City Council - Regular Meeting

September 29, 2025
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Meeting Minutes: Cambridge City Council Regular Meeting

Meeting Date: September 29, 2025 Governing Body: Cambridge City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting Attendees:

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

Executive Summary: The Cambridge City Council convened for a regular meeting on September 29, 2025. Key discussions included a federal update from the City Manager regarding a potential government shutdown and ICE enforcement, and the approval of a preservation restriction for 44 JFK Street. Significant debate centered on Policy Order #2 concerning social housing, which was ultimately adopted with an amendment to the timeline for a committee meeting and report. Policy Order #3, addressing the future use of 25 Lowell Street, was also adopted. The Council also discussed a policy order regarding the enforcement of local ordinances and the potential use of Chapter 40U, which was referred to the Finance Committee.

I. Call to Order and Roll Call

  • The meeting was called to order by Vice Mayor Marc McGovern.
  • Roll Call:
    • Councilor Azeem: Absent (later joined and marked Present)
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Present
    • Councilor Nolan: Present
    • Councilor Siddiqui: Present
    • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Present
    • Councilor Toner: Present
    • Councilor Wilson: Absent (later joined and marked Present)
    • Councilor Zusy: Present
    • Mayor Simmons: Absent
  • Seven members were initially recorded as present, two as absent. Councilor Azeem and Councilor Wilson later joined the meeting.

II. Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence

  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by a moment of silence.

III. Remote Participation and Public Comment Procedures

  • Remote participation is authorized under Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2025.
  • Public comment is available via Zoom teleconference, the city's open meeting portal, or cable channel 22.
  • Sign-up for public comment is at cambridgema.gov/publiccomment.
  • Written comments can be emailed to cityclerk@cambridgema.gov.
  • 38 speakers signed up for public comment, each allotted two minutes.

