Quick Take – December 16, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Here’s my quick take on this week’s agenda highlights:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of Judith Laguerre, Yasmin Padamsee Forbes, and Stephen Curran as members of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission for a term of three-years.
Appointments Approved 8-0-1 (Wilson-Absent)

“Nevertheless I persist” in encouraging residents to volunteer to serve on City boards & commissions and highlighting all such appointments.

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to PO24#141, regarding the BZA Dormers Petition. (CM24#266) [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; Unfinished Business Brought Forward 8-0-1 (Wilson-Absent), McGovern Motion to Amend by Substitution Adopted 8-0-1 (Wilson-Absent); Nolan comments suggesting language still too restrictive (suggests deleting sub-paragraph 3); Jim Monteverde (BZA Chair) responds; Toner agrees w/Nolan amendment; Zusy defers to wisdom of Historical Commission and BZA; Monteverde explains that language would not prohibit a longer dormer - they would have to seek variance, as is required now; Azeem agrees w/Toner-Nolan; Nolan motion to delete 8.22.1.i.3 and renumber Adopted 7-1-1 (Zusy-No, Wilson Absent); Adopted as Amended 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Unfinished Business #5. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to ARTICLE 2.000 DEFINITIONS Dormer. A roofed projection built out from a sloping roof, containing a window or windows. ARTICLE 8.000 NONCONFORMITY 8.22.1h. Construction of a dormer or dormers to a nonconforming one- or two-family dwelling. [Passed to 2nd Reading Nov 4, 2024; Eligible To Be Ordained on or after Nov 25, 2024] (ORD24#9)
Taken up w/Managers Agenda #2; Nolan motion to delete 8.22.1.i.3 and renumber Adopted 7-1-1 (Zusy-No, Wilson Absent); Adopted as Amended 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Seems ripe for ordination.

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Planning Board Report regarding the flexible parking zoning petition.
Referred to Petition 9-0

372 Communications - most regarding the proposed corrections to Garden Street traffic patterns (caused by the Untouchable Cycling Safety Ordinance).

It’s worth noting that the proposal for “flexible parking” (a real departure from the environmental priorities leading up to the City’s PTDM Ordinance) was necessitated by the complete inflexibility of some city councillors regarding the Cycling Safety Ordinance. If anyone actually believes that the right to pay a substantial fee for parking is a fair trade for loss of on-street parking, I have a bridge for sale at a great price.

Order #1. That the City Council meeting scheduled for Jan 13, 2025 be designated as a Joint Roundtable of the City Council and School Committee to discuss the City’s universal pre-kindergarten program.   Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

I am just a bit curious what is to be discussed. The Order gives no indication.

Order #2. That the City Council approve and issue the City Manager’s Performance Evaluation.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan
pulled early by Toner along w/Dec 10 Minutes; Minutes Accepted 8-0-1 (Wilson-Absent); Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Wilson-Absent)

Order #3. That the City Council intends to renew the City Manager’s employment beyond Sept 5, 2025, and initiate negotiations for a successor employment contract, which contract, if agreed to, shall become effective Sept 6, 2025.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy
pulled early by Toner along w/Dec 10 Minutes; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Wilson-Absent)

Order #4. That the City Council immediately suspend new requests for memorial dedications and that the Government Operations and the Civic Unity Committee, working with the City Manager, hold hearings to discuss new ideas to honor and remember individuals (i.e. memorial garden, fountain, wall or path), criteria for eligibility, a more robust committee structure, and a means for recording and maintaining our current and future memorials.   Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Zusy
pulled by Toner for explanation; Nolan comments; Order Adopted 9-0

Good idea.

