Boston Licensing Board Weighs Late-Night Hours and Community Concerns for Kenmore Businesses

Overview: The Boston Licensing Board meeting on January 8, 2025, focused on several applications for extended operating hours and liquor licenses, with attention given to late-night operations in the Kenmore Square and Kendall Square areas. These discussions revealed a complex balance between supporting business growth and addressing neighborhood concerns.

Boston Public Improvement Commission Approves Key Infrastructure Projects and Tree Protection Measures

Overview: The Boston Public Improvement Commission meeting on December 19, 2024, focused on approving several infrastructure projects and ensuring tree protection measures. The commission addressed petitions for repairs and improvements in Dorchester, East Boston, and West Roxbury, highlighting the integration of infrastructure updates with environmental considerations.

Boston School Committee Considers Changes to Exam School Admissions Tiers

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Boston School Committee, discussions were held around the proposal to consolidate the admissions tiers for exam schools from eight to four. This proposed change aims to simplify the current policy and address community concerns over geographic disparities in admissions. The committee plans to vote on this policy recommendation in January, with an implementation timeline aimed at the current admission cycle.

Boston School Committee Discusses Exam School Admissions Policy Amidst Budget and Infrastructure Updates

Overview: At the recent Boston School Committee meeting, one notable issue was the proposed changes to the admissions policy for the city’s exam schools. The Committee considered consolidating the current eight-tier system into four tiers to address disparities in student invitations and improve equity. The meeting also covered updates on budgetary allocations, infrastructure projects, and school mergers, emphasizing transparency and community involvement.

Boston Reparations Task Force Seeks Extension Amid Complex Historical Findings

Overview: The Boston Reparations Task Force, during its recent meeting, focused on the complexities of historical and contemporary systemic racism affecting Black communities in Boston, with an emphasis on extending the timeline for phase one of their research. The task force aims to present a comprehensive understanding of Boston’s racial history, addressing discriminatory practices across education, housing, and policing. An extension request was made to Mayor Michelle Wu, allowing for a more thorough investigation until December 2024.