Meeting Minutes: Cambridge City Council - Regular Meeting
Date: December 22, 2025 Governing Body: Cambridge City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting Attendees:
- Vice Mayor Marc McGovern (Presiding)
- City Councilor Burhan Azeem
- 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
- Mayor Denise Simmons (Joined remotely, absent for some votes)
Executive Summary: The Cambridge City Council convened for its final regular meeting of 2025, addressing critical zoning petitions for Massachusetts Avenue and Cambridge Street, federal updates on housing grants, and combined sewer overflow (CSO) plans. A significant portion of the meeting involved public comment on the proposed upzonings, with residents expressing both strong support for increased housing density and concerns regarding affordability, community character, and infrastructure impacts. The Council ultimately voted to ordain the Massachusetts Avenue Zoning Petition, maintaining the 12-story height limit, and decided to carry over the Cambridge Street Zoning Petition to the next legislative term for further consideration.
I. Call to Order and Roll Call
- The meeting was called to order by Vice Mayor McGovern.
- Roll Call:
- Azeem: Present
- Nolan: Present
- Siddiqui: Present
- Sobrinho-Wheeler: Present
- Toner: Present (initially absent, joined later)
- Wilson: Present
- Zusy: Present
- Simmons: Absent (joined remotely later)
- McGovern: Present
- A quorum was declared with seven members present initially, later increasing to nine.
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
- The City is authorized to use remote participation per Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2025.
- Public comment was facilitated via Zoom teleconference, with sign-up at cambridgema.gov/publiccomment and written comments accepted at cityclerk@cambridgema.gov.
- Speakers were limited to two minutes and could only address agenda items, excluding communications and awaiting reports.
- 62 speakers were signed up for public comment.
IV. Public Comment
- Joseph Arletta (68 Walker Street): Advocated for letting upzoning resolutions lapse, arguing that market-rate housing does not alleviate cost-of-living pressures and instead adds stress and destroys character. Proposed leveraging the city budget for low-income housing.
- Yong Kim (17 Norris Street): Opposed the Mass Avenue and Cambridge Street corridor zoning petitions, citing unresolved gaps in accessibility, solar protections, mass timber construction readiness, and impacts on non-profit affordable housing developers. Recommended letting petitions expire for review by the incoming council.
- David Halperin (14 Ballantyne Street, Unit 3): Strongly supported the Northern Mass Ave and Cambridge upzonings, emphasizing the need for housing near transit and jobs to reduce long commutes and climate impact. Advocated for maintaining 12 stories on Northern Mass Ave.
- Neil Miller: Urged against the 11-story amendment for North Mass Ave, stating 11 stories is a "dead zone" for multi-family housing and would lead to fewer homes. Supported passing the Cambridge Street Plan to incentivize mixed-income housing.
- Anas El-Turabi (131 Sherman Street): Spoke on Manager's Agenda Item #5 (CSO plans), recommending the new CSO Advisory Committee include direct representation from abutters and residents near the 135 Sherman Street facility. Highlighted concerns about the 5.3 million gallon integrated system and past engagement issues.
- Michael Siegel (33 Bellis Circle): Expressed concern about the proposed tank construction project near Sherman and Miller Circle, noting a history of inadequate community engagement regarding the site's future.
- Ethan Frank (632 Mass Ave): Supported upzoning for taller buildings, citing Cambridge's low car ownership rates near transit and the potential for increased business for small businesses. Supported Policy Order #2 regarding residential parking permits.
- Itamar Turner-Trowing (139 Oxford Street): Advocated for passing both Mass Ave and Cambridge Street upzonings with maximum height, arguing taller buildings lead to more units, more affordable units (through inclusionary zoning), and more customers for small businesses.
- Julia Schlossman (41 Walker Street): Supported a "strong, bold zoning policy" for North Mass Ave and Cambridge Street, specifically up to 12 stories, to add housing in amenity-rich areas.
- Alexander Yablokov (16 Castle Park): Supported the upzonings, stating North Cambridge has been "underused and undervalued" and that the changes would bring new neighbors and businesses.
- James Zoll (203 Pemberton Street): Thanked the Council for replacing exclusionary restrictions with by-right standards, noting it has increased affordable housing. Urged passing the upzonings without further reductions.
