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  • Meeting Title: City Council - Regular Meeting
  • City: Cambridge, MA
  • Date Published: 2025-09-08
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Meeting Minutes: Cambridge City Council Regular Meeting

Date: September 8th, 2025 Governing Body: Cambridge City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting

Attendees: * Councilor Burhan Azeem * Councilor Patricia Nolan * Councilor Sumbul Siddiqui * Councilor Jivan Sobrinho-Wheeler * Councilor Paul Toner * Councilor Ayesha Wilson * Councilor Catherine Zusy * Mayor Denise Simmons * Vice Mayor Marc McGovern (Absent for roll call, present for remainder of meeting)

Executive Summary

The Cambridge City Council convened for a regular meeting on September 8th, 2025. Key discussions included the city's approach to federal funding uncertainty and immigration enforcement, particularly concerning ICE actions and the impact of recent Supreme Court decisions. The Council also addressed the appropriation of funds for the Jail Diversion Program's co-response model, the appointment of members to the Community Benefits Advisory Committee, and proposed amendments to the Cambridge Tobacco Ordinance. Significant attention was given to establishing a formal policy for supporting large-scale public events, developing a comprehensive policy for private development projects and community benefits, and addressing the deadline for a proposed charter change. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the deployment of license plate readers and an amendment to a policy order regarding oversight at the St. James Episcopal Church garden area.

Official Meeting Agenda

I. Roll Call

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

II. Pledge of Allegiance & Moment of Silence

  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • A moment of silence was observed in memory of Mary Lino, a long-time Cambridge resident and former city employee.

