Even before Lauren Comando’s work was chosen to be part of FenceArt — a Newton outdoor art initiative marking its 10th anniversary in 2025 — she was a fan of the program. “I … have always thought [FenceArt was] a really great, accessible public art display showcasing the diversity of…
Posts published in January 2025
State Representative John Lawn was named Legislator of the Year by the Massachusetts Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (MassNAELA), “for going above and beyond in supporting legislation that protects the rights and improves the lives of seniors and individuals with disabilities.” Waban resident Jason Paul has secured sufficient signatures…
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the focus of this month’s main exhibit at the Newton Free Library, offering a unique opportunity to dive into this ancient practice through a captivating display in the entrance hallway. The exhibit features a fascinating collection of items, including Chinese herbal medicines, tools for preparing…
The Newton Election Commission, responsible for administering and enforcing election laws, has four members: two each from the Democratic and Republican parties, to promote bipartisanship. Current Commission members include Democrats Marjorie Ann Butler (Chair) and Nancy M. Levine, and Republicans Jan Huffman and John P. McDermott. Mayor Ruthanne Fuller has…
Highlights this week… City Council City Council will meet on Monday and expected to vote on the following (see Reports Docket): The New Docket includes the following requests: Land Use and Public Facilities Committees have canceled their regularly scheduled meetings for this week. Programs and Services will meet on Wednesday,…
The Zoning & Planning Committee approved the following (see the report and watch the meeting video): The Zoning & Planning Committee voted to hold the following: Present: Councilors Baker (Chair), Oliver, Albright, Wright, Krintzman, Getz, Danberg, and KalisAlso Present: Councilors Malakie, Lipof, Leary, Lucas, and GreenbergCity Staff: Jennifer Caira, Deputy…
The Financial Audit Advisory Committee held a Fiscal Year 2024 ACFR Exit Conference with CLA CPA consultants (see the report and watch the meeting video) where they reviewed: Liabilities: $1.2 billion of which Bonds payable are $300 million; Net OPEB liability is $455 million ($205 million decrease from the prior…
The Public Facilities Committee approved the following (see the report and watch the meeting video): Appointment of Shawna Sullivan as Commissioner of the Department of Public Works (8-0) Shawna Sullivan, appointed as Commissioner, discussed her 28 years with the City and future plans for the DPW, including restructuring for career…
The Land Use Committee approved the following (see the report and watch the meeting video): The Land Use Committee voted to hold the following: Present: Councilors Kelley (Chair), Block, Downs, Farrell, Kelley, Laredo, Leary, and LobovitsAlso Present: Councilors Albright, Getz, Greenberg, Malakie, Oliver, and WrightCity Staff Present: Deputy Chief Planner…
The Traffic Council approved the following (see the report and watch the meeting video): All approved items could be appealed through the close of business on December 11, 2024. The Traffic Council voted to deny the following: The Traffic Council voted to hold the following: