Cambridge Civic Journal Forum

September 21, 2023

Cambridge Announces Opening of New Triangle Park in East Cambridge – Celebration to Be Held September 27

Filed under: Cambridge,East Cambridge — Tags: , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 11:27 am

Cambridge Announces Opening of New Triangle Park in East Cambridge;
Celebration to Be Held September 27

Sept 21, 2023 – The City of Cambridge has announced the opening of the new Triangle Park in East Cambridge, located on Binney Street between First Street and Edwin H. Land Boulevard. An opening celebration will be held at the park on Wed, Sept 27 from 11am to 1pm.

Tree planting and growing the area’s tree canopy were areas of emphasis for the design of Triangle Park. The park is located in the East Cambridge neighborhood, which has less tree canopy compared to other neighborhoods in Cambridge. The park employs a micro-forest planting approach with nearly 400 new trees planted in less than one acre.

“Our parks are such an important part of what makes Cambridge a great place to live, work, and visit,” said City Manager Yi-An Huang. “The opening of this new park, creation of a new public space, and commitment to a more expansive tree canopy are a testament to the dedicated efforts of the City, Alexandria Real Estate Equities, and our community members.”

“The design of this project was guided by the City’s Urban Forest Master Plan and includes significant tree plantings and canopy growth in the Kendall Square area,” said Public Works Commissioner Kathy Watkins. “It also allowed us to try some new approaches for how we think about open spaces and planting trees in the City. As the trees and plantings grow in over time, this unique park will provide an incredible shaded space in the heart of Kendall Square for residents, workers, and visitors to enjoy.”

The passive-use park includes concrete seat walls, lawn spaces, an urban grove with seating, and a multi-purpose timber deck for lounging and seating that can also serve as a small performance stage.

The park is the second of three new parks the City of Cambridge is designing and constructing in the East Cambridge neighborhood, and the second of two built with funding and on land transferred to the City by Alexandria Real Estate Equities. The first (Timothy J. Toomey, Jr. Park) opened in September 2021.

“Triangle Park is the realization of the shared vision of the City and the community to transform a vacant lot that previously worked as a traffic island to a green oasis in Kendall Square,” said Assistant City Manager for Community Development Iram Farooq. “It’s exciting to track the history from the Alexandria rezoning through which the City received this land to today, when we celebrate the completion of this new park. I look forward to seeing it become a place for residents, workers, and visitors to connect and enjoy community life together.”

The design of the park was led by STOSS Landscape Urbanism and construction was led by Argus Construction Corporation. The park is open from dawn to dusk.

For more information on Triangle Park, visit https://www.cambridgema.gov/CDD/Projects/Parks/trianglepark.

Triangle Park

September 20, 2023

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 599-600: September 19, 2023

Episode 599 – Cambridge InsideOut: Sept 19, 2023 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on Sept 19, 2023 at 6:00pm. Topics: Candidate’s Eye View of municipal election, candidate forums; national focus ? local competence; some observations on endorsing organizations; AHO restricting housing growth; “100% affordable” vs. mixed-income housing; Special Permit alternative with good criteria; false dichotomy of affordable housing vs. commercial/lab; actual cost of deed-restricted units. Hosts: Robert Winters, Patrick Barrett [On YouTube] [audio]


Episode 600 – Cambridge InsideOut: Sept 19, 2023 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on Sept 19, 2023 at 6:30pm. Topics: The Never-Ending Study of Central Square and City Council Policy Order; Zoning Reform; C2 Study recommendations now ready for prime time; Arts & Entertainment + Housing; the short-sightedness of only “100% affordable”, deed-restricted housing; infeasible housing policies; let planners actually plan; in support of big audacious plans and reimagination; getting past anti-capitalism and decommodification; quoting Envision while ignoring it. Hosts: Robert Winters, Patrick Barrett [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

September 18, 2023

Reconsider This! – Featured Items on the September 18, 2023 Cambridge City Council Agenda

Reconsider This! – Featured Items on the September 18, 2023 Cambridge City Council Agenda

Here are the things that drew my attention this week:City Hall

Reconsideration #1. That the City Council go on record in opposition to the Cambridge Police Department and the City of Cambridge government sending trainees to, participating in any collaborations with, or supporting the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center or any similar facilities, in any way.
Motion to Reconsider Adopted 9-0; Simmons explains about unintended consequences of Order as written. Toner conveys remarks from Police Commissioner Christine Elow regarding preparation to critical incidents. Zondervan says this is just a resolution that conveys our feelings about it (actually, it’s a policy order). McGovern engages in doublespeak, notes that his son lives in Atlanta and has participated in protests there, sees no reason why CPD would ever send anyone there. McGovern doesn’t appear to understand that there are different kinds of training, and what Cambridge provides is not the same as what another jurisdiction might provide. Mallon says she was comfortable with original language and also says “this is just a resolution and not a policy order” but it is a policy order. She will not support any amendments. Nolan says we should only utilize facilities “that support our standards”. McGovern wants to add language to call out other facilities other than Atlanta. Carlone expresses confusion and lack of expertise to comment on it, and will vote Present. Siddiqui fine with original. Simmons Amendment Approved 5-4 (DC,MM,PN,DS-Yes; BA,AM,QZ,SS-No). Main motion Approved 6-1-0-2 (BA,AM,MM,PN,QZ,SS-Yes; PT-No; DC,DS-Present)

Mr. Zondervan and his trainees would abolish the police entirely if they could. I doubt whether CPD will be sending any of our police officers to Atlanta, but that’s really not the point of this policy order. I’m glad the matter is up for Reconsideration (it was an oversight that this item was not pulled last week) because anyone who votes in favor of this will not receive any ranking from me on my City Council ballot in November, and I hope others also use this as a signal for their own personal “No Vote” list. Isn’t it ironic that the same people who questioned police actions earlier this year are the same ones who will likely vote against this or any other opportunity for police training?

