Category Archives: Uncategorized

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

By Bob Katzen

“Three-in-four Massachusetts voters want to lower the income tax rate from five to four percent, with substantial public support across party lines and income brackets. The proposed tax cut could save the average Massachusetts taxpayer $1,300 annually compared to the status quo. As the cost of living continues to rise, residents are eager for forward-looking solutions that offer meaningful relief.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

UNIFORM AGE FOR KINDERGARTEN (H 510)

By Bob Katzen

Another proposal before the Education Committee would require that children be at least five years old by the beginning of the school year in order to enter kindergarten that year. Under current law, the minimum age for kindergarten eligibility varies by district, as local school committees have the authority to set age requirements.
Continue reading UNIFORM AGE FOR KINDERGARTEN (H 510)

PRE-KINDERGARTEN (H 703)

By Bob Katzen

The Education Committee held a hearing on a bill that would require the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) to administer a publicly funded Pre-K program, which would be available each week a public school is in session for each child from 2 years and 9 months of age to 5 years of age, who is not eligible for or enrolled in kindergarten operated by a public school. The measure would also create a Pre-K Advisory Council within EEC to assist in administering the Universal Pre-K program. Continue reading PRE-KINDERGARTEN (H 703)

POSSIBLE NOVEMBER 2026 BALLOT QUESTIONS ARE CERTIFIED

By Bob Katzen

Attorney General Andrea Campbell announced that her office has certified 40 possible ballot questions that could appear on the November 2026 ballot. Campbell had until September 3 to certify the questions as eligible or reject them as ineligible. Three possible ballot questions did not pass muster and were not certified because they do not meet the requirements outlined in Article 48 of the Massachusetts Constitution.
Continue reading POSSIBLE NOVEMBER 2026 BALLOT QUESTIONS ARE CERTIFIED

Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicholas C. Kakles Jr.

Obituary
Nicholas C. Kakles, Jr. of Malden and formerly of Somerville, passed away on September 2, 2025, he was 81. Born in Boston, he was the son of the late Nora (Reardon) and Nicholas C. Kakles, Sr. Nicholas was raised in Somerville, along with his siblings, and graduated from Somerville Trade School, then served honorably with the Massachusetts National Guard for several years.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Nicholas C. Kakles Jr.

Somerville/Medford Remembering Carol J. Murphy

Obituary
Carol J. Murphy, of Malden and formerly of Charlestown and Somerville, passed away on September 3, 2025. She was the beloved daughter of the late George H. and Marion W. (Pineo) Murphy. Carol was a dear sister to Helen Dahlgren and was predeceased by her siblings Lorraine Murphy, Marguerite Maher, Paul Murphy, Harry Murphy, and James Murphy. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Carol J. Murphy

Forever Fluff: Somerville Celebrating 20 Years of What the Fluff? Festival

One of city’s quirkiest annual traditions back for it’s 20th year on Sept. 20

SOMERVILLE — Somerville’s Fluff Fest is turning 20, and all are invited to celebrate
the famous treat in Union Square on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 2 to 6 p.m. (rain date: Sunday, September 21). This year’s milestone theme, Continue reading Forever Fluff: Somerville Celebrating 20 Years of What the Fluff? Festival

Somerville to Host Public Forums on State’s Draft Cannabis Social Consumption Licenses

Mayor Ballantyne & Economic Development Office Invite Businesses & Community Members to Discuss
City’s Approach to Coming New Regulations

SOMERVILLE— The Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) recently drafted three types of licenses Continue reading Somerville to Host Public Forums on State’s Draft Cannabis Social Consumption Licenses

Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log

Assault
25051033: On 8/20/25 at approximately 4:44 PM, Somerville Police responded to a business on Mystic Ave for report of juveniles coming into the store and causing disturbances. Upon arrival, officers spoke with an employee who stated a juvenile male threw a package of soup at him. Officers identified the juvenile suspect.
Continue reading Somerville Police Department Weekly Crime Log

Mayor Ballantyne Announces Opening of Assembly Row Fire Station

First new station in half-century is 100% electric and designed with firefighter safety top of mind

SOMERVILLE– Moving season is in full swing in Somerville, not only for residents, but for the Somerville Fire Department, too. You won’t catch the usual move-in sights like futons, bean bag chairs, and crates, but instead a new fire crew, new equipment, and a full Fire Engine are moving into Somerville’s first new fire station in a half-century. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Announces Opening of Assembly Row Fire Station

Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Alfred C. Carfagna Jr.

Obituary for Alfred (Chuck) C. Carfagna Jr.

