Cambridge City Council Notes  

updated Tuesday, March 26, 2024 10:29 PM

Out Like A Lion - March 25, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

These are a few of my favorite things....City Hall

Manager’s Agenda #6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $15,000 to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations (Arts Council) Other Ordinary Maintenance account. The MCC Cultural District Grant provides financial support to state-designated Cultural Districts throughout the Commonwealth.
Order Adopted 9-0

I will simply highlight the last paragraph: “Cambridge’s Central Square Cultural District was one of the 10 inaugural MA Cultural Districts designated by the Legislature in 2012. This funding will support District-based initiatives that drive economic growth and strengthen the distinctive character of the Central Square Cultural District.”

Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Parking Study Executive Summary. [text of report]
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Nolan, McGovern, Toner (on available parking alternatives), Wilson, Siddiqui, Azeem (wants large grocery stores to be replaced by bodegas - based on notion that the City builds these, wants greater prioritization of bus transportation, wants more subsidized e-bikes), Simmons; comments by Iram Farooq on survey sampling, Yi-An Huang; referred to Transportation & Public Utilities Committee 9-0

As near as I can tell, this “study” consists primarily of survey responses and policy proposals from City staff. I’m not really sure how this qualifies as a “study”. Absent are such seemingly important data as how many on-street parking spaces have been lost and how many more are anticipated to be lost due to current policies (such as the Cycling Safety Ordinance). This seems like a deficiency that ought to be corrected in something billed as a “Parking Study”.

Manager’s Agenda #10. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of the following persons as members of the Central Square Advisory Committee for a term of three years; Melissa Greene and Kevin Grinberg.
Appointments Approved 9-0

Welcome aboard, Kevin. It’s also great to see Melissa continuing her role on the Central Square Advisory Committee.

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order Number 24-09, regarding a report back with any necessary edits to zoning language that would allow unrelated people to live together in the City of Cambridge. [text of report]
pulled by Siddiqui; Rules Suspended to bring forward Housing Committee Report; Referred to Ordinance Committee & Planning Board 9-0; Communication Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number #24-03, regarding a response on potential public renewable energy projects that could receive funding through the IRA Direct Pay provision. [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by Ellen Katz (DPW), Deputy City Manager Owen O’Riordan, Susanne Rasmussen (CDD); comments by Nolan; Rasmussen states that Housing Division (CDD) soon to become separate Housing Department; Pickett on 60% subsidy via Direct Pay; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #13. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-10, regarding the data analysis included in the Economic Feasibility Analysis provided to EOHLC as part of Cambridge’s MBTA Communities final compliance submission. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Iram Farooq, Jeff Roberts (CDD); Nolan notes that the report shows “asking rent” in tables, but actual median rents are significantly lower; Azeem disputes this claiming that median rents are lower only because they include all subsidized rents [actual truth is somewhere in between]; Placed on File 9-0


Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department and Community Development Department to study whether the City Council could add maximum lot area per dwelling unit, maximum setback requirements, and minimum floor area ratios in some districts or as part of an overlay in the Zoning Ordinance and whether the City Council could require a special permit for a down conversion in developments that would result in a net loss of housing units. [Charter Right – Pickett, Mar 18, 2024]
Councillor Pickett moves to take up both Charter Right #1 and #2; Farooq says she and staff have been consulting Housing Committee Chairs re: their priorities, feels that more study needed to see how expansive this phenomenon actually is; Toner does not object to “down conversions”; Sobrinho-Wheeler OK with restricting “down conversions” claiming this would not be a ban; McGovern prefers to get legal opinion reported directly to Housing Committee; Pickett wants more information about how common this is; Azeem wants income-restricted housing required with any multi-family housing [which likely would result in only subsidized housing developers doing projects]; JSW emphasizes part of Order about setbacks; JSW amendment to refer to Housing Committee Adopted 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 7-2 (Pickett, Toner - No)

I’ll simply repeat what I said last week: I am very leery of this proposal - especially if it is interpreted to apply to existing buildings. During the days of rent control, the requirement that a “removal permit” was required prior to joining units was routinely used to prevent property owners from doing very reasonable things. For example, when I bought my triple-decker, the apartment where I now live had been operated as a rooming house, and the City treated it as 5 housing units. I had to use my tenure dating back to 1978 in the building to be allowed to legally restore the floor back to the apartment it had been for over fifty years. Had I not been able to do this, it would not have been possible for me to continue owning or living in the building. Many years later, I now occasionally consider the possibility of occupying two floors of the building, and I would be outraged if our elected officials took away my flexibility to do that. The devil, as is often said, is in the details. There is a very creepy mindset in the minds of some elected officials that personal freedom should always take a back seat to their political agendas.

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to work with the chairs of the Housing Committee on zoning language that effectively promotes multi-family housing, including inclusionary units, citywide. [Charter Right – Pickett, Mar 18, 2024]
Comments by Pickett, Wilson (with amendment), Toner (will not support Wilson amendment); Sobrinho-Wheeler comments of legalities; Azeem moved to amend Wilson amendment to delete “multiple options for”; comments by Nolan re: middle-income, “workforce” housing; McGovern opposed to conversions to single-family for purpose of sale, suggests that this is only about “having conversations” now; City Manager notes need for prioritization, legal feasibility, questions how many “down conversions” are actually occurring; Toner notes many studies currently underway; Order Adopted as Amended 8-1 (Toner - No)

Again, I’ll simply repeat what I said last week: While I generally agree with the idea of allowing multi-family housing citywide, I really don’t think that this Order should be quoting a class project by a Harvard freshman in making assertions (some of which are demonstrably false) regarding the history of zoning in Cambridge.


On The Table #3. Policy Order to Edit City Council Rule 21A, 21B and add 21C Requiring Two City Councilors to Sponsor Policy Orders and Resolutions to be Filed and Placed on Council Agenda. [Tabled – Mar 18, 2024]
Taken from Table 9-0; Order #1 taken up as well; Toner comments (in response to idiotic and profane testimony of Robert Bledsoe during Public Comment); City Solicitor Megan Bayer notes legal gray area regarding whether profanity may be prohibited - noting that it is not entirely affected by First Amendment, notes history of Mass. Declaration of Rights, John and Samuel Adams when still under British rule, speech about government at that time could be was crude and pushed the limits and that's the basis of our government today, a future court could say that profanity could be prohibited, essential phrase is “fighting words”, use of profanity directed at an individual could be interpreted as “fighting words”, use of the “F word” in excitement might not be, difficult to make decision in the moment; Toner notes list of potential infractions; Toner proposes to remove prohibition of profanity (though he will vote against removing it); McGovern suggests that this discussion will lead to some people pushing the envelope re: what they can get away with [note: McGovern and others felt no concerns about slander as recently as several months ago]; JSW, Azeem OK with removing prohibition of profanity; Nolan suggests amending to distinguish “requests” and “prohibitions”; Bayer provides additional guidance on “loud and repetitive”; Simmons’ wise comments on “fighting words” and being welcoming, chilling effect of some words and actions, importance of “the rule of the Chair” in conduct of meetings; Placed on File 9-0

On The Table #4. The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee held a public hearing on Feb 15, 2024, which was recessed, and reconvened on Feb 26, 2024. The Call of the meeting was to review and discuss possible amendments to the City Council Rules. At the meeting on Feb 26, 2024, the Committee voted to send 46 rule changes to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. Please see orders within the report. [Tabled – Mar 18, 2024] [text of report]
Taken from Table 9-0; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Order #1. City Council Rule Changes.   Councillor Toner
Taken up with On The Table #3; comments by multiple councillors; Councillor Nolan, in particular, notes her intention to allow back-and-forth interaction with public in committee meetings when appropriate (thank you); All Rules Adopted as Amended 9-0

I have no particular issues with the proposed rules changes, but I do find curious the level of vitriol expressed by some people about some of the changes pertaining to Public Comment. In my view, Public Comment has largely devolved into performance by the season ticket holders with the occasional flood of “talking point zombies” generated by organized groups and facilitated by Zoom. My only suggestions are: (a) the Mayor and committee Chairs should have broad discretion in managing public comment and not be bound by overly rigid rules, (b) back-and-forth dialogue between councillors and the public should be encouraged at committee meetings whenever it is helpful, and (c) steps should be taken proactively to address the potential of extraordinary numbers of nonresidents signing up for public comment as part of organized campaigns on controversial issues.


Applications & Petitions #1. A Zoning Petition Has been received from Khalida Griffin-Sheperd et al. regarding Affordable Housing Trust Zoning. (AP24#10) [text of petition]
Referred to Ordinance Committee & Planning Board 9-0

One look at the signers of this petition was enough to convince me that it should be rejected. I also find it curious that the petitioners want to be overly prescriptive in who may serve on their proposed expanded Affordable Housing Trust (AHT). Also, though the idea of using AHT funds to provide rent subsidies seems like a possible alternative to the construction of some of the extraordinarily expensive deed-restricted housing now being funded through the AHT, this proposal seems to simply want to add on this new very high cost for rent vouchers - a potential budget-buster at a time when the City Council really needs to be controlling the Budget much more than they have in recent years. Considering the fact that the AHT is now partially funded out of the City’s Operating Budget, this also raises the question of the legality of such direct rent payments under the Anti-Aid Amendment to the Mass. Constitution.

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department, the Community Development Department, and the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to determine whether the City could provide incentives for residents who do not have cars.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler to add Nolan as sponsor; JSW comments on incentives to not own car, some concerns about whether this may violate Anti-Aid Amendment; Toner questions why there is a need to incentivize those who have already decided to not own a car, whether BlueBikes subsidies might be in perpetuity; Pickett questions why this is actually an incentive in that it rewards who have already made choice to not own a car [that is, whether this is just a patronage program for a subset of the population]; Nolan says this is not meant to be just for those who don’t currently own a car; Wilson questions need for incentives for those already w/o car and whether this might penalize or shame those who actually need a car]; Siddiqui says intent is not to shame anyone; Azeem quotes an academic paper claiming that every family contributes $14,000 per year to subsidize car ownership, says transit gets better the more people use it [yeah, right], wants to subsidize transit, e-bikes; Simmons asks if the proposes incentive would apply to those who don't have cars or those who might get cars; JSW says it’s for both, says this is not about shaming; McGovern suggests amending language; Simmons comments on large families, unreliable MBTA, those who work outside Cambridge, those who shop elsewhere, churchgoers, elderly and those with mobility issues - will vote Present; Amendment to add Nolan Adopted 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 5-3-0-1 (BA,MM,PN,SS,JSW - Yes; JP,PT,AW - No; DS - Present)

There seems to be this belief among some councillors (and some City staff) that the only reason people make personal choices (such as whether or not to own a car) are primarily based on government intervention. I disagree.

Order #5. Support of the Regional Heat Pump Accelerator Program.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
Order Adopted 9-0

I will repeat my point of view from last year when BEUDO (or is it BEUDERO?) amendments were being discussed and ordained. Simply dictating mandates is not nearly as effective (or fair) as providing financial incentives. - Robert Winters

Comments?

Springing Forward - March 18, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Here are the things I found interesting this week:First Sign of Spring

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the City of Cambridge retaining its AAA rating from the nation’s three major credit rating agencies. (CM24#42) [text of reports]
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett, Claire Spinner, Toner on OPEB, Michele Kincaid, Taha Jennings, McGovern, Nolan, Yi-An Huang, JSW [24 triple AAA cities in USA], Azeem, Simmons (notes what happens when ARPA funds no longer available); Placed on File 9-0

This is almost routine at this point. I can’t even remember when we last failed to get a “triple triple”. One thing that struck me in the Moody’s report was: “Cambridge’s assessed value projected to decline by 2% in 2025 before recovering in 2026.” I don’t believe there’s any way that residential assessed values could be falling, so any drop is likely due to lower commercial assessed values. There’s also this: “The city’s assessed value is projected to flatten over the next couple years including a 2% decline in total assessed value that is projected in 2025. The decline in total AV is driven by a projected 7% decline in commercial value in 2025 and projected 2% decline in 2026. The declines are driven primarily by the challenges in the commercial office space sub-sector as a result of work-from-home options that have taken hold in many companies and industries in the city and across the nation. The residential sector is projected to see no change in 2025 values followed by a projected 2% increase annually beginning in 2026 through 2028.” The S&P report has this cautionary note: “We could lower the rating if reserves were to decrease significantly without a plan for restoration or if debt service and retirement costs were to pressure the city’s finances.”

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 April 1, 2024 and ending March 31, 2025. (CM24#43) [text of report]
pulled by Pickett; comments by Pickett on use of ARPA funds for new filter media at Fresh Pond, Owen O’Riordan notes ARPA will again be used next year to keep water rates from rising even more, need for upgrades on our (relatively young) 25-year-old treatment plant, cost of water main replacements; Mark Gallagher (Acting Managing Direct, Water Department) notes increases in labor costs and supply chain cost increases; Pickett asks if any ARPA funds available to be reallocated to these purposes, O’Riordan responds affirmatively; Nolan on PFAS, effects of minerals in water on plumbing fixtures; O’Riordan notes long-term strategy on chlorides, Gallagher concurs re: chlorides, hardness; Toner on problems with plumbing fixtures and remediation, Gallagher reminds that HW heaters should be drained once/year; Order Adopted 9-0

The notable increases in the water rate last year and 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 water than to supply it.

water-sewer rates FY25

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

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and meet with the MBTA and City of Boston in advance of the July Red Line shutdown about the implementation of a fare-free 1 bus program.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; uptalking comments by JSW, Siddiqui (notes meet w/JSW and her w/Livable Streets), Toner, Azeem; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department and Community Development Department to study whether the City Council could add maximum lot area per dwelling unit, maximum setback requirements, and minimum floor area ratios in some districts or as part of an overlay in the Zoning Ordinance and whether the City Council could require a special permit for a down conversion in developments that would result in a net loss of housing units.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Pickett; comments by JSW, Nolan, Pickett; Charter Right - Pickett

I am very leery of this proposal - especially if it is interpreted to apply to existing buildings. During the days of rent control, the requirement that a “removal permit” was required prior to joining units was routinely used to prevent property owners from doing very reasonable things. For example, when I bought my triple-decker, the apartment where I now live had been operated as a rooming house, and the City treated it as 5 housing units. I had to use my tenure dating back to 1978 in the building to be allowed to legally restore the floor back to the apartment it had been for over fifty years. Had I not been able to do this, it would not have been possible for me to continue owning or living in the building. Many years later, I now occasionally consider the possibility of occupying two floors of the building, and I would be outraged if our elected officials took away my flexibility to do that. The devil, as is often said, is in the details. There is a very creepy mindset in the minds of some elected officials that personal freedom should always take a back seat to their political agendas.

Order #7. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to work with the chairs of the Housing Committee on zoning language that effectively promotes multi-family housing, including inclusionary units, citywide.   Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Pickett; comments by Azeem, McGovern (connecting this to “Missing Middle” zoning petition), Wilson, Pickett; Charter Right - Pickett

While I generally agree with the idea of allowing multi-family housing citywide, I really don’t think that this Order should be quoting a class project by a Harvard freshman in making assertions (some of which are demonstrably false) regarding the history of zoning in Cambridge.

