Cambridge Civic Journal

Time 2021-01-17 07:03:20

Web Name: Cambridge Civic Journal

WebSite: http://www.rwinters.com

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The Cambridge Civic Journal has never and will never accept money from any political candidate or political organization (including those that claim to be tax-exempt charitable organizations).We don't accept money at all.Note: Any information or images provided on this website may be used by anyone providing public information - and that goes especially for information about candidates in the municipal election. Attribution is appreciated, but not required.Contact the CCJwith news, questions,requests, commentsJob Openings withCity of Cambridge The president clings to his assertion like a drunk to an empty gin bottle. – Wall Street Journal on Trump's wiretap claim, Mar 21, 2017Great Responses:When asked by reporters after the Beer Summit in 2009 what role President Obama had played, Sgt. James Crowley responded: He provided the beer. Quote of the month (Feb 2011): Much of the language in the contract is obscure, its costs are not included and the contract has not been published on the city's website. The contract is posted, lost among hundreds of other documents, on a Cambridge blogger's website. - Summary of the research of a Northeastern Univ. journalism class project targeting Cambridge City Manager Robert Healy published Feb 8 in the Boston Globe and another blogger's website.It's so nice to be dissed by the children. - RWA liberal friend, conventionally "green," once asked me how a scientific issue like global warming had become a battleground in the culture war. I replied that the left had made it one by treating climate change as an imperative for sweeping ideological change. Climate alarmists insist that the earth is doomed unless we radically change the way we live by reducing freedom, limiting choices, and aggrandizing government. The struggle is not about the science of global warming, in short; it's about the theology of global warming - a theology that commands us, in Al Gore's formulation, to "make the rescue of the environment the central organizing principle for civilization."This religious aspect of climate alarmism, which many conservatives and libertarians grasp intuitively, is not often acknowledged openly by its adherents. But now and then it is stated with unabashed directness, as with this headline in the Guardian, an influential London daily, during the Copenhagen conference: "This is bigger than climate change. It is a battle to redefine humanity." Precisely.Jeff Jacoby, Dec 27, 2009, Boston GlobeGood quote for Dec 2007:"I mean, talk about a direct IV into the vein of your support. It's a very efficient way to communicate. They regurgitate exactly and put up on their blogs what you said to them. It is something that we've cultivated and have really tried to put quite a bit of focus on."-- former White House communications director Dan Bartlett, on conservative blogsGood quote for Aug 2007: By now, the political blogosphere is to the left what talk radio is to the right. It is a forceful, sometimes demagogic, message-monger organizing tool for the progressive end of the Democratic Party. - Ellen Goodman, Boston Globe, Aug 10, 2007 column "E-male"In MemoryInteresting Fact: Did you know that the color on the top of a fire hydrant indicates the flow rate of water from that hydrant?Blue: 1500+ gal/minuteGreen: 1000-1499 gal/minOrange: 500-999 gal/minRed: 500 gal/minApril 2007 quote: Quoting Robert Winters, a math instructor at Harvard, who is alleged to be an FBI informant, is like asking the Pope about religion. -- By R.B., April 18, 2007The City Clerks andCity Managersof Cambridge Every municipality has its quirks. In Newton, the unofficial anthem is Kumbaya. The Cambridge City Council will undoubtedly pass a resolution demanding that yoga be an Olympic sport. Supposedly urbane Boston has an otherwise good mayor that no one can understand. - Brian McGrory,Boston Globe, Nov 19, 2004City of Cambridgeweb siteBoston GlobeHarvard CrimsonJan 13 – I'm glad to see the 2nd Impeachment,but I was even more glad to read the Message from Joint Chiefs on U.S. Capitol Riot on Tuesday, January 12.- RWDown the road a bit - Growing rumblings of the 2021 municipal election yearDec 14, 2020, updated Jan 14 – I really hate to get started on this topic so early in the game, but there are already rumors of possible candidates for 2021 and several potential candidates have already filed the paperwork with the Office of Campaign and Political Finance (OCPF) so that they can start raising campaign donations. At least one incumbent city councillor has already sent word out to supporters that he'll be seeking reelection, but most or all of the incumbents are likely to follow. Here's a brief list:Nov 10, 2020not listed as registered voter as of Nov 2020 at given address, case worker at Margaret Fuller HouseTonia Hicks337 Pearl Street, 02139Nov 13, 2020campaign Chair lives in Colorado, Treasurer lives in North CarolinaNov 23, 2020listed as own campaign Chair and Treasurer, was rumored as candidate in 2019Joe McGuirk314 Columbia St. #1, 02141Dec 7, 2020bartender at Highland Kitchen in Somerville, and the Lexington at Cambridge Crossingnot declared, ran in 2019business owner, community activist, organizer of the Cambridge Carribean Carnival, serves on the board of several Cambridge non-profit and neighborhood organizationsnot declaredprime mover for Central Square BID, author of multiple successful and well-received zoning petitions, owner/builder of new hotel/restaurant in Central Squarenot declaredExecutive Director of Cambridge Local First; reliable sources suggest she'll be a 2021 Council candidate; filed w/OCPF in Dec 2016 as a candidate but did not pursue at that timeIncumbents who have declared intention to seek reelection or are actively fundraising (there are certainly others)Please send me any additions, corrections or credible rumors at Robert@rwinters.com.If you know of any great potential candidates for either Cambridge City Council or School Committee, please encourage them to consider being a candidate in the 2021 municipal election.3769 tested positive - This is an increase of 47 testing positive over the previous day and 2060 over 65 days.111 confirmed deaths (74 in long-term care facilities, 37 in general community - an increase of 8 over the last 22 days).Click on graph for latest Cambridge data.Jan 15, 2021 Breakdown of Cases (870 known current cases)This is an increase of 36 current cases from the previous day.Recent 7-day averages are much higher than they have been since April.The 7-day average recently broke 40/day for the first time.Harvard University COVID-19 data MIT COVID-19 dataNeighborhoods with highest cumulative case rates since start of pandemic (Dec 21)All neighborhoods (Dec 12). Charts exclude long-term care population.Superintendent Salim to resign from Cambridge Public Schools at end of (school) year (Jan 12, 2021, Cambridge Chronicle)In a letter to the CPS community, Salim said he would leave his post June 30 and the decision came after deep personal reflection and considering what is best for his family.Cambridge Community Electricity Program to Offer New Prices and Three Years of Price Stability Beginning in JanuaryJan 14, 2021 – The City of Cambridge has signed a new, 36-month electricity supply contract with Direct Energy for the Cambridge Community Electricity Program. With this contract, the City reaffirms its commitment both to creating more local renewable electricity and to providing Cambridge residents and businesses with competitive pricing and access to cost-effective, clean electricity. The new contract is the result of a competitive bidding process, and it will offer new prices and three years of price stability to all program participants beginning in January 2021.Participants in the Standard Green offering, which is the default program offering, will see their price drop from 11.12 cents/kWh to a new price of 10.20 cents/kWh. The new price is also lower than Eversource’s January 2021 through June 2021 residential price of 11.795 cents/kWh. However, it is important to note that savings cannot be guaranteed for future Eversource rate periods because Eversource’s prices change every 6 months for residential and small business customers and every 3 months for large business customers.Participants in the 100% Green Plus option, which provides 100% renewable electricity through the purchase of renewable energy certificates (RECs) from renewable energy projects in New England, will see an increase from 11.94 cents/kWh to 13.669 cents/kWh. The increase is primarily due to an increase in the cost of renewable electricity from New England. By choosing to opt up to 100% Green Plus, program participants increase demand for renewable electricity produced in New England, which helps to drive the development of new renewable energy projects on the local power grid and supports the jobs that go with them. Any Cambridge resident or business can opt up to 100% Green Plus at any time.Through the new contract, the City will continue to collect a small amount of money, $0.002/kWh, from all participants as part of their regular electricity bill, which will be used to fund a new local solar project. Once built, the solar project will provide clean, renewable electricity to all participants in the Cambridge Community Electricity Program. The $0.002/kWh is included in the Standard Green and 100% Green Plus prices quoted above.Active participants in the Cambridge Community Electricity Program do not need to take any action to participate in the new contract with Direct Energy. They will be automatically enrolled with their January 2021 meter read, and the new prices will first appear on February 2021 Eversource electricity bills. Program participants will continue to see Direct Energy listed as their electricity supplier on their Eversource electricity bills.Program participants will continue to receive and pay one bill from Eversource, which will be responsible for delivering electricity to Cambridge and for addressing power outages. Those who are eligible for discounts from Eversource will continue to receive the same benefits. Those with solar panels on their property will continue to receive net metering credits, which will be calculated based on the Eversource Basic Service rate, not on the program rate.New electricity accounts in Cambridge will be automatically enrolled in the Cambridge Community Electricity Program, but program participation is not required. Program participants can opt out of the program at any time with no penalty or fee and return to Eversource’s Basic Service.To switch between the Standard Green or the 100% Green Plus enrollment options, to opt out of the program, or to ask questions, contact customer support with the City’s program consultants at 1-844-379-9934 or cambridge@masspowerchoice.com. Additional information is available on the program website at www.masspowerchoice.com/cambridge. If you have questions about how to read or understand your electricity bill, please call the City’s new help line: 857-305-8812.Launched in July 2017, the Cambridge Community Electricity Program is an electricity aggregation, which uses the group purchasing power of the entire community to negotiate a price and increase the amount of renewable energy in the City’s electricity supply. The City uses a competitive bidding process to choose an electricity supplier for residents and businesses and to secure the best price possible for the community while advancing the City’s sustainability goals.City of Cambridge Extends Rollback to a Modified Phase II, Step 2Jan 12, 2021 – The City of Cambridge announced that it is extending its rollback to a modified Phase II, Step 2 of the Commonwealth’s Reopening Massachusetts Plan until at least 12:00 a.m. on February 1, 2021, or until further modified, in