WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF COBBLE HILL APARTMENTS? 90 WASHINGTON ST. CITY PLAN
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VOL.1 NO.329-106 SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD MASS. Tuesday March 29th, 2022
WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF
COBBLE HILL APARTMENTS?
90 WASHINGTON ST. CITY PLAN
NEWS TALK OUT
LOUD/SPEAK UP
Continued to pages 5 & 19
SOMERVILLE TO HOST
MEDFORD MAYOR APPOINTS SMALL-GROUP
Somerville Police NEW FINANCE DIRECTOR COVID-19 LISTENING
Real Life Somerville
Police Stories Page SESSIONS AS PART OF
ONGOING COVID-19
RECOVERY EFFORTS
Continued to page 10 Continued to page 10
MOUNT VERNON RESTAURANT
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Wednesday 11:30am to 8:30pm and Thursday through Saturday 11:30am to 9:30pm. Our full menu
along with our daily specials and catering menu is available.
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STEALING SOMERVILLE
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2 Tuesday March 29th, 2022 The Somerville/MedfordNews Weekly
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The Somerville/MedfordNews Weekly Tuesday March 29th, 2022 3
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4 Tuesday March 29th, 2022 The Somerville/MedfordNews Weekly
SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD REMEMBERING THOMAS W. MANNION
MANNION, Thomas W. Of nion, Jarlath Mannion, Maretta Funeral Home, 5 Chestnut St., National Guardsman. To send
Arlington, March 23, 2022. Lavin, Sr. Monica Mannion, ARLINGTON, Tuesday, March an online condolence, please
Beloved husband of the late and the late Harry Mannion, 29th, from 4-8 pm. His Funeral visit http://www.keefefuneral-
Bridget T. (Kelly) Mannion. Margaret Navin, Herbert Man- Mass will be celebrated in St. home.com
Devoted father of Kelly Melin, nion, Sean Mannion, Dermot Agnes Church, Medford St.,
her husband Michael “Mitch” Mannion, and Mary Pascal. Arlington, Wednesday, March Published by Boston Globe
Melin, and Tara Champange, all Owner and Operator of the 30th, at 11:30 am. Services will from Mar. 24 to Mar. 25, 2022.
of Arlington. Loving grandfa- Sligo Pub, Davis Sq., Somerville conclude with Burial at Mount
ther of Kevin, Shea, and Dillon for the past 32 years. Further Pleasant Cemetery, Arlington.
Melin, Kelsey and Mason survived by many loving nieces, In lieu of flowers, the family
Champagne. nephews, and other family requests donations be made
members. Relatives and friends to the Brighton Hospice, 1234
Brother of Evelyn Doherty, are respectfully invited to at- Chestnut St., Newton, MA
Irene Day, Msgr. Joseph Man- tend Visiting Hours at the Keefe 02464. Late member of the U.S.
SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD REMEMBERING JOHN A. BARRETT
(Strassmann) Joseph and Ruth (MEd). est love was sports. He played all the academic and athletic
Barrett. Survived by William, baseball in the Dutch MLB. He achievements of his grandchil-
Gerald and Eugene Barrett. John moved to the Netherlands also became a manager and dren.
Husband of the late Mary A. in 1962 to begin his teach- then umpire, authoring the of-
Hanly and father of Catherine ing career and worked as high ficial umpiring rules book “KN- Funeral Procession from the
Duffy of Somerville, Erin of school history teacher or prin- BSB Softbal Handboek” (1989). George L. Doherty Funeral
Lexington and Rachel of The cipal at the International School He was also a top referee in the Home, 855 Broadway (Powder
Hague. of Dordrecht, the American Dutch NBA. When John moved House Square) Somerville,
School of The Hague and the back to the US, he continued Tuesday morning March 29th
Opa (grandfather) of Mary International School of Am- umpiring and refereeing on the at 10:00 am followed by a Fu-
Duffy, Maya and Orion Barrett- sterdam, retiring in 1989. Back middle and high school levels neral Mass in St. Ann Church,
Tzannes, and Mac Riezenkamp. in the US, John worked in the in baseball and soccer. Somerville at 11:00 am.
JOHN’S OBITUARY Father-in-law of James Duffy, Harvard University Physics De- Relatives and friends invited.
John A. Barrett – Of Arlington, Alexis Tzannes and Eelco partment and later also at BU John was also an active member Calling Hours Monday March
Somerville and The Hague, Riezenkamp. Physics Department. For many of the Dante Club (Somerville). 28th, 4-7 pm. Interment will be
83, on March 21, 2022. Raised years, he was “the Referee” at He was so happy to be able to private.
in Somerville, son of the late A graduate of Somerville the IgNobel Awards. witness the dominance of Bos-
Joseph F. Barrett and Elvira F High School Class of 1956, he ton sports in the 2000s, and the In lieu of flowers, please con-
Viveiros. Brother of the late received degrees from Boston John had many interests: breaking of “the Curse.” sider a donation in his memory
Irene, James, Edward and Rob- University (BA) SUNY-Albany reading, history, music, jigsaw to UNICEFusa.org.
ert Burton, and the late Joan (MA) and Michigan State puzzles and cards, but his great- John also took great delight in
SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD REMEMBERING NICHOLAS P. CAMPANARO JR
Nicholas P. Campanaro beloved son of the late nieces and nephews. working with his father
Jr of Medford passed Nicholas and Lillian Nicky was an avid soft- at Nick’s Uniform in
away at Mass. General (Salerno) Campanaro. ball and hockey player. Melrose.He will be laid
Hospital in Boston on He also took pride when to rest with his parents
October 2, 2021 fol- Dear brother of Loretta it came to caring for his at Holy Cross Cemetery.
