Cambridge public meetings in 2025

City Council

The council will vote on a resolution to raise the solid waste collection charge to $19.35 per unit and add a $1.75 cart fee beginning Jan 1 2026. Commissioners will also consider a resolution objecting to the proposed partial demolition of historic buildings on the 500 block of Race Street, favoring adaptive reuse. A motion will be made to hold a closed session for discussion of personnel matters, and the meeting will include a presentation of citations and keys to the City for three local organizations.

• Amendment to solid waste contract with Chesapeake Waste Industries, raising per‑customer charge to $19.09 for the 2026 renewal term
• Resolution adopting solid waste collection charge of $19.35 per unit and additional cart charge of $1.75
• Resolution objecting to the proposed partial demolition of historic properties on the 500 block of Race Street
• Motion to hold a closed session to discuss personnel matters under Md. Code Ann §3‑305(b)(1)
• Presentation of citations and keys to the City honoring Cambridge–Dorchester County Christmas Parade, Groove City Black Heritage & Culture Group, and Alpha Genesis Community Development Corporation

Historic Preservation Commission

The Cambridge Historic Preservation Commission will hold a workshop at 5 p.m. to discuss proposed Rules of Procedure for the commission. At 6 p.m. the commission will meet to consider a consent agenda, old business, new business, and a discussion item. Items include roofing repair at 315 Choptank Avenue, a garden shed at 1012 Locust Street, a reconstructed porch at 10 West End Avenue, a partial second story at 321 High Street, a front porch renovation at 700 Water Street, and an informal review of the Hearn Building proposal at 505‑509 Race Street.

• Workshop to discuss proposed Rules of Procedure for the HPC (5 p.m.)
• Consent agenda: partial roofing replacement and repair at 315 Choptank Avenue
• Consent agenda: placement of pre‑fabricated garden shed at 1012 Locust Street
• New business: construction of partial second story at 321 High Street
• New business: front porch renovation at 700 Water Street

The commission unanimously approved a roof replacement at 107 Oakley Street, a porch reconstruction at 10 West End Avenue, a partial second‑story addition at 321 High Street, and a front porch renovation at 700 Water Street. All motions passed without opposition. The chair recused himself for the 321 High Street item, leaving four votes cast.

• Approved 107 Oakley Street roofing replacement (5-0)
• Approved 10 West End Avenue porch reconstruction, conditioned (5-0)
• Approved 321 High Street partial second‑story construction, conditioned (4-0)
• Approved 700 Water Street front porch renovation, conditioned (5-0)

City Council

The Cambridge City Council will consider two ordinances: Ordinance No. 1260 amending the health and sanitation code to address brush, weeds, and obnoxious growth, and Ordinance No. 1261 amending the Unified Development Code to permit cafes, coffee shops, retail sales, service and repair, and personal services such as salons and barbershops in the Downtown/Waterfront Development District – Gateway Subdistrict. The council will also hear a presentation of the Auditor’s Report for fiscal year 2024‑2025 and vote on the consent agenda items, including recent meeting minutes. A closed‑session motion will be considered to discuss personnel matters.

• Ordinance No. 1260 – amendment to Chapter 8 (Health and Sanitation) adding § 8‑25 on brush, weeds, and obnoxious growth.
• Ordinance No. 1261 – amendment to the Unified Development Code allowing cafes, coffee shops, retail, service, repair, salons and barbershops in the Gateway Subdistrict.
• Presentation by PKS & Company P.A. of the Auditor’s Report for fiscal year 2024‑2025.
• Consent agenda approval of meeting minutes from October 6 and October 27, 2025.
• Motion to hold a closed session to discuss personnel matters affecting specific individuals.

The provided minutes contain no clear approvals, denials, or actions taken by the Cambridge City Council on December 8, 2025. The text consists mainly of placeholders and lacks any specific decisions.

Mayor’s Accessibility Committee

The committee will hear presentations from Amanda Kidd of Four Eleven Kitchen, Inc and Johnathan Carroll of X9 Intelligence, LLC. Members will also discuss rescheduling the next meeting and city email access.

• Presentation by Amanda Kidd, Four Eleven Kitchen, Inc
• Presentation by Johnathan Carroll, X9 Intelligence, LLC
• Closed session to discuss supporting a live music event

The committee voted 5‑0 to appoint Janine Elliott as Co‑Chair and Fran Byas as Secretary. A motion to review both leadership positions after one year was carried. Members agreed to hold monthly hybrid meetings on the first Thursday of each month. An attendance policy was noted that three unexcused consecutive absences may lead to removal.

• Appointed Janine Elliott as Co‑Chair (5‑0 vote)
• Appointed Fran Byas as Secretary (5‑0 vote)
• Motion to reassess Co‑Chair and Secretary positions after one year carried
• Adopted monthly meeting schedule: first Thursday, hybrid format
• Set attendance rule: three unexcused consecutive absences may result in removal

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Cambridge Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing to decide on PZSP 25-02, a sign program requested by Patti Cannon and owner Chuck Kelly. The program would allow a new single‑tenant blade sign beneath the Craig’s Drugs sign and modify an existing freestanding sign in Craig’s parking lot, both located in the Core Zoning District. The meeting also includes standard agenda items such as adoption of the agenda and minutes, and a brief public comment period.

