Cambridge Civic Journal Forum

May 8, 2023

Featured on the May 8, 2023 Cambridge City Council Agenda

Featured on the May 8, 2023 Cambridge City Council Agenda

On the eve of the annual Budget Hearings, the Regular City Council meeting includes the following somewhat interesting agenda items:

Note: The Party for Socialism and Liberation lynch mob descended on the City Council meeting with their rehearsed talking points, performance art, and chanting and even forced a recess for a while. They continue to demand the release of the names of police officers involved in the January shooting of a young deranged man who ran at the officers with a kulfi knife. To what end do these protesters seek the officers’ names? So that they could do what? Picket the officers’ homes? Harass their families? The petulance and ignorance of these protesters are really quite the spectacle. They also apparently believe they are “the people”. Buy a clue, kids. You are not “the community”. You are not “the people”.

The rest of Public Comment was primarily a mix of the usual AHO advocates from “A Bigger Cambridge” and opponents to the proposed amendments. Monday night at City Council has become just a really bad TV show with even worse consequences. I am reminded of a City Council campaign from some years ago by candidate Ian McKinnon whose campaign catch phrase was “Hire Better Actors.”

City Hall

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Final Landmark Designation Report for the Charles Hicks Saunders House.
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (MM Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a recommendation that the City Council approve an Order to take by “friendly” eminent domain proceeding parcels of land located at 319 Webster Avenue, Cambridge (as shown on Cambridge Assessors Map 81, Parcel 21), 333 Webster Avenue, Cambridge (as shown on Cambridge Assessors Map 81, Parcel 23), and 455 Columbia Street (as shown on Cambridge Assessors Map 81, Parcel 16) (collectively “Cambridge Parcels”), and approve an Order authorizing the purchase of a parcel of land located at 94 Webster Avenue, Somerville (as shown on Somerville Assessors Map 96, Parcel B-7) (“Somerville Parcel”) (collectively, the “Premises”), all of which are owned by Webster Avenue Ventures LLC (“WV”). (CM23#128) [plot plan] [Order of Taking] [Order authorizing purchase]
pulled by Nolan; PN objects to $14.4 million price tag and suggests site better used for housing rather than DPW use; PT, QZ support proposed use as well as future housing; Owen O’Riordan explains the needs of DPW for operations and how this site is badly needed for foreseeable future; QZ would prefer high density subsidized/social housing for the site; DPW Commissioner Kathy Watkins notes that site likely has “urban fill” with some contamination; AM would prefer to turn site over for subsidized/social housing, concerned about price tag; O’Riordan notes that parcels were assembled by a 3rd party; Bob Riordan notes that original asking price was 10% higher; QZ identifies site as a “Square” which would permit taller buildings under proposed AHO amendments; MM also would prefer high density subsidized/social housing on site but will support proposal; DC says he’s been advocating City purchase of land for years; BA asks about specific proposed uses; Kathy Watkins notes likely use by Parks Division and/or Buildings Divisions, including vehicle storage and office space; PN wants City to buy any and all properties available but cannot support this purchase; Huang explains costs; PN unhappy about why City did not purchase another lot; Charter Right – Mallon; David Kale notes that this sale is timely and could fall apart if delayed; Bob O’Riordan notes that there have been other offers for the parcels; McGovern Reconsideration Motion Fails 1-8 (PN – Yes)

These parcels include the site where Phil’s Towing was located until very recently and which closed as a consequence of the City Council’s (and City Manager’s) policy change to only tag vehicles for street weeping violations rather than be “tagged and towed”. It also includes the site of E&C Bottle and Can Return – a go-to location for those needing to cash in bulk amounts of deposit containers. It is likely that there is some soil contamination as a result of many years of junkyard operations on these parcels. The most likely use of these parcels in the near future would be as a municipal public works facility.

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Items Numbered 23-2, related to exploring the need for a special permitting process for cannabis dispensaries, special permitting fees and bicycle parking requirements, and Response to Awaiting Report No. 23-4 regarding establishing the framework that will allow for the immediate elimination of the bicycle parking fees imposed on Economic Empowerment and Social Equity applicants and cannabis dispensary operators. (CM23#129) [report and proposed zoning change]
pulled by Nolan; Referred to Planning Board & Ordinance Committee 9-0; Reconsideration prevails (later) due to screw-up, Re-Vote to adopt language of proposed zoning change from CDD and Refer to Planning Board and Ordinance Committee 9-0

If only our City government had the same level of concern for businesses other than cannabis businesses.


Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board report with no positive or negative recommendation on the Kelley et. al. Zoning Petition.
pulled by Carlone; DC notes that this increases commercialization; Referred to Petition 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager is directed to work with all relevant departments to recommend what new City regulations and Council action or changes to existing regulations or ordinances are needed to put in place in order to implement the Craig Kelley et al. Zoning Petition for residential car sharing and renting of EV charging stations and bring those recommendations to the full council by June 12, 2023.   Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0

I’m all for allowing flexibility in this, but I’m also mindful of the fact that this effectively turns residential uses into commercial operations with the inevitable phone apps will direct people to residential properties in much the same way that people now seek out gas stations. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but you do have to anticipate unintended consequences. Should homeowners also provide rest rooms? How about windshield washing apparatus? Will fast-charging result in local voltage drops? Will residential homeowners with driveways now park on the street in order to make their driveway available for this use?


Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on Afterschool care.
pulled by Nolan; Ellen Semonoff notes staff increases; additional comments by QZ, MM, SS; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on the development of the City of Cambridge Community Safety Department (CSD).
pulled by Mallon; Interim Director Liz Speakman notes May 4 meeting with HEART and $300,000 contract changes [remarkable how much this City Council wants to be involved in contract specifics]; QZ wants to refer report to Public Safety Committee, asks about Steering Committee process; Speakman notes that “Future of Public Safety Task Force” involved (which itself raises some questions), all meetings informal and not public; QZ wants meeting notes made public (which hopefully will include names of participants); Michelle Scott (Program Coordinator) adds details; QZ wants more details on integration with HEART; Speakman notes conversations to build “more trust” and possibility of providing other services; MM asks about loitering; Speakman feels that sleeping in ATMs is not “really” trespassing; MM says “you can never have too many services”; PN notes name change from CSD (Community Safety Department) to CARE (Community Assistance, Response and Engagement); BA, DC, SS additional comments; Referred to Public Safety Committee 9-0

This communication includes notification that a contract for $300,000 of ARPA funding was sent to HEART. “The scope of services includes crisis response, conflict resolution, mutual aid, aftercare, and community cohesion. The funding will cover a Licensed Social Worker position, partial funding of several responder salaries, partial funding of one Co-Director salary, and partially covering the fiscal sponsor fee.”

Pardon my cynicism, but I continue to categorize this under “political patronage”.

Manager’s Agenda #10. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 23-07, regarding report on providing publicly-accessible traffic stop, arrest, and citation police data on a new Procedural Justice Dashboard.
pulled by Mallon; Police Commissioner Christine Elow responds about type of data and availability; PN questions; Placed on File 9-0

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to promptly draft a zoning petition to be considered for filing by the City Council, based upon the proposed Affordable Housing Overlay amendments now before the Housing Committee. [Charter Right – Nolan, May 1, 2023] (PO23#75)
Comments by Toner, Nolan in support of Substitute Order; Nolan notes that the ABC proposal for corridors does not align with what was in Envision Report and recommendations; Mallon calls AHO “landmark legislation” – a “huge supporter”, notes that a 5-year review was included in original ordinance, does not want CDD involved “in an unfettered way”, has not yet heard need expressed by subsidized/social housing builders for 25 stories, cannot support Order without these amendments; McGovern trashes Envision in favor of whatever ABC wants, saya subsidized/social housing developers want 9-12 stories and upward (well, of course, since they are effectively writing their own regulations]; QZ will not support Substitute Order because of “crisis” and that action required even if not well-considered, calls this an effort to delay until next Council term; DC explains his beliefs with some historical context that the ABC acolytes will never understand; BA double-talks about collaboration and consensus but won’t support substitute; Siddiqui says Substitute Order can only be voted up or down; Simmons puts no limits on increasing units, heights, densities and will not support Substitute Order, expresses distrust of CDD, wants to rush proposal through; SS suggests that amendments are possible at Ordinance Committee (but this is a joke), won’ support Substitute Order; Vote on Substitute Order Fails 4-4 (DC,AM,PN,PT – Yes; BA,MM,DS,QZ,SS – No); PN notes that “BEUDO must be done by May 31”; QZ asks what is meant by “providing heights in the specified corridors that constitute bonuses”, wants no other limits; Siddiqui waffles; MM continues to express desire that developers should propose their own regulations; AM says request to CDD is too prescriptive, wants to remove first bullet re: maximums of 12 and 15 stories, refers to “beauty and the simplicity of the original AHO”, wants to remove first bullet, the phrase “if it can do so by June 1” and change “may” to “shall”; DC asks what is needed to make AHO work in specific locations – but he’s talking to deaf ABC ears; DS wants first bullet point with 12 and 15 stories to remain, supports SS amendment w/amendment, wants June 1 deadline to remain so that this can be rushed through; BA agrees; SS amendment (with “may” to “shall”) and added “base” approved 8-1 (QZ – No); AM amendment to strike first bullet Fails 4-5 (DC,AM,PN,PT – Yes; BA,MM,DS,QZ,SS – No); AM amendment to strike “if it can do so by June 1” approved 8-1 (QZ – No); AM amendment to add “including” in 2nd bullet approved 8-1 (QZ – No); Order Adopted as Amended 5-3-1 (BA,MM,DS,QZ,SS – Yes; AM,PN,PT – No; DC – Present)

