On Saturday, a group of officers helped to escort Medford resident, Francis St. Germain from his home to his birthday party at the Saugus Elks. Fran turned 100 years old on May 6th. Continue reading Medford World War II Navy Veteran Turns 100 Years Old
(SOMERVILLE, MA) — Teamsters Local 25 praised the Somerville City Council today for its unanimous vote to pass a resolution aimed at stopping Uber, Lyft, Doordash and other so-called ‘gig’ companies from abusing drivers by misclassifying them as independent contractors. Continue reading TEAMSTERS APPLAUD SOMERVILLE CITY COUNCIL VOTE TO STOP MISCLASSIFICATION OF WORKERS
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of retired Officer Brian Doherty. Officer Doherty passed away Wednesday, May 8, 2024. He was 76 years old.
Officer Doherty worked for the Medford Police Department for 32 years. He first joined the department on September 8, 1980. He retired from the Medford Police Department on June 30, 2012.
Continue reading Medford Remembering Retired Officer Brian Doherty
Lt. C. Darrel Richardson was promoted to the rank of Captain at the May 9th City Council meeting. Captain Richardson is a 22 year member of the Somerville Fire Department. Continue reading Somerville Fire Department Promotion
Get the latest on the Spring Hill Sewer Separation project at a virtual community meeting on Wednesday, May 15, at 6 p.m. City staff will review progress made and present an overview of the work planned for this spring and summer.
Continue reading Somerville Spring Hill Sewer Separation Project
Hello Everyone,
On May 9th marks Scott’s 30th anniversary of his passing. Those of you that knew Scott, he was a very humble man. This year Team Scott will be riding 77 miles in honor of my 77th birthday. I will be joined by Billy Goodwin, Kevin Guinee and Henry Shelley. Continue reading 2024 – 77 Mile Charity Ride
Click on link below to read May 7th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 7th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (2)
Continue reading May 7th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
Another year another victory……
The boys in Red defeated the boys in Blue last night 6-2 in our annual guns and hoses hockey game. Continue reading Somerville Police vs Somerville Fire Department Guns and Hoses
Obituary
WELLS, Florence E. (Celebrase) – Of Quincy formerly of Medford May 6, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Ordie “Marty” Wells. Loving mother of Teresa Amuzzini, Carol Wall and her husband Bob, Martin “Marty” Wells and his wife Salonge.
Complete notice to follow.
Funeral procession from the George L. Doherty Funeral Home, 855 Broadway (Powder House Sq.) Somerville, Thursday morning at 10:30, followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Clement Church, Medford at 11:00. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Florence E. Wells
By Bob Katzen
“This new program is paramount for nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem across the commonwealth. This funding is a catalyst for innovation, offering the recipients the freedom to explore new ideas, take risks, and push the boundaries of their craft.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill making driving with an expired license a civil infraction. Current law classifies it as criminal and carries with it a fine up to $500.
Continue reading DRIVING WITH AN EXPIRED LICENSE (H 3376)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that would mandate that insurance companies in the Bay State automatically provide residential owners with insurance for damage to home and property caused by a leak in a residential liquid fuel tank or home fuel supply lines. Each policy would provide this coverage and homeowners can either keep the coverage or opt out.
Continue reading HOME OIL LEAKS (S 2737)
By Bob Katzen
Gov. Healey signed into law a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. The $375 million package, a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds, also includes $175 million for several transportation-related grant programs.
Continue reading $375 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES SIGNED BY GOVERNOR (H 4529)
By Bob Katzen
Gov. Healey signed into law a supplemental budget that includes an additional $251 million in funding for the Emergency Assistance Program that funds the emergency family shelter system which houses migrants. The measure imposes a new nine-month limit on how long families can stay in the state’s emergency shelters, with up to two 90-day extensions available to some and a new hardship waiver process. Continue reading GOV. HEALEY SIGNS SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET INCLUDING $251 MILLION FUNDING FOR SHELTERS (H 4582)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 5-33, rejected an amendment that would replace the bill barring electric suppliers from enrolling new individual residential customers in contracts, with a different bill that would have allowed the practice to continue and would instead impose more barriers for competitive suppliers to enter the market and provided the attorney general with more oversight authority. Continue reading IMPOSE REGULATIONS INSTEAD OF BANNING (S 2738)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 34-4, approved and sent to the House a bill that would bar electric suppliers from enrolling new individual residential customers in contracts, beginning on January 1, 2025.
