Cold Comfort – February 9, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting

It didn’t take long for things to get weird. Featured this week are: (a) a proposal to practice job discrimination against anyone who chose to work for ICE or a similar federal agency; (b) a proposal to more than double the Resident Permit Parking fee and to eliminate the senior exemption; and (c) in spite of last week’s Finance Committee hearing detailing the need to curtail spending, fresh new proposals to expand the costly pre-K program and other child care programs. There’s also a pseudo-scholarly report on the erstwhile Rise Up Cambridge initiative that comes to the shocking conclusion that getting free money enables people to buy more stuff.

Here are a few notables on this week’s agenda:

Fighting the Feds

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by Yi-An Huang, Nolan, Megan Bayer, Flaherty; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #2. Transmitting communication from Police Commissioner, Christine Elow, regarding a Federal immigration enforcement tracker. [text of report]
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Nolan, Christine Elow; Referred to Public Safety 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the relevant City staff and departments to examine if and how the City may prevent the hiring by the Cambridge Police Department of any sworn officer who was hired on or after January 20, 2025 by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, or Customs and Border Patrol, and report back to the City Council in a timely manner.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Al-Zubi
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; speech by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by McGovern, Al-Zubi (w/amendment), Flaherty, Nolan (who thinks that if you’re trained in one way, that cannot be changed), Azeem, Zusy; explanations by City Solicitor Megan Bayer and Asst. City Solicitor Kate Kleimola re: conflict w/state law and civil service system; Amended 9-0 to delete date of hire, add Al-Zubi as sponsor; Adopted 9-0 as Amended

Any other brilliant ideas of jobs, hobbies, beliefs, or other activities that should permanently disqualify people from employment opportunities? Have these councillors considered the possibility that someone just needed a job and this was an available opportunity?

Order #2. Protecting Academic Freedom and Condemning Attacks on Higher Education.   Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Al-Zubi, Vice Mayor Azeem
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan; speech by Al-Zubi; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #4. That the City Manager is hereby requested to direct the Law Department to draft ordinance language restricting the use of City-owned or City-controlled property, facilities, resources, and personnel for the purposes of federal civil immigration enforcement, and that the Law Department evaluate whether these protections should be adopted as an amendment to the Welcoming Community Ordinance.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Siddiqui, McGovern, Nolan, Al-Zubi (w/amendments), Sobrinho-Wheeler, Megan Bayer, Azeem, Zusy; Al-Zubi amendments Adopted 9-0; add Al-Zubi, Azeem, Zusy as sponsors 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting a Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to proposed changes to Cambridge Municipal Code Chapter 8.28, Regulation on Youth Access and Sale of Tobacco Products and on Smoking (“Chapter 8.28”). [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan; Referred to Health & Environment 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Violence Prevention Recommendations Report from the Community Safety Department. [text of report]
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Al-Zubi, Marie Mathieu, Zusy, Siddiqui, Nico Emack, Flaherty, Yi-An Huang, McGovern, Nolan; Referred to Public Safety 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a plan to align all housing and homeless services and programs into a unified Housing Department. [text of report]
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by Siddiqui, Simmons; Tabled 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication was received from City Manager, Yi-An Huang, transmitting Planning Board recommendations on the Institutional Use Zoning Petition. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Nolan, McGovern; Referred to Petition 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the final research report on Rise Up Cambridge, the City’s citywide cash assistance program. [text of report]
pulled by McGovern; comments by McGovern, Siddiqui; Referred to Human Services & Veterans 9-0

Free money enables people to buy more stuff. Some of us already knew that.