Alfred C. Carfagna Jr., a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, cherished brother, uncle, and United States Army veteran, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on August 29th at Community Hospice House in Merrimack, NH. He was 73.
Continue reading Somerville/Medford/Cambridge Remembering Alfred C. Carfagna Jr.

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

TALES FROM SPIN CITY – Two of former Gov. Charlie Baker’s administration officials, Brian Shortsleeve and Mike Kennealy, both vying for the Republican party’s nod to run against incumbent Democrat Gov. Maura Healey in 2026, participated in a debate on Friday, August 22nd. Shortsleeve served as Chief Administrator head of the MBTA while Kennealy was Baker’s Secretary of Housing and Economic Development. Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES on Beacon Hill

MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS AND VETERANS SUICIDE AWARENESS AND REMEMBRANCE DAY (H 3388)

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would establish September 22nd as Military Service Members and Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day. The day would acknowledge that suicide is an epidemic among service members and veterans and works to foster awareness and call for suicide prevention measures and support.
Continue reading MILITARY SERVICE MEMBERS AND VETERANS SUICIDE AWARENESS AND REMEMBRANCE DAY (H 3388)

75.6 MILLION REBATE TO HEALTH INSURANCE CONSUMERS

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey announced that five of the state’s health insurance carriers will return $75.6 million to over 350,000 people covered by individual and small employer healthcare plans in Massachusetts under the state’s enforcement of the Massachusetts health laws. The five carriers are Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts HMO Blue; Fallon Community Health Plan; Harvard Pilgrim Health Care; Mass General Brigham Health Plan; and UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company.
Continue reading 75.6 MILLION REBATE TO HEALTH INSURANCE CONSUMERS

BAN THE USE OF TINTED LICENSE PLATE COVERS (H 4029

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would prohibit the use of tinted or smoked license plate covers, along with any bracket, frame or covering that alters or obscures the license plate’s visibility. Specifically, the bill prohibits anything that obscures the license plate; the color of the license plate; the name or abbreviated name of the state; or any character or characters, decal, stamp or other device indicating the month or year in which the vehicle’s registration expires. Continue reading BAN THE USE OF TINTED LICENSE PLATE COVERS (H 4029

CHANGE LANGUAGE IN LAW THAT CREATED COUNCILS ON AGING (H 4301)

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to legislation that would change some language in the 50-year-old law that created Councils on Aging in local cities and towns. Changes include deleting language that refers to “problems of the aging” and replacing it with “the needs of older adults;” deleting language that calls workers “clerks” and replacing it with language that calls workers “staff;” and adding “and delivering services” to the language in the bill which gives the council the authority to “carry out programs.” Continue reading CHANGE LANGUAGE IN LAW THAT CREATED COUNCILS ON AGING (H 4301)

AUDITOR DIANA DIZOGLIO UNCOVERS FRAUD IN PUBLIC BENEFITS

By Bob Katzen

State Auditor Diana DiZoglio released a Bureau of Special Investigations (BSI) report that uncovered $4.8 million of public benefit fraud in the final quarter of fiscal year 2025. BSI’s goal is to help make government work better by investigating fraud, abuse and illegal acts involving public assistance benefits across the state.
Continue reading AUDITOR DIANA DIZOGLIO UNCOVERS FRAUD IN PUBLIC BENEFITS

Somerville/Medford Remembering Lorraine F. Erb-Grande

Obituary
Lorraine F. Erb-Grande – of Somerville passed away on August 28, 2025, at the age of 90. She was the daughter of the late James and Doris (King) Rumson of Somerville. A lifelong resident of Somerville, she worked as a Court Officer at the Cambridge Courthouse for many years before her retirement. She was a member of the American Legion Post 377 and Post 19. A member of the George Dilboy VFW Post in Davis Square. She loved spending time with her kids, eight grandchildren and her sixteen great- grandchildren. Continue reading Somerville/Medford Remembering Lorraine F. Erb-Grande

Massachusetts Man Arrested After Numerous “Ghost Guns” Discovered

For Immediate Release

U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Massachusetts
BOSTON – A Somerville, Mass. man was arrested today and charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. During a search of the defendant’s residence today, it is alleged that numerous privately made firearms (PMF’s) otherwise known as, “ghost guns;” firearm suppressors; 3D printers; and ammunition in varying calibers were found.
Continue reading Massachusetts Man Arrested After Numerous “Ghost Guns” Discovered

PROHIBIT GROCERY STORES FROM USING BIOMETRICS TO INCREASE PRICES OR SUGGEST ITEMS (H 99)

