On the agenda: Cambridge, MA Oct 27, 2025 5:30 PM - City Council - Regular Meeting - Oct 27, 2025 — flock camera (Oct 27)

10/23/2025 2:07 PM Lori Perez The Full Agenda/Public Agenda has been published to the web portal.
10/27/2025 11:47 AM Lori Perez The Full Agenda/Public Agenda has been published to the web portal

CITY OF CAMBRIDGE
CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA ● OCTOBER 27, 2025

Regular Meeting

Sullivan Chamber

5:30 PM

Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139

I. CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the reappointment and
appointments of members to the Family Policy Council.
CMA 2025 #260
2. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of the
Children’s Trust grant for the Center for Families program in the amount of $56,250.00 to the Grant
Fund Department of Human Service Programs Salaries and Wages account ($21,908); to the Grant Fund
Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary Maintenance account ($26,342) and to the
Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Travel and Training account ($8,000).
CMA 2025 #261
3. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of
$4,300,000, from Free Cash to the General Fund Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages
account, which will replenish funds that were transferred out of the Employee Benefits Department and
subsequently used to fund the settlement payment relating to Said S. Abuzahra, Trustee of Equity Realty
Trust, et al. v. City of Cambridge (Mdsx. Super. Ct. Docket No. 2017- cv-2459/J).
CMA 2025 #262
4. 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, which will replenish funds that were transferred out of the Employee Benefits Department and
subsequently used to fund expenses related to the demolition of 221 Mount Auburn Street.
CMA 2025 #263
5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of
$2,905,500 from Free Cash to the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund. During FY25, the City
received mitigation revenues from various developers as a result of commitments related to zoning
ordinance amendments and special permit conditions. By law, all mitigation revenues must be
deposited into the General Fund and can only be appropriated after the Free Cash Certification is
complete.
CMA 2025 #264
6. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update regarding the
Massachusetts Department of Revenue certification of the City’s Free Cash balance as of June 30, 2025,
in the amount of $184,251,490.
CMA 2025 #265

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025
7. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order Item Number
2025 #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 in Porter Square..
CMA 2025 #266

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

II. POLICY ORDER AND RESOLUTION LIST
1. Joint City Council Roundtable with the School Committee on November 10, 2025.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern
POR 2025 #153
2. That the City Manager is requested to confer with the Cambridge Department of Transportation and
other relevant departments to examine how to improve connectivity north of Rindge Avenue during the
Linear Park Reconstruction Project so that vulnerable road users can bypass Rindge Avenue and Cedar
Street where possible.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern
POR 2025 #154
3. City Council support for the workers of Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in their efforts to
secure fair wages, respect, and improved working conditions through collective bargaining.
Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern
POR 2025 #155

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

III. CALENDAR

ON THE TABLE
1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item
Number 25-22, regarding a request to work with the School Department, the Department of Public
Works, and other relevant departments to open the publicly owned parking at the King
Open/Cambridge Street Upper School Complex for either residential free parking or commercial
parking opportunities during “off” hours.
PLACED ON THE TABLE IN COUNCIL MAY 5, 2025
CMA 2025 #113
2. That the City Manager is requested to explore with the Government Operations Committee
whether the functions of the Peace Commission may be improved and enhanced by bringing them
within another City Commission or Department, such as the Human Rights Commission, and
report back in a timely manner.
CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY MAYOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL MAY 19, 2025
PLACED ON THE TABLE JUNE 2, 2025
POR 2025 #76
3. That the City Council go on record thanking SEIU 32BJ for their vigilance, partnership and
advocacy on behalf of unionized workers.
CHARTER RIGHT EXERCISED BY MAYOR SIMMONS IN COUNCIL JUNE 16, 2025
PLACED ON THE TABLE IN COUNCIL JUNE 23, 2025
RES 2025 #148

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
4. An Ordinance has been received from Interim City Clerk Paula M. Crane relative to Dangerous
Dog Ordinance 6.08.010 Ordinance.
PASSED TO A SECOND READING IN COUNCIL OCTOBER 6, 2025.
ELIGIBLE TO BE ORDAINED ON OR AFTER OCTOBER 27, 2025.
ORD 2025 # 14

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

IV. COMMUNICATIONS
1. A communication was received from Curtis Butcher, regarding Unsustainable Property Tax Rate
Increases.
COM 3399 #2025
2. A communication was received from Cynthia Hibbard, regarding Public Comment for Tonight's City
Council Regular Meeting.
COM 3400 #2025
3. A communication was received from Dan Totten, regarding flock cameras.
COM 3401 #2025
4. A communication was received from Kathy Watkins, regarding No to Flock surveillance.
COM 3402 #2025
5. A communication was received from Lee Farris, regarding PO #3- support of H.811, An Act authorizing
cities and towns to provide for citizen-funded election campaigns.
COM 3403 #2025
6. A communication was received from Lowry Hemphill, regarding Giivng City More Say Over
Eversource Plans to Increase Rates.
COM 3404 #2025
7. A communication was received from Martin, regarding Bakal Support Bakal Petition.
COM 3405 #2025
8. A communication was received from Marzyeh Ghassemi, regarding Public Comment Form Submission
Confirmation.
COM 3406 #2025
9. A communication was received from Mothers out front, regarding please vote for the resolution on
municipal voices in gas utility work October 20.
COM 3407 #2025
10. A communication was received from Nike Tirman, regarding CONTINUED HAZARD 50 GARDEN
STREET .
COM 3408 #2025
11. A communication was received from Patricia Lotterman, regarding NO to Flock surveillance.
COM 3409 #2025
12. A communication was received from Sam Allon, regarding Traffic enforcement in Cambridge is a bad
joke.
COM 3410 #2025
13. A communication was received from Sam Portelance, regarding Public comment on city manager's
agenda #7.
COM 3411 #2025

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025
14. A communication was received from Scott Parisi, regarding DPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures
— Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025).
COM 3412 #2025
15. A communication was received from Selin Kubali, regarding Flock.
COM 3413 #2025
16. A communication was received from Sheli Wortis, regarding support for tonight's policy orders.
COM 3414 #2025
17. A communication was received from Steven Miller, regarding 2025-29 Cambridge GSEP Plans_
Eversource (002).
COM 3415 #2025
18. A communication was received from Susan Redlich, regarding support two bills before the MA
legislature.
COM 3416 #2025

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

V. RESOLUTIONS
1. Condolences to the Family of Kimberlee Costanza.
Mayor Simmons
RES 2025 #237
2. Condolences to the family of Willia L. Bullock.
Mayor Simmons
RES 2025 #238
3. Condolences on the death of Donalee "Donna" Baumgardner.
Councillor Toner
RES 2025 #239
4. Congratulations to Sarah Anderson-Murphy on her retirement from the Cambridge Health Alliance.
Councillor Toner
RES 2025 #240
5. Condolences on the death of Eileen Brown.
Councillor Toner
RES 2025 #241

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

VI. COMMUNICATIONS AND REPORTS FROM OTHER CITY
OFFICERS
1. A communication was received from Paula Crane, Interim City Clerk, transmitting an update regarding
legislative activity.
COF 2025 #133
2. A communication was received from Councillor Nolan transmitting a letter regarding revocation of a
curb cut application previously granted.
Councillor Nolan
COF 2025 #134

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

VII. LATE AGENDA ITEMS POLICY ORDER EACH REQUIRES A
MOTION TO SUSPEND THE RULES AND ACCEPT TO BE PLACED ON
THE AGENDA
That the City Manager provide an update at the October 27, 2025 City Council meeting regarding the
pause in SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
POR 2025 #156

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

APPENDED INFORMATION

AWAITING REPORT STATUS UPDATE
Updated Awaiting Report Status 10.27
ARS-25-27

AWAITING REPORT LIST

25-12.

The City Manager is requested to work with all appropriate Departments to develop
language to create an “Affordable Rent Incentive Program” program for Cambridge
and to report back to the City Council with option, including the percentage of
possible tax abatements.
Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Azeem, Mayor
Simmons, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler,
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner from 3/3/2025

25-29.

That the City Manager is requested to work with the School Department, the
Department of Public Works, and other relevant departments to ensure that all city
owned parking lots, with a focus on school complexes, including the still under
construction parking at Tobin/Darby Vassal school complex, could be made available
for after-hours use by residents.
from

25-32.

That the City Manager is requested to meet with the leadership of the Harvard Square
Business Association to discuss the proposal and to take the necessary steps to
facilitate the release of $72,000 to fund the RFP development for the tunnel
engineering study.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui
(Calendar Item #1) from 5/19/2025

25-33.

The City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to provide a
legal opinion outlining, in light of current zoning including the most recent
Multifamily Zoning Amendments, the ability of Cambridge to regulate institutional
and religious uses in C-1 residential districts and what state and federal law allows in
terms of local restrictions, if any, for institutional and religious uses.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Vice Mayor McGovern (O-3) from
6/2/2025

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

25-40.

The City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the City Solicitor, in
consultation with relevant City departments and the Community Benefits Advisory
Committee, to draft amendments to the Community Benefits Ordinance that allow for
the use of funds for capital expenses, provided that such expenses clearly advance the
goals of the Community Benefits program.
Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice
Mayor McGovern (O-3) from 6/23/2025

25-44.

The City Manager is requested to direct the Community Development Department, in
collaboration with the Finance Department, to conduct a comprehensive review of
current permitting fees for residential development projects, with a focus on
identifying opportunities to create a tiered fee structure that reduces or eliminates fees
entirely particularly for smaller-scale and affordable housing developments.
Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Azeem,
Councillor Nolan (O-1) from 8/4/2025

25-46.

The City Manager is requested to coordinate with the Community Safety Department,
the Cambridge Police Department, and other relevant parties to ensure that the
overnight use of the garden area between St. James Episcopal Church and the Beech
Street condos is actively monitored.
Mayor Simmons, Councillor Toner from 9/8/2025

25-47.

the City Manager is requested to confer with the Department of Transportation, the
Commission for Persons with Disabilities, and any other relevant City departments to
assess the current accessible parking capacity in the vicinity of Kendall Square and
identify potential solutions, which may include adding dedicated accessible parking
spaces, creating short-term accessible loading/unloading zones, or implementing
other reasonable accommodations
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern from 9/8/2025

25-48.

The City Manager is requested to consult with the appropriate City departments,
including the City Solicitor’s Office, to establish a formal policy that clearly defines
the City’s role and financial responsibilities in supporting large-scale public events
hosted by Cambridge-based non-profit and not-for-profit organizations.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson
from 9/8/2025

25-49.

the City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development
Department, the City Assessor, and all other relevant departments to develop a
comprehensive policy for future private development projects in the city.
Councillor Toner, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Nolan,
Councillor Zusy from 9/8/2025

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

25-51.

The City Manager is requested to work with all relevant departments to seek input
from the community as well as direct outreach to condo owners and short-term rental
operators and develop additional recommendations based on the discussion in the
Ordinance Committee.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern,
Councillor Siddiqui from 9/8/2025

25-52.

The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments and multi-member
bodies to report back to the City Council and inform the community of the work of,
and when the recommendations coming from the Micromobility Commission will be
available.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern,
Councillor Zusy from 9/8/2025

25-54.

The City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Police Department to
review current crisis prevention protocols, strengthen them by clearly defining the
role and deployment of mental health professionals.
Councillor Wilson, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui from 9/15/2025

25-56.

The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to provide an
update on rodent control measures citywide and especially how the City addresses
rodent mitigation through large construction projects, both public and private.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
from 9/15/2025

25-57.

The City Manager is requested to work with the Cambridge Police Department, the
Law Department, and relevant stakeholders to develop and present to the City
Council a proposed policy for the timely release of body-worn camera footage.
Councillor Azeem, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Nolan, Councillor
Siddiqui from 9/15/2025

25-58.

That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with the Community
Development Department, Finance Department, Law Department, and other relevant
departments to explore all steps towards advancing social housing in Cambridge.
Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui,
Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem from 9/29/2025

25-59.

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.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor
Siddiqui from 9/29/2025

CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF OCTOBER 27, 2025

25-60.

The City Manager is requested to work with the Department of Public Works, the
Department of Public Health, and any relevant environmental consultants to provide a
comprehensive report on Gold Star Mothers Memorial Park.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Toner (O-1) from

25-61.

The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments, state agencies, and
the property owner IQHQ to provide an update on efforts to maintain cleanliness and
safety in the area on Alewife Paths near Russell Field.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Toner (O-5) from 10/6/2025

25-62.

The City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to consider a plan
to better utilize the Russell Youth and Community Center.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner (O-6) from 10/6/2025

25-63.

That the City Manager is requested to reach out to representatives from Eversource to
coordinate at least four public open-house meetings in the coming weeks regarding
heat and electricity costs.
Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern (O-2) from 10/20/2025

25-64.

That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant departments to report back
to the City Council on current efforts towards poison ivy control in the Fresh Pond
Master Plan as well as recommended improvements for signage and regular
maintenance planning.
Councillor Nolan, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Zusy
(O-5) from 10/20/2025

1.1

CMA 2025 #260
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am writing to inform you that I am reappointing Tina Alu and appointing the following persons below as
members of the Coordinating Council for Children Youth and Families (also known as “Family Policy
Council”) effective October 27, 2025.
•
•
•

Shakia Afrose
Kieu Anh Huynh
Kam Maali

The Family Policy Council was established under Chapter 2.85 of the Cambridge Municipal Code. The
Council is dedicated to developing policy and program recommendations to ensure all children, youth,
and their families have access to what they need to be successful, engaged residents prepared for life in
our community and the world.
Michael Johnston, the Executive Director of the Cambridge Housing Authority, is currently a Specific
Area Representative. He is retiring in January, and we believe it makes sense for Kam to replace him on
the Council. The two Youth Representatives are current members of the Cambridge Youth Council.
The next anticipated vacancy for this council will come in 2026.
I am pleased to recommend the reappointment of Tina Alu, the Executive Director of the Cambridge
Economic Opportunity Committee (CEOC), for a 1-year term as a Specific Area Representative and the
appointment of these three new members.
1. Shakia Afrose - (2-year term) - Youth Representative
Ms. Afrose is a senior at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School. She has been a member of the Cambridge
Youth Council for three years, and during that time, she has taken on leadership roles as the Social Media
Manager and Co-Chair for CYC. She also participates in many activities in and out of school, including
CRLS Fencing Team, Crimson Summer Academy, Breakthrough Greater Boston, CHA Workforce
Program, and Harvard Emerging Leaders.
2. Kieu Anh Huynh - (2-year term) - Youth Representative
Ms. Huynh is a junior at Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, and this is her first year on the Cambridge
Youth Council. She loves to dance and is a member of the K-pop Club and Modern Dance Company.

Packet Pg. 14

1.1

3. Kam Maali (1-year term) - Specific Area Representative
Kam is the Assistant Director of Resident Services at the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA), where he
has worked since 2007. Initially joining as Director of The Work Force Program, he was promoted in
2013 to oversee all youth programs. Before CHA, Mr. Maali spent six years at Bird Street Community
Center, where he led youth development and helped plan a new $11 million facility. He holds a Master of
Social Work from Boston University and a BA in Philosophy from the University of Michigan.
I appreciate the willingness of these community members to serve and look forward to their contributions
as members of the Family Policy Council.

Yi-An Huang
City Manager

Packet Pg. 15

1.2

CMA 2025 #261
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am hereby requesting the appropriation of the Children’s Trust grant for the Center for Families program
in the amount of $56,250.00 to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Salaries and
Wages account ($21,908); to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Other Ordinary
Maintenance account ($26,342) and to the Grant Fund Department of Human Service Programs Travel
and Training account ($8,000).
These additional funds from the Children's Trust grant for the Center for Families will be used to support
the cost of full-time and part-time salaries; food for parenting support programming (parent/child activity
snacks, parent education series, and community building events); program supplies; and staff training.

Very truly yours,

Yi-An Huang
City Manager

Packet Pg. 16

1.3

CMA 2025 #262
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am hereby requesting an appropriation in the amount of $4,300,000, from Free Cash to the General Fund
Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages account, which will replenish funds that were
transferred out of the Employee Benefits Department and subsequently used to fund the settlement
payment relating to Said S. Abuzahra, Trustee of Equity Realty Trust, et al. v. City of Cambridge (Mdsx.
Super. Ct. Docket No. 2017- cv-2459/J).
As outlined to the City Council on July 21, 2025, funds were used as part of a settlement to resolve the
above litigation.
The City’s Free Cash balance as of June 30, 2025, was certified by the Massachusetts Department of
Revenue on October 1, 2025, in the amount of $184,251,490.

