CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $125,884 from the School General Fund Salary and Wages account to the School General Fund Travel and Training account and the transfer of $334,000 from the School General Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account to the School General Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account ($332,200) and to the School General Fund Travel and Training account ($1,800) as a result of a process to identify areas where the use of non-recurring expenditures, generated from estimated FY07 unexpended balances, would impact student achievement this year, and assist schools in achieving Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) goals the next cycle.

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $68,000 from the School General Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account to the School General Fund Extraordinary Expenditures account to cover the cost of two unanticipated facilities projects.

3. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of Grant from the Governor’s Highway Safety Bureau in the amount of $25,000 to the Grant Fund Police Department Salary and Wages account to be used to support the enforcement of the "Click It or Ticket", "You Drink & Drive You Lose", "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit. Under Arrest" and "Road Respect" campaigns.

4. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-188, regarding a report on cuts in funding for winter beds for the homeless.

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item 06-204, regarding a report on resources available to those in need of heating assistance.

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-190, regarding a report on a study to incorporate and construct an underpass from the current Lechmere Station to the proposed location for the new Lechmere Station. CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY VICE MAYOR TOOMEY

7. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-205, regarding safety issues in the area of Elm and Davenport Streets.

8. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-189, regarding a report on stolen parking meters in the East Cambridge area.

9. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-182 and Awaiting Report Item Number 06-180, regarding a report on the current structure of the staffing levels in the Police Department including special units and on requiring a minimum of thirty foot patrols.

City Manager Letter
December 18, 2006
To the Honorable, the City Council:

In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-182 and Awaiting Report Item Number 06-180, regarding a report on the current structure of the staffing levels in the Police Department including special units and on requiring a minimum of thirty foot patrols, please find attached a report from Police Commissioner Ronnie Watson.

The financial impact of this proposed additional staffing will need thorough analysis during my Department Budget deliberations, as to it's overall impact on the tax rate.

Very truly yours,
Robert W. Healy, City Manager

10. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-186, regarding a report on costs of police traffic details and traffic management plans associated with the Walden Street bridge closure.

11. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-176, regarding a report on excessive speeding during school hours, poor signage and poorly timed lights at the intersection of Mt. Auburn Street and Fresh Pond Parkway.

12. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as Constable for a term of three years, effective the first day of January, 2007: Leanders Smith (With Power); Kevin Rhodes (Without Power); Vinroy Paul (Without Power); Jose A. Ayala (Without Power)

13. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-193, regarding a report on removing Grand Theft Auto advertisements from MBTA transportation.

14. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-196, regarding a report on pedestrian/vehicle conflicts at the intersection of Massachusetts at Rindge Avenues and Massachusetts Ave. and Brookline Street.

15. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-159, regarding a report on training of police personnel to understand the legal issues involved with private and Housing Authority properties.

16. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the transfer of $19,750 from General Fund Employee Benefits (salary adjustment) Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Mayor Travel and Training account to cover additional travel expenses related to the Congressional Black Caucus Conference, National Association of Black School Educators, U.S. Conference of Black Mayors, Gay and Lesbian Elected Officials Conference and visits to School Districts to observe closing the achievement gap initiatives. ORDER ADOPTED ROLL CALL 9-0-0.
[Note: Not even one councillor pulled this item to ask questions about the details. One hand washes the other.]

City Manager Letter
December 18, 2006
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby requesting the transfer of $19,750 from General Fund Employee Benefits (salary adjustment) Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Mayor Travel and Training account to cover additional travel expenses related to the Congressional Black Caucus Conference, National Association of Black School Educators, U.S. Conference of Black Mayors, Gay and Lesbian Elected Officials Conference and visits to School Districts to observe closing the achievement gap initiatives.

Very truly yours,
Robert W. Healy, City Manager

17. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-202, regarding the City Council’s Order and the requests of Ms. Kate Zamparelli’s for a public hearing and on the removal of the lighting on the Fresh Pond Reservation perimeter path in the Little Fresh Pond area.

City Manager Letter
December 18, 2006
To the Honorable, the City Council:

In response to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-202, regarding the City Council’s Order and the requests of Ms. Kate Zamparelli’s for a public hearing and on the removal of the lighting on the Fresh Pond Reservation perimeter path in the Little Fresh Pond area, please be advised of the following:

The Fresh Pond Master Plan was developed over a three (3) year, 1998 through 2000, period with over 20 meetings that were advertised and open to the public. The Plan, when completed in May of 2000, was made available to the Citizens of Cambridge at various locations through out the City and was subsequently approved by the City Council in January of 2001 at a City Council meeting where public comment is encouraged and welcome. During the planning process for the Little Fresh Pond Project there were five (5) public meetings. At no time during this extremely public process did anyone object to the removal of the lights in the Little Fresh Pond area.

