Possible Topics:Cambridge InsideOut - November 3, 2020
Possible Topics:
1) Judgment Day
2) Deaths of Rich McKinnon, Rick Jarvis
3) National High Anxiety - The Eve of Decision
- Highlights from the Nov 2, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda
7) New Contractor to Provide Recycling & Yard Waste Collection Services Beginning Nov 2
8) Oct 26, 2020 City Council meeting
9) Oct 19 Cambridge City Council meeting
The Return of International City Council Resolutions
10) Civic Calendar
10:54am – Dow Jones Industrial Average is up 600 points.
10:55am – Souls seen exiting graves at Mt. Auburn Cemetery, heading to the polls.
11:06am – Dow Jones Industrial Average is up 650 points.
11:08am - ABC Minister of Propaganda Schmidt proposed at last night's City Council meeting that Resident Permit fees should be increased to $1000 per year. The City Council instead voted down on a 4-5 vote a proposed increase from $25 to $40 per year.
12:03pm – Councillor Nolan last night took issue with the use of propane-fueled patio heaters based on climate change concerns. Meanwhile, in other news, Tootsie Rolls and Junior Mints will continue to be produced in Cambridge. It has not yet been determined if the rich aroma of the butterscoth and peppermint effluent from the factory is a greenhouse gas. We'll keep an eye out for future City Council orders on this.
12:05pm – Dan Rather tweets: "These are turbulent and dangerous times. My gentle counsel is be big on hope, pray (if that's your way), stay steady, have patience, and don't forget to breathe. If you can, listen to your favorite music, read a book or poetry, and if the weather is nice, take a walk."
12:08pm – CNN reports: "Fences surrounding the White House have gone up as authorities say they are taking precautions for any worst-case scenarios that may arise on election night or in the coming days."
12:40pm – Dow now only up 591 today.
12:41pm – Charles River reportedly turning to blood. Locusts seen advancing on West Cambridge.
3:56pm – Dow back to being up by 650 points.
3:57pm – The murder hornets have arrived.
4:12pm – Dow ends day up 555. Good thing it wasn't 666.
First polls close 7:00pm EST. - Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia
7:30pm: North Carolina, Ohio, West Virginia
8:00pm: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee
8:30pm: Arkansas
9:00pm: Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, Wisconsin, Wyoming
10:00pm: Iowa, Montana, Nevada, Utah
11:00pm: California, Idaho, Oregon, Washington
12:00am: Hawaii
1:00am: Alaska
Updates to follow.
MR. RICHARD E. MCKINNON
Oct 29, 2020 – Richard E. McKinnon, lifelong Cambridge resident, passed away at age 73 on October 28, 2020 at Mass General Hospital.
He leaves behind his sister, Margaret McKinnon of Pensacola, his children, Luke McKinnon and his partner Leah Milby of Cambridge and Jessica Lynch of Centerville. Anyone he met knew he was a devoted grandfather who loved his grandchildren, Ella Lynch, Luke Richard McKinnon, Boston McKinnon, Declan Lynch, Shyah McKinnon and Lola Fisher. He will be missed by his many life-long friends, especially Mai Le and Adriana Benjamin who were constants in his life for decades.
Throughout all his endeavors, Richard maintained a generous spirit, never waited in a line, and like a true Irishman, a tune on his lips often preceded him into a room. A life-long Cantabrigian, Richard left his mark on the city at every stage of his life, whether it was being the quarterback at Cambridge Latin, studying philosophy at Harvard, working alongside Mayor Alfred E. Vellucci at Cambridge City Hall, or welcoming the band U2 to his club Nightstage/Indigo in the 1990s.
In addition to his proudest accomplishment of becoming a grandfather, he was the owner of McKinnon Company, a development firm that helped change the landscape of NorthPoint, CambridgeSide, and CambridgePark. His spirit lives on in the vibrant spaces he helped to create for the people of the city he loved.
Visiting hours at the Rogers Funeral Home, 380 Cambridge St., in Cambridge on Monday, November 2, 2020 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm.
Due to Covid-19 and Massachusetts Tracing Guidelines, the funeral home is limited to 32 people inside the funeral home and a mask must be worn at all times.
The funeral home & the family are asking those who plan to attend to please come in, maintain social distancing guidelines, pay your condolences and then exit to make it possible for others to do the same.
There will be a graveside service held at 10:00am on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 at the Cambridge Cemetery, 76 Coolidge Avenue in Cambridge. Anyone wishing to be part of the funeral procession from Rogers Funeral Home to Cambridge Cemetery, should arrive at the funeral at 9:00am.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation in Richard’s memory to the East Cambridge Scholarship Fund, at www.theecsf.org or to the East End House, at www.eastendhouse.org.