IV. Public Comment

  • Aya Al-Zubi (Cambridgeport): Supported Policy Order #2 (social housing), emphasizing its role in producing deeply affordable, permanently affordable homes under public control, fostering mixed-income developments, and leveraging the city's AAA bond rating.
  • Dan Totten (54 Bishop Allen Drive): Supported Policy Order #2, highlighting social housing as a versatile tool that can create market-rate and deeply affordable units without competing with LIHTC, allowing for faster scaling of affordable housing production. Noted the potential for recycling funds into new projects or community benefits.
  • Jesse Baer (Fresh Pond): Supported Policy Order #131 (social housing), stating that private market solutions alone cannot fix housing unaffordability and that social housing offers hope for preserving the city's unique character.
  • Margaret Ann Brady (Porter Square, Cambridge Housing Justice Coalition): Supported Policy Order #2, advocating for piloting social housing due to alignment with state funding, Boston's pilot, and the will of the council. Emphasized that social housing is mixed-income, tenant-controlled, permanently affordable, and reinvests public funds.
  • Henry H. Wordis (106 Berkshire Street): Supported Policy Order #2, drawing parallels to the New Deal's housing crisis and advocating for Cambridge to launch a social housing program to provide housing for all income levels, foster tenant and community control, and halt gentrification.
  • Ann Riesenfeld (Executive Director, New School of Music): Spoke on Policy Order #3, requesting continued city support for the New School of Music and Cambridge Art Association at 25 Lowell Street. Highlighted NSM's 400 annual students, need-based scholarships, and efforts to make the building ADA compliant.
  • Candace Driver (Executive Director, Cambridge Art Association): Spoke on Policy Order #3, advocating for the CAA to remain at 25 Lowell Street. Emphasized CAA's 80+ years of community building through visual arts, support for artists, and provision of low-cost cultural opportunities.
  • State Representative Mike Connolly (Cambridge/Somerville): Supported Policy Order #2, defining social housing as publicly financed, publicly owned, mixed-income housing that leverages government financing and retains ownership interest as an asset. Noted state pilot program and Chicago's bonding capacity for this model.
  • Eppa Rixey (126 Harvey Street, AOIF study group, Green Cambridge, Save the AOIF Brook): Supported Committee Report #1 (CSOs), advocating for a Cambridge CSO commission to ensure community voices are heard and ambitious solutions are considered, including stormwater fees and Alewife Station reconstruction.
  • Carolyn Magid (71 Reed Street, Cambridge Housing Justice Coalition Social Housing Group): Supported Policy Order #2, emphasizing the opportunity for permanently affordable, stable housing with democratic resident and community control. Highlighted the definition of social housing as having at least 40% of units affordable to households below 80% AMI, with a significant portion below 30% AMI.
  • Suzanne Blier (Five Fuller Place): Applauded social housing efforts, thanked the Vice Mayor and Mayor for the city seal review, supported solar panel committees, advocated for continued use of 25 Lowell Street for arts, and supported co-joining sewage for clean water.
  • Trudy Goodman (Mass Senior Action Coalition, Cambridge Housing Justice Coalition): Supported social housing, emphasizing its benefit for low-income individuals (below 50% AMI), creation of communities, and equitable mixed-income living. Noted the increasing homelessness among seniors.
  • David Halperin (14 Valentine Street, Unit 3): Supported social housing, viewing it as an "all of the above" approach to the housing crisis. Highlighted leveraging the city's bond rating for better lending terms and generating low-market units beyond AHO and IZ.
  • Anne McDonald (North Cambridge, Save the Alewife Brook, Coalition to End Sewage Pollution): Supported Health and Environment Committee's POR 136 (CSOs), advocating for a 2050, 25-year storm level of control, participatory means, and a CSO commission. Expressed concern about minimal sewer separation and green infrastructure plans.
  • Eric Grunenbaum (98 Montgomery Street): Supported convening a CSO commission, highlighting the issue of raw sewage releases into Alewife Brook, the impact of new developments, and the need for substantial new sewer separation and green infrastructure for public health and environmental benefits.
  • Ann Stewart (2531 Wheeler Street): Spoke on Environment Committee's report #1 (CSOs), criticizing Cambridge's history of CSO variances and advocating for a CSO committee with clear reporting requirements to build a firm foundation for clean water.
  • Lee Ferris (Norfolk Street, Cambridge Residence Alliance, Cambridge Housing Justice Coalition): Supported social housing, reiterating its definition as mixed-income, government-owned/controlled rental housing with at least 40% affordable units (significant portion for very low-income), low-interest capital, and tenant/community control.
  • Catherine Dessy (Attleboro, MA, Board of Directors for Cambridge Art Association): Supported the CAA remaining at 25 Lowell Street, emphasizing the gallery's role as an anchor for artists, providing exhibition opportunities, and serving underserved communities.