Order #9. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and report back to the City Council with recommendations for adjusting parking permit fees to better align with associated costs.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem
pulled by Toner; comments by Nolan (suggesting doubling fee except for low-income residents, charging more for larger vehicles); Toner, Pickett object to suggestion to charge more based on vehicle size; Azeem complains about increasing size of vehicles; Simmons OK with reviewing fees, concerns about charging more for larger vehicles and effect on families who may need a larger vehicle; Nolan additional concerns about larger vehicles; Order Adopted 9-0

Once again, if this is simply a matter of adjusting fees to cover the administrative costs of the resident parking permit program, then fine. On the other hand, if the intention is to use increased fees to carry out yet another social engineering program, then I hope this goes nowhere fast.

Order #10. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to develop ways to fund support of decarbonization and clean energy projects and technical assistance for property owners of all types especially those with limited resources, with an initial focus on work associated with BEUDO emissions reduction requirements.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

As I have said before, if the City wants to provide incentives to change energy sources or provide greater efficiencies for homeowners, then I’m totally on board with that. I am, however, mindful of the woefully inadequate electrical infrastructure in Cambridge (look up sometime to see how many streetlights are connected to extension cords over the street to get their power) and the potential consequence of increased electrification. I also encourage everyone to read the recent March 14 New York Times article “A New Surge in Power Use Is Threatening U.S. Climate Goals”. - Robert Winters

Committee Report #1. The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee held a public hearing on Feb 15, 2024, which was recessed, and reconvened on Feb 26, 2024. The Call of the meeting was to review and discuss possible amendments to the City Council Rules. At the meeting on Feb 26, 2024, the Committee voted to send 46 rule changes to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. Please see orders within the report. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; Toner notes that there are really about 10 changes - mostly suggested by City Clerk, additional comments on codifying how much time allotted for Public Comment and other rules changes; Simmons notes that process requires this to be Laid on Table; Sobrinho-Wheeler addresses Public Comment time limits; Nolan favors longer time limits during Public Comment; McGovern wants 2 minute limit for all meetings, says Public Comment has changed over time from individuals (notes Roy Bercaw) and how it is now dominated by organized groups with many speakers having little or no knowledge of what they are speaking about, problem of same speakers every week; Azeem comments on time limits and predictability of commentary from organized groups and frequent speakers - would prefer a separate meeting just for public comment; Pickett notes value of Zoom as well as the added commitment associated with actually showing up; Wilson also notes changing nature of Public Comment; JSW clarifies that nobody is suggesting different time limits for different people, potential value of separate meeting for public comment; Toner expresses openness to future changes in Public Comment; Simmons notes that Open Meeting Law does not require public comment, and that we allow it under our rules, notes many other opportunities for offering citizen input, notes past practice of sometimes taking City Council meetings to the neighborhoods, allowance for public comment via interpreters, role of time of meeting in access; Late Policy Order from Toner calling for two sponsors for any policy order; McGovern expresses confusion of “Resolutions” vs. “Policy Orders & Resolutions” - amplified by Toner, Simmons; Toner notes that most Resolutions are non-controversial, but controversial Resolutions appear with Policy Orders; Nolan OK w/requiring two sponsors but wants to exercise Charter Right; Simmons, McGovern explain that if Charter Right exercises cannot be part of Rules Changes to be considered at next meeting; City Clerk Diane LeBlanc concurs that this is necessary under current Rules; Tabled 9-0

Late Order #11. That the City Council Rules be amended to require at least two City Councillors supporting a proposed policy order and/or resolution before filing and including as part of the City Council Agenda.   Councillor Toner
Tabled 9-0

Comments?

Marching Fourth - March 4, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Lion and the LambPerhaps this is the year we’ll march in like a lamb and out like a lion. There are some interesting things circling around - notably the recent Feb 28 Finance Committee meeting where City staff made it abundantly clear that the City Council might want to be just a bit less ambitious and expansive in their requests to fund everything under the sun. They are anticipating tax levy increases for the next few fiscal years in excess of 10%, and this may translate into very large jumps in property taxes - especially for single-, two-, and three-family homes. [Don’t worry, condo owners, you will likely continue to get the sweetest deal in town. The main message was “The City is at a critical inflection point and will need to take action to preserve future financial stability.”

Perhaps the two most substantive items on the week’s agenda are the final report from the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) and the Central Square Lots Study Report.

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the final report from the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF). [text of report]
pulled by Wilson to announce that there will be a Public Safety Committee meeting on this on Apr 2, 3-5pm; Referred to Public Safety Committee 8-0-1 (Toner Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Central Square Lots Study Report. [text of report]
pulled by Wilson - a says outreach was unsatisfactory, loss of Starlight Square; Yi-An Huang responds to questions about representation, nature of process of the study, role of councillors in facilitating community feedback; McGovern questions about Request for Information (RFI), Melissa Peters responds about RFI and planning for Central Square rezoning, trade-offs, housing options; Yi-An Huang refers to Lots Study as a “test fit”, desire for housing, including “affordable”, need to bring Cambridge Redevelopment Authority into process, possibility of joining with adjacent (privately-owned) properties [Note: this was exactly the point I made in the Central Square Advisory Committee (CSAC) meeting on this - especially in regard to the privately-owned lots at Prospect/Bishop Allen and building on Green Street adjacent to parking lot at Pleasant (currently hosting Needle Exchange)]; McGovern on Starlight (Lot 5) and how its loss would be upsetting to many; Yi-An Huang notes that he has discussed with with CSBID, City financial support for Starlight/Popportunity - uses phrase “square within the square”, possibility of housing, performance space, and parking at this location; Siddiqui expresses disappointment that there will be a limited Starlight season this year with an early end, notes ARPA award to support it, says there is community support to extend it; Pickett wants to reconcile Lots Study and planning for zoning changes; Melissa Peters says Lots Study and zoning planning are parallel processes, RFP will come after the zoning is completed; Pickett asks about continuing community engagement; Nolan concerns about long-term planning [Hey, isn’t there a committee with that name?], suggests citywide survey, impacts on City budget - both capital and operating budgets, quantifying value of Starlight Square; Azeem bemoans loss of Starlight, need for alternatives, offers comments on various lots and properties; Sobrinho-Wheeler uptalks; Simmons wants to refer to NLTP Committee, expresses hope for Starlight, notes decades of studies on Central Square - brings up slide (from CCJ site), Central Square as a cultural district, how this fits in with ongoing MAPC study, shallow referencing of “people of color”, dissatisfaction with degree of outreach, 44 years with 24 studies - “hurry up and wait”; Yi-An Huang notes that this “test fit” utilized past studies; disagreement about whether there is a call for action or additional feedback and study; Yi-An Huang (correctly) notes that Starlight was built as a temporary structure during Covid and that focus now should be on future alternatives; Wilson references long gap between ideas/suggestions and actions; Pickett speaks to how NLTP will take this on; McGovern expresses a “blitz” of meetings on this; Referred to NLTP 8-0-1 (Toner Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-4, regarding recommendations and legal opinions for adjusting transportation related fees and other considered changes based on the conversations in committee on Dec 6, 2023. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan - wants to raise resident parking permit fees w/low-income discounts, fees based on vehicle size; City Solicitor Megan Bayer responds; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Toner Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a communication regarding the American Rescue Plan Act’s (“ARPA”) definition of “Obligation.” [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler - what happens to unspent ARPA funds; Magan Bayer says these go back to U.S. Treasury if unspent; Matt Nelson provides additional information; Nolan asks if this has been communicated to nonprofit organizations; Yi-An Huang responds in the affirmative; Pickett wants to know what unallocated funds remain; Wilson comments; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Toner Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-7, regarding a review of the Final Report of the Charter Review Committee. [text of report]
pulled by Pickett - reminder (from Toner) to councillors to forward their questions to Councillor Toner; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Toner Absent)

Resolution #4. Condolences on the death of Paul Ryder.   Councillor Toner

Order #1. That the Executive Assistant to the City Council confer with the Dedication Committee to consider a request for a dedication in a suitable location in honor of Paul Ryder.   Councillor Toner
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Toner Absent)

Order #5. Tenant Protection Resources.   Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by Siddiqui, McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Nolan, Wilson, Simmons; Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-1 (Toner Absent)

Committee Report #1. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on Thurs, Feb 15, 2024 to discuss the current lab, office, and retail vacancies in Cambridge and their expected impact on City revenues in the near and long term. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (Toner Absent)

Comments?

Gently Stepping Forward – February 26, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

City HallThe previous meeting featured some rather obvious jostling for position in the process of evaluating the recent Charter Review Final Report and deciding any charter change proposal. This week should bring even more of this power struggle when the question of “next steps” is taken up. The report has already been sent to the Law Department, the Election Commission, and perhaps more departments for review, but the question now is whether this should be initially vetted within the Government Operations Committee (chaired by Councillor Toner) or if Councillor Nolan (and perhaps others) will try to bypass that initial review by creating some kind of ad-hoc committee-of-the-whole so that she can gain more control of the process. This, of course, is intertwined with the election of Mayor Simmons who appoints all the City Council committees – and those appointments were done with some care.

I will say right now that some of the proposed Charter recommendations are virtually assured to be dead on arrival at the State House, but I don’t yet know if the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government (or whatever committee takes up such matters) can take an à-la-carte approach to proposed city charters or if it’s all-or-nothing. Before any modified Charter can go before Cambridge voters, it must first clear this hurdle.

I will also say that there are some aspects of the structure of Cambridge government that really should be rolled into any new Charter but which the Charter Review Committee never considered, e.g. the Special Acts that established/empowered the License Commission, the Election Commission, the Traffic Board, the Cambridge Health Alliance, the Cambridge Housing Authority, and the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority. It is commendable that the Committee chose to consolidate most of the charter specifics that were only referenced in the Plan E sections of M.G.L. Chapter 43 (sections 93-116) - at the suggestion of the Collins Center staff who were advising the Committee - but this was incomplete, probably because of lack of expertise on those specifics within the Collins Center staff. This is especially true of matters involving our proportional representation elections (an essential component of Plan E). There may be good reasons to leave some of these out of the Charter, but since they are part of how we do business, these questions should at least be part of the current discussion. [Needless to say, this should have been discussed within the now-dissolved Charter Review Committee, but that’s another conversation that has much to do with how that committee was formed.]

Here are the agenda items that caught my eye this week:

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appointments and reappointments of members to the Cambridge Bicycle Committee.
pulled by Nolan; PN wants committees to be “commissions” so that City Council would gain more control over these appointments, asks about whether diversity of opinion is a factor in appointments; Iram Farooq claims there is some diversity, but acknowledges that these committees are primarily advocates rather than representatives; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Azeem Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appointments and reappointments of members to the Cambridge Pedestrian Committee.
pulled by Nolan; no additional comments; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Azeem Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, Policy Order Response #24-15 dated Feb 12, 2024 regarding drafting zoning language and related changes to allow for and encourage the continued growth, redevelopment, and evolution of Central Square. [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; JSW wants to know when this would go to Planning Board; Farooq says it goes to PB when petition is filed and during the process; Toner asks if this will build upon work already done; Farooq says YES, and that advisory committees need not be consulted (really?); Nolan suggests that better methods of informing community should be considered; Pickett asks if Central Square Lots study will be integrated and how; Farooq says study in its final stages; Wilson agrees re: communication with residents; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Azeem Absent)

Charter Right #1. That the Final Report of the Charter Review Committee be referred to the Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee. [Charter Right – Simmons, Feb 12, 2024]
Toner says conversation should start in Gov’t Operations Committee; Nolan OK with starting there, but says it should not stay there - noting that she and Siddiqui are “deeply involved in this” (quite the understatement); Pickett draws parallel with how possible Rules changes are now being considered in committee; Siddiqui OK with starting in committee, but will participate and “brainstorming” with suggestion of a robust process; Toner explains process of culling ideas from councillors, legal questions, timeline; Wilson wants a community conversation around this; Referred to Gov’t Ops. 8-0-1 (Azeem Absent)

Resolution #6. Resolution on the death of Charles Fried.   Councillor Nolan


Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to present recommendations for the refinement and improvement of the housing permitting process to the City Council, with a focus on reducing delays, minimizing costs, and enhancing clarity and accessibility for all stakeholders.   Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Toner; Toner proposed amendments; JSW wants to keep “affordable” language, wants to add other groups for consultation; Toner motion to change “affordable housing” to “housing” Fails 2-6-1 (MM,PT-YES; PN,JP,SS,JSW,AW,DS-No; BA-Absent); Toner motion on simplifying processes to all housing and not just “affordable” housing, McGovern says middle-income housing should be included; Adopted 8-0-1; JSW motion to amend Toner motion to add two additional groups Adopted 8-0-1; Toner motion as amended Adopted 8-0-1; Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-1 (BA Absent)

Order #2. City Council support of H.4138, The Affordable Homes Act, and urge legislators to retain the provisions for a location option transfer fee.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons
pulled by Toner; Toner will vote NO on proposed transfer fee; Nolan says Council has supported transfer fee in the past, delivers a prepared speech, says that this would not enact a tax or fee but only permit that local option (this is unbelievably naive), notes that legislation would set the range of possible fees, says this is about local control (but this begs the question about other proposed “local control” proposal to allow municipalities to create their own rent control laws); Nolan suggests motivation for supporting this is so that other municipalities would enact such a tax (again, very naive); McGovern concurs with Nolan, quotes David Kale in asserting that commercial transactions are lion’s share and that some residential exemptions could be made, expresses desire to take in as much revenue as possible; Pickett asks how this relates to existing Home Rule Petition now before the State Legislature, notes that there is already a $4.56/thousand stamp tax by state and that this would be on top of that; JSW uptalks that Legislature could act on our and Somerville’s and Cambridge’s petitions or pass current legislation, deflects by asserting that revenue raised could be used for other purposes; Pickett wants homeowners to gain maximum value in the sale of their greatest financial asset; Wilson offers generalities and suggestion that this might not lead to a tax; Simmons notes that we do use CPA fund for this but characterizes this as a “shortfall” and that (unlimited) more money is needed, notes Envision report and suggests that what we are doing is not enough; Order Adopted 6-2-1 (JP,PT - No; BA Absent)

Order #5. That the City Manager is hereby directed to confer with the City Manager’s Housing Liaison, Community Development Department, and the Cambridge Housing Authority on the feasibility of municipally-funded housing vouchers.   Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, Pickett (who offers amendments); Nolan supports order and JP amendments; McGovern asks of motion-makers are OK with the amendments; Wilson supports amendments; both JP amendments adopted 8-0-1; Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-1

Order #6. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with the data analysis included in the Economic Feasibility Analysis provided to EOHLC as part of Cambridge’s MBTA Communities final compliance submission.   Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Toner; Order Adopted 8-0-1

Comments?

Having Recently Secured World Peace, the Cambridge City Council Presents its February 12, 2024 Agenda

Here’s my first pass at the Feb 12 Agenda. Please note that the City Council will also meet the following morning (Tues, Feb 13) at 8:30am at City Hall Annex, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 344 Broadway for a Goal-Setting Session.City Hall

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Cycling Safety Ordinance (CSO) Economic Impact Report. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Azeem, Pickett, McGovern, Nolan, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, Simmons, Iram Farooq, Yi-An Huang, Owen O’Riordan; Placed on File 9-0

Not surprisingly, even though this report makes it abundantly clear that results are inconclusive due to insufficient data, partisans on either side are already drawing conclusions in their respective mailing lists and blog posts. Critical thinking in Cambridge is in short supply.

Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Community Safety Department Update. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; introduction of CSD staff by Liz Speakman, description of start-up of the new department, collaboration with CPD, CFD; ready to launch in March; Toner asks about how large staff will eventually be; Toner asks about liability in the event of mistakes; City Manager notes significance of rapidly-evolving situations; responders not being sent into dangerous situations; opportunities to free up police officers; Nolan comments include H.E.A.R.T., asks about CSD staff members who were let go; Simmons and City Manager make clear that personnel questions are not appropriate for City Council; McGovern expresses concern about CSD collaboration with CPD, CFD; Speakman explains that theirs is not a “co-response model” and protocols for when responders may feel unsafe in a given situation; response via 911 and hope for an alternative for direct access; Sobrinho-Wheeler (ah-ah-ah) asks about background skills of staff, Speakman explains some of the training; JSW desperately trying to inject H.E.A.R.T. into discussion; City Manager notes that H.E.A.R.T. not doing emergency response, City has tried hard to work with them, calls it a challenge how City might work with H.E.A.R.T., only submitted their proposal 2 months ago and without an operational budget, suggestion that they focus on how to use the ARPA money previously allocated; McGovern asks what happens to ARPA money if H.E.A.R.T. does not spend it; Manager notes that funds must be drawn down by the end of the year and that funds could be re-allocated to other programs; Siddiqui says allocated money can continue for additional 2 years; Manager says that ARPA money must be allocated and spent by Dec 31, 2024; Wilson comments, wants to support H.E.A.R.T.; Toner asks if H.E.A.R.T. has done same training, Speakman assumes so but cannot speak for them; Azeem says badges and uniforms can yield respect, Speakman says there are multiple perspectives on this; Placed on File 9-0

I enjoy looking back at past promotional materials from the “H.E.A.R.T” advocates - just to remind myself of their unwavering disdain for police and policing, and the fact that their entire proposal amounts to little more than overt political patronage coupled with the continuing disregard by some councillors of the Charter prohibition against dictating who should be hired by the City administration. Our new Community Safety Department and their quest for alternatives to traditional police response continues to be challenged by this political interference.

Charter Right #1. Foreign Policy in Council. [Charter Right – Siddiqui, Jan 29, 2024]
Siddiqui says she wants to “speak my truth”, would not support an outright ban on foreign policy issues; notes many people who spoke on Ceasefire resolution who had never spoken before [but this may largely be due to their not living in Cambridge]; Azeem notes that Cambridge is an attractive target for activists to press their issue that relates little to Cambridge or not at all; Pickett notes many emails that say focus should be on municipal affairs; McGovern notes that Ceasefire issue took up a lot of time but that this is not the norm, notes that that resolution was sent to our elected officials (reps, senators, president) and that this is appropriate; Toner notes that we all have our own opinions and that the city is divided on this issue - not eager to be hearing from people all around the country; Nolan says it’s important to take this up in committee, but how do we represent the people of the city and not just the super-organized groups; Wilson calls this resolution unique [really?]; Siddiqui says she heard opposite of Pickett in emails; Simmons makes distinction between the message and the messenger - the disruptive nature of “by all means necessary” - people in City Hall visibly shaken; Toner notes that Thursday meeting will be on various issues and not just this issue; Order Adopted and Referred to Gov't. Ops. 9-0

This would merely refer the discussion to the Government Operations Committee, and there’s no real explanation for why Ms. Siddiqui chose to exercise her charter right to delay this referral.


Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department to commence the process of drafting updated district maps and development processes, along with the zoning language and relevant ordinances to allow for and encourage the continued growth, redevelopment, and evolution of Central Square.   Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner
taken up early by Nolan; Azeem briefly describes the order; McGovern comments; Nolan asks if target dates are achievable noting timeline for Alewife; City Manager speaks optimistically about how this could mesh with Central Square Lots Study; suggests Feb 26 or Mar 4 for first update; Siddiqui asks when Lots Study will come back to City Council; O’Riordan estimates 4-6 weeks; Toner wants more community input but notes all the past Central Square studies; McGovern notes that this is not only about heights and densities. desire that it should be exciting and lively; Order Adopted 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on Feb 6, 2024 to discuss the potential for business corridors and squares to promote urban scale, mixed use development in which the provisions of innovation space subsidizes the delivery of housing and ground-floor retail. [text of report]
comments by Toner, Wilson; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

I am generally suspicious of matters like this one, but there’s no question that added development in Central Square - both residential and commercial - makes a lot more sense than anything the previous City Council supported and ordained. I hope that a serious and honest dive into the economics of such development is part of the upcoming discussion.


Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to facilitate the participation in a public hearing(s) and or working session(s) to address Racial and Gender Disparities in City contracting and procurement.   Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui
taken up early by Wilson; Wilson calls results of the study “disgraceful” to the Black community, blames “systemic racism”; Siddiqui says civil rights lawyers are now scrutinizing City practices; Manager says City has been contacted by Lawyers for Civil Rights but that they are misreading the report especially in regard to public companies such as Staples, notes that such companies can submit lower bids and provide faster delivery; City is now wrestling with the report; Siddiqui suggests we can be “intentional” [but it’s not at all clear how that relates to being “legal”]; Nolan says only 1% going to women and BIPOC-owned companies; Toner will schedule a committee meeting on this topic; Simmons recalls “Buy Cambridge” initiative and how money was directed to BIPOC-owned companies during Covid, need to talk to people in departments about how they choose contracts; Order Adopted 9-0

It’s worth taking a look at the October 2023 Disparity Study Report (warning - it’s 379 pages), but the Executive Summary is just 15 pages and contains all the essentials.


Order #4. That the City Solicitor in collaboration with the Commissioner of Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Community Development Department and the Police Department research rules and regulations governing the use of Electric Micromobility Devices and what, if any, authority Cambridge has to introduce its own regulations of these Devices including speed and location of use, and report back to the City Council in a timely manner.   Councillor Pickett, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan
taken up early by Wilson; Pickett notes need for streets to be safe for everyone, need for clarity on how these devices are used, state allows municipalities to regulate e-bikes appropriately, but not necessarily other micromobility devices, expect mid-March response from Law Department; Toner notes that City Council is not trying to limit options for people, but also capabilities of some of these devices, need for updated rules of the road; Nolan notes need to understand the limits of our legal authority; Wilson expresses need for safety for all; Manager says speed limit for e-bikes is 18mph; Azeem notes that he owns an e-bike and cannot get speed up to 15mph; Order Adopted 9-0


Committee Report #1. The Charter Review Committee held their final meeting on Jan 23, 2024 to review and discuss the Final Report. [all agendas, minutes, and video links]
Nolan thanks committee; notes goals, says current Charter no longer a permitted form [that’s not true]; lauds committee’s outreach [really?]; Nolan wants whole Council to be involved in evaluating the recommendations, and ensuing process, suggests having this go before voters in a special election; Minutes Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #2. A communication from Kathleen Born, Charter Review Committee Chair, transmitting the Final Report of the Charter Review Committee.
pulled by Toner; Motion #1 to refer to Solicitor, Election Commission, others; Nolan, Azeem, Siddiqui wants this referred to committee of the whole rather than just Gov't Ops.; Pickett notes this will be a lengthy process; Wilson thanks committee for their volunteer time, wants a structure for this discussion; (2) Motion #2 to refer to Gov. Ops.: Charter Right - Simmons; Motion #1 amended 9-0; Adopted as Amended 9-0

Toner Motion #1: That the City Manager direct the Solicitors Office, Election Commission and any other department deemed necessary, to review the Final Report of the Charter Review Committee and its proposals and provide written feedback on the legality and practicality of the proposals in advance of future discussion.
Adopted 9-0

Toner Motion #2: To refer the Final Report of the Charter Review Committee to the Government Rules, Operations and Claims Committee.
Charter Right - Simmons

And so it begins. I will have a lot to say about this in the coming months. – Robert Winters

Comments?

How Can We Miss You When You Won’t Go Away - January 29, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Aug 1974 National LampoonCapitulation is the featured item on this week’s menu, and we’ll see if there are enough votes to send the Gaza stew back to the kitchen for revision. This meeting will take place entirely with Zoom for reasons that require explanation only for the extremely clueless. It will be interesting to see how many people sign up for Public Comment, and I do hope the Mayor asks each of them to state their home address (or at least their city of residence).

Here are the items worth noting for serious analysis and/or comic relief:

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to PO24#4, regarding the possibility of acquiring the property located at 727 Massachusetts Avenue.
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons, City Manager Huang, Deputy City Manager O’Riordan; Placed on File 9-0

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to review the Across Sidewalk Electric Vehicle Charging (EV) Permit Pilot Program, eliminate the $200 annual permit fee and determine if the process can be simplified. [Charter Right – Simmons, Jan 22, 2024]
comments by Nolan, Azeem, Simmons, O’Riordan, Maura Pensak, Nolan; Referred as Amended to Transportation & Public Utilities Committee 9-0

Resolution #1. Resolution Congratulating Lisa Peterson.   Mayor Simmons

Resolution #2. Resolution Congratulating Sam Corda.   Mayor Simmons

Resolution #3. Condolences to the family of Maureen C. Morris.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Pickett

Order #1. That the Community Development Department report back with any necessary edits to the attached zoning language that would allow unrelated people to live together in the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

This was previously introduced as a citizen petition several years ago by an especially unhinged individual. It was pointed out at that time that restrictions on the number of unrelated persons living in a dwelling unit originally came about as a matter of public safety caused by unscrupulous landlords packing apartments with unrelated persons. That’s quite different than the situation of a reasonable number of unrelated persons choosing to live together as housemates. I do find it creepy that this proposal chooses to redefine the word “family.”


Order #2. Calling for an Immediate Negotiated Ceasefire in Gaza.   Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by Siddiqui who wants to remove most or all of the “Whereas” clauses as a substitute order (capitulation), opposes other proposed amendments; comments by McGovern who seems to think that the protesting mob is representative of Cambridge residents, claims to not want to make any statements that alienate anyone (doubtful), supports the substitute order; comments by Wilson; comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler who says this is just about opposing violence; Siddiqui moves the Substitute Order; comments by Nolan who states that all councillors want peace and to question that is unfair, notes that the loudest voices don’t necessarily represent all residents of the city, agrees that most residents likely do want a negotiated cessation of hostilities, acknowledges shared blame toward Hamas and Netanyahu, notes personal attacks and bullying and need for people to treat each other with respect; Nolan offers amendments acknowledging Hamas as a terrorist organization and more; Azeem would keep original Order and amend that rather than the Substitute Order; Toner ready to vote; Pickett says we’ll never satisfy all those who spoke on this; Siddiqui withdraws substitute fearing it lacks the votes; Nolan moves amendments with Toner; amendments taken up one-by-one (some pass, some fail); eventually Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

I encountered some interesting pole decorations Inman Street on Saturday. Perhaps this goes under the category of “How to Win Friends and Influence People”. I took the liberty of redecoration. Heck, it’s not like I was tearing down posters of hostages. I consider Denise Simmons to be a personal friend, and I stick up for my friends. The proposed resolution is relatively benign, but I would still move to amend it to modify the phrase “support for an immediate, negotiated ceasefire by both Hamas and Netanyahu Administration” to something more like “support for a negotiated end to hostilities - conditional on the release of all hostages and the demilitarization of Gaza.” Then again, there’s no rational basis for the Cambridge City Council chiming in on this. On the other hand, there is a long history of the Cambridge City Council ineffectively chiming in on world affairs. See Boston Herald note from Aug 21, 1935, for example.

DefamationNaziResolution1935

Late Order #5. That the topic of discussing foreign policy resolutions by the City Council be referred to the Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee.   Councillor Azeem, Mayor Simmons
Comments by Azeem; Charter Right - Siddiqui


Order #3. Supporting An Act establishing the municipal reforestation program (S.452/H.869).   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Pickett
pulled by Nolan; Nolan wishes to finalize; Order Adopted 9-0, Reconsideration Fails 0-9

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Traffic & Parking Department to take immediate action and make safety improvements to the intersection of Cardinal Medeiros Avenue, Binney Street, and Bristol Street as soon as possible.   Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled early by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by JSW, Huang, O’Riordan; Order Adopted 9-0

This is Zondervan’s corner. It’s worth noting that both sponsors of this Order donated money to the campaign of Boston City Councillor Kendra Lara after she crashed her car into a house in Jamaica Plain (Sobr.-Wheeler $10, Azeem $100). So much for commitment to traffic safety. - RW

Comments?

More to Come - January 22, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Hopefully this will be an actual meeting and not a Zoom reaction to petulant socialist lunatics. The Committee appointments have also been made. Here are the interesting items on this week agenda:

Note: The meeting was again disrupted for a short while by the petulant socialist lunatics (PSL) and their infantile allies. One of their more endearing chants was, “Simmons, Simmons you can’t hide, you supported genocide.” They also chanted, “We’ll be back.” I’m sure they will, especially next week when it is expected that several city councillors will capitulate to the demands of the mob with a resolution having nothing whatsoever to do with the purview of the Cambridge City Council. If anyone thinks that will end this bad theater, I have some Nigerian oil futures you can purchase right now with a modest down payment to my offshore account.City Council - Jan 2024

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Massachusetts Avenue Planning Study Working Group -- Cambridge Common to Alewife Brook Parkway.
pulled by Pickett; comments by Joan Pickett, Iram Farooq, Paul Toner; Placed on File 9-0

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to direct the relevant City staff to evaluate the possibility of acquiring the property located at 727 Massachusetts Avenue.   Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons, McGovern; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #3. That the City Manager is hereby requested to confer with relevant City departments on potential public renewable energy projects that could receive funding through the IRA Direct Pay provision.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
pulled early by Toner; comments by Toner, Huang, Farooq, Rasmussen, JSW, Nolan, Pickett, Wilson; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments with recommendations and legal opinions for adjusting transportation related fees and other considered changes.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem
pulled early by Toner; comments by Nolan, Azeem, JSW (wants “progressive” fees), Toner; Acting City Solicitor Megan Bayer, Pickett, Owen O’Riordan; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to review the Across Sidewalk Electric Vehicle Charging (EV) Permit Pilot Program, eliminate the $200 annual permit fee and determine if the process can be simplified.   Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled early by Toner; comments by Nolan, Toner, O’Riordan, JSW, Pickett, Huang, Azeem, Siddiqui, McGovern, Wilson, Simmons; Charter Right - Simmons

The Cambridge community also lost two very significant members this week: Rachael Solem and Planning Board member Louis Bacci.

