[PAGE 1]
City of Cambridge
Council Meeting Minutes, Closed Session
Council Chambers – 305 Gay Street
Administrative Note: The meeting that was set for Monday, February 23, 2026, was cancelled due to inclement
weather. The meeting has been rescheduled and will now be held on Monday, March 2, 2026.
March 2, 2026, 5:15 PM
Council Present: Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey
Commissioner Brett Summers – Ward One
Commissioner Frank Stout- Ward Three
Commissioner Sputty Cephas, Commission President, Ward Four
Commissioner Brian Roche- Ward Five
Also Present: City Manager Glenn Steckman
Assistant City Manager Brandon Hesson
City Attorney Patrick Thomas
Absent : Commissioner Shay Lewis-Sisco – Ward Two
Agenda
Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey opened the Executive Session. City Manager Glenn Steckman
requested that the Council add Annotated Code § 3-305(b)(14) to allow discussion of
matters directly related to a negotiating strategy or the contents of a bid or proposal prior
to the award of a contract or the opening of bids, where public discussion would adversely
impact the City's ability to participate in the competitive bidding or proposal process. City
Attorney Patrick Thomas further recommended adding Annotated Code § 3-305(b)(4) to
permit consideration of a matter concerning a proposal for a business or industrial
organization to locate, expand, or remain in the City. These two provisions will be added
in addition to § 3-305(b)(1), which authorizes discussion of personnel matters affecting
specific individuals over whom the Council has jurisdiction.
Commission President Sputty Cephas made a motion to enter into Closed Session pursuant
to § 3‑305(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters involving specific individuals over whom the
Council has jurisdiction; § 3‑305(b)(4) to consider a matter concerning a proposal for a
business or industrial organization to locate, expand, or remain in the City; and §
3‑305(b)(14) to discuss a matter directly related to a negotiating strategy or the contents of
a bid or proposal before a contract is awarded or bids are opened, where public discussion
would adversely impact the public body’s ability to participate in the competitive bidding
1 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026

[PAGE 2]
or proposal process. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Stout. The motion was
approved with a 4-0 vote.
Council went into closed session at approximately 5:19 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 Lewis-Sisco was absent.
The following matters were discussed:
1. Personnel matters involving specific identifiable individuals.
2. Discussion regarding prospective organization to remain in the city.
3. 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
The Council reconvened in Open Session at approximately 5:55 p.m. It was noted that
the Closed Session had been recessed at approximately 5:54 p.m. and will continue
following the completion of the regular session’s order of business.
2 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026

[PAGE 3]
City of Cambridge
Council Meeting Minutes, Regular Session
Council Chambers – 305 Gay Street
Administrative Note: The meeting that was set for Monday, February 23, 2026, was cancelled
due to inclement weather. The meeting has been rescheduled and will now be held on Monday,
Council Present: Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey
Commissioner Brett Summers – Ward One
Commissioner Frank Stout- Ward Three
Commissioner Sputty Cephas, Commission President, Ward Four
Commissioner Brian Roche- Ward Five
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
Director of Public Works Wayne Suggs
Grants Coordinator Tara Felts
Absent : Commissioner Shay Lewis-Sisco – Ward Two
Invocation was delivered by Charles T. Cephas, Sr. Pledge of Allegiance was led by
Commission President Sputty Cephas.
Agenda
Commission President Sputty Cephas made a motion to amend the agenda to add a closed
session under § 3-305(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters involving specific individuals
over whom the Council has jurisdiction; § 3-305(b)(4) to consider a matter concerning a
proposal for a business or industrial organization to locate, expand, or remain in the City;
and § 3-305(b)(14) to discuss a matter directly related to a negotiating strategy or the
contents of a bid or proposal before a contract is awarded or bids are opened, where public
discussion would adversely impact the public body’s ability to participate in the
3 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026