  • Denise Gilson (Executive Director, Harvard Square Business Association): Spoke on CMA 2025, #233 (Harvard Square tunnel), urging the city manager to fund an RFP to explore repurposing the abandoned MBTA tunnel into a cultural/event space to benefit the community and Harvard Square.
  • Kavish Gandhi (Cambridge Housing Justice Coalition): Supported Policy Order #2, emphasizing social housing as an opportunity for Cambridge to lead in reimagining public sector involvement in affordable housing. Highlighted public control and financing for developing housing without profit constraints, reinvesting profits, leveraging bond capacity, and ensuring democratic governance.
  • Andrew Frisina (22 Union Street, Mystic River Watershed Association): Supported the policy order regarding combined sewer overflows, emphasizing the public health and environmental justice issues of untreated sewage in Alewife Brook and urging for 25-year controls or complete sewer separation.
  • Steven Profet (194 Lexington Avenue, New School of Music Board Member): Spoke on 25 Lowell Street, reinforcing the New School of Music's 50-year impact on the Cambridge community, its role in providing affordable music education, and nurturing local talent.
  • Edward Henley (237 Franklin Street, Cambridge Somerville Mass Senior Action Council): Supported Policy Order #2, highlighting social housing as a financial vehicle for housing and a strategy for encouraging social norms, community building, and providing housing at various life stages.
  • Glenna Wyman (8th Street, Mass Senior Action Council, Alliance of Cambridge Tenants): Supported Policy Order #2, emphasizing the need for deeply affordable housing for seniors on fixed incomes, the benefits of social housing's permanent affordability, tenant/community control, and independence from federal funding changes. Also supported using King Open School parking for residents.
  • Michelle Malvesti (Cambridge Resident): Supported Policy Order #2, advocating for creative solutions to provide shelter as a human need. Emphasized social housing's potential for community, unity, aging in place, and ownership. Opposed changing inclusionary housing from 20% to 10%.
  • Alfredo Khan (Charles River Watershed Association): Supported Committee Report #1 (CSOs), advocating for an ambitious plan to eliminate CSO discharges, not just maintain the status quo. Commended the policy for requiring analysis of costs and benefits for river health and open space.
  • Jessica Scully (Humboldt Street, Chair of Harvard Square Business Association, Owner of Commonwealth Wine School): Supported CMA 233 (Harvard Square tunnel), advocating for funding a feasibility study to repurpose the abandoned MBTA tunnel into a cultural/event space as a vision for stewardship and vitality.
  • Valerie Ann Bonds (President, Cambridge Somerville Chapter of Mass Senior Action): Supported social housing, emphasizing its economic benefits (freeing up budget, boosting local economy, cost-effectiveness over homelessness) and profound effect on well-being, fostering stronger, healthier communities.
  • Jacob Brown (Magazine Street): Supported social housing, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining community due to unaffordability. Emphasized social housing's sustainability, public ownership, reinvestment of income, permanent affordability, and democratic resident control.
  • James Williamson (North Cambridge): Questioned the funding for the Harvard Square tunnel study, suggesting it might be a "money grab" by wealthy entities and that public funds could be better spent on homelessness. Also raised concerns about the Fox Club preservation easement and the condition of sidewalks.
  • Kristen Anderson (12 Upland Road West, Arlington, Save the Old Wife Brook, Coalition to End Sewage Pollution): Supported the creation of a CSO commission, highlighting the long regulatory timeline for improvements at Alewife and the need for collaboration to ensure a meaningful updated long-term sewage control plan.
  • Lily Halstead (32 Granville Road, #2, CPSD parent): Supported social housing. Spoke on item 25-56 (rodent control), urging the council to address rodent issues in schools to prevent closures due to neglect. Also criticized the lack of transparency in the superintendent search.
    • Note: Speaker was initially interrupted for speaking on an "awaiting reports" item, but a motion to suspend rules by Councilor Wilson allowed her to finish.
  • Jana Odette (176 Large Road): Supported social housing. Advocated for repurposing 25 Lowell Street rather than demolishing it, citing environmental benefits and the building's historical and community value as an arts organization.
  • Heather Hoffman (213 Hurley Street): Supported CSO elimination and social housing, emphasizing tenant say in their lives. Criticized the city's handling of local lawsuits and enforcement of local option fines.
  • Justin Safe (259 Hurley Street): Supported creating a revolving fund for social housing, highlighting its potential to leverage the city's bond rating, lower capital costs, and fund more affordable homes. Advocated for an "all-the-above" approach to housing and flexibility in defining social housing. Also raised concerns about the structural and economic infeasibility of proposed solar protection stepbacks.
  • LaQueen Battle (Otis Street, Putnam Square Apartments, Cambridge CHA): Supported social housing, emphasizing its benefits for increased education, business promotion, stable workforce, homelessness prevention, domestic violence situations, and promoting homeownership.

