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  • Meeting Title: City Council - Regular Meeting
  • City: Cambridge, MA
  • Date Published: 2025-06-23
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Meeting Minutes: Cambridge City Council Regular Meeting

Meeting Date: June 23, 2025 Governing Body: Cambridge City Council Type of Meeting: Regular Meeting Attendees: Mayor Simmons, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Azeem, Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Councilor Toner, Councilor Wilson, Councilor Zusy. (Interim Clerk Crane, Assistant City Manager Samenov, Research Director Aaron Rosenthal, Commissioner McKenna, Bill Degnan, Deputy City Manager Bearden, Solicitor Behr, Director Deidre Travis Brown, Will Bent, Attorney Elliot Veloso, Peter McLaughlin, Jimmy D'Angelo, Christina Carrera, Naomi)

Executive Summary: The Cambridge City Council convened for a regular meeting on June 23, 2025. Key discussions included an appropriation of $101,463 for the Cambridge Employment Program, a $2,000 grant for a teen-led substance abuse awareness event, and a $569,252.50 appropriation for summer youth nutrition programs. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the appropriation of $2.8 million for the design of the Fitchburg Crossing cycle pedestrian bridge project. The Council also discussed the appointment of members to the American Freedmen's Commission and amendments to the short-term rental ordinance. A policy order expressing disappointment with Apex Clean Energy's labor practices on the Bowman Wind Project was laid on the table for further discussion. The Council also approved amendments to the Community Benefits Ordinance to allow for capital expenses and passed late policy orders regarding truck safety requirements and the Cambridge City Charter.

I. Call to Order and Roll Call

  • The meeting was called to order by Mayor Simmons.
  • Roll Call:
    • Councilor Azeem: Present
    • Vice Mayor McGovern: Present
    • Councilor Nolan: Present
    • Councilor Siddiqui: Present
    • Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler: Present
    • Councilor Toner: Present
    • Councilor Wilson: Present
    • Councilor Zusy: Present
    • Mayor Simmons: Present
  • Outcome: Nine members recorded as present, constituting a quorum.

II. Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence

  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, followed by a brief moment of silence.

III. Remote Participation and Public Comment Procedures

  • Remote participation is authorized per Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2025.
  • Zoom teleconference is available for public comment.
  • Meetings are viewable via the city's open meeting portal or cable channel 22.
  • To speak during public comment, sign up at www.cambridgema.gov/publiccomment or email written comments to cityclerk@cambridgema.gov.
  • In-person sign-up is available with Ms. Stefan before 6 p.m.
  • Meetings are audio and video recorded by the City of Cambridge and potentially by third parties.
  • Public comment is governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 30A, Section 20G and City Council Rules 23D and 37.
  • Speakers must state their name, address, and the item they are speaking to.
  • Each speaker is allotted three minutes due to 18 registered speakers.

