Cambridge Civic Journal Forum

January 26, 2026

Winter Carnival – January 26, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: Cambridge,City Council,Harvard Square — Tags: , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 1:55 pm

Winter Carnival – January 26, 2026 Cambridge City Council meeting (remote only due to snow emergency)

City HallAfter several mild winters, we’re getting a taste this week of what we’ve been missing. Having migrated to Cambridge 48 years ago as soon as the roads were reopened after the Blizzard of ’78, this is for me a mixture of nostalgia and terror. That said, life goes on at City Hall and the Peoples Republic of Cambridge. There’s even a new system for public meeting notices (complete with the expected glitches). Here’s what’s on tap this week:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a federal update including an update on relevant court cases. [text of report]
pulled by Siddiqui; statement by Yi-An Huang; comments by Siddiqui, Al-Zubi (wants to revise Welcoming City Ordinance), Flaherty, Nolan, City Solicitor Megan Bayer, McGovern; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #11. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to AR25#69, regarding a review of the previous home rule petition and prepare a new petition that would allow Cambridge to enact a Real Estate Transfer Fee to be sent to the state legislature. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan re: impact on rents, etc.; Charter Right – Nolan

It is worth noting that there already are taxes on the sale of real estate in Massachusetts. The Mass. real estate transfer tax (also known as stamp tax) is $4.56 per $1,000 of the property’s value, plus the newer “millionaire’s tax” on sales over $1 million – due at closing to the Registry of Deeds. The Affordable Care Act also has its 3.8% “Net Investment Income Tax” that applies to individuals, estates and trusts that have certain investment income above certain threshold amounts. A local Real Estate Transfer Fee would be on top of those other taxes.

This proposed additional transfer tax would be 2% of the portion of the purchase price exceeding $1,000,000. This was before the City Council on Feb 26, 2024, and the Council at that time adopted the Order on a 6-2-1 vote with Joan Pickett and Paul Toner voting No, and Burhan Azeem Absent. The most recent call to re-file the home rule petition was on Dec 8, 2025, and it passed 8-1 with Paul Toner voting No. I would be inclined to vote against this – or at least demand a full accounting of the total fees and taxes associated with a real estate sale. There is also the larger question that should be asked about what fraction of a city’s housing stock should be taken out of private ownership and moved into government or government-related ownership. The socialists certainly have made their preferences clear.

Order #1. That the City Manager ask the appropriate departments to review the city’s digital equity work to date, including the study’s recommendations and all steps taken since the study conclusion in order to update the evaluation of existing internet access programs, assessing whether residents’ digital needs are or could be better provided for and to propose how we can better meet their needs and to report back to the Council by June 2026 on internet access programs.   Councillor Zusy, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor Azeem
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Zusy (w/cost concerns); Charter Right – Al-Zubi

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments regarding incorporating plant-based solutions into the Sustainable Cambridge initiative, incorporating plant-based purchasing practices in City-operated events, and using municipal communications channels to promote sustainable and affordable food and drink practices throughout the city.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zusy
pulled by Zusy; comments by Nolan, McGovern, Zusy (add as sponsor); Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Resolutions like this one give me an appetite for a double cheeseburger.

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to prioritize pilot projects in 2026 without the use of a consultant for an extensive pedestrianization study, and in the medium-term consider how additional pedestrianization of a section of Brattle Street by restoring two-way traffic to JFK Street could enhance the Square.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Simmons, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Zusy
pulled by Al-Zubi; comments by Nolan, Simmons, Al-Zubi (thinks 2-way JFK St. would be dangerous – not aware that it was previously a 2-way street); Order Adopted 9-0

I’m sure the newly rebranded Department of Congestion, Obstruction, and Aggravation (a.k.a. Department of Transportation, formerly the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department before they chose to remove all references to motor vehicles) will have a few ideas to share about this proposal.

Order #8. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to provide an update regarding PO25#69 FY26 Operating Budget a continued commitment to Emergency Housing Vouchers for Permanent Supportive Housing and Mixed Status Families, and the Transition Wellness Center.   Councillor Al-Zubi, Councillor McGovern
Order Adopted 9-0

An update on this initiative is overdue, but let’s be clear that the Transition Wellness Center was never meant to be a permanent program.

Order #9. That the Mayor hereby appoints a committee, to screen applicants for the position of City Clerk.   Mayor Siddiqui
pulled by Zusy; taken up with Comm. & Reports #4; comments by Siddiqui, Simmons (re: prior process), Zusy (thanks to Paula Crane), Flaherty (will find no one better than Paula Crane); Order Adopted 9-0

Communications & Reports #4. A communication was received from Mayor Siddiqui, transmitting information about the search process for a permanent City Clerk. [text of report]
Taken up w/Order #9; Placed on File 9-0

I look forward to the process for this crucially important position, but at this point I have little confidence in Mayor Siddiqui’s committee appointments.

Charter Right #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Final Landmark Designation Report for the Nathaniel Stickney House at 45 Mt. Auburn Street. [Charter Right – Al-Zubi, Jan 12, 2026]
Comments by Al-Zubi (will vote for landmarking, wanted more “community members” in the conversation), Azeem (not in favor, calls report “vindictive”), Sobrinho-Wheeler (wants “community use” preserved – based on what exactly?, feels that City should be providing these spaces), Flaherty (was in the building before the Democracy Center was there, notes that entire area is an historical district, will not support landmarking), Zusy, Kathy Watkins, Charles Sullivan (Historical Commission), Nolan, McGovern, Simmons, Flaherty; Order Failed of Adoption 2-7 (Al-Zubi, Zusy – Yes)

But first we have to hear from the activists…..

Charter Right #2. That the City Manager is requested to conduct a comprehensive review of existing safety and security measures at Cambridge City Hall, which shall include an assessment of physical access controls, visitor screening practices, on-site security staffing and training, emergency response and evacuation protocols, and the use of security technologies such as surveillance systems and alarm monitoring.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor Flaherty, Councillor McGovern (PO26#3) [Charter Right – Simmons, Jan 12, 2026]
Comments by Simmons; add McGovern as sponsor 9-0; comments by McGovern, Flaherty (notes that there are metal detectors in buildings across the Commonwealth), Azeem (notes that measures now in place in State House and Boston City Hall and they are still welcoming, says he has received threats), Nolan (can support this depending on what measures are suggested), Simmons, Al-Zubi (with alternate amendment w/JSW), Yi-An Huang (notes challenges due to layout of the building with two entrances, would be helpful to discuss this with a subset of councillors, real concern would be gun weapons – what problem are we trying to solve?, solutions could be costly, this will take some time to consider), Sobrinho-Wheeler, Simmons, Zusy (would support an assessment as proposed by Simmons, suggests this might be the subject of an Executive Session), Siddiqui, Al-Zubi; Al-Zubi amendment fails 4-5 (AAZ,PN,JSW,SS – Yes; BA,TF,MM,DS,CZ – No); Order Adopted as Amended 7-1-0-1 (Sobrinho-Wheeler – No; Al-Zubi – Present)