Resolution #3. Resolution honoring John Tagiuri.   Councillor Zusy

Late Resolution #4. Resolution Re: Whitney’s Bar.   Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson
comments by McGovern re: Gerald Chan’s properties in Harvard Square and elsewhere (including Harvard Square Cinema, Dickson’s Bros. Hardware locations); McGovern, Wilson added as sponsors 9-0; Nolan comments (will vote Present based on letter from Chan’s lawyers re: court order and rent forgiveness); Toner reluctant but will support, notes insane and threatening comments by supporters; Wilson supports noting proprietor Dan Maguire is a friend; Simmons notes important history of this business; McGovern notes that some people who express support for business rarely patronize them; Simmons expresses hope that Gerald Chan will reconsider; Siddiqui decries personal threats that have been expressed; Azeem comments; Resolution Adopted 8-0-0-1 (Nolan-Present)

12 Committee Reports - 10 from previous City Council terms (9 never previously reported) and 2 current reports. These follow 8 reports the previous week (Dec 9) and 14 at the (infamous) Nov 25 meeting.
All Reports Accepted, Placed on File 9-0; Committee Report #12 - CSO Amendments Passed to 2nd Reading

I really want to take everyone from the City Clerk’s Office out for a beer. They have been cleaning up the mess left by negligent City Council committee Chairs dating back 6 years. Prior to that I don’t recall a single committee meeting that went unreported for more than a few months.

As City Council salaries and personal staff have increased (and reserved parking spaces and private offices provided), responsibility has diminished. Some of this should have been part of the City Charter discussion, but instead they choose to focus on things like longer terms and greater Council control over the City budget process. Curiously, all proposals for possible mechanisms for “Redress of Grievances” were recently unanimously dismissed. - (the real) Robert Winters

Comments?

CDD Leadership Announcement – Iram Farooq leaving the City to take position as Managing Director of Campus Planning at Harvard University

Dec 11, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang sent out the following announcement today:

Dear all,
I wanted to let you all know that after twenty-five years of dedicated service, Iram Farooq, our beloved Assistant City Manager of Community Development, is leaving the City to join a well-known local organization in our community as the Managing Director of Campus Planning at Harvard University.

I’m filled with a lot of emotions: gratitude for all that Iram has contributed, sadness that she will no longer be a colleague, excitement for her new adventure, and appreciation that she will remain very much a part of the Cambridge community.

Iram has been a key leader and voice in so much of the incredible growth, development, and transformation in Cambridge over the last decades. She shaped the creation of Kendall Square, Cambridge Crossing, and Alewife, where we now see vibrant mixed-use communities and thousands of new homes. She has been a leader of our climate work on green buildings and green zoning, the development of the Net Zero Action Plan, the passage of BEUDO 1.0 in 2015 and 2.0 in 2023, and creation of our Resilient Cambridge roadmap. She guided the creation of the Affordable Housing Overlay 1.0 and 2.0, and she is now coordinating the policy development of Multi-Family Housing. And if that’s not enough, she has also overseen our investments in small businesses, our recent work on Supplier Diversity, planning for our transportation future, reimagining our open spaces, and much more.

Through all of this work, Iram has partnered with stakeholders across the City, creating space for honest and difficult conversations, worked closely with the City Council on the details of policy and the challenges of hard negotiations, and made investments in Community Development to make it a stronger, efficient, and inclusive department. Iram is leaving an amazing legacy across our community and within the City. Her last day in the office will be January 24.

Melissa Peters, who is currently our Chief of Planning Strategy, will serve as Acting Assistant City Manager of Community Development while we conduct a search in the new year. Melissa has been with the City for the last ten years and has led some of our largest planning initiatives including Envision Cambridge and the re-zoning of the Alewife Quadrangle. I’m grateful for her leadership during this transition period.

I want to thank Iram for her leadership and partnership over the past two and half years, and we will have the opportunity to gather and celebrate Iram’s achievements in the coming month. I hope you will join me in congratulating Iram on her new role and thanking her for her many contributions!

Thank you all,
Yi-An

Comments?

Special Committee on Charter Review Meeting – Monday, December 9, 1:00pm-3:00pm [Agenda]

December 5th, 2024
To Mayor Simmons and Members of the Cambridge City Council:

As Co-Chairs of the Special Committee on Charter Review, we have scheduled a meeting on December 9th, 2024, from 1 to 3pm for the full Council to discuss the status of Charter Review process and develop a timeline and plan for advancing recommendations to put forward on the November 4th, 2025 ballot.

