Developer David Clem, owner of Lyme Properties and its unit Kendall Square LLC, which is developing the complex here in Kendall Square, sued seven East Cambridge residents, claiming they broke a pledge to stop opposing his project, which is this city's largest commercial development. Two years ago, a group of residents, the East Cambridge Planning Team, settled with Lyme Properties after attempting to have its building permit revoked. But neighborhood activists have continued to challenge the project, most recently by disputing the size of a proposed skating rink.

Local activists contend that many of them were not part of the original agreement. They also insist that they have a right to speak out publicly and accuse the developer of using strategic litigation against public participation, which is litigation by developers to intimidate residents. The residents are seeking to have the case dismissed.