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POR 2026-143 · Agenda item attachment · Aug 3 2026
That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to explore options for reforming and modernizing the License Commission, including through the home rule petition process.
POR 2026-143
FIRST IN COUNCIL
August 3, 2026
City of Cambridge
MAYOR SIDDIQUI
COUNCILLOR NOLAN
COUNCILLOR MCGOVERN
COUNCILLOR FLAHERTY
WHEREAS:
After confusion around a preliminary working draft of proposed changes to the
Cambridge alcohol regulations, the City Council filed POR 2026 #124, requesting a
clear engagement process with stakeholders to help reduce barriers and ensure the
City’s licensing framework is as efficient and accessible as possible; and
WHEREAS:
During Council discussion, several recommendations were suggested including
structural reforms to the Cambridge License Commission to modernize and improve
its functions in supporting City staff; and
WHEREAS:
Several limitations exist in reforming the License Commission, which was established
by state law, passed in the Special Acts of 1919, amended by Chapter 95 of the Acts
of 1922, and further amended by Chapter 84 of the Acts of 1949, and modernizing the
Cambridge License Commission will likely require a home rule petition; and
WHEREAS:
The structure of Cambridge’s License Commission is unusual among Massachusetts
municipalities and as it was established over a century ago, its composition should be
reviewed to ensure alignment with modern standards and best practices; and
WHEREAS:
The City Council should consider opportunities to modernize the License
Commission carefully and meet to discuss priorities, membership composition, and
the impacts on the function of the License Commission; now therefore be it
ORDERED:
That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work with relevant City
departments to explore options for reforming and modernizing the License
Commission, including through the home rule petition process; and be it further
ORDERED:
That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the Economic
Development and University Relations Committee of the City Council in a timely
manner.
A true copy;
ATTEST:-
Paula M. Crane,
Interim City Clerk
City of Cambridge
That the City Manager is requested to work with relevant City departments to explore options for
reforming and modernizing the License Commission, including through the home rule petition process.