Continue reading ELECTRIC SUPPLIERS (S 2738)
By Bob Katzen
The House 27-131, rejected an amendment that would give priority consideration for inclusion in the emergency housing assistance program, when space becomes available, to residents who have resided in the state for a minimum of 12 consecutive months and are on the waitlist for the program. Continue reading PRIORITIZE 12-MONTH RESIDENTS (H 4600)
By Bob Katzen
The House 154-0, approved a budget amendment that would expand the existing Conservation Land Tax Credit (CLTC) by raising the annual cap for this program from $2 million to $5 million over a three-year period, beginning on January 1, 2026. The increase would remain in place until December 31, 2034. Continue reading TAX CREDITS FOR CONSERVATION LAND (H 4600)
JEREMIAH’S OBITUARY
SEEKING ANY FAMILY MEMBERS
Mr. Jeremiah O’Leary passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at the Cambridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Cambridge, he was 84.
He was a former resident of Capen Court Senior Housing, 1 Capen Court Somerville, MA before being admitted to the Cambridge Rehabilitation Center. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Jeremiah O’Leary
Festival will Feature Q&A and Cooking Demonstrations with Local Chefs, Live Dance, Family Activities, and Community Cookbook Exhibit.
Continue reading Mayor Katjana Ballantyne Invites Community to Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at Cambridge-Somerville Asian Festival
Get the Spring/Summer Construction Schedule and Updates on Ongoing Streetscape Improvements and Spring
Tree Plantings
Continue reading Join the Spring Hill Sewer Separation Virtual Spring Community Meeting on May 15
Obituary
Catherine D. Nicholas, a long-time resident of Somerville, and most recent resident at The Katzman Family Center for Living, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on April 29, 2024, following a long battle with Dementia. She was 95 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Catherine D. Nicholas
By William Tauro
The money raised at The night at the races at the Medford-Malden #915 Elks raised money for the Elks National Foundation. Continue reading Medford-Malden #915 Elks Raised Money On Kentucky Derby Night For Wonderful Charities
Personal Injury Lawyer – Altman Nussbaum Shunnarah
Cambridge Somerville Medford Chelsea 617-492-3000
Continue reading Dave Altman Personal Injury ATTORNEY 617-492-3000
NINA ROMANO Obituary
ROMANO, Nina Maria Of Somerville and North Andover, passed away peacefully on March 17, with her brother, Michael, by her side. Nina was a Special Education teacher for almost 40 years in the Somerville Public Schools. She was the devoted daughter of the late Mary and Alexander (Sonny) Romano of Somerville. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering NINA ROMANO
Mrs. Mary T. Vasconcelos
Category: Obituaries Published: April 29, 2024
Mary T. VasconcelosVasconcelos, Mary T. (Vieira) of Woburn, passed away on April 28, 2024, at the age of 82 surrounded by her loving family.
Mary was born in Cambridge, MA to proud parents Joseph and Mary (Mamie) Viera on Thanksgiving Day. She would spend nearly 50+ years living in Cambridge on Marney Street creating wonderful memories. Continue reading Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Mary T. Vasconcelos
Look for us as we continue to travel Southern Middlesex County and meet hundreds of new residents every day! Continue reading William “Billy” Tauro Campaigning Hard To Meet and Greet Residents
Click on link below to read April 30th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 30th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online

Word is that the city planning board is going to dismantle and dispose of the World War II Dedication Memorial Wall that’s stands outside of City Hall in the not so far future. That sacred and historic monument has the names of many Somerville and Cambridge veterans names etched onto it. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: Let your voices be heard now before it happens!
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that would change the current law which removes from a city or town’s property tax rolls the land of a large-scale condominium project during the construction phase. The bill would keep the land on the tax rolls during the constructions phase.
Continue reading CONDO CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY TAX (H 2982)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that would expand current law and make more farmers eligible for a favorable valuation of property process that results in a tax break.