As a clarification to Ms. Zamparelli’s statement in her request for a public hearing that there is no reference to lighting in the Fresh Pond Master Plan, there are actually has two (2) references made relating to lighting. The first on page 85 under Provision 7 Outside Lighting and the second is on page 123, Section 12 Outdoor Lighting.

With this in mind when the Little Fresh Pond (LFP) Project was being developed the lights were being reviewed and for this project the light s and poles have to come down. The reasons being that there is not enough space between LFP and Fresh Pond to have the desired pathway – to accommodate all of the users, erosion control and the appropriate fencing to protect the water and vegetation. This project requires that six (6) of the fifteen (15) light poles and lights come down. In addition, the lighting does not meet any of the desired outcomes of the Fresh Pond Master Plan in terms of the aesthetics, native vegetation and trees and the desired atmosphere of an individuals experience when visiting the reservation that is very important to the overwhelming majority of users of the Fresh Pond Reservation. This conclusion is based on the input from many individuals that took the time to attend the dozens of public meetings that have been held over the last several years relating to the future of the Fresh Pond Reservation.

The Cambridge Water Board, Fresh Pond Advisory Board, and the Water Department are strong support the removal of the lighting on the pathway for several reasons and public safety being the most important. Contrary to the belief of some, it actually is unsafe to have the lighting on a small portion of the Reservation pathway. The lighting encourages the use of the pathway at night (after dusk) when the reservation is closed to the public. This decision was made based on prior incidents that occurred on the pathway that involved violent crimes. The small area of remote lighting is a false sense of security. The Reservation is closed from dusk to dawn and should not be used during that time frame under any circumstances.

There are many places that can be used for running after dusk, the Fresh Pond Reservation is not and should not be one of them.

The Cambridge Water Board, Fresh Pond Advisory Board, and the Water Department have reviewed all of the communications received involving this matter.

Very truly yours,
Robert W. Healy, City Manager

18. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-199, regarding a report on updating information on the Walden Street bridge closure on the City's website.

19. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-203, regarding a report on the status of NSTAR work on the Walden Street bridge.

20. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow an additional $12,570,000 to the Public Investment Police Extraordinary Expenditures account to finance the Public Safety Facility project. PASSED TO A SECOND READING

City Manager Letter
December 18, 2006
To the Honorable, the City Council:

I am hereby requesting the appropriation and authorization to borrow an additional $12,570,000 to the Public Investment Police Extraordinary Expenditures account to finance the Public Safety Facility project. These funds will supplement the previous appropriations of $49,500,000 increasing the total amount authorized for this project to $62,070,000.

This additional tax-supported debt service has been included in future revenue and expenditure projections. Also, a portion of the additional debt cost is offset by the use of the Debt Stabilization Fund, which the City Council increased by $8 million in the Fall as part of the property tax classification process.

Background on Construction Environment
The background on the construction industry is unchanged as outlined in appropriation requests for the Main Library Expansion Project. In that document there is a broader explanation regarding the cost of materials that have increased at a rate of 1% per month for the past 2 years, and the industry anticipates the increase to be the same for the next two years. Petroleum based products, including manufacturing costs, have increased at an even higher rate. Contractors must project costs out 1-2 years, which requires them to be more conservative than ever in their cost estimates.

Background on Original Project Size and Scope
In May of 2005 the City purchased the property at 125 Sixth Street, an existing shell building, built to service the telecommunication business sector. The original appropriation of $49,500,000 was estimated to cover the purchase price, renovations to the existing structure, and design fees.

The programming for the Public Safety Facility includes underground parking for approximately 90 vehicles and areas designated for technical services and investigative functions. Floors one through four are designated for police administrative, investigative, operational, training, and technical services. The main training room will be able to function as an Emergency Operations Center when the need arises.

The fifth floor will be occupied by the Emergency Communications Center (ECC), which is now housed in the Fire headquarters in Harvard Square. This is a change from the initial programming. The ability to include the Emergency Communications center function in the Public Safety Building increases the current costs, but results in future avoided costs. The relocation of ECC will free up space in Fire Headquarters for necessary fire related functions that would have resulted in rental or acquisition expenditures. Also included in these additional monies is a modernization of the ECC equipment that, otherwise, would require funding in the FY08 Capital Budget in order to replace the current 12-year old equipment. The additional costs, above original estimates for state of the art technology and equipment for both the Police and ECC functions is in excess of three and one-half million dollars, and is included in this appropriation.

The directive to the architects was that this building be designed to achieve LEED silver certification. LEED Silver certification is anticipated and the City’s commissioning agent has started the lengthy application process. There are many LEED components included in this building, the major components are:
* "Chilled Beams System" for distribution of heating and cooling air
* Green Roof System
* Cooling Tower with Dolphin technology

While I recognize the importance of LEED certification, the City Council should be informed of the additional upfront costs, which are recouped over the life cycle of the building. The premium for LEED components (construction, equipment, commissioning, and certification) is over two million dollars of this additional request.