In advance, we ask that you review the discussions and materials from the June 5th and June 25th, 2024 Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee meetings. Both meetings began with public comment and were followed by discussions on the Charter Review Committee recommendations, challenges of some of the recommendations, and strategies for moving the process forward.

• June 5th Government Operations meeting (VIDEO)
• June 5th Meeting Agenda and Documents
• June 25th Government Operations Committee Meeting (VIDEO)
• June 25th Meeting Agenda and Documents

At this time, the only decision that has been made is that a two-thirds majority of the Council will be required to advance any recommendations to the Attorney General and/or Legislature, and residents on a future ballot.

Our goal for the December 9th meeting is to review each of the recommendations from the Charter Review Committee. We will schedule a follow-up meeting in January 2025 for items that require more discussion, as well as any additional recommendations from the City Council.

Sincerely,

The Committee met for 2¼ hours and recessed until a to-be-scheduled next meeting in January. All votes taken were recommendations to the full City Council, held for further discussion, or referrals to the Government Operations Committee for possible future action independent of the Charter revision process.

A. City Manager or Strong Mayor form of Government
Vote was 7-2 to in favor of retaining city manager form. (Siddiqui and Sobrinho-Wheeler preferred strong mayor form.)

B. Maintain an at-large city council elected by proportional representation.
Vote was 8-0-1 to retain PR (Simmons Absent).

C. Maintain an at-large city council of 9 members.
Vote was 7-1-1 in favor. (Nolan expressed preference for a mixed system with some district councillors and some at-large. Simmons was Absent.)

D. Enfranchise non-citizens in municipal elections.
Vote was 8-0-1 to refer to Gov’t Ops. Committee for possible future separate Home Rule Petition (Simmons Absent). There were actually two parts to this: (1) allowing non-citizens to vote, and (2) allowing non-citizens to be candidates in municipal elections. Only Councillor Zusy expressed the view that voting rights are intertwined with citizenship.

E. Enfranchise 16- and 17-year-olds in municipal elections.
Vote was 8-0-1 to refer to Gov’t Ops. Committee for possible future separate Home Rule Petition (Simmons Absent).

F. Move municipal elections to even years.
Vote was 8-0-1 to refer to Gov’t Ops. Committee for possible future separate Home Rule Petition (Simmons Absent).

G. Create more flexibility and modernize election voting and tabulation methods in charter language.
Vote was 8-0-1 in favor with directive that Law Department draft appropriate language (Simmons Absent).

H. Participation in and Accessibility of Government for all Residents by creating Resident Assemblies.
Vote was 1-7-1 with only Sobrinho-Wheeler in favor (Simmons Absent).

I. Public tracking mechanisms of council policy orders.
Vote was 1-8 with general view expressed that this is already done and if any further direction is necessary it would be better in incorporate it into the City Council Rules rather than in the City Charter. Only Sobrinho-Wheeler was in favor.

J. Effectiveness of Government through Measurable Goalsetting.
Vote was 0-9 with general view expressed that this is already done and if any further direction is necessary it would be better in incorporate it into the City Council Rules rather than in the City Charter.

K. Maintain 2-year terms for city councillors.
This was held for further discussion at a later meeting. Some councillors expressed view that extending terms might be viewed as self-serving (obviously).
Note: None of the councillors seemed to understand that staggered 4-year terms (5 and 4) would fundamentally change the nature of our PR elections with a much larger election quota and diminution of minority representation. They also failed to understand the need for a recall provision with longer terms - something that is not compatible with our PR elections.]

L. Responsiveness and Accountability through delineating budget process and priority setting.
Vote was 0-9 with general view that this is already done and if any further clarity is needed it would be better in incorporate it into the City Council Rules rather than in the City Charter.

M. Give the City Council the power to add or increase line items in the budget.
This was held for further discussion at a later meeting.

