THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL

By Bob Katzen

“In Massachusetts, we lead, we don’t follow. Tonight, you chose the kind of state we want to be: a state and a place where everyone can live free and safe in their communities; where diversity is a strength, not a flaw; where families can thrive; and where there’s no better place to raise a child. Where we nourish our kids and give them an education that sets them up for success no matter their career path. Where we make sure our seniors have housing and health care they deserve. Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

NINE MASSACHUSETT BALLOT QUESTIONS

By Bob Katzen

NINE BALLOT QUESTIONS: There were nine questions on the November 3 ballot for Bay State voters to approve or reject. Five were approved while four were rejected. Here are the unofficial results which still need certification by the secretary of state:

QUESTION 1 WAS APPROVED: It will make records of the legislature and the governor public records.
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PREVENT SUSPENSION OF ABORTION LAW

By Bob Katzen

Back in August, the Legislature approved and Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a bill that would loosen restrictions on abortions that can be performed after 24 weeks of gestation by removing existing requirements that limit abortions at 24 weeks of pregnancy or later to four specific medical circumstances, and instead allows licensed physicians and providers to rely on their best medical judgment when caring for patients.
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SHELTERS (S 3290)

By Bob Katzen

Senate 34-4, approved an amendment to the state’s Emergency Assistance Shelter Program for homeless families. The amendment would loosen some of the restrictions lawmakers imposed two years ago, when a surge in demand, including families sleeping at Logan Airport, prompted the state to tighten eligibility and limit stays. The amendment codifies a rapid-track shelter option, extends the length of stay from six months to nine months and expands income eligibility from 115% to 120% of the federal poverty level.
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$2.62 BILLION FISCAL YEAR 2026 SUPPLEMEMTAL BUDGET (S 3290)

By Bob Katzen

Senate 34-4, approved a Democratic leadership-sponsored $2.62 billion fiscal 2026 budget to close out the books on fiscal year 2026. The House has already approved its own version of a supplemental budget and a House-Senate conference committee will be appointed to work out a compromise version.
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Somerville/Medford Remembering Harry F. Meadows, Jr.

Harry F. Meadows, Jr. of Arlington, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on November 3, 2026, he was 80. Born in Somerville and raised in Arlington, he was the son of the late Catherine (Sliney) and Harry F. Meadows. He graduated from Arlington High School and went on to work for Raytheon as a draftsman and circuit board designer.
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Apply Now for a Two-Bedroom Affordable Rental Unit in Union Square

SOMERVILLE – Applications are now open for a rent-restricted, two-bedroom unit at 16-20 Medford St. (Verge) near Union Square through the City of Somerville’s Inclusionary Housing Program. The unit is available to all households making between 81% and 110% of the Area Median Income and to households with mobile vouchers making between 0% and 110% of the Area Median Income.
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Be a Somerville Climate Ambassador: Applications Now Open

Applications due December 1; $400 stipend for participants

SOMERVILLE—Take the lead on local climate action while getting to know your neighbors. Somerville’s Sustainability and Environment Division is launching its 2027 Climate Ambassadors group, and all residents ages 16 and up are invited to apply to be a member. Applications are open until end of day, Tuesday, December 1.

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City to Host Cold Weather Preparedness Workshops on November 17 and 18

SOMERVILLE—Though it may not feel like it with the recent summer-like temperatures, winter is fast approaching. To learn how to stay safe and be ready for winter weather, community members are invited to join Somerville Emergency Management and the Somerville Fire Department for a free workshop on cold weather preparedness.
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Six Inclusionary Homeownership Opportunities at 13 Warwick Street and 8 Melvin Street

SOMERVILLE – Applications are now open for the sale of six deed-restricted condominiums at 13 Warwick Street and 8 Melvin Street to eligible, first-time homebuyers. Units will be sold at below market price through the City of Somerville’s Inclusionary Housing Program. Apply now through 4 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9.
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