By Bob Katzen

“Housing costs remain one of the biggest challenges facing communities across our state, but this data shows that we are making meaningful progress. Adding nearly 35,000 homes in a single year is an important milestone, and it reflects the commitment of local leaders, planners, builders and residents who are helping create more housing opportunities in every region of Massachusetts. We know there is more work to do, and we’re committed to keeping up the momentum.”
—Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll announcing that Massachusetts added more than 34,500 new homes in 2025, marking strong early progress toward the state’s goal of creating 222,000 homes between 2025 and 2035.
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved and sent to the House a bill that would strike outdated language from state laws that refer to people who are deaf or hard of hearing as being “hearing impaired.” The legislation replaces the term “hearing impaired” with the phrase “deaf or hard of hearing.”
Continue reading CHANGE “HEARING IMPAIRED” TO “DEAF OR HARD OF HEARING” (S 3142) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law a bill dealing with teacher preparation and student literacy. The measure would establish clear statewide standards for evidence-based reading instruction—requiring the teaching of phonics, ensuring access to high-quality K-3 curricula, enhancing educator training and support and creating new reporting and accountability systems.
Continue reading LITERACY EDUCATION STANDARDS (H 5511) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law legislation designed to improve interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder during traffic stops. This program was adopted by the Massachusetts State Police in 2024 but was not an actual law. This bill would codify the program into Massachusetts law.
Continue reading AUTISM AND POLICE STOPS (H 5438) →

By Bob Katzen

The state’s Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) ruled that an initiative petition to repeal the state’s 31-year ban on rent control does not qualify to go on the November ballot despite the fact that supporters gathered sufficient signatures to place the question on the ballot. The court cited a constitutional amendment that prohibits several types of proposals, including one that relates to religion, religious practices or religious institutions, from being the subject of a ballot question.
Continue reading RENT CONTROL QUESTION WILL NOT BE ON THE NOVEMBER BALLOT →

By Bob Katzen

House 154-2, approved and sent to the Senate a $228 million fiscal 2026 supplemental budget that supporters said would address time-sensitive budget deficiencies, including winter storm recovery costs, public safety operations, substance abuse treatment services, homelessness assistance and emergency management expenses.
Continue reading $228 MILLION FISCAL 2026 SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 5496) →

By Bob Katzen

House 154-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that supporters said is designed to boost safety for firefighters and people conducting “hot work” including welding, plasma cutting and spark-producing construction. The measure was first proposed after the March 2014 deaths of firefighters Edward Walsh and Michael Kennedy who perished while fighting a fire that was caused by welders, working without a city permit, on a building next door to the brownstone in which they died. The bill requires the establishment of a system of public notification and recording of non-compliance with regulations.
Continue reading FIREFIGHTERS (H 5491) →

Photo: Image Above: Map from the MBTA of upcoming Red Line service impacts. Affected stations are Alewife, Davis, Porter, Harvard, Central, Kendall/MIT, Charles/MGH, and Park Street.

Cambridge, Mass., June 29, 2026 — In less than one month, there will be significant planned MBTA Red Line closures taking place in Cambridge and the greater Boston area. The following commuter and traffic impacts will take place from Tuesday, July 21 through Thursday, July 30, 2026. Affected stations are Alewife, Davis, Porter, Harvard, Central, Kendall/MIT, Charles/MGH, and Park Street.
Continue reading MBTA to Close Red Line Service and Replace with Shuttle Buses at All Cambridge Stations July 21–30, 2026 →

Approved budget moves Somerville forward in a difficult fiscal year, with investments in students, housing, traffic and public safety, neighborhood services, climate resilience, and long-term financial stability

SOMERVILLE — On Thursday, June 25, the Somerville City Council approved the City’s Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) budget, a $394 million spending plan designed to deliver results, strengthen core services, and uphold the City’s values through action. The companion school budget fully funds the district’s budget and marks the largest investment in Somerville Public Schools history, while adding new special ed teachers, interventionists, academic coaches, and an infusion of funds for substitute teaching staff.
Continue reading Somerville FY27 Budget Approved, Advancing Historic School Investments, Core Services, and Community Priorities →

By Matt McLaughlin

The house my grandmother bought in 1948 is still there on Spencer Ave in Somerville. Back then, a single mother with a union job at the Hostess Cupcake factory earned enough to buy a home and raise three kids, not far from Davis Square. She had an extra apartment, a garden in the yard, and all of her needs were a short walk away.
But when it came time for my wife and me to find our own place in Somerville, we could only dream of a home. We kept getting beaten out by speculators paying above market in all-cash deals. We looked at housing that should have been condemned, but even that was out of reach.
Continue reading Affordability Builds Community →

Obituary
Virginia M. (Albani) Meaney- 85, A lifelong resident of Somerville passed away on June 27, 2026. She was a lifelong resident of Somerville. She is predeceased by her parents, Salvatore Albani and Carmela (De Pari) Albani, both from Italy. She was the sister of late Christine Carlone and her late husband Dominic and the late Joan Toomey and her late husband Frank. She leaves behind her brother John Albani and his children Klaryssah and Dante.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Virginia M. (Albani) Meaney →

JIMMY FUND BENEFIT JULY 12TH AT NOON | The Somerville/Medford News Weekly

JIMMY FUND BENEFIT JULY 12TH AT NOON

Just in time for America’s 250th Anniversary!

