By Bob Katzen

“Office to housing conversions are transformative for our main streets and downtowns. Building new housing from vacant buildings is a long-term investment in the community, providing more living options for residents, a renewed tax base and more customers for local businesses.”
—Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll on the Healey

Administration awarding $7.4 million in for two office to housing conversion projects that will create nearly 200 new units in downtown Boston.

“This program was inspired by my own journey as a public safety intern nearly three decades ago. Our goal is to give students the tools, relationships and real-world insight that can spark a lifelong career in public service. The passion and diversity this cohort brings makes me optimistic for the future of public safety in Massachusetts.”
—Public Safety and Security Secretary Terrence Reidy on the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Internship Program which continues to serve as a pipeline for talented, mission-driven individuals interested in careers in public safety and government service.

“This program is a great example of government being innovative and supporting people’s financial and career goals based on their needs and unique circumstances.”
—Sen. Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett) on the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities awarding more than $1 million to local housing authorities and regional administering agencies this month to promote economic opportunity for public housing residents.

“The data are clear. Lead was detected in most of the taps tested at schools and childcare centers across the state and we know children are the most impacted from exposure to lead. We need policies that get the lead out of faucets and fountains in our schools and childcare centers.”
—Deirdre Cummings, MASSPIRG legislative director, urging state lawmakers to pass a bill to get the lead out of drinking water at Massachusetts schools and childcare centers.