The Taxman Cometh – September 28, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting

There’s a lotta money on the table this week – setting the rates for the Fall tax bills, and a scheduled rally by the Teachers Union (a.k.a. Cambridge Education Association) to substantially jack up the School Department budget. There’s also a common-sense proposal to delay or stop the removal of parking on the section of Huron Ave. west of the golf course that challenges the dogma of the Cambridge Bicycle Safety crowd. There are also a couple of City Board appointments, an announcement that my pal Jason Weeks will be moving on after many years at the Cambridge Arts Council, a proposal for some minor adjustments to the Multi-Family Housing Ordinance, and more!

Here are the items that drew my attention:

Tax Rate Hearing (6:30pm): A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the FY27 tax rate. [City Manager’s Letter][Tax Rate Orders]
comments by Nolan, Zusy, McGovern, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Claire Spinner (Finance), Gayle Willett (Assessing), Flaherty, Yi-An Huang (low tax rates, high property values, highest budgets for broader and deeper services), Al-Zubi, Azeem, Nolan, Siddiqui; Order 1a Adopted 8-0-1 (DS-Absent); Nolan explains equity issues re: flat Residential Exemption; Order 1b Adopted 9-0; Placed on File 9-0; Reconsideration Fails 0-9

The bottom line is: The FY27 Adopted Operating Budget is $1.033 billion which is an increase of 4.1% (or $41 million) over the FY26 Adopted Budget. The actual FY27 tax levy required to support the FY27 Budget is $725,384,189 which is an increase of $46,531,718 or 6.85% from FY26, consistent with the estimate presented when the budget was adopted in June 2026.

The property tax levy increase of 6.85% is lower than the FY26 increase of 8.0%. The five-year (FY23-FY27) annual average increase is 7.96%, and the ten-year (FY18-FY27) annual average increase is 6.9%. The FY27 residential tax rate will be $6.95 per thousand dollars of value, subject to Department of Revenue approval. This is an increase of $0.28, or approximately 4% from FY26. The commercial tax rate will be $16.99, which is an increase of $2.92, or 21% from FY26 (which follows a 22% rate increase the previous year).

“A major concern going forward is that if residential values increase and commercial values continue to decrease, the City could hit the ceiling for the property tax classification shift. Once the classification ceiling is reached, the residential class will bear all tax levy increases while this condition continues.”

FY27 citywide assessed values reflect 2025 market activity. Total taxable property value is $70,359,954,087, a 3.8% decrease from the prior year. FY27 total residential property values increased by 2.3%. Most residential classes posted small gains. Single-, two-, and three-family values appreciated modestly; apartments were slightly up. Condominium values were flat and represent the largest share of residential tax bills. Total FY27 commercial property values decreased by 12.4%. These negative results reflect the continued softening of the office and lab markets.

By property class, an average a single-family home will see a 6.47% tax increase, a two-family will see a 8.24% increase, a three-family will see a 8.38% increase, and a condo will see a 0.71% decrease. Due to the flat residential exemption, condo owners will often see a decrease or only a very small increase in years when other property owners are hit with a significant increase. Here are the median figures including the CPA Surcharge:

FY2027 Taxes - including CPA Surcharge and Residential Exemption

History of changes in residential property taxes

Board Appointments:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appointments to the Climate Committee. [text of report]
Appointments Confirmed 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to appointments to the LGBTQ+ Commission. [text of report]
Appointments Confirmed 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an Arts Council Leadership Announcement. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $2,250,000 from the Water Fund Balance to fund the purchase of supplemental drinking water from the MWRA. [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to AR26-26 regarding harmonization of institutional bus protocols. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Order #1. City Council opposition to H.R. 8870 and Increases in Federal Truck Size and Weight Limits.   Councillor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor Azeem, Councillor Al-Zubi
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #4. That the City Council hold a Roundtable/Working Meeting on Mon, Nov 30, 2026, from 4:00-6:00pm, to discuss the future uses of City-owned properties.   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Al-Zubi
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #6. That the City Manager is requested to report back to the City Council within thirty days on the status of the negotiations between the Cambridge School Committee and the Cambridge Education Association, in Executive Session if the Law Department advises that a report in open session would disclose collective bargaining strategy Support for Cambridge Public Schools paraprofessionals, substitutes, and clerks.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled by Zusy; Siddiqui recuses herself; comments by Al-Zubi (wants to fund everything), Zusy (notes actual salary ranges, this is School Committee’s business and that proposals would add 18% to School Dept. budget, will vote No), Nolan (this is School Committee business and would step into middle of contract negotiations, district has proposed a 60% increase over 2 years of lowest paid paraprofessionals, wants School Committee to work within current budget, notes continuing mediocre MCAS results), Sobrinho-Wheeler (support any union no matter what), Flaherty (this is not just about supporting unions, but passing this would set a bad precedent), McGovern (calls this “a tough one”, but City Council has no line item authority with the School Department and its budget), Azeem (it would be fine if we spent extra, but this belongs with School Committee, Al-Zubi (claims there is no conflict of interest, wants confidential information on negotiations to be provided), Simmons (notes former School Committee members on Council and how the School Committee would resent City Council intervention in this matter - stay in our own lane), Zusy (clarifies pay ranges for paraprofessionals - average salary is more like $52,000, in line with neighboring communities); Motion Fails 2-4-1-2 (AAZ,JSW-Yes; BA,TF,PN,CZ-No; SS-Absent; MM,DS-Present)

Order #8. Postponing the roll out of the Outer Huron Bike Lanes from the Bicycle Safety Ordinance until we solve the parking problem.   Councillor Zusy, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Flaherty
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Flaherty, Simmons, Nolan, Azeem, Kathy Watkins, Al-Zubi, McGovern (w/substitute Order with Siddiqui), Siddiqui; Charter Right - Zusy

Charter Right #1. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Police Department and other relevant departments to develop a coordinated July 4th response plan for the Cherry Street, Harvard Street, and Fletcher Maynard Academy area to ensure that this spot not be utilized for the illegal use of fireworks. [Charter Right – Simmons, Sept 14, 2026]
comments by Simmons (opposes proposed amendments), Al-Zubi (withdraw previous amendment, introduce new amendment); previous amendment withdrawn 9-0; comments by Flaherty, Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern (fine w/original Order), Zusy (will vote for original Order, this is about enforcement and not social services), Siddiqui (would delete reference to Community Safety taking the lead), McGovern, Azeem; Amendment by Al-Zubi, Sobrinho-Wheeler Fail 4-3-0-2 (AAZ,PN,JSW,SS-Yes; MM,DS,CZ-No; BA,TF-Present); Original Order Adopted 7-2 (AAZ,JSW-Present); Reconsideration Fails 0-9

Resolution #3. Happy 102nd Birthday to Marvin Gilmore.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Flaherty
pulled by Flaherty with story and to be added as sponsor; comments by Simmons

Committee Report #1. The Housing Committee and the Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts and Celebration Committee held a public hearing on June 25, 2026 to continue discussion of the 2025 Multifamily Zoning Amendments and consider potential modifications. The Committees also reviewed PO26#123, relative to proposed amendments to the Multifamily Zoning Ordinance. The June 25, 2026 Committee meeting recessed and reconvened on Sept 16, 2026. At the Sept 16, 2026 meeting both Committees voted favorably to recommend to the full City Council adoption of the proposed Policy Order, as amended, requesting that the City Manager work with CDD and relevant City Departments to prepare zoning language based on the recommendations discussed at the Sept 16, 2026 joint Committee hearing. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0; comments on proposed Order by McGovern, Nolan, Yi-An Huang, Melissa Peters (CDD), Zusy, Azeem (notes that 20% Inclusionary and other zoning changes are not producing the housing that was projected, especially with high interest rates and tariffs - OK with proposed amendments but make other future changes), Flaherty (suggests having a sunset provision), McGovern, Melissa Peters (will respond within 6-8 weeks); Order Adopted 9-0

Order #11. (proposed in Comm. Report #1) That the City Manager is requested to work with CDD and relevant City departments to prepare zoning language based on the recommendations discussed in the Sept 16, 2026 Joint Housing and Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning Committees for consideration by the full City Council.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
Order Adopted 9-0 (see Committee Report #1)

Comments?