I seriously hope this does not go forward as currently drafted, and if it does I hope there will be political consequences for all of the co-sponsors. If the ultimate goal of these councillors is to gradually replace privately-owned residential property coming onto the market with “social housing” under a socialist model, then they should come right out and say that and stop dancing around the edges.

Order #2. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to determine the feasibility of purchasing available property from Lesley University to address City goals.   Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner
pulled by McGovern; add all councillors as sponsors; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

See above.

Order #3. Online Publication of Legal Notices.   Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem

This is an idea that has been brought up for a long time but which has not up to this point gained much traction at the State House. The Massachusetts General Laws require publication in a “newspaper of general circulation” and these legal notices continue to be an essential means of support for many local publications. There’s a reasonably good chance that a change in the law will drive the last nail into the coffin of some publications.
Order Adopted 9-0

I wrote about this in October 2009: Putting the Paper to Bed

Committee Report #1. The Health and Environment Committee held a public meeting to review and discuss the update on Urban Forest Master Plan and to discuss how to improve tree health and tree canopy across the City. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. Ordinance Committee meeting of Wed, Apr 12, 2023, 5:30pm on BEUDO – recessed. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. Ordinance Committee meeting of Wed, Apr 26, 2023, 3:00pm on BEUDO – continuation. [text of report] [communications]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0


Budget Hearings:

Tues, May 9
9:00am   The City Council’s Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the FY2024 City Budget.  (Sullivan Chamber and Zoom)
General Government & Public Safety:

Budget Overview
Mayor’s Office
Executive – Leadership
Executive – Diversity
Executive – DGVPI
Executive – Equity and Inclusion
Executive – Public Information Office    
Executive – Tourism
Executive – Housing Liaison
City Council
City Clerk
Law
Finance – Administration
Finance – Budget
Finance – Purchasing
Finance – Auditing
Finance – Assessing
Finance – Treasury/Revenue    
Finance – Information Technology    
Finance – General Services
Employee Benefits
Human Resources
Election Commission
Public Celebrations
Reserve
Animal Commission
Community Safety
Fire Department
Police Department
PRAB / Peace Commission
Traffic, Parking & Transportation
Inspectional Services
License Commission
Emergency Communications
Those marked in bold are the ones pulled for discussion. *may appear at May 16 hearing

Wed, May 10
6:00pm   The City Council’s Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the FY2024 School Department Budget.  (Sullivan Chamber and Zoom)

Tues, May 16
10:00am   The City Council’s Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing to discuss the FY2024 City Budget.  (Sullivan Chamber and Zoom)
Community Maintenance and Development & Human Resources Development:

Cambridge Health Alliance    
Public Works
Water
Community Development
Historical Commission
Cable TV
Debt Service
Capital Building Projects    
Library
Human Services
Women’s Commission
Human Rights Commission    
Veterans’ Services
MWRA
Cherry Sheet
City Overview Section
Financial Summaries Section
Revenue Section
Public Investment Section
Those marked in bold are the ones pulled for discussion.

Mon, June 5
5:30pm   City Council meetingAnticipated Budget Adoption  (Sullivan Chamber and Zoom)

May 3, 2023

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 587-588: May 2, 2023

Episode 587 – Cambridge InsideOut: May 2, 2023 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on May 2, 2023 at 6:00pm. Topics: John Clifford and Central Square heroes; AHO – different rules for different people; when bigger and denser is your only goal; starting with conclusions; Vision Zero fantasies; public policy driven by social media; the consequences of living in a news desert. Hosts: Robert Winters, Patrick Barrett [On YouTube] [audio]


Episode 588 – Cambridge InsideOut: May 2, 2023 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on May 2, 2023 at 6:30pm. Topics: FY2024 Budget and shifting allocations; explosive growth of City Manager’s Office; self-congratulation disguised as public information; questioning the Cambridge Public Schools; Tax Classification – shifting the burden from commercial to residential, commercial abatements anticipated with high vacancy rates; cumulative effect of regulations and added costs; golden geese growing rarer; continuing kerfuffle over Riverbend Park and traffic diversion. Hosts: Robert Winters, Patrick Barrett [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

April 30, 2023

Mayday, Mayday! Rabbit, Rabbit! – Curiosities on the May 1, 2023 Cambridge City Council Agenda

Mayday, Mayday! Rabbit, Rabbit! – Curiosities on the May 1, 2023 Cambridge City Council Agenda

Budget Season is upon us, and we appear to be in for the largest jump in memorya nearly 10% increase from last year. The total City Budget for FY23 was $787,913,900 and that’s proposed to go up to $866,254,920 – a 9.9% increase (and that doesn’t include the additional $167,150,000 in loan authorizations). The budget for the Executive Department (the City Manager’s Office) is going up a whopping 50.2% from $5,638,040 to $8,467,495. I’m eager to get my hands on the full Budget Book to better understand why the Community Development Department’s budget is going from $14,409,820 to $39,290,300, a 172.7% increase – most likely due to some reshuffling of City departments and budget categories, but this really is bewildering.Coins

Manager’s Agenda #1. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the FY2024 submitted budget and appropriation orders.
Referred to Finance Committee 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

It was explained that the reason the CDD Budget went up by 172.7% was because of an accounting change in which $23,045,750 from the Capital Budget for the Affordable Housing Trust was moved to the Operating Budget under CDD. If this shift were to be excluded, the increase in the overall Operating Budget would be $57,260,265 or 7.1% over the FY23 Adopted Budget (instead of the reported 9.9% increase).

Other changes revealed in the FY2024 Budget Book are that the Electrical Department was moved into the Public Works Department during FY2023, and the Water Department is now listed under the Community Maintenance and Development category rather than as its own separate Budget category. There is now also a new “Capital Building Projects” budget line under Community Maintenance and Development. The Personnel Department has also been taken out of the Finance Department Budget and is now its own “Human Resources” budget line.

It’s worth noting that the City Manager’s Office (Executive) had grown to 16 full-time positions in FY2022 (up from 11 a few years earlier). That grew to 22 in FY2023 and has now leapt to 31 full-time positions in the FY2024 Budget. This partially explains its 50.2% increase from $5,638,040 to $8,467,495.