Continue reading EXTEND TAX BREAKS TO MORE FARMERS (H 2693)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to legislation requiring that in real estate transactions, the fees associated with hiring brokers are paid by the party who hires them.
Continue reading MUST PAY BROKER FEE (H 4474)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate approved and sent to the House a bill that would mandate that insurance companies in the Bay State provide residential owners with insurance for damage to home and property caused by a leak in a residential liquid fuel tank or home fuel supply lines.
Continue reading HOME OIL LEAKS (S 2737)
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 38-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters say will modernize protections for consumers in automobile transactions. The bill adds legal safeguards for buyers who purchase used and leased cars in Massachusetts by creating new consumer protections in the car buying process.
Continue reading PROTECT CONSUMER WHEN PURCHASING CARS (S 2716)
By Bob Katzen
The House 29-125, rejected an amendment that would strike a budget section that provides $35 million to subsidize free phone calls for prisoners; and instead use the $35 million to fund additional unrestricted local aid for cities and towns.
Continue reading $35 MILLION FOR LOCAL AID INSTEAD OF FREE PRISONER PHONE CALLS (H 4600)
By Bob Katzen
The House 25-132, rejected an amendment that would require all public institutions of higher education in Massachusetts to develop and adopt written policies and procedures allowing full acceptance of all appropriate college credits earned by students in advanced placement courses who have successfully completed these courses and have also achieved proficient advanced placement test scores to satisfy these credits.
Continue reading ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) COLLEGE CREDITS (H 4600)
By Bob Katzen
The House 153-4, approved a $58 billion fiscal 2025 state budget after three days of debate. The House version now goes to the Senate which will approve a different version. A House-Senate conference committee will eventually craft a plan that will be presented to the House and Senate for consideration and then sent to the governor.
Continue reading HOUSE APPROVES $58 BILLION FISCAL 2025 STATE BUDGET (H 460
By Bob Katzen
The House 27-129, rejected an amendment that would prioritize honorably discharged homeless veterans for eligibility for placement in the shelter assistance program.
Continue reading PRIORITIZE HOMELESS VETERANS (H 4600)
By Bob Katzen
The House 30-125, rejected an amendment that would change the state’s Right to Shelter Law which requires the state to provide shelter and other necessities to homeless parents with young children, pregnant women and recently the many migrant families arriving in the Bay State. Homeless individuals are not covered by the Right to Shelter law.
Continue reading RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS (H 4460)
Bob Katzen
The House 123-35, Senate 29-9, approved and sent to Gov. Healey a supplemental budget that includes an additional $251 million in funding for the Emergency Assistance Program that funds the emergency family shelter system which houses migrants. The measure imposes a new nine-month limit on how long families can stay in the state’s emergency shelters, with up to two 90-day extensions available to some and a new hardship waiver process.
Continue reading SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET INCLUDING $251 MILLION FUNDING FOR SHELTERS (H 4582)
By Bob Katzen
The House 157-0, Senate 38-0, approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. The $375 million package, a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds, also includes $175 million for several transportation-related grant programs.
Continue reading $375 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 4529)
By William Tauro
This past Thursday night a benefit was thrown for Somerville Firefighter Roger Perez at Premiere on Broadway.
