Cambridge Civic Journal Forum

November 19, 2024

Current City of Cambridge Board and Commission Vacancies (Nov 19, 2024)

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government — Tags: , — Robert Winters @ 3:25 pm

Volunteer Opportunities – Cambridge Boards & Commissions

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.City Seal

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 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.

Members Sought for Three Cambridge Neighborhood Conservation Districts

Nov 18, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking to fill vacancies for members and alternate members on the following Cambridge Neighborhood Conservation District (NCD) Commissions: Mid-Cambridge, Avon Hill, and Half Crown-Marsh.City Seal

Neighborhood Conservation Districts were established by city ordinance in 1983. Conservation district designation recognizes a distinctive physical environment that reflects the architectural, cultural, political, economic, or social history of the city. NCDs foster wider public knowledge and appreciation of such neighborhoods. Designation encourages the conservation and maintenance of these areas so that the city may be a more attractive and desirable place in which to live and work.

Each NCD commission includes seven members and three alternates. Appointments to these Commissions are made by the City Manager, with approval by the Cambridge City Council. Most members must reside in the respective district; renters, property owners and business operators are encouraged to apply. More information and maps of each NCD are available through the following links:

Avon Hill NCD, Cambridgema.gov/avonhillncd
Half Crown-Marsh NCD, Cambridgema.gov/halfcrownmarshncd
Mid-Cambridge NCD, Cambridgema.gov/midcambridgencd

The volunteer commissions meet monthly and are supported by the professional staff of the Cambridge Historical Commission. Applicants should have knowledge and concern for improvement, conservation, and enhancement of the district. The composition of each Commission shall represent the diversity of the designated neighborhood in terms of age, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and property ownership or tenancy.

Individuals interested in being considered should apply through the city’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply and select the respective commission. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, December 16, 2024.

Members Sought for Cambridge Historical Commission

Nov 15, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking to fill vacancies for members and alternate members of the Cambridge Historical Commission.City Seal

What is the Role of the Cambridge Historical Commission?
The Cambridge Historical Commission, a citywide body of seven members and three alternates, establishes historic preservation policy for the city and administers two historic districts, the Harvard Square Conservation District, the citywide landmark and demolition ordinances, and the preservation grant program for rehabilitation assistance. View additional information, including past agendas and meeting minutes of the Cambridge Historical Commission

What Skills are Needed to serve on the Historical Commission?
Applicants should have an interest or experience in architecture and local history and be committed to protecting the historic resources and built environment of the City of Cambridge. Appointments to the Commission are made by the City Manager, and approved by the City Council. Members are supported by the professional staff of the Cambridge Historical Commission.

When does the Historical Commission Meet?
The Cambridge Historical Commission usually meets remotely via Zoom webinar on the first Thursday of the month at 6pm. Occasionally, a second meeting is scheduled if the Commission has unfinished business.

How to Apply?
Individuals interested in being considered should apply through the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, December 16, 2024.

Members Sought for Cambridge Planning Board

Nov 14, 2024 – The City of Cambridge is seeking members to serve on the Planning Board. The Planning Board is made up of Cambridge residents who make recommendations and decisions about urban development on behalf of the City of Cambridge.City Seal

The Board has seven full members and two associate members. All members can participate in Planning Board discussions. Members are appointed by the City Manager, and then approved by the City Council.

The Planning Board meets regularly in a public forum to discuss the City’s urban planning objectives, and apply them in the following ways:

  • Reviewing major urban development proposals, granting certain types of special permits when they are needed, and putting conditions on special permit approval. The Planning Board reviews about 20-25 special permit cases each year.
  • Reviewing proposed amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance, which sets rules for urban development, and making recommendations to the City Council. The Planning Board reviews about 10-15 proposed zoning amendments each year.
  • Making recommendations to the Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA) on some cases. The BZA is a different board that grants some special permits and variances.
  • Discussing other city planning efforts.

While no specific professional background is needed to serve on the Planning Board, a big part of the Board’s role is to review building plans and designs, so it is important to have a strong interest and enthusiasm for urban design and how it shapes the community. Successful members of the Planning Board will be able to:

  • Engage in a constructive discussion of urban planning topics, including urban design, transportation, housing, infrastructure planning, public space, and other topics;
  • Listen to people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives and consider different points of view;
  • Visit and learn about different parts of Cambridge, and bring experience from other cities that members have visited, lived in, or learned about;
  • Ask critical questions and make sure to get clear answers;
  • Work toward constructive solutions to complex problems;
  • Collaborate and build consensus with a group of people;
  • Learn about and understand the laws related to planning and zoning;
  • Make reasonable decisions on behalf of the city that follow those laws

People who are interested in the Planning Board should attend or watch a Planning Board meeting. Visit www.cambridgema.gov/planningboard to learn about upcoming meetings. Archived video of meetings can be found on the City’s Open Meeting Portal (scroll to “Available Archives” / “Planning Board”).

By state law, all members need to complete training in ethics and conflict-of-interest laws. The City of Cambridge Law Department also provides training and assistance to Planning Board members on legal issues.

The City of Cambridge provides training to employees on topics including Preventing Sexual Harassment and Valuing Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. These trainings will be available to Planning Board members and may be required. Staff may develop training on other topics that are relevant to the Planning Board’s work and may direct Planning Board members to training offered by outside organizations.

The Planning Board is supported by professional planning staff in the Community Development Department, with added support from the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department, the Department of Public Works, and others. Staff give written reports to Planning Board members on cases that are before them, and can talk with individual Planning Board members if they have questions.

The Planning Board usually meets 2-4 times each month on Tuesday evenings at 6:30pm. Meetings can last about 3-4 hours. Members are expected to attend most meetings. The Massachusetts Open Meeting Law usually requires meetings to be in person. However, the Planning Board has been meeting remotely under the temporary Open Meeting Law provisions established during the COVID-19 pandemic and may continue to meet remotely through March 2025. For remote meetings, Planning Board members will need to have a computer or other device with an internet connection, camera, and microphone that can support video conferencing. It is also helpful to have a private place to attend remote meetings without distractions. Members can expect to spend about 2-4 hours before each meeting reviewing materials such as plans and documents, which are sent to members about 5 days before each meeting. Some members find it helpful to visit sites that they are reviewing in person, but it is not required.

Planning Board members will get $6,000 per year as a stipend. This stipend is meant to offset the annual out-of-pocket costs that members might need to pay to make it possible to serve on the Planning Board, such as child care, transportation, and other expenses.

People interested in being considered should apply by using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply and selecting “Planning Board” in the list of Current Vacancies. You should provide a cover letter to explain why you are interested in being on the Planning Board, and a résumé or summary of applicable experience. Experience can include both professional and volunteer work.

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, December 30, 2024. For more information, contact Swaathi Joseph in the Community Development Department at 617-349-4668 or sjoseph@cambridgema.gov or visit www.cambridgema.gov/planningboard.