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $50,000,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of the Mass Avenue between Waterhouse Street and Alewife Parkway.
Passed to 2nd Reading 7-1-1 (QZ – No; AM – Absent); Referred to Finance Committee 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appropriation and authorization to borrow $35,350,000 to provide funds for the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan. Funds will support upgrades to the 689 Mass Avenue Interior; upgrades at the Moses Youth Center; Interior fit-out of Rindge Pre-K building; electric vehicle charging station infrastructure at several municipal buildings; and additional work at Inman and East Cambridge Fire Houses; First Street Garage upgrades to stairs and elevator; and other City building upgrades.
Passed to 2nd Reading 7-1-1 (QZ – No; AM – Absent); Referred to Finance Committee 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appropriation and authorization to borrow $2,500,000 to provide funds for the construction of the Peabody School Playground and Corcoran (Raymond Street) park.
Passed to 2nd Reading 7-1-1 (QZ – No; AM – Absent); Referred to Finance Committee 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appropriation and authorization to borrow $1,800,000 to provide funds for financing school building upgrades.
Passed to 2nd Reading 7-1-1 (QZ – No; AM – Absent); Referred to Finance Committee 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $51,500,000 to provide funds for the construction of sewer separation, storm water management and combined sewer overflow reduction elimination improvements within the Port and River Street areas as well as the Sewer Capital Repairs Program and climate change preparedness efforts.
Passed to 2nd Reading 7-1-1 (QZ – No; AM – Absent); Referred to Finance Committee 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation and authorization to borrow $26,000,000 to provide funds for the reconstruction of various City streets, sidewalks and bike facilities. $15,000,000 of this loan order is attributable to the improvement project related to sewer infrastructure upgrades on River Street, which include full depth roadway reconstruction, new sidewalks, new street trees and various other street improvements.
Passed to 2nd Reading 7-1-1 (QZ – No; AM – Absent); Referred to Finance Committee 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

bottomlineFY2024

Budget Summaries – FY2024 Comparisons

The City Manager’s presentation on Monday (and at the upcoming Budget Hearings) should be very interesting. I’m also eager to hear if there are any (misguided) efforts to turn some of the ARPA windfalls into permanent parts of the City’s Operating Budget. Questions worth asking would be about how changes in commercial property use and value in addition to a rapidly growing City Budget will translate into residential property tax rates over the next few years. These are the kinds of questions city councillors should be asking now rather than after the municipal election.


Manager’s Agenda #17. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 22-74, regarding needs assessment of the Danehy Park and recommendations for improvements; and irrigation updates.
Placed on File 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

“Danehy Park opened in 1990 – a 50-acre open space that provides sports fields, walking paths, a dog park, and other open space amenities. Previously, between 1847-1952, clay was extracted to manufacture bricks by the New England Brick Company. The result was a deep clay pit that the City used as its landfill between 1952 and 1971. This was capped and Danehy Park created in 1990. … The City has begun working with MassDEP on a 30-Year Post Closure Evaluation and Report that will include an evaluation of the existing methane trench. … On Mar 21 a contractor working for the City performing soil borings identified a methane pocket beneath the clay cap in Danehy Park. … City staff from DPW, DHSP, Fire, and Public Health are working closely with DEP to install additional venting structures to allow the landfill gases to safely vent and increase monitoring in the park to ensure the effectiveness of the venting modifications. … Other improvements presently underway: Girls Softball Improvements, Irrigation System Improvements.”

Manager’s Agenda #18. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment and reappointment of the following persons as a members of the Board of Zoning Appeals: Members (five-year term) – William Boehm, Fernando Daniel Hidalgo, Virginia Keesler, Steven Ng; Associate Members (two-year term): Carol Agate, Michael LaRosa, Thomas Marshall Miller, Zarya Miranda; Associate Members (two-year term reappointment): Matina Williams, Wendy Leiserson
Appointments Approved 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Let’s see if the City Council’s newfound authority to confirm Board appointments results in any challenges to these BZA appointments – one of the Boards targeted by ABC (a.k.a. “A Bigger Cambridge”) for Just Doing its Job. The role of the BZA has never been to overrule zoning regulations as a policy matter, but rather to manage exceptional and hardship cases and to grant some Special Permits – regardless what some have claimed in regard to some recent major development proposals.


Manager’s Agenda #19. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board report with no positive or negative recommendation on the Michael Monestime et. al. Zoning Petition. (CM23#123) [Monestime Petition – amended]
Referred to Petition 8-0-1 (AM – Absent); later moved to Suspend Rules for Reconsideration 8-0-1 (AM – Absent); Reconsideration of Referral Fails 0-8-1 (AM – Absent) to allow for immediate ordination

Unfinished Business #1. A Zoning Ordinance has been received from Diane P. LeBlanc City Clerk, relative to the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge be amended on a Zoning Petition by Michael Monestime, et al., to amend the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Cambridge by creating new footnotes in the Table of Permitted Uses in Section 4.30 for Outdoor Retail or Consumer Service Establishment, not otherwise defined and Outdoor Entertainment and Recreation Facility”; in the Business B, B-1 and B-2 column which read, “For the Central Square Overlay see section 20.304.5 (5)”; and “For the Central Square Overlay see section 20.304.5 (6)”;; and by amending Section 20.304.5 of the Central Square Overlay District to allow Outdoor Retail or Consumer Service Establishment, not otherwise defined by Special Permit from the Planning Board, with associated approval criteria, and to permit Outdoor Entertainment and Recreation Facility as-of-right within the Business B District of the Central Square Overlay District. [Passed to 2nd Reading Apr 24, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after May 15, 2023; Expires July 12, 2023] (ORD23#1)
Motion to Declare This Matter a “Special Emergency” Prevails 8-0-1 (AM Absent); Ordained 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Though we all expect this will be ordained unanimously and perhaps even fast-tracked as an “emergency”, the issue of concern is amplified music that may annoy close neighbors. There are three abutting 8-family affordable housing structures, and the Planning Board received communications from some of the residents. Under existing zoning it has been up to the BZA to allow this exceptional use – together with regulation of noise levels by the License Commission. The zoning change would make the operation of Starlight Square (and other areas within the Central Square Overlay District) an as-of-right use, but noise levels and days/times of operation would continue to be regulated by the License Commission. The best long-term solution would be to build an enclosed performance space that would be usable year-round and in inclement weather, but that won’t likely be happening any time soon.


Applications & Petitions #2. A Zoning Petition has been received from Ian Ferguson, et al. regarding Pitched Roofs Zoning Petition. (AP23#22) [text of petition]
Referred to Planning Board & Ordinance Committee 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

At first I thought this reminiscent of the Rainwater & Flat Roof Zoning Petition from 2018 that was championed by Councillor Kelley, but it’s actually quite different (and interesting).


Communications #31. A communication was received from Marie Elena Saccoccio, regarding Proposed Amendments to Ch. 2.78, Art. III.

Communications #32. A communication was received from Frank J. Paolitto, regarding Proposed changes in housing policies.

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to promptly draft a zoning petition to be considered for filing by the City Council, based upon the proposed Affordable Housing Overlay amendments now before the Housing Committee.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zondervan
Charter Right – Nolan (after numerous speeches by the likes of Zondervan and McGovern who declared that they would prefer even taller heights along all of the declared “Corridors” and Squares, and that anything less that the City obtaining every residential property that goes on the market should be viewed as a failure);
Councillor Toner introduced a Substitute Order that will be reintroduced when this matter comes up at the next regular meeting

I suppose if Major League Baseball can institute pitch clocks then perhaps this is the City Council’s own version of a hurry-up strategy. That said, this entire proposal is outrageously wrongheaded. It would be one thing to propose some height increases along streets where 3-story buildings are typical to perhaps allow an extra few stories – especially along streets where there are already some 4-6 story apartment buildings, but this offensive proposal would more than quadruple the allowed heights for favored housing developers. Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of this attempt to fast-track this matter is that it has Councillor Simmons as a co-sponsor – someone who up until now I thought actually cared about the concerns of neighbors.

Order #2. That the City Manager is hereby requested to work with the Community Development Department and neighboring cities and agree to a non-binding framework that Cambridge can use to work towards a more diverse real estate development industry.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Azeem
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (AM – Absent) – Zondervan declares that he would also like to codify requirements for union labor and a laundry list of social goals to do business in Cambridge, Siddiqui concurs

The last “Ordered” states: “That this framework includes an update to the Special Permit process with a request that they report on actions they are taking to increase the diversity of their teams, construction firms, and investors, and share the findings of this update with regional partners.” Regardless of its merits, this is a rather unusual thing to include as part of any Special Permit criteria regardless of whether it is non-binding. It’s one thing to require a range of requirements in City contracts, but I’m not aware of even a requirement for something like union labor anywhere in the Zoning Ordinance. Shall only those owners/developers matching the political/social goals of the City Council be allowed to do business in Cambridge? This is a very slippery slope.