III. Public Comment

  • Public comment was conducted remotely via Zoom teleconference and in-person.
  • Speakers were allotted two minutes each.
  • Denise Gilson (Executive Director, Harvard Square Business Association): Spoke in favor of Policy Order #116 (formal policy for city support of large-scale events) and Policy Order #117 (redirecting municipal funding from the Office for Tourism to business associations). Emphasized the need for city support for events that drive foot traffic and the new funding source for the Office for Tourism through the TDMD program.
  • Alice Killian (Junior Warden, St. James's Episcopal Church): Spoke in reference to Policy Order #108 (oversight at St. James Episcopal Church garden). Described an increase in porch use by unhoused individuals, including evidence of drug use, and the church's efforts to manage the situation through volunteers and a community engagement associate. Advocated for collaboration with public services like the CARE team and the police department.
  • Carol Ann Barrett (Resident, 44 Clarendon Avenue; Member, St. James's Episcopal Church): Spoke about Policy Order #108. Expressed support for offering respite to people in need and highlighted the church's existing relationships with First Step, Bay Cove Caspar, and the Cambridge Police Department (Lt. Chris Ponte). Encouraged additional funding for the CARE team to provide 24/7 service. Noted the church's efforts to manage the property and issue no-trespass orders when warranted.
  • Reverend Matthew Stewart (Priest, St. James Church): Spoke in favor of Policy Order #108 (as amended). Expressed concerns about the uncritical use of the word "unsafe" and urged a nuanced approach to issues involving the unhoused, differentiating between true safety concerns and discomfort.
  • Jessica Scully (Board Chair, Harvard Square Business Association): Supported Policy Order #117. Highlighted the evolution of tourism funding, noting the Cambridge Office for Tourism's stable TDMD funding and advocating for municipal dollars to strengthen neighborhood organizations (Central Square BID, East Cambridge Business Association, HSBA, Kendall Square Association) for local vitality.
  • Rebecca Bjork (Resident, 20 Concord Ave; Member, St. James's Episcopal Church): Spoke on Policy Order #108. Thanked the Council for reviewing proposed edits. Stated that claims of trash, needles, and feces in the garden during the day were untrue, and that the church has proactive daily checks. Reported that CPD does not consider the property a "hot problem spot." Emphasized the church's approach of compassionate listening and support for unhoused individuals.
  • Siobhan McDonough (Resident, Walden Street; Democratic Socialists of America, United Auto Workers): Spoke about Policy Order #10 (protecting neighbors from federal government and surveillance contractors). Expressed concern about Flock Safety's data sharing with federal agencies (e.g., Border Patrol) and its impact on communities, citing instances in Illinois and Texas. Urged a "yes" vote on Policy Order #10.
  • Susan Miller Havens (Resident, 7 Beach Street): Spoke on Order #108. Thanked Council members for addressing drug and unhoused issues. Requested the City Manager to fund the CARE team at night and include a "no trespassing after dusk" requirement (from a 2010 landmark requirement) to allow police enforcement. Described witnessing drug dealing at 3 AM.
  • Steven Barrage (Resident, 7 Beach Street): Supported Policy Order #108. Emphasized the need for integrated services for the unhoused and collaboration between public health, public safety, and residents. Announced a tentative agreement reached during a mediation session between the church leadership and the condo association, focused on the porches. Stressed the need for city help, especially nighttime services.
  • John Reynolds (Resident, 7 Beach Street): Supported Policy Order #108. Highlighted differing perceptions of safety, particularly regarding nighttime drug transactions. Emphasized the cooperative undertaking between the condominium and the church in advocating for Order #108.
  • Cheryl Hamlin (Resident, Beach Street): Supported Order #108. Described loud and disruptive behavior at night, with evidence of drug users and dealers. Noted the pre-existing rule prohibiting public access to the garden between 8 PM and dusk, which the church has been unable to enforce at night. Advocated for more police cooperation and increased funding for the CARE team for nighttime presence.
  • Jo Yuen Brown (Resident, Unit 215, St. James Place): Spoke for Policy Order #108. Described nightly gatherings of unhoused individuals on church porches, sometimes feeling "scary." Reported seeing urination, defecation, and needles. Expressed concern about history repeating itself regarding drug use in the garden.
  • Alex Marthews (Digital Fourth, 28 Temple Street, Belmont): Commented in favor of Policy Order #10. Raised concerns about Flock Safety cameras, particularly new features that generate suspicion based on AI algorithms and the potential for racial profiling. Highlighted Flock's lack of accountability as a private company.
  • Sarah Radigan (Attorney, Trilogy Law, LLC): Spoke regarding a request for curb cut approval at 48-50 Park Avenue. Noted that the application is to relocate and broaden an existing curb cut to create four off-street indoor garage parking spaces for a new two-family dwelling. Mentioned 13 letters of approval received.
  • Jacob Brown (Resident, Magazine Street): Supported Policy Order #10. Expressed concern about the federal government's authoritarianism and the role of surveillance contractors like Flock Safety in enabling ICE and DHS abuses. Cited instances of Flock data sharing with federal agencies despite claims of local control.
  • Ruth Riles: Requested help for the Porter Square area and St. James regarding drug and homelessness issues. Appreciated Council, police, and CARE team support.
  • Patrick Barrett (Hotel Owner): Supported Policy Order #117. Questioned the effectiveness of the Office of Tourism's current funding model and advocated for redirecting funds to business associations for local activation. Criticized a Reverend's comment during public comment.
  • LaQueen Battle (Resident, 86 Otis Street; CHA Resident): Spoke about agenda items 2 (funding for firefighters) and 7 (job readiness programs). Highlighted the importance of job readiness programs (e.g., CNA training) for stable employment and community contribution, especially for low-income individuals and migrants. Advocated for continued funding for these programs and firefighters.
  • Michael Monestime (President, The BID; Resident, Fort George Street): Supported Policy Orders #116 and #117. Emphasized the importance of cultural events for civic identity and economic life. Advocated for municipal tourism dollars to strengthen neighborhood organizations that create local experiences, especially given the Office of Tourism's stable TDMD funding.
  • James Williamson (North Cambridge): Supported the idea of public support for events but suggested lowering the threshold for support from 1500 attendees to 300, and including community groups, not just nonprofits. Questioned the Office of Tourism's kiosk building and suggested funds should go to people, not businesses.
  • Heather Hoffman (Resident, 213 Hurley Street): Commented on civic engagement, large family-friendly events (suggested lowering threshold), and accessibility (emphasized low/no vision). Requested a report on the city's compliance with a temporary restraining order.
  • Charles Franklin (Resident, 162 Hampshire Street): Spoke in favor of Policy Order #9 (Micromobility Commission). Thanked Councilor Nolan and co-sponsors for emphasizing accessibility for mobility-challenged and disabled individuals in streetscape redesign.
  • Outcome: Public comment closed on an affirmative vote of nine members.