• PZSP 25-02 – approval of a sign program for two signs in the Core Zoning District
• Installation of a new single‑tenant blade sign beneath the Craig’s Drugs sign
• Modification of an existing single‑tenant freestanding sign in Craig’s parking lot
• Public hearing and citizen input on the sign program
• Adoption of agenda and minutes

City Council

The City Commissioners will hold a strategic planning work session. They will review the strategic planning process and discuss the city’s strategic policy goals. The session includes a break at about 6:30 and will conclude with a wrap‑up at 7:45.

• Mayor convenes strategic planning work session
• Review Strategic Planning Process
• Discuss Strategic Policy Goals

City Council

The Cambridge City Commission will consider approving the sale of a surplus property at 632 Douglas Street to Myisha Johnson for $225,000. The body will also discuss funding challenges for city infrastructure and hear a presentation from Blackwater Rising.

• Sale of surplus property at 632 Douglas Street for $225,000
• Funding challenges for Trenton Street Pumpstation, Interceptor, and HVAC
• Presentation from Blackwater Rising on community gardens
• CubScout Mobile event request on Court Lane
• Resolution requesting Dorchester County property tax setoff

The council added a closed‑session item to discuss confidential matters and adopted the consent agenda, each with a 5‑0 vote. Ordinance No. 1259 was read, a public hearing was held and closed, and the ordinance was adopted, authorizing the sale of 632 Douglas Street to Myisha Johnson for $225,000 with an unsecured promissory note, also by a 5‑0 vote. The council then adopted an amended Resolution 25‑14, requesting Dorchester County establish a property‑tax set‑off for Cambridge taxpayers, again unanimously.

• Added closed‑session item under Md. Code Ann. §3‑305(b)(2) & §3‑305(b)(14) – approved 5‑0
• Adopted consent agenda – approved 5‑0
• Opened public hearing on Ordinance No. 1259 – approved 5‑0
• Closed public hearing on Ordinance No. 1259 – approved 5‑0
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1259 selling 632 Douglas St to Myisha Johnson for $225,000 with unsecured promissory note – approved 5‑0
• Adopted amended Resolution 25‑14 requesting Dorchester County tax set‑off – approved 5‑0

Ethics Commission

The Ethics Commission will meet to discuss the financial disclosure process and conduct training on the Ethics Code and procedures. The meeting includes a closed session with counsel to address a pending ethics complaint.

• Financial Disclosure Process
• Ethics Code and procedures training
• Closed session regarding a pending ethics complaint

Traffic and Safety Committee

The committee reviewed updates on multiple traffic improvement projects, such as a traffic circle at Wells/Douglas/Cornish Park and new raised crosswalks at the Empowerment Center, Race St/Cannery Way, and Locals/Boys and Girls Club. It also discussed the Safe Streets for All grant budget of $120,000‑$200,000 and the FY26 committee budget of $80,000.

• Traffic circle drawing completed for Wells/Douglas/Cornish Park
• Raised crosswalks added at Empowerment Center and Race St/Cannery Way
• Concrete bump‑out and crosswalk at Leonards/Boys and Girls Club
• Redesigned intersection with parallel parking and protected bike lane at Academy/Muir near City Hall
• Safe Streets for All grant allocated $120,000‑$200,000 for citizen‑complaint projects

The committee reported status on several traffic projects, including the Wells/Douglas/Cornish Park circle, raised crosswalks, and the Leonards/Boys & Girls Club bump‑out. It noted the Safe Streets for All grant budget of $120,000‑$200,000 and an FY26 budget of $80,000. New business items were identified for future review, but no approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will hold a workshop to discuss proposed Rules of Procedure. The subsequent meeting includes reviews of several property restoration and installation requests.

• HPC-25-71: Roofing replacement at 107 Oakley Street
• HPC-25-67: Removal of existing shed and construction of new 12’x22’ shed at 308 Oakley Street
• HPC-25-68: Restoration work at 317 Willis Street
• HPC-25-69: Installation of two new signs at 401 Race Street
• HPC-25-70: Restoration work at 311 Glenburn Avenue

The commission approved a new 12’x22’ shed at 308 Oakley Street, conditioned on underground electrical service. It approved restoration work at 317 Willis Street, requiring the porch to match the detailing of 121 Willis Street. It approved installation of two new signs at 401 Race Street with specific design and clearance conditions. It approved restoration work at 311 Glenburn Avenue as submitted. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved 308 Oakley St. new 12’x22’ shed (5/0)
• Approved 317 Willis St. restoration with porch matching 121 Willis St. (5/0)
• Approved 401 Race St. sign installation with design conditions (5/0)
• Approved 311 Glenburn Ave. restoration as submitted (5/0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a workshop to discuss proposed Rules of Procedure. The commission will also review several applications for Certificates of Appropriateness regarding property modifications and restorations.

• Workshop to discuss proposed HPC Rules of Procedure
• HPC-25-71: Roofing replacement at 107 Oakley Street
• HPC-25-67: Removal of existing shed and construction of a 12’x22’ shed at 308 Oakley Street
• HPC-25-68: Restoration work at 317 Willis Street
• HPC-25-69: Installation of two new signs at 401 Race Street

City Council

The City Commission will discuss legislative priorities and consider several new ordinances, including land use changes for the Gateway Subdistrict. The body will also review requests for community events and a proposal to name a public facility.