- Noah Stapp: Strongly supported upzoning for taller buildings on Mass Ave and Cambridge Street, arguing Cambridge needs dense urban housing to alleviate the cost of living crisis.
- Paul Recuglia (9-5 Bella Circle): Supported the Cambridge Street and Mass Avenue zoning ordinances, thanking the Council for their work on housing.
- Jim Monteverde (12 Oak Street): Asked for the Cambridge Street zoning proposal to expire, arguing the correct height limit for Inman Square and Cambridge Street is six stories, not eight. Called for improved design review and retail protections.
- Alan Speight: Urged letting the petition lapse, citing concerns about prioritizing one goal (housing) over others and running roughshod over citizens. Compared the situation to the 1962 Inner Belt highway proposal.
- Marilee Meyer (10 Dana Street): Urged letting the petition expire, criticizing the Council's rigidity on height goals and ignoring concerns. Stated that profitable market rate housing has an advantage over AHO height and that the Council is reshaping Cambridge into a "lifeless playground of the super rich."
- David Hattis (393 Broadway): Supported more housing on Cambridge Street and Mass Ave, both market rate and affordable. Stated that these petitions could add 680 additional affordable homes by 2040. Worried that reducing height from 12 to 11 stories on Mass Ave could lead to fewer homes.
- Matthew Kelly (13 Oakland Street): Asked for the Cambridge Street upzoning to expire, citing too many unanswered questions about traffic, parking, open space, and solar panel impacts. Stated residents feel "blindsided" by the proposed changes.
- Gertrude Goodman (1221 Cambridge Street): Asked for the proposal to be put on hold, questioning "affordable for whom?" and arguing that building higher will not create more inclusionary housing. Expressed concerns about developer responsibility for maintenance and the impact on small businesses.
- Shelly Ryman (201 Franklin Street): Opposed the upzonings, citing fire department concerns about ladder truck limitations (safe up to 6-7 stories) and the increased cost/labor for taller buildings. Criticized the lack of process and communication with affected residents and the potential loss of small businesses.
- Mary Jane Kornacki (103 Avon Hill Street): Urged letting the Mass Ave upzoning expire, criticizing the Council for undoing the work of the MAPS process and dismissing its recommendations. Stated MAPS recommended 8 stories by right, up to 11 for public benefit, and 12 stories if 100% affordable.
- Jacob Silverson (103 Avon Hill Street): Questioned the credibility of those voting yes, stating the Council disregarded community recommendations from the MAPS study. Argued the proposal would not make housing more affordable for many and would increase traffic and pollution.
- Ariella Katz-Miller (425 Mass Ave): Supported more homes on North Mass Ave and Cambridge Street, sharing personal experiences of friends being priced out of Cambridge due to high rents.
- Paula Cortez (25 Newell Street): Urged the upzoning in Porter Square to expire, describing the negative impacts of 18-story buildings on residential areas, including shadows, wind, lack of green space, and increased traffic/parking issues.
- Hallie Speight (33 Antrim Street): Urged letting the Cambridge Street upzoning expire, criticizing the lack of design review and carte blanche for developers.
- Mark Keebler (52 Porter Street): Strongly supported the rezoning of North Mass Ave and Cambridge Street, stating housing costs are pushing people out of Cambridge. Argued the changes would focus growth near transit and jobs, reduce car trips, and increase affordable housing.
- Suzanne Blier (5 Fuller Place): Urged rethinking the upzonings and allowing them to expire, arguing they would raise housing costs, lead to empty units, and benefit investors. Cited fire safety concerns for buildings over 6-7 stories.
- Beryl Lipton: Asked for the Cambridge Street zoning to be considered in the next term or to lapse, citing problems with the plan and community engagement, including inadequate public hearing notices.
- John Pitkin (18 Fayette Street): Urged tabling the Cambridge Street upzoning for further consideration, citing concerns about livability, design review, small business retention, and parking/transportation issues.
- Louise Venden (10 Rogers Street, #820): Asked for the upzonings to expire, stating that current zoning changes have not effectively produced housing. Argued that arguments for height and density are based on logic that has failed before.
- Hanan Rhodes (29 Ellsworth Avenue): Strongly supported the new zoning petition to upzone squares and corridors, stating it makes sense for increasing housing and affordability, and centers development to preserve other neighborhoods.
