Cambridge commissioners approved financing Monday for the rehabilitation of the city’s Trenton Street Sewage Pumping Station after officials said key portions of the facility have deteriorated beyond repair.
The commission unanimously adopted Ordinance 1271, authorizing up to $6.86 million in borrowing through the Maryland Water Infrastructure Financing Administration to fund the long-planned project.
The pumping station is a critical component of Cambridge’s wastewater system, and city officials told commissioners the project can no longer be delayed.
Discussion focused largely on language within the bond documents pledging the city’s “full faith and credit and unlimited taxing power” to repay the debt.
Ward 2 Commissioner Shay Lewis-Sisco said the provision gave her pause.
“I still feel very uneasy about the unlimited taxing power,” she said, while acknowledging city staff’s explanation that the language is common in municipal bond agreements.
City Manager Glenn Steckman said the language is required to guarantee repayment to bondholders and would only come into play under extreme circumstances.
Steckman also emphasized the favorable terms Cambridge is receiving through the state financing program. He said the city expects an interest rate of approximately 1.54 percent, substantially below current market rates, because Cambridge qualifies as a distressed community under state guidelines.
In addition, approximately $2 million to $2.5 million of the financing is expected to be forgiven after 10 years if the city meets the program’s requirements.
The ordinance passed unanimously.
City Honors Employee for Life-Saving Overdose Response
The commission recognized Code Enforcement Officer Jerron Jones for actions that city officials said saved a resident’s life during a medical emergency last month.
On May 15, Jones was returning to his office when a citizen alerted him that someone nearby was experiencing a life-threatening overdose. Jones retrieved medical supplies, contacted 911, and administered Narcan while remaining in communication with emergency dispatchers until emergency responders arrived.
Officials said his actions played a critical role in saving the individual’s life.
Mayor Lajan Cephas praised Jones’ response, noting that his willingness to rush toward emergencies was well known from earlier in his public safety career.
Jones received a formal proclamation recognizing his heroism and dedication to public service.
First Citizens Academy Graduates
Cambridge officials also recognized the inaugural graduating class of the city’s Citizens Academy.
The four-week program was designed to provide residents with a better understanding of local government operations, public administration, and civic leadership.
Grants Coordinator Tara Phelps described the first academy as a success and said city officials plan to continue the program, including a version for summer interns and another community session expected in the fall.
Participants received certificates of completion recognizing their commitment to civic engagement and public service.
Expansion of Public Safety Tax Credit
Commissioners also introduced Ordinance 1273, which would expand the city’s existing property tax credit program for public safety personnel. The proposal would reduce the length-of-service requirement needed to qualify for the credit and remove the current five-year cap on participation.
City officials said the program has been utilized by both Cambridge police officers and members of Rescue Fire Company and is intended to encourage recruitment and retention of public safety personnel. The measure received its first reading and will return for future consideration.