• Proposed sale of surplus property at 632 Douglas Street to Myisha Johnson for $225,000
• Ordinance to allow cafes, coffee shops, and personal services in the Downtown/Waterfront Development District – Gateway Subdistrict
• New health and sanitation ordinance regarding brush, weeds, and obnoxious growth
• Request for 'Christmas on Pine' event on December 13, 2025, in the 600 block of Pine Street
• Request for 'The Cambridge Classic Powerboat Regatta' at Gerry Boyle Park from May 22-24, 2026

Mayor’s Accessibility Committee

The Mayor’s Accessibility Committee will review and attach Resolution 2025-06 As Amended to the agenda. Members are encouraged to complete the Open Meetings Act training. The committee will vote to select a Co‑Chair and a Secretary. Additional reminders and member comments will be addressed.

• Review and attach Resolution 2025-06 As Amended
• Open Meetings Act (OMA) training recommendation
• Election of Committee Officers – vote for Co‑Chair and Secretary
• Reminder for members to sign into official City email accounts
• Committee Member Comments – discussion of future agenda items

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Cambridge Planning Commission will meet to consider two development proposals: a multi-family residential project on Sand Piper Trail and a commercial building addition to an auto body facility. The meeting will be held in-person at Council Chambers.

• PZCS/PS 25–0012: Multi-family residential approval on Sand Piper Trail
• PZCS 25–0013: Commercial building addition at Preston Auto Body
• Approval of September 2nd 2025 Planning Commission Minutes
• Approval of October 7th 2025 Planning Commission Minutes
• Public hearing optional for new business items

City Council

The City Commission will consider several ordinances to rezone properties and update the Unified Development Code. The body will also review requests for special event permits and a proposal for a video agreement.

• Rezoning of parcels on Roosevelt Avenue and Washington Street to Downtown/Waterfront Development District
• Proposed ordinance to permit community gardens in multiple zoning districts
• Proposed rules for recovery residences, assisted living, and group homes
• Special event requests for the Cambridge Ice and Oyster Festival and New Creations Marching Unit practices
• Resolution No. 25-13 to establish policies for invocations at City Council meetings

The council amended the agenda to add a mayoral accessibility meeting and a Roosevelt proclamation (5‑0). It approved a letter of support for planting about forty trees on Maryland Avenue (5‑0) and limited public‑hearing comments to three minutes for individuals and four minutes for organizations (5‑0). The consent agenda was approved unanimously (25‑0). Ordinances 1255, 1258 and 1256, which rezone multiple parcels and permit community gardens, were each adopted with a 5‑0 vote.

• Amended agenda to include accessibility meeting and Roosevelt proclamation (5‑0)
• Authorized city manager to sign tree‑planting support letter (5‑0)
• Limited public comment to 3 min per individual, 4 min per organization (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (25‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1255 rezoning three parcels (5‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1258 rezoning one parcel (5‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1256 permitting community gardens (5‑0)

City Council

The City Commissioners will hold a work session on October 20, 2025. The session includes a presentation on the Make Cambridge Resilient Initiative by Virginia “Ginny” Smith, AICP, Public Outreach Lead, and Larry White, P.E., Project Manager. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda. The meeting is open to the public and streamed online.

• Presentation on Make Cambridge Resilient Initiative by Virginia “Ginny” Smith (Public Outreach Lead) and Larry White (Project Manager)
• Work session convened by the Mayor

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will review several applications for exterior repairs and installations. The body is deciding on requests for window, door, and roofing replacements, as well as new fences and sheds.

• HPC-25-34: 821 Locust Street porch decking and fascia repair
• HPC-25-58: 206 Belvedere Avenue window replacement and removal
• HPC-25-61: 808 Locust Street new shed and constructed landscape
• HPC-25-62: 209 Choptank Avenue new roofing, gutters, and chimney work
• HPC-25-65: 217 West End Avenue window frame repair and front step replacement

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda, minutes, and five consent‑agenda items. It then approved, with conditions, three renovation applications (311 Mill St., 209 Choptank Ave., 205 Oakley) and recorded that the 217 West End Ave. application was withdrawn. The commission selected MAHDC training sessions for a $2,500 Maryland Historic Trust grant and formed a sub‑committee to plan a historic‑preservation recognition ceremony.

• Approved meeting agenda (6‑0)
• Approved amended minutes (6‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items for five properties (6‑0)
• Approved 311 Mill St. shed replacement with conditions (6‑0)
• Approved 209 Choptank Ave. roofing & chimney work with conditions (6‑0)
• Approved 205 Oakley attic window restoration with conditions (6‑0)
• Recorded withdrawal of 217 West End Ave. window/frame application (no vote)
• Formed sub‑committee (Crosby, Pawlek, Leifer, Hawk) to plan historic‑preservation recognition

Historic Preservation Commission

The Cambridge Historic Preservation Commission meeting will consider a consent agenda of routine repairs such as porch decking, window replacements, and fence installations. New business includes several renovation applications, including shed replacement, roof and gutter work, window frame repair, and attic window restoration. The commission will also discuss a training grant, rules of procedure, and recognize HPC award winners.