An American Boy

Dear Billy T and Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line,

Hi Billy,

Thanks so much for reaching out! My husband, Lou Howland, was born in Cambridge, (my Dad was Ernest A MacKenna, from East Boston, on 69 Saratoga St, I think!). Next time I visit, I’ll definitely get in touch with you! My husband still has family in Arlington, and I hope to see them one of these days! Continue reading Somerville/Medford News Weekly Speakup Line: An American Boy →

“On Thursday, June 25, the Supreme Court cleared the way for the federal government to end Temporary Protected Status for people from Haiti and Syria — adding them to an already long list of countries whose residents have seen TPS protections revoked or put at risk.
Continue reading Somerville Mayor Jake Wilson Statement on Supreme Court TPS Decision Affecting Haiti and Syria →

The first step to becoming a Medford Police Officer is taking the Massachusetts Civil Service Police Officer Entrance Exam, which is now offered twice a year.
Continue reading ANSWER THE CALL BECOME A MEDFORD POLICE OFFICER →

June 23rd 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 23rd 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Community members invited to help guide planning process for the future of Davis Square. Deadline to apply July 12.

SOMERVILLE — The City of Somerville is inviting community members to help shape the future of Davis Square by applying to join the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) for the Davis Square Neighborhood Plan.
Continue reading Join the Davis Square Neighborhood Plan Technical Advisory Committee →

Program now offers broader income eligibility for rental energy improvements grants

SOMERVILLE— The City of Somerville is inviting owners of eligible rental units to apply for the reopened Save Energy Somerville Microgrant Program, which provides $2,000 grants to help offset the cost of energy efficiency and clean energy upgrades.
Continue reading Somerville Expanding Microgrant Program for Rental Energy Upgrades →

Somerville Pools Begin Opening Saturday, June 20; Most Water Features Now On
Dilboy Pool scheduled opening Saturday, June 20; Ginny Smithers Pool scheduled opening Monday, June 22. Most splash pads open daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Splash Pads
All City splash pads are currently open for the summer season except for Lincoln Park, which is closed for ongoing maintenance. Water sprays run daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and are on timers that stop for 20 minutes between cycles.

View a map of all splash pad and water fountain locations on somervillema.gov/pools.
Continue reading SOMERVILLE—As summer heat arrives, the City of Somerville is making it easier to cool off, with nearly all City splash pads now running for the season and pools expected to open this week. →

Obituary
James Coleman affectionaly known to everyone as Jim, passed away peacefully at the age of 83.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering James Coleman →

SOMERVILLE – The Somerville Mobile Farmers Market is hitting the road once again, returning on Thursday, July 9, for the 2026 season. The market brings fresh, affordable, local produce to four city locations Thursdays through Saturdays and runs through October 31.
Continue reading Somerville Mobile Farmers Market Returns July 9 Mobile Market Brings Fresh, Affordable Local Produce to Locations Across the City →

Obituary
Lena V. (Dilello) DeLucia — Of Cambridge, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026. She was 101 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lena V. (Dilello) DeLucia →

By Bob Katzen

“We are heartbroken each year as we learn the stories of people walking who lose their lives in crashes that are often preventable. One factor continues to show up again and again: speed. Our streets are still designed in ways that allow people to drive too fast, making it harder for drivers to see and safely yield to people walking.”
— Brendan Kearney, executive director of WalkMassachusetts, commenting on a study that showed that in 2025, one in every five traffic deaths in Massachusetts involved a person walking.
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey announced a statewide plan to reduce wrong-way driving incidents on Bay State roads through a combination of advanced detection technology, enhanced roadway signage, infrastructure improvements and targeted safety upgrades. The multi-year effort will focus on over 500 high-risk locations across Massachusetts where drivers may be more likely to enter roadways in the wrong direction due to driver confusion or roadway design.
Continue reading REDUCE WRONG-WAY DRIVING →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate approved, on a voice vote without a roll call, and sent to Gov. Healey legislation designed to improve interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder during traffic stops. This program was adopted by the Massachusetts State Police in 2024 but is not an actual law. This bill would codify the program into Massachusetts law.
Continue reading AUTISM AND POLICE STOPS (H 5438) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate, on a voice vote without a roll call, approved and sent to Gov. Healey 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 PROTECT FIREFIGHTERS (H 5488) →

By Bob Katzen

The Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) ruled that the ballot question reducing the state income tax from 5 percent to 4 percent over a three-year period, is ineligible to appear on the Nov. 3 ballot, with justices concluding Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s office provided a “significantly misleading” summary of the proposal that was likely to influence voters.
Continue reading SUPREME JUDICIAL COURT BANS INCOME TAX REDUCTION QUESTION FROM THE NOVEMBER 2026 BALLOT →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 35-4, approved and sent to the House legislation that supporters said would make it easier for Massachusetts residents to get a primary care doctor and an appointment with him or her. They noted the bill reduces the amount of time providers have to spend on administrative paperwork and aims to reduce health care costs.
Continue reading PRIMARY CARE DOCTORS (S 3116) →

