City Council - Regular Meeting

September 8, 2025
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Meeting Minutes: Cambridge City Council Regular Meeting

Date: September 8th, 2025 Governing Body: Cambridge City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting

Attendees:

  • Councilor Burhan Azeem
  • Councilor Patricia Nolan
  • Councilor Sumbul Siddiqui
  • Councilor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler
  • Councilor Paul Toner
  • Councilor Ayesha Wilson
  • Councilor Catherine Zusy
  • Mayor Denise Simmons
  • Vice Mayor Marc McGovern (Absent for roll call, present for remainder of meeting)

Executive Summary

The Cambridge City Council convened for a regular meeting on September 8th, 2025. Key discussions included the city's approach to federal funding uncertainty and immigration enforcement, particularly concerning ICE actions and the impact of recent Supreme Court decisions. The Council also addressed the appropriation of funds for the Jail Diversion Program's co-response model, the appointment of members to the Community Benefits Advisory Committee, and proposed amendments to the Cambridge Tobacco Ordinance. Significant attention was given to establishing a formal policy for supporting large-scale public events, developing a comprehensive policy for future private development projects, and addressing the deadline for the charter change ballot question. The meeting concluded with a discussion and adoption of an amended policy order regarding the oversight of the garden area between St. James Episcopal Church and Beach Street Condos.

Official Meeting Agenda

I. Roll Call

  • Present: Councilor Azeem, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons.
  • Absent: Vice Mayor McGovern.
  • Outcome: Eight members present, one absent.

II. Pledge of Allegiance & Moment of Silence

  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • A moment of silence was observed in memory of Mary Lino, a long-time Cambridge resident and former city employee.

