Boston City Council Urged to Ban Kratom Amid Emotional Testimonies

Overview: The Boston City Council met on March 9, 2026, to discuss the regulation of kratom, a substance gaining attention for its potential health risks. The meeting, chaired by Councilor John Fitzgerald, focused on testimonies from health experts, advocates, and families affected by kratom-related incidents, highlighting the urgent call for a ban on kratom sales in Boston.

Maynard Finance Committee Examines Stipend Proposal Amid Retirement Board Debate

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Maynard Finance Committee, discussions were dominated by a proposal to provide stipends to members of the Retirement Board. The proposal, which suggested a $3,000 stipend for four board members, was met with scrutiny due to concerns about its financial implications on the town’s budget and its unfunded actuarial liabilities.

Revere City Council Faces Public Outcry Over Traffic Changes and School Construction Delays

Overview: The Revere City Council meeting on March 9, 2026, focused heavily on significant public concerns regarding recent traffic changes at the Winthrop Avenue and Harris Street intersection, as well as the ongoing high school construction project. The council addressed these issues amidst vocal criticisms from residents and updates on construction delays.

Danvers Zoning Board Deliberates Special Permit for Extended Family Living Area

Overview: The Danvers Zoning Board of Appeals held a meeting to discuss a special permit request for converting an existing structure on Vista Drive into an extended family living area. This proposal sparked considerable debate among board members about zoning compliance and the adequacy of existing meeting minutes.

Boston Building Emissions Review Board Grants Solar Exemption to Boston Housing Authority

Overview: In a recent virtual meeting, the Boston Building Emissions Review Board approved a request from the Boston Housing Authority (BHA) for a solar exemption, a decision that underscores the city’s commitment to renewable energy while navigating regulatory challenges. The exemption allows BHA to benefit from solar energy production without retaining Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), an important element under the Building Emissions Reduction and Disclosure Ordinance (BERDO).