A communication from Mayor Siddiqui transmitting a memorandum regarding the search process for a permanent City Clerk.

To: Cambridge City Council From: Sumbul Siddiqui, Mayor Date: May 14, 2026 Subject: Communicating information regarding the search process for a permanent City Clerk OFFICE OF THE MAYOR Sumbul Siddiqui Mayor (2020-21, 2022-23, 2026-27) To the Honorable, the City Council, I write to provide an update on the search process for the next City Clerk. Following the Council’s prior extension of the interim appointment, a second recruitment effort was undertaken to identify candidates for consideration by the full City Council. While the search yielded qualified applicants, several candidates withdrew from consideration throughout the process, resulting in fewer than the two candidates necessary to advance finalists to the full City Council for consideration. As the Council considers next steps regarding the recruitment and appointment process, it is important that the City maintains continuity and stability in the operations of the Clerk’s Office. Interim City Clerk Paula Crane has continued to provide steady leadership and institutional knowledge during this period of transition. I therefore recommend that the City Council extend Ms. Crane’s interim appointment for an additional period not to exceed six months. Sincerely, Sumbul Siddiqui Mayor of Cambridge (2020-21, 2022-23, 2026-27)