III. Public Comment

  • Public comment was conducted remotely via Zoom teleconference and in-person.
  • Speakers were allotted two minutes each.
  • Denise Gilson (Executive Director, Harvard Square Business Association): Spoke in favor of Policy Order #116 (formal policy for city support of large-scale events) and Policy Order #117 (redirecting municipal tourism funding to business associations). Emphasized the need for city support for events that drive foot traffic and the new funding source for the Cambridge Office for Tourism through the TDMD program.
  • Alice Killian (Junior Warden, St. James's Episcopal Church): Spoke in reference to Policy Order #108. Described an increase in porch use by unhoused individuals, including evidence of drug use, and the church's efforts to manage the situation through volunteers and a community engagement associate. Highlighted the need for collaborative solutions.
  • Carol Ann Barrett (Resident, 44 Clarendon Avenue; Member, St. James's Episcopal Church): Spoke about Policy Order #108. Supported offering respite to unhoused neighbors and detailed the church's existing relationships with First Step, Bay Cove Caspar, and the Cambridge Police Department (Lt. Chris Ponte). Advocated for additional funding for the CARE team to provide 24/7 service.
  • Reverend Matthew Stewart (Priest, St. James Church, 1991 Massachusetts Avenue): Spoke in favor of Policy Order #108 (as amended). Expressed concerns about the uncritical use of the word "unsafe" and urged a nuanced approach to issues concerning the unhoused, differentiating between true safety concerns and discomfort.
  • Jessica Scully (Board Chair, Harvard Square Business Association, 4 Humboldt Street): Supported Policy Order #117. Argued for realigning municipal tourism dollars to neighborhood 501c6 organizations (Central Square BID, East Cambridge Business Association, HSBA, Kendall Square Association) given the Cambridge Office for Tourism's stable TDMD funding. Proposed equitable distribution, coordination, and accountability through annual operating plans and quarterly reports.
  • Rebecca Bjork (Resident, 20 Concord Ave, Unit C; Member, St. James's Episcopal Church): Spoke on Policy Order #108. Thanked the Council for reviewing proposed edits. Refuted claims of excessive trash, needles, and feces in the church garden, stating daily checks are now in place. Stated that CPD does not consider the property a "hot problem spot" and emphasized the church's compassionate approach to unhoused individuals.
  • Siobhan McDonough (Resident, Walden Street; Member, Democratic Socialists of America and United Auto Workers): Spoke about Policy Order #10. Expressed concern about the authoritarian federal government and surveillance contractors like Flock Safety. Cited reports of Flock sharing license plate data with federal border patrol agents and tracking individuals for abortion-related reasons. Urged a "yes" vote on Policy Order #10 to protect Cambridge from federal surveillance.
  • Susan Miller Havens (Resident, 7 Beach Street): Spoke on Order #108. Thanked Council members for addressing drug and unhoused issues and Police Commissioner Elo for support. Requested funding for the CARE team at night and enforcement of a "no trespassing after dusk" rule. Reported witnessing drug dealing in the garden at night.
  • Steven Barrage (Resident, 7 Beach Street, Unit 316): Supported Policy Order #108. Emphasized the need for integrated services for the unhoused and public health/safety services for residents. Announced a tentative agreement reached during a mediation session between the church leadership and condo association, but stressed the continued need for city services, especially at night.
  • John Reynolds (Resident, 7 Beach Street): Supported Policy Order #108. Highlighted differing perceptions of safety, particularly regarding nighttime drug transactions. Emphasized the cooperative undertaking between the condominium and the church in advocating for Order #108.
  • Cheryl Hamlin (Resident, Beach Street): Supported Order #108. Described frequent loud and disruptive behavior and drug activity in the garden at night. Advocated for more police cooperation and increased funding for the CARE team to operate at night.
  • Jo Yuen Brown (Resident, Unit 215, St. James Place): Spoke for Policy Order #108. Described nightly gatherings of unhoused individuals on church porches, sometimes feeling scary, and witnessing urination, defecation, and needles. Emphasized the need for city help to improve the church's process.
  • Alex Marthews (Digital Fourth, 28 Temple Street, Belmont): Commented in favor of Policy Order #10. Raised concerns about Flock Safety cameras, citing new features that generate suspicion based on AI algorithms and the potential for racial profiling. Highlighted Flock's data sharing practices with federal agencies.
  • Sarah Radigan (Trilogy Law, LLC, representing 4850 Park Avenue, LLC): Spoke regarding a request for curb cut approval at 4850 Park Avenue. Noted that the relocation and broadening of the curb cut would create four off-street indoor garage parking spaces for a new two-family dwelling. Mentioned 13 letters of approval received.
  • Jacob Brown (Resident, Magazine Street): Supported Policy Order #10. Expressed concerns about the federal government's authoritarianism and the role of surveillance contractors like Flock Safety. Cited Flock's data sharing with ICE and CBP, and its alleged misrepresentation of these practices. Urged a "yes" vote to protect Cambridge from federal surveillance.
  • Ruth Riles: Requested help for drug and homelessness issues in the Porter Square area and at St. James. Appreciated the Council, police, and CARE teams' support.
  • Patrick Barrett (Hotel Owner): Supported Policy Order #117. Criticized the Cambridge Office of Tourism's effectiveness and funding model, advocating for redirecting funds to business associations. Also expressed concern about a Reverend's comment during public comment.
  • LaQueen Battle (Resident, 86 Otis Street; CHA Resident): Spoke about agenda items 2 (funding for firefighters) and 7 (job readiness programs). Praised job readiness programs (like CNA training) for providing stable employment and community contribution, especially for low-income individuals and migrants. Advocated for continued funding for these programs and firefighters.
  • Michael Monestime (President, The BID; Resident, Fort George Street): Supported Policy Orders #116 and #117. Emphasized the importance of cultural events for civic identity and economic life. Argued that city tourism dollars should strengthen neighborhood organizations that create local experiences, especially given the Office of Tourism's TDMD funding.
  • James Williamson (North Cambridge): Supported Policy Order #116 but suggested lowering the threshold for public support to include smaller events and community groups. Questioned the Office of Tourism's kiosk building and funding.
  • Heather Hoffman (Resident, 213 Hurley Street): Commented on civic engagement, large family-friendly events (supporting smaller thresholds), accessibility (urging inclusion of low/no vision individuals), and litigation (requesting a report on the city's compliance with a temporary restraining order).
  • Charles Franklin (Resident, 162 Hampshire Street): Spoke in favor of Policy Order #9, requesting the city to inform the community about the Micromobility Commission's work. Emphasized the need to consider mobility-challenged and disabled individuals in streetscape redesign.
  • Outcome: Public comment closed on an affirmative vote of nine members.