National High Anxiety - The Eve of Decision - Highlights from the Nov 2, 2020 Cambridge City Council AgendaI can't imagine that there are too many people focusing right now of what's happening in the Sullivan Chamber. For the handful who are, here are a few things of some possible interest: Manager's Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a COVID-19 update. Manager's Agenda #2. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $100,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Executive Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support the City’s Patio Heater Reimbursement Program. Order #7. That a Joint Roundtable for members of the City Council and School Committee be held on Tues, Nov 10, from 6:00pm to 8:00pm for the purpose of discussing the impact of COVID-19 on Cambridge Public Schools. Mayor Siddiqui Life in The Age of Covid continues. Though the numbers have been relatively contained here in Cambridge, the number of new infections has been going up a bit lately even though there have been no Trump rallies here. Mask up and take care. Manager's Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative draft alternative language to the Green Energy Analysis Zoning Petition. On the Table #3. Green Energy Analysis Zoning Amendment. [TABLED ON MOTION OF COUNCILLOR CARLONE IN COUNCIL OCT 5, 2020] I expect this will move forward this Monday. Manager's Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a request for approval to increase of the fee for a Resident Parking Permit/Pass, which is currently $25, to $40, by amending the provisions of Chapter 10, Section 10.17.070 of the Municipal Code. The extra $15 won't break anyone, but there are probably three or four councillors who would gladly increase it ten-fold or more if they had the votes to do it (I'm glad they don't). If the City Manager is coming forward with this now based on his concern for more revenue, my guess is that next year's budget and property taxes will probably also jump. Charter Right #1. That the City Council adopt a municipal ordinance to reduce or limit campaign donations from donors seeking to enter into a contract, seeking approval for a special permit or up-zoning, seeking to acquire real estate from the city, or seeking financial assistance from the city. [CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL OCT 26, 2020] [Text of Order #4 of Oct 26, 2020] The Charter Right delayed the rhetorical doublespeak exercises last week. Now that there's been a week to practice their speeches, let the games begin! Personally, I think many people who make political contribution have conflicts of interest and not just "evil developers." Charter Right #2. That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to work with the Solicitor to draft Ordinance language to prohibit the use of tear gas in Cambridge. [CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL OCT 26, 2020] [Text of Order #5 of Oct 26, 2020] Tear gas is not used in Cambridge, so why the need for an ordinance? On the Table #4. An application was received from Charles Doty, requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 810 Main Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. No response has been received from the neighborhood association. [TABLED BY COUNCILLOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL OCT 26, 2020] Communications & Reports #1. A communication was received from Councillor Simmons, transmitting a memorandum regarding Cambridge Brands Curb Cut. It's the Great Candy Kerfuffle of 2020. Cambridge Brands is simply trying to do a significant electrical upgrade and along with that some modest changes to their loading operations and waste management. They'll also be doing everything in a way that respects the existing architecture. I read some of the "evidence" from Councillor Simmons about this and found it to be insignificant and petty. Candy manufacturing at this site has been a fixture in Central Square for over a century, and Cambridge Brands has maintained that tradition and been a good neighbor for the last quarter century. Businesses should not have to kiss the asses of either city councillors or anyone else every time they ask for approval for a completely reasonable purpose. Cambridge Brands is not planning a gigantic expansion or anything else that might trigger the usual shakedown process for "community benefits." There should be no controversy here. Communications #1. A communication was received from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Micheal K. Owu, MIT Volpe PUD-7 Special Permit Pre-Application Conference with the City Council. I'm glad to see some movement on the plans for the Volpe site. I still feel that miniature golf has a important role to play in the site plans. And maybe a batting cage. Resolution #2. Resolution on the death of Rick Jarvis. Councillor Simmons Resolution #3. Resolution on the death of Richard McKinnon. Councillor Toomey, Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern Both of these deaths caused me to shudder. I have known and respected Rich McKinnon for as long as I have been going up to City Hall - and that's been nearly 35 years. I knew Rick Jarvis when he worked for ComElectric. I planned a whole infrastructure display at an Earth Day event nearly 30 years ago featuring water, sewer, electric, and waste management, and Rick was kind enough to put together a lot of great information on the region's electrical infrastructure and be there for the event. We stayed in touch after that but not for a while. His death comes as quite a shock. Resolution #4. Congratulations to Fred Fantini. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey As the Resolution says, "Fred Fantini is the longest serving elected School Committee member in the history of Cambridge." He shall henceforth be known and "The Award-Winning Dean of the Cambridge School Committee." (It doesn't say that in the Resolution.) Order #4. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request for a suitable dedication in the vicinity of CCTV’s office located at 438 Massachusetts Avenue in honor of retiring CCTV Executive Director Susan Fleischmann. Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toomey Accolades aside, Susan Fleischmann has been perhaps the most staunch supporter of free speech I have known in Cambridge, and CCTV has benefited greatly from Susan's leadership for many years. Order #2. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department to commence the public process with the Port neighborhood and surrounding communities to determine the future use of the 35 Cherry Street parcel for affordable housing, and in conjunction with the community, determine the type of housing that would meet the most pressing needs in the area. Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui Order #3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Public Information Office, the Housing Liaison, the Multi-Service Center, the School Department, and other relevant City departments to create a comprehensive digital, postal, and traditional media outreach campaign educating residents on the Cambridge eviction moratorium, tenants’ rights, and resources available to at-risk tenants. Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui Order #8. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department about analyzing eviction data from 2018 through 2021 and come back with a plan on how to use this data to inform our next action steps. Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler Order #6. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the relevant departments about the feasibility of posting all applications for building permits online as soon as available. Councillor Nolan, Councillor McGovern There have been lots of suggestions along these lines for some time and lots of promises unfulfilled. A related proposal a few years back called for indexing all building permits, special permits, variances, and covenants associated with any given property in a manner that's easy to access. It's remarkable to me how many times good ideas have been proposed (sometimes by me) that cause many a head to nod in agreement and which are then completely forgotten or not acted upon. For example, don't you think every City Council committee should have its own web page where anyone can track the work of the committee and make comments and suggestions? I made that suggestion more than once at Government Operations Committee meetings. Nothing but the sound of crickets. - Robert Winters |
1587 tested positive; 100 confirmed deaths
(72 in long-term care facilities, 28 in general community)
Click on graph for latest Cambridge data
Nov 3, 2020 Breakdown of Cases (99 known current cases)
Harvard University COVID-19 data MIT COVID-19 data
Oct 28, 2020 – The Cambridge Community Foundation and the City of Cambridge have joined forces to launch a new Cultural Capital Fund with grant funding of over $600,000 to address urgent needs in the local arts and culture sector due to the COVID-19 Pandemic as an initial step. The Foundation also commits to building an endowment for the arts and culture sector, targeting $5 million over five years, to protect the City’s cultural richness over the long-term.