Hundreds of people, mostly brother and sister firefighters packed the nightclub to help Somerville Firefighters Local 76 raise funds to care for long time Somerville firefighter Roger Pérez. Continue reading Hundreds Attend Fundraiser To Help Fellow Somerville Firefighter With Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Community Invited to Learn More About Somerville’s Updated Climate Forward Plan
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is moving forward a wave of new climate action policies and programs as announced as part of the City’s 2024 SustainaVille Week. Continue reading SustainaVille Week 2024: Mayor Ballantyne Announces New Climate Action Plan & Policies
Obituary
HODNETT, Margaret M. (Byrnes) – Of Medford, April 23, 2024 after a period of declining health and surrounded by family Margaret was fortunate to pass in the home she loved and welcomed many to in the last 65 years. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Margaret M. Hodnett
Obituary
Franklin Dalembert, a beacon of strength and service within the Haitian community and beyond, passed away on April 21, 2024, in Malden, Massachusetts, just days before his 66th birthday. Born in Limbe, Haiti, on April 26, 1958, Franklin’s life was marked by a profound dedication to education, community development, and advocacy for immigrant rights.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Franklin Dalembert
Citywide Homemade Music Festival Will Take Place on Porches Across Somerville
SOMERVILLE – Somerville’s porches, yards, and stoops are once again set to host free mini-concerts across the City as part of the City’s annual Porchfest hosted by the Somerville Arts Council. Continue reading Somerville’s Annual Porchfest Returns Saturday May 11
On Saturday, April 27, the Somerville Police Department and the Community Outreach, Help & Recovery (COHR) unit participated in the City of Somerville’s Civic Day. Continue reading Somerville Police Department News Updates
Today was a very special day for our friend Anton. He was the lucky winner of a ‘Ride to School with the Chief of Police’ prize through the Friends of the Medford Family Network’s Silent Auction last fall. We were honored to accompany Anton to school and made sure he had a memorable ride. Continue reading Medford Police Department News Updates
By William Tauro
Two friends of mine, one from the gas company and one from the state who says it’s marked for gas. If dogs are barking or acting strange when you walk them over the sidewalks especially on Washington Street in Somerville, it’s because they’re sensitive to gas leaks and they can tell. That’s a big issue that they aren’t measuring to us. Continue reading Is Your Dog Acting Strange During Walks in Somerville?
Click on link below to read April 23rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 23rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading April 23rd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
By Bob Katzen
“Utility accidents from damaged underground lines and pipes are both dangerous and costly. Calling 811 is the best way to ensure a line won’t be hit when starting a new home project this year.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
Another bill heard by the Revenue Committee would increase from $457 to $1,800 the amount of the real estate tax exemption for blind residents.
Continue reading INCREASE TAX ABATEMENT FOR BLIND RESIDENTS (H 4458)
By Bob Katzen
The Revenue Committee held a hearing on a measure that would allow cities and towns to abolish the local property tax and replace it with both a personal and business income tax to fund the local city or town’s budget. Continue reading REPLACE PROPERTY TAX (H 4271)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to legislation that would allow cities and town to double the mazimum fine for some parking violations. Current law sets a maximum fine for many violations at $50 if paid within 21 days, $55 if paid after 21 days and $75 if paid after the parking clerk reports the parking offense and fine to the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Continue reading INCREASE PARKING FINES (H 3326)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to legislation that would promote urban agriculture and horticulture by allowing Gateway cities as well as cities and towns, with populations of more than 50,000, to exempt from property taxes any land of two acres or less that is used for commercial urban agriculture and horticulture. Additionally, the parcel must have had at least $500 in gross sales of agricultural or horticultural products in the prior year to be eligible for the tax exemption.
Continue reading TAX INCENTIVE FOR URBAN AGRICULTURE (H 2852)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that would expand the current law which provides a property tax abatement to the surviving spouses and minor children of police officers and firefighters “killed in the line of duty.” The bill provides that the abatement also go to the families of officers who “died in the line of duty.”
Continue reading EXPAND PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENTS FOR POLICE AND FIREFIGHTERS (H 2890)
By Bob Katzen
The House 151-0, Senate 40-0, approved different versions of a bill that would prohibit the posting of sexually explicit images of another person online without their permission— commonly referred to as “revenge porn.” The practice is often used by ex-spouses or ex-partners.
Continue reading REVENGE PORN AND TEEN SEXTING (H 4241 and S 2703)
By Bob Katzen
The House 148-8, Senate 38-1, different versions of a bill, dubbed the Frances Perkins Workplace Equity Act, which would require employers with 25 or more employees to disclose a salary range when posting a job position.
Continue reading EMPLOYERS MUST DISCLOSE A SALARY RANGE WHEN POSTING A JOB (H 4109 and S 2484)
By Bob Katzen
The House 120-38, Senate 37-3, approved different versions of a bill that would change some of the state’s gun laws including limiting the carrying of guns into public places including schools, polling places, government buildings and the private residences of others, with an exemption for law enforcement. Another provision would crack down on the spread of ghost guns — unserialized and untraceable firearms.