Late Resolution #2. Condolences to the family of Louis J. Bacci Jr.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Pickett, Councillor Toner
Comments by Pickett

Late Resolution #3. Resolution on the death of Rachael Solem.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Pickett, Mayor Simmons
Comments by Nolan, Pickett

Comments

City Council subcommittees for 2024-2025
Committee Members
Ordinance McGovern (Co-Chair), Toner (Co-Chair), Azeem, Nolan, Pickett, Siddiqui,
Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, Simmons (committee of the whole - mayor ex-officio)
Finance Nolan (Co-Chair), Pickett (Co-Chair), Azeem, McGovern, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler,
Toner, Wilson, Simmons (committee of the whole - mayor ex-officio)
Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Toner (Chair), Azeem, McGovern, Pickett, Sobrinho-Wheeler
Housing Azeem (Chair), Siddiqui (Chair), McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson
Economic Development and University Relations Toner (Chair), Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, Wilson
Human Services & Veterans McGovern (Chair), Wilson (Chair), Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui, Nolan
Health & Environment Nolan (Chair), Azeem, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson
Neighborhood and Long Term Planning,
Public Facilities, Art, and Celebrations
Pickett (Co-Chair), Sobrinho-Wheeler (Co-Chair), Azeem, Nolan, Siddiqui
Transportation & Public Utilities Pickett (Chair), Azeem, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson
Civic Unity Simmons (Chair), Pickett (Chair), McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson
Public Safety Toner (Chair), Wilson (Chair), McGovern, Pickett, Siddiqui
Family Policy Council Siddiqui (Co-Chair), McGovern (Co-Chair), Wilson
Special Committee on Rules Toner (Chair)

The New City Council Begins to Take Shape - January 8, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Clean SlateDuring Mayor Simmons’ remarks at the Jan 1 Inaugural meeting, she made reference to beginning the new City Council term with a clean slate. A lot of people feel the same way - including me. It’s almost guaranteed that some bad behavior will follow – especially if some councillors engage in shallow populism – but hopefully there will be enough fortitude to call BS when that needs to be said, and that goes triply if we continue to see the kind of unchallenged displays like we witnessed during the Inaugural meeting.

I was especially pleased to see the City Manager’s communication regarding the eternal backlog of “Awaiting Report” items - most of which really should not have been carried forward to the new City Council term. This is not to say that there are few things worthy of consideration on the list - only that it would be better to set some priorities first. City Council policy orders should not be “Letters to Santa” or “make work projects” for campaign workers occupying patronage positions as City Council Aides.

Here are the notable items in this week’s agenda (in my opinion, of course):

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Orders and Awaiting Reports for the New Term.
pulled by Toner; Rules Suspended 9-0 to bring forward Comm. & Reports #2; Toner says he intends to move to place all Awaiting Report Items on File; Manager explains desire for Council to collaborate and prioritize; McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui, Toner, Nolan, Wilson, Azeem, Pickett, Simmons remarks; Simmons notes need to update City Council Goals which have not changed since 2017, notes difference between goals and policy orders; Toner motion to place Comm & Rpts #2 and all items on Awaiting Report on File Approved 5-4 (BA,MM,JP,PT,DS - Yes; PN,SS,JSW,AW - No); Manager’s Communication #4 referred to Gov’t Operations 9-0

118 Communications (really 121 topics) — The tally is 51 on the proposed (and failed) BEUDO amendment to the amendments; 41 on Zondervan’s order re: police procedures; 22 calling on the City to evict Elbit Systems from Cambridge (mainly from people who don’t live in Cambridge); 4 protesting the City Council’s Nov 20 “Present” vote calling for a ceasefire in Gaza; 2 pro-municipal broadband; 1 anti-municipal broadband; 1 supporting of the Freedmen’s Commission, and 1 regarding traffic on N. Mass. Ave.

I’m highlighting these communications primarily to point out what may well have been the single most stupid idea floated at the last Charter Review Committee meeting - namely a proposal to require a pro/con tally of all public comment and communications to the City Council on various issues. For starters (and this was pointed out by more sensible voices), not every opinion is pro or con. There can be nuanced points of view (like almost all of my points of view). Also, those who are reasonably satisfied with the status quo rarely feel compelled to make public comment. Most public comment these days tends to be reflection of political organizing and often consists of less-than-well-informed diatribes (e.g., the belief that the City Council or the City Administration can evict a commercial tenant (Elbit Systems) associated with a country now in disfavor among the extreme left, or the fascist belief that the Planning Board could support zoning that singles out particular companies). “Direct Democracy” can be very appealing – until you realize that it can be little more than mob rule. I’ll choose representative democracy every time - even when I have concerns about the wisdom or the representativeness of the representatives.


Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to consult DPW, CDD, IQHQ, Friends of Jerry’s Pond, Alewife Study Group and Mass Audubon about further changes and enhancements to Jerry’s Pond, improvements to the shoreline ecology and other improvements to the current plans for the Rindge Avenue public edge along Jerry’s Pond and investigate funding sources for such plans including the use of City moneys and resources.   Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled early by Toner; remarks by Wilson, McGovern, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Nolan, Pickett, Azeem; Deputy City Manager Owen O’Riordan, DPW Commissioner Kathy Watkins respond; Order Fails 4-5 (MM,SS,JSW,AW - Yes; BA,PN,JP,PT,DS - No)

Committee Report #1. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, and Arts and Celebration Committee held a public hearing on Sept 27, 2023 to discuss the future treatment of Jerry’s Pond, specifically the Rindge Avenue edge as it affects the community. The meeting on Sept 27, 2023 was recessed and reconvened on Dec 13, 2023. [text of report]
pulled by Toner (early); Placed on File 9-0


Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to consult with relevant staff to consider using remaining ARPA funding to create a tuition relief opportunity with Lesley University for Cambridge employees and residents.   Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons
Order Adopted 9-0

Note: The meeting began in the Sullivan Chamber but was disrupted by the same petulant nitwits who disrupted the City Council Inauguration a week earlier. The remainder of the meeting was conducted in Zoom, and all public commenters who insisted on bringing up matters not on the agenda were summarily muted (in accordance with City Council Rules). - Robert Winters

Comments?

It’s Mayor Simmons - and I couldn’t be happier

January 1, 2024 - E. Denise Simmons was elected Mayor at today’s Inaugural Meeting of the 2024-2025 Cambridge City Council. The vote was (eventually) unanimous. Marc McGovern was then elected Vice-Chair by an 8-1 majority.

For what it’s worth, control freaks should never be chosen as Mayor, so this was a good outcome.

Councillor Vote for Mayor (1st Ballot) Vote for Mayor (2nd Ballot) Vote for Vice-Chair
Burhan Azeem McGovern → Azeem (2) Simmons Azeem → McGovern (3)
Marc McGovern McGovern → Simmons (1) Simmons McGovern
Patricia Nolan Nolan Nolan → Simmons Nolan
Joan Pickett Simmons Simmons Nolan → McGovern (1)
Sumbul Siddiqui Siddiqui Simmons Wilson → McGovern (6)
E. Denise Simmons Simmons Simmons McGovern
Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler Siddiqui Simmons Wilson → McGovern (4)
Paul Toner Simmons Simmons Nolan → McGovern (2)
Ayesha Wilson Siddiqui Simmons Wilson → McGovern (5)
Result: Simmons 4, Siddiqui 3, Nolan 1, Azeem 1 Simmons unanimous McGovern 8, Nolan 1

The meeting was disrupted by the morons from the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL) and their allies chanting tired refrains such as “Justice for Faisal”, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free”, and accusations that most of the Cambridge City Council support genocide. Methinks PSL would be more appropriately named “Petulant Socialist Lunatics”. They also defaced the front stairs of City Hall with their various predictable catchphrases. Unless steps are taken to regulate the “time, place, and manner” of what they feel are their free speech rights, these lunatics will be back again and again and again, and Cambridge will be seen broadly as a sanctuary city for idiots. - Robert Winters

CITY OF CAMBRIDGE
INAUGURATION CEREMONY - JANUARY 1, 2024 – 10:00am

Sullivan Chamber, City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139
Watch on Channel 22, and via Zoom https://cambridgema.zoom.us/s/97895847144

AGENDA

Call To Order, Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk and Presiding Officer

Procession, Paula Crane, Deputy City Clerk and Councillors-Elect

Pledge of Allegiance

National Anthem, James Isaiah - CRLS Class of 2025

Reading of M.G.L. CH. 43, SEC. 97

Examination of the Credentials

Calling of the Roll + Introduction of the Ushers

Administration of Oath of Office

Reading of Ruling of the Chair

Election of Mayor

Oath of Office of Mayor (If Elected) and Mayor’s Remarks

Election of Vice Chair

Oath of Office of Vice Chair (If Elected) and Vice Chair’s Remarks

General Business

Music Presentation, Bernice Taylor

Adjournment

Rules? We don’t have to follow no stinkin’ rules!

Updated Feb 12, 2024 - In the 2022-23 City Council Rules, there are two items that have been often ignored in recent City Council terms:

Rule 28. Every committee of the City Council to which any subject may be referred shall report on the subject within a reasonable time from the time of referral. Any committee report that has not been signed by the Chair of the committee within seven days after submission of the committee report by the City Clerk will be placed on the City Council agenda unsigned…

Rule 29. Minutes shall be kept of all committee proceedings. All minutes, reports, and papers shall be submitted to the City Council by the City Clerk or their designee. Recommendations of each committee shall be made to the City Council for consideration and adoption.

As if communication through the Tunnel of Zoom wasn’t bad enough, some committee Chairs apparently have not seen fit to keep either their colleagues or the public informed unless they were present at the meeting or chose to view a recording of the meeting. There are reasons why minutes of a meeting are taken. Not everyone wants to suffer through a recording of a long and possibly boring meeting, and a voluminous transcript is not a substitute for good (succinct) minutes.

Here is the current record of deliquency [Chair]:

Ordinance Committee (15 missing reports)
2023 [McGovern, Zondervan]: June 21, June 28, Aug 3
2022 [McGovern, Zondervan]: OK
2021 [Carlone, McGovern]: Jan 27, Apr 29, June 10, July 26, July 28, Sept 29, Nov 16, Dec 15
2020 [Carlone, McGovern]: Aug 26
2019 [Carlone, Kelley]: Oct 3, Oct 16, Oct 23

Finance Committee (3 missing reports)
2023 [Carlone, Nolan]: OK
2022 [Carlone, Nolan]: Mar 2
2021 [Carlone, Simmons]: July 27, Dec 1
2020 [Carlone, Simmons]: OK
2019 [Simmons]: OK

Gov’t Operations, Rules & Claims (1 missing report)
2023 [Mallon]: OK
2022 [Mallon]: OK
2021 [Simmons]: OK
2020 [Simmons]: OK
2019 [Devereux]: Nov 12

Health & Environment Committee (4 missing reports)
2023 [Nolan]: OK
2022 [Nolan]: OK
2021 [Zondervan]: June 9, July 14
2020 [Zondervan]: OK
2019 [Devereux, Zondervan]: May 29, Oct 15

Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning, etc. (2 missing reports)
2023 [Carlone]: OK
2022 [Carlone]: OK
2021 [Nolan]: Mar 4, June 9 (minutes exist, but never reported)
2020 [Nolan]: OK
2019 [Carlone, Zondervan]: OK

Public Safety (6 missing reports)
2023 [Zondervan]: OK
2022 [Zondervan]: May 18
2021 [Zondervan]: June 22, July 28, Oct 14, Nov 17, Dec 21
2020 [Zondervan]: OK
2019 [Kelley]: Sept 24, Oct 30, Dec 17, Jan 3 (2020)

Econ. Development & University Relations (4 missing reports)
2023 [Toner]: OK
2022 [Toner]: Apr 13, June 15
2021 [Mallon]: Jan 13
2020 [Mallon]: Aug 11
2019 [Siddiqui]: OK

Human Services & Veterans (2 missing reports)
2023 [McGovern]: June 13
2022 [McGovern]: OK
2021 [McGovern]: Aug 10 (joint w/Civic Unity)
2020 [McGovern]: OK
2019 [Mallon, Siddiqui]: OK

Housing Committee (2 missing reports)
2023 [Simmons]: OK
2022 [Simmons]: OK
2021 [Simmons, Sobrinho-Wheeler]: OK
2020 [Simmons, Sobrinho-Wheeler]: Mar 3, Oct 28
2019 [Siddiqui, Simmons]: OK

Transportation & Public Utilities (0 missing reports)
2023 [Azeem]: OK
2022 [Azeem]: OK
2021 [Sobrinho-Wheeler]: OK
2020 [Sobrinho-Wheeler]: OK
2019 [Devereux]: OK

Civic Unity (1 missing report)
2023 [Simmons]: OK
2022 [Simmons]: OK
2021 [Simmons]: Aug 10 (joint w/Human Services)
2020 [Simmons]: OK
2019 [Simmons]: OK

Most Delinquent:
Carlone (15), McGovern (14), Zondervan (13), Kelley (7), Simmons (5),
Nolan (3), Devereux (3), Sobrinho-Wheeler (2), Mallon (2), Toner (2)

Number of Missing Reports:
2023 (6), 2022 (4), 2021 (21), 2020 (4), 2019 (10)

Hoping for Something Better - December 18, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

That's All Folks!This is the last meeting of the 2022-23 Cambridge City Council, and I really hope the next group of nine will find the road back to reasonable. I have had my fill of councillors engaging in political patronage, calling cops murderers, enacting mandates without expending effort to convince people, and backroom political machinations held under the guise of “ad-hoc” committees created to evade the primary purposes of the Open Meeting Law. We can do better. Maybe the new City Council can even find that “Third Way” on matters involving bikes, housing, and other matters rather than playing “winner take all” every which way. The Big Elephant in the room next year will be deliberations on revisions to the City Charter, and it’s not yet clear if rationality will prevail over political self-interest in that process. I have refrained from commenting so far on that upcoming pachyderm, but that will end soon and I intend to be brutally honest in my assessment.

The out-of-sight battle for who shall be Mayor is, of course, raging and my understanding is that all six incumbents are seeking the crown. I have a couple of favorites, of course, but as Werner Heisenberg taught us, the act of measurement can only introduce uncertainty into what is being measured, so I’ll shut up for now and hope for the best. I’ll also refrain from comments on the three departing councillors thanks to some sage advice that my mother gave me a very long time ago.

