City Council Roundup – October 6

The Cambridge City Council met on Monday, October 6, covering zoning, housing, and community development matters. Several items were deferred until the October 27 meeting, including a pair of rezoning ordinances and a contract tied to the city’s flood mitigation project. The council also approved a long-term lease for the Boys & Girls Club, amended housing program rules to broaden eligibility, and adopted an agreement to comply with state requirements for police discipline review.

Rezoning Ordinances Deferred

The Council discussed two major zoning proposals. Ordinance 1258, which would have rezoned a Roosevelt Avenue parcel into the Downtown/Waterfront Development District (DWDD), lost its applicant when the owner withdrew their application. Ordinance 1255, concerning three nearby parcels along Roosevelt Avenue and Washington Street, was introduced but postponed. Both will return for action at the October 27 meeting.

Boys & Girls Club Lease Approved

The Commission unanimously approved a 40-year ground lease agreement with Mace’s Lane BGC LLC, with two possible five-year extensions. The deal addresses earlier concerns raised by commissioners and sets the stage for financing and construction. Officials expect the new Boys & Girls Club to open in summer 2026.

Douglas Street Homes Program Expanded

To address challenges in the city’s Home Ownership Works pilot program, commissioners voted to raise the qualifying income limit for buyers from 80 to 120 percent of the area median income. This change comes after many otherwise qualified applicants were excluded for earning slightly above the previous cap. The adjustment is expected to increase homeownership opportunities, especially with upcoming Chesapeake Court homes.

Police Discipline Oversight Agreement Adopted

The Council approved a memorandum of understanding with the state Office of Administrative Hearings to establish a trial board process for police discipline cases, as required under new state law. The city will pay $200 per hour for law judges, plus related costs. While commissioners noted uncertainty about budgeting for the expense, they voted 5-0 in favor, ensuring Cambridge complies with statewide accountability standards.

FEMA Grant Amendments Postponed

Amendments to the city’s FEMA grant agreements were also tabled until the October 27 session.

 Updates from the City Manager

• The Trenton Street Pumping Station project was identified as a top priority, with funding adjustments underway. 
• The city is preparing a Capital Program for water and sewer infrastructure, potentially supported by a new stormwater utility. 
• Street paving projects are moving forward, with at least $350,000 set aside annually for paving and ADA ramp improvements. 
• The Wallace Building, one of Cambridge’s oldest structures, is slated for turnover to the city with Commission approval.