Very truly yours,

Yi-An Huang
City Manager

Packet Pg. 17

1.4

CMA 2025 #263
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am hereby requesting an appropriation in the amount of $20,000,000, from Free Cash to the General
Fund Employee Benefits Department Salary and Wages account, which will replenish funds that were
transferred out of the Employee Benefits Department and subsequently used to fund expenses related to
the demolition of 221 Mount Auburn Street.
In 2023, significant structural deficiencies were uncovered at the nine-story Riverview Condominiums at
221 Mount Auburn Street. Engineers, conducting exploratory work for roof and drainage repairs,
discovered that the building was not constructed according to its original design. The Riverview-inCambridge Condominium Trust (Condo Trust) subsequently hired SGH, Inc. to assess the concrete slabs.
Through visual observations, drone photography, non-destructive testing, and examinations at exploratory
openings, SGH, Inc. identified critical issues, which were found to be widespread throughout the
building:
• Low Reinforcement: Steel reinforcement was placed lower than specified in the design drawings.
• Low Concrete Compressive Strength: The concrete's strength was lower than required.
• Utility Penetrations: The concrete slabs had penetrations and alterations that were not part of the
original design.
The City's primary objective in this involvement was and is to protect public health and safety. As
outlined to the City Council on July 23, 2025, the City is moving urgently to demolish the building. The
initial $20,000,000 transfer was critical in order to proceed with contracts for a structural engineering
consultant, an environmental consultant, and a demolition contractor.
Ultimately, it is anticipated the City of Cambridge will recover the costs associated with the demolition of
the Riverview Condominiums, including interest and any collection fees, directly from the property
owners. This action is authorized by Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 143, Section 9 and
Chapter 139, Section 3A, which empower municipalities to collect expenses incurred in addressing public
health or safety nuisances and hazards.

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1.4

Following the completion of the demolition, the City will issue bills to all the unit owners with their prorata share of the cost. Additionally, a statement of claim will be filed at the Middlesex South Registry of
Deeds, placing a lien on the properties. Any charges that remain unpaid at the time of the FY27 tax billing
(fall 2026), will be added to the real estate tax bills of each condominium. Once added, these charges will
be collected as part of the regular tax bill.
The City’s Free Cash balance as of June 30, 2025, was certified by the Massachusetts Department of
Revenue on October 1, 2025, in the amount of $184,251,490

Very truly yours,

Yi-An Huang
City Manager

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1.5

CMA 2025 #264
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:
I am hereby requesting the appropriation of $2,905,500 from Free Cash to the Mitigation Revenue
Stabilization Fund. During FY25, the City received mitigation revenues from various developers as a
result of commitments related to zoning ordinance amendments and special permit conditions. By law, all
mitigation revenues must be deposited into the General Fund and can only be appropriated after the Free
Cash Certification is complete.
The $2,905,500 appropriated to the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund is the only appropriation from
Free Cash attributed to Mitigation and will be used to fund specific future projects, which will require
separate individual appropriations by the City Council.
The City’s Free Cash balance as of June 30, 2025, was certified by the Massachusetts Department of
Revenue on October 1, 2025, in the amount of $184,251,490.
Very truly yours,

Yi-An Huang
City Manager

Packet Pg. 20

1.6

CMA 2025 #265
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:
On October 1, 2025, the Massachusetts Department of Revenue certified the City’s Free Cash balance as
of June 30, 2025, in the amount of $184,251,490. This is a $48,900,163 decrease from the amount
certified for FY25 (or a $19,511,981 decrease from the FY25 amount net of mitigation receipts).
The FY26 Certified Free Cash balance of $184,251,490 includes $2,905,500 in mitigation revenue
received in FY25. During FY25, the City received mitigation revenues from various developers as a
result of commitments related to zoning ordinance amendments and special permit conditions. By law,
all mitigation revenues must be deposited into the General Fund and can only be appropriated after the
Free Cash Certification is complete. There is a separate request on tonight’s City Council agenda to
appropriate $2,905,500 from Free Cash into the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund.
There are also two appropriation requests to replenish the Employee Benefits Department Salaries and
Wages account from Free Cash in the amounts of $20,000,000 and $4,300,000. These appropriation
requests were anticipated and had been previously communicated to the City Council (at meetings on July
21, 2025, and on July 23, 2025) for costs associated with the demolition of Riverview Condominiums at
221 Mount Auburn Street and for settlement costs to resolve litigation related to the Vail Court property.
Free Cash had not been certified at the time these expenditures had to be made, so funds from the
Employee Benefits Department Salaries and Wages account were used to cover the expenditures.
Pending City Council approval of the appropriations noted above, the City’s Free Cash balance is
estimated to be $157,045,990.

Yi-An Huang
City Manager

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1.7

CMA 2025 #266
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:
Please find attached communication from Melissa Peters, Assistant City Manager for Community
Development, relative to Policy Order Item Number 2025 #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 in Porter Square.

Very truly yours,

Yi-An Huang
City Manager

Packet Pg. 22

To: Yi-An Huang, City Manager
From: Melissa Peters, Assistant City Manager for Community Development
Date: October 27, 2025
Re: Policy Order 25-107 dated August 4, 2025, regarding allocating funds to support the feasibility
of the creation of a Business Improvement District in Porter Square.

In spring 2025, CDD completed the Mass. Ave Planning Study (MAPS), which included a wide range
of strategies to improve the Mass. Ave corridor from Cambridge Common to Alewife Brook
Parkway. One recommendation from the study was to explore the feasibility of creating a business
association or Business Improvement District (BID). We are pleased to report to Council that we
will begin work on this recommendation this fiscal year.
In June 2025, CDD’s Economic Opportunity and Development (EOD) Division applied to the state’s
Community One Stop Program for two financial opportunities – the Massachusetts Downtown
Initiative (MDI) and the Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program. On September 30, we were
notified by the state we were awarded both grants.
The MDI Program connects communities with consultants who provide expertise in areas such as
assessing the feasibility of forming business associations, business improvement districts (BID),
and other similar groups. We applied for this grant to study the feasibility of a North Mass
Ave/Porter Square business organization. The grant award provides the City with up to $30,000 in
consultant services, which are contracted and paid for by MDI.
The Massachusetts Vacant Storefront Program was created to aid municipalities in their efforts to
revitalize commercial areas by encouraging the occupancy of long-term vacant storefronts.
Through this program, Cambridge now has access to $50,000 worth of dedicated, refundable tax
credits to incentivize businesses to occupy vacant storefronts. While the city must apply for the
credit, the tax credit goes directly to the business that has occupied a vacant storefront. This
program is available citywide.

Melissa Peters | Assistant City Manager for Community Development
Sandra Clarke | Chief of Administration & Operations
344 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139

617-349-4600
[email protected]

www.cambridgema.gov/CDD
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1.7.a

Next Steps
Once the state agreements are in place, staff plan to market the new Vacant Storefront Tax Credit
and connect with the consultant chosen by MDI for the North Mass. Ave. business association or
BID study. We look forward to working with the state, Council, and the community on these
efforts.

Melissa Peters | Acting Assistant City Manager for Community Development
Sandra Clarke | Chief of Administration & Operations
344 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 02139

617-349-4600
[email protected]

www.cambridgema.gov/CDD

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Attachment: AR 2025 107_CO Porter Square Study (CMA 2025 #266 : PO 2025 #107 Response RE: Porter Square BID)

1.7.a

2.1

City of Cambridge

O-1
FIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

MAYOR SIMMONS
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
ORDERED:

That the City Council convene a joint roundtable with the School Committee to be held
on Monday, November 10, 2025 in order to discuss macro-economic trends in
Cambridge and the City’s budget.

Packet Pg. 25

2.2

City of Cambridge

O-2
FIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS:

The City’s Linear Park Reconstruction Project will require full closures of the shareduse path for an extended period, anticipated to last for as long as 14 months; and

WHEREAS:

Community members have expressed a desire for clearly designated, high-quality
alternative routes for both pedestrians and cyclists during construction; and

WHEREAS:

The City has published detour routes for the construction period, directing pedestrians
and cyclists along nearby streets, including portions of Clifton Street, Whittemore
Avenue, Dudley Street, Shea Road, Harvey Street, and Cameron Avenue, which may
also add to vehicle congestion on those streets; and

WHEREAS:

There are also ongoing and future connectivity issues which could be addressed as part
of this project, including improving safety by providing alternate routes for residents in
North Cambridge and others who currently travel on narrow, high-traffic streets, like
Rindge Avenue and Cedar Street; now therefore be it

ORDERED:

That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to confer with the Cambridge
Department of Transportation and other relevant departments to examine how to
improve connectivity north of Rindge Avenue so that vulnerable road users can bypass
Rindge Avenue and Cedar Street where possible, considering neighborways
treatments, traffic calming measures such as those in Cambridge’s new speed hump
pilot program, contraflow bike travel on appropriate low-volume streets, wayfinding,
and intersection safety improvements; and be it further

ORDERED:

That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the Cambridge Department
of Transportation and other relevant departments to ensure that pedestrian and biking
facilities are sufficiently safe and accessible for all throughout the duration of the
project, and that the designs and materials used for the detours be evaluated for
potential retention or conversion after park reopening; and be it further

ORDERED:

That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council in
a timely manner.

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2.3

City of Cambridge

O-3
FIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR WILSON
VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
WHEREAS:

The Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center (Cambridge Rehab) employs over 50
dedicated workers, including Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Dietary Aides, and
Activities staff, who provide care and support to some of Cambridge’s most vulnerable
residents; and

WHEREAS:

These workers have been engaged in ongoing contract negotiations seeking fair
compensation and benefits for the essential work that they do; and

WHEREAS:

The current starting wage for CNAs is $18.35 per hour, with the employer’s best offer
increasing that rate to only $18.75 per hour and offering a 2.5% raise to existing
staff—an increase of approximately $0.46 per hour; and

WHEREAS:

Dietary and Activities staff currently earn between $16.40 and $16.66 per hour, with
the employer’s offer raising those rates to only $17 per hour; and

WHEREAS:

There are only two employees remaining with more than 25 years of service, currently
making $20.09 per hour, with the employer offering to raise them to $23.09 per hour;
and

WHEREAS:

Cambridge Rehab has experienced extremely high turnover, with approximately twothirds of the bargaining unit hired in the past two years, negatively affecting staff
morale and the continuity and quality of patient care; and

WHEREAS:

Many Cambridge Rehab workers face financial hardship, including high rents, long
commutes from distant, more affordable cities, and difficulty supporting their families,
and many are recent Haitian immigrants under TPS who send resources to family
abroad, leaving even less for themselves; now therefore be it

RESOLVED:

That the Cambridge City Council expresses its strong support for the workers of
Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in their efforts to secure fair wages,
respect, and improved working conditions through collective bargaining; and be it
further

RESOLVED:

That the City Council urges Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center management
to bargain in good faith and reach a fair and equitable agreement that honors the
commitment, skill, and dignity of these healthcare professionals; and be it further

Packet Pg. 27

2.3

ORDERED:

That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward suitably engrossed copies of
this resolution to the workers of Cambridge Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, their
union representatives at 1199SEIU, and the facility’s management.

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3.1

CMA 2025 #113
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
To the Honorable, the City Council:
Please see below response relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-22, regarding a request to work
with the School Department, the Department of Public Works, and other relevant departments to open the
publicly owned parking at the King Open/Cambridge Street Upper School Complex for either residential
free parking or commercial parking opportunities during “off” hours.
City staff have conferred with the Interim Superintendent David Murphy and his staff to further consider
this issue. The order has also been discussed by the School Committee and has been referred to the
School Committee Buildings and Grounds sub-committee for further consideration at a later date. The
Interim Superintendent has committed to recommending City staff be invited to participate once a date for
such has been established.

Very truly yours,

Yi-An Huang
City Manager

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3.2

City of Cambridge

O-2
Calendar Item # 2
FIRST IN COUNCIL
May 19, 2025

COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR WILSON
WHEREAS:

The City Council was recently made aware that the Peace Commission has not had a
permanent Executive Director since October 2024; and

WHEREAS:

The Executive Director of the Peace Commission also serves as staff for the Police
Review and Advisory Board; now therefore be it

ORDERED:

That the City Manager be and is hereby requested to explore with the Government
Operations Committee whether the functions of the Peace Commission may be
improved and enhanced by bringing them within another City Commission or
Department, such as the Human Rights Commission; and be it further

ORDERED:

That the City Manager report back to the Council in a timely manner.

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3.2

History:
05/19/25
06/02/25
06/09/25
06/16/25
06/23/25
06/30/25
08/04/25
09/08/25
09/15/25
09/29/25
10/06/25
10/20/25

City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council
City Council

CHARTER RIGHT
PLACED ON THE TABLE
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN
NO ACTION TAKEN

Next: 06/02/25
Next: 06/09/25
Next: 06/16/25
Next: 06/23/25
Next: 06/30/25
Next: 08/04/25
Next: 09/08/25
Next: 09/15/25
Next: 09/29/25
Next: 10/06/25
Next: 10/06/25
Next: 10/27/25

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3.3

City of Cambridge
MAYOR SIMMONS

R-1
Calendar Item # 3
FIRST IN COUNCIL
June 16, 2025
October 27, 2025

WHEREAS:

The City of Cambridge values strong, fair labor practices and is committed to ensuring
that public contracts uphold compliance with local and federal labor laws, including
collective bargaining rights and the Cambridge Living Wage Ordinance; and

WHEREAS:

The recent procurement process for janitorial services in City buildings brought to light
critical concerns that the contract could have potentially been awarded to a vendor that
does not meet the City’s high labor standards; and

WHEREAS:

SEIU 32BJ played an essential role in bringing these concerns to the attention of the
City Council, and the City Council recognizes and appreciates SEIU 32BJ’s diligent
advocacy on behalf of unionized workers and the broader community interest in
lawful, ethical, and quality service provision; and

WHEREAS:

The City Council is pleased that the janitorial contract has been awarded to, and will
remain with, the current union contractor, thereby ensuring the continuation of fair
labor standards and the protection of workers’ rights under collective bargaining
agreements; now therefore be it

RESOLVED:

That the City Council go on record thanking SEIU 32BJ for their vigilance and
partnership in this matter, acknowledging the importance of their role in safeguarding
labor rights in Cambridge, and affirming its support for contracts that uphold
responsible labor practices consistent with the City’s values and policies; and be it
further

RESOLVED:

That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of
this resolution to SEIU Local 32BJ on behalf of the entire City Council.

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3.4.a

6.04.120 – Violation - Penalty
Pursuant to G.L. c. 140, § 173A, any person who violates any of the provisions of Sections
6.04.020, 6.04.030, 6.04.040, 6.04.050, 6.04.070, 6.04.080 or 6.04.090 of this chapter shall be
subject to a fine not exceeding fifty dollars for the first offense. The fine for a second offense shall
be $100. The fine for a third offense shall be $300. For a fourth or subsequent offense, the fine shall
be $500 and the City may order the animal spayed or neutered. Any person who violates any of the
provisions of Section 6.04.020 of this chapter shall be subject to a fine of fifty dollars for each
offense. In addition, for a violation of Section 6.04.030 a person shall be subject to any and all
costs of care and confinement, and any other amounts allowed by law. A violation of Section
6.04.060 of this chapter shall be punishable by a fine of not more than one hundred dollars for each
offense. ;hno; (Ord. No. 1373, 10/19/2015; Ord. 1125 § 1, 1991: Ord. 998 (part), 1983: prior code §
4-6)

Chapter 6.08 – ANIMALS CONSTITUTING A NUISANCE

6.08.010 – Regulation of dangerous dogs
A. Definitions. As used in this section, the following words and terms shall have the following
meanings, unless the context shall indicate another or different meaning or intent:
1. “Potentially dangerous dog” means:
a. Any dog which, when unprovoked, in a vicious or terrorizing manner,
approaches any person in an apparent attitude of attack upon the streets,
sidewalks or any public grounds or places; or
b. Any dog with a known propensity, tendency or disposition to attack
unprovoked, to cause injury or to otherwise endanger the safety of human
beings or animals; or
c. Any dog whose owner has been cited on three separate occasions within
the previous twelve months for failing to restrain said dog; or
d. Any dog not licensed according to City ordinance as provided in
Section 6.04.020.
e. Notwithstanding the above definition of “potentially dangerous dog,” the
Director of Animal Commission or their designee are not mandated to find
a dog “potentially dangerous” solely based on determining subsection a
though d are present.
2. “Dangerous dog” means
a. A dog that either: (i) without justification, attacks a person or domestic
animal causing physical injury or death; or (ii) behaves in a manner that a
reasonable person would believe poses an unjustified imminent threat of
physical injury or death to a person or to a domestic animal; or
b. Any dog having been previously found to be potentially dangerous which,
when unprovoked, in a vicious or terrorizing manner, approaches any

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Chapter 6.04 – ANIMAL CONTROL REGULATIONS

3.