N. Enshrine resident initiative provision.
Vote was 0-9.

O. Enshrine group petition provision.
Vote was 0-9.

Note: An Idea Whose Time Has Come Again – Redress of Grievances (posted Jan 26, 2023)

P. Campaign finance study committee.
Vote to refer to Gov’t Ops. Committee was 2-7.

It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like 2016 Again - December 9, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

It seems like Deja Vu all over again. As I was grabbing links to past Sanctuary City resolutions, I stumbled upon my notes from the Nov 21, 2016 City Council meeting. Some of the agenda items were strikingly similar to this week’s agenda - both, of course, in the context of a forthcoming Trump presidency. [Sanctuary City references: 1985, 2006, 2016 and 2020; and now this]

Note: There was a meeting of the Special Committee on Charter Review earlier in the day at which a long list of proposed Charter amendments were either recommended, dismissed, held over until the next meeting or referred to the Government Operations Committee for possible separate action.

Here are the items that seemed interesting to me this week:

Boards & Commissions

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Zhonghe Li and Jean Dany Joachim and the re-appointment of David Daniel, Aliyah Gary, Lori Lander, Calvin Lindsay Jr., Ann Lawson, Stella Aguirre McGregor, Michael Monestime, Diane Charyk Norris, Katherine Megumi Shozawa and Christine Lamas Weinberg to the Cambridge Arts Advisory Board for a term of three years.
Appointments Approved; Placed on File 9-0

Resolution #1. Congratulations to CHA Board Commissioner Gerard J. Clark on his retirement.   Mayor Simmons

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-24, regarding a Porchfest pilot. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Jason Weeks, Simmons, Wilson; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Affordable Homeownership Commitment. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Transportation and, of course, bikes

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the proposed Bluebike bike share system contract term.
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Yi-An Huang, Stephanie Groll, Wilson, Simmons, Megan Bayer; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and Harvard University to restore Garden Street to two-way automobile traffic while preserving two-way protected bike lanes, preserving as much parking on and/or near Garden Street as possible and identifying potential areas for resident parking on neighboring streets and communicating the changes to the affected neighborhood.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Zusy, Nolan, Wilson, Yi-An Huang, McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Azeem, Siddiqui, Owen O’Riordan; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-61, regarding lowering speeds on state highways. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Jeff Parenti, Brooke McKenna; Order Adopted 9-0

Can you give me sanctuary?

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to forward a letter to all Cambridge organizations working with immigrant populations, as well as all City Departments, reminding them of the city’s Sanctuary/Trust Act City status, the protections provided by the 2020 Welcoming Community Ordinance, and the importance of ensuring non-citizens are treated with dignity and respect.   Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Toner (PO24#154)
pulled by McGovern; comments by McGovern, Siddiqui, Nolan, Wilson, Simmons; Order Amended to add all councillors; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

On The Table #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and encourage the state Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and the MBTA to adhere to Cambridge local ordinances, including the Cambridge Asbestos Protection Ordinance, during Alewife Construction. [Tabled Nov 25, 2024]
Removed from Table 9-0; comments by Nolan; Order Adopted 9-0

Resolution #3. Recognition of Cambridge Investment in Renewable Energy.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled for comments by Nolan

8 Committee Reports - 7 from previous City Council terms
Reports Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #2. A communication from Councillor Siddiqui and Councillor Toner, transmitting an update on the Special Committee on Charter Review.   Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Comments?

And So It Goes – December 2, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

I skipped last week’s LoveFest, but the memories will last forever. This week features relatively little, but here goes:

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update regarding Community Engagement. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to review with a robust and inclusive community process the Cambridge Bicycle Plan, most recently updated in 2020, and identify potential improvements and consider next steps for a network of Separated Bicycle Facilities, and Separated Bicycle Facilities on streets across the city in order to facilitate safer travel and ways to coordinate routes with neighboring communities including Arlington, Somerville, Watertown, Belmont, Boston, and others.   Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
Order Adopted 9-0

On The Table #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and encourage the state Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and the MBTA to adhere to Cambridge local ordinances, including the Cambridge Asbestos Protection Ordinance, during Alewife Construction. [Tabled – Nov 25, 2024]

Committee Report #1. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on November 21, 2024 to discuss the City Council’s Flexible Parking Corridor Zoning Petition, the Parking and Transportation Demand Management (PTDM) Municipal Ordinance, and the Commercial Parking Space Permits Municipal Ordinance. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0; 3 Items Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0

Communications & Reports from City Officers #2. A communication from Mayor Simmons transmitting a Report on the Recent Senior Citizens Town Hall. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Comments?