an effort to further reduce the spread of COVID-19 in Cambridge.Additionally, to ensure the safety of the public and City staff, in-person appointments at City buildings, including contactless holds pick-up at the Cambridge Public Library, will continue to be suspended until at least Monday, February 1, 2021 as well. While City buildings will remain closed to the public, City offices will be open, and many City services can be accessed online or over the telephone. A complete listing of City departments and contact information can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/hours.As a reminder, the City of Cambridge Modified Phase II, Step 2 requires the following mandatory closures until 12:00 a.m. on February 1, 2021, or until further modified:MuseumsIndoor historic spaces/sitesMovie theatersSightseeing and other organized toursIndoor events spaces such as meeting rooms, ballrooms, and private party roomsIndoor recreational activities such as batting cages, driving ranges, go karts, bowling alleys, rock-climbing wallsIn Cambridge, the following Phase III, Step 1 sectors are still allowed to operate, in accordance with capacity limits set forth in Governor Baker’s COVID-19 Order #59, with additional City restrictions: Fitness centers and health clubs may only operate at 25% capacity and in accordance with the following requirements:Locker room/changing room capacity at indoor fitness centers and health clubs shall be limited to 1 person per 200 square feet;Customers of fitness centers and health clubs shall only utilize the facility for a ninety (90) minute time period, per day;Indoor recreational and athletic facilities for general use (not limited to youth programs) may only operate at 25% capacity.Youth sports activities and programs are permitted in accordance with the Commonwealth’s Workplace Safety and Reopening Standards for Businesses and Other Entities Providing Youth and Adult Amateur Sports Activities – Phase III, Step 1, amended on December 9, 2020 and effective on December 13, 2020.Outdoor theatres and other outdoor performance venues not designated as Phase IV enterprises may continue to operate and do not have to close, however, may only operate with a capacity of twenty-five (25) people.Outdoor event spaces used for gatherings and celebrations including those in parks reservations, and other outdoor spaces not designated as Phase IV enterprises may continue to operate and do not have to close, however, may only operate with a capacity of twenty-five (25) people.Indoor non-athletic instructional classes art/education/life skills for persons 18 years or older may continue to operate and do not have to close, however, may only operate with a capacity of ten (10) people or at 25% capacity, whichever is less. As COVID-19 infections rise in Massachusetts and the region, the City of Cambridge will continue to take a cautious and measured approach to activities and industries permitted in Cambridge and will continue to closely monitor public health data as part of its decision-making process. View full text of the City of Cambridge Order Extending Temporary Emergency Order Requiring a Modified Rollback to Phase II, Step 2 of Governor Baker’s Reopening Plan in the City of Cambridge that was issued on January 12, 2021.View full text of the City of Cambridge’s Temporary Emergency Order Requiring a Modified Rollback to Phase II, Step 2 of Governor Baker’s Reopening Plan in the City of Cambridge that was issued on Jan 12, 2021.For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19And all the news just repeats itselfLike some forgotten dream that we've both seen- from John Prine's Hello in There Pioneering landscape architect Carol R. Johnson passes away at 91 (Dec 15, 2020, The Architect's Newspaper)Carol Johnson passed away on December 11 in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. Her firm's many projects include the John F. Kennedy Memorial Park, a five-acre green space nestled along the Charles River in Cambridge that opened to the public in May 1987; and Lechmere Canal Park in East Cambridge. Her firm also designed the Charles River paths upstream of Watertown Square when the paths were extended to Waltham. In June 1998 I wrote this in the early CCJ (Issue #10): “If you haven't seen what the MDC and Carol Johnson Associates have been up to along the banks of the Charles River upstream of Watertown Square, get on your bicycle and start pedaling upstream. New bicycle and pedestrian paths have been built and landscaped along a number of stretches of the river up almost to the Moody St. Dam in Waltham and will extend in this phase of construction all the way out to Route 128. There are new observation platforms at the Watertown Dam and at many locations along the way. This is very exciting stuff!” - RW [Obituary] [NY Times story (Jan 8)]Boston Marathon bomber sues over ballcap, showers in prison (Jan 7, 2021, Associated Press)Privilege can be found in the darndest of places. Poor little dungheap.The news has become an endless series of rearrangements of the words and phrases 25th Amendment , impeachment, insurrection, Pence, Trump, Pelosi, Cruz, and Hawley - as Trump manages to continue owning the headlines by any means necessary. At this rate the Biden Inauguration on January 20 might get as far as Page 2 in the New York Times below the fold. Any early initiatives of the incoming Administration will get less attention than the repercussions of the Jan 6 Invasion of Idiots. Let's not forget that this insurrection involved the murder of a police officer. It's incredible how violence in the name of politics with little or no consequence has become normalized in this country. That has to change. The right to peaceful assembly does not include the right to murder or to threaten people or to destroy property without consequence simply because you're angry.I just hope the Joint Chiefs of Staff are keeping a watchful eye on the “football”. The best plan I've heard so far (from Rep. James Clyburn) is to play Censure the Menace, pass Articles of Impeachment, and then wait 100 days before proceeding with a post-transition impeachment trial in order to reclaim the agenda before cooking the goose and relegating him to the darkest dungeon of American history. Though almost nobody ever seems to talk about it, we should also be having a serious discussion about the flaws in our election systems that yield perverse results like we have had to endure for the last four years. Unfortunately, after elections have passed and some have declared victory and others have conceded defeat, almost everyone quickly forgets the flawed mechanisms of the democracy they so want to defend.Here you go (but please don't storm City Hall to overthrow the government):Manager's Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a COVID-19 update.Placed on File 9-0The current daily rate of new positive Covid-19 tests is alarming in spite of the promise of the roll-out of vaccinations. Other than the fact that a large proportion of new cases are among people in the 20-29 and 30-39 age ranges, there hasn't been much information on specific means of transmission, e.g. reckless gatherings, routine letting your guard down, or transmission at the workplace or other specific sites. I would prefer it if councillors would focus more on targeted prevention than on equitable infection.Resolution #3. Congratulations to Mayor Marty Walsh. Councillor Simmons, Councillor ToomeyAdopted 9-0At least it's not Sanders. Meanwhile, more than a few hats appear to be headed for the Boston Mayoral Ring which could well result in typical vote-splitting in a plurality election leading to a top-two runoff between those lucky enough to not have their prime constituency split in a many-candidate primary. Ranked Choice Voting would be preferable, but I guess voters only understand that when betting on horses.Order #2. Lighting Up City Hall for a National Moment of Unity and Remembrance. Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor ToomeyAdopted 9-0Perhaps we should arrange for the lights to continuously flicker or be put on a dimmer switch.Order #4. That the City Manager and his staff prepare a memorandum outlining any federal, state or municipal law that restricts the City of Cambridge from allocating direct financial assistance to residents, non-profit agencies or small businesses and to develop a plan to offer direct financial assistance to Cambridge residents, non-profit organizations and small businesses suffering during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Councillor Carlone, Councillor SimmonsOrder Adopted as Amended 9-0The Anti-Aid Amendment for starters. There are creative ways to provide such aid indirectly, and we've seen that for much of this past year via contributions to the Mayor's Disaster Relief Fund. There are legitimate reasons for concern about direct financial assistance, but I'll leave it to the City Solicitor to provide those lessons. Meanwhile, here's a good reference courtesy of the Town of Natick.Order #5. That the City Council go on record asking the MBTA to reconsider bench bars at the Central Square T any T station in the City of Cambridge. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Zondervan, Mayor SiddiquiOrder Adopted as Amended 8-1 (Simmons - NO)This reminds me of when over 20 years ago we recommended installing hospitable benches throughout Central Square despite warnings that they would be immediately occupied by drunks and other substance abusers. My attitude at the time was to simply make sure there were a lot more benches than drunks, but a lot of business owners saw it differently. Many benches were moved or removed over time from very problematic locations, but apparently the reduction of benches still failed to cure alcoholism or drug abuse. I never cared for the addition of hostile mid-bench barriers but, then again, I also think cops (or social workers for the defunders ) should be enforcing a move along, buddy policy with vagrants. I guess I'm just old-fashioned. I hope I haven't triggered anyone.Addendum to Order #5: One of the things I have come to appreciate as I grow older is how many standards for ADA and otherwise can really matter in ways I never previously appreciated. For example, when the building inspectors told me I had to put in a banister on a very short stairwell going down to my basement I thought it was ridiculous and reluctantly installed the banister. Later I came to realize how useful it was. When I had balance issues a while back I really came to appreciate things like handholds and even the importance of relatively level sidewalks. Live and learn. Unless I hear otherwise I'll trust the MBTA's call on their benches. I always thought they needed at least side rails. To the organized parade of local members of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) who chose to use this issue as yet another organizing tool, perhaps one day you'll understand.Committee Report #2. Ordinance Committee met on Nov 19, 2020 to discuss on the KSURP Zoning Ordinance Amendment.Committee Report #3. Ordinance Committee met on Jan 5, 2021 to continue discussion of the KSURP Zoning Ordinance Amendment petition. [Order Printout] [Appl. Petition Printout] [Petition Memo]Reports Accepted, Placed on File 9-0, Petition Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0This football appears to be on the tee and ready to be kicked off to a 2nd Reading. The deadline for ordination is February 17. - Robert WintersComments?Temporary Dog Park to Open at Third and Binney Street Civic Space on January 11Jan 8, 2021 – The City of Cambridge announced a partnership with the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA) to establish a temporary off-leash dog park at the CRA’s Civic Space located at 174 Binney Street at Third Street.The dog park is scheduled to open on Monday, January 11 and will be operational through Fall 2021. The City’s off-leash rules and regulations will apply to this space and be enforced by the City of Cambridge Animal Commission. The hours of operation are from dawn to dusk.This temporary dog park will provide a fenced area for dogs to play off-leash while a planned permanent dog run is constructed at the new Timothy J. Toomey, Jr. Park at Third and Rogers Street in East Cambridge. Construction of Toomey Park is currently underway and on track to be completed by Fall 2021. In addition to a new fenced dog run, the new Toomey Park will feature play areas, sand and water play, picnic areas, and seating. The site of the new park was previously host to a similar temporary off-leash space prior to closing for construction in late 2019.