• HPC-25-60: 311 Mill Street – Replacement of Existing Shed
• HPC-25-62: 209 Choptank Avenue – New Roofing & Gutters, Chimney Work
• HPC-25-65: 217 West End Avenue – Window Frame Repair, Replace Front Steps
• HPC-25-66: 205 Oakley – Restore Former Attic Window
• HPC-25-60: 311 Mill Street – Replacement of Existing Shed

Police Advisory Board

The Police Advisory Board will receive a third-quarter report on positive and concerning trends from CPD staff. The meeting includes updates on CALEA accreditation, cadet hiring, and new mapping capabilities.

• CPD staff 3Q report on positive and concerning trends
• CALEA update and hiring updates from Capt. Hinson
• New mapping capabilities presentation by Sgt. Flynn
• Discussion of upcoming events and volunteer needs from Capt. Patton

The board reported that Evan Kozak was hired as the first cadet and a cadet coordinator was appointed. It also set a meeting date with the Sante Group to discuss mental‑health partnership, and directed that emails, IDs and press releases be shared with board members. Additional actions include making GPS mapping public after completion and improving communication channels with captains.

• Evan Kozak hired as first cadet
• Cadet coordinator appointed to oversee cadet position
• Meeting date set with Sante Group to discuss mental‑health partnership
• Emails and IDs to be made available to board members
• Press releases to be mailed to advisory board members
• Board members to have direct phone access to captains
• GPS mapping to be made public after working phase
• CLEA certification process continued, 95% compliance reported

Police Advisory Board

The Cambridge Police Advisory Board will meet on Oct 8, 2025. The board will hear opening remarks from Mayor Cephas Bey, a third‑quarter report on trends from CPD staff, updates on upcoming events and volunteer needs, a CALEA accreditation update with cadet hiring information, and a presentation on new mapping capabilities. No formal actions or votes are listed in the agenda. The meeting will conclude with an adjournment by the mayor.

• Third‑quarter report on positive and concerning trends (CPD staff)
• Upcoming events and volunteer recruitment presentation (Capt. Patton)
• CALEA accreditation update and cadet hiring discussion (Capt. Hinson)
• Hiring status update (Capt. Hinson)
• New mapping capabilities presentation (Sgt. Flynn)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Cambridge Planning and Zoning Commission will discuss a text amendment (PZT 25‑0010) to add café, coffee shop, commercial retail sales/service/repair, and personal services such as salons and barbershops as conditional uses in the Maryland Avenue "Gateway" subdistrict at 201 Maryland Avenue. The commission will also hear a request (PZCS/PS 25‑0011) from Dorchester County Council to install high‑performance LED lighting at the School Street Athletic Complex, which is zoned Residential Conservation. A rezoning application (PZRZMA 25‑0003) from Benito Lake to change lot 2089 from NC‑4 to DWDD‑Gen, aligning it with adjacent parcels, will be considered as well.

• PZT 25‑0010: Text amendment to add café, coffee shop, commercial retail sales/service/repair, and personal services (salons/barbershops) as conditional uses in the Maryland Avenue "Gateway" subdistrict (property at 201 Maryland Avenue).
• PZCS/PS 25‑0011: Dorchester County Council request to install high‑performance LED lighting at the School Street Athletic Complex (zoned Residential Conservation).
• PZRZMA 25‑0003: Rezoning request by Benito Lake to change lot 2089 from NC‑4 to DWDD‑Gen to match parcels 2088, 2091, and 2092.

City Council

The Cambridge City Commission will consider two zoning map amendments that rezone parcels on Roosevelt Avenue and Washington Street to the Downtown/Waterfront Development District. It will also act on a ground lease with Mace’s Lane BGC LLC, an amendment to the Douglas Street Homes Agreement, and a noise variance request for a Halloween Trunk‑or‑Treat event on Weaver Avenue. A closed session will address personnel matters for specific individuals.

• Ordinance No. 1258 – rezoning parcel 2089 at 4R Roosevelt Avenue from Neighborhood Conservation 4 to Downtown/Waterfront Development District (General)
• Ordinance No. 1255 – rezoning parcels 2088 (west side of Roosevelt Avenue) and 2091/2092 (803 & 805 Washington Street) to Downtown/Waterfront Development District (General)
• Ground Lease Agreement with Mace’s Lane BGC LLC
• Proposed amendment to the Douglas Street Homes Agreement (housing department update)
• Noise variance request for Halloween Trunk‑or‑Treat on Weaver Avenue, Oct. 31, 2025, 6‑8 pm

The council approved a 40‑year ground lease agreement for Mace’s Lane BGC LLC with two optional five‑year extensions, extending through 2065. Ordinance No. 1255 was deferred to the October 27 meeting, while a public hearing on the ordinance was held and then closed. The council also approved the consent agenda and added a closed‑session item for personnel and business matters.

• Approved entry into closed session (4-0)
• Deferred Ordinance No. 1255 to Oct 27 (3-2)
• Added closed‑session agenda item for personnel and business matters (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved public hearing on Ordinance No. 1255 (5-0)
• Closed public hearing on Ordinance No. 1255 (5-0)
• Adopted ground lease agreement for Mace’s Lane BGC LLC (5-0)
• No action taken on personnel evaluation discussion

City Council

The Cambridge City Council will consider a resolution authorizing $800,000 in Community Development Block Grant funding for Phase 3 renovations of the Mace’s Lane Community Center. The meeting also includes first‑reading ordinances amending the Unified Development Code to permit community gardens and various assisted‑living and group‑home uses, an extension of the temporary juvenile curfew, a noise‑variance request for the Boatyard Bash event, and a proposal to include a prayer at the start of council meetings.