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department (CDD) to examine the feasibility, legal considerations, and administrative requirements of permitting qualified third-party guarantors or co-signers for applicants to Inclusionary Housing units and provide recommendations as to whether such a policy could responsibly expand access to these units.   Vice Mayor Azeem, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Simmons
pulled by Zusy; comments by Azeem, Zusy; Order Adopted 8-0-0-1 (Zusy - Present)

They really do hate car owners - no matter what their age

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to raise the fee of the parking permit program for all residents to $75, consider how to include a self-identified check off option so as not to increase administrative costs for a subsidized fee of $25 for residents who live in affordable housing, are enrolled in a program such as SNAP or are low income, remove the senior exemption for the residential parking permit program and lower the number of cars that individual residents are allowed to get a residential parking permit for from four to two.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Nolan (who wants the fee to be even higher), McGovern, Zusy, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Al-Zubi (who wants the fee to be $0 for low-income), Simmons; Charter Right - Simmons

Responding to decreased revenue by proposing expanded programs and more spending

Order #6. That the City Manager is requested to work with the City Council and relevant City departments on the process by which Cambridge can expand free early child care offerings, including models for means-tested programming, and exploration of non-City funding sources, from the state or foundations.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui
pulled by Zusy; comments by Nolan, McGovern, Zusy, Al-Zubi, Azeem; Charter Right - Simmons

Order #7. That the City Manager is requested to begin discussions with MIT, CASPAR, the co-chairs of the Human Services and Veterans Committee, all relevant city departments and the shelter residents to develop a plan to renovate and expand 240 Albany Street in order to provide additional low threshold shelter, housing and day time services, while accommodating shelter residents impacted by the construction closure with housing and support, including low threshold options.   Councillor McGovern, Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled by McGovern; comments by McGovern, Al-Zubi, Zusy, Simmons, McGovern; Order Adopted 9-0

I remember when the CASPAR “wet shelter” consisted of trailers which were upgraded to a permanent structure by MIT in exchange for several streets in Kendall Square. The alternative proposal at that time was to move the facility to 380 Green St. in the heart of Central Square.

Charter Right #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-69, regarding a review of the previous home rule petition and prepare a new petition that would allow Cambridge to enact a Real Estate Transfer Fee to be sent to the state legislature. [Charter Right – Nolan, Jan 26, 2026]
Comments by Nolan (w/amendment), Megan Bayer, Azeem, Al-Zubi, Flaherty (wants to change so that fee charged to buyer rather than to seller), Chris Cotter, Zusy, Siddiqui; Amended 8-0-0-1 (Al-Zubi - Present) to change “equal to 2%” to “up to 2%”; Tabled 6-3 (Al-Zubi, Nolan, Sobrinho-Wheeler - No)

See my comments from the previous meeting.

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager ask the appropriate departments to review the city’s digital equity work to date, including the study’s recommendations and all steps taken since the study conclusion in order to update the evaluation of existing internet access programs, assessing whether residents’ digital needs are or could be better provided for and to propose how we can better meet their needs and to report back to the Council by June 2026 on internet access programs. [Charter Right – Al-Zubi, Jan 26, 2026]
Comments and amendments by Al-Zubi; Amendments Adopted 9-0; Add Al-Zubi as sponsor; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Resolution #2. Condolences on the passing of Robert K. Patterson, Sr.   Councillor Flaherty
Comments by Flaherty

Resolution #3. Resolution on the Retirement of Kate Joyce.   Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui
Comments by Simmons, Siddiqui, McGovern, Flaherty, Nolan, Naomie Stephen

Resolution #9. Resolution in Recognition of Michael J. Johnston, Esq., on his Retirement.   Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons
Add Simmons as sponsor

Communications & Reports #2. Announcement of appointments to the City Clerk Preliminary Screening Committee. (COF26#10) [text of report]
Appointed: Councillor Marc McGovern; Councillor E. Denise Simmons; Councillor Catherine Zusy; Megan Bayer, City Solicitor; Raecia Catchings, Chief People Officer; Matt Nelson, Director of Administration & Operations, Executive Office; Melissa Peters, Assistant City Manager for Community Development; Naomie Stephen, Executive Assistant to the City Council
Placed on File 9-0

Communications & Reports #3. City Council Value Statement and Priority Areas for the 2026-2027 term (COF26#11) [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Comments?

