At this point, you’ll have to either pay the fine or take it the next level up which might be a lawsuit. It’s highly unlikely to be worth your time and money. You’re probably better off paying it.

From the Cambridge Traffic & Parking Website:

https://www.cambridgema.gov/iwantto/payaparkingticket

“If your ticket is not dismissed, you may pay the ticket or request an in-person hearing at the Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department's office. All hearings must be requested and scheduled in advanced. During the hearing you will meet with the Hearing Officer. The Parking Control Officer who wrote the ticket will not be present. You will have the opportunity to: explain the reason you feel the ticket was issued in error, provide details of any extenuating circumstances, and provide any documentation or evidence that supports your claim. If your ticket is dismissed the process is complete. If your ticket is not dismissed, you may pay the ticket or appeal the ticket through the Middlesex County Superior Court, 200 Trade Center, Woburn, MA. There is a $275.00 filing fee.”

Filing fees should be fucking illegal. “Pay a fee to assert your rights!”

good luck. I had a similar issue. The dispute did not work, and they told me "i can submit another dispute if I disagree". When I got the letter in the mail, the "dispute" was that I can sue the city if I pay 300$ for the privilege . Reach out to city council and complain and see if they can help out because it's crazy if you have photo proof that parking will still tell you to pound sand

>"There is a $275.00 filing fee.”

Do you get the fee refunded if the ticket is ultimately dismissed?

No. This is a State proscribed fee. Every town has it.