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a measure that would prohibit grocery stores from suggesting items or adjusting the prices of any item directly or indirectly based on the biometric data of individuals collected on the premises of a grocery store. Grocery stores would be allowed to use biometrics to allow customers to voluntarily verify their identity at the point of sale. Continue reading PROHIBIT GROCERY STORES FROM USING BIOMETRICS TO INCREASE PRICES OR SUGGEST ITEMS (H 99)

LIQUOR LICENSE SUSPENSION (H 4275)

By Bob Katzen

Current law suspends the liquor license of and closes down for a period of time, any package store that is found guilty of selling to a minor or an intoxicated individual. However, in big box stores, supermarkets, gas stations and other places in which liquor sales are not their primary business, a violation results only in the closing of the liquor department.
Continue reading LIQUOR LICENSE SUSPENSION (H 4275)

Mayor Ballantyne Invites Community Members to Brazilian Flag Raising Ceremony on September 4

SOMERVILLE—Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Office of Immigrant Affairs (SOIA), in proud partnership with the Brazilian Women’s Group, invite community members to celebrate 203 years of Brazilian independence at the third annual Brazil flag raising on Thursday, September 4, on the City Hall concourse (79 Highland Ave.) at 3 p.m. Rain date: Thursday, September 9.
Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Invites Community Members to Brazilian Flag Raising Ceremony on September 4

Mayor Ballantyne and Somerville Veterans’ Services to Host 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

Annual ceremony to honor lives lost and those who served

SOMERVILLE–To mark the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville Department of Veterans’ Services invite all community members to a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony on Thursday, September 11, at 6 p.m. in Davis Square. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne and Somerville Veterans’ Services to Host 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony

Kiwanis Club of Somerville News Updates

SOMERVILLE_ On August 19th, the final step in our annual school supplies / backpack drive before final delivery was completed at the Somerville headquarters of PUMA North America. A great group of Kiwanis members, assisted by some friends and an amazing group of PUMA employee volunteers were able to stuff all 200 high quality backpacks with needed school supplies in less than an hour. After a quick group photo, the boxed backpacks were loaded onto member vehicles for delivery to Somerville High School and Prospect Hill Academy.
Continue reading Kiwanis Club of Somerville News Updates

New Parking Camera Devices Enforce Two-Hour Limits at Manchester-by-the-Sea Beaches May Be Coming To Your City of Town Soon

By William Tauro

Manchester-by-the-Sea, a picturesque coastal town in Massachusetts, is embracing cutting-edge technology to manage parking at its popular beaches. New automated parking camera devices are now in use, designed to enforce the town’s two-hour parking limit with precision.
Continue reading New Parking Camera Devices Enforce Two-Hour Limits at Manchester-by-the-Sea Beaches May Be Coming To Your City of Town Soon

$46 MILION FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING

By Bob Katzen

The Healey Administration announced a package of $46 million for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to support the buildout of EV chargers across Massachusetts. Supporters said that the funding will help address gaps identified by the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Coordinating Council, including the need for more chargers along secondary corridors and to support medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. Continue reading $46 MILION FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING

FIRST RESPONDERS MUST HAVE NARCAN AVAILABLE (S 1410)

By Bob Katzen

The Committee on Mental Health, Substance Use and Recovery will hold a hearing on September 15 on legislation that would require government entities to supply first responders with Narcan, also known by its generic name naloxone, or another opioid antagonist which is used as an emergency treatment used for the complete or partial reversal of an opioid overdose. Continue reading FIRST RESPONDERS MUST HAVE NARCAN AVAILABLE (S 1410)

Somerville Planning Board Adopts Ballantyne Administration’s Transformative Assembly Square Neighborhood Plan

2900-5700 housing units, up to $17M in annual tax revenue among potential benefits

Plan sets vision for housing, job, revenue, and public space improvements through sustainable growth

SOMERVILLE, MA – By unanimous vote, the Somerville Planning Board at their July meeting adopted the Ballantyne Administration’s Assembly Square Neighborhood Plan, marking a significant milestone in the City’s efforts to guide sustainable development Continue reading Somerville Planning Board Adopts Ballantyne Administration’s Transformative Assembly Square Neighborhood Plan

Ballantyne Administration Strengthens Tree Preservation Ordinance to Better Protect Urban Canopy

SOMERVILLE — The City of Somerville’s Department of Public Space and Urban Forestry (PSUF) is sharing
updates to its Tree Preservation Ordinance, reinforcing the City’s commitment to protecting trees on both public and private land. The
Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Strengthens Tree Preservation Ordinance to Better Protect Urban Canopy