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Lauren Reznick as a member of the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority for a term of five years.
pulled by Simmons; Referred to NLTP Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to recommendations of the Community Preservation Act Committee (CPAC) for FY2024. [Manager’s message] [Message from Taha Jennings, Chair of Community Preservation Act Committee] [FY24 Project Recommendations]
pulled by Siddiqui; remarks by Nolan re: cost for parks; remarks by Mallon re: cost of 2 BR apartment; all votes Adopted 9-0; Vote to not suspend rules for reconsideration (which is not the same as “moving Reconsideration hoping the same will not prevail”)

Though we all want housing to be as affordable as possible, there are permanent financial impacts associated with each new unit of deed-restricted housing. Hint: Every such unit yields significantly less property tax revenue than the added cost of the City services that must then be provided for its occupants, so residential taxes go up permanently for everyone else and/or more commercial development is required to balance the books. I hear a City Council candidate at a forum last week say why we need to ban labs and build affordable housing – but he neglected to mention that those labs are what pays for that affordable housing.

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Community Safety Department Update.
pulled by Zondervan who asks about HEART; Liz Speakman responds; Zondervan continues pressure about contract with HEART and is informed that there is not yet a contract (so much for separation of roles of City Council and Executive; McGovern chimes in about “the community” and wait for contract, wants to know when department will be up and running; Speakman says they are aiming for March 2024 and need to build trust and credibility (good luck); Speakman notes plan to have response to 911 calls; Mallon is “excited” and notes that she was able to meet the team of respondents, asks where policy of “mandatory reporting” stands; McGovern elaborates on questions surrounding the filing of reports and possible consequences; Zondervan harps on role of HEART and that “they are up and running” and that they have submitted a proposal; Speakman says there was a meeting but no proposal or scope of services was ever submitted; Zondervan wants more info on HEART and how they will fit in; Placed on File 9-0

Except for the $300,000 in political patronage ARPA funds, this is a promising report.

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the City Manager’s Fall Update.
pulled by Nolan to say “kudos to the team”; Carlone concurs; Zondervan expresses appreciation and notes Budget discussion more collaborative, desire to include more residents, wants more promo on “green jobs”; Nolan would like more on municipal broadband (not in report); Huang says more on municipal broadband coming as well as capital planning; Siddiqui notes UPK, Rise-Up. Placed on File 9-0

Putting a positive spin on everything is a useful skill. Apparently all is well, and none of the City’s actions over the last year have even a shred of controversy or potential negatives.


Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a memo and technical edit of the Affordable Housing Overlay language and Planning Board report with no positive or negative recommendation. [memo and technical edit] [Planning Board report]
pulled by Carlone who notes that corridor heights have now been jacked up from 120′ to 140′ on corridors, 150′ to 170′ in squares; Farooq says they did not change the text and that the text was just moved from one section to another; Carlone notes concern about perceived added height; McGovern suspends rules to bring forward Unfinished Business #6 (AHO); Rules Suspended; Moves to amend language by substitution of CDD language; Nolan asks why these amendments are before Council; Farooq explains that these amendments are just refinements at request of Planning Board and that there are still a couple of issues that have come up regarding “split lots” that might thwart the “intended outcome” – working with the project proponents, i.e. the developers who stand to benefit from the changes; Amendments to Petition Adopted 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Unfinished Business #6. An Ordinance has been received from City Council, relative to Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO) amendments. (Proposed Ordinance #2023-7) [Passed to 2nd Reading Sept 11, 2023] (ORD23#7) [text of report] [Final Publication]

The AHO (1.0, 2.0, or eventually 3.0, 4.0, etc.) needs a lot more than just a few technical edits. But then again, who has time for all that! Don’t you know that we have a crisis and there’s simply no time to make better decisions!


Charter Right #1. Policy Order re Improving the Quality of Life In and Around Central Square. [Charter Right – McGovern, Sept 11, 2023]
pulled by McGovern, watered down Substitute Order introduced removing references to unhoused community and proposed task force; Toner asks if there was intention to not have Task Force (miscommunication); Substitute Order Adopted 9-0 (Voice Vote)

I can’t wait to hear what Mr. McGovern has to say about this. As the late, great Sergeant Schultz used to say: “I see nothing! I know nothing!”

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant departments including the Affordable Housing Trust, Community Development Department and Law Department to review the attached zoning proposal and report back to the City Council with an initial assessment regarding the feasibility and efficacy of such an approach no later than Oct 31, 2023. [Charter Right – Toner, Sept 11, 2023]
Toner wants to move to Housing Committee; Zondervan says that idea is to add CDD for their thoughts first before referring to committee; Simmons supports referral to Housing Committee but also voting for it as is; McGovern agrees with Zondervan re: sending to CDD only for now with a suggestion that CDD report directly to Housing Committee; Referral to Housing Committee 6-3 (BA,MM,QZ-No)

This proposal is a mix of good and bad ideas and observations, but it does at least highlight one of the greatest deficiencies in our City’s various affordable housing initiatives, namely the fact that they allow little opportunity for actually building wealth and equity. For example: “The existing financing mechanisms for affordable housing development preferentially generate income-restricted rental housing, which is also the greatest need, but further limits homeownership opportunities for people who have been economically disenfranchised.”

Charter Right #3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the relevant departments, including Community Development and Law to review the attached proposed amendment language and propose any adjustments no later than the Oct 2, 2023 Regular City Council Meeting. [Charter Right – Toner, Sept 11, 2023]
Order Adopted 9-0

I will simply add that my chief concern with the Green Roofs Zoning Ordinance is that it fails to acknowledge that when a leak occurs in a roof that is complicated by vegetative cover and more, diagnosing and curing that leak becomes an enormous expense – a lot more than just heading up to the roof with some flashing cement or a patch. Theory vs. practice.

