2025 City Council Agenda Notes - July to December
(transferred from main Council Notes page)
Thus begins the last month of the current City Council term, and the open question is whether the new City Council will outdo the current City Council in sheer arrogance and unwillingness to actually listen to the residents of Cambridge. There’s also that whole Mayoral Election thing going on behind the scenes. In the meantime, here are a few notable items on this week’s agenda:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a request for approval to seek authorization from the Massachusetts Office of the Inspector General (the “IG”) for the City to use the Construction Manager at Risk (“CMaR”) procurement and construction method (the “CMaR Method”) in connection with the DPW Salt Shed Replacement Project. [text of report] [DPW Salt Shed] [CMaR details]
Order Adopted 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-59, regarding 25 Lowell Street. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to updates to institutional use regulations. [text of report] [markup version] [final version]
Order Adopted, Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to revised language for the Mass Ave Zoning Petition. [CDD memo] [markup version] [final version] [map] [description]
Amended by Substitution, Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to revised language for the Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. [CDD memo] [markup version] [final version]
Amended by Substitution, Placed on File 9-0
Committee Report #1. The Ordinance Committee held three public hearings to review and discuss two Zoning Petitions by the Cambridge City Council, the Massachusetts Avenue Zoning Petition (CM25#235) , and the Cambridge Street Zoning Petition (CM25#234). The first hearing was held on Oct 30, 2025 at 5:30pm and recessed. The Committee reconvened and recessed again on Nov 13, 2025 at 5:30pm. The Committee reconvened and adjourned on Dec 2, 2025 at 5:30pm. [text of report] [attached communications] [revised Mass Ave petition] [revised Cambridge St petition]
Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department (CDD) and Law Department to prepare a draft of a separate zoning petition to strengthen Active Use requirements on Cambridge Street and the Porter Square PUD subdistricts for sites that redevelop as single parcels. Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
Order Adopted 9-0
Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to instruct the Community Development Department to reduce the recommendations for the Inman Square zoning sub-district (CAM-10) from a maximum of 10 stories to 8 stories with ground floor active use/retail as consistent with the majority of the Cambridge Street corridor. Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson
Charter Right - Sobrinho-Wheeler
Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with all relevant departments, boards, and commissions to strive to publish, whenever practicable, meeting agendas and all supporting documents, presentations, and related materials sufficiently in advance of public meetings to allow residents time to review and prepare. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0
Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development Department and the Inspectional Services Department staff to streamline the permitting process, including but not limited to creating a central role dedicated to the permitting process, the creation of a unified online permitting portal, and standardized timelines. Councillor Azeem, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0
Order #6. Home Rule Petition for a Real Estate Transfer Fee. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted as Amended 8-1 (Toner - No)
Order #5. Policy Order regarding Interim City Clerk position extension. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0
Communications & Reports #2. A communication was received from Mayor Simmons regarding extending the Appointment of the Interim City Clerk. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Resolution #8. Condolences to the family of Moses Moore. Mayor Simmons
Resolution #9. Thanking Ellen Semonoff for her years of service to the City of Cambridge. Mayor Simmons
Resolution #12. Resolution thanking Ayesha Wilson for her service. Mayor Simmons
Resolution #13. Resolution on the death of Charles Coe. Councillor Nolan [Boston Globe obituary]
Resolution #14. Congratulations to Neal Alpert and Jen Tourtellot on their recent engagement. Mayor Simmons
Late Resolution #16. Congratulations to Elizabeth Hudson and Will on the birth of their daughter. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons
Communications & Reports #3. A communication was received from Interim City Clerk Paula M. Crane, transmitting a memorandum regarding pending Awaiting Reports that it wished to be carried forward to the newly elected City Council for their consideration in the next legislative terms. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Comments?
Though the agenda is short and uneventful, I suspect the personnel shakeup reported in the Harvard Crimson is liable to generate some conversation as it relates to On The Table #2. Here goes:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-60, which requested a comprehensive report on Gold Star Mothers Memorial Park. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Sobrinho-Wheeler, DPW Commissioner John Nardone, Nolan; [Kevin Beutel, Health Commissioner Sam Lipson also in attendance]; Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $1,000,000, from Free Cash to the Public Investment Fund Public Works Department Extraordinary Expenditures account. These funds will support the removal of stockpiled contaminated soil and initiate the design phase for the remediation and reconstruction of Gold Star Mothers Park. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, John Nardone, Deputy City Manager Kathy Watkins, City Manager Yi-An Huang; Order Adopted 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-56, regarding an update on rodent control citywide. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, John Nardone, Rat Czar Dave Powers (Inspectional Services), Sam Lipson, Wilson, Yi-An Huang, Simmons; Anthony Tuccinardi (Inspectional Services), Toner (on coyotes); Placed on File 9-0
On The Table #2. That the City Manager is requested to explore with the Government Operations Committee whether the functions of the Peace Commission may be improved and enhanced by bringing them within another City Commission or Department, such as the Human Rights Commission, and report back in a timely manner. [Charter Right – Simmons, May 19, 2025; Tabled June 2, 2025] (PO25#76)
Late Order #2. Update on Organizational Changes to the Equity & Inclusion Department. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern
taken up early; comments by Wilson, Nolan, Azeem, Raecia Catchings (“Chief People Officer”), Sobrinho-Wheeler (who expresses desire that City Council should have control over City personnel matters), Siddiqui, Toner, Simmons, City Solicitor Megan Bayer (raises issue of whether any of this qualifies for possible Executive Session), McGovern; remarks by City Manager Yi-An Huang on how this action came about, accountability, investments in “equity and inclusion” - defers responses to subordinates; Deidre Travis Brown (Chief of Equity and Inclusion) on duplication of effort among commissions, efficiency and effectiveness; Rae Catchings (on the “runway needed” for future actions); Zusy, Siddiqui, McGovern (wants to be added as sponsor), Nolan, Wilson, Yi-An Huang (on future restructuring and staffing changes); amendment to add McGovern and one line adopted 8-0-1 (Azeem Absent); comments by Simmons, Zusy; Order Adopted as Amended 5-3-1 (Toner, Zusy, Simmons - No; Azeem - Absent)
Committee Report #1. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Wed, Oct 29, 2025 to review and discuss energy planning in Cambridge including expanding electricity capacity, expanding renewable energy productions, BEUDO energy requirements, and thermal energy network planning and any other topics relevant to the city’s overall planning for ensuring city goals of electrification may be met. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-2-0 (Azeem, Siddiqui - Absent)
Comments?
I am far more interested in watching Ken Burns new series The American Revolution than listening to the Local Nine prattle on about very small things. That said, here are the slightly larger items on this week’s very small agenda:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments on court cases and SNAP benefits by Nolan, Yi-An Huang, Siddiqui (wants to continue giving out gift cards even though SNAP benefits have been restored), Azeem (wants to fund everything), Wilson (wants to “tap into stabilization dollars”), Zusy, Ellen Semonoff, McGovern (“we cannot unhouse people”, City Solicitor Megan Bayer. Most notable was statement by Manager that City stands to lose ~8.4 million due to changes in federal housing policies. Placed on File 7-0-2 (JSW,Toner-Absent)
Order #1. That the Cambridge City Council go on record in opposition of H.3469 as reported out of committee this week, sponsored by Mark Cusack, which would drastically undermine the Commonwealth’s climate goals and would undermine its own efforts to address energy affordability facing households and businesses in Cambridge and statewide. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy, Mayor Simmons
pulled by Nolan for amendment; comments by Nolan, McGovern; add all but Toner as co-sponsors; Order Adopted as Amended 7-0-2 (JSW,Toner-Absent)
RW Note: You may want to read the text of the proposed legislation. The intention of the bill appears to be to address energy affordability for ratepayers resulting from recent federal cutbacks by allowing greater flexibility in meeting climate goals.
Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Executive Director of the Council on Aging and other relevant City departments to explore the feasibility of creating a dedicated position or function focused on triaging and directing senior residents to appropriate services and supports. [Charter Right – Nolan, Nov 3, 2025]
Comments by Nolan, McGovern, Simmons, Ellen Semonoff, Zusy; add Zusy as sponsor; Order Adopted as Amended 7-0-2 (JSW,Toner-Absent)
Committee Report #1. The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on Oct 21, 2025 to further discuss the Out of School (OST) Expansion Study Report which was presented to the City Council on May 19, 2025, CM25#127. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (JSW,Toner-Absent)
Committee Report #2. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Oct 27, 2025 to review and discuss the launch of the update to the Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP) and hear a status report on the current plan including any adjustments that have been or might be made before any update. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 7-0-2 (JSW,Toner-Absent)
Here’s to The Pursuit of Liberty!!
Comments?
Will we have rainbows day after day? Or will this be The Eve of Destruction?
The meeting on the eve of the municipal election every two years is usually short and sweet as the kids dream of grabbing those last few Number Ones.
[Note: The meeting adjourned at 6:58pm and 4 councillors (Azeem, Siddiqui, Toner, Wilson) only attended remotely.]
Here’s the stuff I found interesting this week:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, City Manager Yi-An Huang; Placed on File 8-0-1 (McGovern-Absent)
Manager’s Agenda #2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $250,000, from the Federal Grant Stabilization Fund to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account, to help address potential short term food insecurity within the Cambridge Community.
Order Adopted 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-52, regarding the Special Commission on Micromobility. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Brooke McKenna, Wilson, Zusy; Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-47 regarding Kendall Square Parking Considerations. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order Item Number 2025 #143 directing the City Manager to work with relevant departments to consider a plan to better utilize the Russell Youth and Community Center. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Nolan, Wilson, Ellen Semonoff; Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #6 (Late): Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $138,372 funded by the Federal Department of Health and Human Services and administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Salary and Wages account ($33,176), and to the Grant Fund Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($105,196). Funds will be used to help with the heating bills during November 1st – April 30th. (CM25#272) [text of report]
Comments by City Manager Yi-An Huang, Nolan, Wilson; Order Adopted 9-0
Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Executive Director of the Council on Aging and other relevant City departments to explore the feasibility of creating a dedicated position or function focused on triaging and directing senior residents to appropriate services and supports. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons, Zusy (who wished to be added as sponsor), Nolan; Charter Right - Nolan
Order #2. That this City Council go on record urging the Harvard administration to engage in good faith with the demands of workers represented by 32BJ SEIU, including fair pay, healthcare, retirement benefits, and improved protections for immigrant members. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, Nolan; Order Adopted 9-0
Committee Report #1. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on October 8, 2025 with the Community Development Department (CDD), Economic Opportunity and Development Division, to provide an update on the city’s efforts to support small businesses and commercial districts in Cambridge. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Comments?
Election Day approaches. Here are the items that I found interesting in this week’s relatively short agenda:
Late Order #4 (taken up at start of meeting) That the City Manager provide an update at the Oct 27, 2025 City Council meeting regarding the pause in SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown. Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
Comments by City Manager Yi-An Huang (~6,700 Cambridge households and ~10,000 individuals affected - up from ~6,000 pre-Covid), Toner, Nolan, Siddiqui, Wilson, Zusy, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Azeem, McGovern; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons-ABS)
Vail Court - Aug 2017 |
Manager’s Agenda #3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $4,300,000, from Free Cash to the General Fund Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages account, which will replenish funds that were transferred out of the Employee Benefits Department and subsequently used to fund the settlement payment relating to Said S. Abuzahra, Trustee of Equity Realty Trust, et al. v. City of Cambridge (Mdsx. Super. Ct. Docket No. 2017- cv-2459/J). [text of report]
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons-ABS)
This is the follow-up from the appropriation made in July relating to the City’s eminent domain taking of the Vail Court property on Bishop Allen Drive in September 2016.
Manager’s Agenda #1 (July 21, 2025).Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of Four-Million-Three-Hundred-Thousand dollars and no cents ($4,300,000), from the General Fund Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Law Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account for the settlement payment relating to Said S. Abuzahra, Trustee of Equity Realty Trust, et al. v. City of Cambridge (Mdsx. Super. Ct. Docket No. 2017- cv2459/J). (CM25#188)
The original cost in 2016 was $3,700,000, so (not including the cost of demolition and litigation), this would bring the total to $8 million for the now-vacant Vail Court property. What the City will ultimately choose to do with this property is not entirely clear, but my guess is that it becomes some version of public housing. An enlightened City would work with the abutting property owner at Bishop Allen and Prospect to create a mixed-income project with amenities on the Bishop Allen and Prospect Street frontages. I won’t hold my breath waiting for that.
Manager’s Agenda #4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $20,000,000, from Free Cash to the General Fund Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages account, which will replenish funds that were transferred out of the Employee Benefits Department and subsequently used to fund expenses related to the demolition of 221 Mount Auburn Street. [text of report]
pulled by Toner, Manager’s Agenda #4-6 taken together; comments by Toner, Claire Spinner, Zusy, Taha Jennings, Kathy Watkins, Wilson, Nolan, McGovern, Yi-An Huang; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons-ABS)
Demolition of the Riverview Condominiums is now scheduled to take place during December 2025 through March 2026.
Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $2,905,500 from Free Cash to the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund. During FY25, the City received mitigation revenues from various developers as a result of commitments related to zoning ordinance amendments and special permit conditions. By law, all mitigation revenues must be deposited into the General Fund and can only be appropriated after the Free Cash Certification is complete. [text of report]
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons-ABS)
Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update re: the Massachusetts Department of Revenue certification of the City’s Free Cash balance as of June 30, 2025, in the amount of $184,251,490. [text of report]
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons-ABS)
After the above appropriations are adopted, the City’s Free Cash balance is estimated to be $157,045,990.
Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to PO25#107, re: a request to support an exploratory process – potentially including stakeholder engagement, legal and technical assessments, and community outreach – to evaluate the creation of a Business Improvement District in Porter Square. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Pardis Saffari, Nolan, Zusy; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Simmons-ABS)
Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Department of Transportation and other relevant departments to examine how to improve connectivity north of Rindge Avenue during the Linear Park Reconstruction Project so that vulnerable road users can bypass Rindge Avenue and Cedar Street where possible. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by JSW, Toner, Zusy, Wilson; Toner added as sponsor 9-0; Order Adopted 9-0 as Amended
Order #3. City Council support for the workers of Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in their efforts to secure fair wages, respect, and improved working conditions through collective bargaining. Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Simmons-ABS)
Campaign donations this election cycle (so far) from SEIU: Siddiqui ($500), Sobrinho-Wheeler ($1000), Wilson ($500), Azeem ($500), McGovern ($500), Simmons ($1000)
Communications & Reports #2. A communication was received from Councillor Nolan transmitting a letter re: revocation of a curb cut application previously granted. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; prepared comments by Nolan; comments by Toner, Azeem; Motion to Suspend Rules for the Purpose of Reconsideration Fails 2-7 (Nolan, Zusy-YES); Placed on File 9-0
Councillors Zusy and Nolan expressed strong interest at the Oct 20 meeting in revoking this Hancock St. curb cut in order to restore 2 on-street parking spaces. Earlier this year they were the swing votes that approved the elimination of most of the on-street parking along the entire length of Broadway. - RW
Comments?