• Resolution No. 25 authorizing $800,000 CDBG funding for Phase 3 renovations of Mace’s Lane Community Center
• Ordinance No. 1256 amending the Unified Development Code to permit community gardens in multiple zoning districts
• Ordinance No. 1257 amending the Unified Development Code to permit assisted‑living facilities, residential care homes, nursing care facilities, and group homes in specified districts
• Ordinance No. 1254 extending the temporary juvenile curfew for an additional 12 months
• Noise variance request for the “Boatyard Bash” event on October 4, 2025 at Richardson Maritime Museum, 103 Hayward Street

The council adopted Resolution 25‑12, authorizing an $800,000 Community Development Block Grant for Phase 3 renovations of the Mace’s Lane Community Center. It also approved a handicap parking space at 105 Aurora Street, adopted the temporary juvenile curfew ordinance, and authorized the mayor to sign a letter supporting a replacement fishing pier. All actions were approved by a 5‑0 vote.

• Adopted Resolution 25‑12 authorizing $800,000 CDBG for Mace’s Lane Community Center (5‑0)
• Approved installation of a handicapped parking space at 105 Aurora Street, pending written owner approval (5‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1254 extending the temporary juvenile curfew (5‑0)
• Authorized Mayor Lajan Cephas Bey to sign letter of support for a new Cambridge Harbor fishing pier (5‑0)
• Approved the agenda amendment to add discussion of the Aurora Street handicap parking item (5‑0)
• Adopted the Consent Agenda as presented (5‑0)

Traffic and Safety Committee

The Traffic & Safety Committee will receive updates on recent traffic demonstrations, the new complaint form process, and follow‑up on Hambrooks Centerline striping. It will hear the status of the Safe Streets for All grant, which has a consultant selected and a pending price range of $120,000–$200,000. The committee will also review the FY26 budget allocation of $80,000 for traffic and safety. A new item on Comprehensive Plan Light covers for the Cambridge Waterfront will be discussed.

• Traffic Demonstrations – update
• Traffic & Safety Complaint Form – update and review process
• Follow‑up on Hambrooks Centerline striping
• Safe Streets for All grant – consultant selected, pricing $120,000–$200,000 pending
• FY26 Traffic & Safety Committee budget – $80,000

The Traffic and Safety Committee decided to postpone the update of the Traffic & Safety Complaint Form (ChooseCambridge.com) until the October meeting. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded.

• Postponed Traffic & Safety Complaint Form update until October meeting

Historic Preservation Commission

The Cambridge Historic Preservation Commission will review consent agenda items, old business decisions, and new business applications for historic property alterations. Several applications are approved, while others are tabled until additional information is provided. The commission also discussed creating an awards program to recognize exemplary preservation projects.

• HPC-2025-39: 125 Willis Street – porch railing restoration tabled pending design details
• HPC-2025-41: 303 Glenburn Avenue – porch repairs approved
• HPC-2025-49: 311 Mill Street – shed construction approved
• HPC-2025-33: 212 West End Street – windows and doors replacement tabled pending installation details
• HPC-2025-45: 10 West End Street – siding, windows, restored porch, roof repair considered

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will consider a consent agenda item for a porch railing at 125 Willis Street and review an ongoing windows replacement at 212 West End Street. It will also evaluate seven new project applications that involve siding, windows, porch and roof repairs, in‑ground pools with decking, fencing, and a bathroom addition at various addresses.

• HPC-2025-45: 10 West End Street – siding, windows, restored porch, roof repair
• HPC-2025-48: 203 High Street – installation of an in‑ground swimming pool and related decking
• HPC-2025-52: 309 Belvedere Avenue – installation of an in‑ground pool, decking, and fencing
• HPC-2025-53: 806 Locust Street – first‑floor bathroom addition
• HPC-2025-55: 1000 Glasgow Street – front porch replacement

The commission approved applications for porch railing, window replacement, siding and roof repairs, pool installations, and other renovations. One application for window replacement was tabled pending a condition survey. All motions passed unanimously, with a 3‑0 vote on the Belvedere Avenue project due to a recusal.

• Approved 125 Willis Street porch railing (4-0)
• Approved 212 West End Street window replacement (4-0)
• Approved 10 West End Street siding, roof, fascia, soffit, and related repairs (4-0)
• Approved 203 High Street in‑ground swimming pool (4-0)
• Tabled 706 Locust Street windows replacement pending survey (4-0)
• Approved 1000 Glasgow Street porch decking replacement with 1x3 T&G Fir condition (4-0)
• Approved 705 Church Street porch decking and front door replacement with decking and lattice conditions (4-0)
• Approved 1110 Glasgow Street new potting shed (4-0)

City Council

The Cambridge City Council approved Charter Resolution CR-2025-01, changing the President of the Commissioners to be elected each year. The resolution passed with a 4-0-1 vote, with President Sputty Cephas abstaining. The council also approved an agenda amendment for a moment of prayer and the consent agenda, each by a 5-0 vote. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved agenda amendment to include a moment of prayer (5-0)
• Approved the consent agenda (5-0)
• Adopted Charter Resolution CR-2025-01 to elect the President annually (4-0-1)
• Moved charter resolution to public hearing (5-0)
• Closed public hearing on charter resolution (5-0)
• Conducted first reading of Ordinance No. 1255 (zoning map amendment); second reading set for Oct 6