4.
5.
6.

7.

person in an apparent attitude of attack upon the streets, sidewalks or any
public grounds or places; or
c. Any dog owned or harbored primarily or in part for the purpose of dog
fighting or any dog trained for dog fighting.
d. Notwithstanding the above definition of "dangerous dog,"
e. No dog shall be deemed dangerous: (i) solely based upon growling or
barking or solely growling and barking; (ii) based upon the breed of the
dog; or (iii) if the dog was reacting to another animal or person and the
dog’s reaction was not grossly disproportionate to any of the following
circumstances:
i.
the dog was protecting or defending itself, its offspring, another
domestic animal or a person from attack or assault;
ii.
the person who was attacked or threatened by the dog was
committing a crime upon the person or property of the owner or
keeper of the dog; or
iii.
the person attacked or threatened by the dog was engaged in
teasing, tormenting, battering, assaulting, injuring or otherwise
provoking the dog; or
iv.
at the time of the attack or threat, the person or animal that was
attacked or threatened by the dog had breached an enclosure or
structure in which the dog was kept apart from the public and such
person or animal was not authorized by the owner of the premises to
be within such enclosure including, but not limited to, a gated,
fenced-in area if the gate was closed, whether locked or unlocked;
provided, however, that if a person is under the age of 7, it shall be a
rebuttable presumption that such person was not committing a
crime, provoking the dog or trespassing.
“Enclosure” means a fence or structure of at least six feet in height, forming or
causing an enclosure to confine a dangerous dog in conjunction with other
measures which may be taken by the owner or keeper, such as tethering of the
dangerous dog. Such enclosure shall be securely constructed and locked and
designed with secure sides, top and bottom so as to prevent the animal from
escaping from the enclosure.
Hearing Authority means the Director of the Animal Commission or their duly
authorized designee.
“Impounded” means taken into the custody of the Animal Commission.
'Nuisance dog'', a dog that: (i) by excessive barking or other disturbance, is a source
of annoyance to a sick person residing in the vicinity; or (ii) by excessive barking,
causing damage or other interference, a reasonable person would find such
behavior disruptive to one's quiet and peaceful enjoyment; or (iii) has threatened or
attacked livestock, a domestic animal or a person, but such threat or attack was not
a grossly disproportionate reaction under all the circumstances.
“Person” means a natural person or any legal entity, including but not limited to a
corporation, firm, partnership or trust.

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3.4.a

8. “Enforcing Authority” means the Director of the Animal Commission or their duly
authorized designee.
B. Determination that Dog is Dangerous.
1. A person may file a complaint in writing to the City’s hearing authority that a dog
owned and kept in the City is a nuisance dog or a dangerous dog, consistent with
the definitions above.
2. The Director of the Animal Commission, or their duly authorized designee, shall
review and investigate any complaints for dangerous, potentially dangerous or
nuisance dogs.
3. Pursuant to M.G. L. c. 140, §157, the Hearing Authority shall investigate or cause the
investigation of the complaint, including an examination under oath of the
complainant at a public hearing in the municipality to determine whether the dog is
a nuisance dog or dangerous dog. Based on credible evidence and testimony
presented at a public hearing, the hearing authority shall: (i) if the dog is
complained of as a nuisance dog, either dismiss the complaint or deem the dog a
nuisance dog; or (ii) if the dog is complained of as a dangerous dog: (A) dismiss the
complaint; (B) deem the dog a nuisance dog; or (C) deem the dog a dangerous dog.
4. If the Hearing Authority deems a dog a nuisance dog, the hearing authority may
further order the owner or keeper of the dog take remedial action to ameliorate the
cause of the nuisance behavior.
5. If the Hearing Authority deems a dog to be a dangerous dog, the Hearing Authority
shall order one or more of the following: (i) that unless an owner or keeper of the dog
provides evidence that a veterinarian is of the opinion the dog is unfit for alterations
because of a medical condition, the owner or keeper of the dog shall cause the dog
to be altered so that the dog shall not be reproductively intact; (ii) microchip
identification; (iii) behavior training; (iv) that the dog be humanely restrained:
provided , however, that no order shall provide that a dog deemed dangerous be
chained, tethered or otherwise tied to an inanimate object including, but not limited
to, a tree, post or building; (v) that the dog be confined to the premises of the keeper
of the dog; provided, however, that ''confined'' shall mean securely confined indoors
or confined outdoors in a securely enclosed and locked pen or dog run area upon
the premises of the owner or keeper; provided further, that such pen or dog run shall
have a secure roof and, if such enclosure has no floor secured to the sides thereof,
the sides shall be embedded into the ground for not less than 2 feet; and provided
further, that within the confines of such pen or dog run, a dog house or proper
shelter from the elements shall be provided to protect the dog; (vi) that when
removed from the premises of the owner or the premises of the person keeping the
dog, the dog shall be securely and humanely muzzled and restrained with a chain or
other tethering device having a minimum tensile strength of 300 pounds and not
exceeding 3 feet in length; (vii) that the owner or keeper of the dog provide proof of
insurance in an amount not less than $100,000 insuring the owner or keeper against
any claim, loss, damage or injury to persons, domestic animals or property resulting
from the acts, whether intentional or unintentional, of the dog or proof that
reasonable efforts were made to obtain such insurance if a policy has not been

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3.4.a

issued; provided, however, that if a policy of insurance has been issued, the owner
or keeper shall produce such policy upon request of the hearing authority or a
justice of the district court; and provided further, that if a policy has not been issued
the owner or keeper shall produce proof of efforts to obtain such insurance; and/or
(viii) that the dog be humanely euthanized.
6. The hearing shall be held promptly within no less than five nor more than ten days
after service of notice upon the owner or keeper of the dog. The hearing shall be
informal and open to the public.
7. After the hearing, the owner or keeper of the dog shall be notified in writing of the
determination. If a determination is made that the dog is dangerous, the owner or
keeper shall comply with the registration provisions of this section, stated below, in
accordance with a time schedule established by the Animal Commission, but in no
case more than thirty days subsequent to the date of determination. If the owner or
keeper of the dog contests the determination, they may, within ten (10) days after an
order issued under subsections B(1) to (5), inclusive, bring a petition in the district
court within the judicial district in which the order relative to the dog was issued or
where the dog is owned or kept, addressed to the justice of the court, praying that
the order be reviewed by the court or a magistrate of the court. After notice to all
parties, the magistrate shall, under Section 62C of Chapter 221, review the order of
the hearing authority, hear the witnesses and affirm the order unless it shall appear
that it was made without proper cause or in bad faith, in which case the order shall
be reversed. A party shall have the right to request a de novo hearing on the
complaint before a justice of the court.
8. In the event that the Animal Commission has cause to believe that the dog in
question is dangerous and may pose a threat of serious harm to human beings or
other domestic animals, the Commission may seize and impound the dog pending
the aforesaid hearing and appeal. The owner or keeper of the dog shall be liable to
the City for the costs and expenses of keeping such dog.
C. Determination that Dog Is Potentially Dangerous. Any Animal Control Officer or other agent
of the Animal Commission may make a determination without a hearing that a dog is
potentially dangerous, in accordance with the aforementioned definition of "potentially
dangerous dog." Such a determination may be subject to the review of the full membership
of the Animal Commission upon the petition of the owner or keeper of said dog or pursuant
to M.G.L. c. 249, § 4.
D. Registration Requirements. No dog deemed dangerous or potentially dangerous dog shall
be licensed by the City for any licensing period commencing 60 days after ordination after
unless the owner or keeper of such vicious or potentially vicious dog shall meet the
following requirements:
1. The owner or keeper of a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog shall confine said
dog inside his or her dwelling or inside a proper enclosure on their property.
“Confined” shall mean securely confined indoors or confined outdoors in a securely
enclosed and locked pen or dog run area upon the premises of the owner or keeper;
provided further, that such pen or dog run shall have a secure roof and, if such
enclosure has no floor secured to the sides thereof, the sides shall be embedded

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3.4.a

2.

3.

4.

5.

into the ground for not less than 2 feet; provided further, that within the confines of
such pen or dog run, a dog house or proper shelter from the elements shall be
provided to protect the dog. It shall be unlawful for an owner or keeper of a
dangerous or potentially dangerous dog to permit said dog to be outside the proper
enclosure or dwelling unless said dog is humanely muzzled and restrained by a
substantial chain or leash and under the control of a responsible person. The
muzzle shall be made in a manner that will not cause injury to the dog or interfere
with its vision or respiration but shall prevent it from biting any person or animal;
The owner or keeper of a dangerous dog shall, at their own expense, have the dog
microchipped for identification purposes and licensing number assigned to such
dog;
The owner or keeper of a dangerous dog shall present to the Animal Commission
proof that the owner or keeper has procured liability insurance in the amount of at
least one hundred thousand dollars, covering any damage or injury which may be
caused by such dangerous dog, whether intentional or unintentional, during the
twelve month period for which licensing is sought, which policy shall contain a
provision requiring the City to be named as an additional insured for the sole
purpose of the Animal Commission to be notified by the insurance company of any
cancellation, termination or expiration of the liability insurance policy, or proof that
reasonable efforts were made to obtain such insurance if a policy has not been
issued;
The owner or keeper of a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog shall display a sign
or signs on their premises facing out from all sides warning that there is such a dog
on the premises. Said sign shall be visible and capable of being read from any
adjacent public way or within 20 feet of its placement. In addition, the owner shall
conspicuously display a sign with a symbol warning those who cannot read of the
presence of a dangerous dog;
The owner or keeper of a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog shall sign
statements attesting that:
a. In the case of a dangerous dog, the owner or keeper of said dog shall
maintain and not voluntarily cancel the liability insurance required by this
section during the twelve month period for which licensing is sought,
unless the owner or keeper shall cease to own or keep the dangerous dog
prior to expiration of such license,
b. The owner or keeper shall, on or prior to the effective date of such license
for which application is being made, have an enclosure for the dangerous
or potentially dangerous dog on the property where said dog will be kept or
maintained,
c. The owner or keeper shall notify the Animal Commission within twentyfour hours if a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog is on the loose, is
unconfined, has attacked another animal or has attacked a human being,
or has died or has been sold or given away. If the dangerous or potentially
dangerous dog has been sold or given away, the owner or keeper shall also

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3.4.a

provide the Animal Commission with the name, address and telephone
number of the new owner of said dog;
6. The Animal Commission is empowered to make whatever inquiry is deemed
necessary to ensure compliance with the provisions of this section, and any agent
of the Commission is empowered to seize and impound any dangerous or
potentially dangerous dog whose owner or keeper fails to comply with the
provisions of this chapter. In the event that the owner or keeper of the dog refuses to
surrender the animal to the Commission, the Commission Director may request a
police officer to obtain a search warrant and to seize the dog upon execution of the
warrant;
7. The provisions of this section shall not apply to K-9 or other dogs owned by any
police department or any law enforcement officer which are used in the
performance of police work;
8. The owner or keeper of a dangerous dog shall pay, in addition to the standard dog
license fee, a sum of ten dollars for each dangerous dog registered;
E. Penalties for Violation
1. a. Any dangerous or potentially dangerous dog which does not have a valid license
in
accordance with the provisions of this chapter, or
b. In the case of a dangerous dog, whose owner or keeper does not secure the
liability insurance coverage required in accordance with this section, or has not
provided proof that reasonable efforts were made to obtain such insurance if a
policy has not been issued, or
c. Any dangerous or potentially dangerous dog which shall be outside of the
dwelling of the owner or keeper or outside of an enclosure and unmuzzled and/or
otherwise unrestrained shall be confiscated by the Animal Commission and
destroyed in an expeditious and humane manner after the expiration of a ten day
waiting period exclusive of Sundays and holidays. In addition, the owner or keeper
shall pay a one hundred fifty dollar fine.
2. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 140, § § 157 and 173A, if any dangerous or potentially
dangerous dog shall, when unprovoked, kill, wound or worry or assist in killing or
wounding any domestic animal, the owner or keeper of said dog shall pay, for a first
offense, a five hundred dollar fine and the Animal Commission is empowered to
confiscate and, after the expiration of a seven day waiting period, shall destroy said
dog. For a second or each subsequent violation the owner or keeper of said dog
shall pay a fine of one thousand dollars.
3. If any dangerous or potentially dangerous dog shall, when unprovoked, attack,
assault, wound, bite or otherwise injure or kill a human being, the owner or keeper
shall pay a five hundred dollar fine and the Animal Commission is empowered to
confiscate and, after the expiration of a seven day waiting period, shall destroy said
dog. For each and any subsequent violation, said owner or keeper shall pay a fine of
one thousand dollars.

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3.4.a

4. No person shall be charged under subsections 1, 2 or 3 above unless the dog, prior
to the offense alleged, shall have been declared dangerous or potentially dangerous
pursuant to the provisions of this section.
5. The Animal Commission shall provide notice of the impoundment and/or pending
destruction of a dangerous or potentially dangerous dog to the registered owner or
keeper of said dog. Service of notice shall be made by hand delivery or certified mail
within five days next following the date of impoundment.
6. If the owner or keeper of a dog impounded for an alleged violation of this section
shall believe that there has not been a violation of this section, such owner or
keeper may petition a court of competent jurisdiction praying that the dog not be
destroyed. The impounded dog shall not be destroyed pending resolution of such
owner's or keeper's petition. The dog shall remain impounded pending a hearing on
the petition and any subsequent appeal.
7. Pursuant to M.G.L. c. 140, § 157(c), the Hearing Authority shall neither issue an order
directing that a dog deemed dangerous shall be removed from the city, nor regulate
dogs in a manner that is specific to breed.
F. The owner or keeper of any dangerous dog or potentially dangerous dog who fails to comply
with the requirements set forth in Section D above, and pursuant to M.G.L. c. 140, § 157A,
shall be subject to:
1. A fine of $500 for the first offense;
2. A fine of $1,000 for any subsequent offense; and
3. All provisions sent forth in M.G.L. c. 140, § 157(h).
G. Each day there exists a violation of any of the provisions of this Ordinance, as determined by
the Enforcing Authority, shall constitute and be punishable as a separate offense.
H. The Director of the Animal Commission or their designee shall have the power and authority
to enforce the provisions of this chapter and perform all the duties imposed by the
provisions of this chapter. All fines and penalties assessed and collected under this chapter
may be enforced by the issuance of non-criminal tickets pursuant to G.L. c. 40, § 21D, or as
otherwise authorized by law

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3.4.a

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Importance:

Curtis Butcher
City Council; City Clerk; [email protected]; McGovern, Marc; Wilson, Ayesha; Toner, Paul; Nolan, Patricia;
Azeem, Burhan; Siddiqui, Sumbul; Zusy, Catherine; Sobrinho-Wheeler, Jivan
Denise Jillson; Curtis Butcher; Curtis Butcher; Candice Beaulieu
Unsustainable Property Tax Rate Increases
Monday, October 20, 2025 3:26:06 PM
image002.png
image003.png
image004.png
High

To the Honorable Members of the Cambridge City Council,
I am writing on behalf of Porter Square Hotel and Hotel 1868 to express our profound concern regarding
the recent and damaging increase in the commercial tax rate for hotels and inns. We urge you to consider
the unsustainable nature of this hike and vote to disapprove of any similar proposed increase when setting
the Fiscal Year 2027 property tax rate.
While we acknowledge that Cambridge currently maintains a relatively low commercial and residential tax
rate compared to other municipalities, this fact should not be used by certain individuals to justify the
current spike. We brought a similar case to certain individuals regarding the cost of valet permits in the City
of Cambridge, comparing them to other municipalities, but were quickly informed what Cambridge did in
comparison to other municipalities was irrelevant. Additionally, we were told we should be fortunate the
city wasn’t charging us more for the permits, given the increases in parking meter rates relative to the city’s
cost calculations.
To be clear, we didn’t object to the prior year's 10.1% increase (from $10.46 to $11.52) because we felt it
was justified given that decreases in the commercial rate had been ongoing since 2016. That said, we don’t
believe a 22% tax increase has ever been imposed by the city in the last 20 years. An increase of this nature
is unprecedented and creates a significant financial burden on any business’s ability to operate. The reason
you hear from us now is precisely because the increase is unreasonable; you should not expect objections
when rates are fair and sustainable.
Since 2016 the city’s Adopted Operating Budget has ballooned to almost a billion dollars (nearly double the
2016 budget) with no cap in sight. While the city requires an 8.0% tax levy to support its FY26 budget, our
business and others aren’t afforded the same luxury. Unlike the city, which finds it easy to pass increases
onto hotels, office buildings, lab sectors, and other small businesses, we must make drastic adjustments
when facing revenue shortfalls. Your submitted budgets have always included long-term financial plans
with five-year projections for Salaries and Wages displaying an unsustainable upward trend. For example, in
FY24 you projected a five-year increase of 11.6% from $562,388,790 to $627,745,915. In FY25 you
projected a five-year increase of 16.8% from $603,834,695 to $705,090,225. Lastly, in FY26 you projected a
five-year increase of 17.2% from $618,647,660 to $725,284,960. When does a budget get submitted which
doesn’t include such outrageous increases?
Another point I’d like to address is the city’s response that our industry has returned to 2019 levels. This is
another fact that should not be used by certain individuals to justify the current spike. While revenues have
returned to similar levels does not mean a return to 2019 profit levels. Our bottom line is being squeezed
due to inflationary costs and rate compression. Our operating expenses including wages, health benefits,
insurance costs, utilities, and interest rates have risen to levels not previously seen. Unlike the city’s
ballooning budget, our rate growth cannot keep pace with the growth of our expenses.