On the Table #3. An Ordinance has been received from Interim City Clerk Paula M. Crane, relative to amend the Zoning Map and Articles 3.000, 17.000, and 19.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance as follows with the intent of establishing four new zoning districts for the Cambridge Street corridor. [Passed to 2nd Reading, Dec 8, 2025; Eligible to be Ordained Dec 22, 2025; Expires Jan 28, 2026] (ORD25#17) [Revised][Published]
Removed from Table 9-0; Taken up with Mgr #12, Comm. & Reports #2; Ordained as Amended 6-3 (see Mgr #12)

Communications & Reports #2. Proposed Amendments to Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. [text of report]
Taken up with Mgr #12, On The Table #3; Placed on File 9-0

(Late) Manager’s Agenda #12. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Cambridge Street Zoning Petition. (CM26#15) [text of report]
motion of McGovern to take up this item, Communications & Reports #2, On The Table #3; comments by Nolan, Yi-An Huang, Azeem (will support amendments, but not excited about it), Sobrinho-Wheeler (will oppose amendments), Zusy, Melissa Peters (CDD), Al-Zubi (will abstain on amendments, will vote No on overall petition, only wants “working class” people to benefit, notes that future Nexus study will likely reduce inclusionary requirements, says 20% inclusionary is minimum she would accept, talks about race and class, wants social housing, decommodification instead), McGovern (says this is NOT being rushed, objects to any requirements that slow down housing development, would prefer 8 stories on Cambridge St., concerns about middle-income residents, notes that we can’t get 6 votes w/o these amendments), Flaherty (would prefer that petition expire, will not support the amendments, notes that housing shortage is a regional issue, notes that last year entire city was upzoned with inevitable demolitions and no affordability requirement, prefers that Cambridge remain a sustainable city for families, does support upzoning on Webster St. area, would prefer Special Permit requirements), Siddiqui (re: amendments, not rushed, potential impacts, possibility of social housing), Azeem (contradicts Flaherty saying that this is effectively only changing Webster Ave. area, sees social housing as weakening AHO, leading to more market-rate housing and less affordable housing), Simmons (wants to vote); McGovern moves to amend Cambridge St. Petition by substitution; Amendments Pass 6-2-0-1 (Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Simmons, Zusy, Siddiqui – Yes; Flaherty, Sobrinho-Wheeler – No; Al-Zubi – Present); Petition Ordained as Amended 6-3 (BA,MM,PN,DS,JSW,SS – Yes; AAZ,TF,CZ – No); Communication Placed on File 9-0; after procedural questions of Al-Zubi, Simmons, Flaherty, Zusy, McGovern, Rules Suspended for the Purpose of Reconsideration 7-2 (Flaherty, Zusy – No); Reconsideration Fails 1-8 (Zusy – Yes)

The ABC (A Bigger Cambridge) insiders are apparently pulling out the stops to rush this one through – regardless whether it is reflective of the goals of the Our Cambridge Street community process (a planning study for Cambridge Street between Inman Square and Lechmere Station) that supposedly led to the current rezoning petition.

Resolution #1. That the City Council formally go on record in extending its deepest condolences to the family of Donald Williams for their tremendous loss.   Councillor Simmons, Councillor McGovern
pulled by Simmons; comments by Simmons; Sadly, Don passed away on Saturday, Jan 24, 2026 – a true friend of Central Square; Amended Resolution Adopted 9-0

Resolution #5. Speedy Recovery wishes to Mr. Hatch Sterrett.   Councillor Al-Zubi
Note: Hatch’s full name is Henry Hatch Dent Sterrett, III.

Committee Report #1. The Housing Committee and Finance Committee held a joint public hearing on Dec 3, 2025 to discuss the feasibility and potential impacts of implementing residential development incentives – such as tax incentives, public equity financing, and reduced fees and requirements – on housing production and city finances. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Human Services and Veterans Committee held a public hearing on Dec 4, 2025 to review and discuss the Executive Summary from the Community Benefits Advisory Committee which was presented to the full City Council on May 19, 2025, CM25#128. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. The Public Safety Committee held a public hearing on Dec 9, 2025 to further discuss the implications of deploying automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) and to discuss whether adjustments should be made related to the deployment of ALPRs since approval in February of this year, CM25#257, which was in City Council on Oct 20, 2025. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #4. The Health and Environment Committee and Housing Committee held a joint public hearing on Dec 11, 2025 to review and discuss PO25#137, which asks the Community Development Department to draft zoning language to reduce the impact on solar energy systems, based on the recommendations discussed in the Sept 16, 2025 Health and Environment Committee meeting. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Late Order #10. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to direct the relevant City staff and departments to order that the flag at Cambridge City Hall, the main administrative municipal building, be flown at half-staff as soon as practicable in somber remembrance of and sympathy with Renee Good and Alex Pretti and their friends and families, the dozens of individuals who have lost their lives at the hands of federal immigration enforcers, and the people enduring the brutality of the Trump Administration’s illegal and violent efforts for at least seven days.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor McGovern, Councillor Al-Zubi, Mayor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem
Comments by Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, Nolan, Azeem; Order Adopted 9-0

June 20, 2025

When Representation Fails to be Representative – June 23, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: 2025 election,Cambridge,Cambridge government,City Council,elections — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 7:58 pm

When Representation Fails to be Representative – June 23, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

Pie Chart - Proportional to what?In Cambridge we like to tout our Proportional Representation (PR) election system as superior to other systems, and in many ways this is true. There is one question, however, that has been nagging at me for some time: “Proportional to what?” During the heyday of Cambridge rent control, it was pretty clearly the case that the City Council was in a similar proportion to the tenant-dominated electorate and that many, perhaps most, voters at that time were guided by that one dominant issue before considering any other issues or candidate traits. After the demise of rent control after Question 9 in 1994, the dominance of the rent control issue faded quickly and we entered a prolonged period where individual personalities and legacy affiliations guided local electoral choices. The notion of proportionality became more of a relic than anything else. In recent years, we have seen the rise of single-issue politics (density, subsidized housing, bike lanes, preservation), but identity politics is as much of a factor as any polarized issue. The question of “Proportional to what?” could not be muddier. What I find most aggravating is how single-issue advocates quote municipal election results to argue why their single issue is somehow reflective of the will of the electorate. There are so many confounding factors involved in voter choice that it is simply never valid to draw conclusions on issues that were not explicitly on the ballot.

