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Sept 16, 2024
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If you would like to be a guest (or co-host) one of these Tuesdays, let me know. - RW

Members Sought for Cambridge’s Transit Advisory Committee

Sept 17, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking volunteers to serve on the Transit Advisory Committee, which provides advice to staff on projects related to transit and also gives advice and input on how to improve and promote public transportation. Additionally, the committee meets to discuss transit service scheduling, infrastructure modernization, expansion and long-term sustainable transit funding. Committee members also advocate for a robust public transit system in Cambridge. This includes the transit services of the MBTA, EZRide, and other shuttles in the City of Cambridge.

The recent work of the advisory committee includes:

• Writing letters of support for public transit expansion projects;
• Brainstorming ideas to change or add new bus routes;
• Reviewing street designs for city and state projects;
• Providing feedback on service reliability and improvements;
• Identifying new funding opportunities.

The Transit Advisory Committee is made up of residents and representatives of institutions and organizations with a home in Cambridge. Residents include commuters, people with disabilities, parents, seniors, youth, students, and low-income neighborhood residents. Committee members serve for a term of two years.

Committee members should have an interest in how buses, trains, and subways operate in the city, street design, and infrastructure; professional knowledge is not necessary. Committee members should also have some experience in engaging their community and working effectively on a team with diverse perspectives and interacting effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The Transit Advisory Committee generally meets for 1.5 to 2 hours on the first Thursday of every month. Most meetings are hybrid and can be joined remotely or in-person at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway. Some meetings include walking tours of transit facilities in the city or site visits to areas with future or active projects. The Transit Advisory Committee has optional subcommittees that meet occasionally to discuss specific state or city projects.

Committee leadership requires some additional time each month for developing the agenda and inviting guest speakers. This may require an additional 30 to 60 minutes a month.

Interested individuals may apply for this Committee through the City of Cambridge’s online portal at Cambridgema.gov/apply. The application deadline is Tuesday, October 15, 2024. A cover letter and resume may be submitted during the online application process. Once your application is submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. If you have questions or require more information, please contact Andrew Reker at 617-349-6959 or areker@cambridgema.gov. For more information, visit: Cambridgema.gov/transitadvisorycommittee.

Volunteer Opportunities - Cambridge Boards & Commissions (click for details)

Cambridge Veterans Advisory Committee (deadline Mon, Sept 30, 2024)

Cambridge Family Policy Council (deadline Mon, Sept 30, 2024)

Human Rights Commission (deadline Mon, Sept 30, 2024)

Cambridge Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity (deadline Mon, Sept 30, 2024)

Transit Advisory Committee (deadline Tues, Oct 15, 2024)

Boomer Kennedy (Dec 1, 1956 - June 10, 2024)

Born on December 1, 1956 in Westport, Connecticut, Boomer Kennedy passed away on June 10, 2024. She mastered everything from car mechanics to fancy pastries. For 20 years she ran her own auto repair shop, Chicago Auto, in Cambridge, MA where she was a pathbreaking and celebrated woman entrepreneur. In the 2000s she exchanged her wrenches for a chef’s toque, attending the Culinary Institute of America and working as a pastry chef at the world-renowned French Laundry. She later moved to Albuquerque and then Santa Fe, New Mexico where she ran a frame store with her beloved partner, Martha. Most recently, Boomer had been living in Baltimore, serving as unofficial mayor of the Patterson Park Community Garden, treating all passing dogs and people to cookies and good conversation.

In honor of Boomer’s incredible life, friends and family are invited to a celebration at the Patterson Park Community Garden on Friday, June 14 at 4pm in the Bull Ring near the community garden. Donations in Boomer’s honor may be made to Friends of Patterson Park, 27 S Patterson Park Ave, Baltimore, MD 21231. [obituary]

Robert James LaTrémouille, Esq. (Nov 16, 1942 - June 18, 2024, age 81)

Longtime Cambridge activist Bob LaTrémouille has died. [obituary]

Middleborough - Robert James LaTrémouille, Esq., 81, passed away at home on June 18 , 2024. He was born in Cambridge, MA the son of the late Robert A. and Phyllis R. (Ladner) LaTrémouille.

Robert studied Government/Poly Sci BA at University of Massachusetts Amherst and graduated from the School of Law at Boston University. He was self-employed in Cambridge, MA for many years and in retirement he worked at SAG-AFTRA (the world’s largest labor union representing performers, broadcasters and recording artists). He was also a leader and protector of animal rights.

He is survived by his sister: Jeanne M. Damon and his brothers Gerard A. LaTrémouille and George W. LaTrémouille. He is also survived by many loving relatives and friends.

His committal service with military honors at the Massachusetts National Cemetery will be private. In Lieu of flowers please make memorial gifts to the MSPCA 350 Huntington Ave., Boston MA 02130. www.mspca.org/donate-now/

To leave a message of condolence for the family please visit www.warehamvillagefuneralhome.com.

Acapulco Gold Rush - September 16, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

Perhaps the biggest action item on this week’s agenda is the “emergency” amendment to the Cannabis Business Permitting Ordinance to extend the permitting preference period during which the politically connected “social equity” and “economic empowerment” applicants can have an advantage in selling recreational marijuana without any competition from their medicinal marijuana counterparts. This isn’t the first time this ordinance was extended as an “emergency” since its original adoption over 5 years ago.

There are also the two housing-related shots across the bow that were delayed from last week via the Charter Right. Those are accompanied by a flood of communications - mostly in vehement opposition.

Otherwise, the agenda this week is relatively brief. Here are the items I found most interesting:

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-48, regarding a request which directed City staff to enact policy that will extend the priority period for Social Equity and Equity Empowerment cannabis business applicants. (CM24#201) [text of report]
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by City Solicitor Megan Bayer on 6-month extension, emergency ordination; Simmons motion to pass through all stages of ordination as an “emergency involving the health and safety of the people of Cambridge or their property” passes 6-2 (BA,PN-No); Nolan expresses concerns about this being the 2nd instance of passing this as an “emergency”; Ordained 6-2 (BA,PN-No); Communication Placed on File 8-0

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Council Order PO24#121, which requested that the City Manager work with relevant staff to provide an update on the status of the Vail Court property and associate litigation in Said S. Abuzahra, Trustee of Equity Realty Trust, et al. v. City of Cambridge, in Executive Session if necessary, at a future meeting.
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; McGovern motion (at 6:59pm) to Table (until 8:00pm when legal counsel will be available) passes 8-0 at which time the City Council will meet in Executive Session; McGovern motion (7:44pm) to remove from Table 7-0-1 (BA-Absent); Move to Executive Session 7-0-1 (BA-Absent)

Order #1. That 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
Order Adopted 8-0

Order #2. That 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
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by JSW, Toner (notes need for a more accurate list of neighborhood associations); Order Adopted 8-0

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager direct the Community Development Department (CDD) and the Law Department to draft zoning language based on the proposal discussed at the Housing Committee to eliminate exclusionary zoning and allow up to six stories of multifamily housing in all residential districts. [Charter Right – Toner, Sept 9, 2024] (PO24#117)
Toner proposes amendment by substitution calling for up to 15 to 25 stories in the Squares, 9-10 stories on major transportation corridors, and changes to Inclusionary Zoning; Wilson proposes amendment; Clerk process question re: Wilson motion to Toner’s amendment by substitution; McGovern notes that Toner amendment is actually not an amendment by substitution, Toner disagrees; minor Toner amendment; JSW opposes Toner substitution; McGovern wants to jack up AHO even more, agrees with going taller in the Squares, opposes having only 4-story heights in Res A and Res B zones - want those zones to also have much greater heights and densities; Nolan calls this a fraught conversation, notes that almost everyone OK with multi-family citywide, suggests that there are other ways to reach goals with fewer unintended consequences, concerns about possible loss of “naturally occurring affordable housing”, maintaining transportation and climate goals, possibility that this could increase housing costs, questions about actual number of inclusionary units that might be produced; Siddiqui acknowledges need to revisit inclusionary zoning requirements, but does not want to do that now; Azeem questions Iram Farouq about timeline for getting zoning language; Farouq says language likely available as soon as next week; Azeem asks about status of squares and corridors; Farouq says heights of Toner amendment not currently consistent with what is being discussed for Central Square, suggests analysis re: Toner amendment might be available by time Ordinance Committee takes up proposed zoning; Azeem wants additional Housing Committee hearings in interim; Wilson OK with Toner substitution but will also have additional amendment; Toner substitute amendment approved 7-1 (JSW-No); Wilson amendment passes 8-0; Order Adopted as Amended 8-0

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager directs CDD to hold public meetings to inform the Cambridge community about the proposed changes before any public hearings of the Ordinance Committee and the Planning Board on this topic. [Charter Right – Azeem, Sept 9, 2024] (PO24#118)
Order Adopted 8-0

283 Communications - mostly in vehement opposition to the Azeem-Siddiqui-ABC proposals to transform Cambridge into Flushing.