IV. Public Comment

  • Mark Eisenberg (Cambridge Resident, Doctors Council SEIU Organizing Committee): Testified in support of the Doctors Council SEIU unionization effort at Mass General Brigham (MGB).
    • Stated MGB, a $22 billion healthcare conglomerate, is lobbying against the "Primary Care for You" bill.
    • Highlighted MGB's refusal to recognize the union despite an 183-23 vote in favor of unionization.
    • Noted MGB's appeal to the national NLRB, which lacks a quorum.
    • Requested Cambridge follow Boston and Somerville in passing a resolution supporting the union.
  • Alana Lewis (series.org, Boston, MA): Spoke in support of the Apex Clean Energy policy order.
    • Applauded Cambridge's power purchase agreement with Apex Clean Energy's Bowman Wind Project.
    • Expressed concern that Apex is creating risk by refusing to use unionized contractors and local North Dakota workers, particularly those formerly employed in the fossil fuel industry.
    • Stated that lack of community support could undermine clean energy deployment and lead to project delays and reputational risk.
    • Urged Apex to reconsider its decision to use non-union labor.
  • Aaron Rosenthal (Research Director, North Star Policy Action, St. Paul, MN): Supported Policy Order #94 regarding Apex Clean Energy.
    • Cited a report indicating local workers stimulate local economies more effectively than out-of-state workers.
    • Stated that Apex's hiring practices undermine the clean energy transition by failing to engage local workforces.
    • Urged a "yes" vote on Policy Order #94 to send a message that customers expect a just transition.
  • Clifford Stargill (Mandan, North Dakota, Laborer for 17 years, Laborers Union): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Stated that Apex promised local jobs but hired out-of-state workers from Texas and California for the Bowman Wind Project.
    • Emphasized that North Dakota residents, including carpenters, ironworkers, concrete finishers, and laborers, are qualified for these jobs.
    • Thanked Mayor Simmons and the City Council for standing up for organized labor.
  • Steve Cortina (Laborers International Union of North America): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Shared his experience as a North Dakota resident working in the energy industry, including coal plants and wind towers.
    • Stated that Apex promised 300 construction jobs for local workers but has not delivered.
    • Emphasized that North Dakota workers are trained and capable of performing the work.
    • Thanked Local 151, Mayor Simmons, and the City Council for their support.
  • Deborah Epstein (Cambridge Resident): Commented on the Lubavitch of Cambridge's zoning amendment proposal.
    • Expressed concern that the City Solicitor sought legal interpretation from the petitioner's lawyer in a RLUIPA case.
    • Stated that the City lacks experienced legal representation in RLUIPA claims.
    • Implored the City Council to seek better information on RLUIPA case law, which often favors municipalities.
  • Tina Alou (Director, CEOC, Cambridge, MA): Testified on Policy Order #3 regarding amendments to the Community Benefits Ordinance.
    • CEOC participated in a community benefits funding partnership.
    • Advocated for allowing benefits funding to be used for capital expenses, citing CEOC's inaccessible building and small food pantry space.
    • Stated that capital funding would significantly improve services for participants.
    • Urged support for the policy order to encourage review and amendment of the ordinance.
  • Daniel Liss (1 Earhart Street, Cambridge, MA): Commented on Policy Order #3.
    • Served on the Community Benefits Advisory Committee.
    • Open to using funds for capital funding but emphasized that it doesn't matter if there's no money in the fund due to traditional funding models.
  • Kevin Pranis (1469 Van Buren Avenue, St. Paul, MN, LIUNA): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Thanked Mayor Simmons, Councilor Toner, and the Council for their leadership on the issue of a just energy transition.
    • Stated that LIUNA made efforts to make the Bowman Wind Project better for local workers, but Apex was uninterested.
    • Estimated less than 5% of the workforce is from North Dakota, with a majority from Texas.
    • Emphasized that Apex's actions turn North Dakotans off the energy transition.
    • Urged support for Policy Order #94 as an example of cross-country solidarity.
  • Lucas Franco (4128 22nd Avenue South, Minneapolis, LIUNA Minnesota and North Dakota Research Manager): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Stated that the Bowman Wind Project is failing to employ local workers, including LIUNA members.
    • Emphasized that local workers spend more locally, creating positive economic ripple effects.
    • Stated that Apex's failure undermines the credibility of clean energy projects and creates backlash against the industry.
    • Thanked the Council for bringing forward Policy Order #94.
  • Robert Simha (Vice President, East Cambridge Planning Team): Thanked the City Council and Ordinance Committee for their work on the Biomed Realty zoning change.
    • Stated that the proposal is responsive to good design and benefits the neighborhood, particularly the East End House.
    • Expressed hope for continued support for the proposal and its community development model.
  • James Williamson (Cambridge Resident): Commented on Mass General, Lubavitch Inc., and the Fitchburg rail crossing.
    • Suggested cost efficiencies at Mass General's billing department.
    • Expressed concern about a half-million-dollar settlement with Lubavitch Inc. that has not been fully explained to the public.
    • Criticized the BZA hearing process for the Lubavitch case.
    • Expressed wariness about "robust engagement" regarding the Fitchburg rail crossing, citing past issues at Linear Park.
  • Paul Goodrich (Laborers Local 151, Cambridge): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Thanked the Council for caring about workers in North Dakota.
    • Compared the situation to Cambridge's progressive legislation that has lifted workers out of poverty.
    • Criticized developers who think they can do "whatever the hell they want."
    • Applauded the Council for taking a stand against bad developers.
  • Jennifer Odell (Laborers Union, Washington, D.C.): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Stated that the Laborers Union is an investor in Aries, which owns Apex Clean Energy.
    • Thanked Mayor Simmons and the Council for advocating for fair pay and treatment for workers.
    • Commended Cambridge for holding Apex accountable despite the project being in North Dakota.
  • Griffin Grabowski (LIUNA Local 230, Weathersfield, CT): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Stated that Apex is leaving LIUNA members in North Dakota "out in the cold" by outsourcing work.
    • Emphasized that an injury to one is an injury to all.
    • Argued that if clean energy means workers can't feed their families, they will be against it.
    • Urged a vote for Policy Order #94 to support organized labor and stop climate change.
  • Carmine Rossi (LIUNA, 15-year member): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Shared his experience working in power plants and the importance of energy infrastructure.
    • Stated that Apex is not giving North Dakotan workers a chance to work on clean energy projects.
    • Thanked Mayor Simmons and Councilor Toner for holding Apex accountable.
  • Stephen Conlon (LIUNA, Massachusetts): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Noted that Bowman Wind customers include respected Boston-area institutions.
    • Stated that Apex could have made Bowman Wind a model for climate action and local jobs but is instead an "embarrassment."
    • Thanked Mayor Simmons and the Council for leading the charge for construction workers.
  • Ashley Gaszczyk (Bismarck, North Dakota, North Dakota AFL-CIO President): Supported Policy Order #94.
    • Shared her personal experience as a public school teacher and her father's construction career.
    • Stated that the AFL-CIO supports climate action but not at the expense of conventional energy workers.
    • Expressed concern that Apex's actions undermine local support for the clean energy transition by bypassing North Dakotans.
    • Hoped that her former students would have opportunities in clean energy in their home state.
  • Heather Hoffman (213 Hurley Street, Cambridge, MA): Commented on RLUIPA, feeding kids, short-term rentals, extreme heat, and community engagement.
    • Expressed horror at the City Solicitor's RLUIPA advice and urged better legal counsel.
    • Supported the "feeding kids" initiative.
    • Questioned the City's enforcement of illegal short-term rentals.
    • Highlighted the importance of street trees for extreme heat mitigation.
    • Advocated for more effective community engagement.
  • Outcome: Public comment closed with an affirmative vote of 8-0-1 (Councilor Toner absent).