IV. Submission of the Record

  • Regular Meeting Minutes:
    • May 19th, 2025
    • June 9th, 2025
    • August 4th, 2025 (Special Meeting)
  • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to accept the minutes and place them on file.
  • Outcome: Accepted and placed on file by affirmative vote.
  • June 16th, 2025 Minutes:
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to amend the minutes to add public comment.
    • Outcome: Amended by affirmative vote.
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to place the amended minutes on file.
    • Outcome: Amended and placed on file by affirmative vote.

V. City Manager's Agenda Items

  • Consent Agenda (Items 2, 3, 5, 6, 7):

    • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to take up items 2, 3, 5, 6, and 7.
    • Roll Call Vote:
      • Councilor Azeem: Yes
      • Vice Mayor McGovern: Yes
      • Councilor Nolan: Yes
      • Councilor Siddiqui: Yes
      • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
      • Councilor Toner: Yes
      • Councilor Wilson: Yes
      • Councilor Zusy: Yes
      • Mayor Simmons: Yes
    • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative vote of nine members.

  • Non-Consent Agenda:

    • Item 1: Federal Update (Pulled by Councilor Nolan)

      • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding a federal update, including relevant court cases.
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Nolan expressed relief regarding Judge Allison Burroughs' ruling on the Harvard University and American Association of University Professors cases, which protected federal funding from the Trump administration.
        • City Manager Huang provided updates on:
          • Federal Funding Uncertainty:
            • HUD Continuum of Care homelessness grant for FY26: $6.3 million.
            • City advanced $770,000 for July-September period to nonprofit providers, expecting reimbursement.
            • Anticipating extending grant agreements for October-December, obligating an additional $1.4 million, with reimbursement pending litigation outcome (King County vs. Turner lawsuit).
            • Emergency Solutions Grant and Public Services CDBG grants: $140,000 for July-September, planning to extend for another $140,000 for October-December.
            • Total additional federal grant funding proposed: $1.5 million, potentially addressed through the federal funding stabilization fund.
          • Immigration and ICE Actions:
            • Reports of increased ICE activity regionally, with dozens of arrests over the weekend.
            • Six notifications/interventions by ICE in Cambridge in 2025.
            • City emphasizes notification to ensure police department is aware of federal officials, not unauthorized individuals.
            • No significant uptick in federal actions within Cambridge, but regional focus on gateway communities.
            • Concern over dramatic increase in ICE funding in federal budget reconciliation bill (tripled funding for enforcement/deportation).
            • Supreme Court decision lifting restrictions on federal agents (previously ordered by a California district court) regarding racial profiling and indiscriminate detentions is worrisome.
            • Positive court decisions: overturning federal government's actions withholding grants to Harvard University and termination of temporary protected status for individuals from Haiti and Venezuela (both likely to be appealed).
        • Councilor Siddiqui: Asked about city preparations for increased ICE funding and Supreme Court decisions.
          • City Manager Huang noted reminders of guidance for city staff regarding ICE, an on-call line for legal support, and the limits of operational responses to federal laws.
          • Police Commissioner Elo clarified that ICE notifications typically involve individuals previously arrested by CPD, and that CPD refers ICE to the welcoming ordinance. Provided details of six ICE interactions in 2025, noting a slight uptick from four in 2024.
          • Councilor Siddiqui suggested checking with De Novo regarding the sufficiency of their part-time position for immigration cases.
        • Councilor Wilson: Asked for more details on ICE notifications and what residents should do if they see ICE.
          • Commissioner Elo explained that ICE calls about individuals in custody or previous arrests. Advised residents to call 911 or the non-emergency line if they see ICE.
        • Vice Mayor McGovern: Asked about the nature of ICE searches (e.g., legitimate warrants vs. abductions) and whether the six notifications represent an uptick.
          • Commissioner Elo stated that all interactions involved individuals arrested for crimes, not abductions of students. Confirmed a slight uptick in 2025 (six) compared to 2024 (four).
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Clarified that reported detentions of restaurant workers in Central Square did not occur in Cambridge. Asked if ICE has ever shown up without notification.
          • Commissioner Elo stated no instances of ICE showing up without prior knowledge. Noted that officers will have "Cambridge Police" placards on their backs.
        • Councilor Nolan: Asked about future federal grants and potential cuts, especially given the federal budget discussions.
          • City Manager Huang stated it's too early to predict, but future funding streams and potential cuts to programs like CDBG and ESG will be important conversations.
        • Councilor Azeem & Toner: Suggested creating a public page or regular reporting on ICE interactions for community awareness.
          • City Manager Huang agreed to explore options for providing this information.
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to place City Manager's Agenda Item #1 on file.
      • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative vote of nine members.