V. Close Public Comment

  • Motion: By Councilor Zusy to close public comment.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy, Nolan), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

VI. Submission of the Record

  • Minutes: Regular meeting of June 23, 2025.
  • Motion: By Councilor Nolan to accept the minutes and place on file.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

VII. Reconsiderations

  • No reconsiderations.

VIII. City Manager's Agenda

  • Items Pulled:
    • Item #1 (Federal Update) pulled by Councilor Nolan.
    • Item #2 (Preservation Restriction at 44 JFK Street) pulled by Councilor Zusy.
    • Item #5 (Report on Chapter 40U enforcement) pulled by Councilor Nolan.
  • Motion: To adopt the balance of the City Manager's Agenda.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

A. City Manager Agenda Item #1: Federal Update

  • Communication: From Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update, including relevant court cases.
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • City Manager Yi-An Huang provided an update on the likely federal government shutdown and its potential effects on the city, noting significant uncertainty and the lack of clear agency plans.
    • He also updated on the uptick in ICE enforcement and detention in the region, expressing concern over recent Supreme Court decisions and the targeting of immigrant communities.
    • The City Manager emphasized the city's role in fighting for its values while focusing on local issues like affordable housing, parks, and transportation.
  • Councilor Nolan: Inquired about the financial impact of a shutdown on grants.
    • City Manager Huang: Stated no immediate impacts on grants, but noted potential disruptions to initiatives collaborating with federal agencies.
  • Motion: By Councilor Nolan to place the report on file.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

B. City Manager Agenda Item #2: Preservation Restriction at 44 JFK Street

  • Communication: From Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a preservation restriction at 44 JFK Street.
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Zusy: Supported the preservation restriction for the historic building, designed by Guy Lowell, noting its rich character and notable former members of the Fox Club. Inquired if Charles Sullivan from the Historic Commission wished to speak.
    • Charles Sullivan (Historic Commission): Confirmed the Historic Commission supported the request.
    • Councilor Nolan: Supported the unanimous vote by the Historic Commission.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Clarified that renovations, including ADA compliance, would still be possible.
  • Motion: To approve and place the report on file.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

C. City Manager Agenda Item #5: Report on Chapter 40U Enforcement

  • Communication: From Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to awaiting report item #25-05 regarding the use of Mass General Law Chapter 40U to enforce local statutes and collect fines.
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Nolan: Thanked staff for the comprehensive report, highlighting the need for better enforcement of ordinances, particularly for public health and safety violations (short-term rentals, dumpsters, rodents, snow/ice removal, litter, tenant rights). Inquired about next steps for adoption and potential staff burden.
    • City Solicitor Nancy Bayer: Explained that Chapter 40U offers a more modern and efficient enforcement scheme than Chapter 40, Section 21D, allowing for internal appeals and additional penalties for unpaid tickets. Noted the need for ordinance changes and coordination among departments.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Inquired about the severity of the problem and whether it's revenue-driven or compliance-driven.
    • City Solicitor Bayer: Clarified the intent is compliance, not revenue, and that the current process for issuing and collecting fines is cumbersome.
    • Deputy Commissioner Jacob Lazaro (ISD): Stated that ISD's enforcement primarily focuses on engagement and remedying offenses, with fines as a last resort. Noted some unpaid fines, mostly related to temporary dumpsters.
    • Councilor Zusy: Suggested referring the matter to the Ordinance or Finance Committee for further discussion.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Recommended referring to the Finance Committee (a committee of the whole) to allow all councilors to participate.
  • Motion: To place the report on file and refer to the Finance Committee.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

IX. Committee Reports

  • Motion: By Councilor Nolan to move suspension of the rules to bring forward Committee Reports #1 and #3.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

A. Committee Report #1: Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Planning

  • Report: That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant city departments and the recently formed coalition to consider options, including costs and benefits, to meet a 2050-25 year storm level of control, update regulations for private development of stormwater, use green infrastructure, and improve public outreach regarding sewer and stormwater investment, including the creation of a combined sewer overflow commission. (From a meeting of September 9, 2025).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Nolan: Provided background on the Health and Environment Committee meeting, thanking watershed associations and city staff. Emphasized the policy order's request for a clear cost-benefit analysis of the 2050, 25-year storm CSO option, stormwater mitigation, and improved public input, including a public body for staff to meet with advocates.
    • Deputy City Manager Kathy Watkins: Stated that the CSO program is complex and expensive, and welcomed an ongoing working group or committee for healthy conversation, outreach, education, and alternative solutions.
    • Councilor Toner: Thanked Deputy City Manager Watkins for her work on the issue, acknowledging its complexity.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Acknowledged the complexity and supported the push for urgency.
  • Motion: To accept the report, place on file, and adopt the underlying order.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

