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City of Cambridge
Council Meeting Minutes, Regular Session
Council Chambers – 305 Gay Street
January 26, 2026, 6:00 PM (February 2, 2026)
Administrative Note: The meeting that was set for Monday, January 26, 2026, was cancelled due to inclement
weather. The meeting has been rescheduled and will now be held on Monday, February 2, 2026.
Council Present: Mayor Lajan Cephas Bey
Commissioner Shay Lewis-Sisco – Ward Two
Commissioner Frank Stout- Ward Three
Commissioner Sputty Cephas, Commission President, Ward Four
Commissioner Brian Roche- Ward Five
Absent: Commissioner Brett Summers – Ward One
Also Present: City Manager Glenn Steckman
Assistant City Manager Brandon Hesson
City Attorney Patrick Thomas
Chief of Police Justin Todd
Finance Director Perry Peregoy
Director of Planning Brian Herrmann
I.T. Manager Dale Price
Public Information Officer Talibah Chikwendu
Housing Programs Manager Ed Crosby
Invocation was delivered by Rev. Dr. Yvonne Penn. Pledge of Allegiance was led by
Commissioner Stout.
Mayor Lajan Cephas Bey stated for the record that Commissioner Summers was not present
for the meeting, and Commissioner Lewis-Sisco had not yet arrived. The Mayor noted that a
quorum was established, and the Council proceeded with City business. Commissioner
Lewis-Sisco had not yet arrived. The Mayor again noted that a quorum was established, and
the Council proceeded with City business.
Agenda
City Manager Glenn Steckman requested that Council remove Item No. 8, “Appointment of
Lobbyist,” and Item No. 9, “Cambridge Resilience Initiative Presentation (Informational
Purposes Only),” from the New Business section of the agenda.
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Commission President Sputty Cephas made a motion to remove Agenda Items No. 8 and 9
at the recommendation of the City Manager. The motion was seconded by Commissioner
Roche. The motion passed with a 3–0 vote. Please note: Commissioner Lewis-Sisco entered
the meeting during this vote.
Commission President Sputty Cephas made a motion to add, under Item No. 12 (Closed
Session), Md. Code Ann., § 3-305(b)(1) a discussion of personnel matters involving specific
individuals under the City Council’s jurisdiction. The motion was seconded by Commissioner
Stout and approved by a 4–0 vote.
Commission President Sputty Cephas then made a motion to adopt the amended agenda as
presented. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Roche and approved by a 4–0 vote.
Presentations from the Approved Guests
LaKesha Graves, Presentation Topic: Violence in the School System
Ms. Graves delivered a PowerPoint presentation on incidents of school-related violence
occurring outside of school and impacting the broader community. She also spoke about the
recent violent incident involving herself and her daughters. Ms. Graves informed the Council
that she plans to place her home on the market and relocate from Cambridge. The floor was
then opened for Council members to offer comments. Council thanked Mrs. Graves for
attending and sharing her concerns.
Consent Agenda
Harvey Hill, Event Coordinator for Zion Baptist Church, is seeking to hold “Zion Baptist
Church Community Day” on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 12:00 Noon to 5:00 p.m. at
600 Cross Street. The request includes a road closure on Pine Street from Cross Street to
Cedar Street, to occur from 11:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Please see map and application for
additional details.
Deborah Beverly-Pugh, Families of Smithville Road, Inc., is seeking to hold “Families of
Smithville Road Music Festival” on Saturday, July 11, 2026, and Sunday, July 12, 2026, from
6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Gerry Boyle Park at Great Marsh. The request includes use of the
park, road closure, city services, and noise variance. Event setup would begin Thursday, July
9, 2026, with breakdown concluding Monday, July 13, 2026. Additional details are included in
the attached application and site map.
Commissioner Lewis-Sisco made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda. The motion was
seconded by Commission President Sputty Cephas. The motion passed with a 4–0 vote.
Ordinances for First Reading
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City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
Regular Session, January 26, 2026 (February 2, 2026)

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ORDINANCE NO. 1264 AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMISSIONERS OF
CAMBRIDGE, MARYLAND FOR THE PURPOSES OF AMENDING CHAPTER 4
(BUILDINGS AND HOUSING), ARTICLE II (PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE),
§ 4-42 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CAMBRIDGE, MARYLAND FOR THE
PURPOSES OF PROVIDING FOR INSPECTIONS OF NON-OWNER OCCUPIED
RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNITS AND FEES THEREFOR AND AMENDING
CERTAIN PROVISIONS PERTAINING TO THE REGISTRATION OF NON-
OWNER OCCUPIED RESIDENTIAL DWELLING UNITS; PROVIDING THAT THE
TITLE OF THIS ORDINANCE SHALL BE DEEMED A FAIR SUMMARY AND
GENERALLY RELATING TO NON-OWNER OCCUPIED RESIDENTIAL
DWELLING UNITS IN THE CITY OF CAMBRIDGE.