Hexus Nexus – October 5, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting

I’ll definitely have more to say about this week’s agenda - especially about the arrival of the long-delayed Nexus Study on Inclusionary Zoning - but here are the main attractions for this week’s one ring circus:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Seth Minkoff to the Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship (CIRC). [text of report]
Appointment Confirmed 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, conveying a response to AR26-32 regarding food vending in parks. [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by JSW, Zusy, Siddiqui, Nolan; referred to Gov’t Operations 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an Inclusionary Zoning Report. [Manager’s Letter][CDD/Housing Recommendations][Nexus Report]
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Al-Zubi, McGovern, Azeem, Simmons, Nolan, Flaherty, Zusy, Siddiqui; Referred to Ordinance Committee 9-0

Order #1. That the proposed language for “Tenant Notification of Property Sale” be forwarded to the Ordinance Committee for hearing and report.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by JSW, McGovern, Nolan (add as sponsor), Flaherty, Siddiqui; Order Referred to Ordinance Committee as Amended 9-0

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City staff to advocate for a stronger level of CSO Control and virtual CSO elimination by 2050 in the CSO Control Plan and to advocate for broader funding across the state and entire MWRA region, and for additional federal funding.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Azeem
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Nolan, Al-Zubi (w/amendment), Zusy (references to Magazine Beach CSO project), Deputy City Manager Kathy Watkins, Flaherty (cost concerns), McGovern, Siddiqui; Al-Zubi amendment Adopted 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Charter Right #1. Postponing the roll out of the Outer Huron Bike Lanes from the Bicycle Safety Ordinance until we solve the parking problem. [Charter Right – Zusy, Sept 28, 2026]
comments by Zusy w/amendment (calling for one-year delay so that City can install Permit Parking only signs on one side of the street), McGovern (double talk), Simmons, Flaherty (emphasizing the myriad destinations in this area that need parking), Nolan (not supportive of original, OK w/McGovern/Siddiqui substitute), Siddiqui, Al-Zubi (quotes a study suggesting these spaces not filled), Brooke McKenna (occupancy of parking spaces varies by time of year, time of day; suggesting change in regulation of parking - unrestricted in day, resident-only overnight, only golfers in their lot w/placards, changes along Glacken Field - no success in locating any off-street parking), Zusy (on when changes in parking regulations could be implemented), Nolan, McGovern (suggests use of golf course lot for evening events at Russell Center/VFW), Simmons (asks if Parkside Place were agreeable to allowing use of their parking, would it be free? - No), Kathy Watkins (not optimistic about any alternate parking), Siddiqui (asserts that majority oppose any delay); Zusy amendment Fails 4-5 (BA,TF,DS,CZ-Yes; AAZ,MM,PN,JSW,SS-No); Zusy will not support McGovern/Siddiqui amendment because it doesn’t do anything and sends the wrong message; Flaherty agrees that the substitute is disingenuous and proposal unfairly impacts this neighborhood; McGovern/Siddiqui substitute Adopted 6-3 (AAZ,BA,MM,PN,JSW,SS-Yes; TF,DS,CZ-No)

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the relevant staff and departments to implement the recommendations following the May 2025 Human Services & Veterans Committee meeting, such as strengthening anti-poverty measures, establishing a dedicated CARE Team call and referral line, prioritizing commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking prevention efforts for LGBTQIA+ youth, and report back to the City Council on progress. [Charter Right – Nolan, Sept 28, 2026]
Nolan comments on protection of sex workers not arresting or prosecuting those who sell work (“this line of work”), supports full decriminalization of sex workers, but not for those who buy it, proposed amendments to the Order; Sobrinho-Wheeler (“whatever line of work you are in”, draws parallel with cannabis legalization); McGovern (“It’s the right thing to so, we have heard a lot from people in the industry.”), Zusy (has questions for police or other City staff - “Is Cambridge Police involved in enforcement against sex workers?”), Shameka Gregory (Executive Director, Domestic and Gender-Based Violence Prevention Initiative (DGBVPI)) responds - many opinions on this, but unanimous support for protections of sex workers, lack of trust in law enforcement; Simmons comments (noting that CPS does not prioritize arrest people for sex work); Azeem calls question (9-0); amendments Adopted 8-0-0-1 (Flaherty-Present); Al-Zubi added as sponsor w/comments; Siddiqui, Simmons comments; Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-0-1 (Flaherty-Present)

192 Communications (including one supposedly from Art Vandelay - for those who get the joke)

Late Resolution #4. Resolution honoring Stephen Henry Kaiser, Ph.D.   Councillor Zusy
Councillor Zusy notes that Steve is currently in Mt. Auburn Hospital with pneumonia.