Last week’s meeting featured 4 Orders that either directly or indirectly addressed the question of installing separated cycle tracks on Broadway and the loss of on-street parking and curb access. It was an interesting mix of political theater, dismissal of the concerns of many petitioners (mainly older and working class voters), and some degree of betrayal and political favoritism. Costumes and props were plentiful, and facts were in short supply as assertions of treacherous conditions on Broadway were made that bore very little resemblance to the actual reality that residents on and around Broadway see every day. Perhaps those who question the plans for Broadway should have shown up with walkers and work clothes. We are now living in a version of Cambridge where unicorns are real and nobody has any need for a car or for parking. City policies are based on wishful thinking and capitulation to advocacy groups flush with cash and social media savvy. Our City Manager seems unable or unwilling to question the advocates embedded in his own City departments. Reason and compromise have no place in this new Cambridge, and older people and working class people should just suck it up. They clearly don’t count in the political calculus of people named Azeem, Sobrinho-Wheeler, McGovern, and Siddiqui, and they are at best dangled along by others named Nolan and Zusy. Our City Council, and probably our School Committee, is now proportional in name only.

Enough of last week’s political theater. This week should see less costumery and fewer props. Here are some items that I found interesting in this week’s agenda:

Manager’s Agenda #1. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $540,000 from Free Cash to the General Fund Law Travel and Training (Judgment and Damages) account for the settlement payment relating to Lubavitch of Cambridge, Inc. v. Cambridge Board of Zoning Appeal and City of Cambridge (United States District Court District of Massachusetts, Docket No. 1:24-cv-12403).
Order Adopted 9-0

This relates to the recent Executive Session on the above topic and about the status of the long-standing legal challenge to the City’s eminent domain taking of the Vail Court property on Bishop Allen Drive in September 2016. Many of us would like very much to know about the Vail Court status – especially in light of the June 23 committee meeting regarding vacant commercial properties. If we are going to be concerned about vacant properties, then perhaps we should first get our own house in order.

Manager’s Agenda #9. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $2,800,000, received from the U.S. Department of Transportation Reconnecting Communities Grant Program ($2,400,000) and from the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Transportation Improvement Program ($400,000), to the Grant Fund Transportation Department Extraordinary Expenditures account, for the design of the Fitchburg Crossing bicycle/pedestrian bridge project. Funds will be used to support the design costs of a new off-road bridge over the Fitchburg Rail Line that will connect Danehy Park to the Rindge Avenue neighborhood and create greater access to recreations facilities, retail and jobs for people walking and biking.
pulled by Nolan; comments by Nolan, Brooke McKenna (Dept. of Congestion & Obstruction, a.k.a. Transportation Department), Bill Deignan, Toner (on funding source), Owen O’Riordan (bridge will cost ~$30 million), Zusy, Simmons; Order Adopted 9-0

Such a pedestrian crossing has been batted around for probably three decades now. Cost concerns and ADA requirements were always an issue, but I suppose now that bicycles are being named in the plans the money will simply fall like manna from heaven.

Manager’s Agenda #13. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments of Kwame Dance and Yemi Kibret and the reappointments of M. Amaris Kinne, Duane Brown, Frederick Cabral, Collin Fedor, Christopher Fischer, and Bran Shim to the Human Services Commission for a term of three years.
Appointments Approved 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #14. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of members to the of the American Freedmen Commission (“AFC”); Xenia Bhembe, Jeff Davis, Paula Paris, Cheyenne Wyzzard-Jones, Kashish Bastola, Melissa Jackson Collins, George Greenidge, Gassendina Lubintus, Sukia Akiba, Thabiti Brown, Kwame Dance, Natassa Mason.
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy re: hiring of Exec. Director, report, recommendations; DEI Director Diedre Travis Brown on background; Simmons comments re: Saskia van James, background, claiming unanimous support; Zusy calls this a “noble goal”, not about reparations (really?); Wilson comments on need to move quickly; comments by City Manager Yi-An Huang; Nolan comments re: “Color of Law”; Appointments Approved 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #15. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $250,000 from the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund to the Public Investment Fund Community Development Extraordinary Expenditures account.
pulled by Zusy; comments by Zusy, Brooke McKenna, Nolan, Wilson; Order Adopted 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #16. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Policy Order 2024-33, regarding a request to amend Cambridge Code of Ordinances 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. (CM25#175) [text of report]
pulled by Simmons; comments by McGovern; Christine Carreira (Animal Commission), Nolan, Zusy; Referred to Ordinance Committee 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #17. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Short-Term Rental Ordinance Amendments. (CM25#176) [text of report]
pulled by Simmons; comments by Nolan, Peter McLaughlin (Inspectional Services), Peter DeAngelo (Housing Inspector), Elliott Veloso (Law Dept.), Toner, Zusy, Wilson, Owen O’Riordan, Azeem, McGovern; Adopted as a Zoning Petition, Referred to Ordinance Committee and Planning Board 9-0

Order #3. That 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, Councillor Zusy, Mayor Simmons
pulled by Siddiqui; comments by Siddiqui w/minor amendment; add Zusy, Simmons as sponsors 9-0; Amendment Adopted 9-0; questions from Toner re: whether this might affect pending BioMed benefits for East End House; McGovern comments noting recent Carlone comments on this topic; Zusy, Wilson, Nolan comments; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

On The Table #3. 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 – Simmons, May 19, 2025; Tabled June 2, 2025]

292 Communications – most in opposition to the plans to remove most of the parking and curb access along Broadway.

Committee Report #1. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on May 6, 2025 to discuss all Workforce Development/Job Training programs provided for and/or funded by the City, School Department, and non-profits, and discuss a possible future “Jobs Trust” may do differently, or in addition to, current programming funded and/or operated by the City. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Government Operations, Rules, and Claims Committee held a public hearing on May 21, 2025 to discuss whether the City Council can be removed from the process of approving/denying curb cuts, whether abutters should continue to be part of the process of approving/denying curb cuts and if abutters remain part of the process including renters in definition of “abutters” and to prepare draft Ordinance language. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Our City Council has been focusing a lot on how to handle requests from people with driveways who want curb cuts. Now if only there was just a tiny bit of care for those residents who don’t have driveways and off-street parking. Keep dreaming. – RW

Late Order #5. That the City Council go on record in support of H2343/S3653 “An Act Expanding Truck Safety Requirements”.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan (PO25#98)
Order Adopted 9-0

Late Order #6. On Tuesday, June 24, 2025 the Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government is discussing H.4156, which reforms the Cambridge City Charter.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson (PO25#99)
comments by Simmons, Nolan; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0; Reconsideration Fails 0-9

June 13, 2025

Will Reason Prevail? – June 16, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: 2023 election,2025 election,Cambridge,campaign finance,City Council,cycling,transportation — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 2:12 pm

Will Reason Prevail? – June 16, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

Penny FarthingThis week’s agenda is dominated by several City Council Orders meant to address (or navigate around) the contentious issue of whether the proposed separated bicycle lanes, removal of most of the existing parking, and loss of curb access should proceed on Broadway as currently mandated by the Cycling Safety Ordinance. This is not really a matter of safety so much as political clout. Some straightforward analysis using the current registered voter list indicates that those who want the street reconfiguration to proceed as planned are approximately 25 years younger than those who have signed the petition opposing the reconfiguration. It is also anecdotally clear that there is also a large gap in socioeconomic status. Basically, young professionals are well-represented among those wanting to remove the parking, and those in opposition include far more seniors, people with mobility issues, and people who need their motor vehicles for work and chores.