By Bob Katzen

ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS (H 5510)
House 151-0, approved a $3.5 billion bond bill that supporters said will modernize environmental laws, strengthen climate resilience, support agricultural and food systems, streamline permitting processes and improve the management of the state’s natural resources. They noted the bill advances a broad set of reforms designed to help communities prepare for the impacts of climate change, accelerate critical infrastructure projects, improve environmental protections and support Bay State cities and towns.
Continue reading ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS (H 5510) →

By Bob Katzen

House 153-0, Senate 39-0, approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a bill dealing with teacher preparation and student literacy. The measure would establish clear statewide standards for evidence-based reading instruction—requiring the teaching of phonics, ensuring access to high-quality K-3 curricula, enhancing educator training and support and creating new reporting and accountability systems.
Continue reading LITERACY EDUCATION STANDARDS (H 5511) →

Bernadette Jean-Pierre – Of Somerville passed away on Friday, June 19, 2026. She was 67 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Bernadette Jean-Pierre →

Obituary
Charles F. Cobb

It is with deep love and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend at the age of 91.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Charles F. Cobb →

Obituary

Eleanor T. “Ellie” Blute – Affectionately known as Ellie, and a lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away peacefully at her family home on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. She was 92 years old. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Eleanor T. “Ellie” Blute →

Somerville is in a housing crisis, and our residents need action. Today, I join Mayor Wu and Governor Healey in saying that I strongly support compromise legislation on rent stabilization so that we can finally see some results.
Continue reading Mayor Wilson Joins Gov. Maura Healey & Mayor Michelle Wu Calling for Rent Stabilization Compromise →

June 16th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 16th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

Austin Joseph White, of Medford, passed away on June 13, 2026, he was 83.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Austin Joseph White →

By Bob Katzen

“Massachusetts has never lacked for strengths. But if the last few years have shown us anything, it’s that those strengths are not permanent. They have to be fought for every day. And they have to be earned again by every generation. I want Massachusetts to remain the place where talented young people come to learn, work, innovate and stay.”
—Senate President Karen Spilka in a speech to the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Forum.
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

Heading Home, Inc., a nonprofit provider of shelter, housing and support services for families and individuals, announced it is actively seeking to acquire a property to test what it calls “an innovative, scalable affordable housing solution for working-class families across Massachusetts.”
Continue reading AFFORDABLE HOUSING FOR WORKING CLASS FAMILIES →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved, on a voice vote without a roll call, the House version of legislation designed to improve interactions between police officers and persons with autism spectrum disorder during traffic stops. The Senate had previously approved its own version but last week agreed to the House version. This program was adopted by the Massachusetts State Police in 2024 but is not an actual law. This bill would codify the program into Massachusetts law. The proposal needs additional approval in each branch before it goes to Gov. Healey.
Continue reading AUTISM AND POLICE STOPS (H 5438) →

By Bob Katzen

The House, on a voice vote, without a roll call, gave initial approval to a bill that would ban the commercial sale of dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs in pet stores. The measure does allow pet shops to offer space to an animal rescue or shelter organization to showcase dogs, cats, rabbits or guinea pigs that are up for adoption as long as the pet shop does not have an ownership interest in the animals offered for adoption.
Continue reading PETS (H 4319) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law legislation 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 5474) →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey signed into law a measure that authorizes $4.58 billion in bonding for various local, regional and state transportation programs. The package includes $300 million for cities and towns for local roads and bridges — $200 million which will be distributed to all municipalities based on the standard Chapter 90 Program distribution formula and another $100 million which will be distributed based solely on road mileage.
Continue reading $4.58 BILLION FOR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS INCLUDING $300 MILLION FOR LOCAL ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 5375) →

By Bob Katzen

The House and Senate, on a voice vote without a roll call, approved a measure that would allow consumers to buy most products that cost under $2,500 on Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9 without paying the state’s 6.25 percent sales tax. A 2018 state law, which made the sales tax holiday permanent, requires the Legislature to vote to set the dates of the holiday each year. The measure does not need the governor’s signature to become effective.
Continue reading 2026 SALES TAX HOLIDAY (S 3119 and H 5495) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved and sent to the House a bill that supporters say would guarantee certain basic rights for children in foster care related to their safety, education and health care. They argued that the measure safeguards the wellbeing of children, especially those in state care and foster care; increases access to community support for children at risk of court involvement; and strengthens the Office of the Child Advocate to support robust investigations into reports of harm or abuse to a child.
Continue reading CHILD WELFARE (S 3111) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 28-128, rejected an amendment to a section of a $228 million fiscal year 2026 supplemental budget that provides $22.5 million to cover the additional costs associated with no cost calls for Massachusetts prisoners. The amendment would delay the distribution of this funding until the Secretary of Administration and Finance develops and presents a plan to keep the annual expenditure from this line item under $10 million.
Continue reading NO-COST CALLS FOR PRISONERS (H 5493) →

By Bob Katzen

The House 156-0, approved and sent to the Senate 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 (H 5488) →

By Bob Katzen

House 2-154, rejected an amendment striking a current law which prevents employees of schools, libraires and museums from being prosecuted for violating obscenity laws if the evidence proves that the defendant was acting in the course of his or her employment as an employee of those entities.