lowing a brief illnesses. Ford and Debra LaMat- “red” Corvette. Nicky
He was 70. Nicky is the tina. Survived by loving was found at times
STATE TO LIMIT TRAIN IDLING TO 30 MINUTES
By Bob Katzen 30 minutes. conduct emission tests in a $5,000 fine for each John Barrett (D-North
to determine the level of violation. Adams). “The emissions
The Environment, Natural The measure authorizes carbon dioxide, nitrogen being released by these
Resources and Agriculture the Department of Envi- oxides, carbon monoxide “Idling trains are more idling trains are negatively
Committee held a virtual ronmental Protection to and sulfur dioxide being than just a nuisance to res- impacting the environ-
hearing on a measure that investigate all reported released from the train. idents who live in neigh- ment. In my district it is
would prohibit the idling cases of train idling be- Emission levels above borhoods close to rail not unusual for a train to
of any trains for more than yond 30 minutes and to allowed levels will result lines,” said sponsor Rep. idle for 24 hours or more.”
CONGRATULATIONS TO DEBORAH BYRNE FOR WHO HAS BEEN AWARDED FOR THE
HIGHEST SALES IN BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY FOR MONTH OF DECEMBER!
Deborah Byrne
Relocation Director, Government Certified
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices
Verani Realty
Cell: (617) 201- 4730
Website: http://www.debbyrne.com
The Somerville/MedfordNews Weekly Tuesday March 29th, 2022 5
SOMERVILLE/MEDFORD NEWS WEEKLY SPEAKUP LINE: LETTER TO THE EDITOR:HUNDREDS OF COBBLE HILL
SENIOR RESIDENTS AGAINST CITY’S PLANS FOR A MUNICIPAL BUILDING AT 90 WASHINGTON STREET
Dear Billy T and Somerville/ Manager for this very project. general quiet Cobble Hill Apart- the world. Cobble Hill Apart- expressed disappointment that
Medford News Weekly Speakup ments provides them. Frankly, we ments is an important Somerville City officials have abandoned
Line, Trusting the City will honor should not be the ones to report community asset that is home their goals for transit oriented
the Office of Strategic Planning to you the Somerville Fire De- to a thriving elderly community residential and commercial de-
To Whom it May Concern: & Community Development’s partment’s claim of having 10,000 that desperately wants the City to velopment that would advantage
official Community Approval runs annually from five stations. stop this project and find a better the new MBTA Green Line stop
I am the Property Administra- Process, I held resident meetings This projection does not include use for this vacant parcel that sits abutting the parcel.
tor for Cobble Hill Apartments on October 19 and October 22 the additional police sirens that next to a new green line subway
and have been employed at the to circulate the City’s plans and are to be expected. In the name stop. In the months ahead, I will hold
property for over 20-years. In to gauge our resident response. of transparency, this informa- as many resident meetings as
addition to maintaining a 224- What resulted was a unanimous tion and the reported plans for a Only last week did I receive no- required to make sure my resi-
unit residential community, my rejection of the City’s plans to target practice shooting range in tification the City’s “community dents are informed of every turn
larger responsibility is to attend situate a police and fire station the building should be front and process” will begin on November in this process. Many are intent
to the needs of approximately 300 next door. As telling, the resident center in any presentation of the 10, 2021 at 6:00 PM. Let me be on sending letters and circulat-
independent seniors who have an meetings were the most attended City’s plans. clear, from our perspective the ing petitions to oppose these
average age of 71-years. It is truly I have witnessed in 20-years. “process” to date has been exclu- plans. Several do not write well as
a great honor of mine. If our concerns fall on deaf sionary and seemingly deliberate English is their second language,
The expressed concerns were ears, that would be truly ironic. in its non-transparency leaving us while others do not have an email
If you are unfamiliar, Cobble not trivial by any standards and Everyone on this email distribu- to wonder if there is any decency address. But make no mistake,
Hill Apartments is the largest need to be answered by every tion would be in support of the to what seems like an elaborate they are informed. To assist these
affordable elderly development leader who supports the City’s City’s Noise Control Ordinance charade. residents, I scheduled a time for
in Somerville. We are most plans. Cobble Hill residents have No. 2000-11, concerning noise my staff to sit with each to dictate
recognizable as the “green oasis” a right to know why the City is tolerances. Using the City’s own Of all the Cobble Hill residents their opposition. In the attached,
on Washington Street as anyone proposing to remove the resident words, it is stated: who attended the resident meet- you will find signed and ad-
who walks or drives past my parking to 74 & 84 Washington ings, only one raised a hand when dressed letters of how 19 elderly
property can attest. I often receive Street. They have a right to know “Excessive sound and vibration asked if anyone had previously households voiced their opposi-
compliments from neighbors why the City plans to take Cobble are serious hazards to the public participated in a teleconference tion – in their own words. This
who frequent the property to Hill land that has been used for health, welfare, safety, and quality meeting such as Zoom or Google is just a small sampling of the
take family photos at our gazebo. 40-years for garbage truck ac- of life. The people have a right Meet. Separately, it is not lost on opposition that exists.
This unintended but welcomed cess to the dumpsters behind 84 to, and should be ensured, an us that every candidate running
compliment occurs because East Washington St. And they have environment free from excessive for election can mask up and I find their letters inspirational.