    • Item 4: Appropriation for Jail Diversion Program (Pulled by Councilor Nolan)

      • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding the appropriation of $120,000 from the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health Jail Diversion Program to the Grant Fund Police Department Other Ordinary and Maintenance Account. Funds will continue the co-response program with one clinician through June 2026.
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Nolan sought to understand the co-response model's integration with the CARE and Community Safety Department, emphasizing the goal of non-armed police response.
        • Police Commissioner Elo stated this is a continuation of a grant, separate from CARE, for data collection.
        • Dr. Jamie Barrett (on the line) clarified that co-response attends only to police calls and involves an armed officer. Noted daily collaboration between the Family Social Justice Section and Community Safety to coordinate responses and avoid duplication.
        • Councilor Nolan expressed satisfaction with improved communication and collaboration across departments.
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to approve the appropriation.
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Councilor Azeem: Yes
        • Vice Mayor McGovern: Yes
        • Councilor Nolan: Yes
        • Councilor Siddiqui: Yes
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
        • Councilor Toner: Yes
        • Councilor Wilson: Yes
        • Councilor Zusy: Yes
        • Mayor Simmons: Yes
      • Outcome: Approved and placed on file by affirmative vote of nine members.

    • Item 8: Community Benefits Advisory Committee Appointments (Pulled by Councilor Zusy)

      • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding the appointment of Stephanie Alexis, Sally Bambasset, Christina Turner, and the reappointment of Elizabeth Aguilo, Warren Murphy, and Michelle Lauer as members of the Community Benefits Advisory Committee for three-year terms.
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Zusy questioned the timing of appointments before defining the committee's role and the scope of development mitigation funds (Policy Order #5). Suggested a need for members with business expertise if funds are used for infrastructure, cultural space, etc., beyond social services.
        • Assistant City Manager for Human Services, Ms. Seminoff, clarified that the appointments adhere to an existing ordinance defining membership and committee functions. Noted that the Council could amend the ordinance to change membership criteria.
        • Councilor Toner acknowledged the concern but stated that the committee needs replacements and the policy order (Policy Order #5) is for future discussion.
        • Vice Mayor McGovern noted that changing the ordinance would be a lengthy process and shouldn't hold up current appointments.
        • Councilor Zusy expressed continued concern and stated she would abstain from the vote, not due to the individuals' qualifications, but due to the timing relative to Policy Order #5.
        • Councilor Wilson asked about the rotation of members. Ms. Seminoff explained that appointments are for three-year terms, and turnover occurs as members step down.
      • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to place the item on file.
      • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative vote of eight members, with one abstention (Councilor Zusy).