Ordinance No. 1264 was ready for First Reading by City Attorney Patrick Thomas.
Assistant City Manager Brandon Hesson provided an overview of the ordinance. There was
some discussion around the ordinance which Assistant City Manager Brandon Hesson
answered. City Manager Glenn Steckman also made remarks. Second Reading and Public
hearing is set for March 9, 2026.
Ordinances for Second Reading- None
Old Business- None
New Business
CDBG MD-22 Fund Amendment for Douglas to High Street Sidewalks
Housing Programs Manager Ed Crosby stated that the Housing Department is requesting
approval to reprogram $289,307.05 in unspent funds from the remaining $506,323 in CDBG
MD-22 funding. The Department proposes reallocating these funds to the infrastructure
budget line to construct safe sidewalk pathways from Douglas Street to High Street. He noted
that DHCD requires a written request from the City for this action, and DHCD has confirmed
that Council approval of this item will satisfy that requirement.
Commissioner Lewis-Sisco made a motion to approve the reprogramming of $289,307.05 in
unspent funds from the remaining $506,323 in CDBG MD22 funding to the infrastructure
budget line for the construction of safe sidewalk pathways from Douglas Street to High Street.
The motion was seconded by Commissioner Stout. The floor was then opened for discussion.
The motion was approved with a 4-0 vote.
Resolution 26-01, Council Policy Goals
Special Projects Coordinator Cheryl Hannan was not present but provided a written report.
In 2025, the City conducted three strategic planning sessions to establish policy goals and
overall direction for the City of Cambridge. A joint March session with the City Council and
City Leadership Staff identified broad goal areas and potential projects, followed by an
October session in which City Leadership refined Citywide and departmental priorities. These
results were presented to the Council during a December work session for further refinement.
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The resolution presented this evening memorializes these efforts and provides a shared
roadmap for Council and City Leadership as the budget process begins, with City Staff
identifying projects and capital investments that align with the adopted policy goals. Mr.
Steckman also gave an overview of departmental priorities.
Commissioner Lewis-Sisco made a motion to adopt Resolution No. 26-01. The motion was
seconded by Commission President Sputty Cephas. The floor was opened for discussion.
Commissioner Lewis-Sisco asked several questions regarding CALEA, which were addressed
by City Manager Steckman, who also provided additional remarks. The motion passed by a
vote of 4–0.
Appointment of Lobbyist
Cambridge Resilience Initiative Presentation, Informational Purposes Only
Presentation Topic, DNR Risk Assessment Methodology
Speakers: Carrie Decker, Section Chief Community Partnerships in Restoration, Watershed and Climate
Services and Dylan Tallie, Senior Coastal Analyst, Department of Natural Resources
Presentation Topic, Flood Mitigation Project, Phase I Design Permitting Process
Speakers: Anna Johnson, P.E. Project Engineer, Bayland Consultants and Designers and Ginny Smith,
AICP Smith Planning & Design (Virtual)
Presentation Topic, Flood Mitigation Project Update and MDE Stormwater Flood
Mitigation Project
Speaker: Larry White, P.E. Make Cambridge Resilient Project Manager
Meetings
Planning & Zoning meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Council
Chambers, 305 Gay Street, Cambridge, MD 21613
Mayor’s Accessibility Committee Meeting will be held on Thursday February 5, 2026, 6 p.m.
at Council Chambers, 305 Gay Street Cambridge, Maryland 21613
City Council Regular Meeting – February 9, 2026, 6 p.m. at Council Chambers, 305 Gay Street
Cambridge, Maryland 21613
Historic Preservation meeting will be held on Wednesday February 18, 2026, 6 p.m. at Council
Chambers, 305 Gay Street Cambridge, Maryland 21613
Traffic & Safety meeting will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 1 p.m. (Virtual
Meeting) Join the meeting now Open to the Public.
CWDI Board Meeting will be held on Thursday February 19, 2026, at 4 p.m. at Council
Chambers, 305 Gay Street Cambridge, Maryland 21613
Public Comment
Ms. Alison Kennedy (Garden Lane) called in to provide comments regarding Mrs. Graves’
presentation. Ms. Kennedy noted that when her children previously attended a school in a
neighboring state, the school system had jurisdiction over bus stops and responded promptly
when issues arose. She emphasized the importance of having support and timely intervention.
Ms. Kennedy stated that ongoing conversations with the State are positive, but reminded the
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Council not to overlook the County, as it also holds jurisdiction in this matter and may be able
to offer assistance.