Somerville does not have many a right to know why the City sound and vibration that may canvass Cobble Hill for votes, but These residents are not practiced
attractive green spaces within supports a plan that replaces a jeopardize their health, welfare, the agents of city government are in protest and have opened my
walking distance. We are proud beautifully landscaped hill with a safety, or quality of life.” limiting the community discus- eyes to the empowerment of com-
that Cobble Hill Apartments has four-story backside of a parking sion to a teleconference link. munity resolve. It is my sincer-
provided this “oasis” for 40-years. garage. Serious as these concerns The Ordinance further compares Draw your own conclusions. est hope every person on this
It is a signature statement indica- are, they are secondary to the a decibel level of 115 to a “House email distribution will respond
tive of the quality work our staff unified complaint that the mu- party, 4 piece rock band”. We are So allow me to state very clearly directly to each resident by mail.
performs to deliver a higher nicipal building will house a fire now learning a fire truck siren that the Cobble Hill residents Your thoughtful response is the
standard of residential quality for and police station that will create registers a decibel level of 120 are unified in their disapproval. very least I would expect from a
our community. the incessant 24/7 disturbance of which the ordinance compares to In the coming months they plan public official as a basic common
emergency vehicle sirens. a “machine gun at close range”. to seek answers as to whom is courtesy.
Recently I have been informed of responsible for wanting to situate
the City’s plans to build a munici- This makes no sense for our com- On behalf of the residents of a municipal building with a fire Respectfully,
pal building immediately adjacent munity. Cobble Hill residents are Cobble Hill, I am circulating this and police component next to
to Cobble Hill Apartments. I have retired and largely homebound. email to learn whether anyone Somerville’s largest elderly devel- Evelyn Ortiz
also been assured the “commu- They will be home, and their in a position of leadership in the opment. They will want answers Property Administrator
nity process” is sacrosanct and right to peaceful enjoyment will City cares about the legitimate as to how proposed site plans Cobble Hill Apartments
will begin in earnest the second be disturbed by every emergency concerns of this community. that remove a needed parking lot
week of November. Please know, vehicle siren whether it is 2:00 Please remember, up until now and Cobble Hill’s only access to Attach affidavits of dozens of se-
the residents of Cobble Hill will in the afternoon or 2:00 in the the City’s plans were designed trash dumpsters could be ready nior Somerville residents against
soon put to a test the significance morning. Please don’t categorize without any community input. It’s for public review. These are not the chosen location of the bee
of the “community process” after this as a “chicken little” concern as if a generic architect some- small issues to be resolved. And if Somerville Public Safety Building
also learning the City is on a par- where the residents are making where in the world created these there is an interest, perhaps some at Cobble Hill.
allel tract to expedite the funding a big deal out of nothing. They plans during covid isolation. But community leaders will provide
of a Public Safety Construction highly value the serenity and Cobble Hill is not anywhere in answers to those residents who
MEET THE CITY OF SOMERVILLE’S RACIAL AND SOCIAL JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
AND LEARN ABOUT ITS WORK AT A VIRTUAL FORUM, MARCH 31
The City of Somerville’s Racial and the RSJ Department’s work and will be important to have all voices
Social Justice (RSJ) Department “The RSJ Department wants to en- The RSJ Department was formed engagement opportunities will be at the table.”
invites the community to a virtual sure that the community has access in 2021 with the hiring of Direc- posted at somervillema.gov/rsj.
forum to meet department staff, and opportunities in various ways tor Capers. Since then, additional Persons with disabilities who need
learn about their work, and find out to be informed and engage with the staff have been hired, and the “The RSJ Department staff have auxiliary aids and services for ef-
how to get involved on Thursday, department and its initiatives,” said department has begun working on very quickly started to work on big, fective communication (i.e., CART,
March 31, beginning at 6 p.m. Go RSJ Department Director Denise a number of initiatives related to complex issues in our community ASL), written materials in alterna-
to somervillema.gov/virtualtown- Molina Capers. “We have been racial and social justice including and I encourage residents to take tive formats, or reasonable modifi-
hall at the start time of the forum to working hard to strategize ways reimagining policing and public this chance to meet them and learn cations in policies and procedures
join online, or call 311 on March 31 of moving forward in our work to safety, hosting conversations with about what they have been doing,” in order to access the programs,
to get call-in information. promote racial and social justice neighborhoods affected by in- said Mayor Katjana Ballantyne. activities, and meetings of the City
that continue to focus on building creased gun violence, and increas- “As we work together on issues like of Somerville should please contact
Interpretation into Spanish, Por- trust, engaging the community ing support for City commissions. tackling systemic racism and other Adrienne Pomeroy at 617-625-6600
tuguese, Haitian Creole, Nepali, and stakeholders, and providing As this work continues, there will forms of oppression, reimagin- x 2059 or apomeroy@somervil-
Mandarin, and American Sign information on our work and how be many opportunities for the pub- ing policing and public safety, and lema.gov.
Language will be provided. to get involved.” lic to be involved. Updates about creating a more equitable city, it
Superior Air Conditioning
Office (617)625-0386 Cell (617)257-6394 Dave Sidoti
6 Tuesday March 29th, 2022 The Somerville/MedfordNews Weekly
SOMERVILLE WHITE PLASTIC POLE COMPLAINTS Continued from front page
By Arthur Moore heard from people who can- place had that parking for Does nothing to enhance
And seeing that there is not gets a nights sleep due to years without a problem. our once beautiful city. I
To the current administra- almost of usage of this for the constant sound of these Now we have a business only commented on these
tion Spring 2022 and the a bike lane it makes more being hit all night. Finally that could use the parking. as I see them and hear from
dreaded plastic poles. sense to help our small busi- with them gone they can And now they have those the people. Let’s do the
nesses that have been double once again get a nights sleep. poles in front of it. Actually right thing for all people of
Since many poles are gone hit by this and the virus. The street is wide enough that whole part of the street Somerville in 2022.
and some are in places that We need to be helping them and well marked that these has those poles at random
have no business being instead of cripplingly them. pole are really not needed all over the place with no
placed back into use I am Even the ada has asked for anyway. So why torment rhyme or reason for them.
hoping that now maybe help on this as people in the these people? Next are the If you are going to use these
some common sense can apartment buildings that ones on Lowell Steet. We poles then someone should
be used in the use of these are handicapped have had have a new coffee shop that put some effort and com-
poles. First is Broadway a struggle. It would be the opened and poles are right mon sense into the use of
Winter Hill. They have been right thing to do if anyone in front of the place. Seems them. Plus once down they
a burden on the small busi- actually cares. Next is the it would help the business lay around the streets and
nesses, the handicapped and ones on Cedar Street. I know if people could stop and make them look as crappy
less mobile citizens. on the lower part I have grab coffee to go. The glass as the ones still standing.