“We greatly appreciate the CRA’s partnership in establishing this as a space for off-leash use while park construction is underway,” said Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager for Community Development. “The previous temporary space at the park was well-used by nearby residents, and this was a good opportunity to set up a convenient space in the interim as we look forward to the new park opening in the fall.”Once the permanent dog park at Toomey Park is completed, the Third and Binney Street Civic Space will no longer be used for off-leash purposes and will once again be made available to food trucks and other community amenities.For more information, please visit www.cambridgema.gov/toomeypark.COVID-19 Housing Stabilization Program to Begin Accepting New Applications on January 11, 2021Jan 7, 2021 – The City of Cambridge announced that it will begin accepting new applications on January 11, 2021, as part of the next round of funding for the COVID-19 Housing Stabilization Program.Launched in July 2020, the City of Cambridge COVID-19 Housing Stabilization Program serves to provide short term financial assistance to individuals and families in Cambridge who are experiencing housing instability due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.This program represents the City of Cambridge’s continuation of COVID-19 related resource disbursement for housing assistance. To date, $1.2 million has been committed, supporting 225 Cambridge households with six months of assistance. This program is being continued with the support of additional CARES Act funds.“The City’s Housing Stabilization Fund has been a financial lifeline for many Cambridge residents, said Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale in a joint statement. This next round of funding opening on January 11 will provide access to the additional $628,000 from Community Development Block Grant and CARES Act money we have dedicated to this program. To date, the City has committed more than $13.3 million to support individuals and families, small businesses, and non-profits in our community, who are experiencing financial hardship due to the pandemic.”Residents who meet the following eligibility requirements, and who have not yet received funding from this program, may qualify for up to six months of a rent or mortgage stipend.Eligibility Requirements:Applicants must be Cambridge residents;Applicants must be Cambridge tenants, owners of a limited equity co-op, or owners of a home purchased subject to long term affordability restrictions administered by the City or other public agency;Applicants' total household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) at the time of application;Applicants must demonstrate that their housing costs (condo fee, cooperative carrying charge, mortgage, or rent) are more than 35% of their gross household income, at the time of application;Applicants must not have more than $75,000 in liquid assets;Applicants must not have received funding from this program already;The program will continue to be administered jointly by the Cambridge City Manager’s Office through the Office of the Housing Liaison, the Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) through the Multi-Service Center (MSC), and the Community Development Department (CDD). Residents can apply beginning January 11, 2021 online or they may request assistance in applying over the phone by calling 617-349-9797.For more information, visit www.cambridgema.gov/housingfund.City of Cambridge Announces New Task Force to Examine the Future of Public SafetyJan 7, 2021 – City Manager Louis A. DePasquale today announced he has appointed a new Task Force to examine the future of public safety in Cambridge. “The City Manager’s Task Force to Examine the Future of Public Safety in Cambridge” will be co-chaired by Councilors E. Denise Simmons and Marc C. McGovern and consists of 14 members who live and/or work in the City. The group will seek to examine ways to reform community safety in Cambridge by mitigating police response to select calls for service, while enhancing community cohesion to include restorative processes.The following were named to the Public Safety Task Force:Chandra Banks, Ed.M.Cambridge resident and Conflict Mediator Cambridge Public Schools DistrictLoren CroweCambridge resident and Management ConsultantLeo GaynePublic Relations Officer, East Cambridge Savings BankSamuel M. GebruDirector of Public Affairs and Strategic Partnerships Black Economic Council of MassachusettsChristina GiacobbeDirector of Emergency Communications and 911Rev. Jaron S. GreenSenior Pastor, Union Baptist ChurchTina-Marie JohnsonCambridge resident and Cambridge Youth Council FacilitatorRev. Irene MonroeCambridge residentCatherine PembertonCambridge resident and Heath Care and Wellness Consultant and System Navigation SpecialistChristopher SchmidtCambridge residentRae Simpson, PhDCambridge resident and Mental Health AdvocateQueen-Cheyenne WadeBlack Response and Community For Us, By UsPastor EllisWashington St. Paul AME Church “I want to thank each member of the task force for their willingness to play a pivotal role in helping shape the future of public safety in Cambridge,” said City Manager Louis DePasquale. “This work will impact generations to come and improve the overall quality of service our public safety agencies provide our community. I am grateful to Councilors Simmons and McGovern for agreeing to serve as co-chairs of the Task Force. I cannot think of two more passionate leaders to facilitate the Task Force’s proceedings.”“I am very excited by the work of this task force, because as a City, Cambridge must continually be willing to explore how we keep our residents safe, and how we can build up greater trust and a sense of partnership between our public safety agencies and the public they serve,” says Councilor E. Denise Simmons. “I know the members of this new task force are going to help us take some important steps in those endeavors.”“As a social worker for the past 25 years, I know the importance of clinical responses to people in crisis,” said Cambridge City Councilor Marc McGovern. “I'm honored to be co-chairing this task force that will work toward implementing such a program in Cambridge.”“My staff and I look forward to working closely with the City Manager and new Task Force on this important work,” said Police Commissioner Branville Bard, Jr. “I have long been supportive of creating an alternate or non-police response for appropriate non-emergency situations, particularly those involving individuals experiencing mental illness, and this group is an important step in moving ahead in that direction.”Members of the new Public Safety Task Force will meet virtually at least twice a month. The first meeting is scheduled to take place in January 2021.City of Cambridge 2021 Scholarship Applications Now AvailableJan 6, 2021 – Applications for the 2021 City of Cambridge Scholarship are currently being accepted. The annual Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to college-bound high school seniors and Cambridge residents who wish to pursue post-secondary education.In 2020, the City of Cambridge awarded 79 scholarships of $3,000 each for a total of $237,000. Since the program’s inception in 1993, the city has awarded 1,108 scholarships totaling $2.6 million. With the increasing cost of higher education as well as continued economic uncertainty, these scholarships help ease the financial burden for many Cambridge individuals and families.Eligibility Requirements:Must be a resident of Cambridge; (All ages may apply);Must be attending, received admittance to, or have an application pending at an accredited education institution beyond high school level prior to award date of May 2021;Scholarship is paid directly to education institution and must be used during 2021-2022 academic year;Prior recipients are NOT eligible as the City Scholarship Award is one-time only.The City of Cambridge Scholarship fund is administered by the Finance Department. A Scholarship Committee comprised of six Cambridge residents appointed by the City Manager, reviews all applications and selects the scholarship recipients. Applications are evaluated and ranked based on academic achievement, financial need, community, and extracurricular activities, and special circumstances.Interested residents can download the application directly or view the Scholarship Webpage, CambridgeMA.gov/cityscholarship. While city and school buildings are closed to the public, questions and requests for applications via mail can be directed to the Finance Department at 617-349-4220 or Scholarships@cambridgema.gov. The deadline for 2021 scholarship applications, and all supporting documentation is March 8, 2021.The Scholarship Program is possible thanks to the generosity of Cambridge residents and businesses. Contributions can be made online or via mail to: City of Cambridge Scholarship Fund, City of Cambridge, P.O. Box 2005, Cambridge, MA 02139.There are two things in my daily/weekly routine that fill me with dread. The first is when I check the latest count of Covid infections and deaths among Cambridge residents. The most recent count indicated 51 new infections but fortunately no new deaths. However, after a long period of no new deaths (it was pinned at 100 for 82 days), there have been 8 new reported deaths since Dec 15, and this is very alarming. My other moment of dread is when I check the agenda for the next City Council meeting. That's when I expect to see the latest attempt by our elected scolds to dictate to Cambridge residents what they in their imagined brilliance feel is The Way Things Must Be. Whether it's dictating how to manage trees in my yard or whether my gas stove should be banned, they are always in the hunt for further ways to limit personal choice or play to the latest trendy movements. Thankfully, this week they gave us a break, but who know what's in the pipeline. Sometimes I think that constitutional rights may be the only recourse.The last meeting of 2020 had some interesting late additions. They emerged from Executive Session with a late appropriation order for a $1.4 million legal settlement (or so it appears). We are only left to speculate whether this was related to the Vail Court eminent domain taking of a few years ago or something else. In the Vail Court case, if the property owners had any sense (they didn't) they could have built a mixed income residential development that would have added vitality to that corner of Central Square. Instead, the City felt compelled to take the property by eminent domain for the usual uninspired purposes. Had that property been redeveloped in concert with the underutilized parking lot at the corner of Prospect Street we could have seen a really interesting revitalization of what may be the single most drab location in the Greater Central Square area. That, of course, would have required creative thinking and negotiation from the Community Development Department, but instead we ended up with asphalt and legal settlements. Then again, perhaps the $1.4 million was for hush money. At least that would make for a more interesting story.The other big story from the previous meeting was the $18.5 million eminent domain taking of an athletic field along Fresh Pond Parkway and the simultaneous disposal of the Green Ribbon Open Space Report from March 2000 (see comments of previous meeting if interested). Predictably, the councillors endorsed by ABC (A Bigger Cambridge) would prefer to Build Baby Build on that land. Clearly Cambridge has far too much open space. /sarcasm Here's my first pass at the marginally interesting stuff this week:Manager's Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to an update on COVID-19.Placed on File 9-0Charter Right #1. Policy Order re: Covid-19 Vaccines.Adopted as Amended 8-1 (Zondervan - NO)Order #4. That the City Council go on record supporting the School Committee in aligning School opening and closing with the Schools and Path to Zero framework with the goal of opening up all schools for in person learning, and supporting all efforts to include as many students as practically possible for at least some in person learning, with the goal of full time in person learning as soon as it can be done safely. Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor McGovern, Councillor SimmonsAdopted 9-0There was a great little book published some years ago called Innumeracy - Mathematical Illiteracy and its Consequences by John Allen Paulos. I often think of this book and it's theme when reading or hearing from city councillors or from more than a few people in the City's employ. Whether it's in promoting development with few goals or quantification, or the laundry list of brainstorming ideas that was dubbed Envision Cambridge, or in making sense of the relative risk of Covid-19 infection from various activities, innumeracy is often the rule. Regarding the public schools, at some point three metrics were chosen to determine whether our schools would be primarily in-person or done via remote learning. If we exceed 2 of the 3 metrics, it's shutdown time for all the schools. That's where we are right now - average of 25.7 new cases/day (the limit is 25, so a slight excess) and 851.5/ml viral copies in wastewater testing (limit is 100/ml).The crux of Order #4 seems to be to support the proposal to open the schools and keep them open just as long as individual schools can demonstrate that they are maintaining and ensuring a low-risk environment. I have no idea what the thinking of School Committee members is on this matter, but I do like the basic idea of evaluating each situation on its own merits.As for the Order re: vaccines held over from the last meeting, I'll simply note that on the one hand our councillors want to ensure that only the most effective vaccines are made available to Cambridge residents, but they also want us to be last in line only after all higher-risk communities have been vaccinated (Order #3 of Dec 21). The truth is that most of these decisions are not in the hands of city councillors but more appropriately in the hands of public health officials, and for this I am grateful.Manager's Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the biennial City of Cambridge Resident Telephone Survey for 2020.Placed on File 9-0I used to actually read these survey results, but I now question their validity. On the housing question in particular, I will simply note that possibly 100% of residents want housing to be affordable, but that's not the same as endorsing the City's approach to affordable housing. So many satisfaction surveys are more a function of the way the questions are asked than of the responses received. By the way, I believe that mom and apple pie are still highly regarded.Manager's Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a Zoning Petition which amends Article 8.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board 9-0Since the court decision leading to this recommendation would favor slightly more flexibility for owners of single-family and two-family homes, I'll not be surprised if there's resistance to the recommendation by the density boosters who would prefer that Cambridge be more like Coop City in the Bronx. The nerve of someone wanting to live in a single- or two-family home. Don't they know there's a crisis going on? /sarcasm Manager's Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-72, regarding keeping Riverbend Park opened beyond Dec 27, 2020.Placed on File 9-0Sorry folks. I guess the ample sidewalks and paths alongside Memorial Drive will have to be repopulated for the duration of the season.Order #1. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Law Department to draft Home Rule Petition language for a Fire Cadet Program similar to the language used in the Police Department Home Rule Petition. Vice Mayor Mallon, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Toomey, Councillor SimmonsAdopted 9-0This is a good idea, but I still find it remarkable that a Home Rule Petition is required to create programs like these.Order #3. That the Cambridge City Council formally expresses its interest in joining other cities actively pursuing digital equity and internet access by signing up for Next Century Cities. Councillor Nolan, Councillor ZondervanAdopted 9-0In all the controversy and committee meetings about the possibility of investing in municipal broadband, there are a few things that don't get nearly enough attention. One is the matter of TV - you know, as in television programs. You would think from the proponents that TV (Cable or otherwise) is something only senior citizens want. Maybe it's true and that nobody under 50 watches television anymore, but it never seems to be part of the discussion. Another matter rarely addressed is the matter of who would actually provide the content and connectivity. It's not the same as water or electricity where you simply introduce the water or voltage to the conduit. Another point not emphasized nearly enough is that cities where municipal broadband has been established tend to be those who already operate their own electric utilities - and we don't. Anyway, I don't know much about Next Century Cities, but they seem to be concerned only with equity rather than content.Committee Report #1. The Economic Development University Relations Committee met on Nov 19, 2020 to discuss challenges and opportunities that exist in City purchasing, procurement and programs for MWBEs and other historically disadvantaged businesses and non-profits in Cambridge.Report Accepted; Placed on File; Order Adopted 9-0Committee Report #2. The Public Safety Committee met on July 7, 2020 to conduct a public hearing on the Cambridge Police Department's Use of Force Policy and related matters.Report Accepted; Placed on File 9-0These reports are included for information only. Meanwhile, Councillor Zondervan is having another committee meeting this week in which he'll continue his campaign to defund the police. Political theater is such a poor substitute for real entertainment. - Robert WintersComments?Remote Learning Continues Next Week (CPS)Dec 31, 2020 – After consulting with Cambridge Public Health Department officials, the Cambridge Public Schools (CPS) has made the decision to continue their current all-remote learning model next week (January 4 - January 8) until at least Monday, January 11. [Full Announcement] Dec 31, 2020 – City of Cambridge Extends Restrictions on Public Events through March 31, 2021 and Announces Temporary Suspension of In-Person Appointments. Public urged to follow COVID-19 safe practices for New Year Celebrations Dec 31, 2020 – Update on In-Person Appointments at City buildingsCambridge City Council Campaign Receipts 2021Cambridge Community Foundation, City of Cambridge award $257,500 in grants to arts and culture organizations, hard-hit by the pandemicDec 23, 2020 – The Cambridge Community Foundation and the City of Cambridge have awarded a total of $257,500 in grants to 25 Cambridge-based arts and cultural organizations through the Cultural Capital Fund. Created in late October with a founding $500,000 gift from the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund and a $100,000 investment from the Wagner Foundation, the fund was established to address urgent needs in the sector due to COVID-19 and to protect the city’s cultural richness over the long term.When the pandemic hit, arts and culture organizations were forced to close theaters and venues overnight, leading to lay-offs and furloughs, pivots to virtual programming, and a devastating ripple effect on the economy as patrons stopped dining and shopping nearby.“The collapse of the creative economy has hit us hard and affected a lot of people and it’s not about losing our performance space, it’s about not being able to pay our bills,” said Josh Garneau, managing director of ImprovBoston. The organization received $10,000 grant to retain staff and pivot its curriculum to the online format. ImprovBoston closed its Central Square theatre last month. Before COVID-19, 150 people were supported by ImprovBoston in some way and 2,000 people came into Central Square each week for classes, and drank, dined, and shopped while there. The organization has been awarded an additional $25,000 grant from the Foundation and is hibernating this winter with the hope of emerging this spring with additional funding.Another long-standing cultural anchor to receive a $10,000 grant is the José Mateo Ballet Theatre, which lost $1.5 million in revenue this year and reduced its full-time staff and contractors from 47 to seven. “That Cambridge is opening its purse now is such an affirmation that the sector is seen as vital, in that series of things that we need to be full and whole human beings,” said Scott Fraser, executive director. “Artists are resilient, and the sector will come back, but stronger and different, and I think equity will be a defining feature.”A third grantee, The Hip Hop Transformation, will use their $10,000 grant to pay staff to continue their creative after-school program online. “Even before the pandemic, our students would use this platform to work through tough stuff like remembering when their family got evicted or grappling with the death of a friend. Right now, our kids are going through so much, and they need this project more than ever,” said Darrin Korte, executive director of the Cambridge Community Center, which runs the hip hop program.While most of the grants are for up to $10,000 to aid with operations and programming, one organization, The Dance Complex, was awarded a $25,000 grant to support capital improvements needed to make their historic Central Square building more operational in the COVID-19 environment.“Cambridge’s artists and our arts and culture organizations are a significant part of the connective fabric of our city and act as a powerful and uplifting equalizer in our community,” said Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui. “Regardless of differences in language, religion, culture, gender expression or age — the arts bring us together, and we need to support and care for them.”“We are proud to partner with the Cambridge Community Foundation in supporting our vibrant arts and culture sector,” said City Manager Louis DePasquale. “Collectively, we are committed to ensuring the survival of the arts in Cambridge because this sector is critical to the cultural vibrancy of our community. The Cultural Capital Fund is a critical tool to help provide financial relief to arts organizations.”The new Cultural Capital Fund, is Cambridge’s first, central channel for donors and other stakeholders to pool their resources into a common purpose: provide immediate support to arts organizations at risk due to the COVID-19 pandemic and to protect the viability of the arts ecosystem for years to come. The Foundation will award additional grants in the New Year. The Foundation is also seeking to connect arts and culture organizations to nonmonetary resources as well.