Winter Carnival - January 26, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting (remote only due to snow emergency)

After several mild winters, we’re getting a taste this week of what we’ve been missing. Having migrated to Cambridge 48 years ago as soon as the roads were reopened after the Blizzard of '78, this is for me a mixture of nostalgia and terror. That said, life goes on at City Hall and the Peoples Republic of Cambridge. There’s even a new system for public meeting notices (complete with the expected glitches). Here’s what’s on tap this week:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
pulled by Siddiqui; statement by Yi-An Huang; comments by Siddiqui, Al-Zubi (wants to revise Welcoming City Ordinance), Flaherty, Nolan, City Solicitor Megan Bayer, McGovern; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to AR25#69, regarding a review of the previous home rule petition and prepare a new petition that would allow Cambridge to enact a Real Estate Transfer Fee to be sent to the state legislature. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan re: impact on rents, etc.; Charter Right - Nolan

It is worth noting that there already are taxes on the sale of real estate in Massachusetts. The Mass. real estate transfer tax (also known as stamp tax) is $4.56 per $1,000 of the property’s value, plus the newer “millionaire’s tax” on sales over $1 million - due at closing to the Registry of Deeds. The Affordable Care Act also has its 3.8% “Net Investment Income Tax” that applies to individuals, estates and trusts that have certain investment income above certain threshold amounts. A local Real Estate Transfer Fee would be on top of those other taxes.

This proposed additional transfer tax would be 2% of the portion of the purchase price exceeding $1,000,000. This was before the City Council on Feb 26, 2024, and the Council at that time adopted the Order on a 6-2-1 vote with Joan Pickett and Paul Toner voting No, and Burhan Azeem Absent. The most recent call to re-file the home rule petition was on Dec 8, 2025, and it passed 8-1 with Paul Toner voting No. I would be inclined to vote against this – or at least demand a full accounting of the total fees and taxes associated with a real estate sale. There is also the larger question that should be asked about what fraction of a city’s housing stock should be taken out of private ownership and moved into government or government-related ownership. The socialists certainly have made their preferences clear.

Order #1. That the City Manager ask the appropriate departments to review the city’s digital equity work to date, including the study’s recommendations and all steps taken since the study conclusion in order to update the evaluation of existing internet access programs, assessing whether residents’ digital needs are or could be better provided for and to propose how we can better meet their needs and to report back to the Council by June 2026 on internet access programs.   Councillor Zusy, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor Azeem
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Zusy (w/cost concerns); Charter Right - Al-Zubi

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments regarding incorporating plant-based solutions into the Sustainable Cambridge initiative, incorporating plant-based purchasing practices in City-operated events, and using municipal communications channels to promote sustainable and affordable food and drink practices throughout the city.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zusy
pulled by Zusy; comments by Nolan, McGovern, Zusy (add as sponsor); Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Resolutions like this one give me an appetite for a double cheeseburger.

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prioritize pilot projects in 2026 without the use of a consultant for an extensive pedestrianization study, and in the medium-term consider how additional pedestrianization of a section of Brattle Street by restoring two-way traffic to JFK Street could enhance the Square.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zusy
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Nolan, Simmons, Al-Zubi (thinks 2-way JFK St. would be dangerous - not aware that it was previously a 2-way street); Order Adopted 9-0

I’m sure the newly rebranded Department of Congestion, Obstruction, and Aggravation (a.k.a. Department of Transportation, formerly the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department before they chose to remove all references to motor vehicles) will have a few ideas to share about this proposal.

Order #8. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide an update regarding PO25#69 FY26 Operating Budget a continued commitment to Emergency Housing Vouchers for Permanent Supportive Housing and Mixed Status Families, and the Transition Wellness Center.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

An update on this initiative is overdue, but let’s be clear that the Transition Wellness Center was never meant to be a permanent program.

Order #9. That the Mayor hereby appoints a committee, to screen applicants for the position of City Clerk.   Mayor Siddiqui
pulled by Zusy; taken up with Comm. & Reports #4; comments by Siddiqui, Simmons (re: prior process), Zusy (thanks to Paula Crane), Flaherty (will find no one better than Paula Crane); Order Adopted 9-0

Communications & Reports #4. A communication was received from Mayor Siddiqui, transmitting information about the search process for a permanent City Clerk. [text of report]
Taken up w/Order #9; Placed on File 9-0

I look forward to the process for this crucially important position, but at this point I have little confidence in Mayor Siddiqui’s committee appointments.