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with CDD, Law Department, the Assessor’s Office, and any other relevant departments to produce final draft ordinance language for the BEUDO amendments based on the CDD proposal as amended by the Ordinance Committee at its Apr 26, 2023 hearing; and that the City Manager report back on this matter, including presenting final draft language to the City Council no later than May 31st, 2023.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Order #6. City Council support of letter on strong Clean Heat Standards.   Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

Committee Report #1. The Economic Development & University Relations Committee held a public meeting on Apr 4, 2023 to the discuss the practical impact of various city policies, regulations and ordinances on commercial and residential development and construction projects in Cambridge. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (AM – Absent)

This committee report is very interesting. It gives a nice summary of the multitude of requirements faced by those who seek to build anything in Cambridge. – Robert Winters

March 20, 2023

Spring Backwards – March 20, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

Spring Backwards – March 20, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

Spring officially begins Monday, Mar 20, 2023 at 5:24pm. Six minutes later the Cambridge City Council will spring backwards into Zoom isolation. Here are the agenda items that caught my attention:First Sign of Spring

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the new appointments of Maria Guadalupe Arlotto and Brendan Koscher as members of the Police Review and Advisory Board for terms of five years.
Appointments Approved 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 23-05, regarding a report on beginning the process of obtaining police body worn cameras (BWC) for the Cambridge Police Department, and to work with all appropriate departments to produce policy recommendations that would allow body worn camera usage while also not violating civil liberties in compliance with the City’s Surveillance Ordinance.
pulled by Toner; comments by PT, DS, MM, PN (critical of previous city managers), QZ (opposed to body cameras); responses by Commissioner Christine Elow, and Superintendent Freddie Cabral; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 23-09, regarding a report on engaging a third party, independent firm/consultant or university partner to review and examine the Cambridge Police Department’s policies and practices regarding de-escalation methods, mental health calls for service, training, and more.
pulled by Zondervan; questions from Siddiqui; comments by QZ (concerned about bidding process for contract – curious that no such concerns about HEART funding and contract; also challenging use of a police entity doing review), DS (noting that CPD already intentional about deescalation methods), AM, DC, PN, SS; responses by Elow, City Manager Huang; Placed on File 9-0

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to fund the HEART initiative and negotiate a contract for services with HEART, to include but not limited to HEART responding to certain 911 calls. [Charter Right – Nolan, Mar 6, 2023]
Siddiqui again says “charterwritten”; Toner moves to also discuss Comm. & Rpts. #3; Nolan reads prepared statement, says HEART expects to be ready in Fall, proposes amendments; Zondervan supportive of amendments; Toner OK with amendments but questions HEART, prefers to develop a scope of services for others to bid on, questions about liability; McGovern says that Manager believes that contracts with a non-profit entity do not need to go out to bid, floats notion of $8 million funding for HEART, fully supports Community Safety Department but wants HEART to be outside of any City department; Simmons notes her letter with Toner expressing concerns about HEART, notes model for non-police response that grew from Task Force, wants assurance that any entity chosen is actually equipped to do the job; Zondervan expresses support w/o any questions; Amendments Adopted 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 7-1-0-1 (Simmons – Present; Toner – No)

Communications & Reports #3. A communication was received from Councillor Toner, transmitting Questions regarding Requests to Fund Heart Using City Funds.
Discussed along with Charter Right #1; Placed on File 9-0

It seems all but certain that the reason the City Council meeting is taking place on Mount Zoom this week is because of the multiple police-related agenda items and the inevitability of a PSL invasion (Party for Socialism and Liberation). We may also see further evidence of the current Mayor’s differences of opinion with the City Administration (and perhaps a signal of how she might prefer to change the Charter to gain more authority). [“In Cambridge, our charter grants the City Manager power over the Police Department as well as oversight of personnel matters. There have been repeated demands from the community to release the name of the officer who shot Faisal, and I personally believe this is an important step for the sake of transparency, but a statement released last week made clear the City will not do so.”]. Ms. Siddiqui’s definition of “the community” is not so clear.

Regarding HEART: There’s something disturbing about the fact that city councillors are pressing the City Manager to award a contract to a particular vendor – and especially a vendor with zero track record other than the consistent hostility of its adherents toward the Cambridge Police Department.


Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to recommendations for the block rates for water consumption and sewer use for the period beginning Apr 1, 2023 and ending Mar 31, 2024. [FY24 water/sewer charts]
pulled by Nolan; comments by PN; responses by Owen O’Riorden, Kathy Watkins (DPW); Placed on File 9-0

The notable increases in the water rate this year actually exceed the increases in the sewer rate, but it has generally been the reverse for some time. It costs far more to lose the water than to supply it.

Water Rates (per CcF) FY05 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24
Block 1 0 – 40 CcF $2.73 $3.02 $3.02 $3.02 $3.02 $3.02 $3.02 $3.02 $3.02 $3.05 $3.11 $3.32
Block 2 41 – 400 CcF $2.94 $3.24 $3.24 $3.24 $3.24 $3.24 $3.24 $3.24 $3.24 $3.27 $3.33 $3.55
Block 3 401 – 2,000 CcF $3.11 $3.44 $3.44 $3.44 $3.44 $3.44 $3.44 $3.44 $3.44 $3.47 $3.54 $3.77
Block 4 2,001 – 10,000 CcF $3.31 $3.65 $3.65 $3.65 $3.65 $3.65 $3.65 $3.65 $3.65 $3.69 $3.76 $4.01
Block 5 Over 10,000 CcF $3.58 $3.96 $3.96 $3.96 $3.96 $3.96 $3.96 $3.96 $3.96 $4.00 $4.08 $4.35
Sewer Rates (per CcF) FY05 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24
Block 1 0 – 40 CcF $5.54 $8.19 $8.62 $9.21 $9.50 $10.23 $11.00 $11.77 $12.51 $13.51 $14.59 $15.34
Block 2 41 – 400 CcF $5.87 $8.67 $9.12 $9.74 $10.05 $10.82 $11.63 $12.44 $13.22 $14.28 $15.42 $16.21
Block 3 401 – 2,000 CcF $6.30 $9.31 $9.79 $10.46 $10.79 $11.62 $12.49 $13.36 $14.20 $15.34 $16.57 $17.42
Block 4 2,001 – 10,000 CcF $6.79 $10.02 $10.54 $11.26 $11.62 $12.51 $13.45 $14.39 $15.30 $16.52 $17.84 $18.75
Block 5 Over 10,000 CcF $7.22 $10.66 $11.21 $11.97 $12.35 $13.30 $14.30 $15.30 $16.26 $17.56 $18.96 $19.93
Combined Rates (per CcF) FY05 FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24
Block 1 0 – 40 CcF $8.27 $11.21 $11.64 $12.23 $12.52 $13.25 $14.02 $14.79 $15.53 $16.56 $17.70 $18.66
Block 2 41 – 400 CcF $8.81 $11.91 $12.36 $12.98 $13.29 $14.06 $14.87 $15.68 $16.46 $17.55 $18.75 $19.76
Block 3 401 – 2,000 CcF $9.41 $12.75 $13.23 $13.90 $14.23 $15.06 $15.93 $16.80 $17.64 $18.81 $20.11 $21.19
Block 4 2,001 – 10,000 CcF $10.10 $13.67 $14.19 $14.91 $15.27 $16.16 $17.10 $18.04 $18.95 $20.21 $21.60 $22.76
Block 5 Over 10,000 CcF $10.80 $14.62 $15.17 $15.93 $16.31 $17.26 $18.26 $19.26 $20.22 $21.56 $23.04 $24.28
Percent Increases (Water)   FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 10 Year 19 Year
Block 1 0 – 40 CcF 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.0% 2.0% 6.8% 9.9% 21.6%
Block 2 41 – 400 CcF 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.9% 1.8% 6.6% 9.6% 20.7%
Block 3 401 – 2,000 CcF 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.9% 2.0% 6.5% 9.6% 21.2%
Block 4 2,001 – 10,000 CcF 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.1% 1.9% 6.6% 9.9% 21.1%
Block 5 Over 10,000 CcF 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.0% 2.0% 6.6% 9.8% 21.5%
Percent Increases (Sewer)   FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 10 Year 19 Year
Block 1 0 – 40 CcF 4.2% 5.3% 6.8% 3.1% 7.7% 7.5% 7.0% 6.3% 8.0% 8.0% 5.1% 87.3% 176.9%
Block 2 41 – 400 CcF 4.2% 5.2% 6.8% 3.2% 7.7% 7.5% 7.0% 6.3% 8.0% 8.0% 5.1% 87.0% 176.1%
Block 3 401 – 2,000 CcF 4.3% 5.2% 6.8% 3.2% 7.7% 7.5% 7.0% 6.3% 8.0% 8.0% 5.1% 87.1% 176.5%
Block 4 2,001 – 10,000 CcF 4.2% 5.2% 6.8% 3.2% 7.7% 7.5% 7.0% 6.3% 8.0% 8.0% 5.1% 87.1% 176.1%
Block 5 Over 10,000 CcF 4.2% 5.2% 6.8% 3.2% 7.7% 7.5% 7.0% 6.3% 8.0% 8.0% 5.1% 87.0% 176.0%
Percent Increases (Combined)   FY14 FY15 FY16 FY17 FY18 FY19 FY20 FY21 FY22 FY23 FY24 10 Year 19 Year
Block 1 0 – 40 CcF 3.0% 3.8% 5.1% 2.4% 5.8% 5.8% 5.5% 5.0% 6.6% 6.9% 5.4% 66.5% 125.6%
Block 2 41 – 400 CcF 3.0% 3.8% 5.0% 2.4% 5.8% 5.8% 5.4% 5.0% 6.6% 6.8% 5.4% 65.9% 124.3%
Block 3 401 – 2,000 CcF 3.1% 3.8% 5.1% 2.4% 5.8% 5.8% 5.5% 5.0% 6.6% 6.9% 5.4% 66.2% 125.2%
Block 4 2,001 – 10,000 CcF 3.0% 3.8% 5.1% 2.4% 5.8% 5.8% 5.5% 5.0% 6.6% 6.9% 5.4% 66.5% 125.3%
Block 5 Over 10,000 CcF 3.0% 3.8% 5.0% 2.4% 5.8% 5.8% 5.5% 5.0% 6.6% 6.9% 5.4% 66.1% 124.8%