The City has allocated $500,000 from the Mayor's Disaster Relief Fund to provide grants to local arts organizations of up to $25,000 for capital improvements necessary due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and up to $10,000 for operations and programming during the COVID-19 Pandemic through the new Fund. The Foundation has also received a $100,000 gift from the Wagner Foundation, a long-time supporter, to address urgent needs in the local arts and culture sector, with a focus on the Central Square Cultural District. The Cambridge Community Foundation will begin accepting grant applications from organizations on October 28 and expects to distribute first round grants by mid to late November.
The new Cultural Capital Fund, is Cambridge’s first, central channel for donors and other stakeholders to pool their 
resources into a common purpose: provide immediate support to arts organizations at risk due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and to protect the viability of the arts ecosystem for years to come.
“We’re incredibly fortunate and extremely thankful to have the City of Cambridge’s partnership and the Wagner Foundation’s support in addressing the urgent needs of our arts organizations who are near closure due to the Pandemic,” said CCF President Geeta Pradhan. “This work is a testament to the fierce commitment to our City’s cultural vibrancy that we’ve seen in our residents’ advocacy and our City’s leadership, including Mayor Siddiqui, City Manager Louis DePasquale, Vice Mayor Alanna Mallon, and Jason Weeks, executive director of Cambridge Arts. We invite our donors and partners to join us in supporting these organizations and creating a lasting endowment to support the vitality of Cambridge’s arts and culture sector for years to come.”
“We are grateful for the partnership of the Foundation and our residents who have joined us in supporting Cambridge’s arts and culture organizations and nonprofits, when they need it the most,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “Cambridge’s nonprofits, small businesses, and the arts and culture organizations contribute deeply to our City’s economic wellbeing and vibrancy. We will continue to invest in these sectors and forge and maintain partnerships, like our longstanding one with the Foundation, to keep these core pieces of Cambridge’s identity alive and well.”
The new Fund builds on the work of the Cambridge Artist Relief Fund, an emergency fund formed by the Foundation in March 2020 with significant support from the City and more than 100 local donors, to address urgent needs in the arts sector.
In addition to continuing to address urgent needs due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Cultural Capital Fund will help strengthen and sustain our arts and culture ecosystem, foster creative placemaking with a focus on our cultural district, and invest in the next generation of Cambridge’s cultural creatives.
“In addition to being drivers of economic activity, our arts and culture organizations are a core component of our community that we rely on, especially now, to bring us joy, connection and healing. As a City, I know we will work together to help keep our arts sector strong through these trying times, ensuring every child and resident in Cambridge has the opportunity to be inspired and engage with the world creatively,” said Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui. “I thank the Cambridge Community Foundation for their partnership, and Vice Mayor Alanna Mallon for her work elevating the arts and culture sector in our City through her leadership in the Arts Task Force.”
Over the first four months of the Pandemic, the Foundation received a $75,000 contribution from the City of Cambridge toward a total raised and awarded of just over $270,000 through the Cambridge Artist Relief Fund, providing grants to 270 artists and groups, who were among the first workers to lose their livelihoods, and 37 Cambridge-based arts organizations, which had to suddenly close their doors.
Grantees included dancers and musicians, instructors and choreographers, photographers and painters, writers and playwrights, jewelry makers and sculptors, street performers and fashion designers—and many more. The arts organizations supported included cultural hubs and employers of artists, such as studios, education providers, theaters, orchestras and other performance groups.
At a time marked by the economic devastation of the Pandemic and a national racial justice reckoning, the Foundation has made supporting BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) artists and BIPOC and women-led arts organizations advancing racial justice in communities a special focus in its grantmaking and will continue to do so through the Cultural Capital Fund.
“Supporting the local arts organizations that sustained us before, and during the COVID-19 Pandemic is critical to the future of arts and culture in Cambridge, and to a strong economic recovery. Arts organizations were the first to close in March and will be among the last to open their doors. Without this financial support from the City, and other donors, we can expect sector-wide closures with staggering ripple effects to ensue,” said Cambridge Vice Mayor Alanna Mallon. “I’m incredibly excited that the City has partnered with the Cambridge Community Foundation as the first major donor to their Cultural Capital Fund, which is intended as a long-term sustainability solution for the arts in Cambridge.”
In creating the long-term endowment for the arts and culture sector, the Foundation draws inspiration from its Cambridge Cultural Visionaries, a diverse and talented group of artists and creators who unanimously credit the City with fostering their creativity.
About the Cambridge Community Foundation:
The Cambridge Community Foundation (CCF) is the local giving platform for Cambridge supporting our city’s shared prosperity, social equity, and cultural richness, with roots that go a century deep. A grantmaker, philanthropic partner, and civic leader, the Foundation connects sectors across the community to highlight emerging and critical needs and catalyze efforts to ensure resources are focused where they can make the greatest difference. CCF and its donors distribute $1.3 to $1.5 Million in grants to local nonprofits each year. This year, in addition to distributing grants to 150 nonprofits serving the Cambridge community involved in human services, workforce training, housing, hunger, homelessness, elder services, youth and early childhood services, education, the Foundation raised and distributed an additional $1.9 million in COVID-19 relief funds and distributed them through several efforts. In March 2020, the Foundation established the Cambridge COVID-19 Emergency Fund and the Cambridge Artist Relief Fund raising over $1.2 million in partnership with its donors. Within four months all dollars raised were distributed to 1,475 individuals, families, and artists; 27 nonprofits offering cash assistance to our vulnerable populations; and 36 arts organizations. The Foundation also partnered with the Massachusetts COVID-19 Relief Fund, distributed $695,000 in grants supporting nonprofits in Cambridge, Somerville, and Medford. Its initiative Feeding Our Hometown Heroes funded the delivery of 4,000 local, nutritious restaurant meals to overworked frontline hospital staff in spring 2020, while supporting restaurant workers affected by COVID-19. Through its annual Imagined in Cambridge Social Innovation Award, CCF supports the next generation of emerging social innovators.
