Cambridge public meetings in 2021

Health & Environment Committee - Committee Meeting

The Health & Environment Committee is meeting to discuss proposed amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO). These amendments are part of the City of Cambridge Getting to Net Zero Action Plan.

• Ordinance #2021-26 regarding BEUDO proposed amendments

The Health & Environment Committee discussed proposed amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO) and voted to refer the ordinance to the full city council with no recommendation. The vote was 3-0, with two members absent. The amendments aim to strengthen emissions reduction requirements for large buildings, including a proposed net-zero deadline of 2035 and a $300 per ton fine, but no final decision was made.

• Referred BEUDO amendments to full city council with no recommendation (3-0)
• Discussed proposed amendments including net-zero by 2035 and 20% reduction by 2025
• Heard public comment urging stronger action on building emissions

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee will meet to receive an update on the city's implementation of the HEART proposal. This proposal is part of an alternative public safety response.

• Update on HEART proposal implementation

The Public Safety Committee heard a detailed presentation from HEART and partner organizations about their alternative public safety proposal, including a request for $2 million in startup funding and facilities. The City Manager and Solicitor stated that the City cannot legally provide direct funding for staffing, equipment, or rent under the Anti-Aid Amendment, but could contract for specific services. A proposed policy order to fund HEART was discussed but not voted on; the language was added to the committee report for the next Council term to consider.

• Motion to extend meeting by 15 minutes passed (4-0-1)
• Motion to extend meeting by 5 minutes passed (4-0-1)
• Motion to adjourn passed (4-0-1)
• Policy order on HEART funding discussed but not voted on; language added to committee report

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will conduct public hearings regarding two zoning petitions to amend the Affordable Housing Overlay. These proposals seek to modify yard setback requirements and off-street parking rules.

• Yamin Zoning Petition: Proposal to amend Section 11.207.5.2.3 to require yard setbacks be no less than 50% of Base District formula calculations
• Cushing Zoning Petition: Proposal to amend Section 11.207.6.1 to require off-street parking consistent with the base zoning district
• Adoption of meeting transcripts from 10/5/2021 and 10/19/2021

The Cambridge Planning Board held public hearings on two zoning petitions seeking to amend the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO): one to modify yard setback requirements and one to require off-street parking consistent with base zoning. The Board voted to recommend that the City Council not adopt either petition, with the setback petition failing 7-0-1 and the parking petition failing 8-0. Board members expressed that while the concerns raised were legitimate, it was premature to change the AHO rules before more projects had gone through the design review process.

• Recommended against Yarmin zoning petition to modify AHO setback requirements (7-0-1, Cohen abstaining)
• Recommended against Cushing zoning petition to require AHO off-street parking consistent with base zoning (8-0)
• Approved meeting transcripts for October 5 and October 19, 2021 (8-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is meeting to discuss several funding appropriations and a proposed ordinance to limit campaign donations from individuals seeking city contracts or zoning changes. The body is also reviewing requests for signage and various public safety and health reports.

• Proposed ordinance to limit campaign donations from donors seeking city contracts, special permits, or up-zoning
• Appropriation of $6,665,859 from Free Cash to the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund
• Appropriation of $500,000 from Free Cash for settled or resolved legal cases
• Appropriation of $392,350 and $188,650 for Bluebikes bikeshare equipment and costs
• Request for a 20-25 person Cycling Safety Ordinance Implementation Advisory Committee

The Cambridge City Council adopted a campaign finance reform ordinance (Calendar Item No. 5) that limits campaign contributions from individuals or entities seeking certain city approvals or contracts to $200 per candidate per year. The vote was 7-1 with one present. The council also passed a policy order requesting the City Manager to establish a proof of vaccination requirement for certain indoor activities and establishments, and another requesting an indoor mask mandate in common spaces of all buildings.

• Adopted campaign finance reform ordinance limiting certain donations to $200 (7-1, 1 present)
• Approved policy order requesting proof of vaccination requirement for indoor dining, gyms, and entertainment venues (9-0)
• Approved policy order requesting indoor mask mandate in common spaces of all buildings (9-0)
• Approved $70,000 appropriation for new electric van for Animal Commission (9-0)
• Approved $500,000 appropriation for legal settlements and damages (9-0)
• Approved $6,665,859 transfer to Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund (9-0)
• Approved $392,350 appropriation for Bluebikes bikeshare equipment (9-0)
• Adopted resolution honoring retiring Councillor Timothy Toomey (9-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal will review multiple applications for special permits and variances. These items include requests for building additions, roof decks, signage, and parking reductions.

• 402 Rindge Avenue: Special permit to maintain a telecommunication facility on a building rooftop
• 26 Bellis Circle #26: Special permit for a detached single-family structure addition
• 55 Norfolk Street: Variance for an approximately 385 sq. ft. office building addition
• 462 Cambridge Street: Variance for a mansard roof and first floor infill addition
• 152 Pearl Street: Variance to construct a new 4th floor roof deck with guardrails

Human Services & Veterans Committee - Committee Meeting

The Human Services and Veterans Committee is holding a public hearing. The committee will receive a report from the Department of Human Services Programs regarding changes to after school programs.

• Public hearing on Department of Human Services Programs after school program changes

The Human Services & Veterans Committee held a public hearing to receive a report from the Department of Human Services Programs (DHSP) on changes to after-school programs. DHSP acknowledged mistakes in the enrollment process that caused distress to families, while noting they tripled low-income family participation. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with public comment and discussion.

• Closed public comment (4-0)
• Adjourned hearing (4-0)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding a zoning petition. The proposal concerns off-street parking requirements to reduce the use of on-street parking in the surrounding area.

• Public hearing on Off Street Parking Zoning petition (Ord # 2021-23) submitted by Karen Cushing

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on a petition (Ord #2021-23) to require off-street parking for Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO) projects, matching base zoning requirements. After hearing from the petitioner, city staff, and public comment, the committee voted to refer the petition to the full City Council with a negative recommendation. The vote was unanimous (8-0), with Councillors Simmons and Toomey absent.

• Referred petition to require off-street parking in AHO projects to full council with negative recommendation (8-0)
• Closed public comment at 6:00 PM (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:23 PM (8-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a major amendment to an infill development concept plan and a special permit for a bank relocation. The agenda also includes design review and a use determination request.

• Amendment to Infill Development Concept Plan at 325 Main Street, 290 Binney Street, 135 Broadway, 145 Broadway, 250 Binney Street, and 255 Main Street to increase commercial GFA by 800,000 square feet
• Special permit application for Santander Bank N.A. to relocate a branch at 1290 Massachusetts Avenue
• Design review for 41 Linskey Way
• Use determination request for 20 Child Street

The Planning Board approved a major amendment to the MXD Infill Development Concept Plan for properties including 325 Main Street and 290 Binney Street, allowing for a new Eversource substation and commercial/residential development. The board also approved a design review for a new building at 41 Linskey Way and granted a use determination for a quick-service food establishment at 20 Child Street. A hearing for a bank relocation at 1290 Massachusetts Avenue was continued to a later date.

• Approved major amendment to MXD Infill Development Concept Plan for Boston Properties (7-0)
• Approved special permits for campus bicycle parking plan and green roof flexibility (7-0)
• Approved design review for new building at 41 Linskey Way (7-0)
• Granted use determination for quick-service food establishment at 20 Child Street (7-0)
• Continued hearing for Santander Bank relocation at 1290 Massachusetts Avenue to March 18, 2022 (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved extension of filing deadline for PB#315 decision to January 31 (7-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is meeting to discuss several appointments to city commissions and a funding appropriation for special elections. The body is also considering an ordinance to limit campaign donations from individuals seeking city contracts or financial assistance.

• Appropriation of $64,230 from Free Cash for special state elections in the 1st Suffolk and Middlesex Senate District
• Proposed ordinance to limit campaign donations from donors seeking city contracts, special permits, or up-zoning
• Home Rule Petition to establish a Net Zero emissions requirement for building construction
• Appointments to the Community Benefits Advisory Committee, Human Services Commission, and Human Rights Commission
• Policy Order requesting a comprehensive list of city violence prevention programs on the City website

The Cambridge City Council voted unanimously to adopt a home rule petition requesting state legislative approval to implement a net-zero emissions standard for new building construction, as part of its Net Zero Action Plan. The council also adopted a policy order directing the City Manager to work with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and DFCO West on a spending plan for the anticipated $25 million Green Line Extension (GLX) refund, including possible uses like free bus service and station improvements. All votes were unanimous (9-0).

• Adopted home rule petition for net-zero emissions standard for new buildings (9-0)
• Adopted policy order on GLX refund spending plan and possible relocation (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to create a public list of violence prevention programs (9-0)
• Adopted resolution congratulating Rachel Rawlins on her appointment (9-0)
• Placed communication on pension fund appropriations on file (9-0)
• Placed communication on City Manager search update on file (9-0)
• Adopted committee report with orders A and B (9-0)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding a zoning petition to amend the Affordable Housing Overlay. The meeting will address new standards for yard setbacks as proposed by Michael Jeremy Yamin.

• Public hearing on Yard Setback Zoning Petition (Ord # 2021-22)
• Zoning Petition from Michael Jeremy Yamin regarding yard setbacks
• Communication from Norma Wassel, Representative Walden Neighbors, regarding the AHO Setback Petition
• Communication from Cambridge Housing Authority regarding the proposed yard setback standards

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on the Yard Setback Zoning Petition (Ord #2021-22) but took no action, voting to adjourn without forwarding it to the City Council. The petition would have reintroduced formula-based side yard setback requirements for the Affordable Housing Overlay. Committee members expressed concerns about the petition's citywide impact and preferred to await the Planning Board's review, while some supported the petitioners' goals for the Walden Square development.

• Held Yard Setback Zoning Petition in committee (no vote taken)
• Voted to adjourn at 7:07 PM (8-0)
• Suspended rules to allow Margaret Reuter to speak (8-0)
• Closed public comment (8-0)

Health & Environment Committee - Committee Meeting

The Health & Environment Committee and the Human Services & Veterans Committee are meeting to discuss the redesign of Carl Barron Plaza. The discussion will focus on the needs of the unhoused community and a report on redesign work.

• Redesign of Carl Barron Plaza
• Needs of the unhoused community regarding plaza reconstruction
• Report on redesign work (Awaiting Report Item Number 21-80)

The Health & Environment Committee and Human Services & Veterans Committee met jointly to discuss the redesign of Carl Barron Plaza, focusing on the needs of the unhoused community. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting consisted of a presentation from city staff, public comment, and discussion. The committee heard concerns about outreach, seating, amenities, and management of the plaza, but took no action.

• No formal votes taken; meeting was informational and discussion-only
• Adjourned at 11:47 AM (motion by Councillor Carlone)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit application for a four-story technical office building and parking garage. The board will also review design and extension requests for other local projects.

• 180 Fawcett Street: Special permit for 58,456 sq ft office building and 55-vehicle garage
• MIT SoMa Building 2: Design review and minor amendment
• 330 and 585 Third Street: Extension request

The Cambridge Planning Board voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the special permit application at 180 Fawcett Street, requesting additional information on design, sustainability, and other issues. The Board also voted to continue the design review for MIT's SoMa Building 2, asking for further study on the stair tower and landscape. An extension of time was granted for the special permit case at 330 and 585 Third Street.

• Continued PB#385 for 180 Fawcett St. special permit (8-0)
• Continued design review for MIT SoMa Building 2 (8-0)
• Granted time extension for PB#383 at 330 & 585 Third St. (7-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several grant appropriations for public safety, youth programs, and energy assistance. The body is also considering a request for $250,000 to complete the Sennott Park renovation project.

• Appropriation of $250,000 from Free Cash for the Sennott Park renovation project
• Appropriation of $764,359.00 for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
• Appropriation of $25,000 Shannon Grant for police hot spot patrols and a Teen Public Art Program
• Application for a projecting illuminating sign at 2 Bennett Street
• Proposed ordinance to limit campaign donations from individuals seeking city financial benefit

The City Council voted 7-2 to pass the amended campaign finance ordinance to a second reading. The ordinance limits campaign donations to $200 from individuals and businesses seeking financial benefits from the city, such as special permits or zoning changes. The council also voted to refer the communication to the ordinance and tabled a related home rule petition for further discussion.

• Approved a motion to amend the campaign finance ordinance by substitution with the city solicitor's language (7-0-2).
• Approved amendments to the ordinance, including deleting the word 'any' and correcting a numerical discrepancy (9-0).
• Approved an amendment to delete the phrase 'and all persons who are an affiliate of a business entity' from the ordinance (6-3).
• Passed the amended campaign finance ordinance to a second reading (7-2).
• Voted to refer the city manager's communication on the ordinance to the ordinance (7-0-2).
• Tabled the home rule petition for the campaign finance ordinance for further discussion (8-0-1).
• Approved a $25,000 Shannon Grant appropriation for police and community programs (9-0).
• Approved a $1,300 donation appropriation for rental assistance (9-0).

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee will meet to receive a presentation from Health Resources in Action (HRiA). The session includes a discussion between HRiA and committee members regarding the evaluation.

• Evaluation presentation by Health Resources in Action (HRiA)

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee unanimously approved the minutes from its November 1, 2021 meeting. Members reviewed 2020 and 2021 Emergency Grant data, noting that 28% of 2021 grant reports were not yet received as of December 1, and discussed the HRiA evaluation data presentation. No funding decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and discussion.

• Approved November 1, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Reviewed 2021 Emergency Grant status: 103 of 107 agreements executed, 74 reports received
• Reviewed 2020 Emergency Grant status: 106 agreements executed, 91 reports received
• Discussed HRiA Quarter 2 family-level data memo and evaluation progress

Finance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee will receive an overview and update on funds received from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery (American Rescue Plan Act) Grant. The meeting includes a presentation from City Staff and a memorandum from Mayor Sidduqui regarding these funds.

• Overview of State and Local Fiscal Recovery Grant
• Discussion of next steps in the ARPA funds process

Housing Committee - Committee Meeting

The Housing Committee will hold a public hearing to resume discussion on a September 20, 2021 Policy Order. The body is considering an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance regarding the linkage fee.

• Public hearing on Ordinance #2021-20 to amend section 11.202(b) of Article 11.000 of the Zoning Ordinance regarding the linkage fee

The Housing Committee discussed raising the housing linkage fee and a possible job linkage fee, but a motion to refer Policy Order #5 to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation failed on a 2-3 vote. No final decision was made on the fee increase; the matter will not proceed in the current City Council term. The committee also discussed the need for a trust fund for job linkage fees and the timeline for zoning changes.

• Failed to refer Policy Order #5 (linkage fee increase) to City Council with favorable recommendation (2-3 vote)
• Adjourned the hearing at 3:50 p.m. (5-0 vote)
• Discussed but did not vote on adding a job linkage fee or drafting Home Rule legislation
• No action taken on the proposed $33/sq ft linkage fee increase

City Council - Roundtable/Working Meeting

The City Council and School Committee are holding a joint roundtable meeting. They will discuss the past election, specifically focusing on new practices and polling locations in Cambridge.

• Joint discussion with City Manager and Election Commission regarding past election practices and polling locations

The City Council and School Committee held a joint roundtable to discuss election practices, including the use of schools as polling locations, early voting, and redistricting. No formal votes were taken during the session. The groups heard from the Election Commission, school officials, and members, and discussed forming a working group to address the issue of polling locations.

• No formal votes were taken during the roundtable session.
• Discussed the possibility of forming a working group with members from the City Council, School Committee, and administration to address polling locations.
• Heard a report on early voting numbers: 1,207 voted early in person, 8,615 by mail, and 12,257 at polls on Election Day.
• Discussed the impact of new state legislative district maps, which will require nine sub-precincts in Cambridge.
• Election Commission is accepting public comment on the proposed precinct map until Wednesday, with a goal to vote on a final map by December 8th.
• Agreed to follow up with the state legislature regarding concerns about the redistricting process.
• Discussed the possibility of the Mayor writing a letter to state officials expressing displeasure with the redistricting outcome.
• Adjourned at 7:30 PM by a roll call vote of 8-0 (one absent).

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will review recommendations for in-person early voting and reports on pest control, dog park lighting, and police conduct. The body is also considering appointments to several city committees and boards.

• Authorization of in-person early voting for the December 14, 2021 Special State Primary
• Report on rodent and pest control efforts and potential budget increases
• Report on an incident involving Cambridge Police Officers outside Central Square YMCA on October 17, 2021
• Proposed municipal ordinance to limit campaign donations from donors seeking city contracts or zoning permits
• Appointments to the Transit Advisory, Pedestrian, Bicycle, and Planning Board committees

The Cambridge City Council adopted a policy order urging Harvard University and its property service contractors to offer a fair contract with wage increases to workers represented by 32BJ SEIU. The council also approved a policy order requesting the city manager to work with partners to identify spaces in Central Square for cultural and human service uses. Additionally, the council voted to place on file a report on the October 17th incident involving Cambridge police officers outside the Central Square YWCA.

• Adopted policy order urging Harvard to offer a fair contract with wage increases to 32BJ SEIU workers (unanimous).
• Adopted policy order requesting city staff to work with the CRA and Central Square BID to identify spaces for cultural and human service uses (unanimous).
• Adopted policy order requesting the city manager to work with departments to find suitable practice space for the Cambridge Synchronized Swimming Team (unanimous).
• Placed on file the city manager's report on the October 17th police incident outside the Central Square YWCA (unanimous).
• Approved the city solicitor's response to an open meeting law complaint from Heather Hoffman (unanimous).
• Adopted the amended transfer fee home rule petition as drafted by the city solicitor (unanimous).
• Placed on file the city manager's report on rodent and pest control efforts (unanimous).
• Placed on file the city manager's report on the feasibility of installing lights at all Cambridge dog parks (unanimous).

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to consider several variance and special permit requests. The agenda includes residential additions, a conversion to a three-family dwelling, and commercial modifications.

• Variance for a sign at 675 West Kendall Street
• Variance to convert 123 Hancock Street into a three-family dwelling
• Special permit for Verizon Wireless to modify antennas at 1815 Massachusetts Avenue
• Variance for a 29-unit micro-studio apartment building at 544 Mass Avenue
• Special permit for a veterinary clinic at 321 Alewife Brook Parkway

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee is meeting to receive an update on the implementation of the HEART proposal. This proposal is part of an alternative public safety response for the city.

• Presentation from City Manager Louie DePasquale regarding the HEART proposal

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on a cannabis retail store ownership change and a zoning petition to increase housing affordability. The board will also review design updates for Cambridge Crossing Parcel I-2.

• Special Permit application for Budega, Inc. to modify ownership of a Cannabis Retail Store at 1686 Massachusetts Avenue
• Zoning petition by Francis Donovan to amend Articles 4.000, 5.000, 6.000, and 11.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance
• Design update for Cambridge Crossing Parcel I-2 to address new energy codes
• BZA case BZA-150580 regarding a special permit to modify a mobile communications facility at 1815 Massachusetts Avenue

The Cambridge Planning Board unanimously approved an amendment to the special permit for the cannabis retail store at 1686 Massachusetts Avenue, changing the ownership structure and removing the Economic Empowerment applicant designation. The board voted 8-1 to forward an unfavorable recommendation on the Francis Donovan zoning petition to the City Council, supporting its goals but not the petition as written. The board also approved design changes to the Cambridge Crossing Parcel I2 retail buildings to comply with the new energy code, and forwarded comments on a BZA case for antennas at 1815 Massachusetts Avenue.

• Approved amendment to cannabis retail special permit at 1686 Massachusetts Ave (9-0)
• Voted to forward unfavorable recommendation on Francis Donovan zoning petition (8-1)
• Approved design changes to Cambridge Crossing Parcel I2 retail buildings (8-0, 1 absent)
• Forwarded comments to BZA on antenna modifications at 1815 Massachusetts Ave (7-0, 2 absent)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a zoning petition submitted by Francis Donovan and others. The petition concerns the Advancing Housing Affordability (AHA) initiative.

• Public hearing on Ordinance #2021-17: Advancing Housing Affordability (AHA) Zoning Petition by Francis Donovan, et al

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on the Advancing Housing Affordability (AHA) Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-17) by Francis Donovan, et al. The petition proposes three parts: allowing additional units within existing single- and two-family homes, requiring permeable paving for new off-street parking, and creating an area-wide plan for large employers to house 85% of their employees by 2040. After hearing from petitioners, city staff, and public comment, the committee voted to keep the petition in committee and passed a motion requesting the City Manager to instruct the Community Development Department to work with the Planning Board to develop concepts and principles to eliminate single-family and two-family only zones in Cambridge, reporting back as soon as practicable.

• Kept AHA Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-17) in committee
• Approved motion to request City Manager to instruct CDD to work with Planning Board on concepts to eliminate single-family and two-family only zones (6-0, 3 absent)
• Approved motion to extend meeting by 15 minutes (4-2, 3 absent)
• Approved motion to suspend rules to allow an additional public speaker (7-0, 2 absent)
• Approved motion to end public comment (7-0, 2 absent)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several funding appropriations, including grants for nursing assistant training and public works. The body will also discuss zoning amendments for Alewife Overlay Districts and bike lane improvements on Upper Mass Ave.

• Appropriation of $400,000 from MassDOT for the Huron Avenue (Glacken Field to Fresh Pond Parkway) project
• Appropriation of $117,990 grant for two Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) training programs
• Transfer of $175,000 for Public Works personnel medical bills and settlements
• Proposed amendment to Alewife Overlay Districts 1-6 regarding temporarily prohibited uses
• Appropriation of $143,333.33 in Comcast license renewal fees for local cable television stations

The City Council voted to adopt a policy order requesting a temporary moratorium on certain development in the Alewife Quadrangle until zoning is updated or the end of 2023, referring it to the Planning Board and Ordinance Committee. The Council also adopted a policy order requesting a report on the Upper Massachusetts Avenue bike lane project, which passed 5-4. A proposal to name the new Danehy Park playground after City Manager Louis A. DePasquale was adopted 8-1, with one abstention.