[PAGE 4]
competitive bidding or proposal process. This closed session was a continuation of the
discussion held earlier in the evening. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Roche.
Commissioner Summers then requested an amendment to the agenda to remove Item No.
4 from the Consent Agenda, noting he had received a constituent comment requiring brief
discussion. The motion was seconded by Commission President Sputty Cephas for
discussion. Commissioner Summers inquired about trash pickup, and Chief Todd provided
additional remarks. No further action was required.
Commission President Sputty Cephas made a motion to adopt the amended agenda as
presented. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Roche. The motion passed with a
4–0 vote.
Presentations from Approved Guests
Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey presented a Proclamation in recognition of Black History Month
and awarded the Key to the City to Rev. Charles T. Cephas, Sr., former Mayor of Hurlock,
in honor of his service and contributions.
Consent Agenda
Meeting Minutes
November 24, 2025, Regular Session
December 8, 2025, Regular Session
January 12, 2026, Regular Session
January 28, 2026, Special Meeting
Captain Antoine Patton of the Cambridge Police Department is seeking to hold the
Cambridge Police Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 11:00 a.m.
to 1:00 p.m. at Gerry Boyle Park at Great Marsh, with a rain date of Saturday, April 4,
2026. Please see the attached application for additional details.
Jason Chance, TCR Event Management, is seeking to hold the following events:
Six Pillars Century Bike Ride
On Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Gerry Boyle Park at Great
Marsh. The applicant is requesting the use of the park for event operations. Please see the
attached application and course map for additional details.
Cambridge Crab Run
On Sunday, May 10, 2026, from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Gerry Boyle Park at Great
Marsh. The applicant is requesting the use of the park for event operations, a noise
variance, and City services. Please see the attached application and course map for
additional details.
4 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026

[PAGE 5]
Lidia Fluhme, President of Gran Fondo New York, is seeking to hold the GFNY Race,
Cambridge Maryland 2026 on Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the
corner of Race Street and Cedar Street (City Lot). The request includes a road closure on
Race Street between Cedar Street and Washington Street from 3:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Set-up for the event will begin on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. The applicant is also
requesting the use of City space, City services, and a noise variance. Additional details can
be found in the application, site map, and course of operations.
Commission President Sputty Cephas made a motion to adopt the consent agenda as
presented. Commissioner Summers seconded the motion. The motion passed with a 4–0
vote.
Ordinances for First Reading- None
Ordinances for Second Reading, Public Hearing, and Council Action- None
Old Business
Reconsideration of Ordinance No. 1262, Following Mayor’s Veto
The Mayor provided background information explaining the reasons for her veto. City
Attorney Patrick Thomas outlined the applicable procedures, and the Council engaged in
discussion on the matter. It was noted that a new ordinance would need to be introduced
and proceed through the public hearing process. Following the discussion, Mayor Lajan
Cephas-Bey stated that it appeared the veto would stand.
New Business
FY 2027 Congressional Delegation Funding Requests, Resolution 26-02
Grants Coordinator Tara Felts reported that federal funding requests (CDS/CPF) are being
prepared for three key infrastructure projects: the Cambridge Creek Interceptor, Cedar
Street Culvert Replacement, and the Public Safety Building HVAC Replacement.
Although a resolution is not required, adoption of Resolution No. 26-02 demonstrates
Council support for these applications. The federal requests total $5.25 million, with a
proposed $1.05 million non-federal match. Applications will be submitted to Senators
Alsobrooks and Van Hollen and Congressman Harris, with funding dependent on federal
budget negotiations and potential awards in Spring 2027. Staff will also seek state funding
to help meet match requirements.
Motion made by Commissioner Stout and second by Commission President Cephas.
Some of commissioners posed questions before the vote. Approved 4-0 vote.
Public Safety Building, HVAC Replacement, Informational Purposes Only
Director of Public Works Wayne Suggs reported that Associate Principal Jamie Raithel of
EBL Engineers, LLC presented findings comparing the lifetime costs of the Enhanced
5 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026