Mayor and Somerville Homeless Coalition Activate Emergency Fund for Somerville Fire Victims; Call for Community Donations

SOMERVILLE– You can help. On Sunday, August 10, 18 Somerville residents including three children, as well as pets, were displaced by a fire on Powderhouse Boulevard that left nine apartments at Clarendon Hill Housing uninhabitable. Continue reading Mayor and Somerville Homeless Coalition Activate Emergency Fund for Somerville Fire Victims; Call for Community Donations

City of Somerville Staff Member Honored by Massachusetts House of Representatives for Decades of Service

SOMERVILLE, MA– On Friday, July 25, Somerville’s own Bonny Carroll was awarded a special citation from
the Massachusetts House of Representatives for her work as a dedicated leader in tobacco prevention and longtime champion for youth and families in Somerville.
Continue reading City of Somerville Staff Member Honored by Massachusetts House of Representatives for Decades of Service

Ballantyne Administration Brings Braille & Raised Text Street Signs to 200 Somerville Intersections

Crosswalk sign initiative brings more accessible street navigation Somerville residents

SOMERVILLE— Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is pleased to announce that more accessible signage is coming
to streets around Somerville. As part of ongoing work to make Somerville’s streets safer and more accessible, the City will be installing new signage featuring braille and raised text at intersections around Somerville. A total of 200 new signs will be installed Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Brings Braille & Raised Text Street Signs to 200 Somerville Intersections

Lyft Driver Arrested in Somerville After Alleged Sexual Assault on Passenger

SOMERVILLE – Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan and Somerville Chief of Police Shumeane Benford have confirmed that Luis Carlos Ramos Teixeira, age 27, of Brockton has been charged with rape and indecent assault and battery on a person over fourteen. The defendant, a Lyft driver, is alleged to have sexually assaulted a female passenger over the weekend. Continue reading Lyft Driver Arrested in Somerville After Alleged Sexual Assault on Passenger

Mayor Ballantyne Invites the Community to the Annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival in Union Square

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council, in partnership with producer Yvette Wilks of Wilks Productions Consultancy, invite community members to the eleventh annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival on Saturday, August 23, (rain date: August 24), from 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. in Union Square Plaza. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Invites the Community to the Annual Evolution of Hip Hop Festival in Union Square

Somerville Seeks Polling Place Workers for Preliminary Election Tuesday, September 16

Earn $240 for the workday, 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

SOMERVILLE– The City of Somerville is seeking polling place workers and standby poll workers for the upcoming Preliminary Election on Tuesday, September 16. Many poll workers are needed to support operations and conduct a successful election. Continue reading Somerville Seeks Polling Place Workers for Preliminary Election Tuesday, September 16

$865,000 SETTLEMENT FOR VIOLATING BAY STATE EMPLOYMENT LAWS

By Bob Katzen

Attorney General Andrea Campbell announced that her office has reached a settlement with online grocery-delivery company Weee, resolving allegations that it violated Massachusetts employment laws pertaining to employee classification and earned sick time. As part of the settlement, Weee has agreed to pay over $865,000 in citations, including restitution for over 160 impacted workers and penalties.

Continue reading $865,000 SETTLEMENT FOR VIOLATING BAY STATE EMPLOYMENT LAWS

SPECIAL EDUCATION FUNDING (H 2302)

By Bob Katzen

The House gave initial approval to a bill that would increase the amount of funds that a school district can stash away in a reserve account during good fiscal times to help alleviate the fiscal burden of paying for special education during difficult fiscal times. The measure would increase the amount allowed from 2 percent to 5 percent of the district’s annual budget.
Continue reading SPECIAL EDUCATION FUNDING (H 2302)

REPRODUCTIVE AND TRANSGENDER CARE PROTECTIONS – THE SHIELD ACT (H 4271)

By Bob Katzen

Gov. Healey signed into law the “Shield Act” which would prohibit state agencies, employees and law enforcement from cooperating with investigations by other states or the federal government, into reproductive or gender affirming health care that is legally protected in Massachusetts.

