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PSNA Public Correspondence 
The Porter Square Neighbors Association communicates to relevant public officials the opinions and objectives of its members on matters of interest in Porter Square. All members are encouraged to attend and participate in public hearings affecting developments in the neighborhood; only the officers or other duly-deputized individuals may speak on behalf of the Association.The subjects of each letter listed below by year from 1996 through the present. The recipient of each piece of correspondence is in parenthesis.
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2000 Public Correspondence

10/12/00

Community processess re: affordable housing at the former VFW site
(Cambridge City Council)
06/03/00 Notication process for traffic calming measures (Community Development Department)
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1999 Public Correspondence
01/28/99 Kaya parking (Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal)
01/02/99 Number of seats in Lesley College Lounge (Cambridge License Commission)
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1998 Public Correspondence
04/25/98 Elephant Walk licenses (Cambridge License Commission)
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1997 Public Correspondence
09/05/97 Creighton, Porter, Regent Street residential developments (Cambridge City Manager)
08/19/97 Breugger's Bagels request for outdoor seating (Cambridge License Commission)
07/09/97 Shopping Center Signs (Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal)
06/20/97 New Dimensions Social Club (Cambridge License Commission)
05/16/97 Roadway improvement priorities (Cambridge Traffic Director)
05/16/97 Cottonwood Cafe (Cambridge License Commission)
04/27/97 The Elephant Walk restaurant (Cambridge License Commission)
05/01/97 Reply from the Cambridge License Commission
04/21/97 Community policing (Cambridge Police Department)
05/12/97 Reply from Mayor Sheila Russell
03/04/97 Forum on Porter Square roadway issues (State and Local Officials)
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1996 Public Correspondence
10/28/96 Hearing on gasoline storage license at 815 Somerville Avenue
(Cambridge License Commission)
10/16/96 Reiterating opposition to Speedy Muffler King (Cambridge City Manager)
05/09/96 Porter Square item in FY 97 budget (Cambridge City Council)
04/19/96 Status of Stephen James House site (Cambridge City Manager)
04/19/96 J&J Auto (City of Cambridge License Commission)
04/19/96 Bookcellar Cafe (City of Cambridge License Commission)
03/27/96 Speedy Muffler King (City of Cambridge Planning Board)
01/22/96 Envision Porter Square report (Cambridge and Somerville city officials)
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Comminity process re: affordable housing at former VFW site
October 12, 2000
To the Honorable, the City Council
The front-page article concerning possible conversion of the old VFW hall to affordable housing in the October 11 issue of the Cambridge Chronicle, and the July report by the City Manger to which the article refers, give a mistaken impression of the community process that has been followed. As President of the Porter Square Neighbors Association I would like to clarify several points, and to request that the community be given more input into the basic decision pending before the City Council.
As indicated in the report and article, there have been two meetings with the PSNA. The first was billed as purely informative. The second meeting did call for some feedback from the residents. However we were left with the clear impression that there would be further opportunities to make our opinions known. Nowhere in the process to date were alternative uses considered.
As I remember the discussion, feelings were distinctly mixed. There was general support for affordable housing as a goal, and a willingness to consider using the VFW hall for affordable housing. On the other hand, quite a few of our members expressed concerns about practical issues, including lack of parking, no play area for children, high traffic levels on both Massachusetts Avenue and Russell Street, and inadequate light and ventilation. The plan presented called for six apartments, which many of us felt was too much. We wondered if affordable housing was really the best use of a building facing directly onto Massachusetts Avenue and surrounded by businesses. Somebody recalled a past plan to use at least part of the space for an art gallery. Somebody else suggested studio apartments for transitional housing. There was no consensus asked for nor reached.
While the report and article mention the meetings, they do not mention the concerns we raised. We felt they were important, and would like them to be addressed substantively the building is committed to an unsuitable use. We would be glad to host another discussion in which alternative uses are a serious possibility, and we do hope that we will not only be listened to but also be heard next time.
Respectfully yours,
John H Howard
President
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Notication process for traffic calming measures
June 3, 2000
Beth Rubenstein
Community Development Department
238 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear Ms. Rubenstein,
At a Porter Square Neighbors Association meeting several months ago, Kathy Watkins gave a brief talk and slide presentation showing different traffic calming methods being used in Cambridge and elsewhere. This event took place after several traffic calming "bump outs" had been put into place on Orchard St. In the discussion following her talk a few of our members living on Beech St., Allen St. and the section of Orchard St. between Beech and Davenport expressed strong objections to the process followed--namely these neighbors living behind the Porter Sq.shopping center were not invited to nor notified of the planning sessions. Free parking places are scarce in their area, and they felt the "bump outs" further up Orchard St.--especially the two installed in the middle of a block--were displacing parking demand into their immediate area.
After this discussion, the Porter Square Neighbors Association voted to express concern about the exclusion of these members from the planning process. Some of the direct abutters who were included have driveways, and might be less concerned about the loss of parking than the residents of the high density area between Beech and Davenport. Those citizens most upset also asked that another meeting be called by the Community Development Office for those citizens not previously notified to have an opportunity to express their opinions to the Community Development staff.
It should be noted that, with a few exceptions, our members were generally pleased with the new traffic calming measures on Orchard Street. Our concern is that not all affected citizens were included in the process.
We hope that future traffic calming discussions include residents of nearby streets and that all citizens potentially affected will be notified about changes in the neighborhood. We also suggest that you call a neighborhood meeting, perhaps at the North Cambridge Senior Center, for the purpose of discussing this issue directly with the residents of Orchard St. between Beech and Davenport, and adjacent streets including Beech, Davenport, and Allen.
Respectfully yours,
John H Howard
President, PSNA
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Kaya parking
January 28, 1999
Board of Zoning Appeals
831 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear Sirs:
This letter concerns the recent application by Mr. M.S. Gim, proprietor of Kaya Restaurant at 1924 Massachusetts Avenue, for permanent renewal of the zoning variance for parking behind the restaurant.
