Cambridge Council Hears Calls for Overdose Centers, Citywide Housing Zoning Reform

CAMBRIDGE — May 13, 2024 — Cambridge City Council spends two-plus hours on overdose prevention centers and citywide multifamily zoning at May 13 meeting. More than 32 speakers signed up for public comment, with physicians, harm reduction workers, and bereaved family members urging support for Policy Order No. 2 on overdose prevention centers, citing 2,359 opioid deaths in Massachusetts in 2023 and citing proven results in New York City and globally. Policy Order No. 1, directing the Community Development Department to draft citywide multifamily zoning language, drew sharply divided testimony, with supporters pointing to a 75 percent drop in permitted housing units last year and opponents warning the proposal lacks anti-displacement guardrails and meaningful affordability for households below 50 percent of area median income. The council voted 8-0 to approve three consent-agenda appropriations, with Councilor Siddiqui excused, and also confirmed a 14-member Dennehy Park Improvement Plan Working Group after Councilor Nolan cautioned the group that capital funding constraints may limit the scope of any redesign.