• Adopted Alewife zoning moratorium policy order, referred to Planning Board and Ordinance Committee (7-2)
• Adopted policy order for Upper Mass. Ave. bike lane report (5-4)
• Adopted order to name Danehy Park playground the Louis A. DePasquale Universal Design Playground (8-1)
• Adopted $400,000 MassDOT Complete Streets grant for Huron Avenue project
• Adopted $117,990 grant for Certified Nursing Assistant training programs
• Adopted $175,000 transfer for Public Works injury settlements
• Adopted $143,333.33 in Comcast fees for cable TV stations
• Adopted policy order to establish a working committee for naming city parks, buildings, and street corners

Housing Committee - Committee Meeting

The Housing Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss a September 20, 2021 Policy Order. The order proposes amending the Zoning Ordinance to potentially raise the linkage fee.

• Public hearing on September 20, 2021 Policy Order regarding linkage fee increases

The Housing Committee held a public hearing on November 10, 2021, to discuss raising the affordable housing linkage fee, but took no final action. A motion to forward a favorable recommendation to increase the fee to $33.34/sq ft failed (2-2-1). The committee voted to recess the hearing and will reconvene to address outstanding questions.

• Motion to close public comment carried (3-1)
• Motion to forward favorable recommendation to increase linkage fee to $33.34/sq ft failed (2-2)
• Motion to recess hearing carried (4-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is conducting an advisory design review for a proposal by the Cambridge Affordable Housing Corporation to revitalize Jefferson Park. The project involves constructing seven buildings to provide 278 affordable apartments.

• Proposal for 278 affordable apartments across 7 buildings (379,634 sq ft GFA)
• Project site includes Jackson Circle, Jackson Place, and Rindge Avenue
• Plan includes 135 off-street parking spaces and 292 bicycle parking spaces
• BZA case BZA-148819: Variance for sign height and location at 675 West Kendall Street
• BZA case BZA-149683: Variance for additions and special permit for windows at 2 Frost Street

The Planning Board held the first of two advisory design review sessions for the Jefferson Park revitalization, a 278-unit affordable housing project under the Affordable Housing Overlay. The Board did not approve or deny the project but provided extensive comments on design, open space, and tree preservation, and voted unanimously to submit a report with its comments to the developer. The Board also approved an extension for a special permit case and voted to send negative recommendations to the Board of Zoning Appeals on two cases.

• Concluded advisory design review for Jefferson Park AHO project, submitted comments to developer (8-0)
• Approved extension of time for PB#381 special permit at 544-550 Mass Ave to Feb 28, 2022 (8-0)
• Voted negative recommendation to BZA for rooftop sign at 675 West Kendall Street (8-0)
• Voted recommendation to BZA for 2 Frost Street addition, expressing concern about design but support for family's need (8-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for Sept 21 and 28, 2021 (8-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is meeting to discuss a municipal ordinance that would limit campaign donations from individuals seeking city contracts, special permits, or financial assistance. The body will also review appointments to the Council on Aging and Biosafety Committee.

• Ordinance #2020-27 to limit campaign donations from donors seeking city contracts, special permits, or financial assistance
• Application for a projecting blade sign and four awnings at 822 Somerville Avenue
• Policy Order to name the new Universal Design Playground in Danehy Park the Louis A. DePasquale Universal Design Playground
• Proposed amendment to Alewife Overlay Districts 1-6 of the Zoning Ordinance regarding temporarily prohibited uses
• Request for a plan to install fully accessible equipment in every city playground

The Cambridge City Council voted to table the proposed campaign finance ordinance and a related home rule petition, pending a legal opinion from the city solicitor. The council also referred the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO) amendments to the Health and Environment Committee for further discussion. A policy order requesting a report on the Mass Ave bike lane project was amended and then tabled via charter right.

• Tabled campaign finance ordinance and home rule petition (8-2, 2 present)
• Adopted amendments to campaign finance ordinance as recommended by law dept (7-2, 2 present)
• Referred BEUDO amendments to Health and Environment Committee (unanimous)
• Adopted policy order requesting legal opinion on campaign finance ordinance (9-0)
• Approved MIT Visual Arts Center banner application (9-0)
• Ordained fuel dispensing warning label ordinance (9-0)
• Adopted policy order for accessible playground equipment (9-0)
• Adopted policy order for senior scam prevention training (9-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to consider several special permits and variances. These include requests for telecommunications equipment, business operations, and residential modifications.

• Special permit for Verizon Wireless to modify rooftop antennas at 1350 Massachusetts Avenue
• Special permit to operate a veterinary clinic at 321 Alewife Brook Parkway
• Special permit to reduce required parking at 700 Huron Avenue by converting garage space to a terrace
• Variance for MIT to increase gross floor area for a scientific research building at 600 Main Street
• Variance to convert a hotel swimming pool area into eight hotel rooms at 5 Bennett Street

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee approved minutes from August 9, 2021, and reviewed an evaluation status update from HRiA. Members discussed partnership check-ins, noting challenges from COVID-19 and a shift from economic mobility to family stability. They considered whether to treat Year 1 as a wash, potential Year 4 funding, and possible changes to the evaluation approach. No formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved minutes from August 9, 2021 (unanimous)
• Discussed Year 4 funding potential for partnerships
• Considered whether to treat Year 1 as a wash due to COVID-19
• Explored rethinking HRiA evaluation tools and expectations

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will review a grant for fire department vehicles and an update on COVID-19. The body is also considering requests for a youth employment pilot and fossil fuel divestment from MIT.

• Appropriation of $187,500 state grant for quick response/safety Hazmat vehicles
• Application from MIT Visual Arts Center for temporary banners on Ames Street and Broadway
• Proposed pilot Winter Youth Employment Program
• Proposed support for MIT Divest’s campaign to divest endowment from fossil fuel industry
• Request to amend the Green Fleet Policy

The Cambridge City Council unanimously adopted a resolution urging MIT to divest its endowment from fossil fuels, with the entire council added as co-sponsors. The council also approved a pilot Winter Youth Employment Program, placed the COVID-19 update on file, and referred a proposed amendment to the fuel warning label ordinance to unfinished business. A banner application for MIT's List Visual Arts Center was chartered right and deferred to the next meeting.

• Adopted resolution urging MIT to divest from fossil fuels (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to establish a pilot Winter Youth Employment Program (9-0)
• Placed COVID-19 update on file (9-0)
• Referred fuel warning label ordinance amendment to unfinished business (9-0)
• Chartered right MIT Visual Arts Center banner application, deferring to next meeting
• Amended Committee Report #2 to change deadline for building energy disclosure amendments to November 8 (9-0)
• Adopted 5 resolutions and 1 late resolution (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to include Green Fleet Policy amendment in Climate Crisis Working Group report (9-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit for a cannabis retail store. The board will also conduct a design review for a proposed affordable housing project.

• Public hearing for Western Front, LLC to convert 98 Winthrop Street into a cannabis retail store
• Design review for a six-story affordable housing project at 52 New Street with 107 apartments
• Proposal for 3,000 square feet of commercial space at 52 New Street
• Appointment of a representative to the CRA Design Review Committee

The Cambridge Planning Board voted 7-0 to grant a special permit to Western Front, LLC for a cannabis retail store at 98 Winthrop Street, with conditions including Traffic, Parking and Transportation recommendations and a requirement that any future home delivery service be subject to Board approval. The Board also held an advisory design review for the 52 New Street Affordable Housing Overlay project, providing comments to the developer, and appointed Louis Bacci to the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Design Review Committee.

• Granted special permit for cannabis retail store at 98 Winthrop Street (7-0)
• Included conditions: TP&T recommendations and Board approval for any future home delivery
• Concluded advisory design review for 52 New Street AHO project; staff to submit report with comments
• Appointed Louis Bacci to CRA Design Review Committee (unanimous)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing appropriations for public safety infrastructure and youth programming. The body is also discussing various transportation requests and the redesign of Carl Baron Plaza.

• Appropriation of $745,000 from Free Cash for radio system site maintenance and infrastructure
• Appropriation of $180,500 from Free Cash for Equity Roadmap’s Friday Night Hype program
• Reappointment of Kathryn Hess, David Lyons, and Elysse Magnotto-Cleary to the Conservation Commission
• Public hearing on Carl Baron Plaza Redesign
• Proposed amendment to Article 22 of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Emissions Accounting

The Cambridge City Council adopted Policy Order #4 as amended, requesting the City Manager to report back within two weeks on all work done on the Carl Barron Plaza redesign proposal and all feedback from the community, including the unhoused community, in conjunction with a petition. The council also approved a $180,500 appropriation from Free Cash to support the expansion of Equity Roadmap's Friday Night Hype program, and a $745,000 appropriation for emergency communications infrastructure. Several other policy orders and resolutions were adopted, including support for the Debt-Free Public Higher Education Act and a request for real-time reporting of pedestrian and cyclist accidents.

• Adopted Policy Order #4 as amended, requesting a report on Carl Barron Plaza redesign and community feedback within two weeks (7-2)
• Approved $180,500 appropriation from Free Cash for Friday Night Hype program expansion (9-0)
• Approved $745,000 appropriation from Free Cash for emergency communications infrastructure (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order #1, requesting real-time reporting of pedestrian and cyclist accidents (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order #2 as amended, directing a long-term strategy for parking issues near Mt. Auburn Street (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order #7, supporting the Debt-Free Public Higher Education Act (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order #8, supporting safety improvements on the Harvard Bridge (9-0)
• Adopted late resolution regarding Herter Community Garden, urging DCR to reject relocation plan (9-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is holding a virtual public meeting to discuss several zoning variances and special permits. The agenda includes requests for residential modifications, hotel room conversions, and updates to telecommunications facilities.

• Variance for 5 Bennett Street to convert a closed hotel swimming pool area into eight hotel rooms
• Special permit for 198 Broadway to modify a rooftop mobile communications facility to a total of 14 antennas
• Special permit for 11 Berkeley Street to convert a carriage house living area into an accessory apartment
• Special permit for 700-704 Huron Avenue to relocate and replace antennas and fiberglass enclosures
• Variance for 150 CambridgePark Drive to construct a new freight elevator shaft and expanded loading dock

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is holding a hearing regarding an ordinance amendment to reduce or limit campaign donations. The proposal targets donors seeking city contracts, special permits, up-zoning, real estate acquisitions, or financial assistance.

• Hearing on ordinance to limit campaign donations from individuals seeking city contracts, special permits, up-zoning, real estate, or financial assistance

The Ordinance Committee voted to approve amendments to the campaign donation ordinance and forward it to the full city council with a favorable recommendation. The committee also voted to refer a Home Rule petition to the full council, which would authorize the ordinance to better withstand legal challenges. The meeting included discussion on excluding unions from the ordinance's effect and a motion to suspend rules to record a prior vote.

• Approved law department amendments to campaign donation ordinance (7-0)
• Forwarded amended ordinance to full city council with favorable recommendation (7-0)
• Referred Home Rule petition to full city council with favorable recommendation (7-0)
• Suspended rules to record Councillor McGovern's 'yes' on prior motion (7-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a PUD Special Permit application by BMR – Third LLC. The proposal involves constructing a 500,000 square foot building featuring laboratory, office, and art performance spaces. The board will also review a variance request for 600 Main Street.

• PUD Special Permit for 16-story mixed-use building at 330 and 585 Third Street (500,000 sq ft)
• Proposed 300-seat theater and 10,000 sq ft indoor public space at 585 Third Street
• BZA-145977: Variance request for 600 Main Street to increase allowed gross floor area for landscaped areas
• Reduction of Green Roofs requirement for the 585 Third Street project
• Adoption of meeting transcripts from 8/31/2021 and 9/14/2021

The Cambridge Planning Board held a public hearing and unanimously approved a preliminary determination for the PUD special permit application by BMR-Third LLC for a 16-story mixed-use office and laboratory building with an Arts and Culture Center at 330 and 585 Third Street. The board also unanimously approved meeting minutes and voted to send a positive recommendation to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a variance request at 600 Main Street.

• Approved preliminary determination for 585 Third Street PUD (9-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for August 31 and September 14, 2021 (9-0)
• Approved positive recommendation to BZA for 600 Main Street variance (9-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several funding requests from the City Manager, including appropriations for public safety equipment and election costs. The body will also consider zoning petitions and various policy orders regarding city infrastructure and resident services.

• Appropriation of $1,500,000 for two 1250GPM Fire Pumpers
• Appropriation of $170,975 for municipal election vote-by-mail and early voting costs
• Appropriation of $100,000 for 25 mobile radios for Public Works vehicles
• Appropriation of $32,000 for City Warming Center repairs
• Zoning petitions regarding yard setbacks (APP 2021 #43) and off-street parking (APP 2021 #44)

The Cambridge City Council held a regular meeting on October 18, 2021. The most substantive action was referring two zoning petitions related to the Affordable Housing Overlay to the Planning Board and Ordinance Committee for a hearing and report. The vote was 7 in favor, 1 against (Councillor Zondervan), and 1 absent (Councillor Toomey). The council also approved several appropriations, including $1.5 million for two new fire pumpers and $100,000 for mobile radios, and adopted numerous policy orders and resolutions.

• Referred zoning petitions on yard setbacks and off-street parking to Planning Board (7-1-1)
• Approved $1.5M for two fire pumpers (9-0)
• Approved $100,000 for 25 mobile radios for Public Works (9-0)
• Approved $170,975 for election costs (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to explore purchasing property from Lesley University (9-0)
• Adopted policy order supporting Eversource geothermal pilot in Cambridge (9-0)
• Adopted policy order supporting Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (8-1)
• Adopted policy order to investigate police incident in Central Square (9-0)

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee is meeting to receive testimony from outside experts. The discussion focuses on specific details for implementing a public safety response by the HEART team.

• Expert testimony regarding HEART team public safety response implementation

The Cambridge Public Safety Committee met to hear from outside experts and community members about the proposed HEART alternative public safety program. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational, with presentations from CAHOOTS and Urban Strategies Council, and public comment urging full funding for HEART. A follow-up meeting with the City is scheduled for November 17.

• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will conduct a public hearing. The discussion focuses on the long-term plan for school buildings, including project updates and enrollment projections.

• Public hearing on long-term school building plans
• Review of systemwide status of school plans
• Update on current school projects
• Discussion of future school relocations
• Review of enrollment change projections

The committee held a public hearing to discuss the long-term plan for school buildings, including updates on the Tobin School project and a planned feasibility study of all school buildings. No formal votes were taken; the hearing was informational, with officials committing to complete the study in about a year and provide an updated enrollment report.

• Held public hearing on long-term school buildings plan (no vote)
• Discussed $250M Tobin School project and its bonding schedule
• Planned feasibility study of all school buildings, expected in ~1 year
• Committed to providing updated enrollment report

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to consider variances and special permits for several properties. Key discussions include building height adjustments for window wells, residential additions, and a commercial use conversion.

• 5 Sacramento Street: Special permit to convert a health clinic to institutional housing
• 55 Raymond Street: Variance to construct a single-family home with an accessory apartment
• 621 Cambridge Street: Special permit to convert retail/manufacturing to office, R&D, and laboratory use
• 107 First Street: Variance to install two 140 sq. ft. mesh banners
• 14 Bigelow Street: Variance for a 2-story rear addition and special permit for basement GFA exemption

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is holding a continued public hearing regarding a special permit for a 46-unit residential addition at 600 Massachusetts Avenue. The board is also conducting a design review and considering a variance for a freight elevator and loading dock at 150 Cambridgepark Drive.

• Special permit application for 46 residential units at 600 Massachusetts Avenue (79,203 GSF)
• Design review for 150 Cambridgepark Drive
• Variance request for 150 Cambridgepark Drive to construct a new freight elevator shaft and expanded loading dock
• Adoption of Planning Board meeting transcripts from August 17, 2021

The Cambridge Planning Board approved a special permit for a 46-unit residential addition to the existing commercial building at 600 Massachusetts Ave, with a 5-1 vote. The project includes a $75,000 transportation mitigation payment and several zoning reliefs, including reduced parking and green roof requirements. The Board also approved design changes and recommended approval of a variance for a new elevator shaft at 150 Cambridgepark Drive.

• Approved special permits for 46-unit addition at 600 Massachusetts Ave (5-1)
• Approved $75,000 transportation mitigation payment as condition
• Approved design changes for exterior alterations at 150 Cambridgepark Drive (7-0-1)
• Recommended approval of BZA variance for new elevator shaft at 150 Cambridgepark Drive (7-0-1)
• Approved meeting minutes from August 17, 2021 (unanimous)
• Extended decision deadline for 600 Massachusetts Ave to November 30 (unanimous)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will hold a public meeting to review proposed property tax rates and classifications for Fiscal Year 2022. The body will vote on rates for residential and commercial/industrial properties, including the residential exemption.

• Public meeting on FY2022 property tax rate classification
• Application for MIT Visual Arts Center temporary banners on Ames Street, Memorial Drive to Main Street
• Proposed recruitment and leadership plan for Black, Indigenous, and people of color in municipal government
• Request for a Language Access Plan in conjunction with Cambridge Public Schools
• Request for a plan to expand out-of-school time slots for families

The Cambridge City Council held a public hearing and voted to set the FY22 property tax rate, including using $22.5 million in free cash and $2.5 million in overlay surplus to reduce the tax levy. The council also approved a 30% residential exemption for owner-occupied homes and increased exemptions for elderly, blind, veteran, and surviving spouse taxpayers. The votes were 7-2 for the free cash and overlay surplus use, with Councillors Sobrinho-Wheeler and Zondervan voting no, and 9-0 for the other tax rate items.

• Authorized $22.5M in free cash to reduce FY22 tax rate (7-2)
• Authorized $2.5M in overlay surplus to reduce FY22 tax rate (7-2)
• Approved $9.5M from debt stabilization fund for FY22 budget (8-1)
• Adopted minimum residential factor of 62.93% (9-0)
• Approved 30% residential exemption for owner-occupied homes (9-0)
• Doubled statutory exemptions for elderly, blind, veterans, and surviving spouses (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order for a Language Access Plan (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order to re-establish Community School Neighborhood Councils (9-0)

City Council - Public Hearing

The City Council will review property tax rates and classifications proposed by the City Manager and the Board of Assessors. The meeting will determine the tax rates for Fiscal Year 2022 and the granting of the residential exemption.

• Review of residential and commercial/industrial property tax rates
• Determination of Fiscal Year 2022 property tax levy
• Granting of the residential exemption

The Cambridge City Council held a public hearing on the FY2022 property tax rate classification and adopted eleven orders related to the tax rates, including the residential exemption, as proposed by the City Manager and Board of Assessors. All nine council members voted in favor, with no opposition. The orders will be sent to the Massachusetts Department of Revenue for approval.

• Adopted 11 orders on FY2022 tax rate classification (9-0)
• Approved residential exemption as part of tax classification
• Approved different tax rates for residential and commercial/industrial property

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to discuss a citizen's petition from Loren Crowe. The petition requests that the City Council ordain language regarding the creation and operation of Neighborhood Conservation Districts in the city.

• Citizen's petition from Loren Crowe regarding Neighborhood Conservation Districts
• Communication from Heather Hoffman opposing the proposal
• Communication from Historical Commission Executive Director Charles Sullivan regarding amendments to Ch. 2.78, Article III

The Ordinance Committee met to discuss a citizen's petition to amend the Neighborhood Conservation District (NCD) ordinance. After hearing presentations from petitioners, City Manager James Sullivan, and over 30 public commenters, the committee voted to recess the meeting to a future date without taking action on the petition. The committee will seek legal clarification on whether the petition is properly before them and will ask both sides to identify areas of commonality before reconvening.

• Motion to allow non-registered Zoom commenters to speak passed (7-0, 2 absent)
• Motion to extend meeting to 8:00 p.m. passed (8-0, 1 absent)
• Motion to recess to a future date passed (9-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board and CRA Board are holding a joint public hearing regarding an amendment to the Infill Development Concept Plan by Boston Properties Limited Partnership. The proposal involves increasing commercial space and modifying residential and parking configurations across several sites.

• Increase commercial Gross Floor Area by 800,000 square feet via two new building sites
• Construction of a below-grade electrical transformer substation for a public utility company
• Demolition of an above-grade parking garage (1,170 spaces) and construction of 1,558 below-grade spaces
• Proposed residential building at 135 Broadway with up to 465 units, including 20% affordable housing
• Requests for reductions in bicycle parking and green roof requirements

The Cambridge Planning Board held a joint public hearing with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority on PB-315, a proposal by Boston Properties to amend the MXD Infill Development Concept Plan to accommodate an underground Eversource substation and add commercial space. The Board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to a future date, with no decision made on the amendment. Discussion focused on design concerns including open space, greenery, bike valet parking, and the substation's ventilation structures.

• Continued PB-315 hearing to a future date (8-0)
• CRA took no action; will continue its review separately

City Council - Special Meeting

The City Council will hold a special meeting to receive a presentation from young civic designers. The presentation concerns potential revisions to the representation found in the Ackermann Room.

• Presentation by young civic designers regarding Ackermann Room representation

The City Council held a special meeting to receive a presentation from youth civic designers proposing changes to the Ackermann Room in City Hall. The proposal includes replacing portraits of white men with diverse figures, adding QR codes and a touchscreen for accessibility, and renaming the space. No formal action was taken; the council heard the presentation and adjourned.

• Received presentation from youth civic designers on Ackermann Room redesign
• Adjourned special meeting (7-0, 2 absent)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will review requests to appropriate federal HUD grants for fair housing outreach and staff salaries. The body is also considering a zoning amendment regarding post-operative care for dogs and various policy orders.