Continue reading ELIMINATE LAW THAT PROTECTS EMPLOYEES FROM PROSECUTION (H 5489) →

By Bob Katzen

House 153-3, approved a bill that supporters said would protect people’s access to library materials and guard against politically motivated book bans in Bay State school libraries and public libraries. The bill requires local policies to be developed using nationally recognized library standards and lays out a process around challenges to library materials. The bill also protects librarians and school library professionals from retaliation.
Continue reading BANNING SCHOOL AND PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOKS AND MATERIALS (H 5489) →

SOMERVILLE —The City of Somerville is inviting all community members to the City’s annual Juneteenth flag raising ceremony on Tuesday, June 16, from noon to 1 p.m. on the City Hall Concourse (93 Highland Ave).
Continue reading Somerville Honoring Juneteenth with Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday, June 16 →

McCarthy, Daniel Patrick of Lakeville (lifelong Somerville resident), June 10, 2026. Beloved son of the late Arthur and Bernardine (Lally) of Somerville. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Daniel Patrick McCarthy →

WHO: Interim Transportation Secretary & MBTA General Manager Phil Eng

WHEN: Friday, June 12, 2026 at 12 pm ET

WHERE: North Station, Track 1

WHAT: The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) reminds riders that Commuter Rail is free every Friday through August 2026. This is one of multiple summer discounts the MBTA will offer including:
50% off monthly Commuter Rail passes
Monthly Commuter Rail passes will be valid to the maximum zone on weekends
Continue reading MBTA reminds the public of summer discounts, including free Commuter Rail service on Fridays Through August →

SOMERVILLE —Fireworks return to Somerville’s skies on Tuesday, June 30, at the City’s annual summer celebration featuring live music, food, family-friendly activities, and of course, a fireworks finale.

Festivities will begin at 6 p.m. with live music from Pluto’s Return, a Somerville High School alumni band. DJ Live will follow with a lively mix of pop, soul, funk, and classic hits, and at 7:45 p.m., local funk band Search Party takes the stage.
Continue reading Enjoy live music, food vendors, public art, community programming, and fireworks →

June 9th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 9th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (1)

CAMBRIDGE – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, Cambridge Acting Police Commissioner Pauline Wells and Somerville Chief of Police Shumeane Benford have announced that four individuals have been charged in connection with their alleged participation in an operation to deal illicit narcotics in the Greater Boston area including in the communities of Cambridge and Somerville.
Continue reading Four Charged in Connection with Drug Distribution in Greater Boston Area including Communities of Cambridge and Somerville →

(As posted on Somerville Fire Department Facebook page)

At approximately 2:57 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9 the Somerville Fire Department responded to a fire at 162 Broadway, a three story building containing six apartment units and four commercial properties, which use the addresses of 160-166 Broadway.
Continue reading Somerville Fire 162 Broadway →

Obituary
Marie B. (Jones) Battaglia – Of Topsfield, formerly of Somerville, passed away after a brief decline in health on Friday, June 5, 2026. She was 89 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Marie B. (Jones) Battaglia →

SOMERVILLE – Celebrate the start of summer at the City’s 20th Annual Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 27, from 1- 4 p.m. at Trum Field (541 Broadway).
Continue reading Somerville Invited to 20th Annual Family Fun Day Free event takes place Saturday, June 27, at Trum Field →

By Joe Viglione

5 time Grammy winner Tom Hambridge will be playing in the New England area this June. Tour dates on Joe Viglione’s Substack https://joeviglione.substack.com/p/tom-hambridge-interview-blu-ja-vu

Continue reading The Tom Hambridge Interview →

Obituary
Anne I. (Page) McLean – Of Ipswich, formerly of Somerville, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Tuesday, June 2, 2026. She was 63 years young.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Anne I. (Page) McLean →

The Somerville Community Baptist Church at 31 College Avenue near Davis Square will present a free Vacation Bible School from Monday, August 10 through Friday, August 14, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. All children, from age 4 up to 5th grade are welcome to attend. Continue reading Somerville Community Baptist Church June & July Events →

Invasive species displaces native plants and is toxic to local wildlife

SOMERVILLE—Trowels at the ready: gardening season is here and the City of Somerville is asking community members to help stop the spread of black swallow-wort (BSW).
Continue reading Somerville Sharing Tips to Identify and Remove Invasive Black Swallow-Wort Plant →

Obituary
Michael L. Chiapperini, Jr. – Of Lynn formerly of Somerville, passed away at home on Friday, June 5, 2026. He was 58 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Michael Chiapperini →

Licensed businesses encouraged to score extra time and extend operating hours June 11 through July 19; Register now for SomerCup community soccer tournament
SOMERVILLE—Don’t want to miss a second of the World Cup action? Continue reading Somerville Extends Business Hours for World Cup; Set to Host SomerCup Soccer Tournament →

Obituary
Susan T. Reid – A lifelong resident of Somerville, passed away unexpectedly on June 4, 2026. She was 59 years young.

