Cambridge City Council meeting - November 4, 2024

CITY MANAGER’S AGENDA
1. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $34,535, received from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, to the Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account. This grant will support the purchase of computer equipment in new police cruisers. (CM24#231)

2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $59,982 to the Grant Fund Police Department Salary and Wages account. The funds will be allocated for personnel/overtime and will fund high-visibility traffic enforcement of motor vehicle laws related, but not limited, to impaired and occupant protection as well as initiatives that address pedestrian and bicycle safety issues, coupling educational projects with enforcement of laws to reduce pedestrian and bicycle related injuries and crashes. (CM24#232)

3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-56, regarding a request to consider scheduling a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Collection Day and a Paper Shredding Event on a Sunday, instead of having them all on Saturday. (CM24#233) [text of report]

4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-45, regarding a request to implement a policy to ensure that City operated buildings have default temperatures that align with health and sustainability best practices. (CM24#234) [text of report]

5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-59, regarding the feasibility of speed control bumps on Antrim Street. (CM24#235) [text of report]

6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-49, regarding a status update on the PACE Program. (CM24#236) [text of report]

ORDERS
1. That 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. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem (PO24#144)

2. That 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. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern (PO24#145)

3. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Law Department to draft a home rule petition for the creation of a Cambridge Jobs Training Trust, and report back to the City Council in a timely manner. [support letter] Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson (PO24#146)

4. The City Manager is requested to work with the Department of Public Works (DPW) on the expansion of the mattress and box spring recycling program to include residents living in multi-unit residential buildings, starting with affordable housing properties that charge a fee to their residents. Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan (PO24#147)

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. An Ordinance 2023 #8B has been received from City Clerk, relative to Amend Chapter 14.04 – Fair Housing. [Passed to 2nd Reading Oct 2, 2023; Amended Nov 6, 2023; to remain on Unfinished Business pending legislative approval of Special Act needed prior to ordination] (ORD23-8B)

APPLICATIONS AND PETITIONS
1. An application from MIT Museum requesting permission to replace 25% (20 banners in total) of the already 70 temporary banners across Massachusetts Avenue, Sydney Street to Memorial Drive and Main Street from November 2024 through Dec 31, 2024. (AP24#37)

COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication from Adam C. Martin, regarding MIT employee asking for vote against delay to bike safety infrastructure.

2. A communication from Akiva Jackson, regarding Please implement bike safety infrastructure quickly.

6. A communication from Andrew Stout, regarding Don’t delay on safer bicycle infrastructure.

7. A communication from Angela Chang, regarding Please vote against delays for bike safety.

8. A communication from Anika Liv Christensen, regarding Bike Lane and Intersection Safety Improvement Vote.

9. A communication from Anna Henchman, regarding PLEASE do not delay bike infrastructure.

10. A communication from Aoife Troxel, regarding Please Vote Against Delays to Bike Infrastructure in Cambridge.

11. A communication from Brandon Wang, regarding Please do not delay the implementation of safety improvements on Cambridge St.

15. A communication from Catherine Benedict, regarding Cambridge Resident Writing in Opposition to Delays in Installing Separated Bike Lanes.

19. A communication from Coleton Hast, regarding Opposition to delaying bike safety improvements on Cambridge St and Broadway.

21. A communication from Daryl Popper, regarding Reject the Proposed Delay to Bike Safety Infrastructure.

22. A communication from Domenic Manganelli, regarding Road safety in Cambridge.

23. A communication from Elena Saporta, regarding Please do not delay critical safety infrastructure.

24. A communication from Eli Daniel, regarding separated bike lanes on Cambridge Street and Broadway.

25. A communication from Emilie Heilig, regarding Please don’t delay separated bike lanes!

26. A communication from Emily Arkin, regarding bike line separation and other safety improvements.

27. A communication from Eric Zeiberg, regarding Urgent Action Needed: Support Bike and Pedestrian Safety Improvements.

28. A communication from Ert Dredge, regarding Please Stop the Delay of Critical Bike and Pedestrian Safety Improvements.

29. A communication from Ethan Frank, regarding Supporting PTDM & Zoning updates.

31. A communication from Fusun Tufanyazici, regarding Please stop the proposed delay of biking safety infrastructure.

32. A communication from Georgia Indigo, regarding Vote Against Delays on Bike Infrastructure.

34. A communication from Hans Bergal, regarding a safe and reliable cycling infrastructure.

36. A communication from Jake Tomlinson, regarding Stop proposed delay to bicycle safety infrastructure.

37. A communication from James Paterson, regarding Stop the delay of building safer bike Infrastructure.

38. A communication from Jan Devereux, regarding Do not delay bike network improvements!

39. A communication from Janet Randall, regarding Don’t delay the bicycle lane improvements to wait for a more perfect design. Let’s do it now.

40. A communication from Jason Livingston, regarding Please Stop the Delay of Critical Bike Safety Improvements.

41. A communication from Jeremy Burns, regarding Cambridge Safety Infrastructure.

42. A communication from Jessica Morrow Lipschitz, regarding Advocating from not delaying bicycle safety infrastructure.

43. A communication from Joel Patterson, regarding Please do not delay road safety improvements.

44. A communication from John Callerame, regarding Please don’t delay protected bike lane construction.

45. A communication from John Leo, regarding Against bike lane delays (CMA #10).

47. A communication from Kathleen Moore, regarding implementing the cycling safety ordinance.

48. A communication from Katie Blair, regarding Please prioritize bike safety improvements.

49. A communication from Katie Koskey, regarding please do NOT delay bike infrastructure development!

50. A communication from Kirsten Levandowski, regarding Do Not Delay Bike Safety Infrastructure.

51. A communication from Kosta Konstantinos Filiotis, regarding My 2.5 year olds life is also in your hands.

52. A communication from Laura Holsen, regarding Advocating to stop the proposed delay of critical safety infrastructure in Cambridge.

53. A communication from Leah Rand, regarding Don’t delay Cambridge Bicycle Safety.

56. A communication from Maati McKinney, regarding Please don’t delay the separated bike lane installation.

57. A communication from Madge Kaplan, regarding No more delays on critical bicycle safety infrastructure.

58. A communication from Madonna Kinne, regarding Please do not delay protected bike lane on Cambridge St.

59. A communication from Maria Collins, regarding Please support our cycling infrastructure.

61. A communication from Mary Jane Kornacki, regarding Petition to Recognize the Massachusetts Tribe.

62. A communication from Matt Weiss, regarding Separated Bike Lanes - Cambridge and Broadway Streets.

64. A communication from Michael Ballantyne, regarding Please don’t delay improvements to bike infrastructure.

65. A communication from Michael Kane, regarding Don’t delay Cambridge Street Improvement project.

66. A communication from Michael McCandless, regarding Please don’t delay biking infrastructure improvements tomorrow.

68. A communication from Ned Melanson, regarding Please do not delay bicycle and pedestrian safety.

70. A communication from Noah Paladino, regarding Improving the Safety of Cyclists in Cambridge.

71. A communication from Norah Sweeney, regarding Please don’t delay bike lane changes.

73. A communication from Rachel Szabo, regarding Please do not delay bike safety infrastructure.

74. A communication from Rahul Brito, regarding Please vote AGAINST the delays to bike lanes (CMA#10).

75. A communication from Rebeca Oliveira, regarding delays to bike safety infrastructure.

76. A communication from Ron Beland, regarding Don’t delay Camb St ped/cycle safety.

77. A communication from Sean Rogers, regarding Please vote against delays to bike safety.

78. A communication from Sophie de Boer, regarding Stop the proposed delay of critical safety infrastructure.

79. A communication from Sue Downing, regarding Don’t Delay Bike Lanes on Cambridge and Broadway.

80. A communication from Susanne Freidberg, regarding Please vote against the delay.

81. A communication from Talia Shire, regarding Please expedite bike and pedestrian infrastructure.

82. A communication from Theo Olausson, regarding Please stop delaying the cyclist and pedestrian safety improvements on Broadway and Cambridge St.

83. A communication from Thomas Collet, regarding Please stop the proposed delay of critical safety infrastructure.

85. A communication from Tomás Lio Grudny, regarding Bike and pedestrian safety.

86. A communication from Vera Berger, regarding Opposing delays to bike safety improvements.

87. A communication from Virginia Swain, regarding Delay on Bike lane construction, Broadway, Cambridge and others.

88. A communication from Amy Jarvis, regarding Oct 21 city council meeting - speaker Amy Jarvis, comments.

90. A communication from Anne Lusk, regarding My public comments for tonight’s City Council meeting concerning extending protected bike lanes.

