Massachusetts Hall where Harvard University was asked why the university wanted to sell this building. The Harvard University Board of Overseers has a different outlook and Harvard is getting out of areas that do not have an academic mission. At the Massachusetts Hall meeting and going forward there needs to be better communication between Harvard and the residents so that all know what is happening. There are 94 tenants in the building. Ms. Heenan spoke for Harvard and stated that the matter would be taken under advisement and that she would respond back to the residents. The response has not been received at this point. Councillor Reeves asked the President and the Vice President of the 2 Mt. Auburn Street Tenants Association to address the committee.
Ms. Hoffstein stated there have been meetings and duly elected officers of the tenants association. There have been 92 tenants who have signed the statement of intent. Tenants want to know what is going on and if budget cut will affect them and allow them to stay at 2 Mt. Auburn Street. Seniors and disabled tenants were expected to be quiet the tenants do not want a for profit buyer purchasing the building. The majority of the tenants preferred HRI to be the buyer. Tenants still do not know what is going to happen in the future. She stated that the tenants want answers.
John VanSaun held up 4 lbs of democracy (documentation of the statement of position). It is a professional statement and addresses all sides. Harvard University has a right to sell the building. Preservation can be preserved in the statement and mission and can be kept with HRI. He spoke about access and the legitimacy of the tenants' rights. This has not been well received by Harvard University. The sale was announced in September 2011, one year later that the law prescribes. The fiscal crisis has changed the world. $90,000 has been lost from HUD for CHA funding. The windows, heating system and elevators all need repair. PILOT tax payment to the city will be affected. This is labeled as a private transaction. The rental stream is HUD, and Social Security. This building is a public building and the tenants want to be heard by Harvard.
Tom Lucey stated that Harvard University is committed to working on a sale of the building in which affordability and how rents are calculated will be considered. An announcement will be made quickly, maybe before Easter. Much of the tenants concerns will be addressed. The state, CDD and the City Manager have all been involved in this process.
Councillor Reeves stated that this building came into being when then Councillor Graham took over the 1973 Harvard University graduation because of the encroachment of the Riverside neighborhood by Harvard University. In 1974 this building was built as a result of that action. Senior and affordable housing is committed to by the city. Going forward Harvard needs to build into the process their responsibility to inform the tenants of what is going on. Mr. Lucey assured Councillor Reeves that a response will be forthcoming on this issue. As soon as Harvard has any news a meeting will be called quickly to get the word out. A forum will then be created to get the information to the public. He explained the good relationship between Harvard and HRI. Councillor Reeves expressed concerns about the desire to sell 2 Mt. Auburn Street and the closing of the Inn at Harvard in July to be used as a dorm. These do not feel like community friendly moves. Mr. Lucey commented that Harvard and the City need to work together better.
Councillor Kelley asked about deed restriction and the 15 year commitment and 15 year option. He stated that then at end of 30 years we will be right back where we started. Mr. Lucey responded that Harvard is only talking to affordable housing owners. Mr. Cotter stated that there is a rental assistance contract from CHA which would be renewed for Harvard or the new buyer with a 15 year commitment and 3 -5 year renewals. Harvard will commit to the 30 year affordability. Any buyer will come with long-term commitment to affordability. Councillor Kelley commented that buildings that are not permanently deed restriction become part of the portfolio. If there is not an absolute deed restriction it is not clear. If 30 years is what the funding stream is it is what it is.
Councillor Reeves stated that former Mayor Duehay stated that he is not a voting member of Cambridge Homes and they would be interested in this building.
Mr.VanSaun spoke about the time spent meeting with public entities. Affordability and funding needs full clarification. Affordability in no way ensures funding. Funding will not materialize; it is dependent on the state and CHA. Mobile Section 8 Vouchers are unfunded and will be given to the tenants. Funding and its uncertainty cannot be swept under the table. There are 14 apartments reserved for disabled elderly in this building.
Councillor Reeves opened public comment at 2:45pm.
Robert LaTremouille, 875 Mass. Avenue, stated that in his opinion Harvard intended this building for affiliate housing by emptying it apartment by apartment. He was instrumental in the zoning petition in this area. He has a copy of the variance dated 1970. The City changed the zoning of Harvard owned property to affiliate housing, but it required parking. Parking for this building was put at the Cowperthwaite Street area. Harvard felt it could make money from the sale of this building. He provided a copy of the variance (ATTACHMENT B).
Councillor Reeves stated that every year there is a town/gown report given to city containing information about the student numbers, etc. The Planning Board did not know about the sale of 2 Mt. Auburn Street and it should have been included in the town/gown report. The mission of the 2 Mt. Auburn Street Tenants Association is to be heard.
This association has the gold standard for their organization. He encouraged the tenants to work together. An announcement is expected soon.
LESLEY TOUR
Councillor Reeves gave an update on the tour of Lesley University taken on Mar 5, 2013.
LONGY SCHOOL OF MUSIC
At 2:54pm Councillor Reeves proceeded to the discussion on the discontinuance of the Longy School of Music Preparatory and Continuing Studies Program. He invited representatives from Longy School of Music to come forward to discuss the issue. He stated that at the City Council meeting of Mar 18, 2013 public comment was given on the Longy. The City does not understand the Longy - Bard merger. He asked for clarification. News release by President Zorn (ATTACHMENT C) stated that the changes were based on the mission of Longy School of Music. He stated that he was in receipt of a letter from Karen Zorn (ATTACHMENT D).
Mr. Kalen Ratzlaff, Chief of Staff, read a prepared statement from President Zorn (ATTACHMENT E). He stated that President Zorn could not attend the meeting because she was in Venezuela. In April 2011 the name was changed to Longy School of Music of Bard College which means that Longy is a branch campus of Bard College. Bard is the agent for financial resources. Longy has a Board of Governors and Trustees. The Board of Governors makes the decisions. These decisions were made at Longy. Bard merged with Longy due to the management team at Longy, the school was well run and Bard supported the mission. Longy faced $1 million deficit, but it has been erased due to growth. Longy wants to train musicians and not be a degree institution. The preparatory studies program has put a strain on Longy. The most significant change is that the conservatory has grown and there is a need to find space for the conservatory students. The preparatory classes have had the prime space. The two programs cannot continue to co-exist. So both programs were reviewed and the conservatory brings in the revenue and funding to thrive. The conservatory program is where the mission can be fulfilled and serves the greatest need and impact.
The committee heard from Rob Straus, a Longy Board Member since 1999. This decision was made by the Board of Governors of Longy and Bard College had no input in the decision. This decision will provide music education to more people. This is a personal loss for him as well as 70 families and 700 preparatory students. In 2007 Longy had a $1 million deficit. President Zorn made hard choices and looked at the structure. Longy has been training musicians and teachers. The mission statement has clarified what the school does. Funding, space, reorganization have been tried to keep both programs. There are other schools in the area that can do the preparatory programs. There is no other conservatory in the area with Longy mission to train musicians. Students, Board Members and Faculty are supportive of this decision. The intent is not to hurt the Cambridge community. He submitted his statement (ATTACHMENT F).
At 3:15pm Councillor Reeves opened the meeting to public comment.
Clayton Hoener stated that he is an Instructor at Longy and the President of the Longy Faculty Union and he submitted to Longy Faculty Union Newsletters dated Mar 8, 2013 and Mar 18, 2013 (ATTACHMENTS G AND H). He stated that music is about inclusion not exclusion. Actions are the true judge of character. It was disturbing that the decision made was to replace one group of students with another. On the space issue a resolution could have been found. On Mar 5, 2010 President Zorn stated more space was needed. Only 60% of the space is used. The community programs have declined and this leaves more space. The undergraduate program was phased out - and recently President Zorn stated that it will not go away. There is a place for it. It is disingenuous to say space is an issue. Change does not need to be hard. In 2010 20 % of the faculty was fired. Now 50 more faculty employees will be fired. They stated that 6-8 months’ notice was given, but in fact it has been 6-8 weeks. He urged the City Council to help.
Alexandra Moellmann, 28 Richard Road, Lexington, is a musician. She spoke as a parent and a Longy School preparatory student. She submitted a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT I). She spoke about tarnishing the reputation of the school. This decision was made without any discussion with the parents, students, faculty and the city. If the conservatory is Longy primary focus, this has been the focus for a short period of time. The mission remains the same since 2008. From 1956 -1969 Longy was a community school and has served Cambridge. She spoke about the dedication of the faculty who worked in horrible conditions. It is a false statement that Longy is a conservatory. She highlighted programs which Longy states in their mission which are not located in Cambridge so they require no space. She asked the City Council to use any avenues to help and to ask the Attorney General how this non-profit could reapply resources from the mission
Julie Mortimer, parent of 2 Longy students, an economics professor at Boston College and a visiting scholar at Harvard Business School spoke about the Longy administration statement that this is a necessary action. There may be valid reasons but the reasons have not been articulated. Space and tuition factors she addressed. Space is only one issue of cost. Longy has not provided any stats on the cost. Early Saturday classes do not squeeze out conservatory students. The information presented from Longy does not hold up and they have not provided any stats on their projections. There has not been an open discussion on this issue. Other venues will provide the community programs. The asset at stake is not a particular service - it is the community itself. If disbanded it cannot be put back together. The faculty has nourished our children. It feels like closing down a community school. It is a challenging event to overcome. Children will stop pursuing their musical education. The Suzuki School in Newton will close in May. This is an opportunity for Cambridge to support its students. She submitted her statement (ATTACHMENT J).
Ingrid Rocker stated that as a parent of a student she disparately looked for a location for her daughter to take music. Longy was the place. She was upset that she received the e-mail that Longy was closing. Social Justice is for equal access for all and not favoring one group over the other. She is sad that a great educational facility is closing down. Moving forward together for her is to continue the program, to find funding, space and to break even. If Longy is not willing to continue this why not give us time to find an alternative for everyone. If the alternatives could be worked through then there could be a compromise.
Councillor Reeves opened the meeting for comments from the City Council.
Councillor Kelley stated that he feels that the City Council is in no position to say what is right or wrong. He spoke about looking into non-conforming use with the Longy. If there is a change of use may need to get this information to CDD and ISD. The City Council's ability is limited now. Services erode when institutions change their mission.