IV. Submission of the Record

  • Item 1: Regular Meeting Minutes of May 19th, 2025.
  • Item 2: Council Regular Meeting Minutes of June 9th, 2025.
  • Item 3: Minutes of the City Council Special Meeting of June 16th, 2025.
  • Item 4: Minutes of the City Council Special Meeting of August 4th, 2025.
  • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to accept minutes 1, 2, and 4 and place them on file.
    • Outcome: Accepted and placed on file (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to amend minutes of June 16th, 2025 (Item 3) to add public comment.
    • Outcome: Amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to place the amended minutes of June 16th, 2025 on file.
    • Outcome: Amended and placed on file (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

V. City Manager's Agenda Items

  • Consent Agenda: Items 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7 were adopted.
    • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to take up items 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7.
    • Roll Call Vote:
      • Councilor Azeem: Yes
      • Vice Mayor McGovern: Yes
      • Councilor Nolan: Yes
      • Councilor Siddiqui: Yes
      • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
      • Councilor Toner: Yes
      • Councilor Wilson: Yes
      • Councilor Zusy: Yes
      • Mayor Simmons: Yes
    • Outcome: Adopted (9-0).
  • Non-Consent Agenda:
    • Item 1: Federal Update, including relevant court cases. (Pulled by Councilor Nolan)
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Nolan expressed relief regarding Judge Allison Burroughs' ruling on the Harvard University and American Association of University Professors cases, which protected federal funding from the Trump administration.
        • City Manager Yi-An Huang provided an update on federal funding uncertainty:
          • HUD Continuum of Care homelessness grant for FY26: $6.3 million.
          • King County vs. Turner lawsuit: HUD enjoined from withholding grant funding.
          • Subawards for July-September: $770,000 (expected reimbursement).
          • Anticipated extension for October-December: $1.4 million (reimbursement pending litigation outcome).
          • Emergency Solutions Grant and Public Services CDBG grants: $140,000 for July-September, another $140,000 for October-December.
          • Total additional federal grant funding proposed: $1.5 million, potentially addressed by the federal funding stabilization fund.
        • City Manager Huang also updated on immigration and ICE actions:
          • Increased ICE activity in the region, with dozens of arrests reported over the weekend.
          • Six notifications and interventions by ICE in Cambridge in 2025.
          • Cambridge Police Department (CPD) builds community trust and does not support civil immigration enforcement.
          • Concerns about the dramatic increase in ICE funding in the federal budget reconciliation bill.
          • Supreme Court decision lifting restrictions on federal agents' reliance on factors like race, ethnicity, or language, legitimizing racial profiling.
        • Police Commissioner Christine Elow clarified ICE notifications:
          • ICE typically notifies CPD of their presence but does not provide specific details.
          • Six interactions in 2025, compared to four in 2024, indicating a slight uptick.
          • All interactions involved individuals previously arrested by CPD.
          • CPD refers ICE to the Welcoming Community Ordinance and does not share information.
          • CPD advises residents to call 911 or the non-emergency line if they see ICE activity.
          • CPD officers will have placards identifying them as Cambridge Police.
        • Councilor Siddiqui inquired about city preparations for increased ICE activity, including De Novo's role.
        • Councilor Azeem and Toner suggested a public page or regular reporting on ICE interactions.
        • Councilor Nolan expressed concerns about future federal funding cuts impacting clean energy and Medicare/Medicaid.
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to place City Manager's Agenda Item #1 on file.
      • Outcome: Placed on file (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
    • Item 4: Appropriation of $120,000 from Massachusetts Department of Mental Health Jail Diversion Program to Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary and Maintenance Account. (Pulled by Councilor Nolan)
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Nolan sought clarification on how the co-response model works with the CARE and Community Safety Department.
        • Police Commissioner Elow stated this is a continuation of a grant for the co-responder program, separate from CARE, and data is being collected for evaluation.
        • Dr. Jamie Barrett (on the line) clarified that co-response only goes to police calls and involves an armed officer. He noted daily collaboration between the Family Social Justice Section and Community Safety to coordinate responses and avoid duplication.
        • Councilor Nolan emphasized the need for continued communication and collaboration across departments, acknowledging that co-response is not always appropriate and advocating for non-armed responses where possible.
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to approve the appropriation.
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Councilor Azeem: Yes
        • Vice Mayor McGovern: Yes
        • Councilor Nolan: Yes
        • Councilor Siddiqui: Yes
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
        • Councilor Toner: Yes
        • Councilor Wilson: Yes
        • Councilor Zusy: Yes
        • Mayor Simmons: Yes
      • Outcome: Approved and placed on file (9-0).
    • Item 8: Appointment of Stephanie Alexis, Sally Bambasset, Christina Turner, and reappointment of Elizabeth Aguilo, Warren Murphy, and Michelle Lauer as members of the Community Benefits Advisory Committee for a three-year term. (Pulled by Councilor Zusy)
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Zusy questioned the timing of appointments before defining the committee's function and the scope of development mitigation funds (Policy Order #5). She suggested a need for members with business expertise if funds are used for infrastructure or cultural space, not just social services.
        • Assistant City Manager Ellen Semonoff clarified that the appointments adhere to an existing ordinance defining the committee's membership and duties. She noted that the Council could amend the ordinance to change membership criteria.
        • Councilor Toner and Vice Mayor McGovern argued against delaying appointments, citing the time it would take to amend the ordinance and the committee's ongoing work.
        • Councilor Wilson inquired about the rotation of members.
      • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to place the item on file.
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Councilor Azeem: Yes
        • Vice Mayor McGovern: Yes
        • Councilor Nolan: Yes
        • Councilor Siddiqui: Yes
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
        • Councilor Toner: Yes
        • Councilor Wilson: Yes
        • Mayor Simmons: Yes
        • Councilor Zusy: Abstain
      • Outcome: Placed on file (8-0-1).
    • Item 9: Amendments to the Cambridge Tobacco Ordinance. (Pulled by Councilor Toner)
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Toner expressed concern about the lack of broader community awareness and the potential for overreach, particularly regarding the "nicotine-free generation" policy and its impact on businesses. He advocated for direct outreach to all affected parties.
        • Councilor Nolan (Chair of Health and Environment Committee) agreed to hold a committee meeting, likely in November, and to ensure broad community notification. She acknowledged the controversial nature of some proposals and the public health threat of vaping products.
        • Sam Lipson (Senior Director of Environmental Health, Cambridge Public Health Department) explained that the proposal aims to move tobacco and nicotine enforcement to the Board of Health via regulation, allowing for more nimble updates to keep pace with industry tactics. City Council would retain control over citywide policies (e.g., nicotine-free generation, permit caps).
        • Chief Neal (Department of Public Health) emphasized the public health aspect, particularly the disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, and the need for Cambridge to align with state policy.
      • Motion: Referred to the Health and Environment Committee.
      • Outcome: Referred (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