The PSNA including abutters met with Mr. Vincent Panico, representing Mr. Gim, last Thursday, January 21. We agreed that Mr. Gim has lived up to the remedial measures that he agreed to as part of the temporary variance, and generally been a good neighbor. However, we are concerned that some future owner might not be as cooperative as Mr. Gim has been, or that circumstances might change some other way.
After discussion, the PSNA agreed to permanent extension of the parking variance, subject to the following conditions:
-it should apply only as long as Mr. Gim owns the restaurant
-the nature of the business (as a restaurant, and not a night club, for example) does not change
-Mr. Gim continues to follow the agreed-to remedial measures
We expect that these will be acceptable to Mr. Gim. We understand that we could bring the matter back to the BZA for review if the conditions cease to hold. We thank Mr. Gim for his cooperation and wish him good luck in the future.
Respectfully yours,
John H Howard
President, PSNA
Cc: Mr. Vincent Panico, 2343 Mass Ave, Cambridge 02140
Mr. M.S. Gim, 1924 Mass Ave, Cambridge 02140
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Number of seats in Lesley College Lounge
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 92139
January 2, 1999
Dear Sirs:
This letter concerns the application by Daka, Inc for a Common Victualer license at 1815 Massachusetts Ave for 53 seats on the third floor (Lesley College’s Student Lounge.) The student lounge serves an important function in Lesley College’s current use of the building, and PSNA supports it provided that it is restricted to Lesley College students, faculty, and staff, located in the non-public portion of the building, and not advertised to the general public.
With respect to the seating caps described in the "CDIA-1815" agreements, the current situation is rather messy. The 100 non-alcohol seats in the common area appear to be fully subscribed. 40 of the 300 alcohol seats are currently being transferred to the student lounge, for a total of 53. Where the additional 13 non-alcohol seats in the student lounge came from is unclear. We would prefer to have the lounge exempted from the cap, provided that any unused alcoholic beverage seats could not be transferred to the common area now or in the future.
Three PSNA members met with representatives of Lesley College on December 8, along with Mary Jane Kornacki from Neighborhood . Terry Delancy of the Agassiz Neighborhood Council was invited but did not attend. We were given a tour and a review of near- and long-term plans for the building. Our general impression was positive; we particularly applaud Lesley College’s measures to deal with the restricted parking available and to offer alternative transportation to their students and staff, and we thank Mr. David Erlandson for his cooperation.
Respectfully yours,
John H Howard
President, PSNA
cc: David Erlandson, VP of Operations, Lesley College, 29 Everett St, Cambridge 02138
Mary Jane Kornacki, 103 Avon Hill St, Cambridge 02140
Terry Delancy, 20 Sacramento St, Cambridge 02139
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The Elephant Walk
April 25, 1998
Mr. Benjamin Barnes
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Re: The Elephant Walk, 2071-2079 Massachusetts Avenue
Dear Mr. Barnes,
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to express enthusiastic support for the license requests from The Elephant Walk.
At our group’s April monthly meeting, Mr. Perry discussed plans to relocate his family’s restaurant to the above address. He had reviewed the PSNA’s new business and license guidelines (drafted 5/15/97), and he satisfactorily addressed neighbors’ concerns about operations, parking, and use of the entertainment licenses. We find Mr. Perry to be among the most forthright and conscientious of applicants to seek our support and feel confident that he will be responsive to any problems or issues that arise in the future. We also appreciate his determination to locate in Porter Square, and we welcome him at long last.
The PSNA will miss Finnegan’s Wake and its owner Brad Fredericks, who has been an active and valuable member of our group. He has cared about the neighborhood, and we are sure that Mr. Perry will follow in his footsteps.
At our group’s April monthly meeting, Mr. Perry discussed plans to relocate his family’s restaurant to the above address. He had reviewed the PSNA’s new business and license guidelines (drafted 5/15/97), and he satisfactorily addressed neighbors’ concerns about operations, parking, and use of the entertainment licenses. We find Mr. Perry to be among the most forthright and conscientious of applicants to seek our support and feel confident that he will be responsive to any problems or issues that arise in the future. We also appreciate his determination to locate in Porter Square, and we welcome him at long last.
The PSNA will miss Finnegan’s Wake and its owner Brad Fredericks, who has been an active and valuable member of our group. He has cared about the neighborhood, and we are sure that Mr. Perry will follow in his footsteps.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Crieghton, Porter, Regent Street residential developments
September 5, 1997
Mr. Robert W. Healy
City Manager
Cambridge City Hall
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear Mr. Healy:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I am writing to express support for the issues raised in a recent letter sent to your office by the residents of Creighton Street, Porter Road, and Regent Street.
The leaders and many members of the newly-formed CPR Association have been active for the past two years in the Porter Square Neighbors Association. Their concerns have consistently and constructively focused on maintaining and enhancing the quality of life in Porter Square for all.
The serious traffic, parking, and other issues currently facing these Porter Square neighbors due to the large number of new residential developments proposed and/or approved for their streets deserve the comprehensive attention of all relevant City departments and officials. Planning and mitigation measures are imperative to limit the negative consequences that may be created as a result of these projects. The spirit of the City's Growth Policy document requires no less.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Breugger's Bagels request for outdoor seating
August 19, 1997
Mr. Benjamin Barnes
Commissioner
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Ave.
Cambridge, MA 02139
Re: Beantown Bagels, Inc. d/b/a Bruegger's Bagel Bakery - 1876 Massachusetts Avenue
Dear Mr. Barnes:
As I am unable to attend this evening's hearing on the above application, I am writing on behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association to express some concerns about outdoor seating requested by Bruegger's Bagel Bakery.