• Appropriation of $8,000 HUD Partnership Grant for fair-housing outreach
• Appropriation of $39,534 HUD Fair Housing Assistance Program Grant for CHRC staff
• Zoning Ordinance amendment to allow post-operative care for dogs (Ordinance #2021-16)
• Request for City Manager to inquire about purchasing 689 Massachusetts Avenue
• Curb cut application for 851 Cambridge Street

The Council adopted a policy order directing the City Manager to have the Department of Human Service Programs issue a report on specific changes to after-school programming this year, including communication and equity issues. The Council also approved a zoning amendment allowing post-operative care for dogs, appropriated HUD grants for fair housing outreach, and adopted resolutions honoring community members.

• Adopted policy order for DHSP report on after-school program changes (9-0)
• Ordained zoning amendment allowing post-operative care for dogs (9-0)
• Approved $8,000 HUD Partnership Grant for fair housing outreach (9-0)
• Approved $39,534 HUD Fair Housing Assistance Program Grant (9-0)
• Adopted resolution thanking Michael Monestime for Central Square BID work (9-0)
• Adopted resolution on National Diaper Need Awareness Week (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to inquire about purchasing 689 Massachusetts Avenue (9-0)
• Adopted policy order condemning treatment of Haitian immigrants in Texas (9-0)

Housing Committee - Committee Meeting

The Housing Committee is meeting to discuss the Condo Conversion Ordinance. The committee will review a presentation from Ellen Shachter of the Somerville Office of Housing Stability regarding Somerville's policy and experience with condominium conversion.

• Discussion of the Condo Conversion Ordinance
• Presentation from Somerville Office of Housing Stability on condominium conversion policy

The Housing Committee voted 4-0 to forward a proposed condominium conversion ordinance to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The committee heard presentations from City staff and Somerville officials on conversion policies and tenant displacement. The ordinance would apply to buildings with 4 or more units, with a possible future expansion to smaller buildings if state approval is obtained.

• Forwarded condominium conversion ordinance to City Council with favorable recommendation (4-0)
• Heard presentations from City staff on conversion data and policy considerations
• Heard presentation from Somerville's Office of Housing Stability on their conversion ordinance experience

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is holding a virtual public meeting to consider several special permits and variances. The requests include operating fast-order food establishments and making structural modifications to residential properties.

• Special Permit for a boba shop and snacks at 1776 Mass Avenue
• Special Permit for an ice cream establishment at 36 White Street
• Special Permit for a second curb cut at 318 Concord Avenue
• Variance for a mud room addition at 6 Verdun Street
• Special Permit to convert a porch to a living room and expand a bedroom at 1 Gladstone Street #2

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to continue a hearing regarding an amendment to Article 22 of the Zoning Ordinance. The body will also review communications regarding the NZAP 5-Year Review and a GND Zoning Petition.

• Hearing on Ordinance #2021-13 to add section 22.24.4 (Emissions Accounting) to Article 22 of the Zoning Ordinance
• Presentation on NZAP 5-Year Review from Sustainability Planner Seth Federspiel
• GND Zoning Petition presentation from Councillor Zondervan

The Ordinance Committee continued its hearing on the proposed amendment to Article 22 of the Zoning Ordinance (Ord #2021-13) regarding emissions accounting. No final decision was made on the amendment. The committee voted to request a memorandum from the law department to clarify which parts of the petition can be regulated through zoning and how a jobs linkage fee higher than $2 could be assessed. The meeting was extended and then adjourned.

• Closed public comment on the emissions accounting petition.
• Approved a motion to suspend rules to extend the meeting to 6 PM.
• Approved Vice Mayor Mallon's motion, as amended, requesting the city manager to instruct the law department to draft a memorandum on zoning-appropriate activities in the petition and implementation of remaining components, including a jobs linkage fee higher than $2.
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:45 PM.

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit for a ground-floor restaurant at 10 Wilson Road. The board will also discuss an extension request for 1290 Massachusetts Avenue and a minor amendment for the Cambridge Crossing PUD.

• Public hearing: Special Permit for a restaurant at 10 Wilson Road (PB-382)
• Extension request for 1290 Massachusetts Avenue (PB-378)
• Minor Amendment for Cambridge Crossing PUD Special Permit (PB-179)
• Proposed pedestrian bridges between Building G and Building H at Cambridge Crossing

The Cambridge Planning Board granted a special permit for a restaurant at 10 Wilson Road, allowing the existing Kendall Kitchen café to operate as a public use. The board also approved an extension for the 1290 Massachusetts Avenue bank application and continued the Cambridge Crossing PUD minor amendment to allow for redesign of proposed pedestrian bridges.

• Granted special permit for restaurant at 10 Wilson Road (7-0)
• Approved extension for PB-378 bank application at 1290 Massachusetts Avenue to December 17, 2021 (7-0)
• Continued PB-179 Cambridge Crossing PUD minor amendment for bridge redesign (8-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several appropriation requests from the City Manager, including funds for transportation and park upkeep. The body will also consider a request for a fire cadet program and various policy orders regarding housing and public health.

• Appropriation of $199,736.56 from MassDOT for two new Bluebikes stations and a curb extension
• Appropriation of $5,000 donation from Stonyfield Farms, Inc. for natural turf management in parks
• Request for approval of a Home Rule Petition for a fire cadet program
• Curb cut application for 851 Cambridge Street
• Proposed report on LGBTQ+-Friendly Housing efforts over the past decade

The City Council approved the Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding recommendations, allocating over $8 million to the Affordable Housing Trust and smaller amounts to historic preservation, open space, and park projects. The Council also adopted policy orders on LGBTQ+ housing, mask mandate metrics, and linkage fees, and referred the linkage fee increase to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board.

• Approved $8M+ CPA funds to Affordable Housing Trust (8-1, one absent)
• Approved $1M+ for historic preservation, including $520K for Lombardi Building roof (9-0)
• Approved $600K for historic preservation grants (9-0)
• Approved $1M+ for Raymond Street Cochran Park design and partial construction (9-0)
• Approved $199,736.56 MassDOT grant for two new Bluebikes stations (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to study LGBTQ+-friendly housing (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to report on mask mandate metrics (9-0)
• Referred linkage fee increase to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board (9-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is considering a special permit application by Bhari Inc. to convert part of an existing building into a retail cannabis store. The proposal includes changes to parking, bicycle racks, and customer waiting areas.

• Special Permit for 45-51 New Street retail cannabis store conversion
• Reduction of on-site parking to 4 spaces
• Increase of exterior bicycle racks from 8 to 12

The Cambridge Planning Board voted 6-0 to grant a special permit to BHARI INC. to convert part of an existing building at 45-51 New Street into a cannabis retail store. The permit includes conditions from the Traffic, Parking and Transportation and Community Development Departments, including a prohibition on home delivery and a traffic mitigation payment of $35,000 if the applicant demonstrates Priority A status, or $70,000 otherwise. The Board also voted 6-0 to extend the deadline for filing the decision to October 29, 2021.

• Approved special permit for cannabis retail store at 45-51 New Street (6-0)
• Included condition prohibiting offsite home delivery from the location
• Set traffic mitigation payment at $35,000 for Priority A applicants, $70,000 otherwise
• Extended decision filing deadline to October 29, 2021 (6-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will review recommendations for in-person early voting and the relocation of polling sites for the November 2, 2021 Municipal Election. The body will also consider several grant appropriations for public safety, housing, and human services.

• Authorization of in-person early voting and relocation of polling sites for the Nov. 2 Municipal Election
• Appropriation of $2,024,011 HUD HOPWA grant for assisted living and supportive housing services
• Appropriation of $268,820 Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness Action Grant for climate-driven heat resilience
• Appropriation of $127,597 State 911 Department Training grant for Emergency Communications personnel
• Planning Board reports on Article 22.000 Emissions Accounting and Post-Operative Animal Care zoning petitions

The City Council voted to extend the cannabis equity priority periods for economic empowerment and social equity applicants, including a new fourth-year preference for delivery businesses, and declared an emergency to ordain the ordinance in a single session. The Council also adopted policy orders to study a pilot reparations program funded by cannabis revenue, create a Commission on Racial Justice and Equity, and review the residential parking permit program. A report on improvements to Jerry's Pond and Rindge Avenue was tabled for further discussion.

• Ordained an emergency ordinance extending cannabis equity preference periods for retail and delivery businesses, with a review required by September 1, 2022.
• Adopted a policy order to study a pilot reparations program using a percentage of local cannabis sales revenue for Black-owned businesses and economic empowerment applicants.
• Adopted a policy order to establish a Commission on Racial Justice and Equity.
• Adopted a policy order to review the residential parking permit program to address concerns about commercial use of permits.
• Tabled a report on improvements to Jerry's Pond and Rindge Avenue for further discussion.
• Adopted a policy order to create a webpage outlining the street dedication request process.
• Adopted a policy order to draft a report on the city's rodent and pest control efforts.
• Authorized in-person early voting for the November 2, 2021 municipal election.

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to discuss amending the Cannabis Business Permitting Ordinance to extend the preference period. The body will also explore additional financial assistance for Economic Empowerment applicants and hear from stakeholders.

• Proposed amendment to the Cannabis Business Permitting Ordinance regarding the preference period
• Discussion of financial assistance for Economic Empowerment applicants
• Memorandum submitted by Councillor Zondervan

The Ordinance Committee met to discuss extending the preference period for cannabis business license applicants and possible financial assistance. No final decision was made; instead, the committee approved two policy orders requesting reports on financial aid and streamlining the application process. The committee also discussed amending the ordinance to extend the moratorium, with a plan to draft a policy order for the next city council meeting.

• Approved policy order requesting the city solicitor to report on ways to provide financial assistance to Group A Priority applicants.
• Approved policy order requesting the Community Development Department to create a standard operating procedure and designate a single point of contact for applicants.
• Discussed extending the preference period, with no final vote taken.
• Councillor Zondervan proposed amending the ordinance to incorporate delivery, but no action was taken.

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal will hold a virtual public meeting to hear a comprehensive permit application. The proposal involves the construction of a multi-family affordable housing community.

• Case BZA-017326-2020: Proposal for 49 residential rental units at 2072 Mass Avenue
• Proposed eight-story building with ground floor commercial and amenity space
• Plan includes three accessible parking spaces and two drop off spaces

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to consider special permits and variances for several residential properties and an MIT dormitory. The board will decide on requests for building additions, deck constructions, and setback reliefs.

• MIT variance request for setback relief for a dormitory building at 301 Vassar Street
• Special permit for a two-story addition and front entry at 20 Larchwood Drive
• Special permit for roof height and GFA increases at 155 Charles Street
• Variance for a shed relocation at 4 Aberdeen Court
• Variance for residential portions of a mixed-use development at 1043-1059 Cambridge Street

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is conducting a public hearing on a petition to amend the Zoning Ordinance. The proposal seeks to add a new row to section 4.31 regarding residential uses for post-operative dog care services.

• Public hearing on petition to amend Zoning Ordinance section 4.31 regarding post-operative care for dogs

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on a petition to amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow post-operative care for a dog at a residence. The committee voted to amend the petition to include the Planning Board's recommended language, which specifies that care must be provided at a residence in a residential district and that only one such animal per day is kept on the premises. The committee then voted to send the amended language to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The meeting was adjourned.

• Amended Section 4.21(d)(5) to read: 'At a residence in a residential district, the care of a household pet that does not permanently reside at that residence, provided that only one such animal per day is kept on the premises.'
• Amended the petition to reflect the amended recommendation from the Planning Board.
• Sent the amended language to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation.
• Adjourned the meeting.

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will review several special permit applications including a mixed-use building on Cambridge Street and a six-story hotel on Hampshire Street. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding a residential addition at Massachusetts Avenue.

• PB# 336: Amendment to Special Permit for 18 residential units and ground floor commercial use at 1043–1059 Cambridge Street
• PB# 358: Special Permit for a 70-room hotel in a six-story building at 34-40 Hampshire Street
• PB# 381: Special Permit for a 29-unit residential addition at 544-550 Massachusetts Avenue
• BZA-122191: Variance request for side yard setbacks and elevator roof access at 1043–1059 Cambridge Street

The Cambridge Planning Board held three public hearings. It approved amendments to a special permit for a mixed-use building at 1043-1059 Cambridge Street, including an elevator addition and basement removal, and granted a one-year extension. It also approved special permits for a 70-room hotel at 34-40 Hampshire Street. The hearing for a residential addition at 544-550 Massachusetts Avenue was continued to a date to be determined.

• Approved amended special permits for 1043-1059 Cambridge Street mixed-use building (7-0)
• Granted one-year extension of special permit for 1043-1059 Cambridge Street (7-0)
• Forwarded positive recommendation to BZA for variance relief at 1043-1059 Cambridge Street (7-0)
• Approved special permits for 70-room hotel at 34-40 Hampshire Street (7-0)
• Extended filing deadline for Hampshire Street decision to October 15 (7-0)
• Continued hearing for 544-550 Massachusetts Avenue residential addition to date to be determined (7-0)
• Adopted meeting transcripts for July 13, July 20, and August 3 (7-0)

Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee and the Housing Committee are holding a joint follow-up hearing. The body will discuss the elimination of city-wide restrictions on the types of housing that can be built, specifically single and two-family only zoning.

• Discussion on elimination of single and two-family only zoning
• Presentation regarding Neighborhood Zoning from Assistant City Manager Iram Farooq

The Neighborhood & Long Term Planning and Housing Committees held a joint follow-up hearing on eliminating single and two-family only zoning. City Solicitor Nancy Glowa advised that while the city can legally create multi-family only zones, requiring affordability in small buildings without a density bonus could be an unconstitutional taking. No votes were taken; the committees discussed next steps, including a possible joint meeting with the Planning Board.

• No formal votes taken; hearing was informational and discussion-only
• Discussed legal options for eliminating single and two-family only zoning
• City Solicitor stated maximum lot size per unit and multi-family only zones are legally permissible
• City Solicitor warned that requiring affordability without a density bonus may be an unconstitutional taking
• Agreed to consider inviting the Planning Board to a joint meeting via Policy Order

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on a City Council petition to allow veterinary establishments in all residential zones. The board is also reviewing several special permit and variance applications for residential and commercial properties.

• Zoning petition to permit veterinary establishments, kennels, or pet shops in all Residence zoning districts
• Special permit for 46-unit residential addition at 600 Massachusetts Avenue
• Special permit for residential renovation at 48 Pearl Street
• Special permit for office, R&D, or laboratory conversion at 621 Cambridge Street
• Special permit for T-Mobile wireless facility modifications at 1923 Massachusetts Avenue

The Cambridge Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council amend zoning to allow postoperative pet care as a home occupation, rather than as a new use in residential districts. The board also granted special permits for renovations at 48 Pearl Street, continued the 600 Massachusetts Avenue project, and forwarded recommendations on several BZA cases.

• Recommended zoning change for pet care as home occupation (7-0)
• Granted special permits for 48 Pearl Street renovation (7-0)
• Continued 600 Massachusetts Avenue hearing to October 31 (5-0, 1 absent)
• Recommended BZA approve dormer at 25 Williams Street (7-0)
• Recommended BZA deny mesh banners at 107 First Street (7-0)
• Recommended BZA continue antenna case at 1923 Massachusetts Ave (7-0)
• Recommended BZA consider conditions for 621 Cambridge Street (5-2)

Human Services & Veterans Committee - Committee Meeting

The Human Services and Civic Unity Committees are holding a joint meeting. The body will discuss measures the City should take to address the increase in gun violence.

• Discussion on measures to address gun violence

The Human Services and Veterans Committee and Civic Unity Committee held a joint meeting to discuss the city's response to an increase in gun violence. The Cambridge Police Department reported 11 gun-related incidents since the start of the year, including one homicide, and detailed its deployment and outreach efforts. The committee heard from city departments and public commenters, but took no formal votes on new policies or programs, only voting to close public comment and adjourn.

• Closed public comment (5-1, Nolan absent)
• Adjourned meeting (4-2, Nolan and Simmons absent)

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee unanimously approved minutes from its May 3 and June 7, 2021 meetings, with a revision to the May minutes removing references to previous members. The committee discussed the Year 1 evaluation report from HRiA, focusing on communication and relationship-building with grantees, and proposed a process for fall 2021 check-ins with each of the four Partnerships, delegating question development to an ad hoc group. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy or funding decisions.

• Approved May 3, 2021 minutes with revision (unanimous)
• Approved June 7, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Delegated development of fall 2021 check-in approach to ad hoc group

Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee - Committee Meeting

The Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee is meeting to continue discussions regarding the hiring of the next City Manager. The committee intends to approve the search process for the position.

• Discussion of the hiring of the next City Manager
• Approval of the City Manager's Search Process

The Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee met to continue discussing the hiring process for the next City Manager. The committee reviewed a proposed consultant-led search process and a draft template for the RFP, with members providing feedback on the composition of a Screening Committee and the need for robust public engagement. No formal votes were taken on the search process itself; the meeting concluded with plans to refine the RFP and timeline.

• Motion to allow Michael Brandon to finish public comment without limit failed (2-3)
• Motion to allow Michael Brandon an additional 2 minutes of public comment passed (5-0)
• Motion to close public comment passed (4-1)
• Motion to adjourn passed (5-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will consider a special permit for a 46-unit residential addition at 600 Massachusetts Avenue. The board will also continue a hearing regarding the relocation of a Citizens Bank branch to 698 Massachusetts Avenue.

• PB# 369: Special permit for 46-unit residential addition at 600 Massachusetts Avenue
• PB# 373: Special permit for bank relocation at 698 Massachusetts Avenue
• PB# 378: Extension request for 1290 Massachusetts Avenue
• PB# 336: Extension request for 1043-1059 Cambridge Street

The Cambridge Planning Board approved special permits for Citizens Bank to relocate to 698 Massachusetts Avenue, allowing the bank to exceed the 25-foot frontage limit and operate as a Formula Business in the Central Square Overlay District. The approval was granted with conditions, including no sandblasting of the brick facade, working with staff on the sign band design, and preserving window transparency. The board also approved extensions for two other cases and continued a hearing for 600 Massachusetts Avenue.

• Approved special permits for Citizens Bank relocation at 698 Mass Ave (6-0)
• Granted extension for PB#378, bank at 1290 Mass Ave, to October 15, 2021 (6-0)
• Granted extension for PB#336, 1043-1059 Cambridge St, to September 15, 2021 (5-0, 1 absent)
• Continued PB#369, 600 Mass Ave, to August 17, 2021 (5-0)
• Approved meeting minutes for June 8, 15, 22, 29 (5-0)

City Council - Special Meeting

The City Council will review the appropriation of state grants for emergency communications, energy assistance, and education. The body will also consider a landmark designation for a home on Union Street and various local applications for signs and curb cuts.

• Appropriation of $1,190,717.00 DESE grant for ESOL services
• Appropriation of $875,999.00 LIHEAP grant for home energy assistance
• Appropriation of $494,531 State 911 Department Support and Incentive Grant
• Appropriation of $664,250.33 DHCD Family Shelter grant for Cambridge YWCA
• Landmark Designation Report for the Alberta V. Scott House at 28 Union Street

The Cambridge City Council voted unanimously to endorse changing the name of the Agassiz neighborhood to the Baldwin Neighborhood in honor of educator Maria L. Baldwin. The council also approved a landmark designation for the Alberta V. Scott House at 28 Union Street, adopted a policy order addressing increased gun activity, and approved several other items including grant appropriations and a resolution honoring the late civil rights leader Robert Moses.

• Endorsed renaming Agassiz Neighborhood to Baldwin Neighborhood (9-0)
• Designated Alberta V. Scott House at 28 Union Street as a protected landmark (9-0)
• Adopted policy order addressing increased gun activity (9-0)
• Approved $494,531 State 911 Department grant appropriation (9-0)
• Approved $875,999 LIHEAP grant appropriation (9-0)
• Approved $1,190,717 Adult and Community Learning Services grant (9-0)
• Approved $664,250.33 Family Shelter grant (9-0)
• Adopted resolution honoring Robert Moses (9-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is reviewing several requests for variances and special permits. These include residential additions and renovations, as well as a utility relocation project.

• Relocation of a gas regulator station from 330 Third Street to 364R Third Street
• Variance for rear decks at 35 Berkshire Street
• Addition and accessory dwelling unit at 63 Chilton Street
• Renovation and expansion of a residence at 11 Union Street
• Alterations to a two-family residence at 58 Granville Road

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee will meet to discuss the Holistic Emergency Alternative Response Team (HEART) proposal. This proposal focuses on a community-based, unarmed alternative to traditional public safety responses.

• Discussion of the HEART proposal for unarmed emergency response

The Public Safety Committee met to discuss the Holistic Emergency Alternative Response Team (HEART) proposal, a community-based, unarmed alternative to police response. The committee heard presentations from HEART organizers and community members, and the City Manager reported ongoing negotiations with the Black Response group, aiming for a joint recommendation by September. No formal decisions or votes were taken on the proposal.

• No formal decisions or votes taken on HEART proposal
• Committee heard presentations and public comment on HEART
• City Manager reported ongoing negotiations with Black Response, targeting September for joint recommendation

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding an amendment to Article 22 of the City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance. The proposal, Ordinance #2021-13, seeks to insert a new section 22.24.4 titled “Emissions Accounting” into the Sustainable Design and Development article.

• Public hearing on Ordinance #2021-13 to amend Article 22 of the Zoning Ordinance regarding Emissions Accounting

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance for emissions accounting in new commercial development but took no substantive action. The committee voted to adjourn the hearing, allowing for public comment at a future meeting, with plans to continue discussion in September.

• Adjourned hearing on emissions accounting amendment (5-0, 4 absent)
• Accepted Planning Board report without detailed discussion
• Continued public hearing to September for full presentation

Finance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to review the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Grant. The discussion centers on the appropriation of $65,019,211 received from the U.S. Department of Treasury via the American Rescue Plan Act.

