Cambridge City Council meeting - March 24, 2025

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to recommendations for the block rates for water consumption and sewer use for the period beginning April 1, 2025 and ending March 31, 2026. (CM25#54) [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0

2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the City of Cambridge retaining its AAA rating from the nation’s three major credit rating agencies. (CM25#55) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Yoyo Yau to the Coordinating Council for Children Youth and Families (also known as “Family Policy Council”) effective March 24, 2025. (CM25#56)
Appointments Confirmed 9-0

4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Proposed Amendments – Cambridge Municipal Code 13.08, Water System Regulations and Chapter 13.12, Water Reservoirs. (CM25#57) [text of report]
Passed to 2nd Reading 9-0

5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $346,020 from Free Cash, to the General Fund Public Works Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account for expenses associated with pre-treating and salting of roads, snow plowing and snow removal contracts. (CM25#58)
Order Adopted 9-0

6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $500,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Department Extraordinary Expenditures account, for street repairs required due to significant winter weather damage. This season the Department had sixteen salting, three plowing and two hauling events to pre-treat, de-ice and clear roads, sidewalks and bike lanes. (CM25#59)
Order Adopted 9-0

7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-14, regarding a report on snow operations with a focus on crosswalks and pedestrian islands. (CM25#60) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-10, regarding explore potential actions the City can take to mitigate the impact of Eversource price hikes, staff have provided an update on recent cost increases and various City and Eversource support programs. (CM25#61) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

9. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $289,000 from the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund to the Public Investment Fund Community Development Extraordinary Expenditures account. These mitigation funds will be used to maintain Bluebikes bikeshare equipment in a state of good repair. (CM25#62) [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0

10. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a summary of a Planning Board Meeting on the 2024 Town Gown Reports and Presentations. (CM25#63) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a proposed Home Rule Petition prepared by the Law Department which would raise the sound business practices and written quote contract thresholds under M.G.L. c. 30B for City contracts with certified disadvantaged businesses. (CM25#64) [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0

12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-7, regarding a request to work with appropriate departments to prepare a communication to DCR Commissioner Arrigo, urging that a study of traffic conditions at the intersections of Western Avenue and River Street at Memorial Drive and Soldiers Field Road (commonly referred to as “the box”), be included in their FY26 Capital Plan, with the goals of improving efficiency and safety at these intersections. (CM25#65) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

13. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to renewal of the Half Crown-Marsh Neighborhood Conservation District. (CM25#66) [text of report]
Charter Right - Azeem

ORDERS
1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Community Development Department to develop a timeline for the next Incentive Zoning Nexus Study. Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Toner, Councillor Zusy (PO25#36)
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

2. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Office of the Housing Liaison and all relevant departments to ensure the successful implementation of an outreach and assistance campaign to provide broad and equitable access to eviction record sealing for eligible Cambridge tenants. Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson (PO25#37)
Order Adopted 9-0

3. That the City Manager is requested to work with the School Department, the Department of Public Works, and other relevant departments to open the publicly owned parking at the King Open/Cambridge Street Upper School Complex for either residential free parking or commercial parking opportunities during “off” hours. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner (PO25#38)
Order Adopted 9-0

4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments and institutional stakeholders currently operating some form of shuttle to explore options for a municipal transit pilot program. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Zusy (PO25#39)
Order Adopted 9-0

5. Policy Order re Transgender Day of Visibility. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern (PO25#40)
Order Adopted 9-0

ON THE TABLE
1. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $570,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Police Extraordinary Expenditures account for the procurement of replacement firearms for the Police Department. These funds would support the purchase of replacement firearms for the Department. Police Department firearms are typically replaced on approximately a ten-year cycle. The manufacturer has ceased production of the model currently used and replacements are almost impossible to source. It is important that department personnel are all trained on the same firearm to ensure safety and interoperability. [Tabled Mar 17, 2025] (CM25#40)

