Featured Items on the May 20, 2024 Cambridge City Council Agenda

Here’s my first pass at the interesting stuff.

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-15, regarding recommendations for adjusting parking permit fees to better align with associated costs.
pulled by Toner; comments by Brooke “we have the authority” McKenna (TPT), McGovern, Nolan (who wants fees increased immediately), Stephanie McAuliffe (TPT), Simmons, Pickett (do we get to vote on such an increase?), JSW, Wilson (do all public housing tenants get the cheap rate?), Toner; Referred to Transportation Committee on voice vote

“Based on an analysis of the costs associated with the administration of the Resident Permit Parking Program, we recommend that the fee for a Resident Parking Permit be increased from $25 to $75. In addition to raising the standard cost for a Resident Parking Permit, we will implement a system for income-eligible Resident Parking Permits where the cost will remain at $25. Both standard and income-eligible Resident Parking Permit costs will continue to include a Visitor Parking Permit. The cost for a Visitor Parking Permit without a Resident Parking Permit will remain at $25.”

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a report submitted by the Planning Board regarding the Family Definition Zoning Petition. [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; Referred to May 22 Ordinance Committee meeting 8-0-1 (BA Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a report submitted by the Planning Board regarding the Khalida Griffin-Sheperd, et al. Zoning Petition. [text of report]
Referred to Petition 8-0-1 (BA Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization of $15,000,000 to provide additional funds for the construction of improvements at the Fire Station Headquarters Building located at 491 Broadway.
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Owen O’Riordan, Fire Chief Cahill, Siddiqui, Nolan, Wilson, Simmons, Toner; Order Adopted 7-0-1-1 (BA Absent; SS Present)

Order #1. City Council support of the Act Establishing Protections and Accountability for TNC and DNC Workers (S.627/H1158), which would allow TNCs to sustain worker benefits and protections that maintain a level playing field across transportation industries.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Toner; Charter Right - Toner (and Wilson to be added as sponsor)

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and the Cambridge Arts Council to consider whether Cambridge could facilitate a porchfest event.   Councillor Nolan, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem
pulled by Nolan, comments by Nolan, Wilson, Simmons; Order Adopted on Voice Vote

Comments?

Recipients of the 2024 Outstanding City Employee Award and Brian Murphy Award for Leadership in the Workplace and Public Service

May 21, 2024 – Last week, Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang announced the recipients of the 2024 Outstanding City Employee Award and the 2023 and 2024 Brian Murphy Awards for Leadership in the Workplace and Public Service.

The City Manager’s Outstanding Employee Awards (OEA) program recognizes employees nominated by peers, department leaders, and/or members of the community for superior performance, positive attitude, hard work, and dedication to public service. The Brian Murphy Award for Leadership in the Workplace and Public Service is a distinguished recognition given to leaders who display extraordinary qualities in the workplace and dedication to community service.

Please join City Manager Huang in congratulating the 2024 OEA winners:

• Carrine Bury, Outreach Worker/Program Assistant, Human Services
• Joseph Fournier, Captain, Fire Department
• Wallensteen Joseph, Technical Support, Information Technology Department
• Anna Kaplan, Director of Epidemiology and Data Services, Cambridge Public Health Department
• Kristen Kelleher, Community Relations Manager, Department of Public Works
• Rob Linke, Operations Manager, Department of Public Works
• Daniel Liss, Principal Budget Analyst, Budget Office
• Bridget Martin, Communications Manager, Human Services
• Phillip McDavitt, Lieutenant, Cambridge Police Department
• Alyssa Pacy, Senior Librarian, Cambridge Public Library
• Bayyinah Pandolfo, Teacher, Community Learning Center, Human Services
• Tim Puopolo, Fresh Pond Reservation Outreach and Ranger, Water Department
• Cara Seiderman, Transportation Planner, Community Development
• Kate Thurman, Disability Project Coordinator, Commission for Persons with Disabilities, Human Services
• Melissa Young, Enterprise Application Specialist, Information Technology Department

Congratulations to the 2023 and 2024 winners of the Brian Murphy Award for Leadership in the Workplace and Public Service:

• Dr. Lisa Dobberteen, Medical Director, School Health and Public Health Programs, Cambridge Public Health Department (2023)
• Charles Sullivan, Executive Director, Cambridge Historical Commission (2024)

The Brian Murphy Award for Leadership in the Workplace and Public Service, first given in 2015, exemplifies – much like the late Assistant City Manager for Community Development, Brian Murphy – the essence of selflessness and a steadfast philosophy of paying it forward. The award recognizes how a leader creates a supportive and nurturing learning environment for their colleagues while setting a standard for their peers in providing effective public service. Through their unwavering commitment and mentorship, this award recognizes leaders who prepare the City’s workforce for success and generously share their expertise and knowledge. The recipients for this award are deeply committed to continuous professional development, embodying leadership, and service in every aspect of their career.