This past spring our group endorsed a set of guidelines with which we consider license applications in our neighborhood. In them, we state that the PSNA "would like to encourage the use of a portion of the sidewalk, where appropriate, for outdoor cafe-style seating." The key phrase here, of course, is "where appropriate." The paramount concern for neighbors in this regard is pedestrian safety, including the ability of people with child strollers and grocery trollys to travel along the sidewalks.
Because of its proximity to the T station and the shops and restaurants of Porter Square, the corner of Upland Road and Massachusetts Avenue is a busy intersection, especially during rush hour. We would strongly prefer that any outdoor seating in this heavily-traveled pedestrian route be positioned so it causes the least interference to pedestrians. If our concerns for pedestrian access cannot be accommodated fully, then we would question whether such seating should be there at all.
Members of the PSNA are willing to meet with the applicant to discuss their concerns, and our group would be happy to facilitate such a meeting if you think that would appropriate and helpful.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Shopping Center Signs
July 9, 1997
City of Cambridge
Board of Zoning Appeal
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Re: 23 White Street (Porter Square Shopping Center) Variance Application
Dear Board Members:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to express our group's concerns about several of the variances being requested by the Porter Square Shopping Center. Members of our shopping center subcommittee are unable to attend the public hearing on July 10 due to a conflict with an earlier scheduled neighborhood meeting.
The PSNA has been working with Gravestar and its team for more than 20 months to develop the best plan for the renovation and expansion of the Porter Square Shopping Center. The community-input process which we have jointly designed has worked well. We understand well that retail and commercial development can add value to the quality of life in our neighborhood, and we welcome the improvements Gravestar will make. We see this project as the first great step toward improving Porter Square as an important commercial district and a major transportation node.
One fundamental reason for neighborhood support at each step of this project has been the owners-- repeated commitment to maintaining a neighborhood shopping center, rather than seeking to develop a mall that draws customers from far outside the immediate vicinity. We have met several times with Gravestar to discuss the sign proposals and the variance application. As a result, over the past few months elements of the proposal have changed in response to some of our concerns.
Nevertheless, we have the following specific concerns with the current sign package:
1. We do not object to the variances for internally illuminated signs. We agree with Gravestar's desire to create some consistency with existing signs in this regard. We do not, however, believe the overall proposal goes far enough to truly reach the potential benefits of real consistency in signage. The proposed signage does not strive for consistency in size, color, height, design, or any other criteria. We would prefer to see the principal of consistency applied throughout the signage, rather than simply asserted as a rationale for a variance.
2. We support the variances for the "Porter Square" sign on the new building as a welcome civic gesture that will help create a sense of place in Porter Square.
3. We object to each of the remaining dimensional variance requests. We reject any claim of hardship based on the obstructed views created by the addition of the new building. The applicant has created this condition; what incentive might granting a variance on this basis create for future developers? We also reject the rationale that since the proposed signs are close in size to the existing signage, they are deserving of a zoning variance. We believe the renovation provides a rare opportunity to rectify design mistakes of the past and to bring the Center back to a scale that better fits the surrounding neighborhood. We believe the signs' dimensions should more closely conform to the existing zoning requirements.
4. Although no variance is required for the perimeter signage on pylons, our group has consistently stated to Gravestar our objections to such signs. While this element has been scaled back and modified in response to our concerns, we find the current proposal unacceptable for two reasons: its is unattractive, and it is unnecessary. While matters of style are admittedly subjective, we believe that these pylons do not fit the new, neighborhood character of the building and landscaping designs. More importantly to us, these signs are intended mainly to attract the attention of people in cars, presumably to induce them to make a stop in the Center. The shopping center renovation and expansion will actually result in 31 fewer parking spaces than are currently available. The PSNA, Gravestar, and the City of Cambridge negotiated a specific parking mitigation plan since all acknowledged that this parking crunch would likely have a negative impact on the neighborhood. We are dumbfounded that Gravestar is including in their proposal signs intended to attract people passing through Porter Square by car. We also note that this parking argument applies equally to the request for dimensional variances for the Star and Decelle signs.
As neighbors who have chosen Porter Square as the place to live, raise our families, run our businesses, and do our shopping, we will judge the success of the shopping center renovation project by its impact on our quality of life long after the architects, consultants, and construction crews are gone. We hope the BZA will consider the neighbors' opinions in rendering its decision in this matter.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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New Dimensions
June 20, 1997
Mr. Benjamin C. Barnes
Chairman
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02140
Re: New Dimensions, 1972 Massachusetts Avenue
Dear Mr. Barnes:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to report our group's strong opposition to the entertainment license request from New Dimensions.
The applicant made a presentation to the PSNA at our May meeting. The neighbors had many unanswered questions and invited Ms. Escajadillo, if she wished, to be on the agenda of our June meeting. After her presentation last night, our members felt their concerns were not adequately addressed and voted unanimously to oppose her application.
Our reasoning included the following objections:
1) The location, near the heart of Porter Square, in the wrong place for a dance club. There are serious parking limitations both at the building as well as the surrounding streets. The applicant did not offer any plan for addressing or mitigating this problem.
2) Existing activities in the building include office and educational uses that operate for the most part during the day and not at night. An entertainment or any other license allowing late night activities may add to the already high level of late-night activity in Porter Square from the existing entertainment, liquor, and other licenses. The applicant did not offer any plan for addressing noise or other problems created by patrons/members of her proposed club.
This PSNA decision is consistent with our recently drafted guidelines (on file with the License Commission) for considering license and other applications for new businesses in Porter Square.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Roadway improvement priorities
May 15, 1997
Ms. Susan Clippinger
Director
City Hall Annex
57 Inman St.
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear Ms. Clippinger:
During recent forum on "The Future of Porter Square" residents were asked to suggest short-term improvements to address immediate pedestrian and other safety issues. The Porter Square Neighbors Association has reviewed these issues and have the following specific, prioritized concerns and suggestions for you:
1. Slow down northbound traffic turning right from Massachusetts Avenue onto Somerville Avenue. This includes both cars originating from the direction of Harvard Square and cars turning left from Upland Street. The present curve is more like an off-ramp than a corner and encourages high-speed turns. Possible remedies would be striping to narrow the roadway, installing rumble strips, signs, and changing light timings.