91. A communication from Carol Lee Rawn, regarding Against bike lane delays (CMA #10).

92. A communication from Don Giller, regarding Upcoming meeting of Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust.

94. A communication from Emma Bouton, regarding Delays to bike safety infrastructure.

95. A communication from Federico Muchnik, regarding Affordable housing trust meeting on Thursday.

96. A communication from James Rogers, regarding Walden Square Road Development.

98. A communication from Janet Randall, regarding Winn’s slab-and-tunnel project on your agenda for this Thursday.

102. A communication from Lee Farris, regarding Residents Alliance concern about Short term rentals.

104. A communication from Tim Dowling, regarding Do NOT delay critical safety infrastructure.

106. A communication from Elizabeth Greywolf, regarding new Waldon Square expansion.

108. A communication from Kathleen E, Walsh, Secretary, Executive Office of Health and Human Sevices, regarding the Cambridge City Council Policy Order regarding primacy care.

109. A communication from Kristin True, regarding Aoife Troxel Please Vote Against Delays to Bike Infrastructure in Cambridge.

RESOLUTIONS
1. Congratulations to Kenneth Hight III on His Retirement from the Cambridge Housing Authority. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

2. Congratulations to Laurie M. Avallone on her Retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

3. Congratulations to Patricia M. Griffin on her Retirement from the Cambridge Public Schools. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

4. Congratulations to Ellen S. Shore on her Retirement from the Redevelopment Authority. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

5. Congratulations to Maria Melchionmo on her Retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

6. Congratulations to Nancy-Linn Swain on her Retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

7. Congratulations to Sergeant William C. Bates on his promotion to the rank of Lieutenant with the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons

8. Congratulations to Lieutenant Nicholas Mochi on his promotion with the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons

9. Congratulations to Officer Michael Padua on his retirement from the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons

10. Congratulations to Robin Harris on being awarded the 2022 National Humanities Medal by President Joe Biden. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui

R-10 Nov 4, 2024
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR WILSON
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI

WHEREAS: Robin Harris, a distinguished educator and fifth-generation Cambridge resident, has been awarded the prestigious 2022 National Humanities Medal by President Joe Biden; and

WHEREAS: The National Humanities Medal honors individuals whose work has deepened national understanding of the human experience, expanded access to cultural resources, and broadened engagement with history and literature; and

WHEREAS: Robin Harris served as principal of Fletcher Maynard Academy in Cambridge’s Port neighborhood for over 20 years, fostering a transformative, inclusive educational environment and showing unwavering commitment to her students; and

WHEREAS: Robin Harris has enriched students’ lives through educational trips worldwide— including to India, Senegal, Mexico, England, Morocco, and China—emphasizing cultural exposure for scholars of color; and

WHEREAS: In her role with the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color, Robin Harris has advocated for the academic success of boys and young men of color by connecting research, policy, and educational practice; and

WHEREAS: Robin Harris, joining other prominent recipients like Clyde Butcher, Joy Harjo, Spike Lee, and Steven Spielberg, received her medal in a private ceremony in the Oval Office, symbolizing her lifelong dedication to education and cultural understanding, and the City could not be more proud of her; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record congratulating Robin Harris for her exceptional contributions to education and her achievement in being awarded the 2022 National Humanities Medal; and be it further

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

11. Congratulations to Police Officer Alex Illyinskii on his promotion to Sergeant with the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons

12. Congratulations to Police Officer Asif Ali on his promotion to Sergeant with the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons

13. Congratulations to Police Officer David Barkhouse on his promotion to Sergeant with the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons

14. Congratulations to Police Officer Casimir L. Maziarz on his promotion to Sergeant with the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons

15. Congratulations to Police Officer Thomas J. Dillon on his promotion to Sergeant with the Cambridge Police Department. Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons

16. Condolences on the death of Alan Steinert, Jr. Councillor Toner

R-16 Nov 4, 2024
COUNCILLOR TONER

WHEREAS: The City Council was deeply saddened at learning of the death of Alan Steinert Jr. on October 26, 2024, at the age of 88; and

WHEREAS: Alan was the beloved husband of the late Monica (Wulff) Steinert for 50 years; and

WHEREAS: Born and raised in Cambridge, Alan was a loving father of Alexandra and spouse Scott, Jessica and spouse Luis, John and spouse Mirna and Timothy and spouse Lixia, proud grandfather to Tessa, Sophia, Diego, Camila, Luciana, Miles, Luca and Natasha, as well as step-children Gabriela and Amanda, and many nieces, nephews, family and friends; and