Councillor Reeves stated that the City Council has real interest in this matter. His concern is whether Bard sells the building and there is no music program in the City.
Councillor Reeves submitted for the record a communication from Councillor Cheung hoping that the University Relations Committee meeting will engage both parties in a productive dialogue (ATTACHMENT K).
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that the City Council does not have authority in this matter. There has not been much dialogue. See the experience of the wealth you have in the parent population. This dialogue shows there may be solutions. She suggested a non-profit to keep the program going.
Councillor Reeves suggested to Mr. Straus that the Board of Governors has power in the board. This is a predictable response with the way this was handled. What about a stand- alone preparatory by Longy to make sure this could function separately? Mr. Straus stated that many options have been explored to keep this program alive to spin off or change the finance. Conservatory students only get 30 minutes per day to practice. Space issue is a real issue. Other alternatives have been tried. The ability to discuss this is limited due to management/labor issue.
Ms. Rocker asked if Longy could be assigned additional space from the community
Councillor Reeves stated that Plan A is to keep the program as is and Plan B is there a creative way out of this. He spoke about the Foundry building. There is a list of those that want to go into this space. He is concerned with 1,000 student music program leaving this city. The Arts Council should be active in assisting with this issue. Good thinking caps could prevail. He asked if the preparatory division is profitable. Mr. Ratzlaff responded that it does make a profit. A short term hit will be taken by Longy. It is a small school with a small staff. The attention and resources would be diverted if the focus was on another location.
Councillor Kelley stated that the City Council would like to be helpful, but there is no magic wand. Zoning may be an answer. He also suggested asking the Attorney General if there are any violations.
Harriet E. Griesinger, 221 Mt. Auburn Street, stated that she is a continuing education student at Longy and a Governance Board Member. Space has always been an issue. Angels of money and space have not come in fiscally good times. This decision is the only way forward for the school. She will follow her music teacher wherever she goes. She learned about Longy in 1940 and there were Longy conservatory buildings in the past. Everything is being done for the parents and faculty to find another place.
Alexander Morollo, a first year master's degree student at Longy, stated that he has had a positive experience at Longy. He took private lessons under the community service program. He sees Longy through the community service program and conservatory student lenses. He spoke on the conservatory perspective. All conservatory students support the decision of Longy. He spoke about the rhetoric by parents of the community programs.
Robyn Godner, first year master's degree student at Longy, stated that she understands the importance of music to the children. Longy is first and foremost a conservatory. It is impossible to find a practice space for one hour in the afternoon. The two programs cannot survive side by side. We are all on the side of music and music education.
Jim Moylan, Associate Dean at Longy and a preparatory parent stated that it was difficult to tell the children that the program would be discontinued. He will work with the faculty union to help in placement. The conservatory is the focus to teach student to be teachers and preparing the students for their professional life. He spoke about the cost for tuition and the student loans. Students are required to practice 5 - 7 hours a day and need practice space. Instructional space is also at a minimum. Conservatory growth has grown 20%. Growth cannot occur with 50% of space going to preparatory students. He submitted a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT L).
Howard Levy, CFO of Longy presented facts about the merger between Longy and Bard. The merger was based on programmatic issues. No payments flow from Longy to Bard.
The Attorney General recommended the merger. On Apr 1, 2011 legal documents were signed committing the two institutions to merge. On Apr l, 2012 the legal process was closed and approved by the Attorney General and the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court. Longy maintains it own Board of Governors. Bard had nothing to do with the decision to discontinue the preparatory and continuing studies program. Longy is alive and well. The only change is Longy is autonomous. Legal agreement contains Longy has sole authority on selling and naming the building for the next 5 years. Longy does not have housing for their students. Longy rented condos from Episcopal Divinity School for one year and then there was no space available the following year. There are 354 students who are from Cambridge. He submitted a prepared statement (ATTACHMENT M).
Maura Ellsworthy, Chauncy Street property owner, spoke about the possibility of sharing space with another school.
Pam Hoget, parent of a daughter who is a student at Longy, stated that the Longy Corporation was dissolved. Bard is named as successor to Longy. Bard is responsible for Longy programs and acquired the assets.
Councillor Reeves stated that he would keep this matter in Committee. He further stated that he will file a City Council Order requesting that Longy participate in the town/gown process. This was helpful to hear all sides at once. He will meet with President Zorn to see if anything can be done. This is a wonderful resource for the city to have in our midst and to be able to walk to. He spoke about the possibility that community benefit funds could be utilized.
He thanked all attendees and closed the discussion on the Longy at 4:40pm.
MIT TOUR PLANS
Mr. Parravano informed the committee that the MIT tour is planned for early April. The tour will include four different places and there will be a luncheon. Councillor Reeves suggested that when dates are know that the City Council and City Administration be given advanced notice. Subsequent to this meeting the MIT tour was scheduled for Apr 5, 2013.
Councillors Reeves thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at 4:50pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Kenneth Reeves, Chair
Committee Report #2
The University Relations Committee conducted a public meeting on Thurs, Apr 26, 2012 at 2:45pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss planning an agenda for the committee for the 2012-2013 term.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Kenneth Reeves, Chair of the Committee; Councillors Maher, vanBeuzekom and Cheung; Mayor Davis; Robert W. Healy, City Manager; Susan Glazer, Deputy Director, Community Development Department; John Clifford; and Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk.
Also present were Kirk Kolenbrander, Vice President for Institute Affairs, MIT; Paul Parravano, Director, Government and Community Relations, MIT; Sarah Gallop, Co-Director, Government and Community Relations, MIT; Anya Bear, Associate, MIT; Bob Simha, MIT; Christine Heenan, Vice President, Public Affairs, Harvard University; Thomas Lucey, Director of Community Relations, Harvard University; Matthew Brownell, Campus Planner, Lesley University; and James Lee, Undergraduate Dean, Associate Provost, Cambridge College.
Councillor Reeves convened the meeting and stated the purpose. He hopes to set the agenda for the term for the committee. At this time introductions were made. He stated that the 2011 Town Gown reports have been received by the City Council. A public hearing is held on the reports by the Planning Board. For the last four terms vice president positions of all universities and who held those position was well known and now this is not the case. It is good policy to know university personnel. This has happened in various ways in the past. There should be a more interactive relationship between the City and the Universities.
Councillor Reeves asked City Manager Healy how this committee could be beneficial to the City. Mr. Healy stated that the committee could help with the administrative piece; there are issues to discuss between both entities. The City Council will have to address the MIT zoning proposal which is complex. It is important for the City Council to obtain an academic prospective of MIT. He spoke about issues affecting the Main Street parcel. It would be good for the City to know what goes into the MIT perspective. Harvard University has worked with the City on the structural design of the underpass. There is a financial commitment for work on the underpass by Harvard and it is significantly improving the environment around the kiosk. He stated that Harvard Square abuts the university and businesses and suggested making the area an urban space.
Mayor Davis stated that she has heard from School Committee members relating to their relationship with the university presidents. She spoke about students taking classes on line and the fact that 25% of students do not have computers. Fifty percent of low income households do not have an internet connection. The School Department will be working on the issue of students having computers at home. The School Department will have an I Pad or a computer for each student while in school, but when the student goes home they do not have access. She stressed the importance of leveling the playing field for all students with computers and access. The proposed school plan is to get the lecture at home and the enrichment at school. How will this occur for students who do not have computers, she asked? Cambridge, she stated, should develop a Community University Compact.
Councillor Reeves spoke of a scholarship three year pilot program at Yale at a cost of $3 million. He hoped that Cambridge could explore a similar program.
Councillor Cheung stated that Boston did a PILOT study and reevaluated the PILOT formula.
Ms. Heenan, Vice President of Public Affairs, Harvard University informed the committee that Mayor Menino appointed a PILOT Taskforce in 2009. The taskforce included representatives from non-profits, business and university leaders. A more formulated solution was sought. In December 2010 a recommendation was made. It included a firm voluntary basis. The formula was received as a disincentive for developing land. Most universities do not adopt PILOT. The universities want the PILOT to be voluntary. Councillor Reeves stated that Brown University has an issue with the PILOT program. He urged Councillor Cheung to work on this issue.
Councillor Cheung stated that Harvard University is involved with hospitals. As more people become uninsured what is the non-profit status of a hospital if there is no uninsured care. Ms. Heenan responded that hospital would like to tackle the issue of uninsured patients. This is not tied to PILOT.
Councillor Maher spoke about MIT and zoning. The universities and the City Council have to get on the same page to invigorate Kendall Square. Improvements to the Harvard University campus doorway could be jump started through this committee. He urged looking at the Lesley University planning along Massachusetts Avenue and how it ties into a successful urban shopping area. Think about campuses and the city coming together.
Councillor Reeves proposed organizing a series of campus tours for the City Council, the administration and the residents. He suggested touring Harvard, MIT, Lesley, Cambridge College, and Longy School of Music. Mr. Kolenbrandor stated that he liked the idea of tours. Councillor Reeves added tours need to be mobile.
Councillor Reeves spoke about the importance in Harvard Square of connecting the campus to the city and businesses. In Central Square MIT has a large portfolio; with one half in Central Square. He spoke about MIT and Kendall Square. The campuses of Harvard and MIT are different. MIT developed a Harvard Yard like area near the Coke Center. The City Council was unaware of this development. MIT has had a lot of changes. Harvard University opened Wasserstein Hall.
Councillor Maher stated that a lot of Harvard and MIT campuses border Memorial Drive. Sidewalks in this area are deplorable; the City has contacted the state to repair the sidewalks. Could the universities approach the state about the condition of the sidewalks? He stated his concern about the poor lighting on Memorial Drive and the possibility of an accident occurring.
Councillor Cheung spoke about the use of bikes by students. He suggested bike education. He also spoke about keeping more students in Massachusetts after graduating. MIT has a program to do this. He suggested a basic civic session about what makes Cambridge special. Councillor Reeves stated that in his generation Harvard University students never left Harvard Square. MIT students went to Beacon Street, but did not go to Central Square. Harvard University, MIT, Lesley University and Cambridge College needs to acclimate students to the bike culture. Ms. Gallop informed the committee that MIT has worked with the TROMP Program. MIT also has a staff person who works on bike issues. Bike safety brochures are distributed to students. Relating to the green property behind the Coke Center she stated that no building will be built until 2030. North Court is underutilized by the public and MIT hopes to change this in the Kendall Square process.