Members Sought for Cambridge Public Art Commission

Nov 6, 2024 – The Cambridge Public Art Commission (PAC) helps guide the implementation of the Public Art Ordinance and the Art Gifts and Donation Policy, and advises on the overall direction of the City of Cambridge’s Public Art Program.City Seal

The Commission brings its collective expertise to bear on discussions regarding the various program areas of the public art program, such as acquisition and deaccession, project planning, maintenance, conservation, educational programming, and the exhibitions in Gallery 344. The Commission reviews every percent-for-art project from artists’ proposals to final design. PAC approval is required before a project can go into fabrication.

The PAC’s responsibilities include:

  • Advising on the artist selection process and community engagement process for major projects;
  • Recommending qualified jurors to select artists (the Commission does not select artists);
  • Reviewing public art proposals;
  • Recommending potential sources for additional funding;
  • Advising on outreach and education;
  • Providing connection to the wider community and recommendations on community interests, resources, contacts, and neighborhood or city-wide issues;
  • Contributing a broad perspective and interest in the city’s goals and values;
  • Attending monthly meetings.

Public Art Commission members are volunteers appointed by the City Manager to work with Cambridge Arts Council staff in accomplishing the goals of the Cambridge Public Art Program. The Public Art Commission is composed of nine members who each serve a three-year term, renewable once. The PAC meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6-8pm, at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, 2nd Floor, in the Cambridge Arts Council Conference Room, or when permitted, virtually on Zoom.

Members are encouraged to participate in Public Art activities and Gallery 344 events, such as public art openings, artist talks, community presentations, gallery receptions, public art tours, and other related happenings. Additionally, members have the opportunity to learn about the day-to-day work of the staff, Arts Council partners, and other departments, and to offer advice and viewpoints that reflect the Commission’s purpose and role of arts advocacy within city government.

The PAC seeks to represent the socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural diversity of the city, as well as various art and design experience (such as artists, architects, landscape architects, art educators, urban planners, art historians, conservators, curators, and art administrators).

Applications to serve on the Commission can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. The application deadline is Monday, December 9, 2024. For more information about Public Art in Cambridge, visit?Cambridgema.gov/publicart.

Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang Seeks Members for Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA)

Nov 5, 2024 – The Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA), a quasi-judicial body that conducts public hearings on applications and appeals and issues decisions that shape the use and appearance of buildings, is seeking new members.City Seal

The BZA has five regular members and up to seven associate members. Members are appointed by the City Manager then approved by the City Council. Regular members serve a 5-year term. Associate members serve a 2-year term.

Under the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance, certain uses and types of development may require a variance, special permit, or comprehensive permit from the BZA.

Who can join the BZA?
All BZA members must be Cambridge residents. To serve effectively, members must:

  • Collaborate well with others;
  • Be able to consider diverse ideas and perspectives;
  • Apply the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance and the state’s Zoning Act to the facts presented in applications and petitions;
  • Demonstrate strong attentiveness and listening skills to detailed presentations and discussions.

A technical background is not required. An interest in and understanding of development, architecture, urban design, and zoning law is desirable.

How much of a time commitment is BZA?
The BZA meets twice each month on Thursday evenings for approximately 3-4 hours. Regular members are expected to attend all meetings. Associate members attend on an as needed basis. Meetings are currently hybrid, via Zoom and in person.

Members must review application and petition materials prior to each meeting they attend, which may include development plans and specifications, narrative descriptions, zoning analyses, petitions, appeals, information from City departments, written comments from the public, and other documents.

Do BZA members get compensated for their time?
BZA members receive an annual stipend of $3,500. BZA Associate Members receive an annual stipend of $2,000.

How can I apply?
Apply online at cambridgema.gov/apply. The application deadline is Monday, December 2, 2024.

The best way to learn what BZA is all about is to watch an actual meeting. Anyone interested in joining the BZA is encouraged to visit the City of Cambridge Open Meeting Portal to watch or attend an upcoming meeting or to view archived video and supporting materials prior to submitting an application.

Members Sought to Serve on Cambridge Kiosk Advisory Committee

Oct 30, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking volunteers to serve on the Harvard Square Kiosk Advisory Committee, which will provide guidance and oversight for the operations of the Cambridge Kiosk in Harvard Square.City Seal

Embarking on a journey to reimagine the heart of Harvard Square, the City of Cambridge is partnering with CultureHouse and the Cambridge Office for Tourism to activate the historic Kiosk in Harvard Square. Through this collaboration, the recently restored landmark is set to become a vibrant cultural incubator, community gathering space, and visitor information center called the Cambridge Kiosk. The Kiosk is expected to open in early 2025.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the cultural and civic life of Cambridge and ensure the Kiosk’s operations align with the community’s vision. The application deadline is Monday, December 9, 2024.

Committee Charge
The Cambridge Kiosk Advisory Committee is tasked with advising on the operations and programming of the Cambridge Kiosk. The Committee’s recommendations will help ensure the Kiosk remains a vibrant cultural and community space, in line with the goals outlined in the Harvard Square Kiosk and Plaza Working Group Final Report.

Committee Responsibilities

  • Review Operations and Programming. Review the Kiosk’s programming and operations to assess how well it reflects project goals outlined in the aforementioned report. Review community feedback on programs and operations.
  • Make Recommendations to the City Manager. Based on the Committee’s findings, provide suggestions to improve the Kiosk’s operations and programming.

Committee Composition
The Cambridge Kiosk Advisory Committee will be composed of members appointed by the City Manager. The Committee will represent a diversity of expertise and backgrounds, including residents, representatives from local businesses, cultural institutions, nonprofits, and community organizations.

Committee members are typically appointed for terms of 3 years each, subject to renewal at the discretion of the City Manager, although some appointments may be 1 year or 2 years to facilitate a staggered appointment schedule. The Advisory Committee is expected to meet approximately 3 to 4 times per year, or more if needed. Meeting dates are yet to be determined.

How to Apply
To apply, submit a digital application form through the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. Please include your name, address, contact information, occupation, and relevant work and education experience. Additionally, provide a letter of interest outlining your qualifications and why you would like to serve on the Committee.

The deadline for applications is Monday, December 9, 2024.

To learn more about the Cambridge Kiosk, click here or contact Daniel Wolf at dwolf@cambridgema.gov.

Members Sought for Cambridge’s Transit Advisory Committee

Sept 17, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking volunteers to serve on the Transit Advisory Committee, which provides advice to staff on projects related to transit and also gives advice and input on how to improve and promote public transportation. Additionally, the committee meets to discuss transit service scheduling, infrastructure modernization, expansion and long-term sustainable transit funding. Committee members also advocate for a robust public transit system in Cambridge. This includes the transit services of the MBTA, EZRide, and other shuttles in the City of Cambridge.City Seal

The recent work of the advisory committee includes:

  • Writing letters of support for public transit expansion projects;
  • Brainstorming ideas to change or add new bus routes;
  • Reviewing street designs for city and state projects;
  • Providing feedback on service reliability and improvements;
  • Identifying new funding opportunities.