WHEREAS: A graduate of Shady Hill School, and Phillips Exeter Academy, Alan earned an A.B. from Harvard College and an MBA from Harvard Business School, spending his professional career leading a family business; and

WHEREAS: Alan was a dedicated civic leader in the Cambridge Community serving on various committees and holding positions as Director, Treasurer, Trustee and Chair in several and will be remembered for his caring and energetic work; and

WHEREAS: An avid golfer and fly fisherman, Alan pursued both passions with enthusiasm, often accompanied by his beloved canine companion Baby Joe as well as close friends and family; and

WHEREAS: In retirement, Alan found strength in a growing group of friends, including his neighbors at Round Hill, his old Cambridge crowd, and fishing companions, casting flies on nearly every continent; remaining an active traveler until the end, recently returning from hiking in the Dolomites; and

WHEREAS: Affectionately known as Grandpa Fish by his family, Alan was known for his directness, occasional stubbornness, remarkable generosity, and unwavering loyalty to friends and family; and

WHEREAS: Alan truly lived a life of meaning and will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy for the family of Alan Steinert Jr. at this time of such personal 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 Steinert family on behalf of the entire City Council.

17. Congratulations to Imagine to Huron Village. Councillor Zusy, Councillor Nolan

18. Congratulations Emmanuel Mervil and Everybody Gotta Eat being selected for BXC Accelerator program. Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Zusy

19. Honoring Cambridge Veterans and Recognizing Veterans Day. Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern

R-19 Nov 4, 2024
COUNCILLOR WILSON
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN

WHEREAS: Since the founding of our Commonwealth and Nation, Cambridge has answered the call to serve in the armed forces as volunteers and conscripts; and

WHEREAS: Through selfless service and allegiance to the common good, Cambridge has overthrown colonial tyranny, conquered Antebellum depravity, and terminated the genocidal nihilism of the Third Reich; and

WHEREAS: Cambridge veterans of both past and present represent the robust ethnic, religious, and linguistic diversity of the United States; and

WHEREAS: In recognizing the honor and valor our veterans, we acknowledge the inherent absurdity of war, the profound cost to life, limb, and mind that warfare demands, and the profound and sacred trust service members place in society when they pledge to give and take life as their nation commands; and

WHEREAS: What is now Veterans Day was initially founded as Armistice Day, as it was to commemorate the Armistice which ended of the bloodshed and horror of the Great War, the global conflict we now know as World War I; and

WHEREAS: The yearning for peace, reconciliation, and renewal that motivated the original Armistice Day is ever-present in the hearts of our veterans, our friends, our foes, and the families, women, and children who are put at the mercy of modern warfare; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council celebrates Veterans Day by honoring the countless sacrifices, hardships, and victories of our Cambridge veterans, and by seeking for peace and understanding to prevail in human affairs.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. The Ordinance Committee met on Apr 29, 2021 to conduct a public hearing on the Broad Canal Zoning Petition. [text of report]
Present: Carlone, McGovern, Nolan, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toomey, Zondervan, Mallon, Siddiqui
Absent: Simmons

2. The Ordinance Committee conducted a public hearing on June 10, 2021 to discuss the Cambridge Missing Middle Housing Zoning Petition (Ordinance #2021-2). [text of report]
Present: Carlone, McGovern, Mallon, Nolan, Simmons, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Zondervan
Absent: Siddiqui, Toomey

3. The Ordinance Committee met on July 26, 2021 to continue discussion on two proposals to regulate campaign donations. [text of report]
Present: Carlone, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Zondervan, Simmons, Toomey
Absent: Mallon

4. The Ordinance Committee met on July 28, 2021 to conduct a public hearing on an amendment to Article 22 of the City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance “Emissions Accounting” (Ord # 2021-13). [text of report]
Present: Carlone, McGovern, Nolan, Simmons, Zondervan, Sobrinho-Wheeler
Absent: Mallon, Siddiqui, Toomey

5. The Ordinance Committee met on Sept 29, 2021 to discuss the Neighborhood Conservation District citizen’s petition. [text of report]
Present: Carlone, McGovern, Mallon, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toomey, Zondervan, Simmons

6. The Ordinance Committee met on Oct 16, 2021 at 2pm on Taxicab use of E-Hail in the Sullivan Chamber. [text of report]
Present: Devereux, Kelley, Mallon, Siddiqui, Zondervan
Absent: Carlone, McGovern, Simmons, Toomey