“Maintaining the arts ecosystem – large and small organizations, creative ventures, and the livelihood of artists and cultural workers is critical to retaining our city’s innovation capacity. We look forward to working with our partners and generous donors to support the sector at this critical time and encourage the growth of artists and arts organizations led by people of color,” said Geeta Pradhan, president of the Cambridge Community Foundation. “We’re incredibly thankful to Mayor Siddiqui for flagging the importance of this sector and Vice-Mayor Alanna Mallon for putting our intervention in place, to City Manager Louis DePasquale who welcomed us as a partner, and Jason Weeks, a tireless advocate for the consistent and strategic investments needed to ensure the sector remains strong. We are truly stronger together.”The first round of grantees from the Cultural Capital Fund are: Brattle Film FoundationBrookline/Cambridge Community Center for the Arts, Inc (BCCA/CCCA)Cambridge Carnival InternationalCambridge Community TelevisionCambridge Historical SocietyHere's my rundown of the interesting stuff this week:Manager's Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a COVID-19 update.Placed on File 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)Manager's Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 20-44, regarding a Vaccine Task Force.Placed on File 8-0-1 (Simmons ABSENT)Order #2. Policy Order re Covid-19 Vaccines. Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Carlone, Vice Mayor MallonCharter Right - ZondervanOrder #3. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the appropriate City personnel to establish a waiver for low-income individuals utilizing the Covid-19 vaccine if the vaccine would otherwise cost money to access. Councillor SimmonsOrder Adopted as Amended 9-0The Beat Goes On. I would just like a better sense of what the principal causes are for the latest wave of Covid-19 positive tests. The fact that there were several new fatalities recorded this past week after many weeks without any new fatalities is, to say the least, alarming. Privacy concerns notwithstanding, a little explanation and reassurance right now will go a long way - even as the vaccine wagon rolls into town.Manager's Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a response to Policy Order No. O-8 of July 27, 2020, regarding a review of the proposed amendments to Chapter 2.119 of the Municipal Code - the Domestic Partnership Ordinance.Referred to Ordinance Committee 9-0Unfinished Business #2. The City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the City of Cambridge Law Department to review the above changes to the language of the Domestic Partnerships Ordinance and report back to the Council. [PASSED TO A SECOND READING IN COUNCIL JULY 27, 2020. TO BE ORDAINED ON OR AFTER SEPT 14, 2020] See Mgr #2Manager's Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a recommendation from the Planning Board to adopt with modifications, the MXD Amendments Zoning Petition.Referred to MXD Petition 9-0Manager's Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation to adoption the Cannabis Delivery Zoning Petition.Referred to Petition 9-0 (Petition to be Re-Filed in January due to changes in State Law)Manager's Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board recommendation to adopt with modifications, the Canal District Kendall (PUD-CDK) Zoning Petition.Referred to Petition 9-0Manager's Agenda #10. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to memo from the development economics consultant team led by Karl F. Seidman regarding a financial assessment of the Canal District Kendall (PUD-CDK) Zoning Petition submitted by BioMed Realty.Referred to Petition 9-0Unfinished Business #3. A Zoning Petition has been received from BMR–Third LLC c/o BioMed Realty, L.P. regarding a Zoning Amendment Petition for a new Planned Unit Development PUD District CDK. [PASSED TO A SECOND READING AS AMENDED ON NOV 30, 2020. TO BE ORDAINED ON OR AFTER DEC 21, 2020.] See Mgr #10, #11Ordained 9-0 as Amended; Letter of Commitment incorporatedCommunications #6. A communication was received from Salvatore Zinno Vice President, Development, BMR-Third LLC, regarding commitment letter to accompany zoning amendment petition.Letter of Commitment incorporated into Zoning AmendmentManager's Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the following requests relative to the eminent domain taking of 185 Larch Road: 1. Appropriate $7,702,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Law Department Travel Training (Damages) Account to cover the pro tanto payment toward the expenses of acquisition as required by the above referenced Sections of Chapters 40 and 43 of the General Laws for the property located at 185 Larch Road owned by BB 2. Approve an Order to take by eminent domain a 185 Larch Road; and 3. Appropriate $10,798,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Law Department Travel Training (Damages) Account to fund the settlement of BB N s remaining eminent domain damages claim.Order Adopted 8-1 (Toomey - NO)Lest you think otherwise, note that the City Manager's message says: “For several decades the City Council has been asking City Managers to actively pursue opportunities to acquire and increase access to open space for all residents. Unfortunately, this goal has been very difficult to achieve due to the lack of availability of land suitable for open space use in Cambridge. Due to this, when BB N expressed interest in selling Buckingham Field, we aggressively pursued this opportunity to acquire additional open space in Cambridge.”About 20 years ago I served on the City’s Green Ribbon Open Space Committee whose charge was to develop priorities and strategies to acquire additional open space in Cambridge. Since then there have been some opportunities seized by the City to achieve these goals – notably the purchase and street closure that led to Greene-Rose Park in The Port neighborhood, movement on the Grand Junction corridor, and some parcels that came to us as a result of various upzonings. This is a densely-developed city with very few opportunities available for adding to our very small inventory of open space.It is noteworthy that on the night when the City Council voted on a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the eminent domain taking of the BB N land on Larch Road for open space, many city councillors chose to focus primarily on how they could turn around and build on this newly-acquired open space. In short, many/most councillors were essentially saying that we should tear up the Report of the Green Ribbon Open Space Committee of March 2000.There are certainly lots of worthwhile priorities such as housing, schools, and additional space for Public Works, but it’s simply shameful that this particular group of councillors would choose to disregard long-standing calls for open space acquisition in such a dismissive way. Suffice to say that housing, including subsidized housing, can be built almost anywhere in the city. Few, if any, would advocate for demolishing residential buildings in order to create open space, but they seem very comfortable and even eager to eliminate open space at the very moment they are acquiring it.I really hope there are some big changes on the City Council in November 2021.Manager's Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to a request to move to Executive Session in order to discuss possible settlement and pending litigation.Late Order Adopted 6-2-0-1 (Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui - NO; Nolan - PRESENT) after Executive Session for appropriation of $1.4 million for unspecified purposes (see below)Manager's Agenda #13. Transmitting Communication from Louis A. DePasquale, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $1,400,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Law Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account to cover current and future disbursements that must be paid from this account.Late Order Adopted 6-2-0-1 (Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui - NO; Nolan - PRESENT)I completely respect the idea of Executive Session “to discuss possible settlement and pending litigation” and for various other reasons, but I have never understood why this has to be such a McGuffin (as Alfred Hitchcock would say) where even the general topic of the Executive Session remains a suspenseful mystery. Would it compromise the City's position to just add a clarifying phrase such as “regarding an open space purchase” or “for the acquisition of residential units” or “in regard to the ongoing Vail Court litigation”? In the absence of such, my suspicious mind and desire for drama always drifts toward “for the purchase of the silence of Madame Bouvier regarding the scandal in the City Hall clock tower.”Resolution #7. Thanking Rep. Robert A. DeLeo for his many years of dedicated service. Councillor ToomeyFailed of Adoption 3-3-0-3 (Mallon, McGovern, Toomey - YES; Sobrinho-Wheeler, Zondervan, Siddiqui - NO; Carlone, Nolan, Simmons - PRESENT)Order #1. That the Cambridge City Council calls upon the Animal Legal Defense Fund management to respect the democratic choice of its workers by, without delay, voluntarily recognizing ALDF United and bargaining a contract with ALDF United that reflects the core values of ALDF – compassion, innovation, balance, justice, commitment, and integrity – and that seeks to create a workplace that is anti-racist, cooperative, equitable, inclusive, just, respectful, and transparent. Councillor McGovernOrder Adopted 9-0Nothing says municipal election year coming like a ghost-written order in search of a candidate endorsement.Order #4. That the City Manager and DCR explore the feasibility of keeping Riverbend Park open beyond Dec 27, 2020. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor ZondervanOrder Adopted 9-0This may be a Very Good Thing, but let's please stop the pretense that this has anything to do with the pandemic and the need for social distancing.Committee Report #1. The Ordinance Committee met on Oct 21, 2020 to conduct a public hearing on the Harvard Square Conservation District Study Committee Report.Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0; Order Adopted 9-0; proposed amendments to Chapter 2.78, Article III, Section 2.78.150 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, entitled Definitions for Article III Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0I always love reading reports from the Cambridge Historical Commission and its related study committees. In addition to being extremely well-written and documented, they serve as a reminder that Cambridge does indeed have many buildings and settings that are absolutely worth preserving and enhancing. This truth is often lost on the latest wave of activists in the Robert Moses tradition of tearing all things down in the name of density without vision or any sense of history. Transit-oriented development and other smart projects notwithstanding, A Bigger Cambridge is not necessarily a better Cambridge.Committee Report #2. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Deputy City Clerk, transmitting a report from Councillor Nolan, Chair of the Neighborhood and Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebration Committee, for a public hearing held on Oct 14, 2020 to discuss the process for conducting the feasibility study for municipal broadband and the Request for Proposal.Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0I'm glad that there's some movement on this regardless whether it leads anywhere - either at the speed of light or more slowly. I do find it interesting (and perhaps it's a generational thing) that there was not a single mention of Cable TV in the report. Some of us bundle our phone, TV, and Internet together and, even if most of us have a less-than-stellar view of the Comcast Evil Empire, we don't see broadband access as completely separate from our ability to get really crappy TV programming at an unreasonably high cost. - Robert WintersComments?Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women VacancyDec 14, 2020 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking persons interested in serving on the Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women. Commissioners support staff in their mission to create and promote programs that increase public awareness and understanding of multiple issues affecting women and girls, particularly marginalized women and girls, within the city; advocate to improve the quality of women’s and girls’ lives; and build coalitions and partner with community organizations on these issues.Although meetings are currently being held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women meets on the second Wednesday of every month at 6:00pm, at 51 Inman Street, Cambridge, in the Women's Commission Conference Room, 2nd floor.The deadline for submitting applications is Fri, Jan 15, 2021. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available through the City Manager’s Office. Please contact them at 617-349-4300 or Citymanager@cambridgema.gov.For more information, contact Kimberly Sansoucy, Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women or ksansoucy@cambridgema.gov.Check out the latest episodes of Cambridge InsideOut: Tuesdays, 5:30pm and 6:00pm on CCTV If you would like to be a guest (or co-host) one of these Tuesdays, let me know. - RWThe CCTV studios are closed for the forseeable future due to the pandemic. We are now doing remote live broadcasts and we're also considering producing some pre-recorded Cambridge InsideOut shows (with guests!) soon and for the duration of the shutdown.Episode 485 (Tues, Jan 5, 2021 at 6:00pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: Post-War America 2021; Georgia on our Minds; municipal election candidates and prospects; Covid updateEpisode 486 (Tues, Jan 5, 2021 at 6:30pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: Green Ribbon Open Space Report and political forgetfulness; $18.5 million open space acquisition; Executive Session mysteries and the $1.4 million question; Vail Court and lost opportunities; future mobility realities; Riverbend Park on hiatus; shared streets; sour grapes and Rep. DeLeo; and CCTV congratulationsEpisode 483 (Tues, Dec 15, 2020 at 6:00pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: electoral college; first Covid vaccinations, testing, transmission; neighborhood groups; Dec 7 and Dec 14 City Council highlights; local history - sanitized or real; who speaks for the community? Episode 484 (Tues, Dec 15, 2020 at 6:30pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: 2021 municipal candidates; OCPF; advocates vs. representatives; Covid-19 changes the issues; good intentions vs. reality; housing non-policies; ABC war against single-family homes; Starlight Square updatesEpisode 481 (Tues, Dec 1, 2020 at 6:00pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: Frank Duehay; COVID rates still up - shutdowns averted for now; Council committee priorities in the time of COVIDEpisode 482 (Tues, Dec 1, 2020 at 6:30pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: Neighborhood associations; controversies; MCNA, ECPT, NAEC, NCSC, ANC, CSNC, PSNA, FPRA, HSNA, CNA, A4NC, WHNA, etc.; history; priorities; the gold standard of neighborhood associations; the value of archives for history and introduction; listserv vs. website vs. Facebook; reputation - not standing community school program and neighborhood councilsEpisode 479 (Tues, Nov 17, 2020 at 6:00pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: Presidential Election Results and Reflections; coming to terms with those who voted for the other guy; mandates and conflict; Blue vs. Grey or Red vs. Blue; social media and the importance of journalism you can trust - both nationally and locally; The Grifter as Anti-PresidentEpisode 480 (Tues, Nov 17, 2020 at 6:30pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: RCV fails; COVID - more than just an uptick , causes, COVID fatigue, MIT Harvard, controversy over Late Order calling for shutdown; City Council Aides discussion - history, suggestions, political patronage, and pushing limits of Plan EEpisode 477 (Tues, Nov 3, 2020 at 6:00pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: Election Day - Judgment Day; deaths of Rich McKinnon, Rick Jarvis; Covid updates; Nov 2 City Council Agenda - Resident Permit Parking Fee increase shot down; early signs of the 2021 municipal election; patio heaters and greenhouse gasesEpisode 478 (Tues, Nov 3, 2020 at 6:30pm) [materials] [audio]Topics: Competing proposals to limit campaign donations, candidates loaning to their own campaigns; wealthy friends vs. developers; proposal to ban tear gas and some history; the morphing of boards commissionsArea 4 (The Port) Newsletter Archive - 4WordI couldn't find these anywhere online, but I did save these files a long time ago. I'd like to create other archives like this if you have any materials to share - RWFeatured recent stories in the Cambridge Chronicle (the paper of record) - with some comments:If you would like to subscribe or pick up a free paper copy at various sites, I encourage you to do so. It really is The Paper of Record.With 'deepest pockets in state,' Cambridge councilors want answers on providing COVID aid (Jan 12, 2021)Superintendent Salim to resign from Cambridge Public Schools at end of year (Jan 12, 2021)In a letter to the CPS community, Salim said he would leave his post June 30 and the decision came after deep personal reflection and considering what is best for his family.‘No, I have not always felt safe,’ Cambridge’s Rep. Decker, others discuss State House security (Jan 12, 2021)Cambridge announces new task force to examine public safety (Jan 11, 2021)Boston Marathon bomber sues over ballcap, showers in prison (Jan 8, 2021, AP)LETTER: Profound need makes Cambridge affordable housing project essential (Jan 6, 2021 by Sam Shoap)Why this project? Why not a better one?OPINION: Cambridge can do better on affordable housing (Jan 5, 2021 by Dennis Carlone)Key takeaways from Superintendent Salim's update on in-person learning (Jan 5, 2021)Voting opens for Cambridge's Participatory Budget, Jan. 4-9 (Dec 28, 2020)LETTER: Thank goodness we have leaders willing to defend those who need affordable housing (Dec 23, 2020 by Shannon Megan)LETTER: Let’s green our rooftops in Cambridge (Dec 23, 2020 by Hannah Mahoney of Cambridge Mothers Out Front)LETTER: Build the Porter Square affordable housing project with all units (Dec 23, 2020 by Scott Hannon)LETTER: I don’t oppose affordable housing – I want to improve it (Dec 23, 2020 by Merry White)LETTER: Let’s consider the Porter Square development plan holistically (Dec 23, 2020 by Young Kim)Cambridge announces business rollback for 3 weeks to reduce COVID-19 spread (Dec 23, 2020)Cambridge Community Television announces next executive director (Dec 17, 2020)Cambridge Transition Wellness Center opens at Spaulding Hospital (Dec 17, 2020)Cambridge's independent bookstores maintain community with creative solutions (Dec 17, 2020)New Cambridge small business winter COVID-19 grant available (Dec 17, 2020)Cambridge awarded grant to address climate change (Dec 17, 2020)Cambridge Community Foundation awards $40K to food pantries, programs (Dec 17, 2020)With new owner comes new hope for Jerry’s Pond in Cambridge (Dec 17, 2020)OP-ED: Proposed affordable housing project in Porter Square should be applauded (Dec 17, 2020 by Sumbul Siddiqui, Alanna Mallon, Marc McGovern, Denise Simmons)Ed. Note: It's a shame that city councillors have been reduced to rhetorical mouthpieces for the A Better Cambridge PAC. Whether or not this is a good and worthwhile project is certainly open to discussion, but slandering anyone who has objections should not be the role of city councillors.How Cambridge has helped COVID-19 affected individuals, businesses (Dec 15, 2020)'This milestone provides us with hope:' Cambridge prepares for vaccines (Dec 15, 2020)Despite COVID, the Green Line Extension chugs towards completion (Dec 15, 2020)Food For Free receives space for new distribution center (Dec 10, 2020)STUDY: How Cambridge can avoid worsening its rapidly declining tree canopy (Dec 10, 2020)Note: The size of penalties described in this article is an example of extreme overreach by local government.Unprecedented need overwhelms food pantries, anti-hunger groups (Dec 9, 2020)More than $600K to go to Cambridge's small businesses, another $600K to housing needs (Dec 8, 2020)Future of Cambridge's Shared Streets program uncertain following lack of support (Dec 8, 2020)Cambridge distributes $1.2M through Housing Stabilization Program (Dec 8, 2020)OP-ED: Nature and the pandemic (Dec 8, 2020 byr Kathleen Johnson, Ellen Mass)OPINION: Cambridge history on ice (and leaf and stem) (Dec 8, 2020 by Steve Nadis)Cambridge schools go fully-remote as COVID cases surge (Dec 7, 2020)Cambridge officials seek to improve engagement in neighborhood groups (Dec 1, 2020)Note: It's interesting how the word undermine has been superceded by improve engagement .Cambridge looks to close digital divide -- with or without municipal broadband (Dec 1, 2020)Cambridge restaurants brace for COVID-19 winter as closure fears loom (Nov 30, 2020)Cambridge to distribute dozens of housing vouchers to homeless (Nov 23, 2020)Cambridge councilors want list, plan for vacant land owned by city (Nov 17, 2020)Family offers $10K for information regarding Paul Wilson's murder in Cambridge (Nov 12, 2020)Cambridge Veterans’ Services doubles down as COVID, cold weather hinder outreach (Nov 11, 2020)Action ‘long overdue’ in turning Cherry Street lot into affordable housing in Cambridge (Nov 11, 2020)MBTA outlines plan for widespread service cuts in 2021 (Nov 10, 2020)OP-ED: BIPOC voices must be heard in COVID plans for Cambridge schools (Nov 9, 2020 by Rachel Weinstein, Ayesha Willson)Cambridge Veterans’ Services has helped dozens of veterans get off the streets (Nov 9, 2020)Cambridge officials revisit idea of limiting money in politics (Nov 4, 2020)Election 2020: For 50 years, Peter Gesell has worked the polls in Cambridge (Nov 3, 2020)Baker rolls out curfews for businesses, increased mask requirements (Nov 2, 2020)‘We know where our ballots are at all times:’ Cambridge Election Commission steps up security (Oct 29, 2020)OPINION: The Black Response Cambridge calls on council to make immediate changes in policing system (Oct 30 by Stephanie Guirand)Note: This is a shallow opinion piece and nothing more.CCF to distribute $457K to Cambridge nonprofits (Oct 29, 2020)Without students and holiday boost, Harvard Square businesses fear for future (Oct 28, 2020)Cambridge families face different challenges adapting to learning during COVID (Oct 27, 2020)Worth the read. Cambridge councilors reduce time residents can speak during public forum (Oct 27, 2020)Cambridge’s eviction moratorium remains in effect. So what does that mean? (Oct 27, 2020)Fresh Pond Golf Course won’t open for public use until end of golf season (Oct 23, 2020)In response to viral video, Cambridge officials call for better social-distancing enforcement (Oct 22, 2020)How MIT, Harvard are managing to keep COVID-19 numbers low (Oct 20, 2020)Amid ‘heated rhetoric,’ councilors call for study on effects of conservation district in East Cambridge (Oct 20, 2020) Cambridge councilors say Judge Sragow’s removal an injustice, call for reinstatement (Oct 20, 2020)Cambridge police warn of phone scam impersonating officers (Oct 19, 2020)Eight COVID-19 cases stem from Cambridge nursing home (Oct 15, 2020)In step with CDC guidelines, Cambridge cancels Halloween events (Oct 14, 2020) DA identifies Cambridge fire victim; family remembers her creativity, love of nature (Oct 13, 2020)GUEST COLUMN: Hearings set promising outcome for CambridgeSide project (Oct 13, 2020 by George Sommer)Temporary shelter at Rindge gym will