Comments?

International Night Out – October 19-20, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting

There are a number of interesting and relevant items on this week’s agenda, but that’s not what will be bring out the radical fringe. For that we have two fallacy-filled Orders from the DSA councillors (Al-Zubi and Sobrinho-Wheeler) relating to Israel and Palestine. It will be interesting to see if any other councillors join the party.

Note: The Oct 19, 2026 meeting of the City Council was recessed at 11:45pm after over 6 hours of Public Comment - almost all by people taking either side of the BDS proposals (Orders #7 and #8). There was no action on any agenda items. The meeting resumed Oct 20 at 9:00am.

Here are the items that drew my attention:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #2. Transmitting communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a recommendation that in accordance with the requirements of the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), the Cambridge City Council amend and clarify the FY27 Public Investment Bond Authorization of $12,795,000 and the FY26 Public Investment Bond Authorization of $19,986,000 for building repairs across Cambridge Public Schools. [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a response to AR26-14 regarding a comprehensive review of existing safety and security measures at Cambridge City Hall. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to PO26#81 and AR26-55 (PO26#148) regarding Multifamily Housing communications. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by McGovern, Yi-An Huang, Nolan, Zusy, Jennifer Caira (Deputy Chief of Planning, CDD); Placed on File 8-0-1 (Flaherty Absent)

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to review and reconsider the Harvard Square Kiosk Operating and Stewardship Model.   Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Flaherty
pulled by McGovern; comments by McGovern, Simmons, Nolan, Sobrinho-Wheeler; Charter Right - Sobrinho-Wheeler

Back when suggestions were being solicited for the Kiosk, I made the suggestion that the Kiosk should operate as an affordable hot dog stand (not just hot dogs, of course, but like Sullivan’s at Castle Island) with a projection screen at one end where people could watch things like Red Sox games - like we used to do through the window at Cardullo’s. Some City staff really liked the idea (albeit privately - because, you know, Cambridge), so the idea went absolutely nowhere. The current operation coordinated by CultureHouse, though perhaps well-intentioned, is thoroughly sterile. Perhaps that might improve when the whole plaza is reopened (hopefully before hell freezes over), but I agree with the intent of the City Council order that the whole operation needs to be reevaluated.

Order #3. That the City Council go on record opposing Massachusetts’ 2026 ballot question 5 on limiting state revenue due to the consequences this would have for the City of Cambridge and other municipalities across the Commonwealth.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Al-Zubi, Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #4. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Election Commission, Communications staff, and other relevant departments to encourage residents to utilize the early voting sites or vote by mail and to prioritize communication of the need for voters to plan for enough time to vote, given the complexity of the ballots.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Zusy, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Zusy; Order Adopted 9-0

Order #6. Fare-free MBTA Route 1, developed jointly with the City of Boston.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Vice Mayor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Nolan
pulled by Nolan; comments by Al-Zubi, Nolan, McGovern, Zusy, Siddiqui; Nolan added as sponsor; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

While there is merit in this suggestion, I continue to wonder how the cost of free transit and so many other “here’s some free stuff” initiatives will be funded - especially during times of limited revenue. Politicians often score points by giving away goodies without considering how to fund all the free stuff.