Continue reading APPROVE FIREARMS CHANGES (H 4139 and S 2572)
By Bob Katzen
The House 154-0, Senate 39-0, approved different version of a bill that would leverage the interest from the state’s Rainy Day Fund to better compete for federal dollars, to ensure the state receives the maximum possible share of federal funds and to pay down the state’s long term debt liabilities. The Rainy Day Fund currently has a historic balance of $8.2 billion.
Continue reading USE INTEREST FROM STATE’S “RAIN DAY FUND” TO LEVERAGE FEDERAL FUNDS (H 4446 and S 2554)
By Bob Katzen
The House 121-33, Senate 32-8, approved different versions of a supplemental budget that includes an additional $250 million in funding for the Emergency Assistance Program that funds the emergency family shelter system which houses migrants. Continue reading SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET INCLUDING $250 MILLION FUNDING FOR SHELTERS (H 4466 and S 2711)
Obituary
Diane Slonina (Turner) of Somerville passed away on April 14, 2024, comfortably, at home. She was 68 years old. In accordance with her wishes, there will be no services. She will be cremated, and her ashes interred at her camp on her beloved Deer Pond in Hollis Maine. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Diane E. Slonina
Obituary
Francis Xavier Fahey was born on March 1st 1950 and passed away on April of 2024 in Somerville.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Francis Xavier Fahey
Obituary
Smith-Lartey, Rakim J. – Of Somerville, passed away on April 13, 2024. He was 32 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Rakim J. Smith-Lartey
Through the Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program, the City is now hiring for positions across multiple departments – multiple opportunities are also available with local businesses. Applicants must be Somerville residents and at least 14 years of age. Continue reading Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program Application Workshop, April 25
Local veterans – come work with us! The City of Somerville is participating in MassHire Metro North’s Veteran and Civilian Job Fair on Wednesday, May 1, at the Metro North Career Center (186 Alewife Brook Parkway, Suite 310) from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Continue reading Attend the Veterans Career Fair on May 1
Community members are invited to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, April 30, at 5 Palmer Ave. at 11:30 a.m. to celebrate the completion of the Glen Park Community Garden extension. Rain date is Friday, May 3, at 11 a.m.
Continue reading Attend the Glen Park Community Garden Ribbon Cutting
Let’s work together for the safety and health of our community. The City is hosting two collection events on Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for residents to safely dispose of prescription medications and unused sharps (needles and syringes). Locations include:
Continue reading Dispose of Expired or Unused Medications on National Drug Take Back Day, April 27
Mayor Ballantyne and City staff are gearing up for Somerville’s second annual Civic Day! Come learn about City services, local government, and enjoy free activities, food, and entertainment next Saturday, April 27, from noon to 4 p.m. at City Hall (93 Highland Ave.) and on the City Hall concourse. Continue reading Reminder: Join the Fun at Somerville’s Civic Day Celebration on April 27 SomerViva staff at Civic Day
Obituary
Laura C. Rothberg, nee Laura Gail Clayman, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, April 17, 2024, aged 88, following a two year battle with non-smokers’ lung cancer. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Laura C. Rothberg
Obituary
Born and raised in Ganthier, Haiti. She was the daughter of the late Lemond and Emelia (Pierre) Meus. Marie was a family woman, she loved to spend time with her family, especially her beloved son Alvin. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marie J. Meus
Obituary
Garcia, Andrea D.- Of Lynn, passed away after a brief illness surrounded by her loving family on Friday, April 19, 2024. She was 30 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Andrea D. Garcia
Connect with Mayor, City Officials, and Neighbors Over Free Pizza, Refreshments, and Kids’ Activities in a Somerville Park Near You
Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne and the City Council Invite Somervillians to New “Slice of the City” Spring Meet-Up Series
Community Encouraged to Sign Up as Volunteers and Parade Participants
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services are announcing
that Somerville’s Memorial Day parade will be held on Sunday, May 26. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announcing 2024 Somerville Memorial Day Parade and Remembrance Ceremony
Residents, community members invited to attend and share feedback to help select Somerville’s next Chief of Police
Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announcing Public Interviews for Somerville Police Chief Candidates
Greetings!
