City Council - Regular Meeting

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Meeting Minutes of the Cambridge City Council

Meeting Date: October 23, 2025 Governing Body: Cambridge City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting Attendees: City Councilors Burhan Azeem, Marc McGovern (Vice Mayor), Patricia Nolan, Sumbul Siddiqui, Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler, Paul Toner, Ayesha Wilson, Catherine Zusy, and Mayor Denise Simmons (joined later in the meeting).

Executive Summary

The Cambridge City Council addressed several critical issues, including the potential impact of a federal government shutdown on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the appropriation of funds for the demolition of 221 Mount Auburn Street, and initiatives to support local businesses and improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the city's preparedness for a potential SNAP funding cutoff and the need for proactive measures to support vulnerable residents. The Council also debated a request to reconsider a previously approved curb cut at 177 Hancock Street, ultimately declining to suspend rules for reconsideration.

Public Comment

  • Catherine Beatty (155 Harvey Street, North Cambridge): Spoke in support of Policy Order Number 2 (also listed as 154), advocating for the designation of "neighbor ways" on streets like Sargent, Reed, and Dudley to allow contraflow bicycle travel, similar to Somerville's Hancock Street. She highlighted the dangers of traveling on Rindge and Cedar Streets during rush hour and the need for traffic calming measures on Harvey Street, especially with the closure of the linear path.
  • Regis Shields (173 Hancock Street): Supported Agenda Item 6.2, a request for rule suspension and revocation of the curb cut permission at 177 Hancock Street. She corrected misconceptions, stating that nine of ten abutters who disapproved were direct abutters, and emphasized safety, neighborhood, and parking issues. She also raised concerns about the process, alleging the developer did not submit disapproval votes.
  • Brendan Hickey (54 Concord Ave): Spoke on PO1, expressing concern about a $40,000 no-bid contract signed by the School Committee Chair for a superintendent search, alleging a lack of spending authority and potential split procurement to circumvent bidding rules. He called for an explanation to maintain public trust.
  • Lily Halstead (32 Granville Road #2): Commented on PO1, urging a joint budget roundtable on November 10th to discuss transparency, accountability, and trust regarding the $50,000 sole-source contract for the superintendent search. She highlighted that the contract exceeded the budget and the firm lacked prior experience.
  • Darren Buck (44 McGowan Street): Supported PO Number 2 (Policy Order 154), advocating for "neighbor way" treatments on North Cambridge streets to improve connectivity for Peabody Elementary students, especially with the linear path closure. He offered to assist city councilors or staff with site visits.
  • Nicholas Fernandez (18 George Street, North Cambridge): Supported Policy Order 2 (Policy Order 154), sharing his family's experience with difficult and dangerous bike routes on one-way streets and heavy traffic on Rindge and Cedar. He emphasized the need for traffic calming, neighbor ways, and better daylighting, particularly around the Cedar and Rindge intersection near schools and a daycare.
  • Dan Totten (54 Bishop Allen Drive): Expressed support for reconsidering the curb cut, citing potential misrepresentation by the developer and the importance of curb cuts as a "big decision" that privatizes public right-of-way. He also commented on the certification of free cash, questioning the quick allocation of $20 million for the Mount Auburn Street demolition while low-income families were removed from Cambridge Rise Up.
  • Rebecca Lester (William Street): Spoke to Policy Order 153, advocating for a joint roundtable with the School Committee to discuss macroeconomic trends and the city's budget. She raised concerns about the School Committee's leadership subverting the competitive bidding process for the superintendent search contract and violating approval requirements for budget items over $25,000.
  • Elizabeth Hudson (325 Harvard Street): Spoke to Policy Order 1, supporting a budget roundtable. She expressed alarm about the $40,000 paid to the superintendent search firm for undocumented services and urged the city to address "low-level grift" to ensure responsible spending.
  • Nick Greenfield (12 Ellsworth Avenue, Mid-Cambridge): Addressed the 177 Hancock Street curb cut, stating he and his wife purchased the property for renovation and followed Inspectional Services Department (ISD) guidance for the curb cut application. He denied deliberately withholding information and stated that late letters of disapproval were not accepted by ISD. He warned that revocation would severely impact their project.
  • Heather Hoffman (213 Hurley Street): Advocated for a thorough discussion of city finances during the joint roundtable. She questioned the city's tracking of mitigation funds and criticized the handling of curb cuts, citing past issues with city agencies. She also expressed concerns about the Linear Park project, alleging retribution against residents and potential tree removal.
  • Jason Stonehouse (28 Jackson Street, North Cambridge): Spoke on behalf of Policy Order 154, emphasizing the need to improve connectivity north of Rindge Avenue for cyclists, especially children, due to the Linear Park closure. He highlighted the dangers of Rindge Avenue and the need for safer, low-volume streets.
  • Sunisa Shetler (Harvey Street): Expressed concern about the Linear Park renovations, specifically the lack of clear signage and detour routes, leading to increased sidewalk use by cyclists and confusion at intersections. She noted the project's impact on Harvey Street and Rindge Avenue and called for improved signage for detours.

