Catherine Zusy
2025 Candidate for Cambridge City Council

Home address:
202 Hamilton St.
Cambridge, MA 02139

Contact information:
email: cathie@votezusy.org
phone: 617-460-2716
website: www.VoteZusy.org

Send contributions to:
Zusy for Council
℅ Treasurer Mara Goldberg
172 Chestnut St.
Cambridge, MA 02139

Aug 24, 2025

For more than 25 years, I have dedicated myself to building community in Cambridge – revitalizing parks, preserving our historic places, supporting the arts, and bringing neighbors together. That work led me to the City Council, where I now serve with the same commitment to careful listening, thoughtful leadership, and independent decision-making.

When I joined the Council following the passing of Joan Pickett, I hit the ground running. I researched issues deeply, listened to residents, and made tough votes when others would not. I was the only councilor to oppose the flawed Multifamily Housing Ordinance, because it threatened neighborhood character without delivering true affordability. My approach is not about rubber-stamping quick fixes. It is about careful, balanced leadership that ensures Cambridge grows in ways that work for everyone.

My Record on the Council
On the Council, I have:

• Supported housing while insisting that new development serve residents of all incomes.
• Advocated for safer streets through transportation planning, separated bike lanes, and parking solutions.
• Championed arts, culture, and digital access.
• Called out excessive spending at a time of rising commercial vacancies and institutional cutbacks.
• Drew attention to the coming wave of elder care needs.
• Spoke out on the need to reduce CSO sewage outflows at Alewife.
• Celebrated new open space while scrutinizing flawed redesigns.
• Pushed for stronger support for nonprofits.
• Supported the work of the Cambridge Historical Commission in preserving the city’s unique heritage.

Why I Serve
Cambridge faces urgent challenges: housing, climate change, transportation, and fiscal responsibility. But I believe these challenges must be addressed with care and foresight – not with ideological solutions that create bigger problems later.

• Housing: I believe Cambridge can add housing that is well-designed, affordable, and respectful of neighborhoods. We can meet the real needs of residents, especially low- and moderate-income families, without sacrificing community character or open space.
• Transportation: Safe, accessible transportation is essential. I support building a well-connected network of separated bike lanes, designed to work for cyclists, pedestrians, older adults, local businesses, and drivers who need parking.
• Climate Change: With much of Cambridge just a few feet above sea level, we must prepare now for rising waters and higher temperatures. That means resilient infrastructure, and emergency measures to ensure our city can withstand and recover from the impacts of climate change – especially for low-income residents most at risk.
• Balanced Growth: I support community-centered growth that makes room for new neighbors while protecting longtime residents and what makes Cambridge special. Growth should not overwhelm infrastructure or saddle taxpayers with long-term costs.
• Community Engagement: For decades I have worked to make public life inclusive. On the Council, I continue to believe that community voices must guide decision-making. Public meetings should be meaningful opportunities for dialogue, not empty formalities.

A Proven Record of Civic Leadership
Before serving on the Council, I worked for decades on projects that strengthened Cambridge:

• Led the revitalization of Magazine Beach Park, the city’s second-largest park.
• Co-launched the restoration of St. Augustine’s African-Orthodox Church (1886).
• Created If This House Could Talk…, a citywide community history and art project.
• Preserved the legacy of local folk artist Peter Valentine.
• Served in leadership roles in neighborhood associations, after-school programs, and arts nonprofits.

This work has been recognized by the Charles River Conservancy, Charles River Watershed Association, Cambridge Historical Commission, and the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women.

My Governing Philosophy
I believe in leadership that is independent, thoughtful, and collaborative. I bring people together, listen carefully, and pursue solutions that balance progress with preservation. I am committed to fiscal responsibility, environmental sustainability, strong schools, community well-being, and opportunities for the next generation.

Cambridge is a remarkable city – historic and modern, innovative and diverse. But it faces real challenges that require wise and experienced leadership. I will continue to work every day to ensure Cambridge remains a place where people of all backgrounds can thrive.

I would be honored to earn your vote and continue serving you on the City Council.

2023 Candidate Page     CCTV candidate video (2023)