It’s the Second Coming of the Tax Classification Hearing after the alarm bells rang two weeks ago due to some (apparently) alarming news about the proposed jump in the commercial tax rate. A crisis is often an opportunity for some education.
How many people really understand what this hearing and vote is all about? How many people understand the limited options available under state law? How many people have given any thought at all to how the state legislature might change things in order to have a more fair system, e.g. setting the Residential Exemption within different residential classes, distinguishing large commercial properties from “mom and pop stores”, etc.? How many elected officials are willing to speak honestly about the fact that taxes are rising quickly primarily because of their own actions in growing the budget at a rate well in excess of inflation?
Unless the City Council is ready to dump more of the tax burden on residential properties (will never happen), there is actually very little that the City Council can do other than to just cast the usual votes.
Here are some of the items that drew my attention this week:
The Property Tax Rate Classification Hearing
[Tax Rate Letter from City Manager][Tax Rate Orders][Tax Rate Executive Summary][Commercial Tax Rate Examples]
Comments by City Manager Yi-An Huang, Asst. City Manager Claire Spinner, Assessing Director Gail Willett, Budget Director Taha Jennings, Councillors Toner, McGovern, Azeem, Nolan, Zusy, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson; Tax Rates Adopted 9-0; Both Orders Adopted 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by City Manager Yi-An Huang, Councillor Nolan, Elliott Veloso (Law Dept.), Franz LaBianca (Law Dept.), Councillor Siddiqui; Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the reappointment of Charles J. Marquardt as an Election Commissioner for a four-year term, effective through March 31, 2029.
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-53, regarding a request that the City Manager consult with relevant departments about the implications of deploying license plate readers and provide recommendations as to whether adjustments in plans for deployment should be made in light of changes since approval in February. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; comments by CPD Commissioner Christine Elow (noting how license plate readers may have helped sole Charlene Holmes murder case) , Pauline Wells (CPD), Peter Vellucci (CPD), Councillor Toner proposes referral to Public Safety Committee; McGovern to propose Late Order to suspend use of license plate readers for now; Mayor Simmons comments; Councillors Nolan, Azeem, Zusy, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui, Wilson, Toner comments; Referred to Public Safety Committee 9-0; Placed on File 9-0; Toner asks if a policy is currently in place (CPD - Yes), comments by McGovern, Nolan, Toner, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Zusy (how can we know that they’re really off?), Commissioner Elow; Late Order (McGovern et.al.) “That the City suspend or revoke using Flock cameras and all ALPR technology currently in use, until a meeting is held by the Public Safety Committee of the City Council and a vote is taken to allow it.” Adopted 9-0
Late Order #9. That the City suspend or revoke using Flock cameras and all ALPR technology currently in use, until a meeting is held by the Public Safety Committee of the City Council and a vote is taken to allow it. Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment and reappointment of members to the Committee on Public Planting for terms of three years. [text of report]
Appointments Confirmed 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-34 regarding curb cut disputes. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy re: 177 Hancock St. curb cut and possibility that application contained misrepresentations; comments by Deputy City Manager Kathy Watkins, Toner, Nolan; opinion on process from Elliott Veloso (Law Dept.); comments by Yi-An Huang, including requirement that legal notice be given prior to revocation of a permit; Sobrinho-Wheeler opines that City Council should not be deciding on individual curb cuts; Azeem comments, Veloso responds; Toner notes that a two-thirds vote is required to revisit this; Zusy also doesn’t want Council to decide on curb cuts, suggests Council was hoodwinked; McGovern, Simmons, Kathy Watkins, Toner, Wilson, Nolan, Azeem comments; Placed on File 9-0 (with an understanding that a future Communication and Order to rescind may follow)
Order #1. City Council support for Massachusetts’ community colleges and state universities and urging the state Legislature to pass the DRIVE Act with an amendment to cover student supports and other cuts beyond research grants as a first step toward public higher education funding that adequately supports students, faculty and staff. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 8-1 (Zusy-No)
Order #3. City Council support of H.811, An Act authorizing cities and towns to provide for citizen-funded election campaigns. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
Order Adopted 8-1 (Zusy-No)
Order #4. City Council support of the unionization efforts of Massachusetts State House legislative staff and H.2093/S.1343, and urge the recognition of the Massachusetts State House Employee Union. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 8-1 (Zusy-No)
Order #6. That the City Council supports House Bill H.3564, An Act Relative to Infrastructure Replacement Projects, and House Bill H.3446 /Senate Bill S.2248, An Act Relative to Municipal Voices in Gas Utility Work that are currently before the Massachusetts Legislature. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 8-1 (Zusy-No)
Order #7. City Council support of Bill Lifting Caps on Municipal Solar. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Zusy
Order Adopted 8-1 (Zusy-No)
Order #8. City Council opposition to Harvard University’s efforts to strip union protections from workers in the Harvard Graduate Students Union bargaining unit, and to all forms of union busting, and go on record urging the Harvard administration to engage in good faith with the demands of our residents organizing with HGSU, HAW, and the Harvard Undergraduate Workers Union (HUWU), including fair pay, healthcare, and workplace harassment and discrimination protections. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 8-1 (Zusy-No)
Charter Right #1. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Sept 16, 2025 to review and discuss solar impact analysis and zoning options to encourage the use of solar energy systems and protect solar access for Registered Solar Energy Systems. [Charter Right – Azeem, Sept 29, 2025]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Committee Report #1. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on Sept 25, 2025 to discuss whether the City should reinstate something similar to the exemption of the Dover Amendment to regulate the density and impact of institutional development within residential districts. The 1979 & 1980 exemption was eliminated Feb 10, 2025 with the passage of the Multifamily Housing Ordinance. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Committee Report #2. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Oct 7, 2025 on a Zoning Petition by Martin Bakal, et al., to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in Sections 4.30 and 4.40 with the intent to restrict increasing pavement in Open Space districts by establishing “Paved way greater than 10’ wide” as a principal use within the Table of Use Regulations that would be prohibited in Open Space districts and permitted in all other zoning districts, with a footnote providing further clarifications and restrictions on the establishment of “paved ways.” [text of report]
Comments by Zusy, McGovern; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0; Unfavorable Recommendation Adopted 9-0
Comments?
Here are the featured items this week:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number #25-55 relative to guidance during ICE encounters. [text of report]
Communications & Reports #2. A communication was received from Commissioner Elow Cambridge Police Department, transmitting a memorandum regarding compliance with the Welcoming City Ordinance (Section 2.129.060), which mandates that a statistical breakdown of ICE interactions with the Cambridge Police. [text of report]
Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Marnie Gale and C. Dale Gadsden and the reappointment of Louis Bacci III all for five-year terms to the Cambridge Housing Authority Board. [text of report]
Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item #25-20 regarding Incentive Zoning Nexus Study. [text of report]
Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Zero Emissions Transportation Plan Report. [text of report]
On The Table #6. A communication was received from Councillor Nolan transmitting a report on the Cambridge Zero Emission Transportation Plan. [Tabled – Sept 15, 2025] [text of report]
Tax Rate Hearing [6:30pm] Tax Rate Letter from City Manager
The bottom line is: The FY26 Adopted Operating Budget is $992.2 million which is an increase of 3.8% (or $36.6 million) over the FY25 Adopted Budget. The actual FY26 tax levy required to support the FY26 Budget is $678,852,471 which is an increase of $50,463,718 or 8.0% from FY25. This increase is consistent with the estimated increase of 8.0% projected in June 2025 as part of the Adopted Budget.