- Aaron Fryman (113 Hamilton Street): Supported upzoning to allow taller buildings on Mass Ave and Cambridge Street, sharing his personal struggle to afford living in Cambridge. Argued that dense construction in high-transit areas is needed to make the city more accessible.
- Nihit Trivedi (41 Magoon Street): Supported the upzonings at 12 stories, stating the proposals are reasonable and necessary to meet housing goals and make Cambridge affordable.
- Helen Kobach (69 R Gore Street): Opposed the upzonings, emphasizing concerns about snow and ice melting on sidewalks, increased risk of falls, and restricted access for home care visitors.
- Susan Markowitz: Requested the petition expire, arguing Cambridge Street is too narrow for the proposed scale. Stated that the upzoning would increase market rate and inclusionary housing but also land values, potentially displacing middle and lower-income residents.
- Emily Norton (Executive Director, Charles River Watershed Association): Spoke on Order 309 (CSO), questioning the logic of the DPW memo regarding 25-year storm projections and advocating for a more aggressive approach to sewage reduction and green infrastructure.
- Thomas Goro (37 Pleasant Street): Spoke on CSO, highlighting concerns about rising groundwater tables and overbuilding. Advocated for climate-smart, sustainable environmental management.
- Phyllis Bretholz (65 Antrim Street): Requested the upzoning petition expire, citing research that past housing additions have not led to affordability. Expressed concerns about increased traffic, displacement, and destruction of trees.
- Lee Farris (Norfolk Street): Expressed serious concerns about the proposed upzoning, asking for petitions to expire for amended versions. Advocated for protecting inclusionary housing and expressed worry about land price increases and displacement.
- Daniel Glock (50 Buckingham Street): Asked if the city has fully evaluated the impact of planned high-rises on parking, green space, sunlight, and disability access.
- Samuel Polzin (31 Garfield Street): Strongly supported the zoning petitions, stating that most people live in market-rate housing and that building more housing is essential.
- Thomas Burke (11 Buena Vista Park): Supported the upzonings, stating that the people most affected by the decision are often not present at meetings. Argued that past efforts to block affordable housing projects have led to people leaving Cambridge.
- Rabbi Yoni: Supported the Council's pro-housing agenda, advocating for increasing inclusionary housing and mandating it for smaller buildings.
- Dan Totten (54 Bishop Allen Drive): Expressed skepticism that market-rate units trickle down but recognized the importance of inclusionary units. Appreciated the amendment to safeguard the inclusionary program and the focus on ground-floor retail.
- Daniel Mascoop (57th Spirit Office Terrace): Supported the zoning proposals, arguing they help achieve goals for housing, transportation, and sustainability. Stated that larger buildings often maintain sidewalks better in snow.
- Joel Nodjic (94 Clifton Street): Spoke on Awaiting Report Item #25-61 (Alewife Paths), requesting the item not be considered resolved due to anticipated increases in unhoused individuals in warmer weather.
- Zion Sharon (401 Washington): Expressed disappointment, citing concerns about gentrification, solar protections, and accessibility for people with disabilities. Highlighted the lack of accessible loading/parking spots in new developments.
- Justin Safe (259 Hurley Street): Supported the upzonings, stating that zoning restrictions have blocked new housing. Argued that housing affordability is the most important issue and that Cambridge Street and North Mass Ave are ideal for more housing.
- Charles Hines (207 Charles Street): Opposed the Cambridge Street zoning, arguing that only luxury housing would be constructed, displacing existing tenants and small businesses. Predicted a "windfall" for developers and increased land values.
- Marina Garo-Atlas: Urged full environmental review for such proposals, citing concerns about noise, fumes, pollution, and vibrations for nearby residents and workers. Emphasized the importance of smart planning and preserving the environment.
- James Williamson (Churchill Ave): Criticized the focus on 12-story buildings, noting the lack of the Mass Ave text in the agenda. Questioned the absence of housing providers/developers at the meeting and advocated for height limits seen in other cities.
- Jonas G. (Off Cambridge Street): Supported the ordinances and parking policy order, advocating for following planning board recommendations and established urban development practices.