Thus, the main reasons this project has increased in cost include: current and anticipated construction inflation, increased scope of work not included in the original programming study and items not included in the overall project costs.

Current Status
On December 14, 2006, the City received two general contract bids. Boston Building & Bridge Corporation submitted the lowest construction bid of $23,079,000.

The construction cost, when coupled with other costs, brings the total project cost to $62,070,000 and includes the $29,550,000 million purchase price of the building.

I believe that we have taken the appropriate actions to minimize the increase to this project, considering the volatile construction marketplace. I am recommending that the City Council approve this additional appropriation of $12,570,000 so we can move on this project quickly and avoid any delays and additional costs.

Very truly yours,
Robert W. Healy, City Manager

City Manager Order
Agenda Item No. 20     December 18, 2006
ORDERED: That $12,570,000 is appropriated, in addition to the $49,500,000 previously appropriated, for the purpose of acquiring the land and buildings thereon at 125 Sixth Street for use as a public safety facility and for remodeling, reconstructing and making extraordinary repairs to the buildings thereon for such use, including original equipment and landscaping, paving and other site improvements incidental or directly related thereto; that to meet this appropriation the Treasurer with the approval of the City Manager is authorized to borrow $12,570,000 and issue bonds or notes therefore under G.L. c.44 or any other enabling authority; and that the City Manager is authorized to take all other action necessary to carry out the project.
QUESTION COMES ON PASSAGE TO A SECOND READING

ON THE TABLE
1. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 06-06 of Feb 27, 2006, regarding a report on the legality of the banners in front of the Dunkin' Donuts at 2480 Massachusetts Avenue and at other location in the City. [Placed on Table on the motion of Councillor Kelley on Feb 27, 2006.]

2. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to a recommendation from the License Commission to deny the Jitney License application of Star Shuttle, Inc. [Placed on Table City Manager Agenda Number Six of Nov 6, 2006 on the motion of Councillor Davis on Nov 6, 2006.]

3. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on monies expended to needy veterans and their families. [Placed on Table Order Number Seven of Nov 6, 2006 on the motion of Councillor Kelley on Nov 6, 2006.]

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
4. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Co-Chair of the Ordinance Committee, for a meeting held on Nov 18, 2004 for the purpose of considering proposed amendments to Chapter 2.74 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, the Police Review and Advisory Board Ordinance. The question comes on passing to be ordained on or after Feb 14, 2005. [Four sections of the proposed amendment were passed to be ordained as amended. Ordinance #1284. The remaining proposed amendments to chapter 2.74 remain on unfinished business.]

5. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow an additional $13,075,000 to the Public Investment Fund Library Extraordinary Expenditures account to finance the Main Branch Library renovation project. The question comes on adoption on or after Dec 18, 2006. LOAN ORDER ADOPTED ROLL CALL 9-0-0

6. Transmitting communication from Robert W. Healy, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow an additional $9,890,000 to the Public Investment Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to finance the West Cambridge Youth and Community Center project. The question comes on adoption on or after Dec 18, 2006. LOAN ORDER ADOPTED ROLL CALL 9-0-0

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Chester L. Sprague, Trustee, Chester L. Sprague 1999 Revocable Trust, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 10 Kirkland Road; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, and Public Works. Approval has been received from neighborhood association.

2. An application was received from Alan Sulikowski, requesting a curb cut at the premises numbered 40 Huron Avenue; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical, and Public Works with the condition that the tree must be relocated or removed and replaced with a new tree. Applicant must apply for tree hearing and must contact city arborist prior to any construction. Approval has been received from neighborhood association. CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Janet Axelrod for the Board of Trustees of the Library, transmitting thanks for the funds for the library project.

2. A communication was received from the family of Mary Regan Norberg, transmitting thanks for the resolution of sympathy.

3. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding Harvard.

4. A communication was received from Roy Bercaw, regarding unequal protections.

5. A communication was received from Marilyn Wellons, transmitting a copy of a letter distributed at the Dec 9, 2006 Urban Ring meeting at the Hotel at MIT.