Unfinished Business #4. Amendment to Chapter 2.78 of the Cambridge Code of Ordinance, entitled “Historical Buildings and Landmarks.” (Ordinance #2022-11). [Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended Aug 7, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after Aug 28, 2023] (ORD22#11) [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; notes that purpose statement updated, membership requirements updated to reflect demographics, AHO oversight to be nonbinding (hence meaningless), climate-related matters made nonbinding, etc.; Amendments re: appointments Approved 9-0; Nolan proposes amendments re: review provisions and non-binding for affordable housing and need to allow commission to impose certain dimensional and setback requirements; Nolan provides some history and context regarding applications and decisions over many decades; Azeem suggests that process causes unnecessary costs to property owners, and need to “foolproof this” for next 40 years; Carlone notes that our NCDs are seen nationally as successful and a model for other cities; McGovern emphasizes that removal of NCDs was intentional; Nolan notes that “size and shape of the structure” is an essential part of the review; Nolan Amendments Fail 3-6 (DC,PN,PT-Yes; BA,AM,MM,DS,QZ,SS) – noteworthy that the vote exactly coincides with the AHO2.0 proposal. McGovern suggests voting this at next meeting.
Note: This entire escapade was purely political and a “solution” in search of a nonexistent problem.

Whittling away Cambridge history one building at a time. I don’t really believe the current City Council has much of a grasp on what they are doing in this area. They are just so quick to buy into false narratives about history, democratic process, and more.

Unfinished Business #5. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to amending Article 4.30 and Article 11.800 of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge. [Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended Aug 7, 2023; Expires Sept 25, 2023 (no meeting on Sept 25)] (ORD23#4) [text of report]
pulled by Zondervan who notes that essence is to allow cannabis sales as of right in business districts w/o need for Special Permit; Ordained 9-0

Cannabis. ‘Nuf said.

110 Communications

Resolution #1. Congratulations to Karen Francis on her retirement from the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Simmons

Karen is one of the best people I have ever met in Cambridge City government – a real friend. Indeed, everyone who works in the office of the Election Commission has a heart of gold.

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Law Department to prepare a proposed Home Rule Petition relative to amendments to the Fair Housing Ordinance, as discussed at the Ordinance Committee meeting on Sept 12, 2023, and report back to the full City Council by Oct 2, 2023.   Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to prepare a regular summary (at least annually) of available funds for each funding source, as well as any amounts released to specific projects or efforts.   Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Carlone for explanation of how this information is currently unavailable; comments by Nolan who wishes to be added; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

This would be very helpful information.

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to direct relevant departments to work together with the Chair(s) of the Health and Environment Committee and the Ordinance Committee, and include community input from residents and landscaping companies, to develop ordinance language that would lead to a phased in ban of the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in Cambridge.   Councillor Nolan
pulled by Toner; comments by Nolan; Toner wants to ensure outreach to landscaping companies and impact on workers; Adopted 9-0

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant city departments on funding sources to supplement available state and federal funds to support and incentivize the transition to electrification of lawn equipment.   Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0

Leaf blowers and lawn care are surely at the top of my list of priorities right now. – Robert Winters

Late Order #5. That the City Council sign in support of a Transportation Grant Application.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0; Not Reconsidered

September 11, 2023

Back to School – September 11, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

Back to School – September 11, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

There are 169 communications from members of the public. When few if any of the elected officials and City administration are listening, is there a sound? Here are a few noteworthy things on this week’s agenda:City Hall

Note: I will provide additional comments as soon as I have a chance to review the recording of the meeting. For now, here are the actions taken for those who are curious.

Manager’s Agenda #2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the Dam and Seawall Repair or Removal Program Grant, in the amount of $1,000,000, received from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EOEEA) to the Public Investment Fund Water Extraordinary Expenditures account, for the repair of the Cambridge Reservoir Dam – Hobbs Brook Gatehouse and Culvert Outlet.
Order Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #13. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to 135 Fulkerson Street parcel and its transfer to the City for public use.
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #14. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order #23-133 [Awaiting Report 23-49], regarding possible projections of build-out of the Alewife Quadrangle under the proposed AOD-Q zoning petition. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #15. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order #23-135, regarding standards for henkeeping. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0; Zoning Petition Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #16. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to updates to the City of Cambridge’s Participatory Budgeting (PB) process for the upcoming 10th cycle (PB10) of the program.
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #17. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to extending the prior authorization for the City Manager or their designee to grant street obstruction approvals, along with any other necessary approvals for temporary obstructions until June 30, 2024.
Order Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #18. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Victoria Bergland as a member of the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) Board of Commissioners as the resident Representative for a term of 5-years.
Referred to Housing Committee 9-0

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department and CPD to report to the City Council on all outstanding and recent (last 5 fiscal years: FY’23,’22,’21,’20,’19) lawsuits involving the CPD or individual members of CPD that the City is expending or has expended resources on, including an estimate of how much has been spent on these lawsuits to date in FY24. [Charter Right – Simmons, Aug 7, 2023]
Order Adopted 5-4 (BA,AM,PN,QZ,SS-Yes; DC,MM,DS,PT-No)

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments and agencies to design and implement a pilot program providing subsidized, on-demand transit to low-income residents, people with disabilities and seniors, with a goal of expanding the program to service the region in ways that supplement the MBTA system via fare-free, on-demand transit for everyone. [Charter Right – Toner, Aug 7, 2023]
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Charter Right #3. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on whether change in language to the CSO is necessary to enable installation of permanent, seasonal, and/or temporary outdoor dining and pop-ups alongside separated bicycle lanes consistent with Cycling Safety Ordinance that address concerns about the current situation. [Charter Right – McGovern, Aug 7, 2023]
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Unfinished Business #4. Amendment to Chapter 2.78 of the Cambridge Code of Ordinance, entitled “Historical Buildings and Landmarks.” (Ordinance #2022-11). [Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended Aug 7, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after Aug 28, 2023] (ORD22#11) [text of report (revised)]

