City Council - Regular Meeting

June 9, 2025
Watch Video View Transcript
AI Disclaimer: Summaries and transcripts above were created by various AI tools. By their nature, these tools will produce mistakes and inaccuraies. Links to the official meeting recordings are provided for verification. If you find an error, please report it to somervillecivicpulse at gmail dot com.

Podcast Summary

Subscribe to AI-generated podcasts:
RSS Spotify Apple Podcasts

Meeting Minutes of the Cambridge City Council

Governing Body: Cambridge City Council Meeting Type: Regular Meeting Meeting Date: June 9, 2024 Attendees:

  • Mayor Denise Simmons (Present)
  • Vice Mayor Marc McGovern (Present)
  • City Councilor Burhan Azeem (Present)
  • City Councilor Patricia Nolan (Present)
  • City Councilor Sumbul Siddiqui (Present)
  • City Councilor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler (Present, arrived late)
  • City Councilor Paul Toner (Present)
  • City Councilor Ayesha Wilson (Present)
  • City Councilor Catherine Zusy (Present, arrived late)

Executive Summary: The Cambridge City Council convened for its regular meeting on June 9, 2024. Key discussions included the annual fiscal year-end closeout process, the Zero Waste Master Plan 2.0 update, and the proposed redevelopment of the MBTA Alewife Station Complex, particularly concerning combined sewer overflows (CSOs). The Council also addressed a policy order regarding the opening of Linear Park access at Wesley Avenue, which generated significant public comment and Council debate. Additionally, the Council discussed and voted on a policy order to strengthen the Welcoming Community Ordinance concerning ICE interactions and an ordinance for electronic records archiving.

I. Roll Call

  • City Councilor Burhan Azeem: Present
  • Vice Mayor Marc McGovern: Present
  • City Councilor Patricia Nolan: Present
  • City Councilor Sumbul Siddiqui: Present
  • City Councilor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler: Absent (later arrived)
  • City Councilor Paul Toner: Present
  • City Councilor Ayesha Wilson: Present
  • City Councilor Catherine Zusy: Absent (later arrived)
  • Mayor Denise Simmons: Present

Outcome: Seven members present at the start, two absent. City Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler and City Councilor Zusy arrived later, bringing the total to nine members.

II. Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence

  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence in remembrance of Aaron Darden.

III. Remote Participation and Public Comment Procedures

  • The City of Cambridge is authorized to use remote participation for meetings.
  • Public comment can be made via Zoom teleconference, Cambridge City Open Meeting Portal, or City Cable Channel 22.
  • Sign-up for public comment is at www.cambridgema.gov/publiccomment until 6 p.m.
  • Written comments can be emailed to cityclerk@cambridgema.gov.
  • Speakers are allotted up to two minutes.
  • Individuals are not permitted to allocate time to other speakers.
  • Speakers must state their name, address, and the item they are speaking to.
  • Public comment cannot be made on items under "Communications" or "Awaiting Reports."