6. A communication was received from Gayle and Phil Okonek and Jason Tomci, transmitting thanks for the resolution of sympathy honoring their son Corporal Joseph A. Tomci.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution on the death of Charles J. Anastasi.   Councillor Sullivan

2. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Ross McGinnis.   Councillor Decker

3. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Jesse Tillery.   Councillor Decker

4. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Thomas Echols.   Councillor Decker

5. Resolution on the death of Specialist Corey Rystad.   Councillor Decker

6. Resolution on the death of Private Troy Cooper.   Councillor Decker

7. Resolution on the death of Specialist Joshua Madden.   Councillor Decker

8. Resolution on the death of Specialist Dustin Adkins.   Councillor Decker

9. Resolution on the death of Lance Corporal Brent Beeler.   Councillor Decker

10. Resolution on the death of Corporal Dustin Libby.   Councillor Decker

11. Resolution on the death of Specialist Bryan McDonough.   Councillor Decker

12. Resolution on the death of Specialist Vincent Pomante III.   Councillor Decker

13. Resolution on the death of Corporal Jason Huffman.   Councillor Decker

14. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant Henry Linck.   Councillor Decker

15. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Nicholas Turcotte.   Councillor Decker

16. Resolution on the death of Hospitalman Christopher Anderson.   Councillor Decker

17. Resolution on the death of Private First Class Travis Krege.   Councillor Decker

18. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Yevgeniy Ryndych.   Councillor Decker

19. Resolution on the death of Specialist Nicholas Gibbs.   Councillor Decker

20. Resolution on the death of Staff Sergeant James Ciraso.   Councillor Decker

21. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jay Gauthreaux.   Councillor Decker

22. Resolution on the death of Sergeant Jordan Hess.   Councillor Decker

23. Resolution on the death of Specialist Yari Mokri.   Councillor Decker

24. Resolution on the death of Specialist Micah Gifford.   Councillor Decker

25. Resolution on the death of Captain Kermit Evans.   Councillor Decker

26. Resolution on the death of Captain Travis Patriquin.   Councillor Decker

27. Resolution on the death of Specialist Marco Miller.   Councillor Decker

28. Congratulations to Kira Gale on her election as Student Council President for St. Peter School.   Councillor Sullivan

29. Congratulations to Sydney Jean on his election as Student Council Vice President for St. Peter School.   Councillor Sullivan

30. Congratulations to Miguel Carrera on his election as Student Council Treasurer for St. Peter School.   Councillor Sullivan

31. Congratulations to Katie Mullen on her election as Student Council Secretary for St. Peter School.   Councillor Sullivan

32. Congratulations to Terry DeLancy for her twenty-five years of service at the Agassiz Neighborhood Council.   Councillor Davis

33. Congratulations to the Cambridge Pop Warner B Team Cheerleaders on their Third Place finish at the National Championship in Orlando, Florida.   Councillor Galluccio

34. Thanks and appreciation to the Stasiak family for making Verna's a welcoming North Cambridge icon.   Councillor Galluccio

35. Designate the month of February as Black History Month.   Mayor Reeves

36. Congratulations to Sandy Francis on the opening of his new store Serene.   Mayor Reeves

37. Welcome to Honorable Joyce London Alexander to the annual Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast on Feb 3, 2007.   Mayor Reeves

38. Congratulations to Lenora Jennings on receiving the Cambridge NAACP Presidents Award at the 22nd Annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial Breakfast on Feb 3, 2007.   Mayor Reeves

39. Congratulations to Dr. Howard McClendon on receiving the Martin Luther King Jr. Award at the 22nd Annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial Breakfast on Feb 3, 2007.   Mayor Reeves

40. Congratulations to Reverend Virginia Ward on receiving the Community Youth and Leadership Award at the 22nd Annual Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial Breakfast on Feb 3, 2007.   Mayor Reeves

41. Resolution on the death of Isabella Halsted.   Councillor Davis

42. Congratulations to the Cambridge NAACP on their 22nd year hosting the Annual Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast.   Mayor Reeves

43. Thanks to the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), City of Cambridge officials, State Representative Anne Paulsen and Representative Elect William Brownsberger for a successful meeting with DCR to create a safer crossing at the corner of Rindge Avenue and Route 16.   Councillor Galluccio

44. Resolution on the death of George A. Donovan, Jr.   Councillor Sullivan

45. Congratulations to Jack McGinness on his retirement.   Councillor Galluccio

46. Resolution on the death of George Deptula.   Councillor Sullivan

47. Congratulations to David Sullivan on his appointment as General Counsel to the Executive Office of Administration and Finance in the Patrick Administration.   Councillor Murphy

48. Congratulations to Reverend Dr. Leroy Attles on receiving the 2007 Cambridge NAACP Public Service Award.   Mayor Reeves

49. Congratulations to Novartis as it opens a new Cambridge headquarters for its Vaccines and Diagnostics Division.   Councillor Sullivan

50. Congratulations to Firefighter Eric Moore who was appointed to the Cambridge Fire Department on July 5, 2006.   Councillor Sullivan

51. Congratulations to Cambridge Firefighter Mike Coffman and his wife Kim on the birth of their daughter, Lacey Coffman.   Councillor Sullivan

