Cambridge Civic Journal Forum

November 19, 2024

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 635-636: November 19, 2024

Episode 635 – Cambridge InsideOut: Nov 19, 2024 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on Nov 19, 2024 at 6:00pm. Topics: Post-election recap, insane campaign spending, strange Cabinet choices; possible ramifications for sanctuary cities”, possible effects on federal funds, housing eligibility, transportation projects, effect on property tax levy to compensate; misunderstanding democracy, people staying in their respective silos; the Moulton reaction and refusal to moderate; Resident Satisfaction Survey – what it says and doesn’t say; traffic obstruction as City policy; things the City can fix vs. things they cannot; non-solutions to housing affordability; massive upzoning proposed; misrepresentation of the electorate; Advisory Committee appointments; non-negotiable mandates; growing problem of City departments choosing citizen advisory committees based on the outcomes that they want, irony of nonrepresentative appointments in a city with proportional representation elections, need for better outreach and recruitment; drought and fire hazards continue. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]


Episode 636 – Cambridge InsideOut: Nov 19, 2024 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on Nov 19, 2024 at 6:30pm. Topics: Many opportunities for City boards and commissions; City Council diminution of authority of the Planning Board, growing City Council opposition to public input; process underway to ruin Broadway for the Cycling Safety Ordinance, removal of 75% of parking – all a done deal to rubber-stamp plans of City staff, possible political backlash, Traffic and Parking Department and other City departments don’t care; Linkage fee increases, Nexus studies, and proposal for Job Training Trust – how much is too much?; Dramatic upzoning proposal disguised as “ending exclusionary zoning” – potential for major political backlash, dumping all the negative effects onto the “corridors” for political expedience; status of possible City Charter changes – things that could use revision and things that should remain. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

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.

November 17, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

November 5, 2024

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 633-634: November 5, 2024

Episode 633 – Cambridge InsideOut: Nov 5, 2024 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on Nov 5, 2024 at 6:00pm. Topics: Election Day 2024; City Hall Inscription restored; State Ballot Questions; poor Presidential choices, political dysfunction, no choices in most elections; democracy not just about winner-take-all; putting the “united” back in United States; speed humps and bumps; solar systems; kerfuffle over Sqa Sachem; proposed Jobs Training Trust and Linkage. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]


Episode 634 – Cambridge InsideOut: Nov 5, 2024 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on Nov 5, 2024 at 6:30pm. Topics: Tax rates, assessments, tax levy; pet programs (Rise Up) may not be fundable; Supersized Zoning Petition – obliterating current residential zoning districts; unacceptable alternatives; disingenuous CDD presentation, misinterpretation of Envision Cambridge process; lazy and arrogant planning; blocking public input; Central Square Rezoning and local pushback. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

November 1, 2024

The Eve of Derangement – November 4, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

The Eve of Derangement – November 4, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

American flagThe night before a national election often feels strange – when our local government meets to talk about things like hazardous waste collection, speed bumps, and bikes lanes while on the national stage many people are in crisis mode imagining civil war breaking out if the candidate they hate gets elected as President. It often brings to mind the Serenity Prayer: “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” So let’s fix those potholes and catch up on those old SeeClickFix requests while much of the country readies for derangement. “Don’t follow leaders, watch the parking meters.”

I have of late been thinking a lot about what the word “democracy” actually means – a way of governing which depends on the will of the people. What exactly does that mean then “the people” are almost evenly divided between highly divergent viewpoints? Does this mean that 50.1% should translate into imposing policies that are abhorrent to 49.9% of the people or that an Electoral College win should be viewed as a mandate to run roughshod over the interests of the losing party? Extreme partisanship is a deranged view of democracy. If the country (or the city, for that matter) is nearly evenly divided on an issue, the better democratic option is to find whatever common ground there is and to work out compromises that a clear majority can accept and maybe even embrace. It should never be about “winner take all”. The American System is in some ways inferior to parliamentary systems where coalition governments have to be formed when there is no clear majority. Even Cambridge’s system of proportional representation raises the essential question: “Proportional to what?”

A good friend of mine once wrote an essay about our local Cambridge political factions in the 1980s and 1990s when rent control was THE defining local issue. The notable quote about those factions was simply: “They both benefit from the existence of a problem.” In other words, finding actual compromise solutions would dilute their political clout – even if it would be in everyone’s best interest to solve the existing problems. Partisanship continued to be rewarded right up to the point when Question 9 caused the entire political house of cards to come tumbling down.