IV. Public Comment

  • Julia Schlossman (41 Walker Street): Spoke in support of Charter Right No. 1 (Policy Order No. 2), advocating for strengthening the Welcoming Community Ordinance to close loopholes allowing Cambridge Police Department (CPD) cooperation with ICE. Emphasized the need for clarity for immigrants and public safety officers and urged the Council to incorporate feedback from stakeholders beyond police.
  • Alex Marthews (Co-chair, Digital Fourth): Supported City Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler's request for staff to consider language requiring purported ICE agents to identify themselves. Highlighted incidents of vigilantes impersonating ICE agents and proposed language for CPD to ask for identification, treating unidentified individuals as regular public members.
  • Mary Ellen Kent (8 Wesley Avenue): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Cited concerns about increased pedestrian and bicycle traffic, crime, vandalism, litter, and dog feces. Noted the street is a small dead-end with only six houses and that the main access to the bike path is nearby on Cedar Street.
  • Mark Boswell (105 Walden Street): Supported opening access to Alewife Linear Park at Wesley Avenue (Charter Right 2). Argued it would improve usefulness, especially for children, and provide a more direct crossing. Referenced Jane Jacobs' principles of accessibility and security through "eyes on the street."
  • Kerry Nelson (9 Wesley Avenue): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Emphasized security and safety concerns for residents, particularly due to the proximity of houses to the street. Mentioned past incidents on the bike path and the existing security fence's protective role.
  • Eve Carr (128 Reed Street): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Questioned the necessity given existing nearby access points (Tyler Court). Raised concerns about traffic safety on Harvey Street, which lacks stoplights, and potential congestion on Wesley Avenue.
  • Jason Sakos (61 Harvey Street): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Stated that safety concerns for abutters outweigh convenience. Highlighted existing safe access points on Cedar Street and Harvey Street. Mentioned past issues with vandalism, crime, and theft, and concerns about pedestrian/bicycle safety crossing Harvey Street.
  • Clara Rura (10 years old, Cambridge Public School student): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Expressed fear of bike path incidents spilling onto their street, citing a past incident with a knife-wielding man and police chases. Worried about increased noise, theft, and losing a safe play area.
  • Aaron Rura (8 years old, Cambridge Public School student): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Concerned about bikes, scooters, and dogs spilling onto their street, making it unsafe for playing and practicing skills like bike riding.
  • Nicole Rura (Mother of Clara and Aaron, Wesley Avenue resident): Strongly opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue, which would be 10 feet from her front door. Criticized the lack of engagement from Councilors (except Paul Toner) with affected residents. Cited numerous incidents with intoxicated people, mental health crises, and aggressive individuals on the bike path. Raised concerns about loss of parking spaces and increased traffic on Harvey Street.
  • Emily Morshed (5 Wesley Avenue): Opposed Policy Order 82 (Linear Park access). Stated the order disregards a three-year collaborative design process for Linear Park. Argued the proposed access offers minimal benefit due to one-way street configurations for cyclists. Criticized the lack of contact with abutters before submitting the policy order.
  • Shimon Roura (10 Wesley Avenue): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Acknowledged being a cyclist but did not support the opening due to strong opposition from residents and minimal value for cyclists. Highlighted the fence's importance for security and the proximity of existing entrances.
  • Regis Shields (173 Hancock Street): Spoke on Policy Order No. 1 (curb cut at 177 Hancock Street). Expressed concern that disapproval votes from neighbors were withheld by the developer. Argued that voting against the policy order would set a bad precedent, incentivizing applicants to bypass city processes. Supported allowing the City Manager to determine if the Council can revoke an approved curb cut due to applicant failure.
  • Eric Grunenbaum (Montgomery Street): Spoke on Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Described the Alewife Brook as an "open sewer" due to combined sewer overflows (CSOs), causing odors and health risks. Advocated for a large tank and a major new wetland on the MBTA land, reconnecting green spaces. Urged the Council, Governor Healey, MBTA, and MWRA to improve the location.
  • Niels Seidler-Khan: Advocated for returning the MBTA land to marshes to filter water flowing into Alewife Brook, providing habitat and a healthier environment. Stressed that CSOs should not be part of the plan.
  • Ella Rajakumari (Arlington, MA): Spoke about the importance of the watershed for plants, animals, and humans. Highlighted pollution from CSOs, causing illness and harming wildlife. Advocated for green spaces to filter water and prevent flooding, contrasting with impermeable office buildings and parking lots.
  • Will Hausman (Belmont, MA): Expressed a desire to bike and walk on the Alewife path without sewage splashes and supported wetlands to prevent sewage.