• Appropriation of $65,019,211 from the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (CLFRF)

The Finance Committee held a discussion-only meeting on the $65,019,211 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant received from the U.S. Treasury. No formal votes or decisions were made on how to spend the funds. The committee heard a staff presentation on federal spending rules and gathered initial ideas from councillors and two public commenters for potential projects, with further meetings planned.

• Motion to suspend rules to allow non-listed speaker Isaac Yablo to give public comment passed (8-0, 1 absent)
• Motion to close public comment passed (7-1, 1 absent)
• Motion to adjourn passed (8-0, 1 absent)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is continuing discussion on two proposals regarding campaign donation regulations. One proposal seeks a municipal ordinance to limit donations from individuals seeking city contracts, special permits, up-zoning, real estate acquisitions, or financial assistance.

• Proposal to limit donations from those seeking city contracts, permits, or real estate
• Home Rule Petition to cap campaign contributions at $200 per person, per year, per candidate
• Proposal to limit candidate loans to $3,000 per election cycle

The Ordinance Committee discussed two proposals to regulate campaign donations. It voted to refer the first ordinance, which would limit donations from people seeking contracts, permits, or other benefits from the city, to the full City Council without a recommendation, and also forwarded a related Home Rule petition. The second proposal, a flat $200 cap on all contributions, was left in committee and will expire at the end of the term. The committee also requested the city manager's opinion on enforcement authority and directed the city solicitor to finalize changes.

• Referred ordinance limiting donations from city contractors/developers to full council without recommendation (7-1-1)
• Forwarded Home Rule petition for campaign donation limits to full council (7-1-1)
• Requested city manager opinion on enforcement authority for the ordinance (8-1)
• Directed city solicitor to finalize red-line changes with co-chair Carlone for September council meeting (6-1)
• Left $200 flat contribution cap proposal in committee to expire at term end

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee and the Economic Development & University Relations Committee will meet jointly. They will hear a presentation from Saskia VannJames on cannabis cooperatives and equitable development in the recreational cannabis industry.

• Presentation by Saskia VannJames, President of the Massachusetts Recreational Consumer Council

The Public Safety and Economic Development committees held a joint hearing to hear from Saskia VannJames of the Massachusetts Recreational Consumer Council about cannabis cooperatives and racial equity. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with discussion of state-level social equity fund legislation and Cambridge Public Health Department equity efforts. The hearing adjourned without a vote on any policy or action item.

• Held a joint hearing on cannabis cooperatives and their role in equitable industry development; no action taken.
• Heard a presentation from Saskia VannJames on cannabis cooperatives and racial equity; no vote taken.
• Discussed state legislation on a social equity fund and loan forgiveness; no city action taken.
• Adjourned the hearing at 3:56 p.m. by motion; motion passed 5-0.

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a large-scale redevelopment by MIT and a cannabis retail store application. The board will also review a request to relocate a gas regulator station.

• MIT application to redevelop Volpe Exchange Parcel (55 Broadway) into residential, retail, office, lab, and a community center
• Special Permit application for a Cannabis Retail Store at 95 First Street by Ivy League Technologies, LLC
• Variance and Special Permit to relocate a gas regulator station from 330 Third Street to 364R Third Street
• Proposed Volpe community benefits including $140M for student housing and $36M for Affordable Housing Trust
• Proposed Volpe community center with 25,000 SF and an operating endowment of $10 million

The Cambridge Planning Board voted 7-0 to grant the PUD special permit for MIT's Volpe Exchange Parcel mixed-use development, approving the final development plan with conditions. The board also voted 7-0 to grant a special permit to IV Leaf Technologies, LLC for a cannabis retail store at 95 First Street. Additionally, the board voted 7-0 to send a positive recommendation to the Board of Zoning Appeals for a gas regulator station relocation at 364R Third Street.

• Approved PUD special permit for Volpe Exchange Parcel (7-0), with conditions including a 60-day extension to file the decision
• Approved special permit for cannabis retail store at 95 First Street (7-0)
• Voted to recommend BZA approval for gas regulator station relocation to 364R Third Street (7-0)
• Approved findings that the entertainment venue and retail uses qualify as active space
• Approved finding that Building C-2 height increase to 280 feet is consistent with PUD-7 guidelines
• Approved request to change timing of Economic Empowerment contribution payment to within first month of store opening

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is reviewing several variance and special permit requests. The most significant item is a proposal for a new PK-8th grade school building at 197 Vassal Lane.

• 197 Vassal Lane: Variance for 299,942 gsf school building and special permit for 66 tandem parking spaces
• 150 CambridgePark Drive: Variance for new freight elevator shaft and expanded loading dock
• 2067 Mass Avenue: Special permit for Verizon Wireless to modify mobile communications facility antennas
• 65 Banks Street: Special permit for temporary classrooms to meet daycare demand
• 237 Putnam Avenue: Variance to enclose a 10'x20' pedestrian walkway

Transportation & Public Utilities Committee - Committee Meeting

The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee is meeting to discuss car storage policies. The committee will request that the City Manager and staff examine these policies and discuss potential updates with the City Council.

• Review of car storage policy presentation from Stephanie Groll, Parking and Transportation Demand Management Officer

Health & Environment Committee - Committee Meeting

The Health & Environment Committee will meet to discuss the future of the city's water supply. The body will review strategies for improving water quality and managing costs based on a presentation from City Manager Louis A. DePasquale.

• Presentation regarding Water Quality, Costs and the Future from City Manager Louis A. DePasquale

The Health & Environment Committee held a discussion-only meeting on the future of Cambridge's water supply, water quality, and costs. No formal decisions or votes were taken. The Cambridge Water Department presented on PFAS levels, corrosion control, and the cost comparison with MWRA water, recommending the city continue operating its own system.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; meeting was informational and discussion-only

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings for residential modifications and review several Board of Zoning Appeal cases. Key items include a variance for a new PK-8th grade school building and various structural modifications to existing properties.

• BZA-127462: Variance for a 299,942 gsf PK-8th grade school building at 197 Vassal Lane
• PB# 22: Special Permit for a sunroom and dormer addition at 7 Cornelius Way
• PB# 380: Special Permit for residential renovations at 48 Pearl Street
• BZA-120040: Variance for a new freight elevator shaft and loading dock at 150 Cambridgepark Drive
• BZA-125782: Special Permit to modify a mobile communications facility at 2067 Massachusetts Avenue

The Cambridge Planning Board approved an amendment to a special permit for a single-story sunroom addition and third-floor dormer at 7 Cornelius Way (6-0). The board continued the public hearing for 48 Pearl Street to August 17, 2021, to seek a legal opinion on whether it has authority to approve a height increase above the 45-foot limit. The board also voted to send a positive recommendation to the BZA for the Tobin Montessori and Vassal Lane Upper School project at 197 Vassal Lane, and voted to request a continuance of the BZA case for 150 Cambridgepark Drive to allow further Planning Board review.

• Approved special permit amendment for townhouse addition at 7 Cornelius Way (6-0)
• Continued 48 Pearl Street hearing to August 17, 2021, pending legal opinion on height authority
• Voted to send positive recommendation to BZA for 197 Vassal Lane school project (6-0)
• Voted to request BZA continuance for 150 Cambridgepark Drive for further Planning Board review
• Approved recommendation for telecommunications antenna modification at 2067 Massachusetts Avenue (6-0)

Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee - Committee Meeting

The Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee is meeting to continue discussions regarding the hiring of the next City Manager. The body will consider approving the search process and review memoranda concerning a consultant-led search.

• Approval of the City Manager's Search Process
• Review of memorandum regarding the scope of work for a Consultant-Led City Manager search

The Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee met to continue discussing the hiring of the next City Manager, focusing on a consultant-led search process. The committee reviewed a draft scope of work for a consultant RFP, incorporating feedback from members and city staff on criteria like diversity, experience, and public engagement. No formal votes were taken on the search process itself; the only votes were to close public comment and adjourn. The committee plans to finalize the RFP document in future meetings.

• Closed public comment (4-1)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)
• Reviewed draft scope of work for consultant-led city manager search (no vote)
• Discussed RFP criteria for consultant selection (no vote)

Human Services & Veterans Committee - Committee Meeting

The Human Services & Veterans Committee is meeting to conduct a public hearing. The discussion will focus on after-school programming for the fall.

• Public hearing regarding fall after-school programming

The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on June 30, 2021, to discuss afterschool programming for fall 2021. The committee heard public comment and staff presentations about the Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) capacity, the closure of the CAPI afterschool program at Cambridgeport School, and communication issues. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the hearing was informational and adjourned.

• Held public hearing on afterschool programming for fall (no vote)
• Heard public comment on CAPI program closure and DHSP capacity (no vote)
• Adjourned hearing at 12:43 p.m. (4-1)

Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee - Committee Meeting

The Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee is meeting to discuss the hiring process for the next City Manager.

• Discussion regarding the hiring of the next City Manager

The Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee discussed the process for hiring the next City Manager, hearing from consultant Bernard Lynch and city staff. The committee voted unanimously to forward a policy order to the full council requesting funding to hire a City Manager Search Firm consultant. It also voted to have Councillors Simmons and Sobrinho-Wheeler review any RFPs or other search process documents produced for hiring the consultant. No final decision on the search process itself was made; the discussion was preliminary.

• Approved motion to forward policy order to full council requesting funding for a City Manager Search Firm consultant (5-0)
• Approved motion for Councillors Simmons and Sobrinho-Wheeler to review any RFPs or other search process documents for hiring the search firm (5-0)
• Approved motion to extend meeting to 1:30 PM (5-0)
• Approved motion to extend meeting to 1:45 PM (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn (5-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is holding a continued public hearing on a zoning petition. The proposal, submitted by the City Council, seeks to add a new section to the Zoning Ordinance regarding emissions accounting.

• Public hearing on City Council petition to amend Article 22.000 of the Zoning Ordinance to add section 22.24.4 Emissions Accounting

The Cambridge Planning Board held a public hearing on a City Council zoning petition to amend Article 22 to add a new section, 22.24.4 Emissions Accounting, which would require new commercial buildings over 25,000 square feet to calculate and pay for their expected greenhouse gas emissions. After discussion, the Board voted unanimously to provide comments on the proposal without making a positive or negative recommendation on adoption, citing concerns about enforceability, scope, and the need for more detail. The Board also approved the meeting minutes for May 18 and May 25, 2021.

• Approved meeting minutes for May 18 and May 25, 2021, by unanimous roll call vote.
• Voted unanimously to provide comments on the Emissions Accounting zoning petition without making a positive or negative recommendation on adoption.
• Heard public comment from Lee Farris and Robert Simha in support of the petition.
• Discussed concerns about the petition's enforceability, scope, and delegation of details to CDD.
• Noted that the petition would apply to new commercial buildings over 25,000 square feet, with exemptions for residential buildings.
• Acknowledged that the petition proposes using mitigation funds for green job development and energy efficiency upgrades.
• Heard that the next Planning Board meeting is scheduled for July 13, 2021, with special permit hearings for 7 Cornelius Way and 48 Pearl Street.
• Noted that the City Council adopted changes to the tree ordinance at its previous meeting.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is meeting to decide on ordinances regarding cannabis delivery zoning and tree protection. The body will also discuss several policy orders, including a potential pilot reparations program funded by cannabis sales and a Home Rule Petition for the November 2021 ballot.

• Ordinance 2021-8: Cannabis Delivery Zoning Amendments
• Proposed amendments to the Tree Protection Ordinance
• Appropriation of $65,019,211 from the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund
• Appropriation of $23,939 State 911 Department Emergency Medical Dispatch Grant
• Appropriation of $1,000 donation from the Carl Barron Family to the DPW Grant Fund

The Cambridge City Council voted 9-0 to appropriate $65,019,211 in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act. The decision was made after a discussion where city staff clarified that the grant must be accepted in its entirety and that the council would not have further votes on specific allocations. A motion to table the item was defeated 2-7 before the final vote.

• Approved the appropriation of $65,019,211 in federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act.
• Defeated a motion to table the $65M appropriation, with 2 in favor and 7 against.
• Ordaigned an amendment to the zoning ordinance to allow cannabis delivery businesses.
• Ordaigned an amendment to the tree protection ordinance, including a provision for affordable housing developers to apply for tree replacement funds.
• Adopted a policy order to examine stipend models for the city's multi-member boards and commissions.
• Adopted a policy order to examine and implement a flexible, permanent remote work policy for city employees.
• Adopted a policy order to refer a draft condominium conversion ordinance to the Housing Committee.
• Adopted a policy order to convene a hearing on extending the preference period for cannabis business permits.

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to consider several variances and special permits for residential and business properties. A key item involves the Cambridge Housing Authority's request to increase dwelling units and modify parking at the Putnam School site.

• 86 Otis Street: Request to increase dwelling units from 27 to 34 and reduce bicycle parking to 12 spaces
• 1353 Cambridge Street: Variance for a new rear 2nd and 3rd floor addition
• 1876 Mass Avenue: Special permit for 'Zoe Acai Bar Juicery' to continue restaurant use under a different DBA
• 44 Kinnaird Street: Special permit to construct a 3rd floor on an existing 2-story portion of a building
• 39 Kelley Street: Variance to enlarge a front porch by 14 sq. ft.

Transportation & Public Utilities Committee - Committee Meeting

The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding a report from City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. The report analyzes the block-by-block impacts of installing quick-build separated bike lanes on four segments of Massachusetts Avenue.

• Public hearing on the first Cycling Safety Ordinance report
• Analysis of quick-build separated bike lanes on four segments of Massachusetts Avenue

The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee held a public hearing on the first Cycling Safety Ordinance report analyzing quick-build separated bike lanes on four segments of Massachusetts Avenue. City staff presented the report, which found that a simple quick-build design would require removing most parking and could cause significant traffic delays at two locations. Residents and business owners presented alternative designs, and the committee discussed next steps, but no formal decision was made on the bike lane design.

• Held a public hearing on the first Cycling Safety Ordinance report for Massachusetts Avenue.
• Received a presentation from city staff on the report's block-by-block impact analysis.
• Received a presentation from residents and business owners proposing alternative designs.
• Voted to extend the meeting to 7:15 PM and then to 7:30 PM to continue discussion.
• Adjourned the meeting at approximately 7:24 PM without taking a vote on the bike lane design.

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will discuss the third Annual Surveillance Report regarding the use of surveillance technology and data across city departments. The meeting includes a review of the Surveillance Use Policy and data related to Shotspotter, BRIC, and COPLINK.

• Review of the third Annual Surveillance Report for city departments
• Discussion of CMA 2021 #41 regarding Shotspotter, BRIC, and COPLINK data
• Review of the Surveillance Use Policy and related documents
• Response from Police Commissioner Branville G. Bard regarding a December 14, 2020 Policy Order

The Public Safety Committee discussed surveillance technology data, including ShotSpotter, BRIC, and COPLINK, and heard from the police commissioner and ACLU. The committee voted to send the Annual Surveillance Report and the data report on ShotSpotter, OMEGA Dashboard, and COPLINK back to the City Council to be placed on file. The Surveillance Use Policy was kept in committee for further dialogue between the administration and the ACLU.

• Approved motion to send the Annual Surveillance Report back to the City Council (5-0).
• Approved motion to refer the data report on ShotSpotter, OMEGA Dashboard, and COPLINK back to the City Council to be placed on file (5-0).
• Kept the Surveillance Use Policy in committee for further discussion between the administration and the ACLU.

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is conducting a public hearing regarding a proposal by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to build two graduate student housing buildings. The board will also discuss possible amendments to Planning Board Rules concerning remote participation.

• Special Permit for 269-301 Vassar Street to construct 327,000 square feet of graduate student housing
• Proposed height increase to approximately 105 feet in SD-6 and 100 feet in SD-11
• Special Permit request to reduce minimum parking requirements
• Special Permit request to reduce required green roof area with contributions to the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust
• Discussion of Planning Board Rules regarding remote participation

The Cambridge Planning Board voted 6-0 to grant MIT special permits for two graduate student dormitory buildings totaling 327,000 square feet at 269-301 Vassar Street. The permits allow for increased building height, reduced off-street parking, and a reduction in the required green roof area, with conditions including a per-square-foot payment to the Affordable Housing Trust. The Board also voted to continue suspending rules requiring in-person attendance at its own meetings, but will no longer suspend the rule requiring applicants to hold at least one in-person community meeting.

• Granted special permits to MIT for two graduate dormitory buildings at 269-301 Vassar St, totaling 327,000 sq ft, with conditions.
• Approved a special permit to reduce required off-street parking.
• Approved a special permit to increase building height in SD-6 and SD-11 districts.
• Approved a special permit to reduce the required green roof area, with a payment to the Affordable Housing Trust.
• Voted to continue temporarily suspending Planning Board rules 6.3, 6.4, and 6.5 regarding in-person attendance at Board meetings.
• Decided to no longer suspend rule 5.1, requiring applicants to hold at least one in-person community meeting.
• Directed staff to include conditions for larger trees in the Central Plaza and to review the west building's brick wall.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will review several appropriation requests, including a large grant from the American Rescue Plan Act. The body is also considering ordinances regarding cannabis delivery and live acoustic entertainment.

• Appropriation of $65,019,211 from the Coronavirus Local Fiscal Recovery Fund
• Appropriation of $1,000,000 for review and assessment of older elementary school buildings
• Request for $1,900,000 spending limit for FY2022 Renewable Energy and Greenhouse Gas Reduction revolving fund
• Appropriation of $641,639 HUD HOME Program grant for development and administration
• Proposed Cannabis Delivery Zoning Amendments (POR 2021 #140)

The City Council approved a $1,000,000 appropriation from Free Cash to conduct a comprehensive review and assessment of older elementary school buildings. The study will evaluate the buildings for expansion opportunities, major system needs, and potential for pre-K space. The Council also approved a $1.9 million spending limit for the Renewable Energy and GHG Reduction revolving fund for solar panel projects.

• Approved $1,000,000 from Free Cash for a comprehensive review and assessment of older elementary school buildings.
• Approved a $1,900,000 spending limit for Fiscal Year 2022 for the Renewable Energy and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reduction revolving fund.
• Approved the appropriation of $65,019,211 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to the Grant Fund Finance Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account.
• Ordained the Live Acoustic Entertainment Ordinance, allowing businesses to host acoustic performances without a license, subject to regulations.
• Adopted amendments to City Council Rules for Remote Participation.
• Approved an application from Starbucks for a projecting sign at 11 First Street.
• Adopted a policy order to issue a second RFP to assess the feasibility of building housing above the Central Square Library.
• Adopted a policy order to approve a memorial plaque for Maria Baldwin on the public way.

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a hotel renovation and addition at 711-727 Massachusetts Avenue and a cannabis retail store conversion at 95 First Street. The board will also discuss potential amendments to rules regarding remote participation.

• Public hearing for 711-727 Massachusetts Avenue: Special Permit for hotel renovation and addition with a requested Floor Area Ratio of 4.0 and 80 feet of additional height
• Public hearing for 95 First Street: Special Permit for Ivy League Technologies, LLC to convert space to a Cannabis Retail Store
• Discussion and possible amendment of Planning Board Rules regarding remote participation
• Adoption of meeting transcripts from 5/4/2021 and 5/11/2021

The Planning Board voted 6-1 to grant the requested special permits for Gas Light Building LLC's proposal to renovate the historic building and construct an addition for a 36-room hotel at 711-727 Mass Ave. The board also voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for a proposed cannabis retail store at 95 First Street, requiring the applicant to conduct further community outreach before a final vote. The board unanimously approved the meeting minutes from May 4 and May 11, 2021.

• Granted special permits for hotel project at 711-727 Mass Ave (6-1, Mary Flynn opposed)
• Continued public hearing for cannabis retail store at 95 First Street to allow for more community outreach (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes from May 4 and May 11, 2021 (unanimous)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several funding appropriations for school, library, and public facility projects. The body is also considering appointments to the Police Review & Advisory Board and various policy orders regarding city services.

• Appropriation of $2,242,100 for Cambridgeport School window replacement project
• Appropriation of $500,000 for Central Square Branch Library Building Program and Feasibility Study
• Appropriation of $267,750 for repairs to 3 swimming pools at War Memorial Pool Facility
• Appropriation of $200,000 for the Foundry building construction project
• Proposed waiver of dog license fees for senior citizens

The Cambridge City Council approved a $500,000 appropriation from Free Cash for a comprehensive Library Building Program Study and Feasibility Study for the Central Square Branch Library. The council also passed the cannabis delivery zoning ordinance to a second reading and adopted related policy orders. Additionally, the council approved an order to waive dog license fees for seniors and examine reducing fees for low-income residents, and passed a policy order to explore purchasing properties in the Alewife area for open space.

• Approved $500,000 appropriation for Central Square Branch Library feasibility study (9-0)
• Passed cannabis delivery zoning ordinance to second reading (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to waive dog license fees for seniors and examine reductions for low-income residents (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to explore purchasing properties for sale in Alewife area (8-1)
• Adopted policy order to schedule hearing on fall afterschool programs (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to explore waiving heating rules to allow earlier AC use in public housing (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to amend City Council rules for remote public participation (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to adopt policies related to open space (9-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal will hold a virtual public meeting to consider several zoning variances and special permits. Items include residential additions, new dwellings, lot subdivisions, and modifications to a telecommunications site.

• 14 Bigelow Street: 2-story rear addition and basement floor area exemption
• 45 Blanchard Road #1: Overnight postoperative canine care in home
• 145 Willow Street - Unit 1: New three-family dwelling and parking reduction
• 41 Magoun Street: Attic dormers, deck extension, and window/door modifications
• 8 Day Street: Window alterations, dormer enlargement, and wall bump-outs

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a zoning petition submitted by Carolyn Fuller. The meeting will focus on the Cambridge Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-2) and related communications.

• Public hearing on Cambridge Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-2)
• Zoning Petition received from Carolyn Fuller

The Ordinance Committee held a second hearing on the Cambridge Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-2) but took no action on it. Committee co-chairs Carlone and McGovern proposed shifting the discussion toward establishing principles for future zoning changes, rather than voting on the petition, which they noted would expire due to time constraints. The committee heard presentations from the petitioners and city staff, including a legal analysis of proposed amendments and the impact of the new Housing Choice Law. The meeting ended with a plan for co-chairs to meet with city staff to develop a strategy for moving forward.