City Council

The council approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda, each by a 5‑0 vote. It directed the City Manager to proceed with the Community Showcase Video Program contract, also approved 5‑0. The council awarded the Lead‑Safe Workforce Development Plan contract to Rivers and Roads Consulting and the Compensation and Classification Study contract to Management Advisory Group International, both by 5‑0 votes.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Approved Community Showcase Video Program contract (5-0)
• Awarded Lead‑Safe Workforce Development Plan contract to Rivers and Roads Consulting (5-0)
• Awarded Compensation and Classification Study contract to Management Advisory Group International (5-0)

Traffic and Safety Committee

The committee reviewed project updates, a draft FY26 budget of $80,000, and a Safe Streets for All grant pending final pricing. It also discussed a new traffic complaint form and noted lighting issues on Muir Street. No motions were voted on or approved.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the consent agenda and then denied the siding application for 207 Willis Street. It approved the full‑historic wood siding restoration at 104 Mill Street and the masonry and steel lintel repairs at 321 High Street. Two applications were tabled for more information, while porch repairs at 303 Glenburn Avenue and a shed at 311 Mill Street were approved.

• Consent agenda approved (4-0)
• HPC-2025-28-207 Willis Street siding denied (4-0)
• HPC-2025-38-104 Mill Street siding restoration approved (4-0)
• HPC-2025-43 321 High Street masonry and steel lintel repairs approved (3-0)
• HPC-2025-33 212 West End Street windows and doors tabled (4-0)
• HPC-2025-39 125 Willis Street porch railings and flooring tabled (4-0)
• HPC-2025-41 303 Glenburn Avenue porch repairs approved (4-0)
• HPC-2025-49 311 Mill Street shed approved (4-0)

City Council

The City Commission is reviewing an ordinance to create procedures for the receivership of blighted and vacant structures. The body will also consider the purchase of 3.964 acres at 1099 Maces Lane for $1.00 and a proposal for a violence prevention initiative in schools.

• Ordinance No. 1252: Creating receivership procedures to rehabilitate or demolish blighted and vacant structures
• Ordinance No. 1253: Purchase of 3.964 acres at 1099 Maces Lane for $1.00
• Charter Resolution CR-2025-01: Amending the charter to elect the President of the Commissioners annually
• Violence Prevention Initiative: Proposal from RTC Solutions LLC for school programs totaling $40,500
• Event requests: 'Revival' (Sept 6), 76th Annual Christmas Parade (Dec 6), and 'Mistletoe on Main' (Dec 7)

The council adopted Ordinance 1253, authorizing the city to purchase the 3.964‑acre parcel at 1099 Maces Lane for $1.00. It also approved a second amendment to the CDBG grant adding $800,000 for construction, and approved a parade route change for the Groove City Culture Fest. Additionally, the council adopted Ordinance 1252 on receivership of blighted properties, and authorized the start of paperwork to purchase a new fire truck.

• Adopted Ordinance 1253 to purchase 1099 Maces Lane property (4-0)
• Approved second amendment to CDBG grant adding $800,000 for construction (4-0)
• Approved parade route change for Groove City Culture Fest, Caribbean Carnival Parade (4-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 1252 establishing receivership procedures for blighted and vacant structures (4-0)
• Approved start of paperwork to purchase a new fire truck (4-0)
• Approved removal of Lead‑Safe Workforce Development Plan item from agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items including meeting minutes and event permits (4-0)
• Directed City Manager to prepare a 3–5‑year capital reinvestment forecast (4-0)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission adopted its agenda and the July 1 minutes unanimously. A proposed community‑garden amendment was tabled until September by a 6‑0 vote. The commission approved rezoning of parcels 2088, 2091, and 2092 to DWDD‑General by a 4‑0 vote (one abstention). The Tides at River Marsh amenity project was moved forward with a 6‑0 approval.

• Adopted agenda (6-0)
• Approved July 1 minutes (6-0)
• Tabled community‑garden amendment until September (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of parcels 2088, 2091, 2092 to DWDD‑General (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved motion to move Tides at River Marsh amenity project forward (6-0)
• Closed public hearing on community‑garden item (6-0)
• Closed public hearing on rezoning item (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Police Advisory Board

The board reviewed department divisions, crime statistics, upcoming goals, and accreditation plans. Members raised concerns about benches on Pine Street, traffic safety, and staffing challenges. The City Manager said he will consider alternatives to bench removal and will forward information about a homeless‑services nonprofit. No motions, votes, or approvals were documented.

City Council

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda. A motion to adopt the NLC Service Line Program Agreement was rejected 2‑3. The council directed the City Manager to issue a press release, approved a Shore Construction LLC sidewalk‑improvement bid, and established a Fire Engine Working Committee, each by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approve meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approve consent agenda (5-0)
• Reject NLC Service Line Program Agreement (2-3)
• Approve press release directive on code provisions (5-0)
• Approve Shore Construction LLC sidewalk improvement bid (5-0)
• Approve establishment of Fire Engine Working Committee (5-0)

Traffic and Safety Committee

The committee noted that a consultant was selected for the SS4A (Safe Streets for All) grant, with final pricing between $120,000 and $200,000 pending. The council approved the proposed traffic‑safety demonstration projects. The committee confirmed that George Hyde will not serve as interim engineer, limiting his role to specific projects. A draft FY26 Traffic & Safety budget of $80,000 and a new online complaint form were also presented.