B. Committee Report #3: Solar Panel Protection Zoning

  • Report: That the City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development Department to draft zoning language based on proposed recommendations, review the feasibility of the proposed recommendations with developers, and consider the possibility of having AHO construction be exempt from the proposed zoning.
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Nolan: Highlighted the policy order's origin from a Health and Environment Committee meeting, addressing solar radiation impacts of taller buildings on lower building heights. Supported the compromise approach of the STEP Act, which seeks a 20-foot separation standard.
    • Councilor Zusy: Proposed an amendment by substitution to request more data before drafting zoning language.
      • Proposed Amendment: Ask the City Manager to provide data on:
        • Average height of residential rooftop solar arrays (bell curve, raw data).
        • Average age of existing residential rooftop solar arrays (bell curve).
        • Output in megawatts of existing solar arrays (residential, commercial, municipal).
      • Rationale: To ensure zoning language reflects current conditions and effectively protects solar installations, as the current model's assumption of 45-foot high installations may be inaccurate.
    • Councilor Azeem: Exercised his charter right on the item, ending further discussion.
  • Outcome: Discussion ended due to charter right.

X. Policy Orders

  • Motion: To adopt Orders 4, 5, and 6.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

A. Policy Order #1: City Seal Review Committee

  • Order: That the City Manager is requested to work with the City Council to establish a seal review committee with the charge of recommending an updated city seal and motto in time for adoption prior to the 400th anniversary of the city of Cambridge in 2030. (Filed by Vice Mayor McGovern and Mayor Simmons).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Zusy: Suggested an open competition with artists and designers for new seal ideas, rather than solely a committee.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Supported the committee to set parameters, noting issues with the current seal (e.g., Gore Hall no longer exists, questions about Washington's presence). Emphasized the need for a more inclusive and representative seal.
  • Motion: By Councilor Wilson to adopt Policy Order #1.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

B. Policy Order #2: Social Housing Discussion

  • Order: That the Housing Committee will be convened to discuss the concrete details of social housing, that the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community Development Department, Finance Department, Law Department, and any other relevant departments to explore all steps towards advancing social housing in Cambridge. (Filed by Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Siddiqui, and Councilor Wilson).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Introduced the order, thanking co-sponsors, Rep. Mike Connolly, and the Cambridge Housing Justice Coalition. Emphasized social housing as a paradigm shift towards housing as a human right, mixed-income public housing, and a model for cross-subsidizing lower-income units and building more affordable housing. Noted its prevalence in Europe and other US cities.
    • Councilor Siddiqui: Supported further discussion with experts on social housing as a tool to address housing challenges.
    • Councilor Wilson: Supported the innovative concept of social housing, highlighting its potential for diversity, shared experience, and quality of life.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Thanked the Housing Justice Coalition and Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler. Emphasized social housing as another tool to address the housing crisis, building on Cambridge's leadership in affordable housing.
    • City Manager Huang: Noted that a report back by January 2026 might be a stretch due to the complexity and ongoing work of CDD.
    • Amendment Proposed by Vice Mayor McGovern:
      • Ordered: That the Housing Committee hold a public meeting to discuss social housing prior to the end of calendar year 2025, with a report back from Community Development by the end of March 2026.
      • Rationale: To ensure the process starts this year while allowing realistic time for CDD to prepare a comprehensive report.
    • Councilor Zusy: Supported the policy order, emphasizing the need to incentivize improvements to existing housing, add ADUs, support the Cambridge Land Trust, and lower the cost of producing affordable housing. Noted the challenge of land acquisition and the potential for donated properties.
    • Councilor Nolan: Supported the policy order, highlighting the advantages of mixed-income housing for economic mobility and the ability for residents to stay in housing regardless of income changes. Requested to be added as a co-sponsor.
    • Councilor Wilson: Emphasized the urgency of the timeline for budgetary reasons and the need for an informed decision.
    • Councilor Azeem: Requested to be added as a co-sponsor. Provided context on the complexities and trade-offs of social housing, noting higher costs per unit compared to LIHTC-funded projects and the impact of prevailing wage laws and climate standards.
  • Motion: To adopt the amendments (including adding Councilor Nolan and Councilor Azeem as co-sponsors).
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.
  • Motion: To adopt the order as amended.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