Born in Cambridge and raised in Somerville, Susan was the beloved daughter of the late Mary (Fahy) Reid and George M. Reid..
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Susan T. Reid →

By Bob Katzen

“Massachusetts is where the American Revolution began. We’re also the birthplace of the abolition movement, a constant leader in civil rights movements and a state made stronger by our immigrant communities. As we celebrate MA250 and America250, it is a disgrace that President Trump is attempting to erase voices and perspectives from one of our nation’s most important historic sites. That’s not preserving history. That’s censoring it. President Trump doesn’t get to decide which parts of our history are worth remembering.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The Healey Administration announced $10.1 million in grants to Massachusetts cities and towns to help them build or complete municipal fiber networks, enabling modern, efficient technology infrastructure and stronger cybersecurity capabilities.
Continue reading $10.1 MILLION TO CITIES AND TOWNS FOR FIBER NETWORKS →

By Bob Katzen

The House referred to the Committee on Financial Services a bill that would amend and expand current law which mandates coverage for the expense of treatment of cleft palate and cleft lip for children under the age of 18. The bill would expand the law to include patients over the age of 18.
Continue reading CLEFT PALATE AND CLEFT LIP (HD 4385) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved, on a voice vote without a roll call, and sent to the House legislation that would create optional state licensure for commercial interior designers, a step that supporters say would empower smaller designers to bid individually for certain projects rather than having to contract with a larger firm. Currently, smaller interior design operations have to contract with larger firms that have architectural licenses in order to bid on certain projects.
Continue reading COMMERCIAL INTERIOR DESIGNERS (S 3107) →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved, on a voice vote without a roll call, and sent to the House a bill that would ban the use of DEHP, a toxic chemical which is commonly added to plastic intravenous bags and tubing and linked to breast, liver, lung and testicular cancer. Many IV bags currently contain DEHP, which is added to improve the plastic’s flexibility but can pose serious health dangers to patients.
Continue reading BAN CANCER-LINKED CHEMICAL FROM IV BAGS (S 3106) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved legislation that would allow longtime public school teachers the opportunity, until mid-2027, to join “Retirement Plus” and buy into an enhanced savings program if they missed out when the program was first established in 2001.
Continue reading TEACHERS’ RETIREMENT BENEFITS (S 3109) →

By Bob Katzen

House 146-0, approved a proposal that would guard personal privacy and provide data protection for Massachusetts residents.

The Senate has already approved a different version of the measure and the House version now goes to the Senate for consideration.
Continue reading DATA PRIVACY (H 5479) →

House 150-0, approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would enable Massachusetts bars to push their “last call” to as late as 3 a.m., this summer, from June 8 to July 31, if they get local approval from their city or town. The measure would also allow municipalities to establish designated public consumption districts for expanded alcohol purchase and consumption.
Continue reading MOVE “LAST CALL” FOR ALCOHOL TO 3 A.M. (H 5478) →

By Bob Katzen

House 150-0, approved, Senate approved on a voice vote without a roll call, and sent to Gov. Healey legislation 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 5474) →

By Bob Katzen

House 125-28, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would narrow the scope of a voter-approved legislative audit and create a formal process to govern public access to legislative records. Democratic leaders argued the bill preserves the constitutional separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches, where the auditor’s office is positioned. Democratic State Auditor Diana DiZoglio and the Republicans disagreed and argued the bill goes against the will of the voters who, in the November 2024 election, approved Ballot Question 1 asking them if they favor allowing the state auditor to audit the Legislature. The question passed overwhelmingly by 72% of the vote. It has now been 19 months since the voters approved the audit but an audit has yet to take place.
Continue reading AUDIT THE LEGISLATURE AND MORE (H 5469) →

By Bob Katzen

House 152-0, Senate 39-0, approved and sent to Gov. Healey a measure that authorizes $4.58 billion in bonding for various local, regional and state transportation programs. The package includes $300 million for cities and towns for local road and bridges — $200 million which will be distributed to all municipalities based on the standard Chapter 90 Program distribution formula and another $100 million which will be distributed to all municipalities based solely on road mileage.
Continue reading $4.58 BILLION FOR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS INCLUDING $300 MILLION FOR LOCAL ROADS AND BRIDGES (H 5375) →

By Bob Katzen

House 153-0, Senate 37-3, approved and sent to Gov. Maura Healey a $1.35 billion fiscal 2026 supplemental budget that includes $558 million for education and $794 million for transportation.
Continue reading $1.35 BILLION SUPPLEMENTAL BUDGET (H 5470) →

Obituary
Richard Roy
January 1, 1964-June 5, 2026

Richard was born at Boston City Hospital to Robert and Ann Roy on January 1, 1964. Throughout his life he received care and support from various agencies and caregivers including Mentor Services, Till, Incorporated and Dimock Community Health Center. Richard attended the Till Day Program in Chelsea, MA for many years. He was very helpful there. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Richard Roy →

Obituary
Domenica M. (Bramante) Sicari – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. She was 96 years old.

Complete obit to be posted. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Domenica M. (Bramante) Sicari →

Obituary
Thomas E. Connolly, of Somerville, passed away unexpectedly on June 1, 2026, he was 65. Born December 9, 1960 at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware, Tom was the son of the late Simonne (LaVallee) and Michael Joseph Connolly, Jr.- United States Air Force.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Thomas E. Connolly →

Obituary
Sotirios “Andy” Kargatzis, of Somerville, passed away on June 4, 2026, he was 56.