Councillor vanBeuzekom wondered where all the students will be housed. Mr. Lee stated that Cambridge College does not have dorms. Students live in the area. Cambridge College has buildings in the community.
Councillor Reeves stated that President Hockfield was on a video and gave a lot of information about MIT. It had great information. The City Council was unaware of the information. This committee should work to ease the ignorance gap between the universities and the City Council.
Mr. Parravano stated that the universities can make a contribution to the city in the area of education. He spoke of the benefits of science and how science teachers are trained. On MIT City Days freshmen are brought to community events. MIT and Harvard work together to put the Science Festival together. Think about a high school science fair at MIT. Then students can apply to MIT. Councillor Reeves commented that in the past there has been a partnership between the City, the universities and the schools. He mentioned Lady GAGA's No Bullying Campaign and the number to tweets it received. How could more Cambridge kids get to attend events such as this one? Ms. Heenan stated that there were more Cambridge public students at this event than faculty.
A Boston Consultant Group did a study previously on Kendall Square. Its conclusion was that Kendall Square is the most innovative square mile in the universe. Cambridge could consider have a festival similar to South by Southwest. This is a 20 year old festival. He suggested Harvard and MIT having an academic festival/gathering where big thinkers from all universities are highlighted and brought together for a South by Southwest type venue. Mr. Kolenbrandor stated that last year MIT had a festival that lasted 150 days, FAS Festival (Festival, Art and Science). Councillor Cheung added that the intersection of music and science is an interesting concept. Mr. Parravano asked could it be a science festival with music.
All parties would be better served if there was an ongoing dialogue between the universities and the City stated Councillor Reeves. It would be good to understand the employment structure of the universities. The missions of the universities and the City are regrouping and changing.
In conclusion Councillor Reeves stated that the tours should be planned as soon as possible. There is a need to know more about factors that impact the city.
Councillor Reeves thanked all attendees. He adjourned the meeting at 4:10pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair
Committee Report #3
The University Relations Committee held a public meeting on Thurs, May 24, 2012 at 2:35pm in the Sullivan Chamber.
The purpose of the meeting was to review plans for visits to academic institutions by the Committee.
Present at the meeting were Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair of the Committee; Councillor vanBeuzekom; John Clifford; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, Community Development Department (CDD); and Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk.
Also present were Bill Doncaster, Director of Public Affairs, Lesley University; Phillip Page, Director of Partnerships, Cambridge College; Paul Parravano, Director, Government and Community Relations, MIT.
Councillor Reeves convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He stated that from the last meeting the committee decided that they would like to tour the universities and colleges in the City. The entire membership of the City Council would be invited on the tours.
In response to a comment made by Councillor Reeves regarding the location of the Cambridge College facilities Mr. Page stated that the School of Education and the School of Psychology and Counseling are located at 80 Prospect Street. The School of Management is located in Somerville.
Mr. Doncaster asked about the time frame for the tours. Councillor Reeves stated that his goal is to tour the various university campuses with the City Council, the City administration and community members. He questioned how would public be invited. We should know before the tour who will be attending. Mr. Clifford suggested inviting the neighborhood association chairs. Councillor Reeves expressed his concern with this suggestion. Mr. Rossi suggested invitees be a fair geographical representation of the City. Councillor Reeves stated that the elected officials represent the citizenry, but he understands neighborhood associations could add a perspective. Mr. Rossi further suggested that the invited persons be asked to RSVP. Put the invitation out and then try to get representatives from the areas in the City that are most impacted by the universities. It is important to explain that the City has requested the tour and will abide by the rules of the universities and institutions.
A discussion ensued about the issue of transportation and the best time of the year to conduct the tours. Mr. Rossi informed the committee that the city can provide a bus that will accommodate between 20-40 individuals. Councillor Reeves questioned if the summer is a good or bad time to conduct the tours of the physical campuses.
Mr. Rossi suggested a good time for the tours would be the week before summer school begins. Mr. Doncaster stated that summer is a better time for Lesley University. There is more opportunity to see more of the campus. Mr. Parravano commented that the time frame does not matter to MIT. MIT has no formal summer school. Mr. Page added that Cambridge College has flexibility.
Councillor Reeves suggested the tours begin with the Lesley campus. He asked Mr. Doncaster if tours are given now. Mr. Doncaster replied that tours are given now. Incoming student tours are given during the school year. The tours include the campuses and a tour of a dorm room.
Councillor vanBeuzekom asked why tours of the universities are being considered. Councillor Reeves stated that the universities are a major engine of the City. The last City Council term we learned that MIT has a mission. Over the decade of 1990 - 2000 Harvard University extended their square footage in Cambridge by 25%. He does not know if the elected officials are aware of this fact. It is important for policy making officials to be informed of the actions and policies of the universities and institutions and their growth and development. Lesley has taken over the campus of the former Episcopal Divinity School. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she would not want to tour a dorm room, but would like to go on a tour of the universities as they relate to the city. She stated that the Town/Gown reports are fabulous. Mr. Doncaster added that the Town/Gown Reports are specific for the information requested to be included in the report. Councillor vanBeuzekom commented that she wanted information to be included about the universities energy infrastructure and how they interact with the city/
Councillor Reeves asked Mr. Parravano if one was to visit MIT how long might it take. Mr. Parravano replied around a ½ a day. Walking tours given to students generally takes 1.5 hours. He felt more depth is wanted by CC for this tour. Facility could be available to discuss the architecture and what goes on in the buildings.
Councillor Reeves stated that all of the universities and institutions have a master planner to plans the campuses. This information would be helpful. The City does not know if Cambridge College has plans to expand. Mr. Page stated that the discussions at Cambridge College have been around the interior space and how the buildings are now used. Lesley University does a 3-5 year planning process stated Mr. Doncaster. MIT has a 2030 vision plan added Mr. Parravano.
Councillor Reeves asked Mr. Dash how is Community Development Department active in the campus development with the four universities. Mr. Dash stated that the Town/Gown Reports list the number of students attending the universities and their future projects and how the campus will evolve. His department has worked actively with Lesley on the plans for the Divinity School. He spoke about demystifying the campuses to let people know what the buildings house as well as students and facility interacting with the community. Mr. Parravano stated that MIT has activities, such as cultural fairs, arts and museums, that are open to the public, but has a hard time getting residents to come to these events.
Councillor Reeves spoke about the grandeur of the new Harvard University Law School building, Wasserstein Hall. Everything is deluxe and there is a roof garden. Mr. Rossi added that there are many little spaces building into the building for student clusters. This building needs to be on the tour.
Councillor Reeves commented that the institutional mission should be part of the understanding and long-term vision. The City would never know that MIT had a real estate portfolio where one-half of the land being located in Central Square. MIT owns 10% of commercial real estate in the City and if converted to nontax status that would drastically affect the City. PILOT agreements do not allow the universities to take property off of the tax rolls. The Pfizer Project was unknown to the elected officials and there was no community benefit because it was built as of right. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that it was a special project. He was unaware of the project.
Mr. Doncaster stated that he envisions the tour of the three Lesley campuses to take about 45 minutes. It is a walking and talking tour. There are 4 deans and a provost who may like to join the tour. Councillor Reeves suggested that tours of MIT and Harvard be conducted on Saturday with lunch provided. The lunch could include the vision. Mr. Parravano stated that Saturdays in the summer is a tough time. It may be better to view the campuses in real life.
Paul Saturdays in the summer is tough. He stated that it might be better to view campuses in real life. Councillor vanBeuzekom added that it depends on who is the audience. Mr. Dash thought it better to see the campuses during the school year. Councillor Reeves stated that there is not a week at Harvard that it is not in session. Mr. Parravano stated that the City leadership should be mindful of the traffic flow. The Common looks different on a Saturday. He suggested that the tours be held on a weekend and a weekday. Councillor Reeves stated that a one day tour of Harvard, MIT and Lesley makes sense. Mr. Page added that a daytime tour of Cambridge College would not get the activity. During the daytime the space is leased, but the lease has expired.
Councillor Reeves asked if the MIT courtyard was planned. This could be a buildable lot and he was told that this will remain the commons for a long time. The City needs to understand what the campus is planning. Maybe it is the City who is the impediment for the MIT property in Kendall Square which is a historical building. Mr. Dash informed the committee that MIT has engaged CDD and the community. MIT has a zoning proposal. New buildings are still being planned. Councillor Reeves stated that on the tour questions could be asked such as where the key new buildings are over the last five years, what are MIT's plans for the future and what are the challenges. The City has a duty to plan Kendall Square as a place.
Mr. Clifford asked if the tours by the City Council and the City officials should be broken up into key sections. Mr. Doncaster suggested an agenda be prepared for the tours. Mr. Rossi suggested that the first tour should be a tour of Lesley and Cambridge College for 1.5 hours. The next tour should be for MIT and Harvard. This would give options for people who want to see specific things. Mr. Parravano expressed his concern about a big chunk of time. It was also suggested that the timing of tours could be 9:00 to noon, break for lunch, then afternoon 2:00 - 5:00. The following day the tour could be 9:00 - 11:30am. Councillor Reeves suggested the tours occur on Friday and Saturday. Mr. Rossi commented that you will lose people on a Saturday tour. Mr. Doncaster also stated that it is difficult to line up key people. Mr. Rossi suggested Thursday and Friday. Councillor Reeves suggested that two tours occur in the summer and two in the fall. Mr. Parravano stated that he wanted to hear what the City Council wishes to see at MIT. Mr. Clifford informed the committee that Tom Lucey would set up a tour of Harvard.
Councillor Reeves stated that a letter could be sent from the Mayor requesting the possibility of visiting the university campuses to understand the overall presence and mission of the schools.