• Consultant selected for SS4A (Safe Streets for All) Grant (pricing $120,000–$200,000 pending)
• Council approved traffic‑safety demonstration projects
• George Hyde not serving as Interim Engineer (limited to specific projects)
• Draft FY26 Traffic & Safety budget set at $80,000
• Add Traffic & Safety Complaint Form to CivicPlus website
• Correction needed for Hambrooks Blvd centerline striping

City Council

The council approved the meeting agenda (5‑0) and the consent agenda (5‑0). It adopted Ordinance 1249 exempting community solar projects from the 350‑acre limit, Ordinance 1250 deleting a 50‑foot setback requirement, and Ordinance 1251 permitting mixed‑use ground‑floor retail, with votes of 5‑0, 5‑0 and 4‑0‑1 respectively. The board accepted the staff recommendation to award the land‑bank contract to eProperty Innovations for $29,669 (5‑0) and authorized Sharon Real Estate and Property Shoppe to list Douglas Street homes with a 2.5% commission (5‑0).

• Approve meeting agenda (5‑0)
• Approve consent agenda (5‑0)
• Adopt Ordinance 1249 solar‑energy exemption (5‑0)
• Adopt Ordinance 1250 setback deletion (5‑0)
• Adopt Ordinance 1251 mixed‑use retail (4‑0‑1)
• Award land‑bank contract to eProperty Innovations, $29,669 (5‑0)
• Authorize Sharon Real Estate and Property Shoppe to list Douglas Street homes, 2.5% commission (5‑0)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The commission adopted its revised agenda and the June 3 minutes, each by a 5‑0 vote. It approved the preliminary item for Tony Akaras’s mixed‑use building, subject to City Council approval, also by a 5‑0 vote. The commission opened a public hearing on a community‑garden text amendment and later closed the hearing, both actions approved 5‑0. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Adopt revised agenda (5-0)
• Adopt June 3 minutes (5-0)
• Close public hearing on mixed‑use project (5-0)
• Approve preliminary item for mixed‑use building (5-0)
• Open public hearing on community‑garden amendment (5-0)
• Close public hearing on community‑garden comments (5-0)
• Adjourn meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council adopted the traffic‑calming project list and directed staff to formalize the demonstration process (5‑0). It approved a memorandum of understanding amendment that records $88,000 already provided and adds $112,000 for FY26 construction of the Tubman Pavilion (5‑0). The council also adopted Resolution No. 25‑11 to amend the Cambridge Waterfront Development, Inc. bylaws (5‑0), approved the auction of surplus police and fire equipment (5‑0), and approved a letter of intent for the Maces Lane Community Center and Boys & Girls Club property purchase (5‑0).

• Adopted traffic‑calming project list and tasked staff to formalize demonstration process (5‑0)
• Approved MOU amendment adding $112,000 FY26 funding for Tubman Pavilion, noting $88,000 previously provided (5‑0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 25‑11 amending CWDI bylaws for consistency with state filing (5‑0)
• Declared police and fire equipment surplus and authorized auction through proper process (5‑0)
• Approved and adopted letter of intent for Maces Lane Community Center and Boys & Girls Club property purchase (5‑0)

City Council

The council removed agenda item No. 17 and adopted the amended agenda (4‑0). The consent agenda and a motion to send the FY 2026 budget to a public hearing were approved (both 4‑0). Commissioners approved a title change to "tenant advocate" and kept $25,000 for the homelessness initiative in the budget (each 4‑0). A motion to add $190,000 to the police department budget without cutting other allocations passed (4‑0), while a motion to defer approval of the FY 2026 budget failed 2‑3.

• Approved removal of agenda item No. 17 (4‑0)
• Adopted amended agenda (4‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (4‑0)
• Sent FY 2026 budget to public hearing (4‑0)
• Changed title from housing advocate to tenant advocate (4‑0)
• Kept $25,000 homelessness line item in budget (4‑0)
• Approved $190,000 additional CPD funding without cutting other items (4‑0)
• Motion to defer FY 2026 budget approval failed (2‑3)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission adopted the May 15 minutes (7‑0). It approved a text amendment that permits first‑floor commercial or residential uses behind retail, provided they are set at least 40 feet back, in the rear of Core, General, or Center‑zoned buildings in the Downtown/Waterfront Development District (7‑0). The commission also voted 7‑0 to close the public hearing on the amendment and to adjourn the meeting.