The Transit Advisory Committee is made up of residents and representatives of institutions and organizations with a home in Cambridge. Residents include commuters, people with disabilities, parents, seniors, youth, students, and low-income neighborhood residents. Committee members serve for a term of two years.

Committee members should have an interest in how buses, trains, and subways operate in the city, street design, and infrastructure; professional knowledge is not necessary.

The Transit Advisory Committee generally meets for 1.5 to 2 hours on the first Thursday of every month. Most meetings are hybrid and can be joined remotely or in-person at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway. Some meetings include walking tours of transit facilities in the city or site visits to areas with future or active projects. The Transit Advisory Committee has optional subcommittees that meet occasionally to discuss specific state or city projects.

Committee leadership requires some additional time each month for developing the agenda and inviting guest speakers. This may require an additional 30 to 60 minutes a month.

Interested individuals may apply for this Committee through the City of Cambridge’s online portal at Cambridgema.gov/apply. The application deadline is Tuesday, October 15, 2024. A cover letter and resume may be submitted during the online application process. Once your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. If you have questions or require more information, please contact Andrew Reker at 617-349-6959 or areker@cambridgema.gov. For more information, visit: Cambridgema.gov/transitadvisorycommittee.

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.

October 4, 2024

Taxing Time – October 7, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government,City Council,cycling — Tags: , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 2:40 pm

Taxing Time – October 7, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

It’s that time of year again, fellow citizens (especially you property owners), when the bills come due to pay for all that marvelous largess of your favorite elected officials and City staff. It’s Taxing Time! The revenuers are coming!Peoples Republic of Cambridge

Here are the items that got my attention:

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate departments to produce the petition(s) necessary to accomplish the goal of lowering the speed limit as much as possible on all state highways that fall within Cambridge’s geographic boundaries, including and especially Memorial Drive. [Charter Right – Azeem, Sept 30, 2024] (PO24#137)
Comments by all; Adopted as Amended 5-4 (BA,MM,PN,SS,JSW-Yes; PT,AW,CZ,DS-No)

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on Memorial Drive. (CM24#219) [text of report]
pulled by Toner; Placed on File 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)

“In the short time since the crash, DCR has mobilized its Engineering staff, completing layout of an expanded shared use path along the river straddling the BU rotary, for a total of roughly 1,000 linear feet. DCR will widen the path west of the Rotary (to the Magazine Beach parking lot) and east of the rotary (to the BU boathouse).”

“Although the BU Bridge refurbishment project is complete along with improvements to the intersection on the south end of the bridge at Commonwealth Avenue, a severe southbound queueing problem persists, stretching well into lower Cambridgeport in the afternoon rush period, especially before events at Fenway Park. The problem is caused by southbound approach capacity at Commonwealth Avenue rather than by the rotary itself. Additionally, the current bicycle lanes on the BU Bridge do not have physical separation and the lane configuration is challenging for cyclists. Conversations are currently underway between the multiple jurisdictional stakeholders around the rotary and the Bridge about possible improvements to improve both the congestion impacts in Cambridgeport and the bicycle facilities on the Bridge itself.”

Tax Rate Hearing #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to votes necessary to seek approval from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue of the tax rate for FY2025. (CM24#220) [text of report]
Orders Adopted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)

Agenda Item Number 1A     Oct 7, 2024
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is authorized to use $2,000,000 in Overlay Surplus Reserve to be used to reduce the Fiscal Year 2025 tax rate.
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)

Agenda Item Number 1B     Oct 7, 2024
ORDERED: That the City Council classifies property within the City of Cambridge into five property classes allowed for the purpose of allocating the property tax levy. Additionally, that the City Council hereby adopts a minimum residential factor of 64.2099 for the purpose of distributing the property tax levy.
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)

Agenda Item Number 1C     Oct 7, 2024
ORDERED: That the City Council approves a thirty (30) percent residential exemption for owner-occupied homes.
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)

The bottom line is: The FY25 Adopted Operating Budget increased by 8.1% ($71.8 million) over the FY24 Adopted Budget. This compares to last year’s 7.2% over the FY23 Adopted Budget ($57.8 million) – after some one-time accounting changes. The FY25 Budget adopted by the City Council in June 2024 projected a property tax levy increase of $53.4 million (9.28%) to $628.8 million in order to fund operating and capital expenditures. With approval of the recommendations in this memo, the actual FY25 tax levy required to support the FY25 Budget is $628,388,753 which is an increase of $52,970,264 or 9.21% from FY24. This increase is slightly lower than the estimated increase of 9.28% projected in June 2024 as part of the Adopted Budget, due in large part to higher than projected investment earnings.

The property tax levy increase of 9.21% is higher than the FY24 increase of 8.3%. The five-year (FY21-FY25) annual average increase is 7.51%, and the ten-year (FY16-FY25) annual average increase is 6.31%. The FY25 residential tax rate will be $6.35 per thousand dollars of value, subject to Department of Revenue approval. This is an increase of $0.43, or approximately 7.3% from FY24. The commercial tax rate will be $11.52, which is an increase of $1.06, or 10.1% from FY24.

By property class, an average a single-family home will see a 7.86% tax increase, a two-family will see a 6.44% increase, a three-family will see a 7.5% increase, and a condo will see an 11.46% increase. This last figure is interesting in that due to the flat residential exemption, condo owners have actually been seeing decreases in recent years. Here are the median figures including the CPA Surcharge:

FY2025 Taxes

Residential
Property Type		 FY24 Median Tax
(incl. CPA surcharge)		 FY25 Median Tax
(incl. CPA surcharge)		 Median
$ increase		 %
increase
Condominium $1,555 $1,734 $ 179 11.51%
Single-Family $7,674 $8,277 $ 603 7.86%
Two-Family $6,713 $7,146 $ 433 6.45%
Three-Family $8,246 $8,865 $ 619 7.51%

History of changes in residential property taxes

Median Annual Tax Increases – Cambridge (not incl. CPA surcharge)
Tax Year condo single-family two-family three-family
FY2009 $ 18 $ 40 $ 24 $ 72
FY2010 $ 69 $ 119 $ 47 $ 41
FY2011 $ 77 $ 306 $ 132 $ 154
FY2012 $ 60 $ 269 $ 177 $ 215
FY2013 $ 65 $ 159 $ 80 $ 85
FY2014 – $ 38 $ 109 $ 110 $ 201
FY2015 $ 15 $ 11 $ 334 $ 253
FY2016 – $ 18 $ 64 $ 101 $ 217
FY2017 $ 11 $ 324 $ 237 $ 336
FY2018 $ 76 $ 136 $ 33 $ 61
FY2019 $ 21 $ 124 $ 292 $ 469
FY2020 $ 43 $ 449 $ 366 $ 369
FY2021 $ 3 $ 246 $ 131 $ 218
FY2022 $ 33 $ 545 $ 301 $ 335
FY2023 – $ 107 $ 419 $ 269 $ 379
FY2024 – $ 7 $ 743 $ 494 $ 598
FY2025 $ 175 $ 587 $ 421 $ 602
5 year average – $19.40 $508.00 $323.20 $426.40
10 year average $23.00 $363.70 $264.50 $358.40
15 year average $27.27 $299.40 $231.87 $299.47
number of properties (FY2023) 14841 3910 2292 1168

Note: Unlike previous years, the information on the number of residential properties in each
of the 17 Residential Tax Districts was not provided in this year’s City Manager letter.

