Lifelong Cambridge resident Lester P. Lee, Jr., a professor of black history at Wheelock College, says he is running as "the most progressive candidate on the ballot."

A staunch supporter of rent control, Lee pledges to combat skyrocketing rents and massive business developments which, he says, have destabilized the lives of thousands.

He also supports increased funding for neighborhood community centers, increased affirmative action efforts and the continued provision of quality city services.

Lee opposes the demolition of historic buildings in the Square and vows to fight Harvard's plan to convert apartments into University affiliated housing.

"The voter will have to choose between the corporate vision of the city, and the vision that I hold...the community vision of the city," Lee says.

Ralph Lopez, a health care administrator and fiction writer, also describes himself as being "the most progressive candidate in the race."

"There is a difference between talking and acting and the City Council has been only talking for some time," says Lopez, 37. "I am committed to going in there and making a splash."

Lopez is strongly against the razing of the Wursthaus building, saying such a move would he "the beginning of the total commercialization and yuppification of Harvard Square."

"If that building comes down then Harvard Square will be a different one than a generation of students have been enjoying," says Lopez, a Central Square resident. "I challenge the bank to prove that [the building] is unsalvageable."

Lopez is also strongly opposed to building a parking lot adjacent to Cambridge Common and the Sheraton Commander Hotel.

Lopez, who is of Hispanic origin, believes that the City Council needs more minority rep resentation.

James J. McSweeney, Jr., 28, is making his second attempt for a city council seat, after falling 47 votes short of election in 1993.

A self-employed insurance agent, McSweeney advocates consolidating city services and rolling back property taxes.

"The most important issue facing us is irresponsible spending," McSweeney says. "[High taxes] drive businesses away from Cambridge...thus increasing rents and reducing affordable housing."

McSweeney supports increasing police efforts within Harvard Square and fully implementing a policy of neighborhood community policing.