SOMERVILLE COMMISSION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES SEEKS THREE MEMBERS
the openings must be filled by and make recommendations Pomeroy, ADA Coordina- qualified applicants and em-
people who identify as having on issues affecting people with tor, City of Somerville, 93 ployees with disabilities free of
a disability and one is open disabilities. Highland Avenue, Somerville, charge, upon request.
to any Somerville resident or MA 02143. Please contact
City of Somerville employee. Commissioners must be cur- Adrienne Pomeroy, the City’s Persons with disabilities
rent residents or employees of ADA Coordinator, at 617- who need auxiliary aids and
Boards and commissions offer Somerville and able to com- 625-6600 x2259 or at apome- services for effective com-
an opportunity for residents mit to at least five hours of roy@somervillema.gov with munication (i.e., CART, ASL),
with a range of experience, service per month. The SCPD questions. written materials in alterna-
skills, expertise, and perspec- meets every second Tuesday tive formats, or reasonable
tives to share their talents and of the month from 6:30 to 8 The City of Somerville does modifications in policies
Open Positions: Three insights with their commu- p.m. Applicants are confirmed not discriminate on the basis and procedures in order to
Term: Three years nity. by the City Council. This is a of race, color, religion, age, access the programs, activi-
The Somerville Commission volunteer position. national origin, disability, or ties, and meetings of the City
for Persons with Disabili- The SCPD coordinates and any other protected category. of Somerville should please
ties (SCPD) seeks three new carries out programs to Applications are due Friday, Auxiliary aids and services, contact Adrienne Pomeroy
members, and Somerville meet the needs of people April 15. Interested candidates written materials in alterna- at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or
residents and employees of with disabilities. Addition- should submit a statement of tive formats, and reasonable ADA@somervillema.gov.
the City of Somerville are ally, commissioners provide interest to ada@somervillema. modifications in policies and
encouraged to apply. Two of information, review policies, gov or by mail to Adrienne procedures will be provided to
SMART BOX PILOT PROGRAM TO MAKE CITY RODENTS SAY, “RATS!”
Somerville recently four neighborhoods around information distribution,
launched a pilot program the city These SMART Boxes and free baiting through the
that brings the latest in are non-toxic, do not use Residential Rodent Control
rodent-control technology poisons, and are securely Assistance Program.
to the city as part of Mayor locked so as to not pose a
Katjana Ballantyne’s 100- risk to people, pets (and Follow the link in green be-
Day Agenda and Somer- other animals), or the envi- low to read more about how
ville’s overall commitment to ronment. the SMART boxes function,
pest mitigation. and click here to learn more
The SMART Box pilot will about Somerville’s rodent
The City and its partner, operate in conjunction with control efforts.
Modern Pest Services, in- more traditional abatement
stalled 50 SMART Boxes in efforts like residential visits,
A TAVOLA RESTAURANT WINCHESTER OPEN FOR OUTDOOR PATIO DINING
& TAKEOUT ORDERS: (781)729-1040 34 CHURCH STREET WINCHESTER
ville/Medford News Weekly/ As always our gift cards will might have purchased or if
“Without all of the hustle and Boston News Group be available through our you run out of something that
bustle of heading into Boston, website, over the phone and you need that we can help
why not just head locally right State of A Tavola: in person. Starting Tuesday, with please don’t hesitate to
in Winchester at TAVOLA for every gift card purchase ask.
RESTAURANT where a little A Tavola’s outdoor patio din- over $100, we will add an ad-
piece of Italy is waiting for ing is open for business! ditional $20 gift card as a way A Tavola Restaurant Win-
you!” Take-out and delivery is also to thank you for your support. chester outdoor patio dining
available! (with-in a small is open for business & takeout
radius of A Tavola). If there is anything in par- orders: (781)729-1040
“It’s as close as you can get for ticular you would like to see 34 Church St Winchester
a real authentic Italian din- A special menu and special from us or if you need help
ing experience that will keep hours will be posted on our preparing food at home for Thank you for your contin-
you coming back for more” website as well as our social your families please reach ued support.