Order #1. That this City Council go on record in support of 2024 ballot Question 2 to replace the MCAS graduation requirement and require instead that districts certify that students have satisfactorily completed coursework demonstrating mastery of the skills and knowledge required by the Commonwealth’s strong, statewide standards in order to graduate.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson (PO24#139)
pulled by Toner; comments by all but Simmons; Order Fails 4-4-0-1 (MM,SS,JSW,AW-Yes; BA,PN,PT,CZ-No; DS-Present)
Note: Councillor Toner quoted statistics that, over the last 10 years at CRLS, there have been 5,352 graduations and only 41 who did not receive a diploma due to failure to pass 10th Grade MCAS exam.

Late Communications & Reports #2. A communication from David Murphy, Interim Superintendent of Schools, re: CPS MCAS Achievement Data.
Placed on File 9-0

Suffice to say that I do not agree with this policy order nor do I agree with the current heavily funded media campaign sponsored by the Mass. Teacher’s Association (MTA) in support of this measure. Maintaining the MCAS graduation requirement does not mean that teachers must “teach to the test.” It simply means that they have to do a great job of teaching. Lowering standards (even if the MTA claims this would do otherwise) is what some refer to as the “soft bigotry of low expectations” and I agree with this characterization. – Robert Winters

August 6, 2024

Dog Days of Summer – August 5, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (Zoom only – Why?)

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government,Central Square,Charter,City Council — Tags: , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 1:25 pm

Dog Days of Summer – August 5, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting   (Zoom only – Why?)

It’s that special time for that Special Summer Meeting. It may also be time for a visit to the Babson Boulders in Dogtown. Here are the items that caught this dog’s attention:Dogtown

Reconsideration #1. City Council support of the Massachusetts State Ballot Question to Decriminalize Natural Psychedelics For Therapeutic Use.
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on the Cambridge Preschool Program. [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; JSW asks about participating family childcare programs; responses by Ellen Semonoff (DHSP), David Murphy (Interim School Superintendent); Siddiqui, Wilson questions/remarks; Simmons suggests a September Roundtable; McGovern, Nolan questions/remarks; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Manager’s Agenda #17. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of 243,689.30, to the Grant Fund Police Department Extraordinary Expenditures account. This grant will support the purchase of some of the hardware necessary for the implementation of the Department’s Body Worn Camera (BWC) Program.
pulled by Toner; Toner asks about status of union negotiations; Christine Elow notes that these are progressing; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Manager’s Agenda #19. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Numbers 24-33, 24-34 & 24-38, regarding Vision Zero responses. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments re: truck safety, university and large employees; remarks by Traffic Director Brooke McKenna; Nolan asks about automated traffic enforcement and legislative approval, status of automated parking enforcement, intersection improvements, education; Sobrinho-Wheeler comment on “turn hardening” and greater visibility, truck side guards, voluntary actions; McGovern asks about timeline for more “quick-builds”, data on most dangerous intersections, near misses, enforcement; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Manager’s Agenda #20. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $175,000 from the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund to the Public Investment Fund Traffic Extraordinary Expenditures account. These mitigation funds were received as part of the MIT PUD5 (south of Main Street / Kendall Square) Special Permit (PB #303) and will be used to partially fund the design of the Cambridge Street separated bike lanes and other associated street improvements.
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Manager’s Agenda #21. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report 24-19, regarding researching incentives and support for residents without cars. [text of report]
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Manager’s Agenda #23. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the submission of the 2024 Affordable Housing Overlay Annual Report. [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; remarks by JSW, question about status of some projects where offers were rejected or not pursued, replies by Chris Cotter (Housing); McGovern comments, wants to see breakdown by neighborhood; comments by City Manager Huang, Councillor Nolan; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)Dogtown

Manager’s Agenda #27. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on the Request for Information (RFI) for 84 & 96 Bishop Allen Drive. [text of report]
pulled by Siddiqui in response to public comments, desire for only an AHO project on these sites, wants explanation why it might need to be otherwise; City Manager Huang says its not impossible to do “100% affordable”, but this might result in fewer such housing units, limitations on City funding and fact that City-funded projects will go somewhere even if not at these sites, expenses associated with cultural space and limitations on bonding capacity in light of anticipated school building reconstructions and other priorities, similarities with situation with Alewife garage/station and MBTA; Iram Farooq (CDD) notes that Housing Division are contacting affordable housing developers regarding possibilities at these sites, importance of leveraging other capital; Siddiqui reiterates her desire that these sites be public housing w/cultural component; Sobrinho-Wheeler wants to see some scenarios; McGovern notes that this is just a Request for Information, wants most “affordable” housing even if this involves private developers; Azeem wants to know how many “100% affordable” housing units could be placed under current zoning, Cotter says such an estimate not yet available; Azeem wants to know if there has already been interest expressed, especially by abutting property owners, Farooq says they have hesitated in working with abutters in order to maintain an even playing field; Azeem says number of units and best use of available spaces, interested in long-term land leases; Toner agrees w/McGovern re: partnership w/private developers, supporting of mixed-income housing model; Nolan comments supportive of public/private partnerships; Wilson, Simmons comments; Siddiqui asks about timeline; Melissa Peters (CDD) responds; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to reach out to the Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority to explore the feasibility of utilizing the large screen televisions in the community rooms of CHA buildings to enable seniors living in these buildings to participate in (via public comment) and view City Council meetings as they are held.   Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Azeem
pulled by Simmons for comments; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Order #6. That the City Council will only consider Charter Review Committee recommendations which received a 2/3rds vote as stated in the Charter Review Ordinance.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett
pulled by Toner; Rules suspended to take up Orders 6, 7, and 8; Comm. & Reports #2, and Committee Report #5; Toner explains proposed orders and timeline for possible ballot question in Nov 2025; Azeem proposes amendment to allow other proposals after consideration of CRC proposals with 2/3 vote; Nolan wants to consider other charter amendments; Azeem amendment adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT); Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Order #7. Requiring a 2/3rds vote for approving changes to be forwarded to the legislature and the voters on a future ballot.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett
pulled by Toner; Sobrinho-Wheeler opposed to 2/3 vote requirement, wants only simple majority for proposed charter changes; Toner notes that some or all proposed changes may have to go to the State Legislature and that 2/3 vote appropriate – not just a simple policy order; Nolan says simple majority should rule, notes that it’s not Legislature’s role to object to anything unless it violates State Constitution, purpose of 2/3 is to endure likelihood of legislative approval; Order initially Adopted 5-2-1-1 (MM,PN,PT,AW,DS – Yes; SS,JSW – No; JP – Absent; BA – Present); At end of meeting, Councillor Wilson asked for unanimous consent to change her vote from Yes to No. This changed to vote to 4-3-1-1 (MM,PN,PT,DS – Yes; SS,JSW,AW – No; JP – Absent; BA – Present) and Order Failed of Adoption.
[Note: Councillor Pickett was Absent at this meeting and was expected to vote Yes which would have caused this Order to be adopted, so I would expect that at least one city councillor will file for Reconsideration so that this will be voted again in September.]