move to Spaulding next month (Oct 13, 2020)SUPERINTENDENT OP-ED: Going back to school is a team effort (Oct 12, 2020 by Superintendent Kenneth Salim)In-person learning set to begin for some Cambridge students; union head calls plan unsustainable (Oct 8, 2020)Cambridge looks to adapt as green initiatives put on back burner during COVID-19 (Oct 8, 2020)Cambridge issues fourth amendment to face masks Temporary Emergency Order (Oct 7, 2020)Cambridge delays governor’s reopening plan (Oct 6, 2020)As eviction moratorium comes to end, Cambridge legislators look for new ways to protect tenants (Oct 6, 2020)There is, of course, a federal prohibition on evictions that remains in place for the remainder of the year. ‘An important social-justice moment:’ Cambridge councilors pass Affordable Housing Overlay (Oct 6, 2020)Just because a councillor says this doesn't make it so. Cambridge sets mandatory 6-year timeline for completing bike network (Oct 6, 2020)Cambridge amends Temporary Emergency Restrictions for October (Oct 5, 2020)Cambridge publishes guide for trauma-informed training program (Oct 2, 2020)Nauset completes hotel project in Central Square (Oct 1, 2020)Cambridge, MAPC partner in Regional MVP Project (Oct 1, 2020)March-????? Programs (and Beyond) at Fresh Pond ReservationThese events are FREE and open to the public. Children are welcome in the company of an adult.Fresh Pond Reservation will remain open to the public daily from dawn to dusk. You are all invited to enjoy nature as spring crawls across the landscape of the City’s active drinking water reservoir protection land. We ask that visitors maintain safe social distancing (6ft.) from other users, caution and consideration goes a long way. Please continue to respect the property by picking up after your pup, making sure all trash makes it to proper receptacles, and respecting all life by leaving only footprints and taking only photographs. Above all else, please respect each other as we expect the reservation to be heavily used.Dates: Tuesdays, 12:00pm to 1:30pmPlace: Meets at the Ranger Station, 250 Fresh Pond Parkway These casual walks, led by Ranger Tim, will encompass Fresh Pond and take an informal look at each week in nature, life, and the city. Come alone or bring your co-workers! Rain or shine. Questions? Contact: tpuopolo@cambridgeMA.govInterested in Volunteering? Get hands on and give back to the land! Contact Ranger Tim at tpuopolo@cambridgeMA.gov to find out more!Unless otherwise specified, please contact Martine at 617-349-6489 or fpr@cambridgema.gov for any RSVPs or questions!Would you like to join Friends of Fresh Pond Reservation? Membership is $10 and can be paid online or sent to 31 Mt. Pleasant St., Cambridge, MA 02138.Keep up to date on events at the Pond. Visit the Friends group website at http://friendsoffreshpond.org to learn more about Friends group activities and the reservation and its inhabitants.Upcoming ProgramsAMC Local Walks is currently in a state of collapse due to a combination of Covid-19 restrictions and lack of leadership. Perhaps there will be a revival (more like a resurrection) in the Spring or Summer. I was hoping that others would step up, but if things continue as they have been going there may be a need for more assertive action.Sat, Dec 26. Holiday Hike - Lynn Woods, Lynn. A walk in the woods. 5-6 miles. Leaders choice. Dress for weather. Bring water, light lunch, trail snacks. Everyone bring a MASK or a Mask will be provided for you. Cancel if rain. L Nelson Caraballo.Percentage of Subsidized Housing Units (not including group quarters) - September 2017 (source)[this data is now 3 years old and needs to be updated by Mass. Department of Housing and Community Development!]Note: It must be pointed out that the figures above only show subsidized units. In many cities and towns there are many naturally occurring affordable units, i.e. apartments that simply have affordable rents. In addition, some tenants live in unregulated apartments but pay reduced rent due to such mechanisms as Section 8 vouchers. The figures above should therefore be understood only as a baseline.MAPC Study: 435,000 new housing units needed by 2040A new report is estimating that the greater Boston area will need another 435,000 new housing units by 2040 to lure new workers and accommodate an aging population. [Reports available here]Note: When comparing the peak population of Cambridge back in the 1950s (over 120,000) to what it is today (perhaps 107,000) it's important to keep in mind that families were typically much larger then. It's also the case that what people find acceptable in terms of living space and amenities has changed dramatically over six decades. This translates into considerably more units of housing (and higher density) in Cambridge if the population should rise to levels close to what they were in days of yore.THE MUNICIPAL SITUATION IN CAMBRIDGEA Paper read at the Annual Meeting of the National Municipal League at Chicago, April 28, 1904by Henry N. Wheeler, President of the Leaguepreceded by a Program of the Work of the League for 1904[original PDF]Cambridge InsideOut airs weekly every Tuesday at 5:30pm and 6:00pm with producers/hosts Judy Nathans and Robert Winters. We will have other guest hosts as well. [We are temporarily doing remote shows every other Tuesday at 6:00pm.][complete list of shows - with links to YouTube videos (and now audio too!)]Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 485-486: Jan 5, 2021Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 483-484: Dec 15, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 481-482: Dec 1, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 479-480: Nov 17, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 477-478: Nov 3, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 475-476: Oct 20, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 473-474: Oct 6, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episode 472: Sept 15, 2020 (57 minutes)Cambridge InsideOut Episode 471: Sept 1, 2020 (55 minutes)Cambridge InsideOut Episode 470: Aug 18, 2020 (extended play!)Cambridge InsideOut Episode 469: Aug 4, 2020 (extended play!)Cambridge InsideOut Episode 468: July 21, 2020 (extended play!)Cambridge InsideOut Episode 467: July 7, 2020 (extended play!)Cambridge InsideOut Episode 466: June 23, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episode 465: June 9, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episode 464: May 26, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episode 463: May 12, 2020 – Still Inside more than OutsideCambridge InsideOut Episode 462: Apr 21, 2020 – More Inside than OutCambridge InsideOut Episode 461 – The Quarantine Edition: Apr 16, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 459-460: Mar 10, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 457-458: Mar 3, 2020Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 63 and 64 with Glenn KoocherWe had a great time doing these shows with the man who invented the original Cambridge InsideOut - Glenn Koocher.Cambridge InsideOut on CCTV during 2013-2014 featured co-hosts Susana Segat and Robert Winters.Cambridge InsideOut on CCTV during 2015-2019 features co-hosts Judy Nathans and Robert Winters.Meet the New Year, Same as the Old Year – Featured Items on the Jan 4, 2021 Cambridge City Council Agenda (Jan 4, 2021)City Council Campaign Receipts – 2021 (posted Dec 28, 2020, updated frequently)Dropping the Curtain on a Very Bad Year – Featured Items on the Dec 21, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted Dec 20, 2020)A Clear Look at the December 14, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted Dec 14, 2020, updated Dec 16)Current City of Cambridge Board and Commission Vacancies (updated Dec 14, 2020)The Surge – Featured Items on the Infamous December 7, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted Dec 7, 2020, updated Dec 9)Leftovers – Highlights from the November 30, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted Nov 30, 2020)Off the Deep End – Cambridge City Council Nov 23, 2020 Agenda (posted Nov 30, 2020)Choice Bits from the Nov 16, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted Nov 16, 2020)National High Anxiety – The Eve of Decision – Highlights from the Nov 2, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted Nov 1)Save That Stuff to Provide Cambridge Recycling Yard Waste Collection Services Beginning November 2 (posted Oct 27, 2020)Riverbend Park in Cambridge to Remain Open Through November 29, 2020 (posted Oct 27, 2020)City of Cambridge Extends Restrictions on Public Events through December 31, 2020 (posted Oct 27, 2020)Money Politics – Featured Items on the October 26, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted Oct 25, 2020)Superstition – October 19, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted Oct 20, 2020)Voting Options and Voter Registration for the State/Presidential Election, Nov 3, 2020 – Cambridge, MA (posted Oct 6, 2020, updated Oct 27)What’s on the October 5, 2020 Cambridge City Council Agenda? Taxes! Revolution! Cannabis! (posted Oct 5, 2020)HOW TO BREAK A POLITICAL MACHINE – Collier’s Magazine, Jan 31, 1948 (posted Sept 24, 2020)Cambridge School Committee 2019 campaign finance reports (and $/vote) - posted Feb 9, 20202019 Cambridge City Council Campaign Bank Reports (and $/Vote) - FINAL (posted Dec 25, 2018; updated Feb 7, 2020)Follow the Money – Cambridge City Council Campaign Receipts 2019 (posted Sept 22, 2019, updated regularly)Demographic Mixed Bag – November 2019 Cambridge municipal election (posted Nov 28, 2019)Index of all candidates in Cambridge, MA municipal elections – 1941-2019 (posted Aug 3, 2019)Cambridge City Council and School Committee Candidates – 2019 (posted July 1, 2019 and final update on Aug 1, 2019)Distribution of Cambridge voters by age: Nov 2012 – Nov 2018 (posted Nov 22, 2018)Cambridge Growth Policy – Toward a Sustainable Future (posted Oct 31, 2018)MBTA Role in Cambridge Center Project – Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project, 1979-1989 (Feb 13, 2014)The Advent of PR in Cambridge (Nov 10, 2013)Completing the Square (June 11, 2013)Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project: Six Pivotal Episodes (June 8, 2013)On becoming a True Cantabrigian (Dec 29, 2012)Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project, Initial Years, 1963 to 1982 (July 12, 2012)Kendall Square Urban Renewal Area – Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (Apr 5, 2012)The Neverending Study of Central SquareAug 11, 2012 - While preparing to write a series of essays on Central Square, I put together the following list of Central Square studies culled from a variety of sources. I have originals for most of these. If you know of any others, please let me know. - Robert WintersFeb 1980 - CDD report entitled "Central Square - Commercial Area Revitalization DistrictJune 1980 - CDD booklet entitled Facade Improvements with focus on Central SquareApr 1983 - Central Square Report produced by City Council's Central Square Subcommittee (study began in 1980 or 1981)1987 - A report produced in 1987 about a Subcommittee that allegedly built on the 1983 report (may be same as Central Square Action Plan)Nov 1987 - Central Square Action Plan1989 - Draft Central Square Development GuidelinesMay 1993 - Results of the Mayor's Forum on Central Square Oct 1993 - Report by the Committee to Promote and Enhance Central Square Now!Aug 1994 - A Study of the Visual Images and Signage of Central Square (CDD)May 1995 - Central Square Improvements Project, Master Plan ReportMay 1995 - An Urban Design Plan for Central Square (executive summary)May 2001 - Summary Notes from A Conversation about Central Square Feb 2000 - The Gibbs Report, Central Square Commercial Market StudyOct 2004 - Central Square, Cambridge - Rising Fortunes at a Regional Crossroads (Rekha Murthy)Dec 2004 - Reviving a Traditional City - Central