Continue reading REPRODUCTIVE AND TRANSGENDER CARE PROTECTIONS – THE SHIELD ACT (H 4271)

APPEAL MBTA COMMUNITIES ACT (S 3)

By Bob Katzen
L
Senate 5-34, rejected an amendment to the current law, known as the MBTA Communities Act, which according to the state’s website, requires that an MBTA community “must have at least one zoning district of reasonable size in which multi-family housing is permitted as of right and meets other criteria including minimum gross density of 15 units per acre; and a location not more than 1/2 mile from a commuter rail station, subway station, ferry terminal or bus station. No age restrictions can be applied and the district must be suitable for families with children.”
Continue reading APPEAL MBTA COMMUNITIES ACT (S 3)

3.5 MILLION FOR DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH (S 3)

By Bob Katzen

Senate 39-0, approved an amendment that would increase funding for the Department of Mental Health (DMH) by $3.5 million (from $15.5 million to $19 million) to support diversion programs that offer treatment alternatives to incarceration for individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders. It also directs the DMH to update regulations to improve discharge protocols for patients leaving mental health and substance use facilities that are overseen by the state.
Continue reading 3.5 MILLION FOR DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH (S 3)

This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

By Bob Katzen

“This funding round is about more than bricks and mortar, it’s about people. Whether it’s a formerly homeless individual in Boston, a senior in Topsfield or a working family in Easthampton, the homes we’re supporting will change lives. These projects exemplify the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s belief that everyone in Massachusetts deserves a safe, stable and affordable place to live.” Continue reading This Week’s QUOTABLE QUOTES On Beacon Hill

LIABILITY FOR DONATIONS OF FOOD (S 1091)

By Bob Katzen

Would prohibit any restaurant or retail stores from being liable for civil damages for any injury arising out of the condition of the food it donates to any individual. The measure only exempts the restaurant or stores if at the time of donation, the food is not misbranded and is not adulterated and has not been manufactured, processed, Continue reading LIABILITY FOR DONATIONS OF FOOD (S 1091)

BAN USE OF CELL PHONES IN SCHOOLS (S 2561)

By Bob Katzen

Senate 38-2, approved and sent to the House legislation that would ban student use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices during classes. The measure would require all public schools and districts in Massachusetts to implement, by the start of the 2026-2027 school year, policies for student use of these devices on school grounds and during school-sponsored activities. Continue reading BAN USE OF CELL PHONES IN SCHOOLS (S 2561)

TEACHERS’ RETIREMENT (H 4361)

By Bob Katzen

House 158-0, approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would extend benefits for retired teachers who are later hired to work for the Massachusetts Executive Office of Education (EOE) or the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The bill would allow these employees to retain the status of “teacher” and remain in the Teachers’ Retirement System.
Continue reading TEACHERS’ RETIREMENT (H 4361)

REPRODUCTIVE AND TRANSGENDER CARE PROTECTIONS – THE SHIELD ACT (H 4271)

By Bob Katzen

House 132-24, Senate 37-3, approved and sent the “Shield Act” to Gov. Maura Healey. The measure would prohibit state agencies, employees and law enforcement from cooperating with investigations by other states or the federal government, into reproductive or gender affirming health care that is legally protected in Massachusetts.
Continue reading REPRODUCTIVE AND TRANSGENDER CARE PROTECTIONS – THE SHIELD ACT (H 4271)

Ballantyne Administration Sharing Homeownership Opportunity at 411 Norfolk Street

SOMERVILLE–Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Mayor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (OSPCD) are pleased to announce the resale of one deed-restricted condominium to eligible, first-time homebuyer households at a below market price through the City’s Inclusionary Housing Program. This unit will be offered to households with a yearly gross income at or below 80% Area Median Income (AMI). Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Sharing Homeownership Opportunity at 411 Norfolk Street

Mayor Ballantyne Inviting Community to ‘24 Hours of Culture’ on August 16 to Celebrate BIPOC Arts, Community, and Culture

SOMERVILLE– Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Arts Council, in proud partnership with Circle Squared, are excited to present ‘24 Hours of Culture’, a celebration amplifying the diverse cultural heartbeat of the Somerville and Greater Boston on Saturday, August 16 (Rain date: August 17), at Union Square Plaza and Stone Park, from 4 to 10 p.m. Continue reading Mayor Ballantyne Inviting Community to ‘24 Hours of Culture’ on August 16 to Celebrate BIPOC Arts, Community, and Culture

Ballantyne Administration Reaches New Agreements with Somerville Police and Custodians Unions

SOMERVILLE – Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing the successful negotiation and signing of new collective bargaining agreements with the SEIU Local 3 Custodians and the Somerville Police Superior Officers Association (SPSOA). These agreements reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to fair compensation, organizational improvement, and public service excellence.
Continue reading Ballantyne Administration Reaches New Agreements with Somerville Police and Custodians Unions