It’s a light agenda for this sunset meeting, but here are a few items of potential interest:

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Final Landmark Designation Report for Miss Markham’s School at 10 Buckingham Street on the Buckingham, Browne & Nichols (BB&N) Lower School campus. (CM23#303) [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; remarks by MM (dismissive of landmarking of building “I don’t know what we’re preserving.”), Charles Sullivan (who explains the historical and architectural significance), McGovern would prefer a plaque rather than landmarking; PN will not support landmarking - OK with a plaque; DC supports landmarking, would prefer to see original portion of building preserved, possibly moved, and new building built in addition, Sullivan concurs; DS supports landmarking, wants efforts to be expended to preserve, Sullivan notes that other than landmarking no other options; QZ sees no value in preserving this building; Siddiqui also does not support landmarking; Order Fails of Adoption 2-6-1 (DC,DS-Yes; AM,MM,PN,PT,QZ,SS-No; BA-Absent); Placed on File 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 23-82, regarding an update on Municipal Broadband and Digital Equity. (CM23#307) [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; remarks by PN, wants timeline; Yi-An Huang notes pairing of Digital Equity and Municipal Broadband and fact that some improvements in digital equity can be done at modest cost (not $200 million), City-owned fiber network would have some policy advantages, substantial amount of City subsidy would be required and must be balanced against other priorities, whether or not it should be part of 5-year plan, need to find the money first; Nolan harps on “this is a utility” and apparently believes Harvard, MIT, and “Kendall Square” would provide financial support (really?); QZ tells story of broadband access in Suriname, would raise taxes to pay for this; Placed on File 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #10. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $68,000, from Free Cash to the General Fund City Council Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support the work of the Charter Review Committee. Funds will be used to support the work of the Charter Review Committee which has been meeting since August 2022 and is tasked to review the City’s current charter and to recommend changes. These efforts included contracting with an outside consultant to assist with research and facilitation of committee meetings, as well as public outreach events and materials. The Committee is anticipated to release a final report by Jan 31, 2024. (CM23#308)
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Police Department to fundamentally change how it responds to situations that could lead to violence and death. [Charter Right – Zondervan, Dec 11, 2023] (PO23#215)
pulled by Zondervan; QZ asks about killing of Faisal; Christine Elow notes work with PERF, working with police union on body cameras and policies, released dashboard, after-inquest review by PERF, work on less-lethal options and other launchers, training of entire department; QZ asks about what policies are being negotiated with union; QZ asks about arms that police carry, possibility of response without firearms; Elow notes that Comm. Bard agreed with reduction of weaponry, 20% of inventory was destroyed, camouflage eliminated; QZ asks about long guns on roofs at protest last week; Elow explains that at large events best practices requires rooftop observations, knew of Elbit protest in advance and possibility of counterprotest, Special Response Team on roof, concerns about harm and vandalism; preparation for worst-case scenarios; QZ continues to harp on presence of rifles on roof; Siddiqui asks about policy vs. practice re: presence of rifles with Special Response Team; Elow notes what has happened elsewhere in country and need to be prepared; PN notes that Public Safety meeting was not held due to lack of quorum, but originally scheduled for Dec 6, then changed to Dec 13 when members could not attend; PN gives prepared speech on inquest and process; Nolan proposes amendments to Zondervan order; MM notes that officers on roof were not “snipers” (Elow concurs) and that preparedness for worst-case scenarios is necessary; DS notes diversity of opinion and that “you’re entitled to your own opinions but not your own facts”, notes that seniors want public safety and that they don’t want Police Department neutered, not like police departments elsewhere; DS cautions against neutering of CPD possibly leading to tragic outcomes, cannot support original order or amended order; Elow notes that Special Response Team formed under Comm. Robert Haas as an alternative to State Police or other law enforcement agencies, only used for special circumstances; Yi-An Huang notes that this conversation has been ongoing all year, notes that PERF generally only brought in when terrible things have happened elsewhere, notes that Faisal incident was a complicated situation that unfolded fast, notes that our police officers need to be supported; Toner will vote no because we are already making good progress; Carlone notes that we have done this already and that if we must pass an Order it should be the amended version; QZ says we have not dealt with this issue in the current term; Elow notes that CPD looks at every incident differently; Nolan notes that we have done some of this before, does not support disarming the Police, notes that Elbit protests here and elsewhere had escalated; Siddiqui will support substitute order, need for further conversation; Amendment by Substitution Passes 8-1 (QZ-No); Order as Amended Passes 5-4 (BA,DC,PN,QZ,SS-Yes; AM,MM,DS,PT-No); Amended Order forwarded to next City Council (Awaiting Report)

Unfinished Business #4. An Ordinance 2023 #12 has been received from City Clerk, relative to BEUDO the Municipal Code of the City of Cambridge be amended in Chapter 8.67.100 entitled “Emission Reduction Requirements”. [Passed to 2nd Reading Dec 4, 2023; Eligible to be ordained on or after Dec 18, 2023] (ORD23#12)
pulled by Zondervan; Iram Farooq notes that CDD does not support this further amendment, notes that current ordinance reduces by 90% but exorbitant costs for minimal additional reduction and other problematic aspects of amendment, notes that CDD came up with most stringent ordinance possible and this was already adopted and that further amendment now would be a breach of trust; Zondervan notes that his latest proposed amendments addresses these concerns; Farooq says no fuel now available to meet proposed specifications and that only natural gas would currently suffice and with higher carbon cost - nothing gained with added regulatory structure; McGovern notes Council actions over past few months in this area, not supportive of amendments; Nolan says even if not a good idea to amend so soon this was our expectation under new stretch code, says it’s possible to meet needs on extreme cold days, says we won’t meet state mandated goals on emission reduction; Carlone says this is doable, “I’ll be voting for children”; Ordination Fails 4-5 (DC,PN,QZ,SS-Yes; BA,AM,MM,PT,DS-No)


Resolution #1. Resolution on the death of Paul Parravano.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui
pulled early by Councillor Simmons; remarks by DS,MM,PT,AM,DC,PN,QZ,SS; Adopted 8-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to coordinate with MIT to establish a suitable memorial in Cambridge in honor of Paul Parravano.   Councillor Simmons (PO23#218)
pulled by Simmons; Order Adopted 9-0


Resolution #2. Resolution on the death of Roderick L. Jackson.   Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern
Adopted as Amended 8-0-1 (QZ-Absent)

Resolution #4. Congratulations to Clifford Cook on his retirement from the City of Cambridge.   Councillor Toner


Resolution #6. Thanks to Alanna Mallon for her service to the citizens of Cambridge.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern

Resolution #7. Thanks to Quinton Zondervan for his service to the citizens of Cambridge.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Nolan, Councillor McGovern

Resolution #8. Thanks to Dennis Carlone for his service to the citizens of Cambridge.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner


Committee Report #4. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Wed, Nov 29, 2023 to discuss a Zoning Petition by Allene R. Pierson et al. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0


Committee Report #6. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Wed, Dec 6, 2023 to discuss potential changes to the Cambridge Municipal Code, Chapter 12.22 Cycling Safety Ordinance. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #4. A communication was received from Councillor Marc McGovern, relative to discharging the Cycling Safety Ordinance matter from Committee and moving it forward. to the next Council Ordinance Committee. (COF23#239)
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0


Committee Report #7. The Health and Environment Committee and the Transportation and Public Utilities Committee held a joint meeting on Dec 6, 2023 to discuss PO23#147 (options for amending parking fees and regulations throughout the City in order to further support the City’s goals of low carbon travel). [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #8. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on Dec 12, 2023 to receive an update and have discussion on Public Investment Planning. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0


Cleaning Out the Closet

Communications & Reports #1. A communication was received from Councillor Azeem, transmitting an update regarding matters in the Transportation and Public Utilities Committee [Implementing ways to enforce the anti-idling law. (PO22#55 of Apr 25, 2022)]. (COF23#236)
pulled by Azeem; Discharged from Transportation & Public Utilities Committee 9-0; Forward to next Council’s Committee 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #3. A communication was received from Councillor Simmons re Motion to Discharge Committee Items Councillor Simmons. (COF23#238) [text of report]
pulled by Simmons; Matters Discharged from Civic Unity and Housing Committees 9-0; Forward to next Council’s Committee 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #5. A communication was received from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting, in accordance with POR 2023 #216, adopted Dec 11, 2023, recommendation that City Council take an affirmative vote to carry over pending Awaiting Reports to the next City Council. (COF23#240) [text of report]
Forward subset of Awaiting Report List to next City Council, including Policy Order of Charter Right #1; Adopted 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Comments?

Cleaning Out the Pantry - December 11, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

The clock is winding down on the 2022-23 City Council and with Festivus approaching this may be the time for not only clearing out all the stuff beyond their expiration dates but also for the airing of grievances and the taking of a few parting shots.Running Down the Clock

Of special note is the opinion from the Acting City Solicitor regarding the forwarding of pending matters (and some really moldy ones) to the new City Council term. My fervent hope is that the current City Council votes to forward only significant pending matters and that the other items on “Awaiting Report” be allowed to fade into history or be re-introduced fresh in the new Council term.

Regarding the Festivus tradition of “airing of grievances”, Mr. Zondervan is back with his withdrawn Order from last week in which he tries to “educate” the Cambridge Police Department. This term can’t end soon enough.

There’s also a request from the Charter Review Committee requesting a one-month extension. This reminds me of the old joke we used to say when I worked (for 14 years) at Wellesley College:
  Q: How many Wellesley students does it take to change a light bulb?
  A: Just one, but she needs an extension.

Anyway, here are the items I found noteworthy in this penultimate City Council agenda:

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item 23-57, regarding rodent control measures. (CM23#296) [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by PN, Owen O’Riordan, John Nardone, Dave Powers, QZ, AM, SS; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Cambridge Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update. (CM23#297) [Cover Letter] [NHMP presentation] [NHMP 2023 Update]
pulled by Nolan; comments by PN, DC, Sam Lipson, Iram Farooq, QZ, Owen O’Riordan, Tom Cahill; Plan Adopted 9-0, Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on the City of the Cambridge and Harvard University memorandum of agreement regarding Payment-in-Lieu-of-Taxes (PILOT). (CM23#298)
Placed on File 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Police Department to fundamentally change how it responds to situations that could lead to violence and death.   Councillor Zondervan (PO23#215)
pulled by Zondervan; Charter Right - Zondervan

Order #2. Transferring Items from the 2022-2023 Legislative Session.   Mayor Siddiqui (PO23#216)
pulled by Nolan w/Comm. & Reports #2; comments by PN, SS, QZ; Order Adopted 9-0

Communications & Reports #2. A communication from City Clerk Diane P. LeBlanc, transmitting legal opinion regarding Carry Over Procedures for City Council Business. (COF23#228)
pulled early by Nolan; Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #4. A communication from the Cambridge Charter Review Committee Chair, Kathleen Leahy Born, transmitting a memorandum with a request for an extension through Jan 31, 2024. (COF23#230)
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by BA (who seems to think the Charter Review Committee was “nonpolitical”), PN (notes general lack of public involvement until very last meeting), DS (concerns about participation by committee members); one-month extension approved 9-0; Placed on File 9-0

Comments?

Robots Rule - December 4, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

Robot - Lost in SpaceThe first thing that struck me when I looked over the meeting agenda was the list of 387 Communications - more than twice anything I’ve seen before (except for that Bergman stunt many years ago with messages submitted on paper plates - but that’s another story). So I decided to look them over in some detail. The main thing is that 288 of them were nearly identical concerning that Gaza order from the Nov 20 meeting and were sent via a robot (from “actionnetwork.org”) and addressed to “City Clerk Alex Geourntas” - who happens to be the City Clerk for Boston. [Our actual City Clerk is Diane LeBlanc, by the way.] So much for doing your homework, but I suppose even robots may have dogs who like to eat their homework. Perhaps the funniest of these was the one signed by former Cambridge City Clerk Margaret Drury who apparently didn’t take notice of the addressee in the robotic message that was sent under her name to the wrong City Clerk.

There are 333 messages in favor of the Gaza order, 8 opposed, 4 who suggested that the City Council should instead focus on local matters (there’s a concept), and one suggesting that such communications should be limited to actual Cambridge residents. There were 148 of 288 robotic Gaza messages from Cambridge residents and 139 from non-residents. There was also one Somerville resident who defiantly stated that “you have lost my vote.” They never had your vote, Einstein.

There are also 17 communications from people who are apparently pissed off at the City Council’s Nov 20 “Present” vote on the matter - apparently an attempt to sidestep taking a definitive position. Voting on foreign affairs has never been off-limits in the past, but I guess this one is different because of the various constituencies and the political consideration of siding with or opposing something associated with our local “Squad” representative in the U.S. Congress.

I think the new City Council should consider a rules change to address this proliferation of robot-generated messages - perhaps replacing them with a single communication of the form “sundry messages (288) received in support of Nov 20 order re: Gaza.” Together with new AI tools becoming available all the time, we may otherwise soon see weekly bundles of hundreds or even thousands of communications generated every week bearing little connection to matters actually relevant to Cambridge.

Also noteworthy is the message sent by a member of Siddiqui’s hand-picked Charter Review Committee in which she wants to know the head count of all those making public comment or submitting (robotic) communications on either side of the issue. Perhaps the next iteration of the charter recommendations will include a proposal for popular plebiscite to determine public policy. Give us Barabbas. I honestly believe the entire Charter Review business should be restarted with a properly selected charter commission and all meetings held in public session rather than the Zoom-based insular meetings of the current failed process that had negligible public participation.

By the way, the minutes of the Nov 20 meeting indicate that of the 159 people who spoke in person or remotely, 100 supported the Gaza order, 47 were opposed, and 12 others addressed matters that were actually relevant to the business of the Cambridge City Council.

One last note: I am especially appreciative of the Nov 30 public comment and the Dec 4 communication from Cara Seiderman re: the Gaza ceasefire order. It takes a good deal of bravery for a prominent City employee to make a statement opposing the Gaza order as written in an environment where many of the people with whom she regularly interacts may be hostile to her point of view. Cancel culture has unfortunately become part of Cambridge culture - and not just on the Harvard campus.


There is an actual agenda for the Dec 4 meeting that contains a few interesting items. Here’s a sampler:

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a report on the evaluation of the 2023 Street Cleaning Pilot. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the evaluation of the 2023 Street Cleaning Pilot and recommended language for special legislation to increase fines.
Order Adopted 7-2 (DS,PT-No)


Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $4,280,000, from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Human Services Extraordinary Expenditures account to support major ongoing improvements at Danehy Park including turf field and track replacement, irrigation improvements, water feature replacement, and capital improvement planning. [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation not to adopt the Pierson, et al., Zoning Petition.
Placed on File 9-0


Charter Right #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Home Rule petition regarding the Fire Chief position. [Charter Right – Toner, Nov 20, 2023]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #8. A late communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, regarding a home rule petition for taking the Fire Chief position out of civil service. (CM23#290)
Placed on File 9-0


Unfinished Business #5. An Ordinance 2023 #10 has been received from City Clerk, relative to the Municipal Code of the City of Cambridge be amended in Chapter 8.16.081, Leaf Blowers. [Pass to 2nd Reading Nov 6, 2023; Eligible to be ordained on or after Nov 28, 2023] (ORD23#10)
pulled by Toner; comments by PT, PN, QZ; Ordained as Amended 9-0

Committee Report #6. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Nov 28, 2023 to discuss proposed changes to the Cambridge Municipal Code that would lead to a phased-out ban of the use of gas-powered leaf blowers in Cambridge. The Committee voted to send the proposed ordinance language as amended in Committee to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation that the language passed to a second reading on Nov 6, 2023 be further amended to reflect the change in transition date, (8.16.081.4 – Transition, 2. and 3.) from March 15, 2027 to March 15, 2026. (text of report)
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0


Unfinished Business #7. An Ordinance 2023 #11 has been received from City Clerk, relative to Chapter 2.131 – American Freedmen Commission. [Passed to 2nd Reading Nov 20, 2023; Eligible to be ordained on or after Dec 4, 2023]
Ordained as Amended 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments and with state and federal regulators to establish an orderly testing and deployment strategy for Full Self Driving on Cambridge roads.   Councillor Zondervan
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #2. That the City Council go on record requesting that MIT withdraw its objection to Eversource and the City of Cambridge proposed transmission line route so that the project can move forward expediently.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to work with CPD to fundamentally change how it responds to situations that could lead to violence and death.   Councillor Zondervan
Order Withdrawn

Committee Report #1. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on Oct 31, 2023 to discuss updates on the Participatory Budget and ARPA. (text of report)
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on Tues, Nov 14, 2023 to discuss the City’s proposed Linear Park redesign. (text of report)
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. The Public Safety Committee held a public hearing on Nov 15, 2023 to discuss and receive updates from the Community Safety Department and HEART. (text of report)
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #4. The City Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on the City Managers evaluation process held a public meeting on Nov 17, 2023 to discuss the updates on the evaluation process. (text of report)
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #5. A public meeting of the Ordinance Committee was held on Tues, Nov 28, 2023. The call of the meeting was to consider an amendment to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance that would require new covered properties to achieve net zero by 2030. The Committee voted to send the following amendment language back to the City Council with no recommendation. (text of report)
pulled early by Toner; comments by PT, Yi-An Huang (feels this is not good policy in terms of cost/benefit), QZ (disagrees, proposes amendment), PN, DC, MM, Iram Farooq, Megan Bayer (Acting City Solicitor), QZ proposes amendments (passes 5-4 (BA,AM,DS,PT-No); Passed to 2nd Reading as Amended 5-4 (BA,AM,DS,PT-No); Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Late Resolution #3. Resolution on the death of Bernard Goldberg.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Simmons

Comments?