Unfinished Business #5. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to amending Article 4.30 and Article 11.800 of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge. [Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended Aug 7, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after Aug 28, 2023] (ORD23#4) [text of report]

Unfinished Business #6. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to the Alewife Overlay District: Quadrangle (AOD-Q) Zoning Petition and Design Guidelines. [Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended Aug 7, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after Aug 28, 2023] (ORD23#5) [text of report]
Ordained as Amended 9-0 – Final Publication

169 Communications

Resolution #16. Congratulations to Nancy Glowa on her Retirement.   Councillor Toner, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern

Order #3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to establish and implement a regular maintenance schedule for tree wells, bump outs, crosswalks, and other pedestrian areas to prevent overgrowth and ensure consistent upkeep.   Councillor Simmons
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #4. Policy Order to design and affix a commemorative plaque in honor of Atieno Simmons on one of the Pride benches in front of City Hall.   Councillor Toner, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #5. Policy Order re: Improving the Quality of Life In and Around Central Square.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner
Charter Right – McGovern

Order #6. Rodent Control Update.   Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #7. Reviewing the Short-Term Rentals Ordinance.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #8. Changes to the Amendments to the Affordable Housing Overlay.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #9. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant departments including the Affordable Housing Trust, Community Development Department and Law Department to review the attached zoning proposal and report back to the City Council with an initial assessment regarding the feasibility and efficacy of such an approach no later than Oct 31, 2023.   Councillor Zondervan
Charter Right – Toner

Order #10. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the relevant departments, including Community Development and Law to review the attached proposed amendment language and propose any adjustments no later than the Oct 2, 2023 Regular City Council Meeting.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Nolan
Charter Right – Toner

Order #11. That the City Council go on record in opposition to the Cambridge Police Department and the City of Cambridge government sending trainees to, participating in any collaborations with, or supporting the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center or any similar facilities, in any way.   Councillor Zondervan
Not yet sure what was voted; Reconsideration Filed (likely by Zondervan)

Committee Report #2. A public meeting of the Cambridge City Council’s Ordinance Committee was held on Mon, July 31, 2023. The call of the meeting was to hold a public hearing on a City Council Zoning Petition relative to amendments to the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO). The meeting was recessed, and it was reconvened on Aug 3, 2023. The Committee voted to send the proposed ordinance language to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation to pass to a second reading. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0; Petition Passed to 2nd Reading 6-3 (Carlone, Nolan, Toner – NO)

References:
Nov 21, 2022 City Council Order
Feb 8, 2023 Housing Committee Report
Mar 22, 2023 NLTP Report
May 1, 2023 Order/May 8 Charter Right
June 12, 2023 CDD memo
Aug 7, 2023 AHO Annual Report
July 21, 2023 Ordinance Committee Report

Communications & Reports #1. A communication from Councillor Simmons Re: Seeking Reconsideration of PO23#146.
Placed on File 9-0

Comments and additional details to follow

September 6, 2023

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 597-598: September 5, 2023

Episode 597 – Cambridge InsideOut: Sept 5, 2023 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on Aug 1, 2023 at 6:00pm. Topics: Municipal election updates; changing hats; Candidate Pages – many good new candidates; endorsing organizations; the problematic “Bike Pledge” and the fallacy of perfection of the Cycling Safety Ordinance; misinterpretation of election results and slates; feeders vs. preferred candidates; the purpose of proportional representation – and the need for a strong executive; bringing ideas rather than beliefs; representation vs. advocacy; perverse candidate questionnaires; deviation from party line may lead to job loss or non-appointment – a problem in democracy; tax troubles on the horizon. Hosts: Robert Winters, Patrick Barrett [On YouTube] [audio]


Episode 598 – Cambridge InsideOut: Sept 5, 2023 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on Sept 5, 2023 at 6:30pm. Topics: Taxes, tax classification, and Prop 2½; fiction and promise of candidate handcards; taking wrong roads toward housing affordability; the problem of earmarking housing for specific groups; driving vs. “The T” and delusional thinking; looking at housing and transportation holistically, unilateral “solutions” are not solutions; Cambridge is better because of its diversity of housing styles and densities; solving problems or just taking down “the aristocracy”; the need to walk and observe; CDD undoing decades of better planning; lefties need to find more joy in life. Hosts: Robert Winters, Patrick Barrett [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

August 29, 2023

List of all CCJ Forum posts (2009 – present) – reverse chronologically with author’s name

Filed under: Cambridge — Tags: , — Robert Winters @ 9:30 am

August 5, 2023

A Midsummer Night’s Dream … or Nightmare: August 7, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

A Midsummer Night’s Dream … or Nightmare: August 7, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

Midsummer NightAs many of you know, the Cambridge City Council generally meets only once each summer, and that meeting is coming up this week. The Midsummer meeting is often known for its very long list of agenda items, and this agenda is no exception. In a municipal election year, we can also generally count of there being a few table-setters from the incumbents looking for ways to draw attention to themselves. This year is unusual in that there appears to be some extraordinary effort being expended to ram through certain measures while a majority or super-majority of votes are still available before voters potentially replace some lame ducks with more rational alternatives.