During the ceremony, City Manager Huang stated, “Cambridge is an incredible city and we do so much to celebrate what we do in our community from the amazing libraries that are part of the fabric of our neighborhoods, the youth centers that serve our kids and families, the public safety officers and staff who keep us safe, the day to day service that is happening across all our departments, and so much more. We celebrate the hard work and dedication of City staff and some of the outstanding people that I’m so proud to work with.”

This year’s recipients were honored on Friday, May 17 in the Sullivan Chamber of Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

To learn more about the awards and past recipients, please visit Outstanding City Employee Award and Brian Murphy Award for Leadership and Public Service (cambridgema.gov).

Betwixt & Between the Budget Hearings - May 13, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

May is the month for money meetings. Last week featured the budget hearings for the departments under the categories of General Government & Public Safety (May 7) as well as the School Department Budget (May 8). This Tuesday (May 14) will cover the departments under the categories of Community Maintenance and Development; Human Resources Development; Intergovernmental; & Public Investment.

Monday night’s featured attractions include these:

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments of the following persons as members of the Danehy Park Improvement Plan Working Group: Ty Bellitti, Sarina Canelake, Katia Crowley, Anthony Galluccio, Chala Hadimi, Emily Hoffman, Tsion Kebede, Frederico Muchnik, Mike Nakagawa, Natasa Ristivojevic, Antonieta Salguero, Kathleen Riesing, Michael Siegall, Jason Targoff, and David Weylan.
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, McGovern, Toner, Wilson, DPW Commissioner Kathy Watkins, City Manager Yi-An Huang; Placed on File 8-1 (Siddiqui Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments of Raffi Freeman and Krissandra Robinson as well as the reappointments of Susan Schlesinger, James G. Stockard Jr., and Elaine Thorne as members of the Affordable Housing Trust for a term of three years.
Appointments Approved 8-1 (Siddiqui Absent)

Our Affordable Housing Trust reminds me of New York’s Robert Moses. From Wikipedia: “He created and led numerous semi-autonomous public authorities, through which he controlled millions of dollars in revenue and directly issued bonds to fund new ventures with little outside input or oversight.”

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-16, regarding a report on developing ways to fund support of decarbonization and clean energy projects and technical assistance for property owners of all types especially those with limited resources, with an initial focus on work associated with BEUDO emissions reduction requirements.
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Pickett, Sustainability Czarina Susanne Rasmussen; Placed on File 8-1 (Siddiqui Absent)

One of my greatest concerns about BEUDO (which should really be referred to as BEUDERO (Building Energy Use Disclosure and Emissions Reductions Ordinance) since it’s no longer just about “energy use disclosure”) is the unfunded mandate nature of the whole thing. Even my smaller residential building (triple-decker) will eventually be in the cross-hairs of City officials who would require me to tear out my heating system and gas appliances whether I want to or not. It’s one thing to provide incentives for people to make such changes at the time of eventual building renovations, but I will never warm up to the idea that I shouldn’t have any choice in the matter. This communication at least hints at the possibility of funding and other incentives.

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a request to move to Executive Session to discuss strategy with respect to litigation known as City of Cambridge et al., v. Lexington Planning Board et al. (Docket No. 2381CV01683), which is an appeal before the Land Court. Additionally, to consider the purchase of real property, O Cambridge/Concord Turnpike in Lexington, Massachusetts, adjacent to the Hobbs Brook Reservoir. Discussing this matter in an open session may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the City.
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; Executive Session (52 minutes); Placed on File 8-1 (Siddiqui Absent)

I believe this concerns this decision of the Lexington Planning Board.

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to work with the Co-Chairs of the Housing Committee to turn their vision of multifamily housing citywide into zoning language.   Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by McGovern; comments by Azeem, McGovern, Pickett, Toner, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Nolan (w/amendment), Wilson, Simmons; Order Adopted as Amended on Voice Vote (Siddiqui Absent)

Note: There has not yet been a report from this committee on this topic (though you can watch a recording of the hearing here). Also, in all my years of watching and reporting on City Council meetings have I ever seen an order phrased as “to turn their vision…into…”. There is some pretty serious hubris in having the sponsors of a City Council order refer to their own “vision”. Check your egos at the door please.