V. Submission of the Record

  • Minutes for Adoption:
    • City Council Regular Meeting: April 7, 2025
    • City Council Regular Meeting: May 5, 2025
    • City Council Regular Meeting: May 12, 2025
  • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to adopt the three sets of minutes and place them on file.
  • Outcome: Adopted by a vote of 9-0.

VI. City Manager's Agenda

  • Items Pulled for Non-Consent Agenda:
    • Number 4 (Councilor Wilson)
    • Number 5 (Councilor Wilson)
    • Number 6 (Councilor Wilson)
    • Number 9 (Councilor Nolan)
    • Number 12 (Councilor Zusy)
    • Number 14 (Councilor Zusy)
    • Number 15 (Councilor Zusy)
    • Number 16 (Mayor Simmons)
    • Number 17 (Mayor Simmons)
  • Consent Agenda Vote:
    • Outcome: The balance of the City Manager's Consent Agenda was adopted by a vote of 9-0.

  • Item 4: Appropriation for Cambridge Employment Program

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang relative to the appointment of $101,463 received from the Housing Authority for the Cambridge Employment Program to the grant fund human service salaries and wages account.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Wilson requested an update on the position and its vocational support role.
      • Assistant City Manager Samenov explained it's one of three career counselor positions, funded by the Housing Authority for at least 15 years. The program serves low-income clients, many in subsidized housing or unhoused, helping with job preparation and career pathways.
      • Councilor Wilson requested data on residents served and their socioeconomic status.
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to accept the appropriation and place the memo on file.
    • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 8-0-1 (Councilor Toner absent).