2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $160,000 from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Police Extraordinary Expenditures account for the procurement of a new fully electric accessible transport wagon. This funding will allow the purchase of a fully electric, American Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant transport wagon to replace one of the aging F350s. The new vehicle will ensure the safe and comfortable transport of community members to court, shelters, and other service providers. [Tabled Mar 17, 2025] (CM25#41)

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
3. An Ordinance has been received from the City Clerk, relative to Chapter 2.24 - City Clerk Department, Section 2.24.050 entitled “Fee Schedule”. [Passed to 2nd Reading Mar 3, 2025; Amended Mar 17, 2025; Eligible To Be Ordained on or after Mar 24, 2025] (ORD25#4)
Ordained as Amended 9-0

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application was received from Cambridge Community Foundation requesting permission for 60 temporary pole banners along 99 Bishop Allen Drive announcing “MAKING GOOD” from Mar 14, 2025 through Sept 2, 2025. (AP25#15)
Order Adopted 9-0

2. An application was received from Cambridge Rindge and Latin School requesting permission for 8 temporary banner pole banners along Central Square and CRLS campus announcing “CONGRATULATIONS CRLS GRADUATES” from May 30, 2025 through July 31, 2025. (AP25#16)
Order Adopted 9-0

3. An application was received from MGM Development Co. requesting permission for a curb cut at the premises numbered 74 Hammond Street; said petition has received approval from Inspectional Services, Traffic, Parking and Transportation, Historical Commission and Public Works. Response has been received from the neighborhood association. (AP25#17)
Charter Right - Nolan

COMMUNICATIONS
1. John Trever, re: Please vote NO on citywide upzoning petition.

2. Aisha, re: Bike lanes meeting 3/17 10am comment.

3. Allan Ko, re: Please oppose new guns for police (CMA #7).

4. Amy Thompson, re: Our squares and corridors.

5. Ann Haycox, re: Our squares and corridors.

6. Annette LaMond & Joe Moore, re: Our squares and corridors.

7. Arthur Kleinman, re: Our squares and corridors.

8. Arti Pandey, re: Our squares and corridors.

9. Belinda Rathbone, re: Our squares and corridors.

10. Brenda Stanfield, re: Broadway parking vs bike lanes.

11. Bud Evans, re: Our squares and corridors.

12. Carlos M. Loya, re: Request for Information and Meeting on Upzoning Proposals on squares and corridors.

13. Carol Birnbaum, re: Our squares and corridors.

14. Carole Stern, re: Our squares and corridors.

15. Christine Tessier, re: Our squares and corridors.

16. Cynthia Broner, re: Our squares and corridors.

17. Cynthia W Smith, re: Our squares and corridors.

18. Deborah A. Colburn, re: Our squares and corridors.

19. Deborah Valenze, re: Our squares and corridors.

20. Elise Moore, re: Keep our Squares and Corridors Safe.

21. Elizabeth Kon, re: Our squares and corridors.

22. Fred Scholz, re: Our squares and corridors.

23. Gillian Diercks, re: City Council Meeting public comments.

24. Ginna Donovan, re: Our squares and corridors.

25. Gordon T. Moore, re: City Design Guidelines Presentation to the Planning Board and Mass Ave.

26. Harvey Halpern, re: Our squares and corridors.

27. Hunter Aldrich, re: Our squares and corridors.

28. John Whisnant, re: Our squares and corridors.

29. John, re: Our squares and corridors.

30. Judith Aronson, re: Our squares and corridors.

31. Judith Farris Bowman, re: Our squares and corridors.

32. Judy Singer and Beth Gamse, re: Our squares and corridors.

33. Julie S. Vargas, re: Our squares and corridors.

34. Kitty Gormley, re: Our squares and corridors.

35. Lahra Tillman, re: Our squares and corridors.

36. Laney Bank, re: Our squares and corridors.

37. Layla Cable, re: Our squares and corridors.

38. Lee Farris, re: Residents Alliance supports max. unit size.

39. Lee Meyer, re: Our squares and corridors.

40. Lenore G. Martin, re: Our squares and corridors.

41. Linda Chicariello, re: Our squares and corridors.

42. Lisa Glover, re: Our squares and corridors.

43. Liz Keating, re: Focus on the Impending Recession and Halt New Projects.

44. Liz Werby, re: Our squares and corridors.

45. Lucia Mudd, re: Our squares and corridors.

46. Maggie Baratz, re: Petition to Leave Garden Street in Current Configuration.

47. Margaret Gadon, re: Our squares and corridors.

48. Maria Ritz, re: Our squares and corridors.

49. Marilee Meyer, re: PLEASE RENEW HALF-CROWN MARSH CONSERVATION DISTRICT.

50. Mark Kon, re: strong concerns about mis-direction of Cambridge.

51. Marlene Brown, re: Our squares and corridors.

52. Marni Clippinger, re: Our squares and corridors.

53. Mary Ann Szporluk, re: Our squares and corridors.

54. Maureen Whitehouse, re: Our squares and corridors.

55. Michele Pignatelli, re: Our squares and corridors.

56. Nolan Surma, re: New guns for the police (CMA #7) should be opposed and voted down.

57. Nonie Valentine, re: Our squares and corridors.

58. Paul Breneman, re: Our squares and corridors.

59. Peter, re: Our squares and corridors.

60. Janet Randall, re: Our squares and corridors.

61. Rhonda Massie, re: Our squares and corridors.

62. Richard Solomon, re: I oppose new guns for the police (CMA #7).

63. Robin Greeley, re: Our squares and corridors.

64. Rui Ponte, re: Our squares and corridors.

65. Sharon Sears, re: Our squares and corridors.

66. Sharon Stichter, re: Our squares and corridors.

67. Shelagh Hadley, re: Our squares and corridors.

68. Susan M. Carter, re: Housing on corridors.

69. Susan Stewarthow, re: how much will zoning changes increase affordable housing; What about preserving trees; and the historic character of neighborhoods.

70. Suzanne Watzman, re: Our squares and corridors.

71. Yann Dardonville, re: I oppose public safety cameras (Annual Surveillance Report).

72. Zack Goldberg, re: Our squares and corridors.

73. Adriane Bishko, regarding You have my support.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to William Renzi on his retirement from the Department of Public Works. Councillor Toner

2. Congratulations to Ana Nava on her retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner

3. Congratulations to Leona Golden on her retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner

4. Welcome American Library Association President Cindy Hohl to Cambridge. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern

5. Condolences on the death of Gladys “Pebble” Gifford. Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan

R-5 Mar 24, 2025
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR NOLAN

WHEREAS: The City Council was deeply saddened at learning of the death of Gladys “Pebble” Gifford on March 13, 2025, at the age of 86; and

WHEREAS: Pebble was the beloved daughter of the late Dr. Arnold Porter and Gladys Hinckley; and

WHEREAS: Pebble’s passing will leave a profound void in the lives of her surviving family, her children, Dun Jr., Porter, Chad and Apple, grandchildren Suzannah, Abbott, Lake, Zinnia, Lucy and Noah, and sisters Priscilla, Nancy and Mary; and

WHEREAS: Pebble graduated from Smith College at a time when only 7% of women in the USA had a college degree, and went on to attain a law degree when even fewer women were in the profession; and

WHEREAS: A passionate advocate for community preservation, Pebble dedicated her life to protecting the charm and character of Harvard Square, founding the Harvard Square Defense Fund in 1979, and serving as its president for multiple terms, leaving a legacy in Cambridge; and

WHEREAS: Pebble was a trailblazer in local activism, influencing key community developments, advocating responsible urban planning, and fostering a deep sense of civic pride through her work with the Harvard Square Neighborhood Association; and

WHEREAS: Pebble was known not only for her activism but also for her wit, determination, and deep love for her neighborhood, where she often opened up her home as a gathering place for friends, and neighbors; and

WHEREAS: Pebble, with her remarkable legacy of service, preservation and dedication to the community, will continue to inspire and will be sorely missed; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy to the family of Gladys “Pebble” Gifford at this time of such personal loss and expresses its gratitude for her tireless contributions to preserving the soul of Harvard Square; 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 Gladys “Pebble” Gifford on behalf of the entire City Council.