C. Policy Order #3: Future Use of 25 Lowell Street

  • Order: That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to provide a recommendation on the site conditions of 25 Lowell Street and considerations and process for determining the future use of the property. (Filed by Councilor Nolan, Councilor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, and Councilor Siddiqui).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Nolan: Thanked co-sponsors and the New School of Music and Cambridge Art Association. Clarified the PO is about reviewing city-owned property utilization and site conditions, not about removing the nonprofits or demolishing the building. Emphasized the need for transparency, addressing an outdated lease, and assessing the best use of the historic property.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Reassured the public that the council is not advocating for the removal of nonprofits or demolition of the building, but seeking information to preserve and maintain the building.
    • Councilor Zusy: Supported long-term planning for the facility, emphasizing the importance of arts and culture organizations throughout the city and the benefit of a long-term lease for the current occupants.
  • Motion: To adopt Policy Order #3.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

XI. Matters on the Table

  • Item Pulled:
    • Charter Right #1 (MBTA Tunnel in Harvard Square) pulled by Councilor Azeem.
    • Tabled Item #5 (Apex Clean Energy and Union Labor) pulled by Councilor Toner.

A. Charter Right #1: MBTA Tunnel in Harvard Square

  • Communication: From Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to awaiting report item #25-32, regarding a request that the city engage in discussions with MBTA and Harvard Square Business Association to explore repurposing the abandoned MBTA tunnel. (Charter right exercised by Councilor Azeem on September 15, 2025).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Azeem: Expressed excitement about the tunnel and the Harvard Square Business Association's interest, but wanted to allow for further discussion and an update from the City Manager.
    • City Manager Huang: Stated ongoing conversations with the MBTA, emphasizing their ownership and the need for close collaboration. Noted the need for budget commitment for a feasibility study (estimated $500,000 to $1 million) and the long-term nature of the project (5-10 years). Suggested exploring nearer-term initiatives for Harvard Square.
    • Councilor Nolan: Supported the City Manager's memo, emphasizing that no funds should be committed until the MBTA is on board. Advocated for nearer-term pedestrianization efforts in Harvard Square as a quicker, less costly solution.
    • Councilor Zusy: Inquired if the Harvard Square Business Association could issue the RFP or if an entertainment company could fund the feasibility study.
    • Deputy City Manager Watkins: Explained that the $72,000 proposal was for drafting the RFP scope, not the full feasibility study. Highlighted the complexity of working with the MBTA due to its infrastructure, multiple internal groups, and potential for changing conditions.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Emphasized the need to get started on exploring the tunnel's potential, despite the complexities and long timeline.
    • Councilor Wilson: Supported allocating the $72,000 to learn what is possible and make an informed decision.
    • Councilor Nolan: Clarified that the memo does not allocate funds, but rather suggests continued conversations. Argued against appropriating funds for a feasibility study if the MBTA is not fully committed.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Clarified that the original policy order requested considering the use of $72,000 for the RFP development.
    • City Manager Huang: Clarified that placing the report on file communicates the council's direction, but does not formally allocate funds at this stage.
  • Motion: To place the matter on file.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

B. Tabled Item #5: Apex Clean Energy and Union Labor

  • Order: That the City Council go on record expressing its profound disappointment over Apex Clean Energy's decision to forego the use of local union labor on the Bowman Wind Project. (Placed on the table as amended in Council June 23, 2025, placed back on the table in Council August 4, 2025).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Toner: Stated that the substitute motion was drafted by the City Solicitor and City Manager to address concerns about the original language. Confirmed that Local 151 and national representatives were okay with the language. Emphasized the council's support for union labor.
    • Councilor Nolan: Supported the compromise language, noting it avoids legal jeopardy while still expressing support for union labor.
  • Motion: To adopt the substitute order.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

XII. Applications and Petitions

  • Two applications and petitions.
  • Motion: By Councilor Toner to adopt applications 1 and 2.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