“Definitely a two thumbs up media channels. Please stay out and we will do our best
rating and absolutely worth tuned for any and all details. to help. Whether it be recipe https://www.atavolawin-
checking them out!” Somer- ideas with random things you chester.com/
The Somerville/MedfordNews Weekly Tuesday March 29th, 2022 7
MEDFORD OFFERING REBATE TO RESIDENTS FOR UPGRADING WATER PIPES
LEAD ABATEMENT PROGRAM OFFERS $1,000 IN REBATES
aged to test their own pipes about this program. consequences if not reme- your water system after lead
and if lead is found, engage diated,” Commissioner of line replacement.
in upgrading their water “This is a wonderful pro- Public Works Timothy Mc-
system. When doing this gram that prioritizes our Givern said. “By engaging What the Engineering
in tandem with the City, a public water infrastructure in this program, the com- Department will need from
rebate of $1,000 is given to along with the health and munity will be able to make you/your contractor is
the resident. safety of our residents while significant improvements in (when job is completed):
delivering real financial their water system while also
The City has been upgrading relief in the process,” Mayor modernizing their home’s A copy of the contractor’s
its water system infrastruc- Lungo-Koehn said. “As the infrastructure.” permit signed by the Water
ture for the past decade and City continues optimizing Division
(MEDFORD)—The City of is encouraging residents to and upgrading its water If you need assistance iden- An as-built tie sheet
Medford is offering residents do the same. This program, pipes, I urge every resident tifying the type of pipe in Before and after photo-
a rebate of $1,000 to remove originally funded through a and homeowner to take ad- your basement, you can call graphs taken inside the
lead-lined water pipes and loan from the Massachusetts vantage of this opportunity the Medford Water Division home and outside at the
upgrade their home plumb- Water Resource Authority, and upgrade their systems to at (617) 784-7507 and ask connection to the shutoff at
ing system to safe standards, is now eligible to continue protect themselves and loved for Joseph Sousa. Once lead the sidewalk
Mayor Breanna Lungo- under the American Rescue ones.” is confirmed, you can reach A copy of the contractor’s
Koehn announced. The Plan Act (ARPA) legislation. out to Carmella Donato (En- invoice and proof of pay-
program’s goal is to incentiv- This rebate will apply only gineering) by calling (781) ment (check cleared and
ize residents to replace aging Residents who upgrade their if a resident first hires a 393-2474 or emailing her at downloaded from bank
lead-lined pipes which can home plumbing system licensed and bonded con- ccdonato@medford.org, af- (front and back copy)
lead to various health com- and can show that they tractor who satisfactorily ter which she will then email A W9 Form filled out by
plications. hire licensed and bonded completes the work, and or mail the following: Homeowner
contractors, and submit second, submits the required
The City operates and required documentation to documents. The goal is to A list of City-licensed con- Once all these requirements
maintains public water pipes the City, will receive a rebate help all homeowners who tractors that perform resi- have been met, the City will
and routinely updates aging of $1,000 from the City wish to remove their lead dential water service work process the documents and
pipes that feed from the through ARPA funds. As the water services. A list of the items needed in you will be sent a check for
street to the water shut off City continues to identify order to process the rebate $ 1,000.00. Please feel free to
at a homeowner’s property. and replace lead service “Lead is an extremely A W-9 Rebate Form (filled contact the Engineering of-
When the City is doing this lines, we are also proactively dangerous material that out by homeowner fice at (781) 393-2474 if you
work, residents are encour- contacting property owners can have disastrous health Instructions for flushing have any questions.
SOMERVILLE YOUTH HOCKEY ASSOSIATION (SYHA) HOSTING 1ST ANNUAL
SOMERVILLE YOUTH HOCKEY ALUMNI TOURNAMENT AT VETERANS RINK
Somerville and we need – 12:00pm-5pm support SYHA to ensure Raffle (win $5,000) and of
you there! Teams of ~10 Where: Veterans Rink, we can continue our course, Beer and Chicken
players will face off on Somerville mission of providing af- Wings. Spread the word
the ice for the afternoon Cost: $100 per player fordable organized youth the best you can.
of games. Each team is (payable by cash, check hockey to kids in Somer-
guaranteed 2 games. Each or Venmo to @michele- ville Sign up here:
game will be 2 15-minute ahouse). Every player will
running time periods. receive a jersey. Make a day of it – Directly SYHA 2022 Alumni Tour-
Why: To have fun playing afterwards will be the nament Registration
SYHA Alumni – What: First Annual SYHA hockey with friends old annual Guns and Hoses https://docs.google.com/
Alumni tournament and new and to support game (Somerville Police forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeht
SYHA is hosting their 1st Who: All SYHA Alumni Somerville Youth Hockey! vs Fire), then we’re off to KFqqItFrArekftGUdVOT-
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The Somerville/MedfordNews Weekly Tuesday March 29th, 2022 9
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Instant Shoe and Luggage Repair is located on the
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MEDFORD MAYOR APPOINTS NEW FINANCE DIRECTOR
Continued from front page
(MEDFORD)—Mayor search process, in line with He managed the towns ac- opportunity to work with
Breanna Lungo-Koehn has the City’s hiring policies and counting system, Munis, and the administration to craft a
appointed Nantucket Assis- procedures. developed annual town audits budget and help set priorities
tant Town Accountant Robert and tax recaps. and fiscal goals for the City,”
Dickinson as Medford’s Prior to joining Medford, incoming Finance Director
Director of Finance. He will Dickinson spent over a “Bob has the comprehensive Robert Dickinson said. “The
finish his duties at Nantucket decade in the finance depart- skillset, experience and keen Mayor has an ambitious vi-
and begin transitioning to his ment at the Town of Nan- financial eye that will make sion for Medford, and I can’t
new role at City Hall soon. tucket, serving as Accounting him an integral member of wait to get to work to make it
Dickinson will oversee the Clerk from 2006 to 2011 and our finance team,” Mayor a reality.”