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Attachment: Curtis ButcherUnsustainable Property Tax Rate Increases (COM 3399 #2025 : A communication was received from Curtis Butcher)

4.1.a

We urge you in FY27 to find a more balanced approach that supports both the city’s needs and that of the
businesses.
Respectfully,
Curtis Butcher

Packet Pg. 41

Attachment: Curtis ButcherUnsustainable Property Tax Rate Increases (COM 3399 #2025 : A communication was received from Curtis Butcher)

4.1.a

Attachment: Curtis ButcherUnsustainable Property Tax Rate Increases (COM 3399 #2025 : A communication was received from Curtis Butcher)

4.1.a

Curtis Butcher
General Manager
Hotel 1868
1868 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge, MA 02140
(W) 617-499-2998 | (C) 860-305-5655
www.hotel1868.com
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Packet Pg. 42

My name is Cynthia Hibbard. I live at 23 Ellsworth Avenue, and am speaking today for the
Cambridge/Somerviille Node of 350 Mass – a climate justice organization working toward
transition to a just, equitable, and clean energy economy. We strongly back Policy Order #6,
Support of the State Gas Infrastructure Planning Bill, and Policy Order #7, Support of the State
Bill Lifting Caps on Municipal Solar.
We are very grateful for the City’s accomplishments in implementing the Net Zero Action Plan!
Cambridge has momentum transitioning off fossil fuels including: the existing Building Energy
Use (BEUDO) performance standards, the fossil-fuel-free requirements for new buildings, the
Electrify Cambridge program for retrofits, an ongoing feasibility study for a pilot thermal energy
network in the City, and the Solar Assistance Program for community solar projects.
Cambridge faces multiple headwinds in maintaining this progress, though. One challenge is the
regulatory incentive for Eversource to maximize its profits and ratepayer costs by replacing
leaking gas pipelines ($3 million/mile), rather than repairing them ($100,000/mile). POR #6
mentions Eversource’s plans to dig up 54 sites in Cambridge to replace rather than repair
natural gas pipes. This will increase everyone’s gas bills and lock us into decades-long fossil
fuel debt service! The proposed bills would empower Cambridge to work with Eversource on
four-year plans that could include more cost-effective repair and thermal network alternatives.
Another headwind is increasing costs for upgrading our electrical grid. Maximizing ratepayer
access to community solar projects allows us to save money through net metering (selling
power back to the grid). We support POR #7 to include lifting the cap on municipal solar projects
into Governor Healey’s Energy Affordability Bill.

Packet Pg. 43

Attachment: Cynthia HibbardHibbard 350 Mass to City Council re Municipal Voices and Solar PORs 102025 (002) (COM 3400 #2025 : A

4.2.a

4.2.b

[email protected]
City Clerk
Public Comment for Tonight"s City Council Regular Meeting
Monday, October 20, 2025 4:00:04 PM
Hibbard 350 Mass to City Council re Municipal Voices and Solar PORs 102025.docx

Attachment: Cynthia HibbardPublic Comment for Tonight's City Council Regular Meeting (COM 3400 #2025 : A communication was received

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Dear City Clerk,
I have attached a copy of the comment I will present in person at the Meeting this evening.
Thank you,
Cynthia Hibbard
23 Ellsworth Ave., #2
Cambridge

Packet Pg. 44

4.3.a

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Dan Totten
City Council
City Clerk
flock cameras
Monday, October 20, 2025 11:00:54 AM

Reasonable minds can disagree about the role that policing and surveillance needs to play in
our city, but this Flock company seems to be particularly problematic and untrustworthy.
I'm very concerned that moving ahead with these cameras at this time will put our most
vulnerable residents in danger by giving the feds/ICE an additional tool to access. I think it
would be an unforced error. I think it goes against the spirit of our Welcoming Communities
Ordinance and the sanctuary city resolution.
I understand that the city is trying to negotiate careful terms with the company, but I'm not
sure we can entirely prevent misuse and abuse of the tech. Plus, the company has proven
themselves to be untrustworthy and uncooperative in other communities. If you haven't read
about what happened in Evanston, please do. In this context, Commissioner Elow's words are
not very comforting.
For these reasons, it is my understanding that the ACLU remains in opposition to this project.
There are too many unknowns. We are in extremely scary times. Many of you have
campaigned on the idea that facism is taking over America. Why would we play into those
evil hands by increasing their access to our community with new cameras?
I'm particularly concerned because one of the locations is right outside the Rindge Towers,
where many of our city's undocumented residents live.
A lot has happened since February 2025. This is an extraordinary circumstance. This is not
about supporting or opposing the police, it is about protecting our community from immense
external danger. Please vote against moving forward with this.
Thanks,
Dan Totten
54 Bishop Allen Dr #2

Packet Pg. 45

Attachment: Dan Tottenflock cameras (COM 3401 #2025 : A communication was received from Dan Totten)

Hello,

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Kathy Watkins
City Council
City Clerk
No to Flock surveillance
Monday, October 20, 2025 2:52:27 PM

Dear City Council,
I am writing regarding city manager agenda #7 regarding the Flock surveillance system. Why are you even thinking
of implementing surveillance in the current era? The Nazis were masters of implementing and using surveillance
data to harm and murder and this can happen again. Flock is a program of the Department of Homeland Security.
Where else in history have we heard the term “homeland” used over and over? Yes, Nazi Germany. You cannot
guarantee this data will not be used by the federal government.
In addition this system opens up Cambridge to yet more expensive lawsuits. The city has chosen a pattern of
deployment that enables Flock Safety and the Cambridge Police Department to access the pattern of individual
vehicles’ movement over a substantial period of 30 days. In the Commonwealth v. McCarthy (2020) the Supreme
Judicial Court issued a lengthy opinion considering whether ALPR data-gathering was a “search” for Fourth
Amendment purposes, and therefore whether collecting that data violated the rights of drivers passing over the
Sagamore bridge to Cape Cod. The court found that those few cameras, because they captured cars at a point in time
rather than disclosing a pattern of their movements was not a search for Fourth Amendment purposes; but they also
wrote that ALPR data-gathering would class as a search. You can look up and read their decision.
If these cameras are activated, I will not visit businesses that are near the cameras and will advise others to do the
same. Please do not implement the Flock program.
Sincerely,
Kathy Watkins
Fawcett St
Cambridge

Packet Pg. 46

Attachment: Kathy WatkinsNo to Flock surveillance (COM 3402 #2025 : A communication was received from Kathy Watkins)

4.4.a

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Lee Farris
City Council
City Clerk
PO #3- support of H.811, An Act authorizing cities and towns to provide for citizen-funded election campaigns
Monday, October 20, 2025 5:32:52 PM

Dear Mayor and Councilors,
I am writing for the Cambridge Residents Alliance in support of PO#3, asking for Council
support of H.811, An Act authorizing cities and towns to provide for citizen-funded election
campaigns.
We have long supported the idea of public matches of small dollar donations. We think it
would help new candidates, especially those who may not have as much access to people who
make large donations. It would also give more weight to small dollar donors.
We ask the Council to pass PO #3, and follow up with the state legislators representing
Cambridge.
Thanks,
Lee Farris, President
Cambridge Residents Alliance: Working for a Livable, Affordable and Diverse
Cambridge
https://www.cambridgeresidentsalliance.org/

Packet Pg. 47

Attachment: Lee FarrisPO #3- support of H.811, An Act authorizing cities and towns to provide for citizen-funded election campaigns (COM

4.5.a

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Lowry Hemphill
Steven Miller
City Council; City Clerk
Re: Giivng City More Say Over Eversource Plans to Increase Rates
Friday, October 17, 2025 2:49:20 PM

Great letter, Steve. Thank you!
Lowry
On Fri, Oct 17, 2025 at 9:29 AM Steven Miller <[email protected]> wrote:

Dear City Councillors:
As your probably know, the ironic fact is that Eversource makes most of its profits from guaranteed returns on
infrastructure investment rather than from actually delivering gas to customers. And they are currently using a
state program originally passed to require utilities to fix leaking gas pipes (known as GSEP -- see attached file) as
authorization to not merely fix but totally replace their pipe system at much greater cost. This will not only raise
utility rates, it will also lock us into decades more of higher rates to pay for these long-term gas facilities long
after consumers will be switching to electricity in line with the city and state's greenhouse gas reduction plans.
(Even worse, as "early adopters" switch to electricity the last ones using gas -- typically lower-income or nonEnglish-speaking families -- will be stuck with carrying the entire load!)
Fortunately, two bills -- H.3446 and H.3564 -- have been introduced in the State Legislature that give cities and
towns more voice in gas company pipe replacement (GSEP) plans.
At Monday's Council meeting, Councillors Nolan, Sobrinho-Wheeler, and Siddiqui will be introducing a
resolution putting the Council on record and sending letters to State House leaders in support of those bills.
For the sake of your constituent's budgets, I urge you to support that resolution.
Thank you.
Steve
92 Henry St.

Steven E. Miller
  Movement Voter Project, volunteer
350 Mass

Packet Pg. 48

Attachment: Lowry_ Giivng City More Say Over Eversource Plans to Increase Rates (COM 3404 #2025 : A communication was received from

4.6.a

4.7.a

Martin Bakal
City Council; City Clerk
City Manager
Support Bakal Petition
Saturday, October 18, 2025 9:22:53 AM

Councillors,
When I listened to Melissa from the CDD last week all I heard was here saying she wants
flexibility. As a resident what I am looking for is creativity. Too much flexibility reduces
creativity. Why? Because then you can design the same way each time without worrying about
any issues.
Limiting pavement will cause the CDD to rethink and be more creative in their designs. This
is why I support the Bakal Petition.
Thank you,
Martin Bakal
120 Reed Street
Cambridge

Packet Pg. 49

Attachment: Martin BakalSupport Bakal Petition (COM 3405 #2025 : A communication was received from Martin)

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

Marzyeh Ghassemi
City Clerk
Fwd: Public Comment Form Submission Confirmation
Monday, October 20, 2025 6:03:15 PM

I'm just confirming that I am on zoom and waiting for my turn to comment.
-Thanks,
Marzyeh Ghassemi
---------- Forwarded message --------From: <[email protected]>
Date: Sun, Oct 19, 2025, 4:47 PM
Subject: Public Comment Form Submission Confirmation
To: <[email protected]>

Thank you for registering for public comment at the City Council Regular Meeting. This
meeting is hybrid and allows for remote and in-person participation.
You are currently number 20 in line to speak. Public comment is heard at the start of the
meeting (after roll is called), followed by discussion by the Council and City Staff of items on
the agenda.
Per City Council Rules, each speaker is granted 3 minutes to speak on any items on the
meeting agenda, with the exclusion of items under the "Communications" and "Awaiting
Reports" sections of the agenda.
In the event there are 20 or more speakers signed up for public comment, each speaker's time
will be reduced to two minutes. If there are more than 75 speakers, the speaking time is
reduced to one minute. Individuals are not permitted to allocate the remainder of their time to
other speakers
To speak during public comment, speakers must be present in-person or logged into the
meeting via Zoom. Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device by following the link
below.
https://cambridgema.zoom.us/j/97895847144

Public Comment
1. Speakers are called from the list in the order they were signed up.
2. Speakers will hear their name called, then will come to the podium (in-person), or be
able to unmute (Zoom) and speak.
3. A timer will run onscreen to indicate the remaining speaking time.
4. Speakers should begin by stating their name, address, and the item they are speaking
about.
5. Please address all comments to the meeting chair.
6. Council members cannot respond directly to public commenters live during the meeting.
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Attachment: Marzyeh Ghassemi _ Public Comment Form Submission Confirmation (COM 3406 #2025 : A communication was received from

4.8.a

Please send your comments in writing to the City Clerk at: [email protected].
Comments received by midnight of the day of the meeting will be included in the public
record of that meeting.
If you are unable to join the Zoom via the internet, you can join by phone by dialing one of the
numbers below. You will be prompted to enter the meeting ID (978-9584-7144). To unmute
yourself via phone for public comment, dial *6 on your phone keypad.
• +1 253 215 8782
• +1 301 715 8592
• +1 312 626 6799
Webinar ID: 978-9584-7144
Zoom will remain on for the duration of the meeting. You can also watch the meeting via
livestream on the City website (Public Meeting Video Stream), or watch on television via the
City’s Cable channel 22 (Comcast/Xfinity).
Questions? Email Naomie Stephen [email protected]

Packet Pg. 51

Attachment: Marzyeh Ghassemi _ Public Comment Form Submission Confirmation (COM 3406 #2025 : A communication was received from

4.8.a

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Lowry Hemphill
City Council; City Clerk; Simmons, Denise
City Manager
please vote for the resolution on municipal voices in gas utility work October 20
Friday, October 17, 2025 9:34:53 PM

October 17, 2025
Dear Mayor Simmons and City Councillors:
Our city has been working hard to move away from reliance on fossil fuels, with the goal of achieving
net zero emissions by 2050. We’ve invested in net zero schools, community solar, electric municipal
vehicles, and adopted a fossil fuel-free building code and ambitious targets for decarbonizing large
commercial buildings. We applaud this important work.
At the same time, however, we are burdened with aging gas infrastructure and spiraling costs for gas
heat in our homes. A major portion of those rising costs comes from GSEP (the Gas System
Enhancement Program) which guarantees a high rate of return for gas companies when they replace
gas pipelines. See a recent NPR story detailing the impact of this nationally.
As advocates for a cleaner, safer environment for all children, we are especially concerned that GSEP
locks us into decades more of fossil fuel dependence, placing an unfair burden especially on the
most vulnerable residents.
We hope you will support the Council resolution Monday supporting two bills before the Legislature,
H.3446 and H.3564, that give municipalities more voice in gas company plans.
If these bills are adopted, city officials would have the right to review and comment in advance on
the 54 proposed Eversource pipe replacement projects that extend into nearly every Cambridge
neighborhood and will require digging up 10+ miles of city streets over the next 4 years. The city
would be empowered to suggest less disruptive and costly approaches, where appropriate, and
approaches that invest in green infrastructure rather than obsolete, polluting technology. Finally, gas
companies would be prohibited from charging ratepayers for work that did not have adequate
review by the municipality, ensuring a real and not a rubber stamp role for cities and towns.
Supporting this legislation is consistent with Cambridge’s and our state’s climate goals and builds the
path to climate justice and a sustainable future.
Respectfully,
Margery Davies, Elena Fagotto, Diana Jelescu, Deb Ashman, Sharon DeVos, Norma Finkelstein, Lowry
Hemphill, Judy Hikes, Rupal Jain, Erin James, Phoebe Kosman, Hannah Mahoney, Lois Markham,
Giuseppina Morganti, Amy Oliver, Mothers Out Front Cambridge Leadership Team

