Cambridge City Council meeting - February 3, 2025 - AGENDA
SPECIAL MEETING AT 4:00PM
The City Council will again meet to go into Executive Session to conduct a strategy session in preparation for negotiations with nonunion personnel, specifically the City Manager. There will be public comment. At the conclusion of public comment, the City Council will move into executive session.
CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Surveillance Technology Impact Report (STIR). (CM25#9)
2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Surveillance Technology Impact Report (STIR). (CM25#10)
3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Surveillance Technology Impact Report (STIR). (CM25#11)
4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the naming of new private way to South William Way. [text of report] (CM25#22)
5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-69 regarding asbestos concerns with the MBTA’s Alewife construction. [text of report] (CM25#23)
6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $65,000 to be allocated to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations Other Ordinary Maintenance Account. This grant will support activities focused on the themes of revolution and independence, celebrating the significant historical milestones that have taken place in Cambridge. (CM25#24)
CM25#24 Feb 3, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:I am hereby requesting an appropriation of a grant received from the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) in the amount of $65,000 to be allocated to the Grant Fund Public Celebrations Other Ordinary Maintenance Account. This grant will support activities focused on the themes of revolution and independence, celebrating the significant historical milestones that have taken place in Cambridge.
The funding will be utilized for a variety of projects, including history and innovation tours that highlight our city’s rich revolutionary heritage, as well as arts and culture events such as planned readings and events in our business districts during poetry month. Additionally, we will host celebrations commemorating pivotal historic events, including the formation of the Continental Army, and the William Dawes’ Midnight Ride. Events will take place from April through June 2025, with a marketing campaign beginning in February.
By appropriating these funds, we aim to engage the community and visitors alike, fostering a deeper understanding of Cambridge’s historical contributions and marketing our rich cultural and innovative landscape. This initiative not only honors our past but also has the potential to boost local tourism and small business activity.
Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager
7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of members of the Broadway Street Safety Improvement Project Working Group. (CM25#25)
CM25#25 Feb 3, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:I am writing to inform you that I am appointing the following persons as members of the Broadway Safety Improvement Project Working Group.
• Amanda Leifer
• Ben Compaine
• Christopher Cassel
• David Lyon
• Diana Yousef
• Dien Ho
• Erich Trieschman
• John White
• Kenneth Carlson
• Nate Sharpe
• Phoebe Heyman
• Rhonda Greene
• Tuongvi Nguyen
Working Group Schedule and Scope
The Working Group will meet between Spring 2025 and Fall 2026 for no more than ten meetings to advise City staff on key issues related to the design of and engagement for this important project.
The key responsibilities of Working Group members are expected to include:
• Providing feedback on the design of the project, including the layout of parking spaces, loading zones, bike lanes, crosswalks, and bus stops
• Discussing project concerns and working collaboratively on solutions
• Supporting information sharing and constructive dialogue about the project among different stakeholders, including businesses, residents, visitors/business patrons, and City staff
Additional Community Outreach
In addition to the Working Group meetings (which will be open to the public), the engagement process for the Broadway Street Safety Improvement Project will include a broader community process, which will be guided by feedback from the Working Group and include:
• Community meetings, including both virtual and in person meetings
• Online engagement, such as feedback surveys, meeting recordings, short videos about the project
• Targeted outreach to underrepresented groups including but not limited to, public transit riders, low-income residents, people with disabilities,
• Meetings with local neighborhood groups, such as business associations and resident associations
Working Group Selection Process
The selection process began on November 19, 2024. Outreach to seek applicants over subsequent weeks included City and project-specific website postings; a news item on the TPT and City web page; a press release; and inclusion in the City’s daily emails. A total of 30 people applied for the committee. The Department of Traffic, Parking & Transportation worked with the Consensus Building Institute to interview 13 people.
