City Council - Regular Meeting

September 15, 2025
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Meeting Minutes of the Cambridge City Council

Meeting Type: Regular Meeting Date: September 15, 2025 Governing Body: Cambridge City Council Attendees:

  • Councillor Burhan Azeem
  • Vice Mayor Marc McGovern
  • Councillor Patricia Nolan
  • Councillor Sumbul Siddiqui
  • Councillor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler
  • Councillor Paul Toner (Absent for some votes)
  • Councillor Ayesha Wilson
  • Councillor Catherine Zusy
  • Mayor Denise Simmons

Executive Summary: The City Council addressed several key issues, including the allocation of Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds, an update on the proposed charter change, and discussions on public health initiatives such as needle drop boxes and opioid settlement funds. Significant debate occurred regarding the feasibility study for repurposing the Harvard Square MBTA tunnel, with the Mayor expressing disappointment in the City Manager's cautious approach. Zoning petitions for Cambridge Street and Massachusetts Avenue were referred to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board. The Council also reviewed an interim report on demolition and building permit applications following the multifamily zoning amendment and adopted policy orders concerning ICE encounter guidance and rodent control measures.

I. Roll Call

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

II. Pledge of Allegiance & Moment of Silence

  • The Council recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • A moment of silence was observed in memory of long-term Cambridge resident Joan Whitaker.

III. Remote Participation & Public Comment Procedures

  • Remote participation was authorized per Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2025.
  • Public comment was available via Zoom teleconference, city open meeting portal, or cable channel 22.
  • Sign-up for public comment was available until 6 p.m. at www.cambridgema.gov/publiccomment.
  • Written comments could be emailed to cityclerk@cambridgema.gov.
  • Each speaker was allotted two minutes due to 20 speakers signing up.

IV. Public Comment

  • Julia Schlossman (41 Walker Street): Spoke on Policy Order 3 (ICE hotline). Requested amendment to include Cambridge Public Schools and ensure the hotline complements existing efforts like "Lucy." Emphasized the need for comprehensive support for families affected by ICE arrests, including housing and food insecurity, and clear communication about hotline services.

  • Denise Gilson (Executive Director, Harvard Square Business Association): Reaffirmed support for Policy Order 117, advocating for a review of the three-decade-old policy providing public funding to a private non-profit (Cambridge Office for Tourism - COT). Argued for redirecting funds to optimize resources and effectively serve the community, noting that COT's TDMD funding is separate from taxpayer funds.

  • John DiGiovanni (50 Church Street): Addressed communication regarding funding to repurpose the Harvard Square tunnel. Acknowledged concerns about the estimated $500,000 to $1,000,000 feasibility study cost but urged the city to lead, citing MassDOT and MBTA's willingness to assist. Stressed the need to invest in Harvard Square's future, highlighting the tunnel as an abandoned asset.

  • Young Kim (17 Norris Street): Urged rejection of CMA 11 and 12 (zoning petitions) until a transparent, data-driven housing strategy is presented. Questioned the accuracy of CDD's housing unit data and called for updated projections, including large-scale developments like Cambridge Crossing, Volpe PUDs, and Cambridge Point.

  • Caitlin Johnson (24 Alberta Terrace): Spoke on Policy Order 127 (ICE support resources). Highlighted the existing statewide "Luce" hotline, which provides immediate response to immigration emergencies. Suggested that any new Cambridge-specific hotline should support, not duplicate, Luce's efforts, particularly in providing legal and interpretation services.

  • David Oshima (Owner, Charlie's Kitchen, Harvard Square): Expressed support for the renovation of the abandoned Harvard Square tunnel, believing it would revitalize the square and benefit businesses.

  • Oren Richkin (Cambridge Housing Authority, 362 Green Street): Spoke on Agenda Item 1 (CPA funding). Supported allocating 80% of CPA funding to affordable housing, citing the CHA's 20,000-person waitlist and the critical role of CPA funds in financing deeply affordable units.

  • Tina Alou (113 1/2 Pleasant Street): Spoke on behalf of CEOC, encouraging the City Council to accept the Community Preservation Act Committee's recommendation for FY26 CPA funds: 80% for affordable housing, 10% for historic preservation, and 10% for open space.

  • Elaine DeRosa (Fort Pleasant Place; Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust & Community Preservation Act Committee member): Testified in support of the CPA Committee's 80-10-10 funding recommendation, emphasizing the ongoing affordable housing crisis and the extensive community support for this allocation. Also supported Policy Order 3 (ICE actions).

