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Cambridge Council forwards request to Finance Committee to consider funding Spalding transitional wellness center
Summary
After more than two hours of public testimony urging the council to keep the Spalding Transitional Wellness Center open, the Cambridge City Council voted 5–4 to send a policy order to the Finance Committee asking staff to explore funding options and to include the shelter in FY26 budget discussions.
The Cambridge City Council on April 14 voted to send a request to the Finance Committee asking the city manager to explore options for continuing funding for the Spalding Transitional Wellness Center and to consider the shelter as part of FY2026 budget deliberations.
The 5–4 roll-call vote followed a night of public comment in which at least 16 speakers described the shelter’s role in providing stable, noncongregate beds, showers, medical access and support services to residents. “Please please vote yes. Please vote to fund the transition wellness center,” said Charles (Chaz) Mitchell, who identified himself during public comment as speaking on Charter Right #1.
Supporters argued the center gives residents privacy and stability that facilitate job searches, medical care and reunification with family. Speakers repeatedly told councilors that closing…
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