52. Congratulations to Cambridge Firefighter Mark Davis and his wife Tracy on the birth of their daughter, Grace Olivia Davis.   Councillor Sullivan

53. Congratulations to Cambridge Acting Fire Lieutenant Chuck Lowe and his wife Amy on the birth of their son, Cameron Michael Lowe.   Councillor Sullivan

54. Congratulations to Humbi Song for winning the New England Conservatory of Music 2006 Concerto Competition.   Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Sullivan

55. Congratulations to Metok Hughes-Levine on winning the National Music Teacher's Association Concerto Competition for Massachusetts.   Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Sullivan

56. Congratulations to John Oxenford on his second place tie with his performance of Stephen from The Lisbon Traviata and Sebastian from Twelfth Night.   Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Davis, Councillor Sullivan

57. Resolution on the death of Mary Percoco.   Vice Mayor Toomey

58. Resolution on the death of Jose Mello.   Vice Mayor Toomey

59. Condolences to Thomas Cogwell on this death of his partner Mary D. Walters.   Councillor Simmons

60. Speedy recovery wishes to Tracy Vera.   Councillor Davis

61. Speedy recovery wishes to Diane Alves.   Councillor Decker

62. Resolution on the death of James F. Donovan.   Councillor Sullivan

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to continue to ensure that bus stops are kept totally cleared during the winter and contact the MBTA authorities to make sure that buses pull right up to the cleared curbs.   Councillor Davis

2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate Department heads for a status report of the City's mitigation from the Central Artery Project.   Vice Mayor Toomey

3. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council regarding plans for the Senior Health Center at the Citywide Senior Center.   Councillor Galluccio

4. That the City Manager is requested to direct the City Solicitor to draft a Hotel Workers retention ordinance similar to the ones in the District of Columbia and Hartford, Connecticut.   Councillor Galluccio and Councillor Decker

5. That the City Clerk transmit to the Cambridge legislative delegation the ideas for legislation which support the City’s Climate Protection Plan.   Councillor Davis

6. That the City Manager is requested to confer with all relevant City departments to ensure that no opening be created at the end of Loomis Street for any purpose. Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Sullivan

7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Housing Authority to investigate as to whether there are any proposed rent increases for state or federal housing units. Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Sullivan

8. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Housing Authority and request the status of any vacant units in the Jefferson Park housing development. Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Sullivan

9. That the City Manager is requested to have staff prepare and submit a proposal for a zoning amendment/amendment to the Municipal Ordinance in order to regulate noise-generating auxiliary structures or appurtenances such as generators, air handlers or HVAC equipment. Councillor Davis

10. That the City Council convey to the Honorable Chair and Members of the Planning Board its strong opposition to Application #223 by Nordic Properties for a Special permit to construct 56 units of housing at 777 Memorial Drive. Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Sullivan

11. That the City Manager is requested to directed to lend the services and support of the Office of Workforce Development to the displaced workers of the Radisson Hotel. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Davis, Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan

12. That the City Manager is requested to confer with St. Mary's Church and Paul Ogibene, the developer of the Blessed Sacrament Church property, to devise a plan that would help provide transportation to those elderly residents who will be losing their transportation to St. Mary's Church. Councillor Decker, Councillor Sullivan

13. Support of The Green Communities Act of 2007 legislation, a comprehensive energy plan for the Commonwealth. Councillor Murphy, Councillor Sullivan

14. That the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge be amended by deleting the existing zoning designation O-2 (Office 2) on the zoning map and substitute therefore the designation OS (open space). Vice Mayor Toomey, Councillor Decker, Councillor Galluccio, Councillor Davis, Councillor Murphy, Councillor Simmons, Mayor Reeves and Councillor Sullivan
[Only Councillor Kelley had the good sense to vote against this absurd proposal (which was rescinded at the next Council meeting)]

15. Support Representative Verga for the position of Secretary of Veterans' Services.   Councillor Kelley
FAILED OF ADOPTION ROLL CALL VOTE 1-0-0-8. [Kelley voted YES, all others votes PRESENT]

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. A communication was received from D. Margaret Drury, City Clerk transmitting a report from Councillor Michael A. Sullivan and Vice Mayor Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Co-Chairs of the Government Operations and Rules Committee, for a meeting held on Dec 4, 2006 for the purpose of finalizing the language of the priorities delineated at the Nov 13, 2006 roundtable for submission to the City Council to set its goals for FY 08-09.  GOALS APPROVED 9-0

HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Dec 18
5:00pm   Special Presentation - Cambridge Pop Warner B Team Cheerleaders and Coaches  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   Special Presentation - Verna's Donut Shop  (Sullivan Chamber)
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 8, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 22, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Jan 29, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 5, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 12, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Feb 26, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 5, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 12, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 19, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Mar 26, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Apr 9, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Apr 23, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

Mon, Apr 30, 2007
5:30pm   City Council Meeting  (Sullivan Chamber)

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
WHEREAS: It is very difficult for everyone to navigate slippery, snowy streets during the winter, especially seniors and those with disabilities; and
WHEREAS: MBTA buses often do not stop exactly at curbside; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to continue to ensure that bus stops are kept totally cleared during the winter; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to contact the MBTA authorities to make sure that buses pull right up to the cleared curbs during the winter.