Order #8. That the Mayor is requested to form a Special Committee of the Whole or hold a special City Council meeting to discuss the Charter Review Committee recommendations and plan the process moving forward.   Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Toner; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Committee Report #5. The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee held a public hearing on June 25, 2024 to continue the June 5, 2024 discussion on Charter Review recommendations and develop draft recommendations to the full City Council for reviewing, deliberating, adopting, and processing possible changes to the Cambridge City Charter for future vote by Cambridge voters. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Communications & Reports #2. A communication from Councillor Toner, transmitting an update from the Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee regarding Charter Review. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Order #9. That the City Manager is requested to urge the necessary departments to reconsider the initial plans for the Upstream Bridge/Draw One Bridge to include the construction of the pedestrian/bicycle pathway as has always been planned for the Draw One Bridge for train renovation and Upstream Bridge for pedestrian/bike crossing.   Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)Dogtown

Order #11. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant staff and departments to conduct outreach to Cambridge colleges and universities about the pilot University Pass Program and coordinate with the MBTA and report back to the City Council on these outreach efforts.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Order #12. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant staff and departments to create a listserv for residents to sign up for that automatically emails an alert to subscribers when a board or commission vacancy occurs.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Order #13. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department to provide a legal opinion on whether Cambridge can enact a local ordinance or regulation similar to H.3685, which would prohibit associations from unreasonably restricting the use of a solar energy system, or whether the City should submit a Home Rule Petition to ensure access to solar energy for residents.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Order #14. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to review climate leading heating and cooling regulations and direct the appropriate departments to develop and implement a policy that aligns with Cambridge’s climate leadership to ensure that City operated buildings have default temperatures that align with health and sustainability best practices, including differing guidelines for workplace occupancy hours and outside of business hours.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Order #15. That the City Manager is requested to work directly with the MBTA regarding the redevelopment of the Alewife garage and advocate for City priorities.   Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Siddiqui; Yi-An Huang notes that City will be very involved in community engagement process, adding community benefits, leveraging private capital (MBTA does not have sufficient capital otherwise); Nolan comments/questions re: commuter rail stop, bridge, whether City zoning would apply to this redevelopment; City Solicitor Megan Bayer notes that there are some immunities for government and essential uses; Nolan suggests that MBTA is anticipating a possible commuter real stop, maybe light rail and electrified trains; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

On The Table #2. That the City Manager is requested to support local news production as a public good by conducting a $100,000 per year City-backed news fund pilot for up to three years to be administered through an independent intermediary that will decide on funding criteria and selection of local newspapers that provide material coverage of Cambridge news. [Charter Right – Azeem, June 10, 2024; Tabled June 17, 2024]
No Vote was taken to Remove from Table, yet Azeem, Nolan both spoke to this Order; Nolan speaks to need for public information and nonsustainability of existing local news outlets, surprised that there was no support for this Order, wants idea revisited in the future; Azeem motion to Withdraw accepted without objection.

Resolution #1. Congratulations to George Hinds on 25 Years of dedication to the youth of the Cambridge.   Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Toner; Simmon, Wilson added sponsors; Adopted as AmendedDogtown

Resolution #12. Thanks to Flagg Street Studio and the Central Square BID for their commitment to the cultural and public life of the City.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui

Resolution #15. Congratulations to Cara Seiderman on her retirement from the Community Development Department.   Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

Committee Report #1. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on May 23, 2024 to discuss the ongoing partnership with Neville Manor. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Committee Report #2. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on June 12, 2024 to discuss municipal broadband. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Committee Report #3. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on June 18, 2024 to review and discuss the first annual Green Jobs report, as required by the Green Jobs Ordinance, Article III Ch. 2.66.100. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Committee Report #4. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on June 20, 2024 to discuss amendments to the Tenant’s Rights Ordinance recommended by the Law Department. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; Rules Suspended to take up Comm. & Reports #3; Motion to Amend using language from City Solicitor Bayer Adopted 7-0-2 (Pickett, Siddiqui ABSENT); Ordinance Passed to 2nd Reading 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT); Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Communications & Reports #3. A communication from Acting City Solicitor Megan B. Bayer, transmitting Tenant’s Rights and Resources Notification Ordinance. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Committee Report #6. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing with Harvard, MIT, and Lesley Universities on June 26, 2024 to receive their “Town Gown” reports and to discuss current and potential programs and partnerships with the City. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Committee Report #7. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on June 27, 2024 to further discuss multi-family housing and hear updates from the Community Development Department. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Committee Report #8. The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on July 16, 2024 to receive an update from the City’s Opioid Task Force and local providers regarding the opioid crisis in Cambridge and current and future interventions. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

Committee Report #9. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on July 17, 2024 to continue the discussion on allowing multifamily housing in all neighborhoods of the city. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Pickett ABSENT)

June 18, 2024

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 621-622: June 18, 2024

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government,Cambridge InsideOut,Central Square,Charter,City Council,cycling,Deaths,Fresh Pond,history,School Committee,schools,transportation — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 10:53 pm

Episode 621 – Cambridge InsideOut: June 18, 2024 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on June 18, 2024 at 6:00pm. Topics: Harvard Summer School; Recent (Riverfest) and upcoming festivals and events (Juneteenth, Spelling Bee, Fresh Pond Day, Citywide Dance Party, Starlight Lovefest); World Champion Celtics; Red Sox rising; Mayor Simmons mutual interests, solving the mystery of the shrinking annual reports; Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan and fiscal constraints; reviving local news, public funding, objectivity, right ways and wrong ways, the larger questions, future of Cambridge Chronicle, the purpose of a “paper of record”, democracy dies in darkness. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