Working Group Members
Amanda Leifer
Amanda Leifer is a landscape architect and commutes by bike. She is passionate about equitable community engagement. Amanda has an experience of being hit on Broadway by a car while on a bike, and this experience shapes her thinking about design and safety.Ben Compaine
Ben Compaine has lived on Broadway for 46 years. He wants to ensure that the voices of seniors are incorporated in the planning process, recognizing that many seniors cannot rely on bike transportation. Ben is interested in candid conversations about design trade-offs and improving safety.Chris Cassel
Chris Cassel is the President and an owner of the Garment District. He is also a committed bike commuter. Chris hopes for a design that balances multiple interests, including cyclists, businesses, and people with accessibility needs.David Lyon
David Lyon is the Chairman of the Crawford Court Condominiums, which is located right off of Broadway. He has lived in Crawford Court for over 40 years. David walks everywhere and drives only occasionally. He wants to create a culture of respect that is reflected in transportation infrastructure. David hopes to represent the needs of seniors, pedestrians, and the less abled.Diana Yousef
Diana Yousef is the CEO of a climate tech company, has three kids, and lives on Broadway. She is interested in representing families and other community members who need both cars and parking to enable transportation. She is also concerned about ensuring the safety of all people who use Broadway.Dien Ho
Dien Ho lives on Broadway and is an avid bike commuter. He is a professor of philosophy and healthcare ethics at BC and has lived in the Boston Area for 40 years. He was previously the Chair of the Cambridge Bicycle Committee. Dien wants Broadway to be accessible and safe for all road users.Erich Trieschman
Erich Trieschman recently moved back to Cambridge and uses a bike as his main form of transportation. Erich is interested in design that reduces an emphasis on cars and increases safety for cyclists and pedestrians.John White
John White lives off of Broadway and is soon to retire from his long-time career as an auto mechanic. John particularly interested in increasing safety for pedestrians and cyclists.Kenneth Carlson
Nate Sharpe
Nate Sharpe is an avid cyclist and a parent of kids who also bike to school. He has lived in Cambridge for 20 years. Nate is interested in thoughtful design that balances cost, traffic impact, safety, and the resilience of installed materials.Phoebe Heyman
Phoebe Heyman has lived on Broadway for 8 years and works as a Food Pantry Manager for Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House. Phoebe is very involved in the neighborhood, and attentive to the needs of the Food Pantry clients, especially those with specific mobility needs. Phoebe walks, bikes, and drives, and hopes for a neighborhood that supports multiple forms of transport.Rhonda Greene
Rhonda Greene’s family has lived in Cambridge for several generations. Rhonda worked as a teacher and now works at the courthouse. Rhonda is an advocate for equitable community engagement, particularly with involving lower income and BIPOC residents.Tuognvi Nguyen
Tuognvi Nguyen is a parent of young children and lives near Broadway Street. She is interested in being a voice for families who often rely on cars to transport children. She is involved in her neighborhood and has an interest in making Broadway safer for all people who are using it.I appreciate the willingness of these community members to serve and look forward to their contributions as members of the Working Group.
Very truly yours,
Yi-An Huang
City Manager
ORDERS
1. That the City Council meeting scheduled for February 24, 2025 shall be designated as a Joint Roundtable with the School Committee to discuss FY26 Cambridge Public Schools budget priorities. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern (PO25#9)
2. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a report on the use of M.G.L. Ch. 40U to determine which local statutes can be enforced by the local-option procedure in order to better collect fines in violation of Cambridge ordinances and provide a recommendation to the City Council for implementation of Ch. 40U procedures. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zusy (PO25#10)
CHARTER RIGHT
1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to install “Bicycles Must Yield” signs along the Linear Park Parkway, Russell Field, Cambridge Commons, and any other shared use pathway determined appropriate by the City Manager and staff. [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler, Jan 27, 2025] (PO25#6)
O-4 Jan 27, 2025 - Charter Right - Sobrinho-Wheeler
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR ZUSY
COUNCILLOR WILSON
WHEREAS: There have been numerous reports by pedestrians of concerns about cyclists and scooters traveling at significant speed and being in close proximity to pedestrians on said pathways; and
WHEREAS: Signage posted on Fresh Pond Reservation include important information on yielding as well as non-permitted use of E-Bikes and E-Scooters; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department, in coordination with any other relevant department, work to install “Bicycles Must Yield” signs, which include information about permitted use, along the Linear Park Pathway, Russel Field, Cambridge Commons, and any other shared use pathway determined appropriate by the City Manager and staff.