O-2     December 18, 2006
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the appropriate Department heads for a status report of the City's mitigation from the Central Artery Project.

O-3     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council regarding plans for the Senior Health Center at the Citywide Senior Center.

O-4     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR DECKER
WHEREAS: Hotel worker retention ordinances have been adopted in several cities as a means to ensuring job security and a smooth transition when a business or institution changes to new ownership; and
WHEREAS: A hotel worker retention ordinance would provide existing workers a chance to prove their worth to the new operator and likely reduce the amount of unemployment caused by the transition; and
WHEREAS: Terminations in the hospitality business could also have a disruptive impact on tourism and local business; and
WHEREAS: When ownership or management of City-licensed hotels changes, the City's interest in preserving tourist goodwill calls for the retention of the hotel's employees as a matter of City policy; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the City Solicitor to draft a Hotel Workers retention ordinance similar to the ones in the District of Columbia and Hartford, Connecticut (attached); and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report his findings to the City Council.

O-5     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby requested to transmit to the Cambridge legislative delegation the following ideas for legislation which support the City’s Climate Protection Plan.

1. Power Plant Pollution: Reverse Gov. Romney’s weakening of state regulations on CO2 emissions from the state’s six most polluting electric power plants.
2. Cape Wind: Attain approval of the Cape Wind project, potentially the largest source of renewable energy in the Northeast (currently under review by the federal Minerals Management Service).
3. Renewable Portfolio Standard: Defend and strengthen the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), which requires that electric utilities obtain a small but increasing share of their power from non-polluting renewable sources: stop attempts to weaken the RPS through allowing "old" or questionable renewables to be eligible; require utilities to meet part of their RPS obligations by signing long-term contracts to purchase renewable power.
4. Efficient vehicles: Pass legislation that provides tax incentives for fuel-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles and discourages sales of gas guzzling cars and trucks.
5. Auto insurance reform: Change the pricing of auto insurance to provide incentives for reducing vehicle miles traveled, through making available pay-by-the-mile insurance.
6. Increase funding for public transit: Provide more funding so that the MBTA and other transit agencies can reduce rates, improve the quality of service, and expand both rail and bus routes.
7. Smart growth: Institute policies that encourage new development to take place in locations accessible to mass transit, and where homes, schools, jobs, and shopping are located near each other.
8. Expand efficiency programs: Extend the small surcharge that pays for efficiency programs, currently just on electric bills, to natural gas utilities and fuel oil dealers. Change the planning process for meeting energy needs so that efficiency investments are considered equally with building new power plants or other facilities.
9. Provide clean power options: Require all the state’s electric utilities to offer a clean (green) power option on their bills, as NGRID does currently.
10. Green building incentives: Provide incentives on state corporate income taxes for construction of "green" buildings.
11. Appoint officials committed to climate protection: appoint Dept. of Telecommunications & Energy commissioners, and heads of the Exec. Office of Environmental Affairs, Dept. of Environmental Protection, and Dept. of Energy Resources who see reducing global warming pollution as a top priority.

O-6     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with all relevant City departments to ensure that no opening be created at the end of Loomis Street for any purpose.

O-7     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: There are rumors that tenants in housing authority properties will be required to pay a higher percentage of their income toward rents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Housing Authority to investigate as to whether there are any proposed rent increases for state or federal housing units; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-8     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Housing Authority and request the status of any vacant units in the Jefferson Park housing development; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on this matter.

O-9     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to have staff prepare and submit a proposal for a zoning amendment/amendment to the Municipal Ordinance in order to regulate noise-generating auxiliary structures or appurtenances such as generators, air handlers or HVAC equipment.

O-10     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
RESOLVED: That the City Council convey to the Honorable Chair and Members of the Planning Board its strong opposition to Application #223 by Nordic Properties for a Special permit to construct 56 units of housing at 777 Memorial Drive; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Council oppose this special permit based on the applicant's demonstrated inability to conduct its business in either a humane or ethical manner. Nordic Properties has terminated their employees on the heels of this holiday season. This conduct alone leads one to a very strong conclusion that Nordic Properties should not and can not be a decent neighbor to our city; and be it further
RESOLVED: That it is the strongest hope of the City Council that the Planning Board will deny this application.

O-11     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to directed to lend the services and support of the Office of Workforce Development to the displaced workers of the Radisson Hotel.