Call me naive, if you wish, but I still believe that the great majority of Americans share far more in common than the political partisans would have you believe. So bring on the protests while the rest of us are just taking care of our everyday lives. – RW


Meanwhile, back in The Peoples Republic, here are a few notable agenda items for this eve of derangement:

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-56, regarding a request to consider scheduling a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day and a Paper Shredding Event on a Sunday, instead of having them all on Saturday. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-59, regarding the feasibility of speed control bumps on Antrim Street. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Brooke McKenna (TPT), Simmons, City Manager Yi-An Huang, Toner, Siddiqui, Deputy City Manager Owen O’Riordan; Placed on File 9-0


Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a Home Rule Petition to enact legislation which would allow the City of Cambridge to prohibit associations from unreasonably restricting the use of a solar energy system.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem
pulled by Toner; Charter Right – Nolan

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to prominently incorporate recognition of the Massachusett Tribe during key official events, documents, websites, and communications, establish a living memorial in Cambridge that honors the Massachusett Tribe, with special recognition of Sqa Sachem for her leadership and enduring legacy and place a plaque with this language in a prominent location within City Hall, ensuring that this acknowledgment remains visible and lasting.   Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Simmons (to amend to add Wilson, Toner 9-0); comments by Simmons, Zusy (who proposed deleting references to Sqa Sachem), McGovern, Nolan, Simmons, Wilson, Zusy, Simmons, Siddiqui; Zusy amendment Fails 1-8 (Zusy-Yes); Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-0-1 (Zusy-Present)
Note: Sqa Sachem is referenced in various sources, in particular Lucius Paige’s History of Cambridge (1877), Chapter XX, Indian History. Lucius Paige was both the Town Clerk and (after 1846) the City Clerk of Cambridge.

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department to draft a home rule petition for the creation of a Cambridge Jobs Training Trust, and report back to the City Council in a timely manner. [support letter]   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Toner; comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler (with proposed amendment); Charter Right – Toner

Order #4. The City Manager is requested to work with the Department of Public Works (DPW) on the expansion of the mattress and box spring recycling program to include residents living in multi-unit residential buildings, starting with affordable housing properties that charge a fee to their residents.   Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0


Resolution #10. Congratulations to Robin Harris on being awarded the 2022 National Humanities Medal by President Joe Biden.   Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui
Comments by Toner, Nolan, Simmons

Resolution #16. Condolences on the death of Alan Steinert, Jr.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Nolan to be added as sponsor

Resolution #19. Honoring Cambridge Veterans and Recognizing Veterans Day.   Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern


Committee Report #1. The Ordinance Committee met on Apr 29, 2021 to conduct a public hearing on the Broad Canal Zoning Petition. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Ordinance Committee conducted a public hearing on June 10, 2021 to discuss the Cambridge Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-2). [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. The Ordinance Committee met on July 26, 2021 to continue discussion on two proposals to regulate campaign donations. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #4. The Ordinance Committee met on July 28, 2021 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to Article 22 of the City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance “Emissions Accounting” (Ord#2021-13). [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #5. The Ordinance Committee met on Sept 29, 2021 to discuss the Neighborhood Conservation District citizen’s petition. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #6. The Ordinance Committee met on Oct 16, 2019 at 2pm on Taxicab use of E-Hail in the Sullivan Chamber. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #7. The Ordinance Committee met on Oct 23, 2019 at 5pm to discuss the Zoning petition to create an Alewife Quadrangle Northwest Overlay District. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #8. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on Oct 10, 2024 to discuss preliminary recommendations from the Central Square rezoning process. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #9. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Oct 15, 2024 which was recessed and reconvened on Oct 29, 2024, regarding a Zoning Petition by the City of Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in Articles 2.000 and 8.000 with the intent to add a definition of “dormer” to Article 2.000 and to amend the requirements related to adding dormers to nonconforming one- and two-family dwellings in Section 8.22.1.h.2 in order to allow certain dormer(s) construction as-of-right. The Ordinance Committee voted favorably to forward the Board of Zoning Appeal’s amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance to add a definition of dormer to Article 2.000 and to amend the requirements related to adding dormers to non-conforming one- and two-family dwellings in Section 8.22.1.h.2, to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation and that it be passed to a second reading. [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #10. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Oct 22, 2024 to review and discuss the updates to the Zero Waste Master Plan (ZWMP). [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

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