Order #7. City Council Divestment from companies complicit in the Genocide, Apartheid, and Occupation of Palestinians.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Al-Zubi, Azeem; Charter Right - Azeem (prior to introduction of Substitute Order from Simmons, Nolan, Flaherty)

Order #8. That the City Manager is requested to direct the City Solicitor to provide the Ordinance Committee, before its hearing, with an opinion on the proposed ordinance under M.G.L. c. 30B and applicable federal law to boycott companies complicit in Israel’s Apartheid, Genocide, and Illegal Occupation of Palestine.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Al-Zubi, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Nolan; Charter Right - Nolan

There were 875 Communications - Placed on File 9-0

Late Order #13. That the Mayor work with the City Council Office, the City Clerk’s Office, and other City staff to call and notice a special meeting to take place the week of October 26, 2026, to continue discussion on PO26#195 (Order #7) and PO26#196 (Order #8).   Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Simmons
Order Adopted 9-0

Let’s not beat around the bush here. Both of these orders are based on falsehoods fueled by social contagion. My guess (or perhaps my hope) is that most city councillors will vote Present on both of these Orders and that there will be at most 3 sincere votes in support (you can likely throw in Siddiqui in addition to the sponsors of the Order). Then again, any councillors who still dream of “moving up” may fear the wrath of the DSA if they don’t at least go along with some less inflammatory substitute. It should be noted, of course, that offering substitute versions is really just a way to “have it both ways” rather than to definitively call out an ill-conceived proposal.

I see that a “Continuation of the City Council meeting (if necessary)” has already been scheduled for the following morning at 9:00am, so I guess we can expect to be treated to many hours of Public Comment on Monday night. I was able to witness a preview on Sept 29 in front of City Hall where protesters staged a “die in” after the usual chants and speeches and waving of Palestinian flags. Political players included Councillors Al-Zubi and Sobrinho-Wheeler (no others), soon-to-be State Senator Erika Uyterhoeven (DSA), and the perpetually ineffective State Rep. Mike Connolly - all of whom chanted along with the accusations of genocide and the now time-worn calls of the BDS movement (Boycott, Divest, Sanction).

I really hope there will be some public comment opposing these Orders, but the intimidation of those who disagree is very real.

Note: After the Charter Right was exercised on Order #7 and Order #8, the proponents of those two Orders, mainly wrapped in their keffiyehs and many wearing face masks, exited loudly with the stamping of feet and chanting “Free, Free Palestine!” At the end of the meeting, Councillor Al-Zubi exited the Sullivan Chamber saying to those still assembled in the gallery (many of whom were Jewish): “I guess you people are pro-genocide.”

Order #9. City Council support of the Artificial Intelligence Civil Rights Act of 2025 (S.3308 / H.R.6356) and urge Congress to enact strong, enforceable civil rights protections for automated systems used in consequential decisions.   Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Azeem, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #11. That the MWRA reconsider plans to construct a 10-million-gallon CSO storage tank beneath Magazine Beach.   Councillor Zusy, Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor Azeem, Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Flaherty, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, McGovern, Simmons, Flaherty, Nolan, Yi-An Huang, Kathy Watkins; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

The proposal recently presented by the MWRA for their CSO storage tank that would require permanently fencing off 2.3 acres of newly restored green space at Magazine Beach is a non-starter that should be unanimously opposed.

Order #12. Reaffirming the City Council’s commitment to high-quality health care for all residents and its strong support of H.1405/S.860, An Act establishing Medicare for All in Massachusetts.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui
pulled by Zusy; comments by Al-Zubi, Zusy; Order Adopted 9-0

Committee Reports #1. The Housing Committee held a public hearing on Oct 1, 2026 to have a roundtable discussion with several arts and cultural institutions in Central Square on planning and cultural preservation in Central Square. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

I am still perplexed about this topic being addressed by the City Council’s Housing Committee when it so obviously should have been before the Neighborhood and Long-Term Planning, Public Facilities, Art, and Celebrations (NLTP) Committee.

Comments?

BDS Invades Cambridge – Special October 28, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting

The two City Council Orders that precipitated this Special Meeting are nothing more than the latest attempt by anti-Israel extremists to have the Cambridge City Council sign on to the BDS movement (Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions) that has been going on since 2005 - long before the Oct 7, 2023 invasion of Israel and the military response that followed against Hamas, Iran, and other Iranian proxies. Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) is a Palestinian-led global movement that advocates for economic, academic, and cultural boycotts against Israel.