Resolution #5. Resolution on the death of Rita Grassi.   Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner

Resolution #7. Condolences on the death of Francis P. “Red” McGrail.   Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons

Communications and Reports #2. A communication from Mayor Simmons re: Joan Pickett Memorial Service.
Placed on File 7-0-1 (PN-Absent)

E. Denise Simmons, Mayor

September 16, 2024

City Clerk Diane LeBlanc
City of Cambridge
Cambridge City Hall

Re: Communication re: Joan Pickett Memorial Service

Dear Madam Clerk:
Please include this correspondence on the agenda as a late Communication and Report from Other City Officers for the City Council meeting scheduled for September 16, 2024. I am relaying information about the upcoming memorial for our friend and colleague, City Councillor Joan Pickett, who sadly passed away on August 30. The memorial service shall be held at Cambridge City Hall on Saturday, September 28, 2024 from 3pm-6pm. This memorial service shall be open to friends, family, and members of the public. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
Mayor E. Denise Simmons

Communications & Reports #3. A communication from Mayor Simmons re: Filling City Council Vacancy.
Placed on File 7-0-1 (PN-Absent)

E. Denise Simmons, Mayor

September 16, 2024

City Clerk Diane LeBlanc
City of Cambridge
Cambridge City Hall

Re: Communication re: Filling City Council Vacancy

Dear Council Colleagues,
I want to update you on the process and timeline for seating the new City Councillor who will fill the vacancy left by the passing of our esteemed colleague, Joan Pickett.

The recount to determine the new City Councillor will take place on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at 5pm. Following the recount, we will officially announce the elected candidate who will be filling the vacancy. Once the candidate is elected, they will coordinate with the City Clerk’s office to schedule their official swearing-in ceremony.

I will keep you informed of any further developments and the swearing-in schedule once it is confirmed. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
Mayor E. Denise Simmons

Comments?

Cambridge Open Archives in 2024: Archives Roadtrip! – Saturday, September 14

Date: September 14, 2024
Time: 1:00pm-3:00pm
Location: Joan Lorentz Park, 449 Broadway

Buckle up for a fun-filled afternoon as we hit the road for the Open Archives 2024: Archives Roadtrip! This free annual event, hosted by the Cambridge Historical Commission, invites you to explore the rich history of our city with the help of archivists from multiple repositories across the city.

More information here

Landslide Marj

Sept 12 - The Recount is now complete and Marjorie Decker’s margin of victory remains 41 votes.
Marjorie Decker 3,471 - 50.3%
Evan MacKay 3,430 - 49.7%
Write-In 3
Blank 130
Total Votes Cast 7034

Sept 4, 2024 - In a dramatic turn of events, the additional ballots that were counted today reversed the results in the 25th Middlesex Democratic Primary with Marjorie Decker going from being down by 40 votes to now apparently being reelected by 41 votes over challenger Evan MacKay.

2024 Mass. 25th Middlesex Dem primary - Unofficial Results (updated Sep 4, 2024, 5:00pm)
Marjorie Decker 3,472 - 50.3%
Evan MacKay 3,431 - 49.7%
Write-In 3
Blank 131
Total Votes Cast 7037

Sept 6, 2024 - Evan MacKay files for recount in close Mass. House race against Marjorie Decker (Boston Globe)
“If MacKay’s campaign filed enough signatures from registered voters, the City would then have to complete a recount by Sept 14.”

Thurs, Sept 12

9:00am   The Cambridge Election Commission will conduct a Recount for the office of Representative in General Court, 25th Middlesex District, in the Democratic Primary held on September 3, 2024, for the following precincts: Ward 3, Precinct 3A; Ward 4, Precincts 2, 2A, 3; Ward 6, Precincts 2 & 3; Ward 7; Ward 8; Ward 10, Precincts 1A & 2  (Russell Youth Center, 680 Huron Avenue, 2nd Floor)

Preliminary Votes from Tues, Sept 3
2024 Mass. 25th Middlesex Dem primary (AP estimates) - 99% of votes counted (updated Sep 4, 2024, 1:17am)
Evan MacKay 3,354 - 50.3%
Marjorie Decker 3,314 - 49.7%

More results here (Boston Globe)    Cambridge Election Commission Unofficial Results

If the shoe fits....

Sept 10 – I just read a statement in The Free Press by Matti Friedman describing a major problem in journalism today, and it struck me that the same statement largely applies to the nature of activism in Cambridge today, especially in the areas of housing policy and road reconfiguration:

“The world has always been rife with fantasy and conspiracy, but the mainstream press was meant to be where you went to become oriented – to get what journalists called ‘the first rough draft of history,’ that is, an account of what happened as best understood at the time of telling. The activists who now hold sway have mostly abandoned that role but still want to claim the mantle, appending the attribution ‘experts say’ to their own ideology, and dismissing dissent as disinformation.”

Amid Sorrow & Loss, the City Council Reconvenes - Sept 9, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting

I can barely find the words to express my sorrow at the loss of my friend, City Councillor Joan Pickett. Nonetheless, amidst sorrow and loss, the Cambridge City Council will reconvene this Monday after their Summer Recess. The Vacancy Recount will take place on Thursday, Sept 19 and Cathie Zusy is expected to join the City Council and be sworn in on Monday, Sept 23.

Resolution #6. Condolences to the family of City Councillor Joan Pickett.  Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson
Adopted as Amended 8-0

I am grateful to Mayor Simmons for shedding a little light on what happened to my friend Joan Pickett - especially her note of appreciation to Naomie Stephen, Paula Crane, and Ayesha Wilson who were with Joan when she took ill last month. More details and memorial plans will follow later this month.

Mayor Simmons emphasized how Joan tried to build bridges between people of differing points of view. Councillors Siddiqui and Wilson were tearful in their remarks about Joan. Councillor Wilson noted the toll that mean-spirited email messages (and more) can have on elected officials, including Joan, and of how she will miss Joan’s kindness, generosity, and grace. Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler and Mayor Simmons also noted Joan’s warmth and sense of humor.

Two quotes, in particular, stood out in the discussion around Joan’s death. Naomie Stephen said, “Cambridge needs more Joans.” Mayor Simmons suggested she may in the future use the acronym WWJPD in future City Council deliberations: “What would Joan Pickett do?”

Mayor Simmons rounded out the discussion with a modified version of the short poem “Outwitted” by Edwin Markham (1852-1940):

“He drew a circle that shut me out
Heretic, a rebel, a thing to flout.
But Love and Joan had the wit to win:
We drew a circle that took him in!”

Here are the agenda items I found most interesting and/or important on this week’s agenda:

Reconsideration #1. Requiring a 2/3rds vote for approving changes to be forwarded to the legislature and the voters on a future ballot. (PO24#102) [Filed by Councillor Toner who was not on the prevailing side of that vote, and who intends to move suspension of the rules to allow this motion for Reconsideration]
Rules Suspended 8-0; Reconsideration Prevails 8-0; Tabled 8-0

I hope that the majority of city councillors will extend the same courtesy to allow reconsideration of this vote as they extended to Councillor Wilson on Aug 5 when they allowed her to change her vote at the end of that meeting. Since there will not be a full City Council until Sept 23, the best course of action would be to suspend the rules to allow Reconsideration and to then lay this matter On the Table until at least Sept 23.

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Irene Monroe to the Cambridge Library Board of Trustees.
Appointments Approved 8-0

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Avanti Tilak to the Open Data Review Board for a term of two-years.
Appointment Approved 8-0

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments and reappointments of the following persons to the Family Policy Council; Appointments: Interim Superintendent David Murphy. Reappointments: Tina Alu, Michael Johnston, Michelle Lower, Geeta Pradhan, Bridget Rodriguez, Elizabeth Stapleton (formerly Elizabeth Hill), Tagesech Wabeto.
Appointments Approved 8-0

Manager’s Agenda #14. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the reappointments of David Lyons and Elysse Magnotto-Cleary and the appointments of Khyati Saraf and Lorie Graham as Members of the Conservation Commission for a term of three-years. As well as the appointment of Jim Gerstle and Sean Bedingfield as Associate Members of the Conservation Commission for a term of one year.
Appointments Approved 8-0

There have been MANY appointments and invitations to Boards & Commissions lately. In addition to these four appointments, there are several more pending and another eight invitations with September deadlines.

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a report detailing the Board of Zoning Appeal’s proposed modifications to the Zoning Ordinance, specifically concerning the implementation of dormer guidelines. [text of report]
Petition Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board 8-0

Manager’s Agenda #16. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $416,991, received from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) to the Grant Fund Public Works Extraordinary Expenditures account to support the purchase of an all-electric rubbish packer.
Order Adopted 8-0

This should warm the heart of Councillor Nolan who is almost guaranteed to speak to this matter (she didn’t).