Here are a few items from this week’s agenda that stood out:

Board & Commission Appointments

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to new appointments and reappointments of the following persons as members of the Cambridge Health Alliance Board of Trustees: Jane Licurse (appointment); Rae Simpson, Paula Paris, Michael Shear, Ben Milligan, Bill Lahey.
Appointments Approved 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of Ethridge King as an Election Commissioner for a term of four years.
pulled by Nolan; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Scott Walker to the Open Data Review Board as a City staff member.
Appointment Approved 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments and reappointments of the following persons as a members of the Climate Committee – Appointments: Joseph Adiletta, Mallorie Barber, Wendy DeWolf, Hajer Hyte, Michelle Holmes, Pasang Lhamo, Katharine Lange, Catarina Martinez, Rachel Mural, Joel Nogic, Tom Rawson, Vandana Sareen, Allie Shepard, Ming Su, and Neheet Trivedi. Reappointments: Keith Giamportone, Lyn Huckabee, Steven Nutter, and David Rabkin.
pulled by McGovern; Appointments Approved 7-0 (Nolan, McGovern recused due to family members among appointees)

Manager’s Agenda #20. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments and reappointments of the following persons as a members of the Committee on Public Planting for a term of two years; Appointments: Uriel Bulow, Raymond Fahrner, Gretchen Friesinger, Robb Johnson, Amira Valliani, Achana Venkataraman, and Angela Zhong. Reappointments: Margaret Booz, Cindy Carpenter, Sara Cohen, Chantal Eide, Sophia Emperador, Sandra Fairbank, Ahron Lerman, Ruth Loetterle, Tracy Orr, and Cynthia Smith.
Appointments Approved 9-0


Neighborhood Conservation Districts – Preservation or Evisceration

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order #23-123, regarding an explanation of the legal standard that is used to compel changes or deny projects reviewed by the Historical Commission or Neighborhood Conservation District Commissions. [text of response]
pulled by Zondervan; Referred to Petition 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to proposed amendments to Ch. 2.78, Art III of the Cambridge Municipal Code, the Neighborhood Conservation Districts (NCD) and Landmarks Ordinance. [text of response]
pulled by Zondervan; Committee Report #9 corrected 9-0; Referred to Petition 9-0

Communications #43. A communication was received from Marie Elena Saccoccio regarding Submission in Opposition to Amendment to Chapter 2.78 entitled Historical Buildings and Landmarks.

Committee Report #9. The Ordinance Committee held a public meeting on Apr 26, 2023, to continue the discussion of potential changes to Chapter 2.78 Historical Buildings and Landmarks, proposed Ordinance #2022-11. The meeting was recessed and reconvened and concluded on June 21, 2023. The Committee voted to send proposed Ordinance 2022 #11, as amended, amending the City of Cambridge Municipal Code, Chapter 2.78 Historical Buildings and Landmarks, to the Full City Council with a favorable recommendation to Pass to a 2nd Reading. [text of report (revised)]
Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0

It is remarkable just how much dishonesty is being circulated by the density advocates and ABC-elected sycophants on this issue. I never thought I would see the day when a possible majority of Cambridge city councillors might so gleefully go along with the bulldozing of historic buildings that might stand in the way of their single-issue agenda. I suppose this may be a cyclical phenomenon – like when the West End of Boston was obliterated and when Robert Moses ran roughshod over New York City before Jane Jacobs shined a brighter light on the destruction. Historic review of significant buildings is a good thing – even if some city councillors lack the vision to see this.


Fueling Controversy

Manager’s Agenda #15. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-53, regarding a request that the City Manager work with relevant City Departments on how Cambridge might participate in PACE Massachusetts pursuant to the PACE Act, including exploring all Options for incentivizing participation.
pulled by Nolan; Property Assessed Clean Energy Act (“PACE”), as amended, accepted by the City Council 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Charter Right #3. Policy Order Re Creating A BEUDO Compliance Advisory Committee. [Charter Right – Azeem, June 26, 2023]
Azeem calls this proposal duplicative; Toner explains forward-thinking purpose of Order; Simmons notes educational component of proposed Compliance Advisory Board and need for better public process; Zondervan notes Electrify Cambridge initiative that would provide intended advise, notes that technical advice best handled by staff; Nolan notes that number of buildings affected are currently only large buildings but also expresses hope that this will eventually affect all buildings, calls Order nonproductive; McGovern asks of CDD if this is necessary; Iram Farooq feels no need for such a committee, $2 million committed for support for technical assistance for property owners; Simmons notes disparities among residents in terms of knowledge of City actions; Order Placed on File 9-0 with no action taken

Unfinished Business #4. An Ordinance has been received from the City Council, relative to Fossil Fuel-Free Demonstration (Ordinance 2023-3). [Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended by Substitution June 26, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after July 17, 2023]
Nolan explains her late communications with proposed amendments; Committee Report #15, and Comm. & Reports #5 brought forward 9-0; Zondervan motion to Pass to 2nd Reading with substitute language from Committee Report; Nolan moves to amend substitute language and expresses belief that there should be no exemptions for restaurants, provides anecdotal evidence from one chef; Azeem expresses support for Nolan amendment, calls restaurant objections overstated, but acknowledges potential costs, not ready to vote for Nolan amendment – especially because once adopted it cannot be amended; McGovern expresses support for CDD amendment excluding restaurants until 2035, intrigued by waiver idea; Susanne Rasmussen (CDD) notes that waiver provision could be problematic and may have legal implications; Iram Farooq (CDD) notes that you can pass an exemption or a waiver provision, but a waiver provision put responsibility on ISD on making decisions on what kind of cooking can happen, notes that additional Nolan amendment an improvement but would still require potentially burdensome process; Rasmussen says that a standard for what “cost-prohibitive” is would have to be established; Zondervan supports Nolan amendment, questions suggestion that ordinance cannot be amended, calls it a mistake to exempt commercial kitchens; McGovern does not want to force restaurants to act when not ready, but to provide incentives instead (very good!); Carlone says a program should be established to finance these changes, invokes “crisis” as rationale; Nolan says not just emission reduction but public health, calls all problems solvable; Simmons asks about distinction between exemption and waiver; City Manager notes how amendment puts ISP Commissioner in position of making subjective judgments about what equipment is necessary to “complete a meal” (Nolan shakes her head in disagreement), calls establishing what is and is not “cost-prohibited” a problematic regulation; City Solicitor Glowa notes that in some cities there is a zoning officer to make these kinds of subjective determinations, and Cambridge has never had such a position – a potential problem in having one individual making such determinations, better to have something more formulaic in making such decisions; Carlone says big issue is 2035 – thinks this is too far away and would want it sooner; [in all of this, no recognition that cooking uses are de minimis in the larger picture – RW]; Nolan Amendment Fails 4-5 (DC,PN,QZ,SS-Yes; BA,AM,MM,DS,PT-No); Zondervan moves to change 2035 to 2030 for restaurant deadline – QZ Amendment Fails 4-4-1 (DC,PN,QZ,SS-Yes; AM,MM,DS,PT-No; BA-Present); Ordinance Amended by Language from CDD 7-1-0-1 (PT-No; DS-Present); Ordained as Amended 7-1-0-1 (PT-No; DS-Present); Reconsideration Fails 1-7-1 (Simmons-Yes; Mallon-Absent)

Communications #44. A communication was received from Marie Elena Saccoccio regarding PO23#14 Revisited Vote No on BEUDO.