Motion to Close Public Comment: Councilor Wilson moved to close public comment. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy (8)
  • Absent: Mayor Simmons (1)

City Manager's Agenda

Late Order: Update on SNAP Benefits

Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to suspend the rules to bring forward a late policy order from Mayor Simmons, Councilor Siddiqui, and Councilor Wilson, requesting an update from the City Manager on SNAP benefits. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy (8)
  • Absent: Mayor Simmons (1)

City Manager Yi-An Huang's Update:

  • Other Programs: WIC and Head Start have funds through November. Low-Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is open for emergency situations, with most disbursements later in November/early December. Department of Public Utilities has a moratorium on fuel shutoffs for low-income residents.
  • SNAP Status:
    • Cambridge has 6,700 households and 10,000 individuals benefiting from SNAP.
    • Average benefit: $187 per person, totaling nearly $2 million per month in federal food benefits for Cambridge.
    • Federal administration will not use contingency funding for a government shutdown, despite previous USDA plans.
    • Massachusetts Governor and State Legislature stated the state cannot replace the $212 million per month in SNAP benefits.
    • Moving towards a November 1st cutoff of SNAP funding.
    • Uncertainty remains regarding federal restoration or a negotiated end to the shutdown.
  • City's Response:
    • The city cannot backfill the total amount of federal SNAP funding.
    • Conversations with community partners and food security staff are ongoing.
    • Recommended approach: Scale existing food programs or increase resources to them, given the short timeframe and uncertainty.
    • Options for next week's City Council meeting will be presented for discussion and a proposal.
    • Highlighted the contrast with pandemic-era support, where resources were brought to bear across government levels.
  • Discussion:
    • Councilor Toner: Asked about NPR reports of Congress setting aside money (City Manager clarified this refers to contingency funds the USDA is now refusing to use for shutdowns). Suggested publishing a list of non-profits for public donations (CEOC, Cambridge Community Center, Margaret Fuller House, East End House, Food for Free, United Way).
    • Councilor Nolan: Emphasized the need to ensure the most vulnerable are reached and aware of available support. Expressed shame at the federal situation.
    • Councilor Siddiqui: Asked about contact with the state delegation (City Manager confirmed ongoing efforts). Inquired about using stabilization funds to support non-profits (City Manager confirmed this is an option being explored).
    • Councilor Wilson: Stressed the urgency and need for proactive measures, drawing parallels to the Cambridge Rise Up program. Asked how the city will ensure 6,700 families know how to access services if SNAP is cut on November 1st.
    • City Manager: Acknowledged the impossibility of fully replacing federal funding but committed to finding actionable short-term solutions. Noted the increase in SNAP beneficiaries from 6,000 pre-pandemic to 10,000 currently, and the rising need among middle-income families. Warned of potential long-term federal cuts beyond SNAP.
    • Councilor Wilson: Reiterated the need to use city reserves and prioritize families. Asked about the impact on school meal programs (City Manager confirmed school lunch programs are state-funded and not affected by federal cuts).
    • Councilor Siddiqui: Reemphasized the need for funding commitments to community partners and exploring options like gift cards.
    • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Suggested the city act as a coordinator for resident and business support, similar to the family shelters initiative, to direct volunteers and donations.
    • Councilor Azeem: Asked about day-to-day response and the nature of the problem (short-term shutdown vs. long-term budget cuts). City Manager stated it's both, requiring short, medium, and long-term strategies.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Emphasized the need for broad outreach, especially to seniors, and suggested exploring infrastructure for future crises. Encouraged the City Manager to bring forward financial proposals.
    • Councilor Wilson: Requested more information before next Monday and tangible next steps for families if SNAP is cut.
    • City Manager: Stated the plan is to quickly develop a program with partners for an appropriation next Monday, aiming for implementation within days. Acknowledged the difficulty of fully supporting all 10,000 impacted individuals but committed to increasing resources within the system.