Manager’s Agenda #18. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $276,800, received from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy & Environmental Affairs through the Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) Program to the Grant Fund Public Works Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account. This grant will focus on increasing urban trees, create a map of high and low tree mortality areas across the Mystic River Watershed, and establish a regional urban forests working group of municipal tree wardens to develop strategies to maximize the likelihood of urban trees growing to maturity and identify priority areas where environmental justice communities live, travel and go to cool off during hot summers.
Order Adopted 8-0

Manager’s Agenda #19. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-08, regarding recommendations for the refinement and improvement of the housing permitting process. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, City Manager Yi-An Huang; Iram Farooq (CDD); Kathy Watkins (DPW); Jacob Lazzara (ISD); Deputy City Manager Owen O’Riordan; Vice-Mayor McGovern; Councillors Sobrinho-Wheeler, Azeem; Brooke McKenna (TPT); Councillors Wilson, Toner; Placed on File 8-0

Manager’s Agenda #22. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to extending the prior authorization for the City Manager or their designee to grant street obstruction approvals, along with any other necessary approvals for temporary obstructions until June 30, 2025. (CM24#197) [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by City Solicitor Megan Bayer (explains how authority of Council on street obstructions for outdoor patios delegated to City Manager, desire to make this permanent), Owen O’Riordan; Order Adopted 8-0

It has become routine since the onset of Covid to extend the authorization for outdoor patios for restaurants. Eventually, since these seem to be popular and have helped some restaurants to thrive, some reconfiguration of the streets and sidewalks may be in order so that these may be better configured permanently.

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to direct the appropriate City staff to enact policy that will extend the priority period for Social Equity and Equity Empowerment cannabis business applicants for a period of six months to one year, or until guidance has been received from the Cannabis Control Commission.  Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Simmons to add Councillor Wilson as sponsor; Councillor Azeem asks if there is any sense of expiration of this extension; Councillor Siddiqui adds that in addition to extension there are zoning issues to be considered, notes (legal) risks to extending this exemption; Councillor Wilson notes challenges to operators; Councillor Azeem asks for comments from City Solicitor; Megan Bayer notes that preference period in place now for going on 5 years, minor changes/delay in guidance from Cannabis Control Commission, need to balance against interests of medicinal cannabis retailers, exemption period expires Sept 23 (last enacted under “emergency” provisions); Azeem asks of non-equity applicants have gone through process, discomfort with open-ended nature of this process and how exceptional this is [kudos to Azeem for making total sense here]; Toner shares Azeem concerns, but in favor of an extension; Nolan concurs with desire for extension and legal concerns; Bayer notes that preference period is in ordinance and any extension would require an amendment to the ordinance; Simmons, Siddiqui comments; Order Adopted as Amended 7-0-0-1 (Azeem Present)

There must come a point where the City Council’s efforts to override basic economics (and to cater to political friends) has to be called into question and perhaps be challenged in court. One prominent Central Square cannabis retailer that was not been permitted to sell recreational cannabis has already closed while the City continues to grant special status to “social equity” and “equity empowerment” businesses - some of which are funded from some very deep pockets here and elsewhere.

Order #6. That the City Manager direct the Community Development Department (CDD) and the Law Department to draft zoning language based on the proposal discussed at the Housing Committee to eliminate exclusionary zoning and allow up to six stories of multifamily housing in all residential districts.   Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Toner; Azeem suspension of rules to also take up Committee Report #5, states that median 1BR rent now $3300, 3BR rent now ($5300) [this is very questionable and likely applicable only for new rentals in “luxury” apartments]; Azeem believes that houses destroyed by fire cannot be rebuilt [questionable], believes that this will yield 900 units of affordable housing and that his proposed changes will yield only what he sees as positive outcomes; Charter Right - Toner

Order #7. That the City Manager directs CDD to hold public meetings to inform the Cambridge community about the proposed changes before any public hearings of the Ordinance Committee and the Planning Board on this topic.   Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Toner; Charter Right - Azeem

Committee Report #5. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on Aug 21, 2024 to continue the discussion on allowing multifamily housing in all neighborhoods of the City. [text of report]
Rules Suspended to consider with Orders #5,6; Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0

The synopsis here is that most individuals and interest groups are perfectly OK with allowing multifamily housing in all zones (though I wish we could put an end to the “exclusionary zoning” terminology and its associated mythology). The matter of allowing up to six stories (or more) everywhere is far more controversial and highly questionable. I don’t think there are many people who question the need for more housing in Cambridge and elsewhere, but there are better and worse places (economically, architecturally,aesthetically, etc.) for such structures to be allowed and encouraged. Failure to make such distinctions is basically equivalent to dismissing the better intentions of zoning to create a mosaic of neighborhoods with varying features appealing to varying needs and desires. Choice is not a bad thing. I really hope the current Housing Committee is not successful in ramming through such a partisan proposal. It would be far better if our elected officials and CDD staff could be more nuanced in their analysis and perspective.

Order #8. That 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.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan; Order presumably Adopted 8-0 (but sound went out during vote)

Order #9. That the City Manager is requested to provide an update on progress towards providing a recommendation for changes to the existing ordinance and a report on the impact of the Short-Term Rentals in Cambridge, including how enforcement happens and how many units are registered and available.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Siddiqui
pulled by Nolan; Nolan expresses concern about loss of apartment rentals due to conversion to Short-Term rentals; Order Adopted 8-0

I would love to hear about the current state of short-term rentals in Cambridge - if it is at all possible to get an accurate assessment.

Order #10. That the City Manager be hereby and is requested to work with relevant staff to provide an update on the status of the Vail Court property and associate litigation in Said S. Abuzahra, Trustee of Equity Realty Trust, et al. v. City of Cambridge, in Executive Session if necessary, at a future meeting.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson
Order Adopted 8-0

The saga of this eminent domain taking continues. It has been close to a decade since that property was taken by the City and the derelict buildings demolished. I would love to see this matter settled and, ideally, a partnership with the owners of the abutting parking lot at Bishop Allen and Prospect St. crafted that can create a great mixed use development on the combined lots.

Order #11. That this City Council go on record calling for MIT’s dissociation from the fossil fuel industry in the Climate Project.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler to add Siddiqui; Order Adopted 7-0-0-1 (Toner Present)

I’ll trust MIT’s judgment on this one.

Order #12. That the City Manager is requested to provide a status Update on Automated Parking Enforcement.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan re: possible legal issues, potential for safety benefits; Order Adopted 8-0

Charter Right #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Surveillance Technology Impact Report (STIR). [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler, Aug 5, 2024]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler proposing to Table this; comments by Police Commissioner Christine Elow re: use of surveillance cameras in Central Square; McGovern notes surveillance concerns but that this is for a very specific Central Square purpose, worth a pilot program, not about “criminalizing homelessness”, people now taking advantaged of unhoused individuals and we often know who are committing crimes, but need for building a case; Megan Bayer notes that meeting held with ACLU, intent by CPD to put policies in place; Azeem notes that everyone now has a camera on them, irony that we can’t now have one when we actually need it, victims are often bystanders; Siddiqui wants a timeline for a policy to be established; Elow suggests policy to be developed before cameras activated; Nolan comments on need for policy and examples where cameras would have been helpful, many home cameras already in place and not subject to ordinance; Simmons comments in favor of these cameras; Sobrinho-Wheeler not in favor w/o policy in place; JSW Motion to Table Fails 3-5 (SS,JSW,AW-Yes; BA,MM,PN,PT,DS-No); Order Adopted 7-1 (JSW-No)

Unfinished Business #5. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to Tenants Rights 8.71.040.2 Notice by the City, City may publicize and provide information at events/programs about the requirements of Chapter 8.71 more frequently. [Passed to 2nd Reading, Aug 5, 2024; Eligible To Be Ordained]
pulled by McGovern; comments by Nolan re: info to be mailed to tenants; Ordained 8-0

I expect this will be ordained at this meeting - for what it’s worth.

Resolution #5. Condolences to the family of Valerie Corr Hanserd.   Mayor Simmons

Resolution #7. Congratulations to the Honorable Laurence Pierce on his retirement from the Court.   Councillor Toner

Resolution #8. Condolences on the death of Frederick James “Freddie” Cabral.   Councillor Toner

Committee Report #1. The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee held a public hearing on June 25, 2024 to discuss the micromobility memo prepared by Acting City Solicitor Bayer, for updates from the Community Development Department and the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department on related topics and to discuss next steps. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0

Committee Report #2. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on Aug 5, 2024 with the City Manager to receive an update on and offer suggestions for consideration in the City’s negotiations with Harvard regarding future Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreement. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0

Committee Report #3. The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee held a public hearing on Aug 6, 2024 to receive and update from the City Manager on progress in meeting annual goals, as well as the timeline and process for completing this year’s evaluation. In addition, the Committee will begin discussions for creating a process of evaluation of the City Clerk and City Auditor. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0

Committee Report #4. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on Aug 7, 2024 to discuss status updates on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding in Cambridge. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 8-0

Comments?

Joan Pickett (1955-2024)

Aug 31, 2024 – City Councillor Joan Pickett passed away last night. I will post information from her family as it becomes available. Joan was a good friend and neighbor and I will miss her greatly. - RW

Mayor Simmons’ Statement on Passing of Councillor Joan Pickett

Aug 31, 2024
Dear Friends,
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that City Councillor Joan Pickett passed away late last night following a brief illness. The family appreciates everyone’s thoughts and well-wishes at this difficult time, and news of a memorial service shall be made available to the public in the days to come.

I have alerted our City Manager, our Deputy City Manager, and the Chair of the Election Commission about Councillor Pickett’s passing. When there is news as to the mechanics of determining who shall fill this vacancy on the Council, and as to a timeline of that process, we shall work to get this information to the public as quickly and as thoughtfully as possible. We thank you for your patience and your grace as we process the loss of our friend and colleague, and as we work to continue onward with the business of governing.