Pre-Thanksgiving Dinner - November 25, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Here are the noteworthy items this week:

Reconsideration #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Erik Sarno and Andrea Taylor and the reappointment of Saffana Anwar, Christopher Fort, Robert Winters, Tahir Kapoor, and Esther Hanig to the Central Square Advisory Committee for a term of three years. [Reconsideration filed by Sobrinho-Wheeler]
Placed on File 5-4 (Azeem, Nolan, Toner, Zusy, Simmons -YES; McGovern, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson - NO)

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Joe Camillus and Filo Castore as a members of to the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA) Board.
Appointments Approved, Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of Tabithlee Howard and appointing Johanny Maria Castillo, Jasper Adiletta, Shanjnin (Eva) Asraf, Jasper Mallon, and Larisa Mendez-Peñate to the Coordinating Council for Children Youth and Families also known as the Family Policy Council, effective Nov 25, 2024.
Appointments Approved, Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report 24-32, regarding exploring with the MBTA how to best ensure that the public art, Gift of the Wind, is preserved. (CM24#253) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $15,000 to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations (Arts Council) Other Ordinary Maintenance account. The MCC Cultural District Grant provides financial support to state-designated Cultural Districts throughout the Commonwealth. This funding will support District-based initiatives that drive economic growth and strengthen the distinctive character of the Central Square Cultural District.
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #1. That the Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee hold a meeting to explore the ability to prohibit, either through city or state legislation, the common practice of landlords requiring tenants to pay broker fees.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and encourage the state Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and the MBTA to adhere to Cambridge local ordinances, including the Cambridge Asbestos Protection Ordinance, during Alewife Construction.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy
Tabled 9-0

14 Reports & Minutes of committee meetings from prior City Council terms - Catching up!
All Reports Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #2. A communication from Mayor E. Denise Simmons, transmitting Notice of Special City Council Meeting re: Charter Review
Placed on File 9-0

Comments?

Post-Apocalyptic Gathering - November 18, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

We’ll have to wait to see what the fallout will be of a changing federal picture on left-leaning “sanctuary cities” like Cambridge. I can easily imagine changes in both funding and eligibility for public housing and perhaps some economic repercussions for life sciences and pharmaceutical companies that dominate Kendall Square. Will there be efforts to replace lost federal money by jacking up local property taxes? It’s all just a big guessing game right now. I don’t believe we will be receiving too many federal favors for the next several years.

