That the City Manager is requested to confer with relevant City staff to review City ordinances regulating the operation of food vendors in City parks.

POR 2026-96 FIRST IN COUNCIL May 4, 2026 City of Cambridge COUNCILLOR SOBRINHO-WHEELER COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN VICE MAYOR AZEEM MAYOR SIDDIQUI COUNCILLOR NOLAN COUNCILLOR AL-ZUBI WHEREAS: Supporting small and local businesses is a key priority for the City of Cambridge, and allowing food vendors in city parks would provide new low-barrier economic opportunities for entrepreneurs, including immigrant-owned and family-run businesses; and WHEREAS: Food vending in public parks has been successfully implemented in nearby municipalities, including Boston, where vendors operating in Boston Common offer a range of options such as pastries, coffee, and diverse street food, contributing to a vibrant and welcoming public space; and WHEREAS: These vendors enhance park usage by providing convenient food access for residents and visitors, activating public space, and contributing to the overall vitality of the park and city; and WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge’s current municipal code prohibits the operation of food vendors in city parks, limiting opportunities to activate these public spaces and support local economic activity; and WHEREAS: Allowing regulated food vending in Cambridge parks could be implemented in a manner that ensures public health, safety, accessibility, and equitable access to vending opportunities; and WHEREAS: Expanding allowable uses in city parks aligns with broader City goals of supporting small businesses, enhancing public space, and fostering community; now therefore be it

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to confer with relevant City staff to review City ordinances regulating the operation of food vendors in City parks; and be it further ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council with policy options, including any relevant ordinance language updates, for review and consideration by the City Council and its committees and further engagement with local small businesses, community organizations, and relevant stakeholders in a timely manner. In City Council May 4, 2026. Adopted as Amended by a yea and nay vote:- Yeas 9; Nays 0; Absent 0.- Attest:- Paula M. Crane, Interim City Clerk A true copy; ATTEST:- Paula M. Crane Interim City Clerk