2. Condolences to the family of Janet Rose. [Charter Right – Simmons, Jan 27, 2025]
R-7 Jan 27, 2025 Charter Right - Simmons
MAYOR SIMMONSWHEREAS: The City Council has learned with deep sadness of the passing of Janet Rose, a longtime resident of Cambridge, at the age of 92; and
WHEREAS: Janet Rose was a cherished member of the Cambridge community, whose presence enriched the lives of those around her; and
WHEREAS: Janet’s passing is a great loss to her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her; and
WHEREAS: The City Council wishes to extend its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Janet Rose during this difficult time; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record expressing its sincere condolences to the family of Janet Rose for their tremendous loss; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to the family of Janet Rose on behalf of the entire City Council.
3. That the City Council Amend Petition One, Section 5.40, Footnote (2) to add paragraph (c) to read: (c) If the building does not require a Planning Board Advisory Consultation per Section 19.40 of this Zoning Ordinance and does not require any special permit from the Planning Board, then before applying for a building permit, the applicant shall schedule an in-person or virtual meeting to answer questions and gather feedback from abutters and shall prepare a notification including, at a minimum, a general description of the project, the date, time, location, and other information necessary for people to attend the meeting, and contact information (telephone and e-mail, at minimum) for the developer and shall provide that notification by mail to abutters, owners of land directly opposite on any public or private street or way, and abutters to the abutters within three hundred feet of the property line of the lot, and to others whom the applicant may choose to contact, and shall include with the building permit application a copy of the notification and mailing list, a summary of the meeting, who attended, and what questions and feedback were received. [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler, Jan 27, 2025] (PO25#8)
O-6 Jan 27, 2025 - Charter Right - Sobrinho-Wheeler
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR WILSON
ORDERED: That the City Council Amend Petition One, Section 5.40, Footnote (2) to add paragraph (c) to read: (c) If the building does not require a Planning Board Advisory Consultation per Section 19.40 of this Zoning Ordinance and does not require any special permit from the Planning Board, then before applying for a building permit, the applicant shall schedule an in-person or virtual meeting to answer questions and gather feedback from abutters and shall prepare a notification in-cluding, at a minimum, a general description of the project, the date, time, location, and other information necessary for people to attend the meeting, and contact information (telephone and e-mail, at minimum) for the developer and shall provide that notification by mail to abutters, owners of land directly opposite on any public or private street or way, and abutters to the abutters within three hundred feet of the property line of the lot, and to others whom the applicant may choose to contact, and shall include with the building permit application a copy of the notification and mailing list, a summary of the meeting, who attended, and what questions and feedback were received.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
4. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to Ordinance 2025 #1 Multifamily Zoning Petition-Part 1. [Passed to 2nd Reading Jan 27, 2025; Eligible to be Ordained Feb 10, 2025] (ORD25#1)
5. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to Ordinance 2025 #2 Multifamily Zoning Petition-Part 2. [Passed to 2nd Reading Jan 27, 2025; Eligible to be Ordained Feb 10, 2025] (ORD25#2)
6. Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to Animal Commission Ordinance 2025 #3 Changes - Fees. [Passed to 2nd Reading Jan 27, 2025; Eligible to be Ordained Feb 10, 2025] (ORD25#3)
APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Mehmet Sahin representing The Attic, requesting permission for a projecting blade sign at the premises numbered 1218 Massachusetts Avenue. approval has been received from Inspectional Services, Department of Public Works, Community Development Department and abutter proof of mailing has been provided. (AP25#6)