  • Philippa Lahar (Junction of Harvey and Wesley Ave): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Compared the potential harms of increased traffic, vandalism, theft, noise, and high-speed e-bikes on a residential street to the minimal inconvenience of traveling an extra 525 feet to an existing access point.
  • Jonathan Slate (6 Wesley Avenue): Opposed opening access to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue. Recounted past issues with theft, vandalism, litter (including hypodermic needles), and crime when a hole existed in the fence. Emphasized the proximity of the Cedar Street entrance and the unique residential nature of Wesley Avenue.
  • Julian Shabrie-Lichter (Harvey Street) and other 8th graders: Spoke on Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Highlighted the tens of millions of gallons of untreated sewage dumped into Alewife Brook, causing odors and disease. Advocated for green and gray infrastructure, particularly a constructed wetland, on the vacant MBTA land.
  • Mackie Buck (Gold Star Road): Supported efforts to solve the CSO problem. Advocated for the state to resubmit the RFP for the MBTA garage removal and replacement to include a three-acre constructed stormwater wetland and underwater storage tanks, alongside affordable housing and parking.
  • Michael Rome (18 Gold Star Road): Supported recommendations from the Save the Alewife Brook Group to mitigate CSOs. Advocated for an additional constructed wetland, citing the existing wetland as a treasure. Suggested the opportunity to also provide homes for the homeless.
  • Anne McDonald (Columbus Ave): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Described living near active CSOs and experiencing sewage odors. Advocated for a sewage-free Alewife Brook, emphasizing environmental justice. Urged the Council to pressure state agencies to incorporate community vision for underground storage and green stormwater infrastructure.
  • Ann Tennis (71 Griswold Street): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Highlighted the irony of Cambridge being a climate leader while Alewife Brook remains a "sewage canal." Advocated for a water management and biodiversity plan, using the Alewife Free Zoning Working Group as a model.
  • Matthew Glidden (34 Harvey Street): Spoke on Policy Order 82 (Linear Park access at Wesley Avenue). Expressed concern about the impact of additional traffic on Harvey Street, which is undergoing significant development. Advocated for preserving the strength of neighborhood communities and existing city programs that support them.
  • Gwendolyn Spieth (16 Churchill Ave): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Described the MBTA Alewife T Station redevelopment as a "win, win, win, win, win" opportunity. Advocated for storing combined sewage during rainstorms and creating a climate-resilient complex with natural beauty.
  • Kristen Anderson (12 Upland Road West, Arlington): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Recounted personal experiences with raw sewage flooding her home and causing illness. Emphasized the December 31st deadline for Cambridge's updated sewage control plan and the opportunity for MBTA collaboration.
  • Michael Behizadeh (Arlington resident): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Described living next to an "open sewer" and the need for action. Advocated for expanding green space and solving the problem with the MBTA parking garage rebuilding.
  • Tim Garvey (203 Lakeview Ave): Opposed Policy Order E2 (Linear Park access at Wesley Avenue). Stated that the grand opening at Mass Ave and Cedar Street is only 40 seconds away by foot. Argued against destroying the quality of life for Wesley Avenue residents.
  • David White (Arlington resident): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Highlighted the problem of untreated sewage in Alewife Brook and contaminated water on the Greenway. Urged the Council to finish the job of cleaning up Alewife Brook.
  • Russell Bartash: Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage), emphasizing harm to the environment, wildlife, and people. Called for an end to illegal dumping and for Cambridge to be an environmental leader.
  • Noni Valentine (Washington Ave): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Advocated for a hybrid solution, including a stormwater tank (gray infrastructure) and green infrastructure like wetlands. Emphasized the benefits of nature-based solutions for climate change and habitat.
  • Brendan Hickey (54 Concord Ave): Spoke on City Manager's Agenda Items 6, 7, and 8 (Historical Commission appointments). Argued that appointments were defective, violating state law for term limits and requiring nominations from professional organizations. Stated that Neighborhood Conservation District (NCD) commissioners had exceeded term limits.
  • Elaine Light (Telephone): Expressed distress over the smell and danger of Alewife Brook after rainfall, calling it "shameful" and urging a fix.
  • Epa Rixey (126 Harvey Street): Supported Policy Order 86 (CSOs and MBTA). Highlighted the MBTA garage rebuild as a key opportunity for CSO mitigation and green infrastructure. Also spoke on Charter Right No. 2 (Policy Order 82), supporting the Wesley Avenue access for north-south connectivity and safety.
  • Michael Loneto (Somerville resident): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Described the degradation of Alewife Brook and the lack of long-term plans from MWRA. Advocated for using the MBTA land for sewage and stormwater management.