6. Congratulations to Joanne Bosco on her retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner

7. Congratulations to Seamus Whelan on his retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner

8. Condolences on the death of Kitty Dukakis. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Zusy

R-8 Mar 24, 2025
COUNCILLOR TONER
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR ZUSY

WHEREAS: The City Council was deeply saddened at learning of the death of Katherine “Kitty” Dukakis on March 21, 2025, at the age of 88; and

WHEREAS: Kitty’s passing will leave a void in the lives of all her surviving family, her husband Michael, children John, Andrea and Kara, 7 grandchildren, and other family and dear friends; and

WHEREAS: Born in Cambridge in 1936, Kitty married Michael in 1963, and together they formed a strong partnership built on love, respect, and a shared commitment to public service, lasting over six decades, with Michael Dukakis serving as Governor of Massachusetts for three non-consecutive terms; and

WHEREAS: Kitty was a proud graduate of Lesley College, receiving her B.A. in 1963, and later earned her M.A. from Boston University College of Communication in 1982, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to education and learning; and

WHEREAS: Kitty was a beloved advocate who dedicated her life to serving others, especially those struggling with addiction, mental health issues, and marginalized communities, and as First Lady of Massachusetts, she was a poised and passionate advocate, lending her voice and energy to causes such as the Holocaust, refugees, the homeless, and AIDS, always fighting for those without a voice; and

WHEREAS: Openly sharing her personal battles with addiction and alcoholism, Kitty courageously brought attention to these issues and inspired many to seek help and break the stigma surrounding mental health and substance use; and

WHEREAS: Kitty Dukakis served on the President’s Commission on the Holocaust and the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, ensuring that the lessons of the Holocaust were never forgotten, and dedicated much of her life to human rights and social justice causes; and

WHEREAS: Her deep empathy and compassion led her to work with refugees, helping bring children from camps into foster homes, and even personally rescuing a young boy from a refugee camp in Thailand, uniting him with his sister in Massachusetts; and

WHEREAS: Kitty’s book, Now You Know and Shock: The Healing Power of Electroconvulsive Therapy, was honest and brace accounts of her struggles with addiction and depression, and helped countless others find hope and healing; and

WHEREAS: Kitty was an extraordinary mother, grandmother, and wife, whose personal strength, vulnerability, and advocacy touched the lives of many and left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and community; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That this City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy for the family of Kitty Dukakas at this time of such personal loss, and celebrates her lifelong commitment to the community and beyond; 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 Dukakas family on behalf of the entire City Council.

9. City Council appreciation to Ovadia Robert Simha for his many contributions to the community. Councillor Zusy

R-9 Mar 24, 2025
COUNCILLOR ZUSY

WHEREAS: Ovadia Robert Simha has pursued a life and career committed to community service and the public good; and

WHEREAS: Robert served for 40 years as Director of Planning for MIT (1960-2000) during which MIT’s campus grew with thoughtful and coherent plans that shaped a handsome green campus that welcomed all Cambridge families, where parking lots and archaic industrial buildings once stood; and

WHEREAS: While always believing in and manifesting a vision to benefit all concerned, Robert served as a member of the MIT team that was the catalyst for the original Technology Square and Kendall Square; and completed the development of 700 units of elderly housing for the Cambridge Housing Authority; and conceived and saw to fruition the new location of the Kendall/MIT MBTA station; as well as the planning and creation of University Park; and

WHEREAS: For fifteen years, Robert served as Trustee of the Massachusetts Community College System, increasing access to affordable secondary education; and

WHEREAS: Robert was a founding member and later the President of the Society for College and University Planning to promote best practices in campus planning, for which SCUP honored him with a Distinguished Service Award in 2000; and