City’s finance department and as Assistant Town Accountant Lungo-Koehn said. “I am so
lead the coordination and since March 2011. While at thrilled that he will be joining Dickinson, a certified gov-
Robert Dickinson will assume implementation of the City’s Nantucket, Dickinson over- us and bringing his unique ernmental accountant by the
duties this spring following an $192 million budget. The City saw cash, accounts receivable, budgeting perspective and Massachusetts Municipal
exhaustive six-month search of Medford initially posted for and withholdings reconcilia- strong work-ethic to our City.” Auditors’ and Accountants
and hiring process. the open position in July 2021 tions, as well as helped craft Association, has a bachelor’s
and conducted a thorough the town’s $97 million budget. “I’m honored to have the degree from Cornell Uni-
SOMERVILLE TO HOST SMALL-GROUP COVID-19 LISTENING SESSIONS AS
PART OF ONGOING COVID-19 RECOVERY EFFORTS
As part of Mayor Katjana Bal- the recovery. Listening sessions income, employment, health, can also volunteer to serve as a CART, ASL), written materials
lanytne’s First 100 Day Agenda will be jointly facilitated by the housing, food access, educa- community liaison for their group, in alternative formats, or reason-
and the City’s ongoing work to Mayor and interested members of tion, childcare, or mental health which could include helping able modifications in policies and
ensure an equitable recovery from the community. City staff will also disrupted by the pandemic will be with facilitation, note taking, and procedures in order to access the
the COVID-19 pandemic, Mayor help document the conversations prioritized for participation in the reviewing write-ups of the meet- programs, activities, and meetings
Ballantyne will be hosting small- so that ideas and comments can sessions. ing. Listening sessions will begin of the City of Somerville should
group listening sessions with be considered as the City develops in April. Sessions can be held via please contact Adrienne Pomeroy
Somerville residents and workers its recovery plan. Somerville residents or workers Zoom, telephone conference, or at 617-625-6600 x 2059 or ADA@
disproportionately impacted by interested in participating in a in person. Interpretation can be somervillema.gov.
the COVID-19 pandemic. Somerville residents and work- listening session can sign up as provided.
ers who have been significantly an individual or on behalf of a
The goal is to listen to community impacted by COVID-19, such as group at somervillema.gov/Lis- Persons with disabilities who
experiences and gather ideas and those who have lost loved ones teningSessions or by calling 311 need auxiliary aids and services
input on how the City can support and those who have had their (617-666-3311). Participants for effective communication (i.e.,
SOMERVILLE COUNCIL ON AGING BOARD OF DIRECTORS SEEKS NEW MEMBERS
Open Positions: Seven Directors is to inform, assist, should submit a statement of of race, color, religion, age, na- materials in alternative formats,
Term: Two years and advocate for all persons 60 interest to Ashley Speliotis, tional origin, disability, or any or reasonable modifications
The City of Somerville Council years of age or older who reside Council on Aging Execu- other protected category. Aux- in policies and procedures in
on Aging Board of Directors in Somerville. The Board works tive Director, at aspeliotis@ iliary aids and services, written order to access the programs,
seeks seven new members, and collaboratively with senior somervillema.gov or by mail to materials in alternative formats, activities, and meetings of the
all Somerville residents are citizens and other agencies to Somerville Council on Aging, and reasonable modifications in City of Somerville should please
invited to apply. Boards and improve the quality of life for Tufts Administration Build- policies and procedures will be contact Adrienne Pomeroy at
commissions offer an opportu- local seniors. The Board typi- ing, 2nd Floor, 167 Holland St., provided to qualified applicants 617-625-6600 x 2059 or ADA@
nity for residents with a range cally meets on the first Friday Somerville, MA 02144. Please and employees with disabilities somervillema.gov.
of experience, skills, expertise, of each month for two hours. email Ashley Speliotis or call free of charge, upon request.
and perspectives to share their Board members serve two-year (617) 625-6600 ext. 2310 with
talents and insights with their terms in a volunteer capacity. questions. Persons with disabilities who
community. need auxiliary aids and services
Applications are due Friday, The City of Somerville does for effective communication
The mission of the Board of April 15. Interested candidates not discriminate on the basis (i.e., CART, ASL), written
DEBORAH BYRNE, GOVERNMENT CERTIFIED BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY
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REAL LIFE SOMERVILLE POLICE STORIES: RESIDENTIAL BREAKING & ENTERING
Break Ins Mar 15 to Mar 21 breaking and entering. Upon ficers spoke with the reporting flaged pants with black sneak-
2022 arrival, officers spoke with the 22014069: On 3/17/22 at person who stated she heard ers, tattoos on both sides of his
victim who stated his laptop, approximately 8:43 AM, a loud bang on the side of her neck, and appeared to be about
22014113: On 3/17/22 at ap- cash and a diamond ring were Somerville Police responded home then observed an un- 5 feet 8 inches in height.
proximately 1:31 PM, Somer- stolen. to a residence in the area of known man near the window.
ville Police responded to a McGrath Hwy & Boston St for The suspect then fled the area. Other crimes during March 15,
multifamily residence on Buck- Attempted Residential Breaking report of an attempted breaking The suspect was described as 2022 through March 21, 2022:
ingham St for report of a past & Entering and entering. Upon arrival, of- a white man, wearing camou-
REAL LIFE SOMERVILLE POLICE STORIES: RESIDENTIAL BREAKING & ENTERING
On 3/17/22 at approximately then told the security guard St. The juvenile victim stated juvenile male and female who
1:16 PM, Somerville Police he had a gun. The suspect fled he was struck in the arm then stated they were approached 22014418: On 3/18/22 at
responded to a business in out of the store with the stolen his cellphone and sweater were by another juvenile male. The approximately 8:02 PM,
Assembly Row for report of a items into an awaiting vehicle. stolen. juvenile suspect then took a Somerville Police responded
robbery. Upon arrival, officers cellphone belonging to the to Beacon & Washington St
spoke with an employee who Assault / Robbery Unarmed Robbery / Assault juvenile male then struck the for report of an assault. Upon
stated a black man, 30-40 years juvenile female multiple times. arrival, officers spoke with the
of age, wearing a light col- 22013713: On 3/15/22 at ap- 22014988: On 3/21/22 at ap- The juvenile suspect was de- victim who stated while he was
ored baseball hat, a blue sweat- proximately 5:17 PM, Somer- proximately 5:17 PM, Somer- scribed as a black male, in his driving on Washington St, he
shirt with white strings, blue ville Police took a report that a ville Police responded to 14 early teens, wearing all black was struck in the face with dog
sweatpants with a white stripe juvenile male was assaulted and North St for report of a juvenile and had braces. feces by two white men.