  • Laura Saylor (120 Thorndike Street, Arlington) and her children Isaac and Ellie: Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Expressed concern about sewage releases flooding their neighborhood and exposing them to toxins, citing a high rate of breast cancer. Children spoke about wanting to fish and play in the brook without stench and pollution.
  • Sam Ribnick (Filtherson Street): Spoke on the East Cambridge Special District overlay regarding the Biomed project at 320 Charles Street. Advocated for a more substantial community benefit, specifically supporting East End House's development at the Fulkerson Taxi Garage site.
  • Kashif Hoda (440 Cambridge Street): Supported updating the Welcoming City Ordinance to protect residents from federal overreach and ensure CPD does not coordinate with ICE.
  • Louis Weitzman (Montgomery Street): Spoke on Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Criticized the MBTA's management of the Alewife station site and the RFP process. Urged Councilors to ensure the RFP includes CSO mitigation and provides the city with a stronger say in the redevelopment.
  • Jacob Brown (Magazine Street): Supported strengthening the Welcoming City Ordinance and Policy Order 87. Expressed horror at ICE actions and the need for Cambridge to protect its immigrant community. Supported prohibiting police from engaging in sexual conduct with individuals under their control.
  • Susan LaPierre (Chair, East End House Board of Directors): Spoke in support of the Biomed Realty and East Cambridge Overlay, thanking the Council and Biomed for their partnership. Highlighted the transformative power of East End House and the opportunity for a modern, expanded facility.
  • Beth Melovchik (Russell Street, Arlington): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Urged the Cambridge City Council to compel MWRA and MBTA to address raw sewage release into Alewife Brook. Described the brook as an "open sewer" and advocated for no new sewer hookups until the problem is fixed.
  • Cynthia Hibbard (President, Green Cambridge): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Urged Governor Healey, MBTA, and General Manager Philip Eng to amend the RFP to prioritize eliminating untreated CSOs. Highlighted Green Cambridge's direct abutment to the T Station and their work on the Alewife District Action Plan.
  • Jessica Van Meer (Harvard Kennedy School, Boston Sex Workers and Allies Collective): Supported Policy Order 87 and Policy Order 80. Advocated for state bill H2634 to prevent sexual assault by officers and close loopholes. Also urged the Council to deprioritize prostitution arrests and support other bills protecting sex workers' safety.
  • Brian McCormick (70 Montgomery Street): Opposed Policy Order 82 (Linear Park access at Wesley Avenue). Advocated for preserving dead-end streets as safe, enclosed spaces for children, especially given the loss of backyards due to zoning changes.
  • Susanna Schell (195 Harvey Street): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Highlighted the MBTA station redevelopment as a "once-in-a-lifetime opportunity" to correct the rerouting of Alewife Brook into an open sewer. Advocated for green stormwater infrastructure and additional wetlands.
  • Marina Atlas (37 Pleasant Street): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Described the impact of CSOs on flood plains and environmental justice. Advocated for bioswales, permeable surfaces, and water quality monitoring.
  • Mary Carroll (Co-chair, Boston Sex Workers and Allies Collective): Supported Policy Order 87, thanking Vice Mayor McGovern and City Councilor Wilson. Emphasized the need for state bill H2634 to protect sex workers from police violence and advocated for other bills, including H1747 for safe reporting.
  • Tim Russell (69 Lakeview Ave): Supported Policy Order E2 (Linear Park access at Wesley Avenue). Argued that a few residents should not derail positive benefits for the whole neighborhood. Noted that other public streets connecting to the path are used as entrances.
  • Rebecca Gotti (3 Osborne Road, Arlington) and her children Bethany, Autumn, and another child: Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Described living on the brook and the inability of her children to play in the water due to pollution. Children expressed desire to play and fish in a clean brook.
  • Amy Waltz (Broadway): Spoke on the Zero Waste Master Plan. Argued it is inadequate, with goals that are too slow compared to Boston's. Advocated for an 80% reduction of household waste by 2030 and significant reduction of commercial/industrial waste.
  • Charles Teague (90 Jackson Street): Opposed adding a 14th entrance to Linear Park at Wesley Avenue. Cited "disinformation" about crime in the neighborhood, mentioning recent gunfights. Argued against more pavement and tree removal for an ADA-compliant path.
  • James Williamson: Spoke on the Wesley Avenue access issue. Questioned the origin of the policy order and the lack of consultation with immediate neighbors. Criticized the Linear Park project as bicycle-centric rather than park-centric.
  • Heather Hoffman (213 Hurley Street): Thanked previous speakers on CSOs. Criticized the Zero Waste Plan for not adequately addressing construction waste and tree removal. Advocated for accessible city records and retaining paper records.
  • Jessica Kenner (Endicott Ave, Somerville): Supported Policy Order No. 3 (Alewife sewage). Highlighted horrific odors and contamination of natural areas. Advocated for upgrading the system to improve quality of life and protect the community.