WHEREAS: Robert continues to lecture and contribute to both the MIT Community, where there is an O. Robert Simha Fund for students in the School of Architecture and Planning who work to improve the greater Cambridge community, and to the greater Cambridge community; and

WHEREAS: Robert has served on the board of the Cambridge Community Center, Cambridge Planning Board, Cambridge Club and Cambridge News Matters; led a Cambridgeport Self-Study for the Cambridgeport Neighborhood Association; and led an Open Space Opportunities initiative with the Cambridge Plant & Garden Club, resulting in a City Council policy order supporting the City’s investment in open space; among other things; and

WHEREAS: Robert currently serves as Vice President of the East Cambridge Planning Team protecting and advancing the interests of local residents; and

WHEREAS: Robert currently serves as President of the East Cambridge Open Space Trust, protecting and enhancing the precious open spaces in East Cambridge; and

WHEREAS: Robert has always exhibited the highest levels of ethical behavior, public-mindedness and community service and is beloved by family and friends; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the Cambridge City Council go on record acknowledging its profound gratitude for “Bob’s” long and selfless community service and wish him all good fortune in his continuing public and private endeavors; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Ovadia Robert Simha on behalf of the entire City Council.

10. Congratulating the Grand Opening of GreenSoul. Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons

R-10 Mar 24, 2025
COUNCILLOR WILSON
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
MAYOR SIMMONS

WHEREAS: The GreenSoul dispensary is having their grand opening on March 28th, 2025; and

WHEREAS: This new business at 759 Massachusetts Avenue has been realized through years of dedicated work, collaboration, and community engagement that first began in 2019; and

WHEREAS: GreenSoul is proud to be a minority-owned business, under the leadership of Taba Moses, Saba Moses, and Richard Harding; and

WHEREAS: Through their ownership and operating teams, GreenSoul seeks to make-good on the Commonwealth and City’s cannabis policies that are intended to mitigate the economic devastation inflicted on the Black community by the “War on Drugs” and mass incarceration; and

WHEREAS: GreenSoul is committed to being a trailblazing business that respects their community, their customers, and the cultural legacy and quality of their product; and

WHEREAS: This new business is poised to be an exciting addition to downtown Cambridge that will promote equitable wealth creation; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: The Cambridge City Council congratulates the founders and employees of GreenSoul on their grand opening, and wishes them good luck and success.

COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF25#45)
Placed on File 9-0

Tues, Mar 25
3:00pm The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss the update to the Zero Waste Master Plan (ZWMP) 2.0.

Thurs, Mar 27
1:00pm The Finance Committee will hold a public meeting to receive a status update on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding in Cambridge, as well as to review and discuss the Police Department budget for FY26 before it is submitted to the City Manager, as required under Cambridge Municipal Code Chapter 2.74.040.

Mon, Apr 14
2:00pm The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss regulations to encourage the use of solar energy systems and protect solar access for Registered Solar Energy Systems. (PO25#7)
5:30pm City Council Meeting

Wed, Apr 16
3:00pm The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss capital and large-scale programs and projects currently underway and in the funding plan, and potential future programming and projects that would need to be planned and incorporated into medium- and long-term capital and operating budgets.

Thurs, May 8
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 City budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

Tues, May 13
6:00pm The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 School Department budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

Wed, May 14
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 City budget covering the fiscal period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

Thurs, May 15
9:00am The Finance Committee will conduct a public hearing on the FY26 City and School budgets covering the fiscal period July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 (if necessary).