Councillor Reeves asked Mr. Parravano if the new president of MIT, Mr. Reif, will embrace MIT's 2030 plan as his plan. Mr. Parravano explained that the new president will take office on July 2, 2012. It is too early to say how the new president will proceed. MIT's 2030 plan has been presented to the Planning Board.
In conclusion the criteria for the tours were outlined as follows:
Establish a draft tour schedule;
Invite the City Council;
Better define who should be invited;
Provide lunch;
Outline specific sites that should be included on the tour
Councillor Reeves thanked those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at 3:45pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Kenneth Reeves, Chair
Committee Report #4
The University Relations Committee conducted a public meeting on July 16, 2012 at 1:25pm in the Sullivan Chamber. The meeting convened in the Sullivan Chamber and proceeded to the Innovation Center.
The purpose of the meeting is to tour the Innovation Center in the Seaport District of South Boston. The tour was given by Collier Realty and will take 1 - 1.5 hours.
Present at the meeting were Councillors Reeves, Cheung, Kelley, vanBeuzekom; Matt Nelson, Chief of Staff for Mayor Davis; Jason Alves; Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager; Susan Glazer, Deputy Director, Community Development Department (CCD); Pardis Saffari, Project Planner, CCD; and Donna P. Lopez, Interim City Clerk.
Also present were Michael J. McElaney, Vice President Colliers International; Timothy W. Lahey, Associate, Boston Brokerage, Colliers International, 100 Federal Street, Boston, MA 02110; and Thomas N. O'Brien, Founding Partner, Managing Director, HYM Investment Group, LLC, One Congress Street, Boston, MA 02114. Mr. O'Brien was the former Director of the Boston Redevelopment Authority (BRA). Mr. O'Brien conducted the tour of the Boston Innovation Center in his capacity as the former director of the BRA.
Councillor Reeves convened the meeting and stated the purpose. He wanted to see if the Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) and the Boston Innovation Center (BIC) are competitive as well as their proximity to the universities. We will remain in the meeting until the meeting is adjourned. Colliers Realty was recommended to conduct the tour. The Vice President and property manager for Colliers will be met. There is an optional luncheon. The purpose of the luncheon will be to ask questions of the realtor. Tom O'Brien of HYM and former Boston Redevelopment Authority Director was asked to come to answer questions on the BIC district. This committee has plans in the future to tour each of the campuses of the universities. Councillor Reeves requested the clerk to schedule with Lesley a date for the tour of their campus. Harvard is redoing the campus over the tunnel. Mr. Rossi stated that this is the tunnel project. City is doing the utility work and it is causing Harvard to redo the top of the tunnel. The bike and pedestrian paths will be better organized. Councillor Reeves stated that MIT has created a yard behind the Koch building.
Councillor Kelley stated that the Innovation District is thrown out as an option to Cambridge and it is difficult to understand. He has friends and colleagues moving to South Boston because there is no room in the City of Cambridge. BIC has many surface parking lots and the waterfront, but the BIC does not have Harvard and MIT. Mr. Rossi also commented that the BIC also has a huge daily traffic jam.
Councillor Reeves stated that Councillor Kelley suggested going to BIC district. He used a hypothetical scenario and these scenarios will be reviewed.
Susan Glazer, Deputy Director, Community Development Department, stated one thing needs to be thought about is the dense scientific populations in Kendall and Harvard Squares. Innovation exists and we need to continue to building on what we already have. Diversity and cultural aspects also add to the package. Mr. Rossi stated that the City discusses with companies the commercial stability of taxes as well as residential taxes, the walk ability of the City and the open space opportunities. Ms. Glazer stated that open spaces in East Cambridge will be looked at by CDD in terms of the whole Kendall Square area. Rental costs are coming into equilibrium. Councillor Reeves commented that architects are seeing opportunities in the Seaport District. Boston's downtown district has died and property as been purchased by universities and turned into residential units. Boston Common has been renovated in the Frog Pond area. He spoke about Locke Ober's and the fact that law firms migrated to the Prudential and Seaport District. Old patterns are shifting. It is not clear if there is a district in BIC or in the Brighton Allston area.
Councillor Kelley spoke about the walking distance to the BIC or CIC on a hot day. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that busses and shuttles will be set up by the biotech and/or other companies.
Councillor Reeves commented that Microsoft made a NERD center. He is convinced that the policy makers need to understand the decision making. There was a lot of incentive for the BIC. Mr. Nelson stated that the companies located at the Seaport are Boston companies. Moving to South Boston was politically tricky. Jobs were brokered for South Boston residents with the development. Mr. Rossi stated that working in Seaport District the options are high end restaurants; Cambridge is different.
Councillor Reeves commented that today we will see what is in the BIC. Density is a real concept. Councillor Kelley added that Summer Street has places to eat that are not high end. More restaurants are needed and encouraged to come into the area to service the convention center. The tours of Harvard University include Cambridge, Allston and the medical area. Councillor vanBeuzekom commented that food is not what scientists crave - it is intellectual stimulation. Councillor Reeves stated that there are other ingredients we fail to think of. Councillor vanBeuzekom commented that it is about what can be controlled by the city - traffic congestion etc. Ms. Glazer added that workers on the upper floors need places on the street level for after hours. She stressed the importance of increased retail that serves workers and residents and places where people can gather.
Councillor Reeves spoke about MIT graduate students who make Kendall Square work.
At 2:05 the meeting recessed to proceed to the tour of the BIC.
The participants of the tour were transported by van to the BIC. The tour was narrated by Mr. O'Brien. Below are the discussions from the tour.
Councillor Reeves asked if there are comparative ingredients and the competitiveness between the Cambridge Innovation Center (CIC) and the Boston Innovation Center (BIC). Mr. McElaney stated that the feedback received from his clients is that the Seaport District (SD) is the future for Boston with more restaurants and retail. The residential housing in the SD is new, high end and expensive, however there is affordable housing. Councillor Cheung spoke about the issue of financing for innovative housing.
Councillor Reeves asked how long evolution has to take. There was a discussion about how old some of the buildings are. Mr. O'Brien explained that there were infrastructure improvements which included access to the redeveloped highway. The Silver line bus route was created and connected the Redline to the SD. With the infrastructure in place the owners of Fidelity acquired the World Trade Center and converted the space to office space and the Convention Center. The SD and two office buildings were developed. Law firms moved to the SD. The BRA drove the plans for establishment of the roads and park systems. Vertex signed a lease to be on Fan Pier. This is the largest private project in the US. Vertex will move into the space in 2015 and will bring 1,000 employees. Another lease has been signed for an annex building. Vertex will eliminate its space in Cambridge. Councillor Kelley asked where the housing will be located. The housing will be at Fan Pier near the court house responded Mr. O'Brien. The site is expensive because of the density and the parking is underground. The building is 210 feet tall and tappers down to the water. A new convention center was planned with input from South Boston residents including the artist community, young professionals and families. Councillor Kelley asked if the housing is planned for the demographics. Mr. O'Brien responded that the housing includes mixed units including studio, 1, 2, and 3 bedroom units. There are opportunities for families. North and West end families are requesting downtown area schools. Mr. McElaney informed the committee that there are 4,000 units of housing planned for the SD. Councillor Kelley inquired what you get for this area other than the view and the breeze. Mr. O'Brien stated that the Harborwalk will connect all the buildings. A new bridge will connect Northpoint Park to Charlestown. The Mayor's focus on the area is for innovation. Councillor Cheung stated that Mayor Menino lured people to Boston with the Mass Challenge which gave free desk space and a view. Mr. O'Brien commented that entrepreneurs want to be close to the MIT campus or near the Redline for transportation to MIT. The SD is four stops on the Redline. Councillor Reeves asked if Kendall Square has become Boston. When people talk about the region it is referred to as Boston. Councillor Reeves spoke about the potential of a ghost town for the SD in inclement weather. Mr. McElaney stated that a marina is planned for the site and there will be water taxis.
Councillor Reeves inquired of the status of Anthony's Pier 4 site. Mr. O'Brien stated that a high-rise residential project is planned, which is very expensive. There will be underground parking with two small office buildings in front with restaurants. The green spaces are permanent public accessible space in perpetuity. Councillor Reeves asked why Anthony's Pier 4 was not declared historic. Mr. O'Brien stated that Anthony's owned all the land and entered a partnership agreement to develop the entire site. The partnership was destroyed. The land was taken by Congressman Moakley by eminent domain for the federal court house. Overtime there was no effort to landmark the building because it was going to be built upon.
Mr. McElaney stated that the BIC consists of a one floor, standalone building providing mixed innovation space. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she hoped the building would be built so that if needed a second story could be added. Mr. O'Brien stated that the 15,000 square feet IC is a large enough space for entrepreneurs to meet and to interact with WIFI. Councillor Reeves commented that the IC looks like a visitor's center.
Mr. O'Brien stated that no fish is off-loaded at the fish pier. It is owned by Massport with a collective and a long term lease. Liberty Wharf opened fifteen months ago and if the most popular destination point. Councillor Kelley asked how people get here. Mr. O'Brien replied walk or drive. The Marine Industrial Park will remain an industrial park.
Councillor Kelley inquired about Fort Point Channel. Mr. O'Brien stated that the site is historical. The Post Office parking lot will remain. Mr. McElaney stated that Fort Point Channel is a ten floor brick and beam building.
Councillor Reeves asked who the typical tenants are. Mr. O'Brien stated that small business owners who can pay the rent are the typical tenants. Life sciences are looking at the SD. The key factor is the cost.
Mr. Nelson commented that the Convention Center is losing money because of the lack of hotel space. Artists are moving out because it is too pricey added Mr. O'Brien. Mr. McElaney stated that the Fort Port Channel has artist space.
Councillor Reeves asked where the walking, parks and tree connections are. Councillor Cheung asked what the boundaries of the IC are.
Mr. O'Brien replied the boundaries are South Station to Chinatown. A discussion arose about the logistics to get to the BIC. Councillor Cheung commented that the Harvard University Innovation Lab is being utilized by entrepreneurs who bike there. Councillor Reeves added that Quincy has two transit stops; Cambridge has five. The connection to biotech is the Redline. Councillor Kelley stated that he did not realize how accessible people think this area is. Mr. O'Brien agreed public transportation is not the greatest, but there are two bus lines. The area can be accessed by car.