An alternative version of PO26#195 that does not specifically name Israel was circulated at last week’s City Council meeting in an attempt to allow a couple of City Council swing votes to perhaps vote for something, but the better course of action is not to play to these extremists and to simply vote NO on both Orders. If you agree, you may want to sign this petition. - RW

CHARTER RIGHT
Order #7 (Oct 19). City Council Divestment from companies complicit in the Genocide, Apartheid, and Occupation of Palestinians.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (PO26#195)
Substitute Order (Azeem) Passes 5-4 (AAZ,BA,MM,JSW,SS-Yes; TF,PN,DS,CZ-No)

Order #8 (Oct 19). That the City Manager is requested to direct the City Solicitor to provide the Ordinance Committee, before its hearing, with an opinion on the proposed ordinance under M.G.L. c. 30B and applicable federal law to boycott companies complicit in Israel’s Apartheid, Genocide, and Illegal Occupation of Palestine.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler (PO26#196)
Order Fails 4-5 (AAZ,MM,JSW,SS-Yes; BA,TF,PN,DS,CZ-No); angry crowd erupts after vote.

Both of these orders are based on falsehoods fueled by social contagion. My hope is that most city councillors will vote No on both of these Orders – or perhaps Present if they must engage in “bothsidesism” in an attempt to keep the extremists at bay. My sense is that there are at most 3 sincere votes in support (Al-Zubi, Sobrinho-Wheeler, and Siddiqui). Offering substitute versions is really just a way to “have it both ways” rather than to definitively call out an ill-conceived proposal.

Note 1: After the Charter Right was exercised on Order #7 and Order #8 on Tues, Oct 20, the proponents of those two Orders, mainly wrapped in their keffiyehs and many wearing face masks, exited loudly with the stamping of feet and chanting “Free, Free Palestine!” At the end of the meeting, Councillor Al-Zubi exited the Sullivan Chamber saying to those still assembled in the gallery (many of whom were Jewish): “I guess you people are pro-genocide.”

Note 2: The last time proposals like this were paraded before the City Council was in May 2021 (May 17, 2021 and May 24-25, 2021 meetings) when the specific call for a boycott was directed at Hewlett-Packard. Leading the parade then were Councillors Zondervan, Sobrinho-Wheeler, and Carlone. A substitute Order introduced by Councillors Nolan, McGovern, and Simmons passed on a 5-2-0-2 vote with Councillors Mallon, McGovern, Nolan, Simmons, and Toomey voting YES; Sobrinho-Wheeler and Zondervan voting NO; and Carlone and Siddiqui voting PRESENT.

Order #2 (Oct 19). That the City Manager is requested to review and reconsider the Harvard Square Kiosk Operating and Stewardship Model.   Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Simmons, Councillor Flaherty (PO26#189)
Tabled 9-0

Back when suggestions were being solicited for the Kiosk, I made the suggestion that the Kiosk should operate as an affordable hot dog stand (not just hot dogs, of course, but like Sullivan’s at Castle Island) with a projection screen at one end where people could watch things like Red Sox games - like we used to do through the window at Cardullo’s. Some City staff really liked the idea (albeit privately - because, you know, Cambridge), so the idea went absolutely nowhere. The current operation coordinated by CultureHouse, though perhaps well-intentioned, is thoroughly sterile. Perhaps that might improve when the whole plaza is reopened (hopefully before hell freezes over), but I agree with the intent of the City Council order that the whole operation needs to be reevaluated.

I have no idea how this Order made it to the agenda for this Special Meeting. The October 20 Order calling for the Special Meeting only referenced the two BDS-related orders. - RW

Comments?

Lame Ducks and Marching Sheep – November 2, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting

Most eyes are likely fixated on the national election and whatever Presidential stunts and Congressional reactions that may follow. That said, the revolutionaries are still revolving here in the Peoples Republic of Cambridge where truth and fiction are frequently interchangeable. The barricades have been removed from City Hall after the political theater of the last couple of weeks, and one can only wonder what spectacle is coming next.

By the way, the quick summary of last week’s Special Meeting on Things Unrelated to Cambridge is this:

(1) The City Council requested that the Cambridge Retirement Board divest from certain listed investments, but the Retirement Board is under no obligation to do so. The Board represents retired and current Cambridge employees who either receive or will one day receive pensions, and the Board’s principal fiduciary duty is to those people. The Cambridge City Council has ZERO authority over the Retirement Board. The amended Order also requests the City Manager to develop, publish, and maintain its own Divestment List for purposes of the Order.