Charter Right #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Final Landmark Designation Report for the Nathaniel Stickney House at 45 Mt. Auburn Street. [Charter Right – Al-Zubi, Jan 12, 2026]
Comments by Al-Zubi (will vote for landmarking, wanted more “community members” in the conversation), Azeem (not in favor, calls report “vindictive”), Sobrinho-Wheeler (wants “community use” preserved - based on what exactly?, feels that City should be providing these spaces), Flaherty (was in the building before the Democracy Center was there, notes that entire area is an historical district, will not support landmarking), Zusy, Kathy Watkins, Charles Sullivan (Historical Commission), Nolan, McGovern, Simmons, Flaherty; Order Failed of Adoption 2-7 (Al-Zubi, Zusy - Yes)

But first we have to hear from the activists.....

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to conduct a comprehensive review of existing safety and security measures at Cambridge City Hall, which shall include an assessment of physical access controls, visitor screening practices, on-site security staffing and training, emergency response and evacuation protocols, and the use of security technologies such as surveillance systems and alarm monitoring.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Flaherty, Councillor McGovern (PO26#3) [Charter Right - Simmons, Jan 12, 2026]
Comments by Simmons; add McGovern as sponsor 9-0; comments by McGovern, Flaherty (notes that there are metal detectors in buildings across the Commonwealth), Azeem (notes that measures now in place in State House and Boston City Hall and they are still welcoming, says he has received threats), Nolan (can support this depending on what measures are suggested), Simmons, Al-Zubi (with alternate amendment w/JSW), Yi-An Huang (notes challenges due to layout of the building with two entrances, would be helpful to discuss this with a subset of councillors, real concern would be gun weapons - what problem are we trying to solve?, solutions could be costly, this will take some time to consider), Sobrinho-Wheeler, Simmons, Zusy (would support an assessment as proposed by Simmons, suggests this might be the subject of an Executive Session), Siddiqui, Al-Zubi; Al-Zubi amendment fails 4-5 (AAZ,PN,JSW,SS - Yes; BA,TF,MM,DS,CZ - No); Order Adopted as Amended 7-1-0-1 (Sobrinho-Wheeler - No; Al-Zubi - Present)

On the Table #3. An Ordinance has been received from Interim City Clerk Paula M. Crane, relative to amend the Zoning Map and Articles 3.000, 17.000, and 19.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance as follows with the intent of establishing four new zoning districts for the Cambridge Street corridor. [Passed to 2nd Reading, Dec 8, 2025; Eligible to be Ordained Dec 22, 2025; Expires Jan 28, 2026] (ORD25#17) [Revised][Published]
Removed from Table 9-0; Taken up with Mgr #12, Comm. & Reports #2; Ordained as Amended 6-3 (see Mgr #12)

Communications & Reports #2. Proposed Amendments to Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. [text of report]
Taken up with Mgr #12, On The Table #3; Placed on File 9-0

(Late) Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. (CM26#15) [text of report]
motion of McGovern to take up this item, Communications & Reports #2, On The Table #3; comments by Nolan, Yi-An Huang, Azeem (will support amendments, but not excited about it), Sobrinho-Wheeler (will oppose amendments), Zusy, Melissa Peters (CDD), Al-Zubi (will abstain on amendments, will vote No on overall petition, only wants “working class” people to benefit, notes that future Nexus study will likely reduce inclusionary requirements, says 20% inclusionary is minimum she would accept, talks about race and class, wants social housing, decommodification instead), McGovern (says this is NOT being rushed, objects to any requirements that slow down housing development, would prefer 8 stories on Cambridge St., concerns about middle-income residents, notes that we can’t get 6 votes w/o these amendments), Flaherty (would prefer that petition expire, will not support the amendments, notes that housing shortage is a regional issue, notes that last year entire city was upzoned with inevitable demolitions and no affordability requirement, prefers that Cambridge remain a sustainable city for families, does support upzoning on Webster St. area, would prefer Special Permit requirements), Siddiqui (re: amendments, not rushed, potential impacts, possibility of social housing), Azeem (contradicts Flaherty saying that this is effectively only changing Webster Ave. area, sees social housing as weakening AHO, leading to more market-rate housing and less affordable housing), Simmons (wants to vote); McGovern moves to amend Cambridge St. Petition by substitution; Amendments Pass 6-2-0-1 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Simmons, Zusy, Siddiqui - Yes; Flaherty, Sobrinho-Wheeler - No; Al-Zubi - Present); Petition Ordained as Amended 6-3 (BA,MM,PN,DS,JSW,SS - Yes; AAZ,TF,CZ - No); Communication Placed on File 9-0; after procedural questions of Al-Zubi, Simmons, Flaherty, Zusy, McGovern, Rules Suspended for the Purpose of Reconsideration 7-2 (Flaherty, Zusy - No); Reconsideration Fails 1-8 (Zusy - Yes)