About the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund:
The Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund collects and distributes donated funds to provide relief to the City of Cambridge in times of disaster. In response to the public health crisis created by the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund is providing emergency assistance to residents, small businesses and arts organizations in Cambridge who are experiencing financial hardship caused by current Pandemic-related issues.
Oct 30, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced today that it will begin offering COVID-19 testing for residents seven days a week at expanded locations, as part of a strategic initiative to coordinate testing and COVID-19 vaccine distribution. The initiative is led by the City's newly established Cambridge Pandemic Collaborative (CPC).
The CPC’s mission is to create a public and private partnership to help ensure the health and safety of Cambridge residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Collaborative will create a long-term, sustainable, and scalable structure for testing and COVID-19 vaccine distribution, when the vaccine becomes available. The CPC completed its first task this week with the finalization of the expansion plan for the City's COVID-19 testing program, which began offering free testing to the community in April.
Beginning Sunday, November 1, 2020, a new drive-through COVID-19 testing site will be available on Sundays and Thursdays at CambridgeSide in East Cambridge. Appointments for testing will be available from 11:00am-7:00pm. The CambridgeSide testing site is located in the upper parking garage on First Street. The upper parking garage will be used for COVID-19 testing only. This is a drive-thru site and there is no access to the testing site from inside CambridgeSide or from the lower parking garage.
Testing will be available every Saturday (except October 31) at the Pisani Center at 131 Washington Street from 11:00am-7:00pm, 50 Church Street (former Fire and Ice) on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays from 12:00pm-8:00pm, and at St. John the Evangelist Church at 2254 Massachusetts Avenue on Wednesdays from 10:00am-6:00pm. Testing at 50 Church Street will begin on Monday, November 9, 2020.
Appointments can be scheduled online at www.Cambridgema.gov/testing.
"Recent public health data tell a sobering story and remind us that the pandemic is far from over. We know that testing is one of many evidence-based tools we can deploy to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19," said Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale in a joint statement. "Through this new collaborative, we will be able to provide our residents with greater access to COVID-19 testing. We especially want to thank CambridgeSide, Trinity Property Management, the Cambridge Housing Authority, and St. John the Evangelist Church for partnering with us to provide these key testing locations."
The CPC will create a testing and vaccination structure that will last through the end of the pandemic by focusing on three key elements. First, CPC will focus on providing widely accessible COVID-19 testing. Next, it will incorporate flu vaccinations into the existing testing structure. And finally, it creates a large-scale COVID-19 vaccination program that will be added to the project.
"As infections continue to rise in Massachusetts, it is critical that residents have improved access to COVID-19 testing," said Claude A. Jacob, Chief Public Health Officer and director of the Cambridge Public Health Department. "Seven-day-a-week testing in multiple neighborhoods will help meet the growing demand for this important city-funded service. I applaud the city's leadership and our partners for their outstanding commitment to the health and well-being of residents."
As with any large community effort, significant partnerships are required, and Cambridge is fortunate to have many community partners willing to engage in this effort. Pro EMS and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard have been key partners for COVID testing in Cambridge since day one. As part of the City’s expanded testing program, CambridgeSide is providing its First Street Upper Parking Garage, which will allow for large-scale drive-through services, Trinity Property Management is providing space at their 50 Church Street location in Harvard Square, St. John the Evangelist Church will continue to provide space in North Cambridge, and the Cambridge Housing Authority will also continue providing space at the Pisani Center in The Port.
Members of the CPC include representatives of the City Manager's Office, Cambridge Public Health Department, Cambridge Fire Department, Cambridge Police Department, Pro EMS, Cambridge Housing Authority, Mount Auburn Hospital, CambridgeSide, Trinity Property Management, St. John the Evangelist Church, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, and the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard.
For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.
Oct 27, 2020 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking volunteers to serve on the City’s Community Benefits Advisory Committee. This Committee makes recommendations to the City Manager for the approval and awarding of grant agreements with nonprofit organizations for the provision of Community Benefits.
Community Benefits may be programs or services provided by nonprofit organizations that directly benefit Cambridge residents. The role of the Committee is to solicit and evaluate applications from local non-profit providers for the provision of services that are consistent with the Cambridge City Council’s Funding Priorities. The Committee is also responsible for establishing rules, regulations, and guidelines to provide for the proper administration and implementation of Community Benefit funding.
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee is currently seeking resident and business/property development representatives The Committee meets monthly. Committee members shall be appointed for terms of three years.
Individuals with interest in human service programs, experience/expertise in relevant topics (examples include but not limited to nonprofit leadership, fiscal management, community development, program design/development, public health, housing, homelessness, food access/insecurity, mental health/substance abuse, grant writing, social justice, child development), and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse viewpoints to craft consensus solutions are encouraged to apply.
Applicants should be Cambridge residents or individuals with a strong connection with the City.
Click here for more information on the Community Benefits Ordinance and Committee duties.
Applications to serve on the Commission should be submitted by Fri, Dec 4, 2020 to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.
Oct 27, 2020 – Cambridge City Manager Louis DePasquale is seeking to fill a vacancy on the Cambridge Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship (CIRC). The Commission consists of 11 volunteer members, who are appointed by the City Manager, following an application and interview process. The term of the appointment is three years. Commissioners are expected to be knowledgeable about immigrant rights and citizenship and must be residents of Cambridge. It is desirable for this Commission to be fully representative of the diverse Cambridge community.
Cambridge welcomes immigrants and wants to encourage their success and access to opportunity and advancement in this country. It is a goal of this Commission to get the message of welcome out, through collaboration with organizations that already provide services and outreach to our immigrant communities. The Commission acts as a centralizing organization in Cambridge, to address immigrant rights and citizenship issues through providing information, referral, guidance, coordination and technical assistance to other public agencies and private persons, organizations and institutions engaged in activities and programs intended to support immigrant rights and citizenship.