Councillor Kelley asked if the Innovation District (ID) is focused on biotech or all users. Mr. McElaney stated that Mayor Menino stated that the ID was developed to create innovation across the district. Councillor Reeves asked if there is any pressure felt from NY emerging into biotech. Mr. McElaney replied there is no pressure felt yet. More pressure is felt from Silicon Valley. Mr. O'Brien commented that innovation exists in Greenwich Village in NY.
Mr. O'Brien explained that Harvard University will restart construction and build residential buildings from Barry's Corner at the Allston campus. The existing housing will be demolished and a new building will be built. Harvard University is restarting its permitted projects. Harvard University is trying to get life science companies to come to their campus. Councillor Reeves commented on the internal confusion with development at Harvard University.
Councillor Reeves asked to what extend do biotech companies look at the political decision making process. Mr. O'Brien stated that most biotech companies are having internal conversations about why not come to Massachusetts. If companies want to come to Massachusetts the path needs to be clear. Councillor Reeves stated that Cambridge became the cluster it is due to the predictability. He spoke of former Mayor Alfred E. Vellucci who suggested adoption of the National Institute of Health (NIH) standards for animal research that was adopted by the Cambridge City Council. It has been suggested that Cambridge should stop everything because too much is happening - what would this do. Mr. McElaney replied that the option for big companies may only be new development. Councillor Kelley asked what the advantage is if companies leave or come to Massachusetts. Mr. O'Brien stated that an economic model would need to be prepared on this. Councillor Kelley added that density needs to be maintained if you want to keep business.
Councillor vanBeuzekom spoke about long term planning. Mr. O'Brien commented that the first meeting on the development of the SD took place in 1993. He spoke about the high costs and the difficulty finding financing to build. The most important long term investment is to get the MBTA right. Councillor Kelley asked if non-residential purpose buildings are being built. Mr. O'Brien stated that life science buildings are built for a specific use and are very expensive to build.
Councillor Reeves asked what will keep new young people in this area. Mr. O'Brien listed the negatives as the T not staying open late and the bars not being able to stay open later in the evenings. Councillor Cheung added that young people want to live in live, active communities and Cambridge is not there yet. He spoke about the attraction to Seattle and NY for density and cultural variety what is created organically. Boston cannot have warehouse parties like those held in Seattle and NY. Mr. O'Brien spoke about the effort of Mayor Blumberg in NY creating an innovation campus. He thinks NY will take off. He stated that Union Square in NY on Saturdays is awesome. Councillor Kelley cautioned that Cambridge should not compete with other areas. Councillor Cheung asked what is the product offering and the branding. Councillor Kelley stated his concern about mobile demographics. Councillor Cheung felt that housing should be provided for students, married couples, families and retirees. Councillor Kelley stated that it is not smart for Cambridge to compete with Boston and NY. Councillor Reeves commented that if the region is competitive so are the cities. Councillor Kelley stated that the issue is how high up do you build housing. Mr. O'Brien informed the committee that in Boston the BRA is the planning board and must approve development.
Councillor Cheung stated that if the Seaport is a district why the City isn't doing something similar for Alewife. Councillor Kelley responded that there are many different land owners in Alewife and a lot is going on in Alewife. Mr. O'Brien commented on Alewife. There are no pathway connections and the paths need to be cleaned. The Route 2 bridge is in poor shape. Also if you get off the T at Alewife it is not an easy walk to "Faces".
Councillor Reeves asked if there is any inquiry from companies about the Somerville area. Mr. McElaney replied that if a company is looking for a large area they will go to the SD. Very few ask about Somerville. Mr. O'Brien added that young entrepreneurs are looking to live in Somerville because it has great T access, cheap rents and great restaurants.
Councillor Reeves thanked all those present for their attendance.
The meeting adjourned at 5:35pm on motion of Councillor Kelley.
For the Committee,
Councillor Kenneth E. Reeves, Chair
Committee Report #5
ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
MEETING PURPOSE - To conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code by adding a new Chapter 8.68 entitled "Concussion Prevention and Management in Youth Activities at City Facilities;" (ATTACHMENT A).
MEETING DETAILS
Date and Time: Nov 22, 2013 at 9:49am.
Location: Sullivan Chamber
ATTENDEES
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair; Councillor Leland Cheung; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Paul Ryder, Recreation Director; Robert Goodwin, Youth Program Manager, Department of Human Services (DHSP); Claude Jacobs, Chief Public Health Officer, Cambridge Health Alliance; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk
OTHER ATTENDEES
Jim Coleman, 106 Trowbridge Street; Tom Arria, Youth Director, CRLS, 459 Broadway; Evan Davis, 230 Second Avenue, Waltham; Barbara Meade , School Nurse Manager, Cambridge School Department; Donald Down, 187 Otis Street; Scott Slater, 10 Bigelow Street; Kara Brown, 38 Clay Street; and Don Kaiser.
MINUTES
Councillor Maher opened the meeting and read the call of the meeting. He requested the Director of Recreation to make a presentation about the proposed ordinance.
Mr. Ryder explained what is currently being done and the changes in the proposed ordinance. Last year the Department of Human Services Programs (DHSP) began concussion training for youth coaches. In February 2012 a sports concussion clinic was held at the West Cambridge Youth Center that was conducted and organized by the Boston Children's Hospital Division of Sports Medicine. Representatives attending were from the Little League, Girls Softball and Cambridge Babe Ruth. There were 40 participates that attend the training. In addition, he stated that, many of the DHSP programs have mandatory concussion training that the coaches go through. Youth Hockey, Pop Warner and Youth Soccer must undergo concussion training, on line. When completed the participants receive a certificate that they have taken and passed the training and that there is an awareness of the need for observation for concussion. The ordinance states that in order to get a permit from the City for a youth program the applicant must have participated in the training. He stated his support as well as the support of the youth groups.
Councillor Maher asked which groups are currently taking the concussion training and which groups need to take the training. Mr. Ryder responded that the training is mandatory for Pop Warner, Youth Soccer and Youth Hockey. Currently the training is not mandatory for Little League, Babe Ruth and Girls' Softball which are local organizations. Concussion training for these organizations will be mandatory with this ordinance. Mr. Ryder stated that the on-line training is free. A trainer is brought in as part of the youth sports commission training and is part of the mentoring, coaching and concussion training covered by the Recreation Division. The training is offered to Little League, softball coaches, parents and players. He stated that in addition CRLS will be part of the ordinance and this will be mandatory training for all their coaches.
Councillor Toomey raised the issue of liability for volunteer coaches and asked if the issue has been explored. He stated that at the State House a bill was passed to protect off duty police and fire from liability if they respond to an emergency situation while not on duty. Mr. Ryder stated that he did not know the answer to this question. The ordinance will be administered by the Public Health Officer. Mr. Jacobs stated that he also did not know the answer to this question. Councillor Toomey stated that he wanted the issue of liability referred to the Public Health Department and to the Law Department. At this time he made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to report back to the City Council on the liability issue for volunteer coaches.
The motion carried on a voice vote of five.
Councillor Cheung spoke about the increased concussions that are occurring with sports and the debilitating conditions experienced by the players. He spoke about youth sports that have experienced concussions. He does not want this to be a life altering situation for kids. It is important for the city to do this training and educate on how to prevent the concussions.
Mayor Davis stated that the first thing to be done is prevention. What is being done preventively? There are safety issues with football and soccer. This makes us think about sport safety and how to keep kids safe doing what they want to do. She asked what is being done in the schools and the Recreation Department to keep kids safe. She has not wanted to have metal bats being used in baseball because they are more dangerous. Is there any aspect of this type of prevention being done? Mr. Ryder stated that hockey, soccer and football are the most reported concussions injuries and these sports have mandatory training. We need to have the training in baseball where just as much concussions can occur. This ordinance is an opportunity to do this advanced training. Children's Hospital did a 2 hour training last year and participants walked away with a better understanding of what to look for. The last thing the volunteers want to see is the children hurt. Mayor Davis asked about the metal bats. Mr. Ryder stated that the city does not govern the equipment the leagues use. Mayor Davis commented that we want to start with awareness, prevention and education. This needs to be a culture of safety. In girls soccer it is about knee injuries which could result in a lifetime injury. She spoke about the need for best practices. She asked if the Public Health weigh in on this issue. Mr. Jacobs stated that at the CDC there are best practices that could be adopted. The Public Health is looking at different practices. The nurses work with the schools. The Public Health can look at having a safety campaign for sports. It is about promoting safe play including such things as mouth guards. Mayor Davis suggested that the Healthy Children's Task Force should look at safety issues for children; that is one of their priorities.
Councillor Kelley stated that the issues of safety and prevention go even further than team sports to include bicycling. The ordinance focuses on the city owned facility. What do we think about things that we have no authority over such as sailing? Mr. Arria stated that the sailing coach must go through concussion training. Mr. Ryder stated that it is mandatory for high school coaches to take this training. Councillor Kelley commented that the School Department state that these things must happen. This ordinance only covers only city activities and on city property. What happens if Cambridge Youth Soccer plays outside the City the ordinance no longer is valid. He wants to revisit school and league policies. If we want to have a broad policy the ordinance is narrowly focused and does not address all sports, concussion and child safety issues.
Councillor Cheung stated that he views the ordinance as the first step. NFL has a strict policy on the number of days a player can participate in full contact practices. In the ordinance the youth coach must participate in on-line training and may participate in live training programs. Mr. Ryder stated that he gets more out of live training and at a minimum the on-line training must be done. He is a supporter of live training. Councillor Cheung stated that the ordinance can be changed to add a line that it be mandatory for coaches to do live training. Mr. Ryder stated that DHSP will get youth league volunteer coaches to these training; it is not necessary to have this in the ordinance.
Councillor Cheung questioned the coverage issue and stated that the definition must be amended. He stated that in the ordinance the youth athletic programs are independent programs not operated by the City are these covered separately and if not what is the reason they are not covered. Mr. Ryder stated that he did not know the answer to this.