Those objecting to the loss of parking and curb access tend to be less tech-savvy and more working-class than those who insist that there be no modifications to the current language of the Cycling Safety Ordinance. These are not just people who live on Broadway. Many people on the streets near Broadway also want a change to the current plan. Many people in The Port neighborhood have signed the petition opposing the current plan. Very few people were aware of the plans when the Cycling Safety Ordinance was amended in 2020.

The underlying question right now for city councillors is basically: “Who do you actually represent?”

According to the most recently available campaign finance reports, the Cambridge Bike Safety Independent Expenditure PAC had $15,426.53 (end of 2024), and they have been actively fundraising since then. They even advertised that donations would be matched by an unnamed source. During the 2023 Municipal Election cycle, they raised $36,501.13 and spent $29,519.41. I expect similar receipts and expenditures this year. In comparison, those opposing the current plans for Broadway have no formal organization and no bank account.

Here are the items I found interesting on this week’s agenda:

Federal Updates and Budget Impacts

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Federal update.
Placed on File 9-0

Bicycles, Parking, Curb Access

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the 5th Annual Cycling Safety Ordinance Report and Awaiting Report Item Number 25-3, regarding update on the status and timeline for the completion of the Grand Junction Multiuse Path. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the submission of the Parking Impact Report. [text of report]
Placed on File 9-0

Order #1. That the City Manager is requested to require the Department of Transportation to study parking utilization of the broader neighborhood & provide parking alternatives before building Broadway bike lanes.   Councillor Zusy, Councillor Toner
Amended Order Failed of Adoption 4-5 (Toner, Wilson, Zusy, Simmons – Yes; Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler – No)

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to suspend implementation of Broadway bike lanes.   Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Mayor Simmons
Amended Order Failed of Adoption 3-6 (Toner, Wilson, Simmons – Yes; Azeem, McGovern, Nolan, Siddiqui, Sobrinho-Wheeler, Zusy – No)

Order #5. That the City Manager is requested to work with the Department of Transportation to evaluate adjustments to meter enforcement hours on Broadway Segment A, designating 25 spaces as residential permit parking overnight to increase overnight parking access for residents.   Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler
Order Adopted 9-0

Order #6. That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with the Cambridge Department of Transportation to study the feasibility of modifying non-resident parking permit fees for households in within the Broadway Segment A project area, including offering a discounted rate structure for permits that are requested by residents with low- income residents.   Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Azeem
Order Adopted 9-0

177 Communications – most in opposition to the plans to remove most of the parking and curb access along Broadway.

I will simply note that Orders #5 and #6 seem like pure evasion of the real issues raised by residents in The Port neighborhood.

Zoning, Housing

Manager’s Agenda #5. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to PO25#25 regarding a zoning petition on maximum unit size. [text of report]
Referred to NLTP Committee, Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #6. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $1,000,000, from the Federal Grant Stabilization Fund to the Grant Fund Housing Department Other Ordinary Maintenance account to support a municipal housing voucher grant program which will fund rental housing vouchers to be offered by the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA). This appropriation will allow for City staff to work with CHA in FY26 to transition these households to a City-funded voucher as soon as possible. The program is anticipated to cost approximately $1,000,000 annually. [text of report]
Order Adopted 9-0

Boards, Commissions, Control Freaks

Charter Right #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments of Sarah Holt, Emily Oldshue, and Ruth Webb and the reappointments of Marie-Pierre Dillenseger, Donna Marcantonio, and Peter Schur to the Half Crown-Marsh Neighborhood Conservation District Commission. [Charter Right – Nolan, June 9, 2025] (CM25#146)
Referred to Gov’t. Ops. Committee 9-0

Charter Right #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointment of Nondita Mehrotra, and the reappointments of Constantin von Wentzel, Heli Meltsner, McKelden Smith, Theresa Hamacher, and Freweyni Gebrehiwet to the Avon Hill Neighborhood Conservation District Commission. [Charter Right – Nolan, June 9, 2025] (CM25#147)
Referred to Gov’t. Ops. Committee 9-0

Charter Right #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appointments of Florrie Darwin, Scott Kyle, and Michael Rogove and the reappointments of Chandra Harrington, Joseph Ferrara, Elizabeth Lyster, Yuting Zhang, Gavin Kleespies, Paula Paris, and Kyle Sheffield to the Cambridge Historical Commission. [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler, June 9, 2025] (CM25#145)
Referred to Gov’t. Ops. Committee 9-0

On the Table #6. 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 – Simmons, May 19, 2025; Tabled June 2, 2025]
No Action Taken, Nolan Amendment Proposed

It will be interesting to hear the basis for the objections by Councillors Nolan and Sobrinho-Wheeler to these otherwise routine City Board appointments and reappointments.

Infrastructure – Doing what you can within the bounds of what is physically possible

Charter Right #4. Policy Order urging Governor Healey, the MBTA Board of Directors and General Manager Phillip Eng to amend the MBTA Alewife Station Complex redevelopment RFP to include as a priority eliminating untreated Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) sewage in our neighborhoods by incorporating green and gray infrastructure as central components of the project. The order further calls on the MBTA to collaborate with the MWRA, DCR, DPH, the City of Cambridge, and the community to address this public health threat. [Charter Right – Simmons, June 9, 2025]
Order Adopted as Amended 6-3 (MM,PN,SS,JSW,AW,CZ – Yes; BA,PT,DS – No)

June 1, 2025

Setting the Table – June 2, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: 2025 election,Cambridge,City Council,cycling,Deaths — Tags: , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 2:50 pm

Setting the Table – June 2, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

We’re now into the last month of regular City Council meetings prior to the summer break and, more significantly, the official start of the 2025 municipal election season. Nomination papers will be available at the Election Commission office (moving to 689 Mass. Ave.) starting Tuesday, July 1 with a minimum of 50 valid signatures due no later Thursday, July 31 at 5pm. This is traditionally the time for table-setting, i.e. introducing Orders and Resolutions or casting votes meant to signal your indispensability as an incumbent councillor – or having others affix lead weights to your campaign via association with an unpopular stance on a hot-button issue.

As for this week’s agenda, the most significant order of business is the adoption of the (amended) FY2026 Budget and related Loan Orders. Here are the items I found somewhat interesting/significant this week:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a Federal update.
pulled by JSW; comments by City Manager Yi-An Huang (YAH), City Solicitor Megan Bayer, PN; Placed on File 9-0 (vv = voice vote)

These updates have become perhaps the most interesting part of City Council meetings this year as the City of Cambridge sits in the crossfire between the current federal administration and our local universities, related grant-funded interests, and often reckless immigration enforcement and other actions.