2. Also encourage northbound cars to enter the shopping center directly from Massachusetts Avenue rather than via White Street. This could be done with better signs (the existing ones are small and confusing) and lane markings. An even better solution would be to forbid the northbound traffic from turning into White Street, using a "Right Turn Only" sign and green arrow on the traffic light regulating entrance to Somerville Avenue from the Massachusetts Avenue turn-off.
3. Add time to the crosswalk at Upland Street and Massachusetts Avenue. The present time (six seconds "Walk" and only nine seconds flashing) is substantially shorter than the other crosswalks in the area, which themselves give barely adequate time to cross.
4. Reduce traffic speed and improve safety of the crosswalks at both ends of Beech Street. Cars turning right from Elm to Beech cut very close to the corner and approach pedestrians from directly behind, with vision obscured by a pole. Stripes could help but a sidewalk extension would be better. Cars turning from Beech onto Massachusetts Avenue travel excessively fast and often run the light, cutting into the already inadequate pedestrian crossing time. Possible solutions include adding green time to Elm as well as extending the crossing time.
We believe that these improvements could be done without substantial costs, yet could have significant positive effects on both safety and the general attractiveness of Porter Square for pedestrians and drivers alike. In the longer term, we hope for more comprehensive changes from the sewer separation and surface improvement project.
We look forward to a discussion with you or a response by the end of May. Please address any correspondence on this matter to the chairman of our traffic subcommittee, John Howard, 8 Cogswell Avenue. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
cc: City Council
City Manager Robert Healy
Susan Schlesinger, Community Development Department
Stuart Dash, Community Development Department
Anne Johnson, Director, Somerville Traffic & Parking
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Cottonwood Cafe
May 16, 1997
Mr. Richard Scali
Executive Officer
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Re: Cottonwood Cafe application to expand its entertainment license
Dear Mr. Scali:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to express our support for the application by Cottonwood Cafe to expand its entertainment license to permit live musical instruments and/or live vocalists with amplified music. We regard the Cottonwood Cafe as a good neighbor and appreciate the efforts its owner and general manager have made to discuss our concerns with us prior to submitting their application.
Our support is conditional on two important qualifications. First, that the Cottonwood agree to attach as part of its entertainment license the five conditions it stipulated in a letter dated May 14, 1997 and sent to the committee of neighbors with whom they reached said agreement. Second, that the entertainment license application no longer requests approval for a comedy show, Karaoke, or any other category of entertainment not supported by the neighbors.
Further, and for the benefit of the public record, the Porter Square Neighbors Association supports the continued enforcement of the Commission-CDIA-1815 agreement that in section 13 specifically prohibits entertainment licenses (with a minor exception). Our support for the Cottonwood Cafe's application in this instance should not be construed to imply any diminution in the neighbors' general concern about the nuisances that could be created by the addition of entertainment licenses in that location.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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The Elephant Walk restaurant
April 27, 1997
Mr. Benjamin C. Barnes
Chairman
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Re: The Elephant Walk, 1812 Massachusetts Avenue
Dear Mr. Barnes:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to report our group's strong support for the license transfer application from De Monteiro-Perry Limited d/b/a The Elephant Walk and the applicant's request for (1) no parking requirement for the first 120 seats, and (2) 175 seats conditional upon an acceptable parking mitigation plan.
At the regular monthly meeting of our group April 17, we heard from Mr. Perry about his plans to relocate his restaurant to Porter Square. After a lengthy presentation and question and answer session, our group voted nearly unanimously (there was a single dissenting vote) to support Mr. Perry's requests.
Our support reflects the following beliefs:
1) Mr. Perry has openly and sincerely made the business case for the additional seating. A successful business in that long-vacant space will benefit Porter Square and provide a highly desirable dining alternative within walking distance for its residents.
2) Parking would be an issue for any business in that location. We expect Mr. Perry to make every effort to secure some parking spaces, as it is clearly in his interest to do so, as well as to encourage his customers to take the T.
3) A restaurant is inevitable in that space. The Elephant Walk is a locally-owned business, not a franchise or national chain; the PSNA wants to encourage such businesses in our neighborhood.
The PSNA recently conducted a survey in conjunction with our roadway forum held on April 5. We asked the following question that bears directly on The Elephant Walk proposal: "Would you support the use of shuttle buses or valet parking to a remote lot as an alternative to on-street parking for Porter Square businesses?" 81% of the respondents answered "Yes." While our results did not come from a huge sample, they do reflect the opinions of the Porter Square neighbors most concerned with traffic issues.
Although we support The Elephant Walk, we intend to hold it to the high operating standards that its co-owner, Mr. Perry, has publically stated he would meet. The PSNA will closely monitor neighbors' concerns about trash, odors, noise, vibration and other nuisances. We will look to the Commission, its investigators, and all other relevant city officials to enforce all license conditions and requirements and to protect the neighbors from any unreasonable negative impact of this establishment.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Reply from the Cambridge License Commission Decision, including license conditions
May 1, 1997
Mr. Robert Perry
Elephant Walk
70 Union Square
Somerville, MA 02143
Re: Transfer of Capucino's of Cambridge, Inc. d/b/a Capucino's to DeMontiero-Perry Limited d/b/a The Elephant Walk at 1812 Massachusetts Ave.-All alcoholic restaurant license and 2 CD Players at or below conversation level
Dear Mr. Perry:
This is to advise you that the License Commission has voted, 3-0, this day to approve the above transfer with the attached conditions as you have agreed, with one exception: the seating capacity shall be 140 seats, 10 standing, for a total of 150. See attached list of conditions numbered 1 through 14.