  • Item 5: Grant for Teen Substance Abuse Awareness Event

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang relative to the appropriation of $2,000 to the grant fund, human service, other ordinary maintenance account. These funds will support a future teen-led event in Cambridge focused on raising awareness about teen substance abuse.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Wilson congratulated the Cambridge Youth Council for winning an award for their video on "building a better world."
      • Assistant City Manager Samenov clarified that this $2,000 grant is for the Moses Youth Center teens who won first place in a social capital pitch.
      • The Council celebrated both the Cambridge Youth Council and the Moses Youth Center for their achievements.
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to approve the appropriation and place the matter on file.
    • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.

  • Item 6: Appropriation for Summer Youth Nutrition Programs

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang relative to the appropriation of $569,252.50 to the grant fund human service other ordinary maintenance account. This award will be used to provide nutritious meals to Cambridge youth at over 45 meal sites throughout the city during the summer months when schools are closed.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Wilson highlighted the importance of free meals for young people, especially during summer.
      • Assistant City Manager Samenov stated the program has operated since at least the late 1990s, expanding to 45 sites including schools, community summer camps, and nine parks. Meals are available to any young person without identification. Dinners are offered at summer basketball leagues.
      • New this summer: "Fun Under the Sun" every Monday and Wednesday in July, starting July 7th, offering games and activities in different parks after lunch.
      • Councilor Nolan thanked Councilor Wilson for pulling the item and acknowledged the program's expansion and importance in addressing food insecurity.
      • Mayor Simmons emphasized the program's value to families.
    • Motion: Approved the appropriation and placed the matter on file.
    • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.

  • Item 9: Appropriation for Fitchburg Crossing Cycle Pedestrian Bridge Design

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang 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 Transportation Improvement Program ($400,000) to the grant fund transportation extraordinary expenditure account for the design of the Fitchburg Crossing cycle pedestrian bridge project. Funds will be used to support the design cost of the new off-road bridge over the Fitchburg rail line connecting Danny Park to Ranger Avenue neighborhoods, creating greater access to recreational facilities, retail, and jobs for people walking and biking.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Nolan expressed excitement for the project, noting its long history and potential for connectivity.
      • Commissioner McKenna clarified this bridge is in addition to the one contemplated under HealthBeak and will cover environmental permitting and full design, leading to a "shovel-ready" project.
      • Bill Degnan (online) stated the procurement process for a design team has begun. The design process is estimated to take 18 months to two years, including community engagement, permitting, and reviews by MassDOT. Construction funding will be sought later, likely from TIP or other grants.
      • Councilor Nolan urged acceleration of the timeline.
      • Deputy City Manager Bearden estimated the project cost at $30 million and emphasized the importance of having a shovel-ready design to secure future funding.
      • Councilor Zusy expressed thrill at receiving federal funds for the project.
      • Mayor Simmons clarified that the current appropriation is for design work, and construction funding will be sought separately.
    • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.

  • Item 12: Appropriation of HUD Continuum of Care Grant Funds

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang relative to the appropriation of $4,941,224 from the US Department of HUD to the grant fund human service program salary and wages account ($337,704), to the grant fund human service program of the ordinary maintenance ($4,588,520), and to the grant fund human service programs travel and training account ($15,000). This grant was awarded under the federal fiscal year of 2024 Continuum of Care Program competition.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Zusy expressed relief that the grant was received.
      • Solicitor Behr clarified that the City is appropriating funds with the expectation of receiving them, based on a preliminary injunction requiring HUD to accept grant agreements with objectionable conditions removed. Further court action may be needed to compel funds.
      • Deputy City Manager stated that HUD is currently required to allow the City to draw down funds for the first three months, but future funding is uncertain.
      • Mayor Simmons emphasized the importance of the vote to secure and deploy federal resources for affordable housing and homeless services, praising the grant writing efforts of the DHSP.
    • Motion: Approved the appropriation and placed the item on file.
    • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.
    • Reconsideration: Motion to suspend rules for reconsideration failed by a vote of 0-9.