Episode 622 – Cambridge InsideOut: June 18, 2024 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on June 18, 2024 at 6:30pm. Topics: Best ways to augment democracy with healthy environment of objective information, community voices, marshalling existing resources – the overdue conversation that needs to happen, Cambridge once had 5 newspapers covering Cambridge; cyclist death at Mt Auburn/DeWolfe and aftermath; some City bicycle planning not consistent with bicycle safety at intersections, the limits of signalization, the importance of simplicity; consideration of possible charter changes – simple is best; Cambridge Public Schools and dismissal of Superintendent Victoria Greer; ongoing planning for Central Square – and reactions from abutters. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

June 16, 2024

Making the News – June 17, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government,Central Square,Charter,City Council,transportation — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 1:00 pm

Making the News – June 17, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Here are the items that drew my attention this week:City Hall Shrouded - June 2024

Manager’s Agenda #1. 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. 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

Every little bit helps. I really hope we can revive the Central Square World’s Fair not only for this year but for future years. In my perfect world, the large parking lot at Prospect Street and Bishop Allen Drive should be transformed into the Cambridge Fairgrounds with rides, miniature golf, a batting cage, and other attractions. Hey, a guy can dream.

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to update on the City’s efforts to support the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Track Improvement Program in 2024. (CM24#132) [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, Nolan, Iram Farooq (CDD); Placed on File 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to explore with the MBTA how to best ensure that the public art, Gift of the Wind, is preserved.   Councillor Pickett, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Pickett to add additional sponsors; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to develop a policy and systems to ensure that an infrastructure safety audit is made to intersections where a crash results in a serious injury and implement needed safety improvements.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, Pickett, Azeem, Nolan, Wilson, Toner, add all as sponsors; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development Department and all relevant City departments to report on how have community events and ways to inform residents of all efforts to improve driving, cycling, and pedestrian safety and educate residents on how best to safely follow the rules when using roadways.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Toner
Order Adopted 9-0

151 Communications – mostly robotic form letter submissions generated by the Bike Lane Advocates deflecting attention from the fact that a bicyclist fatality recently occurred at a location where there were already fully implemented separated bike lanes.

Suffice to say that a safety audit of hazardous intersections and those sections of road that are inherently dangerous should have been done prior to any adoption of a Cycling Safety Ordinance – if indeed safety was the actual priority. As was made clear with the recent fatality at Mt Auburn/DeWolfe, infrastructure changes alone can never eliminate the role of human error leading to fatalities or severe injuries.

Order #3. That Chair of the Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee is hereby appointed to manage the City Manager performance evaluation process via his role as Chair of this committee.   Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

Because the revised Charter says it must be done – whether or not it is actually needed.

Order #5. City Council support of the mission of the June delegation to strengthen the contact between Cambridge and El Salvador and to foster ties between the communities as well as the community-building in our home communities.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson
Order Adopted 9-0

Foreign policy is back on the agenda.

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to support local news production as a public good by conducting a $100,000 per year City-backed news fund pilot for up to three years to be administered through an independent intermediary that will decide on funding criteria and selection of local newspapers that provide material coverage of Cambridge news. [Charter Right – Azeem, June 10, 2024]
comments by Azeem, Wilson, Siddiqui; Tabled 9-0

This Order was on a crash-and-burn trajectory last week prior to the Azeem Charter Right, and it’s doubtful whether it can be amended to make it something other than a City bailout in violation of state law. That said, it may be possible to craft a substitute Order that can address the larger question of the inadequacy of local news coverage in Cambridge. There are many of us who would like to be part of that solution, but the authors of the Order chose not to include anyone outside their small circle. Ideally, I would like to see the Civic Unity Committee or an ad-hoc committee take up the larger issue of local news and information in Cambridge – and I hope this could be an opportunity to get a representative from Gannett (current owners of the Cambridge Chronicle) to appear before this committee to explain why they have forsaken Cambridge and what their long-term plans are for the Cambridge Chronicle.

1924 City Council reporters
1924 Cambridge City Council reporters

This is really a time for reinvention and not just subsidizing partial solutions. I will have a lot more to say about this in the weeks to come. As City Manager Huang noted last week, Cambridge at one time had assigned seats in the City Council chamber for five newspapers. Most Cambridge residents at one time read one or more of these newspapers every week. A lot has changed since then, including the way businesses advertise that was a primary source of revenue for these newspapers. This loss of local press is a national problem and there are some good examples available of how some places have taken up this challenge. It’s actually far easier to publish these days, so this should really be about discovering a sustainable solution particular to each community that incorporates a maximum number of voices and keeps the vitriol to a bare minimum.

Resolution #1. Congratulations to Laura Nichols on her retirement from the City of Cambridge.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner

Best wishes to Laura Nichols, a long-time friend and a jewel of a person, on her upcoming retirement.

Committee Report #1. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on May 21, 2024 to discuss the upcoming Central Square zoning process and next steps following the Central Square Lots Study, City Manager Agenda Item 2024 #33, with a focus on 105 Windsor Street, 205 Western Ave, and 84 & 96 Bishop Allen Drive (Lots 4 and 5). [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Late Order #6. That the City Council formally go on record in expressing its strong hope that the City engage in a thoughtful, deliberative, and collaborative community process to determine the future of the Central Square Library and the Green Street Garage.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner
Order Adopted 9-0

I’m still not sure where this process is eventually headed. For many years the choices for Central Square have been somewhere between nothing and hosting services wanted nowhere else. Never forget that there was a day decades ago when many people traveled to Central Square from elsewhere as a kid-friendly destination for shopping and recreation – and not just in the evening hours for clubs and restaurants.

Committee Report #3. The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee held a public hearing on June 5, 2024 meeting to discuss Charter Review recommendations and develop draft recommendations to the Full City Council for reviewing, deliberating, adopting, and processing possible changes to the Cambridge City Charter for a future vote by Cambridge voters. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Based on the testimony from the June 5 meeting, my sense is that the City Council should be content with a general reformatting of the Charter with modern language and modest changes to permit more flexibility in our PR elections. One thing that should be absolutely clear is that making substantial changes to a city charter in order facilitate the political desires of a councillor or two is not such a bright idea. – Robert Winters

June 4, 2024

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 619-620: June 4, 2024

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government,Cambridge InsideOut,Central Square,Charter,City Council,planning — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 10:58 pm

Episode 619 – Cambridge InsideOut: June 4, 2024 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on June 4, 2024 at 6:00pm. Topics: Recycling updates, zero waste plan 2.0, Hazardous Waste Day; FY2025 Budget Adopted – nearly a billion dollars, significant increases over time and especially this year; potential tax implications for fall; reorganization of some City departments – Executive and CDD; sizable 34.3% increase in Mayor’s Office budget; Charter Review status and Gov’t Operations Committee; Planning Board appointments and voracious appetite of some city councillors for behind-the-scenes control or public inquisition; Ronayne Petition v. Supersize proposals. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