Packet Pg. 52

Attachment: Mothers out front please vote for the resolution on municipal voices in gas utility work October 20 (COM 3407 #2025 : A

4.9.a

Attachment: Mothers out front please vote for the resolution on municipal voices in gas utility work October 20 (COM 3407 #2025 : A

4.9.a

Packet Pg. 53

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Nike Tirman
Meuse, Stephen
City Council; McKenna, Brooke; City Manager; City Clerk
CONTINUED HAZARD 50 GARDEN STREET
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 7:59:25 AM

Hello Stephen Meuse and City of Cambridge,
Please see emails below.
It remains a hazard accessing and egressing our property.
There has been no Eversource work done since before your email below dated 9/11, that was over 5 weeks ago.
We will hold the City accountable if an accident occurs.
We once again welcome anyone to contact me below and I will meet with them anytime to discuss the current
driveway/ bike lane/ tandem parking and traffic impacting our access and egress.
AGAIN A SUGGESTION - the tandem parking could be moved across Garden Street to the unbroken curb from
Shepard Street to the Radcliffe Quad access driveway.
Thank you,
Nike Tirman
50 Garden Street, #2
Cambridge, MA
02138
617-794-0840
> On Sep 11, 2025, at 2:27 PM, Meuse, Stephen <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> Hi Nike,
>
> Eversource has told me that the still need to repave a section of Garden St near your driveway and they will install
the remaining posts and line striping shortly after that. They estimated 2-3 weeks.
>
> -Stephen
>
> Stephen Meuse, P.E.
> Supervising Engineer
> Cambridge Department of Transportation
> Street Management Division
> 344 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02139
> 617-349-4713 (office)
>
> -----Original Message----> From: Nike Tirman <[email protected]>
> Sent: Tuesday, September 2, 2025 7:49 AM
> To: Meuse, Stephen <[email protected]>
> Cc: McKenna, Brooke <[email protected]>; City Council <[email protected]>;
City Manager <[email protected]>; City Clerk <[email protected]>; Bayer, Megan
<[email protected]>
> Subject: Please Call
>
> Hello Steve,
> Please call me regarding the continued consistent hazards in using our driveway.
> Thank you,
> Nike Tirman

Packet Pg. 54

Attachment: Nike TirmanCONTINUED HAZARD 50 GARDEN STREET (COM 3408 #2025 : A communication was received from Nike Tirman)

4.10.a

> 50 Garden Street, #2
> Cambridge MA
> 02138
> 617-794-0840
>

Attachment: Nike TirmanCONTINUED HAZARD 50 GARDEN STREET (COM 3408 #2025 : A communication was received from Nike Tirman)

4.10.a

Packet Pg. 55

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

Patricia Lotterman
City Clerk
NO to Flock surveillance
Monday, October 20, 2025 3:08:05 PM

Dear City Council.
We are a sanctuary city. Let’s keep it that way.

There are serious privacy concerns with Flock’s systems. Despite
months of denying contracts with federal agencies, Flock recently
revealed that it has a contract with Customs and Border Patrol
(CBP) and shares ALPR data without the consent of local officials.
This week, it was also revealedthat they had been sharing data
with ICE, Homeland Security Investigations, the Secret Service and,
for good measure, NCIS. Due to the company sharing data in
violation of Illinois law, the state of Illinois recently terminated
their contracts with Flock. After Evanston, IL, ordered Flock to
shut down its use of ALPR cameras in the city, Flock reinstalled the
cameras without permission, prompting Evanston to send a ceaseand-desist letter. This week, Eugene, OR, also paused its Flock
deployment as a result of privacy concerns.
Federal agencies may also have the opportunity to access Flock ALPR
data through the Boston Regional Intelligence Center and through
informal favors granted by local members of the Joint Terrorism Task
force, which has recently been directed by Trump in a presidential
memorandum to conduct investigations of groups which espouse
“anti-fascist,” “anti-capitalist,” “anti-American” or “anti-Christian”
viewpoints. The actions of the current federal administration make it
even more urgent to protect the sensitive data of vulnerable
Cambridge residents, including immigrants, politically active people,
and those who express views that might be classified under these
dangerously loose categories. Anything that requires the use of a car

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Attachment: Patricia LottermanNO to Flock surveillance (COM 3409 #2025 : A communication was received from Patricia Lotterman)

4.11.a

4.11.a

Whether residents choose to exercise their free speech by attending a
protest, accessing reproductive care, or simply moving about, Flock’s
license plate readers may be storing that data, exposing it to federal
search, and potentially using it to draw conclusions about the vehicle
driver’s future potential to commit crimes. For example, many vehicle
going into and out of Cambridge Health Alliance’s Windsor Street Care
Center, which offers reproductive healthcare services, would be in
Flock’s databases.

This surveillance system is unacceptable!
Sincerely,
Patricia Lotterman, LMHC
32 Essex Street (with an office at 44 Pearl St.)

Packet Pg. 57

Attachment: Patricia LottermanNO to Flock surveillance (COM 3409 #2025 : A communication was received from Patricia Lotterman)

in certain areas of Cambridge has the possibility of being tracked.

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Sam Allon
City Council
Melissa Berlin; City Clerk
Traffic enforcement in Cambridge is a bad joke
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 9:10:58 AM

Dear City Councillors,
This morning, the driver in front of me on Columbia Street had his phone mounted landscape
to his windshield. He was watching a movie or TV show while driving. Presumably with
surround sound?
Traffic enforcement in this city is a bad joke. Drivers do whatever they want, while slinging
thousands of pounds of metal through our streets. We all know where this leads: does anyone
actually believe that John Corcoran's killer was distracted by "a bug" in his car?
Our police officers need to enforce the law. The cops who want to enforce the law need to be
unshackled and promoted. The cops who want to play Candy Crush all day need to find a new
line of work. City Council needs to force the police department to take traffic enforcement
seriously.
See you at the polls,
Sam

Packet Pg. 58

Attachment: Sam Allon Traffic enforcement in Cambridge is a bad joke (COM 3410 #2025 : A communication was received from Sam Allon)

4.12.a

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

Sam Portelance
City Clerk
Public comment on city manager"s agenda #7
Monday, October 20, 2025 6:15:40 PM

My name is Sam Portelance. I live at Mansfield St somerville and work as a software engineer at
kendall square in cambridge. I'm speaking as part of the Digital Fourth.
Flock safety is a company that advertises itself not just as an ALPR vendor as a nationwide
integrated surveillance network.
In an article on Andreeson Horiwitz, a firm explaining their investment in flock safety, the authors
state "what magnifies the power of Flock Safety even more is that the digital evidence can be pooled
across different law enforcement agencies for a short period of time, making it more powerful as
adoption scales within a community and across the U.S. more broadly."
In addition to police departments, Flock sells itself to private entities like HOAs and corporations
and leverages data across its pool of clients to deliver value to one another. While our police
department may have a narrow privacy agreement with Flock, I see good reason to be deeply
suspicious about their plans to not share data with private citizens in the long, or even the near term.
ICE, the secret service, and the navy now have been revealed to have access to Flock data and
they've recently partnered with Ring cameras to expand their network of privately-gathered data to
sell to police.
In addition to this privacy concern, Flock is trying to predict criminality. They flag drivers as
suspicious based on their behavior and have stated, in a Forbes interview, that their goal is to
eliminate almost all crime in America within 10 years.
Their ambitions go far beyond selling ALPRs to police departments, they want to take a leading role
in engineering a system of predictive policing. I encourage Cambridge to not take part in this
experiment and join other communities across the country in banning flock safety.

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Attachment: Sam Portelance Public comment on city manager's agenda #7 (COM 3411 #2025 : A communication was received from Sam

4.13.a

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Phil Parisi
Simmons, Denise; City Manager; City Council; Watkins, Kathy; McKenna, Brooke; Bayer, Megan; City Clerk
McGovern, Marc; [email protected]
DPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025)
Friday, October 17, 2025 9:20:07 PM

Dear Mayor Simmons, City Manager Huang, and Department Leads,
I’m writing to report an unsafe and poorly managed street-closure practice I personally
observed at Rindge Avenue and Jackson Street in North Cambridge this morning (Friday,
October 17 2025, around 10 AM).
Roughly ten DPW workers were on site. They had blocked off large portions of the
intersection without visible permits, signage, or a police traffic detail. Although the actual
work area appeared to be a small excavation confined to one corner, crews shut down the
entire roadway. Several workers — some wearing DPW insignia — took it upon themselves to
direct vehicles and pedestrians, issuing inconsistent and sometimes unsafe instructions.
While I respect the city’s maintenance work, these closures appear to be happening without
oversight or proper authorization, and have become a recurring pattern. Over-restrictive
and improvised closures like this create unnecessary congestion, confusion, and legitimate
safety hazards.

Requested Actions & Response Timeline
1. Immediate investigation into the Oct 17 incident: identify the responsible supervisors,
confirm whether permits or traffic management plans were issued, and determine who
authorized the full closure.
2. Written response within 14 calendar days from the DPW and City Manager’s Office
detailing:
Findings of the investigation.
Any disciplinary, training, or procedural actions to be taken.
Measures to ensure only authorized personnel may restrict or direct traffic.
3. Clear policy and enforcement: require permit display, police or certified traffic detail,
and minimal necessary disruption for all street work zones.
4. Public communication: issue a notice clarifying residents’ rights when street closures
are imposed and how to report violations.
This situation reflects systemic management failures, not an isolated mistake. Residents and
drivers deserve streets that are managed safely, lawfully, and competently.
Please confirm receipt of this email and provide a written update outlining next steps.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Packet Pg. 60

Attachment: Scott Parisi2DPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025) (COM

4.14.a

Sincerely,
Scott Parisi

89 Fayerweather St

Cambridge, MA 02138
617-407-2491

Attachment: Scott Parisi2DPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025) (COM

4.14.a

Packet Pg. 61

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Phil Parisi
Simmons, Denise; City Manager; City Council; Watkins, Kathy; McKenna, Brooke; Bayer, Megan; City Clerk
[email protected]; McGovern, Marc
DPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025)
Friday, October 17, 2025 8:59:21 PM

Dear Mayor Simmons, City Manager Huang, and Department Leads,
I’m writing to report an unsafe and poorly managed street-closure practice I personally
observed at Rindge Avenue and Jackson Street in North Cambridge this morning (Friday,
October 17 2025, around 10 AM).
Roughly ten DPW workers were on site. They had blocked off large portions of the
intersection without visible permits, signage, or a police traffic detail. Although the actual
work area appeared to be a small excavation confined to one corner, crews shut down the
entire roadway. Several workers — some wearing DPW insignia — took it upon themselves to
direct vehicles and pedestrians, issuing inconsistent and sometimes unsafe instructions.
While I respect the city’s maintenance work, these closures appear to be happening without
oversight or proper authorization, and have become a recurring pattern. Over-restrictive
and improvised closures like this create unnecessary congestion, confusion, and legitimate
safety hazards.

Requested Actions & Response Timeline
1. Immediate investigation into the Oct 17 incident: identify the responsible supervisors,
confirm whether permits or traffic management plans were issued, and determine who
authorized the full closure.
2. Written response within 14 calendar days from the DPW and City Manager’s Office
detailing:
Findings of the investigation.
Any disciplinary, training, or procedural actions to be taken.
Measures to ensure only authorized personnel may restrict or direct traffic.
3. Clear policy and enforcement: require permit display, police or certified traffic detail,
and minimal necessary disruption for all street work zones.
4. Public communication: issue a notice clarifying residents’ rights when street closures
are imposed and how to report violations.
This situation reflects systemic management failures, not an isolated mistake. Residents and
drivers deserve streets that are managed safely, lawfully, and competently.
Please confirm receipt of this email and provide a written update outlining next steps.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Packet Pg. 62

Attachment: Scott Parisi3DPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025) (COM

4.14.b

Sincerely,
Scott Parisi

89 Fayerweather St, 02138

[email protected]
Cambridge, MA

Attachment: Scott Parisi3DPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025) (COM

4.14.b

Packet Pg. 63

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

Phil Parisi
Simmons, Denise; City Manager; City Council; Watkins, Kathy; McKenna, Brooke; Bayer, Megan; City Clerk
DPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025)
Friday, October 17, 2025 9:26:30 PM

Dear Mayor Simmons, City Manager Huang, and Department Leads,
I’m writing to report an unsafe and poorly managed street-closure practice I personally
observed at Rindge Avenue and Jackson Street in North Cambridge this morning (Friday,
October 17 2025, around 10 AM).
Roughly ten DPW workers were on site. They had blocked off large portions of the
intersection without visible permits, signage, or a police traffic detail. Although the actual
work area appeared to be a small excavation confined to one corner, crews shut down the
entire roadway. Several workers — some wearing DPW insignia — took it upon themselves to
direct vehicles and pedestrians, issuing inconsistent and sometimes unsafe instructions.
While I respect the city’s maintenance work, these closures appear to be happening without
oversight or proper authorization, and have become a recurring pattern. Over-restrictive
and improvised closures like this create unnecessary congestion, confusion, and legitimate
safety hazards.

Requested Actions & Response Timeline
1. Immediate investigation into the Oct 17 incident: identify the responsible supervisors,
confirm whether permits or traffic management plans were issued, and determine who
authorized the full closure.
2. Written response within 14 calendar days from the DPW and City Manager’s Office
detailing:
Findings of the investigation.
Any disciplinary, training, or procedural actions to be taken.
Measures to ensure only authorized personnel may restrict or direct traffic.
3. Clear policy and enforcement: require permit display, police or certified traffic detail,
and minimal necessary disruption for all street work zones.
4. Public communication: issue a notice clarifying residents’ rights when street closures
are imposed and how to report violations.
This situation reflects systemic management failures, not an isolated mistake. Residents and
drivers deserve streets that are managed safely, lawfully, and competently.
Please confirm receipt of this email and provide a written update outlining next steps.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Packet Pg. 64

Attachment: Scott ParisiDPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025) (COM

4.14.c

Sincerely,
Scott Parisi
Cambridge, MA

617-407-2491

Attachment: Scott ParisiDPW Crews Mismanaging Street Closures — Rindge Ave & Jackson St (Observed 10 AM, Friday Oct 17 2025) (COM

4.14.c

Packet Pg. 65

4.15.a

Selin Kubali
City Clerk; City Council
Flock
Monday, October 20, 2025 9:40:36 AM

Hello!
I'm a Cambridge resident, and my friend told me about the recent push to install Flock
Safety cameras here. Flock has shared information with Customs and Border Patrol,
ICE, and Homeland Security, among others. I'm already very concerned about
increasing surveillance in this political climate, and I absolutely do not think Flock
should be approved or installed. Government agencies already have access to an
absurd amount of our data – I don't see any good reason to hand them more.
Sincerely,
Selin Kubali
339 Allston Unit 1
Cambridge, MA 02139

Packet Pg. 66

Attachment: Selin KubaliFlock (COM 3413 #2025 : A communication was received from Selin Kubali)

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

Sheli Wortis
City Council; City Clerk
support for tonight"s policy orders
Monday, October 20, 2025 8:59:47 AM

To Cambridge City Councillors:
I am writing in support of several Policy Orders that call on Cambridge City Council to
support legislative actions at the State House. Support for these measures would
show that Cambridge - and Massachusetts - are determined to fight back against
Trump’s autocratic actions against universities, students, workers, and the electorate.
Please support POR #144 to support higher education funding, POR 2025 #146 to
support citizen-funded election campaigns, and POR #147 to recognize and support
state house workers’ unions.
While we must continue to urge Harvard University to resist Trump’s attacks, we must
also support Harvard’s workers in their drives for fair pay and better worker
protections. Please support POR #151 in support of the organizing drives of
Harvard’s workers’ unions.
Many thanks!
Sheli Wortis
106 Berkshire St., 02141