The ABC (A Bigger Cambridge) insiders are apparently pulling out the stops to rush this one through – regardless whether it is reflective of the goals of the Our Cambridge Street community process (a planning study for Cambridge Street between Inman Square and Lechmere Station) that supposedly led to the current rezoning petition.

Resolution #1. That the City Council formally go on record in extending its deepest condolences to the family of Donald Williams for their tremendous loss.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons; Sadly, Don passed away on Saturday, Jan 24, 2026 - a true friend of Central Square; Amended Resolution Adopted 9-0

Resolution #5. Speedy Recovery wishes to Mr. Hatch Sterrett.   Councillor Al-Zubi
Note: Hatch’s full name is Henry Hatch Dent Sterrett, III.

Committee Report #1. The Housing Committee and Finance Committee held a joint public hearing on Dec 3, 2025 to discuss the feasibility and potential impacts of implementing residential development incentives - such as tax incentives, public equity financing, and reduced fees and requirements - on housing production and city finances. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on Dec 4, 2025 to review and discuss the Executive Summary from the Community Benefits Advisory Committee which was presented to the full City Council on May 19, 2025, CM25#128. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. The Public Safety Committee held a public hearing on Dec 9, 2025 to further discuss the implications of deploying automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) and to discuss whether adjustments should be made related to the deployment of ALPRs since approval in February of this year, CM25#257, which was in City Council on Oct 20, 2025. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #4. The Health and Environment Committee and Housing Committee held a joint public hearing on Dec 11, 2025 to review and discuss PO25#137, which asks the Community Development Department to draft zoning language to reduce the impact on solar energy systems, based on the recommendations discussed in the Sept 16, 2025 Health and Environment Committee meeting. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Late Order #10. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the relevant City staff and departments to order that the flag at Cambridge City Hall, the main administrative municipal building, be flown at half-staff as soon as practicable in somber remembrance of and sympathy with Renee Good and Alex Pretti and their friends and families, the dozens of individuals who have lost their lives at the hands of federal immigration enforcers, and the people enduring the brutality of the Trump Administration’s illegal and violent efforts for at least seven days.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Al-Zubi, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem
Comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, Nolan, Azeem; Order Adopted 9-0

Comments?

Cambridge Seeking Community Members for New Board and Commission Vacancies

Jan 12, 2026 – Serving on a City of Cambridge board, commission or committee can be a rewarding experience and an excellent way to contribute to our community. Members have the opportunity to participate in the City’s decision-making process for a variety of topics.

The City of Cambridge is currently seeking to fill vacancies on the Cambridge Bicycle Committee, Pedestrian Committee, Human Rights Commission and Open Data Review Board.

Apply today at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. If you have questions about the application process or need assistance, please contact the City Manager's Office at 617-349-4300 or boardsandcommissions@cambridgema.gov.

Below is more detailed information on each of the current vacancies:

Bicycle Committee (Application Deadline: February 13)

The Bicycle Committee provides feedback to City staff on bicycle-related projects. City staff use this advice to inform city and state projects in Cambridge.

The Bicycle Committee also works in the community to encourage biking through events and publicity. The Bicycle Committee also works with other bike organizations in area on these goals.