Mayor E. Denise Simmons

R-6     Sept 9, 2024
MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR TONER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI

WHEREAS: It is with profound sorrow that the City Council learned of the passing of our esteemed colleague and friend, City Councillor Joan Pickett, on August 31, 2024 at the age of 69; and

WHEREAS: City Councillor Joan Pickett was a dedicated public servant and a resident of Mid-Cambridge for the past 26 years, bringing a strong background in planning, municipal finance, and community leadership to the City Council during her tenure; and

WHEREAS: Prior to joining the City Council, Joan Pickett’s distinguished career included significant contributions in commercial lending, municipal bond finance, and strategic planning at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, where she worked closely with both academic and community physicians and staff; and

WHEREAS: Joan Pickett’s commitment to community service was demonstrated through her leadership roles in organizations such as the Mid-Cambridge Neighborhood Association, Cambridge Streets for All, the Charles River Conservancy, and Caring Canines Pet Therapy, where she worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Cambridge residents and beyond; and

WHEREAS: Joan Pickett’s dedication to ensuring that the City’s policies reflect the broad sentiment of the community, her desire to ensure that all community voices were given ample consideration in creating City policies, and her focus on maintaining the City’s strong financial position were hallmarks of her service on the City Council; and

WHEREAS: Joan Pickett earned the respect, admiration, and affection of her colleagues and people throughout the Cambridge community for her warmth, her thoughtfulness, her desire to serve, and her willingness to engage with every person she came across with a sense of true decency; and

WHEREAS: The Cambridge community will greatly miss Joan Pickett’s thoughtful approach to governance, her commitment to transparency and accountability, and her unwavering dedication to making Cambridge a safe, vibrant, and inclusive city for all, and her Council colleagues shall surely miss her warmth, knowledge, and amiability; now therefore be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council go on record expressing its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community of City Councillor Joan Pickett for their tremendous loss; and be it further

RESOLVED: That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of this resolution to Adane Dessie, husband of City Councillor Joan Pickett, on behalf of the entire City Council.

Note: The Vacancy Recount is now scheduled for Thursday, September 19 at 5:00pm. Though the result is known – Cathie Zusy will be elected to replace Joan) – but the law requires that all eligible candidates must be notified prior to the Vacancy Recount.
[Preview of the Vacancy Recount]
Cathie Zusy will be sworn in at the start of the next regular meeting of the Cambridge City Council (Sept 23).

Preview of the Vacancy Recount (Cathie Zusy will be elected)

Alternate Method for Filling Vacancy - Re-run election using original ballot data with candidate(s) excluded

Official Count - November 2023 (PDF)

History of City Council and School Committee Vacancies under Plan E Charter

1941 Council
Ed Crane entered armed forces and was succeeded by Francis Scully as “acting member” under Special Act.

1941 School Committee
William Brooks entered armed forces and was succeeded by Frank Duddy as “acting member” under Special Act.
Ralph Robart entered armed forces and was succeeded by Margaret Kelliher as “acting member” under Special Act.

1947 Council
Michael A. Sullivan died in January 1949 and was succeeded by Thomas McNamara.

1947 School Committee
Robert Reardon died in July 1949 and was succeeded by Francis “Cheese” McGreahan.

1951 Council
Francis Sennott died in October 1952 and was succeeded by Thomas McNamara.

1961 Council
Guy D. Belin resigned to work in the Kennedy Administration and was succeeded by Cornelia “Connie” Wheeler.

1965 School Committee
Ed McMahon resigned to join the priesthood and was replaced by John A.P. Good. [monotonicity violation]

1983 Council
Leonard “Lenny” Russell died on June 16, 1985 and was replaced by Alfred LaRosa

1985, 1987 School Committee
Joseph Maynard died Nov 26, 1985 after being reelected. The vacancy was not filled for the remaining month of the term, and Maynard was replaced by Tim Toomey for the 1988-89 term.

1993 Council
William Walsh was sentenced to prison on Nov 15, 1994 which vacated his seat. He was replaced by Anthony Galluccio. [monotonicity violation, vacancy recount unsuccessfully challenged to Supreme Judicial Court by Jim McSweeney]

2005 Council
Michael Sullivan resigned and was replaced by David Maher on Sept 5, 2007.

2007 Council
Brian Murphy resigned to accept job with the Commonwealth and was replaced by Larry Ward on Feb 24, 2009.

2019 School Committee
Emily Dexter was elected but resigned under duress prior to Inauguration. She was replaced by David Weinstein on Jan 16, 2020.

2021 School Committee
Akriti Bhambi resigned to accept a job in New York City. She was replaced by Caroline Hunter on Dec 1, 2022.

2023 Council
Joan Pickett died on Aug 30, 2024. She will be replaced by Cathie Zusy soon when a vacancy recount is scheduled. Zusy will be sworn at the start of the next regular City Council meeting after the vacancy recount.

City of Cambridge Free Document Shredding Event September 21

Aug 27, 2024 – The Cambridge Consumers’ Council will be helping residents safely dispose of unwanted records at a free document shredding event on Saturday, September 21, from 9:30am-1:00pm, in front of the Cambridge Senior Center, 806 Massachusetts Avenue. This event, for Cambridge residents only, will be held rain or shine.

Reserved parking is available on Bigelow Street adjacent to City Hall. Any meter that has a Reserved parking sign can be used temporarily for this event and includes the following meters: BIG-0001, BIG-0002, BIG-0003, BIG-0004, BIG-0005, BIG0006, BIG-0007, BIG-0008, BIG-0010, BIG-0012, BIG-0014, BIG-0016.

Documents will be destroyed on the spot in a highly advanced technical mobile shredding truck and sent for recycling. Please note that this is a free event based on first come, first served, or until the truck is full to capacity. Limit 5 paper size boxes per household or equivalent. The Cambridge Consumers’ Council works in cooperation with the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. Information on consumer rights and safety will also be available at this event.

For more information, or to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the Consumers’ Council at 617-349-6150 or e-mail consumer@cambridgema.gov.

Members Sought for Cambridge Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity

Aug 28, 2024 – Help the City of Cambridge foster fairness, equity, unity, appreciation, and mutual understanding across all peoples and entities in Cambridge. Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking several members of the community who live and/or work in Cambridge (including private sector and municipal employees, business owners, students, and others) to become a part of the Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity.

The Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity works to provide opportunities for constructive discussions and community events regarding race, class, religion, gender, abilities, and sexual orientation by:

• Recognizing and raising awareness of historic, existing, and potential civic issues;
• Providing opportunities for honest dialogue and engagement; and by
• Building bridges across communities to better understand and connect with one another.

Committee members should have a demonstrated ability, and/or interest in working on community engagement, programming, and event planning, as well as working effectively on a team with diverse perspectives. The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. All board and commission members in Cambridge must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The application deadline is Monday, September 30, 2024.

Applications can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and or letter of interest can also be submitted during the online application process.

For more information, contact peace@cambridgema.gov or visit the Cambridge Citizens’ Committee on Civic Unity webpage.

Cambridge Community Safety Department Announces Violence Prevention Grant Recipients

Aug 27, 2024 – The Cambridge Community Safety Department (CSD) has announced that four local organizations have been awarded grant funding from the City of Cambridge in support of violence prevention programs and/or services.

These four organizations, who all have positively impacted the Cambridge community in a variety of ways, will help address and prevent multiple forms of violence and related trauma by supporting our strengths and assets so all residents and neighborhoods thrive.

Community Service Care, Inc., InnerCity Weightlifting, Inc., My Brother’s Keeper Cambridge, and the Transition House have been selected as the recipients of the grant funding. Each organization will receive $150,000 and play a crucial role in promoting ongoing community safety and well-being in Cambridge.

• Community Service Care, Inc. A program under the umbrella of Community Service Care, the Cambridge Holistic Emergency Alternative Response Team (HEART) centers on marginalized people and builds local capacity to disrupt cycles of harm by responding to crises, conducting research, and facilitating community cohesion. Among several areas, the grant funding will help HEART onboard responders who will staff the HEARTLine, perform mobile response and follow-up with community members.
• InnerCity Weightlifting, Inc. Their mission is to amplify the voice and agency of people who have been most impacted by systemic racism and mass incarceration. With a facility in Cambridge, they partner with program participants through case management and careers in and beyond personal training. Individuals are elevated as experts in fitness and the social issues they have lived.
• My Brother’s Keeper. Located in Cambridge, My Brother’s Keeper is committed to disrupting and eradicating chronic social, mental, economical and educational barriers for youth, young adults and parents. The grant funding will enable MBK to offer a Summer Empowerment Program that services Cambridge residents 18-30 years old. The program aims to equip participants with skills to embraces a high-level of excellence when thinking, mapping and executing within their academic, professional and social lives. The program’s areas of focus include post-secondary exploration, financial education, entrepreneurship, and health and well-being.
• Transition House has been a long-time social justice leader addressing domestic violence intervention and prevention by developing effective community partnerships and programs that strengthen families, prevent homelessness, and enable survivors to rebuild their lives and homes. The additional grant funding will allow further operational support and the hiring of several staff, including a Children Services Coordinator, Director of Community Support Partnerships, Community Advocate, and Clinician (adults and children).