Episode 620 – Cambridge InsideOut: June 4, 2024 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on June 4, 2024 at 6:30pm. Topics: Ronayne Petition v. Supersize proposals for residential zoning, legalizing multi-family housing; preference for diversity of housing stock rather than supersize everywhere; turning Cambridge into Flushing and rents don’t go down; artificial affordability via subsidy; Central Square zoning discussions and Central Square Lots Study; lunacy of permitting only low-income housing; naive belief that Starlight Square 2.0 would be compatible with high-density housing; Central Square should be more than a social utility – should be a regional draw, need to involve people who currently don’t want to go to Central Square; the perils of onerous Inclusionary Housing requirements; Historical Commission award for our video, the many things we didn’t include in our video; disappearance of the historical role of the wards; need for a history of the Plan E era. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

June 2, 2024

Blessing of the Big Budget – June 3, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government,Central Square,City Council,planning — Tags: , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 9:36 pm

Blessing of the Big Budget – June 3, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Unless the government is overthrown before Monday night, this week’s City Council meeting will have as its central feature the series of votes for approving the FY2025 Budget as well as the major loan authorizations that accompany it. Here are the agenda items I thought significant this week:Fat City Hall

The FY2025 Budget and Loan Authorizations

Committee Report #1. The Finance Committee conducted a public hearing on May 7, 2024, regarding the City budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. [text of report ]
Nolan notes ignorance of some people re: when Budget comes to a vote, anticipation of more difficult financial decisions in future; Pickett notes that Budget vote will be better advertised in future, concerns about coming tax rates and need to curtail spending, desire to take closer look at capital spending; Wilson has procedural questions and possibility of delaying vote (due to uninformed public comment by one individual); Yi-An Huang expresses concerns about re-opening these matters so late in process; Taha Jennings notes that state law requires budget votes within 45 days of budget submission; Comments by Nolan, Pickett on Public Investment budget; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
General Fund Budget of $939,336,875 Adopted 9-0
Water Fund Budget of $16,247,475 Adopted 9-0
Public Investment Budget of $38,432,720 Adopted 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Finance Committee conducted a public hearing on May 8, 2024, regarding the School Department budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. The Finance Committee conducted a public hearing on May 14, 2024, regarding the City budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Unfinished Business #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. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024]
Comments by Nolan; Loan Order Adopted 9-0

Unfinished Business #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. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024]
Loan Order Adopted 9-0

Unfinished Business #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. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024]
Comments by Nolan, Pickett; Loan Order Adopted 9-0

Unfinished Business #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. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024]
Comments by Pickett, Simmons; Loan Order Adopted 9-0

Unfinished Business #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. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024]
Loan Order Adopted 9-0

Unfinished Business #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. [Passed to 2nd Reading and Referred to Finance Committee, Apr 29, 2024]
Loan Order Adopted 9-0

GENERAL GOVERNMENT FY2024 adopted FY2025 proposed 1 yr % change
City Clerk $1,818,560 $2,162,335 18.9%
City Council $2,649,690 $2,817,000 6.3%
Election Commission $2,408,620 $2,447,755 1.6%
Employee Benefits $28,241,740 $27,111,425 -4.0%
Equity and Inclusion   $2,270,380 new
Executive (*) $8,467,495 $6,845,075 -19.2%
Finance $24,714,165 $26,479,690 7.1%
Human Resources (Personnel) $4,160,630 $5,513,370 32.5%
Law $4,152,645 $4,356,320 4.9%
Mayor $973,255 $1,306,905 34.3%
Public Celebrations $1,621,360 $1,793,575 10.6%
Reserve $40,000 $40,000 0.0%
TOTAL $79,248,160 $83,143,830 4.9%
     
PUBLIC SAFETY FY24 adopted FY25 proposed 1 yr % change
Animal Commission $673,010 $706,165 4.9%
Community Safety $3,036,620 $3,090,825 1.8%
Emergency Communications $10,346,540 $10,930,090 5.6%
Fire $70,461,720 $74,755,005 6.1%
Inspectional Services $5,228,140 $5,544,615 6.1%
License Commission $1,706,185 $2,009,740 17.8%
Police $78,367,440 $80,945,830 3.3%
Police Review & Advisory Board $9,900 $9,900 0.0%
Traffic, Parking & Transportation $16,998,910 $18,077,040 6.3%
TOTAL $186,828,465 $196,069,210 4.9%
     
COMMUNITY MAINT/DEVEL. FY24 adopted FY25 proposed 1 yr % change
Cable T.V. $1,813,725 $1,880,965 3.7%
Capital Building Projects $1,574,415 $1,872,660 18.9%
Community Development (**) $40,890,300 $11,257,750 -72.5%
Conservation Commission – – –
Debt Service $89,585,875 $101,890,280 13.7%
Historical Commission $1,040,215 $1,096,310 5.4%
Housing   $27,834,470 new
Office of Sustainability   $3,143,675 new
Peace Commission $228,225 $237,210 3.9%
Public Works $69,094,590 $73,911,430 7.0%
TOTAL $204,227,345 $223,124,750 9.3%
     
HUMAN RESOURCE/DEVEL. FY24 adopted FY25 proposed 1 yr % change
Commission on Women $345,945 $493,220 42.6%
Human Rights Commission $874,840 $878,550 0.4%
Human Services $59,224,695 $73,251,275 23.7%
Library $18,950,730 $19,391,415 2.3%
Veterans $1,067,600 $1,360,950 27.5%
TOTAL $80,463,810 $95,375,410 18.5%
     
CITY TOTAL $550,767,780 $597,713,200 8.5%
     
EDUCATION FY24 adopted FY25 proposed 1 yr % change
Schools Operating (TOTAL) $245,000,000 $268,250,000 9.5%
     
INTERGOVERNMENTAL FY24 adopted FY25 proposed 1 yr % change
Cambridge Health Alliance $8,316,000 $8,671,170 4.3%
Cherry Sheet Assessments $33,586,010 $33,101,520 -1.4%
MWRA $30,601,130 $31,600,985 3.3%
TOTAL $72,503,140 $73,373,675 1.2%
     
GRAND TOTALS $868,270,920 $939,336,875 8.2%
     
FY24 adopted FY25 proposed 1 yr % change
WATER $15,502,965 $16,247,475 4.8%
PUBLIC INVESTMENT $18,056,905 $38,432,720 112.8%
FY24 adopted FY25 proposed  
Loan Authorizations for Capital Budget $50,000,000 $11,500,000  
  $35,350,000 $4,350,000  
$2,500,000 $3,000,000  
$1,800,000 $2,560,000  
$51,500,000 $6,550,000  
$26,000,000 $8,500,000  
Total Loan Authorizations $167,150,000 $36,460,000  

* 7.7% combined increase for Executive/Equity-Inclusion
** 3.3% combined increase for CDD/Housing/Sustainability

All this should breeze through on either unanimous votes or the typical protest vote from any DSA-affiliates who want to continue beating that old “defund the police” horse. I am far more concerned about the residential tax bills we’ll be seeing in late October when all this has to be funded. Single-, two-, and three-family homeowners may be in for quite a shock based on indications so far.