The property tax levy increase of 8.0% is lower than the FY25 increase of 9.2%. The five-year (FY22-FY26) annual average increase is 7.53%, and the ten-year (FY17-FY26) annual average increase is 6.72%. The FY26 residential tax rate will be $6.67 per thousand dollars of value, subject to Department of Revenue approval. This is an increase of $0.32, or approximately 5% from FY25. The commercial tax rate will be $14.07, which is an increase of $2.55, or 22% from FY25.
As a result of the market activity in calendar year 2024, which is the basis of the FY26 property assessments, total residential property values increased by 2.6%. Total commercial property values decreased by 11.5%. These mixed results; negative on commercial, and lightly positive for residential, indicate the continued softening of the commercial and lab markets and the slow growth of the residential market with little inventory and high interest rates.
By property class, an average a single-family home will see a 10.21% tax increase, a two-family will see a 9.18% increase, a three-family will see a 8.93% increase, and a condo will see an 13.26% increase. This last figure is interesting in that due to the flat residential exemption, condo owners were actually seeing decreases in recent years and only saw increases last yearand this year. Here are the median figures including the CPA Surcharge:
FY2026 Taxes - including CPA Surcharge and Residential Exemtion
Residential
Property Type |
FY24 Median Tax |
FY25 Median Tax |
FY26 Median Tax |
Median
$ increase |
%
increase |
| Condominium |
$1,555 |
$1,734 |
$1,964 |
$ 230 |
13.26% |
| Single-Family |
$7,674 |
$8,277 |
$9,122 |
$ 845 |
10.21% |
| Two-Family |
$6,713 |
$7,146 |
$7,802 |
$ 656 |
9.18% |
| Three-Family |
$8,246 |
$8,865 |
$9,657 |
$ 792 |
8.93% |
History of changes in residential property taxes
| Median Annual Tax Increases - Cambridge (not incl. CPA surcharge) |
| Tax Year |
condo |
single-family |
two-family |
three-family |
| FY2009 |
$ 18 |
$ 40 |
$ 24 |
$ 72 |
| FY2010 |
$ 69 |
$ 119 |
$ 47 |
$ 41 |
| FY2011 |
$ 77 |
$ 306 |
$ 132 |
$ 154 |
| FY2012 |
$ 60 |
$ 269 |
$ 177 |
$ 215 |
| FY2013 |
$ 65 |
$ 159 |
$ 80 |
$ 85 |
| FY2014 |
- $ 38 |
$ 109 |
$ 110 |
$ 201 |
| FY2015 |
$ 15 |
$ 11 |
$ 334 |
$ 253 |
| FY2016 |
- $ 18 |
$ 64 |
$ 101 |
$ 217 |
| FY2017 |
$ 11 |
$ 324 |
$ 237 |
$ 336 |
| FY2018 |
$ 76 |
$ 136 |
$ 33 |
$ 61 |
| FY2019 |
$ 21 |
$ 124 |
$ 292 |
$ 469 |
| FY2020 |
$ 43 |
$ 449 |
$ 366 |
$ 369 |
| FY2021 |
$ 3 |
$ 246 |
$ 131 |
$ 218 |
| FY2022 |
$ 33 |
$ 545 |
$ 301 |
$ 335 |
| FY2023 |
- $ 107 |
$ 419 |
$ 269 |
$ 379 |
| FY2024 |
- $ 7 |
$ 743 |
$ 494 |
$ 598 |
| FY2025 |
$ 175 |
$ 587 |
$ 421 |
$ 602 |
| FY2026 |
$ 224 |
$ 821 |
$ 638 |
$ 770 |
| 5 year average |
$63.60 |
$623.00 |
$424.60 |
$536.80 |
| 10 year average |
$47.20 |
$439.40 |
$318.20 |
$413.70 |
| 15 year average |
$37.07 |
$333.73 |
$265.60 |
$340.53 |
| number of properties (FY2023) |
14841 |
3910 |
2292 |
1168 |
Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Department of Public Works, the Department of Public Health, and any relevant environmental consultants to provide a comprehensive report on Gold Star Mothers Memorial Park. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner
Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant staff to ensure that the zoning code relating to Institutional Use Regulation is in compliance with State law. Councillor Zusy, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson
Order #6. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to consider a plan to better utilize the Russell Youth and Community Center. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner
Charter Right #1. Condolences to the family of Red T. Mitchell.
Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development Department to draft zoning language based on the proposed recommendations, review the feasibility of the proposed recommendations with developers, and consider the possibility of having AHO construction be exempt from the proposed zoning. [Charter Right – Azeem, Sept 29, 2025]
Comments and additional details to follow
Among other things, this week brings a City Council order calling for a process to commence to change the official seal of the City of Cambridge. We’re actually on our 2nd version of of Official Seal since we became a city in 1846 – not even close to that memorable 1957 film by Ingmar Bergman. I can only hope that any new proposals for our Official Seal won’t mirror the sad choices now under consideration for the Massachusetts State Seal - designs that replace historical references with all the richness of a Doritos ad. [There were some more interesting submissions.] I can only guess what the politically acceptable choices for Cambridge may eventually turn out to be. Perhaps we can have Brian Hyland provide some motivation for the selection committee.
As for the full agenda, here are the items that leapt off the page:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, City Manager Yi-An Huang; Placed on File 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Preservation Restriction at 44 J.F. Kennedy Street. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Charles Sullivan, Nolan, McGovern; Order Adopted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
These Historical Commission reports are always top notch.
Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-05, regarding 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. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, City Solicitor Megan Bayer and other City staff, Zusy; Referred to Finance Committee 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
The legal memo indicates that this applies only to “three types of code violations that can be enforced through Chapter 40U: (1) short-term rental use; (2) housing and sanitary; and (3) snow and ice removal from sidewalks.” To be effective, the City Council need only vote to accept the statute. Also, if the City adopts Chapter 40U, it would need to adopt an ordinance that establishes a schedule of applicable fines. For more details and potential costs and consequences, read the memo.
Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the City Council to establish a Seal Review Committee with the charge of recommending an updated city seal and motto in time for adoption prior to the 400th anniversary of the City of Cambridge in 2030. Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, McGovern; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
As I mentioned above, the current City Seal may have some extinct references on it, but it packs a fair amount of historical reference – which seems appropriate for a historically rich city like Cambridge. My greatest concern is that a review committee will choose to recommend something more like an advertising logo drenched in wokeness. In fact, I would almost bet on it.
Order #2. That the Housing Committee will be convened to discuss the concrete details of social housing; that the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department, Finance Department, Law Department, and other relevant departments to explore all steps towards advancing social housing in Cambridge. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, McGovern, Melissa Peters (CDD), Zusy, Nolan, Azeem; Nolan, Azeem added as sponsors; Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
So “social housing” is now the shiny new thing being bandied about by activists and municipal election candidates this year. In short, this is a scheme via which the local government would slowly but surely take over an increasing percentage of the housing stock in Cambridge - all under the theory (and sales pitch) that this would bring about a new era of affordability. It is, of course, just public housing by a different name and perhaps with different eligibility standards. I always like to raise the issue of what happens when the roof needs replacement or when the heating system or other part of the building needs a major overhaul. Inevitably, the residents will come running to the government to pay for it, and the bills will be ultimately be paid by the taxpayers. A somewhat more insidious aspect of all this is that deed-restricted properties have dramatically lower assessed values, so we should really say “paid by other taxpayers”. This socialist creep is a thing these days in other places such as New York City. Supporters will be quick to mention the “Vienna Housing Model” to prove the wonderfulness of their ideas, but I’ll simply say that neither New York City nor Cambridge are especially comparable to Vienna, Austria. I will also emphasize that I emphatically believe that private property ownership is a good thing. If tenants want to pool their resources to turn their housing into something like a limited equity coop, then more power to them – as long as they don’t one day come running to Mother Cambridge to cover their costs.
Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to provide a recommendation on the site conditions of 25 Lowell Street and considerations and process for determining the future use of the property. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Zusy; Nolan, McGovern, Zusy; Order Adopted 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
This is the lot that keeps reappearing as a kind of token. I even remember it being on the list over 30 years ago of properties for a “Land Bank” for affordable housing – basically a symbolic gesture by some councillors looking to get some love by going after a property in the tonier part of town. Not much has really changed in three decades.
Charter Right #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-32, regarding a request that the City engage in discussions with leadership from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and the Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA) regarding a proposal to explore the feasibility of repurposing the long-abandoned MBTA tunnel in Harvard Square into a commercial or cultural space. [Charter Right – Azeem, Sept 15, 2025]
comments by Azeem, Yi-An-Huang, Nolan, Zusy, Deputy City Manager Kathy Watkins, McGovern, Siddiqui, Wilson; After an excruciatingly long and repetitive discussion, Placed on File 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
I still believe there’s a great idea here lurking in the cavernous darkness (“The Cavern Club”?), but pulling it off will take the kind of drive and investment that’s not so likely to emerge from the depths of Cambridge.
Resolution #1. Condolences to the family of Red T. Mitchell. Mayor Simmons
Charter Right - McGovern (to give Mayor Simmons and others an opportunity to speak to this resolution next week)
Red Mitchell has been one of my favorite Cambridge people ever since Denise Simmons introduced us. All three of us have a love of history, and Red knew a lot about history - especially about residents of African ancestry around the time of the Revolutionary War.
Resolution #2. Congratulation to Kevin Treanor and Joe McCabe on their 30 year anniversary of the Phoenix Landing. Councillor Zusy, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson
pulled by McGovern; Add McGovern, Toner, Wilson as sponsors
Time flies. Great guys and good beer. They’ll also feed you pretty good as well. I never went there for the soccer broadcasts – just the camaraderie and the beer.
Committee Report #1. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Sept 9, 2025 to review and discuss ongoing work to mitigate and reduce Combined Sewer Overflows within Cambridge and the surrounding area and other mitigation efforts to address extreme weather events that affect city residents and future infrastructure projects. [text of report]
pulled early Nolan; comments by Nolan, Deputy City Manager Kathy Watkins, Toner, McGovern; Report Accepted, Placed on File, Order Adopted 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
Though I didn’t attend the meeting, I have had an interest in this subject (and really all things relating to infrastructure) for about four decades now. There has been a lot of progress on the CSOs during that time, but the progress never stops. Neither does the physics.
Committee Report #2. The Public Safety Committee held a public hearing on Sept 10, 2025 to discuss COF25#106, including questions that were submitted by City Council members regarding an incident at 243 Broadway on Aug 2, 2025 and the public safety response. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0-1 (DS-Absent)
I attended this meeting and offered testimony in support of the actions of the Cambridge Police in this incident. I was outnumbered during Public Comment but I did my best to counter some of the BS from those who would abolish the police if they could.
Committee Report #3. The Health and Environment Committee held a public hearing on Sept 16, 2025 to review and discuss solar impact analysis and zoning options to encourage the use of solar energy systems and protect solar access for Registered Solar Energy Systems.[text of report]
pulled early by Nolan; comments by Zusy (with proposed Substitute Order), Azeem; Charter Right - Azeem
Comments?
Here’s my first pass at the highlights. Revisions, comments, etc. to follow:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to recommendations of the Community Preservation Act Committee (CPAC) for FY2026. [text of report]
pulled by Simmons; comments by Taha Jennings, Nolan, Zusy
VOTE 1: Fiscal Year 2026 Local Funds ($19,700,000) voted 9-0
VOTE 2: Fiscal Year 2025 State Matching Funds [received in FY2026] ($2,800,000) voted 9-0
VOTE 3: CPA Fund Balance - Administration ($15,000) voted 9-0
VOTE 4: Historic Preservation Reserve ($113,000) voted 9-0
VOTE 5: Open Space Reserve ($331,000) voted 9-0
80%-10%-10% from now until the end of time - non-debatable. Anything else might be interpreted as democratic.
Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number #25-50, regarding a Deadline for Charter Change.
pulled by Simmons; Megan Bayer notes that House and Senate approved, sent to Governor to sign, Election Commission preparing guides, ballot; Yi-An Huang thanks Sal DiDomenico, Marjorie Decker, now just waiting for Governor’s signature; Tanya Ford provided updates; comments by Simmons, Nolan, Megan Bayer (not the full text on the ballot or the guide - just the summary), Wilson, Siddiqui, Zusy, Simmons (special thank you to Tanya Ford); Placed on File 9-0
I’m presuming this means that it’s got the go-ahead. For those who are paying attention, the proposed Charter is fundamentally the same as the Plan E Charter that has worked well for the City of Cambridge since its adoption in 1940. Thankfully, all the problematic proposals were beaten back, but all that could soon change if a clown car is elected in November for the next City Council.
Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Numbers 25-38, 25-39 and 25-41, regarding issues related to parking in the area surrounding the eastern end of Broadway. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Brooke McKenna (evasive re: parking for employees at 344 Broadway), Wilson (notes large number of School and City staff who park on Broadway), Siddiqui, Toner, Nolan, Stephanie Groh; Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-27, regarding the City Manager investigate bike pod storage options to be placed in suitable areas in the city to provide residents and visitors safe storage options. [text of report]
pulled by Wilson; comments by Wilson, Stephanie Groh, Simmons; Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-42 regarding pedestrianization of Lower Bow Street. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan (wants auto-bollards), Kathy Watkins; Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #10. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-32, regarding a request that the City engage in discussions with leadership from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and the Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA) regarding a proposal to explore the feasibility of repurposing the long-abandoned MBTA tunnel in Harvard Square into a commercial or cultural space. [text of report]
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons (disappointed), Zusy, Azeem; Charter Right - Azeem
Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to provide an update to the City Council at the September 29, 2025 City Council meeting regarding the status of discussions with the MBTA and HSBA, the potential allocation of funds for the tunnel feasibility RFP, and any anticipated next steps in this process. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons, McGovern, Nolan; Order Adopted 9-0
Though I think this is a fabulous idea worth exploring, I would not recommend holding your breath waiting for movement on this. There are multiple parties involved - both public and private, and even one-ball juggling often proves far too difficult when undertaking creative ideas involving more than one party.
Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the transmission of the Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; comments by McGovern; Zoning Petition referred to Ordinance Committee & Planning Board 8-1 (Zusy - No)
Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the transmission of the Massachusetts Avenue Zoning Petition. [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; comments by McGovern; Zoning Petition referred to Ordinance Committee & Planning Board 8-1 (Zusy - No)
Manager’s Agenda #13. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-43, regarding a request for an interim report on demolition and building permit applications received during the six-month period following the City Council’s adoption of the Multifamily Housing Zoning Amendment on February 10th, 2025. [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; comments by McGovern (17 demolition petitions filed, 7 issued since MFZ passed); Jeff Roberts (CDD) says 46 applications submitted and of these 13 issued to date, 13 for residential demolitions and 7 issued; McGovern desperately trying to put a positive spin on this; Nolan; Melissa Peters (CDD); Jacob Lazzara (ISD); Zusy (notes that some developers may be waiting pending possible changes in Inclusionary rate); Azeem says we’re not going to lower the Inclusionary requirement; Toner; Placed on File 9-0
It is at times like this that I look back at all the ideas floated during the Envision Cambridge process and come to the conclusion that the Community Development Department has simply tossed it all into the wastebasket. Surely there is a “third way” somewhere between the current status and having Mass. Ave. and other corridors lined end-to-end with 12-story and higher buildings.
Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Police Department to review current crisis prevention protocols, strengthen them by clearly defining the role and deployment of mental health professionals. Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0
Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Police Department, the Law Department, and relevant stakeholders to develop and present to the City Council a proposed policy for the timely release of body-worn camera footage. Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Azeem, Nolan, McGovern; Order Adopted 9-0
These Orders grew out of a Public Safety Committee meeting last week in which the Cambridge Police Department provided the facts and almost all of Public Comment (except me) provided the fiction. In Cambridge, the tail continues to wag the dog.
Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Commission on Immigrant Rights & Citizenship, the City Solicitor, the Police Department, the Mayor’s Office, and other relevant stakeholders to evaluate and implement ICE Encounter Guidance. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons, McGovern, Yi-An Huang, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Nolan, Wilson; Order Adopted 9-0
Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate City staff to ensure that, effective immediately (and for each fiscal year in which the Office for Tourism continues to receive TDMD funding) that the City shall redirect its municipal funding to distribute those funds equally among the Central Square Business Improvement District (BID), the East Cambridge Business Association, the Harvard Square Business Association, and the Kendall Square Association. [Charter Right – Toner, Sept 8, 2025]
Comments by Toner (w/Comm #1); Comments by Simmons, Wilson; Referred to Econ. Development & University Relations Committee 9-0
Communications #1. Candice Beaulieu, re: CIVITAS- TDMD FAQ Sept 2025.
pulled by Councillor Toner; Referred to Econ. Development & University Relations Committee 9-0
There is a back story here that hopefully will get aired more fully. - RW
Comments?
While Visions of Number Ones Danced in Their Heads – The City Council returns from a summer of leafleting, door-knocking, and snake oil sales for their first meeting of the Fall. Here are a few things on this week’s agenda that I thought might be somewhat interesting:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
I always find these updates interesting.
Manager’s Agenda #4. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $120,000, received from the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health’s (DMH) Jail Diversion Program, to the Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($120,000). Grant funds will be used to continue the Co-response program with one clinician through June 2026. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Police Commissioner Christine Elow; Order Adopted 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $10,000, to the Grant Fund Police Department Salaries and Wages Account ($5,000) and to the Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($5,000). Grant funds will be used to support costs related to providing aftercare support such as supplies that individuals can bring with them to detox such as clothing, supplies (including Narcan) and personal hygiene products and transportation to treatment or clinical care services. A portion of the funding will also be allocated towards providing dedicated POST outreach services. [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0
Normally, I don’t even comment on sensible appropriation requests like these, but I am aware that there was a brouhaha earlier this year about the Cambridge Police Department (CPD) doing what some councillors and political activists felt should be entirely in the hands of others - in particular the new Community Safety Department (CARE). Rather than celebrate the forward thinking of CPD, I expect several councillors will again pipe up in favor of keeping separate law enforcement and assisting people in crisis. That would indicate a complete misunderstanding of how our police actually operate. Just as one example: Several days ago we had to call CPD about a manic individual howling across the street - apparently just released from a hospital setting. The police came, as did an ambulance and even a fire truck. They talked with the man at length, calmed him down, and provided him with a shirt. When I later asked if all was well, one of the officers (who I knew) told me they were working on getting him some shoes. This is the Cambridge Police Department I know, and I am grateful for all the intervention and aftercare support that they provide.
In an unrelated matter, I see that there’s a Public Safety Committee hearing later this week on the police response relating to an incident at the Close Building at Broadway and Windsor in early August. I have no idea what the optimal way to handle that situation might have been, but I’m not inclined to second-guess the people whose job is to respond to unpredictable situations such as this. Sadly, if I choose to speak in support of CPD at this hearing, I will likely be outnumbered and disparaged by the defunders who will surely be in attendance.
Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Sephany Alexis, Sally Benbasset, and Christina Turner and the reappointment of Elizabeth Aguilo, Rowan Murphy, and Michelle Lower as members of the Community Benefits Advisory Committee for a term of three years. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Asst. City Manager Ellen Semonoff (who has announced that she will soon be retiring), Toner, McGovern, Wilson [the gist being that some councillors think that the appointments should be made only after the policies guiding the committee are revised - a rather short-sighted perspective]; Appointments Accepted, Placed on File 8-0 (w/Zusy voting to Abstain)
Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to amendments to the Cambridge Tobacco Ordinance. [text of report]
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Nolan, Wilson, Sam Lipson (Director of Environmental Health), Asst. City Solicitor Paul Kawai, and Chief Public Health Officer Derrick Neal (who chose to characterize this in racial terms); Referred to Health & Environment Committee 9-0
I have always been something of an anti-tobacco crusader myself, but it was interesting to read in this report how the Town of Brookline adopted an ordinance which permanently banned the sale of any tobacco product to anyone born on or after Jan 1, 2000. Though this ban was upheld in the Mass. SJC, I would be very surprised if such a “generational ban” would survive a US Supreme Court challenge. I also found it interesting that prohibition of tobacco sales within a specified distance from schools is being suggested while at the same time there have been discussions of relaxing such restrictions for cannabis outlets. Perhaps one day we’ll be hearing suggestions on banning the sale of meat for persons born after a certain date or within a certain distance from schools.
Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Transportation, the Commission for Persons with Disabilities, and any other relevant City departments to assess the current accessible parking capacity in the vicinity of Kendall Square and identify potential solutions, which may include adding dedicated accessible parking spaces, creating short-term accessible loading/unloading zones, or implementing other reasonable accommodations. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0
Parking accommodation for tech workers in Kendall Square, but complete dismissal of resident concerns about parking and curb access along Broadway. Why am I not surprised?
Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to consult with the appropriate City departments, including the City Solicitor’s Office, to establish a formal policy that clearly defines the City’s role and financial responsibilities in supporting large-scale public events hosted by Cambridge-based non-profit and not-for-profit organizations. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Wilson to be added as sponsor; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0
This would be a good move. When Cambridge-based organizations are piecing together larger-scale public events (such as the Cambridge Jazz Festival), they shouldn’t have to go begging for City support as long as they meet some basic, reasonable criteria.
Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with the appropriate City staff to ensure that, effective immediately (and for each fiscal year in which the Office for Tourism continues to receive TDMD funding) that the City shall redirect its municipal funding to distribute those funds equally among the Central Square Business Improvement District (BID), the East Cambridge Business Association, the Harvard Square Business Association, and the Kendall Square Association. Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Simmons; Charter Right - Toner
My only objection to this is the stipulation that such funds should be equally distributed among four specified groups. There will be times when more support may be needed for one group, and some groups may have the advantage of other funding sources not available to other groups. Perhaps this should instead specify “fairly distributed” rather than “equally distributed”.
Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development Department, the City Assessor, and all other relevant departments to develop a comprehensive policy for future private development projects in the city. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Nolan, Siddiqui, Zusy, Wilson, Simmons; Zusy added as sponsor; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0
This Order is specifically about “contract zoning” and negotiated community benefits contributions – the contentious issue at the heart of the recent Bio-Med rezoning (“Eastern Cambridge Community Enhancements” Zoning Petition). Though I can understand the desire for a policy, I still am disheartened by the whole idea of replacing generosity with bureaucracy, and I have long felt that “contract zoning” is just a more polite way of characterizing “pay to play”. Planning and zoning should be based on principles rather than on cash and prizes.