Commissioners are expected to work with other members of the Commission and staff to fulfill the goals and objectives of the Cambridge Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship Ordinance (CMC Chapter 2.123).
Resumes and letters of interest should be sent by Dec 4, 2020 through the online application system link. Paper applications can also be obtained at the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall. Please call 617-349-4300 to schedule an appointment if needed.
Oct 27, 2020 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking to fill vacancies on the Cambridge LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Plus Commission).
The Commission’s mission is to advocate for a culture of respect and to monitor progress toward equality of all persons with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity. The Commission also promotes policies and practices that have a positive effect on the health, welfare and safety of persons who live, visit or work in the City of Cambridge with regard to sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression.
The Commission holds a regularly scheduled public meeting on the 4th Thursday of each month (3rd Thursday in November due to Thanksgiving holiday, no meetings in December or August). Though scheduled meetings are required, much of the work done by Commissioners is often outside of scheduled meetings through working groups.
The LGBTQ+ Commission consists of 20 members appointed by the City Manager to serve three-year terms. Individuals who live or work in Cambridge are eligible to apply. We are seeking members of all ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, racial/ethnic backgrounds, and abilities to join the Commission and work with other Commissioners to help it achieve its goals and support its mission.
To learn more about the Commission please visit: https://www.cambridgema.gov/Departments/lgbtqpluscommission.
Applications to serve on the Commission should be submitted by Fri, Dec 4, 2020 to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.
Oct 26, 2020 – The City of Cambridge and the Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR) announced today that Riverbend Park in the City of Cambridge will continue to open for pedestrian and cyclist use on Saturdays and Sundays through November 29, 2020 and Memorial Drive will be closed to vehicular traffic from 11:00am to 7:00pm.
“I want to thank DCR, especially Commissioner Montgomery, for working with the City to extend the weekend openings for Riverbend Park,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “Riverbend Park is an important open space resource in the City and I strongly encourage users of the park to continue following current public health guidance and recommendations.”
Members of the public are reminded that they should maintain physical distancing of at least 6 feet from non-household members, practice good hand hygiene, and wear a mask or face covering at all times when on or in public places in Cambridge. Public places include sidewalks, streets, parks, plazas, bus stops, non-residential parking lots and garages, and any other outdoor area or non-residential parking facility which is open and accessible to the general public.
Residents are advised to stay home if they feel unwell, have tested positive for COVID-19, have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or have traveled to or from a state that is not classified as lower risk within the last 14 days.
For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19
Oct 22, 2020 – The City of Cambridge today announced that, following an open and competitive bid process, Save That Stuff was selected as the City’s residential recycling and yard waste collection contractor, beginning Nov 2, 2020.
While residents’ curbside collection days will not change, residents should be aware that collections may occur earlier or later in the day than they are used to on their regularly scheduled pickup day. All residential waste collection occurs between the hours of 7:00am-4:00pm, and all carts should be placed at the curb by 7:00am on your collection day. Items accepted in recycling or yard waste, and where to place carts for collection, will not change.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work by the Public Works Department to continue to deliver high-quality services to our residents during these challenging times,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “Thanks to the efforts of our residents and the data-driven management of the City’s Recycling Division, more than 8,000 tons of recycling and 2,000 tons of yard waste are diverted from landfills each year.”
To enhance the City’s services, the yard waste collection period will be extended until December 31, 2020.
Below are recommended best practices to help ensure safe and efficient removal of waste:
For more on what’s accepted in recycling and yard waste as well as other important information, visit CambridgeMA.Gov/Recycle.
To sign up for weekly waste collection reminders, download the “Zero Waste Cambridge” app or visit CambridgeMA.Gov/Subscribe.
Money & Politics - Featured Items on the October 26, 2020 Cambridge City Council AgendaHere are my picks for this week: Order #2. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Community Development Department and other relevant City personnel to establish a plan that will allow for greater outreach to women-and-minority-owned businesses, technical assistance to these businesses in applying for financial relief, and a clear plan to ensure that those small businesses that have not yet received financial assistance be granted every opportunity to access any future City funding should it be made available, and to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner. Councillor Simmons There should be no argument about the ideal of broad outreach and, if necessary, even targeted outreach to ensure that available resources are equitably provided. There does come a point, however, when this crosses the line into political patronage and favoritism. During the cannabis brouhaha last year over how City ordinances could be crafted to provide advantages to social equity and economic empowerment applicants one couldn't help but notice how many former elected officials were lining up to cash in on these advantages. Inequities in financial assistance necessitated by closures due to the pandemic are likely due to some potential recipients being less savvy about how to access benefits, but suggesting that outreach should be targeted only to women-and-minority-owned businesses seems more like favoritism than anything else. Shouldn't outreach be to any and all businesses who may be unfamiliar with how to access benefits? Order #3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to raise this issue with the appropriate representatives of the Cambridge Crossing buildings, and with the appropriate representatives of the Governor’s Office, to ensure that these businesses are not in violation of any current statewide Covid-19 protocols. Councillor Simmons Apparently there have been “party buses” full of unmasked party animals seen driving in and out of the emerging Cambridge Crossing area, a.k.a. North Point. Perhaps the party animals could be quarantined in the buses for a couple of weeks rather than release them into the general population. Party on, Wayne. Party on, Garth. Order #4. That the City Council adopt a municipal ordinance to reduce This is really the centerpiece of this week's agenda. It's not the first time such a proposal has been floated in the City Council, and it always provides a wonderful opportunity for councillor doublespeak. While my personal preference is to simply require fully transparent disclosure of political donations from anyone, including those with potential business before the City, the simple truth is that it's ethically questionable to receive such donations. If you dig into the contributions made during the 2019 municipal election season there was a lot of money coming from people affiliated with real estate development (including