“Violence prevention has long been a paramount priority for Cambridge,” said Liz Speakman, Director of the Community Safety Department. “Through these grants, we are excited to leverage the valued resources and expertise of these community partners and supplement the vast approaches the City is already taking to create sustained change in our neighborhoods.”

The City of Cambridge awarded these contracts after a thorough review of proposals received between May and June 2024. The selected organizations are required to implement their programs and services by June 30, 2025.

To learn more about the Community Safety Department, please visit www.cambridgesafety.org or email info@cambridgesafety.org. You can also subscribe to the Cambridge CARE Team monthly newsletter at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/tzfuwFQ.

Cambridge Seeking Residents to Host Events for Meet Your Neighbor Day

Aug 22, 2024 – Cambridge residents and community members are once again encouraged to bring their neighbors together for Meet Your Neighbor Day. Residents and community members can organize an event anytime between September 14 and 22, though Sunday, September 15 is the official event day. The deadline to submit a Meet Your Neighbor Event Submission Form is Wednesday, September 4.

Convened by the Cambridge Peace Commission and co-sponsored by the Citizen’s Committee on Civic Unity, this community-based initiative is designed to build connections in our amazing city by bringing together long-time residents, newcomers, and everyone in between. The City will help provide resources and promote the various events taking place around Cambridge.

Did you know that the City of Cambridge offers $300 awards and free Play Streets kits to support neighborhood block parties?

To make this year’s initiative even bigger and better, the Peace Commission and Citizen’s Committee on Civic Unity are seeking additional organizers to plan events (e.g. cookout, block party, service project, etc.) that can bring together neighbors — in a way that works for them!

Following the early September submission form deadline, the City of Cambridge will feature all of the Meet Your Neighbor Day events on the Peace Commission's Meet Your Neighbor webpage.

If community members have questions, please email peace@cambridgema.gov or visit the Meet Your Neighbor Day fact sheet and frequently asked questions for inspiration and ideas.

Volunteers Sought to Serve on the Cambridge Human Rights Commission

Aug 20, 2024 – The Cambridge Human Rights Commission (CHRC) is dedicated to upholding and safeguarding the fundamental human rights of residents and visitors of the City of Cambridge. CHRC works to eradicate discrimination through an investigative process, proactive community outreach, and collaborations with city and community partners. CHRC aims to create an environment where people of diverse backgrounds can live without fear of discrimination based on the following protected classes: race; color; sex; age; religious creed; disability; national origin or ancestry; sexual orientation; gender identity or gender expression; marital status; family status; military status; and source of income.

Commissioners support staff by working to fulfill the goals and objectives of the Cambridge Human Rights Commission Ordinance, Chapter 2.76 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, which covers discrimination in employment, in places of public accommodation, and in education, and the Cambridge Fair Housing Ordinance, Chapter 14.04 of the Cambridge Municipal Code, which covers discrimination in housing.

The CHRC is a city law enforcement agency that investigates, mediates, and adjudicates complaints of discrimination in the areas of employment, public accommodations, education, and housing. The CHRC also conducts workshop presentations on fair housing and employment discrimination for community groups, social service agencies, and schools.

The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion and is seeking Cambridge residents who represent the diversity of Cambridge. Commissioners should have the ability to: participate in a collaborative process; consider diverse ideas and perspectives; and to interact and work effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, persons of color, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The Commission consists of 11 members who are appointed to 3-year terms. Meetings are typically held on the first Thursday of every month from 6-8pm, at 51 Inman Street, 2nd floor conference room, with a virtual option via the Zoom platform.

Commissioners are expected to: attend monthly meetings; participate and volunteer for outreach and public education initiatives, which can include educating businesses, housing providers, and residents; promote the principals of anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion; and work with CHRC staff on the investigation, mediation, and resolution of complaints filed with the Commission.

Board and commission members in Cambridge do not generally receive compensation for their time. However, the City of Cambridge has explored the possibility of offering a stipend for high time commitment boards. Serving on CHRC does not require a high time commitment and therefore is not under consideration for a potential stipend at this time.

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, September 30, 2024. Applications can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume, or an overview of relevant experience, can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications can also be obtained at the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

For more information, contact Carolina Almonte at 617-349-4396 or calmonte@cambridgema.gov.

Members Sought to Serve on Cambridge Family Policy Council

Aug 21, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking volunteers to serve on the Cambridge Family Policy Council. The Family Policy Council, officially known as the Coordinating Council for Children, Youth and Families is dedicated to developing policy and program recommendations aimed at ensuring all children, youth, and their families have access to what they need to be successful, engaged residents who are prepared for life in our community and in the world.

We are currently looking for a community-at-large representative or representative from an active parents' group or other group involved with children and their families, and a representative from a state agency serving children, youth, and families.

Members are appointed for a 3-year term. The Mayor of Cambridge serves as the Chair of the Family Policy Council, and membership is comprised of key stakeholders in local government and in the community, which includes the following:

• Elected Officials (City Councilor and School Committee Member);
• City Department Heads (Assistant City Manager for Human Services, Assistant City Manager for Finance, Chief Public Health Officer, Police Commissioner, Cambridge Public Library Director, Superintendent of Schools);
• Community Representatives (business, community-at-large, early childhood, school age, philanthropy, state agency, university, and youth representatives).

Preferred applicants are Cambridge residents who:

• Are knowledgeable about issues facing families and their children;
• Able to attend and willing to participate in all Family Policy Council meetings;
• Will advocate for policies and programs that address and center the needs and positive outcomes for children, youth, and families impacted the most by systematic barriers.

The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. All board and commission members in Cambridge must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The Family Policy Council meets 6-7 times per year from 5:15-7:15pm. Most meetings will be in-person, and some will be online via Zoom. While meetings are generally held at the Cambridge Senior Center, 806 Mass. Ave., the 2025 location has yet to be finalized. The meeting schedule for 2024-25 is:

• Wednesday, September 18
• Thursday, October 24
• Wednesday, December 4
• Thursday, January 30
• Wednesday, February 26
• Thursday, March 27
• Wednesday, May 7

Examples of Adopted Policy and Program Recommendations

• Center for Families
• Agenda for Children OST
• Agenda for Children Literacy
• Inclusion of Individuals with Disabilities in Out of School Time Programs Policy
• Citywide Family Engagement Policy
• Community Engagement Team Making Connections Training
• Find It Cambridge
• Math Matters for Equity
• Language Justice
• Cambridge Plain Language Writing Guide
• Cambridge Cradle to Career Ecosystem Map

The deadline for submitting applications is Monday, September 30, 2024.

Applications can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during this process.

For more information, visit the Family Policy Council website or contact Nancy Tauber, Executive Director of The Family Policy Council at 617-349-6239 or ntauber@cambridgema.gov.

Cambridge Preschool Program Application for 2025-2026 School Year Opens October 1
The Cambridge Preschool Program provides access to free, high-quality preschool for all Cambridge 4-year-olds and some 3-year-olds

Aug 22, 2024 – The City of Cambridge and Cambridge Public Schools are delighted to announce that applications for the Cambridge Preschool Program (CPP) for the 2025-2026 school year will be accepted Tues, Oct 1 - Thurs, Oct 31, 2024. Overseen by the Cambridge Office of Early Childhood, CPP is a publicly-funded program that provides access to free preschool for every 4-year-old and some 3-year-olds living in Cambridge through a streamlined application and matching process.Cambridge residents who will turn 4 years old or 3 years old by Aug 31, 2025 are eligible to apply to CPP for enrollment in the 2025-2026 school year.

Beginning October 1, the CPP application will be available on earlychildhoodcambridge.org/CPP.

As the City’s universal preschool model, CPP is a mixed-delivery system designed to center equity in access and deliver high-quality education across 25 Cambridge preschool providers, including Cambridge Public Schools, the City’s Department of Human Service Programs, and community-based programs. CPP provides a single application portal where families can compare participating programs, rank 6-10 programs to apply to based on their needs and preferences, and submit their application. Families who apply in October will be notified of their child’s preschool match in January 2025.

The City of Cambridge provides funding to cover the cost of school-day, school-year preschool tuition for every Cambridge 4-year-old and for 3-year-olds who meet priority criteria. Families can choose from programs that operate full-day and year-round for an additional cost.

“As we prepare to welcome the first cohort of children enrolled in the Cambridge Preschool Program to classrooms in September, we are thrilled that nearly 800 preschoolers will begin their educational journeys with a high-quality preschool foundation that is cost-effective for families,” said Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services. “We look forward to building on this newly established program model, led by the Office of Early Childhood, to support families in applying to CPP for the 2025-2026 school year this fall.”

CPP’s inaugural application period launched in January 2024. As of August 2024, CPP has placed all eligible 4-year-olds and all priority 3-year-olds who applied to the program into programs.

• 777 Cambridge children (528 4-year-olds and 249 3-year-olds) are enrolled in programs across 61 Cambridge preschool sites for the 2024-2025 school year.
• 90% of applicants received a preschool match from one of the top 3 choices indicated on their application.
• Approximately 42% of children enrolled across CPP providers meet lower-resourced priority criteria.