City Manager Comments
City Manager Glenn Steckman stated that his written report was included in the meeting
materials. He expressed his appreciation to the Department of Public Works, the Cambridge
Police Department, and Rescue Fire Company for their efforts during the recent snow event.
He noted that overall the City received very few complaints from residents. He also
commended Public Information Officer Talibah Chikwendu for ensuring timely and effective
communication throughout the storm. Mr. Steckman remarked that the severity of the storm
was something many residents had not experienced in decades, adding humorously that “it
feels like Nome outside.” He shared that he fell twice this week due to the weather. He
reported that the City exhausted its salt supply during the storm response but has since begun
restocking in preparation for future weather events. Several pieces of equipment experienced
breakdowns, and staff will be reviewing response operations to identify areas for
improvement. He emphasized that the City’s overall performance during this storm was due
in large part to Council’s prior support in updating and expanding snow-removal equipment,
including outfitting smaller trucks with plows. This investment allowed staff to reach smaller
roads that cannot accommodate larger dump trucks.
Mr. Steckman also acknowledged the Mayor’s efforts in securing $3 million in the Governor’s
budget for bridge repairs and improvements near the Hyatt, which will support future
residential development. He additionally noted that the Mayor helped obtain funds for
removal of the old pier, a critical first step toward its eventual replacement. Finally, he reported
that the City is currently conducting interviews for the Tenant Advocate position and is
hopeful it will soon finalize the hiring of a new City Engineer as well.
CPD, End of the Year Report, Informational Purposes Only
Police Chief Justin Todd stated that there were two homicides in 2025, both occurring in June
and resolved by arrest. There was also one fatal officer-involved shooting in September
involving an individual experiencing a severe mental health crisis. Overall crime in 2025
decreased by 11.9% compared to 2024. Violent crime declined by 9.2%, sex crimes by 40%,
and property crime by 7.5%. The Criminal Investigations Division achieved an 82.4%
clearance rate, including both homicide cases. Officers responded to 60 overdoses, with 4
fatalities. Narcan was administered 58 times, with 57 successful reversals. The department
recovered 51 firearms, and ShotSpotter alerts were significantly reduced.
The Drone Unit became fully operational in late summer and conducted deployments for
surveillance, suspect searches, crime scene photography, traffic enforcement, and various
critical incidents and community events.
The Administrative Division processed 331 arrest warrants, 209 criminal summons, 281
protective orders, and 93 additional court orders. The department hired its first cadet and
plans to recruit another. Looking ahead to 2026, the department will continue focusing on
“Patrolling with Purpose” and Community Oriented Policing, emphasizing communication,
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Regular Session, January 26, 2026 (February 2, 2026)

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collaboration with allied agencies, and youth engagement. Leadership support from the Mayor,
Council, City Manager, and staff contributed significantly to the department’s continued
progress. The Council thanked Chief Todd for his and his staff's work.
Mayor and Commissioners’ Comments
Commissioner Lewis-Sisco (Ward Two) stated that it was good to see some of her
constituents present at the meeting. She wished Ms. Goldie a happy belated birthday, noting
that Ms. Goldie continues to do wonderful work with New Beginnings. Commissioner Lewis-
Sisco added that Ms. Goldie regularly attends Council meetings in support, even when she
does not speak. She also recognized and welcomed Jayla Elise, who was present at the meeting.
Commissioner Lewis-Sisco thanked the Cambridge Police Department for their excellent
work, as well as Brian Hermann, Dean Gunderson, and Able City for their efforts with the
comprehensive plan process. She announced that the Spring Clean-Up for Ward 2 will be held
March 23–26. She also thanked the Department of Public Works for their work during the
snowstorm.
Commissioner Stout (Ward Three) thanked the Cambridge Police Department for its hard
work. He echoed the sentiments expressed by City Manager Glenn Steckman, noting that the
statement was “very well said.” Commissioner Stout emphasized that the success of City
operations is the result of an all departments, all hands-on deck effort and commended staff
for their teamwork.
Commission President Sputty Cephas (Ward Four) echoed the positive comments regarding
the Department of Public Works, noting that he did not receive any complaints and that the
team did an excellent job. He added that he was not out on the roads. He also shared that his
parents, who are also Mayor Lajan Cephas Bey’s parents, recently celebrated their 40th
wedding anniversary. Commission President Cephas concluded by expressing his appreciation
to all City staff for their continued hard work and dedication.
Commissioner Roche (Ward Five) stated that he normally would not mention snow plowing;
however, this recent storm was particularly challenging due to the significant ice. He reported
that he contacted the State Highway Administration to request clearing the walkway along the
bridge. Although a crew responded, the passage they created was very narrow and insufficient.