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Mar 24, 2025 Amended
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR WILSON
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR ZUSY
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge established an Incentive Zoning Ordinance (section 11.200 of Article 11.000, entitled SPECIAL REGULATIONS, of the Zoning Ordinance) in 1988, requiring developers seeking special permits to increase the density or intensity of their developments beyond what is otherwise permitted to make a Housing Contribution to the Affordable Housing Trust in return for such permits; and
WHEREAS: In September 2015, based on a 2015 Incentive Zoning Nexus Study, the City amended the Incentive Zoning Ordinance to extend the housing contribution requirement to all non-residential development projects over 30,000 square feet, regardless of zoning changes or special permit needs, recognizing the broader impact of commercial development on the demand for affordable housing; and
WHEREAS: The 2015 amendment also established a requirement for the City to review and update the Housing Contribution Rate at least every three (3) years, ensuring that the contribution rate remains aligned with evolving economic conditions and housing needs; and
WHEREAS: This reevaluation must include a report to the City Council reviewing economic factors including but not limited to development activity, commercial rents per square foot, employment growth, housing trends measured in terms of, but not limited to, vacancy rates, production statistics, and prices for dwelling units in a supply-constrained market like Cambridge; and
WHEREAS: In 2019, in compliance with this requirement, the City’s Community Development Department released the Incentive Ordinance Nexus and Jobs Linkage Study to reevaluate the 2015 Nexus Study, analyze the impact of changes in Cambridge’s commercial development and housing market conditions on the need for affordable housing, and determine an appropriate contribution rate to mitigate these impacts; and
WHEREAS: The City subsequently amended section 11.202(b) of Zoning Ordinance, to set the Housing Contribution Rate at $20.10 per square foot, and then again in 2022 at $33.34 per square foot. Most recently, in 2024, the Housing Contribution Rate was adjusted to $34.58 per square foot based on changes in the CPI Housing index; and
WHEREAS: Given further changes in Cambridge’s commercial development landscape – including increases in mixed-use projects, and post-pandemic shifts in office and retail spaces – the interplay between commercial development and housing demand has become even more complex, making it imperative for a new study; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department to develop a timeline for the next Incentive Zoning Nexus Study; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager and the Community Development Department report back to the City Council on progress regarding the study by May 2025.

O-2 Mar 24, 2025
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR WILSON
WHEREAS: The escalating housing crisis in Cambridge and across Massachusetts has left many residents increasingly vulnerable to eviction and displacement, exacerbating longstanding barriers to stable housing – especially for low-income households; and
WHEREAS: Public access to eviction records has long contributed to cycles of housing insecurity, limiting tenants’ ability to secure future housing, employment, and credit – even in cases where no judgment was entered against the tenant; and
WHEREAS: Since 2013, the Massachusetts Trial Court has made eviction records publicly available online, compounding harm for affected tenants and disproportionately impacting Black, Latino, immigrant, and disabled residents, who already face systemic discrimination in the housing market; and
WHEREAS: Research has shown that a single eviction filing – regardless of outcome – can significantly reduce a tenant’s chances of securing new housing, with studies linking eviction records to higher rates of homelessness, housing insecurity, and economic hardship; and
WHEREAS: In 2019, the Cambridge City Council, recognizing the profound and lasting harm of public eviction records, passed a policy order in support of the HOMES Act (SD526 and HD3815), which sought to shield tenants who were not at fault in eviction proceedings from unnecessary public exposure; and
WHEREAS: In August 2024, after years of advocacy, Governor Maura Healey signed the Affordable Homes Act (Housing Bond Bill) into law as Chapter 150 of the Acts of 2024, which allows tenants to petition courts to seal certain eviction records, effective May 5, 2025; and
WHEREAS: This new law provides a critical opportunity to disrupt the cycle of housing instability for Cambridge residents, but will require robust community engagement, outreach, and legal support to ensure it is implemented equitably, particularly for historically marginalized populations; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Office of the Housing Liaison and all relevant departments to ensure the successful implementation of an outreach and assistance campaign; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council within 30 days with a detailed implementation timeline, outreach strategy, and an assessment of additional resources needed to ensure broad and equitable access to eviction record sealing for eligible Cambridge tenants.