Packet Pg. 67

Attachment: Sheli Wortis support for tonight's policy orders (COM 3414 #2025 : A communication was received from Sheli Wortis)

4.16.a

NSTAR Gas Company d/b/a Eversource Energy D.P.U. 24-GSEP-06 Exhibit ES-RJB-1 Appendix A Page 1 of

Street
Alberta Ter

Installation
footage
320

Est. project NPA Analysis
cost ($)
Complete
NPA Results
125,245
Yes
Non-viable

Comments
Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Blanchard Rd

400

156,556

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Columbia St

0

0

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Cottage Park Ave

280

109,589

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Hancock St

640

250,490

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Hews St

280

109,589

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Linnaean St

2,480

970,647

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - Known Leak History, CI ≤4”
Diameter, Install Year

Magazine Ct

160

48,747

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Install Year,
Known Leak History

Magazine St

640

250,490

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - Known Leak History, Install
Year

Mass Ave

1,800

704,502

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Mass Ave, Somerville Ave, Cameron Ave

5,800

2,270,062

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

May St, Vineyard St

960

375,734

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Norfolk Ct

200

78,278

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Rows 2-19 are projects
proposed to DPU for 2025;
rows 20-55 are projects for
2026-29 with fewer details
provided

Packet Pg. 68

Attachment: Steven Miller2025-29 Cambridge GSEP Plans_ Eversource (002) (COM 3415 #2025 : A

4.17.a

NSTAR Gas Company d/b/a Eversource Energy D.P.U. 24-GSEP-06 Exhibit ES-RJB-1 Appendix A Page 2 of

Pemberton St, Warwick Pk

760

226,085

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

1,000

391,390

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Reed Street Ter

200

78,278

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - >40 GMRI Score, Known
Leak History, CI ≤4” Diameter, Install
Year

Vassar St

415

162,427

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - Known Leak History, CI ≤4”
Diameter, Install Year

Webster Ave, Columbia St

520

203,523

Yes

Non-viable

Tier 1 - Known Leak History, CI ≤4”
Diameter, Install Year

Porter Cir, Porter Pk, Porter Rd, Porter Rd

Amherst St
Audrey St, Memorial Dr, Danforth St, Endicott St, Amherst Aly
Banks St
Beech St
Berkshire St, Vandine St, Cardinal Medeiros Blvd, Marcella St
Bradbury St / Sparks Pl
Cambridgepark Dr
Columbia St
Columbia St 2
Garden Ter
George St
Gore St sub-main
Gore St submain 1
Hampshire St
Harvard St
Inman St
Kinnaird St
Mass Ave
Mass Ave
McGrath Hwy
McGrath Hwy
Mount Auburn St, Holyoke St
Newell St
Pacific St
Pemberton St, Pemberton St, Verdun St
Raymond St

Attachment: Steven Miller2025-29 Cambridge GSEP Plans_ Eversource (002) (COM 3415 #2025 : A

4.17.a

195
4,000
166
214
2,313
455
570
40
141
238
238
461
805
568
1,660
1,860
727
400
516
723
1,945
492
560
187
1,160
1,657

Packet Pg. 69

NSTAR Gas Company d/b/a Eversource Energy D.P.U. 24-GSEP-06 Exhibit ES-RJB-1 Appendix A Page 3 of

River St
Rufo Rd
Shepard St
Sixth St
Smith Pl, Mooney St
University Rd
Walden St
Walden St
Walden St
Walden St, Mead St, Cogswell Ave, Russell St

Attachment: Steven Miller2025-29 Cambridge GSEP Plans_ Eversource (002) (COM 3415 #2025 : A

4.17.a

192
270
625
2,279
1,620
619
1,000
1,615
646
4,333

Packet Pg. 70

4.17.a

441
442
443
444
445
446
447
448
449
450
451
452
453
454
455
456
457
458
459
460
461
462
463
464
465
466
467
468
469
470
471
472
473
474
475
476

District
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM
SOM

Town
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge
Cambridge

Street
Amherst St
Audrey St, Memorial Dr, Danforth St, Endico
Banks St
Beech St
Berkshire St, Vandine St, Cardinal Medeiros
Bradbury St / Sparks Pl
Cambridgepark Dr
Columbia St
Columbia St 2
Garden Ter
George St
Gore St sub-main
Gore St submain 1
Hampshire St
Harvard St
Inman St
Kinnaird St
Mass Ave
Mass Ave
McGrath Hwy
McGrath Hwy
Mount Auburn St, Holyoke St
Newell St
Pacific St
Pemberton St, Pemberton St, Verdun St
Raymond St
River St
Rufo Rd
Shepard St
Sixth St
Smith Pl, Mooney St
University Rd
Walden St
Walden St
Walden St
Walden St, Mead St, Cogswell Ave, Russell

Attachment: Steven Miller2025-29 Cambridge GSEP Plans_ Eversource (002) (COM 3415 #2025 : A communication was received from Steven

#

Packet Pg. 71

4.17.a

Material
195
CI, CS
4,000 WI, CI, CS, BS
166
BS
214
CS
2,313
BS, CI
455
CS, PL
570
CS
40
CI
141
CI, CS
238
CI
238
CI
461
BS
805
BS, PD
568
CI
1,660
CI
1,860
CI, CS, PL
727
CI
400
CI
516
CI
723
CI
1,945
CS
492
CI, BS, PL
560
CI
187
CI, PL
1,160
CI, CS
1,657
BS, CS
192
CI
270
CS
625
CI
2,279
CI
1,620
CS, BS
619
CI
1,000
BS
1,615
CI
646
CI
4,333BS, PCS, PL, PD

footage
200
4,000
200
220
2,320
480
400
40
0
240
240
480
840
600
1,680
1,880
760
400
520
760
1,960
520
560
212
1,160
1,680
200
280
640
2,280
1,640
640
1,000
1,640
680
4,360

Install
12
6
4
12
12, 8, 6
2
8
6
n/a
4
4
6
6
6
16
4
6
8
12
6
8
8
4
6

Attachment: Steven Miller2025-29 Cambridge GSEP Plans_ Eversource (002) (COM 3415 #2025 : A communication was received from Steven

footage

6
8
6
6
24
6, 4
6
12
12
2
12, 8, 2

Packet Pg. 72

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:

Steven Miller
City Council
City Clerk
Giivng City More Say Over Eversource Plans to Increase Rates
Friday, October 17, 2025 9:33:01 AM
Municipal empowerment fact sheet rev.docx
2025-29 Cambridge GSEP Plans_ Eversource.xlsx
What is GSEP (Gas System Enhancement Program) in Cambridge (1).docx

Dear City Councillors:
As your probably know, the ironic fact is that Eversource makes most of its profits from guaranteed returns on
infrastructure investment rather than from actually delivering gas to customers. And they are currently using a state
program originally passed to require utilities to fix leaking gas pipes (known as GSEP -- see attached file) as
authorization to not merely fix but totally replace their pipe system at much greater cost. This will not only raise
utility rates, it will also lock us into decades more of higher rates to pay for these long-term gas facilities long after
consumers will be switching to electricity in line with the city and state's greenhouse gas reduction plans. (Even
worse, as "early adopters" switch to electricity the last ones using gas -- typically lower-income or non-Englishspeaking families -- will be stuck with carrying the entire load!)
Fortunately, two bills -- H.3446 and H.3564 -- have been introduced in the State Legislature that give cities and
towns more voice in gas company pipe replacement (GSEP) plans.
At Monday's Council meeting, Councillors Nolan, Sobrinho-Wheeler, and Siddiqui will be introducing a
resolution putting the Council on record and sending letters to State House leaders in support of those bills.
For the sake of your constituent's budgets, I urge you to support that resolution.
Thank you.
Steve
92 Henry St.

Steven E. Miller
  Movement Voter Project, volunteer
350 Mass

Packet Pg. 73

Attachment: Steven MillerGiivng City More Say Over Eversource Plans to Increase Rates (COM 3415 #2025 : A communication was received

4.17.b

Fact sheet on H.3564 An Act Relative to Infrastructure Replacement Projects
To reach our state’s and city’s goal of net-zero fossil fuel emissions by 2050, we will need to
continue and accelerate the transition off fossil fuels.
In spite of this mandate, local gas companies are engaged in large scale replacement of gas
pipes that will lock us into reliance on gas for heating for decades. Through the program known
as GSEP (Gas System Enhancement Plans), ratepayers are required to fund this work through
ever-rising ‘delivery charges’ on our monthly gas bills. These charges now make up the largest
portion of our monthly bill and are driving an ‘affordability crisis’ in home heating. Economists
estimate the total GSEP cost to Massachusetts ratepayers will ultimately exceed $40 billion.
Gas pipe replacement causes significant disruption and unanticipated expense for city
government as streets and sidewalks are dug up, often for months.
Under current laws, cities receive only limited advance notice and details about gas companies’
planned work. In addition, local governments have no voice in whether gas infrastructure
expansion is appropriate or desirable for their community and no opportunity to propose
greener alternatives to gas pipeline replacement such as neighborhood electrification.
The Infrastructure Replacement Projects bill, H.3564 addresses these important issues. The
bill:
Requires gas companies to provide municipalities with several years advance notice of planned
work, details about the purpose, scope, location, and timing of planned pipe replacement,
together with information about the existing pipe conditions that make the work necessary
Ensures that municipalities have adequate time to consider and respond
Allows for coordination with municipal plans, such as major building projects, bike lane, water,
and sewer projects and street repair, so that gas companies are not tearing up streets shortly
after they have been repaved
Empowers municipalities to propose alternatives to gas pipe replacement work, such as high
tech pipe repair, neighborhood electrification, or networked geothermal systems, with the
Department of Public Utilities as the final arbiter when gas companies and municipalities can
not reach agreement on planned work

Packet Pg. 74

Attachment: Steven MillerMunicipal empowerment fact sheet rev (002) (COM 3415 #2025 : A communication was received from Steven Miller)

4.17.c

Attachment: Steven MillerMunicipal empowerment fact sheet rev (002) (COM 3415 #2025 : A communication was received from Steven Miller)

4.17.c

Except in cases of emergency repairs, prohibits gas companies from charging customers for
pipeline work that did not include adequate advance notice and consultation with local
government

Packet Pg. 75

What is GSEP (the Gas System Enhancement Program) in Cambridge?
● GSEP is a program authorized by the Legislature in 2014 that incentivizes
gas companies to replace older pipelines through a guaranteed 9-11% rate
of return on investment
● GSEP is part of a national trend that is driving up consumers’ heating bills
See an NPR report here detailing these costs for consumers
● Consumers do not see GSEP charges on their bills but pay for the program
through rising gas “delivery charges”
● New gas pipelines have the effect of locking communities into continued
reliance on fossil fuels
● Gas companies file plans for GSEP work with the Massachusetts
Department of Public Utilities (DPU) every 5 years
● Eversource has filed plans for 54 GSEP projects in Cambridge from 2025-29
(see attached Excel spreadsheet, taken from DPU filings), totaling over 10
miles of work on city streets
● Eversource’s filings for Cambridge lack specific street addresses (e.g.,
“Massachusetts Ave”) that are important for city planning
● Eversource has rated their Cambridge projects as “non-viable NPA”--meaning not appropriate for non-pipeline replacement alternatives such as
advanced pipe repair or replacement with heat pumps–despite a DPU
mandate to seriously evaluate these options

From Mothers Out Front, Cambridge October 2025

Packet Pg. 76

Attachment: Steven MillerWhat is GSEP (Gas System Enhancement Program) in Cambridge (1) (002) (COM 3415 #2025 : A communication was

4.17.d

4.18.a

From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:

Susan Redlich
City Council
City Clerk
Support Resolution Regarding Eversource Gas Utility Work
Sunday, October 19, 2025 4:08:40 PM

Your support for two bills before the MA legislature would send strong encouragement to
state legislators to vote favorably on the following bills:
House Bill H.3564, An Act Relative to Infrastructure Replacement Projects; and
House Bill H.3446 /Senate Bill S.2248, An Act Relative to Municipal Voices in Gas Utility Work.
It's past time to correct the practice of the gas utility unilaterally replacing gas lines in
Cambridge without our municipal planners and elected officials having more to say. The times
have changed, and our energy future can't be beholden to the "replacement for profit" model.
The City has enacted BEUDO, has a policy of reducing dependence on gas and other fossil
fuels, and should have concern for the residents and businesses that are being squeezed by
increasing delivery rates. My rent goes up sharply each year—I suspect in part because the
building owner covers the cost of gas (due to the type of heating system for 18 units).
Thank you for consideration of these concerns,
Sincerely,
Susan Redlich
19 Sacramento Street

Packet Pg. 77

Attachment: Susan Redlich (COM 3416 #2025 : A communication was received from Susan Redlich)

Dear Councilors,

5.1

City of Cambridge

R-1
FIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS:

The City Council was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Kimberlee Costanza
on October 18, 2025 at the age of 60; and

WHEREAS:

Kimberly Simon was born in Boston, MA on March 31, 1965 to the late Dorothy V.
Simon of Cambridge, MA, and the late Thomas B. Simon of Somerville, MA; and

WHEREAS:

Kimberlee served with dedication and integrity as a Personnel Analyst in the Human
Resources Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs for the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts, earning the respect of colleagues through her commitment to
teamwork, honesty, and empathy; and

WHEREAS:

Known for her warm heart, forgiving nature, and deep devotion to her family,
Kimberlee found joy in life’s small moments, including morning coffee with cinnamon
rolls, bonding with animals, and sharing special days like Mother’s Day at Lilac
Sunday with her children; and

WHEREAS:

Kimberlee was predeceased by her beloved siblings, Donalee Baumgardner and
Richard L. Green, and leaves behind her devoted children Sarah and Shawn Costanza
(and his wife, Emily), their father Paul Costanza, her cherished granddaughter Soleil
Ramirez, an eagerly anticipated new granddaughter, and a wide circle of nieces,
nephews, extended family, and dear friends who shall all forever cherish her memory;
now therefore be it

RESOLVED:

That the City Council go on record expressing its deepest condolences to the family of
Kimberlee Costanza for their tremendous loss; and be it further

RESOLVED:

That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of
this resolution to the family of Kimberlee Costanza on behalf of the entire City
Council.

Packet Pg. 78

5.2

City of Cambridge

R-2
FIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

MAYOR SIMMONS
WHEREAS:

The City Council was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Willia L. Bullock,
beloved mother of Bernice Taylor, a dedicated member of the City Clerk’s office, on
October 16, 2025 at the age of 89; and

WHEREAS:

Born in Roberta, Georgia, on November 19, 1935, to the late Willie and Bessie Banks,
Willia brought her southern warmth to Boston as a young girl, and it was in Boston
where she met and married her lifelong partner, Richard Bullock Sr., with whom she
shared nearly 72 years of marriage; and

WHEREAS:

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Willia Bullock was a
faithful member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church, where she served with humility and
grace as a Deaconess, Missionary, and choir member, and was known for her generous
spirit, quick wit, and unforgettable tea biscuits; and

WHEREAS:

Willia’s life was a testament to unconditional love, patience, resilience, joy, and
compassion—qualities she instilled in all of her children, and in all whose lives she
touched; and

WHEREAS:

Willia was preceded in death by several of her siblings and her beloved son Charles
“Charlie” Bullock, she leaves to cherish her memory her husband Richard, her
children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and an extended family and community
who will forever hold her in their hearts; now therefore be it

RESOLVED:

That the City Council go on record extending its deepest condolences to Bernice
Taylor and the entire family of Willia L. Bullock for their tremendous loss; and be it
further

RESOLVED:

That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of
this resolution to Bernice Taylor on behalf of the entire City Council.