7. The Ordinance Committee met on Oct 23, 2019 at 5pm to discuss the Zoning petition to create an Alewife Quadrangle Northwest Overlay District. [text of report]
Present: Carlone, Devereux, Kelley, Mallon, McGovern, Toomey
Absent: Simmons, Siddiqui, Zondervan

8. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on Oct 10, 2024 to discuss preliminary recommendations from the Central Square rezoning process. [text of report]
Present: Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Zusy
Remote Present: Azeem
Also Present: McGovern

9. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Oct 15, 2024 which was recessed and reconvened on Oct 29, 2024, regarding a Zoning Petition by the City of Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in Articles 2.000 and 8.000 with the intent to add a definition of “dormer” to Article 2.000 and to amend the requirements related to adding dormers to nonconforming one- and two-family dwellings in Section 8.22.1.h.2 in order to allow certain dormer(s) construction as-of-right. The Ordinance Committee voted favorably to forward the Board of Zoning Appeal’s amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance to add a definition of dormer to Article2.000 and to amend the requirements related to adding dormers to non-conforming one- and two-family dwellings in Section 8.22.1.h.2, to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation and that it be passed to a second reading. [text of report]
Present: McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Zusy
Remote Present: Azeem, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson
Absent: Toner, Simmons

10. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Oct 22, 2024 to review and discuss the updates to the Zero Waste Master Plan (ZWMP). [text of report]
Present: Nolan, Wilson
Remote Present: Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler
Absent: Azeem
Also Present: Zusy, Simmons

COMMUNICATIONS & REPORTS FROM CITY OFFICERS
1. A communication from Diane LeBlanc, City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding legislative activity. (COF24#140)

Wed, Nov 6
5:30pm The Human Services and Veterans Committee will hold a public hearing to receive an update on Afterschool programming in Cambridge.

Tues, Nov 19
2:00pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on Multi-Family Zoning Petition – Part 1 and Multi-Family Zoning Petition – Part 2. This meeting will consist of staff presentation, Councillor questions, and discussion only.

Wed, Nov 20
1:00pm The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing to review and discuss the Operating Budget in advance of the FY26 budget season.

Thurs, Nov 21
3:00pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on a Zoning Petition by the Cambridge City Council to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in Articles 2.000, 4.000, and 6.000 with the intent to add a definition of “Flexible Parking Corridor” to Article 2.000, add footnotes 64 and 65 to Section 4.30 Table of Use Regulations, and add Section 6.25 Flexible Parking Corridor Regulations which would allow existing off street parking facilities and vacant lots to have less restrictive zoning limitations in order to serve parking needs in areas with limited on-street parking and would allow parking facilities on municipally owned lots to be used for automobile parking as a principal use. This public hearing is also to discuss amendments to the Parking and Transportation Demand Management Ordinance, and the Commercial Parking Space Permits Ordinance.

Wed, Dec 4
2:30pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on Multi-Family Zoning Petition – Part 1 and Multi Family Zoning Petition – Part 2, which will be a follow up meeting from the Nov 19, 2024 hearing, and will begin with public comment followed by Council discussion on housing zoning proposals.

Wed, Dec 11
3:00pm The Finance Committee will hold a public hearing for an update and discussion on Public Investment Planning.

Thurs, Dec 19
5:30pm The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on Multi Family Zoning Petition – Part 1 and Multi Family Zoning Petition – Part 2.

TEXT OF ORDERS
O-1 Nov 4, 2024
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR AZEEM
WHEREAS: On August 5, 2024, the City Council unanimously passed PO24#108, which asked the City Manager to work with the Law Department to provide a legal opinion on whether Cambridge can enact a local ordinance or regulation which would prohibit associations from unreasonably restricting the use of a solar energy system, which the City Manager responded to on Oct 21, 2024 with CM24#226; and
WHEREAS: According to CM24#226, the City Council would need to submit a Home Rule Petition to the Legislature to request such authority; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby 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; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council in a timely manner.