    • Item 9: Amendments to Cambridge Tobacco Ordinance (Pulled by Councilor Toner)

      • Description: Communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang regarding amendments to the Cambridge Tobacco Ordinance.
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Toner expressed concern about the broader community's awareness of proposed changes, particularly regarding the "nicotine-free generation" policy and potential impacts on businesses (e.g., hookah lounges). Advocated for broad outreach to all impacted parties.
        • Councilor Nolan (Chair, Health and Environment Committee) agreed to hold a committee meeting (likely November) and ensure wide notification. Acknowledged concerns about blanket prohibitions and the age of 21 for tobacco purchases, while also highlighting the public health threat of vaping products, especially among youth.
        • Sam Lipson (Senior Director of Environmental Health, Cambridge Public Health Department) explained that the proposal aims to move tobacco/nicotine enforcement to the Board of Health via regulation, allowing for more nimble updates to model code. City Council would retain control over citywide policies (e.g., nicotine-free generation, permit caps).
        • Chief Neal (Department of Public Health) emphasized the public health aspect, particularly for marginalized communities, and the need to get ahead of policy from a public health standpoint.
      • Motion: Referred to the Health and Environment Committee.
      • Outcome: Referred to the Health and Environment Committee by affirmative voice vote of nine members.

VI. Policy Order and Resolution List

  • Consent Agenda (Items 1, 2, 6):

    • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to adopt items 1, 2, and 6.
    • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative voice vote.

  • Non-Consent Agenda:

    • Item 3: Formal Policy for Large-Scale Public Events (Pulled by Councilor Wilson)

      • Description: Policy Order requesting the City Manager to consult with appropriate city departments (including the City Solicitor's Office) to establish a formal policy defining the city's role and financial responsibilities in supporting large-scale public events hosted by Cambridge-based non-profit and not-for-profit organizations.
      • Discussion: Councilor Wilson requested to be added as a co-sponsor.
      • Motion: To amend Policy Order #3 to add Councilor Wilson as a co-sponsor.
      • Outcome: Amended by affirmative voice vote.
      • Motion: To adopt Policy Order #3 as amended.
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended by affirmative vote of nine members.

    • Item 4: Redirecting Municipal Funding for Tourism (Pulled by Councilor Toner)

      • Description: Policy Order requesting the City Manager to ensure that, effectively immediately and for each fiscal year in which the Office of Tourism continues to receive TDMD funding, the city shall redirect its municipal funding to distribute those funds equally among the Central Square Business Improvement District (BID), the East Cambridge Business Association, the Harvard Square Business Association, and the Kendall Square Association.
      • Discussion: Mayor Simmons spoke in favor, emphasizing aligning fiscal support with current work of business associations and rebalancing municipal dollars.
      • Outcome: Councilor Toner exercised a charter right. Discussion closed, to be taken up at the next regular meeting.

    • Item 5: Comprehensive Policy for Private Development Projects (Pulled by Councilor Toner)

      • Description: Policy Order requesting the City Manager to work with the Community Development Department, the City Assessor, and other relevant departments to develop a comprehensive policy for future private development projects in the city.
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Toner (co-sponsor with Mayor Simmons, Councilor Azeem, Councilor Nolan) explained the need for clarity and transparency in the process of community benefits and mitigation dollars, citing the contentious Biomed East End House issue. Requested a report back with recommendations before the end of the year.
        • Councilor Nolan (co-sponsor) highlighted the need to define terminology (community benefit, mitigation funds, contract zoning) and ensure transparency in the process, including guidelines for city staff and community engagement.
        • Councilor Siddiqui supported the development of a process for contract zoning, emphasizing the role of the Community Benefits Advisory Committee and the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority.
        • Councilor Zusy requested to be added as a co-sponsor. Advocated for discussing the history of community benefits, calculation transparency, impact analysis, and distinction between capital grants and operating funds. Raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest on the Community Benefits Board.
        • Motion: To amend Policy Order #5 to add Councilor Zusy as a co-sponsor.
        • Outcome: Amended by affirmative voice vote.
        • Councilor Wilson appreciated the order for opening eyes to nonprofit needs and community engagement, and for prompting reflection on prioritizing development dollars.
      • Motion: Councilor Toner moved to adopt Policy Order #5 as amended.
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended by affirmative vote of nine members.