Packet Pg. 79

5.3

City of Cambridge

R-3
FIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS:

The City Council was deeply saddened at learning of the death of Donalee
Baumgardner, on October 8, 2025, at the age of 79; and

WHEREAS:

Donalee was the beloved daughter of the late Alexander Green and Dorothy V. Simon
and the cherished wife of the late Francis “Buddy” Baumgardner, with whom she
shared 50 years of loving marriage; and

WHEREAS:

Donalee was the devoted mother of Sandra and her partner Linda, Brian and his wife
Mandy, the late Lisa and her husband Armindo and the late Cynthia, cherished Nana of
Kristina and her fiancée Katrina, Nicolas and his wife Savanah, Kayla, Brian “B” and
Bradyn, and the adored great-grandmother of Landon and Rowan; and

WHEREAS:

Donalee will be lovingly remembered by her sister Kimberlee, brother-in-law Paul, her
niece and nephews Richard, Steven, Sarah and Shawn as well as many loving family
members and dear friends; and was predeceased by her brother Richard; and

WHEREAS:

Donalee held her family close, for they were her greatest joy, her proudest legacy and
the truest reflection of her love, and she leaves behind a lifetime of treasured
memories, gentle wisdom, and boundless devotion; and

WHEREAS:

Donalee’s kind and generous spirit will be carried forward and deeply missed by all
who knew and loved her; now therefore be it

RESOLVED:

That the City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy for the family of
Donalee Baumgardner at this time of such personal loss; and be it further

RESOLVED:

That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of
this resolution to the Baumgardner family on behalf of the entire City Council.

Packet Pg. 80

5.4

City of Cambridge

R-4
FIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS:

The City Council has learned that Sarah Anderson-Murphy retired on August 2, 2025,
after 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Cambridge and its residents; and

WHEREAS:

Sarah most recently served as a Certified Nurse Assistant with The Cambridge Health
Alliance, beginning her employment in August 2020; and

WHEREAS:

Sarah has distinguished herself as an exceptional Certified Nursing Assistant, known
for her meticulous attention to detail, pleasant disposition, and strong work ethic,
which create a sense of security and satisfaction among the patients in her care; and

WHEREAS:

Sarah has received numerous notes of appreciation, and thank-you cards from patients
and family who have been touched by her compassion, professionalism, and kindness;
and

WHEREAS:

Consistently going above and beyond, Sarah willingly took on extra shifts when
needed, and serving as a reliable and valued member of her team; and

WHEREAS:

Sarah has been commended as a trusted colleague who can always be counted on to
serve as a preceptor, project participant, or team contributor, and someone who brings
both skill and positivity to every task; and

WHEREAS:

Knowledgeable and supportive of new staff members, Sarah frequently assisted with
orientations and ensuring that new employees felt confident and welcomed; and

WHEREAS:

Through her dedication, compassion, and professionalism, Sarah has made an enduring
contribution to the Cambridge Health Alliance and to the patients and families she has
so faithfully served; now therefore be it

RESOLVED:

That the City Council go on record extending its appreciation to Sarah AndersonMurphy on her commitment to patient care and wishes her good health and happiness
in her retirement; and be it further

RESOLVED:

That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of
this resolution to Sarah Anderson-Murphy on behalf of the entire City Council.

Packet Pg. 81

5.5

City of Cambridge

R-5
FIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

COUNCILLOR TONER
WHEREAS:

The City Council was deeply saddened at learning of the death of Eileen Moran
Brown, on September 28, 2025, at the age of 87; and

WHEREAS:

Eileen was a visionary leader whose determination, courage, and belief in the
transformative power of education changed the landscape of higher learning in
Cambridge and far beyond; and

WHEREAS:

Beginning her career as a teacher in Philadelphia in the 1950’s, Eileen stood up against
injustice and discrimination insisting that every student deserved to see their place in
the world and to have access to the opportunities education provides; and

WHEREAS:

Guided by that conviction, Eileen co-founded Cambridge College, an innovative
institution dedicated to adult learners, where lived experience was valued alongside
academic achievement, and where inclusion, access, and equity were the foundation of
its mission; and

WHEREAS:

Through her tireless advocacy and unwavering belief in others, Eileen led Cambridge
Collee from a small local program to a nationally respected institution, known for
offering second changes and new beginnings to students from all walks of life; and

WHEREAS:

Eileen’s memoir, It’s Not Where You Start…. It’s Where You Finish: The Story of
Cambridge College stands as a testament to her vision, her perseverance, and her faith
in the human spirit; and

WHEREAS:

Even as Cambridge College joined Bay Path University in 2025, Eileen embraced the
partnership as a continuation of her life’s work, ensuring that her mission of accessible
and innovative education would endure for generations to come; and

WHEREAS:

Eileen’s warmth, optimism, and unshakable hope inspired everyone she encountered,
leaving behind a legacy of compassion, opportunity, and courage that will continue to
shape lives throughout our community; now therefore be it

RESOLVED:

That this City Council go on record extending its deepest sympathy for the family of
Eileen Moran Brown at this time of such personal loss, and honoring Eileen’s life and
legacy, whose extraordinary leadership, vision, and humanity have left an indelible
mark on the City of Cambridge and on the world of education; and be it further

RESOLVED:

That the City Clerk be and hereby is requested to forward a suitably engrossed copy of
this resolution to the Brown family on behalf of the entire City Council.

Packet Pg. 82

6.1

City of Cambridge
COF 2025 #133
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
Dear Honorable Mayor Simmons and Councillors,
Attached you will find the Legislative Update which includes a Hearing Schedule, Pending Home Rule
Petition Report, List of Committee Referrals, and Pending Zoning Petitions and Municipal Ordinances
Chart.
I am available should you have questions.
Best,

Paula Crane
Interim City Clerk

Packet Pg. 83

6.1.a

Monday, October 27, 2025

11:00 AM

The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public
hearing to review and discuss the launch of the update to the
Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP) and hear a status report on the
current plan including any adjustments that have been or might
be made before any update.
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, October 27, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Wednesday, October 29, 2025

3:00 PM

The Health and Environment Committee will hold a public
hearing to review and discuss energy planning in Cambridge
including expanding electricity capacity, expanding renewable
energy productions, BEUDO energy requirements, and thermal
energy network planning and any other topics relevant to the
city’s overall planning for ensuring city goals of electrification
may be met.
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Thursday, October 30, 2025

5:30 PM

The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on
Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. on two Zoning Petitions
by the Cambridge City Council, Massachusetts Avenue Zoning
Petition and Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. The Committee
will recess and reconvene on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at
5:30p.m
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, November 3, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, November 10, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

City of Cambridge does not discriminate on the basis of disability. The City Council will provide
auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications
in policies and procedures to persons with disabilities upon request. Contact the Office of the City
Clerk, 617-349-4260, tty/TDD 617-349-4242.
Packet Pg. 84

Attachment: Updated Hearing Schedule 10.27.2025 (COF 2025 #133 : Update regarding legislative activity)

FULL CITY COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS SCHEDULE
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS BEGINNING OCTOBER 27, 2025

6.1.a

Thursday, November 13, 2025

5:30 PM

The Ordinance Committee will hold a public hearing on
November 13, 2025 at 5:30p.m. to continue the discussion from
the October 30, 2025 hearing on two Zoning Petitions by the
Cambridge City Council, Massachusetts Avenue Zoning Petition
and Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. There will be no public
comment.
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, November 17, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, November 24, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, December 1, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, December 8, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, December 15, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, December 22, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

Monday, December 29, 2025

5:30 PM

Regular City Council Meeting
THIS MEETING WILL BE TELEVISED
(Sullivan Chamber/Hybrid via Zoom)

City of Cambridge does not discriminate on the basis of disability. The City Council will provide
auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications
in policies and procedures to persons with disabilities upon request. Contact the Office of the City
Clerk, 617-349-4260, tty/TDD 617-349-4242.
Packet Pg. 85

Attachment: Updated Hearing Schedule 10.27.2025 (COF 2025 #133 : Update regarding legislative activity)

FULL CITY COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS SCHEDULE
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS BEGINNING OCTOBER 27, 2025

6.1.b

HD 4706, An Act Requiring That Broker Fees in the City of Cambridge be Paid by the Party Who
Solicits a Licensed Broker was filed by Representative Connolly. House - Referred to the Committee
on Housing May 15, 2025. Senate – Senate concurred May 19, 2025. For legislative history:
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/HD4706
HD 4735, An Act Further Regulating Procurements By The City of Cambridge, adopted by the City

Council on March 24, 2025, was filed by Representative Decker on May 21, 2025. House – Referred
to the Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government May 27, 2025. Senate – Senate
concurred May 29, 2025. Joint – Hearing scheduled for June 24, 2025 from 1:00PM-5:00PM in B-1.
House – Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Housing Steering,
Policy and Scheduling July 16, 2025. House – Committee reported that the matter be placed in the
Orders of the Day for the next sitting August 14, 2025. House – Rules suspended August 14, 2025.
House – Read second and ordered to a third reading August 14, 2025. For legislative history:
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/HD4735
H.3924, An Act expanding the definition of dependent for the purposes of municipal employee
benefits as to the City of Cambridge. This legislation was filed by Representative Decker. House Referred to the Committee on Public Service on March 20, 2025. For legislative history:
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/HD4279
H 4134, An Act establishing the City of Cambridge employment and job training trust was filed by
Representative Decker and Representative Owens on May 8, 2025. House – Referred to the Committee
on Municipalities and Regional Government on May 12, 2025. Senate – Senate concurred on May 15,
2025. Joint – Hearing scheduled for June 10, 2025 from 1:00 PM-5:00PM in B-1. House – Bill
reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Housing Steering, Policy and
Scheduling July 14, 2025. House – Committee reported that the matter be placed in the Orders of the
Day for the next sitting August 11, 2025. House – Rules suspended August 11, 2025. House – Read
second and ordered to a third reading August 11, 2025. For Legislative History see:
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/HD4666
HD 4826, An Act Authorizing The City Of Cambridge To Expand The Options Available To Issue
Notices Of Violation For Parking Enforcement Above The Limits Set Forth In M.G.L. C. 90, §20A½
Or Other Applicable State Laws, adopted by the City Council on March 31, 2025, was filed by
Representative Decker on June 13, 2025. House – Referred to the Committee on Municipalities and
Regional Government June 23, 2025. Senate – Senate concurred on June 26, 2025. Joint – Hearing
scheduled for July 22, 2025 from 1:00PM – 5:00PM in B-1. House – Bill reported favorably by
committee and referred to the committee on House Steering Policy and Scheduling August 4, 2025.
House – Committee reported that the matter be placed in the Orders of the Day for the next sitting,
Rules suspended, Read second and ordered to a third reading September 2, 2025. House – Read third
(title changed) and passed to be engrossed October 6, 2025. Senate – Read and placed in the Orders of
the Day for the next session October 9, 2025. For Legislative History see:
https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/HD4826

1
Packet Pg. 86

Attachment: PENDING HOME RULE PETITIONS OCTOBER 27, 2025 (COF 2025 #133 : Update regarding legislative activity)

PENDING HOME RULE PETITIONS UPDATE – OCTOBER 27, 2025

6.1.c

2024-2025 COMMITTEE REFERRAL LIST
(As of 10/23/2025)
Civic Unity Committee

Black Men and Boys Commission. POR 2022 #139 of August 1, 2022.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-28,
regarding an outreach plan for Central Square rezoning. CMA 2024 #146 of June 24, 2024.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the City Manager’s LGBTQ+ Friendly
Housing Task Force Final Report. CMA 2024 #238 of November 18, 2024.
That the City Manager is requested to appoint the members of a working committee tasked with integrating the
objectives of both the Task Force to Examine the Status and Wellbeing of the City’s African American/Black
Population and the Commission on the Status of Black Men and Boys into a unified, actionable framework. POR 2025
#31 of March 17, 2025.
Economic Development and University Relations Committee
Policy Order re Tourism Funds. POR 2025 #117 of September 15, 2025.
Communication received from Candice Beaulieu regarding CIVITAS-TDMD FAQ September 2025. COMM 3311
#2025 of September 15, 2025.
Finance Committee
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-05,
regarding a report on the use of M.G.L. Ch. 40U to determine which local statutes can be enforced by the Local-Option
Procedure in order to better collect fines in violation of Cambridge Ordinance. CMA 2025 #241 of September 29,
2025.
Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Orders and Awaiting Reports for
the New Term. CMA 2024 #4 of January 8, 2024.
Foreign Policy in Council. POR 2024 #13 of February 12, 2024.
Discussion of enfranchising non-citizens in municipal elections and consideration of a separate Home Rule Petition.
Discussion of enfranchising 16- and 17-year-olds in municipal elections and consideration of a separate Home Rule
Petition.
1

Packet Pg. 87

Attachment: 2024-2025 Committee Referral List (COF 2025 #133 : Update regarding legislative activity)

Policy Order re: Establishing a Task Force on Cambridge's African American/Black
Residents POR 2022 #138 of August 1, 2022.

6.1.c

Discussion of moving municipal elections to even years and consideration of a separate Home Rule Petition.
That the City Council approve the motions that passed favorably in the Special Committee of the Whole/Charter
Review on March 28, 2025. POR 2025 #55 of April 14, 2025.

That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prepare a Home Rule Petition to enact
legislation which would allow the City of Cambridge to prohibit associations from unreasonably restricting the use of a
solar energy system. POR 2024 #144 of November 18, 2024.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to amendments to the Cambridge Tobacco
Ordinance. CMA 2025 #223 of September 8, 2025.
That the City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development Department to draft zoning language
based on the proposed recommendations, review the feasibility of the proposed recommendations with developers, and
consider the possibility of having AHO constructions be exempt from the proposed zoning. POR 2025 #137 of
October 6, 2025.
Housing Committee
Planning Bd update on allowing multifamily housing citywide. CMA 2022 #84 of April 25, 2022.
A communication transmitted from Owen C. O'Riordan, Acting City Manager, relative to submission of the Affordable
Housing Overlay Annual Report. CMA 2022 #165 of August 1, 2022.
A communication transmitted from Owen C. O'Riordan, Acting City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item
Number 21-35 regarding options to update the HomeBridge and Homeownership Programs. CMA 2022 #166 of
August 1, 2022.
That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant departments including the Affordable Housing
Trust, Community Development Department and Law Department to review the attached zoning proposal and report
back to the City Council with an initial assessment regarding the feasibility and efficacy of such an approach no later
than October 31, 2023. Calendar Item #2 (POR 2023 #157) of September 18, 2023.
That the City Manager is requested to present recommendations for the refinement and improvement of the housing
permitting process to the City Council, with a focus on reducing delays, minimizing costs, and enhancing clarity and
accessibility for all stakeholders. POR 2024 #20 of February 26, 2024.
That the City Manager is hereby directed to confer with the City Manager’s Housing Liaison, Community
Development Department, and the Cambridge Housing Authority on the feasibility of municipally-funded housing
vouchers. POR 2024 #24 of February 26, 2024.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Marnie Gale and C.
Dale Gadsden and the reappointment of Louis Bacci III all for five year terms to the Cambridge Housing Authority
Board. CMA 2025 #243 of October 6, 2025.

2

Packet Pg. 88

Attachment: 2024-2025 Committee Referral List (COF 2025 #133 : Update regarding legislative activity)

Health and Environment Committee

6.1.c

That the City Manager is requested to work with the Community Development Department to draft zoning language
based on the proposed recommendations, review the feasibility of the proposed recommendations with developers, and
consider the possibility of having AHO constructions be exempt from the proposed zoning. POR 2025 #137 of
October 6, 2025.

A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update from the Human Resources
Department. CMA 2024 #221 of October 21, 2024.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Cambridge Out of School Time (OST)
Expansion Study Report. CMA 2025 #127 of May 19, 2025.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Executive Summary of the City’s
Community Benefits Advisory Committee’s work over the past several years. CMA 2025 #128 of May 19, 2025.
Neighborhood & Long Term Planning, Public Facilities, Arts & Celebration Committee
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-23
regarding a Citywide Shuttle Bus Pilot program. CMA 2025 #84 of April 14, 2025.
Ordinance Committee
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-26,
regarding clarification on the Wage Theft Ordinance. CMA 2024 #196 of September 9, 2024.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order 2024-33, regarding a request
to amend Cambridge Code of Ordinance 6.08.010 (“Regulation of vicious dogs”) to bring into compliance with State
law; and to create a “Kennel License” that complies with Massachusetts General Laws Section 137A. CMA 2025
#175 of June 23, 2025.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Short-Term Rental Ordinance
Amendments. CMA 2025 #176 of June 23, 2025.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-36,
regarding a request that the language of the Welcoming Community Ordinance be amended to clarify that City
employees shall not participate in federal immigration enforcement operations and that the sole role of City employees
during any action by ICE is only to protect public safety, and be amended to clarify that if Cambridge Police
Department Officers respond to the scene of ICE action, CPD Officers should document the actions of ICE including
their badge numbers. CMA 2025 #181 of June 30, 2025.
Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. CMA 2025 #234 of September 15, 2025.
Massachusetts Avenue Zoning Petition. CMA 2025 #235 of September 15, 2025.