O-2 Nov 4, 2024
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS: Cambridge stands on the traditional and ancestral lands of the Massachusett Tribe, the original stewards of what is now known as Cambridge, and it is essential to honor and acknowledge their deep historical and cultural connection to this land; and
WHEREAS: In 2021, the City of Boston formally recognized the Massachusett Tribe among other indigenous groups as the original inhabitants of their land, honoring the leaders of the Massachusett Tribe at Ponkapoag through official ceremonies, and it is time for Cambridge to follow suit in recognizing the original stewards of this land; and
WHEREAS: Following the death of her husband, the Great Massachusett Sachem Nanepashemet (New Moon), in 1619, Sqa (Squaw) Sachem took on the role of chieftain, leading the Massachusett people and the region now known as Cambridge and Boston until her death in 1667, demonstrating resilience, strength, and steadfast leadership throughout her life; and
WHEREAS: “Sachem” means “leader,” “sqa” is a morpheme designating “female” that is added to the beginning or end a word in the Massachusett language, and Sqa Sachem is the only recorded name by which she is known; and
WHEREAS: At times during her life, Sqa Sachem’s community spent time near Alewife Brook in Northwest Cambridge, as documented in 1633 records, and her legacy remains an indelible part of this region’s heritage; and
WHEREAS: Since 2016, Cambridge has celebrated Indigenous Peoples’ Day on the second Monday of October, recognizing the culture, history, and contributions of Indigenous Peoples, and in 2021, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts established the Special Commission Relative to the Seal and Motto of the Commonwealth to recommend changes to the Massachusetts state flag and seal, with representation from the Massachusett Tribe at Ponkapoag, as well as the Wampanoag and Nipmuc Nations; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Council recognize the Massachusett Tribal Nation as the original inhabitants of Cambridge and acknowledge the historical injustices they have faced, committing to an ongoing partnership that respects their history and contributions; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to take the following actions:
• 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;
• Place a plaque with this language in a prominent location within City Hall, ensuring that this acknowledgment remains visible and lasting; and be it further
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council on the progress of these actions in a timely manner.

O-3 Nov 4, 2024
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR WILSON
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge adopted an Incentive Zoning Ordinance in 1988 to put linkage funding from new commercial developments of more than 30,000 square feet towards affordable housing in Cambridge via a fund administered by the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust; and
WHEREAS: In addition to an affordable housing trust, cities, including Boston and Somerville, have a jobs training trust to fund job training programs in their respective cities, administered by the Job Creation and Retention Trust in Somerville and the Neighborhood Jobs Trust in Boston; and
WHEREAS: A Jobs Linkage program is authorized for municipalities under Massachusetts law as a fee tied to the impact of new commercial development and would fund programs that provide residents with the skills and education to pursue career opportunities; and
WHEREAS: Because the amount of funding generated from a jobs linkage program varies significantly with annual commercial building permits, in order to effectively administer the program and not be required to spend each year’s revenue in the same year it is received, the City must first create a Cambridge Jobs Training Trust, which requires special legislation from the state legislature—a step which the Cities of Boston and Somerville have previously taken successfully; and
WHEREAS: Cities with jobs training trusts are able to fund job training programs for residents in a variety of careers, including healthcare, IT support, software development, culinary, early childhood education, and HVAC repair, as well as ESOL instruction and union training programs, among other opportunities; and
WHEREAS: Importantly, cities with job training trusts are also often able to provide stipends for residents in these training programs—since forgoing income from other work is a barrier for some residents to taking part in job training programs; and
WHEREAS: The City Council has previously supported efforts by the City to explore the creation of a Jobs Training Trust, including in 2015 and 2021, but did not reach the stage of filing a home rule petition; and
WHEREAS: Given that it takes time for the legislature to enact a home rule petition, starting the process to obtain authorization for a Jobs Training Trust now gives the City more flexibility in decision-making on the implementation of a jobs linkage program; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Law Department to draft a home rule petition to establish a Cambridge Jobs Training Trust, to be sent to the Ordinance Committee for a hearing, and report back to the City Council in a timely manner.