“The City of Cambridge has committed $34 million in total funding to the Cambridge Preschool Program for the fiscal year 2025, making this critically important initiative one of the largest financial investments across the City’s budget,” said Yi-An Huang, Cambridge City Manager. “We are so excited for the inaugural class to start in September and apply our early learnings to make the application process for the 2025-2026 preschool year even more efficient for those families most in need.”

“Through our partnership with the City of Cambridge, we are delighted that the years-long vision of universal preschool has come to fruition as we prepare to welcome our youngest learners through our inaugural Cambridge Preschool Program,” said David Murphy, Interim Superintendent of Cambridge Public Schools. “We are extremely grateful to the city for the immense collaboration and thought partnership and look forward to reflecting and making improvements to the application process so that our families have the most positive and seamless experience possible.”

Leading up to the 2025-26 application opening on October 1, the Cambridge Office of Early Childhood will share more information about the CPP application process and participating programs. For the latest information, visit earlychildhoodcambridge.org/CPP.

City of Cambridge to Increase Street Cleaning Violation Fines to $100 Starting September 2024

Aug 20, 2024 – Beginning the week of September 1, 2024, the City of Cambridge will increase the fine for street cleaning violations to $100 per violation. This decision follows the recommendation by the Department of Public Works (DPW) after evaluating the 2023 Pilot Street Cleaning Program, which included a suspension of towing for vehicles that were not moved on street cleaning days.

The 2023 Pilot Program was widely advertised and focused on encouraging residents to continue moving their vehicles despite the suspension of towing. During the 2023 pilot, the number of tickets issued for street cleaning parking violations increased by an average of 93% and so far in 2024, the number of tickets issued has continued to increase. This indicates that vehicles are not being moved as required, despite a $50 fine per violation, which has severely impacted the effectiveness of the street cleaning program.

As the City approaches the fall season, a critical time when debris on the streets is at its heaviest, it is more important than ever to ensure that vehicles are moved to allow for effective street sweeping. When vehicles remain on the street, sweepers are forced to maneuver around them, limiting their ability to collect debris.

The Cambridge Street Sweeping Program, which dates to 1885, is essential for keeping our streets clean, free of leaves, rubbish, and debris, and for improving the water quality of stormwater discharged into the Charles River and Alewife Brook. The residential street sweeping program covers both sides of every residential street once per month from April through December, using mechanical brooms.

Key data and points about Cambridge’s Street Sweeping Program include:

• Debris Removal: Between 1,500 and 2,000 tons of material, including litter, debris, leaves, and sediment, are removed from Cambridge streets annually.
• Curb Access: Access to curbs is critical for effective street sweeping.
• Stormwater Pollution Reduction: Street sweeping decreases stormwater pollution by reducing the amount of suspended sediment, nutrients, and other pollutants that reach the Charles River and Alewife Brook.
• Flood Risk Reduction: Street sweeping helps reduce the risk of localized flooding by keeping storm drains clear of leaves and debris.

In time, the City of Cambridge filed a home rule petition to increase the fines associated with street cleaning, leading to the new $100 violation fee. Residents are urged to move their vehicles on street cleaning days to avoid fines and to contribute to keeping our City clean and safe.

For more information on the street cleaning schedule and where to sign up for reminders, visit CambridgeMA.Gov/StreetCleaning.

ARPA Grant Reimburses Cambridge Businesses and Non-Profits for New Energy Efficient Equipment and Operations

Aug 13, 2024 – The City of Cambridge and the Office of Sustainability today announced the Green Equipment for Cambridge Businesses and Non-Profits ARPA Program that provides financial assistance to Cambridge businesses and non-profit organizations negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible businesses will receive financial assistance in the form of reimbursement for the purchase of eligible equipment that makes their business operations or building more energy efficient, reduces their use of fossil fuels, or that provides renewable energy to power their operations.

Eligible businesses and non-profits may apply for up to $250,000 in reimbursement for the purchase of eligible equipment such as energy efficient lighting and refrigeration, heat pumps, induction ranges, electric water heating equipment, electric vehicles and charging infrastructure, rooftop solar, electric and solar hot water systems, and more. Funding is only available for equipment costs and is not intended to cover installation or other costs. Equipment that uses fossil fuels is not eligible for reimbursement.

Organizations are eligible to participate in this program if they are based in Cambridge, have fewer than 500 employees, and if they can demonstrate that they have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Cambridge businesses that have previously received ARPA funding for other purposes are likely to be eligible and are encouraged to apply.

Applicants will also be required to complete a no-cost Mass Save Small Business Energy Assessment, or to have had one completed within the past 6 months. Organizations are able to take advantage of savings from both the Mass Save Small Business Program and the Green Equipment for Cambridge Businesses and Non-Profits ARPA Program simultaneously.

“We are excited to further support Cambridge businesses and non-profits impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic with this unique program,” said Susanne Rasmussen, Director of Climate Initiatives. “The energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades covered by this grant will help local businesses reduce both their energy costs and their climate impact, so everyone benefits.”

To get started, Cambridge businesses and non-profit organizations are encouraged to visit the program website for complete details and to complete an application: www.cambridgema.gov/greenequipmentgrant

Applications will be accepted and funding will be issued on a rolling basis until Sept 30, 2026, or until all program funds – which total $700,000 - have been awarded.

Members Sought for Cambridge Veterans Advisory Committee

Aug 1, 2024 – Cambridge City Manager Yi-An Huang is seeking members to serve on the Advisory Committee for the City’s Department of Veterans Services (DVS). According to City Ordinance 2.42 that established this committee, the membership will include geographical representation from throughout the City of Cambridge and representation from organizations, including City of Cambridge departments, that shall be in a position to be of service to veterans.

The Advisory Committee will support the Department of Veterans Service in fulfilling part of its purpose to:

• Assist in providing information to persons who have served or are serving in the Armed Forces of the United States, and their families concerning their rights and privileges under federal, state, and local laws;
• Assist veterans in preparing for new entrepreneurial, employment, training and retraining opportunities for further education or employment;
• Encourage and support outreach and participation to veterans from underserved populations to include the Center for Minority Veteran, Women Veterans Network, etc.;
• Liaise on behalf of the Department of Veterans Services with local businesses and organizations;
• Keep informed as to the programs or facilities of any organizations, whether public or private, of service to or of interest to veterans and their families.

Committee members should possess a desire to support veterans and the DVS in providing and seeking services and programs that help veterans of Cambridge, MA. The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. All board and commission members in Cambridge must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, minorities, veterans, family members of veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Members are appointed for a one-year term, with an opportunity to be reappointed.The Advisory Committee will meet on an as needed basis, with dates to be determined.

Applications to serve on the Commission can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. For more information, contact veterans@cambridgema.gov.

The application deadline is Monday, September 30, 2024.

The Cambridge City Charter: From Town Meeting to Plan E premiered on Monday, May 15, 2023 at 5:30pm on CCTV Channel 9 and is viewable on YouTube.

Created by writer-narrators John Pitkin and Robert Winters, both long-time Cambridge residents, and director Gregorio Leon, a 2016 graduate of CRLS and Emerson College, the video is introduced by WGBH’s Jim Braude. The Cambridge’s City Charter: From Town Meeting to Plan E combines historical documents, images, maps, and statistics to present a provocative half-hour overview of Cambridge’s first 94 years as a city and the origins of the current Plan E charter.

The episode examines our shared history through the lens of the City Charter and local elections. It shows how the Town Meeting style of government became impracticable and led to the consolidation of Old Cambridge, the neighborhood around Harvard College, with the villages of Cambridgeport and East Cambridge to create the city of Cambridge, chartered by the Commonwealth in 1846. The half-hour video presents a visually engaging review of the expansion of Cambridge as bridges linked Old Cambridge to Boston in the 18th and early 19th century, as migration drove population growth, suffrage expanded, and participation in local elections increased.

A second episode of Cambridge Civic View is planned that will look at the history of the current Plan E charter. Since 1940, Plan E has defined our local government, given us the existing system of nine City Councillors with a City Manager as our chief executive, and established the ranked-choice proportional representation voting system used to elect our Councillors and School Committee. It is hoped that these videos will provide necessary perspective on how the current City Charter came to be and how it might be modified.

Comments?

Switching from Cable TV

May 23, 2024 – I am finally getting around to changing from my current “Triple Play” plan with Comcast to something better, but I need advice.

I certainly need to maintain a fast Internet connection for many reasons - not the least of which is an online course I teach via Zoom in the fall (and office hours). I also do the Cambridge InsideOut show via Zoom. For telephone (not cell phone) I have a device from Ooma that I can use for VoIP phone service at low cost.

The difficult part to understand is how to navigate the various streaming options in such a way that I don’t end up paying even more than I am currently forking over to Comcast. My primary TV needs are old movies (like TCM), Red Sox games, Twilight Zone, real news stations like BBC, all the local channels (of course), some science stuff (we’re really into cosmology), South Park, and a few other things. My understanding is that streaming can be a real data hog, and though Comcast doesn’t currently charge extra for excess data, they will likely do so at some point.

Sooo.... I am looking for a plan here. Any sage advice?