- Heather Hoffman (213 Hurley Street): Questioned the legality of differential treatment for residents regarding parking passes. Raised concerns about asbestos in Alewife and criticized the lack of analysis in zoning decisions.
- Richard Krushnick: Appreciated the lowering of Inman Square height to 8 stories. Reiterated support for a real community process and protecting small retail.
- Amy Waltz: Highlighted the shortfalls of a by-right zoning approach, emphasizing the carbon-intensive nature of demolition and construction. Advocated for site-specific planning and environmental impact regulations.
- Vote to Close Public Comment:
- Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to close public comment.
- Roll Call:
- Azeem: Yes
- McGovern: Yes
- Nolan: Yes
- Siddiqui: Yes
- Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
- Toner: Yes
- Wilson: Yes
- Zusy: Yes
- Simmons: Absent (initially), then Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (8 Yes, 1 Absent initially, then 9 Yes).
V. Submission of the Record
- None.
VI. Reconsideration
- None.
VII. City Manager's Agenda
- Items Pulled: #1, #2, #4, #5, #6, #7.
- Item #3: Approved (8 Yes, 1 Absent).
A. City Manager Agenda Item #1: Federal Update (Pulled by Councilor Siddiqui)
- Summary: City Manager Yi-An Huang provided an update on federal budget negotiations and the HUD Continuum of Care grants. A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction against HUD's proposed changes to Continuum of Care funding, which would have reduced guaranteed funding for permanent supportive housing from 90% to 30%. While a short-term win, long-term uncertainty remains due to potential appeals and future policy shifts.
- Discussion:
- Councilor Siddiqui thanked the City Solicitor's team for their work on the court cases.
- Councilor Nolan inquired about potential communications during the holiday break regarding legal developments. The City Solicitor confirmed a written decision was expected and that the city would communicate any appeals.
- Outcome: Placed on file (9 Yes).
B. City Manager Agenda Item #2: Appropriation for Fire Extraordinary Expenditures (Pulled by Councilor Zusy)
- Summary: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding the appropriation of $1,172,577 to the Grant Fund Fire Extraordinary Expenditures Account. Funds are for detection and metering equipment for biological/chemical hazards and radiation, and new PFAS-free firefighting gear.
- Discussion:
- Councilor Zusy clarified that this was a state grant, not a new expense, and expressed satisfaction with the acquisition of PFAS-free gear.
- Fire Chief Cahill confirmed the grant was unexpected but welcomed, with the majority of funds going to PFAS-free gear.
- Outcome: Appropriation approved and placed on file (9 Yes).
C. City Manager Agenda Item #4: Awaiting Report Item #25-61 - Cleanliness and Safety in Alewife Paths (Pulled by Councilor Nolan)
- Summary: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding cleanliness and safety in the Alewife Paths near Russell Field. The report detailed increased coordination and weekly maintenance by city departments and state partners (DCR, MBTA, IQHQ).
- Discussion:
- Councilor Nolan acknowledged improvements but questioned plans for continued follow-up, especially as weather warms, and coordination of city services for unhoused individuals.
- Commissioner Nardone stated that weekly maintenance continues, needle boxes have been installed, and a spring walk-through with partners is planned.
- Councilor Zusy reiterated concerns about the location of the Helpsy bin at Alewife. Commissioner Nardone noted its high usage and quick response from Helpsy for issues.
- Councilor Siddiqui inquired about the frequency of targeted police patrols and the number of individuals connected to services.
- Councilor Wilson thanked DPW and CPD, emphasizing the need for balance in policing and continued planning for warmer months. City Manager Huang confirmed ongoing inter-departmental efforts to address safety and connect individuals to services in Alewife, Porter Square, and Central Square.
- Outcome: Placed on file (9 Yes).
D. City Manager Agenda Item #5: Combined Sewer Overflows (Pulled by Councilor Nolan)
- Summary: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding combined sewer overflows (CSOs). The report outlined statutory work and concerns about building to a 25-year storm in 2050 due to widespread flooding and space constraints.
- Discussion:
- Councilor Nolan confirmed the 120-day extension for the draft plan was granted by the state.
- City Engineer Jim Wilcox explained the challenges of sizing CSO control and flood control to the 25-year storm level due to space constraints and past experience with 13 stormwater holding tanks.
