Boston Residents Challenge Utility Pole Installations

Overview: At a recent Boston Public Improvement Commission meeting, community members voiced concerns about proposed utility pole installations by Eversource Energy and Verizon New England. The primary issues discussed were the impact on accessibility and neighborhood aesthetics, as well as the necessity of the installations themselves. Additionally, a lease proposal by Cambridge Network Solutions for a cable TV system in Brighton underwent a smooth progression, set for a future public hearing.

Boston City Council Tackles School Facilities and Safety

Overview: The Boston City Council convened to tackle issues concerning the future of the city’s public schools, focusing on long-term facilities planning and school safety. The council members discussed various topics, including the distribution of special education and multilingual learners, strategic planning to meet diverse student needs, and the importance of community engagement in decision-making processes.

Boston Licensing Board Navigates Assault Incidents and License Amendments

Overview: The Boston Licensing Board recently convened to address several incidents involving licensed establishments as well as a host of transactional matters concerning license changes and transfers. The meeting was marked by decisions on assault and battery cases, with one establishment receiving a violation due to overcapacity and hindering enforcement agents. Additionally, there was a discussion on a license cancellation hearing for the Russian Benevolence Society, which failed to cure a defect in their license. The board also handled an extensive list of transactional hearings, approving various license changes and amendments with a focus on community impact.

Boston School Committee Approves Withdrawal from School Choice Program

Overview: In a decisive action, the Boston School Committee voted to withdraw the Boston Public Schools (BPS) from the Massachusetts school choice program for the 2024-2025 school year. This move dominated the meeting.

Boston Licensing Board Considers New Liquor Licenses and Manager Changes

Overview: The Boston Licensing Board recently convened to review a series of applications ranging from new liquor licenses to changes in management for various establishments. The meeting, which was held virtually, saw community support for a number of local businesses seeking to either obtain or upgrade their alcohol licenses.