By the way, this “vision” is filled with half-truths, falsehoods, and basically comes down to making the standards of height and density associated with the densest parts of eastern Cambridge the standard across all residential districts of the city. This is NOT simply a matter of permitting multi-family housing citywide.

Order #2. That the City Council calls upon the City Manager to take steps to bring support to efforts supporting Overdose Prevention Center legislation currently under consideration in the Massachusetts Senate and House of Representatives.   Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled by McGovern; comments by McGovern (w/amendment), Nolan, Azeem, Pickett, Wilson, Simmons (in defense of Central Square); Amendments Adopted on Voice Vote; Order Adopted as Amended on Voice Vote (Siddiqui Absent)

It’s one thing to take steps to prevent overdose deaths, but what Mr. McGovern is advocating here will likely help to further define Central Square as a prime destination for substance abusers, and with comes all the additional burdens associated with that degradation (shoplifting, aggressive panhandling, street robberies, drug dealers, people shopping and socializing elsewhere). We should aspire to better things for Central Square and all of Cambridge. - Robert Winters

Comments?

Budget Season - and another Monday - May 6, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

The number of Communications this week dropped from 744 to 452, but almost all of the current ones were submitted for the previous meeting. Perhaps some of the bicycle lane furor will cool down now - except, of course, for the political vengeance. It’s actually kind of funny that people lost their minds so completely over a brief delay in order to do things better. My guess is that police involvement in protests and, of course, Budget Season will now take center stage.

Here are some of this week’s more notable agenda items:

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the 2024 Goals and Metrics for the Annual City Manager Performance Review. (CM24#96) [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; PN objects to lack of “metrics” and “smart goals”; Placed on File 9-0

Order #1. Designating May as Mental Health Awareness Month.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Wilson (to add Wilson and McGovern as sponsors); Adopted as Amended 9-0

Here’s a good example from Public Comment of the pressing need for better mental health with a rather problematic individual calling Paul Toner and Patty Nolan “white supremacists.”

Order #2. Opposition to the expansion of private jet facilities at Hanscom Field or anywhere in the region.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by JSW, PN, PT, JP; Order Adopted 8-1 (PT-Present)

It’s not clear whether the concern here is greenhouse gas emissions or the existence of “the ultra-wealthy.” During Public Comment, political aspirant Evan Mackay made it clear that he sees it as the latter.

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to provide a summary of city efforts related to PFAS concerns, an update on educational information that can be shared with the community that outline actions individuals can take to reduce their exposure to PFAS, and provide an overview of the federal and state regulatory environment for PFAS in the wastewater stream.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Nolan who wants a full PFAS audit; Order Adopted 9-0

Charter Right #1. On the use of Cambridge officers to police political demonstrations at institutions of higher learning. [Charter Right – Toner, Apr 29, 2024]
Substitute Order introduced by Wilson (who quotes Ayanna Pressley); Sobrinho-Wheeler says point is to prevent violence; Azeem prefers that police not be called unless there is violence, suggests that war is a week away from ending; Siddiqui says students protected by 1st Amendment, notes City Manager’s statement re: police obligations; McGovern calls 1st Amendment and free speech “messy”, also acknowledges police mutual aid obligations; Toner has concerns about substitute, notes Dan Totten’s slanderous comments during Public Comment calling Toner and Pickett “white supremacists”, asks if his substitute amendment could be taken up first; Mayor Simmons explains procedure; Toner moves to remove “WHEREAS: Universities elsewhere, including Columbia, NYU, Yale, USC, Emory, Northeastern, Emerson and UT-Austin, have seen local law enforcement called upon to arrest and remove students and faculty; and”; Azeem asks if Toner would support substitute if that clause was removed; Toner also expresses concerns about “atrocities” being used in the RESOLVED clause; McGovern says he likes the WHEREAS clause that Toner prefers to delete - calls it “factual”, downplays use of the word “atrocities”; Simmons says it isn’t necessary to include the clause and would prefer to see it deleted, would like to replace “peaceful” by “largely peaceful” and replace “believed complicity” with “what they see as complicity”; Nolan prefers substitute from Toner, Nolan, Simmons noting rhetoric at protests calling for “death to Zionists” and destruction of Israel, prefers replacing “peaceful” by “largely peaceful”, also notes mutual aid agreement of police, threatening language of some protesters; Pickett prefers simplest substitute from Toner, Nolan, Simmons; Nolan amendment to replace “peaceful” by “largely peaceful” in 1st and 2nd “Whereas” clauses Adopted 9-0; Toner/Nolan amendment to delete “3rd Whereas” clause Fails 4-5 [PN,JP,PT,DS-Yes; BA,MM,SS,JSW,AW-No]; Nolan amendment to add at end of 4th “Whereas” the phrase “Cambridge police have a mutual aid obligation to help Harvard and MIT police when called to uphold public safety” – Adopted 9-0; Simmons motion to replace “atrocities being endured by” with “the tremendous suffering being inflicted upon”, comments by Simmons on moderating conflicts and fact that not all free speech is protected; Simmons motion Fails 4-5 [PN,JP,PT,DS-Yes; BA,MM,SS,JSW,AW-No]; Substitute Order as Amended Adopted 7-1-0-1 [Toner - No; Simmons - Present]