Although your original application was for 165 seats, 10 standing, for a total of 175, the same as Capucino's, the testimony of the residents of the building on parking concerns, noise and traffic justified the reduction of occupancy to 150. Previously, Capucino's has some 10-13 parking spaces in the building. Whether Capucino's used these spaces on a full time basis is unknown. Zoning laws grandfather you as a preexisting use without parking. However, as a compromise with the residents concerns for parking and traffic, and due to the popularity of your establishment, the reduction of occupancy to 150 is reasonable.
Your application will be reviewed in six months to determine whether granting you 175 occupancy will be feasible. You may come back before that time to us if you have a parking plan in place.
The Commission admires your persistence and candor with us and the neighborhood and feels that you will be a fine addition to the Porter Square area.
If you should wish to appeal this decision you may do so to the Alcohol Beverages Control Commission within 5 days of receipt of this decision.
Sincerely yours,
Richard V. Scali
Executive Officer
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De MonteiroPerry Limited d/b/a Elephant Walk 1812 Massachusetts Avenue.
Conditions of All-forms Alcoholic Beverages License Transfer.
PREFACE: The Elephant Walk recognizes that a restaurant occupying the premises at 1812 Massachusetts Avenue must make a strong and sustained effort to preserve and protect the quality of life enjoyed by the residents of the building above. Major concerns of residential neighbors include minimizing noise and odors generated by the restaurant and hindrance of entry to and exit from the building's underground parking facility. As such, the restaurant agrees to hold its employees and vendors to an extremely high standard of conduct in their duties on behalfof the restauraiit and in support of the restaurant's effort to be a responsible neighbor and to comply with the conditions set forth below:
1. SEATING: Capacity shall be 165 Seats, 10 standing, for a total of 175
2. NOISE AND VIBRATION: Any exhaust, heating and air conditioning units connected directly to The Elephant Walk establishment will be maintained such that they nicet or exceed noise and vibration standards established by the Cambridge Noise Ordinance.
3. PARKING: There will be no parking of customer, vendor or employee vehicles on Oxford Court Property, including the driveway beside the building. The driveway shall not be blocked at any time by delivery or rubbish pick-up vehicles.
4. PEST CONTROL: The Elephant Walk will engage a professional pest control contractor for the purposes of ensuring a pest- free restaurant by monitoring and treating the restaurant's leased space only. The initial pest control regimen, unless otherwise spelled out in a lease or sublease agreement, will include a monthly inspection and treatment. If monthly monitoring and treatment is insufficient then the regimen will be intensified to semi-monthly visits and finally weekly visits if necessary. The pest control firm will do what is necessary to achieve the goal ofkeeping the restaurant pest-free, recognizing the desirability of minimizing the application of toxic chemicals.
5. HOURS OF OPERATION: The hours of operation will be 11:30 a.m. 10:30 p.m. 7 days per week. It is understood that the 10:30 p.m. closing time is the latest a patron may be admitted to the premises to receive service. All patrons will be off the premises by 1:00 am. Restaurant employees may be on premise to clean at any time as stated in 1iquor rules and regulations.
6. TRASH AND GARBAGE: All trash and garhage shall be stored in separate, non-metal containers, outside, in an enclosed, fenced-in area on thenside of the building. Pick-up of trash shall not occur before 7a.m. Monday-Friday nor after 6 p.m. Trash shall not be picked up before 9 a.m. on Saturdays or Sundays.
7.DO0RWAYS: A window will be installed in the existing door or a new door containing a window will be installed in the kitchen doorway that opens into the driveway to minimize the risk of damaging vehiclcs utilizing the building's underground garage.
8. RESTAURANT PROBLEMS MANAGEMENT. Three important nunbers will be made available to building residents to effectuate rapid resolution of problems associated with the restaurant: The restaurant's non-customer "inside line" for use when the restaurant has employees on the premises: the restaurant's alarm company number for use when there are no employees on the premises, and the restaurant general manager's beeper number for use should the other numbers fail to contact a manager to address the problem at hand.
9. EMPI.OYEE RESTRICTIONS: Employees shall not congregate or loiter in the drivaway beside the building. The side door to the building shall only be used for taking out the trash and receiving deliveries and shall otherwise remain closed at all times.
10. COOKING PROHIBITIONS: There shall be no wood-fired ovens. Wood-chip enhanced ceramic briquette grilling and frialators shall be permitted.
11. ENTERTAINEMENT: There will be two C.D. players allowed which will be played at or below conversation level. Any other entertainment shall be applied for an heard.
12. RESTAURANT DELlVERIES: Commercial deliveries shall occur hetween the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Deliveries before11:30 a.m., the time at which the restaurant will open for luncheon service, will be made through the front, main entrance to the restaurant. The restaurant will hire a receiver to take deliveries through the front door commencing no later than 9 a.m. and shall encourage all vendors to make their deliveries before 11:30 a.m. whenever possible. Deliveries after 11:30 am. will be made via the driveway to a side door of the restaurant by rolling cart or two-wheeler hand truck only. The occasional after-hours transfer of goods to or from an affilliated restaurant by restaurant employees shall be permitted. No delivery or service vehicles will permitted in the driveway at any time with the execption of the grease trap maintenance contractor, and this vehicle only while performing the essential vacuuming function requiring close proximity to the kitchen. Otherwise, blocking of the driveway by restaurant employees or delivery personnel at any time is prohibited.
13. RESTAURANT LEASE: On file with commission
14. FUTURE CHANGES: If there are changeto the foregoing conditions, the Cambridge License Commission shall be notified and an application filed and heard.