Communications #92. A communication was received from Patrick W. Barrett III regarding Reject Gas Ban Pilot.

Order #10. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Public Library to create an Induction Stoves Loaner Program and help residents access experience using induction stoves.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Order #14. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to review the Across Sidewalk Electric Vehicle Charging (EV) Permit Pilot Program and remove the $200 permit fee associated with the pilot program.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #8. The Health and Environment Committee held a public meeting on Nov 16, 2022 to discuss how the City can act on the recently passed Massachusetts climate bill, including specifically how the City can implement a ban or restriction on fossil fuels in new construction projects as part of the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources 10 city pilot program and how quickly the city can adopt the state’s newly promulgated energy stretch code for buildings. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #15. On Aug 1, 2023, the Ordinance Committee held a public hearing relative to amending the Municipal Code for the City of Cambridge to add a new Chapter, 15.30, titled “Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration”, proposed Ordinance 2023-3, and to consider a proposed amendment to BEUDO requiring new Covered Properties to achieve net zero by 2030. By a unanimous vote of all members present, a motion to recommend to the full City Council that the language passed to a second reading on June 26, 2023, proposed Ordinance 2023-3, Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration, be amended by substitution with the new language provided by CDD, was approved. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #5. A communication was received from Councillor Nolan, transmitting Proposed Amendments to the Fossil Fuel-Free Demonstration Ordinance Language.
Discussed w/Unfinished Business #4; Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Transitioning to better energy sources is a good thing, but I simply cannot understand this City Council’s obsession with making all things mandatory without making any effort to simply convince people to make better choices. I guess you could call me pro-choice. I have never cared for control freaks – and we currently have several of them occupying seats in the Sullivan Chamber.


The High Priority of Cannabis

Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Cannabis Amendments Special Permit zoning petition. [text of response]
pulled by Zondervan; Proposed changes to the Cannabis Business Permitting Ordinance Referred to Ordinance Committee 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #12. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on June 27, 2023, relative to the City Council Petition to amend Article 4.30 and Article 11.800 of the Zoning Ordinance. The Committee voted favorably to send the Petition as amended to the City Council with a favorable recommendation to Pass to a 2nd Reading. [text of report]
Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0

As I have stated several times over the last several years, it is remarkable just how much attention and effort is spent by this City Council on the sale of marijuana. It’ like having Councillors Cheech & Chong.


Stay in Your Lane

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to consider measures to improve the Cycling Safety Ordinance Business Impact Study. [Charter Right – Toner, June 26, 2023]
Nolan suggests that this Order might best be withdrawn because most questions answered; Nolan moves to place on file; Placed on File 8-0-1 (QZ Absent)

Order #13. That the City Manager is requested to consult with relevant departments on an enhanced communication strategy to inform residents about the implementation of the Cycling Safety Ordinance.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern
pulled by Nolan (who wrongly claims that “the map has been in place for many years”); Simmons notes inadequacy of notification methods; Order Amended to add McGovern; Order Adopted as Amended 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #14. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public meeting on July 20, 2023 from 3:00pm to 5:00pm to discuss the update on the Community Development Department’s Economic Impact Study regarding the implementation of the Cambridge Cycling Safety Ordinance. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Order #17. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council on whether change in language to the CSO is necessary to enable installation of permanent, seasonal, and/or temporary outdoor dining and pop-ups alongside separated bicycle lanes consistent with Cycling Safety Ordinance that address concerns about the current situation.   Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Toner
pulled by Zondervan; Nolan emphasizes that there be no changes to the Cycling Safety Ordinance (“The Pledge”); Zondervan amendments proposed to remove last “Whereas” and the main “Ordered”; McGovern says he has had conversations with Cambridge Bike Safety; Charter Right – McGovern

It is noteworthy that Order #17 dares to violate that untouchable Bike Pledge. Needless to say, any elected official (or candidate) who signs a pledge vowing to never listen to evidence or to refuse to modify an ordinance in order to provide a better balance among competing interests should not be acting in a legislative capacity. Meanwhile, Order #13 effectively says calls for telling people what is coming whether they like it or not. It seems that refusal to listen, and even removing mechanisms for public review and response, seems to be the modus operandi of this and the previous City Council.


Alternative Transportation, The War on Cars, and Killing You Softly with Fees

Order #7. Aligning Parking Fees With Climate and Transportation Goals.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Order #15. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments and agencies to design and implement a pilot program providing subsidized, on-demand transit to low-income residents, people with disabilities and seniors, with a goal of expanding the program to service the region in ways that supplement the MBTA system via fare-free, on-demand transit for everyone.   Councillor Zondervan
pulled by Toner; QZ comments; Charter Right – Toner

I do hope that Mr. Zondervan understands that Cambridge does not control the MBTA. That said, I agree that there is some merit in the idea of fare-free buses as a means of providing good choices to residents so that they may choose to drive less often (or to not walk as far). In contrast, Order #7 is yet another effort to penalize the choices many people have to make.