Cambridge Does Gaza – November 20, 2023 Cambridge City Council Agenda

All the world is watching as Cambridge takes on the Middle East. </sarcasm>Peoples Republic of Cambridge

Here are the featured menu items for tonight’s meal:

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Home Rule petition regarding the Fire Chief position.
Charter Right - Toner


Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 23-72 regarding mechanisms to support Cannabis Business in Cambridge. (CM23#274) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Unfinished Business #2. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to proposed changes to Cannabis Business Permitting Proposed Ordinance 2023-6. [Passed to 2nd Reading Oct 16, 2023; Eligible to be Ordained] (ORD23#6)
Ordained 9-0


Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Planning Board’s recommendation on the Hen-keeping Zoning Petition and amended zoning text. (CM23#275) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Unfinished Business #5. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to a Zoning Petition by the Cambridge City Council to amend Articles 2.000, 4.000, 5.000, and 23.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance for the purpose of allowing hen-keeping as a permitted accessory use to principal residential (excluding transient accommodations as defined in Section 4.31.i), religious, and educational uses; with limitations and subject to regulation and permitting by the Cambridge Public Health Department. [Passed to 2nd Reading Oct 16, 2023; Eligible to be Ordained; Expires Jan 8, 2024] (ORD23#9)
Ordained as Amended 9-0


Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the East Cambridge Neighborhood Conservation District Study. (CM23#277) [text of report]
Placed on File 7-2 (DC,QZ-No)

The East Cambridge Neighborhood District Study is a great document - the continuation of great work of our peerless Cambridge Historical Commission. What the City Council will do with this or should do with this is a matter of some concern. Normally this would be an easy decision, but the spirit of New York’s Robert Moses continues to permeate current Cambridge politics - an environment where tearing down historic buildings, or any buildings, is apparently welcomed in favor of going higher and denser regardless of all other considerations. The spirit of Jane Jacobs will return at some point, and the only question is the extent of damage carried out in the interim.

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an Equity Inclusion Fall 2023 Update. (CM23#278) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

This is worth looking at primarily as an illustration of how bureaucracies grow.


Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the American Freedmen Commission Ordinance. (CM23#279) [text of report]
Referred 9-0 to Freedmen's Committee proposed ordinance on Unfinished Business

Committee Report #2. A public meeting of the Cambridge City Council’s Ordinance Committee was held on Thurs, Nov 9, 2023, to consider changes to the Cambridge Municipal Code that would establish the American Freedmen Commission. The Committee approved a motion that the City Manager be and is hereby requested to direct the Law Department and any other relevant department to review the proposed ordinance language to create the Freedmen Commission and provide any recommendations in writing to the City Council by Nov 20, 2023. The Committee voted favorably to send the proposed language to the City Council with a favorable recommendation that it be passed to a second reading. (text of report)
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0; Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0

It will be interesting to see how this unfolds and whether this will amount to something constructive or just garden-variety political patronage.


Manager’s Agenda #10. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report 22-40, regarding a Community Engagement Update. (CM23#280) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

This is clueless on so many levels. For example, “Additionally, each department is at a different point on its community engagement journey: the Department of Public Works (DPW) for example, started building its community relations team in the early 2000s …” In fact, our Department of Public Works has been a model of community engagement and personalized service delivery for many decades. Only a bureaucrat would see otherwise. On the other hand, the “community engagement” of some other departments will continue to be mainly performative in the sense that most decisions have already been made by staff or mandated via City ordinance with little room for discussion or change.

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the 2023 Cambridge Resident Satisfaction Survey Results. (CM23#281) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #12. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $500,000, from Free Cash, to the Public Investment Fund Executive Extraordinary Expenditures account to support an evaluation of the Rise Up Cambridge Cash Assistance for Families Program. (CM23#282) [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0

The bottom line is that this program was only made possible because of the federal windfall of ARPA dollars growing out of the Covid disruption. What followed in so many cities was political opportunism - enacting initiatives that otherwise would not have been financially feasible or even legal. We are now in the phase where “studies” are being proposed and funded to extend this new add-on local welfare program.

Unfinished Business #3. ORD23#8A To amend Chapter 2.76 – Human Rights Commission and Chapter 2.119 Domestic Partnerships. [Passed to 2nd Reading Oct 2, 2023; Further Amended Nov 6, 2023; Eligible to be Ordained as Amended]
Ordained 9-0

Resolution #3. Resolution on the death of Teresa Solano Neighbor.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons

I attended the November 11 memorial service for Teresa at Bigelow Chapel in Mount Auburn Cemetery and, as is often the case, it served as a reunion of many friends. Teresa was the Executive Director of the Election Commission during the period when we computerized our municipal elections and when I served on the Technical Working Committee for the Computerization of the Cambridge Elections (TWCC). That was a very rewarding experience for many of us who were involved in that project, and Teresa was a great partner in that initiative.

Order #1. Special Meeting on City Manager Review.   Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #2. Automated Parking Enforcement.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor Carlone
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #3. Resolution in support of Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley’s Call for a Ceasefire.   Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui
After hours of unproductive public comment, Councillor Nolan called the question early in order to provide opportunity for most of the councillors to avoid voting Yea or Nay. Final vote on the Gaza Order was 2-0-0-7 (QZ,SS-Yes; all others “Present”)

This last item, of course, will likely consume most of the evening and accomplish nothing. - RW

Comments?

Proportional Representation: The Silent Ballot Question - November 6, 2023 Cambridge City Council Agenda

Tomorrow’s municipal election may be about choosing 9 people out of 24 City Council candidates and choosing 6 people out of 11 School Committee candidates, but there’s also the unspoken ballot question of the efficacy of our proportional representation (PR) elections. Elsewhere in the USA in years past, cities that used PR for their local elections gave up that election method when it yielded perverse results - either real or received. New York City quit using PR after two Communists were elected back in the 1930s (the actual story is a bit more nuanced). Other cities gave it up because some felt it was too “complicated” - a point of view not shared by me, though I admit that explaining how the tabulation works can be a challenge. That said, the idea of ranking your approved candidates doesn’t seem very difficult to understand.Countdown

There is a possibility that this year’s election could produce perverse results, or (hopefully) it will yield a group of candidates who are both rational and representative of the people of Cambridge. [I am, of course, quite biased since I am also a candidate this year.] I have often jokingly referred to myself as “the junkyard dog of Plan E and PR” in that I could be counted on to defend our system against any unwarranted or wrongheaded criticism. There are points worthy of criticism and there are opportunities to make some positive changes, but I do have some serious concerns about the efforts by some to turn Cambridge into the worst kind of populist government. [These concerns are the main reason I chose to be a candidate this year.]

Anyway, we’ll either be heading over the cliff tomorrow or pulling back from the brink. We’ll know soon enough. Meanwhile, there is a City Council meeting on Election Eve - traditionally one of the shortest ones, but I suppose all it takes is one difficult councillor to ruin everyone’s evening - unless the exercise of the Charter Right puts an end to the mayhem. Here are the items I found interesting this week:

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report #23-61, regarding the demographic information of dues-paying members of the municipal golf course.
pulled by Zondervan; QZ wants City to continue to collect information on race, age, and gender; Adam Corbell response that any such data collection will be voluntary; PT was under belief that such demographic information was NOT being collected at golf course; ambiguous response from Corbett; PN notes that this was report only on demographics (and not on other aspects of original City Council Order); MM addresses women’s sports scholarships; Placed on File 9-0

Hopefully this will mark the end of the silliness initiated by Councillors Nolan, Carlone, Zondervan, and Azeem back in January 2022. On the other hand, doubling-down on dumb ideas is not uncommon these days in politics from the local level to the national level and beyond.


Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department and other relevant City departments and prepare a report regarding the efficacy of establishing a dual reporting system for the Director of Public Health, the process by which the City could establish by ordinance a Commissioner of Public Health who would report directly to the City Manager, and the reestablishment of a Health Policy Board. [Charter Right – Simmons, Oct 30, 2023]
Simmons explains her use of Charter Right, wants to tease this Order out regarding what it aims to achieve; DS wants to Table and/or send back to Health and Gov’t Operations Committees; AM says many of these questions were asked at committee meeting, says there will be additional meetings; PN notes that this Order asks only for additional information from Law Department; MM suggests removing clause re: hiring a consultant; DS says that getting information is OK but concerned about whether a consultant should be hired; PN,AM,SS have had conversations with former MM motion to delete 2nd “Ordered” passes 5-4 (BA,MM,DS,PT,SS-Yes; DC,AM,PN,QZ-No); Adopted as Amended 8-0-0-1 (DS-Present)

Committee Report #4. The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee and the Health and Environment Committee held a joint meeting on Tues, Oct 17, 2023, to discuss the relationship between the City and the Cambridge Health Alliance, the budget of the Public Health Department, and best ways to serve the community’s public health needs. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

I can’t say for sure what this is all about, but my suspicion is that this is rooted in the desire on the part of several city councillors to gain more control over our local health care options. I will remind everyone that there were very good fiscal reasons to spin the Cambridge Hospital off with state legislation that established the Cambridge Health Alliance and to separate this out from the City’s Operating Budget. I am very curious what the actual motivation is here.


Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to more fully explore the Commonwealth’s recommendations from the Separated Bike Lane document, especially for all squares and along small business districts, schools, and key park entries, and with a focus also on the integration of pedestrian and biking infrastructure.   Councillor Carlone (PO23#202)
Adopted 9-0

I expect that Councillor Azeem may exercise his Charter Right on this one in order to give him time to ask Chris Cassa and others associated with the Cambridge Bike Safety group what he is allowed to think.

Order #2. That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to direct CDD, the Law Department and any other relevant Departments to review this citizens zoning petition and provide any recommendations in writing to the Ordinance Committee on Nov 29, 2023.   Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan
Adopted 9-0

This concerns the Zoning Petition from Allene R. Pierson et al. relating to where Lodging Houses are permitted as-of-right and, presumably, how this relates to the proliferation of quasi-hotel uses (AirBnB) that have been gobbling up rental housing in Cambridge. If I misread this, please disabuse me of my interpretation.


Committee Report #1. The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee met on May 5, 2022, to discuss municipal broadband. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Human Services Committee conducted a public hearing on June 16, 2022, to discuss the recent MBTA bus network redesign. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee conducted a public hearing on June 28, 2022, to discuss the recent MBTA bus network redesign. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Looking back in time at meetings held more than a year ago.


Committee Report #5. The Health and Environment Committee held a public meeting on Wed, Oct 25, 2023, to discuss, review, and evaluate the Zero Waste Master Plan and plan reports and updates, and to discuss possible ways to further reduce waste in Cambridge including exploring how the city might eliminate single-use plastics including but not limited to nips, bottled water, and utensils. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

I would love to see these nuisance plastics go away, but sometimes I feel as though our City Council just doesn’t like small businesses when they take actions that cut into the very narrow margins that allow these businesses to simply exist. Has persuasion been tried? Must everything be a legal mandate? - Robert Winters

Comments?

Seeking Six Lame Ducks - Oct 30, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

The circus that is this year’s municipal election will soon be over and we’ll know in a couple of weeks whether Cambridge will step back from the brink or careen over the edge. Hopefully events at the national and international scale will be enough to convince people locally of the dangers of the democratic socialists, the “intersectional left”, and others (like DSA, Our Revolution, and even the little old ladies of the Cambridge Residents Alliance) who casually embrace antisemitism hidden behind Halloween masks of liberation as they celebrate murder, rape, and kidnapping.City Hall

Speaking of elections, I was able to skip some City Council candidate events this week in order to focus on more important things like the School Committee election and, in particular, an event in East Cambridge entitled, “What’s Algebra Got to Do with It? - a School Committee Forum on Math and Academic Challenge.” I may write about this elsewhere, but the bottom line is that the participating incumbents had virtually nothing of substance to say other than the usual School Committee jargon, and several of the new candidates really shone - particularly Elizabeth Hudson, Alborz Bejnood, and Eugenia Schraa Huh. Bobby Travers also showed great promise as a candidate who has seen it all over the years working within the Cambridge Schools. Honestly, the only incumbents I see as worth retaining are José Luis Rojas Villarreal and Caroline Hunter. That’s an even 6. All too often the School Committee election is the forgotten stepchild of Cambridge elections - but their $245 million budget and the fact that the education and future prospects of so many Cambridge children is largely dependent on having good schools suggests that maybe voters should pay a little more attention.

Meanwhile, back at City Hall, here are some of the more notable items on this week’s agenda:

Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $2,091,000 from Free Cash to the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund. During FY23, the City received mitigation revenues from various developers as a result of commitments related to zoning ordinance amendments and special permit conditions. By law, all mitigation revenues must be deposited into the General Fund and can only be appropriated after the Free Cash Certification is complete.
Order Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Claire Spinner as Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs.
pulled by Carlone; comments by Nolan, City Manager Huang (over 50 applicants); Placed on File 9-0

152 Communications - many either in favor or opposed to the policy order from the previous meeting regarding proposed changes to Linear Park in North Cambridge.

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department and the City Solicitor to look at possible base zoning changes for a new residential use that has a first-floor mixed-use option or other zoning alternative, to review the city’s permit policy for extending construction hours/days & propose changes that more significantly protect residents’ quality of life, and to work with the Department of Public Health to look at ways the City’s board of health, under the Nuisance Law, might further restrict undue noise.   Councillor Carlone, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Carlone; comments by Carlone, Toner, McGovern; Order Adopted 9-0

None of the current city councillors live in a mixed-use district. I have - for over 45 years. I’m happy to tell you about the pros and cons.

Order #6. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments and the consultant team and deliver an update on Municipal Broadband and Digital Equity by December 2023.   Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zondervan
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan; Zondervan added as sponsor; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

My assumption is that even if all relevant indicators suggest that Municipal Broadband won’t provide a fraction of the benefits its proponents have suggested, and even if it’s cost-prohibitive, a majority of councillors will signal Full Speed Ahead.