Outcome: Public comment closed by a roll call vote of 9-0.

V. City Manager's Agenda

A. Consent Agenda Items (Adopted/Placed on File):

  • Item 3: Appropriation.
  • Item 9: Appropriation.
  • Item 11: Placed on file (Lost and Found).
  • Item 13: Placed on file.

Outcome: Items 3, 9, 11, and 13 were adopted and/or placed on file by a roll call vote of 9-0.

B. Non-Consent Agenda Items:

  • Item 2: Communication from City Manager relative to an order authorizing the City Manager to transfer necessary funds needed to maintain appropriation control as part of the fiscal end of year closeout process.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Ayesha Wilson
    • Discussion: City Councilor Wilson inquired about the dollar amount and the process. Director Jennings stated approximately $1.4 million would be transferred, with over 95% due to the Teamsters contract settlement. Deputy City Manager O'Reilly confirmed the contract was settled in February, with backdating for a year and a half, affecting hundreds of union members.
    • Outcome: Approved by a roll call vote of 8-0 (Vice Mayor McGovern absent).

  • Item 4: Communication from City Manager relative to awaiting report item 2524 regarding a critical drought status report.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Patricia Nolan
    • Discussion: City Councilor Nolan praised the report's public outreach, interdepartmental coordination, and water supply management efforts. She asked if the city is prepared to roll out similar efforts for future droughts. City Manager Huang and Deputy City Manager O'Reilly affirmed the Water Department's consciousness of the issue and ongoing communication efforts, particularly with large water users. City Councilor Zusy also commended the report and outreach.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by a roll call vote of 9-0.

  • Item 5: Communication from City Manager relative to the submission of the Zero Waste Master Plan.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Patricia Nolan
    • Discussion: City Councilor Nolan highlighted the collaborative process and the plan's bold moves, including setting goals for commercial waste. Vice Mayor McGovern questioned why Cambridge's goals were less aggressive than state goals. Recycling Director Michael Orr explained that Cambridge's baseline is more advanced, and state goals have not always been met. He confirmed the city aims to exceed its goals and continuously implement new strategies. City Councilor Zusy praised the focus on commercial waste and reuse. City Councilor Wilson emphasized the importance of education, cultural competency, and addressing rodent activity. Mayor Simmons inquired about strategies for smaller property owners regarding move-out waste and the "pay as you throw" consideration. Commissioner Watkins explained the "pay as you throw" is a medium-term strategy due to complexities and potential unintended impacts.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by a roll call vote of 9-0.

  • Item 6: Communication from City Manager relative to the appointment of Flory Darwin, Scott Kyle, Michael Rogrove, and the reappointment of Chandra Harrington, Joseph Ferreira, Elizabeth Lister, Yu-Ting Wong, Gavin Klebskis, Paula Parris, and Kyle Sheffield.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler
    • Discussion: City Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler exercised his Charter Right for further discussion.
    • Outcome: Charter Right exercised, item moved to next week's agenda.

  • Item 7: Communication from City Manager relative to the appointment of Sarah Holt, Emily Oldshoe, and Ruth Webb, and the reappointment of Marie-Pierre Dellensinger, Donna Marcantonio, and Peter Schur to the Half Crown Marsh Neighborhood Conservation District Commission.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Patricia Nolan
    • Discussion: City Councilor Nolan exercised her Charter Right due to concerns about the legal validity of appointments regarding term limits.
    • Outcome: Charter Right exercised, item moved to next week's agenda.

  • Item 8: Communication from City Manager relative to the appointment of Nandita Matroya and the reappointments of Constantine Van Wensel, McKeldin Smith, Teresa Homacher, and Freweni Grebenwet to the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Commission.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Patricia Nolan
    • Discussion: City Councilor Nolan exercised her Charter Right due to concerns about the legal validity of appointments regarding term limits.
    • Outcome: Charter Right exercised, item moved to next week's agenda.

  • Item 10: Communication from City Manager relative to a request for the approval to seek authorization from the Massachusetts Office of the Inspector General, the IG, for the city to use the Construction Manager at Risk, CMAR, procurement and construction method in connection with...

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Catherine Zusy
    • Discussion: City Councilor Zusy inquired about past pre-construction design services and the inspiration for using CMAR for Kennedy Longfellow. Brendan Roy, Director of Capital Building Projects, explained CMAR's advantages for larger projects, including early contractor involvement and better cost control compared to traditional design-bid-build. City Manager Huang highlighted the guaranteed maximum price and fixed fee aspects. City Councilor Nolan asked about the narrative description of the Kennedy Longfellow School and ensuring fossil fuel-free goals are met. Mr. Roy confirmed the feasibility study would address these.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by a roll call vote of 9-0.