• Approved May 15 minutes (7-0)
• Closed public hearing on text amendment (7-0)
• Approved text amendment allowing rear commercial/residential uses (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

City Council

The council approved moving into a closed session to discuss personnel and property matters. After discussion, they directed the city attorney and manager, together with Commissioners Summers and Lewis‑Sisco, to draft a letter of intent for the Maces Lane Community Center and the Boys & Girls Club, to be returned for a vote on June 9. The meeting was then reconvened in open session and adjourned.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (5-0)
• Approved motion to reconvene in open session (5-0)
• Directed city attorney and manager with Commissioners Summers and Lewis‑Sisco to develop a letter of intent for Maces Lane Community Center and Boys & Girls Club, to be brought back for a vote at the June 9 meeting (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (5-0)

City Council

The council approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda unanimously. After a closed session, they appointed Bernard Berthwhite as a member of the CWDI board by a 5‑0 vote. The session was then reconvened in open session and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Appointed Bernard Berthwhite to the CWDI board (5-0)
• Reopened session after closed session (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously (6‑0) to forward a text amendment exempting community solar from the city’s 350‑acre solar cap to City Council with a recommendation of approval. It also voted unanimously (6‑0) to forward a text amendment removing the 50‑foot building setback on Route 50 parcels in certain zoning districts to City Council with a recommendation of approval. The commission asked staff to research the 2017 Ordinance 1099 regarding rear‑floor residential use in downtown core zones. Members expressed a desire to approve the conceptual stage of a mixed‑use building proposal at 527 Poplar Street.

• Forwarded community solar cap exemption amendment to City Council (recommended approval) – vote 6-0
• Forwarded Route 50 setback removal amendment to City Council (recommended approval) – vote 6-0
• Requested staff research 2017 Ordinance 1099 on rear‑floor residential use
• Stated desire to approve Conceptual Stage for mixed‑use building at 527 Poplar Street

City Council

The council approved the award of the Safe Streets For All (SS4A) construction contract to Mead and Hunt, Inc. and adopted a tax abatement and refund for CWDI Holdings, LLC. It also approved CDBG down‑payment assistance, surplus city equipment for auction, a memorandum of understanding for the Mill Street property, and a letter of support for the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy.

• Approved Safe Streets For All (SS4A) construction contract to Mead and Hunt, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 25‑10 granting tax abatement and refund of $19,773.23 to CWDI Holdings, LLC (5-0)
• Approved CDBG down‑payment assistance (5-0)
• Approved surplus city equipment to be auctioned (5-0)
• Approved memorandum of understanding for Mill Street property (5-0)
• Approved letter of support for Eastern Shore Land Conservancy (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)

City Council

The Cambridge City Council voted 5‑0 to hold a closed session at 6:02 p.m. to discuss personnel issues. It later voted 5‑0 to reconvene in open session, then again approved a second closed session at 7:35 p.m., and finally voted 5‑0 to adjourn the meeting at 8:51 p.m. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved closed session to discuss personnel matters (5-0)
• Approved reconvening in open session (5-0)
• Approved second closed session to discuss personnel matters (5-0)
• Approved reconvening in open session again (5-0)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (5-0)

City Council

The Cambridge City Council approved a two‑minute limit on public comments (4‑1) and adopted the consent agenda for multiple park events (5‑0). It also approved Ordinance No. 1245 to purchase a 1‑acre parcel at 201 Mill Street for $177,500 (5‑0), adopted Resolution 25‑08 requesting a roundabout at MD Route 16 and Stone Boundary Road (5‑0), and adopted Resolution 25‑09 asking Dorchester County to create a tax‑differential model for Cambridge property owners (5‑0). Additional approvals included the 2nd Saturdays Main Street program, a sidewalk chalk contest, and a closed‑session discussion of personnel and litigation matters (all 5‑0).

• Limit public comment to two minutes (4‑1)
• Adopt consent agenda for park events (5‑0)
• Approve Ordinance No.1245 to purchase 1‑acre parcel at 201 Mill Street for $177,500 (5‑0)
• Adopt Resolution 25‑08 requesting roundabout at MD Route 16 & Stone Boundary Road (5‑0)
• Adopt Resolution 25‑09 requesting county tax‑differential model for Cambridge owners (5‑0)
• Approve 2nd Saturdays on Main Street program (5‑0)
• Approve sidewalk chalk coloring contest at Cambridge Yacht Basin (5‑0)
• Approve closed‑session motion on personnel, property acquisition, and litigation (5‑0)

City Council

The council approved the award of the Cannery Park Phase 1B contract to David A. Bramble, Inc. by a 4‑0‑1 vote (President abstaining). It also adopted Resolution 25‑07 directing the City Manager to analyze human‑resources capabilities and expand the candidate search, passing 3‑2. Additionally, the consent agenda and several agenda amendments were approved unanimously, and the consent agenda approval was deferred to the April 28 meeting.

• Amended consent agenda (move item 2 to Old Business, item 5 to New Business) approved 5‑0
• Add legal counsel consult under Closed Session sections 7 and 8 approved 5‑0 each
• Approve amended agenda approved 5‑0
• Approve consent agenda approved 5‑0
• Strip discussion topic 1 under Closed Session (Mar 24) approved 5‑0
• Defer consent agenda approval to April 28 meeting approved 5‑0
• Adopt Resolution 25‑07 (human‑resources analysis) approved 3‑2
• Award Cannery Park Phase 1B contract to David A. Bramble, Inc. approved 4‑0‑1

City Council

The council approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, each by a 5‑0 vote. Ordinance No. 1245 for the purchase of a parcel at 201 Mill Street received its first reading, and a second reading and public hearing were scheduled for April 28, 2025. The council adopted Resolution 25‑03, creating a Human Resources Generalist position, also by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (5‑0)
• First reading of Ordinance 1245 for 201 Mill Street purchase
• Second reading and public hearing set for Ordinance 1245 on April 28, 2025
• Adopted Resolution 25‑03 creating HR Generalist position (5‑0)