VI. Policy Order and Resolution List

  • Consent Agenda: Policy Orders 1, 2, and 6 were adopted.
    • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to adopt Policy Orders 1, 2, and 6.
    • Outcome: Adopted (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  • Non-Consent Agenda:
    • Policy Order 3: Request for City Manager to consult with appropriate city departments to establish a formal policy defining the city's role and financial responsibilities in supporting large-scale public events hosted by Cambridge-based non-profit and not-for-profit organizations. (Pulled by Councilor Wilson)
      • Amendment: Councilor Wilson requested to be added as a co-sponsor.
      • Outcome: Amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
    • Policy Order 4: Request for City Manager to redirect municipal funding for tourism to distribute funds equally among the Central Square Business Improvement District, the East Cambridge Business Association, the Harvard Square Business Association, and the Kendall Square Association, for each fiscal year in which the Office of Tourism receives TDMD funding. (Pulled by Councilor Toner)
      • Discussion: Vice Mayor McGovern (proponent) explained the order's intent to align city fiscal support with current work by place-based business associations, given the Office of Tourism's TDMD funding.
      • Outcome: Councilor Toner exercised a Charter Right. Discussion to be taken up at the next regular meeting.
    • Policy Order 5: Request for City Manager to work with the Community Development Department, the City Assessor, and other relevant departments to develop a comprehensive policy for future private development projects in the city. (Pulled by Councilor Toner)
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Toner (proponent) explained the order's origin in the contentious Biomed East End House issue and the need for a clear, transparent process for community benefits and mitigation dollars. He emphasized the need to define how funds are allocated (infrastructure, nonprofits, immediate community, city-wide fund).
        • Councilor Nolan (co-sponsor) supported the order, highlighting the need for clarity in terminology (community benefit, mitigation, contract zoning) and process to avoid future contentious development projects.
        • Councilor Siddiqui supported the order, emphasizing the role of the Community Benefits Advisory Committee and the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority.
        • Councilor Zusy supported the order and requested to be added as a co-sponsor. She also requested historical context on community benefits, transparent calculation methods, impact analysis, and distinction between capital and operating funds.
      • Amendment: Councilor Zusy added as a co-sponsor.
      • Outcome: Amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended (9-0).
    • Policy Order 7: Request for City Manager to confer with the Election Commission, the City Solicitor, and the City Clerk, and report back to the City Council no later than September 15, 2025, on the policy order regarding the deadline for the charter change. (Pulled by Councilor Toner)
      • Discussion:
        • Mayor Simmons (proponent) and Councilor Toner emphasized the need for a definitive answer on the charter change ballot question deadline due to the hard mid-September deadline for ballot finalization.
        • Vice Mayor McGovern reported that Representative Decker anticipates the legislation will be signed by the end of the week.
        • Councilor Nolan noted that the Senate engrossed the bill and that the timeline is similar to a successful ballot question in 2021.
        • City Solicitor Nancy Glowa and Director of Elections Tanya Ford provided details on the tight timeline:
          • Approved ballot needed by Friday for printing.
          • Ballot question mailing (voter guide) needs to go out before early voting ballots (planned for October 6th).
          • Ballot testing and memory card preparation also require time.
          • The Election Commission is working to meet deadlines but faces variables.
        • Councilor Wilson moved to suspend the rules to bring forward Communications 2 and 3 (proponent argument for voter guide).
          • Outcome: Rules suspended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
          • Outcome: Communications 2 and 3 brought forward (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
        • City Solicitor Glowa presented the draft proponent argument (Communication 2) and explained the process for the opposition argument (to be drafted by the Law Department if no community member comes forward).
        • City Manager Huang stressed the complexity and high bar for election processes, noting that the current timeline is very tight and relies on everything going perfectly.
      • Motion: Councilor Toner moved to adopt Policy Order #7.
      • Outcome: Adopted (9-0).
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to adopt Communication #2 (proponent argument) and place on file.