Here are the items that drew my local attention this week:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the findings of the 2024 Cambridge Resident Satisfaction Survey. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Yi-An Huang, Lee Gianetti, survey rep., Zusy, Azeem, Toner, Wilson, McGovern; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the City Manager’s LGBTQ+ Friendly Housing Task Force Final Report. [text of report]
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons, Maura Pensak, Carolina Almonte, Phoebe West, McGovern, Zusy; Placed on File, Referred to Civic Unity Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments of members to the Cambridge Street Safety Improvement Project Working Group.
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Brooke McKenna (TPT), Toner (asks if there will be a similar group for Broadway - yes), Wilson; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #10. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Erik Sarno and Andrea Taylor and the reappointment of Saffana Anwar, Christopher Fort, Robert Winters, Tahir Kapoor, and Esther Hanig to the Central Square Advisory Committee for a term of three years.
pulled by Zusy; comments by Simmons, Yi-An Huang (on update to add RW), Zusy (notes only 9 applicants for 7 positions on CSAC; for HSAC only 12 applicants for 11 positions - suggests advertising more broadly), Iram Farooq (notes how prescriptive categories are for CSAC and HSAC, mechanism for applying for all open boards and commissions); Zusy asks if a broad range of perspectives is sought; Appointments Approved as Amended, Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments of Gareth Dohety, Ivy Moylan, Henry Grabar, Chad Bonney, and Ryan Clinesmith Montalvo and the reappointments of Matthew Simitis, Kari Kuelzer, John DiGiovanni, Nicola Williams, Alexandra Offiong, and Allison Crosbie to the Harvard Square Advisory Committee for a term of three years.
Appointments Approved, Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-36, regarding coordinated and timely communication related to interjurisdictional transportation projects. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan (bus shelters, green roofs, shade, Alewife maintenance tunnel, Asbestos Ordinance; Iram Farooq, Owen O’Riordan, City Solicitor Megan Bayer (noting that state/MBTA not subject to City’s ordinance), Nolan (Draw One Bridge), Farooq (state not currently planning to add bike/ped connection to bridge); Nolan (bridge over Fitchburg commuter rail and addition of station in Alewife area), Farooq (reconstruction of Alewife garage may have possibility of commuter rail station); Zusy (I-90 project coordination, impact of construction on traffic, Eversource projects, asbestos concerns at Alewife, Draw One Bridge, need for commuter rail station at Alewife and bridge); Sobrinho-Wheeler (start date for Memorial Drive reconstruction, Riverbend Park impacts), Owen O’Riordan; Zusy on plans for Transportation Committee; Referred to Transportation Committee 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a draft home rule petition to authorize the City of Cambridge to implement automated parking enforcement technology; and to continue to work with the City of Boston to collaborate on the home rule process.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan on special status of Boston and Cambridge that necessitates a home rule petition, notes that this would be cost-neutral; Siddiqui added as sponsor 9-0; Wilson asks why Boston, Cambridge are exceptions; Megan Bayer explains; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #2. Resolution in Support of H.823 and S.551, Paint Stewardship and Recycling.   Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a Home Rule Petition to enact legislation which would allow the City of Cambridge to prohibit associations from unreasonably restricting the use of a solar energy system. [Charter Right – Nolan, Nov 4, 2024]
Nolan notes why home rule petition may be needed; Megan Bayer explains why state law on this matter is insufficient; Toner asks about enforcement; Bayer suggests that this could be done as either a zoning amendment or a municipal ordinance; McGovern suggests sending this to a committee for larger discussion; Zusy seeks clarification of intention, Nolan explains, Zusy notes how things could get “messy” with condo associations; Referred to Health & Environment Committee 9-0

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department to draft a home rule petition for the creation of a Cambridge Jobs Training Trust, and report back to the City Council in a timely manner. [Charter Right – Toner, Nov 4, 2024]
Sobrinho-Wheeler explains at authorization doesn’t obligate Council to implement, no need to send to Ordinance Committee; Amendment to strike “to be sent to the Ordinance Committee for a hearing” Adopted 9-0; Toner proposes sending to Economic Development Committee for further discussion (on 11 questions) and how this relates to how things are done now; comments by Yi-An Huang expresses concerns about raising linkage fees now, Ellen Semonoff, Toner asks whether setting up a Jobs Trust bank account would create obligation to fund it; Yi-An Huang notes last increase in Linkage Fee was from $22 to $33 based on 2019 Nexus Study, next Nexus Study to start in 2025, notes that Council will have to decide how Linkage Fee is to be allocated; Toner proposes referring to Economic Development Committee; Zusy notes inadequate options for CRLS students; McGovern has questions on how this would be implemented - wants to preserve all affordable housing allocation and increase Linkage Fee to add allocation for jobs training, floats raising fee to $45; Sobrinho-Wheeler proposes amendment to have an Econ. Dev. meeting in addition to filing home rule petition promptly; McGovern notes RSTA initiatives; Siddiqui OK with further conversation in committee; Wilson, Zusy, Nolan, McGovern comments; Adopted Order as Amended 8-0-1 (Simmons-Absent)