COMMUNICATIONS
1. Alexander von Hoffman, regarding Request to vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
2. Allan Ko, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
3. Allan Sadun, regarding Multifamily proposal is still a winner – let’s keep it that way.
4. Allison Van Twisk, regarding Support for Multifamily Housing Citywide Proposal.
5. Amina Sheikh, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
6. Amy Sloper, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
7. Andrew Ray, regarding Municipal broadband.
8. Andrew Solomon, regarding Support for housing density.
9. Andrew Strassman, regarding End exclusionary zoning!
10. Anna Swan, regarding Zoning letters to councilors.
11. Anthony Martin, regarding Cambridge Up-Zoning.
12. Anthony Moffa, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
13. Aram Harrow, regarding Please vote YES on citywide upzoning petition.
14. Ariana Olson, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
15. Betsy & Tim Groves, regarding Underground noise in North Cambridge.
16. Brennan Waters, regarding Pass the Multifamily Housing Zoning Ordinance.
17. Candace Young, regarding PO24#163, PO25#1.
18. Carlos M. Loya, regarding MFH Proposal - Solar Protection and Sustainable Development in Cambridge.
19. Carlos Salamanca, regarding Amendments to the Cambridge Multifamily Zoning Rules.
20. Carole Stern, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
21. Carolyn Magid, regarding Multifamily Housing -- supporting 3+3.
22. Catalina Arboleda, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
23. Colleen Cohen, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
24. Conleigh Byers, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
25. Dan Phillips, regarding Nearly 400 people signed a petition in support of allowing apartments city-wide.
26. David E. Sullivan, regarding Please support compromise multifamily zoning.
27. David Halperin, regarding Support multifamily housing petition.
28. David Levy, regarding AGAINST the current citywide upzoning proposal.
29. David Spitz, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
30. Debra Fox, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
31. Deepali Ravel, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
32. Devon L. Davidson, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
33. Diana Yousef, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
34. Dominick Jones, regarding Oppose upzoning.
35. E. A. & Julie S. Vargas, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
36. Edward Naef and Jana Naef, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
37. Elizabeth Gilmore, regarding impacts of proposed zoning change.
38. Elizabeth Kon, regarding Concerns about Cambridge direction.
39. Emmaline Conti, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
40. Eoin Power, regarding Strong Support for Multifamily Zoning.
41. Esther Hanig, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
42. Ethan Frank, regarding Housing petition.
43. Eunice Williams, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
44. Fan Wang, regarding Support Letter for Cambridge Zoning Amendments Petition 2025Jan25.
45. Fred Robert Meyer, regarding The severe HIDDEN DANGER.
46. Fred Watts, regarding Stop Exclusionary Zoning!
47. Gabe Murchison, regarding Multifamily zoning.
48. Glenna Lang, regarding I urge you vote NO on citywide upzoning petition!
49. Gordon Moore, regarding CDD five-year evaluation of Inclusionary Housing.
50. Hannah Larsen, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
51. Helen Abraham, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
52. Heli Meltsner, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
53. Hillma Denune, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
54. Ira Nichols-Barrer, regarding support for multifamily zoning.
55. Irene Qiao, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
56. Jacquelyn Smith, regarding upzoning.
57. Jason Wright, regarding Eversource Statement.
58. Jennifer Effron, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
59. Jennifer Jones, regarding Multifamily Housing Proposal.
60. Jerome Ryan, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
61. Jessie Lan, regarding Multifamily Zoning Comment.
62. Joan Friebely, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
63. Joe Connolly, regarding support for multifamily zoning proposal.
64. Joel Altstein, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
65. John Ravenal, regarding Let the petition run out.
66. John Whisnant, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
67. Jules Renner, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
68. Karen Eton, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
69. Karen Falb, regarding Listen and not just Hear - two weeks ago and 154 people - Need for independent Studies.
70. Katharine Martin, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
71. Kathleen Moore, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
72. Katie Fustich, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
73. Kayla Springer, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
74. Kiefer Hicks, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
75. Kris Ellis-Levy, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