O-12     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR DECKER
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: When the Blessed Sacrament Church closed, many elderly parishioners were without a place of worship; and
WHEREAS: St. Mary's Church was providing transportation to these residents for their Saturday afternoon Mass; and
WHEREAS: The residents who utilize this service were recently informed that this service will be terminated at the end of the year; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with St. Mary's Church and Paul Ogibene, the developer of the Blessed Sacrament Church property, to devise a plan that would help provide transportation to those elderly residents who will be losing their transportation to St. Mary's Church.

O-13     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
WHEREAS: The Green Communities Act of 2007, a comprehensive energy plan for the Commonwealth, is currently being proposed by Speaker DiMasi for passage within the state legislature; and
WHEREAS: The Green Communities Program proposed within the Act would give communities an opportunity to obtain tangible cost-savings as well as sustainable reforms that address increasing energy needs by allowing any city or town that commits to becoming a Green Community to receive technical and financial assistance from the alternative compliance payments made by utilities; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That this City Council go on record in support of the aims of the legislation and that the City Manager be and hereby is requested to investigate the feasibility of Cambridge becoming a “Green Community.”

O-14     December 18, 2006
VICE MAYOR TOOMEY
COUNCILLOR DECKER
COUNCILLOR GALLUCCIO
COUNCILLOR DAVIS
COUNCILLOR MURPHY
COUNCILLOR SIMMONS
MAYOR REEVES
COUNCILLOR SULLIVAN
ORDERED: That the Zoning Map of the City of Cambridge be amended by deleting the existing zoning designation O-2 (Office 2) on the zoning map and substitute therefore the designation OS (open space) for an area bounded by a line, said line beginning at a point, said point being the intersection of the centerline of Pleasant Street and the easterly sideline of Memorial Drive, proceeding approximately 300 feet easterly along Pleasant Street to the beginning of the Residence C2-B district, turning southerly approximately 200 feet to the beginning of the Business A district, turning westerly and proceeding approximately 300 feet to the easterly sideline of memorial Drive, proceeding northerly approximately 200 feet to the intersection of the centerline of Pleasant Street and the easterly sideline of Memorial Drive; and be it further
ORDERED: That this matter be referred to the Planning Board and Ordinance Committee for a hearing and report.
PASSED 9-0

O-15     December 18, 2006
COUNCILLOR KELLEY
WHEREAS: The position of Secretary of Veterans' Services is an important State position to assist Massachusetts veterans in a variety of ways; and
WHEREAS: Representative Anthony Verga has been a strong advocate for Massachusetts veterans since taking office; and
WHEREAS: Representative Anthony Verga is currently the House Chair of the joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs; and
WHEREAS: Representative Anthony Verga is a Navy veteran himself; and
WHEREAS: The Executive Board of the Massachusetts Veterans Service Officers supports Representative Verga for the position of Secretary of Veterans' Services; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record supporting Representative Verga for the position of Secretary of Veterans' Services; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to send a copy of this Order to the Cambridge Massachusetts State delegation, the leaders of the State House and Senate and to John Walsh, Transition Director for the incoming Patrick administration.
FAILED OF ADOPTION ROLL CALL VOTE 1-0-0-8. [Kelley voted YES, all others votes PRESENT]

TEXT OF COMMITTEE REPORTS
Committee Report #1
The Government Operations and Rules Committee held a public meeting on December 4, 2006, beginning at three o’clock and twenty minutes p.m. in the Ackermann Room for the purpose of finalizing the language of the priorities delineated at the November 13, 2006 roundtable for submission to the City Council to set its goals for FY 08-09.

Present at the hearing were Councillor Michael A. Sullivan and Councillor Timothy J. Toomey Jr., Co-Chairs of the Committee, Mayor Kenneth E. Reeves, Councillor Anthony D. Galluccio, Councillor Brian Murphy, Councillor Henrietta Davis, Councillor Craig Kelley, City Clerk D. Margaret Drury, Deputy City Clerk Donna P. Lopez and Assistant to the City Council Sandra Albano. Present from the city administrative staff were Robert W. Healy, City Manager, Richard Rossi, Deputy City Manager and Nancy Schlacter, Assistant to the City Manager.

Councillor Sullivan convened the meeting and explained the purpose. He requested the City Clerk to describe the material that had been prepared for the meeting. Ms. Drury said that the handouts at the meeting consisted of two items. One was the material received from the facilitator, Elizabeth Vizza, recording the notes and priorities from the November 13, 2006 roundtable (Attachment A). The other was the draft edit prepared by the City Clerk to make the combinations of priorities agreed upon at the roundtable, to limit the list to the top priorities and to sharpen the language (Attachment B).