  • Item 14: Appointment of Members to the American Freedmen's Commission

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang relative to the appointment of the members of the American Freedmen's Commission.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Zusy congratulated the City on appointing an impressive group and inquired about the timeline for hiring an executive director and producing a report with recommendations.
      • Director Deidre Travis Brown provided background, stating the ordinance was adopted in 2023. A stakeholder group was convened to guide the commission's work. The next step is to post the executive director position and identify a chair.
      • Mayor Simmons acknowledged the extensive work by Director Brown, Councilor Wilson, and others to bring this forward. She emphasized that the commission is not focused on reparations but on a different, complex task requiring careful and thoughtful progress. She thanked Saskia Van Janes for her vision and dedication.
      • Councilor Zusy expressed interest in the commission's exploration of systemic harm to American freedmen and noted Cambridge's existing programs for housing assistance and home repair.
      • Councilor Wilson emphasized the importance of a deliberate timeline to avoid conflicts seen in other commissions and praised the diverse expertise of the appointed members. She thanked Chief Brown and her team for their diligent work.
      • City Manager Huang echoed the importance and complexity of the work, highlighting the commitment to community engagement.
      • Director Travis Brown stressed the importance of broad community engagement.
      • Councilor Nolan highlighted the historical context of discriminatory housing practices in Cambridge and the need for the commission to address this.
    • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.

  • Item 15: Appropriation for Municipal Shuttle Study

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang relative to the appropriation of $250,000 from the Mitigation Revenue Stabilization Fund to the Public Investment Fund Community Development Extraordinary Expenditures Account for a municipal shuttle study.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Zusy supported the study but questioned the $250,000 cost and the one-year timeline.
      • Commissioner McKenna clarified that the appropriation is the full amount of two mitigation payments, and the goal is to spend less if possible. The timeline allows for data analysis, public outreach, and study wrap-up.
      • Councilor Nolan suggested collaborating with MIT and other local institutions for expertise and data analysis, and to foster institutional involvement in city transportation solutions.
      • Councilor Wilson advocated for investing in community leaders for community engagement, believing they have stronger relationships and can provide deeper data than outside resources.
      • Commissioner McKenna acknowledged the comments and stated that staff would explore expanding the community engagement model to include paid participation and reaching out to universities.
      • Deputy City Manager O'Riordan clarified that the study aims to create a comprehensive, affordable, frequent, and reliable transportation system.
    • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.

  • Item 16: Amendments to Vicious Dog Ordinance and Kennel License

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang relative to Policy Order 2024-33 regarding a request to amend Cambridge Code of Ordinance 6.08.001 regulation on vicious dogs and to bring into compliance with state law and to create a kennel license that complies with Massachusetts General Law Section 137A.
    • Discussion:
      • Vice Mayor McGovern stated this was in response to a policy order she filed with Councilor Nolan and late Councilor Joan Pickett, aiming to update Cambridge's ordinance to comply with new state laws.
      • Vice Mayor McGovern inquired about a requirement for dogs in kennels to wear breakaway collars with rabies and license tags, which some kennel customers found difficult.
      • Christina Carrera (Animal Commission) confirmed that the tag requirement has always been in place but is now being enforced due to kennel inspections.
      • Vice Mayor McGovern asked about outreach to kennels and daycares. Ms. Carrera confirmed that offices have visited all known daycares, providing information and resources.
      • Councilor Nolan highlighted that the updates increase enforcement capabilities for dangerous situations, making the city safer.
      • Councilor Zusy supported the updates, citing personal experience with nuisance dogs and concerns about dangerous dogs in dense urban environments.
    • Motion: Referred to the Ordinance Committee.
    • Outcome: Referred by a vote of 9-0.