On behalf of the City of Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services, we invite your organization in joining us for this year’s Memorial Day Parade to Honor and Remember our Fallen Heroes.
Continue reading Somerville Memorial Day Parade
My promise if elected your Registrar of Deeds for Southern Middlesex County is to immediately prioritizing and restoring integrity to the registry and prioritizing respect, dignity, transparency, and efficiency are indeed fundamental principles of my campaign. Addressing the existing years of backlog and ensuring proper, safe, and correct procedures are not only vital for the functioning of the registry but also for upholding public trust. Continue reading Elect William Tauro Registrar of Deeds for Southern Middlesex County
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Hi Billy
Can you please put this In the paper. This is Roger Dearochers grandson he runs Somervill Pop Warner Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Let’s Make This Happen
Hello Classmates:
Ticket for our 50th Reunion are on sale now. If you are interested in attending please mail your check payable to SHS Class of 1974 and mail to:
Continue reading SHS Class of 1974 50th Reunion
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
This is Russell Road and Ware Street and probably the other surrounding side streets that all have signs posted but no workers. This is also the street where our absentee mayor lives on Russell Road and this is all happening right under her nose. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Somerville No Show Jobs In Action
Click on link below to read April 16th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 16th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
By Bob Katzen
“We are grateful for the many Department of Mental Health (DMH) providers who provide compassionate care for individuals experiencing serious and persistent mental illness each day. The MA Repay program is a way to show our gratitude and commitment to the work that people are doing day after day.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a measure that would make the song “Massachusetts” the state’s official jazz song. Continue reading OFFICIAL STATE JAZZ SONG (H 3105)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill which would lower the current flat 16 percent interest rate on property taxes that are deferred under the Senior Citizen Property Tax Deferral Program, which defers payment until the senior sells the property or passes away. Continue reading LOWER INTEREST RATE ON PROPERTY TAXES DEFERRED BY SENIORS (H 2919)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to legislation that would require gas and electric companies to contact landlords within 14 days of a tenant’s bill becoming past due. Continue reading MUST NOTIFY OWNER OF GAS OR ELECTRIC SHUTOFFS (H 1370)
By Bob Katzen
The state announced the implementation of the “Blue Envelope Program,” designed to improve interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder during traffic stops. Continue reading TRAFFIC STOPS FOR PERSONS WITH AUTISM
By Bob Katzen
The House fired the second shot in the long battle over the state budget for fiscal year 2025 that begins on July 1. Gov. Maura Healey fired the opening volley in January when she filed her version of the spending package. The House Ways and Means Committee last week unveiled its own $57.9 billion version. Continue reading HOUSE WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE PROPOSES $57.9 BILLION FISCAL 2025 STATE BUDGET
By Bob Katzen
The Senate 39-0. approved a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. Continue reading $375 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 4529)
ARPA funded grants to support small businesses during their startup year when costs and challenges
are high
Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announces “New Small Business Vitality” Grant Program
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and Somerville’s Inspectional Services Department are proud to announce Somerville’s 2024 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) plan, a comprehensive strategy crafted through collaborative efforts between various city departments and community stakeholders. Continue reading Mayor Katjana Ballantyne Announcing 2024 Integrated Pest Management Plan to Combat Rodent Issues
Obituary
Saint Jean, Darling- Of Dorchester, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Darling Saint Jean
Obituary
Cappello, Norman C. – Of Moody, Maine formerly of Somerville and Medford passed away on Monday, April 8, 2024. He was 89. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Norman C. Cappello
Obituary
Kawashima, Sue Atsuko (Nagahama) – Of Cambridge, passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. She was 95 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sue Atsuko Kawashima
Obituary
SHEPPARD, Ruth A. (Melley) Of Billerica formerly of Somerville April 11, 2024. Complete notice to follow.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Ruth A. Sheppard
COADY, William “Lee” – Of Somerville April 12, 2024. Complete notice to follow Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering William “Lee” Coady
Six new Firefighters were appointed to the Somerville Fire Department at the April 11th City Council Meeting. Continue reading New Somerville Firefighters and Promotion
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Hi Billy. I thought you might want to post this anonymously. In January rats made a home in my car engine and caused $7,000 in damage to engine and wiring. Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Two Legged Rats at City Hall Defending Four Legged Rats On City Streets
Click on link below to read April 9th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 9th, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
By Bob Katzen
“Our administration is deeply committed not only to preventing overdoses in our state, but also providing the incredible organizations doing the work in communities with the tools they need to improve health outcomes and save lives. By investing in these diverse organizations now, we are laying the foundation for them to have the resources they need to address the overdose crisis appropriately and quickly in the future.”