O-3 Mar 24, 2025
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR WILSON
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS: The City’s transportation program goals cover many areas and seek to address climate change through encouraging and enabling sustainable modes of travel, while also encouraging economic vitality and livability throughout the city, in neighborhoods and in commercial squares; and
WHEREAS: Since 2022 the City has engaged in discussions on how to best implement the Cycling Safety Ordinance to achieve the Vision Zero goals and support multimodal transportation and to be creative about supporting the businesses and the community concerned about parking reductions especially in business districts; and
WHEREAS: In December 2024, the Parking and Transportation Demand Management (PTDM) Ordinance, Zoning Ordinance, and Commercial Parking Space Permits Ordinance were updated to make it easier for property owners along Flexible Parking Corridors to share parking spaces; and
WHEREAS: The Cambridge Street Safety Improvement Project is scheduled for continued implementation this spring, which will affect parking availability; and
WHEREAS: To achieve the goal of supporting the community, which led to the ordinance changes, it is essential that the Flexible Parking Commercial program be implemented and spots available for use; and
WHEREAS: The City is committed to optimizing underused parking and, by simplifying the process of sharing off-street parking along key corridors, can make the transition smoother for businesses and residents impacted by on-street parking changes; and
WHEREAS: The City completed the construction of the King Open/Cambridge Street Upper School complex in 2019 at a cost of $130 million, which included the construction of an underground parking garage that is publicly owned, and not needed or used by city employees after hours and could provide a model for other property owners; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the School Department, the Department of Public Works, and other relevant departments to open the publicly owned parking at the King Open/Cambridge Street Upper School Complex for either residential free parking or commercial parking opportunities during “off” hours; and further be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council as soon as possible.

O-4 Mar 24, 2025
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR ZUSY
WHEREAS: Reliable, affordable, frequent, and accessible public transportation is an essential part of achieving the City’s goals of emissions reductions, accessibility, and economic development; and
WHEREAS: Investment in fare-free transit options is a key recommendation of the Climate Crisis Working Group, the stated purpose of the Fare-Free Bus Pilot Working Group, and a goal within the Vehicle Trip Reduction Ordinance; and
WHEREAS: Cities as diverse as Worcester, Denver, Kansas City, Savannah, Miami Beach, Baltimore, and Hoboken have fare free transit options for all and have found that the benefits are substantial; and
WHEREAS: Numerous policy orders have been filed by the City Council which have asked the City to pilot city-operated fare free transit options to complement the options offered by the MBTA, including PO22#147 and PO23#145, which have not received a formal response from the City Manager; and
WHEREAS: There are various programs in Cambridge that provide some free transportation (for example the CambridgeSide shuttle), and Harvard, MIT, Lesley, and other employers currently operate shuttle services throughout the city for their students and employees, and the City provides some subsidized transportation options for seniors and people with disabilities, and working with existing transit providers to coordinate some of these programs might streamline services and provide for better citywide transportation; and
WHEREAS: The City’s ongoing efforts to promote multi-modal transit have resulted in fewer on-street parking options for residents who rely on motor vehicle transportation, often single occupancy vehicles, due to limited alternatives; and
WHEREAS: More convenient, reliable, and less costly transit alternatives are essential to eliminating single-occupancy vehicle trips, reducing traffic congestion, and improving accessibility for all residents; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City departments and institutional stakeholders currently operating some form of shuttle to explore options for a municipal transit pilot program; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council and to the Transportation Committee for discussion on at least the concept and updates on possible proposals in a timely manner.

O-5 Mar 24, 2025
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Transgender Day of Visibility occurs every March to celebrate the resilience, achievements, and contributions of transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse people while also raising awareness of the systemic challenges they continue to face; and
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge is committed to equity, inclusion, and the protection of the rights of all individuals, including transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse residents, employees, workers, and visitors; and
WHEREAS: We acknowledge the adversity, poverty, discrimination, and violence that transgender and non-binary communities continue to face across the world, especially towards communities of color, and we also acknowledge the discrimination against youth and older adults, which causes social isolation, anxiety, depression, and even suicide; and
WHEREAS: Celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility fosters a more inclusive and supportive community by affirming the dignity and worth of transgender, nonbinary, and gender-diverse people and highlighting their invaluable contributions to our society; and
WHEREAS: Over the years, transgender advocates and LGBTQ+ organizations have recognized the importance of representation and visibility in combating misinformation, fostering understanding, and ensuring that transgender and nonbinary individuals feel seen, heard, and valued; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to light up City Hall in light blue, light pink, and white from March 31, 2025, until April 4, 2025, in honor of Transgender Day of Visibility.