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Councilor Azeem: Yes
        • Vice Mayor McGovern: Yes
        • Councilor Nolan: Yes
        • Councilor Siddiqui: Yes
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
        • Councilor Toner: Yes
        • Councilor Wilson: Yes
        • Councilor Zusy: Yes
        • Mayor Simmons: Yes
      • Outcome: Adopted and placed on file (9-0).
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to place Communication #3 on file.
      • Outcome: Placed on file (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to suspend the rules for reconsideration on the two prior votes (Policy Order #7 and Communication #2), hoping the same would not prevail.
        • Outcome: Rules suspended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
        • Roll Call Vote (Reconsideration):
          • Councilor Azeem: No
          • Vice Mayor McGovern: No
          • Councilor Nolan: No
          • Councilor Siddiqui: No
          • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: No
          • Councilor Toner: No
          • Councilor Wilson: No
          • Councilor Zusy: No
          • Mayor Simmons: No
        • Outcome: Reconsideration failed (9-0).
    • Policy Order 8: Request for City Manager to work with all relevant departments to seek input from the community, direct outreach to condo owners and short-term rental operators, and develop additional recommendations based on the discussion in the Ordinance Committee. (Pulled by Councilor Toner)
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Toner supported the order, emphasizing the need for outreach to legal Airbnb operators to avoid harming them due to a few "bad actors."
        • Councilor Nolan clarified the intent is to enforce existing rules against illegal operators (two-thirds of those in the city) and protect legal ones. She noted the need to reach out to condo owners to alleviate their burden in proving non-compliance.
        • Vice Mayor McGovern noted that the Ordinance Committee meeting highlighted the need for this policy order to develop language and recommendations, acknowledging that significant changes (e.g., day limits) would require refiling the ordinance.
        • Councilor Zusy supported the order, suggesting a requirement for short-term rental operators to only list Cambridge-registered units.
      • Outcome: Adopted (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
    • Policy Order 9: Request for City Manager to work with relevant departments and multi-member bodies to report back to the City Council and inform the community of the work of and recommendations coming from the Micromobility Commission. (Pulled by Councilor Nolan)
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Nolan (proponent) highlighted the state-level Micromobility Commission and the need to inform the community about its work, especially given state control over local regulations. She emphasized the impact on e-bikes, e-scooters, and differently-abled residents.
        • Councilor Zusy requested to be added as a co-sponsor and suggested a Transportation Committee meeting on the topic.
        • Councilor Wilson acknowledged former Councilor Joan Pickett's work on the issue and urged safety and mindfulness among micromobility users.
      • Amendment: Councilor Zusy added as a co-sponsor.
      • Outcome: Amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
    • Policy Order 10: Request for City Manager to consult with relevant departments about the implications of deploying license plate readers and provide recommendations as to whether adjustments and plans for deployment should be made in light of changes since approved in February. (Pulled by Councilor Toner)
      • Amendment: Councilor Nolan proposed adding a "whereas" clause: "WHEREAS: Boston conducted a pilot using Flock, the same system Cambridge will deploy, and chose not to share data and to prohibit sharing their database out of concern for potential harm."
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Nolan (proponent) explained the order's intent to re-evaluate Flock deployment due to new information about data sharing with federal and state agencies, and changes to the welcoming city ordinance.
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler supported the amendment, noting that Flock retains ownership of cameras and data, which is accessible nationally, raising concerns about privacy and potential misuse (e.g., abortion-related tracking).
        • Councilor Toner sought clarification from the City Manager on whether the city controls the data and if it is shared.
        • City Manager Huang stated that the police department's policy is to be careful with data agreements and secure data in a segregated way. He acknowledged that rules are changing in real-time and further examination is warranted.
      • Amendment: Proposed "whereas" clause adopted.
      • Outcome: Amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