FY2026 Budget and Loan AuthorizationsCoins

Manager’s Agenda #2. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a proposed increase in the FY26 budget of $1 million that would create new municipal vouchers and supportive services for people who are unhoused and a $5 million free cash appropriation for a Federal Grant Stabilization Fund. (CM25#133) [text of report]
pulled by MM; comments by City Manager Yi-An Huang (YAH), Asst. City Manager for Human Services Ellen Semonoff, AW, Housing Liaison Maura Pensak, DS, SS; YAH emphasized three matters that may have local repercussions – (1) Federal Reconciliation Bill, (2) State Budget (wait and see), and (3) Federal Continuing Resolution coming this fall that may greatly affect such things as Section 8 voucher funding; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #3. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to following amendments to the FY26 Submitted General Fund Budget. These amendments to the Budget reflect changes requested by the City Council based on feedback and discussions during public hearings on the FY26 Operating and Capital Budgets that took place beginning on May 8, 2025, through May 15, 2025. (CM25#134) [text of report]
pulled by PN along with M4, M5, UB8 (FY2026 Budget), UB9-17 (Loan Orders), Committee Reports #1-4; comments by most councillors; note that this will result in a revised 8% tax increase; Referred to UB8 9-0

“These increases will bring the total FY26 Operating Budget to $992,181,320, an increase of $36,596,970 or 3.8% from the FY25 Adopted Budget. The projected tax levy to support the FY26 Budget is $678,659,850, an increase of $50,271,097 or 8% from the FY25 tax levy. The actual tax levy will be determined in the fall as part of the property tax and classification process.”

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the establishment of a Federal Grant Stabilization Fund. (CM25#135) [text of report]
pulled by PN; Adopted 8-0-1 (JSW Absent)

Manager’s Agenda #5. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the appropriation of $5,000,000, from Free Cash to the Federal Grant Stabilization Fund. Funds appropriated to and held by the Federal Grant Stabilization Fund will be expended to help address the funding gaps resulting from the actual or anticipated loss of federal funding for programs and services that benefit the most vulnerable Cambridge residents. (CM25#136) [text of report]
pulled by PN; Adopted 9-0

Unfinished Business #8. Transmitting Communication from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the FY2026 submitted budget and appropriation orders for the General Fund, Water Fund, and Public Investment Fund. [Placed on Unfinished Business, Referred to Finance Committee – Apr 28, 2025]
pulled by PN; General Fund Budget ($928,578,370) Adopted as Amended 7-2 (SS, JSW – No, with specious reasoning); Water Fund Budget ($13,602,950) Adopted 9-0; Public Investment Budget ($41,204,770) Adopted 9-0 [Total Adopted FY2026 Budget $992,181,320]

Unfinished Business #9-17. Loan authorizations totaling $109,936,000
pulled by PN; UB9-12 Adopted 9-0; UB13-17 Adopted 8-0-1 (JSW – Absent)

Committee Report #1. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on May 8, 2025 to review and discuss the City budget covering the fiscal period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. [text of report]
pulled by PN; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #2. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on May 13, 2025 to review and discuss the School Department budget covering the fiscal period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. [text of report]
pulled by PN; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #3. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on May 14, 2025 to review and discuss the City budget covering the fiscal period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. [text of report]
pulled by PN; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Committee Report #4. The Finance Committee held a public hearing on May 15, 2025 to review and discuss the City budget covering the fiscal period of July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. [text of report]
pulled by PN; Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

It is worth noting that of the four Finance Committee hearings on the FY2026 Budget, Councillor Azeem skipped three of them entirely and only remotely participated in the other hearing. Showing up for work is apparently not a high priority.

Manager’s Agenda #8. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 25-18 regarding vacant store fronts. (CM25#139) [text of report]
pulled by PN; comments by PN, PT, AW, Melissa Peters (CDD), SS, DS, CZ, BA; Policy Adopted 9-0 (vv); [Note: It is expected that this matter may also come up at the scheduled June 23 meeting of the Econ. Dev. & Univ. Relations Committee]

There is a related hearing coming up on Monday, June 23 at 1:00pm: The City Council’s Economic Development and University Relations Committee will hold a public hearing inviting representatives from the 23 long term vacant properties (defined as has been vacant for more than five years) on the record, to share updates on their tenancy efforts, short and long-term plans, and to provide the community with an opportunity to weigh in on this important discussion.

Order #1. City Council opposition to the expansion of Offshore Oil and Gas Drilling.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
pulled by PN; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Order #2. That the exception language in Chapter 2.129.040 Section J of the Cambridge Municipal Code be revised with language clarifying that Cambridge city employees shall not participate in federal immigration enforcement operations and that the sole role of Cambridge city employees during any action by ICE is only to protect public safety and not to assist or facilitate the work of ICE.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan
pulled by PT; comments by PT, JSW; Charter Right – Toner

Order #3. That 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
Order Adopted 9-0

Yet another example of the City Council’s current “Break it, then (maybe) try to fix it” philosophy of governance.

Charter Right #1. 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 – Simmons, May 19, 2025]
Comments by City Solicitor Megan Bayer noting that this involves an ongoing personnel matter; Substitute Order by Simmons, amendments to original order proposed by JSW, PN; comments by DS, JSW, PT, BA, YAH, AW, PN, SS, CZ, MM; Tabled 9-0 referencing proposed amendments by DS, JSW, PN [Note: Sobrinho-Wheeler’s hostility to Simmons Substitute Order noted – he clearly wants to focus primarily on the Police Review Advisory Board (PRAB); most other councillors open to a general review of all City boards and commissions]

I will simply refer you to my comments on this for the May 19 City Council meeting.

In the Queue – Ready for Adoption

Unfinished Business #6. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk Diane P. LeBlanc, relative to amend certain subsections of the Affordable Housing Overlay, Section 11.207 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance. [Passed to 2nd Reading – May 5, 2025; Eligible To Be Ordained May 26, 2025]
pulled by MM; Ordained 9-0

Unfinished Business #7. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk Diane P. LeBlanc, relative to amend Articles 5.000 and 20.000 of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance. [Passed to 2nd Reading May 12, 2025; Eligible To Be Ordained on or after June 2, 2025]
pulled by MM; Ordained 9-0

225 Communications – primarily in regard to proposed separated bike lanes and removal of parking along Broadway.

A preliminary analysis of those writing in opposition to the proposed Broadway bike lanes vs. those who want them to proceed without delay indicates about a 25 year difference in their respective median ages. Basically, this is a case of the wishes of young professionals being given far greater priority by current councillors than is given to older residents – most of whom have legitimate concerns about being able to park near their homes and to have curb access for a variety of reasons.