Order #7. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Election Commission, the City Solicitor, and the City Clerk, and report back to the City Council no later than the September 15, 2025 City Council meeting on the Policy Order regarding the deadline for Charter Change. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner
pulled by Toner; comments by Simmons, Toner, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Wilson; Order Adopted 9-0, Reconsideration Fails 0-9 [It was noted that the Charter petition has now been engrossed by the State Senate and was back before the House and is expected to soon by signed by the Governor]
Communications & Reports #2. A communication was received from City Solicitor Megan B. Bayer, transmitting a memorandum re: City Voter Guide for Ballot Questions - Proponent Argument for Proposed City Charter. [text of report]
Order Adopted, Placed on File 9-0; Reconsideration Failed 0-9
Communications & Reports #3. A communication was received from Lesley Waxman, Assistant Director, Cambridge Election Commission, transmitting a request Letter - In Favor Argument City Charter. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0; Reconsideration Failed 0-9
The clock is ticking and the State Legislature has to act quickly now so that the proposed new Charter will be on the ballot this November. Indications are that this will happen but, regardless, the “pro” and “con” arguments have to be ready to go so that voters will have access to that information prior to Early Voting. Fortunately, essentially all of the proposed charter changes are superficial - more about updating form and language than about fundamentally changing the structure of our local government.
Order #8. That the City Manager is requested to work with all relevant departments to seek input from the community as well as direct outreach to condo owners and short-term rental operators and develop additional recommendations based on the discussion in the Ordinance Committee. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Toner; comments by Toner, Nolan, McGovern, Zusy; Order Adopted 9-0 [It was noted that only ~150 out of ~600 short-term rentals are currently registered with the City.]
Committee Report #3. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on Wed, Aug 27, 2025 on a Zoning Petition by the Cambridge City Council to amend the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance in Article 4.000 with the intent to amend Section 4.60 to redefine short-term rental, add definitions for “operator-occupied short-term rental,” “owner-adjacent short-term rental” and “booking agent,” add conditions of authorized uses to comply with the state building code, fire code, sanitary code, and all other state and local habitability requirements, add requirements to provide booking information and other documentation to the City upon request, and add enforcement mechanisms for violation of the ordinance or state regulations. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Sometimes I think we complicate things too much. I would be happy if we just granted any resident property owner the right to one short-term rental as long as they meet any necessary health and building codes and to treat it no differently than any other rental. If a non-resident owner does short-term rentals, then I’d call that a hotel use, and all laws and ordinances for hotels should be applicable – including prohibition if hotel uses are not permitted in that zone. Same goes for a resident owner who does more than one short-term rental, but I really think that should simply be prohibited unless the owner is operating a licensed rooming house.
Order #9. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments and multi-member bodies to report back to the City Council and inform the community of the work of, and when the recommendations coming from the Micromobility Commission will be available. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Zusy
pulled by Toner; comments by Nolan, Zusy, Wilson; Zusy added as sponsor; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0
Order #10. That the City Manager is requested to consult with relevant departments about the implications of deploying license plate readers and provide recommendations as to whether adjustments in plans for deployment should be made in light of changes since approval in February. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled by Toner; comments by Nolan (with proposed amendment) , Sobrinho-Wheeler (who suggested that license plate readers might be used to track Texas women coming to Massachusetts for abortions), Toner, City Manager Yi-An Huang; Adopted 9-0 as Amended
Methinks this is yet another example of a policy order born from a NextDoor posting. The February 3 approval of license plate readers and cell phones access was adopted 6-3 with Nolan, Siddiqui, and Sobrinho-Wheeler opposed.
Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to coordinate with the Community Safety Department, the Cambridge Police Department, and other relevant parties to ensure that the overnight use of the garden area between St. James Episcopal Church and the Beech Street condos is actively monitored. [Charter Right – Simmons, Aug 4, 2025] (PO25#108)
Comments by Simmons, McGovern, Nolan, Wilson, Zusy; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0
Resolution #5. Congratulations to Cynthia Shelton Harris for her promotion to Executive Director of Veterans’ Services. Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson
Resolution #6. Condolences on the death of Elizabeth Camacho. Councillor Toner
Resolution #10. Condolences to the family and friends of Mary Leno. Mayor Simmons
I will miss running into Mary Leno and her canine companions.
Late Resolution #13. Congratulations to The Sacramento Community Garden. Councillor Nolan
Committee Report #1. The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee held a public hearing on Aug 12, 2025 to discuss the City’s community engagement function, share updates on its structure and direction, and hear from the City Council about their values, priorities, and expectations for engaging with community members. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
I spoke at this hearing. The minutes almost never convey the real meaning of the comments. The short version is that I recalled how when I first arrived in Cambridge I was amazed at how responsive City departments were with just a simple phone call. Now we have SeeClickFix and over 40 “community engagement” staff and, in my opinion, responsiveness has often been replaced by public relations and spotty SeeClickFix requests. We might do better with a few phone numbers and some really good Cambridge-born-and-bred phone operators.
Committee Report #2. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee held a public hearing on Aug 14, 2025 to discuss policy options presented by city staff to regulate maximum unit sizes to ensure that the City’s zoning ordinances incentivize the creation of housing. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Order Adopted, Placed on File 9-0
Order #11. That the City Manager is requested to work with all relevant departments on zoning amendments to incentivize multifamily zoning while allowing reasonable development of single and two- family homes, the “balanced incentive approach” which is Option Four outlined in the presentation to the NLTP Committee. Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
Order Adopted 9-0
There are several things for which every additional “solution” only creates further problems and, ultimately, no solution at all. Except for government housing, essentially every initiative done under the banner of “affordable housing” has resulted in less affordability in housing, and I’m confident that efforts done over this past year will yield similar results. I am also reminded that in all the years our School Committee has been trying to address the “achievement gap”, that gap has only grown wider. The unquenchable desire to control rarely results in sustainable solutions. - RW
Comments?
Incumbent councillors will take a break from their election-related fundraising and glad-handing to take up the following items and more:
Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments of members to the Commercial Parking Control Committee (CPCC).
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $704,800, received from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission Community Mitigation Fund …
Order Adopted 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item #25-15 regarding the creation of plaque upholding the separation of church and state and gender equality.
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of John Nardone as a member of the Community Preservation Act Committee (CPAC) for a term of five years.
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #9. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-28, regarding an update on the status of potential civilian flagger operations in the Cambridge Police Union contract.
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #10. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $30,000, received from the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health’s (DMH) Jail Diversion Program, to the Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($30,000). This appropriation if approved represents funding through the first quarter of FY26. These funds, if approved will enable the department to continue the current co-response program with one clinician through September 2025.