76. Kyle Buznitsky, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
77. Laura Brannon, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
78. Lawrence Bluestone, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
79. Lenore G. Martin, regarding Upzoning proposal.
80. Leslie Cohen and David Slaney, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
81. Liz Keating, regarding My opposition to the citywide multi-story rezoning petition.
82. Louise Venden, regarding Public Comment Jan 27, 2025 City Council.
83. Lynne Reiss, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
84. Madeline Lee, regarding Multifamily Zoning - support 3+3 amendments & low-income residents.
85. Margaret Ann Brady, regarding Multifamily Zoning.
86. Marie Keil, regarding Please vote to end exclusionary zoning.
87. Marjory Wunsch, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
88. Mark Kon, regarding strong concerns about the direction of Cambridge.
89. Mark Reynolds, regarding Upzoning - In agreement with Prof. Zegras.
90. Mary Byrne, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
91. Mary Ellen Wynn, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
92. Matt Goldstein, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
93. Matt Miller, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
94. Miah Ebels-Duggan, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
95. Michael Massagli, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
96. Michael Weymouth, regarding In support of the 4+2 multifamily zoning bill.
97. Mimi Truslow, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
98. Nance Goldstein, regarding Please let the upzoning proposal expire.
99. Nancy Keeler, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
100. Natalie Goodman, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
101. Nicholas Do, regarding Support for Multifamily Housing Zoning Changes.
102. Norna Shapiro-Freedman, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
103. Omar Eton MD from Gordan Moore, regarding of the Shepard St., Langdon St., area off MA in the Neighborhood Nine.
104. Patricia McGrath, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
105. Paul Barringer, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
106. Paul E. Fallon, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
107. Rabbi Yoni, regarding Enthusiastic Support for 4+2i Zoning Proposal (or 3+3i+3AHO Zoning).
108. Reeva Meyer, regarding Housing - Tonight.
109. Rena Leib, regarding Multifamily Housing -- supporting 3+3.
110. Rosalind Michahelles, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
111. Ryan Houlette, regarding Please vote no on the current rezoning proposal.
112. Sam Cohen, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
113. Shannon Canavin, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
114. Sam Cohen, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
115. Shannon Canavin, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
116. Shannon Finley, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
117. Sharon Sears, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
118. Shelagh Hadley, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
119. Steve Wineman, regarding Multifamily zoning.
120. Susan Cooke, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
121. Susan Labandibar, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
122. Susan Strang, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
123. Suzanne Hopkins and Wendy L Wood, regarding Upzoning disastrous plan.
124. Tamar Zimmerman, regarding the current Upzoning Proposal.
125. Thomas Hentschel, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
126. Trevor Burnham, regarding Thank you for ending exclusionary zoning.
127. Wayne Welke, regarding Strongly Support Ending Exclusionary Zoning.
128. Wilberthe Pilate, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
129. Willie Boag, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
130. Winifred Stopps, regarding Comment on Policy Order PO25#1, Multifamily Housing Zoning Petitions.
131. Young Kim, regarding Ordinance Committee Recommendation and CM report on Multifamily Housing Zoning Petitions.
132. Alyssa Chen, regarding Super majority or simple majority for multifamily zoning vote.
133. Ann Robbart, regarding Multifamily Zoning 3+3 Please!
134. Anne Collin, regarding Please vote YES on multifamily housing.
135. Annette LaMond, regarding Opposed to Upzoning.
136. Annie Michaelis, regarding strongly support multifamily zoning proposal.
137. Asha Daniere, regarding Neighborhood Meeting - suggestions.
138. Carolyn Fuller, regarding In Support of Multifamily Housing.
139. Carolyn Shipley, regarding Proposed MFH upzoning - Destruction of the Environment.
140. Catherine Hoffman, regarding multifamily.
141. Claire Moore, regarding Comments for tonight’s council meeting.
142. Dan Totten, regarding support 3+3 without a lot size limit.
143. Dana Niu, regarding Please end exclusionary zoning.
144. Daniel Mascoop, regarding Pass the Multifamily Zoning Ordinance without Further Amendments.
145. David Hattis, regarding In support of Ending Exclusionary Zoning.
146. Elizabeth Gombosi, regarding Public Comment Jan 27, 2025.
147. Estefania Lamas, regarding Support for Multifamily Housing in Cambridge - Affordability for all_ including our Public Servants.