• No vote taken on the Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-2).
• Motion to extend the meeting by 20 minutes passed (6-0, 3 absent).
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (6-0, 3 absent).
• Co-chairs Carlone and McGovern will meet with Community Development and Legal staff to develop a strategy for continuing the discussion on zoning principles.

Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee is holding a public hearing. The session serves as a follow-up to an initial hearing regarding how the City can work with neighborhood groups.

• Public hearing on City collaboration with neighborhood groups

The committee held a public hearing to discuss a proposed neighborhood planning initiative from the Community Development Department (CDD), focusing on how the City can better support neighborhood groups. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with staff presentations and public comments. The committee plans to continue the conversation at a future meeting on July 8.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the hearing
• Heard presentation on neighborhood planning initiative from CDD staff
• Discussed potential support for neighborhood groups, including website development and community building toolkit
• Scheduled follow-up discussion for July 8 meeting

Health & Environment Committee - Committee Meeting

The Health and Environment Committee is meeting to review the city's progress on the Zero Waste Plan. The body will also discuss the elimination of single-use plastics and a presentation from Commissioner Owen O'Riordan.

• Progress on Zero Waste Plan
• Elimination of single-use plastics
• Presentation from Commissioner Owen O'Riordan

The Health and Environment Committee heard a DPW presentation on the Zero Waste Plan, covering organics expansion, standardized trash barrels, textile recycling, and a proposed single-use packaging ordinance. The Committee passed a motion requesting the City Manager to work with DPW and the Law Department to bring forward proposed changes to the Refuse and Litter, Recycling, Bring Your Own Bag, polystyrene, and other relevant ordinances for discussion in the Committee no later than July 31st. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and discussion-focused.

• Passed motion requesting City Manager to bring forward proposed ordinance changes for Zero Waste goals by July 31 (4-0, 1 absent)
• Closed public comment (4-0, 1 absent)
• Suspended rules to allow additional public comment (4-0, 1 absent)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0, 1 absent)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will consider a City Council petition to add an emissions accounting section to the zoning ordinance. The board will also review variance and special permit requests for properties on Willow Street and Land Boulevard.

• Zoning petition to amend Article 22.000 to add section 22.24.4 Emissions Accounting
• BZA-117337: Variance for a new three-family dwelling at 145 Willow Street
• BZA-118920: Special permit for antenna installation at 40 Land Boulevard
• PB# 375: Special permit for Ragon Institute at 600-624 Main Street (Note: Hearing to be rescheduled)
• Extension requests for 51 New Street, 727 Massachusetts Avenue, Volpe Exchange Parcel, and 600 Massachusetts Avenue

The Cambridge Planning Board approved a special permit for the Ragon Institute to construct a 185,810 square-foot research and development building at 600-624 Main Street. The approval includes conditions for public signage and design review of the day care fence. The board also granted extensions for several other pending projects and continued a hearing on an emissions zoning petition.

• Approved special permit for Ragon Institute lab building at 600-624 Main Street (7-0)
• Approved extension of decision deadline for Ragon Institute project to June 30 (7-0)
• Continued hearing on Emissions Accounting zoning petition to June 29 (7-0)
• Approved extension for cannabis retail store at 51 New Street to September 30 (7-0)
• Approved extension for 727 Massachusetts Avenue project to July 30 (7-0)
• Approved extension for Volpe Exchange parcel project to July 30 (7-0)
• Approved extension for 600 Massachusetts Avenue project to August 31 (6-0, 1 recused)
• Approved motion to make no recommendation to BZA on 145 Willow Street (6-0)

Economic Development & University Relations Committee - Committee Meetings

The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will hold a public hearing on consolidating or eliminating small business permit and license fees. The committee will also receive a presentation from City Manager Louie DePasquale regarding emergency services and programs.

• Public hearing on alleviating small business permit and license fees
• Presentation from City Manager Louie DePasquale on emergency services and programs

The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing to discuss strategies for alleviating permit and license fees for small businesses, including possible consolidation or elimination. No formal votes were taken on fee changes; the committee heard testimony from city staff and business association leaders and discussed next steps, including policy orders for a future City Council meeting. The city has already reduced fees to 40% of original costs during the pandemic, totaling $880,000 in savings, with an additional $120,000 in proposed relief from ISD.

• Held public hearing on permit and license fee relief for small businesses (no vote)
• Discussed potential elimination of small fees like milk, frozen dessert, and private patio fees (no vote)
• Noted $880,000 in savings from 40% fee reduction during pandemic (reported)
• Noted ISD proposed $120,000 in additional fee relief (reported)
• Extended hearing by 5 minutes (3-0, 2 absent)
• Adjourned hearing at 1:02 p.m. (3-0, 2 absent)

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) decided to meet with all four Partnerships for a 6-month check-in, following up with two Partnerships that had been flagged for deeper discussion. The committee also discussed its vision, responsibilities, and future funding considerations, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved 6-month check-in with all four Partnerships (unanimous)
• Follow-up with two Partnerships to inform them of the check-in

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is meeting to adopt the budget and consider several borrowing requests for infrastructure and facility improvements. The body will also vote on zoning amendments for home occupations and retail services.

• Authorization to borrow $28,500,000 for sewer separation and storm water management in River Street and Harvard Square
• Authorization to borrow $10,000,000 for the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan
• Authorization to borrow $5,000,000 for reconstruction of city streets and sidewalks
• Authorization to borrow $1,800,000 for school projects including asbestos abatement and gym floor replacement
• Zoning Amendments related to Retail and Consumer Service Establishments (Ordinance #2021-3) and Home Occupations (Ordinance #2021-4)

The Cambridge City Council adopted the Fiscal Year 2022 General Fund Budget of $707,104,105 (7-2), along with the Water Fund, Public Investment Fund, and four loan orders. The Council also voted to refer the Cambridge HEART Proposal, a community-based alternative to police response, to the City Manager for funding consideration and implementation planning (8-1). Additionally, the Council ordained zoning amendments to update the retail and consumer service establishment table of land use and to allow for home occupations, both by unanimous votes.

• Adopted FY22 General Fund Budget of $707,104,105 (7-2)
• Referred Cambridge HEART Proposal to City Manager for funding and implementation plan (8-1)
• Ordained zoning amendments for Retail and Consumer Service Establishments (9-0)
• Ordained zoning amendments related to Home Occupations (9-0)
• Adopted $5M loan order for street and sidewalk reconstruction (9-0)
• Adopted $10M loan order for Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan (9-0)
• Adopted $1.8M loan order for various school projects (9-0)
• Adopted $28.5M loan order for sewer and stormwater improvements (9-0)

Housing Committee - Committee Meeting

The Housing Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss inclusionary zoning preference and eligibility. The body will also discuss how the state-level Housing Choice law affects zoning in Cambridge.

• Public hearing on inclusionary zoning preference/eligibility
• Discussion on state-level Housing Choice law impact on Cambridge zoning

The Housing Committee held a public hearing to discuss proposed changes to inclusionary zoning preferences and the impact of the state-level Housing Choice law on Cambridge zoning. No formal votes were taken; the discussion focused on administrative standards for tenant selection, including recalibrating preferences to prioritize emergency housing needs and domestic violence victims. City staff will finalize the standards and implement them in July, and a Policy Order will be submitted to the City Council for further analysis of the Housing Choice law.

• No formal votes taken; hearing held for discussion only
• CDD to finalize inclusionary zoning preference standards with implementation targeted for July
• Policy Order to be submitted to City Council for Housing Choice law analysis

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is conducting a public hearing on a proposed amendment to the Municipal Code. The proposal seeks to insert a new section restricting the use of chemical crowd control agents and kinetic impact projectiles.

• Public hearing on restricting chemical crowd control agents and kinetic impact projectiles

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on an ordinance to restrict the use of chemical crowd control agents and kinetic impact projectiles by the Cambridge Police Department. After discussion, the committee voted to forward the ordinance to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The ordinance includes an amendment to the purpose section, and the committee also voted to close public comment.

• Forwarded ordinance restricting chemical crowd control agents and kinetic impact projectiles to full council with favorable recommendation (6-3)
• Amended ordinance purpose section to note Cambridge Police Department has not used tear gas in over 30 years and prohibits it via policy #408 (6-3)
• Closed public comment (6-3)

Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss the Alewife Envision Plan. The committee received a presentation on the plan from Assistant City Manager for Community Development Iram Farooq.

• Public hearing on the Alewife Envision Plan

The committee held a public hearing to discuss the Alewife Envision Plan, receiving presentations from city staff and public comments. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the hearing was informational, with discussion focused on zoning, connectivity, and open space. The committee agreed to work on a Policy Order to direct the Community Development Department to translate the plan into zoning.

• Held public hearing on Alewife Envision Plan (no vote)
• Closed public comment (5-0)
• Adjourned hearing (5-0)

City Council - Special Meeting

The City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss a charter assessment conducted by the Collins Center. The meeting includes communications from Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and a presentation from Michael Ward of the University of Massachusetts regarding charter processes.

• Discussion of the Collins Center charter assessment
• Review of charter assessment and reform communication from Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui
• Presentation on charters and charter processes by Michael Ward of the University of Massachusetts

The Cambridge City Council held a special meeting to discuss a charter assessment conducted by the Collins Center, which presented two options for charter reform. No formal decision was made, but council members expressed interest in pursuing some changes, with a possible follow-up meeting or policy order to be drafted. The meeting was informational, with no votes taken on charter reform itself.

• Closed public comment (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)
• No vote taken on charter reform options

Economic Development & University Relations Committee - Committee Meetings

The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding small business grant and loan programs. The meeting includes a presentation on the impact report for these COVID-19 programs from the Director of Economic Development.

• Public hearing on COVID-19 small business grant and loan programs
• Presentation of COVID-19 Small Businesses Grants and Loans Impact report

The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on June 1, 2021, to review the small business grant and loan programs managed by the Economic Development Division during the COVID-19 pandemic. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, featuring presentations and discussions on program outcomes, ongoing needs, and potential future support. The committee heard that the City granted $4.3M to 406 businesses, with 73% of assisted businesses being woman and/or minority-owned.

• Closed public comment (5-0)
• Adjourned the hearing (5-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to consider various variance and special permit requests. The agenda includes proposals for residential additions, changes to building uses, and modifications to non-conforming structures.

• 7 Springfield Street: Proposal to convert a 3-family building into 7 dwelling units and 1 commercial space
• 212 Western Avenue: Variance request to use a basement for commercial use exceeding the 40% restriction
• 200 Monsignor O’Brien Highway: Special permit to reconfigure a non-conforming parking lot
• 135 & 137 Elm Street: Variance request for a 3rd story addition to two condominium units
• 599 & 605 Mass Ave / 2-12 Essex Street: Special permit for Verizon Wireless to relocate rooftop antennas

Civic Unity Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will meet to discuss a report titled 'Social Equity Legislation in Cannabis: A National Study of State and Local Approaches' by the Initiative organization. The meeting includes communications from Councillor Simmons, The Initiative, and residents Samura Sieh and Karen Turley.

• Discussion of 'Social Equity Legislation in Cannabis: A National Study of State and Local Approaches' report

The Civic Unity Committee held a public hearing to discuss a national study on social equity legislation in cannabis. The committee heard presentations from The Initiative and public comment, but took no formal votes or decisions. Members discussed extending the cannabis moratorium and supporting Equity Empowerment applicants, with several speakers urging the moratorium's extension.

• Held public hearing on Social Equity Legislation in Cannabis report (no vote)
• Received two emailed communications into the record (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0, with 2 absent)

Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee - Committee Meeting

The committee will conduct a public hearing regarding the reappointment of Conrad Crawford to the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Board. Members will also discuss a pilot program for street closures in Harvard Square.

• Public hearing on the reappointment of Conrad Crawford to the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Board
• Discussion of street closure pilots in Harvard Square

The committee held a public hearing on the reappointment of Conrad Crawford to the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Board and discussed the pilot street closures in Harvard Square. The committee voted unanimously to forward Crawford's reappointment to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The discussion on street closures was informational, with no formal action taken.

• Forwarded Conrad Crawford's reappointment to CRA Board to full City Council with favorable recommendation (5-0)
• Extended hearing by ten minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned hearing at 12:11 p.m. (5-0)

City Council - Continued Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several grant appropriations for human services, fire equipment, and water treatment. The body is also considering borrowing requests for street reconstruction and municipal facility improvements.

• Proposed $5,000,000 borrowing for reconstruction of City streets and sidewalks
• Proposed $10,000,000 borrowing for Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan
• Appropriation of $5,859,232 from HUD for homeless services providers
• Appropriation of $455,000 for the Summer Food Program to provide meals at 22 sites
• Request to acquire land in Lincoln, MA for watershed protection

The Cambridge City Council adopted an order to submit a Statement of Interest to the Massachusetts School Building Authority for replacing boilers at Morse Elementary School, and approved multiple appropriations including a $5.86 million HUD grant for homeless services, a $455,000 summer food program grant, and a $115,680 PFAS treatment grant. The Council also approved the acquisition of land in Lincoln, Massachusetts for watershed protection, and adopted a policy order to review corporate contracts for human rights violations. Several items were tabled or deferred to the next meeting.

• Adopted order for Morse School boiler replacement Statement of Interest (9-0)
• Approved $5,859,232 HUD grant for homeless services (9-0)
• Approved $455,000 Summer Food Program grant (9-0)
• Approved $115,680 PFAS Treatment Grant (9-0)
• Approved land acquisition in Lincoln, MA for watershed protection (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to review corporate contracts for human rights violations (9-0)
• Referred Neighborhood Conservation Districts petition to Ordinance Committee (8-0-1)
• Approved awnings at 1786 Massachusetts Ave and 54 Church Street (8-0-1)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is holding its first annual utility infrastructure planning meeting to discuss the Ten Year Sewer and Drain Infrastructure Plan and the Five Year Sidewalk and Street Reconstruction Plan. The session focuses on coordinating infrastructure upgrades with development and implementing 'Complete Streets' design.

• Five Year Sidewalk and Street Reconstruction Plan with $65 million for the Complete Streets Program
• Proposed $80 million for The Port improvements
• Proposed $54 million for River Street reconstruction
• Proposed $45 million for Kirkland Street improvements
• Extension request for 34-40 Hampshire Street (PB# 358)

The Planning Board held its first annual facility report, hearing presentations from the Department of Public Works, Water Department, and Eversource on infrastructure planning. No formal action was taken on the reports, which were informational. The Board also approved a time extension for the special permit hearing for the hotel project at 34-40 Hampshire Street.

• Approved meeting minutes from April 13, 2021 (6-0)
• Approved extension of time for PB#358, 34-40 Hampshire Street hotel special permit, to September 1, 2021 (6-0)
• Closed discussion on utility reports (6-0)

Health & Environment Committee - Committee Meeting

The Health and Environment Committee is meeting to discuss proposed amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO). The body will also receive an update on the Net Zero Action Plan 5-Year Review process and recommendations.

• Proposed amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO)
• Net Zero Action Plan 5-Year Review process and recommendations

The Health and Environment Committee discussed proposed amendments to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO) and the Net Zero Action Plan. The committee voted to refer a policy order to the full city council requesting the city manager to work with the Community Development Department and Law Department to present draft BEUDO amendment language, including strategies for all buildings and emissions reduction targets matching or exceeding the Commonwealth's targets, by September 23, 2021. No final ordinance changes were approved; the action was a referral for further review.

• Referred policy order to full city council requesting draft BEUDO amendment language by Sept 23, 2021 (unanimous)
• Closed public comment (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 4:58 PM (unanimous)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several grant appropriations for human services, fire equipment, and water treatment. The body is also considering borrowing requests for street reconstruction and municipal facility improvements.

• Authorization to borrow $5,000,000 for reconstruction of City streets and sidewalks
• Authorization to borrow $10,000,000 for the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan
• Appropriation of $5,859,232 from HUD for homeless services providers
• Appropriation of $455,000 for the Summer Food Program to provide meals at 22 sites
• Proposed acquisition of land in Lincoln, MA for watershed protection

The Cambridge City Council held a lengthy public comment session on Policy Orders 109 (ending contracts with HP and other companies complicit in alleged human rights violations against Palestinians) and 114 (implementing the HEART program, a community-based alternative to policing). After hearing from over 400 registered speakers, the Council voted unanimously to close public comment and recess the meeting until May 25, 2021, without taking any votes on the policy orders themselves.

• Motion to suspend rules to allocate one minute to each public commenter approved (9-0)
• Motion to allow State Rep. Mike Connolly to speak out of order approved (9-0)
• Motion to allow Council of Aging members to speak out of order approved (8-0, 1 absent)
• Motion to extend meeting to conclude public comment approved (9-0)
• Motion to close public comment approved (9-0)
• Motion to recess until May 25, 2021 approved (9-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is holding a virtual meeting to hear a case regarding a comprehensive permit. The proposal involves the construction of a multi-family housing community.

• Case BZA-017326-2020: Proposal for 49 residential rental units at 2072 Mass Avenue
• Proposed 100% affordable housing community
• Proposed eight-story building with ground floor commercial and amenity space
• Proposed three accessible parking spaces and two drop off spaces

Finance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to hold a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2022 budget for the School Department. The committee will review a communication from City Manager Louis A. DePasquale and a presentation from Superintendent Kenneth N. Salim.

• Public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2022 School Department budget
• Review of FY2022 submitted budget and appropriation orders

The Finance Committee voted 6-2 to recommend the Cambridge Public Schools FY2022 budget of over $223 million, a 4.7% increase over FY2021. The recommendation follows a public hearing where the Superintendent presented the budget, and councilors discussed priorities like summer learning, social workers, and equity training. Councillors Nolan and Zondervan voted against the recommendation, citing a lack of explicit plans and accountability for student outcomes.

• Recommended FY2022 CPS budget of over $223 million (6-2)
• Councillor Nolan voted no, citing lack of explicit plans for student outcomes
• Councillor Zondervan voted no, citing insufficient progress on equity and climate
• Meeting adjourned (8-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is conducting public hearings on a zoning petition to create new land use classifications for cannabis delivery operators and couriers. The board is also reviewing a special permit for a bank relocation and discussing amendments to the MXD Infill Development Concept Plan.

• Zoning petition to create 'Cannabis Courier Establishments' and 'Cannabis Delivery Operators'
• Special Permit application for Santander Bank N.A. to relocate at 1290 Massachusetts Avenue
• Pre-application discussion to amend MXD Infill Development Concept Plan
• Extension request for 698 Massachusetts Avenue
• Proposed 300-foot buffer from schools and parks for Cannabis Delivery Operator Establishments

The Cambridge Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend the City Council's zoning petition to allow Cannabis Courier Establishments and Cannabis Delivery Operators in Cambridge. The board also held a pre-application discussion with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority for Boston Properties' MXD district proposal, which includes relocating an Eversource substation. Additionally, the board granted continuances for two special permit applications.

• Recommended cannabis delivery zoning petition to City Council (6-0)
• Concluded pre-application conference for MXD Infill Development Concept Plan amendment (6-0)
• Continued Santander Bank special permit hearing to July 13 or later (6-0)
• Granted extension to September 1 for Citizens Bank special permit case (6-0)

Finance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is conducting a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2022 budget. The meeting covers budget reviews for various city departments and financial summary sections.

• Fiscal Year 2022 budget public hearing
• Budget reviews for Public Works and Water
• Budget reviews for Library and Human Services
• Budget reviews for Cambridge Health Alliance
• Review of Revenue and Public Investment sections

The Finance Committee held a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2022 budget, discussing and voting on several department budgets. The committee approved and referred the budgets for Cambridge Health Alliance, Public Works, Community Development, Cable TV, Library, Human Services, and the City Overview/Financial Summaries/Revenue and Public Investment sections to the full City Council with favorable recommendations. The committee also passed a motion to amend the Investment Policy Section of the FY22 Budget Book to include a directive on avoiding investments in fossil fuels and private prisons.

• Approved and referred Cambridge Health Alliance budget to full Council (7-0)
• Approved and referred Public Works budget to full Council (8-0)
• Approved and referred Community Development budget to full Council (8-0)
• Approved and referred Cable TV budget to full Council (7-0)
• Approved and referred Library budget to full Council (8-0)
• Approved and referred Human Services budget to full Council (7-1)
• Approved and referred City Overview/Financial Summaries/Revenue budget to full Council (8-0)
• Approved and referred Public Investment budget to full Council (8-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing proposals to cap campaign contributions and limit donations from individuals seeking city contracts or permits. The body is also considering funding for public improvements in Harvard Square and various city infrastructure projects.

• Proposed ordinance to cap campaign contributions to $200 per person, per year, per candidate
• Transfer of $150,000 for medical services for personnel injured in the line of duty
• Appropriation of $70,000 for public space improvements on Palmer Street in Harvard Square
• Request to close Mass Ave. from Prospect Street to Sydney Street on Friday and Saturday evenings through September 2021
• Application for a curb cut at 59 Fairmont Street

The Cambridge City Council voted unanimously to advance revised Retail Zoning and Home Occupations Zoning petitions to a second reading, following a multi-year review process. The council also approved a $70,000 appropriation for public space improvements on Palmer Street in Harvard Square and adopted a policy order requesting a plan for future outdoor dining. A policy order to review city contracts with companies like Hewlett-Packard was tabled after a councillor exercised a charter right.