Motion to Adopt Late Order: Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy (8)
  • Absent: Mayor Simmons (1)

City Manager Agenda Item Number 4: Appropriation of $20 Million from Free Cash for 221 Mount Auburn Street Demolition

Resolution: Transmitting communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $20,000,000 from free cash to the General Fund Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages account, to replenish funds used for the demolition of 221 Mount Auburn Street. Pulled by: Councilor Toner.

City Manager Agenda Item Number 5: Appropriation of $1,000,000 from Free Cash for Vail Court Settlement

Resolution: Transmitting communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $1,000,000 from free cash to the General Fund Law Department Ordinary Maintenance account, to replenish funds used for the Vail Court settlement.

City Manager Agenda Item Number 6: Appropriation of $1,000,000 from Free Cash for Mitigation Stabilization Fund

Resolution: Transmitting communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $1,000,000 from free cash to the Mitigation Stabilization Fund.

Motion: Councilor Toner moved to suspend the rules to discuss City Manager Agenda Items 4, 5, and 6 together. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy (8)
  • Absent: Mayor Simmons (1)

Discussion on Items 4, 5, and 6:

  • Councilor Toner: Clarified that the $20 million for 221 Mount Auburn Street (Item 4) is for public safety and will be recouped, not a giveaway. Asked about tax bill delays and interest loss.
  • Assistant City Manager Claire Spinner:
    • Tax bills dated November 7th, due December 8th.
    • Delaying tax bills impacts interest earnings and required using reserves. Aim to set tax rate earlier next year.
    • Items 4, 5, and 6 replenish funds borrowed from the health insurance budget for Riverview demolition and Vail Court settlement, as promised when free cash was certified.
    • Item 6 transfers mitigation funds from free cash to the Mitigation Stabilization Fund, as required by law, for future specific projects.
  • Councilor Zusy: Asked about the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund balance and potential uses.
    • City Manager: Approximately $37 million in the fund, from various special permit agreements (e.g., solar panels, Blue Bikes, workforce development). Funds are appropriated by Council when projects are ready.
  • Councilor Zusy: Asked about the ideal free cash balance for a AAA bond rating and the timeline for the 221 Mount Auburn Street demolition.
    • Assistant City Manager Claire Spinner: City policy aims to maintain certified free cash at 15% of the operating budget. Current balance is approximately 18% before these transfers. These expenditures were essential and the balance allows for such responses.
    • Deputy City Manager Kathy Watkins:
      • Demolition of 221 Mount Auburn Street is for public health and safety due to structural issues and proximity to other buildings.
      • Consultant and contractor teams are in place.
      • Community meeting held last Wednesday with 300 participants.
      • Mobilization on site in the coming week.
      • High-reach excavator will arrive in two weeks, demolition to begin December 1st.
      • Demolition estimated to take four months (through end of March), with site cleanup through end of April.
      • Contractors are prepared for winter conditions, including dust control measures.
      • The $20 million appropriation included contingencies, and the project is currently within budget.
      • Costs overruns would be added to the amount sought from 221 Mount Auburn Street owners, who are expected to sell the property, with the city being first in line for recoupment.
      • The property's assessed value is significantly higher than the $20 million investment.
  • Councilor Wilson: Emphasized diligence in staying within budget for the demolition, referencing past firehouse project overruns. Drew a parallel between the city's ability to fund the demolition and the potential lack of support for vulnerable families facing SNAP cuts.
  • Councilor Nolan: Thanked staff for their work, noting the public health threat and the need for a safe demolition process due to asbestos.
  • Vice Mayor McGovern: Reiterated that the $20 million for 221 Mount Auburn Street will be repaid, distinguishing it from other free cash expenditures.
  • City Manager: Clarified that the city's involvement in 221 Mount Auburn Street is for public health and safety, not a "bailout" of condo owners, many of whom are losing significant equity. The city's reserves allow it to address such critical situations.