Order #7. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to engage with various stakeholders including recycling advocates, package store owners, and business associations, and report back to the city council with a list of recommendations to reduce the use of miniature liquor bottles.   Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #8. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to report back to the City Council with an update to the Mar 23, 2021 report on the process of banning various single-use plastics in line with the discussion during the Health and Environment Committee meeting and actions by the state and by various municipalities.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zondervan
pulled by Toner; comments by Nolan, Toner, Carlone, Zondervan, McGovern, Azeem; add Zondervan as sponsor; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #10. City Council support of letter to State Lawmakers on the Mass Clean Heat Platform.   Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Councillor Zondervan
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #13. City Council support of H. 872 An Act establishing a climate change superfund and promoting polluter responsibility, and the companion bill S. 481.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Carlone, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Zondervan; add Siddiqui, Nolan; comments by Zondervan, Nolan; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #14. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department and other relevant City departments and prepare a report regarding the efficacy of establishing a dual reporting system for the Director of Public Health, the process by which the City could establish by ordinance a Commissioner of Public Health who would report directly to the City Manager, and the reestablishment of a Health Policy Board.   Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor Mallon
pulled by Simmons; comments by Nolan, Simmons; Charter Right - Simmons

It’s also worth noting the following two items on the Hearing Schedule:

Wed, Nov 8
3:00pm   The Public Safety Committee will hold a public hearing from 3:00pm-5:00pm to discuss the results of the inquest regarding the Police shooting of Arif Sayed Faisal. [CANCELLED]

This is not a local legislative matter. An inquest was conducted and the officer(s) involved were found to have acted in a reasonable and proper manner consistent with their training and responsibilities. A Zondervan hearing on this matter would be nothing more than a political show, and I’m glad the meeting was cancelled.

Wed, Nov 15
3:00pm   The Public Safety Committee will hold a public hearing from 3:00pm-5:00pm to discuss and receive updates from the Community Safety Department and HEART.

As I have said many times, the new Community Safety Department - as a mechanism for handling matters not necessarily requiring Cambridge Police - has the potential to relieve Cambridge Police officers of some of the responsibilities that can be safely managed by others. Cambridge HEART, in contrast, is little more than political patronage for a group of people who have consistently shown nothing but hostility toward Cambridge Police and law enforcement in general. - Robert Winters

Comments?

Another Monday Night of Diminished Expectations - October 16, 2023 Cambridge City Council meeting

Conspicuously absent from this week’s Peoples Republic of Cambridge International Affairs Agenda is a resolution where incumbent city councillors actually have to say out loud their take on what recently transpired in Israel. Bothsidesism gives way to nosidesism as they gauge how voters might respond. Meanwhile, a vote on “AHO 2.0” to further disenfranchise residents is expected to breeze through on the same 6-3 vote (while they still can). Then there’s reparations. Here are a few things:Peoples Republic of Cambridge

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order #23-147, regarding a report 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.
Referred to Ordinance Committee 8-1 (QZ-No)

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the establishment of an Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund.
Order Adopted; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #7. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $1,903,731.64 from Free Cash to the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund. The $1,903,731.64 appropriated to the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund is the only the appropriation from Free Cash attributed to Opioid Settlement funds and will be used to fund specific future projects, per requirements of the settlement agreement, which will require separate individual appropriations by the City Council.
Appropriation Adopted; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 23-23 which clarifies the state law on zoning petition signature requirements to ensure clarity and lawful deliberation in the future.
Placed on File 9-0

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the License Commission and other relevant departments to prepare recommendations on regulations that would ban or limit the sale of nips in Cambridge. [Charter Right – Toner, Oct 2, 2023]
Adopted as Amended 9-0

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to reaffirm the city’s commitment to renovating the schoolhouse at 105 Windsor Street as a top priority following the completion of the Central Square lots study. [Charter Right – Simmons, Oct 2, 2023]
Adopted as Amended 9-0

Unfinished Business #3. 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; Amended Sept 18, 2023; Amended Further Sept 18, 2023; Eligible to be Ordained; Expires Oct 29, 2023] (ORD23#7)
Ordained 6-3 (BA,AM,MM,DS,QZ-Yes; DC,PN,PT-No)

Unfinished Business #4. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to 2.76.020 enacted is to protect the human rights of all the residents of the City Protect Family Inclusion and Relationship Diversity [Passed to 2nd Reading, Oct 2, 2023] (ORD23#8)

Resolution #12. Resolution on the retirement of Steven A. Cohen from the City of Cambridge Planning Board.   Councillor Carlone

Resolution #13. Resolution of the retirement of Hugh Adams Russell from the City of Cambridge Planning Board.   Councillor Carlone

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to conduct a thorough assessment regarding the feasibility, costs, and benefits of replacing the existing community notice boards on the front lawn of City Hall with one or two digital signs.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Toner
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department, the Finance Department, and any other relevant departments to investigate potential mechanisms to support Cannabis Business in Cambridge.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #7. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to establish an American Freedmen Commission.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted, Referred to Ordinance Committee 9-0

Order #8. That the City Council schedule a roundtable on Mon, Nov 13, 2023, from 3pm-5pm to receive an update from the City Manager and relevant departments on the Central Square City Lots Study.   Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #9. That the City Manager is requested to work with DPW to restore Linear Park by re-using the existing award-winning design, to create, publish and implement a climate resilience-based maintenance plan and minimize the embodied carbon of the project by re-using, wherever possible, the existing lamps and lamp posts.   Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zondervan
Order Adopted as Amended, Referred to Neighborhood & Long-Term Planning Committee 9-0

Committee Report #1. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on Apr 13, 2023 to continue the discussion of potential amendments to the Affordable Housing Overlay district as outline in the Nov 21, 2022 Policy Order adopted by the City Council. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on Sept 27, 2023 to discuss the report and update on the City of Cambridge Disparity Study. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. A public meeting of the Cambridge City Council’s Ordinance Committee was held on Wed, Oct 4, 2023, to discuss changes to the Municipal Code of the City of Cambridge relative to Chapter 5.50, Cannabis Business Permitting. The Committee approved a motion that the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Law Department, the Finance Department, and any other relevant departments to investigate potential mechanisms to support Cannabis Business in Cambridge, including but not limited to: not collecting the local tax on Cannabis product sales, refunding some of the rent that was paid while awaiting a Special Permit, and limiting the number of stores that are allowed and report back to the City Council by Nov 20, 2023. The related policy order is on this agenda. The Committee voted to send the proposed ordinance language, as amended in Committee to the Full City Council with a favorable recommendation to pass to a second reading. [text of report]
Placed on File, Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0

Committee Report #4. A public meeting of the Cambridge City Council’s Ordinance Committee was held on Tues, Oct 10, 2023. The Committee approved a motion to send the Zoning Ordinance Petition relative to hen keeping to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation to pass to a second reading. [text of report]
Placed on File, Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0

Comments?

A Taxing Situation – October 2, 2023 City Council Meeting and Tax Rate Hearing

Real Estate TaxesAs expected, the property tax bills for owners of one-, two-, and three-family homes is leaping upward this year, and next year and future years are likely to see even more dramatic increases. Shockingly, the rapid expansion of new programs (and more) actually costs money, and there are limits to just how much revenue you can raise by growing more commercial property to cover those costs.

Including the likely ordination at this meeting of the zoning amendment that will allow stratospheric heights along some streets and squares with no meaningful mechanism for public input, here’s a sampler of what’s on deck this week:

TAX RATE HEARING
The Cambridge City Council will conduct a public hearing related to setting the property tax rate classification. Under the laws of the Commonwealth, the City has the option of taxing residential and commercial/industrial property at different tax rates. At this public meeting, the City Council will review tax rates/classifications proposed by the City Manager and the Board of Assessors. The votes taken will result in property tax rates that reflect the City’s property tax levy for Fiscal Year. [City Manager’s Tax Rate Letter]

The bottom line is that: the FY23 Adopted Operating Budget increased by 10.0% ($82.3 million) over the FY23 Adopted Budget, though $24.6 million of that increase represents a shift of funding for the Affordable Housing Trust from the Capital Budget to the Operating Budget. A better accounting therefore is that the FY24 Operating Budget represents an increase of $57.8 million or 7.2% over the FY23 Adopted Budget. The FY24 Budget adopted by the City Council in June 2023 projected a property tax levy increase of $48.8 million, or 9.2%, to $580.3 million in order to fund operating and capital expenditures. With approval of the recommendations in this memo, the actual FY24 tax levy required to support the FY24 Budget is $575,418,489 which is an increase of $43.9 million or 8.3% from FY23. This increase is lower than the estimated increase of 9.2% projected in June 2023 as part of the Adopted Budget, due in large part from higher than projected investment earnings, hotel motel taxes, and building permit revenue.

The property tax levy increase of 8.3% is above the FY23 increase of 7.45%. The property tax levy increase is also above the five-year (FY20-FY24) annual average increase of 7.03%, and the ten-year (FY15-FY24) annual average increase of 5.77%. The FY24 residential tax rate will be $5.92 per thousand dollars of value, subject to Department of Revenue approval. This is an increase of $0.06, or approximately 1% from FY23. The commercial tax rate will be $10.46, which is an increase of $0.08, or 0.7% from FY23. By property class, on average a single-family home will see a 8.41% 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.

FY2024 Taxes

Residential Property Type FY24 Median Tax (incl. CPA Surcharge) Median $ increase
Condominium $1,555 - $ 7
Single-Family $7,674 $ 743
Two-Family $6,713 $ 494
Three-Family $8,246 $ 598

History of changes in residential property taxes

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
FY2024 - $ 7 $ 743 $ 494 $ 598
5 year average - $ 7 $ 480 $ 312 $ 380
10 year average $ 7 $ 306 $ 256 $ 324
15 year average $ 20 $ 268 $ 207 $ 262
number of properties (FY2023) 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 such things as “80% of residential taxpayers will see a reduction, no increase, or only a modest increase.” For owners of single-, two-, and three-family homes, the story is quite different - especially during the last 5 years. Indeed, this year continues the sweet deal for condo owners. This year’s median change for condo owners is a reduction of $7, while it’s increases of $743 for a single-family, $494 for a two-family, and $598 for a three-family. Next year promises to see even greater increases.

Required Votes:
• Transfer of Excess Overlay Balances. [Authorize $2,000,000 in overlay surplus/reserves to be used for reducing the FY24 tax rate.]
Order Adopted 9-0

• Classify property into the five classes allowed, and adopt a minimum residential factor of 65%.
Order Adopted 9-0

• Approve the residential exemption factor of 30% for owner occupied homes.
Order Adopted 9-0


Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to revisions to the Affordable Housing Overlay Petition. [CDD Memo]
Placed on File 9-0Corridors of Destruction

Unfinished Business #3. 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; Amended Sept 18, 2023] [text of First Publication] [AHO-Sept12Edit]
Amended 8-1 (BA,AM,MM,PN,DS,PT,QZ,SS-Yes; DC-No) - further details to follow

Communications & Reports #4. A communication from Councillors Nolan, Carlone, and Toner transmitting alternative language to the Affordable Housing Overlay amendments. [text of communication]
Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #5. A communication from Councillors Nolan, Carlone, and Toner transmitting alternative language to the Affordable Housing Overlay amendments. [text of communication]
Placed on File 9-0

I have stated from the outset that the entire concept of the original Affordable Housing Overlay as well as this next premature amendment was a flawed concept in a number of ways. First, it is based on unrealistic and unsustainable targets for deed-restricted housing units. The cost is not simply the cost of construction. The amount of real estate taxes coming from every such unit is the bare legal minimum (think ~$100 rather than $1000 or $8000 - see above) while the cost of services for each resident is far greater. In other words, each additional deed-restricted unit represents a permanent sizable cost that must be covered either by shifting that burden onto other residential taxpayers or by permitting new commercial construction or both. As one local expert has stated, “Affordable housing makes housing less affordable.” This, of course, does not mean that “affordable housing” should not be built but rather that the actual costs must be understood - and we never hear any of that discussion among city councillors (or candidates).

The second fundamental principle of the AHO has been and continues to be the prohibition of any meaningful public input from residents, including direct abutters.

The important question that should be asked is what the appropriate percentage of deed-restricted units should be. During the Envision Cambridge process, there was a basic acknowledgment of that percentage being in the neighborhood of ~15% of all housing units and that perhaps that should rise somewhat. However, in a poorly attended meeting late in the game, a target percentage of 25% of all new housing units appeared out of nowhere, and it is from that unrealistic figure that claims of our “not meeting our goals” is derived. This is economically infeasible and unsustainable from the perspective of residential property taxation (see above).

The AHO is based on the principle of restricting housing growth in order to force the sale and development of residential housing only toward the so-called nonprofit developers. Specifically, if you own property along some of the proposed “AHO corridors” (see map above) you may need to seek variances for even modest alterations to your property, but a nonprofit developer can snap up the property next door and build a structure more than three times as tall (up to 12 stories on “AHO corridors” and 15 stories in “AHO squares”) with little or no setbacks and not be subject to any of the other restrictions that have been imposed over time on other property owners. This is bad from a planning perspective. It is an assault on urban design. It is economically unsustainable. Nonetheless, this latest AHO amendment will likely have 5 or 6 votes to be ordained based purely on populist politics and a shallow understanding of urban planning and municipal finance.


Unfinished Business #2. 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; further Amended Sept 18, 2023; Eligible to be Ordained – no expiration] [text of proposed amendment]
Ordained 6-3 (BA,AM,MM,DS,QZ,SS-Yes; DC,PN,PT-No)

Applications & Petitions #1. A Zoning Petition has been received from Allene R. Pierson, regarding Cambridge Lodging House Zoning Change to strengthen Cambridge residential housing efforts, mitigate the disruptive impacts of short-term platform-based market rate rentals. [Signed petition] [Lodging House Petition]
Referred to Ordinance Committee & Planning Board 9-0


Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with CDD and the Law Department to review the proposed amendment to BEUDO regarding new buildings, and to propose adjustments, especially with regards to the building permit vs certificate of occupancy question.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to direct CDD to meet with the Universities, large labs, large property developers and anyone with technical expertise regarding the proposed BEUDO amendment to get their input.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

Committee Report #4. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Sept 20, 2023, to discuss potential amendments to the Building Energy Use Ordinance. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0


Order #6. That the City Manager is requested to work with all relevant departments to change the hours of off leash usage at Joan Lorentz Park to 6:00 to 10:00am to allow usage prior to typical work hours.   Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #7. Appointment of Lauren Reznick to the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority for a five-year term.   Councillor Carlone
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #8. Housing contributions from the City’s major institutions.   Councillor Carlone, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #9. That the City Council schedule a roundtable on Mon, Oct 23, 2023, from 3:00pm-5pm to receive an update from the City Manager, relevant departments, and community partners on Central Square.   Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #12. That the City Manager is requested to work with the License Commission and other relevant departments to prepare recommendations on regulations that would ban or limit the sale of nips in Cambridge.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Carlone
Charter Right - Toner

Order #13. That the City Manager is requested to reaffirm the City’s commitment to renovating the schoolhouse at 105 Windsor Street as a top priority following the completion of the Central Square lots study.   Councillor Zondervan, Councillor Nolan
Charter Right - SimmonsPeoples Republic of Cambridge

Committee Report #1. The Civic Unity Committee held a public hearing on Aug 21, 2023 to discuss a proposed ”Cambridge Truth and Reconciliation Taskforce” from local reparations activists. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Ordinance Committee met on Sept 12, 2023, to hold a public hearing on potential amendments to the Municipal Code for the City of Cambridge to Protect Family Inclusion and Relationship Diversity, POR 2023 #97. The Committee voted favorably to send the proposed Ordinance language as amended to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation to Pass to a 2nd Reading. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File; Ordinance Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0

Committee Report #3. A public meeting of the Cambridge City Council’s Health and Environment Committee was held on Tues, Sept 13, 2023. The call of the meeting was to discuss PO23#73. The Committee voted favorably that the City Manager direct relevant departments to work with the Health and Environment and Ordinance Chairs and report back to the City Council no later than the end of October 2023. The Committee also directed the City Manager to work with relevant departments on funding sources to incentivize the transition to electrification of lawn equipment. Note: PO23#163 and PO23#164 were adopted in City Council on Sept 11, 2023. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Comments?