  • Andy Nash (18 Worcester Street): Spoke on Policy Order 127 (ICE support resources). Suggested collaborating with existing community-based, immigrant-led initiatives like Luce and the Boston Immigration Justice and Accompaniment Network, especially for interpreter services and legal directories.

  • Zion Sharon (401 Washington Street): Spoke on CMA 11 and 12 (zoning). Advocated for growth in corridors while preserving neighborhoods. Raised concerns about sewage overflow and public health issues like rats, particularly in relation to construction. Also supported the policy order related to rats.

  • Michelle Song (Central Square): Urged the Council to reject additional by-right height increases until the February zoning changes are evaluated and neighborhood feedback is incorporated. Emphasized sustainable growth that fits neighborhood character, protects families, and ensures affordability.

  • David Halperin (14 Valentine Street, Unit 3): Expressed strong support for Policy Order 3 (immigrant protection resources). Supported zoning for Northern Mass Ave and Cambridge Street, hoping for larger-scale development. Also supported the pedestrianization of Lower Bow Street as an experiment.

  • Jessica Scully (Humboldt Street; Chair, HSBA Board): Reaffirmed support for Policy Order 117, arguing for aligning city dollars with neighborhood districts (HSBA, Central Square BID, East Cambridge Business Association, Kendall Square Association) for on-the-ground activation and merchant support.

  • O. Robert Simha (East Cambridge Neighborhood Association & East Cambridge Open Space Trust): Spoke on the Cambridge Street rezoning proposal. Expressed disappointment that the Community Development Department (CDD) did not respond to questions regarding historical perspective, needs assessment, population impact, displacement, utility needs, and coordination with the redevelopment authority.

  • Lee Ferris (Norfolk Street): Spoke on Policy Order 2 (social worker for crisis situations) and Policy Order 3 (ICE assistance). Advocated for a protocol for interacting with residents during barricade situations and urged the city to work with the Luce Network for ICE support, providing services like interpretation.

  • Nicola Williams (8 Brewer Street): Supported the tunnel renovation and Policy Order 127 (ICE support). Questioned Policy Order 117 regarding funding details. Highlighted a major rat problem in Harvard Square, attributing it to construction and calling for attention to this public health issue.

  • Heather Hoffman (213 Hurley Street): Echoed support for ICE assistance, suggesting distributing Luce cards in public places. Expressed skepticism about solving the rat problem. Raised concerns about e-bike parking and the structural integrity of land built on fill for large buildings. Applauded language preservation efforts.

  • James Williamson (North Cambridge): Questioned the transparency and numbers related to the Office of Tourism funding and its proposed redirection. Asked about existing municipal funding for business improvement districts and suggested prioritizing reopening homeless shelters and the Harvard Square T Station mezzanine.

  • Outcome: Public comment closed by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

V. City Manager's Agenda

A. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 1: Community Preservation Act (CPA) Funding Recommendations for FY26

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding the Community Preservation Act Committee's (CPAC) recommendations for FY26 CPA funds.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Director Taha Jennings presented CPAC's recommendations: $18 million (80%) for affordable housing, $2.25 million (10%) for historic preservation, and $2.25 million (10%) for open space.
    • City Manager Huang highlighted Cambridge's unique 3% CPA surcharge and 80% affordable housing commitment.
    • Councillor Nolan noted that 78 of 195 eligible communities participate at the 3% surcharge level.
    • Councillor Zusy praised CPA funds for enabling substantial capital improvements.
  • Motions & Votes:
    1. Motion to adopt FY26 CPA local funds ($19,700,000) allocation:
      • A. Affordable Housing: $15,760,000 (80%) to the Affordable Housing Trust.
      • B. Historic Preservation Projects: $1,970,000 (10%) for 13 specific projects, including $100,000 for Municipal Multicultural Arts Center Backstage Theatrical Accessibility Improvement, $60,000 for Canning Carriage Replacements, $72,000 for City Hall Vestibule Improvements, $20,000 for Declaration of Independence Document Conservation, $393,000 for Fresh Pond Golf Clubhouse Foundation and Envelope, $100,000 for Historic Markers Project Manager, $170,000 for Legislative Records Preservation, $850,000 for Preservation Grants, $12,500 for Recorded Media Preservation, $37,500 for Slide Archive Preservation, $45,000 for Stony Brook Reservoir Barn, $100,000 for Sullivan Chamber Improvement, and $10,000 for Washington Elm Marker.
      • C. Open Space Projects: $1,970,000 (10%) for 8 specific projects, including $71,000 for Alewife Trail Design and Signage Planning, $889,000 for Danehy Park Improvement Plan, $250,000 for Fresh Pond Golf Course Environmental Work, $50,000 for Lynch Family Skate Park Improvement, $150,000 for Ma Community Garden Fence Rehabilitation, $270,000 for Rafferty Park Construction, $40,000 for Re-establishing Native Species in Supporting Tree Care at Hell's Half Acre, and $250,000 for Wilder Lee Park.
      • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).
    2. Motion to adopt FY25 state matching funds ($2,800,000) allocation:
      • A. Affordable Housing: $2,240,000 (80%) to the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust.
      • B. Historic Preservation: $280,000 (10%) to the Golf Clubhouse Foundation and Envelope.
      • C. Open Space: $280,000 (10%) to the Danehy Park Improvement Plan.
      • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).
    3. Motion to adopt CPA Fund Balance Administration ($15,000) appropriation: For administrative costs for Community Preservation Coalition membership dues.
      • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).
    4. Motion to adopt Historic Preservation Reserve ($113,000) appropriation: For City Hall Vestibule Improvement.
      • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).
    5. Motion to adopt Open Space Reserve ($331,000) appropriation: For Danehy Park Improvement Plan.
      • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).
    • Motion to place City Manager's Agenda Item No. 1 on file.
      • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

B. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 2: Charter Change Update

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding the status of the charter change.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Solicitor Behr reported that the Home Rule petition was adopted by the House and Senate and sent to the Governor for signing.
    • Election Commission is preparing for the ballot, anticipating the Governor's signature by September 21st.
    • Councillor Nolan inquired about the availability of the full charter text for voters. Solicitor Behr confirmed it would be available online and suggested physical copies at polling places.
    • Councillor Wilson praised the efforts of the state delegation (Rep. Decker, Sen. DiDomenico) and city staff.
    • Mayor Simmons acknowledged the Charter Review Committee's foundational work.
  • Motion to place City Manager's Agenda Item No. 2 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

C. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 5: Needle Drop Boxes and Naloxone Boxes

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding the siting of needle drop boxes and Naloxone boxes.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Vice Mayor McGovern inquired about the sufficiency of existing and planned drop boxes and obstacles to adding more.
    • City Manager Huang stated that 7 drop boxes exist, with 4 more planned at a cost of $20,000. He mentioned exploring public health vending machines for Narcan.
    • Takiyah Brown (Director for Community Engagement, Health Department) reported that the needle exchange program collected 3,363 needles in August.
    • Councillor Zusy asked about Narcan training for citizens and the needle reimbursement pilot program. Ms. Brown confirmed training for various groups and explained the $10 daily cap for needle reimbursement (20 cents per syringe) to prevent funding drug use.
    • Councillor Nolan noted an increase in needle pickup calls and pounds of material collected, particularly in Central Square and Porter Square. She questioned if the Alewife needle exchange program had impacted pickup calls.
    • City Manager Huang emphasized encouraging public calls for sharps pickup and the proactive efforts of the CARES team.
  • Motion to suspend the rules to bring forward City Manager's Agenda Item No. 6.
    • Outcome: Rules suspended by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

D. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 6: Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund Transfer

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding a transfer of $1,703,731.64 from the Opioid Settlement Stabilization Fund to the Opioid Settlements Special Review Fund.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councillor Wilson inquired about the cost and data collection for the needle exchange program, including demographics of participants and follow-up services.
    • Ms. Brown confirmed demographic data collection and connections to services, with a budget of $100,000 for the year.
    • Assistant City Manager Seminoff clarified that $4.1 million has already been allocated from the opioid settlement funds, including for a medical services van, a contract for healthcare for the homeless, the needle program, vending machines, recovery coaches, and youth prevention.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern discussed the three pillars of opioid response: prevention, harm reduction, and recovery, and the need for continued updates on the use of the $4 million in remaining funds.
    • Councillor Nolan asked about the effectiveness of the funds in treating addiction. City Manager Huang stated that programs are based on best practices, and results are being measured.
  • Motion to place City Manager's Agenda Item No. 5 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).
  • Motion to adopt the appropriation order for City Manager's Agenda Item No. 6 and place on file.
    • Outcome: Adopted and placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

E. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 7: Parking and Broadway Corridor