Motion to Adopt City Manager Agenda Items 4, 5, and 6: Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy (8)
  • Absent: Mayor Simmons (1)

City Manager Agenda Item Number 7: Porter Square Business Improvement District Exploratory Process

Resolution: Transmitting communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order Item Number 2025, Number 107, regarding a request to support an exploratory process, potentially including stakeholder engagement, legal and technical assessments, and community outreach to evaluate the creation of a Business Improvement District (BID) in Porter Square. Pulled by: Councilor Toner.

Discussion:

  • Councilor Toner: Thanked Assistant City Manager Peters and Ms. Safari for the good news and asked about next steps and the city's role.
    • Assistant City Manager Peters: State has connected the city with a consultant (Ann Burke, experienced with Central Square BID). Kickoff meeting in a few weeks, then community conversations. Funding must be used by end of fiscal year (June 30, 2026).
  • Councilor Nolan: Expressed excitement for the initiative, noting the citywide issue of vacant storefronts. Asked about the difference between a business association and a BID, and whether the study would recommend one over the other.
    • Assistant City Manager Peters: Business associations are membership-based, while BIDs involve an additional fee on property tax bills, which the city then remits to the BID. The study will assess both possibilities and the process for each.
  • Councilor Nolan: Inquired about the geographic scope of the study (Porter Square to Arlington line) and whether other business associations would be involved.
    • Assistant City Manager Peters: The study will consider the geographic area of the North Mass Ave study, from Cambridge Common to the Arlington line. State guidelines require BIDs to have around 70% commercial use. All relevant business associations and neighborhood organizations will be engaged.
  • Councilor Zusy: Asked about the refundable tax credits for vacant storefronts.
    • Assistant City Manager Peters: The city applies for grants, and then helps businesses moving into storefronts vacant for six months or more claim state tax credits. The city is not directly providing the credit. Up to $50,000 is available, anticipated to be split among five businesses ($10,000 each).

Motion to Place on File: Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy (8)
  • Absent: Mayor Simmons (1)

Policy Orders

Policy Order Number 1: Joint Budget Roundtable

Resolution: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the School Committee to schedule a joint budget roundtable on November 10, 2025, to discuss macroeconomic trends in Cambridge and the city's budget. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy (8)
  • Absent: Mayor Simmons (1)

Policy Order Number 2: Linear Park Reconstruction Connectivity Improvements

Resolution: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Cambridge Department of Transportation and other relevant departments to examine how to improve connectivity north of Rindge Ave during the Linear Park reconstruction project, so that vulnerable road users can bypass Rindge Ave and Cedar Street where possible. Filed by: Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Nolan, and Vice Mayor McGovern.

Discussion:

  • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Explained the policy order aims to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists during the Linear Park closure, which will divert traffic to streets like Cedar Ave, Rindge Street, Harvey Street, and Dudley Street. Suggested exploring traffic calming measures and "neighbor ways" treatments, similar to Somerville. Noted that the Transportation Department is open to considering this.
  • Councilor Toner: Supported the policy order and requested to be added as a co-sponsor. Advocated for speed humps, better signage, and sharrows. Cautioned against removing parking in dense neighborhoods.
  • Councilor Zusy: Confirmed the need for a plan for cyclists during the Linear Park closure, including traffic slowing measures. Expressed concern about parking removal on Reed Street and Sargent Street.
  • Councilor Wilson: Emphasized the need for high-level community engagement and communication regarding changes. Highlighted the existing challenges on Dudley, Clifton, and Harvey Streets, and the impact of Rindge Avenue as an on-ramp to Route 2. Stressed the importance of considering the impact on businesses and residents, referencing the negative impact of a one-way change on Dudley Street businesses.