    • Item 7: Deadline for Charter Change (Pulled by Councilor Toner)

      • Description: Policy Order requesting the City Manager to confer with the Election Commission, the City Solicitor, and the City Clerk, and report back to the City Council no later than September 15, 2025, on the policy order regarding the deadline for the charter change.
      • Discussion:
        • Mayor Simmons (co-sponsor with Councilor Toner) emphasized the need for a definitive answer on the charter change ballot question due to the hard mid-September deadline for ballot finalization.
        • Vice Mayor McGovern reported receiving a call from Representative Decker, who anticipates the legislation will be signed by the end of the week.
        • Councilor Nolan noted that the Senate engrossed the bill today and that the timeline is similar to a previous ballot question in 2021.
        • Councilor Siddiqui confirmed that the delegation has conferred with the Secretary of State and is hopeful for timely passage.
        • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to suspend the rules to bring forward Communications #2 and #3 (related to the charter change).
        • Outcome: Rules suspended by affirmative voice vote. Communications #2 and #3 brought forward.
        • City Solicitor Beyer and Veloso explained that the Election Commission, City Manager's Office, and Law Department have been preparing. Communication #3 is a request from Tanya Ford (Election Commission) for the proponent argument for the voter guide. Communication #2 is a draft argument from the Law Department.
        • Tanya Ford (Director, Election Commission) stated that an approved ballot is needed by Friday for printing. Highlighted concerns about mailing the ballot question guide (separate from the voter guide) before early voting ballots, and the need for ballot testing.
        • City Manager Huang emphasized the complexity and high bar for election processes, noting the tight timeline and potential for issues if everything doesn't go perfectly.
      • Motion: Councilor Toner moved to adopt Policy Order #7.
      • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative vote of nine members.

    • Communication #2: Draft Proponent Argument for Charter Change (Brought forward by Councilor Wilson)

      • Description: Draft argument from the Law Department for the proponent argument for the voter guide regarding the ballot question on charter change.
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to adopt the order.
      • Roll Call Vote:
        • Councilor Azeem: Yes
        • Vice Mayor McGovern: Yes
        • Councilor Nolan: Yes
        • Councilor Siddiqui: Yes
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Yes
        • Councilor Toner: Yes
        • Councilor Wilson: Yes
        • Councilor Zusy: Yes
        • Mayor Simmons: Yes
      • Outcome: Adopted and placed on file by affirmative vote of nine members.

    • Communication #3: Request for Proponent Argument (Brought forward by Councilor Wilson)

      • Description: Request from Tanya Ford (Election Commission) for the proponent argument for the voter guide.
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to place Communication #3 on file.
      • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative vote of nine members.

    • Reconsideration of Votes on Charter Change Items:

      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to suspend the rules for reconsideration of the two prior votes (Policy Order #7 and Communication #2), hoping the same would not prevail.
      • Outcome: Rules suspended by affirmative voice vote.
      • Roll Call Vote on Reconsideration:
        • Councilor Azeem: No
        • Vice Mayor McGovern: No
        • Councilor Nolan: No
        • Councilor Siddiqui: No
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: No
        • Councilor Toner: No
        • Councilor Wilson: No
        • Councilor Zusy: No
        • Mayor Simmons: No
      • Outcome: Reconsideration failed by negative vote of nine members.