—Gov. Maura Healey announcing the awarding of $2.9 million to 20 organizations led by Black, Indigenous and people of color to address substance use in the communities they serve, which continue to be disproportionately impacted by increases in overdoses. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initital approval to legislation that would double fines for motor vehicles speeding in the far-right lane, or “breakdown” lane in areas where travel in that lane is permitted during peak commuting hours.
Continue reading USE OF BREAKDOWN LANE (H 3370)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a proposal that would prohibit anyone driving a diesel-powered vehicle from releasing significant quantities of soot, smoke or other particular emissions that obstruct or obscure another driver’s view of the roadway. The measure also bans anyone from retrofitting a diesel-powered vehicle with a device, smokestack or other equipment that enhances the vehicle’s capacity to emit these pollutants. Violators would be fined from $100 to $1,000. Continue reading BAN COAL ROLLING (H 1698)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a bill that would allow cities and towns to restrict two parking spaces in off street parking lots, large retail parking lots and parking garages to parking for veterans only – as long as the lot has more than 1,000 parking spaces. Continue reading FREE PARKING FOR VETERANS (H 3533)
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to a measure that adds a 7-day license suspension to the current $250 fine for not stopping for a school bus with flashing lights as children get on and off the bus. Continue reading INCREASE PENALTY FOR FAILURE TO STOP FOR A SCHOOL BUS
By Bob Katzen
The House gave initial approval to legislation that would amend a four-decade old law that requires an amber dome light and the flashing orange lights on the back of ice cream trucks when the truck is parked and serving ice cream. The bill would provide that the law be enforced and would impose a $50 fine for failure to have the lights. It would also require that the operation of the lights be included as part of the truck’s annual inspection. Continue reading ICE CREAM TRUCKS (H 3471)
By Bob Katzen
The Governor’s Council unanimously approved Gov. Maura Healey’s executive order that pardons misdemeanor marijuana possession convictions that occurred in Massachusetts before March 14, 2024. The pardons will apply to thousands of people who were convicted of the offense which is no longer an offense. The Bay State decriminalized marijuana possession in 2008 and then legalized it on a ballot question in 2016. Continue reading GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL APPROVES GOV. HEALEY’S PARDON OF MISDEMEANOR MARIJUANA POSSESSION
By Bob Katzen
The House 155-0. approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would modernize and remove archaic language in state laws to reflect the evolution of terminology relating to persons with disabilities. Continue reading CHANGE ARCHAIC LANGUAGE REFERRING TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (H 4396)
By Bob Katzen
The House 155-0. approved and sent to the Senate a bill that includes authorizing $200 million in one-time funding for the maintenance and repair of local roads and bridges in cities and towns across the state. The $375 million package, a bond bill under which the funding would be borrowed by the state through the sale of bonds, also includes $175 million for several transportation-related grant programs. Continue reading $375 MILLION FOR ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 4529)
SOMERVILLE – Applications are now open for the City of Somerville Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program. Mayor Katjana Ballantyne encourages all interested local teens to apply. Interested teens can apply online now at
somervillema.gov/summerjobs. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Invites Local Teens to Apply for Mayor’s 2024 Summer Jobs Program
Starting Monday morning, April 8, sidewalk detours between Third Street and Rufo Road
CAMBRIDGE/SOMERVILLE – The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) is announcing daytime construction operations for concrete sidewalk repairs on Route 28 (McGrath Highway) southbound in Cambridge and Somerville between Third Street and Rufo Road. Detours will start Monday, April 8 at 6:30 a.m. and
remain in place for approximately one month.