labor unions whose members would stand to get additional work) and cannabis. There were also significant contributions from those in the nonprofit housing world who wanted the City to amend zoning to deliver more projects to them. Some incumbents and challengers have outright refused donations from anyone involved in real estate. I personally think that's excessive and maybe even a bit snobby. Some people who deal in real estate are friends and neighbors who are very charitable with their time and talent (and money) in civic affairs. On the other hand, there are some councillors who take in tons of money from those with business before the City, and their votes generally do align with those interests. We all know that correlation does not imply causation, but it certainly does raise an eyebrow or two - and it should. The fact that some councillors wait until just after the election to receive such large donations seems even more problematic - at least to me - because it evades any disclosure that might have influenced voters. The 2019 election featured a new twist - questioning the propriety of residents who own homes making political donations. The suggestion was that their favored councillors might vote in such a way that might cause their property to rise in value. Earth to Cambridge – those values have been rising primarily due to factors that have little to do with City Council actions. That fact, of course, will never stand in the way of political rhetoric by those who like to point fingers. Let's also acknowledge that during the rent control era nobody suggested a conflict of interest in councillors receiving financial and political support from those whose primary motivation was keeping their rent controlled. Is there anyone who doesn't have at least some sort of financial interest in election outcomes and political actions? Order #5. That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to work with the Solicitor to draft Ordinance language to prohibit the use of tear gas in Cambridge. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui I believe the Police Department has said they don't use tear gas, and I can't imagine that policy changing. So what exactly is the reason for making this an ordinance other than just political showmanship? Order #6. That the City must work with all major housing providers to eliminate or reduce the filing of evictions during the ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis. Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler Unlike the alarmist rhetoric coming from my State Misrepresentative (Connolly), this order is all about negotiation and facilitation for better outcomes. Who can argue with that? - Robert Winters |
Superstition - October 19, 2020 Cambridge City Council AgendaThere are 13 Communications, 13 Resolutions, and 13 Orders on this week's agenda. Good thing there were 14 items on the City Manager's Agenda or I would have on the Last Train to Clarksville. Here's the pick of the litter: Manager's Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-32, regarding the feasibility of identifying one evening or day per week that the Fresh Pond Golf Course can be open to the public for general use. The very predictable rhetoric centered on "equity" and the unspeakable horror that not every square foot of land is open to anyone at any hour of any day for any reason. The City Manager assured the verklempt councillors that people could frolic on the golf course after the golf season was over. Manager's Agenda #3. Transmitting communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $175,000, from Free Cash to the Public Investment Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to launch a COVID-19 sewer testing program. City Engineer Kathy Watkins reported that samples will be drawn weekly from three representative sites East Cambridge/Inman Sq., N. Cambridge, and the Port to detect viral load in wastewater, and that results should start pouring in this November. Manager's Agenda #5. Transmitting communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $50,000 received from the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) Innovate Energy Efficiency Grant Program, to the Grant Fund Community Development Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account which will be used to support the Cambridge Multifamily Energy Retrofit Program, which aims to increase the energy efficiency of multifamily buildings with 5-49 units by offering technical, solar, and financing support. I'll again take this opportunity to express how thrilled I am with another program (carried out thanks to a partnership between the City of Cambridgeand the nonprofit All In Energy) that will soon be blowing insulation into all the walls of my triple-decker plus additional energy-saving measures at zero cost to me. Carrots work better than sticks. Manager's Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-21, regarding a report on developing a Vacant Storefront Registry. CDD Asst. City Manager Iram Farooq reported that CDD has been keeping such a registry for some time. She also explained to the “fine 'em 'til it hurts” councillors that fines for extended vacancies usually can be shucked off by the big guys and might only hurt the little guys. Better to just work with those property owners for better outcomes - what a concept! Manager's Agenda #8. Transmitting communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $50,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Executive Department Extraordinary Expenditures Account for the City's third annual contribution to the MBTA Green Line Extension project. The councillors didn't pull this item, but it's really exciting to see the progress that's being made on the GLX and the associated bike/ped corridor and RR crossings. Check out some of the pictures. Manager's Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-49, regarding a report on the feasibility of closing several blocks of streets in Harvard Square to vehicular traffic, with the exception of deliveries. Manager's Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a response to Policy Order O-13 of Oct 5, 2020, regarding a draft Truck Safety Ordinance. DPW Commissioner Owen O'Riordan cautioned that imposing broad requirements on all City contractors could negatively impact necessities such as street paving since these contractors operate throughout the state/region and the City would have limited leverage. It's also a fact that idealist restrictions on City-funded services and initiatives can significantly increase costs in exchange for limited benefit. Manager's Agenda #13. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-50, regarding a report on publicizing and enforcing and publicizing the eviction moratorium. Order #10. That the City Manager confer with the Legal Department on the feasibility of making Cambridge’s Eviction Moratorium stronger to protect our tenants from displacement. Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler It has been interesting watching the alarmist and opportunistic rhetoric propagate on this issue. Suffice to say that the Governor recently approved a $171 million "eviction diversion initiative" to assist both tenants and landlords, the City has an open-ended eviction moratorium still in place, and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) still has a national ban on evictions of tenants with verifiable pandemic-related hardships. Manager's Agenda #14. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Zoning Recommendations for Retail Uses and Home Occupations. Committee Report #1. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Mallon, Chair of the Economic Development and University Relations Committee, for a public hearing held on Sept 30, 2020 the purpose of receiving final recommendations from the Community Development Department on updating the commercial land use classification system within the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance. Committee Report #2. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Vice Mayor Mallon, Chair of the Economic Development and University Relations Committee, for a public hearing held on July 30, 2020 to discuss to receive an update on the Retail Land Use Initiative and Retail Table of Land Use Update. It's great to see some progress finally being made on this. I haven't yet bothered to read all the fine details, so I'll simply express my view that Cambridge has long been overly prescriptive in its allowed uses, and that's likely to still be the case even with these proposed changes. It's one thing to have regulations in place to prevent noxious uses, but it's another thing to be prescribing things to the point that jelly donuts can be sold but cream-filled donuts cannot. [I'm joking, of course, but I hope you get the idea.] Both of the proposed zoning changes (Retail Uses and Home Occupations) were referred to the Planning Board and Ordinance Committee where we'll have some time to look at the details. It is perhaps worth mentioning that, because of the pandemic, most Cambridge residences have now become workplaces. Charter Right #2. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Historical Commission and other relevant City Departments to ensure that any report or recommendation for a new Neighborhood Conservation District in Cambridge presented to the City Council include an analysis of the potential effects on City housing affordability based on current research, as well as any mitigations that the Cambridge Historical Commission recommends, so that the City Council may holistically evaluate the matter. [CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY COUNCILLOR CARLONE IN COUNCIL OCT 5, 2020] This entire matter has become a case of competing narratives between political partisans - with the ABC crowd identifying anyone who would stand in the way of their Jerome Rappaportization of Cambridge. In their grand vision for East Cambridge and elsewhere, we may soon be seeing signs saying "If you lived here you'd be home now" where the densely-packed homes of immigrants once stood. Applications & Petitions #1. A Zoning Petition has been received from Arvind Srinivasan regarding zoning language relative to the Alewife Quadrangle Northwest Overlay. This makes the 4th installment of proposed zoning in the NW part of Alewife Quadrangle starting last September. Order #1. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the City Solicitor’s Office and other relevant departments to determine what impact the Executive Order on Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping may have on the City of Cambridge and its community partners, what options the City may have to work around this order, and to report back to the City Council on this matter in a timely manner. Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon Order #3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City Solicitor on an ordinance requiring the city to only purchase goods that are made in full compliance with USA environmental and labor standards. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui While I'm sure we can all appreciate the intent, my instincts tell me that the City may soon be exclusively using triple-priced eco-pencils, dirty-grey eco-paper, driving double-priced vehicles (or organically-grown bikes) while feasting on nothing other than organic not-burgers washed down with fair trade coffee. Order #6. That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to work with staff and Eversource representatives to set up a public meeting with residents. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Toomey, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Nolan Could someone contact Eversource and tell them that it's been 6 years since they did a temporary electrical hookup to my building and never returned to finish the job? Believe me, I have tried my best to no avail to get Eversource to finish what they started. Order #7. That the City of Cambridge stands in solidarity with the Armenian people in Cambridge, throughout the Commonwealth and world, and the Republic of Artsakh. Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan Order #9. That the City of Cambridge call upon Senator Warren and Senator Markey to call for an end to immigration detention in the United States, the immediate reunification of immigrant families and the release of migrant children and parents from detention, and also to afford these families due process by allowing them the full and fair opportunity to seek protection from the United States. Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler It's so nice to see Cambridge returning to normal, especially in the field of international relations. I really miss the days of City Council orders seeking to depose leaders like Muammar Gaddafi. Clearly this is what made all the difference in Libya. By the way, Public Comment on Order #7 primarily was phoned in from New Jersey and led to a more Turk-friendly substitute version of this most important piece of Cambridge Intentional Legislation. Order #11. That the City Manager is hereby requested to instruct the Commissioner of Public Works to utilize continuous planting strips along bike lanes and at all reduced roadway areas in Harvard Square rather than painted buffer zones in Harvard Square to fully address bike and pedestrian safety in Harvard Square. Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan Perhaps we should ask the DPW Commissioner about the realities of maintaining "planting strips" in the middle of roadways. Sustainability isn't just about climate change. How long do trees and plantings in narrow strips in roadways actually survive? How will these structures impact snow removal operations? Order #12. That the City Manager is hereby requested to instruct the Finance Department to provide a dollar amount and percentage of money used by every department to address racial and economic equity in the 2022 Fiscal Year Budget, highlighting additional areas to be considered and that the City Manager present plans for implementation in the 2022 Fiscal Year Budget. Councillor Carlone, Councillor Simmons Order #13. Policy Order calling for Judge Roanne Sragow to be reinstated to her position and remain in Cambridge. Councillor McGovern, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui I learned last week of the retirement of Judge Sragow who has for some time been convening the very innovative and helpful "Homeless Court" in Central Square and Harvard Square. Apparently this was a mandatory age-based retirement even though other judges continue beyond the mandatory age. There is now an outcry from many quarters requesting that Judge Sragow be called upon to reconvene the "Homeless Court" initiative in Cambridge. That would be a Very Good Thing. - Robert "better late than never" Winters |
CIVIC CALENDAR (abridged)
7:00am-8:00pm Election Day (All 34 Precincts will be open from 7:00am to 8:00pm for in-person voting)
10:00pm Cambridge Election Commission meeting (Citywide Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave., Limited In-Person and Remote Participation via ZOOM)
The meeting may be viewed by the public at this Zoom Link.
I. MINUTES II. REPORTS 1. Executive Director's Report 2. Assistant Director's Report 3. Commissioners' Reports |
IV. ACTION AGENDA Old Business 1. 2020 State/Presidential Election, Tuesday, November 3rd New Business |
2:30-5:00pm Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Design Review Meeting (Police Station, First Floor Community Room, 125 Sixth St.)
5:30-7:30pm Transit Advisory Committee (Senior Center)
5:00pm School Committee Governance Subcommittee Virtual Meeting (webcast)
There will be a Virtual Meeting of the Governance Sub-Committee on Thurs, Nov 5 at 4:00pm broadcast from the Media Arts Center, 454 Broadway, for the purpose of discussing the code of ethics of the School Committee and reviewing ways to support school councils. It is anticipated that this meeting will end no later than 5:30pm.
Individuals must sign up in advance to provide public comments. The sign up window is Mon, Nov 2 through Thurs, Nov 5 at 10:00am (by phone) or 3:30pm (online).