    • Item 8: Short-Term Rental Regulations (Pulled by Councilor Toner)

      • Description: Policy Order requesting the City Manager to work with all relevant departments to seek input from the community, conduct direct outreach to condo owners and short-term rental operators, and develop additional recommendations based on discussions in the Ordinance Committee.
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Toner supported the order, emphasizing outreach to legally operating Airbnb hosts to avoid harming them due to a few "bad actors."
        • Councilor Nolan clarified the intent is to enforce existing rules against illegal operators (two-thirds of those in the city) and ensure better enforcement, particularly for condo owners.
        • Vice Mayor McGovern noted that the Ordinance Committee meeting highlighted the need for this policy order to develop language and recommendations, acknowledging that significant changes (e.g., day limits) would require refiling the ordinance.
        • Councilor Zusy supported the order, suggesting a requirement for short-term rental operators to list only Cambridge-registered units for better compliance.
      • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to adopt the order.
      • Outcome: Adopted by affirmative voice vote of nine members.

    • Item 9: Micromobility Commission Work (Pulled by Councilor Nolan)

      • Description: Policy Order requesting the City Manager 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 recommendations coming from the Micromobility Commission.
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Nolan (co-sponsor with Councilor Azeem, Councilor Toner, Vice Mayor McGovern) highlighted the state-level Micromobility Commission and the need to inform the community about its work and recommendations (due in December), especially given state control over local regulations and public concerns about e-bikes/e-scooters.
        • Councilor Azeem requested to be added as a co-sponsor and suggested a Transportation Committee meeting on the topic before the state commission's final meeting.
        • Motion: To amend Policy Order #9 to add Councilor Azeem as a co-sponsor.
        • Outcome: Amended by affirmative voice vote.
        • Councilor Wilson acknowledged former Councilor Joan Pickett's work on this issue and urged safety and mindfulness among micromobility users.
      • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to adopt Policy Order #9 as amended.
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended by affirmative voice vote of nine members.

    • Item 10: Deployment of License Plate Readers (Pulled by Councilor Toner)

      • Description: Policy Order requesting the City Manager to consult with relevant departments about the implications of deploying license plate readers and provide recommendations as to whether adjustments and plans for deployment should be made in light of changes since approved in February.
      • Discussion:
        • Councilor Nolan (co-sponsor) explained that the order addresses concerns about FLOC deployment, particularly regarding data sharing with federal and other state agencies, in light of changes to the welcoming city ordinance.
        • Proposed Amendment: Add a "whereas" clause: "Whereas: Boston conducted a pilot using FLOC, the same system Cambridge will deploy, and chose not to share data and to prohibit sharing their database out of concern for potential harm."
        • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler supported the amendment, noting that other cities share concerns and that Flock retains ownership of cameras and data, which can be accessed nationally, raising privacy concerns (e.g., for abortion access).
        • Motion: To amend Policy Order #10 with the proposed "whereas" clause.
        • Outcome: Amended by affirmative voice vote.
        • Councilor Toner sought clarification on whether the city controls the data and does not share it.
        • City Manager Huang stated that the police department's policy is to be careful with agreements and secure data in a segregated way. Acknowledged that rules are changing in real-time and further examination is warranted.
      • Motion: To adopt Policy Order #10 as amended.
      • Outcome: Adopted as amended by affirmative voice vote of nine members.

VII. Calendar

  • Item 1: Oversight at St. James Episcopal Church Garden Area (Charter Right exercised by Mayor Simmons on August 4th)
    • Description: Policy Order requesting the City Manager to coordinate with the Community Safety Department, the Cambridge Police Department, and other relevant parties to ensure that the oversight used at the garden area between St. James Episcopal Church and Beach Street Condos is actively monitored.
    • Discussion:
      • Mayor Simmons noted that parties have engaged in mediation and reached a tentative agreement.
      • Proposed Amendment: Amend the original policy order with highlighted areas (red text) to reflect the mediation outcome and ongoing efforts.
      • Vice Mayor McGovern suggested that "other relevant entities" should include service providers for the unhoused and the unhoused individuals themselves.
      • Councilor Nolan thanked Mayor Simmons for the edits and acknowledged the challenging situation for all parties (church, condo owners, unhoused individuals).
      • Councilor Wilson thanked public commenters and appreciated the mediation's progress, emphasizing the need for holistic services beyond 9-5, including overnight support.
      • Vice Mayor McGovern suggested that the church and condo association consider building relationships with unhoused individuals.
      • Councilor Zusy expressed gratitude for the mediation and hoped for peace at night with police and CARE team support.
    • Motion: To amend the original policy order with the proposed changes.
    • Outcome: Amended by affirmative voice vote.
    • Motion: To adopt the policy order as amended.
    • Outcome: Adopted as amended by affirmative voice vote of nine members.