  • Item 17: Short-Term Rental Ordinance Amendments

    • Description: Transmitting communication from City Manager Yi-An Huang relative to short-term rental ordinance amendments.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Nolan expressed satisfaction that draft changes are finally available, noting her policy order from almost two years ago.
      • She highlighted the issue of unregulated and illegal short-term rentals, citing an interim report from October 2024 showing 168 registered units versus 515 online listings.
      • Councilor Nolan raised questions about enforcement, particularly for owner-adjacent units and potential limits on whole-unit rentals (like Somerville's 90-day limit).
      • Peter McLaughlin (Inspectional Services) suggested that questions be brought to staff and the Ordinance Committee.
      • Jimmy D'Angelo (Housing Inspector) noted restrictions on enforcement but mentioned establishing relationships with companies like Airbnb to address illegal listings.
      • Attorney Elliot Veloso (Solicitor's Office) stated the revisions aim to increase ISD's enforcement ability and clarify conditions for registered operator-occupied units.
      • Councilor Toner expressed concern about potential negative impacts on residents, especially retirees supplementing income, and advocated for broader community conversation before further restrictions.
      • Councilor Zusy inquired about publicizing registration requirements and requiring Airbnb to display registration numbers, similar to Boston.
      • Deputy City Manager O'Riordan stated that Airbnb and Vrbo have committed to not listing properties without city registration. He emphasized the importance of inspections for safety and code compliance.
      • Councilor Wilson expressed concern about unintended consequences for fixed-income individuals and suggested gathering data on current owners and reasons for non-registration.
    • Motion: Adopted as a zoning petition and referred to the Planning Board and Ordinance Committee.
    • Outcome: Adopted and referred by a vote of 9-0.

VII. City Manager's Report on Cooling Centers (Suspension of Rules)

  • Motion: Mayor Simmons moved to suspend the rules to allow the City Manager to give a brief report on cooling centers and water facilities.
  • Outcome: Rules suspended by a vote of 9-0.
  • Report by City Manager Yi-An Huang:
    • Acknowledged the hot weather and upcoming heat index.
    • Cooling Spaces:
      • City buildings, especially libraries (all open except Valente branch due to HVAC issues).
      • Senior Center available for seniors.
      • MIT's "Cool Spots" pilot program (air-conditioned locations).
      • Harvard Smith Center (public space).
      • Cambridgeside Mall.
    • Water Facilities:
      • War Memorial Recreational Center Gold Star Pool and DCR pools are open.
      • Water features in parks are turned on.
    • Community Outreach: Encouraged checking on neighbors, especially those without air conditioning.
    • Support for Unhoused Individuals:
      • Distribution of extra water.
      • Health Alliance street medicine team available.
      • Care team increasing outreach.
      • Public safety departments (fire, police, EMS) distributing cold water.
      • Shelters (240 Albany, First Church, Salvation Army) extending hours and offering services (showers at Salvation Army, 240 Albany, First Church).
    • Animal Respite: City Manager was unsure about policies for animals in public spaces and recommended contacting the Animal Commission for advice.
    • Additional Information from Councilors:
      • Councilor Zusy noted Magazine Beach Pool and Francis McCray Memorial Pool are open, and the Gold Star Mother's Park Pool opens tomorrow.
      • Vice Mayor McGovern suggested communicating with non-city public spaces (like the mall) to ensure leniency for unhoused individuals seeking respite.
  • Outcome: Report received.

VIII. Policy Orders and Resolutions

  • Items Pulled for Non-Consent Agenda:
    • Number 1 (Mayor Simmons)
    • Number 3 (Councilor Siddiqui)
  • Consent Agenda Vote:
    • Outcome: Policy Order #2 and Resolution #4 were adopted by a vote of 9-0.