Complete obituary to follow. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Sotirios “Andy” Kargatzis →

Proposed budget delivers largest dollar investment in Somerville Public Schools history while strengthening essential city services and advancing key community priorities

Residents Encouraged to Share Feedback at June 10 Virtual Public Hearing

SOMERVILLE — Mayor Jake Wilson today presented the City of Somerville’s proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget, a $394 million spending plan built to deliver results, strengthen core services, and uphold the City’s values through action.
Continue reading Mayor Wilson Presents FY27 Budget Focused on Core Services, Schools, and City Values Amid Fiscal Constraints →

Obituary
Paul A. Mahoney, a resident of Somerville and formerly of Billerica, passed away on June 1, 2026. He was the beloved husband of the late Else Mahoney. Paul was a loving father to Donna Lynch and her husband Ronald of Tewksbury, and Donald Seaburg of Lowell. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Paul A. Mahoney →

Obituary
Kathleen P. (McLaughlin) Callahan – Of Somerville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 31, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was 91 years old.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kathleen P. (McLaughlin) Callahan →

June 2nd 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online June 2nd 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (4)

Funeral service information:
St. Catherine of Genoa, Saturday 6/6/26 at 10:00 am.
185 Summer St, Somerville, MA.

Full obituary to follow…

Russell “Russ” Arredondo Jr., age 74, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on December 29, 2025, due to complications of diabetes in Boston, Massachusetts. Born on September 12, 1949, in Revere, MA, Russ was a man of special character who left an indelible mark on the lives of those he touched.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Russell “Russ” Arredondo Jr. →

Quick-build project to improve safety for people traveling between Tufts Street and the Boston city line

SOMERVILLE– Whether you are walking, taking the bus, driving, or riding a bike, you should feel safe using the city’s streets. This is one of the principles guiding Somerville’s ongoing work to create safer, more accessible streets across the city. With this principle in mind, the City has started planning and exploring options for improving safety along Washington Street between Tufts Street and the Boston city line.
To learn more about this work and share feedback, all are invited to join a virtual project kick off meeting.
Continue reading East Washington Safety Improvements Project Kickoff Meeting, June 17 →

SOMERVILLE – All community members are invited to join a ribbon cutting ceremony for Quincy Street Park (14 Quincy St.) on Tuesday, June 9, at 2 p.m. The ribbon cutting celebrates modern updates to the almost 15-year-old park that will help it continue to serve as an oasis for its community.
Continue reading Explore Upgrades to Quincy Street Pocket Park at June 9 Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony →

Obituary
A lifelong resident of Chelsea, Kathy passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026 in Florida, after a lengthy, courageous fight against cancer. She was 73 years of age. Born in Revere she was the daughter of the late Joseph E. and Grace J. (Crouse) Mauzerol. Kathy attended Chelsea Public Schools. She married quite young to her best friend and beloved husband Kenneth A. “Ken” Webber, recently celebrating their 57th wedding anniversary.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kathy Webber →

Obituary

Steven M. MacEachern of Somerville passed away on May 31, 2026. He was the beloved husband of Sheila (Meehan) MacEachern and a loving father to Julia Wingate and her husband Thomas of Somerville. Steven was the cherished grandfather of Jake and Viviana. He was the son of the late Harold and Sandra MacEachern and brother to Babette Mello of Chelmsford. He was predeceased by Babette’s late husband, James. Steven was also a brother-in-law to Eric Meehan of Malden and a dear uncle to Brad, Jay, Kristen, Jordyn, and Jenna.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Steven M. MacEachern →

Congratulations to Sophia Casserly Grade 3, John F. Kennedy School Student Somerville, MA Mrs. Tremonte’s Class on being one of the winners in the Casella 2027 Calendar Contest!
Continue reading Somerville 3rd Grade Student Sophia Casserly Wins Contest →

This week Lions VP Sharon Deyeso met Rebecca Oliveira to grant her the 2026 Club Scholarship. It is given. only to an eye, hearing, or suddenly afflicted, high achieving, good character SR. Ms.Oiliveira will attend a Texas Tech College! She enjoyed her HS years in Medford and is very thankful to Lions. She received the check with, “Go Lions!”
Continue reading Medford Lions Club Working Wonders →

Project will improve safety for people traveling between Elm Street and Bow Street

SOMERVILLE— Curious about the City’s plans to address travel safety concerns on Somerville Ave.? Join the Mobility Division on Tuesday, June 9, for an open house sharing early designs to deliver a safer travel environment on Somerville Ave between Elm and Bow Streets.
Continue reading Explore Designs for Somerville Ave Safety Improvements at June 9 Open House →

SOMERVILLE – Budget season for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) has arrived and community members are invited to a Public Hearing where comment will be accepted on Wednesday, June 10. The annual budget outlines funding for essential city functions including schools, public safety, infrastructure, human services, and more.
Continue reading Mayor to submit proposed budget June 4; Public Hearing to follow on June 10 →

Obituary
Beauvil Pierre-Louis of Somerville, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend.
Born and raised in Arniquet, Haiti, he was the beloved son of the late Dieuveuil Pierre-Louis and Damelise Salomon Pierre-Louis. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Beauvil Pierre-Louis →

Obituary
Kevin V. Kirkland, age 62, of Staten Island, passed away on May 25th following ongoing health complications.