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding issues related to parking in the area surrounding the eastern end of Broadway.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councillor Zusy expressed enthusiasm for the Commercial Parking Control Committee and inquired about the level of interest in commercial parking permits.
    • Commissioner McKenna reported six parties expressing interest, with at least two or three expected to apply soon. She clarified that expanding flexible parking corridors would require a zoning change.
    • Councillor Zusy requested data on how city employees commute, particularly those working near Broadway. Commissioner McKenna stated that data is being worked on but may not be granular enough for 344 Broadway specifically.
    • Councillor Wilson highlighted the concentration of city staff and schools along Broadway and the impact of parking scarcity on employees and residents.
    • Councillor Siddiqui noted the identification of 17 new parking spaces and the upcoming regulation changes. She inquired about the number of non-resident parking permits requested by residents.
    • Councillor Toner clarified that most city employees do not park illegally on streets.
    • Councillor Nolan praised the report, the 17 new resident parking spots, and the consultation with businesses for meter timing. She asked about outreach to residents and the availability of information on car dependency reduction programs.
  • Motion to place City Manager's Agenda Item No. 7 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

F. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 8: Bike Pod Storage Options

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding investigating bike pod storage options.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councillor Wilson apologized for pulling the item but asked for an update.
    • Assistant Commissioner Grohl explained that bike pods are not feasible due to space constraints, cost, operational issues, and security concerns. She suggested supporting Blue Bikes and adding more bike corrals.
    • Ms. Grohl reported a potential location near CRLS for 28 additional bike spaces, pending coordination with other city organizations.
  • Motion to place City Manager's Agenda Item No. 8 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

G. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 9: Pedestrianization of Lower Bow Street

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding the pedestrianization of Lower Bow Street.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councillor Nolan expressed excitement about the response, noting the street has been closed for two years and a robust pilot during COVID was successful.
    • Councillor Nolan inquired about the consideration of automatic retractable bollards. Assistant City Manager explained reservations due to maintenance complexity and cost.
    • Councillor Nolan encouraged further research into other cities' use of bollards.
  • Motion to place City Manager's Agenda Item No. 9 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

H. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 10: Harvard Square MBTA Tunnel Feasibility Study

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding exploring the feasibility of repurposing the abandoned MBTA tunnel in Harvard Square.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Mayor Simmons expressed disappointment with the City Manager's cautious response, urging bold, forward-thinking leadership and a willingness to invest in the feasibility study. She noted the Council had voted to pursue this.
    • Councillor Zusy supported the study, acknowledging the cost but seeing value in understanding the tunnel's potential.
    • Councillor Azeem exercised his charter right, ceasing further discussion on this item.
  • Outcome: Discussion ceased due to charter right.

I. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 11: Cambridge Street Zoning Petition

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang transmitting the Cambridge Street zoning petition.
  • Motion to suspend the rules to bring forward City Manager's Agenda Item No. 12.
    • Outcome: Rules suspended by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

J. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 12: Massachusetts Avenue Zoning Petition

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang transmitting the Massachusetts Avenue zoning petition.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Vice Mayor McGovern clarified that the motion was to refer these petitions to the Ordinance Committee, not to pass them. He called the question to expedite the referral.
  • Motion to call the question on City Manager's Agenda Items 11 and 12.
    • Outcome: Approved by roll call vote (8-1, Councillor Zusy voted no).
  • Motion to adopt the proposed amendment as a zoning petition and refer to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board for hearing and report (Item 11).
    • Outcome: Adopted by roll call vote (8-1, Councillor Zusy voted no).
  • Motion to adopt the proposed amendment as a zoning petition and refer to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board for hearing and report (Item 12).
    • Outcome: Adopted by roll call vote (8-1, Councillor Zusy voted no).