Resolution #1. Happy 80th Birthday wishes to Henrietta Davis.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Zusy
pulled by CZ to be added as sponsor

Happy birthday, Henrietta!

Resolution #7. Condolences to the family of Nancy Williams Galluccio.   Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Nolan
pulled by MM; MM, AW, PN added as sponsors

I was very sorry to hear of Nancy’s passing. My sincere condolences to Lo, Lissa, and Anthony on the passing of their mother – someone I have known and respected for more than three decades. – Robert Winters

May 20, 2025

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 645-646: May 20, 2025

Filed under: 2025 election,Cambridge,Cambridge InsideOut,Charter,City Council,cycling,elections,Harvard Square,MBTA,MIT,recycling — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 11:22 pm

Episode 645 – Cambridge InsideOut: May 20, 2025 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on May 20, 2025 at 6:00pm. Topics: Reflections on 70 years on Earth – 47 years in Cambridge, Mayoral Proclamation; Ranked Choice Voting and limited PR elections for Boston – how it came to be; Review of recent City Council actions and discussions; Cambridge Charter Home Rule pending – relatively few changes from current Plan E Charter; dilemma of when to report a controversy; 2025 municipal candidates emerging – Candidate Pages; opportunities to serve of Boards and Commissions; sunsetting/redefining discretionary Boards, e.g. Peace Commission (Cambridge Commission on Nuclear Disarmament and Peace Education); civic unity; the problem of single-issue advocacy; controversy of firearm replacement, activist payback, DSA organizing; ARPA funding expiration, RiseUp successor. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

Episode 646 – Cambridge InsideOut: May 20, 2025 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on May 20, 2025 at 6:30pm. Topics: Cambridge Charter Home Rule Petition – big assist by Law Department, restoring citizen petitions, leaving out poison pills – just like Somerville; AAA bond ratings; Nexus studies for Incentive Zoning and for Inclusionary Zoning; reconsidering Linkage, Inclusionary requirements; Barrett letter; deaths Pebble Gifford, Robert Campbell, Doane Perry; thankless job of being head of a neighborhood association; bicycle lane controversies, reckless plans and policies, bullying by Cambridge Bike Safety group, Broadway as route for emergency vehicles; Harvard Square – Gerald Chan properties, MBTA tunnel innovative ideas; retirement of Diane LeBlanc, Owen O’Riordan; Kathy Watkins to be Deputy City Manager; Budget Hearings, new reality of limitations, shifting of tax burden from commercial to residential, extra heavy burden on single-, two-. and three-family homeowners – Claire Spinner memo; TWC, vouchers, RiseUp, municipal broadband not so fundable; federal updates and clarity of City Manager Yi-An Huang, City Solicitor Megan Bayer, Police Commissioner Christine Elow; federal targeting of Harvard, MIT and downstream repercussions. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

April 4, 2025

Tending the Garden (Street) – April 7, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: 2025 election,Cambridge,City Council,cycling,Fresh Pond,transportation — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 1:51 pm

Tending the Garden (Street) – April 7, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

Yellow

Light Blue

Not that you could ever tell from the scandalous focus of the local tabloids, but the Big Issue residents are hotly debating now is whether the Garden Street road configuration should stay or go. Beyond the sideshows and the political posturing and opportunism, here are a few things of interest on this week’s agenda:

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Cambridge Public Schools’ long-term facilities condition assessment. [text of report]
pulled by Wilson; comments by City Manager Yi-An Huang, Interim School Superintendent David Murphy, Councillors Wilson, Nolan, Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern; Placed on File 9-0

Manager’s Agenda #4. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to a proposed amendment to the Drought Ordinance. [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; Unfinished Business #4 brought forward; Placed on File 9-0

Unfinished Business #4. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk Diane P. LeBlanc, relative to Cambridge Municipal Code 13.08, Water System Regulations and Chapter 13.12, Water Reservoirs. [Passed to 2nd Reading Mar 24, 2025; Eligible To Be Ordained Apr 7, 2025] [text of report]
pulled by Nolan; Ordained as Amended 9-0

Order #1. That the City Council send a formal invitation to Mr. Gerald Chan to come before the Economic Development and University Relations Committee to answer questions and present his plans for the Harvard Square Movie Theater, as well as his other vacant properties in the City.   Vice Mayor McGovern, Mayor Simmons, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Toner; comments by McGovern (paradoxically endorsing nostalgia and preservation while simultaneously endorsing wholesale changes in built environment); comments by Siddiqui re: legal imitations in what Council can do; comments by Wilson, Simmons; Toner proposes amendment to bring in 23 other vacant storefront owners; Zusy supports amendment, wants to extend to other property owners but without shaming; McGovern OK with amendment but expects this will take several meetings, dismisses suggestion that this is “shaming”; Zusy suggests that singling out one property owner not ideal, there are broader considerations; Amendment Adopted 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 9-0

Committee Report #1. The Economic Development and University Relations Committee held a public hearing on Tues, Mar 11, 2025 with the City Solicitor and the Community Development Department, Economic Opportunity Division, to discuss concerns with vacant store fronts and commercial properties in Cambridge, and prior efforts and possible options such as new policies, taxes, and/or fines to reduce the number of vacant store fronts and commercial properties in Cambridge. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

Order #2. Continued funding of the Transitional Wellness Center.   Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Toner; comments by McGovern with some history of funding for this facility; Sobrinho-Wheeler advocates for keeping it open beyond ARPA funding; Wilson comments; Yi-An Huang notes current funding is ~$3 million/year which would likely rise, contracts would need to be extended, more information for these and similar services will be forthcoming; Charter Right – Toner

Charter Right #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to Awaiting Report Item Number 24-68 re: Garden Street two-way traffic alternatives. [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mar 31, 2025] [text of report]
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler (JSW) along with Charter Right #3; Placed on File 9-0