City Manager Yi-An Huang provided a very clear and detailed statement on this topic at the previous meeting.

452 Communications - virtually all from the previous meeting and about bike lanes.

Committee Report #1. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Apr 24, 2024, to review and discuss the Net Zero Action Plan annual report, including review of yearly action items, progress made, and next steps to reach annual goals. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee held a public hearing on Apr 24, 2024, to discuss the Digital Navigator Pilot Program (DNP), a collaborative effort between the City of Cambridge Information Technology Department, Cambridge Public Library, Cambridge Public Schools Department, Just A Start, and Cambridge Community Television (CCTV) to discuss how this initiative is designed to support residents’ digital needs. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #2. A communication from Mayor Simmons re City Council Goals.
pulled by Pickett (reads “Values statement”), comments by Mayor Simmons; Placed on File 9-0

Here they are:

Values Statement
The Cambridge City Council is committed to developing policies that are reflective of the shared values of our community, recognizing the diversity of our city – including but not limited to race, sexual orientation, language, nationality, income, age, and ability. We will conduct our deliberations with transparency, community engagement, and consideration of the financial and social implications on our residents, visitors, nonprofits, and businesses.

City Council Goals

1. Housing and Zoning: Address the housing crisis by making it easier to build more housing of all types with a focus on affordability and protections for low, middle-income, elderly, and disabled residents.

2. Economic Opportunity and Equity: Ensure the City of Cambridge offers economic opportunities to all residents and businesses and is taking steps toward greater economic equity, especially among our marginalized communities.

3. Transportation: Improve the safety, efficiency, access, and sustainability of transportation options for all, and advocate for key transit priorities with the MBTA and other state and regional partners.

4. Sustainability and Climate Resilience: Deepen the City of Cambridge’s commitment to addressing the climate crisis through the use of sustainable energy and strengthening climate resilience and supporting our residents and businesses through this transition.

5. Government and Council Performance: The City Council is committed to effective decision making through close collaboration with each other and the City administration, to communicate transparently and to deepen accountability and engagement with the community.

Communications & Reports #3. A communication from Councillor Toner, transmitting Communication from Chair of Government Operations and Planning Committee regarding Charter Review with questions for Clerk, Election Commissioner, City Solicitor regarding Charter Review Recommendations and Process.
pulled by Nolan (who bemoans delay, expresses hope for a special election on this early next year, also notes that Attorney General would also have to review and proposed charter change, governor could veto); Toner notes June 5 meeting on procedures is scheduled, notes questions submitted by councillors, notes that review by Attorney General may not be necessary, notes question of whether Council will take up any recommendations that failed to achieve a 2/3 majority of Charter Review Committee; Placed on File 9-0

This is one of the most significant matters before this City Council, and it’s not yet clear where this is headed. There is a Government Operations Committee meeting on this scheduled for June 5 at 3:00pm. I will have a lot more to say at that time. I may also write about it in the meantime. – Robert Winters

Resolution #7. Resolution on the death of Janet Murray.   Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Mayor Simmons
Comments by McGovern, Simmons; Adopted as Amended 9-0

Comments?

Turf War – April 29, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Note: Due to extensive public comment, this meeting was recessed after the controversial matter of the bike lanes was addressed - to be resumed at 10:00am on Tuesday, April 30.