  • Policy Order 1: Disappointment with Apex Clean Energy's Labor Practices

    • Description: That the City Council go on record expressing its profound disappointment over Apex Clean Energy's decision to forego the use of local union labor on the Bowman Wind Project.
    • Discussion:
      • Mayor Simmons requested to amend the order to add Vice Mayor McGovern and Councilor Wilson as co-sponsors.
      • Mayor Simmons stated her intention to lay the order on the table for further discussion with the City Manager.
      • She acknowledged Tony Pini (LIUNA), Paul Goodrich (Laborers Union), and Steve Cortina (North Dakota) for bringing the issue to her attention.
      • Mayor Simmons expressed concern that while Cambridge benefits environmentally, local union laborers in North Dakota are not receiving fair treatment or opportunities.
      • She noted that Apex has prioritized cheaper non-union, non-local workers.
      • Mayor Simmons emphasized that clean energy should not come at the expense of working communities and urged other municipalities to demand commitments to local skilled labor.
      • Solicitor Behr clarified that the agreement is a virtual power purchasing agreement for environmental attributes, not a construction contract. The City's agreement is with a consortium and includes terms for representing the project.
      • Vice Mayor McGovern argued that the policy order only expresses disappointment and warns others, without asking to breach or change the existing contract.
      • Amendment 1: To add Vice Mayor McGovern and Councilor Wilson as co-sponsors.
        • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 8-0-1 (Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler absent).
      • Motion: Mayor Simmons moved to lay the policy order on the table.
        • Outcome: Laid on the table by a vote of 9-0.

  • Policy Order 3: Amendments to Community Benefits Ordinance for Capital Expenses

    • Description: That the City Manager be hereby requested to direct the City Solicitor, in consultation with the relevant city department and 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.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Siddiqui (lead sponsor) stated the order aims to amend the ordinance to allow for capital expenses, as needs have evolved since 2015.
      • Amendment 1: Councilor Siddiqui proposed adding "and any other suggested amendments" after "Community Benefits Program" in the last ordered section.
      • Amendment 2: Councilor Zusy requested to be added as a co-sponsor. Mayor Simmons also requested to be added.
        • Outcome (Co-sponsors): Approved by a vote of 9-0.
        • Outcome (Language Amendment): Approved by a vote of 9-0.
      • Councilor Toner inquired if this would negatively impact the benefit going to the East End House from the Biomed project.
      • Councilor Siddiqui clarified it's a standalone amendment to the overall process.
      • Vice Mayor McGovern noted that the original policy order intended to include capital projects, but it was removed in the final ordinance. She saw this as separate from the Biomed ordinance.
      • Councilor Zusy emphasized the importance of this for Cambridge legacy nonprofits with failing facilities and lack of endowments.
      • Councilor Wilson highlighted the need for a deeper conversation about the Community Benefits Fund's fit for current nonprofit providers, especially regarding infrastructure and capital expenses.
      • Councilor Nolan supported the overdue amendment for a more comprehensive, clear, and transparent process for development dollars flowing into the city.
    • Motion: Councilor Siddiqui moved to adopt the policy order as amended.
    • Outcome: Adopted by a vote of 9-0.

IX. Calendar Items

  • Charter Right (June 16th):
    • Discussion: Mayor Simmons stated that 32BJ requested to hold this item until the June 30th meeting.
    • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to lay the item on the table.
    • Outcome: Laid on the table by a vote of 8-0-1 (Councilor Siddiqui absent).
  • Outcome: Other calendar items were passed over.

X. Applications and Petitions

  • Outcome: No applications or petitions were discussed.

XI. Communications

  • Description: 289 communications.
  • Motion: Vice Mayor McGovern moved to waive the reading and place them on file.
  • Outcome: Waived and placed on file by a vote of 8-0-1 (Councilor Siddiqui absent).
  • Items Pulled for Non-Consent Agenda:
    • Number 2 (Councilor Wilson)
    • Number 3 (Councilor Zusy)
  • Consent Agenda Vote:
    • Outcome: Resolution #1 was adopted by a vote of 8-0-1 (Councilor Siddiqui absent).