The Bicycle Committee is made up of people who live or work in Cambridge, and have an interest in bicycle issues. Members include commuters, people with disabilities, parents, seniors, youth, students, and low-income neighborhood residents.

The term length is two years, and Bicycle Committee generally meets for two hours on the second Wednesday of every month and, as needed, for up to two hours on the third Wednesday of every month as part of combined meetings of the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Transit Advisory Committees. Most meetings are hybrid. Members can join remotely or in-person at the City Hall Annex (344 Broadway).

If interested applicants have questions or require more information, please contact Nick Schmidt at nschmidt@cambridgema.gov.

Pedestrian Committee (Application Deadline: February 13)

The Pedestrian Committee works to improve walking in Cambridge. This means making walking or rolling safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable. The Committee does this by providing input to City staff on projects related to walking and rolling. These can be City, state, or development projects in Cambridge. The Pedestrian Committee gives input on designs, plans, policies, programs, and events.

The Pedestrian Committee is made up of people who live or work in Cambridge, and have an interest in pedestrian issues. Members include commuters, people with disabilities, parents, seniors, youth, students, and low-income neighborhood residents.

The term length is two years and the Committee generally meets for two hours on the last Thursday of every month and, as needed, for up to two hours on the third Wednesday of every month as part of combined meetings of the Bicycle, Pedestrian, and Transit Advisory Committees. Members can join remotely or in-person at the City Hall Annex (344 Broadway). If interested applicants have questions or require more information, please contact Nick Schmidt at nschmidt@cambridgema.gov.

Human Rights Commission (Application Deadline: February 13)

The Cambridge Human Rights Commission (CHRC) is dedicated to upholding and safeguarding the fundamental human rights of residents and visitors to the City. 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; source of income; family structure, and relationship status.

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 term length is three years and meetings are typically held on the first Thursday of most months from 6-8pm. Members can join remotely or in-person at 689 Massachusetts Avenue, 2nd Floor.

If interested applicants have questions or require more information, please contact Carolina Almonte at calmonte@cambridgema.gov.

Open Data Review Board (Application Deadline: February 13)

The Open Data Review Board makes recommendations to the City Manager and the Data Analytics & Open Data Program Manager on policies, rules, and standards related to Cambridge’s Open Data Program, including methods for determining the appropriate level of accessibility for new datasets and timelines for making new datasets available.

The Review Board will help answer questions such as what privacy and security standards should Cambridge adopt as it assesses potential open datasets, what data quality and standards should be in place to ensure the accuracy of its own open datasets in order to improve city operations, how might Cambridge align open data initiatives with the city's other strategic initiatives, and how should Cambridge engage and educate the broader community.

The term length is two years and meetings are usually hybrid and held quarterly on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday from 5:30-8pm in the Ackermann Room of Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue.

If interested applicants have questions or require more information, please contact Reinhard Engels, Data Analytics & Open Data Program Manager, rengels@cambridgema.gov.

Interested candidates are encouraged to review the Cambridge Open Data Strategic Plan for 2026-2028 to learn more about the program’s goals and priorities.

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

Bicycle Committee (Application Deadline: February 13, but apparently still open)

Pedestrian Committee (Application Deadline: February 13, but apparently still open)

Human Rights Commission (Application Deadline: February 13, but apparently still open)

Open Data Review Board (Application Deadline: February 13, but apparently still open)

Cambridge Commission on the Status of Women (apparently still open)

How a developer’s lawsuit against Cambridge aims to topple affordable housing rules across Massachusetts

The suit takes aim at inclusionary development requirements, which have created thousands of affordable apartments in recent decades
Boston Globe, by Andrew Brinker, Dec 29, 2025

New lawsuit challenges Cambridge inclusionary zoning ordinance

By Michael P. Norton, State House News Service, Dec 3, 2025

Related: Lessons in Inclusionary Zoning - by Patrick Barrett

Urgent Legal and Policy Concerns Regarding Cambridge’s Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance (May 1, 2025)

Follow-Up Memo on Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance Concerns Under MBTA Communities Act Compliance (June 11, 2025)