- Councilor Nolan suggested including a seat for abutters on the new CSO Advisory Committee and inquired about the committee's recruitment timeline and focus on CSOs. Commissioner Nardone stated recruitment would begin in January, with an initial focus on CSOs.
- Councilor Nolan asked about the timeline for new stormwater management regulations and their communication to the Council. Mr. Wilcox stated draft regulations would be released in early 2026, addressing recent zoning changes and triggers for projects.
- Councilor Toner inquired about the total cost of the future CSO project, noting it would be in the "hundreds of millions of dollars" and would require significant public education.
- Councilor Zusy expressed appreciation for updated regulations on water storage for private property owners but raised concerns about increasing density in wet areas and the impact on trees and open space. She also questioned the MWRA's stance on water quality and potential funding.
- Outcome: Placed on file (9 Yes).
E. City Manager Agenda Item #6: Revised Massachusetts Avenue Zoning Petition (Pulled by Vice Mayor McGovern)
- Summary: This item concerned the proposed upzoning of Massachusetts Avenue. Vice Mayor McGovern outlined the process, noting the petition's expiration on January 28th and the upcoming meeting schedule.
- Procedural Actions:
- Motion to Suspend Rules: To bring forward Calendar Item #3 (Unfinished Business Ordinance 25, #16) and Charter Right #1 (policy order to reduce Mass Ave Sub-District, Mass 12, from 12 to 11 stories).
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Amend Petition Language by Substitution: To incorporate more current language.
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Discussion on Charter Right #1 (12 to 11 stories):
- Councilor Siddiqui supported the 11-story reduction, citing community process and strong design controls.
- Councilor Nolan supported the 11-story reduction as better aligned with the MAPS study, noting it still represents a bold change. She inquired about incentive zoning if inclusionary zoning is struck down.
- Councilor Zusy supported 11 stories but expressed broader concerns about passing the petitions, arguing they would make Cambridge more expensive and that more time is needed for thoughtful planning.
- Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler opposed the 11-story reduction, arguing it would lead to less affordable housing and that 12 stories is needed to address the housing crisis. He highlighted protections for ground-floor retail in the new zoning.
- Councilor Azeem opposed the 11-story reduction, stating the economic difference between 11 and 12 stories is significant for financial viability, especially with existing costly requirements like climate resiliency zoning.
- Councilor Wilson supported the 11-story reduction but expressed ongoing struggle with the overall petition, questioning its effectiveness in achieving true affordability.
- Vice Mayor McGovern opposed the 11-story reduction, citing CDD's recommendation for 12 stories for economic viability and the need for more housing. He addressed concerns about lawsuits, the nexus study, and the purpose of the upzoning (not solely affordable housing).
- Vote on Charter Right #1 (12 to 11 stories):
- Roll Call:
- Azeem: No
- McGovern: No
- Nolan: Yes
- Siddiqui: Yes
- Sobrinho-Wheeler: No
- Toner: No
- Wilson: Yes
- Zusy: Yes
- Simmons: Yes (initially), then changed to No
- Outcome: Motion failed (4 Yes, 5 No) after Mayor Simmons changed her vote.
- Roll Call:
- Motion to Ordain as Amended by Substitution (Mass Ave Zoning Petition with 12 stories):
- Roll Call:
- Azeem: Yes
- McGovern: Yes
- Nolan: No
- Siddiqui: Yes
- Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
- Toner: Yes
- Wilson: No
- Zusy: No
- Simmons: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (6 Yes, 3 No).
- Roll Call:
- Motion to Suspend Rules for Reconsideration (hoping it will not prevail):
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Vote on Reconsideration:
- Outcome: Motion failed (9 No).
- Motion to Place City Manager Agenda Item #6 on File:
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Suspend Rules: To bring forward Calendar Item #3 (Unfinished Business Ordinance 25, #16) and Charter Right #1 (policy order to reduce Mass Ave Sub-District, Mass 12, from 12 to 11 stories).
F. City Manager Agenda Item #7: Revised Cambridge Street Zoning Petition (Pulled by Vice Mayor McGovern)
- Summary: This item concerned the proposed upzoning of Cambridge Street.
- Procedural Actions:
- Motion to Suspend Rules: To bring forward Calendar Item #4 (Unfinished Business Ordinance 2025, #17).