[PAGE 6]
Ground Source Heat Pump (Geothermal) System with the Variable Refrigerant Flow
(VRF) System recommended by City staff. The initial EBL report and cycle analysis were
provided as attachments for reference. Mr. Suggs noted that staff are actively pursuing
funding to proceed with Option 2 outlined in the HVAC System Evaluation Report dated
September 11, 2024, including acceptance of the Bunk Room and UPS Room options. Prior
to Mr. Raithel’s presentation, Grants Coordinator Tara Felts briefed the Council on
potential funding opportunities to support the project. Council members posed several
questions to Mr. Raithel regarding the analysis and system recommendations.
Trenton Street Pump Station
City Manager Glenn Steckman provided an update on the Trenton Street Pump Station
reconstruction project on behalf of Environmental Program Manager Drew Koslow, who
was not present. He noted that the station, now nearly 90 years old and last upgraded 40
years ago, requires full rehabilitation. The Maryland Department of the Environment has
approved a financing package that includes a low-interest loan and significant loan
principal forgiveness to support the project. Following public advertisement and a bid
opening held on December 22, 2025, four bids were received. Retallack & Sons, Inc.
submitted the lowest responsible bid at $6,355,000, with the other bids ranging between
approximately $8.5 and $9.8 million. Engineering firm GMB reviewed all submissions and
recommended awarding the construction contract to Retallack & Sons, citing favorable
references and confirmation that the firm received all required addenda. City Manager
Steckman further recommended authorizing execution of the associated 20-year MDE loan
agreement and approving a $373,504 contract with GMB for construction oversight to
ensure project compliance and minimize change orders. Supporting documents included
the MDE funding notification, GMB’s bid evaluation letter, and the certified bid tabulation.
Commissioner Stout made a motion to approve the award of contract to Retallack & Sons,
Inc., and to authorize GMB to provide construction oversight. The motion was seconded
by Commissioner Summers, and the floor was opened for discussion. Council members
posed several questions, which were addressed by Mr. Derbyshire. Following discussion,
the Council approved the motion with a 4–0 vote. City Manager Glenn Steckman thanked
Mr. Derbyshire and the Council for their work on the item.
Upcoming Meetings
Board of Appeals meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, 6 p.m. at Council
Chambers, 305 Gay Street Cambridge, Maryland 21613
Planning & Zoning meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 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, March 5, 2026, 6
p.m. at Council Chambers, 305 Gay Street Cambridge, Maryland 21613
The Mayor and Commissioners will attend the Rescue Fire Company (RFC) Annual
Banquet, scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026. No Council business will be conducted.
6 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026

[PAGE 7]
City Council Regular Meeting – March 9, 2026, 6 p.m. at Council Chambers, 305 Gay
Street Cambridge, Maryland 21613
Public Comment
Michael V. (Ward 1) reported that the City followed up with him regarding the water
concerns. He stated that tests were conducted and sent to a laboratory, and the results
indicated levels above the EPA’s recommended threshold, placing the water in a category
that could potentially pose a risk to human health. He further noted that when levels exceed
the recommended limit, EPA guidelines require additional testing, which he stated the City
did not complete.
S. Ramsey (Mariners Way, Ward 1) reported that a message was circulated in their
neighborhood Facebook group indicating that a notice on a resident’s water bill suggested
the possibility of lead in the service lines. Ms. Ramsey stated that the message was shared
widely because neighbors were concerned.
Sharon Smith (School Street) referenced three recent ordinances, including Ordinance No.
1263, regarding rules and procedures adopted a few weeks ago. She commented on the
proposed requirement for public comments at both the first and second readings of
ordinances. Ms. Smith also raised questions concerning Ordinance Nos. 1262 and 1265.
Christina (Peachblossom Avenue) appeared before the Council to discuss a petition she
initiated regarding the proposed relocation of the RFC Train Garden.
Sharon Smith (School Street) continued her public comments regarding Ordinance No.
1265.
City Manager Comments
Administrative Report from City Manager Glenn Steckman
City Manager Glenn Steckman noted that Council has received his report. He expressed
his appreciation to Council for approving the Trenton Street Pump Station project. Mr.
Steckman also clarified that a majority of the Council consists of three voting members, as
the Mayor does not have voting authority. Therefore, actions require a 3–2 vote.
Additionally, he stated that he is not aware of any instance in which Council has permitted
twenty minutes of speaking time during public sessions.
Lead Hazard Reduction Capacity Building Initiative, Quarterly Report, Informational
Purposes Only
Assistant City Manager Brandon Hesson stated that Mr. Alrey was not present and
requested that the item be deferred to the next meeting.
Council Comments
7 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026