  • Item 12: Communication from City Manager relative to the amendment to the Fresh Pond Golf Pro Shop Fund Ordinance to enable the funds to be used to cover the purchase of office supplies for the shop and the purchase of supplies and services for the care, maintenance, and improvement of the golf course, shop, and parking lot.

    • Pulled by: Vice Mayor Marc McGovern
    • Discussion: Vice Mayor McGovern pulled the item for procedural reasons to send it to a second reading. No further discussion.
    • Outcome: Passed to a second reading by a roll call vote of 9-0.

  • Item 14: Communication from City Manager relative to a revised draft of the Eastern Cambridge Community Enhancement Zoning Petition.

    • Pulled by: Vice Mayor Marc McGovern
    • Discussion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to suspend the rules to bring forward Committee Report No. 2 with favorable recommendations from the Ordinance Committee. City Councilor Nolan confirmed the memo clarifies non-residential uses and that it would be moved to a second reading. Vice Mayor McGovern moved to refer Item 14 to the petition, amend by substitution with attached language, and place the City Manager Agenda item on unfinished business. He then moved to accept Committee Report No. 2 and place it on file. Finally, he moved to pass the ECCE overlay district with proposed amendments from Biomed dated April 18, 2025, to a second reading.
    • Outcome:
      • Suspension of rules: 9-0.
      • Referral to petition, amendment by substitution, and placement on unfinished business: 9-0.
      • Acceptance of Committee Report No. 2 and placement on file: 9-0.
      • Passage of ECCE overlay district with Biomed amendments to a second reading: 9-0.

  • Item 1: Request by the City Manager that the City Council move to executive session in order to discuss strategy with respect to litigation known as Saeed S. Abouzara, trustee of Equity Trust et al versus Cambridge Mass. Middlesex Superior Court docket number 2017-CV-2459. Executive session being necessary as a discussion of this matter in open session may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the city. And requested by the city managers that the city council move to executive session in order to discuss strategy with respect to litigation known as Lubavitch of Cambridge Incorporated. versus Jim Monteverdi as member of the Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeals et al., land court docket number 24 miscellaneous 00622, John W. Trapopoulos, trustee of the Trapopoulos VLT Trust et al., versus Lubavitch of Cambridge Incorporated et al., Ann Lubavitch of Cambridge Incorporated versus Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal and City of Cambridge U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts, docket number 1.24-CV-12403. Executive session being necessary as discussion of these matters, an open session may have a detrimental effect on the litigating position of the city. The city council shall return to open session at the conclusion of the executive session.

    • Pulled by: Mayor Denise Simmons
    • Discussion: Mayor Simmons moved to enter executive session to discuss litigation strategy, citing potential detrimental effects on the city's litigating position if discussed in open session.
    • Outcome: Entered executive session by a roll call vote of 9-0.
    • Return to Open Session: The Council returned to open session after the executive session.
    • Outcome: City Manager's Agenda Item 1 was placed on file by a roll call vote of 9-0.

VI. Policy Orders and Resolutions

  • Policy Order 4: City Council support of House 2634, an act relative to sexual assault by an officer.

    • Outcome: Adopted by a roll call vote of 9-0.

  • Policy Order 1: That the city manager is requested to work with relevant city departments to determine whether the city council can revoke any already approved curb cap applications if said application was incomplete due to applicant failure.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Catherine Zusy
    • Discussion: City Councilor Zusy, co-sponsor with City Councilor Nolan, expressed concern about a developer withholding negative abutters' postcards. City Councilor Toner suggested addressing this within the ongoing ordinance committee discussion on curb cuts. Vice Mayor McGovern supported the order due to concerns about incomplete information. City Councilor Azeem supported it as a request for information. City Councilor Nolan clarified it seeks an opinion on future options. Solicitor Bear stated that while all provided information was given to the Council, research would be needed to determine if fraudulent action by an applicant could allow revocation, noting that a curb cut approval is a property right and due process would be required. Mayor Simmons expressed concern about the practicality and potential for prolonged debate, voting present.
    • Outcome: Adopted by a roll call vote of 6-1-2 (6 Yes, 1 No, 2 Present).