Continue reading Route 28 (McGrath Highway) Sidewalk Closure and Detours
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
Well, it was crowded, heckled (not the best defense) and vocal at the podium as appx 100 congregated again at City Council. On Tuesday night, it seemed two issues caused reactions from the public, seemingly mostly taxpayers. One Councilwoman, Anna Callahan, had Agenda 24-059 – trying to create a conversation (beginning a bad end in sheep’s clothing) titled “Resolution to Create a Rental Registry” …..the City “has climate sustainability affordable housing, and other goals that would be easier to accomplish if we could reach either renters or landlords in our city, and…” Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: More of “As the City of Medford Turns”
Virtual Meeting to Offer Project Overview and Collect Neighborhood Feedback
SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne, Ward 4 Councilor Jesse Clingan, and City staff invite you to join a virtual community meeting to learn about flood relief and water quality improvement efforts planned for Winter Hill, Ten Hills, and the surrounding neighborhood.
Continue reading Join the Mystic River Outfall and Sewer Separation Community Meeting on April 24
Trash, Recycling, and Yard Waste Pickup on one-day delay all week due to Patriot’s Day Holiday
on Monday
SOMERVILLE–Somerville’s yard waste pickup begins for the season the week of April 15th. That week’s Continue reading Curbside Yard Waste Pickup Resumes Week of April 15 in Somerville
Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,
I really hate this Mayor so I just got a water bill in the mail. They replaced the water meters and they’re charging us $2,000 for them. Is this normal did you get the same bill in the mail?
Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line:Why Is My Water Bill So High?
Photos provided by Somerville Firefighters Local 76
By William Tauro
Sadly shortly after nearly one month ago celebrating William F. Griffiths’s 100th Birthday, he is being laid to rest!
Retired Somerville Firefighter William Griffiths “Bill” retired in 1982 and was a proud member of Engine Company 2 running out of the Cross Street Firehouse then moving with the company to open their “new” quarters at Headquarters on Broadway.
Continue reading SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD REMEMBERING RETIRED SOMERVILLE FIREFIGHTER WILLIAM F. GRIFFITHS
Click on link below to read April 2nd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online April 2nd, 2024 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)
Continue reading April 2nd, 2024 The Somerville/Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online
By Bob Katzen
“It might be a gray, rainy week, but progress on updating the state’s Bottle Bill is a ray of sunshine for everyone who wants to reduce litter and waste.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require all public schools with grades 6 to 12, and all public and private colleges to include on their student identification cards the telephone and text number for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Continue reading SUICIDE PREVENTION HOTLINE ON STUDENT IDS (H 1999)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would require that American Sign Language (ASL) be taught in all Bay State public elementary and secondary schools to increase interactions between hearing persons and deaf and hard-of-hearing persons, as well as children with autism. Current law allows but does not require schools to teach ASL. Continue reading AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (H 466)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow voters who will turn 18 and be eligible to vote in a November general election to also vote in the preceding primary election even though they will only be 17 at the time of the primary election.
Continue reading ALLOW SOME 17-YEAR OLDS TO VOTE IN PRIMARIES (H 705)
By Bob Katzen
This bill would allow minors who are 12- and 13-years-old to referee youth soccer games for matches in which the age bracket of the players is younger than the 12- or 13-year-old referee.
Continue reading ALLOW YOUNGER YOUTH SOCCER REFEREES (H 1852)
By Bob Katzen
This bill provides free transportation on the MBTA system for veterans who travel to or from a Veterans Administration hospital for medical care. Continue reading FREE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FOR VETERANS WHO ARE GOING TO MEDICAL APPOINTMENTS (H 3527)
By Bob Katzen
This bill amends current law which allows municipalities to give stipends to assessors who receive their Certified Assessment Evaluator certificate from the International Association of Continue reading CITY AND TOWN ASSESSORS (H 2112)
By Bob Katzen
The senate 40-0, approved and sent to the House legislation that would create a public database of violations of the state’s fire prevention laws and a public notification system to alert workers of violations.
Continue reading SAFETY FOR FIREFIGHTERS (S 2712)
By Bob Katzen
The senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that would make some changes in the current state laws about debt collection practices.
Continue reading DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES (S 2713)
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