on the side and white sneakers robbed by three other juvenile who had been assaulted. Upon
began to select numerous items males in the area of 17 Lincoln arrival, officers spoke with a Assault
REAL LIFE SOMERVILLE POLICE STORIES
Arrest – March 15 2022 PM, Somerville Police Upon arrival, officers ar- slashed the tire on his
Arrest responded to Canal Ln rested two male juveniles vehicle.
for a report of individual’s after it was determined
22013773: On 3/15/22 threatening people with a they threatened the vic-
at approximately 10:24 gun and slashing car tires. tim with a BB gun then
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RAIN BARRELS AVAILABLE NOW THROUGH MAY 3RD THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
BETWEEN CITY OF MEDFORD, GREAT AMERICAN RAIN BARRELS
MEDFORD – The City of Medford to water stressed trees and gardens are made from 100% repurposed, and participate in The Great Ameri- Last year, 30% of Massachusetts
will be offering rain barrels at a during dry spells. Additionally, food grade shipping drums made can Rain Barrel Program, please Cities and Towns partnered with
highly discounted price again in collected rainwater has the added in Massachusetts! The barrels can visit http://www.greatamericanrain- The Great American Rain Barrel
2022. In partnership with The Great benefit of limiting stormwater last for years with proper main- barrel.com/community/ and select Co., selling over 3000 barrels. The
American Rain Barrel Co., the City runoff, which takes pressure off of tenance and winterization. For ‘Medford.’ Barrels are offered at $79 Great American Rain Barrel Co.
is working to safely provide resi- community storm drains and pre- those worried about mosquitos, the for painted and $74 for unpainted, has been an approved vendor by the
dents with an opportunity to save vents untreated pollutants from di- rain barrel comes with a remov- and will be available for pick up on MASS DEP since 2010.
money and help the city manage its rectly entering our waterways. Rain able mesh screen that is easy to Wednesday May 11th, 5:00-8:00pm
water supplies. barrels are an easy and fun way for clean and keeps pests out. Setting at Medford High School, 489 Win-
families to tap into environmental them up for collection is simple throp St. Deadline for purchase is
Why Use Rain Barrels? practice. Children can learn how to (takes maybe five minutes). There 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3rd.
harvest rain and runoff from their are several helpful tutorials on the
Rainwater barrels are a sure-fire home’s downspouts and use the wa- Great American Rain Barrel Co. —
way to collect water free of added ter for plant projects. Rain barrels website. Barrels come in several
chemicals without hassle. These are also great to use as an outdoor colors: Earth Brown, Forest green, About the Great American Rain
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the discounted price of $74, can pay wash your car. unpainted.
for themselves in one season; rain The Great American Rain Barrel
barrel owners save an estimated About the Rain Barrels How to Order is a local food importing company
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MAKE ADOPTION BY FAMILY MEMBERS EASIER
By Bob Katzen county probate courts, to I’ve secured stable hous- to provide my younger
legally adopt their family “This simple change today ing, a stable job and I sibling the stability that
The House approved its members. would make a concrete have met all the require- comes with adoption.
own version of a Senate- difference tomorrow in ments to adopt a child Yes, guardianship will be
approved bill that would Current law only allows the lives of so many in here in the common- floated as a possibility,
repeal a current law these family members to our commonwealth,” said wealth. Let’s say I then but … there is nothing
which prohibits adop- apply to become a guard- House sponsor Rep. Jack learn that my younger as stabilizing to a young
tion of children by family ian. The Senate has ap- Lewis (D-Framingham). sibling, let’s say they person than experiencing
members including older proved a different version “Let’s imagine for a mo- are ten, can no longer permanency, in this case
siblings, aunts and uncles. of the legislation and the ment that I’m 30, and live with our biological through adoption.”
The proposal would allow House version now goes my biological mom had mother … but because
these family members, to the Senate for consid- me when she was in high of this one line in Mas-
with the permission of the eration. school. Thirty years later, sachusetts law, I’m unableThe Somerville/MedfordNews Weekly Tuesday March 29th, 2022 13
SUSPEND THE 24-CENTS-PER GALLON GAS TAX UNTIL LABOR DAY
By Bob Katzen ate assistance wherever we can. patience, hard work and deter- tors—belongs to them and them
When you amortize 24 cents over mination to carry Massachusetts “The Senate is committed to alone,” said Chip Ford, executive
The Senate 11-29, rejected an the course of 16 gallons of gas per through the pandemic, and now is providing real, targeted relief to director of Citizens for Limited
amendment that would immedi- tank, several fill ups per week, the time to reward all Bay Staters Massachusetts taxpayers,” con- Taxation. “Obviously now, they
ately suspend the state’s 24-cents- over the course of six months to for not only keeping our economy tinued Rodrigues. “We approved have no intention of returning or
per gallon until September 5. The a year, it turns out to be between afloat, but thriving during these $500 checks for 500,000 essential sharing any part of the revenue
measure also requires that the $600 to $1,200 worth of sav- challenging times,” said Sen. workers that are in the mail right bonanza with the taxpayers who
total amount of revenue lost as a ings. For many, that’s a mortgage Patrick O’Connor (R-Weymouth). now. We created child and depen- provided every cent of the historic
result of the suspension be taken payment, rent, car payments or “Other states in the nation have dent tax credits that provide $16 surplus, despite the increasing
out of the General Fund and essential supplies for the family.” suspended their gas tax or have million per year to over 85,000 hardships their constituents must
transferred to the Transportation plans to, including some of our families. And we ensured that endure from record-setting infla-
Fund, where the gas tax currently “There is a reason Gov. Baker, the New England neighbors. Mas- COVID relief funds, including tion and over-taxation. Voters will
goes. House speaker and Senate presi- sachusetts is in a strong financial $10,200 in unemployment as- remember come November, and
dent have been focused on other position to offer this relief at the sistance for low-income families, surely will be reminded along the
All three Republicans voted ways to provide relief to residents gas pump and it’s time we act with is not subject to income tax. We way, just who crushed them.”