Order Adopted 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #19. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-26, regarding a list of public and private spaces available to the public, indoors and outdoors. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #20. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the submission of the 2025 Affordable Housing Overlay Annual Report. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #21. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-35, regarding a request that the City Manager explore and establish a City of Cambridge Electronic Records Archiving Policy. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #22. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-36, regarding a further response to the request that the exception language in Chapter 2.129.040 Section J of the Cambridge Municipal Code be revised with language clarifying that Cambridge city employees shall not participate in federal immigration enforcement operations and that the sole role of Cambridge city employees during any action by ICE is only to protect public safety and not to assist or facilitate the work of ICE. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Unfinished Business #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-36, regarding a request that the language of the Welcoming Community Ordinance be amended to clarify that City employees shall not participate in federal immigration enforcement operations and that the sole role of City employees during any action by ICE is only to protect public safety, and be amended to clarify that if Cambridge Police Department Officers respond to the scene of ICE action, CPD Officers should document the actions of ICE including their badge numbers. [Passed to 2nd Reading, Referred to Ordinance Committee June 30, 2025; Eligible To Be Ordained July 21, 2025]
Placed on File 9-0
Unfinished Business #9. An Ordinance has been received from Interim City Clerk Paula M. Crane, relative to Chapter 2.129 Welcoming Community. [Passed to 2nd Reading June 30, 2025; Eligible To Be Ordained July 21, 2025]
Ordained as Amended 9-0; Reconsideration Fails 0-9
Committee Report #7. The Ordinance Committee held a public hearing on July 28, 2025 to discuss updates to the City’s Welcoming Community Ordinance. The Committee voted favorably to forward the proposed amendments to the Welcoming Community Ordinance to the full City Council with a favorable recommendation. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #23. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Planning Board report regarding the Marasao, et al., Zoning Petition (Religious Uses). [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Manager’s Agenda #24. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order Number 25-101, regarding Marasao, et al., Zoning Petition. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0
Unfinished Business #8. An Ordinance has been received from Paula M. Crane, Interim City Clerk, relative the Mushla Marasao et al Zoning petition in regard to Article 5.28.21, 8.22.1, 8.22.2, Tbl 5.1. [Passed to 2nd Reading June 30, 2025; Eligible To Be Ordained July 21, 2025; Expires Aug 18, 2025]
Ordained as Amended by Substitution 9-0; Reconsideration Fails 0-9
Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department, in collaboration with the Finance Department, to conduct a comprehensive review of current permitting fees for residential development projects, with a focus on identifying opportunities to create a tiered fee structure that reduces or eliminates fees entirely particularly for smaller-scale and affordable housing developments. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0
Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to allocate $25,000 in feasibility funds to support an exploratory process – potentially including stakeholder engagement, legal and technical assessments, and community outreach – to evaluate the creation of a Business Improvement District in Porter Square. Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted as Amended 9-0
Order #4. Declaring August 9, 2025, as Rocky Horror Day in the City of Cambridge. Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons
Order Adopted 9-0
Order #7. That the City Council go on record urging Governor of the Commonwealth Maura Healey and the Massachusetts Legislature to act without delay to safeguard the constitutional rights of indigent defendants and preserve the integrity of the Commonwealth’s criminal justice system by increasing compensation rates for bar advocates to ensure adequate participation statewide, and establishing pay parity with neighboring states and competitive future rates to prevent recurring crises. Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0
Unfinished Business #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a revised draft of the “Eastern Cambridge Community Enhancements” Zoning Petition. [Placed on Unfinished Business, June 9, 2025]
Placed on File 9-0
Unfinished Business #6. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to East Cambridge Community Enhancement Overlay District (“ECCE Overlay District”), which is governed by the regulations and procedures specified in this Section 20.1200. It is the intent of this Section that these regulations will apply to land within the ECCE Overlay District. [Passed to 2nd Reading, June 9, 2025; Eligible To Be Ordained June 30, 2025; Expires Aug 18, 2025]
Ordained as Amended 8-1 (Toner - No); Reconsideration Fails 0-9
Manager’s Agenda #25 (Late). A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a revised Letter of Commitment dated August 4, 2025 submitted on behalf of BMR-320 Charles LLC that will be incorporated by reference in the East Cambridge Community Enhancement Overlay District (ECCE District) if the Council adopts the zoning petition. [text of report]
Placed on File as Amended 8-1 (Toner - NO)
Applications & Petitions #4. A Zoning Petition has been received from Martin Bakal in regard to Table 4.30, Sec. 4.40 Footnote with the intent of Restrictions on increasing pavement in Open Space Districts. [text of petition]
Referred to Ordinance Committee & Planning Board 9-0
Resolution #5. Condolences to the family of William Bruce “Bill” King. Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner
Resolution #6. Resolution on the death of Tom Lehrer. Mayor Simmons
Resolution #9. Retirement of Dr. Lisa Dobberteen from the Cambridge Public Health Department. Vice Mayor McGovern
Committee Report #4. The Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebrations Committee and the Housing Committee held a joint public hearing on June 17, 2025 to discuss draft zoning recommendations for Cambridge Street and Massachusetts Avenue. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Committee Report #6. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on June 23, 2025 for the purpose of inviting representatives from the 23 long term vacant properties (defined as has been vacant for more than five years) on the record, to share updates on their tenancy efforts, short and long-term plans, and to provide the community with an opportunity to weigh in on this important discussion. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0
Late Communications & Reports #3. A communication was received from Councillors Sobrinho-Wheeler, Nolan, Azeem, and Siddiqui transmitting a memorandum regarding shared questions and concerns regarding the recent incident at 243 Broadway involving the Cambridge Police Department on August 2, 2025. [text of report]
Referred to Public Safety Committee and City Manager’s Office 9-0
Comments?
There were two very significant Special Meetings of the Cambridge City Council in July 2025. The first meeting (July 21) featured a $4.3 million financial settlement appropriation relating to the City’s eminent domain taking of the Vail Court property on Bishop Allen Drive in September 2016. The second meeting (July 23) featured a $20 million appropriation relating to the Riverview Condominium (221 Mt. Auburn St.) emergency.
Vail Court (July 21)
Manager’s Agenda #1.Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of Four-Million-Three-Hundred-Thousand dollars and no cents ($4,300,000), from the General Fund Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Law Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account for the settlement payment relating to Said S. Abuzahra, Trustee of Equity Realty Trust, et al. v. City of Cambridge (Mdsx. Super. Ct. Docket No. 2017- cv2459/J). (CM25#188)
Order Adopted 7-0-2 (Siddiqui, Zusy – Absent)
Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a request to move to Executive Session (if necessary) to discuss litigation regarding 221 Mount Auburn Street because discussing this in an open session may have a detrimental effect on the City’s litigating position. (CM25#187)
Placed on File 9-0
Riverview Condominiums (July 23)
Manager’s Agenda #1. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $20,000,000 from the General Fund Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages account to the General Fund Reserve Department Extraordinary Expenditures account to fund expenses related to the demolition of 221 Mount Auburn Street. (CM25#186) [text of report][July 10, 2025 Presentation]
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Wilson – Absent); Reconsideration Fails 0-8-1 (Toner Absent)
Comments?
City Council subcommittees for 2024-2025
[revised Sept 30, 2024 due to death of Councillor Joan Pickett] |
| Committee |
Members |
| Ordinance |
McGovern (Co-Chair), Toner (Co-Chair),
Azeem, Nolan, Pickett, Siddiqui,
Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson, Simmons (committee of the whole - mayor ex-officio) |
| Finance |
Nolan (Co-Chair), Toner (Co-Chair), Azeem, McGovern, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler,
Zusy, Wilson, Simmons (committee of the whole - mayor ex-officio) |
| Government Operations, Rules, and Claims |
Toner (Chair), Azeem, McGovern, Zusy, Sobrinho-Wheeler |
| Housing |
Azeem (Chair), Siddiqui (Chair), McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson |
| Economic Development and University Relations |
Toner (Chair), Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, Wilson |
| Human Services & Veterans |
McGovern (Chair), Wilson (Chair), Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui, Nolan |
| Health & Environment |
Nolan (Chair), Azeem, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson |
Neighborhood and Long Term Planning,
Public Facilities, Art, and Celebrations |
Zusy (Co-Chair), Sobrinho-Wheeler (Co-Chair), Azeem, Nolan, Siddiqui |
| Transportation & Public Utilities |
Zusy (Chair), Azeem, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson |
| Civic Unity |
Simmons (Co-Chair), Zusy (Co-Chair), McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Wilson |
| Public Safety |
Toner (Chair), Wilson (Chair), McGovern, Zusy, Siddiqui |
| Family Policy Council |
Siddiqui (Co-Chair), Wilson (Co-Chair) |
| Special Committee on Rules |
Toner (Chair) |
City Council main page.