  • Policy Order 2: The City Manager is requested to work with the City Clerk, the Information Technology Department, the Law Department, and any other relevant department to draft an ordinance establishing the City of Cambridge electronic records archiving policy.

    • Main Sponsor: Mayor Denise Simmons
    • Discussion: City Councilor Zusy requested to be added as a co-sponsor and emphasized the importance of retaining paper records alongside digitization. Vice Mayor McGovern commended the Clerk's office for their work. Mayor Simmons highlighted the historical significance of records and the ongoing digitization efforts, including for school records.
    • Outcome: Amended to add City Councilor Zusy as a co-sponsor by a roll call vote of 9-0. Adopted as amended by a roll call vote of 9-0.

  • Policy Order 3: Policy order urging Governor Healey, the MBTA Board of Directors, and General Manager Phillip Ng to amend the MBTA Owl Wife Station Complex Redevelopment RFP to include a priority eliminating untreated combined sewer overflow sewage in our neighborhood or the neighborhoods by incorporating green and gray infrastructure as central components of the project. The order further calls for the MBTA to collaborate with the MWRA, DCR, DPH, the City of Cambridge, and the community to address this public health threat.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Patricia Nolan
    • Main Sponsor: City Councilor Catherine Zusy
    • Discussion: City Councilor Nolan supported the intent but expressed concern about the specificity of the proposed solutions (e.g., "three acres of green stormwater infrastructure") without a broader understanding of the MBTA site. Commissioner Watkins explained the complexity of CSO control plans, the significant progress already made, and the ongoing collaborative process with MWRA and Somerville. She cautioned against prescriptive orders that might not align with comprehensive, effective solutions. City Councilor Zusy defended the specificity as a political document to advocate for green infrastructure and highlighted the timeliness given the MBTA's RFP timeline. Mayor Simmons exercised her Charter Right to move the item to next week's agenda to allow for further discussion and potential amendments.
    • Outcome: Charter Right exercised, item moved to next week's agenda.

  • Charter Right 1: That the exception language in Chapter 2.129.040, Section J of the Cambridge Municipal Code be revised with language clarified that the Cambridge City employees shall not participate and federal immigration enforcement operations, and that the sole role of the Cambridge City employees during any action by ICE is only to protect public safety and not to assist or facilitate the work of ICE.

    • Exercised by: City Councilor Paul Toner
    • Discussion: City Councilor Toner raised concerns from the Cambridge Patrol Officers Association about potential confrontational situations if officers are required to monitor ICE and ask for identification. Solicitor Bear clarified federal regulations on ICE agent identification (they must state they are an ICE agent but not necessarily name/badge number). City Manager Huang acknowledged the concerns but emphasized the importance of the Welcoming City Ordinance and clarifying the role of local law enforcement. Vice Mayor McGovern and City Councilor Wilson requested to be added as co-sponsors, expressing strong support for strengthening the ordinance. City Councilor Zusy referenced a Boston Globe article on rights during ICE arrests. City Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler argued the updates clarify police roles and the need to identify agents due to past abductions. City Councilor Siddiqui and City Councilor Nolan emphasized the importance of clarity and protecting residents. Mayor Simmons expressed strong support for the intent but concern about mechanisms that might put officers or residents in harm's way, voting present.
    • Outcome: Amended to add Vice Mayor McGovern and City Councilor Wilson as co-sponsors by a roll call vote of 9-0. Adopted as amended by a roll call vote of 8-0-1 (8 Yes, 0 No, 1 Present).

  • Charter Right 2: That the city managers requested to work with relevant city departments to ensure that there's a full open access for all users to Linear Park from Wesley Avenue as an additional community access point.

