As so many other things remain uncertain and the Commonwealth enters its second week under a stay-at-home advisory, many residents have taken to the City’s many parks as respite. The Sun spoke with Friends of the Public Garden’s Executive Director…
Month: April 2020
Legislature Passes Bills to Help Local Governments, Restaurants: Michlewitz Commends Leaders for Steadfastness
The State Legislature passed several pieces of legislation over the past few days that focus on helping local businesses like restaurants by allowing liquor license holders to sell beer and wine with food to go – along with a municipal…
State Designates Newton Pavilion for Shelter, Treatment of Homeless Individuals
Just days after the idea was floated in the South End Forum Opiate Working Group, the state moved fast to designate and begin working to configure the Newton Pavilion into a COVID-19 treatment and quarantine hospital for the homeless in…
Mayor Walsh Announces Temporary Parking Enforcement Changes
To address the transportation needs of residents, health care providers and businesses during the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency, Mayor Martin Walsh and the Boston Transportation Department (BTD) announced updated enforcement regulations and transportation services on Thursday afternoon, March 27.…
Housing Court Standing Orders Will Bar New Eviction Cases Through April 21
Though it is an unintended consequence of the state court system trying to promote social distancing and health, there will also be an added protection for tenants affected by the COVID-19 response who are in fear of being evicted from…
Baker Administration Starts Online Portal for Equipment
The Baker administration on Sunday announced an online portal where individuals and companies can easily donate or sell personal protective equipment (PPE) and volunteer to support the COVID-19 outbreak in Massachusetts. This effort will ensure that front line responders get…
Office of Economic Empowerment Launches Digital Financial Resources Amid COVID-19 Outbreak
The Massachusetts State Treasurer’s Office of Economic Empowerment has launched a new digital tool for residents in Massachusetts experiencing financial changes due to the COVID-19 outbreak. With the goal of providing relevant financial education for families, the Office of Economic…
Consumers Facing Financial Hardships Due to COVID-19 Urged to Contact Local Banks
The Massachusetts Bankers Association urged consumers who are facing financial hardships due to the COVID-19 pandemic to contact their financial institution for assistance. Local banks throughout the Commonwealth have pledged to work with their customers – individuals and businesses –…
Lottery Sales Down Nearly 30 Percent Since Beginning of March: Steep Decline Could Affect Local Aid Payments to Cities and Towns
State Lottery officials reported this week sales have dropped off steeply on lottery products across the board, and if that drop continues, it could have a major effect on Local Aid payments to cities and towns this year. That news…
State Announces Command Center Advisory Board of Medical Experts, Infectious Disease Specialists
On Weds., March 25, the state announced the COVID-19 Advisory Board, a group of medical experts that will support the Response Command Center as the Commonwealth continues to respond to COVID-19. The Response Command Center, under the leadership of Secretary Marylou Sudders and reporting to Governor…