• Advanced revised Retail Zoning and Home Occupations Zoning petitions to second reading (9-0)
• Approved $70,000 from Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund for Palmer Street public space improvements (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to develop a plan for future outdoor dining and city supports (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to develop a holistic traffic management plan for the Alewife area, amended to include state police (9-0)
• Adopted policy orders on digital equity and leveraging federal broadband benefits (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to close Mass Ave in Central Square on Friday and Saturday evenings (8-0-1)
• Tabled policy order to review city contracts with Hewlett-Packard and other companies (charter right exercised)
• Referred report on eligible expenses from free cash to Finance Committee (9-0)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to conduct a hearing regarding cannabis delivery. The body will review proposed zoning text amendments and changes to Chapter 5.50 of the Municipal Code.

• Hearing on Cannabis Delivery Zoning Amendments
• Proposed amendments to Chapter 5.50 of the Municipal Code regarding cannabis delivery businesses

The Ordinance Committee held a hearing on proposed zoning and municipal code amendments for cannabis delivery businesses. The committee voted to forward the Cannabis Delivery Zoning Ordinance to the full city council with a favorable recommendation. Several policy orders were also approved, including requests for legal opinions on buffer zones and exclusivity periods, and for community development suggestions on regulating retail storefront use.

• Forwarded Cannabis Delivery Zoning Ordinance to full council with favorable recommendation (8-0)
• Approved policy order requesting legal opinion on eliminating/reducing buffer zone (8-0)
• Approved policy order requesting community development suggestions on regulating retail storefront use (7-1, Nolan opposed)
• Approved policy order requesting legal opinion on exclusivity period for economic empowerment applicants (8-0)
• Closed public comment (8-0)
• Adjourned at 7:04 PM (8-0)

Finance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee is conducting a public hearing regarding the city's budget for Fiscal Year 2022. The agenda includes an overview of various municipal departments and offices.

• Public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2022 budget

The Finance Committee held a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2022 budget, reviewing and voting on multiple department budgets. Most department budgets were moved to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation, including the Executive, Fire, Inspectional Services, Law, License Commission, and Clerk's Office budgets. The Police Department budget was moved with a favorable recommendation (6-2), while the Information Technology budget was moved without a recommendation after extensive discussion about municipal broadband. The Housing Liaison budget was also moved with a favorable recommendation (8-1).

• Moved balance of departments budget with favorable recommendation (9-0)
• Moved Executive budget with favorable recommendation (9-0)
• Moved Executive/Domestic Violence Prevention budget with favorable recommendation (9-0)
• Moved Executive/Housing Liaison budget with favorable recommendation (8-1)
• Moved Public Information Office budget with favorable recommendation (9-0)
• Moved Fire Department budget with favorable recommendation (9-0)
• Moved Inspectional Services budget with favorable recommendation (9-0)
• Moved Police Department budget with favorable recommendation (6-2)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is holding public hearings on two zoning petitions. One proposes creating a new Residence N District to allow 'Missing Middle' housing, and the other proposes new regulations for cannabis courier and delivery operator establishments.

• Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition to reclassify Residence A-1, A-2, B, C, and C-1 Districts into a new Residence N District
• Proposal to delete minimum off-street parking requirements for nontransient residential uses
• Cannabis Delivery-Only Zoning Petition to create 'Cannabis Courier Establishments' and 'Cannabis Delivery Operators'
• Proposed 300-foot buffer from schools and parks for Cannabis Delivery Operator Establishments
• Adoption of meeting transcripts from 3/30/2021 and 4/6/2021

The Cambridge Planning Board voted 5-3 to recommend that the City Council not adopt the Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition, which would have rezoned residential districts to allow more multifamily housing. The board also voted unanimously to continue the Cannabis Delivery-Only Zoning Petition hearing to May 18. The board approved meeting minutes from March 30 and April 6.

• Recommended denial of Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (5-3)
• Continued Cannabis Delivery-Only Zoning Petition hearing to May 18 (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes for March 30 and April 6, 2021 (unanimous)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing multiple funding requests from the City Manager. These include significant borrowing orders for infrastructure, school repairs, and municipal facility improvements.

• $28,500,000 borrowing order for sewer separation, storm water management, and climate change preparedness
• $10,000,000 borrowing order for the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan
• $5,000,000 borrowing order for reconstruction of city streets and sidewalks
• $1,800,000 borrowing order for various school projects including asbestos abatement
• $45,555.55 grant for emergency communication dispatch console upgrades

The City Council approved multiple appropriations and borrowing orders, including $1.8 million for school projects and $5 million for street and sidewalk reconstruction, and passed two items to a second reading. It also referred the Mass Ave bike lane report to the Transportation Committee and adopted several resolutions. The meeting included a COVID-19 update from the City Manager and public health officials.

• Approved $1.8M borrowing for school projects (asbestos abatement, Haggerty School plaza, Cambridgeport generator, CRLS Field House, Fletcher Maynard/Longfellow, Amigos gym floor) (9-0)
• Approved $5M borrowing for street and sidewalk reconstruction (9-0)
• Passed to second reading: $12,100 Cultural Investment Portfolio grant and $45,555.55 UASI grant (9-0)
• Passed to second reading: $25,000 Mass Save grant and $30,000 transfer for Traffic/ Parking injury costs (9-0)
• Referred City Manager Agenda #13 (Mass Ave bike lane report) to Transportation Committee (9-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting H.3559 (electrification) as amended (9-0)
• Adopted application for 29 temporary pole banners in Inman Square (9-0)
• Adopted late resolutions including congratulations to Victoria Greer and condolences (9-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is reviewing a petition to create a new 'Broad Canal Subdistrict' within the PUD-3 overlay district. The board is also considering a comprehensive permit for affordable housing on Massachusetts Avenue.

• Zoning petition by Beals Associates, Inc. for the Broad Canal Subdistrict to increase max height to 295 feet
• Comprehensive permit for 2072 Massachusetts Avenue to build a 9-story, 48-unit 100% affordable housing community
• Proposed density increase for Broad Canal to 1.175 million SF
• Extension request for 269-301 Vassar Street
• Proposed parking maximums for office, lab, residential, and retail uses in the Broad Canal Subdistrict

The Planning Board held a public hearing on a zoning petition by RREEF America REIT II Corp. to create a Broad Canal Subdistrict in the PUD-3 Overlay District, which would allow a new office tower at 1 and 101 Main Street. The Board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to a future date, requesting additional information including a comparison of the proposed floor area ratio and housing components against other recent projects. The Board also voted 5-0 (with one abstention) to let its prior recommendation stand for the 49-unit affordable housing development at 2072 Massachusetts Avenue, and unanimously approved an extension of time for decision on the MIT graduate student dormitory at 269-301 Vassar Street.

• Continued Broad Canal Subdistrict zoning petition hearing to a future meeting (6-0)
• Requested a chart comparing proposed FAR and housing components to other PUDs and projects
• Let stand prior recommendation to BZA for 49-unit affordable housing at 2072 Massachusetts Avenue (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved extension of time for decision on PB#371, MIT graduate student dorm at 269-301 Vassar Street, to August 15, 2021 (6-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is meeting to discuss the submitted FY2022 budget and receive a COVID-19 update from the City Manager. The body is also considering various policy orders regarding housing, public safety, and transportation.

• Appropriation of a $97,500 Recycling Dividends Program Grant from the Massachusetts DEP
• Proposal to finance affordable homeownership units via a bond issue of at least $500 million
• Request for a police demilitarization plan including destruction of rifles and shotguns
• Zoning petition requiring green roofs on future construction of 20,000 square feet or larger
• Proposal to require 25% of parking spaces in development projects to be EVSE-Installed

The Cambridge City Council voted to ordain a zoning petition requiring green or biosolar roofs on new large commercial and lab buildings, with amendments clarifying definitions and exemptions. The council also adopted a $748 million FY2022 budget referral, approved a policy order for outside legal research, and passed several other policy orders and resolutions.

• Ordained green roof zoning petition for new commercial/lab buildings 25,000+ sq ft (6-0-3)
• Referred FY2022 budget of $748M to Finance Committee (9-0)
• Adopted policy order for council budget for outside legal research (7-2)
• Adopted policy order to increase affordable homeownership stock with $500M bond (9-0)
• Adopted amended policy order on police weapons reduction report (8-1)
• Adopted policy order for EV-ready parking requirements in new developments (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to update HomeBridge and Affordable Home Ownership Programs (9-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting TRIPS waiver for COVID vaccines (9-0)

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee unanimously accepted minutes from four prior meetings and discussed its role, the logic model, and evaluation plan. No formal decisions were made beyond the minutes approval; the meeting ended early due to technical issues.

• Accepted minutes from January 21, 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from March 1, 2021 (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from March 8, 2021, amended to delete a repeated item (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from March 22, 2021 (unanimous)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding a zoning petition for the Broad Canal Subdistrict submitted by Beals Associates Inc. The committee also received a communication from Patrick Connolly regarding the Broad Canal Subdistrict ordinance presentation and list.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2021-6: Broad Canal Subdistrict Zoning Petition
• Zoning petition submitted by Beals Associates Inc.

The Ordinance Committee held its first public hearing on the Broad Canal Zoning Petition, a proposal to redevelop the site at 51 Main Street with a 295-foot office tower. No vote was taken on the petition itself. The committee heard presentations from the petitioner and city staff, and several councillors voiced strong concerns about the lack of housing in the proposal, with one councillor stating he would move to reject the petition if significant housing is not added by the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned with plans for a future meeting to continue the discussion.

• Held first public hearing on Broad Canal Zoning Petition; no vote taken
• Closed public comment (7-0-2)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0-1)
• Councillors requested petitioner add significant housing to proposal by next meeting
• Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler threatened negative recommendation if housing not added
• Petitioner proposed 295-foot office tower, down from original 250-350 foot range
• City staff noted financial analysis incomplete pending commitment letter
• Planning Board hearing scheduled for May 4th

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to review a communication from City Manager Louis A. DePasquale regarding proposed changes to the Tree Protection Ordinance. The agenda also includes references to previous Health & Environment Committee meetings.

• Proposed amendments to the Tree Protection Ordinance

The Ordinance Committee voted to forward proposed amendments to the Tree Protection Ordinance to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The amendments, developed from the Urban Forestry Master Plan, expand definitions of significant and exceptional trees, allow more flexible use of the tree fund, and set new replacement and mitigation payment rules. The committee also voted to remove gendered pronouns from the ordinance and rejected an amendment to apply the ordinance to all trees on lots, including affordable housing developments.

• Forwarded tree protection ordinance amendments to full council with favorable recommendation (8-1)
• Deleted all gendered pronouns from the ordinance (9-0)
• Rejected amendment to apply ordinance to all trees on lots, including affordable housing (3-6)
• Adopted amendment to section 8.66.065 on mitigation payments (9-0)
• Suspended rules to extend meeting to 8:00 PM (9-0)
• Adjourned at 7:57 PM (9-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding two special permit applications. The board is reviewing a request to renovate a building for a hotel and a request to construct a two-family residence.

• PB# 361: Special Permit for Gas Light Building, LLC to renovate 711-727 Massachusetts Avenue for a hotel, including an 80-foot height increase
• PB# 377: Special Permit for Stephen Sillari to construct a two-family residence at 88 Holworthy Street
• Adoption of meeting transcripts from March 16, 19, and 23, 2021

The Planning Board voted unanimously to continue the special permit hearing for the Gas Light Building hotel project at 711-727 Massachusetts Avenue to June 15, 2021. The board requested the applicant return with revised plans to further step back the fifth floor and adjust massing to increase light and sky views for the adjacent Temple Place Apartments. Public comment at the continued hearing will be limited to those design changes.

• Continued PB#361 hotel special permit hearing to June 15, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved meeting transcripts for March 9, 16, and 23, 2021 (7-0)
• Granted special permit for two-family residence at 88 Holworthy Street, conditioned on BZA relief (7-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is meeting to discuss various city manager communications, including grant appropriations and a proposed tree protection ordinance. A zoning petition requiring green roofs on new construction or rehabs of 20,000 square feet or larger is scheduled for a second reading.

• Zoning petition for green roofs on buildings 20,000 square feet and larger
• Appropriation of $174,360.00 Massachusetts Formula Grant for Council on Aging
• Appropriation of $86,728.19 from MassHire Metro North for youth employment
• Proposed amendment to Section 8.66 of the Municipal Ordinance regarding Tree Protection
• Request for $500 million bond issue to increase affordable homeownership stock

The Cambridge City Council took several actions, including adopting an amended Green Roofs zoning petition (passed to a second reading), extending the tree protection moratorium until June 20, 2021, and adopting a policy order to study divesting city funds from fossil fuels and private prisons. The council also tabled a proposal to create a budget for outside legal research for the council. Several other items, including a $500 million affordable homeownership bond proposal and a police demilitarization plan, were held over due to charter rights exercised by a councillor.

• Adopted amended Green Roofs zoning petition, passed to second reading (9-0)
• Extended tree protection moratorium to June 20, 2021 (8-1)
• Adopted policy order to study divesting city funds from fossil fuels and private prisons (9-0)
• Tabled proposal for council budget for outside legal research (5-4)
• Adopted commercial composting pilot program for 100 small restaurants (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to light City Hall green for Mental Health Awareness Month (9-0)
• Charter right exercised on $500M affordable homeownership bond proposal
• Charter right exercised on police demilitarization plan

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal will hold a virtual meeting to consider several special permits and variances. The agenda includes requests for residential additions and window modifications, as well as updates to telecommunications equipment at three different sites.

• 23 Bigelow Street: Variance for basement addition and stair relocation
• 11-13 Haskell Street: Variance for screen porches and 3rd floor balcony
• 12 Hawthorn Street: Special permit for guardrail, retaining wall, and first floor/basement addition
• 330 Mt. Auburn Street: Special permit for Mt. Auburn Hospital to replace antennas and radio units
• 545 Concord Avenue and 102 Sherman Street: Special permits for Verizon and AT&T to modify wireless facilities

Health & Environment Committee - Committee Meeting

The Health and Environment Committee is meeting to hold a public hearing. The discussion focuses on the City's response to the COVID-19 pandemic based on information provided by City Manager Louis A. DePasquale.

• Public hearing regarding the City’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic

The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on the city's COVID-19 response, with presentations from city staff detailing actions taken. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, concluding with a motion to adjourn.

• Closed public comment (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:52am (unanimous)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee will conduct public hearings regarding refiled recommendations for Retail Uses Zoning (Ordinance #2021-3) and Home Occupations Zoning (Ordinance #2021-4). The meeting also includes a discussion on the Retail Table of Land Use Update.

• Public hearing: Retail Uses Zoning Recommendations - Refiled (Ordinance #2021-3)
• Public hearing: Home Occupations Zoning Recommendations - Refiled (Ordinance #2021-4)
• Discussion: Retail Table of Land Use Update

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing and voted to forward the Retail Uses Zoning Recommendations (Ordinance #2021-3) and Home Occupations Zoning Recommendations (Ordinance #2021-4) to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The proposal aims to clarify definitions, broaden allowed retail uses, and reduce barriers for small businesses by minimizing the need for variances and special permits. The committee also heard public comments in support of the changes, including from residents and business associations.

• Forwarded Retail Uses Zoning Recommendations (Ordinance #2021-3) to full council with favorable recommendation
• Forwarded Home Occupations Zoning Recommendations (Ordinance #2021-4) to full council with favorable recommendation
• Closed public comment (motion by Councillor Carlone)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:07 PM

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is reviewing design materials for the initial phase of the CambridgeSide project, specifically for 20 CambridgeSide and 60 First Street. The discussion includes building design reviews and a schedule for upcoming Canal Park improvements.

• Design review for 20 CambridgeSide
• Design review for 60 First Street
• Special Permit for telecommunications at 330 Mt. Auburn Street
• Special Permit for telecommunications at 545 Concord Avenue
• Special Permit for telecommunications at 102 Sherman Street

The Cambridge Planning Board approved the design for two commercial buildings at 20 CambridgeSide Place and 60 First Street, part of the CambridgeSide development. The approvals are subject to continued detailed review by staff. The board also voted to transmit recommendations on three telecommunication antenna installations to the Board of Zoning Appeal.

• Approved design for 20 CambridgeSide Place (7-0)
• Approved design for 60 First Street (7-0)
• Voted to transmit recommendations on BZA cases for 330 Mt. Auburn St., 545 Concord Ave., and 102 Sherman St. (6-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council meeting includes several communications from the City Manager regarding fund appropriations for public works, police, and human services. The agenda also contains policy orders related to remote participation, water conservation, and housing equity.

• $1,771,000 appropriation for snowstorm related expenses including plowing and salt
• $650,000 appropriation for snow and ice operation equipment
• $400,000 appropriation for snowstorm related street repairs
• $300,000 appropriation to continue the COVID-19 sewer testing program through 2021
• $187,500 grant for fire department hazmat responder PPE and equipment

The City Council voted to move the Green Roofs Zoning Petition to a second reading, adding an amendment allowing solar energy systems as an option and directing staff to draft an exemption for affordable housing projects. The Council also approved over $3 million in appropriations for snow operations, COVID-19 testing, and other grants, and adopted several policy orders on remote participation, legal services, and tenant application equity.

• Green Roofs Zoning Petition passed to second reading as amended (9-0)
• Amendment adding solar energy systems as an option adopted (5-4)
• Policy order to draft affordable housing exemption from green roof mandate adopted (9-0)
• Approved $650,000 for snow/ice equipment (9-0)
• Approved $130,000 for new aerial bucket truck (8-1)
• Approved $1,771,000 for snow removal expenses (9-0)
• Approved $300,000 to continue COVID-19 sewer testing (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to re-establish funding for visiting attorney (9-0)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is holding a public hearing regarding a zoning petition for Missing Middle Housing. The committee will review a petition submitted by Carolyn Fuller and communications from the Assistant City Manager and Allan Sadun.

• Public hearing on Cambridge Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-2)

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on the Cambridge Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-2) but took no final action. The committee heard presentations from petitioners and city staff, and received extensive public comment both for and against the proposal. The committee voted to have the Community Development Department review issues discussed at the meeting and report back at the next committee meeting. The meeting was recessed without a decision on the petition.

• Voted to suspend rules to extend the meeting to 9:00 PM (approved).
• Voted to close public comment (approved).
• Voted to suspend rules to extend the meeting to 9:10 PM (approved).
• Voted that CDD review issues discussed at tonight's meeting for a response at the next committee meeting (approved).
• Voted to recess the meeting (approved).

Human Services & Veterans Committee - Committee Meeting

The Human Services and Veterans Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding plans to reopen city after-school programs and summer camp opportunities. The committee also received a communication from Kate Skubecz and Rachel Mosher Henke.

• Public hearing on reopening after-school programs and summer camp opportunities

The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on April 7, 2021, to discuss plans for reopening after-school programs and summer camps. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational, with presentations from city staff and public comment. The committee heard details on spring and summer program offerings, including free field-based programs, summer camps at five sites, and a new sliding-scale fee system.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; hearing was informational
• Heard plans for Spring in the Sun field program starting April 26 at four sites
• Heard plans for summer camps at five sites serving about 300 students
• Heard plans for combined school-DHSP programs serving 240-300 students
• Heard plans for new sliding-scale camp tuition and reserved slots for low-income children
• Heard plans for Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program with 700-750 slots
• Heard plans for Camp Rainbow for children with intense special needs
• Extended meeting by ten minutes (4-0)

Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee - Committee Meeting

The Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee will meet to discuss a policy order. This order seeks to make remote participation in City Council meetings a permanent practice.

• Policy order regarding permanent remote participation in City Council meetings

The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee discussed a policy order to make remote participation in City Council meetings permanent. All committee members expressed support for continuing remote participation, including for other public bodies. The City Solicitor stated that under current state law, remote participation is not allowed once the governor's emergency order ends, and that legislative changes would be required. The committee agreed to move forward with policy orders to direct the City Solicitor to draft legislation and to explore collaboration with other municipalities.

• Closed public comment by unanimous vote (5-0).
• Adjourned the meeting by unanimous vote (5-0).
• Committee members expressed unanimous support for continuing remote participation in City Council and other public meetings.
• Agreed to have the chair draft policy orders to direct the City Solicitor to develop legislative language for remote participation and to explore collaboration with other municipalities.

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is holding a public hearing regarding a Special Permit application by MIT to redevelop the Volpe Exchange Parcel. The project includes residential, retail, office, and laboratory buildings, as well as a new community center.

• PUD Special Permit for Volpe Exchange Parcel redevelopment
• $36 million commitment to Affordable Housing Trust
• $8.5 million for Grand Junction Multi-Use Path
• $8.5 million for transit improvements
• $22 million for Community Center design and construction

The Cambridge Planning Board held the first hearing on MIT's Volpe Exchange Parcel PUD special permit application. After presentations and public comment, the Board voted unanimously to approve a preliminary determination that the proposal is in general conformance with zoning and planning, subject to further review and approval of a final development plan. The Board also requested additional information and modifications on issues like open space size, traffic, and community center location.

• Approved preliminary PUD determination for Volpe Exchange Parcel (7-0)
• Requested further study on Third Street Park size and open space programming
• Requested more information on community center location and access
• Requested traffic and loading circulation details
• Requested phasing plan for public benefits
• Requested update on Third Street and Broadway intersection design

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several city manager communications regarding appointments and fund appropriations. Key items include funding for swimming pool repairs at the War Memorial Pool Facility and a new aerial bucket truck.

• $750,000 appropriation for repairs to 3 swimming pools at the War Memorial Pool Facility
• $130,000 appropriation for a new aerial bucket truck
• Appointment of Owen O'Riordan and Mary Flynn to the Community Preservation Act Committee
• Appointment of Wendy Leiserson to the Board of Zoning Appeal
• Reappointment of Charles J. Marquardt as Election Commissioner

The City Council referred the Green New Deal zoning petition (Policy Order #2) to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board for a hearing and report. The petition would create a framework to offset emissions from large commercial buildings and fund green jobs and economic opportunities. The Council also adopted a policy order requesting the Housing Committee to hold a hearing on the state's Housing Choice Law and its implications for Cambridge.

• Referred Policy Order #2 (Green New Deal zoning petition) to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board for hearing and report.
• Adopted Policy Order #1 requesting the Housing Committee to schedule a hearing on the Housing Choice Law.
• Adopted Policy Order #3 requesting the City Manager to confer with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department on traffic-calming solutions.
• Adopted Policy Order #4, as amended, to light City Hall red for Autism Acceptance Month from April 12-16, 2021.
• Adopted a late policy order requesting the City Manager to ensure the city's list of neighborhood organizations is updated annually.
• Adopted a late resolution proclaiming April 5-11, 2021 as Cambridge Public Health Week.
• Approved the appropriation of $130,000 from Free Cash for a new aerial bucket truck, after Councillor Nolan exercised a charter right to review the purchase.
• Approved an appropriation for repairs to the War Memorial pool, with work expected to be completed by September.

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to continue a public hearing regarding a zoning petition for Green Roofs.

• Public hearing on Green Roofs zoning petition

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss a zoning petition regarding green roofs. The proposal would require vegetated or BioSolar roofs on future construction and significant rehab of buildings 20,000 square feet and larger.

• Zoning petition from Amy Oliver regarding green roof requirements for buildings 20,000 square feet and larger
• Proposed amendments to the Green Roofs petition from Councillor Carlone
• Recommendation for amendments from Diane Martin of Mothers Out Front

The Ordinance Committee voted to refer the Green Roofs zoning petition, as amended, to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The amended petition raises the triggering threshold from 20,000 to 25,000 square feet, removes the significant renovations element, and directs in-lieu payments to the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust. The committee also approved a policy order requesting the City Manager to propose an effective date and list affected projects.

• Referred Green Roofs zoning petition with amendments to full council with favorable recommendation (7-0-2)
• Approved policy order requesting City Manager propose effective date and list affected projects (7-0-2)
• Closed public comment (7-0-2)
• Suspended rules to extend meeting to 7:45 PM (7-0-2)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0-2)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is considering a zoning petition to create a new 'Residence N District' to allow multi-family housing up to three stories in residential neighborhoods. The proposal seeks to reclassify several existing residential districts and remove minimum off-street parking requirements for non-transient residential uses citywide.

• Public hearing on Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition by Carolyn Fuller, et. al.
• Proposed reclassification of Residence A-1, A-2, B, C, and C-1 Districts into a new Residence N District
• Proposed deletion of minimum off-street parking requirements for non-transient residential uses
• Proposed amendments to Zoning Ordinance Articles 3.000, 4.000, 5.000, 6.000, and 11.000
• Adoption of March 2, 2021, meeting transcripts

The Cambridge Planning Board held a public hearing on the Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition, which would reclassify most residential districts and remove parking minimums. After extensive public comment and board discussion, the board voted 7-0-1 to continue the hearing to a future date, with one abstention. The board will prepare a report reflecting its diverse opinions for the City Council.

• Continued Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition hearing (7-0-1, Bowie abstaining)
• Approved March 2, 2021 meeting transcripts (8-0)
• Reduced public comment time limit to two minutes for this hearing
• Directed staff to draft a report of board's diverse opinions for City Council

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will review proposals for public works expenditures and a Home Rule Petition regarding geothermal wells at Callanan Field. The body will also receive updates on COVID-19 vaccinations and various committee appointments.

• Appropriation of $1,500,000 for standardized trash barrels for all residential buildings
• Appropriation of $335,000 for Big Belly solar compactors on Cambridge Street
• Home Rule Petition to relocate Article 97 land and construct geothermal wells at Father Callanan Playground and Fields
• Application for an awning at 33 Belmont Street
• Report on drafting an ordinance to ban single-use plastic items

The City Council voted unanimously to appropriate $1.5 million from Free Cash to purchase and distribute standardized trash barrels to all residential buildings in the city's trash program. The barrels, made of tough plastic with hinged lids, are expected to be distributed in spring 2022. The council also voted to refer reports on banning single-use plastics and implementing curbside textile recycling to the Health and Environment Committee for further discussion.

• Approved $1.5 million appropriation from Free Cash for standardized trash barrels for all residential buildings.
• Referred a report on banning single-use plastics to the Health and Environment Committee.
• Referred a report on curbside textile recycling to the Health and Environment Committee.
• Approved an awning request for Fun Antiques at 33 Belmont Street.
• Adopted a resolution honoring the retirement of Sergeant Joseph A. DeSimone from the Cambridge Police Department.
• Adopted a policy order to coordinate efforts to recognize National Black Business Month and Women's Small Business Month.
• Adopted a resolution expressing gratitude for Dr. Cornell West's time in Cambridge.
• Adopted a policy order for a budget roundtable discussion.

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is reviewing requests for variances and special permits for residential and institutional properties. Decisions involve building additions, setback relief, and signage installations.

• MIT request for variance to install 91 wayfinding signs and 3 special identity signs at 77 Massachusetts Avenue
• Request for variance to construct a second dwelling and tandem parking at 9 Oakland Street
• Request for variance for a 3rd story addition at 135 & 137 Elm Street
• Special permit request for a roof deck at 143 Hamilton Street
• Variance request for a 3rd story addition and rear decks at 383 Windsor Street

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a special permit application for a new research and development facility. The board will also discuss a PUD special permit amendment and a use determination for other properties.

• Public hearing for 600-624 Main Street: proposed 185,810 square-foot six-story technical office and laboratory building with 120 below-grade parking spaces
• 5 Broad Canal Way: PUD Special Permit Minor Amendment
• 650 West Kendall Street: Use Determination

The Cambridge Planning Board held a public hearing on the Ragon Institute's special permit application for a 185,810-square-foot research building at 600-624 Main Street. The Board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to a future date, primarily because residents of the nearby Newtowne Court public housing complex said they were not adequately notified or engaged. The Board also approved a minor amendment to the Cambridge Research Park PUD to allow a dental office at 5 Broad Canal Way, and issued a use determination for a fast-casual restaurant at 650 West Kendall Street.

• Continued the public hearing for the Ragon Institute's special permit application (PB#375) to a future date, citing unmet community engagement requirements.
• Approved a minor amendment to the Cambridge Research Park PUD (PB#141) to allow a dental office at 5 Broad Canal Way.
• Approved a use determination for a fast-casual restaurant (PlantPub) at 650 West Kendall Street.
• Directed staff to work with the dental office applicant on a storefront window treatment that maintains visual interest.
• Heard public comments raising concerns about community outreach, parking, and climate sustainability for the Ragon project.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will discuss recommendations for water and sewer consumption block rates and proposed zoning and code amendments for cannabis delivery businesses. The body will also consider a $52,250 grant for climate resiliency and floating wetland planning in the Charles River.

• Appropriation of $52,250 MAPC Accelerating Climate Resiliency Grant for floating wetland pilot in the Charles
• Proposed amendments to the Tree Protection Ordinance
• Recommendations for water consumption and sewer use block rates (April 1, 2021 – March 31, 2022)
• Zoning text and Municipal Code amendments regarding cannabis delivery businesses
• Application for 5 temporary banners across Main Street for Kendall Center Brand

The Cambridge City Council voted unanimously to make remote participation in public meetings permanent, including for boards like the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals. The council also approved a policy order opposing MBTA service cuts and a resolution condemning white supremacy and violence against the Asian community. A TD Bank awning application at 617 Massachusetts Avenue failed in a 4-4 vote with one abstention.

• Adopted policy order making remote participation permanent at all public meetings (9-0)
• Adopted policy order opposing MBTA service cuts (9-0)
• Adopted resolution standing in solidarity with Asian community and condemning white supremacy (9-0)
• Referred cannabis delivery zoning amendments to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board (9-0)
• Referred Tree Protection Ordinance amendments to Ordinance Committee (8-1)
• Adopted water and sewer rate recommendations for April 2021-March 2022 (9-0)
• Denied TD Bank awning application at 617 Massachusetts Avenue (4-4, 1 present)
• Adopted resolution honoring William 'Bill' Roger Jobin (9-0)

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) met virtually and discussed Year 2 implementation plans with two partnerships: Port Arise Institute and Strengthening Families Together. After discussion, CBAC agreed to advance Year 2 grant extensions to both partnerships and scheduled a follow-up check-in in three months. No other formal decisions were made.

• Advanced Year 2 grant extensions to Port Arise Institute and Strengthening Families Together partnerships
• Scheduled follow-up check-in with both partnerships in 3 months

Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee - Committee Meeting

The Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee is meeting to discuss the initial steps required to establish the search process for the next City Manager.

• Establishment of the search process for the next City Manager

The Government Operations, Rules & Claims Committee met to begin planning the search process for the next City Manager, as the current manager's contract expires in July 2022. The committee voted to have its Chair and the Mayor organize a series of public meetings to hear community input on the hiring process. No formal decisions were made on the search structure, such as whether to hire a search firm, which will be discussed in future meetings.

• Voted to close public comment (5-0).
• Voted to have the Committee Chair and Mayor organize a series of public meetings to hear community input on the City Manager search (5-0).
• Voted to adjourn the meeting (5-0).

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will review two special permit applications during public hearings. One involves constructing a new single-family residence at 9 & 11 Jackson Street, and the other concerns converting space into a cannabis retail store at 57 John F. Kennedy Street.

• Special Permit: construction of a single-family residence at 9 & 11 Jackson Street
• Special Permit: conversion of existing space to a Cannabis Retail Store at 57 John F. Kennedy Street

The Cambridge Planning Board granted a special permit to Gregory Matteosian to build two detached single-family homes at 9 & 11 Jackson Street, with conditions including continued design review and exploring permeable pavers for parking. The Board also granted a special permit to Blue Enterprises HSMA, LLC to convert the former Staples space at 57 John F. Kennedy Street into a cannabis retail store, with conditions including adherence to the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department memo and design review for lighting and artwork.

• Approved special permit PB#374 for two detached single-family residences at 9 & 11 Jackson Street, with conditions including continued design review and exploring permeable pavers for the parking area.
• Approved special permit PB#376 for a cannabis retail store at 57 John F. Kennedy Street, with conditions including adherence to the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department memo and design review for lighting and artwork.
• Adopted the meeting minutes from February 16, 2021.
• Noted that the City Council voted down the Alewife AOD-1 zoning petition by Cabot, Cabot & Forbes.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will meet to discuss a variety of policy orders, including a commercial composting pilot and restrictions on chemical crowd control agents. The body will also receive a COVID-19 vaccination rollout update from the City Manager.

• Zoning petition for Alewife Quadrangle Northwest overlay (APP 2020 #39)
• Proposed Commercial Composting Pilot Program for 100 small businesses (POR 2021 #45)
• Proposed amendment to Municipal Code restricting chemical crowd control agents (POR 2021 #51)
• Application for projecting flag mount sign at 1270 Massachusetts Avenue (APP 2021 #8)
• Request for temporary banner at JFK and Mount Auburn Street (APP 2021 #9)

The Cambridge City Council voted down the Alewife Quadrangle Northwest overlay zoning petition, which would have allowed a large commercial and residential development by Cabot, Cabot & Forbes. The motion to ordain failed 1-7, with one councilor present. The council also approved a policy order to explore a commercial composting pilot program for small businesses, and referred a proposed ordinance banning tear gas to the Ordinance Committee.

• Alewife Quadrangle upzoning petition denied (1-7, 1 present)
• Commercial composting pilot program policy order approved (9-0)
• Tear gas ban ordinance referred to Ordinance Committee (9-0)
• Resolution to end U.S. embargo on Cuba approved (9-0)
• Policy order to chronicle history of people of color in Cambridge approved (9-0)
• Policy order to increase local purchasing approved as amended (9-0)
• Policy order to re-implement indoor dining capacity restrictions failed (2-6, 1 present)
• Motion to reconsider public safety task force transparency order failed (4-5)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to consider several variance requests and special permits. These items include residential additions, a mobile communications facility modification, and a multi-unit conversion.

• 7 Springfield Street: Variance to convert a 3-family building into 7 dwelling units and 1 commercial space
• 1 Broadway: Special Permit for Verizon Wireless to modify a mobile communications facility
• 163 Cushing Street: Variance and Special Permit for a second-floor bedroom addition
• 59 Vassar Street: Variance for MIT regarding a mechanical penthouse volume addition
• 11 Gray Gardens East: Variance to construct a spa/pool within the side setback

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to continue discussions regarding the Real Estate Transfer Fee Home Rule Petition (POR 2020 #174). The meeting includes a review of a draft response from City Solicitor Nancy Glowa.

• Real Estate Transfer Fee Home Rule Petition (POR 2020 #174)

The Ordinance Committee voted to amend the proposed Real Estate Transfer Fee Home Rule Petition, lowering the threshold from $3 million to $1 million, and to refer the amended petition to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. The committee also voted to forward a policy order requesting the City Manager to draft an amendment setting the threshold at "not less than $1,000,000" and to seek a recommendation on directing funds to homeownership production. The meeting was procedural, with no final adoption of the fee itself.

• Amended the Home Rule Petition to change the transfer fee threshold from $3,000,000 to $1,000,000 (approved).
• Substituted the language of the Home Rule Petition with the amended version (approved).
• Referred the amended Home Rule Petition to the full council with a favorable recommendation (approved).
• Forwarded a policy order to the full City Council requesting the City Manager to draft an amendment setting the threshold at 'not less than $1,000,000' and to ask the Solicitor for a recommendation on directing funds to homeownership production (approved).
• Adjourned the meeting (approved).

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is reviewing several zoning petitions from the City Council. These include proposed updates to retail land use definitions, regulations for home occupations, and rules for altering nonconforming single- or two-family dwellings.

• Public hearing on amending Article 8.000 regarding the alteration or enlargement of preexisting dimensionally nonconforming detached single-family or two-family dwellings
• Public hearing on zoning petitions to create new land use definitions and amend regulations for Retail or Consumer Service Establishments
• Proposed zoning changes to modify regulations for Home Occupations permitted as Accessory Uses
• Proposal to expand parking exemptions for non-residential uses in office, business, or industrial districts requiring up to 4 spaces in buildings up to 10,000 square feet
• Proposed creation of 'hybrid' retail uses allowed when combined with another principal use (up to 25% of size or duration)

The Planning Board voted to recommend the City Council adopt a zoning amendment aligning Article 8 with state case law, allowing intensification of preexisting nonconforming single- and two-family dwellings via special permit instead of variance, with further legal questions to be explored. The Board also voted to forward a favorable recommendation on the retail and home occupation zoning petitions, supporting the framework while urging simplification of retail categories and further work on specific provisions.

• Approved meeting minutes for February 2 and February 9, 2021.
• Recommended adoption of Article 8.000 amendment on nonconforming dwellings, with questions raised by Board members to be explored before final adoption.
• Recommended adoption of retail and home occupation zoning petitions, with a recommendation to simplify retail categories and further refine certain provisions.
• Continued the public hearing on retail and home occupation petitions to a future date if needed.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will receive multiple reports from the City Manager regarding surveillance technology and COVID-19 vaccination updates. The body will also consider grants for fire department equipment and various policy orders including universal Pre-K and business fee waivers.

• Appropriation of $25,000 grant for a security gate at East Cambridge Fire Station
• Appropriation of $75,000 grant to replace 800MHz interoperability channel
• Planning Board recommendation on the Green Roofs Ordinance Zoning Petition
• Application for 4 awnings at 617 Massachusetts Avenue
• Proposed ordinance language to prohibit the use of tear gas in Cambridge

The Cambridge City Council adopted an amended Domestic Partnerships Ordinance, allowing individuals to be members of multiple domestic partnerships simultaneously. The council also adopted policy orders supporting universal Pre-K, waiving business fees, supporting farmer protests in India, and exploring mobile vaccination units. A proposed tear gas ban ordinance was placed on file after the city solicitor advised the council lacked authority, with the police commissioner committing to a policy ban instead.

• Adopted amended Domestic Partnerships Ordinance allowing multiple partnerships (7-0)
• Adopted Policy Order for universal Pre-K implementation (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order to waive business fees (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order supporting farmer protests in India (9-0)
• Adopted Policy Order to explore mobile vaccination units (9-0)
• Placed tear gas ban ordinance on file; police commissioner to implement policy ban
• Referred surveillance technology reports to Public Safety Committee (8-0)
• Tabled TD Bank awning application (5-4)

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee recommended Year 2 funding for all four partnerships: Family Stability Project, Families Moving Forward, Port Arise Institute, and Strengthening Families Together Project. For two partnerships, Port Arise Institute and Strengthening Families Together Project, the committee will meet with them to discuss questions and concerns about their Year 2 plans. The committee also noted that 107 emergency grants have been approved as of the meeting date.

• Recommended Year 2 funding for Family Stability Project
• Recommended Year 2 funding for Families Moving Forward
• Recommended Year 2 funding for Port Arise Institute, with a follow-up meeting to discuss Year 2 plan
• Recommended Year 2 funding for Strengthening Families Together Project, with a follow-up meeting to discuss Year 2 plan
• Noted that 107 emergency grants have been approved

Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebration Committee will hold a public hearing. The body will discuss neighborhood group successes, challenges, city support, and ideas for the Envision plan.

• Public hearing on neighborhood group support and the Envision plan

The committee held a public hearing to discuss with neighborhood groups their successes, challenges, and how the City can better support them, including ideas related to the Envision plan. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with groups sharing best practices and suggestions such as free meeting spaces, an ombudsman, and DEI training. The meeting was extended by 10 minutes to hear public comment, and public comment was closed and the meeting adjourned on unanimous votes.

• Meeting extended by 10 minutes to hear public comment (5-0)
• Public comment closed (5-0)
• Meeting adjourned at 7:06 PM (5-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a new hotel construction and a bank relocation. The board will also receive a project update for 1991 Massachusetts Avenue.

• Public hearing for a 70-room hotel in a 23,030 square foot building at 34-40 Hampshire Street
• Public hearing for Citizens Bank to relocate to 698 Massachusetts Avenue
• Project update for 1991 Massachusetts Avenue
• Adoption of meeting transcripts from January 19 and January 26, 2021

The Cambridge Planning Board voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for Citizens Bank's proposed relocation to 698 Massachusetts Avenue, allowing the applicant to revise the storefront design to address concerns about its prominent branding and frontage. The board also voted unanimously to continue the hearing for the proposed 70-room hotel at 34-40 Hampshire Street, citing the need for more community outreach and a clearer drop-off plan. The board concluded the meeting by endorsing a potential Army Corps of Engineers recruiting center at 1991 Massachusetts Avenue as an appropriate use for the ground-floor retail space.

• Approved minutes of the January 19 and January 26, 2021 meetings.
• Continued the public hearing for PB#373 (Citizens Bank at 698 Massachusetts Ave) to allow the applicant to revise the façade design.
• Continued the public hearing for PB#358 (70-room hotel at 34-40 Hampshire St) to address community outreach and drop-off concerns.
• Concluded the update on PB#241 (1991 Massachusetts Ave) with board support for the proposed Army Corps of Engineers recruiting center use.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will review updates on the COVID-19 vaccination rollout and financial analysis for the Alewife Zoning Petition. The body will also consider several applications for curb cuts and awnings, as well as various policy orders and resolutions.

• Zoning Petition from Beals Associates Inc. regarding Broad Canal Subdistrict
• Curb cut application for 303 Binney Street
• Awnings application for TD Bank at 617 Massachusetts Avenue
• Discussion on Alewife zoning petition and Quadrangle Northwest overlay
• Policy orders regarding Lowell Street Property and Shelter Wages

The City Council voted 6-3 to move the Alewife zoning petition to a second reading, keeping it alive for a final vote on March 15. The council also voted to substitute the city's proposed zoning language for the developer's petition text. The petition, which would allow taller buildings in exchange for community benefits like a bridge and housing, was opposed by Councillors Mallon, Toomey, and Zondervan.

• Advanced the Alewife zoning petition to a second reading by a 6-3 vote.
• Approved substituting the city's proposed zoning language for the petition text.
• Placed the City Manager's COVID-19 update and vaccination report on file.
• Placed the report on the city retaining its AAA bond rating on file.
• Tabled a discussion on amending the Tree Protection Ordinance.
• Placed items related to the 605 Concord Ave project on file.
• Referred the Broad Canal sub-district zoning petition to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board.
• Adopted a resolution declaring a COVID-19 Memorial Day.

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee reviewed 114 applications for COVID-19 emergency grants, deeming 105 eligible. The committee decided to give three incomplete applications one more chance to provide missing information, and the City Manager approved funding for all eligible applicants, allowing CBAC to recommend funding for all 105. The committee also discussed Year 2 extensions for four Partnership Grants but made no final decisions.

• Approved one more opportunity for 3 incomplete applications to submit missing information
• City Manager approved funding for all eligible applicants, enabling CBAC to recommend all 105 for grants
• Discussed Year 2 extension documentation for 4 Partnership Grants, no decision made

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is holding a virtual meeting to consider several variance and special permit applications. These requests include residential additions, a warehouse conversion, and telecommunications equipment updates.

• 31 High Street: Variance for two 15-foot dormer additions
• 383 Windsor Street: Variance for 3rd story addition and rear decks; special permit for window openings
• 2615 Mass Avenue: Variance and special permit for two canopies over fuel pump islands
• 33 Bristol Street: Variance to convert warehouse to single-family residence and office; special permit for parking reduction
• 599, 605 Mass Ave & 2-12 Essex Street: Special permit for Verizon Wireless to relocate antennas and install radio heads

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding two proposed amendments to municipal ordinances. These proposals focus on limiting campaign contributions from individuals seeking city contracts or permits and capping general candidate donations.

• Proposed limits on campaign donations from donors seeking city contracts, special permits, up-zoning, real estate, or financial assistance
• Home Rule Petition to cap campaign contributions to $200 per person, per year, per candidate
• Proposed limit on candidate loans to $3,000 per election cycle

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on two campaign finance proposals: one to limit donations from people or entities doing business with the city (Policy Order #240) and another to cap contributions to council candidates at $200 per person per year and candidate loans at $3,000 per election cycle (Policy Order #253). The committee voted to forward both proposals to the full City Council, and also voted to request the law department to review the proposed ordinance and provide suggested edits and recommendations. No final action was taken on the ordinances themselves.