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. Report Received and Accepted
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

24-64. 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.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui (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.
Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (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.
Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Wilson (O-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. Report Received and Accepted
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui (O-1) from 12/23/2024

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.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern (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.
Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (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.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy (O-5) from 1/27/2025

25-6. The City Manager is requested to work with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department to investigate safety improvements such as signalization to the intersection of Cardinal Medeiros Avenue, Cambridge Street, and Warren Street, and to implement these changes as soon as possible.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan (O-1) from 2/10/2025

25-7. The City Manager is requested to work with appropriate departments to prepare a communication to DCR Commissioner Arrigo, urging that a study of traffic conditions at the intersections of Western Avenue and River Street at Memorial Drive and Soldiers Field Road (commonly referred to as “the box”), be included in their FY26 Capital Plan. See Mgr #12
Councillor Zusy, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan (O-2) from 2/10/2025

25-8. The City Manager is requested to create a plan with a schedule and milestones to move forward with the creation of a Municipal Broadband Network and present it for consideration by the Council at a Finance Committee meeting in the context of capital projects for coming years.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson (O-3) from 2/10/2025

25-9. The City Manager is requested to confer with the relevant departments about exploring how the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department can advance protection of Cambridge students and other bus riders as authorized by the two new Massachusetts laws.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Toner (O-4) from 2/10/2025

25-10. The City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to explore potential actions the City can take to mitigate the impact of Eversource price hikes. See Mgr #8
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson (O-1) from 3/3/2025

25-11. The City Manager is requested to exert all appropriate influence on EZ Ride and Passio to take immediate and concrete steps to fully resolve tracking deficiencies and improve real-time transit accuracy for riders.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui (O-4) from 3/3/2025

25-12. The City Manager is requested to work with all appropriate Departments to develop language to create an “Affordable Rent Incentive Program” program for Cambridge and to report back to the City Council with option, including the percentage of possible tax abatements.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner (O-5) from 3/3/2025

25-13. The City Manager is requested to commit to prioritizing snow removal from crosswalks and pedestrian islands for the rest of this and future snow seasons and direct appropriate City staff to generate a policy for prioritizing snow removal from crosswalks and pedestrian islands after snow storms.
Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons (O-7) from 3/3/2025

25-14. The City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department to draft a home rule petition allowing Cambridge to end the practice of property owners passing on broker’s fees to tenants. See Mgr #7
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan (O-8) from 3/3/2025

25-15. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to create a plaque to be placed at the entrance of or inside City Hall that demonstrates the values that the Cambridge City Council upholds of the separation of church and state and gender equality.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons (O-13) from 3/3/2025

25-17. The City Manager is requested to appoint the members of a working committee tasked with integrating the objectives of both the Task Force to Examine the Status and Wellbeing of the City’s African American/Black Population and the Commission on the Status of Black Men and Boys into a unified, actionable framework (Report Back in 30 days).
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson (O-1) from 3/17/2025

25-18. The City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City departments to draft language to create an Ordinance to ensure that vacant store fronts and commercial properties keep their properties in safe and clean conditions.
Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson (O-2) from 3/17/2025

25-19. The City Manager provide the Council with a report before May 31, 2025, that includes a summary of all requests for approval of Surveillance Technology Impact Reports received by the city council during the prior year pursuant to Section 2.128.030 or Section 2.128.040 of the Surveillance Ordinance, including whether the City Council approved, disapproved, or required modifications to the Surveillance Technology Impact Reports received, for the Council to review and adopt.
Councillor Toner (O-4) from 3/17/2025