K. City Manager's Agenda Item No. 13: Demolition and Building Permit Applications Report

  • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding an interim report on demolition and building permit applications following the multifamily zoning amendment.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Vice Mayor McGovern sought clarification on the number of demolition permits filed (46 applications, 13 issued) and those for residential uses (31 applications, 7 issued) since the multifamily housing ordinance passed.
    • Jeff Roberts (City Staff) clarified that 20 of the 46 applications were for partial demolitions, and 11 of the 31 residential applications were for partial demolitions.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern emphasized the importance of accurate information, noting that 14 more permits were filed compared to the same period last year, not "hundreds."
    • Councillor Nolan highlighted the dramatic increase in Historical Commission inquiries (from 29 to 137) and the doubling of applications for existing residential uses. She inquired about the reasons for delays in permit issuance and the number of units expected from new proposals.
    • Jacob Lozaro (Assistant Commissioner of Inspectional Services) explained that delays could be due to financing, changing plans, or misfiled applications.
    • Councillor Zusy speculated that developers might be waiting for a potential reduction in the inclusionary zoning rate. She also inquired about tracking foreign investors and the number of affordable housing units in the pipeline.
    • Councillor Azeem suggested that permitting data can be misleading and that actual construction might be less than indicated by permits.
    • Councillor Toner acknowledged the public's concerns but cautioned against expecting staff to make predictions, emphasizing that the true results of zoning changes will take time to manifest.
  • Motion to place City Manager's Agenda Item No. 13 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

VI. Policy Orders

A. Policy Order No. 1: Update on Harvard Square Tunnel Feasibility Study

  • Sponsors: Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner
  • Description: Requesting the City Manager to provide an update at the September 29th, 2025 meeting regarding discussions with the MBTA and HSBA, potential fund allocations for the tunnel feasibility RFP, and next steps.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Mayor Simmons reiterated her disappointment with the City Manager's response to the previous tunnel item and emphasized the need for the RFP to move forward.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern supported the order, viewing the RFP as a small, necessary investment to determine feasibility before larger commitments.
    • Councillor Nolan supported the order, suggesting it would reaffirm the Council's desire for action on the tunnel.
  • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

B. Policy Order No. 2: (Not discussed, rescinded by Councillor Wilson)

C. Policy Order No. 3: ICE Encounter Guidance

  • Sponsors: Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
  • Description: Requesting the City Manager to work with the Commission on Immigrant Rights and Citizenship, City Solicitor, Police Department, Mayor's Office, and other relevant stakeholders to evaluate and implement ICE encounter guidance.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Mayor Simmons highlighted a recent incident where a Cambridge family, including a CRLS student, faced immigration enforcement after business hours, revealing a lack of readily available resources and language support. She emphasized the need for clear protocols and a comprehensive response.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern supported the order, stressing the importance of multiple avenues for information in a crisis and acknowledging existing city efforts.
    • City Manager Huang agreed on the need to improve coordination and information sharing, noting the fast-evolving landscape of ICE rules and the importance of connecting families to state-level resources.
    • Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler and Councillor Nolan supported the order, emphasizing collaboration with existing organizations like Luce and avoiding duplication of efforts.
    • Councillor Wilson requested a "cheat sheet" of resources for Councilors to assist families. City Manager Huang committed to sharing information quickly and providing a formal response by September 29th or October 6th.
  • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

D. Policy Order No. 4: Rodent Control Measures

  • Sponsors: Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui (Councillor Wilson added as co-sponsor)
  • Description: Requesting the City Manager to provide an update on citywide rodent control measures, particularly addressing rodent migration from large-scale construction projects.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councillor Nolan highlighted the exploding rat population and the need to inform residents about available programs and the impact of current measures. She mentioned the Zero Waste Master Plan and fully enclosed Big Belly bins as future solutions.
    • Councillor Wilson emphasized the significant impact on residents' quality of life and health, citing personal anecdotes and concerns about construction-related disruption. She urged urgent action and culturally competent education for residents.
  • Motion to amend Policy Order No. 4 to add Councillor Wilson as a co-sponsor.
    • Outcome: Amended by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).
  • Outcome: Adopted as amended by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

E. Policy Order No. 5: Body-Worn Camera Footage Release Policy

  • Sponsors: Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern
  • Description: Requesting the City Manager to work with the Cambridge Police Department, Law Department, and relevant stakeholders to develop and present a proposed policy for the timely release of body-worn camera footage.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councillor Zusy inquired about existing video retention policies (30 days for public safety cameras, 36 months for body-worn cameras) and expressed concerns about privacy and ongoing court cases. She also asked about when body-worn cameras record footage.
    • Councillor Azeem clarified that the policy order aims to establish clear public expectations for footage release, noting that there are no state-level barriers to timely release once privacy protections are in place.
    • Councillor Nolan supported the order, emphasizing transparency and the need for recommendations on footage release and deletion policies.
    • Vice Mayor McGovern supported the order for transparency, acknowledging the volume of interactions but stressing the importance of the footage for public information.
  • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