Unfinished Business #8. 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. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 20, 2024; Eligible for Adoption June 3, 2024]
Appropriation Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Adam Westbrook and Diego Macias as members and Daniel Anderson and Joy Jackson as associate members of the Planning Board for a term of five-years.
pulled by Nolan (on representativeness of appointees); comments by Yi-An Huang, Iram Farooq; Nolan wants balance on approach to development; Siddiqui wants to know rubric used to select appointees, wants Boston Society of Architects to be involved; Azeem notes charter change, importance of ideology, wants Planning Board to be aligned with City Council; Sobrinho-Wheeler wants data on number of applicants over time and if stipends have affected this, wants to have City Council confirmation process or opportunity to interview applicants prior to appointment; Toner OK with prior process but would prefer to be consulted on applicants prior to appointment; Wilson concerned about diversity of candidates, also wants to be consulted prior to appointments, wants to know how many of the applicants were “persons of color”, when next appointments will occur (three in Aug, Nov 2026); responses by Swathi Joseph re: vetting by Diversity & Inclusion Office; Simmons also wants to know how many of the applicants were “persons of color”; Wilson wants this information in writing; Yi-An Huang describes and defends process, expresses concerns about possible effect of City Council inquisition on willingness of residents to apply; Farooq says 5 of 11 interviewed were “persons of color”; Simmons questions what “persons of color” entails, wants further discussion of Council role in appointments; Appointments Approved 9-0

Making Cambridge More Like Flushing – Or Not

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Planning Board Report regarding the Ronayne, et al., Zoning Petition. (CM24#115) [text of report]
Referred to Petition 9-0

Committee Report #5. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on May 8, 2024, to discuss allowing multifamily housing in all neighborhoods of the city. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #6. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on May 22, 2024, to continue the May 8, 2024, discussion on allowing multifamily housing in all neighborhoods of the city. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

I attended a recent Ordinance Committee meeting on this petition. It’s actually a pretty good zoning petition, but apparently Mr. Azeem and the ABC crowd will have none of it because it doesn’t go nearly far enough toward making all of Cambridge more like Flushing, NY. I am a graduate of Flushing High School, by the way, and I watched how entire blocks of mixed-scale housing were wiped clean and uniformly replaced by 6-story boxes with near-zero setbacks. This has not stabilized rents there, and it’s a far more hostile place than what I remember. I almost feel as though Flushing has finally followed me to Cambridge – even though it took a while.

Other than the fact that both the Ronayne Petition and the nascent “Azeem-Siddiqui-Cotter-Farooq” petition both call for legalizing multi-family housing in all residential zones, these are two radically different proposals and visions. The former still maintains good neighborhood-scale heights and densities in many residential areas, but the latter would drop all residential zones into a blender and permit the same significantly greater heights and densities across all residential areas of the city. Say what you will but I actually appreciate the current diversity of residential densities and housing types that can currently be found in Cambridge.

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a request – if necessary – to move to Executive Session to discuss strategy with respect to litigation known as Dalkia Energy Services v. Cambridge, Kendall Green Energy Holdings LLC v. Cambridge, and Southern Energy Kendall v. Cambridge, (Appellate Tax Board Dockets F325664, F325663, F325665, F328941, and all related Appellate Tax Board Docket Numbers for these cases), which are appeals before the Appellate Tax Board.
pulled by Nolan; relates to prior Mgr #7; Solicitor Megan Bayer explains; Executive Session not needed; Placed on File 9-0

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to clarify why the Wage Theft Enforcement Committee has not yet been appointed and to swiftly appoint the committee as called for in the Wage Theft Ordinance.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to explore the feasibility of delaying the Mass Avenue reconstruction project to minimize its impact upon the busy season for restaurants and other affected businesses, and, should this not be found feasible, a method of providing financial assistance to the impacted businesses to cover the costs of removing their outdoor dining structures, designed to mitigate some of the financial impacts upon them, should be established.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Nolan; Wilson add as sponsor 9-0; Charter Right – Simmons

Central Square Table-Setting

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to provide a list of current zoning initiatives along with CDD’s recommendations for a timeline for completing each of the zoning initiatives in order for the Council to confirm zoning priorities.   Councillor Pickett, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Toner; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #6. That the City Manager is requested to work with CDD to provide a written outreach plan for engaging the community related to the processes underway in Central Square.   Councillor Pickett, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Nolan, Simmons; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #7. That the City Manager is hereby requested to provide the draft Request for Information for the 84 & 96 Bishop Allen Drive to the City Council for review and comment.   Councillor Pickett, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett; Order Adopted 9-0

I have been closely following the current discussions about possible Central Square rezoning and the Central Square Lots Study. Perhaps more than anything, I find the whole paradigm of Central Square advocacy to be rather wrong-headed. Too many people think of Central Square as though it’s a utility meant to provide for much of what the rest of the city would never dream of hosting, e.g. low-income housing and social services. Even the “outreach plans” so far adhere to this flawed paradigm. Historically, Central Square was a major draw for all of Cambridge and greater Boston for shopping and recreation. There are now many people who purposely avoid “Central Scare” due to either real or perceived safety concerns. Nowhere on the list of “target groups” for outreach about Central Square planning did I see any mention of the thousands of people who now avoid Central Square because of these concerns or because Central Square simply doesn’t currently have a whole lot to offer them or their families. My vision of the future Central Square would have a lot of families with children, people of all ages, and ample recreation for everybody.

Order #9. That the City Manager is requested to provide to the City Council a detailed justification for the increased fees for Youth Centers for the 2024-2025 school year.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan (PO24#75)
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Toner, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, Simmons, Azeem, Ellen Semonoff, Yi-An Huang; add Wilson, Nolan as sponsors 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Charter Right #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. [Charter Right – Toner, May 20, 2024]

I have been seeing advertisements on the TV that make it difficult to take a side on this issue. I have no love for the Uber and Lyft companies and I think they should have to play by rules comparable to taxi companies, but I can really sympathize with drivers who like having some independence and choice and who would rather not see themselves as traditional employees of these companies. When was the last time we heard the phrase “gig economy”?

49 Communications – quite tame in comparison to recent weeks. Based on some of the current zoning proposals, Central Square discussions, and more, I suspect the template emails to pick up again soon. – Robert Winters

May 6, 2024

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

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government,Charter,City Council — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 1:16 pm

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

MIT encampmentThe 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

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