O-4 Nov 4, 2024
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR WILSON
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge Department of Public Works provides weekly curbside collection of household trash, recycling, and compost; and
WHEREAS: The City’s Zero Waste Master Plan, which was reviewed at the Health & Environment Committee meeting on Oct 22, 2024, saw the implementation of a mattress and box spring recycling program that removes approximately 150 tons of mattresses from disposal each year; and
WHEREAS: This program is made possible through a partnership with UTEC, which manages the collection, deconstruction, and recycling of mattress components for numerous Massachusetts municipalities, schools, universities, assisted living facilities, and privately owned apartment and condominium complexes across nearly 30 cities; and
WHEREAS: The program offers eligible Cambridge residents convenient, no-cost pickup and recycling of mattresses; and
WHEREAS: The recycling of mattresses is environmentally beneficial, as the four primary components—foam, steel, textiles, and wood—are highly recyclable and recycling these materials helps mitigate the environmental harm associated with sending mattresses to landfills and incinerators; and
WHEREAS: Currently, this service excludes many larger, privately owned residential buildings, including some affordable housing developments; and
WHEREAS: As of November 2022, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection has banned the disposal of mattresses and textiles, requiring residents to recycle these items; and
WHEREAS: This regulation places an added financial burden on residents because they are charged fees for private mattress recycling services; now therefore be it
ORDERED: That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to work with the Department of Public Works (DPW) on the expansion of the mattress and box spring recycling program to include residents living in multi-unit residential buildings, starting with affordable housing properties that charge a fee to their residents.

AWAITING REPORT LIST
24-18. Report on zoning language that effectively promotes multi-family housing, including income-restricted affordable housing with the goal of having viable housing for everyone especially lower-income residents.
Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui (Calendar Item #2) from 3/25/2024

24-23. Report back to the Human Services and Veterans Committee on an issued RFP calling for an agency that will lead the City through a community process that will include, but not be limited to, community education, community feedback, location possibilities, potential legal issues and will include feedback from all neighborhoods, including but not limited to; seniors, businesses and places of worship, the Cambridge Police Department, the Cambridge Fire Department, Pro Ambulance, the Cambridge Health Alliance, shelters, nonprofits working with those experiences substance use disorder, and individuals experiencing substance use disorder themselves.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem (O-2) from 5/13/2024

24-24. Report on work done with relevant City departments and the Cambridge Arts Council to consider whether Cambridge could facilitate a Porchfest event.
Councillor Nolan, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem (O-2) from 5/20/2024

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

24-32. Report back on exploring with the MBTA how to best ensure that the public art, Gift of the Wind, is preserved.
Councillor Pickett, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson (O-1) from 6/17/2024

24-36. Provide a plan for keeping residents, businesses and public safety officials informed about the status of current and future inter-jurisdictional transportation projects.
Councillor Pickett, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-2) from 6/24/2024

24-37. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to consider a number of city application processes and find ways to reduce paper and printing waste.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-7) from 6/24/2024

24-39. The City Manager is requested to reach out to the Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority to explore the feasibility of utilizing the large screen televisions in the community rooms of CHA buildings to enable seniors living in these buildings to participate in (via public comment) and view City Council meetings as they are held.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Azeem (O-1) from 8/5/2024

24-40. The City Manager is requested to take the necessary actions to ensure the City’s Gold Star Pool remains open through the end of September 2024, and shall be ready to open at the start of June 2025, three weeks earlier than the pool opened this year.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui (O-3) from 8/5/2024

24-45. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to review climate leading heating and cooling regulations and direct the appropriate departments to develop and implement a policy that aligns with Cambridge’s climate leadership to ensure that City operated buildings have default temperatures that align with health and sustainability best practices , including differing guidelines for workplace occupancy hours and outside of business hours. See Mgr #4
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem (O-14) from 8/5/2024

24-49. The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to provide a status update on the implementation of the PACE program and provide resources and information for property owners; and provide any recommendations for expanding PACE adoption. See Mgr #6
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner (O-8) from 9/9/2024

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

24-54. t the City Manager is hereby requested to work with relevant departments to review Cambridge’s curb cut policies and report back on if they can be improved to help meet the City’s transportation and sustainability goals with some proposed updates and draft ordinance language designating City staff as the final approval authority for curb cuts.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson (O-2) from 9/16/2024

24-56. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to schedule at least one hazardous waste day and one paper shredding event per year to be held on a Sunday. See Mgr #3
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Nolan (O-2) from 9/23/2024

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

24-59. The City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City departments to assess the feasibility of installing speed control bumps on Antrim Street. See Mgr #5
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern (O-2) from 9/30/2024

24-60. That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to report back to the City Council on the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) NOFO as soon as possible.
Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (O-5) from 9/30/2024

24-61. The City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate departments to produce the petition(s) necessary to accomplish the goal of lowering the speed limit as much as possible on all state highways that fall within Cambridge’s geographic boundaries, including and especially Memorial Drive.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern (Calendar Item #1) from 10/7/2024

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