The Rain, The Park, and Other Things

Manager’s Agenda #19. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 23-42, regarding irrigation at Danehy Park. [text of response]
Placed on File 9-0

Order #4. Canopy Loss & Developing a Replacement Strategy.   Councillor Carlone, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Order #5. Standards for Chicken Keeping.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan
pulled early by Toner; Zondervan explains about family served with cease-and-desist order; Toner asks about neighbor complaints; Peter McLaughlin says few complaints, not currently permitted under Zoning Ordinance; McGovern explains that ISD discovered livestock as part of other inspection; Toner asks whatever happened to City initiative on this matter; Public Health Commissioner Derrick Neal notes potential rodent and odor problems; Zondervan notes that Order is asking only for staff to review proposed ordinance; City Solicitor notes that this use not permitted under Zoning Ordinance, Beekeeping language was acted upon but chicken-keeping not acted upon due to continued public health concerns; McGovern suggests allowing this use w/appropriate regulation, suggests urgency; Zondervan requests that no enforcement take place; Azeem suggests that this use could be grandfathered in (for specific sites – Glowa) because it predates Zoning Ordinance (1920s); Nolan wants use allowed and notes that Somerville permits it; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #6. Encouraging De-Paving Throughout The City.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Azeem
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Order #16. That the City Manager is requested to meet with Governor Healey, DCR Commissioner Arrigo and Secretary Rebecca Tepper to discuss resuming Saturday closures to traffic this summer and mitigating the traffic impacts, including by making potential traffic signal adjustments.   Councillor Zondervan
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Let there be no doubt that the whole kerfuffle about Saturday closures of Memorial Drive has much to do with political competition – photo ops for some and a campaign to undermine one of our state representatives. Many initiatives such as this inevitably produce winners and losers – in this case traffic diverted onto inadequate neighborhood streets. Car-free cycling for some and diminished pedestrian safety and added inconvenience for others.

De-Paving is a great idea. My only (pleasant) surprise is that the order calls for encouraging it rather than mandating it. As for the chickens, I recall a time a few years ago when there were competing petition campaigns about this in (I believe) Cambridgeport. The real issue was long-time residents vs. skin-pierced newcomers enamored of pretend farming. Personally, I like seeing birds of all feathers around town.


Police Matters (and Really Poor Committee Appointments)

Manager’s Agenda #21. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a report from the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) which makes recommendations regarding the release of an officer’s name after a critical incident.
pulled by Nolan; insightful comments by Police Commission Christine Elow and City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding (a) how cities with policies of releasing officer names are generally cities making up for poor reputations (unlike Cambridge), and (b) no Massachusetts cities have a current policy regarding the release of names of officers in critical incidents; policy forthcoming after negotiation with police union, no release of officer names or other information until inquest completed; Placed on File 9-0

Order #12. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department and CPD to report to the City Council on all outstanding and recent (last 5 fiscal years: FY’23,’22,’21,’20,’19) lawsuits involving the CPD or individual members of CPD that the City is expending or has expended resources on, including an estimate of how much has been spent on these lawsuits to date in FY24.   Councillor Zondervan
pulled by Toner; Zondervan notes anonymous letter received; Toner inquires about when City gets involved in lawsuits against City employees; City Solicitor Nancy Glowa notes very few such lawsuits against police officers and generally handled in-house by Law Department; Simmons expresses concerns about acting based on anonymous letters and unsubstantiated claims, impropriety of councillors intervening in personnel matters; Glowa says that councillors may not intervene; Councillor Zondervan claims a Point of Order, Simmons objects; Charter Right – Simmons (after which QZ claims he has the floor and Simmons says “not any more”)

Committee Report #10. The Public Safety Committee held a public meeting on June 7, 2023 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm to discuss the Police Review and Advisory Board, including CM23#27. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Communications & Reports #2. A communication was received from Brian Corr, Executive Director, Police Review & Advisory Board, transmitting a Police Review & Advisory Board Report for the First Quarter of 2023.
Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Mayor Siddiqui has repeatedly appointed Councillor Zondervan as Chair of the Public Safety Committee. I find this bewildering.


Notable Resolutions

Resolution #3. Congratulations to Superintendent Pauline Wells of the Cambridge Police Department on her recent promotion.   Councillor Toner

Resolution #4. Congratulations on the retirement of Oral Bynoe from the Cambridge Police Department.   Councillor Toner

Resolution #7. Thanks and appreciation to Cambridge School Committee Member Fred Fantini for his service to the students and families in Cambridge for 40 years.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui

Resolution #8. Congratulations to Superintendent Rob Lowe on his retirement from the Cambridge Police Department and on his new Appointment as Chief of the Boston University Police Department.   Councillor Toner

Resolution #24. Resolution on the death of Donald W. “Don” Holland Sr.   Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui

Resolution #25. Congratulations to organizers of the Cambridge Jazz Festival 2023.   Councillor Simmons

Resolution #27. Congratulations to City Councillor E. Denise Simmons on receiving the 2023 Pride Freedom Trailblazer Award.   Councillor Toner, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui

Late Resolution #28. Resolution on the death of Charles Ogletree.   Councillor Simmons


Alewife – Triangles, Quadrangles, Pentangles, Etcetera

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to work with the relevant departments to provide the City Council with possible projections, based on stated assumptions, of expected outcomes in Alewife for total housing, commercial, open space and public amenities, over the next twenty years, if the proposed zoning were adopted.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #13. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on July 19, 2023, to discuss a City Council Zoning Petition relative to the proposed Alewife Overlay District: Quadrangle (AOD-Q) and design guidelines. The Committee approved a motion requesting that the City Manager work with the relevant departments to provide the City Council with possible projections, based on stated assumptions, of expected outcomes in Alewife for total housing, commercial, open space, and public amenities, over the next twenty years, if the proposed zoning were adopted and to report back to the Full City Council by Sept 11, 2023. See Policy Order on this Agenda. The Committee approved a motion to forward the City Council Zoning Petition relative to the proposed Alewife Overlay District: Quadrangle (AOD-Q) and design guidelines, to the Full City Council with a favorable recommendation to Pass to a 2nd Reading. [text of report]
Passed to 2nd Reading 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Needless to say, addressing planning and zoning in the Alewife Quadrangle should have been done years ago. Perhaps they’ll get ahead of the curve in the Pentangle.