(2) The more significant matter was the call for the City Administration to boycott Israel-connected companies in its purchasing and contracts, and that policy order was defeated without the proposed ordinance being referred to the Ordinance Committee.

Here are the items on this week’s agenda that drew my attention:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to AR26-66 regarding discussions with MWRA about improvements to water quality and advancement of CSO infrastructure without taking of public parkland or prolonged disruption to Magazine Beach. [text of report]
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Jim Wilcox (DPW), McGovern, Nolan, Deputy City Manager Kathy Watkins, Flaherty, City Manager Yi-An Huang; Siddiqui; Placed on File 8-0-1 (Azeem Absent)

It’s a rare moment when just about everyone in Cambridge can agree on something.

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City staff to consider an integrated development review process in which demolition and tree removal permits are reviewed with and issued concurrently with the building permits Issuing Demolition and Tree Removal Permits in Conjunction with Building Permits Approval.   Councillor Zusy, Councillor Nolan, Mayor Siddiqui
Charter Right - Zusy

In a rational world you might believe that all of these things and more would be reviewed as soon as a development plan for a site is proposed. You may as well throw in the curb cut applications and how they plan to manage the rubbish and recycling as well.

Order #4. City Council support of the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA) and urge the conference committee on the economic development bill to adopt the House’s local-option version.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui
Order Adopted 8-0-1 (Azeem Absent)

I am an example of a tenant who was given the opportunity to purchase my triple-decker by my then-landlord, so you won’t find me railing against the idea of existing tenants getting the opportunity to buy either the apartment in which they currently live or even the entire building. That said, I absolutely don’t agree that this is a right that should be enshrined into law. However, the reason I could never support this TOPA proposal is that it’s not really about tenants purchasing their apartments. That right would be transferable to any “qualified nonprofit housing organization”.

In other words, this legislation would provide a mechanism through which the City’s Affordable Housing Trust or other City-supported nonprofit housing organization would be able to snap up any residential property covered under this proposed law. While the “social housing” supporters may see this as ideal and would happily support dedicating an increasingly large fraction of the City’s Budget to purchase these buildings, the reality is that all such buildings would then have deed restrictions, and the amount of tax revenue they would pay would be de minimis – even though the residents of those buildings would continue to enjoy all City services. In other words, the owners of the remaining residential properties (and commercial properties) would have to pick up the tab in perpetuity.

If you are a socialist, you will likely fully support this legislation. I personally believe that privately-owned residential property is the ideal and that the alternative is ultimately unsustainable.

On The Table #1. That the City Manager is requested to review and reconsider the Harvard Square Kiosk Operating and Stewardship Model. [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler (Oct 20, 2026); Tabled Oct 28, 2026]
comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, Elliot Veloso (Law Dept.), Zusy, Nolan, Al-Zubi, Flaherty, Yi-An Huang, Siddiqui, Melissa Peters (CDD); Sobrinho-Wheeler amendments amended and adopted 6-2-1 (McGovern, Simmons - No; Azeem Absent); Order Adopted as Amended 8-0-1 (Azeem Absent)

Back when suggestions were being solicited for the Kiosk, I made the suggestion that the Kiosk should operate as an affordable hot dog stand (not just hot dogs, of course, but like Sullivan’s at Castle Island) with a projection screen at one end where people could watch things like Red Sox games - like we used to do through the window at Cardullo’s. Some City staff really liked the idea (albeit privately - because, you know, Cambridge), so the idea went absolutely nowhere. The current operation coordinated by CultureHouse, though perhaps well-intentioned, is thoroughly sterile. Perhaps that might improve when the whole plaza is reopened (hopefully before hell freezes over), but I agree with the intent of the City Council order that the whole operation needs to be reevaluated.

Whatever is decided, I hope that the rules imposed on whatever entity manages the Kiosk (and the adjacent plaza) will allow for a far greater degree of energetic activity and spontaneity - devoid of political preachiness. It’s not a library and it shouldn’t feel like one. - RW

Comments?