Charter Right #3. That the City Manager and appropriate staff move forward with Option 4 to reopen Garden Street to two-way traffic while maintaining separated bike lanes. [Charter Right – Sobrinho-Wheeler, Mar 31, 2025]
pulled by Toner along with Charter Right #1; JSW proposed amendment by substitution calling for more analysis and not moving forward with Option #4; Toner expresses appreciation for JSW amendment but wants to move forward with 2-way preference; Nolan notes that there have already been many changes to other road redesigns, supports bi-directional bike lanes as safest alternative; Siddiqui aligns w/JSW; Azeem agrees w/JSW amendment and focuses on cost of different options; TPT Director Brooke McKenna suggests estimated cost of Option #4 to be $137,000 with timeline of Summer 2026, additional costs associated w/utilities; Azeem uses cost to rationalize making no changes; Zusy suggests that JSW amendment would just be “kicking the can down the road”, need to take a vote on this now and resolve outstanding issues re: loading zones, etc.; Wilson appreciates spirit of JSW amendment, notes that these issues are city-wide pinning neighbors against each other, making movement across the city difficult, insufficient outreach to those affected; McGovern notes dissatisfaction of some neighbors but wants to keep current configuration; JSW Amendment Fails 4-5 (BA,MM,SS,JSW-Yes; PN,PT,AW,CZ,DS-No); Toner notes that some will be unhappy either way, resounding push-back after restricting to 1-way; Nolan notes that many came out in support for Option #1 (keep 1-way) due to organized effort, speaks in support of bi-directional bike lanes, notes $50 million on Mass. Ave. due to provision of bike lanes; Zusy notes that while TPT reports were rational there is also need for safety for drivers and not just cyclists, 42,000 registered vehicles and Garden Street a strongly preferred route for hundreds of years, rollover accidents caused by current configuration, school-related traffic increases anticipated; Siddiqui says safety data supports Option #1, but McKenna says crash analysis has not been done, acknowledges increase in rollover crashes but does not ascribe cause; McKenna notes potential congestion problems (which is interesting in that the TPT position has been in favor of congestion in that it leads to reduced speeds); Yi-An Huang notes that bike lane debates among most contentious in many communities, notes the many trade-offs; Deputy City Manager Owen O’Riordan notes thought given by TPT in regard to Garden Street and other streets where road configurations are planned, notes that all four options provide safe passage for all users; Wilson comments on difficult and divisive conversation, notes similar shifting points of view in Cambridge and other communities, fact that there have been fatalities last year – all on roads with separated bike lanes; JSW notes that if Option #4 is chosen there are limited means to provide replacement parking or loading zones (which didn’t seem to be a concern for the Mass. Ave. bike lanes); McGovern expresses concerns about the “pendulum” of changing back and forth, acknowledges complaints about Brattle Street bi-directional bike lanes; McKenna notes concerns about people not looking both ways when crossing bi-directional bike lanes; Simmons motion to end debate Prevails 8-1 (SS-No); Order (to move forward w/Option #4 – 2-way operation of Garden Street) Adopted 5-4 (PN,PT,AW,CZ,DS-Yes; BA,MM,SS,JSW-No); Reconsideration Fails 0-9
Note: The notion that the City Council should not be making decisions on road configurations that would revert Garden Street to 2-way traffic is ironic to say the least. The entire (amended) Cycling Safety Ordinance that mandated specific treatments for specific roads was based on this same sort of “political traffic engineering”. It seems pretty clear to many of us that this level of micromanagement is fundamentally problematic, and it is, in fact, the rigidity of the timelines that were established in the Ordinance that have created all of this mess. I will add that this entire topic is mainly about “winning” for the Cambridge Bike Safety group.

656 Communications – almost all of which have to do with Garden Street bike lanes and parking, plus a lesser number having to do with (a) Half-Crown Marsh Neighborhood Conservation District (and ABC’s never-ending quest to bulldoze Cambridge history), and (b) “Our squares and corridors”. There were relatively few about the Councillor Toner situation, and opinions varied widely. Clearly, bike lanes and the built environment (including glass houses) are higher on the list of resident priorities.

Late Order #4. That the City Council formally go on record to urge, in the strongest possible terms, the Harvard Corporation to stand up in defense of the values that are fundamental to both the University and our democracy; and that the City Manager be and hereby is requested to act with urgency and coordinate a response and consult with all relevant city, regional, and state entities to develop a united front and take all action possible to counter this assault on the foundational values of our city as a center of higher learning.   Councillor Nolan, Councillor Azeem, Councillor Siddiqui, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Toner, Councillor Wilson, Councillor Zusy, Mayor Simmons (PO25#52)
Comments by Nolan; Yi-An Huang remarks noting centuries-old relationship between Harvard and Cambridge, need to stand up to Trump Administration and their unlawful actions; Simmons and all councillors ask to be added as sponsors and that this be also directed to our legislative delegation; Siddiqui notes Globe opinion article by Niko Bowie and Benjamin Edelson entitled “Harvard’s Moment of Truth”; McGovern comments re: “vindictive bullies” (irony noted); Azeem asks about what actions City could take; Yi-An Huang notes that having City Council on record is important, ongoing meetings with the Harvard Corporation, action of taking a $750 million bond to ensure liquidity in the event of shut-off of federal funding, growing set of faculty and alumni speaking up, “there is a voice of truth and integrity that needs to come out”; Nolan amendment Adopted as Amended 9-0

February 10, 2025

The Other Shoe Drops – February 10, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

Filed under: 2025 election,Cambridge,City Council,Comcast,transportation — Tags: , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 11:50 am

The Other Shoe Drops – February 10, 2025 Cambridge City Council meeting

It should be noted that this Regular City Council meeting will be preceded by a 3:00pm Special Meeting relating to negotiations to extend the contract of City Manager Yi-An Huang. Public comment will permitted at that meeting prior to going into Executive Session.

The Big Items (other than any developments on the City Manager’s contract) are the inevitable ordination of the ill-begotten Multi-Family Housing zoning (better characterized as the Gargantuan Upzoning Amendment) and an Order to move ahead on Municipal Broadband – regardless of cost.

Here are the items on the Regular Meeting that drew my attention this week:City Hall

Manager’s Agenda #1. A communication transmitted from Yi-An Huang, City Manager, relative to the Cambridge Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan final adoption. (CM25#26) [text of report and Order]
Order Adopted, Placed on File 9-0

Order #3. That the City Manager is requested to create a plan with a schedule and milestones to move forward with the creation of a Municipal Broadband Network and present it for consideration by the Council at a Finance Committee meeting in the context of capital projects for coming years.   Councillor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Nolan, Councillor Wilson
pulled by Sobrinho-Wheeler; comments by JSW dismissing concerns about feasibility claiming much consultation with City officials; Nolan notes that service would not be free, says this Order in not a mandate to move forward, notes importance of net neutrality, says this is a necessary utility, calls it a manageable investment; Toner notes opposition due to range of “Whereas” statements, $150-250 million cost and changing technologies, other ways to address Internet equity; McGovern says he has been supportive of this, but notes different financial circumstances now, refers to “Trump-Musk administration” and federal cuts, proposes amendment to strike to “to move forward to the creation…” clause; Zusy concurs re: current financial circumstances, notes other ways digital equity is being addressed; Siddiqui OK with amendment; Wilson says conversation is important; Simmons says affordable Internet now not a luxury but a necessity, need for greater digital equity, notes that proposal doesn’t assure lower cost; McGovern amendment to remove “to move forward” Adopted 9-0; Order Adopted as Amended 8-1 (Toner-No)

Though I have no strong feelings on Municipal Broadband, I am aware of the significant costs associated with it as well as the risks and uncertainty of moving forward on an infrastructure proposal in an environment where emerging technologies may make this obsolete. I am also reminded of the various meetings and presentations on the tax levy over the last year and the repeated advice that the City needs to be more fiscally prudent in the near term. Perhaps Councillors Sobrinho-Wheeler, Siddiqui, Nolan, and Wilson didn’t get the memo. Or maybe this is being introduced strategically right now as the City Manager’s contract extension is being negotiated. Or maybe it’s just another municipal election year bauble to be dangled in front of the electorate even though there is little or no indication that this will yield any cost savings for consumers. For the record, I deeply dislike Comcast/Xfinity – but mainly because of the crappy Cable TV options which, by the way, never enter into the discussions about Municipal Broadband.