The turf war of competing mailing lists continues this week with the number of email communications generated by mailing lists blowing past all previous records. Sure, they’re all just variations on the dual themes of “Don’t touch any aspect of the divinely inspired Cycling Safety Ordinance or the Charles River will turn to blood” or “Consider compromise.” Unfortunately, there are many people who think that representative democracy should be governed by how many virtual pounds of vox populi arrive as a result of email blasts to lists of disciples. Ideas don’t matter. Practicality doesn’t matter. Effectiveness doesn’t matter. Truth doesn’t matter. It’s all about preaching to your respective choirs asking them to drown out the other.

Meanwhile, there’s still a City to run and bills to pay. The FY2025 Budget and the annual parade of loan authorizations have arrived.

Manager’s Agenda #1. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the FY2025 submitted budget and appropriation orders. [text of report]
[Tuesday] pulled by Nolan; Referred to Finance Committee 9-0

The overall FY25 Proposed Budget shows an 8.2% increase over the FY24 Adopted Budget. It also shows the previously announced rearrangement of some departments - most noticeably the Community Development. The FY25 Budget shows a 72% decrease in the CDD Budget, but this is due to two separate new departments being hatched out of CDD - the new “Housing Department” and the new “Office of Sustainability”. The combined budgets of these three departments is rising from $40,890,300 to $42,235,895 - an overall increase of 3.3%.

The other spinoff is within the Executive Department (Office of the City Manager). The FY25 Budget shows a 19.2% decrease, but this is due to the new “Equity and Inclusion Department” being spun off as a separate department. The combined budgets of these two departments is rising from $8,467,495 to $9,115,455 - an overall increase of 7.7%.

The proposed Public Investment budget is going up from $18,056,905 to $38,432,720. The total amount of proposed Loan Authorizations (see below) is $36,460,000 which is a considerable drop from last year’s $167,150,000.

The Budget Hearings begin May 7. I hope that this year’s Budget Message from the City Manager will include projections of what the Residential and Commercial Tax Rates might be based on the FY25 Proposed Budget and, more importantly what that might translate into in actual dollar increases for the four primary residential categories - condos, single-family, two-family, and three family homes. We usually only learn about this in October/November - long after the FY25 Budget has been adopted. Though condo owners will likely continue to get the sweetest deal in town, the sticker shock for other homeowners could be significant.

Manager’s Agenda #2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the appropriation and authorization to borrow $11,500,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of various City streets and sidewalks.
[Tuesday] pulled by Nolan; City Manager Huang defers remarks to Finance Committee; additional remarks by Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs Claire Spinner and Budget Director Taha Jennings; remarks by Councillor Nolan expressing some reservations about proposed Loan Authorizations and whether they should be modified based on City Council priorities; remarks by Councillor Pickett on capital investments; Owen O’Riordan notes that in FY24 Budget the anticipated Loan Order amounts was ~$100 million and this has been reduced in the FY25 Budget to ~$36 million; Councillor Toner asks if some of these capital projects are already underway (yes, this is for add’l contingency funds); Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of appropriation and authorization to borrow $4,350,000 to provide funds for the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan. Funds will support significant building improvements and deferred maintenance projects. Proposed projects include but are not limited to upgrades of Public Works facilities, municipal offices, youth centers, branch libraries and fire stations, renovations to 105 Windsor Street and upgrades of HVAC and electrical systems.
[Tuesday] pulled by Nolan; Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $3,000,000 to provide funds for the design and construction of open spaces at the Peabody School Playground, Corcoran (Raymond Street) Park, Rafferty Park, Wilder-Lee Park, and 359 Broadway.
[Tuesday] pulled by Nolan; Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $2,560,000 to provide funds for financing school building upgrades.
[Tuesday] pulled by Nolan; Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of and authorization to borrow $6,550,000 to provide funds for the Ozone Generator Replacement; Water Treatment Plant equipment and systems upgrades and water works construction projects in coordination with DPW street restoration projects, which include Massachusetts Ave 4, Chestnut, Dana, Sciarappa and Winter Streets.
[Tuesday] pulled by Nolan; Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #7. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $8,500,000 to provide funds for the sewer Capital Repairs Program and projects related to climate change preparedness efforts.
[Tuesday] pulled by Nolan; Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #13. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a recommendation received from City Engineer James Wilcox to name four new private ways: Jackson Place, Clifton Place, Clifton Circle and Graham Place. [text of report]
[Tuesday] Order Adopted 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #15. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $249,900, received from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to the Grant Fund Community Development Department Extraordinary Expenditures account. Funds will be used to coordinate the design of an off-road, multi-use path connection between the Grand Junction Path in Cambridge and the Community Path Extension in Somerville, including traffic analysis, topographical and geotechnical surveys, community engagement sessions and final design phasing.
[Tuesday] Order Adopted 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #16. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number #2024-13, regarding fare free Bus Program and Planning for Red Line Shutdown.
[Tuesday] Placed on File 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #17. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order Numbers 24-49 & 24-50, regarding additional information on amendments to the Parking and Transportation Demand Management (PTDM) Ordinance and the Zoning Ordinance to allow flexibility for property owners to share off-site parking with nearby uses, as well as information on potential changes to the timeline of the quick build elements of the Cycling Safety Ordinance. (CM24#89) [text of report]
Taken w/Charter Right #1; Placed on File 9-0