• To sign up to call in using the ZOOM app on your computer or mobile device, visit http://www.cpsd.us/school_committee/virtual.
• To sign up to call-in by phone: contact Jennifer Dever Wood at 617-349-6620.
Until further notice, the Cambridge School Committee will hold its meetings virtually. Meetings will be live-streamed at www.cpsd.us and broadcast on Cambridge Educational Access TV (CEATV) Channel 98/99.
6:00pm Human Rights Commission meeting (2nd Floor Conference Room, 51 Inman St.)
6:00pm School Committee Virtual Special Meeting (webcast from Attles Meeting Room, CRLS)
There will be a Special Meeting of the School Committee on Thurs, Nov 5 at 6:00pm to discuss and accept the Building and Grounds Sub-Committee recommendation to adopt updated metrics for CPS re-opening plan.
Individuals must sign up in advance to provide public comments. For the Nov 5 Special Meeting: The sign-up window is Mon, Nov 2 through Thurs, Nov 5 at 12Noon (by phone) and 5:30pm (online).
• To sign up to call in using the ZOOM app on your computer or mobile device, visit http://www.cpsd.us/school_committee/virtual.
• To sign up to call-in by phone: contact Jennifer Dever Wood at 617-349-6620.
Until further notice, the Cambridge School Committee will hold its meetings virtually. Meetings will be live-streamed at www.cpsd.us and broadcast on Cambridge Educational Access TV (CEATV) Channel 98/99.
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
10:00am The City Council's Health and Environment Committee will meet to continue discussing amending the Tree Protection Ordinance based on the findings of the Urban Forest Master Plan Task Force. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
10:00am The City Council's Human Services & Veterans’ Committee will conduct a public hearing on homelessness. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the PUD-CDK District Zoning. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
2:30pm The City Council's Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee will conduct a public hearing on decorum of the Council, as well as the rules around and duties of the Council Aides. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
6:00pm School Committee Virtual Meeting (webcast from Attles Meeting Room, CRLS)
The next Regular Meeting of the School Committee will be held on Tues, Nov 17 at 6:00pm, held in and broadcast from the Dr. Henrietta S. Attles Meeting Room, CRLS, 459 Broadway, Cambridge, for the purpose of discussing any and all business that may properly come before the Committee.
Until further notice, the Cambridge School Committee will hold its meetings and hear public comment virtually. Meetings will be livestreamed at www.cpsd.us and broadcast on Cambridge Educational Access TV (CEATV) Channel 98/99, as usual.
Individuals must sign up in advance to provide public comments at regular meetings or public hearings. For the Nov 17 Regular Meeting: The sign-up window is Fri, Nov 13 through Tues, Nov 17 at 12Noon (by phone) and 5:30pm (online).
- To sign up to call-in by phone: contact Jennifer Dever Wood at 617-349-6620.
- To sign up to call in using the ZOOM app on your computer or mobile device: visit www.cpsd.us/school_committee/virtual.
9:15-11:00am Recycling Advisory Committee (virtual meeting)
2:00pm The City Council's Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public hearing on to discuss the Municipal Broadband Feasibility Study RFP. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30pm Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Board Meeting (Police Station, First Floor Conference Room, 125 Sixth St.)
5:30-7:30pm Bicycle Committee meeting (4th Floor Conference Room, 344 Broadway)
6:00-7:30pm Central Square Advisory Committee meeting (Zoom)
6:00pm School Committee Special Education and Students Supports Sub-Committee Virtual Meeting (webcast)
There will be a Virtual Meeting of the Special Education and Students Supports Sub-Committee on Wed, Nov 18 at 6:00pm broadcast from the Media Arts Center, 454 Broadway, for the purpose of discussing the reading level benchmark data, resources to scholars reading below grade level, dyslexia indicators, and professional development to educators. It is anticipated that this meeting will last no later than 7:30pm.
Individuals must sign up in advance to provide public comments.
The sign up window is Fri, Nov 13 through Wed, Nov 18 at 12:00pm (by phone) or 5:30pm (online).
• To sign up to call in using the ZOOM app on your computer or mobile device, visit http://www.cpsd.us/school_committee/virtual.
• To sign up to call-in by phone: contact Jennifer Dever Wood at 617-349-6620.
Until further notice, the Cambridge School Committee will hold its meetings virtually. Meetings will be live-streamed at www.cpsd.us and broadcast on Cambridge Educational Access TV (CEATV) Channel 98/99.
2:00pm The City Council's Economic Development and University Relations Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss challenges and opportunities that exist in City purchasing, procurement and programs for MWBEs and other historically disadvantaged businesses and non-profits in Cambridge. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the KSURP Zoning Ordinance Amendment. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
6:00pm Pedestrian Committee Meeting (City Hall Annex, 4th Floor Conference Room, 344 Broadway)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
6:00pm Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship meeting (2nd Floor Conference Room, 51 Inman St.)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
2:30-5:00pm Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Design Review Meeting (Police Station, First Floor Community Room, 125 Sixth St.)
5:00pm The City Council's Public Safety Committee will meet to conduct a public hearing on the Cambridge Police Department inventory list. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30-7:30pm Transit Advisory Committee (Senior Center)
6:00pm Human Rights Commission meeting (2nd Floor Conference Room, 51 Inman St.)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
9:15-11:00am Recycling Advisory Committee (virtual meeting)
5:30pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the Cannabis Delivery-Only Zoning Ordinance petition. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the Alewife Quadrangle Northwest Overlay petition. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30pm Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Board Meeting (Police Station, First Floor Conference Room, 125 Sixth St.)
6:00-7:30pm Central Square Advisory Committee meeting (Zoom)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30pm The City Council's Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the Retail Uses Zoning Ordinance petition and the Home Occupations Zoning Ordinance petition. (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
5:30pm City Council meeting (Sullivan Chamber - Televised)