He noted that even the drawbridge attendant did not have a safe route to access the portable
restroom. Commissioner Roche stated that he reached out again to the State Highway
Administration and was disappointed with the response he received. The Department of
Public Works conducted a full force effort to clear the sidewalk. He commended DPW for
doing a fantastic job and thanked both Mr. Steckman and the Department of Public Works
for their work.
Mayor Lajan Cephas Bey commended Calvin Johnson for his exceptional coordination of
snowplowing operations, noting that she did not receive a single complaint. She remarked that
she expected her Facebook Messenger to be active with concerns but was pleasantly surprised.
She expressed appreciation to Mr. Suggs, Mr. Johnson, and the Department of Public Works
for their hard work throughout the storm response.
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Mayor Cephas Bey reported that she and Cindy Dillon recently hosted a screening of the film
Plastic People: The Hidden Crisis of Microplastics at the Hyatt, calling the event “amazing.” She also
attended the Boys and Girls Club Legislative Breakfast, an early morning event, with
Commission President Sputty Cephas also in attendance. The Mayor additionally recognized
Jayla Elise for her work on a proposed state song for Maryland, noting the passion behind the
piece. She stated that this is why she previously invited Ms. Elise to present at a Council
meeting and expressed hope and confidence that the song will become the Maryland State
Song.
A motion was made by Commissioner Lewis-Sisco to enter into Closed Session pursuant to
Md. Code Ann., § 3305(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters involving specific individuals under
the City Council’s jurisdiction, and § 3305(b)(14) to discuss matters directly related to
negotiating strategy or the contents of a bid or proposal prior to contract award or bid opening,
where public disclosure would adversely impact the public body’s ability to participate in the
competitive bidding process. The motion was seconded by Commission President Sputty
Cephas and was approved by a vote of 4–0.
Council went into closed session at approximately 7:31 p.m.
Closed Session
The Mayor, Commissioners, City Manager Glenn Steckman, Assistant City Manager
Brandon Hesson, and the City Attorney were present for the entirety of the closed session.
Commissioner Summers was absent. A department head whose participation was essential
to the discussion was also in attendance during the session. Their name and title have been
omitted to preserve confidentiality regarding personnel matters.
The following were discussed during the closed session:
1. Personnel matters involving specific identifiable individuals.
2. Discussion of negotiating strategy and contract-related matters prior to contract award,
as permitted under GP §3-305(b)(14).
Action Taken:
None
Reconvene in Open Session
Council reconvened in open session at approximately 8:23 p.m.
Mayor Lajan Cephas Bey stated that Council was in Closed Session pursuant to Md. Code
Ann., § 3305(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters involving specific individuals under the
City Council’s jurisdiction, and § 3305(b)(14) to discuss matters directly related to
negotiating strategy or the contents of a bid or proposal prior to contract award or bid
opening, where public disclosure would adversely impact the public body’s ability to
participate in the competitive bidding process.
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Regular Session, January 26, 2026 (February 2, 2026)

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Adjourn
On a motion by Commission President Sputty Cephas and a second by Commissioner Roche,
the meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:24 p.m. Approved by a 4-0 vote.
With no further business, Mayor Lajan Cephas Bey adjourned the meeting at 8:24 p.m.
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and accurate account of the Council Meeting on
Monday, (January 26, 2026) February 2, 2026, insofar as I am personally aware.
Lajan Cephas Bey
____________________________________
Lajan Cephas Bey (Mar 10, 2026 09:16:27 EDT)
Mayor
Lajan Cephas Bey
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City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
Regular Session, January 26, 2026 (February 2, 2026)

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4a. Meeting Minutes January 26 -February 2,
2026
Final Audit Report 2026-03-10
Created: 2026-03-10
By: Tyasia Johnson (tjohnson@choosecambridge.com)
Status: Signed
Transaction ID: CBJCHBCAABAACU7-lff4u3ocO1Dj5p_hSiDpsOeEEvTc
"4a. Meeting Minutes January 26 -February 2, 2026" History
Document created by Tyasia Johnson (tjohnson@choosecambridge.com)
2026-03-10 - 11:44:43 AM GMT
Document emailed to Lajan Cephas Bey (lcephas@choosecambridge.com) for signature
2026-03-10 - 11:44:47 AM GMT
Email viewed by Lajan Cephas Bey (lcephas@choosecambridge.com)
2026-03-10 - 12:35:04 PM GMT
Document e-signed by Lajan Cephas Bey (lcephas@choosecambridge.com)
Signature Date: 2026-03-10 - 1:16:27 PM GMT - Time Source: server
Agreement completed.
2026-03-10 - 1:16:27 PM GMT