Margaret Hamilton has died. Her software guided the Apollo missions. (New York Times, Oct 7, 2026)

Margaret Hamilton, pioneering programmer whose software rescued the first moon landing, dies at 90 (by Bryan Marquard, Boston Globe, Oct 8, 2026)

Margaret was a neighbor on Inman Street who I got to know a bit in recent years. Having grown up during the years of the Apollo missions, I have considered it a great privilege to have had the opportunity to meet some of the people who were substantially involved in those missions. Margaret passed away on September 30. - RW

Cambridge Seeking Community Member for New Community Preservation Act Committee Vacancy

Nov 2, 2026 – The City of Cambridge is currently seeking to fill a vacancy on the Community Preservation Act Committee. The deadline to apply for the Committee is November 30.

The Community Preservation Act Committee makes funding recommendations in support of affordable housing, open space, and historic preservation. It studies the needs, possibilities and resources of the City regarding community preservation. The Committee consults with existing municipal boards, including the Conservation Commission, the Historical Commission, the Planning Board, and the Housing Authority in conducting studies. As part of its study, the Committee holds one or more public informational hearings on the needs, possibilities and resources of the City regarding community preservation possibilities and resources.

The committee has nine members, including representatives from the Cambridge Housing Authority, Affordable Housing Trust, Historical Commission, Conservation Commission, and Planning Board, and a member with oversight of City parks. Learn more about the Community Preservation Act by visiting their website.

Committee members serve a five-year term and typically meet virtually four times a year between May and September. There may be additional off-cycle meetings.

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 across a variety of topics.

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.

If interested applicants have questions or require more information, please contact cpa@cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4270.

Cambridge Seeking Community Members for New Commission Vacancies

Aug 25, 2026 (updated Sept 21) – 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 across a variety of topics.

The City of Cambridge is currently seeking to fill vacancies on the Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board and the Planning 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:

Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board (Application deadline extended to October 31, 2026, but is apparently still open.)
The CCPD Advisory Board works to increase access to all aspects of Cambridge community life for people with disabilities. The Commission raises awareness about disability issues and promotes equal opportunities for people with a range of abilities, including physical, mental, and sensory. CCPD also provides information, referrals, guidance, and technical assistance to individuals and their families, employers, public agencies, businesses and private non-profit organizations. CCPD Advisory Board members work with other board members and office staff to carry out the CCPD Ordinance (Cambridge Municipal Code Chapter 2.96).

The CCPD Advisory Board, which has 11 members who serve as volunteers for three-year terms, currently meets virtually on the second Thursday of every month at 5:30pm. Members must attend monthly meetings and also take part in Working Groups and work on projects as needed.

If interested applicants have questions or require more information, please contact CCPD@cambridgema.gov, call 617-349-4692 (voice), or 711 (relay).

Planning Board (Application Deadline: September 21, but is apparently still open.)
The Planning Board is a group of Cambridge residents who make recommendations and decisions about urban development on behalf of the City of Cambridge. The Planning Board meets regularly in a public forum to discuss the City’s urban planning objectives, and apply them in the following ways:

• Reviewing major urban development proposals, granting certain types of Special Permits when they are needed, and putting conditions on Special Permit approval. The Planning Board reviews about 20-25 Special Permit cases each year;
• Reviewing proposed amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance, which sets rules for urban development, and making recommendations to the City Council. The Planning Board reviews about 10-15 proposed zoning amendments each year;
• Making recommendations to the Board of Zoning Appeal (BZA) on some cases. The BZA is a different board that grants some Special Permits and variances;
• Discussing other City of Cambridge planning efforts.

The Planning Board, which has 10 members who serve as volunteers for five-year terms, typically meets one-two times in the evening every month virtually or in a hybrid format.

If interested applicants have questions or require more information, please contact Swaathi Joseph in the Community Development Department at 617-349-4668, email sjoseph@cambridgema.gov or visit www.cambridgema.gov/planningboard.

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

Community Preservation Act Committee (Application Deadline: Nov 30, 2026)

Commission for Persons with Disabilities Advisory Board (Application Deadline Extended: Oct 31, but apparently still open)

Planning Board (Application Deadline: Sept 21, but apparently still open)