148. Francis Donovan, regarding Multifamily Zoning – City Council, 5:30pm, 27Jan25.
149. Gerald Bergman, regarding Multifamily zoning on the City Council agenda 1/27/2025.
150. Heather Hoffman, regarding diversity on boards, commissions and committees.
151. Heather Hoffman, regarding wrote my comments out this time.
152. Heddi Siebel, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
153. Helen Hardacre, regarding Up-zoning.
154. Janice Snow, regarding Upzoning Meeting Testimony.
155. Jim Gray, regarding Public Comment Form Submission Confirmation.
156. Kasey Geremia, regarding Remove Broadway from Cycling Safety Ordinance.
157. Lee Farris, regarding Updated - Residents Alliance opposes 4+2, supports 3+3+3 Multifamily proposal.
158. Liz Byron Loya, regarding Opposition to MFH.
159. Lora Sperber Farkas and Charles Farkas, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
160. Marc Wagner, regarding Support letter for multi-family zoning amendment.
161. Margaret Gadon, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
162. Marilee Meyer, regarding wrote my comments out this time.
163. Ned Codd, regarding Support for Multifamily Housing Zoning Proposal.
164. Nina Herrera, regarding Today’s meeting.
165. Nonie Valentine, regarding Ordinance Committee Recommendation and report on Multifamily Housing Zoning Petitions.
166. Omar Eton, regarding Pathway to Neighborhood Conservation Districts in Cambridge.
167. Phyllis Bretholtz, regarding Multifamily Housing.
168. Sarah Block, regarding Strongly support ending exclusionary zoning.
169. Suzanne Blier, regarding Video Recording 1/26/25 of Citywide Upzoning Proposal and Impacts.
170. Donald Grossman, regarding You Dozed Paradise – Unless you vote NO on the Up Zoning Petition.
171. Young Kim, regarding My Oral Comment Tonight.
172. Zoe Feder, regarding Public Comment #91 by Zoe Feder at 1/27/25 City Council Mtg.
173. Elizabeth Gombosi, regarding Upzoning CC 012724 EG comments.
174. Marc Wagner, regarding 25Jan24 Support Letter Marc.
175. Jim Gray, regarding Wise Zoning for affordable Multifamily Housing.
176. Renie Herman, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
177. Porter Gifford, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
178. Joseph Antebi, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
179. Sharon Sears, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
180. Jacquelyn Smith, regarding Broadband.
181. Donald Grossman, regarding You Dozed Paradise – Unless you vote NO on the Up Zoning Petition.
182. Beth Gamse, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
183. Adam Glassman, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
184. Hunter Aldrich, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
185. Mark Konstrong, regarding concerns about the direction of Cambridge.
186. Peter Harris, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
187. Jacqueline Olds, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
188. John Whisnant, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
189. Layla Cable, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
190. Aran Nathanson, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
191. Elena Lori, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
192. Julia Kirchner, regarding Is it possible to obtain a copy of the certificate of parentage.
193. Larry Cetrulo and Lynn Cetrulo, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
194. Helene Bank, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
195. Nan Laird, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
196. Elise Moore, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
197. Steve Kennedy, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
198. Joel Alstein, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
199. Peter Falb, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
200. Charles Merrill, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
201. Toni G. Wolfman, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
202. Sandra Spanier, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
203. Catalina Arboleda, regarding Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.
204. Elizabeth Kon, regarding Opposition to Citywide Upzoning Petition.
205. Amy Waltz, regarding Construction Rights through zoning, without proper Regulation, will have devastating results including major climate impacts! Consult our Climate Committee & Experts!
RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Michael DeAmbrose on his retirement from the Cambridge Fire Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons
2. Congratulations to Edward Fales on his retirement from the Cambridge Fire Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons
3. Congratulations to Faye Santarpio on her retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons
4. Congratulations to Robyn Culbertson on the occasion of her retirement as Executive Director of the Office for Tourism. Mayor Simmons
R-4 Feb 3, 2025
MAYOR SIMMONSWHEREAS: Robyn Culbertson has provided outstanding service to the City of Cambridge for three decades, including twenty-four years as the Executive Director of the Cambridge Office for Tourism, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the city’s economic and cultural vitality; and
WHEREAS: Robyn began her tenure with the Cambridge Office for Tourism in 1995 as Associate Director and, due to her exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and industry expertise, was appointed Executive Director in 1999; and
WHEREAS: Under Robyn’s leadership, the Cambridge Office for Tourism successfully navigated significant industry disruptions, including the economic downturn following September 11, 2001, and the global tourism crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, responding with resilience and innovative solutions; and
WHEREAS: Robyn was instrumental in securing the enactment of the Tourism Destination Marketing District (TDMD) legislation, which significantly enhanced Cambridge’s tourism sector by generating substantial economic benefits, including a highly successful 2023 marketing initiative that brought an additional $4 million in revenue to Cambridge hotels; and
WHEREAS: Beyond Robyn’s professional responsibilities, she has contributed extensively to the broader business and tourism community, serving in leadership roles on multiple boards and committees, including the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, the Harvard Square Business Association, Meet Boston, and as President of Skal International Boston from 2007 to 2008; and
WHEREAS: Robyn’s distinguished career has been widely recognized through numerous accolades, including the Massachusetts Lodging Association’s Stars of the Industry: Partner of the Year award in 2012 and the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award from the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce in 2024, underscoring her profound impact on the tourism sector; and
WHEREAS: As a mentor, Robyn has guided and inspired emerging professionals in the tourism industry, fostering a new generation of leaders through her expertise, dedication, and exemplary leadership, while also demonstrating a steadfast commitment to philanthropy, particularly through her work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, further cementing her legacy of service and community engagement that is rightfully being acknowledged by the City; now therefore be it
RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record acknowledging its deepest appreciation for Robyn Culbertson’s thirty years of distinguished service to the City of Cambridge and in extending heartfelt congratulations on her well-earned retirement; and be it further
RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Robyn Culbertson on behalf of the entire City Council.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. The Finance Committee and Housing Committee held a joint public hearing on July 10, 2024 to review and discuss the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust and to discuss the City’s relationship with the Trust, consider funding priorities, and ways to fund affordable housing development in Cambridge. [text of report]
Present: McGovern, Nolan, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson
Remote Present: Azeem, Siddiqui, Toner, Simmons
Absent: Pickett
COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF25#16)
HEARING SCHEDULE
Mon, Feb 3
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Mon, Feb 10
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Tues, Feb 11
12:30pm The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss the update to the Cambridge Net Zero Action Plan (NZAP) Annual Report.
Mon, Feb 24
5:30pm City Council Meeting
Tues, Feb 25
11:30am The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will hold a public hearing with the City Solicitor and the Community Development Department, Economic Opportunity Division, to discuss concerns with vacant store front in Cambridge, and prior efforts and possible options such as new policies, taxes, and/or fines to reduce the number of vacant store fronts in Cambridge.
3:00pm The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee will hold a public meeting to discuss tenant-paid broker fees and other housing fees and the options that the city and state government have to regulate them.
Thurs, Mar 20
3:00pm The Economic Development and University Relations Committee will hold a public meeting from 3:00pm-5:00pm. This meeting will be a Cannabis Roundtable with cannabis businesses to discuss issues facing the retail cannabis industry in Cambridge and discuss potential changes, including adjustments to the current 1,800 foot buffer zones and introduction of social consumption.
TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Feb 3, 2025
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
ORDERED: That the City Council meeting scheduled for February 24, 2025 shall be designated as a Joint Roundtable with the School Committee to discuss FY26 Cambridge Public Schools budget priorities.
O-2 Feb 3, 2025
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR ZUSY
WHEREAS: Collection of fines for violations of local ordinance can be difficult for municipalities as many disputes can result in lengthy and difficult battles in state court for otherwise minor dollar amounts; and
WHEREAS: In 2010 Governor Deval Patrick signed legislation M.G.L. Ch. 40U, which expanded local authority to collect unpaid fines, specifically those issued for violations of local statutes regulating sanitation, housing, and snow and ice removal; and
WHEREAS: This procedure works similarly to the process in place for hearings on parking citations which allows for appeals of citations outside the judicial system, allows penalties for late payments, and allows municipalities to impose sanctions for failure to pay fines by restricting access to other municipal services and eventually allows municipalities to place a lien on a property based on the number of violations and/or dollar amount; and
WHEREAS: According to a report by the Massachusetts Municipal Association from 2010, in the city of Boston, less than one-third of citations are paid, leaving ordinances in flux and gaps in necessary finances; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Code of Ordinances contains important provisions related to sanitation, housing, and snow and ice removal and it is essential that fines are collected in a fair and equitable way in order to preserve public safety and maintain citywide goals; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a report on the use of M.G.L. Ch. 40U to determine which local statutes can be enforced by the local-option procedure in order to better collect fines in violation of Cambridge ordinances and provide a recommendation to the City Council for implementation of Ch. 40U procedures; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council by early May.