In the ensuing discussion, the Committee members agreed to recommend the following goals and priorities to the full City Council for adoption as the City Council goals for FY 08:

Goal: Deliver high-quality Public Safety Services and maintain a high level of public confidence in these services.

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

• Evaluate current police staff levels and alignment with a focus on enhancing programs to build community and positive interactions between officers and the public
• Take specific steps to improve relationships with city youth and improve recruitment of city residents into public safety positions
• Support public safety officials working with other city programs to provide training and employment skills for young adults; work for CORI reform and support programs for recidivists

Goal: Promote the advantages of "Doing Business in Cambridge" and work to strengthen our mutually beneficial partnerships with businesses and universities. Highlight the unique benefits of Cambridge as a community in which to live and work; focus on transmitting the values and identity of Cambridge.

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

• Partner with universities and other institutions to promote and take advantage of opportunities in areas such as the energy sector, nanotechnology, life sciences and other emerging fields.
• Promote opportunities for entertainment in Cambridge, emphasizing success for restaurants, dancing and music
• Utilize zoning initiatives and negotiation to sustain and expand ground floor retail

Goal: Foster community and support Neighborhood Vitality. Support opportunities for citizens to know each other within their neighborhoods and across the city.

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

• Support community organizing to sustain/encourage groups that come together around one issue to maintain contact
• Foster development of neighborhood organizations, block grants and other community structures; continue police mini-grants for neighborhoods and support other neighborhood events, both large and small
• Encourage after-hour and evening use of public facilities (schools and youth centers) and parks, including movies and other family activities in the parks in the evening hours, and evaluate programs for success

Goal: Promote a Healthy Environment by adopting environmentally sound and energy efficient practices throughout the community

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

• Continue commitment to green building initiative
• Continue to support the city’s Climate Protection Plan, emphasizing non-auto transportation, energy efficiency and renewable energy sources; promote these values to residents and businesses
• Support indoor and outdoor physical activity for all ages, including the addition of active playing fields and youth sports, especially in east Cambridge

Goal: Provide High-Quality Services, including excellent customer service, effectively and efficiently and continually strive to update the public on city issues and services.

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

Goal: Preserve and create Affordable Housing for low, moderate and middle-income residents

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

• Protect and renovate existing state housing stock
• Investigate the feasibility of an employee preference for part of affordable housing stock
• Develop city-wide data base and application
• Continue to support an emphasis on family-sized units for both market and affordable housing

Goal: Evaluate City expenditures with a view of maintaining a strong fiscal position and awareness of the Impact on Taxpayers

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

• Receive quarterly fiscal updates from the City Manager
• Receive yearly forecasting on city economies and economic climate, including diversification of economic base and competitiveness
• Work with the City fiscal staff to develop a mechanism to enable more ongoing understanding by the City Council of the effect of new projects on the property tax level; look closely at the feasibility of other sources of funds to reduce dependence on property taxes (combined priority)

Goal: Value and support the racial, socioeconomic, cultural and religious Diversity of our city. Cambridge will continue to be a city that welcomes, values and respects people of all abilities.

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

• Ensure diversity in city employment, in leadership positions and at all levels including boards and commissions
• Ensure that city programs, especially human services programs, are representative of the population of the city.
• Continue and expand support of events that bring people together and improve outreach to a broad constituency

Goal: Strengthen and support Public Education and other learning in Cambridge for the benefit of residents of all ages

Priorities for This Goal for FY 08:

• Encourage university and corporate partnerships to support School Department and City DHS programs (after school, early education, etc.) and consider utilizing staff or intern support
• Prepare Cambridge students and adults for high quality jobs through adult educational and skill development opportunities
• Enrich and enhance early childhood, after-school and summer programs, especially innovative programs such as those that include parents and are targeted at school readiness and increasing overall performance.

Councillors Sullivan and Toomey thanked all those present for their participation. The meeting was adjourned at 5:05pm on motion of Councillor Murphy.

For the Committee,
Councillor Michael A. Sullivan, Co-Chair
Vice Mayor Timothy J. Toomey, Co-Chair

ATTACHMENT A
Proposed Time Line for City Council FY 08-9 Goal setting
Early September 2006 - Statistically-valid telephone survey of citizen satisfaction and opinion.
Late September, 2006 - Facilitated goal setting opportunity for members of the public to express their priorities for City goals.
Early October 2006 - Government Operation Committee receives presentation on citizen satisfaction survey
Mid October 2006 - Government Operations Committee conducts facilitated working meeting for the City Council to set FY 08-9 priorities.
Early November 2006 - Government Operations Committee meets to finalize the wording of the goals for presentation to the City Council.
Mid November 2006 - Final version of goals go to City Council for adoption.

QUESTION COMES ON ACCEPTING REPORT AND ADOPTING THE GOALS AND PRIORITIES FOR FY 08. on December 18, 2006