[PAGE 8]
Commissioner Summers (Ward 1) said that he would like to initiate a discussion regarding
the tax rate.
Commissioner Stout (Ward 3) noted that Commissioner Summers made an interesting
comment, and he wanted to add to it. He stated that the City is taking on financial
obligations that will extend into the future. He also mentioned that he previously served on
a Council that reviewed the tax rate.
Commission President Sputty Cephas (Ward 4) inquired about the current tax rate. He
reported that he recently testified in Annapolis regarding House Bill 1142 and proceeded
to read the testimony he had submitted for the record.
Commissioner Roche (Ward 5) noted that the ordinances under consideration have been a
long time coming. He stated that while there is still room for improvement, staff will need
to monitor how the measures function in practice. He emphasized the importance of
identifying and addressing any issues promptly, both before and during implementation, to
avoid “building the airplane while flying.” Commissioner Roche continued his comments
and also thanked Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey for her strategic work on the tax differential.
Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey stated that the Train Garden belongs to the entire community
and is not owned by any one individual or group. She also reflected on House Bill 1142,
noting that she and Commission President Sputty Cephas both provided testimony in
support of the bill.
Commission President Sputty Cephas made a motion to reconvene into Closed Session
pursuant to § 3-305(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters involving specific individuals over
whom the Council has jurisdiction; § 3-305(b)(4) to consider a matter concerning a
proposal for a business or industrial organization to locate, expand, or remain in the City;
and § 3-305(b)(14) to discuss a matter directly related to a negotiating strategy or the
contents of a bid or proposal before a contract is awarded or bids are opened, where public
discussion would adversely impact the public body’s ability to participate in the
competitive bidding or proposal process. The motion was seconded by Commissioner
Roche and approved by a vote of 4–0. Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey noted that this Closed
Session was a continuation of the session previously recessed. Council went into closed
session at approximately 7:35pm
Continuation of Closed Session (if necessary)
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 Lewis-Sisco joined this portion of the closed session virtually.
The following matters were discussed:
8 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026

[PAGE 9]
1. Personnel matters involving specific identifiable individuals.
2. Discussion regarding prospective organization to remain in the City.
3. 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 (if a Closed Session is held)
Council reconvened in open session at approximately 8:23 p.m.
Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey stated that the Council was in Closed Session pursuant to §
3-305(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters involving specific individuals over whom the
Council has jurisdiction; § 3-305(b)(4) to consider a matter concerning a proposal for
a business or industrial organization to locate, expand, or remain in the City; and §
3-305(b)(14) to discuss a matter directly related to a negotiating strategy or the
contents of a bid or proposal before a contract is awarded or bids are opened, where
public discussion would adversely impact the public body’s ability to participate in the
competitive bidding or proposal process. Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey further stated for
the record that Commissioner Lewis-Sisco joined the Council during the Closed
Session. She is still present at this moment.
Adjourn
On a motion by Commission President Sputty Cephas and a second by Commissioner
Lewis-Sisco, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:25 p.m. Approved by a 4-0
vote.
With no further business, Mayor Lajan Cephas-Bey adjourned the meeting at 8:25 p.m.
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and accurate account of the Council Meeting on
Monday, February 23, 2026 (March 2, 2026) , insofar as I am personally aware.
Lajan Cephas Bey
____________________________________
Lajan Cephas Bey (Apr 14, 2026 10:01:28 EDT)
Mayor
Lajan Cephas-Bey
9 | P age
City of Cambridge, Meeting Minutes
February 23 (March 2), 2026