At this time Councillor Cheung made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested instruct the City Solicitor to report back to the City Council on the definition of and "youth athletic program" to encompass city run programs and further to grant authority in 8.68.030 to the Chief Public Health Officer the ability to require in-person training, if deemed necessary.
The motion carried on a voice vote of five.
Mayor Davis questioned whether this should be a municipal ordinance or a public health regulation. Mr. Jacobs explained that there are two tools by which the public health can do enforcement. They are the ordinances and the public health regulation. It is up to the City Council as to how it wanted this done. Administrative protocols allow the Health Department to enforce city ordinances. Mayor Davis commented that the Public Health Department would look at the ordinance proposal to make sure it was appropriate to track from a public health perspective. As a best practice it may be better to be done by the public health. As a best practice model this should be referred to public health to draft a regulation versus City Council action.
Councillor Cheung stated that this is not political and not just about public health. Concussions can impact kid's entire life. The ordinance as crafted gives the power to regulate explicitly to public health. The public health has the authority to promulgate regulations. It is good for parents if their children play a sport on city fields it is good to have assurances that there is a protection for the safety of children. This stated that if a minor suffers a concussion the parent has to be notified. This should be codified in the municipal ordinance.
Mayor Davis asked public health to draft a regulation. As the City Council goes forward is it going to do the job of public health to draft an ordinance or let the public health do their job? She stated that if there was conversion to metal bat for a wooden bat, the City Council would have opposition to this. This is a perfect example of how this could be political versus it being a health issue. Councillor Cheung stated that he asked the Public Health Department and the Recreation Department for a regulation and this is what came back to the City Council.
Councillor Toomey asked about the permitting requirements. If a non-profit group rented out a gym or a teen center would they have to go through the training? Mr. Ryder stated for his coaches the training is mandatory. He spoke about the training. The on-line training has not changed in 4 years and it is important to have active training. Councillor Toomey asked what the liability issue is if a concussion occurs 2 days after occurrence and if it goes undetected. Mr. Ryder stated that the rule is when in doubt pull a child out of game. Councillor Toomey stated his concern when lawyers get involved it is a different story. He is very concerned about this. He wants individuals protected and a volunteer may be liable. He supports this but asks if the city will assume the liability.
Councillor Maher stated that this is an important issue. Most youth teams carry insurance policy. He agreed with Councillor Toomey that the City Council needs clarification on this issue. Councillor Toomey stated that these insurance policies will likely increase with this ordinance.
Councillor Maher opened public comment at 10:25am.
Tom Arria, Youth Director CRLS, stated that high school athletics has changed in the last 20 years. There are waivers for risk and liability. Training can only help. Students also have to do the training. All are seeing education on concussions. Always be overly cautious is the standard rule. Some of the signs to look for a concussion are slow reaction and student disoriented. Parents sign waivers for children to participate in sports.
Councillor Toomey commented that the little league does not have a professional trainer at the games. ALL the volunteer coaches need to be covered by the City.
Kara Brown stated that at the high school she recommends that the coaches check in with their athletes. Students and parents can recognize the symptoms of a concussion. Education is the biggest prevention methods.
Barbara Meade, school nurse manager at the Cambridge Public School stated her support
of the ordinance. She stated her major concern is when a student is taken out of play due to a suspected head injury. This needs to be communicated from the parent or coach to the school about the injury. She stated that the head injury could affect the students learning. Mayor Davis asked if Ms. Meade had any language she could recommend about notification to the academic community. Ms. Meade stated that she would have to review this because it affects not just the school but other communities and the school nurses. At this time Mayor Davis submitted the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to instruct the City Solicitor to develop language prior to ordination that would require notification to the school if an athlete has been injured.
The motion carried on a voice vote of five members.
Donald Down stated that he would like awareness and education training for his coaches. Liability issue is to be determined. Education is needed for the baseball coaches. Mr. Ryder stated that DHSP supports education and liability issue needs to be addressed. Training of coaches will occur.
Don Kaiser, President, North Cambridge Little League, 22 Seagrave Road, stated that all leagues are insured and there are waivers. He is a lawyer and operates as if the waivers are not effective. He stated that Mr. Ryder has asked coaches to act as if the ordinance were effective now. Players are taken out of game at the first sign of injury.
Councillor Kelley stated that the ordinance is a great idea, but that there are other activities that are dangerous; like biking without brakes and lights and we need to revisit other policies to keep all children safe.
Mayor Davis moved the matter be referred to the full City Council. The motion carried on a voice vote of five members.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Councillor Toomey the meeting adjourned at 10:39am.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Committee Report #6
ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
MEETING PURPOSE - To conduct a public hearing on a zoning petition filed by John Chun, et al requesting the City Council to amend the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge in the entire district currently zoned Residence B located in the Cambridge Highlands neighborhood, situated north of Concord Avenue, south of and adjacent to the Blair Pond Reservation, and east of and adjacent to the municipal boundary with the Town of Belmont by deleting the designation Residence B and substituting therefore a designation of Residence A-2.
MEETING DETAILS
Date and Time: Nov 22, 2013 at 10:52am
Location: Sullivan Chamber
ATTENDEES
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair; Councillor Leland Cheung; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Craig Kelley; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Jeff Roberts, Land Use and Zoning Project Planner, CDD; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.
OTHER ATTENDEES
John Chun, 48 Loomis Street; and Ann Tennis, 71 Griswold Street.
MINUTES
Councillor Maher opened the meeting and stated the purposed. The meeting is being televised and recorded by audio and visual devices.
Councillor Maher stated that he wanted to put this into perspective. This neighborhood borders Belmont off of Concord Avenue and is a small enclave near the Sancta Maria Hospital. Many homes were built in 1950's and 1960's. The neighborhood is primarily single and two family homes. Neighbors have expressed concern that the recent development of townhouses is the beginning of a phase that will ultimately change the overall character of the neighborhood. The neighbors came to him and CDD in October and this proposal was brought forward. Councillor Maher stated that he does not necessarily believe that A-2 is the correct outcome, but that it was put in place to give time to figure out the right way to address the issue in Cambridge Highlands. Some lots in Cambridge Highlands are larger than normal. A current lot that was for sale is just under 10,000 square feet, a single family home, and the residents are fearful that the house will be torn down and multiple townhouses built. The traffic pattern in this area is unique in that it is one-way in and one-way out for many of the streets. There is a fear that this will change the way the streets and lots are laid out.
Ann Tennis stated that Cambridge Highlands is a 7 street, residential neighborhood with a unique geographical location. It is a 250 multi-ethnic working-class neighborhood. The goal of the Cambridge Highlands Neighborhood Association is to preserve the old neighborhood character. Cambridge Highlands has always worked with developers. She spoke about all the new units built in this area. There are developers that do not care about the Cambridge Highlands. They build and then leave the neighborhood with buildings that do not fit our community. The neighborhood is not adverse to development, only to the townhouse type of development. She submitted a written statement (ATTACHMENT A).
John Chun stated that a petition was submitted to limit the future development of townhouses in Cambridge Highlands. Loomis Street had a house torn down and 4 condos built. There have been seven townhouses built at the end of Loomis Street. He believes that renters don't have the same regard for the neighborhood and for the neighborhood children. Increased traffic and speeding is an issue. The end of Loomis Street has been blocked. The developer opens the Jersey barrier at will. Commercial traffic is a constant battle. The petition wants to limit the development of multi-unit development.
Councillor Maher stated that the Planning Board heard this petition, but there has not been a report received. Mr. Roberts stated that the Planning Board heard the petition but did not issue a recommendation. The Planning Board wanted to look at townhouses without changing dimensional requirement and changing the zoning at the end of Loomis Street to resolve the issue.
Councillor Maher stated that this petition does not include industrial area at the end of Loomis. This is a residential area that abuts an Industrial zone. The barrier has disappeared and townhouses have been built. The traffic flow is not working. The industry issue will be looked at by the Planning Board and will address this to the City Council. He further stated that whatever the City can do to support this neighborhood would be good. The petition includes the whole neighborhood and it was not the intent to be overly restrictive. How can we stop the wavy of townhouse development in this area and respond to keep the character of the neighborhood as 1-2 family homes.
Councillor Maher made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the Community Development Department come back to the City Council with the concept of either limiting townhouse development in the neighborhood or create language for an overlay district for the larger lots at the end Loomis Street and the abutting street, Normandy Avenue.
The motion carried on a voice vote of five members.
Councillor Maher asked how long it would take to come back with language.
Mr. Roberts stated that the expectation is to have this back at the Planning Board in January and that CDD could provide something to the City Council in a shorter time frame.
Mayor Davis stated that she wanted to make sure that what is adopted is consistent with similar neighborhoods, if there are any, in the City. She wants to think about transition of multi-family neighborhood and the roadway issues. She wanted this to be done well.
Councillor Maher stated that there are two issues. The larger issue is this neighborhood abuts an industrial area. This needs to be looked at more closely, but it is not part of this petition. This petition is about an enclave that is characteristically different from most neighborhoods and how do we protect this neighborhood. The residents are afraid of seeing a series of teardowns and being replaced with townhouses and not the one and two family homes. This is not what the neighborhood wants.
Mayor Davis stated that she is concerned with the driving problem in a family neighborhood. Speeding needs to be looked at with police and the traffic and parking. Councillor Maher stated that the Planning Board is taking this aspect seriously. Mr. Dash stated that there are other neighborhoods that have been looked at that are different.
Councillor Cheung stated that is concerned to move this before the report from the Planning Board is received.
Ms. Tennis stated that she has contacted the Traffic and Parking Department and stated that the street is posted as 30 MPH. The first stop sign and crosswalk has just been installed in the neighborhood. She stated that she would meet with City Councillors and walk through the neighborhood.
Councillor Maher stated that this neighborhood has been patient and has preceded through the proper city channels. Among the City department s who has worked with the neighborhood are Water, Law, CDD, Public works and the Traffic Departments. There are 20 large lots that if developed could change the character of the neighborhood. In a Residential B District, this is a tough area to navigate. He does not want to solve the large issue. Mayor Davis stated that this has been advertised so the neighborhood is protected, anyone who buys does this at their own peril. A permanent protect is coming.