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Community policing
April 21, 1997
Lieutenant Steven Williams
City of Cambridge
Police Department
5 Western Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02140
Dear Lieutenant Williams:
Thank you for your letter of April 18 informing me of the Staff Walk through scheduled for this Thursday April 24. Regretfully, on such short notice I am not available to participate nor can I get the word out to the members of the Porter Square Neighbors Association.
The PSNA meets regularly on the third Thursday of each month, as we have since our inception eighteen months ago. Our meetings are regularly announced in the local papers. We held our April meeting the night before you dated your letter. Had you called me, sent the letter earlier, or attended the meeting yourself we could have announced this event to a large audience of active and concerned neighbors.
am active as a representative of Porter Square on the Leadership Council, and I support the efforts of Commissioner Watson and others to implement community-oriented policing. Nevertheless, both this poor planning and the Department's failure to send a representative to our well-attended and highly successful roadway forum held on April 5 does make me question the sincerity with which the Porter Square community is going to be regarded by the department.
There is no shortage of issues and problems on which the Department and the Porter Square Neighbors Association should work cooperatively and constructively. Traffic and parking enforcement, theft and vandalism, among others, all require our attention. The PSNA is committed to working to improve the quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors in Porter Square. I hope that we can work together toward that objective.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
cc: Commissioner Ronnie Watson
City Manager Robert Healy
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Reply from Mayor Sheila Russell
May 12, 1997
Paul S. Myers
President
Porter Square Neighbors Association
PO Box 1016 Porter Square Station
Cambridge, MA 02140
Dear Paul:
Thank you for your letter date April 21, 1997 to Lieutenant Steven Williams of the Cambridge Police Department regarding how the Police Department can work with the Porter Square Neighbors Association more effectively.
Please know that I have submitted an Order to the Cambridge City Council requesting the City Manager to discuss your concerns with Police Commissioner Watson. The work of the PSNA has been extremely beneficial to the process of improving Porter Square. It is our obligation, at a minimum to ensure effective communication between the PSNA and the Police Department on public safety matters.
I appreciate your forwarding your letter to my attention. Please let me know if there is any additional information or assistance I can provide your efforts.
Sincerely,
Sheila Doyle Russell
Mayor
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Forum on Porter Square roadway issues
March 4, 1997
Dear [Invited Guest]:
The Porter Square Neighbors Association invites you to join us for a forum on "The Future of Porter Square: Traffic and Other Roadway Issues" on Saturday morning, April 5, 1997.
As you may be aware, the Cambridge Public Works and Community Development Departments have started to plan for the sewer separation project starting at Porter Square and continuing north on Massachusetts Avenue. This major renovation is slated to begin in the Spring, 1998. We have invited representatives from these departments to use our forum as a "kick-off" public meeting for the Porter Square portion of that project. Given the implications and opportunities presented by this work, the PSNA believes that now is the time to begin considering in a comprehensive way our neighborhood's entire roadway system and its amenities (i.e., pedestrian ways, bicyclists, mass transit, street signs, parking, truck routes, enforcement).
We are encouraging all interested Cambridge and Somerville residents, business owners, and public officials to participate in a community working session to determine priorities and identify solutions for the myriad of roadway issues facing our neighborhood. Addressing these safety and quality of life issues requires a thoughtful, constructive, and cooperative approach involving all the stakeholders.
The "Future of Porter Square" event will be held at the Cambridge Masonic Temple, 1950 Massachusetts Avenue. The forum will begin at 9:00 a.m. sharp. The event will feature a panel discussion among officials including Mayor Michael Capuano and Mayor Sheila Russell. Participants will have a chance for small work group discussions, and there will be ample time for questions and community input. Refreshments will be provided. The event will end at 12:30 p.m. The results will be captured in a report intended to guide on-going and future planning efforts in Porter Square.
Since its formation in September, 1995, the Porter Square Neighbors Association has worked to improve the quality of life in Porter Square for residents, businesses, and visitors. We are a voluntary membership organization of residents and business owners in Cambridge and Somerville that meets on the third Thursday of every month.
We hope you can join us to envision the future of Porter Square!
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Hearing on gasoline storage license at 815 Somerville Ave.
October 28, 1996
Mr. Richard V. Scali
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Re: Hearing on application for gasoline storage license at 815 Somerville Ave.
Dear Mr. Scali:
As I am unable to attend the public hearing on the above issue scheduled for October 29, 1996, I submit this written statement for the public record.
Mr. Carl Barron explained his plans for the building at 815 Somerville Avenue to me in August, and the Porter Square Neighbors Association held a subsequent discussion of those plans at our regular meeting that month. There was no opposition to Mr. Barron's proposal to convert a portion of his building into a garage for cars associated with a newly renovated professional office building. The Association took no formal vote to support or oppose the proposal. The opinion of many in our group is that Mr. Barron's plans will improve a piece of Porter Square which is sorely in need of improvement.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Reiterating opposition to Speedy Muffler King
October 16, 1996
Mr. Robert Healy
City Manager
Cambridge City Hall
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear Mr. Healy:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to voice our continued opposition to any special permit request from Speedy Muffler King for operation in Porter Square. We understand that the owner of the proposed site is suing the Planning Board to challenge its refusal to grant the permit.
At our organization's regular monthly meeting on March 21, 1996, we considered a motion from direct abutters and other concerned neighbors to support their opposition to this development. After meaningful discussion, which included a reading of the petition being circulated throughout the neighborhood, our members voted unanimously and with no abstentions to oppose Speedy Muffler King's request. During our September monthly meeting on September 19, 1996 we voted unanimously to reiterate this opposition and to request that the City vigorously defend the Planning Board's decision in court.
We regard a Speedy Muffler King operation as an unacceptable use for its proposed location just two blocks from the center of Porter Square. Speedy Muffler has produced no market research study to demonstrate a public need for an operation of the kind. Nor has it made a convincing case for how its operation would benefit the neighborhood or serve the common good. It would threaten the safety of pedestrians along Massachusetts Avenue, produce noise inappropriate to a site which abuts residences, and exacerbate existing traffic problems in the area. When asked, "Does a Speedy Muffler King operation fit into your vision of the future of Porter Square?," the neighbors have answered with a resounding "No!"