A chronology of the 1972 conflict over Proportional Representation in Cambridge
(posted Feb 24, 2023)

Featured recent stories in the Cambridge Chronicle (the paper of record) - with some comments:

If you would like to subscribe or pick up a free paper copy at various sites, I encourage you to do so. It really is The Paper of Record - even if it is currently understaffed and in need of rejuvenation.

Who were Cambridge’s 25 top paid municipal employees in 2023? We have a list (May 23, 2024)

Cambridge city, school employee salaries for 2023: Searchable Database

Cambridge’s ‘Duke’ of bartending inducted into Hall of Fame (Dec 27, 2022, subscribers only)
At 86 years old, longtime Cambridge resident Daniel “Duke” Pugliese was just inducted into the Bartender Hall of Fame after a career filled with giving to charity, pouring drinks and listening to people pour out their soul.

Fuel assistance applications available for Cambridge, Somerville residents in need (Oct 18, 2022)

Trees have a story to tell, on your next walk in the woods take in the natural history (Oct 17, 2022)

Star Market and Shaw’s acquired: What to know about the Kroger-Albertsons deal (Oct 14, 2022)

MA electricity, gas prices going up 64 percent compared to last year (Sept 22, 2022)

Measure to limit wildlife-killing rat, mice poisons is in Senate hands (Sept 22, 2022)

Somerville, Medford rents rise as landlords tout Green Line Extension (Sept 22, 2022, subscribers only)

Removing dams restores river ecology, but the process can take years (Sept 15, 2022)

Is the drought making MA water unsafe? Here’s where e-coli outbreaks have been reported (Sept 12, 2022)

Coalition says just enforcing waste bans would greatly reduce trash (Sept 9, 2022)

Plans show Cambridge nightclub, music venue could become 6-story hotel (Sept 7, 2022)

PHOTOS: Oldtime Baseball Game honors Jim Corsi (Aug 25, 2022)

Beware the Asian longhorned beetle and lanternfly, Mass residents advised (Aug 17, 2022)

Governor’s desk crowded with almost 70 measures still pending (Aug 11, 2022)

Plan E Cambridge City Councils - At A Glance (Mayor in bold) — Comments?

Plan E Cambridge School Committees (and Mayors) At A Glance — Comments?

In case you were wondering about how to make Cambridge’s PR elections independent of how the ballots are counted…

Election Method Comparison – STV/Cincinnati vs. Fractional Transfer – 2021 Cambridge City Council Election (posted Jan 15, 2022)

HOW TO BREAK A POLITICAL MACHINE
pictures added Mar 27, 2021 scanned from original magazine
[Collier’s Magazine, January 31, 1948]
Comments?

THE MUNICIPAL SITUATION IN CAMBRIDGE
A Paper read at the Annual Meeting of the National Municipal League at Chicago, April 28, 1904
by Henry N. Wheeler, President of the League
preceded by a Program of the Work of the League for 1904
[original PDF]

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes on CCJ Forum

Cambridge InsideOut currently airs every first and third Tuesday at 6:00pm and 6:30pm with producers/hosts Robert Winters and (sometimes) Patrick Barrett. We will have other guest hosts as well. All shows are posted on YouTube after broadcast.

[complete list of shows - with links to YouTube videos (and now audio too!)]

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 629-630: Sept 17, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 627-628: Sept 3, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 625-626: Aug 6, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 623-624: July 2, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 621-622: June 18, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 619-620: June 4, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 617-618: May 21, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 615-616: Apr 16, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 613-614: Mar 19, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 611-612: Mar 5, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 609-610: Feb 20, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 607-608: Feb 6, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 605-606: Jan 16, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 603-604: Jan 2, 2024 (solo w/Robert Winters)

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 63 and 64 with Glenn Koocher
We had a great time doing these shows with the man who invented the original Cambridge InsideOut - Glenn Koocher.

Cambridge InsideOut on CCTV during 2013-2014 featured co-hosts Susana Segat and Robert Winters.
Cambridge InsideOut on CCTV during 2015-2022 featured co-hosts Judy Nathans and Robert Winters.
Cambridge InsideOut on CCTV during 2022-2023 featured co-hosts Patrick Barrett (sometimes) and Robert Winters.

History - Kendall Square and the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority

MBTA Role in Cambridge Center Project – Kendall Station Urban Initiatives Project, 1979-1989 (Feb 13, 2014 by Thad Tercyak)

Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project: Six Pivotal Episodes (June 8, 2013 by Thad Tercyak)

Kendall Square Urban Renewal Project, Initial Years, 1963 to 1982 (July 12, 2012 by Thad Tercyak)

Kendall Square Urban Renewal Area – Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (Apr 5, 2012)

Open for Comments - CCJ Forum

List of all CCJ Forum posts (2009 – present) – reverse chronologically with author’s name (originally Aug 14, 2022 - updated automatically)

Acapulco Gold Rush – September 16, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted Sept 13, updated Sept 16)

Cambridge Open Archives in 2024: Archives Roadtrip! – Saturday, September 14 (posted Sept 13, 2024)

Current City of Cambridge Board and Commission Vacancies (updated Sept 11, 2024)

Amid Sorrow & Loss, the City Council Reconvenes – Sept 9, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted Sept 6, 2024, updated Sept 10)

Dog Days of Summer – August 5, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (Zoom only – Why?) (posted Aug 6, 2024)

Summer in the City – June 24, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted June 23, 2024, updated June 25)

Making the News – June 17, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted June 16, 2024, updated June 18)

Chronicling Cambridge – June 10, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted June 8, 2024, updated June 11)

Blessing of the Big Budget – June 3, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted June 2, 2024, updated June 4)

Featured Items on the May 20, 2024 Cambridge City Council Agenda (posted May 19, 2024, updated May 21)

Betwixt & Between the Budget Hearings – May 13, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted May 13, 2024)

Budget Season – and another Monday – May 6, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted May 6, 2024; updated May 7)

Turf War – April 29, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted Apr 27, 2024; updated Apr 30)

Riding the Third Rail – April 8, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted Apr 5, 2024; updated Apr 9)

No kidding around – April 1, 2024 Cambridge City Council meeting (posted Apr 1, 2024; updated Apr 2)

Random Thoughts – February 14, 2024 (posted Feb 14, 2024)

Cambridge Municipal Election News – 2023 (originally posted Oct 25, updated periodically)

Plan E Cambridge School Committees (and Mayors) At A Glance (originally posted Jan 21, 2022, updated Jan 1, 2024)

Plan E Cambridge City Councils At A Glance (originally posted Jan 21, 2022, updated Jan 1, 2024)

Municipal Election Voting Comparison: 2021 vs. 2023 (and then some) (posted Dec 16, 2023)

Voter Success and Number of Candidates – Cambridge Municipal Elections (updated Nov 26, 2023)

Rally at City Hall – Oct 9, 2023 (posted Oct 10, 2023)

What is the main message of The Crucible? (posted Oct 7, 2023)

Now It’s My Turn To Speak – by Robert Winters (Oct 2, 2023 - message from candidate Robert Winters)

New Video Series Opens With Focus on Cambridge’s Charter Leading to Plan E (posted May 16, 2023)

Municipal Broadband or Municipal Boondoggle (posted Mar 13, 2023)

A chronology of the 1972 conflict over Proportional Representation in Cambridge (posted Feb 24, 2023)

Arlington to Harvard Square on a Bicycle (by John Allen, posted Jan 31, 2023)

Alice Wolf: 1933-2023 (posted Jan 28, 2023)

An Idea Whose Time Has Come Again – Redress of Grievances (posted Jan 26, 2023)

Completing the Square [originally posted June 11, 2013]

On Love and Elections (Dec 26, 2022 by David Goode)

Sheila Doyle Russell – City Councillor, Mayor, and Friend (posted Dec 13, 2022)

ADDRESS OF THE MAYOR UPON THE FIRST ORGANIZATION OF THE CITY GOVERNMENT – 1846 (posted Dec 11, 2022)

HISTORY OF CAMBRIDGE – Rev. Lucius Paige, 1877 – INDIAN HISTORY (posted Nov 25, 2022)

A word or two about Cambridge property tax increases (posted Nov 1, 2022)

April 1 Cambridge News – Somerville Invades Cambridge! (posted Apr 1, 2022)

Election Method Comparison – STV/Cincinnati vs. Fractional Transfer – 2021 Cambridge City Council Election (posted Jan 15, 2022)

City of Cambridge Releases Comprehensive Digital Equity Study (posted Apr 20, 2021)

HOW TO BREAK A POLITICAL MACHINE – Collier’s Magazine, Jan 31, 1948 (posted Sept 24, 2020, updated Mar 27, 2021)

A few observations on density (posted Feb 16, 2021)

Cambridge Growth Policy – Toward a Sustainable Future (posted Oct 31, 2018)

The Advent of PR in Cambridge (Nov 10, 2013)

Completing the Square (June 11, 2013)

On becoming a True Cantabrigian (Dec 29, 2012 by Glenn Koocher)

The Neverending Study of Central Square

Aug 11, 2012 - While preparing to write a series of essays on Central Square, I put together the following list of Central Square studies culled from a variety of sources. I have originals for most of these. If you know of any others, please let me know. - Robert Winters

Feb 1980 - CDD report entitled “Central Square - Commercial Area Revitalization District”

June 1980 - CDD booklet entitled “Facade Improvements” with focus on Central Square

Apr 1983 - “Central Square Report” produced by City Council’s Central Square Subcommittee (study began in 1980 or 1981)

1987 - A report produced in 1987 about a Subcommittee that allegedly built on the 1983 report (may be same as Central Square Action Plan)

Nov 1987 - Central Square Action Plan

1989 - Draft Central Square Development Guidelines

May 1993 - Results of the “Mayor’s Forum on Central Square”

Oct 1993 - Report by the Committee to Promote and Enhance Central Square Now!