3

Packet Pg. 89

Attachment: 2024-2025 Committee Referral List (COF 2025 #133 : Update regarding legislative activity)

Human Services and Veterans Committee

6.1.c

Public Safety Committee
A communication was received from Brian Coor Executive Director, Cambridge Peace Commission, Executive
Director, Police Review & Advisory Board, transmitting Police Review and Advisory Board Quarterly Reports for
2023 Q2 and Q3. COF 2024 #3 of January 8, 2024.

A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-53,
regarding a request that the City Manager consult with relevant departments about the implications of deploying
license plate readers and provide recommendations as to whether adjustments in plans for deployment should be made
in light of changes since approval in February. CMA 2025 #257 of October 20, 2025.
Special Committee of the Whole/Charter Review
A communication was received from City Solicitor Megan B. Bayer, transmitting City Charter - Update Regarding
Alternative Mayoral Selection Proposals and Other Updates. COF 2025 #42 of March 17, 2025.
Transportation and Public Utilities Committee
Implementing a similar program and any other ways to enforce the anti-idling law. POR 2022 #55 of April 25, 2022.
That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to review the Across Sidewalk Electric
Vehicle Charging (EV) Permit Pilot Program, eliminate the $200 annual permit fee and determine if the process can be
simplified. POR 2024 #7. Calendar Item #1 of January 29, 2024.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Parking Study Executive Summary.
CMA 2024 #58 of March 25, 2024.
AR Response RE: No. 24-15: Recommendations for adjusting parking permit fee. CMA 2024 #106 of May 20, 2024.
A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-23
regarding a Citywide Shuttle Bus Pilot program. CMA 2025 #84 of April 14, 2025.

4

Packet Pg. 90

Attachment: 2024-2025 Committee Referral List (COF 2025 #133 : Update regarding legislative activity)

A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to an update on the Community Safety
Department. CMA 2025 #103 of April 28, 2025.

6.1.d

PENDING ZONING PETITIONS AND MUNICIPAL ORDINANCES CHART
Referred to
Date
Ordinance
Ordinance
Passed to a
Rpt. Rec’d
Committee
Hearing Date
2nd
Planning
(at least
& Date
Reading &
Board
(21 days
In City Council
Published
Date
Hearing
before
Published
ordination
date)

Expiration Date (if
applicable)/Comments

A communication
transmitted from the City
Manager, relative to
Awaiting Report Item
Number 24-26, regarding
clarification of the Wage
Theft Ordinance. CMA
2024 #196.
Municipal
A communication
transmitted from Yi-An
Huang, City Manager,
relative to Policy Order
2024-33, regarding a
request to amend
Cambridge Code of
Ordinance 6.08.010
(“Regulation of vicious
dogs”) to bring into
compliance with State law;
and to create a “Kennel
License” that complies with
Massachusetts General
Laws Section 137A.
ORD 2025 #14

September 9, 2024

Municipal

June 23, 2025

September 9, 2024

N/A

N/A

N/A

Passed to a second reading in
Council on 10/6/25. Can be
ordain on or after 10/27/25.

June 23, 2025

Sept. 30 @
3:00PM
Published on
9/18

Passed to a
second
reading in
Council
10/6/25.
Published
on 10/16

N/A

N/A

Packet Pg. 91

Attachment: Pending Zoning Petitions and Municipal Ordinances Chart (COF 2025 #133 : Update

10/23/2025

6.1.d

10/23/2025

A communication
transmitted from Yi-An
Huang, City Manager,
relative to Short-Term
Rental Ordinance
Amendments.
CMA 2025 #176

65 days = Aug. 27, 2025

Zoning
Cambridge Street Zoning
Petition. CMA 2025 #234

June 23, 2025

Zoning
Massachusetts Avenue
Zoning Petition. CMA
2025 #235

Zoning

June 23, 2025

August 27 @
3:30PM
Published 8/7
and 8/14

Aug. 5 @
6:30pm

Expires November 25, 2025

Oct. 30 @
5:30pm with
continuation
on Nov. 13 @
5:30pm
Published
10/16 and
10/23

Oct. 21
@
6:30pm

Expires January 28, 2026

Oct. 30 @
5:30pm with
continuation
on Nov. 13 @
5:30pm
Published
10/16 and
10/23

Oct. 21
@
6:30pm

Expires January 28, 2026

65 days = Nov. 19, 2025

September 15, 2025

September 15, 2025
65 days = Nov. 19, 2025

September 15, 2025

September 15, 2025

Packet Pg. 92

Attachment: Pending Zoning Petitions and Municipal Ordinances Chart (COF 2025 #133 : Update

PENDING ZONING PETITIONS AND MUNICIPAL ORDINANCES CHART

6.2

City of Cambridge
COF 2025 #134
IN CITY COUNCIL
October 27, 2025
COUNCILLOR NOLAN

Attached please find a communication from Councillor Nolan transmitting a letter regarding revocation of
a curb cut application previously granted.

Packet Pg. 93

CAMBRIDGE CITY COUNCIL
Patricia Nolan
City Councillor
Dear all:
I am submitting this communication with the intent of suspending the relevant Council rules in order to
revoke the privilege granted to the applicant for a curb cut at 177 Hancock Street. The relevant and necessary
votes are enumerated below.
The application process for a curb cut requires Council approval since the City Council is the only body that
takes into account the perspective of residents and neighbors and quality of life issues. In the instance of
granting curb cut applications, the City Council reallocates public space and privatizes access to the curb
space. A property owner who receives a curb cut can increase the value of their property significantly, and
often at the expense of neighbors, who lose public access to the curb space. Any curb cut can have, and often
does have, as in this instance, an impact on neighbors directly in terms of access to resident permit parking.
That is why the curb cuts require some outreach to those most impacted, especially direct abutters. As the
Council tries to do, the people most affected should have a voice. The City Council is the body that represents
that voice.
The application process requires petitioners to submit notices, signed in favor or against the proposed curb
cut, from any abutters to the front, side, rear, and across the street from the property where the curb cut is to
be made. According to CMA 2025 #259, “if a petitioner does not submit all abutter responses, in particular
negative responses, the integrity of the process is undermined regardless of whether the applicant intentionally
or unintentionally omitted any Notices. In this instance, where Notices are omitted, the City Council has a
rational basis to reconsider, and possibly revoke, a prior curb cut approval as the integrity of the process is
called into question and the public welfare possibly not fully considered in making the ultimate decision.” I
would ask that the City Council take the below votes to indicate that the curb cut application for 177 Hancock
was granted in error and due to applicant failure, and take steps to rectify it.
Vote #1
Per CMA 2025 #259, the first vote necessary is to suspend Council Rules #15, which relates to the method by
which the Council can reconsider votes taken. I would move that the Council suspend that rule in order to take
another vote on the curb cut application for 177 Hancock Street. The vote to suspend Rule #15 will require a
2/3 majority to pass.
Vote #2
If that vote passes, I would move that the Council take steps to revoke the curb cut application granted for 177
Hancock Street, taking all relevant steps outlined in CMA 2025 #259, including: publicly noticing the action
and publishing adequate justification for the revocation that includes a fact-based rational basis for revocation.
CITY HALL, CAMBRIDGE, MASSACHUSETTS 02139
Email: [email protected]

Packet Pg. 94

Attachment: 10.23.25 Curb Cut Revocation Votes - PN (COF 2025 #134 : Communication Regarding Curb Cut Revocation)

6.2.a

6.2.a

The vote to take steps to revoke the curb cut application previously granted will require a simple majority to
pass.

The City's website states the following regarding applications for curb cuts: “Anyone wanting to make or
change a cut in the curb of the street, such as in constructing, moving or removing a driveway must first
obtain a permit from the City of Cambridge. The placement of curb cuts can have significant impacts on the
safety and quality of life of the surrounding neighborhood. The City will review each permit application with
due consideration to the applicant's desire for the curb cut and public welfare.”
Below is a list of direct abutters who have testified to have submitted abutter responses and a notation of
which letters appeared in the application document. All of the abutters listed below are direct abutters and live
directly to the front, side, rear, or across the street from the property.
Abutter Letters Submitted in Approval – 3 notices submitted, all appearing in application documents
-​
Donna Erikson, 176 Hancock Street – abuts front of property directly across the street
-​
(Illegible Name), 2 Crawford Street #4 – abuts rear of property on parallel street
-​
David Lyon, 6 Crawford Street #11 – abuts rear of property on parallel street
Abutter Letters Submitted in Disapproval – 10 notices submitted, only 4 appearing in application
documents
-​
Mary Reynolds, 183 Hancock Street #1 – abuts side of property to the right
-​
Mike Rodman, 175 Hancock Street #1 – abuts side of property to the left
-​
Lorraine Banyra, 175 Hancock Street #1 – abuts side of property to the left
-​
Laska Dittrich, 390 Broadway – abuts rear of property
-​
*Regis Shields, 173 Hancock Street #3 – abuts side of property to the left
-​
*Linda Witinski, 185 Hancock #4 – abuts side of property to the right
-​
*Regina Zhang, 185 Hancock – abuts side of property to the right
-​
*Marya Wegman, 175 Hancock Street #3 – abuts side of property to the left
-​
*Doug Marple, 173 Hancock Street #6 – abuts side of property to the left
-​
*Jane Stoleroff, 6 Crawford Street – abuts rear of property on a parallel street
* Residents have testified to submitting letters to the applicant for inclusion in the application documents,
however only the first four letters were included in the application packet.
In summary, the information provided above justifies the City Council acting to revoke the curb cut
application granted for 177 Hancock Street and we should take action to follow applicable legal standards.
The placement of curb cuts can have significant impacts on the safety and quality of life of the surrounding
neighborhood, and it is the duty of the City Council, as the grantor of applications, to review each permit
application with due consideration to the applicant's desire for the curb cut and public welfare. In this case,
the public welfare was undermined due to incomplete application materials.
Sincerely,
Patricia M. Nolan, City Councillor
2
Packet Pg. 95

Attachment: 10.23.25 Curb Cut Revocation Votes - PN (COF 2025 #134 : Communication Regarding Curb Cut Revocation)

The information below outlines the basis by which the application received by the City Council was
incomplete due to applicant failure.

City of Cambridge

OFIRST IN COUNCIL
October 27, 2025

VICE MAYOR MCGOVERN
MAYOR SIMMONS
COUNCILLOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR WILSON
ORDERED:

That the City Manager provide an update at the October 27, 2025 City Council
meeting regarding the pause in SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown.

Packet Pg. 96

AR#

Date
Passed

25-012

03/03/25

25-029

05/12/25

25-040

06/23/25

25-044

08/04/25

25-046

09/08/25

25-047

09/08/25

25-048

09/08/25

25-049

09/08/25

25-051

09/08/25

25-052

09/08/25

25-054

09/15/25

25-056

09/15/25

25-057

09/15/25

25-058

09/29/25

Policy Order Summary

Status

Sponsors
Expected Date

Develop language to create an “Affordable Rent Incentive Program”
Active
program for Cambridge and to report back to the City Council with option,
including the percentage of possible tax abatements.
That the City Manager is requested to work with the School Department,
Active
the Department of Public Works, and other relevant departments to ensure
that all city owned parking lots, with a focus on school complexes, including
the still under construction parking at Tobin/Darby Vassal school complex,
could be made available for after-hours use by residents.

TBD

McGovern (Lead); Azeem; Siddiqui;
Simmons

TBD

Nolan (Lead); Siddiqui; Toner; Wilson;
Zusy

the City Manager requested to direct the City Solicitor to draft amendments Active
to the Community Benefits Ordinance that allow for the use of funds for
capital expenses, provided that such expenses clearly advance the goals of
the Community Benefits program
Conduct a comprehensive review of current permitting fees for residential Active
development projects, with a focus on identifying opportunities to create a
tiered fee structure that reduces or eliminates fees entirely particularly for
smaller-scale and affordable housing developments.

12/08/25

Siddiqui (Lead); McGovern; SobrinhoWheeler; Wilson

TBD

Toner (Lead); Azeem; Nolan;
Simmons; Wilson

Coordinate with the Community Safety Department, the Cambridge Police
Department, and other relevant parties to ensure that the overnight use of
the garden area between St. James Episcopal Church and the Beech
Street condos is actively monitored
Assess the current accessible parking capacity in the vicinity of Kendall
Square and identify potential solutions, which may include adding
dedicated accessible parking spaces, creating short-term accessible
loading/unloading zones, or implementing other reasonable
accommodations

Active

12/15/25

Simmons (Lead); Toner

Active

11/03/25

Simmons (Lead); McGovern

Establish a formal policy that clearly defines the City’s role and financial
Active
responsibilities in supporting large-scale public events hosted by
Cambridge-based non-profit and not-for-profit organizations.
Develop a comprehensive policy for future private development projects in Active
the city
Seek input from the community as well as direct outreach to condo owners Active
and short-term rental operators and develop additional recommendations
based on the discussion in the Ordinance Committee

12/08/25

Simmons (Lead); McGovern; Toner;
Wilson

12/08/25

Toner (Lead); Azeem; Nolan;
Simmons; Zusy
Nolan (Lead); McGovern; Siddiqui;
Sobrinho-Wheeler

Report back to the City Council and inform the community of the work of,
and when the recommendations coming from the Micromobility
Commission will be available
Review current crisis prevention protocols, strengthen them by clearly
defining the role and deployment of mental health professionals
Provide an update on rodent control measures citywide and especially how
the City addresses rodent mitigation through large construction projects,
both public and private.
Develop and present to the City Council a proposed policy for the timely
release of body-worn camera footage.
Explore all steps towards advancing social housing in Cambridge

Active

11/03/25

Nolan (Lead); Azeem; McGovern;
Toner; Zusy

Active

TBD

Wilson (Lead); Siddiqui

Active

11/03/25

Nolan (Lead); Azeem; Siddiqui; Wilson

Active

TBD

Active

TBD

Azeem (Lead); Nolan; Siddiqui;
Sobrinho-Wheeler
Sobrinho-Wheeler (Lead); Azeem;
McGovern; Nolan; Siddiqui; Wilson

11/24/25

Attachment: Updated Awaiting Report Status 10.27 (ARS-25-27 : Updated Awaiting Report Status 10.27)

a

Awaiting Report Status Update 10.27.25

Notes

Packet Pg. 97

AR#

Date
Passed

Policy Order Summary

Status

Sponsors
Expected Date

25-059

09/29/25

Provide a recommendation on the site conditions of 25 Lowell Street and
considerations and process for determining the future use of the property.

Pending

TBD

Nolan (Lead); McGovern; Siddiqui;
Toner

25-060

10/06/25

TBD

Simmons (Lead); McGovern; Toner

25-061

10/06/25

TBD

Nolan (Lead); Toner; Wilson

25-062

10/06/25

Work with the Department of Public Works, the Department of Public
Active
Health, and any relevant environmental consultants to provide a
comprehensive report on Gold Star Mothers Memorial Park.
Provide an update on efforts to maintain cleanliness and safety in the area Pending
on Alewife Paths near Russell Field.
Consider a plan to better utilize the Russell Youth and Community Center. Active

12/08/25

Nolan (Lead); Toner

25-063

10/20/25

TBD

Simmons (Lead); McGovern

25-064

10/20/25

reach out to representatives from Eversource to coordinate at least four
Pending
public open-house meetings in the coming weeks regarding heat and
electricity costs.
work with relevant departments to report back to the City Council on
Active
current efforts towards poison ivy control in the Fresh Pond Master Plan as
well as recommended improvements for signage and regular maintenance
planning.

12/15/25

Nolan (Lead); Toner (Lead);
McGovern; Zusy

Attachment: Updated Awaiting Report Status 10.27 (ARS-25-27 : Updated Awaiting Report Status 10.27)

a

Awaiting Report Status Update 10.27.25

Notes

Packet Pg. 98