Kevin worked for Matrix Applications LLC for more than 20 years, where he was known for his dedication and years of service.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Kevin V. Kirkland →

cheduled for 1 p.m.; Rain date: June 3, 3 to 4 p.m.; Two- and Four-footers welcome

SOMERVILLE—We have the ‘paw-fect’ reason to celebrate. Community members and their furry friends are invited to a ribbon cutting for a dual water fountain for dogs and people on Tuesday, June 2, at Nunziato Field and Dog Park (7 Putnam St.) from 1 to 2 p.m. Rain date: Wednesday, June 3, from 3 to 4 p.m. Somerville K9 Team dogs Fluff and Missy, will join the officials gathering with the community to mark the occasion.
Continue reading Somerville Police Dogs to Join Unveiling of Dual Dog-People Water Fountain at Nunziato Dog Park June 2 Ribbon cutting ceremony →

SOMERVILLE – The City of Somerville is seeking two new members representing the genres of literature and visual art, including those with experience in public art, to join the Somerville Arts Council Board.

If you’re passionate about literature, visual art, or public art, this is a great opportunity to make an impact.
Continue reading Join the Somerville Arts Council Board Apply by Wednesday, July 15 →

Robert J. DiGiorgio, “Bob,” age 85, passed away peacefully at home on May 30, 2026. He was born in Medford, MA, son of the late Rocco and Giovanna “Nina” (Trodella) DiGiorgio. For many years he lived in North Reading, MA, Cape Neddick, ME and Marco Island, FL.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Robert J. DiGiorgio →

By Bob Katzen

Rideshare drivers in the Bay State, including Uber and Lyft, have become the first statewide rideshare union in the nation to win official recognition.
Continue reading BAY STATE UBER AND LYFT DRIVERS FORM A UNION →

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey announced the awarding of $1 million from the first Fair Housing Trust Fund to seven organizations working to eliminate housing discrimination and expand access to fair housing protections across the Bay State.
Continue reading $1 MILLION TO PROTECT RESIDENTS FROM HOUSING DISCRIMINATION →

By Bob Katzen

A bill that would prohibit an operator of a motor vehicle from recording, broadcasting or otherwise capturing images or video of themselves while driving, is stuck in the Bills in Third Reading Committee. The measure was given initial approval by the House, on a voice vote, without a roll call, on February 26 and has been lingering in committee for more than three months.
Continue reading PROHIBIT RECORDING OR BROADCASTING WHILE DRIVING (H 3748) →

By Bob Katzen

Senate President Karen Spilka (D-Ashland) and House Speaker Ron Mariano (D-Quincy) have named the members of the six-member House-Senate conference committee charged with hammering out a compromise version of the separate fiscal 2027 state budget versions approved by each branch. The price tag of the House version is $63.41 billion while the Senate version logs in at $63.37 billion. There are some major differences between the two chambers which will have to be ironed out by the committee.
Continue reading CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED TO HAMMER OUT A COMPROMISE VERSION OF THE FISCAL 2027 STATE BUDGET →

By Bob Katzen

Last week was the deadline for candidates for state representative and state senator to file their nomination papers with Secretary of State Bill Galvin’s office. Each candidate for the House needed 150 verified signatures to qualify while each Senate candidate needed 300.
Continue reading MOST INCUMBENT LEGISLATORS HAVE NO OPPONENT →

By Bob Katzen

“This report confirms what we have been warning about for years, and now multiple reports conclude: Massachusetts is pursuing an energy policy that is both expensive and unreliable. The state is forcing a rapid transition to intermittent power sources without a realistic plan to keep the lights on or control costs. Even under these aggressive mandates, fossil fuels are still required to keep the lights on, and families are left paying more for a system that is less dependable.” Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL →

By Bob Katzen

The latest chapter was written last week about the ongoing saga on whether State Auditor Diana DiZoglio has the right to audit the House and the Senate. In the November 2024 election, voters approved Ballot Question 1 asking them if they favor allowing the state auditor to audit the Legislature. The question passed overwhelmingly by 72 percent of the vote. It has now been almost 19 months since the voters approved the audit but an audit has yet to take place.
Continue reading THE BATTLE OVER WHETHER STATE AUDITOR DIANA DIZOLGIO CAN AUDIT THE LEGISLATURE (S 3104) →

David J. Ciampa July 9, 1940 — May 27, 2026

NAPLES, FL – Mr. David J. Ciampa 85, of Naples, Fl and Peabody, MA beloved husband of Angela M. (Cappadona) Ciampa, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering David J. Ciampa →

By Sophia Carafotes

Class Reunion of 1976, our 50th reunion has been triumphantly celebrated! What an extraordinarily fantastic day filled with sunshine, perfect weather, and heartwarming camaraderie. Continue reading Somerville High School 50th Reunion →

id=”attachment_121961″ align=”alignnone” width=”192″]