*All rates are per CcF. CcF is an abbreviation of 100 cubic feet. One CcF is approximately 750 gallons


Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments and reappointments of Danielle Jones-McLaughlin, Deepti Nijhawan, Loring Brinckerhoff, Avril dePagter, Mary Devlin , Dan Stubbs as members of the Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD).
Appointments Approved 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Salvation Army Shelter and Daytime Program.
pulled by Zondervan; comments by QZ, MM, PT; responses by Yi-An Huang, Ellen Semonoff (annual cost $1,080,000); Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to PO23#35, related to the Allocation Plan for Cambridge’s HOME-ARP funds.
pulled by Nolan; comments by PN, QZ, MM, DC, SS; responses by Yi-An Huang, Iram Farooq; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #10. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a summary of a Planning Board Meeting on the 2022 Town-Gown Reports and Presentations.
pulled by Carlone; comments by DC (graduate student housing, etc.), PN; Placed on File 9-0


Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the final report for the City’s comprehensive year-long municipal broadband feasibility study.
Placed on File 9-0

I am eager to be convinced that this is a worthwhile investment that won’t jeopardize the City’s financial standing. The $194 million estimate is almost certainly less that what the actual cost will be. I also have a lot of questions about what this initiative would mean in terms of residents who have their Internet, Cable TV, and phone bundled into a single Comcast package. For example, will a resident still have to contract with Comcast if they want to watch TV? Will the result actually be cost savings or additional cost? Will Cable TV simply dry up and blow away in a few years with everything shifting toward data-intensive streaming options? Even more fundamentally, were any of these questions raised in the supposedly “scientific survey” now being touted by some councillors in their pre-campaign email blasts?


Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to PO23#44, related to the Barrett, et al., Zoning Petition. [text of report]
Referred to Petition 9-0

Unfinished Business #3. An Ordinance has been received from Diane P. LeBlanc City Clerk, relative to a Zoning Petition from Patrick Barrett et al. North Mass Ave BA-5 Zoning District Petition (Ordinance #2022-21). [Passed to 2nd Reading, Mar 6, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after Mar 20, 2023; Expires Apr 3, 2023]


Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the appropriate City departments to ensure multi-family properties on the market are reviewed as quickly as possible as potential affordable housing acquisitions. [Charter Right – Simmons, Mar 6, 2023]
Remarks by Simmons, Nolan; Amendments Adopted 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

I don’t wish to infuriate anyone by saying this, but the notion that multi-family buildings, particularly two- and three-family buildings, should be removed from private ownership flies in the face of the reality that small property owners have been possibly the greatest source of affordable rents in Cambridge for well over a century. A nonprofit corporation is not an improvement over a good landlord or landlady and these properties have long been an essential part of securing a middle class of Cambridge residents.


Unfinished Business #4. An Ordinance has been received from Diane P. LeBlanc, relative to Ordinance # 2022-6 Article III Green Jobs 2.66.100 Definitions. [Passed to 2nd Reading, Feb 27, 2023; To Be Ordained on or after Mar 20, 2023]
pulled by Zondervan; Ordained 9-0

Applications & Petitions #1. A Zoning Petition Has been received from Charles Jessup Franklin et al., regarding allowing new construction that is similar in size and shape as existing buildings for the purpose of promoting housing and first floor retail.
pulled by McGovern; comments by MM, BA (not enthusiastic, wants even higher density); Referred to Planning Board and Ordinance Committee 8-0-0-1 (Carlone – Present)

Perhaps we should call this latest variation the Missing Middle Revisited Petition. Variations on this theme by the densifiers seem endless. The suggested residential densities in this variant are in many ways even greater than those proposed in the previous “Missing Middle” attempt – and continue to be be somewhat oblivious to how housing on Cambridge streets actually functions. [Ref.: “A few observations on density”]


Applications & Petitions #2. A Zoning Petition Has been received from Michael Monestime et al. regarding Outdoor Use Zoning Petition for the Central Square Cultural District.
pulled by McGovern; comments by MM, QZ, PT, PN, DS; Referred to Planning Board and Ordinance Committee 9-0

Order #4. That the City Manager work with the Central Square Business Improvement District and provide a license agreement, as well as direct financial and regulatory support for the continued and uninterrupted operation of Starlight Square.   Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Siddiqui; remarks by Siddiqui, Simmons, McGovern, Nolan, Zondervan, Carlone (consider redevelopment of the edges as well), Azeem, Mallon; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

I greatly appreciate that we had Starlight Square during the pandemic, and I absolutely hope that we can have a suitable venue like this in the future. That said, Starlight Square as it is now is something of a relic that would need either a substantial upgrade or a relocation. Many of us view it as an experiment that strongly made the case for comparable and perhaps much better options in the future. Central Square needs options for vendors such as those provided by Popportunity, and we definitely need better gathering spaces for events or a rethinking of existing spaces. Dumping on the BZA (as some councillors are doing) is more of a cheap shot than an actual plan that can be sustained.


Resolution #1. Congratulations to Sara Reese on receiving the 2023 Exemplary School Champion Award for her leadership in workforce development in Cambridge.   Councillor Toner

Resolution #2. Gratitude to Margaret Drury for her many years of tireless service to the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority and to the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Simmons, Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Simmons (notes Margaret’s three decades of service to the City); remarks by McGovern, Carlone; Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #2. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council is requested to confer with the Dedication Committee to consider the request to dedicate a street corner in honor of Ned Handy.   Councillor Carlone, Councillor Toner
pulled by Carlone; remarks by Carlone; Order Adopted 9-0


Order #1. That the City Council go on record supporting Enabling Legislation for a Real Estate Transfer Fee.   Councillor Carlone, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Carlone; remarks by Carlone (would generate $23 million more per year for affordable housing); Order Adopted 9-0

Order #3. Policy Order for Garden Street Accommodations.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Carlone
pulled by Zondervan; remarks by Toner; notable that there were many nearly identical comments during Public Comment from the “bike lobby” opposing this Order; Charter Right – Zondervan

This is a start – and hopefully not just ass-covering for some city councillors concerned about how West Cambridge residents might vote in November. Ensuring bicycle safety need not be a monolithic enterprise with little room for revision.