    • Exercised by: City Councilor Paul Toner
    • Discussion: City Councilor Toner opposed the opening, citing strong opposition from Wesley Avenue residents and the proximity of other access points. He noted the gate has been closed for 30 years due to past issues. City Councilor Nolan supported the opening, emphasizing community access, equity, and connectivity. Assistant City Manager O'Reilly confirmed the gate has been closed for approximately 30 years and that staff does not anticipate antisocial behavior. Commissioner McKenna highlighted the role of linear paths in re-knitting communities. City Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler argued for consistency in providing connections, referencing other multi-family housing areas. City Councilor Zusy opposed, citing the quiet nature of Wesley Avenue, past negative experiences, and concerns about increased pavement and tree impact. Vice Mayor McGovern proposed an amendment to add an ordered clause for the City Manager to work with the Wesley Avenue community on safety improvements, including improved lighting and a lockable gate. City Councilor Wilson expressed concern about disregarding abutters' concerns and the potential for renewed antisocial behavior. Mayor Simmons stated she would not vote for the opening, citing the 30-year closure and the impact on residents.
    • Outcome: Amended to include Vice Mayor McGovern's proposed ordered clause by a roll call vote of 9-0. Adopted as amended by a roll call vote of 5-4-0 (5 Yes, 4 No, 0 Present).

VII. Unfinished Business

  • Item 5: An ordinance has been received from city clerk relative to chapter 5.50. Cannabis business permitting referred to the ordinance committee and council March 17, 2025. Passed a second reading in council May 19, 2025. Eligible to be ordained June 9, 2025.

    • Discussion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to ordain. No discussion.
    • Outcome: Ordained by a roll call vote of 9-0.

  • Item 6: An ordinance has been received from City Clerk Diane LeBlanc relative to zoning petition to remove the repackaging prohibition as the City Council zoning petition passed to a second reading in Council May 19th. Eligible to be ordained June 9, 2025.

    • Discussion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to ordain. No discussion.
    • Outcome: Ordained by a roll call vote of 9-0.

VIII. Applications and Petitions

  • Item 1: Application from Mike Monestine, representing Central Square Business Improvement District, requesting permission for 30 temporary banners along Massachusetts Avenue from Hancock Street to Sydney Street announcing pride from June 5th, 2025 through October 31st, 2025.
    • Discussion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to adopt. No discussion.
    • Outcome: Adopted by a roll call vote of 9-0.

IX. Communications and Reports from Other City Officers

  • Outcome: Placed on file by a roll call vote of 9-0.

X. Consent Resolutions

  • Items 2 and 3: Adopted and made unanimous upon adoption.

    • Outcome: Adopted by a roll call vote of 9-0.

  • Resolution 1: Congratulations to Jane Forte on her retirement from the Cambridge Public Schools.

    • Pulled by: City Councilor Patricia Nolan
    • Discussion: City Councilor Nolan requested to be added as a co-sponsor.
    • Outcome: Amended to add City Councilor Nolan as a co-sponsor by a roll call vote of 9-0. Adopted as amended by a roll call vote of 9-0.

XI. Committee Reports

  • Committee Report 1: Government Operations Rules and Claims Committee held a public hearing on Friday, May 1st, 2025, to discuss the 2025 City Manager's Annual Goals and Review Process.
    • Discussion: City Councilor Nolan moved to accept the report and place it on file. No discussion.
    • Outcome: Accepted and placed on file by a roll call vote of 9-0.

XII. Late Resolutions

  • Late Resolution: Appreciation of Sarah Gallop and MIT's longstanding commitment to CASPAR and supporting the 2025 Strengthening Our Communities celebration.
    • Discussion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to suspend the rules and bring the late resolution forward. Mayor Simmons and Vice Mayor McGovern offered the resolution.
    • Outcome: Suspension of rules: 9-0. Resolution brought forward: 9-0. Adopted and made unanimous upon adoption: 9-0.

XIII. Announcements

  • City Councilor Ayesha Wilson: Announced Hoops in Health this Saturday, the 250th birthday of the Army, and the Emerge Massachusetts Woman of the Year event honoring Congresswoman Pressley, Senator Lydia Edwards, Register of Deeds Duff, and Representative Marjorie Decker.
  • City Councilor Sumbul Siddiqui: Announced the CSI (College Succession Initiative) graduation on Wednesday.
  • City Councilor Catherine Zusy: Announced the Historic Commission's preservation awards on Thursday, including an award for St. Augustine's African Orthodox Church.
  • City Councilor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler: Announced the Norfolk CHA ribbon-cutting on Thursday afternoon for new supportive housing units.
  • Mayor Denise Simmons: Announced several Juneteenth observances and the Cambridge River Festival on June 21st.

XIV. Adjournment

  • Outcome: Adjourned by a roll call vote of 8-0-1 (8 Yes, 0 No, 1 Absent).

Last updated: Oct 6, 2025

Back to Meetings