The lawsuit challenges the Planning Board on substantive and procedural grounds. The PSNA has insufficient information to determine whether the Planning Board followed the appropriate process. We feel strongly, however, that the neighbors should not be punished with an unwelcome, inappropriate, and unneeded muffler shop if a judge finds that the Planning Board failed to follow the necessary procedures. In the event the Planning Board decision should be held in error on such grounds, we expect the City to fight for remediation which does not include granting of the special permit to Speedy Muffler King.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Porter Square item in FY 97 budget
May 9, 1996
City Council
Cambridge City Hall
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear City Councillors:
On behalf of the members of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to express our group's strong support for the planned public investment spending of $150,000 [go to proposal] to fund the initial study and preliminary design for renovations to Northern Massachusetts Avenue. Porter Square is greatly in need of improvements to its roadways, sidewalks, crosswalks, and traffic signals to make it more friendly and safe for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. This critical public investment will no doubt make Porter Square an even more vibrant and exciting residential and commercial district.
The Porter Square Neighbors Association is a voluntary membership organization open to all residents and business owners of Cambridge and Somerville committeed to improving the quality of life in Porter Square. Our group was formed to give a voice to the neighbors’ concerns and objectives regarding development and improvements in Porter Square and to serve as a catalyst for constructive change in our neighborhood. In its first eight months, the Porter Square Neighbors Assocation has developed a good working relationship with many city departments, boards and commissions, including community development. Our members look forward to full participation in planning for the renovations of Porter Square and Massachusetts Avenue.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
cc: Susan Schlesinger, Community Development Department
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City of Cambridge Annual Budget 1996-97
Public Investment Plan: Community Maintenance & Development
Porter Square/North Massachusetts Avenue Improvements
FY97 Funding
Massachusetts Avenue is a major transportation corridor that forms an important visual and functional spine in Cambridge. The section of road from Porter Square to Route 16 requires significant improvements to the infrastructure and traffic operations. Porter Square is a center for transportation including buses, transit, commuter rail, bicyclists, pedestrians, and motor vehicles. The residents in the Porter Square area, through the newly formed Porter Square Neighbors Association, have expressed a strong desire to improve the visual character as well as transportation facilities and safety of the area. Funds from the State Transportation Improvement Program will finance the construction of this project. Roads and sidewalks will be fully reconstructed, bicycle and pedestrian facilities will be added and landscaping and street furniture included. The City is required to finance the design costs associated with this project.
To fulfill this obligation $150,000 has been set aside to engage a consultant team to comlpete a field survey and provide a detailed transportation and urban design study of the project area.
FY98 Funding
The $2,600,000 in State Transportation Improvement Program funds needed to finance the reconstruction of Porter Square and Massachusetts Avenue will be made available in FY98. These funds will be administrated by the State and are not shown in the City's five-year capital improvement plan. To complete the design for this project, $200,000 has been set aside. The funds will cover completion of design development and preparation of construction drawings.
source: City of Cambridge Annual Budget 1996-97, page V-41.
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Status of Stephen James House site
April 19, 1996
Mr.Robert Healy
City Manager
City of Cambridge
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear Mr. Healy:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to express our group’s continuing concern about the condition of 1-15 Davenport Street, the former site of the Stephen James House.
At its regular monthly meeting last night, our group discussed the enforcement action the City is currently pursing against the owner of that site (Mr. Robert Bray and partners d/b/a/ Davenport Street Corporation) in Cambridge District Court. We commend the Inspectional Services and Legal departments for their efforts to compel the owner to comply with an order from the State Building Code Appeals Board dated October 3, 1995. Specifically, the owner has failed to fill the 18,000 sq. ft. lot to grade level, leaving it essentially unchanged from the time the Stephen James House was demolished in the summer of 1994. As of today, neither the Davenport Street Corporation nor any of its partners has announced a plan to obtain construction permits for the site.
An arraignment date in District Court for the owner has been set for on or about May 15, 1996, at which time the City will again have the opportunity to seek full compliance with the State Board’s order. The Porter Square Neighbors Association urges the City to continue its firm stand against this property owner and to insist that all available sanctions be levied until this site is determined to be in full compliance with all codes, ordinances, and laws.
The Porter Square Neighbors Association is an independent, voluntary membership organization open to all who are interested in improving the quality of life in Porter Square. PSNA members are residents and business owners who live in Cambridge and Somerville. We currently have more than 70 dues-paying members, and on average 47 neighbors attend our monthly meetings. Founded in September, 1995, the group acts as a catalyst for positive and forward-looking change by bringing together residents, business, and city officials to plan for the future of Porter Square.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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J&J Auto
April 19, 1996
Mr. Benjamin C. Barnes
Chairman
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02140
Re: Disciplinary hearing for J&J Auto, 34-38 Regent Street
Dear Mr. Barnes:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to report our group’s concern about the operations of J&J Auto at various locations on Regent Street.
At the regular monthly meeting of our group last night, we discussed the recent history of neighbors’ complaints and City Council action regarding this business. We believe that the investigation and determination of the facts in this matter should be left to the license commission and all other enforcement agencies in the city. If those facts should indicate that J&J Auto or any other business has been operating in violation of regulations regarding licenses, zoning, or any other city ordinance or state law, we encourage and expect the enforcement of those laws to the fullest extent.
We realize that one possible sanction in this case may be the termination of this business’ license. While we do not take the recommendation of such harsh action lightly, neither can we allow businesses to operate in flagrant disregard of regulations intended to ensure the safety and quality of life of our neighborhood. Accordingly, we support a severe penalty if the findings warrant one.