Congratulations and thank you for a job well done to VIRGINIA F. HUSSEY SPC U.S. ARMY, IRAQ WAR TOURS 82ND AIRBORNE DIV for receiving her very own square dedication in Somerville! 🇺🇸 Continue reading VIRGINIA F. HUSSEY SPC U.S. ARMY Square Somerville →

City to launch microgrant program for youth-led climate projects

SOMERVILLE – Composting, tree planting, solar phone charging stations, and more – these are the types of hyper-local climate action initiatives youth globally are advancing with microgrants from Bloomberg Philanthropies, and soon Somerville youth will have an opportunity to join in.
Continue reading Somerville Awarded $50,000 Youth Climate Action Grant by Bloomberg Philanthropies →

Pilot builds on ongoing follow-up and outreach work to provide direct co-response in real time

SOMERVILLE— This week, the Somerville Police Department (SPD) launched its Co-Response Pilot Program. The initiative will provide a proactive, real-time co-response by police and a public health professional for calls involving individuals who may be experiencing a mental or behavioral health crisis.
Continue reading Somerville Police Launch Co-Response Pilot Program →

Suggested Caption: Expectant mothers in Cambridge, Somerville, and Medford are invited to Riverside Early Head Start’s free community baby shower on Wednesday, June 10!
Continue reading Riverside is Hosting a Free Community Baby Shower on 6/10 →

May 26th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online May 26th 2026 The Somerville Medford News Weekly Print Edition Online (32)

Albert H. Davidson Obituary

Albert “Al” Davidson
Passed away on Friday May 15, 2026 at the age of 78. Albert (Al) was a lifelong resident of Arlington, Massachusetts. Born on April 4, 1948 to the late Henry A. Davidson and the late Florence E. (Foley) Davidson, both formally of Arlington. He was a dedicated brother to his late sister Marilyn A. Davidson. Devoted Husband of 54 years to his wife Regina M. (Lucarelli) Davidson of Arlington, loving father to his daughter Jennifer M. Davidson-Hernandez of Arlington and adoring Papa to his grand daughter Lillian G. Hernandez. He was survived by several cherished cousins, nieces and nephews to whom he was known as Uncle Al. Lastly, he is survived by a bunch of kids who consider him their grandfather and call him Pa, whom he shared a mutual love with. He will be missed dearly by all.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Albert H. Davidson →

By William Tauro

This past Memorial Day weekend in Somerville, Massachusetts, a solemn occasion meant to honor fallen service members and reflect on sacrifice turned contentious when City Councilor Matt McLaughlin used his speech to pivot into partisan politics. McLaughlin, a Democratic candidate for the Massachusetts State Senate in the 2nd Middlesex District, reportedly shifted focus from veterans’ service to complaints about high gas prices and other unrelated political matters.
Continue reading Controversy at Somerville Memorial Day Ceremony: Politics Overshadows Remembrance →

Obituary
John F. Mack, Jr. – Of Somerville, passed away on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. He was 84 years old.

Born in Boston, he was the son of the late John F. and Anne (Koen) Mack.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering John F. Mack, Jr. →

Obituary
Charles Thomas (Chuck) Bunker, aged 69, passed away unexpectedly on May 24, 2026, due to cardiac arrest. Born on October 10, 1956, in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, Chuck was the beloved only child of Lillian K. (Campbell) and Forrest Bunker, both of whom predeceased him. He spent his formative years in Somerville, Massachusetts, and later resided at Cambridge Rehab and Nursing in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where he was cherished for his vibrant personality, warmth, and joy.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Charles Thomas (Chuck) Bunker →

By Bob Katzen

Former State Representative and Congressman Barny Frank died last week. Gov. Maura Healey ordered that all flags on state buildings be flown at half-mast.
Continue reading THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON THE PASSING OF CONGRESSMAN BARNEY FRANK →

By Bob Katzen

The Raise Up Massachusetts Coalition announced that the State Department of Revenue certified that Massachusetts collected more than $3.1 billion in revenue from the state’s 4 percent surtax on millionaires over the first ten months of the state’s current fiscal year. They said that is a 20 percent increase over the $2.5 billion collected at that same point last year.
Continue reading $3.1 BILLION IN REVENUE FROM THE NEW 4 PERCENT SURTAX ON MILLIONAIRES →

By Bob Katzen

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it is awarding $254,000 in grant funding to Massachusetts to monitor water quality at beaches and to notify the public if elevated levels of bacteria make swimming unsafe.
Continue reading $254,000 TO MONITOR WATER QUALITY AT BAY STATE BEACHES →

By Bob Katzen

A new law that took effect last August requires landlords, instead of renters, to cover the cost of broker fees unless a renter is the one to hire the broker first.
Continue reading THE GOVERNOR AND ATTORNEY GENERAL WARN ABOUT ILLEGAL RENTER-PAID BROKER FEES →

By Bob Katzen

The Senate approved, on a voice vote without a roll call, a $2.737 billion bond bill to fund various local, regional and state transportation programs.

The package includes $300 million for cities and towns for local road and bridges — $200 million which will be distributed to all municipalities based on the standard Chapter 90 Program distribution formula and another $100 million which will be distributed to all municipalities based solely on road mileage.
Continue reading $2.737 BILLION FOR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS INCLUDING $300 MILLION FOR LOCAL ROAD AND BRIDGES (H 5375) →