"I was looking at the environment, careful economic development, and good public education," said Kline, "but with 29 candidates it's been exciting to learn about all of their positions."

Henry C. Whittlesey '88-'93 said political activism in his neighborhood led to his interest in local politics.

"There's the Alliance for Change created by my neighbor," Whittlesey said. "We talk about politics quite a bit, and Cambridge politics now mean a lot to me. I believe the election's about the budget and rent control."

Pamela Massey, voting at the Peabody School, said she cast her votes for candidates who would protect the rights of her dog.

"My concern is people who are dog-friendly," she said. "There are 4,000 licensed dogs in the city but not one licensed dog park."

She wouldn't say which candidates they were, but she said there were a few who had proven themselves to be "dog-friendly."

The election also drew a select group of committed citizens who spent a day running the polling operation.

Alida M. Daly, warden at the North Prospect Church polling site, said she had worked at polling sites in Cambridge for more than 40 years. "I love it," she said.

Cathy Ausrotis, a worker at the Peabody precinct, said she felt it was her duty to work at the polls.

"I've been doing this for about 15 years," she said. "I feel it's my civic contribution."

James Freeman, an architect, said he chose to work at the Peabody precinct in order to meet fellow Cantabrigians.

"I get a sense of the neighborhood and see my neighbors," he said. "It was not hard for me to take a day off work."

But Ann R. Marchessault was a warden "for the money." (Workers are paid $6 an hour, and get a free lunch, too.)

Candidates and supporters were also out in full force, campaigning at a 150-foot distance from the polls.

Council candidate Michael A. Baldasaro, grandson of former Cambridge mayor Alfred E. Vellucci, told voters outside the Peabody School that he wants to work for the people.