VII. Calendar

A. Charter Right Item (Policy Order 117): Redirecting Municipal Funding for Tourism

  • Sponsor: Councillor Toner
  • Description: That the City Manager is requested to ensure that, effective immediately and for each fiscal year in which the Office of Tourism continues to receive TDMD funding, the city shall redirect its municipal funding to distribute those funds equally among the Central Square Business Improvement District (BID), the East Cambridge Business Association, the Harvard Square Business Association, and the Kendall Square Business Association.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councillor Toner moved to suspend the rules to bring forward Communication No. 1 from Kandice Boulier of the Tourist Board for discussion alongside this item.
    • Mayor Simmons emphasized that the policy order was not punitive but aimed at equitable distribution of municipal funds, recognizing the value of local business associations, especially post-COVID.
    • Councillor Toner moved to send the policy order and Communication No. 1 to the Economic Development Committee for a roundtable discussion, noting that the current year's funding check had already been issued and that future allocations should be part of the next budget cycle.
    • Councillor Wilson, as Chair of the Economic Development Committee, supported the referral and looked forward to hosting a roundtable.
  • Motion to suspend the rules to bring forward Communication No. 1.
    • Outcome: Rules suspended by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).
  • Motion to refer Policy Order 117 and Communication No. 1 to the Economic Development and University Relations Committee.
    • Outcome: Referred by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

B. Table Item No. 5: Apex Clean Energy Decision (Bowman Wind Project)

  • Description: Expressing profound disappointment over Apex Clean Energy's decision to forego local union labor for the Bowman Wind Project.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Mayor Simmons noted that the item was placed on the table as amended and intended to move an amendment by substitution.
    • Councillor Nolan inquired about the specific amendment being discussed.
    • Due to confusion regarding the correct version of the amendment, Mayor Simmons decided to leave the item on the table for a future meeting.
  • Outcome: Left on the table.

VIII. Applications and Petitions

A. Harvard Art Museums Banner Request

  • Description: Requesting permission for 22 temporary pole banners around Cambridge Commons, Quincy Street, and Cambridge Street announcing the Master Brand Campaign from September 15, 2025, through January 15, 2026.
  • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

IX. Communications

A. Communications 1-7 (excluding Communication No. 1, which was referred)

  • Motion to place Communications 2-7 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

X. Consent Resolutions

  • Motion to adopt all consent resolutions unanimously.
    • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (9-0).

XI. Communications (Additional)

A. Communication No. 2: Cambridge Zero Emission Transportation Plan Report

  • Description: Communication from Councillor Nolan transmitting a report on the Cambridge Zero Emission Transportation Plan.
  • Key Discussion Points:
    • Councillor Nolan explained that the final draft of the plan was not yet available and that the communication included Council priorities not reflected in the current draft.
    • She moved to place the communication on the table to be considered alongside the full report when it is presented.
  • Motion to place Communication No. 2 on the table.
    • Outcome: Placed on the table by affirmative roll call vote (8-0, Councillor Toner absent).

XII. Late Resolutions

A. Late Resolution 1: Marvin E. Gilmore Jr.'s 101st Birthday

  • Description: Resolution honoring Marvin E. Gilmore Jr. on his 101st birthday, recognizing his contributions as a World War II veteran, co-founder of Unity Bank and Trust Company, and advocate for justice and equity.
  • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (8-0, Councillor Toner absent).

B. Late Resolution 2: Cambridge Day and Michael Fitzgerald

  • Sponsor: Councillor Nolan
  • Description: Resolution congratulating Cambridge Day and Michael Fitzgerald on his hiring as editor-in-chief, recognizing the importance of independent journalism, and expressing appreciation to Mark Levy for his volunteer work.
  • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative roll call vote (8-0, Councillor Toner absent).

XIII. Announcements

  • Councillor Wilson: Family Fund Day at Danehy Park this Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Councillor Zusy: Textile and book drive by Cambridge Port Neighborhood Association at Hastings Square this Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Market Central Square by Night on Saturday night.
  • Councillor Nolan: Health and Environment Committee meeting tomorrow (Tuesday) from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the chamber, discussing solar protection given multifamily zoning changes. Marvin Gilmore's 101st birthday party is Sunday, September 21st, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Pagu (310 Massachusetts Avenue).
  • Mayor Simmons: Cambridge Science Festival is also on Sunday.
  • Councillor Nolan: Artist Open Studios is next weekend.
  • Mayor Simmons: No meeting next week.

XIV. Adjournment

  • Motion to adjourn by Councillor Wilson.
    • Outcome: Adjourned by affirmative roll call vote (8-0, Councillor Toner absent).

Last updated: Oct 6, 2025

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