Committee Report #1. The Finance Committee met on May 7, 2019. [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; Reported Accepted as Amended, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Finance Committee met on Feb 16, 2022 to consider the City Council goals in relation to the budget and to gather input and discuss priorities on the FY23 budget. [text of report]
Reported Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. The Finance Committee met on Feb 23, 2022 to reconvene its Feb 16, 2020 meeting to receive public comment regarding the City Council goals in relation to the budget and to gather input and discuss priorities on the FY23 budget. [text of report]
Reported Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #4. The Finance Committee met on Apr 20, 2022 to discuss the city’s ARPA application/funding update status. [text of report]
Reported Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #5. The Finance Committee met on May 10, 2022 to conduct hearing on FY 2023 budget. [text of report]
Reported Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #6. The Finance Committee met on May 11, 2022 to conduct hearing on FY 2023 school budget. [text of report]
Reported Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #7. The Finance Committee met on May 17, 2022 to conduct hearing on FY 2023 budget. [text of report]
Reported Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #8. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on June 14, 2022 to receive an update on ARPA funding. [text of report]
Reported Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #9. The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public meeting on Feb 28, 2023, to discuss the status of after school programming in Cambridge. [text of report]
Reported Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Perhaps Neil Sedaka should provide the soundtrack with “Catching Up Is Hard To Do”. My favorite case is the (March 6) adoption of the ordinance establishing the procedure for appointment of the Charter Review Commission as required by the Charter amendments adopted in 2021. The committee was appointed July 1, 2022 – more than 8 months prior to the adoption of the ordinance. – Robert Winters

January 3, 2023

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 573-574: January 3, 2023

Episode 573 – Cambridge InsideOut: Jan 3, 2023 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on Jan 3, 2023 at 6:00pm. Topics: Sheila Doyle Russell – fond memories and good friends, Senior Center, modernization of elections; 2022 highlights; chronology of actions, reactions, and inactions of City and City Council – especially bike lanes, golf course controversy. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]


Episode 574 – Cambridge InsideOut: Jan 3, 2023 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on Jan 3, 2023 at 6:30pm. Topics: 2022 chronology of actions, reactions, and inactions of City and City Council; choosing Auditor, Clerk, and City Manager; FY2023 Budget; charter review; expectations for the coming municipal election year. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

December 16, 2022

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle… Dec 19, 2022 Cambridge City Council meeting

And away they all flew like the down of a thistle… Dec 19, 2022 Cambridge City Council meeting

It’s that time of year for the pre-holiday gathering. Here are a few items of interest on this week’s agenda:down of a thistle: the fluffy part of a sharp plant that you can blow away

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a public health update.
Placed on File 9-0

Awaiting Report #22-85. Report on organizing a vaccine clinic in December which will provide gift cards to residents who receive a COVID19 vaccination or booster.  Vice Mayor Mallon, Mayor Siddiqui (O-2) from 12/5/2022
[Note: This event took place on Thurs, Dec 15, 2022.]


Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to approval requested for appointments of new members and reappointments to the Cambridge Library Board of Trustees.
Appointments Approved 9-0

I propose that City Council review of Board appointments work like jury selection where each councillor gets one peremptory challenge per Council term. That would be more honest than what I expect we’ll otherwise soon be seeing.


Manager’s Agenda #6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $4,709,473 from the Water Fund Balance, Retained Earnings ($2,354,737) and from Free Cash ($2,354,736), to the Water Fund Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($3,392,903) and to Water Public Investment Extraordinary Expenditures account ($1,316,570) to fund the purchase of water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA).
pulled by Zondervan; Order Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #7. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $700,000 from Water Fund Balance (Retained Earnings) account to the Water Public Investment Extraordinary Expenditures account, to fund the purchase of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS) testing equipment.
pulled by Zondervan; Order Adopted 9-0


Manager’s Agenda #8. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation in the amount of $9,812,215.88 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Capital Projects Control Account ($7,036,323.82); to the Grant Fund Historical Control Account ($29,909.04); to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations Control Account ($78,836.02) and to the Grant Fund Police Control Account ($92,457), as well ($2,574,690) to the Capital Receivables account. This is an accounting transaction adjustment requested by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue (DOR), Division of Local Service) based on a change in their position and will eliminate negative balances which have been included in our annual Free Cash calculation for several years.
Order Adopted 9-0


Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to changing the name of the City’s Climate Protection Action Committee’s (“CPAC”) to the “Cambridge Climate Committee.”
pulled by Nolan; Placed on File 9-0

Not to be confused with Conservative Political Action Coalition (CPAC), I’m sure.

Manager’s Agenda #10. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommending adoption of the BZA Stipends Zoning Petition, with additional comments.
pulled by Carlone; Referred to Petition 9-0

Why not just pass around $75 debit cards to everyone who shows up?

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board report recommending adoption of the Suzanne Blier, et al., Zoning Petition, with additional considerations.
Referred to Petition 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 22-79, which requested that the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department and Department of Public Works meet with and receive input from residents living on the streets in the impacted area [around Garden St.] to discuss strategies to mitigate and reduce overflow and cut through traffic, including the proposal mentioned in the order, or other traffic calming or traffic diversion methods, and report back to the Council on any short-term recommendations no later than December 19. [TPP memorandum]
pulled by Toner; Placed on File 9-0

…and the Judge wasn’t going to look at the twenty seven eight-by-ten colour glossy pictures with the circles and arrows and a paragraph on the back of each one explaining what each one was to be used as evidence against us.

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate departments to conduct street cleaning without towing starting with the 2023 season. [Charter Right – Simmons. Dec 5, 2022]
Order Adopted as Amended 6-1-1-1 (Toner – NO, McGovern – ABSENT, Simmons – PRESENT)

[From the previous meeting…] I have mixed feelings about this – especially as a resident who has been voluntarily clearing the storm drains in my neighborhood for decades. I have always appreciated a good curb-to-curb cleaning during the warmer months and plowing snow as close to the curb as possible during winter. Having even one vehicle to go around negates much of this benefit. I would be happier if a new policy had some discretion, i.e., if the crews and police feel that little is gained by towing in a specific occasion then a pricey ticket may be sufficient. Unfortunately, there are many people now living in Cambridge who might just write that off as the “cost of doing business” as they wallow in their negligence.

18 Communications, including 5 from Young Kim and 4 from the inevitable Bob LaTrémouille.

Is cooking a Christmas goose still a tradition?

Resolution #5. Resolution on the death of Sheila Doyle Russell.   Councillor Toner, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan

I have known many city councillors since the time I began paying attention to things, but Sheila Russell tops my ticket as the councillor and Mayor I most enjoyed being around. Nobody else even comes close to her mix of wit, wisdom, and willingness to pull a friendly prank on colleagues. The Sullivan Chamber has never been the same since she retired from the Council in 1999.


Order #1. That City Manager be requested to direct Legal Department and CDD to review the final language of the emissions accounting zoning petition, and make any recommended adjustments, including to the effective date, to the city council prior to ordination.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern
pulled by Zondervan; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #2. That City Manager be requested to direct CDD to work with relevant stakeholders to provide a preliminary estimate of the cost and time burden of compliance with the emissions accounting provision, prior to ordination.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern
pulled by Zondervan; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #3. That City Manager be requested to direct CDD to work with relevant stakeholders to inform the design of future regulations associated with accounting for embodied emissions.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern
pulled by Zondervan; Order Adopted 9-0

It’s almost as though our “progressive” councillors have discovered the concept of “unintended consequences.” Keep dreaming.


Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to provide an updated tree canopy projection and provide up-to-date tree data to reflect the effect of the 2022 drought and plans to remedy tree loss as soon as possible.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner
Order Adopted 9-0


Committee Report #1. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committee met on Wed, Oct 19, 2022 to conduct a public meeting to discuss the Cambridge Street Study: Findings and Recommendations Update. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (McGovern – ABSENT)Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (McGovern – ABSENT)

Committee Report #2. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee met on Tues, Nov 22, 2022 to conduct a public meeting to receive an update on the BEUDO amendments from the Community Development Department and a discussion of the environmental and economic impact of BEUDO on residential, business and academic properties/communities. Meeting was recessed and not adjourned. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (McGovern, Simmons – ABSENT)

Committee Report #3. The Human Services and Veterans Committee met on Tues, Nov 29, 2022 to conduct a public meeting to discuss the unhoused population in Cambridge and uptick in substance use in Central Square. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (McGovern, Simmons – ABSENT)

Committee Report #4. The Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebrations Committee held a public meeting on Wed, Nov 30, 2022 to receive and update on the latest recommendations from the Alewife Zoning Working. Meeting was recessed and not adjourned. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (McGovern – ABSENT)

Committee Report #5. The Ordinance Committee held a public meeting on Tues, Dec 6, 2022, at 1:00pm to discuss proposed Ordinance #2022-20, Emissions Accounting Zoning. The Committee voted favorably to send three policy orders to the City Council that appear on this agenda in the Policy Order section. Further, the Committee voted to send proposed Ordinance #2022-20, Emissions Accounting Zoning as amended, to the Full Council with a favorable recommendation to Pass to a 2nd Reading. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File, Passed to 2nd Reading 7-0-2 (McGovern, Simmons – ABSENT)

Committee Report #6. The Ordinance Committee held a public meeting to continue the discussion of Pregnancy Centers, proposed Ordinance #2022-16 on Dec 6, 2022 @3pm. The Committee voted to send proposed Ordinance #2022-16 as amended, Crisis Pregnancy Centers, to the full Council with a favorable recommendation to Pass to a 2nd Reading. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File, Passed to 2nd Reading 8-0-1 (McGovern – ABSENT)


Communications & Reports #2. A communication was received from Councillor Nolan and Mayor Siddiqui transmitting a Charter Review Committee Status Update.
Placed on File 8-0-1 (McGovern – ABSENT)

The authors state: “As of this communication, the CRC has met almost a dozen times.” — Actually, the CRC has met exactly 7 times. The first meeting of any substance was the most recent Meeting #7 on Dec 6. I have no idea how the authors decided that “the CRC has met almost a dozen times.” All of the meetings have been in Zoom with very limited public attendance or public comment – the opposite of what a process of this significance should be.