Ancient History, Hiring and Evaluating a City Manager

Committee Report #1. The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee met on Dec 4, 2019 at 2:00pm to discuss Policy Order #7, regarding Open meeting law review and Policy Order # 11, regarding Council Budget- Private Attorney. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #2. The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee met on Nov 17, 2020 to conduct a public hearing on Decorum of the Council, as well as the Rules Around and Duties of the Council Aides. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #3. The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee met on Mar 16, 2021 at 3:00pm to discuss the initial steps that must be undertaken to establish the search process for the next City Manager. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #4. The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee met on Apr 7, 2021 at 2:00pm to discuss the policy order seeking to make remote participation in City Council meetings permanent. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #5. The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee met on July 12, 2021 at 5:30pm to continue discussing the hiring of the next City Manager. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #6. The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee met on Aug 4, 2021 to continue discussing the hiring of the next City Manager. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Committee Report #11. The City Council’s City Manager Evaluation Sub-Committee held a public meeting on June 22, 2023, from 10:00am to 11:00am to discuss the City Manager Evaluation Process. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Great to see the City Clerk’s Office making good progress on these matters left long neglected. Needless to say, the Chair(s) of the Government Operations Committee bears much responsibility in the negligence. It’s almost as though they didn’t want residents to know what they were up to (or simply didn’t care).


The Charter Question

Communications & Reports #3. A communication was received from Kathleen Born, Chair, Charter Review Committee, transmitting an update to the Cambridge City Council.
Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

I’ll save my comments for when we get closer to the final recommendations. Then I will have a lot to say.


And the Rest …

Manager’s Agenda #16. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the project update on the Central Square Municipal Property Needs Assessment and Planning Study.
pulled by Zondervan; City Manager Huang, Deputy City Manager O’Riordan, CDD’s Iram Farooq explain reasoning for a comprehensive approach to all assets; QZ wants added focus on 105 Windsor St.; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #17. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the submission of the 2023 Affordable Housing Overlay Annual Report.
pulled by McGovern who expresses pride in removing role Planning Board in AHO projects while expressing satisfaction about how individual councillors (Siddiqui, Mallon) can exercise influence over particular projects (how on Earth is this a good thing?); Placed on File 9-0

Two important points not included in the report: (1) virtually all of these AHO projects are about densifying public housing on existing parcels, and (2) neither the public nor even the Planning Board has any say anymore. The Affordable Housing Trust can do whatever it pleases no matter what you or anyone else thinks.

Manager’s Agenda #22. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a response to Policy Order 2022 #278, regarding the legal opinion for a public speaker to state their name, address, and phone number for the record. [text of response]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #26. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to possibility of acquiring the property at 450 Concord Avenue, owned by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (“Commonwealth”) and utilized by the National Guard Armory of Cambridge. [text of communication]
pulled by Nolan; questions raised (and answered) about seemingly high appraisal; National Guard has no plans to make entire parcel available; Deputy City Mgr. O’Riordan notes history of site as a landfill and that any reuse of land would require costly remediation; Order Adopted 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #27. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a request to move to Executive Session to discuss the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property as discussion in an open meeting may have a detrimental effect on the negotiating position of the public body.
Move to Executive Session 9-0; Placed on File 8-0-0-1 (Carlone – Present)

Charter Right #2. That the City Council go on record in enthusiastic support of H.R.1433, the Philippine Human Rights Act, and in urging Representatives Katherine Clark and Ayanna Pressley to co-sponsor the existing bill. [Charter Right – Zondervan, June 26, 2023]
Zondervan refers to the United States’ neocolonial interference in the Philippines, makes a long foreign policy speech; Nolan gives informed commentary on her amendment proposed regarding reference to Elbit America Cambridge whose primary activities are medical and do not involve weaponry, incorrect association of company with Philippine actions and possible other agenda based on association with Israel; Azeem expresses support for Philippines Human Rights Act but unwilling to vote on matters of foreign policy (good for him!); Simmons positively responds to Azeem’s comments and hope for future conversation about what kinds of resolutions are appropriate for Cambridge City Council; Nolan Amendment Adopted 6-2-0-1 (QZ,SS – No; BA – Present); Order Adopted as Amended 7-0-0-2 (BA,PT – Present)

Committee Report #7. The Civic Unity Committee held a public hearing on Sept 29, 2022 to discuss the two Aug 1, 2022 Policy Orders exploring ways to improve the lives of Cambridge’s African American/Black residents. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

Order #18. City Council support of graduate student workers of Northeastern University and their effort to form a union.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (DC,AM-Absent)

This is all well and good, but let’s never forget that the primary goal of every graduate student should be to graduate and to no longer be a graduate student. – Robert Winters

Comments?

August 1, 2023

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 595-596: August 1, 2023

Episode 595 – Cambridge InsideOut: Aug 1, 2023 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on Aug 1, 2023 at 6:00pm. Topics: Municipal election updates – final list of candidates; proposed 2030 gas ban amendment – de minimus benefit, detrimental effect on commercial kitchens, cultural discrimination; the problem of elected officials who don’t care what you think, exerting control and accomplishing litte; half truths sold as whole cloth. Hosts: Robert Winters, Patrick Barrett [On YouTube] [audio]


Episode 596 – Cambridge InsideOut: Aug 1, 2023 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on Aug 1, 2023 at 6:30pm. Topics: Interesting candidates and not just radicals; civic resources and appreciation; the positive aspects of candidacy; Candidate Pages – individuals, not organizations; tail wagging the dog – bike lanes and AHO, narrow interests attempting to define the election issues; AHO – violating planning and zoning principles, the big lie of addressing affordability; the “other issues” that may be far more important; Is proportional representation really proportional? Hosts: Robert Winters, Patrick Barrett [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

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