XIII. Communications

  • 25 communications.
  • Motion: By Councilor Wilson to put all 25 communications on file.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

XIV. Resolutions

  • Items Pulled:
    • Resolution #1 (Passing of Red T. Mitchell) pulled by Vice Mayor McGovern.
    • Resolution #2 (Kevin Traynor and Joe McCabe) pulled by Councilor Zusy.
    • Resolution #4 (Cambridge Port Children's Center) pulled by Councilor Zusy.
    • Resolution #6 (Dr. Maria McCauley) pulled by Councilor Nolan.
  • Motion: To adopt the balance of the resolutions, making them unanimous upon adoption.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

A. Resolution #1: Passing of Red T. Mitchell

  • Resolution: On the passing of Red T. Mitchell.
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Exercised his charter right to allow Mayor Simmons to speak on the resolution at a later meeting, given her connection to Red Mitchell. Suggested a proclamation could be issued for services.
  • Outcome: Discussion ended due to charter right.

B. Resolution #2: Congratulations to Kevin Traynor and Joe McCabe

  • Resolution: Congratulations to Kevin Traynor and Joe McCabe on their 30th anniversary of Phoenix Landing. (Filed by Councilor Zusy).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Requested to be added as a co-sponsor, noting his sons work there.
    • Councilor Toner: Requested to be added as a co-sponsor.
    • Councilor Wilson: Requested to be added as a co-sponsor.
    • Councilor Zusy: Praised Kevin Traynor and Joe McCabe for their local business, character, and enhancement of Cambridge life.
  • Motion: To add Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Toner, and Councilor Wilson as co-sponsors.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.
  • Motion: To adopt the resolution as amended.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

C. Resolution #4: Celebrating 50 Years of the Cambridge Port Children's Center

  • Resolution: Celebrating 50 years of the Cambridge Port Children's Center. (Pulled by Councilor Zusy).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Zusy: Highlighted the center's grassroots origins, its ethos of being a welcoming and diverse place, and its provision of childcare for over 1,000 families over five decades.
  • Motion: To adopt the resolution.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

D. Resolution #6: Congratulations to Dr. Maria McCauley

  • Resolution: Congratulations to Dr. Maria McCauley on her election as the 2026-2027 President of the American Library Association. (Filed by Councilor Nolan, Mayor Simmons, and Councilor Toner).
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Nolan: Congratulated Dr. McCauley, praising her work as library director and the library staff for providing incredible opportunities and fostering community connection.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Congratulated Dr. McCauley, noting her capabilities in a time when libraries and education are under attack.
  • Motion: To adopt the resolution.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

XV. Committee Reports (Continued)

  • Committee Report #2: That the Public Safety Committee held a public hearing on September 10, 2025, to discuss COF 2025, #106, including questions submitted by City Council members regarding an incident at 243 Broadway on August 2, 2025, and the public safety response.
  • Summary of Discussion:
    • Councilor Wilson: Appreciated the comments and presentations, calling it an informative meeting.
  • Motion: To accept the report and place on file.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

XVI. Communications and Reports from Other City Officers

  • One item.
  • Motion: To place on file.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

XVII. Late Resolutions

  • Motion: To suspend rules for late resolutions.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.
  • Late Resolution: The City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy for the family of Nancy Lange. (Sponsored by Councilor Toner).
  • Motion: To adopt, making unanimous upon adoption.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

XVIII. Late Policy Orders

  • No late policy orders.

XIX. Announcements

  • Councilor Wilson: Announced the "Celebrating Disability Prize" event on Saturday, October 4th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Joan Lorenz Park (49 Broadway), featuring various activities and complimentary wheelchair shuttle service.
  • Councilor Zusy: Announced the "Bow Tie Ride" on Sunday at 10 a.m., meeting at the Cambridge Public Library.

XX. Adjournment

  • Motion: By Councilor Wilson to adjourn.
  • Vote: Yes: 8 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Toner, Wilson, Zusy), Absent: 1 (Simmons).
  • Outcome: Motion passed.

Last updated: Oct 27, 2025

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