Motion to Add Councilor Toner as Co-Sponsor: Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Motion to Adopt Policy Order Number 2 as Amended: Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Policy Order Number 3: School Committee Budget Oversight

Resolution: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the School Committee to discuss the need for greater transparency and oversight in the School Committee's budget and procurement processes. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy (8)
  • Absent: Mayor Simmons (1)

Unfinished Business

Unfinished Business Item Number 4: Dangerous Dog Ordinance

Ordinance: An ordinance has been received from Interim City Clerk Paula M. Crane relative to the Dangerous Dog Ordinance 6.08.010, passed to a second reading in Council October 6th, 2025, eligible to be ordained on or after October 27th, 2025. Motion: Councilor Toner moved to adopt the ordinance. Outcome: Ordained. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Applications and Petitions

  • None.

Communications

Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to place all 18 communications on file. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Resolutions

Motion: To make Resolutions 2, 3, 4, and 5 unanimous upon adoption. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Resolution Number 1: Condolences to the Family of Kimberly Costanza

Resolution: Offering condolences to the family of Kimberly Costanza. Pulled by: Councilor Toner.

Motion: Councilor Toner moved to be added as a co-sponsor. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Motion to Adopt Resolution Number 1 as Amended: Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Committee Reports

  • None.

Communication and Reports from Other City Officers

Item Number 1: Communication from City Clerk regarding Outstanding Matters

Motion: To place on file. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Item Number 2: Communication from Councilor Nolan regarding 177 Hancock Street Curb Cut

Resolution: A communication was received from Councilor Nolan transmitting a letter regarding revocation of a curb cut application previously granted. Pulled by: Councilor Nolan.

Discussion:

  • Councilor Nolan: Expressed frustration with the curb cut process and the need for better policy. Acknowledged previous discussions with Nick Greenfield's office. Stated that the documentation provided to the Council for the initial approval was incomplete, lacking several abutter letters. Clarified that a vote to reconsider would initiate a process for a public hearing on possible revocation, not an immediate revocation.
  • Councilor Toner: Stated he would not vote to suspend the rules. Argued that Nick Greenfield and Bryn Sanders were a couple restoring a house, not "developers." Noted that Greenfield sent 64 certified letters and was told late responses could not be included. Referenced Deputy City Manager Watkins' previous statement that abutter opposition is not binding on Council decisions.
  • Councilor Azeem: Expressed confusion about the justification for revisiting the issue if the homeowners followed the rules and late information was added after the fact. Stated he would not vote to suspend the rules.

Motion to Suspend Rules for Reconsideration: Outcome: Failed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Nolan, Councilor Zusy (2)
  • No: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Mayor Simmons (7)

Motion to Place Communication on File: Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

Late Resolutions

  • None.

Announcements

  • Councilor Wilson: Announced a literacy event at City Hall next Saturday (November 1st), 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM, with food, books, and activities for children (birth to eight). Sent prayers to Jamaica due to Hurricane Melissa.
  • Councilor Zusy: Announced the CambridgeSide Half Marathon on Sunday.
  • Councilor Nolan: Announced a Health and Environment Committee meeting on Wednesday, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM, in the Sullivan Chamber, to discuss energy planning in Cambridge, with Eversource, MIT, Harvard, and business associations.
  • Mayor Simmons: Announced a Halloween trick-or-treat event this Thursday, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM, and the Senior Center 30th Anniversary Party on Thursday, 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM.
  • Vice Mayor McGovern: Announced an Ordinance Committee meeting on Thursday at 5:30 PM for a presentation and public comment on the zoning proposal for Northern Mass Ave and Cambridge Street (no vote or Council discussion).

Motion to Adjourn: Councilor Toner moved to adjourn. Outcome: Passed. Vote:

  • Yes: Councilor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (9)

The meeting was adjourned.

Last updated: Nov 5, 2025