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department, the Department of Public Works, the Community Development Department, and the Law Department to draft proposed amendments to the Cycling Safety Ordinance to extend the deadline associated with the completion of those sections of the ordinance that are required to be completed by May 1, 2026. [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler, Apr 8, 2024]
Taken w/Mgr’s Agenda #17; Substitute Order offered by McGovern, Siddiqui, Azeem, Sobrino-Wheeler; comments by McGovern, Azeem, Siddiqui who characterize their substitute as “compromise”; Toner opposed to substitute order since original provides all necessary flexibility, notes that language came from City staff; Pickett affirms that City staff provided the language, notes that Cambridge Street better suited to take advantage of zoning changes, fewer opportunities for residents of Broadway for off-street parking, notes that original CSO allowed for a one-year extension under specific circumstances; Wilson echoes these concerns and states that she will not support the substitution; Simmons appreciates the desire for compromise but will not support the substitute; SUBSTITUTION FAILS 4-5 (BA,MM,SS,JSW-Yes; PN,JP,PT,AW,DS-No); Toner speaks in support of original order noting the many messages received on both sides of the issue; Nolan makes long statement generally supportive of CSO and including acknowledgement that even small changes can causes some businesses to fail; Wilson notes need to listen to all stakeholders; vote to extend meeting to 12:30am passes 9-0; Pickett states that it’s better to anticipate and mitigate problems up front rather than to undertake damage control and fix the problems after the fact, notes that zoning changes relating to parking may help affected residents and businesses, also notes that construction of separated bike lanes is well ahead of schedule; Sobrinho-Wheeler notes that he damaged teeth in a bike crash, calls biking on Cambridge Street terrifying, claims injury and death will happen if this order passes; Azeem supports changes to PTDM ordinance, dismisses concerns about loss of parking; [RW Note – It is absolutely the case that crash hazards are overwhelmingly at intersections, and not one single councillor has addressed that reality. Making intersections more safe is what’s most important.] McGovern states that failure to be killed is purely a matter of luck; expresses distress that his substitute order did not pass; Simmons states that she supports bicycle safety, but notes the absence of senior citizens in public comment and generally in this matter - “who is not in the room.” Order Adopted 5-4 (PN,JP,PT,AW,DS-Yes; BA,MM,SS,JSW-No); Reconsideration Fails 1-8 (MM-Yes); Meeting recessed until Tuesday, April 30 at 10:00am

Committee Report #4. The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee held a public hearing on Apr 10, 2024 to discuss how the City factors potential street congestion into street re-design, monitors and adjusts for street congestion (especially in newly reconfigured areas such as North Mass Ave., Garden Street, and Inman Square/Cambridge Street) and understand its impacts on residents, businesses, and public safety. In addition, the Committee will review and learn how the City is planning for potential impacts on Cambridge streets of DCR’s plan to reduce Memorial Drive from four lanes to two lanes between JFK Street and the Eliot Bridge. [text of report]
[Tuesday] Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

744 Communications which include a petition with 22 pages of signatures of people supporting some delay in the Cycling Safety Ordinance and another 549 emails “in support of building separated bike lanes with no delay.”

Order #3. Request that the Foundation for Civic Leadership reconsider their plans for the Democracy Center meetinghouse and meet with the affected organizations and organizers to reach a suitable resolution.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson
[Tuesday] pulled by Toner; remarks by Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui, and Wilson; Toner, Nolan, Pickett remarks; Nolan amendment to add “to continue” Adopted 9-0; JSW motion to add “Whereas” clause adopted 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

The moral of the story is that renting to Leftists or providing them with free space (even if you’re as progressive or liberal as the day is long) comes with the risk that they will one day either try to take your building or prevent you from doing anything that might offend them - including necessary renovation of the building.