for the suspension. Eight of the who are crunched under the im- the urgency needed to get this will continue to provide mean-
Senate’s 37 Democrats joined the pact of inflation,” said Sen. Adam done.” ingful support to families across “When Massachusetts motorists
Republicans and voted for the Hinds (D-Pittsfield), the chair of the commonwealth. However, a suffer with higher gas prices, they
suspension. the Revenue Committee. “I am “The proposed suspension of gas tax suspension is the wrong can blame Washington politi-
not convinced this step would the gas tax is a political gimmick approach.” cians and 29 of their Democratic
“I sponsored this amendment result in lower prices at the pump that is more likely to benefit oil Massachusetts state senators,” said
to provide for relief to motorists given the behavior of oil compa- companies than consumers,” “With the Senate Democrats’ Paul Craney, spokesman for the
across the commonwealth,” said nies. This is a source of revenue said Senate Ways and Means lopsided defeat of a reasonable Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance.
Sen. Ryan Fattman (R-Sutton), we need for our transportation chair Sen. Mike Rodrigues (D- suspension of the state gas tax, “It’s really calloused of these 29
the sponsor of the amendment. investments [and the suspension] Westport). “Further, the proposal following its secret defeat by the Democratic state senators, who all
“Hardworking families in Mas- could negatively impact the state’s would negatively impact our bond Democrat House supermajority, get paid extra to drive to work, to
sachusetts need to see relief at the bond rating and more.” rating and hinder our ability to it’s clear that the multi-billions in vote against providing immediate
pumps, and it is our legislative finance necessary transportation revenue surplus—at least in the relief for their struggling constitu-
responsibility to provide immedi- “Residents have shown great projects.” eyes of most Democrat legisla- ents and small businesses.”
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THIS WEEK’S QUOTABLE QUOTES ON BEACON HILL
remote access to public Union of Massachusetts, side of predominantly white, program is one more tool at
meetings has significantly Common Cause Massachu- Christian, European coun- our disposal to meet employ-
increased public participation setts, Massachusetts Newspa- tries. Our nation has proven ers’ workforce needs and grow
in state and local government, per Publishers Association, slow to react to the refugee our labor force, The flexible
and has lowered longstand- MASSPIRG, the New England crisis in Afghanistan and it funds from this program will
ing barriers for people with Newspaper and Press Associa- has barely reacted to humani- be distributed to employers
disabilities, people with tion and other groups on the tarian crises in countries like quickly to help them with
limited access to transporta- Legislature’s announcement Cameroon, Haiti and South training costs, tuition support
tion and people with work that it will work to formalize Sudan.” and other needs.”
and family obligations. After a hybrid hearing model that —Elizabeth Sweet, Executive —Gov. Charlie Baker on his
the pandemic, access to the allows in-person participation Director of the Massachusetts administration’s launch of a
democratic process should at public hearings while re- Immigrant and Refugee Advo- new hiring and training em-
not hinge on a person’s health taining the benefits of remote cacy Coalition, on the Biden ployer grant program which
or disability or their ability to access. Administration’s announce- will help employers quickly
afford a car, get time off work ment that the U.S. will accept hire and train new workers
By Bob Katzen or find a care provider. More “While we are encouraged by 100,000 Ukrainian refugees. and get more people back to
transparent and accessible President Biden’s actions, it is work. The new program pro-
“We … applaud plans to de- government means a stronger crucial that we point out the “Our administration is vides eligible employers with
velop a hybrid hearing model democracy for all.” glaring inequity: the U.S. has focused on supporting Mas- a $4,000 per employee grant,
that retains the benefits of proven far less effective—or sachusetts’ economic growth which can be used to cover
remote access for the public. —Joint statement of the interested—in reacting to and getting more people back training costs or as a signing
Across the commonwealth, American Civil Liberties refugee crises that occur out- to work, and the HireNow bonus for new employees.
$500 PAYMENTS TO 500,000 ELIGIBLE LOW-INCOME WORKERS
By Bob Katzen ture several weeks ago. will be eligible for the $500 a one-time payment from eters- or call (866) 750-9803
if their 2020 income from the state as their employer, Monday through Friday, 9
The Baker Administration The administration was employment was at least do not qualify for this first a.m. to 4 p.m.
announced that 500,000 given the power and flex- $12,750—and their total round of payments.
low-income workers will ibility to implement the income put them below
each receive $500 under the program and announced last 300 percent of the federal For more information about
first round of the COVID-19 week that the checks will be poverty level. Residents who eligibility and other details,
Essential Employee Premium mailed out in the next few received any unemployment go to https://www.mass.gov/
Pay Program that was part days. compensation in 2020 and info-details/covid-19-essen-
of the American Rescue Plan executive branch employees tial-employee-premium-pay-
Act approved by the Legisla- Massachusetts residents who received or will receive program#eligibility-param-
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