AWAITING REPORT LIST
24-31. Provide an update to the Municipal Facilities Improvement Plan (MFIP) including revised cost estimates to help inform the FY26 and ongoing capital budget priorities in a timely manner.
Councillor Pickett, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner (O-1) from 6/10/2024
24-53. at the City of Cambridge assist companies, institutions, and other organizations in adopting truck safety requirements for their fleets and finding trucking vendors who are able to comply by providing an informational resource and publicizing those that comply.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Azeem (O-1) from 9/16/2024
24-58. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Finance Department, Law Department, and other relevant departments to explore the feasibility of a successor program to Rise Up Cambridge.
Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-6) from 9/23/2024
24-62. The City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development Department to provide an update on the status of the Resident Experiences of Inclusion and Bias in Inclusionary Housing in Cambridge report’s recommendations, including progress on implementation and planned next steps.
Councillor Siddiqui, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson (O-3) from 10/21/2024
24-63. The City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to prominently incorporate recognition of the Massachusett Tribe during key official events, documents, websites, and communications, establish a living memorial in Cambridge that honors the Massachusett Tribe, with special recognition of Sqa Sachem for her leadership and enduring legacy and place a plaque with this language in a prominent location within City Hall, ensuring that this acknowledgment remains visible and lasting and report back.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson (O-2) from 11/4/2024
24-64. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a Home Rule Petition to enact legislation which would allow the City of Cambridge to prohibit associations from unreasonably restricting the use of a solar energy system.
(Calendar Item #1) from 11/18/2024
24-66. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a draft home rule petition to authorize the City of Cambridge to implement automated parking enforcement technology; and to continue to work with the City of Boston to collaborate on the home rule process.
(O-1) from 11/18/2024
24-67. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to review with a robust and inclusive community process the Cambridge Bicycle Plan, most recently updated in 2020, and identify potential improvements and consider next steps for a network of Separated Bicycle Facilities, and Separated Bicycle Facilities on streets across the city in order to facilitate safer travel and ways to coordinate routes with neighboring communities including Arlington, Somerville, Watertown, Belmont, Boston, and others.
(O-1) from 12/2/2024
24-68. The City Manager is requested to work with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department and Harvard University to restore Garden Street to two-way automobile traffic while preserving two-way protected bike lanes, preserving as much parking on and/or near Garden Street as possible and identifying potential areas for resident parking on neighboring streets and communicating the changes to the affected neighborhood.
(O-1) from 12/9/2024
24-69. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and encourage the state Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and the MBTA to adhere to Cambridge local ordinances, including the Cambridge Asbestos Protection Ordinance, during Alewife Construction. See Mgr #5
(Calendar Item #1) from 12/9/2024
25-1. That the City Manager report back on additional multi-family zoning considerations, along with the other amendments put forward by the City Council on Dec 23, 2024.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui (O-1) from 1/6/2025
25-2. That the City Manager ensure staff work to Adherence to the existing prevailing wage ordinance, Maintenance of consistent wage rates, Provision of comprehensive employer-paid benefits and Development of a clear local employment strategy.
(O-1) from 1/27/2025
25-3. The City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council with a update on the status and timeline for the completion of the Grand Junction Multiuse Path and how implementation between Gore Street and Little Binney could coincide with Phase 2 of the CSO implementation on Cambridge Street.
(O-2) from 1/27/2025
25-4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to develop zoning recommendations, pursuant to M.G.L. c.40A §9B, for regulations to encourage the use of solar energy systems and protect solar access for Registered Solar Energy Systems that have been in existence for one year, per Ordinance Ch. 22.60, specifically on structures over 4 stories.
(O-5) from 1/27/2025