City Council subcommittees for 2022-2023

Committee Members
Ordinance McGovern (Co-Chair), Zondervan (Co-Chair), Azeem, Carlone, Mallon, Nolan, Siddiqui, Simmons, Toner (committee of the whole - mayor ex-officio, quorum 5)
Finance Carlone (Co-Chair), Nolan (Co-Chair), Azeem, Mallon, McGovern, Siddiqui, Simmons, Toner, Zondervan (committee of the whole - mayor ex-officio, quorum 5)
Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Mallon (Chair), Carlone, Nolan, Simmons, Toner (5 members, quorum 3)
Housing Simmons (Chair), Azeem, Carlone, Mallon, McGovern (5 members, quorum 3)
Economic Development and University Relations Toner (Chair), Azeem, Mallon, Nolan, Zondervan (5 members, quorum 3)
Human Services & Veterans McGovern (Chair), Azeem, Mallon, Toner, Zondervan (5 members, quorum 3)
Health & Environment Nolan (Chair), Azeem, Carlone, McGovern, Zondervan (5 members, quorum 3)
Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Art, and Celebrations Carlone (Chair), Mallon, McGovern, Nolan, Zondervan (5 members, quorum 3)
Transportation & Public Utilities Azeem (Chair), McGovern, Nolan, Toner, Zondervan (5 members, quorum 3)
Civic Unity Simmons (Chair), Carlone, Mallon, Toner, Zondervan (5 members, quorum 3)
Public Safety Zondervan (Chair), Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Toner (5 members, quorum 3)

The Mayor shall serve as ex-officio member of all committees of the City Council.

FYI - Current Rules and Goals: Cambridge City Council & Cambridge School Committee

City Council Rules 2020-2021 (as amended Oct 26, 2020)

City Council Rules 2018-2019 (provisionally adopted for 2020-2021 term on Jan 6, 2020)

City Council Rules 2016-2017 (adopted Feb 29, 2016)

City Council Rules 2014-2015 (adopted January 7, 2014, amended Feb 10, 2014 to reflect current Council committees)

City Council Goals - FY2012-2013 (adopted Dec 13, 2011)

City Council Committees (for the current term)


Rules of the School Committee 2020-2021 - Adopted January 6, 2020 (document says 2019-2020)
(Revised January 16, 2018) (Revised March 6, 2018) (Revised June 19, 2018)

Rules of the School Committee 2018-2019 - Adopted January 1, 2018
(Revised January 16, 2018) (Revised March 6, 2018) (Revised June 19, 2018)

School Committee Rules (adopted January 7, 2008)

School Committee Goals (adopted October 7, 2008)


Research Assistants? I don’t think so...

May 2, 2006 – The Cambridge City Council voted 8-1 on May 1 in favor of giving themselves personal “research assistants.” Only Councillor Craig Kelley had the fortitude to raise any questions about the proposal. So it appears the proposal will sail through the Budget Hearings with barely a raised eyebrow. While I have raised the issue of the genesis of this proposal, the question of its merits and its implementation have not been addressed here. So, here are some observations, questions, and suggestions for our elected officials, City administration, and residents to consider:

1. There was a time when our elected officials enlisted citizens to assist them in research matters relating to public policy. Cambridge is perhaps the best city in the United States in which to find experts in almost any matter that the City Council (or School Committee) may need to better understand. There is a wealth of evidence over the last 65 years showing how citizens have worked with elected officials in the development of public policy. If the City Council feels burdened by the research needs of its committees, there is an enormous pool of talent available at no cost. Currently, the City Council makes very little use of this very available resource.

2. There was a time when councillors collaborated much more than they currently do in committee work and in the development of policies. A well-functioning City Council committee should delegate responsibilities so that each member masters certain facets of the tasks at hand and shares this knowledge with the rest of the committee. In effect, councillors serve as staff to each other. I would argue that it is better that elected officials educate themselves.

3. Are these jobs going to be publicly posted with a job description? Who will be doing the actual hiring? If Councillor Smith wants to hire Mr. Jones as personal staff, will the mayor have veto power over the hire? Does the Personnel Department have a role to play here or are these to be political hires? None of these details have been discussed publicly and they are important.

4. If these “research assistants” are to be hired, there should be policies and safeguards to ensure that they are not working on behalf of any councillor’s political campaign. Otherwise, this proposal will have the effect of using taxpayer dollars to support the political campaigns of incumbent councillors. In fact, maybe it’s time to consider a similar disqualification for staff in the Mayor’s Office. A founding principle of Plan E government is the elimination of political patronage in favor of responsible, professional government. Some of us still believe in this ideal. At the very least, strong guidelines should be established for what is and is not permissible.

5. The existence of this proposal within the budget of the Mayor’s Office is very strange indeed since it involves personnel for councillors, not the mayor. Should we not infer from this that the consensus of the councillors is that the City Council staff is not up to the task? If the job of councillor has changed so much, should there not be some discussion of revamping the Office of the City Council to better match the needs of the councillors? Why are these tasks being outsourced?

6. Some councillors have recently stated that the filing of City Council orders requesting information through the City Manager is not enough and that councillors would be better served by having their own staff to get this information. This strikes me as contrary to the intent of the Plan E Charter which dictates that all matters involving City personnel be directed through the Manager. One can easily imagine a scenario where each councillor has his or her personal staff contact City department heads for information rather than filing an Order as a body to get a common response. If the consensus is that the City Manager is being obstructive or extraordinarily slow in responding, shouldn’t the City Council take more forceful action in holding the Manager accountable?

7. If the term “research assistant” is meant to be factual, then perhaps these RAs should be topic-specific so that we can have people who have some background or aptitude for the tasks at hand. If, for example, research in energy-related matters is what is needed, then someone with that knowledge would be ideal. Is any such protocol being discussed to ensure that the councillors and the taxpayers will get the best quality research for their tax dollars? I would hope that matters like scheduling and event planning will be handled by the City Council Office rather than by “research assistants.”

8. Several councillors have complained that e-mail has had a dramatic effect on the responsibilities of a city councillor due to the time consumption associated with responding to these messages. I don’t doubt this. However, there are efficiencies that can make such tasks much easier. For example, if each councillor receives 100 e-mail messages on a particular topic, then rather than making 100 shallow replies, I would advise responding to ALL of the issues of substance raised by residents in a single, comprehensive message sent (using blind-carbon-copy) to all of the people who sent messages. Those of us in academics have been doing this for years. It’s much more effective to craft comprehensive messages sent to the whole class rather than many nearly identical messages sent to individual students. There are MANY ways to be more effective in e-mail communication. Then again, if individual responses are seen as more valuable in securing potential votes in the next election, that’s a choice each councillor must make on his or her own - independent of taxpayer-supported staff.

In summary, I am not questioning whether or not some changes in staffing are warranted. I am, however, asking that any such changes be done in the best interest of taxpayers and that City funds are never used to either directly or indirectly support the reelection efforts of elected officials. - RW, May 3, 2006


Punching Out Your Cake and Having it Too – a chronology of the proposal for personal Council staff
(posted April 28, 2006)

Jan 1998 - The vote for who was to be mayor went on for several weeks as Ken Reeves held out until there were 4 other votes for Katherine Triantafillou, an outcome sincerely supported by at most two councillors (Reeves and Triantafillou). The would-be mayor rounded up her supporters for the coronation. A congratulatory cake was ordered. As the vote occurred and there were momentarily 5 votes on the table for Triantafillou (Born, Davis, Duehay, Reeves, Triantafillou), Councillors Galluccio and Russell changed their votes to Duehay. Councillors Born, Davis, and Duehay then changed their votes to Duehay and Mayor Duehay was elected. Councillor Galluccio was then elected vice-mayor. Meanwhile, in the room next to the Council chamber, Alice Wolf aide and Triantafillou supporter Marjorie Decker exploded in anger and punched out the cake, police were called, and a grudge began that remains to this day.

Feb 1998 - Mayor Duehay made good on the deal by hiring Galluccio campaign worker Terry Smith to work in the Mayor’s Office “to assist the mayor and vice mayor”. This marked the first time (to my knowledge) that any councillor other than the mayor received personal staff (except for a brief experiment with interns some years earlier). Resentment grew among other councillors about the special treatment one councillor received in exchange for delivering the mayor’s job.

1999 - Frank Duehay and Sheila Russell announced they would not seek reelection. Jim Braude, David Maher, and Marjorie Decker were subsequently elected to the City Council as incumbent Katherine Triantafillou was defeated, principally as a result of Marjorie Decker winning her seat.

2000 - After 1½ months without electing a mayor, Anthony Galluccio was able to secure 6 votes to become mayor (Braude, Davis, Galluccio, Maher, Sullivan, Toomey). David Maher was elected vice-mayor. Terry Smith became chief of staff of the Mayor’s Office. David Maher did not request any personal staff. Kathy Born suggested during the Budget hearings that the idea of personal staff for councillors be referred to the Government Operations Committee. Ken Reeves said at this time, “I don’t believe the vice-mayor needs the extra staffing and not us.” Note that this was a reference to the previous administration (Duehay-Galluccio).

Around this time, the Government Operations Committee met to discuss the proposal for personal staff. The estimates given for City Council staff were: (1) $390,250 for a low-level, bare bones proposal; (2) $157,450 for 8 part-time staff with no benefits; (3) $72,300 for one legislative research assistant. Deputy City Manager Rich Rossi said personal staff was tried briefly about 10 years earlier with interns. Michael Sullivan voiced concern about keeping in touch personally with his constituents and wondered how he would find enough things for this person to do. Most of the councillors spoke in support of giving themselves personal staff. Kathy Born said that if she found her job to be too much, she could hire her own staff person, only she would have to pay for it out of after-tax money, unlike an employee of a business. She suggested higher Council pay with the option of paying for a staff person out of this additional pay. The option would remain for a councillor to act as a “full-time councillor” without staff. Jim Braude said that a councillor could lend his or her campaign the money for the staff person.

One week later, the City Manager proposed a 23% pay raise for city councillors and a change in the ordinance to allow for automatic increases so that they would never again have to vote to raise their own pay. The pay raise was approved and the question of personal staff disappeared for the rest of the Council term.

2001 - Kathy Born and Jim Braude chose not to seek reelection. Brian Murphy and Denise Simmons were elected to the City Council.

2002 - Michael Sullivan was elected mayor on Inauguration Day. Henrietta Davis was elected vice-mayor. Unlike the previous term, Henrietta Davis did request and receive personal staff as vice-mayor when Garrett Simonsen, Davis’ election campaign manager, was hired to the Mayor’s Office staff as her assistant. Indications are that he served more than just the vice-mayor.

2004 - Michael Sullivan was again elected mayor, only this time Marjorie Decker was elected vice-mayor. Garrett Simonsen became chief of staff of the Mayor’s Office. Sullivan hired Kristin Franks (who had been Decker’s campaign manager) as “assistant to the mayor and vice-mayor” but the indications were that she was working almost exclusively for Decker. By summer, Franks was gone and Nicole Bukowski, another Decker campaign worker, was hired as exclusive staff to Decker. For the remainder of the Council term, Bukowski waited hand and foot on Decker - and resentment among other councillors grew for the remainder of the Council term.

Late 2005 - Craig Kelley was elected to the City Council and incumbent David Maher was defeated. Speculation immediately began about who would be the next mayor. Some councillors reported that a plan was being discussed to give certain councillors personal staff as part of the vote-trading for electing the mayor.

Early 2006 - Ken Reeves was elected mayor and Tim Toomey vice-mayor. In a surprising turn of events, Bukowski continued to serve out of the Mayor’s Office as personal staff to Councillor Decker - clearly a part of the deal to make Reeves mayor. Rumors circulated that there was a plan to assign some councillors additional committee chairs as justification for getting personal staff. When the committee chairs were announced, Councillor Decker (who, along with Councillor Galluccio, has maintained the worst record of committee attendance during her time on the Council) was surprisingly given four committees to chair. In contrast, Henrietta Davis (who has always been at or near the top in committee attendance) was given only one. This was seen by some as a way to justify Decker keeping her personal aide in exchange for her vote for mayor.

April 2006 - Ken Reeves submitted a budget for the Mayor’s Office that is 54.3% higher than the previous year. The cause for the increase is a proposal for personal staff for all the remaining councillors at a recurring annual cost of about a quarter-million dollars. There was no public indication of any kind that such an extravagant plan was in the works. An order is on the May 1 City Council agenda (after the budget was already submitted on April 24 including the increase) formally calling for the major staff increase. The order is co-sponsored by Reeves, Toomey, Decker, Galluccio, Sullivan, and Davis. It is expected that, like every person hired to date as staff for the vice-mayor (and most of those on the mayor’s staff), all of the new “research assistants” will be affiliated with the election campaigns of the officials they will serve. Curiously, these patronage hires will be occurring at a time when there are fewer major issues before the Council and when an unprecedented number of councillors are either serving in other elected positions or seeking election to other positions now or in the near future. - RW, April 28, 2006

Ref: April 27, 2006 Cambridge Chronicle story on the Council staff proposal     April 27, 2006 Cambridge Chronicle story on the submitted FY07 Budget

Three Rings for the Elven-kings under the sky,
Seven for the Dwarf-lords in their halls of stone,
Nine for Mortal Men doomed to die,
One for the Dark Lord on his dark throne
In the Land of Mordor where the Shadows lie.

One Ring to rule them all,
One Ring to find them,
One Ring to bring them all
and in the darkness bind them
In the Land of Mordor where the Shadows lie.

The nine Nazgûl arose as Sauron’s most powerful servants in the Second Age of Middle-earth. It is said that three of the Nine were originally “Great Lords” of Númenor. They were all powerful mortal Men to whom Sauron each gave nine Rings of Power. These proved to be their undoing:

Those who used the Nine Rings became mighty in their day, kings, sorcerers, and warriors of old. They obtained glory and great wealth, yet it turned to their undoing. They had, as it seemed, unending life, yet life became unendurable to them. They could walk, if they would, unseen by all eyes in this world beneath the sun, and they could see things in worlds invisible to mortal men; but too often they beheld only the phantoms and delusions of Sauron. And one by one, sooner or later, according to their native strength and to the good or evil of their wills in the beginning, they fell under the thralldom of the ring that they bore and of the domination of the One which was Sauron’s. And they became forever invisible save to him that wore the Ruling Ring, and they entered into the realm of shadows. The Nazgûl were they, the Ringwraiths, the Enemy’s most terrible servants; darkness went with them, and they cried with the voices of death” (The Silmarillion: “Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age”, 289).

The corrupting effect of the rings caused their bodily forms to fade over time until they had become wraiths entirely. Given visible form only through their attire, their original form was completely invisible to mortal eyes. The red reflection in their eyes could be plainly distinguished even in daylight, and in a rage they appeared in a hellish fire. They had many weapons, which included long swords of steel and flame, daggers with magical venomous properties and black maces of great strength.