Committee Report #1. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on Apr 30, 2024 to discuss the feasibility of municipally funded housing vouchers as referenced in PO24#24. The meeting was recessed and reconvened on Oct 15, 2024 to continue the discussion. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Simmons-Absent)

Committee Report #2. The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on Oct 23, 2024 to discuss issues facing homeless shelters in Cambridge and concerns raised by the unhoused community. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Simmons-Absent)

Committee Report #3. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on Oct 23, 2024 to hear specific ideas from neighborhood leaders about revisions to the Multifamily Housing Proposal. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Simmons-Absent)

Committee Report #4. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on Oct 24, 2024 to discuss research on four-day work week pilot programs with businesses, government agencies, and non-profits and models for a four-day work week that have been implemented locally. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Simmons-Absent)

Committee Report #5. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on Oct 31, 2024 to discuss the Economics of Real Estate: Housing, Zoning, and the Economic Impact of Zoning. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Simmons-Absent)

Comments?

Cambridge City Manager Seeks Members for New Broadway Safety Improvement Project Working Group

Nov 19, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking volunteers to serve on a Broadway Safety Improvement Project Working Group.

The City of Cambridge is installing separated bike lanes on Broadway between Quincy Street and Portland Street. This project will:

• Change the Street’s Layout. With quick-build materials, the City of Cambridge will incorporate new pavement markings, traffic signs, and flex posts. Separated bike lanes will be installed along the curb, providing a safer space for cyclists, separated from moving traffic by white flex posts or other physical barriers.
• Create Traffic Calming Measures. Street improvements will help slow down traffic, making Broadway safer for all users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
• Reduce Parking. This project will reduce on-street parking. We expect to maintain about 25% of the current spaces. We’ll work closely with businesses and residents to determine the best use for the remaining parking and loading areas.

These changes will help us meet the requirements of the Cambridge Cycling Safety Ordinance; support our Vision Zero goal to eliminate crashes resulting in fatalities and serious injuries; and bring us closer to realizing the Cambridge Bicycle Network Vision.

The Broadway Safety Improvement Project Working group will be responsible for advising on the design and implementation of safety improvements on Broadway, including the installation of the separated bike lanes.

Individuals who are excited about shaping the future of Broadway and want to work collaboratively to accomplish the goals above are encouraged to apply. The Working Group will include residents, business owners, institutional representatives, and a variety of people who use the corridor to live, work, walk, bike, drive, or take the bus.

The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. All board and commission members in Cambridge must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The Working Group is expected to be made up of 12-15 members, representing a diverse set of interests along the Broadway corridor. It is anticipated that the group will meet 8 to 10 times over a 1.5-year period between Spring 2025 and Fall 2026, though exact meeting dates have not been yet established. Working Group meetings will be open to the public.

Applications to serve on the Working Group can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. The application deadline is Monday, December 30, 2024. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. For more information, contact Andreas Wolfe, Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department at awolfe@cambridgema.gov.

Volunteer Opportunities - Cambridge Boards & Commissions (click for details)

Cambridge Housing Authority Board of Commissioners - deadline Mon, Jan 27, 2025

Cambridge Climate Committee - deadline Mon, Jan 13, 2025

Broadway Safety Improvement Project Working Group - deadline Mon, Dec 30, 2024

Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Commission - deadline extended to Mon, Jan 27, 2024

Half Crown-Marsh Neighborhood Conservation District Commission - deadline extended to Mon, Jan 27, 2024

Mid-Cambridge Neighborhood Conservation District Commission - deadline extended to Mon, Jan 27, 2024

Cambridge Historical Commission - deadline extended to Mon, Jan 27, 2024

Planning Board - deadline Mon, Dec 30, 2024

Cambridge Public Art Commission - deadline Mon, Dec 9, 2024 (but apparently still open)

Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA) - deadline Mon, Dec 2, 2024 (but apparently still open)

Cambridge Kiosk Advisory Committee - deadline Mon, Dec 9, 2024 (but apparently still open)

Transit Advisory Committee - deadline Oct 15, 2024 (but apparently still open)