The authors state: “The vote to draft a new charter was done with the understanding and knowledge that a new charter could, if desired, maintain every element of the current charter. Starting fresh with a new charter means that the charter would no longer use Plan E, a form of charter no longer allowed in the Commonwealth. Current municipal government charters are usually based on a model charter with each element of the charter decided by the municipality based on needs and circumstances.” — This statement is contradictory. The Plan E Charter is still an option under Chapter 43 of the Massachusetts General Laws with the formal exception that the use of proportional representation (PR) as an election method was subsequently repealed. However, under the provisions of Chapter 43B (Home Rule Procedures Act) and Chapter 43C (Optional Forms of Municipal Administration Act), a city may propose various election methods, including proportional representation (PR) as currently used in Cambridge or (hopefully) a modified version that no longer has the awkward dependence of the order in which ballots are counted. In other words, and as stated in the authors’ first sentence, “a new charter could, if desired, maintain every element of the current charter.” I will add that on May 18, 2022 the Northampton City Council unanimously approved a home rule petition to implement Ranked Choice Voting and PR using the Modified Inclusive Gregory Method. The proposal is essentially the same as the Home Rule Petition from Amherst that proposd to use the Weighted Inclusive Gregory Method (WIGM). The point is that Massachusetts cities have again begun to consider proportional representation methods using improved versions of what Cambridge has used for the last 80+ years, and this is permissible under Massachusetts laws relating to elections. Whether any of these Home Rule Petitions survive the legislature remains an open question. In the case of Cambridge, our current PR system is “grandfathered” and may continue to be used without state legislative approval.

The authors state: “If we are to consider changes to be put on the ballot for 2023, the CRC work must be completed in a timely fashion and the City Council would need to work expeditiously to decide on what proposal to put before the voters. A home rule would have to be filed and passed in order for the ballot question to be put forth.” — Translation: Regardless what this CRC recommends, the current city councillors, subject to state legislative approval, would be the sole deciders on what would go before the voters – unlike an elected Charter Commission which would be able to propose changes independent of what the current councillors may feel is in either their best interests or that of the city. In other words, I wouldn’t expect to see any proposals survive to November 2023 that don’t either maintain or enhance either the power or electablity of the incumbents.

There are several significant themes that really should be considered in the ongoing charter discussions. For example: (1) the loss of neighborhood representation when the role of wards in representation was effectively eliminated in 1940; and (2) the mechanisms for “redress of grievances” with which a reasonable number of citizens can force a hearing and possibly a vote on a specific matter. Previous charters all had such a mechanism, but under the Plan E Charter the barrier is extremely high and any such petition is seen merely as a request that can be simply “Placed on File” with neither a hearing, a vote, or any other consideration.

By the way, in Meeting #7 of the CRC, members were given a review of the current modified Plan E Charter. The document was pretty familiar – it’s the very same document I produced from the original printed text some years ago complete with my choice of formatting and fonts – and even the links to documents on the Cambridge Civic Journal site on proportional representation and chapter fifty-four A. Prior to that, even though Cambridge has been operating under the Plan E Charter since the 1941 election there had been no reference anywhere on the City website to what actually constituted the Plan E Charter. You’re welcome. – Robert Winters

November 1, 2022

A word or two about Cambridge property tax increases

Filed under: Cambridge,Cambridge government — Tags: , , , , — Robert Winters @ 12:27 pm

A word or two about Cambridge property tax increases

Real Estate TaxesThere’s a phrase that the Cambridge City Administration has been including in its annual “Dear Residents and Taxpayers of Cambridge” mailing for years that goes something like this: “For FY23, 80% of residential taxpayers will see a reduction, no increase, or an increase of less than $250.” This phrase used to end with “or an increase of less than $100”, but I suppose the percentages are much more appealing with the change. One might actually be led to believe that the tax levy is going down based on the initial reading of this annual message. In fact, this year (FY23) the tax levy went up by 7.4%, and the increases in recent years were 4.7%, 7.85%, 6.9%, 5.3%, and 3.8% (reverse chronologically). Much of the tax increases were picked up by commercial properties due to tax classification and City’s tax policy decisions, but the residential tax burden has certainly been on the rise.

One major source of confusion in the competing narratives of “80% of residential taxpayers will see a reduction…” and the “the tax levy went up by 7.4%” comes down to the fact that condominiums now comprise a very large percentage of residential tax bills, and condo owners have been getting a pretty sweet deal while much of the burden has shifted onto single-, two- and three-family property owners (as well as new residential buildings). Here’s a chart showing the median annual changes in residential tax bills (including the residential exemption) over the last 15 years:

Median Annual Tax Increases – Cambridge
Tax Year condo single-family two-family three-family
FY2009 $ 18 $ 40 $ 24 $ 72
FY2010 $ 69 $ 119 $ 47 $ 41
FY2011 $ 77 $ 306 $ 132 $ 154
FY2012 $ 60 $ 269 $ 177 $ 215
FY2013 $ 65 $ 159 $ 80 $ 85
FY2014 – $ 38 $ 109 $ 110 $ 201
FY2015 $ 15 $ 11 $ 334 $ 253
FY2016 – $ 18 $ 64 $ 101 $ 217
FY2017 $ 11 $ 324 $ 237 $ 336
FY2018 $ 76 $ 136 $ 33 $ 61
FY2019 $ 21 $ 124 $ 292 $ 469
FY2020 $ 43 $ 449 $ 366 $ 369
FY2021 $ 3 $ 246 $ 131 $ 218
FY2022 $ 33 $ 545 $ 301 $ 335
FY2023 – $ 107 $ 419 $ 269 $ 379
5 year average – $ 1.40 $ 356.60 $ 271.80 $ 354.00
10 year average $ 3.90 $ 242.70 $ 217.40 $ 283.80
15 year average $ 21.87 $ 221.33 $ 175.60 $ 227.00
current number of properties 14841 3910 2292 1168

As you can see from these figures, it’s the large number of condominiums (nearly 15,000) that enables the City to declare that “80% of residential taxpayers will see a reduction, no increase, or an increase of less than $250.” For owners of single-, two-, and three-family homes, the story is quite different – especially during the last 5 years. Indeed, this year is the sweetest deal of all for condo owners. This year’s median change for condo owners is a reduction of $107, while it’s increases of $419 for a single-family, $269 for a two-family, and $379 for a three-family.

October 3, 2022

Growing a Government – for Better or Worse: October 3, 2022 Cambridge City Council meeting

Growing a Government – for Better or Worse: October 3, 2022 Cambridge City Council meeting

Here are a few items that warrant further comment this week:Fat City Hall

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on new positions. [responds to Awaiting Report Items 22-37 and 22-40]
pulled by Carlone; Placed on File 9-0

Here come the “Chief People Officer”, the “Talent Officer”, the Director of Community Engagement, and the Director of Emergency Management. I’m not quite sure what to make of the first three of these new positions.