Late Order #4. On the use of Cambridge officers to police political demonstrations at institutions of higher learning.   Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
[Tuesday] Comments by Wilson, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui, Azeem, City Manager Huang; Charter Right - Toner

Charter Right #2. City Council support of H.2963, An Act relative to payments in lieu of taxation by organizations exempt from the property tax, to ensure municipalities are fairly compensated and their long-term budgetary needs are preserved. [Charter Right – Toner, Apr 8, 2024]
[Tuesday] Comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, Toner (notes that some churches have assets well in excess of proposed threshold, including endowments invested in real estate; Just-A-Start as well); Acting City Solicitor Megan Bayer notes what is currently exempt - does not apply broadly to all assets; Yi-An Huang reports that Assessing Department that the bill appears to be based on version in Boston’s ordinance which involves voluntary payments and tax reductions, concerns about how property is valued based on classification at the municipal level, concerns about how this might affect existing PILOT agreements; Asst. City Assessor Andrew Johnson states that housing owned by Just-A-Start is taxable but at severely limited valuation due to deed restrictions; Toner asks if any particular non-profit(s) may be targeted; Bayer suggests this may be possible via ordinance, but this is not certain; Nolan had concerns about Just-A-Start, HRI, etc. but glad to hear they would be taxable but only at severely limited valuations, concerns about this might affect existing PILOT agreements; Johnson responds that this would be a tax and not just a negotiated agreement in-lieu-of-tax (suggesting this would eclipse PILOT agreements); Bayer unsure whether this would preempt existing PILOT agreements; Pickett expresses concerns for how this might affect struggling nonprofits; JSW notes that this is enabling legislation and that City Council would have to accept it. Order Adopted 7-2 (JP,PT-No)

Charter Right #3. That the Amendments to the Tenants’ Rights Ordinance recommended by the Law Department, in CM24#68, be forwarded to the Ordinance Committee for hearing and report. [Charter Right – Toner, Apr 8, 2024]
[Tuesday] Sobrinho-Wheeler clarifies that he wishes to refer this to Ordinance Committee; Megan Bayer says Ordinance Committee is an option and consistent with best practice; Toner concurs; Siddiqui suggests that additional amendments may be proposed (including mandatory mailings to tenants); Referred to Ordinance Committee 9-0

Resolution #6. Congratulations to the Blue Bottle Independent Union.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons

Let’s hope this doesn’t win a Darwin’s Award.

Resolution #9. Resolution in memory of Corporal Manuel John Pimentel.   Mayor Simmons

Committee Report #1. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on Mar 26, 2024 to receive a status update on ARPA funding in Cambridge, as well as to review and discuss the Police Department budget for FY25 before it is submitted to the City Manager, as required under Cambridge Municipal Code Chapter 2.74.040. [text of report]
[Tuesday] Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Mar 27, 2024 to discuss regional coastal flood resilience interventions required to address increased vulnerability due to climate change risk. [text of report]
[Tuesday] Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

This was one of the more interesting committee meetings in a very long time. It included regional assessments and plans for addressing potential coastal flooding and over-topping of dams with particular focus on exactly where the greatest points of vulnerability are located.

Committee Report #3. The Public Safety Committee held a public hearing on Apr 2, 2024 regarding the State of Policing in Cambridge, and safety in the community with an update from the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) report. [text of report]
[Tuesday] Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #5. The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee held a public hearing on Apr 12, 2024 to discuss the 2024 City Manager’s Annual Goals and Review Process. [text of report]
[Tuesday] Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Comments?

Riding the Third Rail - April 8, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