Councillor Maher stated his desire act on the petition in a reasonable timeframe as the pending petition it will restrict property owners who wanted to make minor alterations to their homes while the petition is under consideration.
Mayor Davis moved that the petition be forwarded to the City Council without recommendation and that the subject matter remain in committee. The motion carried on a voice vote of five members.
Councillor Maher commented that there may be a fairly simple fix to the language in the petition that will protect the neighborhood.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Councillor Toomey the meeting adjourned at 11:25am.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Committee Report #7
ORDINANCE COMMITTEE
MEETING PURPOSE - The Ordinance Committee was scheduled to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to the Municipal Code in Chapter 8.28 relating to smoking in public parks.
MEETING DETAILS
Date and Time: Dec 4, 2013 at 4:00pm
Location: Sullivan Chamber
ATTENDEES
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Councillor Marjorie C. Decker; Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr.; Richard Rossi, City Manager; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Brian Murphy, Assistant City Manager for Community Development (CDD); Stuart Dash, Director of Community Planning, CDD; Claude-Alix Jacobs, Chief Public Health Officer, Cambridge Health Alliance; Sam Lipson, Director of Environment Health, Department of Public Health; Matt Nelson, Chief of Staff, Mayor's Office; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk.
OTHER ATTENDEES
Julie Hogan, 4 Liberty Square, Boston; Cheryl-Ann Pizza-Zeoli, 1221 Cambridge Street; Elie Yarden, 143 Pleasant Street; Elizabeth Tanefis, 95 Berkeley Street, Boston; Bill Cunningham, 6 Newtowne Court; Paul Neff, 18 Ware Street; Loretta Payre, 6 Woodrow Wilson Court; James Williamson, 1000 Jackson Place; Rachael Wood, 411 Franklin Street; and H. Fleishon, 100 Landsdowne Street.
MINUTES
Councillor Maher waited until 4:25pm to see if a quorum of committee members would be present. At 4:25pm he read the call of the meeting. He announced that only 4 members of the 9 member committee were present and as a result there failed to be a quorum to proceed with the hearing.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Councillor Decker the hearing adjourned at 4:32pm due to a lack of a quorum.
For the Committee,
Councillor David P. Maher, Chair
Committee Report #8
TRANSPORTATION, TRAFFIC AND PARKING COMMITTEE
MEETING PURPOSE - To discuss the Western Avenue Reconstruction project and its impact to Western Avenue between Green Street and Memorial Drive.
MEETING DETAILS
Date and Time: Oct 17, 2013 at 5:06pm.
Location: Sullivan Chamber
ATTENDEES
Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom, Chair; Councillor Craig Kelley; Mayor Henrietta Davis; Lisa Peterson, Deputy City Manager; Owen O'Riordan, Acting Public Works Commissioner; Kathy Watkins, Supervising Engineer, Public Works Department; Ed Mitigee, Project Manager, Public Works Department; Sue Clippinger, Director, Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department; Savitri Khalsa; and Donna P. Lopez, City Clerk
OTHER ATTENDEES
Justin Schreber and Amelia Najjar, Tufts University students; Allison Crump, 9 Kinnaird Street; Carolyn Shipley, 15 Laurel Street; Elizabeth Dupont, One Mildred Hamilton Place; Carolyn Frantz; and Susan Juretschke.
MINUTES
Councillor vanBeuzekom opened the meeting and stated the purpose. Vice Mayor Simmons send a letter stating that she was unable to attend the meeting (ATTACHMENT A). Councillor vanBeuzekom commented that she is holding this meeting because many residents raised concerns regarding the reconstruction of Western Avenue. A lot of individuals are feeling impatient with the progress to date and are concerned with the reconstruction. Many of these concerns were captured from communications sent to the City Council and compiled into a PowerPoint entitled Western Avenue Reconstruction Project (ATTACHMENT B). She reviewed the agenda for the meeting (ATTACHMENT C). Ms. Watkins gave an overview of the Western Avenue project. She noted that this project began with the main goal of updating the aging water/sewer pipes-so this was originally an infrastructure reconstruction. Additionally, bike and pedestrians facilities along the street were reviewed in conjunction with the Community Development Department. This project is to have a complete streets renovation of the Western Avenue connector. There will be a cycle track, trees will be planted and curb extensions will be added. The cycle track will be on the former street ways. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked how the side streets are affected by the cycle track. Ms. Watkins stated that at the intersections there are raised crosswalks, therefore the height of the street and the cycle track remain at the same level through intersections.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that there is an additional meeting today relating to Western Ave. The second meeting later in the evening is organized to discuss with the public the open space at Cronin Park which is one of the parks being renovated as part of the Western Ave reconstruction project. Ms. Watkins explained enhancements to Cronin Park. First, she noted that the area of the park will be increased. Second, she noted that there will be a conversation about the artwork that will be incorporated into the park. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked the length of the public process. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that it is about two years.
Councillor vanBeuzekom began reviewing information using the power point presentation Western Avenue Reconstruction Project. She stated that on a positive note, the timeline for this project shows that the reconstruction is half-way completed.
Ms. Watkins spoke about the utility work which has been completed. Gas and water mains are completed. There was a slide about utility work. Private utility companies have done utility work.
Mr. Mitigee, with the Kleinfelder Corporation, is the onsite construction manager on the Western Avenue Project. In conjunction with the city, he makes sure that all the teams that do the utility work and are from various companies are coordinated. As part of this project, old structures are first removed and then in sequence, new drains are installed, new sewers are installed, new water mains are installed, new gas lines are installed and then the sidewalk/roadways are put back in place. Some of the sidewalk/roadway repairs are temporary - with the more final version of the new streetscape being completed at a later date.
Weekly coordination meetings are held to discuss the various projects that are ongoing within the City. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that there are 9 different NSTAR gas contractor teams working at various locations within the city. The City has developed a relationship with these contractors.
Ms. Watkins noted that there are many independent contractors working on the Western Avenue Reconstruction project. On Western Avenue there are often 2-3 crews working on their individual portion of the project. Comcast and Verizon for example, are utility companies that have completed their work on Western Avenue.
NSTAR Gas has begun working on the Western Avenue project. To date, all utility work for Western Avenue, beginning at Memorial Drive and up to Putnam Avenue, and including the deep excavation roadway work is completed.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that the construction progress is posted on the City's project website and on billboards posted in the project area. Councillor vanBeuzekom also stated that anyone who travels down to the Memorial Drive end of Western Avenue can see how the newly constructed streetscape elements (i.e. the sidewalk and cycle track) are coming together.
There is still two more years of reconstruction work left for Western Avenue. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she believes that after a slow start, effective communication lessons between all project stakeholders have been learned. Ms. Watkins stated that the sidewalk work along the Memorial Ave. end of Western Ave will be completed shortly and when this work is done, all surface work will stop for the winter.
Councillor vanBeuzekom commented on the concerns raised by city residents. The concerns were categorized under the headings: Public Safety, Expectations Relating to Construction Site Management, Traffic Flow, Police Details, Public Health Impacts, and Bi-Directional Communication. Councillor vanBeuzekom reviewed together with everyone present each of these concerns, together with possible remedies to these concerns.
Public Safety
Sidewalk safety was a concern including crosswalk safety and speeding in the area. Ms. Shipley commented that there is no longer concern about crosswalk and speeding because now there is so much equipment on the street, that there are no crosswalks on the street.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated yield signs are still posted along Western Avenue. Ms. Dupont stated that she is dismayed with the City because of the construction. She noted that she works as a children's crosswalk aide. When she crosses the street with children, she notices that drivers are not paying attention.
Ms. Shipley stated that because of the construction the street does not exist, the cross streets are closed (Howard Street) because of the equipment. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked Ms. Watkins how long equipment and trench boxes will be on site. Ms. Watkins stated that there are five crews on Western Avenue over the winter and when crews go down to two crews the equipment will be removed. She also noted that the markings will be added next week.
Councillor vanBeuzekom asked if water repairs noted to be complete in November, 2013 and the sewer repairs noted to be complete in August, 2014 will be on schedule. Ms. Watkins responded that water and sewer repairs will be done by March, 2014 instead of the later date of August noted in the project timeline.
Ms. Elizabeth Dupont asked if today's meeting was advertised. Councillor vanBeuzekom said yes. The meeting is advertised publicly and 125 announcements were mailed to area residents.
Ms. Dupont then noted that she has not seen any women or a minorities working on the construction crew. She wondered why? Councillor vanBeuzekom indicated she would address this query later in the meeting.
Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that there was a further public safety concern pertaining to residents being blocked in their driveways by construction crews. Construction crews have been communicated to regarding this problem and arrangements have been made to alleviate this problem.
Ms. Shipley stated that she is excited to see the new sidewalks going in and noted that the landscaping is scheduled for July, which is the worst time to plant. Ms. Watkins responded that this is a good observation, indicating that she would review the dates for this part of the schedule.
Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that there has also been expressed a concern regarding no police detail in place during the early hours of the day. Ms. Watkins stated that police details are on site from 7a.m. - 4:00pm daily. She noted that Western Avenue is a priority location by the Police Department. Councillor vanBeuzekom felt that it makes more sense to have a police detail onsite during the rush hours. She suggested thinking about flag persons.
Ms. Shipley asked if in locations where sidewalks are filled in with blacktop asphalt, if these were temporary measures or not. Mr. Mitigee responded that these are temporary patches.
Construction Impacts on Abutters
CONSTRUCTION HOURS ARE REASONABLE (M – F, 7:00am to 4:00pm) Concerns have been expressed regarding the burden of nonstop work going on for those that live in the neighborhood. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked what the construction hours are. Ms. Watkins stated that this work is scheduled for 7am to 4pm Monday through Friday. She noted that from time to time when there was night work scheduled for utility work, this work has been moved to the daytime.
SOME NIGHT WORK WAS SCHEDULED TO MINIZE IMPACT & DURATION Councillor vanBeuzekom asked what the process is for work being completed outside of these scheduled hours. Ms. Watkins explained that the contractors are given approval from Public Works. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that for DCR property (i.e. Memorial Drive resurfacing) DCR approval is required. Approval for Sunday work is given by the Cambridge Police Department. Ms. Watkins stated that work outside the regular hours will not happen on Western Avenue unless it is an emergency.
