Cambridge Council backs HEART funding order 7-1-1, ordains green jobs ordinance

CAMBRIDGE — March 20, 2023 — Cambridge City Council voted 7-1-1 Monday to direct the city manager to distribute ARPA funds to Cambridge HEART and contract with the alternative emergency response organization to answer certain 911 calls beginning in fall 2023. Councilor Patricia Nolan amended the original policy order to clarify the ARPA funding mechanism and set a fall 2023 target, with the full amended order passing over the lone dissent of Councilor Paul Toner, who said he preferred an open request for proposals, while Councilor E. Denise Simmons voted present. The council voted 9-0 to adopt a policy order supporting Starlight Square in Central Square, directing the city manager to work with the Central Square Business Improvement District on a license agreement and direct financial support; a related outdoor-use zoning petition was referred to the Ordinance Committee and Planning Board. The council also placed on file a $1,080,000 annual contract with the Salvation Army to keep its Cambridge shelter and daytime program open through June 30, with full-year funding expected in the fiscal year 2024 budget, and ordained the green jobs ordinance 9-0. Sponsors of a real estate transfer fee policy order said state enabling legislation could yield $23 million annually for affordable housing in Cambridge.