Aug 1994 - A Study of the Visual Images and Signage of Central Square (CDD)

May 1995 - Central Square Improvements Project, Master Plan Report

May 1995 - An Urban Design Plan for Central Square (executive summary)

May 2001 - Summary Notes from “A Conversation about Central Square”

Feb 2000 - The Gibbs Report, Central Square Commercial Market Study - Executive Summary (June 30, 1999)

Oct 2004 - Central Square, Cambridge - Rising Fortunes at a Regional Crossroads (Rekha Murthy)

Dec 2004 - Reviving a Traditional City - Central Square, Cambridge, gets a facelift (Rekha Murthy)

June 2005 - Street Media: Ambient Messages in an Urban Space - a photographic analysis of Central Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts (Rekha Murthy)

2009 - CDD Central Square Customer Intercept Survey Report

2011 - Central Square Market Profile

2011 - Red Ribbon Commission Study Report

2012 - Goody/Clancy report and recommendations

2013 - K2C2 Final Reports (Dec 30, 2013)
The final reports for Kendall Square and Central Square are now available for download. Zoning discussions based on the recommendations of the K2 and C2 Advisory Committees, which are encapsulated in these reports, will continue in 2014.

Kendall Square Central Square Planning Study (K2C2)

Central Square Final Report 2013 Part 1, December 2013 (K2C2)

Central Square Final Report 2013 Part 2, December 2013 (K2C2)

Kendall Square Final Report 2013 Part 1, December 2013 (K2C2)

Kendall Square Final Report 2013 Part 2, December 2013 (K2C2)

This comprehensive planning effort guided by stakeholder advisory committees, City staff, and a team of multidisciplinary consultants led by Goody Clancy, developed a vision and master plan for Central Square, Kendall Square, and the area South of Main Street (including the Osborn Triangle) connecting the two squares. Both final reports are divided into two parts; in each case you will need to review both parts to read the entire report.

2024 - Central Square City Lots Study

FYI - Current Rules and Goals: Cambridge City Council & Cambridge School Committee

City Council Rules 2024-2025 (as amended Mar 25, 2024)

City Council Rules 2022-2023 (as amended Nov 21, 2022)

City Council Rules 2020-2021 (as amended Oct 26, 2020)

City Council Rules 2018-2019 (adopted January 29, 2018; provisionally adopted for 2020-2021 term on Jan 6, 2020)

City Council Rules 2016-2017

City Council Rules 2014-2015 (adopted January 7, 2014, amended Feb 10, 2014 to reflect revised Council committees)

City Council Goals - FY2018 (current, adopted Oct 16, 2017)

City Council Goals - FY2012-2013 (adopted Dec 13, 2011)

City Council Committees (for the current term)

School Committee Rules (Adopted January 1, 2018; Revised June 19, 2018)

School Committee Rules (adopted January 7, 2008)    School Committee Goals (adopted October 7, 2008)

Civic Infrastructure - 2009

June 7, 2009 - Once upon a time there was a civic organization in Cambridge known as the Cambridge Civic Association (CCA). It was formed in 1945 out of several organizations that had been existed through the 1930s and that had lobbied the state legislature to create the Plan E Charter option (1938) which featured a city manager form of government and proportional representation elections for city council and school committee. These reforms were central to model charter reform movements active in the United States from the early 1900s. The central theme of the CCA in its early days was “good government” in the sense of being anti-patronage and for professionally managed local government. This changed with the introduction of rent control at the end of the 1960s after which the CCA shifted leftward and became permanently lashed to the mast of the rent control vessel. Though the CCA still exists on paper (I believe), it rapidly declined after the statewide abolition of rent control (late 1994) and essentially disappeared a decade later (early 2005).

I bring up the ghost of the CCA today only to point out that when it was created it had some very admirable goals. Here’s the original Mission Statement of the CCA:

Purposes: This association is formed for the following purposes:

1. To promote businesslike, honest, and efficient conduct of local government, open to public scrutiny.
2. To induce residents to take an active interest in the affairs of the City of Cambridge.
3. To encourage and support the candidacy of men and women seeking election to public office and to support intelligent, wholesome leadership in public affairs.
4. To assure that the best qualified persons are appointed to positions in the City government after consideration of all qualified candidates.
5. To promote among the citizens of Cambridge equitable distribution and benefit of public services and equal opportunity for economic security, education, and social advancement.

These are pretty good founding principles for a civic organization and I’m tempted to say that some should be incorporated into the recently adopted City Council’s Goals for FY2010 (adopted Feb 2, 2009). In fact, of the 22 current goals, the only one that comes close is: “An increased level of recruitment and opportunities for membership on boards and commissions.” The current Council goals emphasize things like “fostering community” via block parties and such, though one has to wonder if the City should be promoting these activities or just getting out of the way so that people can foster community on their own. The goals also seem to put some emphasis on developing “successful nightlife campaigns” while mentioning nothing about promoting ordinary “daytime” economic activity that supports the everyday needs of residents.

One founding principle of the CCA that fell into disuse over the years is listed above as #3: To encourage and support the candidacy of men and women seeking election to public office and to support intelligent, wholesome leadership in public affairs. Indeed, I can personally testify to the fact that in its dying years the only reason the CCA made endorsements at all was because the CCA-endorsed incumbents wanted the benefit of having an advertised CCA slate of candidates that would help secure their reelection. There was precious little effort to recruit new candidates or to support them. Today, the benefits of incumbency are greater than ever. The cost of political campaigns have become absurdly high and most of the incumbents now have (City paid) staff who are inevitably political appointees who directly or indirectly assist in the reelection efforts of their bosses. The deck is increasingly stacked against challengers. Furthermore, the salary and benefits for elected councillors are now so sweet that it is unlikely that any of them would ever want to move on to another job.

With this background in mind, I would like to encourage all Cambridge residents to help level the playing field by finding out about this year’s challengers for seats on the Cambridge City Council and the Cambridge School Committee. This is not meant as a dig against any particular incumbent as much as an appeal to support the challengers in what is a difficult and laudable effort. Please see the Cambridge Candidate Pages for the current list of expected candidates. Then use your own judgment - don’t expect me or anyone else to do it for you.

Speaking of this year’s municipal election, there are some activists who are now expending great effort to attack the City Manager and most of the current City Council. That is not nor has it ever been the intention of the Cambridge Civic Journal or its editor. Candidates are now being seduced by financial promises from one angry fellow with a Brattle Street address and a basketful of grudges. Former CCA Executive Board members from its darkest and most manipulative days are oozing up from the civic swamp trying to at last make good on their failed campaigns of the early 1990s to oust city manager Bob Healy.

It’s entertaining to watch people who have primarily earned disrespect in their civic efforts try to capitalize on the recent Monteiro jury decision as a means of realizing their decades-old vendettas. Conveniently forgotten in their recent letters to Cambridge’s “oldest weekly newspaper” are the many achievements of City Manager Bob Healy, the strong financial position of the City, and the recent 8-1 vote of confidence bestowed upon Mr. Healy in granting him a three year contract extension. Also missing in this testimony is the fact that virtually all affirmative action in the hiring of employees and department heads has taken place on Mr. Healy’s watch. These letters also fail to divulge how long these writers have been carrying their jealousy and anger toward Mr. Healy for actually orchestrating progress in Cambridge while the best they could ever do is snipe from the sidelines. - Robert Winters

Selected City of Cambridge References:

Plan E Charter (Cambridge’s city charter)

Acts of 1921, Chapter 239 as amended (establishment of Cambridge Election Commission)

Mass. General Laws Chapter 54A (governing Cambridge’s PR elections)

Pen Portraits of Prominent People - by Henry J. Mahoney Editor, Cambridge Sentinel - 1923

This book was published c. 1923 and features very witty one-page “pen portraits” (with photo) of prominent Cantabrigians of the day. I’ll be adding names alphabetically as time permits. There are 182 portraits in the book.

It comes to mind that there may be some value in expanding these profiles to other prominent Cantabrigians who arrived on the scene after 1923, including prominent Cantabrigians of today. With this in mind, I extend the invitation to any and all who may wish to contribute their own “pen portraits” of Cambridge people. Contributions do not necessarily have to be in the style of Mr. Mahoney. Inclusion is, as always, subject to the erratic discretion of the editor.

Special thanks to Karen Welch for sending me the book. - RW

Political History of Cambridge in the 20th Century - by Glenn Koocher (Nov 2004); edited by Robert Winters (July 2006)
[An alternate edit of this essay appeared, along with many other valuable essays, in a centennial volume to be published by the Cambridge Historical Society in 2007.]

Which People’s Republic - by Bill Cunningham (1999)