  • Resolution 2: Congratulations to the Culture Lounge

    • Description: Congratulations to the Culture Lounge.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Wilson announced the Culture Lounge's one-year anniversary celebration on Sunday, 12-6 p.m. at Althea's (907 Main Street).
      • She credited Malaney Council and Kenny Utavicki for creating a community around music.
      • Mayor Simmons requested to be added as a co-sponsor.
      • Amendment: To add Mayor Simmons as a co-sponsor.
        • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.
    • Motion: Adopted as amended.
    • Outcome: Adopted by a vote of 9-0.

  • Resolution 3: Honor Preservation Award Recipients

    • Description: To honor the Preservation Award recipients.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Zusy (co-sponsor with Councilor Wilson) highlighted the Preservation Awards event, noting significant buildings restored under Charlie Sullivan and the Cambridge Historical Commission.
      • Awardees included City Hall, Inman Fire Station, Harvard Square Kiosk, three Harvard buildings (Gund Hall, sustainable living houses), and St. Augustine's African Orthodox Church.
      • Councilor Wilson requested to be added as a co-sponsor. Mayor Simmons and Councilor Nolan also requested to be added.
      • Amendment: To add Mayor Simmons and Councilor Nolan as co-sponsors.
        • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.
    • Motion: Adopted as amended.
    • Outcome: Adopted by a vote of 9-0.

XIII. Committee Reports

  • Reports:
    • Economic Development and University Relations (May 6th)
    • Government Operations Rules and Claims Committee (May 21st)
  • Motion: Councilor Nolan moved to accept and place on file.
  • Outcome: Accepted and placed on file by a vote of 9-0.

XIV. Communications and Reports from Other City Officers

  • Description: One communication: Update on legislative activity from the Interim Clerk.
  • Motion: Approved.
  • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.

XV. Late Policy Orders

  • Motion: Rules suspended to take up late policy orders by a vote of 9-0.

  • Late Policy Order 1: Support for H2343/S3653 (Expanding Truck Safety Requirements)

    • Sponsors: Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler, Vice Mayor McGovern, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Nolan.
    • Outcome: Adopted by a vote of 9-0.

  • Late Policy Order 2: Letter to State Legislature on Charter Home Rule H4156

    • Sponsors: Councilor Nolan, Councilor Siddiqui, Councilor Sobrinho-Wheeler.
    • Discussion:
      • Councilor Nolan explained the late submission due to the hearing being scheduled for tomorrow (June 24th).
      • The order asks the legislature to pass the unanimously approved charter home rule petition.
      • Councilor Wilson requested to be added as a co-sponsor.
      • Amendment: To add Councilor Wilson as a co-sponsor.
        • Outcome: Approved by a vote of 9-0.
    • Motion: Adopted as amended.
    • Outcome: Adopted by a vote of 9-0.
    • Reconsideration: Motion to suspend rules for reconsideration failed by a vote of 0-9.

XVI. Announcements

  • Mayor Simmons:
    • Acknowledging Charlie Sullivan: Monday, June 30th, 3:30 p.m. (food on 2nd floor), 5:00 p.m. (program in Council Chamber).
    • Friday Dance Party: Starts at 5 p.m., revolutionary theme.
  • Councilor Azeem:
    • Deputy City Manager Oden O'Riordan's retirement celebration: Wednesday, June 25th, 9 a.m.
    • Cambridge Small Business Pop-Up Marketplace: June 28th-29th, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., 1175 Cambridge Street, East Cambridge.
    • Reminder to stay cool and hydrated due to high temperatures.
  • Councilor Zusy:
    • Taste of Cambridge: Wednesday, June 25th, 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., University Park.
    • Magazine Beach Pool and other DCR pools are open.
  • Councilor Wilson:
    • Fourth Annual Battle of the Bridge: Saturday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Hoyt Field.
    • Cambridge Family Fun Day: Saturday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., back of Peabody School (for residents with children under 8).

XVII. Adjournment

  • Motion: Councilor Wilson moved to adjourn.
  • Outcome: Adjourned by a vote of 8-0-1 (Councilor Toner absent).
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