MINIMIZE CONSTRUCTION VEHICLES/EQUIPMENT ON STREETS AFTER HOURS Councillor vanBeuzekom spoke about the concern that construction equipment is being left parked on the street indiscriminately. Ms. Watkins stated that this issue has changed. This is a significant impact for residents. Ms. Watkins stated that early on in the project, 24-hour "no parking" signs were placed for traffic management. There is a no parking zone along the construction site from 7am through 4pm on Mondays through Fridays.
REASONABLE ON-STREET PARKING AVAILABLE, HARVARD PARKING Mr. Mitigee stated that the posted placard lists the no parking times. Councillor vanBeuzekom suggested the use of temporary signs that can be flipped up and down. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan explained that the no parking posting must be completed twenty-four hours in advance so that the city may legally tow vehicles if it needs to. He noted that the placards are moved around as needed. Ms. Clippinger stated that the sign cannot be displayed off just for the time it is in effect. Ms. Shipley stated that temporary "no parking" signs she has observed are signs in plastic on an orange cone and are hard to read, because the shifting dates are marked with a marker.
FLAMMABLE CHEMICALS SECURED Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that citizens have expressed a concern regarding the onsite storage of flammable goods. Construction supervisors noted that flammable goods are not stored on site.
DUMPSTER FULL OF DEBRIS EMPTIED Dumpster which are overfilled was another stated resident concern. Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that all the dumpsters are being emptied regularly now. She asked if all dumpsters are licensed by the city. Deputy City Manager Lisa Peterson stated that this is the contractor's responsibility.
PORTABLE TOILETS SECURED WHEN NOT IN USE Another concern expressed by residents is that portable toilets be locked up when not in use. It was noted that the portable toilets are used by the contractors. Ms. Shipley stated that there is an odor from the portable toilets. Mr. Mitigee stated that there is a requirement to clean the toilets weekly.
STONE AND TAR PILES NOT LEFT IN FRONT OF HOMES
STREET SWEEPING CONTINUES ON SCHEDULE
Ms. Watkins stated that street sweeping is kept on schedule. It is important that street sweeping occurs. A t the Blackstone storage area the contractor is directed to take all the material off of Blackstone Street before the next street sweeping. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked when there are piles of debris, what does the street sweeper do and how is dust minimized? Ms. Watkins stated that the best that can be done is being done. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked if there is daily sweeping done. Mr. Mitigee stated that at the end of each shift the crew uses a power broom to clean their area. The large street sweeper was used during the summer, but it broke down.
DEBRIS, GRAVEL REMOVED FREQUENTLY Ms. Crumb asked about sidewalk. Signed crosswalks on the cycle track side she asked if this could be done on the other side of Kinnaird Street. She noted the sidewalk on Kinnaird street was torn up and the temporary sidewalk is bad. She is concerned that the temporary sidewalk will be forgotten. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that Kinnaird Street is in the 5 year plan. Ms. Crumb commented that this is not acceptable. She wanted the utility to restore the sidewalk to the original condition.
She spoke about rodent control. There are large rats and it is an ongoing problem. Ms. Watkins stated that the Western Avenue Project coordinates with the Inspectional Services Department and the contractor and bating. Ms. Crumb this has been going on for one year and it is constant. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked if this was communicated to the Inspectional Services Department. Ms. Crumb stated no. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that there is a sign rodent control for Western Avenue and there has not been a significant problem seen.
Public Health
DUST AS A HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN Councillor vanBeuzekom asked about the construction dust and its impacts for people with asthma and the use of calcium chloride used to minimize dust.
CARS IDLING, AN IMPACT ON AIR QUALITY Councillor vanBeuzekom also discussed the negative health impacts of excessive idling. Ms. Watkins stated that as they move away from Memorial Drive this is less of an issue. Ms. Watkins further stated that there are remains of a concrete sub base under Western Avenue which added to the noise and level of dust. Ms. Dupont spoke about the vibration from the construction.
EXCESSIVE NOISE AND VIBRATIONS Councillor vanBeuzekom asked if this vibration is from trench protectors. Mr. Mitigee stated that this is from the excavation part of the work. He noted that there are vibration monitors.
Ms. Dupont who lives on River Street noted that in her opinion her building is shifting because of the vibration and there is a leveling problem. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked how the City addresses claims for vibration. Ms. Watkins noted that pre-monitoring was done by the City for this project. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that on Western Avenue how many property owners took advantage of this.
Mr. Mitigee responded that most property owners on Western Avenue took advantage of this. There are 100 properties on Western Avenue of which 70-80 took advantage. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that Western Avenue and River Street are filled tilled land. Preconditions of buildings were considered. Problem areas are 100 feet from the excavation. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that it will be interesting to see if and how the 100 properties might be impacted by this construction.
Ms. Juretschke stated that the problem of cars idling has not been solved. There are major traffic jams on Western Avenue. Bus schedules are severely affected. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that the police do have discretion to let traffic flow against the signal, but we have moved away from Memorial Drive. Ms. Clippinger stated that this has been frustrating because there are two controls, the DCR and the City. This has not been a satisfying process for the City. The construction ease from Memorial Drive has helped. Ms. Juretschke stated that there was a state police at the site. Mr. Mitigee stated that the City was on Memorial Drive and it is a requirement to have a state police. There is less impact when moving away from Memorial Drive. Ms. Juretschke stated that the rats have spread out from Memorial Drive. Ms. Dupont asked if there a study about the effect on human body due to noise pollution, fumes and vibration. Councillor vanBeuzekom responded in the negative. Ms. Dupont stated that in her opinion someone needs to complete this study.
Traffic and Traffic Flow
MAJOR ARTERIES INTO WESTERN AVE ARE APPROPRIATELY REDIRECTED Side streets are being used during the construction. What is done to prevent this burden for the side streets? Is there a way to alert people? Ms. Watkins responded that virtual message boards were used. It was placed on River, Prospect and Main Streets, Putnam Avenue and Mt. Auburn Street. Memorial Drive has signs associated with Longfellow Bridge.
POLICE ENFORCE "NO BLOCK THE BOX" REGULATIONS
The Police have done targeted enforcement and on blocking the box. Councillor Kelley stated that he would be curious if fines were issued. This is unknown stated Ms. Watkins.
Bi-Directional Communication
Councillor vanBeuzekom noted that communication regarding this project has improved. She noted that the agenda shows all the ways individuals can stay informed. There is a city website with design plans and schedule announcements for the project. Individuals can also sign up for email alerts or check regularly with the project's twitter feed. There are now A-frame signs posted along the project site. Letters are mailed to residents and flyers have been left at homes impacted by the project.
Ms. Crumb said she felt well informed. Ms. Watkins spoke about the many ways that the city communicated regarding this project. A cook out was done on Western Avenue for people who wanted to talk about Western Avenue.
Ms. Crumbs stated that the design process part of this project was exemplary. Ms. Dupont stated that not everyone has e-mail. Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she liked the flyer taped to the door. She asked were notices put up on the Senior Center and the Post Office. Ms. Watkins asked how we can keep engaged with the community in the winter. Councillor vanBeuzekom suggested the Winter's Farmers Market. She asked how the block captains are working. Ms. Watkins stated that there has been renewed interest in this. There will be a meeting on Oct 23rd and one in November. She distributed a project update dated Oct 7, 2013 (ATTACHMENT D).
Ms. Juretschke stated that people driving through the area are not part of the neighborhood for these individuals she suggested a banner be posted showing what the completed project will look like along Western Avenue. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan commented that it is difficult to accommodate something so large because it will have to be taken down for construction. He felt the best advertisement for this project is the completed project. Councillor vanBeuzekom suggested that the Public Works website have pictures of the completed section. Informational and Emergency Contact numbers are listed on the last page of the ATTACHMENT B.
Councillor vanBeuzekom stated that she hoped that all in attendance found this an interesting experience.
Councillor Kelley asked how the city will proceed once this project is complete from allowing further construction in the form of utilities digging up and possibly patching pooling this newly created streetscape. Ms. Watkins stated that this project has taken longer because new utilities have been put in place. Hopefully this will be a strong factor in preventing the area from being dug up again. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that broken gas lines are the most frequent reason city streets are re-excavated.
Councillor Kelley asked about a five-year moratorium on roadways that have recently been repaved. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that there are instances where the area is excavated if there is an emergency, but in this case the contractor has to pave the road from curb to curb. If there is an emergency or a new development he cannot prevent this from occurring. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked if there is there a mechanism to monitor how well the street is restored once utility companies dig them up. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that if contractors do not appropriately repave--they will not again receive a permit from the City. The Department of Public Works does track this work.
Councillor vanBeuzekom asked how performance-based contracts are paid. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan stated that this falls under Chapter 39. Under this provision there is a sign off for completed work items and there is a 10% holdback of fees. Councillor vanBeuzekom asked if a 10% holdback was enough and whether there is enough field inspection. Mr. Mitigee is paid by the City as a contractor and is not an employee of the City. Acting Commissioner O'Riordan spoke about the role of the resident engineer being responsible for the project. The resident engineer advises the City about what remedies needs to be put in place. Mr. Mitigee would have the discretion to advise the contractor and this does not change the scope of the work.
Councillor vanBeuzekom made the following motion:
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to review the Western Avenue Reconstruction Project to ensure that the contractor is meeting the obligation of the City regarding employment of minorities and women working on this project.
The motion carried on a voice vote.
ADJOURNMENT
On motion of Councillor vanBeuzekom the meeting adjourned at 6:45pm.
For the Committee,
Councillor Minka vanBeuzekom, 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: See Mgr #1
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)
13-63. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on ensuring Cambridge homeowners and businesses are getting the most competitive flood insurance rates.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 11/25/13 (O-2)
13-64. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report on incorporating the use of the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission's Recycling Participation App to improve recycling rates in Cambridge.
Councillor vanBeuzekom 11/25/13 (O-6)
13-65. Report from the City Manager:
RE: report from the Senior Policy Group on Homelessness on progress in reaching the goals outlined in the ten year plan to end homelessness.
Councillor Cheung 11/25/13 (O-7)