Unfinished Business #1. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to Ordinance 2025 #1 Multi-family Zoning Petition-Part 1. [Passed to 2nd Reading Jan 27, 2025; Amended Feb 3, 2025; Eligible to be Ordained Feb 10, 2025; Expires Feb 17, 2025] (ORD25#1) [Final Version as Ordained]
pulled by Azeem; Azeem amendment to footnote as suggested by CDD staff Adopted 9-0; McGovern amendment re: required abutters meeting that would have required notification to Planning Boards in adjacent towns (not viewable in recording of meeting); Nolan comments on electronic notification; McGovern amendment Adopted 8-0-1 (Toner-Absent); Zusy comments on this proposal producing most luxury units, raised real estate values, displacement, and other negative outcomes, suggests delaying this or reconsidering “3+3” alternative and establish funding mechanisms, community land trust; Azeem praises himself and Siddiqui; Siddiqui calls this her “birthday present”, suggests even more aggressive changes and “being intentional”, dismisses concerns of others as “fear of change”; McGovern addresses concern about “luxury units” and that target population is people who make too much money to be eligible for Inclusionary Housing units, calls this “good government”; Toner concurs and acknowledges that many people will be upset with his vote in favor, dismisses concerns about over-building on small lots, wants to now move forward on Squares and Corridors; Wilson emphasizes “crisis”, says she preferred “3+3” alternative; Nolan credits herself for initializing process for eliminating single-family zoning, says she preferred “3+3” alternative claiming it would have yielded more units and more affordability; Sobrinho-Wheeler notes that all current single-family housing sell for at least $1.5 million, says this change will yield 60% of all new buildings having affordable units; Simmons notes long process and suggests this will yield affordability for generations, says “leadership means making difficult choices”, says Squares and Corridors, housing vouchers next targets, says “we are a role model”; Petition Ordained as Amended 8-1 (Zusy-No); Reconsideration Fails 0-9

Unfinished Business #2. An Ordinance has been received from City Clerk, relative to ORDINANCE 2025 #2 Multi-family Zoning Petition-Part 2. [Passed to 2nd Reading Jan 27, 2025; Eligible to be Ordained Feb 10, 2025; Expires Feb 17, 2025] (ORD25#2) [Final Version as Ordained]
pulled by Azeem; Petition Ordained as Amended 8-1 (Zusy-No); Reconsideration Fails 0-9

Late Order #6. That the City Manager direct the Community Development Department and Law Department to draft an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance that would make the provisions of Section 11.207.5.2.1, Paragraph (e), which allow qualified increases in building height under the Affordable Housing Overlay, not applicable in the Residence C-1 district.   Councillor Toner (PO25#16)
Late Order Adopted 9-0

Other than the allowance of multi-family housing in all residential districts (which is not controversial), I think this gargantuan zoning change is a huge mistake. The existence of varying heights and densities in different parts of Cambridge is a feature – not a bug. I am also acutely aware of the value of setbacks and access – especially in regard to fire safety. Sometimes I think some of our city councillors are just robots created as part of an MIT project – programmed to solve some maximum packing problem set with no sense of aesthetics, liveability, or community. Meanwhile, the activists promise benefits like cheaper rents and lower costs that will most likely never be realized – at least not as a result of these zoning changes. Sometimes the call of “crisis” is just a tool to ram things through – both nationally and locally.

Committee Report #1. The Transportation and Public Utilities Committee held a public hearing on Jan 28, 2025 to discuss inter-jurisdictional projects that are in play that may impact mobility in Cambridge. The discussion was focused on the Community Development Department’s report of Nov 14, 2024 to the City Council, Awaiting Report 24-36. [text of report]
Report Accepted, Placed on File 9-0

I attended this meeting primarily to alert the councillors (at least those who actually listen) to some alternative approaches to pedestrian and bicycle-friendly crossings of the Charles River.

Order #2. That the City Manager is requested to work with appropriate departments to prepare a communication to DCR Commissioner Arrigo, urging that a study of traffic conditions at the intersections of Western Avenue and River Street at Memorial Drive and Soldiers Field Road (commonly referred to as “the box”), be included in their FY26 Capital Plan.   Councillor Zusy, Councillor Siddiqui, Councillor Toner, Councillor Nolan
Order Adopted 9-0

This was one of the priorities discussed at the above meeting. Many of the current crop of activists only see merit in lane reductions and obstructions that make automobile use as difficult as possible. Reality sometimes has to intervene. – RW

February 5, 2025

Cambridge InsideOut Episodes 641-642: February 4, 2025

Filed under: 2025 election,Cambridge,Cambridge government,Cambridge InsideOut,Charter,City Council,cycling,history — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , — Robert Winters @ 12:53 pm

Episode 641 – Cambridge InsideOut: Feb 4, 2025 (Part 1)

This episode was recorded on Feb 4, 2025 at 6:00pm. Topics: Broadway fire, importance of setbacks for fire safety and access; Multi-family Housing Zoning (a.k.a. Bigger Cambridge Zoning), concerns about heights, density, setbacks, stairwells, elevators; bad planning in crisis mentality; Broadway bike lane controversy, restrictions on emergency vehicles, misinformation about bike safety, importance of visibility; bulldozing Cambridge history; misguided leftist opposition to surveillance for police work, unsolved murders; Alewife MBTA excavation; $65K appropriation for Bisesquicentennial; appointments to “Broadway Safety Improvement Project” Working Group. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

Episode 642 – Cambridge InsideOut: Feb 4, 2025 (Part 2)

This episode was recorded on Feb 4, 2025 at 6:30pm. Topics: Hostility of some city councillors; advocate says only people with driveways should own cars; rumors of DSA strong mayor ballot question; history on nonpartisan municipal elections, drifting back to the dark ages; Sanctuary City or Welcoming City concerns, inability of federal government to address immigration; PILOT agreements, political hunger to fund pet programs; delegating curb cut authority to staff; Neville Center refinancing; notable passings; City Charter proposals re: budget control, appointing City Solicitor, direct election of mayor, 4-year City Council terms, Council approval of department heads, diminishing citizen redress and prohibitions against interference, need for better mechanism for accountability within City departments. Host: Robert Winters [On YouTube] [audio]

[Materials used in these episodes]

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