• Approved motion to request the city manager to instruct the law department to review the proposed ordinance (POR 2020 #240) and respond with suggested edits, comments, and recommendations.
• Approved motion to forward the Home Rule Petition proposal (capping contributions at $200 per person per year and loans at $3,000 per election cycle) to the City Council.
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting.

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will receive updates on the COVID-19 vaccination rollout and a report on the landmark designation of St. Augustine's African Orthodox Church. The body is also considering an amendment to the municipal ordinance regarding tree protection.

• Proposed amendment to Section 8.66 of the Municipal Ordinance relating to Tree Protection
• Final Landmark Designation Report for St. Augustine's African Orthodox Church at 137 Allston Street
• Reappointment of seven members to the Affordable Housing Trust
• Report on the feasibility of creating a Fire Cadet Program
• Review of an extension for the 605 Concord Avenue project

The Cambridge City Council voted to extend the tree protection moratorium for 60 days and adopted the final landmark designation report for St. Augustine's African Orthodox Church. The council also approved a policy order directing the city solicitor to draft a home rule petition and zoning amendment to allow acoustic music performances without a license. The council received an update on the COVID-19 vaccination rollout and placed related communications on file.

• Extended tree protection moratorium for 60 days (7-2)
• Adopted final landmark designation for St. Augustine's African Orthodox Church (9-0)
• Approved policy order to draft home rule petition and zoning amendment for acoustic music without a license (8-0, 1 present)
• Adopted order supporting home rule petition for Fire Cadet Program (9-0)
• Adopted resolution supporting Rep. Clark's letter on vaccine access (9-0)
• Adopted policy order requesting report on services for unhoused (9-0)
• Adopted late policy order on notice for building permit extensions (9-0)
• Placed COVID-19 vaccination update communication on file (9-0)

Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee - Committee Meeting

The Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee and the Housing Committee are holding a joint hearing. They will discuss eliminating single and two-family only zoning and restrictions on housing types city-wide.

• Joint hearing on elimination of single and two-family only zoning
• Discussion of city-wide restrictions on housing types

The Neighborhood & Long Term Planning and Housing Committees held a joint public hearing to discuss eliminating single and two-family only zoning and restrictions on housing types citywide. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the hearing was for discussion and public comment. Councillors requested that the Community Development Department prepare a preliminary report on the impact of such a change on the Affordable Housing Overlay.

• Held joint public hearing on eliminating single and two-family only zoning (no vote)
• Closed public comment (6-0)
• Adjourned hearing (5-0)

Transportation & Public Utilities Committee - Committee Meeting

The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding snow removal on Cambridge streets and sidewalks. The meeting includes a presentation from Public Works Deputy Commissioner John Nardone.

• Public hearing on snow removal on sidewalks and streets
• Presentation from Deputy Commissioner of Public Works John Nardone

The Transportation & Public Utilities Committee held a public hearing on snow removal for sidewalks and streets, hearing from city staff, advocates, and residents. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational only, ending with adjournment.

• Closed public comment (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to continue a public hearing regarding a zoning petition for the Alewife area. The committee will also discuss a petition from Arvind Srinivasan concerning the Alewife Quadrangle Northwest overlay.

• Public hearing on Alewife zoning petition
• Zoning petition from Arvind Srinivasan regarding Alewife Quadrangle Northwest overlay
• Communication from Jacob Vance regarding Quad NW AOD1 Commitment Letter
• Communication from Jacob Vance regarding MassDOT Alewife Bridge Zoning Support Letter

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on the Alewife zoning petition, hearing from the petitioner, Cabot, Cabot and Forbes, and numerous residents who raised concerns about height, density, and the pace of the process. After discussion, the committee voted 5-4 to forward the petition to the full City Council with no recommendation. The petition was not approved or denied at this meeting.

• Forwarded Alewife zoning petition to full City Council with no recommendation (5-4)
• Closed public comment (unanimous)
• Extended meeting to 4:00 PM (unanimous)
• Extended meeting to 4:10 PM (8-1, Zondervan nay)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is holding a public hearing for a Special Permit application by MIT to construct two graduate student housing buildings. The board will also review an extension request for 600 Massachusetts Avenue and a variance for a two-family dwelling at 33 Gore Street.

• 269-301 Vassar Street: Special Permit for two buildings totaling 327,000 square feet of graduate student housing
• 269-301 Vassar Street: Request to increase building heights to approximately 100 and 105 feet
• 600 Massachusetts Avenue: Extension request
• 33 Gore Street: Variance to add two residential units to a pre-existing non-conforming two-family dwelling
• 33 Gore Street: Special Permits for ECHO and Res C-2B zoning extension and parking requirement waivers

The Planning Board continued the public hearing for MIT's proposed two-building, 327,000-square-foot graduate student housing project at 269-301 Vassar Street. Board members expressed support for the housing program but criticized the building's design as uninspiring and asked the architects to revise it. The board also approved a time extension for the 600 Massachusetts Avenue case and voted to send comments to the BZA on the 33 Gore Street proposal.

• Continued hearing for MIT graduate dormitory at 269-301 Vassar St. (7-0)
• Approved extension of time for decision on 600 Massachusetts Ave. to July 8, 2021 (6-0, 1 absent)
• Voted to send comments to BZA on 33 Gore Street proposal (7-0)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding a petition to amend Article 8.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance. The committee will also review a communication from City Manager Louis A. DePasquale regarding the same petition.

• Public hearing on petition to amend Article 8.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on a petition to amend Article 8.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance to align with recent Massachusetts case law. The amendment would allow certain minor changes to preexisting non-conforming properties, such as dormers or enclosing porches, to be permitted by special permit instead of requiring a variance. The committee voted 7-0 to refer the petition to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation.

• Referred zoning petition amending Article 8.000 to full City Council with favorable recommendation (7-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal will hold elections for a new Chair and Vice Chair. The board will also hear several cases regarding residential additions, lot subdivisions, and special permits for commercial and telecommunications uses.

• Election for new BZA Chair and Vice Chair
• 1 Cedar Street: Proposed 3-story mixed-use building with 8 dwelling units and a veteran's club
• 2485 Mass Avenue: Special permit to remove the five-year duration limit for automotive repair use
• 1221 Cambridge Street: Special permit for T-Mobile to modify rooftop wireless facility antennas and cabinets
• 215 First Street: Special permit for AT&T to replace 6 antennas and upgrade accessory equipment

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding a zoning petition for the Alewife Quadrangle Northwest overlay. The committee will review a financial assessment and presentations related to the proposal.

• Public hearing on zoning petition from Arvind Srinivasan regarding Alewife Quadrangle Northwest overlay
• Review of Financial Assessment of a Zoning Petition to Modify the Alewife Quadrangle Northwest Overlay District (AOD-1)

The Ordinance Committee continued its public hearing on the Alewife Quadrangle Northwest zoning petition but took no final action. Members discussed concerns about parking, traffic, the pedestrian bridge, and neighborhood amenities, and heard public comment both for and against the project. The committee agreed to hold another meeting on February 16th to continue deliberations.

• Continued public hearing on Alewife zoning petition; no vote taken
• Agreed to hold another meeting on February 16, 2021
• Extended meeting multiple times to 9:01 PM
• Adjourned at 9:01 PM

City Council - Roundtable/Working Meeting

The City Council and School Committee are holding a virtual meeting to begin discussions regarding the preliminary School Department budget for Fiscal Year 2022. The Office of the Superintendent provided a presentation for this roundtable session.

• Preliminary School Department budget for Fiscal Year 2022

The City Council and School Committee held a joint roundtable to begin discussions on the preliminary Fiscal Year 2022 School Department budget. The Superintendent presented enrollment projections, budget timeline, and priorities, but no formal decisions were made. The meeting was informational, with discussion on student recovery needs, digital equity, and collaboration between the city and schools.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was informational roundtable

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is conducting a public hearing on a petition to amend Section 20.30 of the Zoning Ordinance regarding green roofs. The board will also receive a project update for the MIT Kendall Square “NoMa” PUD and review two special permits for wireless facilities.

• Public hearing on zoning petition by Amy Oliver, et. al. to amend Section 20.30 Green roofs
• Project update for PB-302, MIT Kendall Square “NoMa” PUD at 2 Broad Canal
• BZA-103355: Special Permit for wireless facility modifications at 1221 Cambridge Street
• BZA-104567: Special Permit for antenna replacement and upgrades at 215 First Street

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing a proposal to allocate $1 million for vulnerable residents during the COVID-19 emergency. The body is also considering appointments to city commissions and various policy orders regarding city infrastructure and naming.

• Appropriation of $1,000,000 from the Community Benefits Stabilization Fund for nonprofit grant agreements
• Policy Order regarding the renaming of Fairmont Avenue
• Policy Order to eliminate hostile architecture
• Appointments to the Commission on the Status of Women and the Conservation Commission
• Proposed ten-year infrastructure plan for public safety and public services

The Cambridge City Council approved a $1 million appropriation from the Community Benefits Stabilization Fund for grants to nonprofits serving vulnerable residents during the COVID-19 emergency. The council also passed a policy order on hostile architecture, amended to include the Commission for Persons with Disabilities and to direct the city manager to work with specific departments on bench fixtures. A resolution honoring retiring CCTV Executive Director Susan Fleischmann was adopted.

• Approved $1M appropriation for nonprofit COVID-19 relief grants (9-0)
• Adopted policy order on hostile architecture, as amended (7-0, 2 present)
• Approved amendment to hostile architecture order adding Commission for Persons with Disabilities (9-0)
• Approved amendment to hostile architecture order directing city manager to work with specific departments on bench fixtures (7-2)
• Adopted resolution honoring retiring CCTV Executive Director Susan Fleischmann (9-0)
• Tabled review of 605 Concord Avenue project extension (9-0)
• Withdrew item on renaming Fairmont Avenue (9-0)
• Referred retail zoning amendments to Planning Board and Ordinance Committee (9-0)

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding a zoning petition. The proposal considers requiring green roofs or BioSolar installations on new construction and significant rehabilitations of buildings 20,000 square feet or larger.

• Public hearing on Green Roofs zoning petition submitted by Amy Oliver
• Review of staff memorandum from Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager / Community Development

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on a zoning petition to require green roofs on buildings 20,000 square feet or larger, but took no final action. Members discussed costs, legal concerns about fees in lieu, and recommended a nexus study. The petition remains in committee pending further review.

• Closed public comment (8-0)
• Extended meeting to 7:45 PM (8-0)
• Approved policy order for City Manager to conduct nexus study on green roofs (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting (8-0)

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several communications from the City Manager regarding budget appropriations and fund transfers. Key items include funding for new parks, police grants, and Bluebikes equipment.

• $5,717,250 appropriation for design and construction of Timothy J. Toomey, Jr., Triangle, and Binney Street Parks
• $45,250 VAWA STOP Grant appropriation for Police Department salaries and maintenance
• $10,231.68 Shannon Grant appropriation for police patrols and task force participation
• $452,600 appropriation from Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund for Bluebikes equipment
• $115,300 in donations for Bluebikes system costs

The Cambridge City Council approved the Kendall Square zoning petition and urban renewal plan amendments, appropriated $5.7 million for three new parks in East Cambridge, and adopted a policy order to investigate non-congregate shelter options. The council also referred the Missing Middle Housing zoning petition to committee and passed a policy order deprioritizing enforcement of entheogenic plants. A motion to reconsider all items was defeated, finalizing the night's votes.

• Approved Kendall Square zoning petition and urban renewal plan amendments (9-0)
• Appropriated $5,717,250 for design/construction of Toomey, Triangle, and Binney Street parks (9-0)
• Adopted policy order to investigate non-congregate shelter options, including continuing Green Street shelter (7-2, 2 present)
• Referred Missing Middle Housing zoning petition to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board (9-0)
• Adopted policy order deprioritizing enforcement of entheogenic plants (8-1)
• Approved $10,231.68 Shannon Grant appropriation for police hotspot patrols (9-0)
• Approved $45,250 VAWA STOP Grant for civilian victim advocate (9-0)
• Adopted policy order supporting School Committee's in-person learning expansion (7-1, 1 present)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board met to receive updates from the Community Development Department and review 2020 Town Gown reports. These reports provide data on campus operations, sustainability, and community partnerships from local institutions including Lesley University and Harvard University.

• Adoption of meeting transcripts from 12/15/2020, 12/22/2020, and 1/5/2021
• Lesley University report on campus projects including South Campus Renovation and Sherrill Hall Phase 2
• Harvard University report on $500,000 donation with MIT for an emergency shelter at the War Memorial Facility
• Harvard University report on $100,000 donation to the Harvard Square Homeless Shelter
• Town Gown reports from Lesley University, Harvard University, Hult International School of Business, and MIT

The Planning Board held a general hearing to receive annual Town Gown reports from Lesley University, Harvard University, Hult International School of Business, and MIT. The board heard presentations, took public comment, and discussed the reports. The board voted unanimously to send a summary of its discussion to the City Council.

• Approved meeting minutes for 12/15/2020, 12/22/2020, and 1/5/2021 (8-0)
• Voted to send a report to City Council summarizing the board's discussion on Town Gown reports (8-0)

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to hear four cases regarding zoning variances and special permits. These include requests for new residential units, parking reductions, and a roof construction project.

• 9 Shady Hill Square: Special Permit to construct roof over existing deck
• 16-18 Forest Street: Variance for 7 new and 1 renovated accessible unit (57 to 64 units total) and Special Permit for parking reduction
• 17-19 Forest Street: Variance for 8 new and 2 renovated standard units (66 to 74 units total) and Special Permit for parking reduction
• 544 Mass Avenue: Variance to build a 29-unit micro-studio apartment building

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding a financial analysis for proposed MXD amendments. The analysis was transmitted by City Manager Louis A. DePasquale.

• Public hearing on the KSURP financial analysis

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is holding public hearings to consider special permit applications for two properties. One involves a large-scale academic and retail building for MIT, and the other concerns a single-family residence.

• PB-370: Special Permit for MIT to build a 174,000 sq ft mixed institutional, academic, and retail building at 51 Vassar Street
• PB-370: Request for reduction of required parking at 51 Vassar Street
• PB-372: Special Permit for 118 Holworthy St., Realty, LLC to construct a single-family residence at 118 Holworthy Street
• PB-372: Request for additional windows on an existing non-conforming facade at 118 Holworthy Street

City Council - Roundtable/Working Meeting

The City Council is holding a roundtable/working meeting to review the 2020 biennial City of Cambridge Resident Telephone Survey. The meeting includes a presentation transmitted by City Manager Louis A. DePasquale.

• Review of the 2020 biennial City of Cambridge Resident Telephone Survey

The City Council held a roundtable/working meeting to discuss the 2020 Cambridge Resident Survey, with presentations from the City Manager, survey consultant, and department heads. No formal votes were taken, as the meeting was informational only. Key findings included record-high satisfaction with city interactions (60%), 81% positive rating for COVID-19 response, and declines in ratings for police, senior services, and schools. Council members requested further data breakdowns and deeper dives into specific areas.

• No votes taken; meeting was informational only
• Council discussed 2020 Resident Survey results
• Council requested additional data breakdowns by race, income, and neighborhood
• Council discussed potential targeted surveys for seniors and people of color
• City Manager committed to further analysis of survey results for budget planning

Community Benefits Advisory Committee - Regular Meeting

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee affirmed a $1 million request for COVID-19 emergency relief grants, with $10,000 awarded per eligible nonprofit organization. The committee revised eligibility criteria to allow organizations temporarily displaced from Cambridge locations due to COVID-19 to apply, and decided not to consider other funding sources in the review process. The timeline for the grant process may be pushed back by one week.

• Affirmed $1M emergency grant request (unanimous)
• Affirmed $10,000 award amount per entity (unanimous)
• Revised eligibility: location in Cambridge that directly serves residents; temporary displacement due to COVID allowed
• Decided against including existing funding sources as criteria
• Affirmed Partnerships organizations eligible to apply
• Rowan Murphy volunteered to review applications with Ellen

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee will conduct a public hearing regarding proposed changes to Chapter 2.119 of the Municipal Code. This follows a communication from City Manager Louis A. DePasquale concerning Policy Order No. O-8.

• Public hearing on amendments to the Domestic Partnership Ordinance (Chapter 2.119)

The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing and voted to amend the Domestic Partnership Ordinance, including changes to registration, withdrawal, and waiting periods. The committee approved amendments allowing multi-partner domestic partnerships, removing the automatic dissolution upon death of a partner, and eliminating the six-month waiting period after a partner's death. The amended ordinance was referred to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation.

• Adopted amendment from law department memo (7-0-1)
• Approved amendment to Section 2.119.030 on registration and withdrawal (7-0-1)
• Approved inserting 'or more' in Section 2.119.020 D (7-0-1)
• Approved deleting Section 2.119.020E (7-0-1)
• Referred amended ordinance to full City Council with favorable recommendation (7-0-1)

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee and the Human Services & Veterans Committee are meeting jointly. They will hear from community experts regarding the design of a community-centered public safety response service.

• Discussion on designing a community-centered public safety response service

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board is reviewing a request for a minor amendment to the PUD Special Permit for the Landing Condominiums project at 4 Canal Park. The proposed changes involve updates to site materials, signage, and landscaping elements.

• PUD Special Permit Minor Amendment for Landing Condominiums at 4 Canal Park
• Proposed reduction of parking spaces from 30 to 22
• Addition of 1 accessible parking space
• Increase of bollards from 5 to 32
• Increase of pole lights from 10 to 18

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The Board of Zoning Appeal is meeting to consider several special permits and variances for residential and commercial properties. The board will review requests for building additions, shed installations, and telecommunications upgrades.

• 1350 Mass Avenue: Special Permit for Verizon Wireless to upgrade mobile communications facility antennas
• 16 Dover Street: Special Permit for two shed dormers on a two-family dwelling
• 4 Dinsmore Court: Variance for a single story addition with a new flat roof
• 51 Cedar Street #51A: Variance for two storage sheds (4x8-ft and 4x10-ft)
• 133 Larch Road: Variance for a new screened-in porch and conforming deck

Economic Development & University Relations Committee - Committee Meetings

The Economic Development & University Relations Committee will hold a public hearing to discuss a proposed Vacant Storefront Policy. The meeting includes a review of findings and recommendations from the Director of Economic Development regarding storefront registration.

• Public hearing on proposed Vacant Storefront Policy
• Review of Vacant Storefront Registration Policy findings and recommendations from Lisa Hemmerle

Housing Committee - Committee Meeting

The Housing Committee will hold a public hearing to receive updates from several housing-related organizations. The discussion will focus on current work and how the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted their operations.

• Public hearing with Community Development Department
• Update from Cambridge Housing Authority
• Update from Homeowners Rehab, Inc.
• Update from Just A Start

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing a COVID-19 update and proposing a plan for direct financial assistance to residents and small businesses. The body is also considering short-term funding for public showers and toilets for unhoused residents.

• Proposed plan for direct financial assistance to residents, non-profits, and small businesses during the pandemic
• Request for short-term funding for public showers, portable toilets, and hand washing stations for unhoused residents
• Proposed zoning ordinance amendment regarding the KSURP petition
• Application for a projecting sign at 684 Massachusetts Avenue for Daily Table
• Request for the MBTA to reconsider bench bars at the Central Square T

Board of Zoning Appeal - Hearing – Remote Meeting

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. The only listed item is a communication from Inspectional Services regarding the meeting agenda.

Public Safety Committee - Committee Meeting

The Public Safety Committee is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding an itemized statement of materials, tools, and property owned by the Cambridge Police Department. The committee will review a report and presentation provided by Police Commissioner Branville Bard.

• Public hearing on Cambridge Police Department inventory list
• Review of Awaiting Report Item Number 20-34

Ordinance Committee - Committee Meeting

The Ordinance Committee is holding a public hearing to continue discussions regarding a zoning ordinance amendment petition. The petition was submitted by the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority to reflect proposed changes to the KSURP.

• Public hearing on KSURP Zoning Ordinance Amendment petition
• Zoning petition from Cambridge Redevelopment Authority
• Presentation from Ian Hatch, Project Manager at Boston Properties
• Communication from Tom Evans, Executive Director of Cambridge Redevelopment Authority

The Ordinance Committee voted 7-0 to refer the KSURP Zoning Ordinance Amendment petition to the City Council with a favorable recommendation, after amending it by substitution with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority's December 31, 2020 language. The amendment includes changes to the project's housing composition, replacing the affordable home ownership component with rental units and adding a definition for substation commercial GFA. The committee discussed but did not decide on deadlines for affordable housing completion or other design details.

• Amended KSURP zoning petition by substitution with CRA's Dec 31, 2020 language (7-0)
• Referred amended petition to City Council with favorable recommendation (7-0)

Planning Board - Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will discuss design updates for Parcel I and Parcel U of the Cambridge Crossing project. The board will also elect a Planning Board Chair and adopt meeting transcripts from November and December 2020.

• Design update for Cambridge Crossing Parcel I
• Design update for Cambridge Crossing Parcel U
• Election of the Planning Board Chair
• Adoption of meeting transcripts for 11/24/2020, 12/1/2020, and 12/8/2020

City Council - Regular Meeting

The City Council will receive updates on COVID-19 and the 2020 Resident Telephone Survey. The body is also considering a zoning ordinance amendment to Article 8.000 and a policy order regarding COVID-19 vaccines.

• Zoning Petition to amend Article 8.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance
• Policy Order regarding COVID-19 Vaccines
• Proposed Home Rule Petition for a Fire Cadet Program
• Request for a street corner dedication at Carlisle Street and Prospect Street
• Discussion on a sheltered market program for MWBEs and disadvantaged businesses