VII. Calendar

  • Item 1: Charter Right on Policy Order regarding oversight of the garden area between St. James Episcopal Church and Beach Street Condos. (Exercised by Mayor Simmons on August 4th)
    • Discussion:
      • Mayor Simmons presented an amended version of the original policy order, reflecting recent mediation between the church and condo association.
      • Vice Mayor McGovern suggested including service providers and unhoused individuals in future conversations.
      • Councilor Nolan thanked Mayor Simmons for the edits and acknowledged the challenging situation for all parties involved.
      • Councilor Wilson expressed gratitude for the amendments and the insights gained from visiting the site. She emphasized the need for holistic services beyond 9-5 hours, including overnight support.
      • Councilor Zusy thanked all parties for their engagement and expressed hope for peace and improved conditions.
    • Motion: Mayor Simmons moved to amend the original policy order with the highlighted changes.
    • Outcome: Amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
    • Motion: Adopt the policy order as amended.
    • Outcome: Adopted as amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

VIII. Applications and Petitions

  • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to adopt all four applications and petitions.
  • Outcome: Approved (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

IX. Communications

  • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to place all 36 communications on file.
  • Outcome: Placed on file (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

X. Resolutions

  • Consent Agenda: All resolutions except #6 were adopted and made unanimous upon adoption.
    • Motion: Councilor Toner moved to adopt resolutions and make them unanimous upon adoption.
    • Outcome: Adopted (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  • Non-Consent Agenda:
    • Resolution 6: Condolences on the death of Elizabeth Camacho. (Pulled by Councilor Toner)
      • Amendment: Councilor Toner moved to add Councilor Nolan as a co-sponsor.
      • Outcome: Amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
      • Discussion: Councilor Nolan noted that additional details would be added to the resolution as more information becomes available from the family.
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

XI. Committee Reports

  • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to accept the committee reports and place them on file, and to adopt the underlying order (specifically 2A).
  • Outcome: Accepted, placed on file, and underlying order adopted (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

XII. Communications and Reports from Other City Officers

  • Item 1: Placed on file.
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to place Item 1 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  • Items 2 & 3: Discharged earlier during Policy Order 7 discussion.

XIII. Late Resolutions

  • Motion: Suspend the rules to take up late resolutions.
  • Outcome: Rules suspended (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).
  • Resolution: Congratulations to the Sacramento Community Garden on its 50th anniversary. (Submitted by Councilor Nolan)
    • Discussion: Councilor Nolan explained the garden's history as one of the first community gardens, its location near Sacramento Field, and its upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration on September 14th.
    • Motion: Adopt the late resolution, making it unanimous upon adoption.
    • Outcome: Adopted and made unanimous (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

XIV. Announcements

  • Councilor Azeem: Announced his engagement and received congratulations.
  • Councilor Zusy:
    • Announced the start of the latest phase of work at Magazine Beach Park, converting a sunken parking lot into an acre of parkland with a dock and river outlook.
    • Highlighted a Globe article about St. Augustine's and Black History in Action for Cambridgeport.
    • Announced Bread and Puppet performance on Cambridge Common (Saturday, 4 p.m.) and Meet Your Neighbor Day at EMF parking lot (Saturday, 12-3 p.m.).
  • Mayor Simmons: Reminded residents to check the city's website for Meet Your Neighbor Day activities. Announced Danny Park Family Day on September 20th, noting its multilingual flyers and bus route information.
  • Councilor Nolan: Reminded of the Health and Environment Committee meeting on September 9th (2-4 p.m.) to discuss combined sewer overflows and extreme weather events.
  • Councilor Wilson: Announced the Public Safety Committee meeting on September 10th (3 p.m.) to discuss the 18-hour standoff with CPD on August 2nd.
  • Mayor Simmons: Wished his wife a happy birthday.

XV. Adjournment

  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to adjourn.
  • Outcome: Adjourned (Voice Vote: Ayes have it).

Last updated: Oct 6, 2025

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