The Linkage Question

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 22-62, regarding requests for a legal opinion and additional analysis on linkage fee rate increase discussion.
pulled by Carlone along with Mgr #6, Mgr #7, Unf. Business #4, Comm. & Reports #1; McGovern amendment adopted 9-0; Referred to Petition

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board report with a recommendation not to adopt the Incentive Zoning Rate Increase Petition.
pulled by McGovern; Referred to Petition 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a communication received from the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust regarding the Incentive Zoning amendment.
pulled by McGovern; Referred to Petition 9-0

Unfinished Business #4. Section 11.202(b) of Article 11.000 Special Regulations linkage fee., be amended by substitution. (Ordinance #2022-14). [Passed to 2nd Reading Sept 12, 2022; To Be Ordained on or after Oct 3, 2022]
Removed for discussion and amendment, returned to Unfinished Business

Communications & Reports #1. A communication was received from Councillor Marc McGovern, transmitting a proposed amendment to the linkage fee.
McGovern amendment adopted 9-0; Referred to Petition

Late Order #12. That the City Manager direct the Community Development and the Law Department to review the amendment that states that exclusing the first 30,000 sq ft for buildings less that 60,000 sq ftin total size and sharing feedback, and report back to the City Council by the regular City Council meeting on Mon, Oct 17.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondevan, Councillor Azeem
Order Adopted 8-0-0-1 (Carlone – PRESENT)

We’ll see how this goes, but it will be very disappointing if this all comes down to just maximizing revenue generation without regard to any other incentives or unintended consequences.


Taxation without Representation

Manager’s Agenda #1 (Tax Rate Hearing). A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to votes necessary to seek approval from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue of the tax rate for FY2023. [Tax Rate Orders] [Tax Rate Letter]

The bottom line is that: the FY23 Adopted Operating Budget increased by 6.5% over the FY22 Adjusted Budget. The June 2022 FY23 Adopted Budget projected a property tax levy increase of $41.5 million, or 8.4%, to $536.3 million in order to fund operating and capital expenditures. This included the use of $13 million from Free Cash. With approval of the recommendations, the actual FY23 tax levy required to support the FY23 Budget is $531,600,922 – an increase of $36.9 million or 7.45% from FY22. This increase is lower than the estimated increase of 8.4% projected in the June 2022 Adopted Budget due in large part from higher than projected state aid and the use of reserve funds to lower the required tax levy. The property tax levy increase of 7.45% is above the FY22 increase of 4.7%. The property tax levy increase is also above the five-year (FY19-FY23) annual average increase of 6.44%, and the ten-year (FY14-FY23) annual average increase of 5.31%. Based on a revised property tax levy of $531,600,922 the FY23 residential tax rate will be $5.86 per thousand dollars of value, subject to Department of Revenue approval. This is a decrease of $0.06, or 1% from FY22. The commercial tax rate will be $10.38, which is a decrease of $0.85, or 7.6% from FY22. By property class, on average a single-family home will see a 6.6% tax increase, a condo will see a 6.5% decrease, a two-family will see a 4.7% increase, and a three-family will see a 5.4% increase.

Required Votes:
• Authorize $19,000,000 in Free Cash to Reduce the FY23 Tax Levy. [Adopted 8-1, QZ – NO]
• Transfer of Excess Overlay Balances. [Adopted 8-1, QZ – NO]
• Classify Property and Establish Minimum Residential Factor. [Adopted 9-0]
• Residential Exemptions. [Adopted 9-0]


Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to convene a North Massachusetts Avenue Corridor District Zoning Proposal Working Group Policy Order Proposing a North Massachusetts Avenue (NMA) Corridor Working Group for the purpose of developing comprehensive zoning recommendations. [Charter Right – Azeem, Sept 19, 2022]
Withdrawn by Councillor Toner in favor of new Policy Order #3 (yet the required vote for unanimous consent was NOT taken)

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to convene a North Massachusetts Avenue Corridor District Zoning Proposal Working Group by June 15, 2023.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Toner; Order Adopted 9-0

To repeat what I said from the previous meeting: “This is a very promising Order. I will note, however, that unlike the days of yore when CDD would study and process things to death before coming to any conclusions, they often now arrive with conclusions and simply run interference during any subsequent public process. Let’s hope this time is different.”


Wild in the Streets

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Traffic, Transportation and Parking Department to convene a series of meetings with the Vision Zero, Pedestrian Committee, Bicycle Committee, the newly appointed Bicycling Advisory Committee, Cambridge Police Department, and any other departments deemed necessary, to review and revise the Cambridge Street Code. [Charter Right – Simmons, Sept 19, 2022]
Withdrawn by Councillor Toner in favor of new Policy Order (yet the required vote for unanimous consent was NOT taken)

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department to meet with and receive input from the Vision Zero, Pedestrian, Bicycle Committee, the Council on Aging, the Transit Advisory Committee, the Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board, Cambridge Police Department, and any other departments, to review and revise the Cambridge Street Code, promulgate the updated guide throughout the city, and develop recommendations for staffing and methods of improving traffic enforcement.   Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern
pulled by Toner; Charter Right – Zondervan

It is noteworthy that at the previous meeting a number of prominent members of the bicycle lobby took issue with the idea of updating the Cambridge Street Code, and at least two councillors carried their water. Go figure.


On the Table #3. That the City Council refer the zoning petition regarding lab use to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board for a hearing and report. [Tabled Sept 19, 2022]
Removed from Table by Toner 8-1 (QZ – NO); Amended by Toner, Mallon; Amendment Adopted 8-1 (BA – NO); Order Adopted as Amended 8-1 (QZ – NO); Referred to Economic Development and University Relations Committee and the Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee for a review and discussion

Unfinished Business #5. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of appropriation and authorization to borrow $4,500,000 to provide funds for the design and construction of building renovations to the vacant City owned property at 105 Windsor Street. [Passed to 2nd Reading Sept 12, 2022; To Be Ordained on or after Oct 3, 2022]
pulled by Zondervan; Order Adopted 9-0

Unfinished Business #7. That the City Council schedule a hearing of the Ordinance Committee for the purposes of amending the Ordinance #2022-3 Wage Theft of the City of Cambridge to insert the language. [Passed to 2nd Reading Sept 19, 2022; To Be Ordained on or after Oct 3, 2022]
pulled by Zondervan; Ordained 9-0

Resolution #18. Happy 80th Birthday wishes to Bill Cunningham.   Councillor Zondervan

Happy birthday, Bill – even though we’ll probably never agree on a lot of things.


BEUDO Communications

Communications #31. A communication was received from Patrick W. Barrett III, regarding BEUDO Meeting Recap.

Communications #40. A communication was received from Nancy E. Donohue, Director of Government and Community Relations, Cambridge Chamber of Commerce regarding joint Business/Institutional BEUDO letter. [Joint Business/Institutional BEUDO letter] [BEUDO April 2022 letter] [BEUDO questions from 9-15-22] [BEUDO Amendment Requirements]

The “conversation” continues in spite of the tin ears of some councillors.


Time of the Season

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to convene an advisory group to determine ways in which the City can work to lift up the voices and experiences of the descendants of the Indigenous People who currently reside in our community.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan
pulled by Simmons; Adopted 8-1 as Amended (Carlone – ABSENT)

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to affix the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Banner above JFK Street and Mount Auburn Street beginning on Oct 4, 2022, for no less than one week and recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Oct 10, 2022.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
pulled by McGovern; Adopted as Amended 9-0

At the same time, let’s give a hearty shout-out to all of the immigrants from other continents and their descendants who have contributed so much to this country and the world.


Order #7. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department to automatically provide an initial legal opinion to the City Council and the City Clerk at least three business days in advance of the first Public Hearing on any amendment to the Code of Ordinances formally introduced in the City Council.   Councillor Zondervan, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #8. Amendment to section 22.25.1(c) of Article 22, entitled Sustainable Design and Development.   Councillor Zondervan
pulled by Zondervan; Referred to Planning Board & Ordinance Committee 9-0

Committee Report #5. On Sept 21, 2022, at 5:30pm, the Ordinance Committee, Chaired by Councillor McGovern, continued the Public Hearing on Ordinance #2022-5 that would eliminate parking minimums. This ordinance was originally proposed under POR 2022 #19. Councillor Zondervan made a motion that was approved by the Committee to amend the petition by substitution so that it adds the sentence underlined and in red below to section 6.30, and that this be the entirety of the petition. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0; Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended (by Toner) 8-1 (Carlone – NO)

I do want to point out that one can support eliminating parking minimums in many circumstances while still acknowledging their value in other circumstances. Treating this as yet another ideological mandate is not helpful, but I suppose that’s where we’re at these days. – Robert Winters

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