VIII. Applications and Petitions

  • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to adopt the four applications and petitions.
  • Outcome: Approved by affirmative voice vote.

IX. Communications

  • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to place all 36 communications on file.
  • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative voice vote.

X. Resolutions

  • Consent Agenda (Items 1-5, 7-12):

    • Motion: Councilor Toner moved to adopt the resolutions, making them unanimous upon adoption.
    • Outcome: Adopted and made unanimous upon adoption by affirmative voice vote.

  • Item 6: Condolences on the Death of Elizabeth Camacho (Pulled by Councilor Toner)

    • Description: Resolution expressing condolences on the death of Elizabeth Camacho.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Toner requested to add Councilor Nolan as a co-sponsor.
      • Motion: To amend Resolution #6 to add Councilor Nolan as a co-sponsor.
      • Outcome: Amended by affirmative voice vote.
      • Councilor Nolan noted that more details would be added to the resolution as information becomes available from the family.
    • Outcome: Adopted as amended.

XI. Committee Reports

  • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to accept the committee reports and place them on file, and to adopt the underlying order (specifically 2A).
  • Outcome: Accepted, placed on file, and underlying order adopted by affirmative vote of nine members.

XII. Communications and Reports from Other City Officers

  • Item 1:
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to place Item 1 on file.
    • Outcome: Placed on file by affirmative voice vote.

XIII. Late Resolutions

  • Motion: To suspend the rules to take up late resolutions.
  • Outcome: Rules suspended by affirmative voice vote.
  • Resolution: Congratulations to the Sacramento Community Garden on its 50th Anniversary (Submitted by Councilor Nolan)
    • Discussion: Councilor Nolan explained that the garden, one of the first community gardens, will celebrate its 50th anniversary on September 14th, and has a long history of bringing people together.
    • Motion: To adopt the late resolution, making it unanimous upon adoption.
    • Outcome: Adopted and made unanimous upon adoption by affirmative voice vote.

XIV. Announcements

  • Councilor Azeem: Announced his recent engagement and received congratulations.
  • Councilor Zusy:
    • Announced the start of the latest phase of work at Magazine Beach Park, converting a sunken parking lot into an acre of parkland with a dock and river outlook.
    • Highlighted a Globe article about St. Augustine's and Black History in Action for Cambridgeport, praising the restoration efforts.
    • Announced Bread and Puppet performance on Cambridge Common at 4 PM on Saturday.
    • Announced a "Meet Your Neighbor Day" at the EMF parking lot from 12-3 PM on Saturday.
  • Mayor Simmons: Encouraged residents to check the city's website for "Meet Your Neighbor Day" activities. Announced the Danny Park Family Day on September 20th, noting its multilingual flyers and bus route information.
  • Councilor Nolan: Reminded of the Health and Environment Committee meeting on September 9th (2-4 PM) to discuss combined sewer overflows and extreme weather events, with presentations from DPW and watershed associations.
  • Councilor Wilson: Announced the Public Safety Committee meeting on September 10th (3 PM) to discuss the 18-hour standoff with CPD on August 2nd.
  • Mayor Simmons: Wished his wife a happy birthday.

XV. Adjournment

  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to adjourn.
  • Outcome: Adjourned by affirmative voice vote.
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