Square, Cambridge, gets a facelift (Rekha Murthy)June 2005 - Street Media: Ambient Messages in an Urban Space - a photographic analysis of Central Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts (Rekha Murthy)2009 - CDD Central Square Customer Intercept Survey Report2011 - Central Square Market Profile2011 - Red Ribbon Commission Study Report2012 - Goody/Clancy report and recommendations2013 - K2C2 Final ReportsK2C2 Final Reports ReleasedThe final reports for Kendall Square and Central Square are now available for download. Zoning discussions based on the recommendations of the K2 and C2 Advisory Committees, which are encapsulated in these reports, will continue in 2014.Community Development DepartmentKendall Square Central Square Planning Study (K2C2)Central Square Final Report 2013 Part 1, December 2013Central Square Final Report 2013 Part 2, December 2013Kendall Square Final Report 2013 Part 1, December 2013Kendall Square Final Report 2013 Part 2, December 2013This comprehensive planning effort guided by stakeholder advisory committees, City staff, and a team of multidisciplinary consultants led by Goody Clancy, developed a vision and master plan for Central Square, Kendall Square, and the area South of Main Street (including the Osborn Triangle) connecting the two squares. Both final reports are divided into two parts; in each case you will need to review both parts to read the entire report.FYI - Current Rules and Goals: Cambridge City Council Cambridge School CommitteeCity Council Rules 2018-2019 (adopted January 29, 2018; provisionally adopted for 2020-2021 term on Jan 6, 2020)City Council Rules 2014-2015 (adopted January 7, 2014, amended Feb 10, 2014 to reflect revised Council committees)City Council Goals - FY2018 (current, adopted Oct 16, 2017)City Council Goals - FY2012-2013 (adopted Dec 13, 2011)City Council Committees (for the current term)School Committee Rules (Adopted January 1, 2018; Revised June 19, 2018)School Committee Rules (adopted January 7, 2008) School Committee Goals (adopted October 7, 2008)June 7, 2009 - Once upon a time there was a civic organization in Cambridge known as the Cambridge Civic Association (CCA). It was formed in 1945 out of several organizations that had been existed through the 1930s and that had lobbied the state legislature to create the Plan E Charter option (1938) which featured a city manager form of government and proportional representation elections for city council and school committee. These reforms were central to model charter reform movements active in the United States from the early 1900s. The central theme of the CCA in its early days was "good government" in the sense of being anti-patronage and for professionally managed local government. This changed with the introduction of rent control at the end of the 1960s after which the CCA shifted leftward and became permanently lashed to the mast of the rent control vessel. Though the CCA still exists on paper (I believe), it rapidly declined after the statewide abolition of rent control (late 1994) and essentially disappeared a decade later (early 2005).I bring up the ghost of the CCA today only to point out that when it was created it had some very admirable goals. Here's the original Mission Statement of the CCA:Purposes: This association is formed for the following purposes:1. To promote businesslike, honest, and efficient conduct of local government, open to public scrutiny.2. To induce residents to take an active interest in the affairs of the City of Cambridge.3. To encourage and support the candidacy of men and women seeking election to public office and to support intelligent, wholesome leadership in public affairs.4. To assure that the best qualified persons are appointed to positions in the City government after consideration of all qualified candidates.5. To promote among the citizens of Cambridge equitable distribution and benefit of public services and equal opportunity for economic security, education, and social advancement.These are pretty good founding principles for a civic organization and I'm tempted to say that some should be incorporated into the recently adopted City Council's Goals for FY2010 (adopted Feb 2, 2009). In fact, of the 22 current goals, the only one that comes close is: "An increased level of recruitment and opportunities for membership on boards and commissions." The current Council goals emphasize things like "fostering community" via block parties and such, though one has to wonder if the City should be promoting these activities or just getting out of the way so that people can foster community on their own. The goals also seem to put some emphasis on developing "successful nightlife campaigns" while mentioning nothing about promoting ordinary "daytime" economic activity that supports the everyday needs of residents.One founding principle of the CCA that fell into disuse over the years is listed above as #3: To encourage and support the candidacy of men and women seeking election to public office and to support intelligent, wholesome leadership in public affairs. Indeed, I can personally testify to the fact that in its dying years the only reason the CCA made endorsements at all was because the CCA-endorsed incumbents wanted the benefit of having an advertised CCA slate of candidates that would help secure their reelection. There was precious little effort to recruit new candidates or to support them. Today, the benefits of incumbency are greater than ever. The cost of political campaigns have become absurdly high and most of the incumbents now have (City paid) staff who are inevitably political appointees who directly or indirectly assist in the reelection efforts of their bosses. The deck is increasingly stacked against challengers. Furthermore, the salary and benefits for elected councillors are now so sweet that it is unlikely that any of them would ever want to move on to another job.With this background in mind, I would like to encourage all Cambridge residents to help level the playing field by finding out about this year's challengers for seats on the Cambridge City Council and the Cambridge School Committee. This is not meant as a dig against any particular incumbent as much as an appeal to support the challengers in what is a difficult and laudable effort. Please see the Cambridge Candidate Pages for the current list of expected candidates. Then use your own judgment - don't expect me or anyone else to do it for you.Speaking of this year's municipal election, there are some activists who are now expending great effort to attack the City Manager and most of the current City Council. That is not nor has it ever been the intention of the Cambridge Civic Journal or its editor. Candidates are now being seduced by financial promises from one angry fellow with a Brattle Street address and a basketful of grudges. Former CCA Executive Board members from its darkest and most manipulative days are oozing up from the civic swamp trying to at last make good on their failed campaigns of the early 1990s to oust city manager Bob Healy.It's entertaining to watch people who have primarily earned disrespect in their civic efforts try to capitalize on the recent Monteiro jury decision as a means of realizing their decades-old vendettas. Conveniently forgotten in their recent letters to Cambridge's "oldest weekly newspaper" are the many achievements of City Manager Bob Healy, the strong financial position of the City, and the recent 8-1 vote of confidence bestowed upon Mr. Healy in granting him a three year contract extension. Also missing in this testimony is the fact that virtually all affirmative action in the hiring of employees and department heads has taken place on Mr. Healy's watch. These letters also fail to divulge how long these writers have been carrying their jealousy and anger toward Mr. Healy for actually orchestrating progress in Cambridge while the best they could ever do is snipe from the sidelines. - Robert WintersThis Old Land of Cambridge - The true story of the geological history of Cambridge - by George EhrenfriedSadly, George passed away (Jan 5, 2010) at the age of 96. He led many a geology-themed hike with the AMC Local Walks/Hikes.Pen Portraits of Prominent People - by Henry J. Mahoney Editor, Cambridge Sentinel - 1923This book was published c. 1923 and features very witty one-page pen portraits (with photo) of prominent Cantabrigians of the day. I'll be adding names alphabetically as time permits. There are 182 portraits in the book.It comes to mind that there may be some value in expanding these profiles to other prominent Cantabrigians who arrived on the scene after 1923, including prominent Cantabrigians of today. With this in mind, I extend the invitation to any and all who may wish to contribute their own pen portraits of Cambridge people. Contributions do not necessarily have to be in the style of Mr. Mahoney. Inclusion is, as always, subject to the erratic discretion of the editor.Special thanks to Karen Welch for sending me the book. - RWPolitical History of Cambridge in the 20th Centurywritten by Glenn Koocher, November 2004 -- edited by Robert Winters, July 2006 [An alternate edit of this essay will appear, along with many other valuable essays, in acentennial volume to be published by the Cambridge Historical Society in 2007.]Cambridge School Volunteers is looking for people who can give one to two hours per week to help students in the Cambridge Public Schools, grades K through 12. No experience necessary. Call 617-349-6794 or e-mail csv@cpsd.us for more details.Robert Winters, EditorCambridge Civic Journal(about me - updated!!)The Cambridge Civic Journal is an independent newsletter of civic affairs in the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is published as a public service by Central Square Publications. All items are written by Robert Winters unless otherwise noted. [Of course, I do sometimes forget.]Thoughts for these times:Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from religious conviction. -- Blaise Pascal''This is our fucking city, and nobody is gonna dictate our freedom. Stay strong.'' -- David OrtizSubscribe to the Cambridge Civic Journal.Specify in your message whether you wish to receive each new e-mail version or if you wish to be notified when the online versions are available at this web site. Under no circumstances will the subscription list be made available to any third party. The Number One thing I would emphasize is that journalists and bloggers would do well to see themselves as partners in the provision of information and that each can benefit greatly from the other. I ve never seen this as a competition. It is especially true these days that local papers and young journalists are not very well-versed in the communities they serve. Much of the institutional memory has either died out or been bought out. -- Robert Winters, mathematician and creator of the Cambridge Civic Journal, an online publication about Cambridge, MA (rwinters.com)Jorkin: Come, come, Mr. Fezziwig, we re good friends besides good men of business. We re men of vision and progress. Why don t you sell out while the going s good? You ll never get a better offer. It s the age of the machine, and the factory, and the vested interests. We small traders are ancient history, Mr. Fezziwig. Fezziwig: It s not just for money alone that one spends a lifetime building up a business, Mr. Jorkin…. It s to preserve a way of life that one knew and loved. No, I can t see my way to selling out to the new vested interests, Mr. Jorkin. I ll have to be loyal to the old ways and die out with them if needs must. Scrooge: I think I know what Mr. Fezziwig means, sir. Jorkin: Oh, you hate progress and money, too, do you? Scrooge: I don't hate them, sir, but perhaps the machines aren t such a good thing for mankind, after all. Memorable scene in "A Christmas Carol"

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