The relative quiet of the last few weeks will likely end this week with the introduction of a policy order that challenges the status quo of the Cycling Safety Ordinance. There’s also a new zoning petition. Here are the agenda items of note this week:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 2024 #6, regarding micromobility rules and regulations. [text of report]
pulled by Pickett; comments by Acting City Solicitor Megan Bayer, Pickett, Toner, Traffic Commissioner Brooke McKenna, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Deputy City Manager Owen O’Riordan, Iram Farooq (CDD), Nolan, Police Commissioner Christine Elow, Phil McDavitt (CPD); Placed on File 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 2024 #12, regarding tenant protections resources. [text of report]
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by Siddiqui, Maura Pensak (Housing Liaison), Maria ?, Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, Megan Bayer, Simmons, Toner exercises Charter Right on JSW motion to refer to Ordinance Committee; Placed on File 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $20,000,000 from Free Cash to the Debt Stabilization Fund. This appropriation will be used to mitigate anticipated debt service costs in future years for the City’s major capital projections.
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Finance Director Claire Spinner explains rationale, Simmons asks for clarification, City Manager Yi-An Huang notes anticipated increases in debt load, Taha Jennings provides additional information re: role of Covid; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a summary of a Planning Board Meeting on the 2023 Town-Gown Reports and Presentations. [text of report]
Place on File 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department and the Law Department to draft proposed near-term amendments to the PTDM Ordinance and Zoning Ordinance.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Iram Farooq, Pickett, McGovern, Yi-An Huang; McGovern motion to require report back no later than October 2024; Siddiqui asks if City would be involved in negotiating private parking arrangements; Owen O’Riordan says these would be primarily private arrangements; Brooke McKenna notes that City would be involved if parking is commercial parking requiring a permit; McGovern asks if City would be involved in renting spaces for metered parking (no); Nolan asks if October 2024 sufficient time, Huang notes that timeline could be reported much sooner, Farooq says timing is reasonable; McGovern amendment Adopted 8-0-1 (BA-Absent); Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department, the Department of Public Works, the Community Development Department, and the Law Department to draft proposed amendments to the Cycling Safety Ordinance to extend the deadline associated with the completion of those sections of the ordinance that are required to be completed by May 1, 2026.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Toner; Toner notes that there is no intention to jeopardize safety, disputes public comment interpretation of impact report, need for more mitigation before any implementation, notes that City staff wrote the text of the “Ordered” sections of the Order, need to do no harm; comments by Pickett on lessons learned from implementations so far; Wilson notes that “it’s important that when we know better, we do better”; Yi-An Huang notes work of Toner, Pickett, and Wilson with City staff leading to this Order, emphasizes that City ready to meet original timelines (seems as though City only interested in parking mitigation and nothing more); McGovern emphasizes that this is only a proposed delay for mitigation and that no other changes are expected; Simmons acknowledges importance of cycling safety but also businesses affected, houses of worship affected by loss of parking; Siddiqui emphasizes City Manager statement about meeting current deadlines; O’Riordan prefers to provide more details when matter returns after Charter Right; Toner asks for clarity on timelines; McKenna says a delay will allow for Cambridge Street to be split into two projects; Huang promises more granular data and timelines; Sobrinho-Wheeler asks if language actually came from staff, O’Riordan concurs that staff provided the language but that City is not advocating a particular outcome; JSW and Pickett want more data, notes that most accidents occur at intersections and those hazards are made worse by quick-build bike lanes; Charter Right - Sobrinho-Wheeler

28 Communications - all but two of which are in response to the potential touching of that sacred cow that is the Cycling Safety Ordinance.

There could be hundreds opining during Public Comment on this - largely due to the activists lighting up their mailing lists with alarm calls. Much of the commentary will be variants of the statement that “if you don’t do exactly as I say and implement every aspect of the latest Bicycle Plan, then countless people will die and civilization itself will be threatened.” Personally, I would just like to understand how Broadway got snuck into the latest plan without anyone asking the residents of Mid-Cambridge. To wit:

The 2015 Bicycle Plan (note that Broadway is not included):

The 2020 Plan (eastern half) in which Broadway is added:

For what it’s worth, I really wish the City would, at the very least, take Broadway out of the plan. It’s not a primary route for cyclists and it duplicates other routes. It is also a primary route for emergency vehicles and, based on experience from elsewhere in the city, those emergency vehicles will likely have a much more difficult time doing their jobs with a combination of white posts, concrete barriers, and greatly narrowed road width. Needless to say, the loss of parking will also greatly impact residents on and off Broadway - many of whom do not have driveways.

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department to hold a community meeting with residents of Appleton and surrounding streets in the Huron and Brattle Street neighborhoods to review their findings and discuss options for addressing the traffic concerns on Appleton Street.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Brooke McKenna, McGovern added as sponsor; Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Order #4. City Council support of H.2963, An Act relative to payments in lieu of taxation by organizations exempt from the property tax, to ensure municipalities are fairly compensated and their long-term budgetary needs are preserved.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Toner; uptalked comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by Wilson, Siddiqui, Toner on whether Catholic Church and others would be affected, Yi-An Huang response; Charter Right - Toner

Applications & Petitions #1. A Citizens Zoning Petition has been received from Joseph S. Ronayne, regarding amending the current Articles 4, 5 and 8. [text of petition]
Referred to Planning Board and Ordinance Committee 6-0-3 (BA, PN,JSW-Absent)

Comments?