As you are aware, the Porter Square Neighbors Association is an independent, voluntary membership organization open to all who are interested in improving the quality of life in Porter Square. PSNA members are residents and business owners who live in Cambridge and Somerville. We currently have more than 70 dues-paying members, and on average 46 neighbors attend our monthly meetings. Founded in September, 1995, the group acts as a catalyst for positive and forward-looking change by bringing together residents, business, and city officials to plan for the future of Porter Square. We are also interested in licenses and late-closings at bars and other venues and have been actively monitoring developments in this area.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Bookcellar Cafe
April 19, 1996
Mr. Benjamin C. Barnes
Chairman
Cambridge License Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02140
Re: Bookcellar Cafe, 1971 Massachusetts Ave.
Dear Mr. Barnes:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to report our group’s strong support for the license application from Eben Taggert and Joseph Bills d/b/a The Bookcellar Cafe.
At the regular monthly meeting of our group last night, we met Messrs. Taggert and Bills and voted unanimously to welcome them as new owners of one of our neighborhood’s most distinctive businesses.
As you are aware, the Porter Square Neighbors Association is an independent, voluntary membership organization open to all who are interested in improving the quality of life in Porter Square. PSNA members are residents and business owners who live in Cambridge and Somerville. We currently have more than 70 dues-paying members, and on average 46 neighbors attend our monthly meetings. Founded in September, 1995, the group acts as a catalyst for positive and forward-looking change by bringing together residents, business, and city officials to plan for the future of Porter Square. We are also interested in licenses and late-closings at bars and other venues and have been actively monitoring developments in this area.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Initial study and preliminary design for renovations to Northern Massachusetts Avenue
May 9, 1996
City Council
Cambridge City Hall
795 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear City Councillors:
On behalf of the members of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to express our group's strong support for the planned public investment spending of $150,000 [go to proposal] to fund the initial study and preliminary design for renovations to Northern Massachusetts Avenue. Porter Square is greatly in need of improvements to its roadways, sidewalks, crosswalks, and traffic signals to make it more friendly and safe for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. This critical public investment will no doubt make Porter Square an even more vibrant and exciting residential and commercial district.
The Porter Square Neighbors Association is a voluntary membership organization open to all residents and business owners of Cambridge and Somerville committeed to improving the quality of life in Porter Square. Our group was formed to give a voice to the neighbors’ concerns and objectives regarding development and improvements in Porter Square and to serve as a catalyst for constructive change in our neighborhood. In its first eight months, the Porter Square Neighbors Assocation has developed a good working relationship with many city departments, boards and commissions, including community development. Our members look forward to full participation in planning for the renovations of Porter Square and Massachusetts Avenue.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
cc: Susan Schlesinger, Community Development Department
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Speedy Muffler King
March 27, 1996
City of Cambridge
Planning Board
City Hall Annex
57 Inman Street
Cambridge, MA 02139
Dear Planning Board members:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I write to voice our most strenuous opposition to the special permit requests from Speedy Muffler King.
At our organization’s regular monthly meeting on March 21, 1996, we considered a motion from direct abutters and other concerned neighbors to support their opposition to this development. After meaningful discussion, which included a reading of the petition being circulated throughout the neighborhood, our members voted unanimously and with no abstentions to oppose Speedy Muffler King’s request.
We regard a Speedy Muffler King operation as an unacceptable use for its proposed location just two blocks from the center of Porter Square. Speedy Muffler has produced no market research study to demonstrate a public need for an operation of the kind. Nor has it made a convincing case for how its operation would benefit the neighborhood or serve the common good. It would threaten the safety of pedestrians along Massachusetts Avenue, produce noise inappropriate to a site which abuts residences, and exacerbate existing traffic problems in the area. When asked, Does a Speedy Muffler King operation fit into your vision of the future of Porter Square?, the neighbors have answered with a resounding "No!"
The Porter Square Neighbors Association is an independent, voluntary membership organization open to all who are interested in improving the quality of life in Porter Square. PSNA members are residents and business owners who live in Cambridge and Somerville. We currently have more than 70 dues-paying members, and on average 46 neighbors attend our monthly meetings. Founded in September, 1995, the group acts as a catalyst for positive and forward-looking change by bringing together residents, business, and city officials to plan for the future of Porter Square.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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Envision Porter Square report
January 22, 1996
Dear [public official]:
On behalf of the Porter Square Neighbors Association, I am proud to send you our newly issued report, "Envision Porter Square."
As you may be aware, the owners of the Porter Square Shopping Center are planning major renovations to the Center. The PSNA has been leading efforts to gather community ideas and opinions regarding any proposed changes. This report contains the collected wisdom of several hundred Porter Square residents, business owners, and other interested parties who have shared their wishes and ideas for improving the shopping center. The PSNA is using this report to inform and guide its work with the developers going forward.
The scope, thoughtfulness, and creativity of the our neighbors’ ideas for improving the shopping center are impressive. Over the next few years, these renovations--along with the coming roadway improvements to northern Massachusetts Avenue--will no doubt make Porter Square an even more exciting and vibrant residential and commercial district.
There will be additional opportunities for general community input. At the regular monthly PSNA meeting on January 18, the owners presented their initial design concepts in response to what they’ve heard so far. During the coming months we will continue working together with the developer’s team to be sure that the voice of the neighbors influences the design. When a near-final plan is ready for public comment, we will sponsor a second public meeting for reaction, questions, and discussion. The owners have made a commitment to the PSNA to follow this plan for working together.
We welcome all who are interested in improving the quality of life in Porter Square to work with the Porter Square Neighbors Association. The PSNA is an independent, voluntary membership organization supported by annual dues of $10. Members are residents and business owners who live in Cambridge and Somerville. The group meets on the third Thursday of each month from 7-9 PM in the basement of the Metropolitan Baptist Church, 16 Beech Street, Cambridge.
Sincerely,
Paul S. Myers
President
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