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Discussion:
- Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler suggested carrying the petition over to the next term due to unresolved issues.
- Councilor Toner preferred to vote on it tonight.
- Councilor Nolan agreed to forward it to the new council.
- Motion to Place Cambridge Street Petition Back on the Table (to carry over to next term):
- Roll Call:
- Azeem: Yes
- McGovern: Yes
- Nolan: Yes
- Siddiqui: Yes
- Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
- Toner: No
- Wilson: Yes
- Zusy: Yes
- Simmons: No
- Outcome: Motion passed (7 Yes, 2 No). The petition will be held over to the next term.
- Roll Call:
- Motion to Place City Manager Agenda Item #7 on File:
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Suspend Rules: To bring forward Calendar Item #4 (Unfinished Business Ordinance 2025, #17).
VIII. Policy Orders
- Mayor Simmons exercised her Charter Right on Policy Orders #1 and #2, carrying them over to the next council.
IX. Calendar
- No items pulled.
- Motion to Adopt: Mayor Simmons moved to adopt.
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
X. Applications and Petitions
- Motion to Adopt: Mayor Simmons moved to adopt.
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
XI. Communications
- 59 communications were received.
- Motion to Place on File: Mayor Simmons moved to place on file.
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
XII. Resolutions
- Item #12: Pulled by Councilor Toner.
- Motion to Adopt (making unanimous upon adoption):
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Add Councilor Wilson as Co-Sponsor to Resolution #12:
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Adopt Resolution #12 as Amended (making unanimous upon adoption):
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
XIII. Communications and Reports from Other City Officers
- Item #1: Communication from Interim City Clerk Paula M. Crane transmitting a memorandum regarding COF 2025 #154 and pending awaiting reports to be carried forward.
- Discussion: Councilor Zusy confirmed that some policy orders from the previous week were integrated into this list.
- Motion to Forward Awaiting Reports to Next City Council and Place Report on File:
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Suspend Rules for Reconsideration (hoping it will not prevail):
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Vote on Reconsideration:
- Outcome: Motion failed (9 No).
- Item #2: Motion to Place on File by Mayor Simmons.
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
XIV. Late Resolutions
- Motion to Suspend Rules to Take Up Late Resolutions:
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Late Resolution (Sponsored by Mayor Simmons): Honoring Christopher C.B. Brown for 25 years of legal excellence and admission to the bar of the Supreme Court of the United States.
- Discussion: Mayor Simmons spoke about Attorney Brown's contributions and achievements.
- Motion to Adopt (making unanimous upon adoption):
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
XV. Late Policy Orders
- None.
XVI. Correction to Mass Ave Zoning Petition
- Procedural Actions:
- Motion to Suspend Rules (to go back to Mass Ave Zoning):
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Suspend Rules to Move Reconsideration (hoping it prevails): To correct a typo in the Mass Ave Zoning Petition (Section 17.803.2, paragraph C, reference to 17.705 should be 17.805).
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Vote on Reconsideration:
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Amend by Substitution (with typo correction):
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Motion to Ordain as Amended by Substitution:
- Roll Call:
- Azeem: Yes
- McGovern: Yes
- Nolan: No
- Siddiqui: Yes
- Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
- Toner: Yes
- Wilson: No
- Zusy: No
- Simmons: Yes
- Outcome: Motion passed (6 Yes, 3 No).
- Roll Call:
- Motion to Suspend Rules to Move Reconsideration (hoping it will not prevail):
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- Vote on Reconsideration:
- Outcome: Motion failed (9 No).
- Motion to Suspend Rules (to go back to Mass Ave Zoning):
XVII. Announcements
- Councilor Toner: Delivered a farewell speech, thanking family, friends, and supporters, and expressing gratitude for serving on the Council. He highlighted his focus on a balanced, common-sense perspective and helping residents. He thanked city employees and wished everyone well.
- Mayor Simmons: Acknowledged Councilor Toner's service, recalling his time with the Cambridge Educators Association and Massachusetts Teachers Association. She praised his willingness to meet people where they were and his thoroughness in his work.
XVIII. Adjournment
- Motion to Adjourn: Councilor Nolan moved to adjourn.
- Outcome: Motion passed (9 Yes).
- The meeting was adjourned.